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BIOGRAPHIES Source:
History of Madison County, Ohio
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.
1883
1159 pgs.
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Sumerford Twp. -
DAVID BALES, farmer, P.
O. Somerford, was born in Clark County, Ohio, Sept. 1836, and is a son
of Moses and Catharine (Graves) Bales, who were both natives of
Virginia. They emigrated to Ohio in 1833, and were married in
Clark County, Ohio, in 1834. He was a farmer and engaged in
farming. In 1837, they moved onto the farm now occupied by our
subject. Mr. Bales was married three times. He was
first united with our subject. Mr. Bales was married three
times. He was first united with Mary Fish, after her death
with Rebecca Stanford, and when she had passed away from earth,
he married our subject's mother, who yet survives him, now eighty-one
years of age. He died Sept. 1, 1849. David was
thirteen years of age when his father died, and he engaged immediately
in helping to manage the farm. When sixteen years old, he went
West, and remained there two years, then returned to the old home farm
in Madison County, where he has resided ever since. He was united
in marriage Sept. 6, 1857, with Jennie Mitchell, a native of
Madison County, who was born Jan. 6, 1840. In 1862, he bought an
interest in the home farm from one of the heirs, and has since that time
purchased until he now has 281 acres of land, in a high state of
cultivation. He and wife are the parents of four children -
Newman F., Ida E., Charles W. and Flora M. Mr. Bales is
a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1108 |
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Darby Twp -
WILLIAM I. BALLINGER, M.D.,
Plain City, is the oldest son of Joshua and Delilah (Inskeep)
Ballinger, of Logan County, Ohio, where he was born Oct. 18, 1828.
The former, who was born in New Jersey, came to Ohio with his parents in
1810, and settled on the head-waters of Big Darby Creek, where he died.
The latter was a native of Ohio, and still lives. The subject of
this sketch spent his youth and boyhood with his parents, brothers and
sisters, on a farm, until the spring of 1848. Then, having no
special appetite for the gymnastics and manual duties of farm life, he
was sent to the "Old Academy," in Marysville, Ohio, at that time under
the auspices of the Rev. James D. Smith, who was assisted by the
Rev. James A. Sterrett, as Principal. He spent three
summers in thisi institution, the last two of which were under the
tutelage of the now Hon. James W. Robinson, of Marysville, Ohio,
who took charge of the academy as Principal in 1849. Here he
acquired the rudiments of algebra, Latin and of such branches as are
usually taught in the high school departments in the graded system of
the present day. The winters were passed in teaching district
schools, and our subject remembers, with much regret, the mistakes of
those whose duty it was to employ teachers, and to look after the moral
and mental welfare of the youth, in employing young men and young women
to perform these sacred duties, whose only qualifications were a
"certificate to teach," and a sufficiency of muscular development to
assert their authority in the schoolroom by the help of the rod.
In Sept., 1850, he was sent to the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware,
Ohio, and entered the Senior Preparatory Class, and remained in the
university for three years, pursuing the classical course of study.
In the fall of 1863, he commenced the study of medicine in the office of
Dr. D. W. Henderson, of Marysville, Ohio; taught a district school at
Amity, in this county, during the following winter months; resumed his
studies in the office in March 1865, and, in October of the same year,
entered Starling Medical College at Columbus, Ohio, for his first course
of lectures. In March of 1855, he returned to Dr. Henderson's
office, and there remained till the October following, when he went to
Cleveland, Ohio, and entered the Cleveland Medical College, where he was
graduated a Doctor of Medicine early in March, 1856. Through the
kind offices of his much esteemed preceptor and friend, Dr. Henderson,
he was introduced to Hon. Dr. John N. Beach, then in Pleasant
Valley, now Plain City, this county, a partnership for business purposes
agreed upon, and, on the 9th of April, 1856, the subject of our sketch
became the object of curious eyes among the inhabitants of Pleasant
Valley and vicinity, trying to weigh the acumen and mental force of the
"new doctor." First impressions of Pleasant Valley were not
favorable. It was at a time of the year when mud reigned supreme
over foot-paths and highways. Teams were bemired in the main
streets, and had to be pried out with poles. Sidewalks were few
and far between. The town had a railroad and depot, but to reach
the same you had to travel - man, woman, child, horse, hog and cow -
from McCloud's corner over the entire length of Railroad street,
through a sea of much and water, the exact depth of which no man,
perhaps ever exactly fathomed. The late sleeper was aroused
from his dreams, of mornings, by the sonorous notes of "P-o-o-i-g,
p-o-o-i-g, piggy, piggy!" couple with the pleasing strain,
"S-o-o-k, boss! s-o-o-k, boss!" and, upon gaining the front door, the
foot-paths and streets were found to be the common feeding-yards; and
for the balance of the day Mr. Porker plied his snout diligently
to plowing the streets and grass plats. The moral and social
status was not wholly out of keeping with the physical comforts and
conveniences of the place. Although there were a number of
intelligent, generous-hearted and Christian people there, yet there were
a great many who had their "peculiar views" and their peculiar ways.
Bad whisky then, as now, was not unknown; and for many, Saturday was the
day of days for settling old scores. This element mostly came from
the country. They would commence coming in about 9 or 10 o'clock
A.M., and by 2 o'clock P.M. their ranks would be full, and the early
comers well fired up. Accounts were called, and the swearing would
begin. After exchanging a great many oaths and vulgar epithets,
and passing the bottle around several times, the preliminaries of battle
would be arranged; but not many hard battles were over fought.
Pleasant Valley at the time was a dead town so far as business and
building enterprises were concerned. From 1856 to 1866, one had to
count in all the barns built to make an average of one building per
year; and the business of the place was limited to three small dry goods
stores, one grocery, one drug store and one restaurant. To return
to our subject. The "new doctor" was kindly received by his new
acquaintances, and, in course of time, was intrusted with a fair
share of the afflicted portion of humanity to care for. He found
many warm hearts, and true and genial friends. On the 18th of
February, 1857, he was united in marriage with Miss Matilda Taylor,
the oldest daughter of John and Eliza Mark Taylor, who were both
born and raised in Madison county, and still reside two miles south of
Plain City. They have had five children, viz.: Charles,
who died in infancy; John T.; Oliver, who died aged
fourteen months; James Llew and Eve. Mr. Ballinger
is a member of the Methodist Church and of the Masonic Order, and in
politics is a Republican. The Doctor pursued his professional
duties assiduously until the spring of 1873, when he, in company with
Mr. Richard Woodruff, a merchant of Plain City, conceived the
project of building a flouring mill in Plain City. Neither party
knew anything about mills or milling, but he scheme was put into
execution, and the mill, a substantial brick structure, with two run of
buhrs for wheat, and one for corn, was put in operation about Christmas
of the same year, costing about $13,000. Mr. Woodruff dying
in 1875 left the entire care of the mill in the Doctor's hands.
This so interfered with his professional duties that he has given but
little attention to them since. The Plain City Mills have had a
fine reputation for the quality of their flour for several years, and
any one visiting the Doctor's sanctum will find his table covered with
both medical and milling literature, and will find him as ready to
discuss the best methods of milling as he is to discuss the best methods
of preventing and treating diseases. He is now decidedly in favor
of bread pills.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 959 |
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Darby Twp. -
E. W. BARLOW, undertaker,
furniture-dealer and manufacturer, Plain City, was born in Darby
Township, Mar. 6, 1835. He is a son of E. W. and Polly C.
(Lawrence) Barlow, the former a native of Connecticut and the latter
of New York, and both of English descent. They emigrated to Clark
County, Ohio, and in 1820 moved to Madison County, coming to Plain City
in 1852. His father was a carpenter until he came to Ohio, when he
followed farming until his death in 1865. Our subject has worked
in the shop where he is now employed since he was seventeen years of
age. He was married, Nov. 4, 1857, to Electa I. Bigelow, a
daughter of Dr. D. K. Bigelow, and by her has one child, Cora
I., the wife of John R. Hill. Mrs. Barlow died
Mar. 9, 1858, and in 1859 he married Lucinda A. Kent, by whom he
has four children - Linden C., Elva R., Earl W. and Eddie B.
The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which
the father has been a Class Leader fifteen years. He was a
Republican, but is now a Prohibitionist. His father was a Major in
the war of 1812.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 961 |
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Somerford Twp. -
JOHN BARRETT, a native of
Maryland, was a brother-in-law of John Arbuckle, they having married
sisters; came to Ohio soon after Mr. Arbuckle came, and settled
on the same tract of land, and lived here till his death, dying with
that prevalent yet much-dreaded disease, milk-sickness. He had six
children, but all have moved away and sought other homes. Jacob Steele
settled where Rev. Overturf now lives about 1815. Thomas Taylor
came from Chillicothe, Ohio, and settled on Deer Creek, near the
gristmill, about 1815, where he lived about five years; thence he
settled on the place now owned by Thomas Woosley, on the old
Columbus & Springfield stage road, and there kept a tavern in an early
day. He made good improvements; was an excellent and intelligent man,
and a good citizen. He raised a family of six children, who all became
honored and worthy members of society. Late in life, he moved to the
village of Somerford, where he died at the age of about eighty years.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 812 |
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Paint Twp. -
MADISON A. BASKERVILLE, farmer and stock-raiser,
P. O. London, was born in Paint Township, Feb. 15, 1840. His
father, William Baskerville, was born in Virginia, and died in
Ohio Aug. 4, 1867. His grandfather, Samuel, was born east
of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Va., and in 1807 removed to Ohio. In
1810, he was one of the Associate Judges of the county, and on June 7,
1813, he received from the Government a land warrant for 333⅓
acres of land. Our subject was raised by his father, with whom he
remained until his father's death, when he took possession of the farm,
which consists of 202 acres. In 1850, he married Mahoney
Creamer, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Benson) Creamer,
the farmer a native of Germany and the latter of Virginia, and both are
now living at Mechanicsburg. They had six children of whom Mrs.
Baskerville was the oldest of three girls and the fourth child of
the family. She was born Dec. 13, 1844, and by her Mr.
Baskerville has had six children, viz.: Mahoney
(deceased); Maud (deceased); Icie (deceased); an infant,
deceased; William B. born May 6, 1867, and Jacob H., born
Dec. 28, 1875. Mr. Baskerville is a Republican in politics,
and has been Trustee of the Township.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1147 |
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Somerford Twp. -
ANSEL BATES
came to this township and settled just north of Tradersville. on land
now owned by Thomas Bales, about 1818. He finally died in
Champaign County. Of his children, we mention Asa, Ansel,
Elijah, William, Sylvanus and Zenas. The
last two mentioned were twins. These sons for several years were quite
prominent and well known in the affairs of the township, but finally
they all emigrated to the West. William Scott settled near
the Charles Bigdon place about 1820. He married Betsey
Rigdon. Subsequently, he moved to Pekin, Ill., where he died.
They were a good family and esteemed citizens. Charles Rigdon
came here from Champaign County and settled about the same time—1820-21.
Richard Baldwin, it is believed, came here from
Chillicothe and settled on the Rigdon place, in Surveys 9,285 and
10,626, about 1820, where he resided till about 1837 He moved to
Mechanicsburg. where he resided till death. He was one of this
township's best citizens, and served as a Justice of the Peace several
years. Samuel Houston was a native of Pennsylvania, and
settled here about 1820. He married Elizabeth Arbuckle, by
whom he had two children, deceased. He was an intelligent and
well-educated man. He taught school, and was Township Clerk, and resided
here till his death. Michael Statler, a native of
Virginia, settled where his son now lives, on the "Urbana road, about
1824, where he died about 1842. His wife survived him about thirty
years. Mr. Statler was killed while cutting down a tree upon
which another had lodged, which fell on him.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 814 |
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Union Twp. -
VALENTINE BAUER, merchant
tailor, London, was born at Gerbach, Rhine Bavaria, Germany, Apr. 14,
1838. His father, Peter Bauer, came to America in 1849. He
located in Columbus, Ohio, where he was engaged in keeping tavern, and
died in 1868. He married Catherine Bauer, also a native of
Germany. Of their eight children, four are now living - two sons and two
daughters - and only two residents of Madison County. Mrs. Bauer departed
this life in Germany, Jan. 12, 1848. Our subject was fourteen years
of age when his father removed to Columbus, and he resided in that city
eight years. He there finished learning his trade, which he had
previously commenced in Germany. On Oct. 9, 1860, he came to London,
and for eleven years was superintendent of the merchant tailoring
department in the house of J. M. Winchester. On June 25, 1871, he
commenced business for himself. Although having met with some reverses,
Mr. Bauer still presses forward, and now enjoys a good patronage. He is
a member of Chandler Lodge, No. 138, Chapter No. 73 (Masonic), Madison
Lodge, No. 70 (Odd Fellows), of London, and Palestine Commandery, No.
33, Knights Templar, of Springfield, Ohio. Politically,
Mr. Bauer is Republican, and ' has served several terms as
member of the City Council. He was once the Republican nominee for
Treasurer of London and defeated by only thirteen votes. He was married,
Apr. 23, 1859, to
Eva Michel, a native of Stahlberg, Rhine Bavaria, Germany.
Ten children have been born to them, six living—Emma, Frank, Clara,
Edward, Eva
and Robert. Mrs. Bauer is a member of the
Presbyterian Church.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 851 |
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Canaan Twp. -
THE BEACH FAMILY.*
The genealogy of the Beach family of Madison County runs through
ten generations since coming to America. Moses Perkins Beach,
of 309 Fifth avenue, New York City, son of the late Moses Yale Beach,
of the New York Sun, in his arrangement of our genealogy, refers
to our earliest ancestor in America, as "ye pilgrim Thomas of
Milford," Conn., in contradistinction to "ye pilgrim John," of
Stratford, Conn., the original Beaches who came to this country
in the early days of emigration. My great-grandfather, Amos
Beach, born at Wallingford. Conn., in 1724, was a great-grandson
of “ye pilgrim Thomas;" and he married Dec. 24, 1746, Sarah
Rice, or Rays, as it was then spelled. To them were
born twelve children, eight sons and four daughters, as follows:
Chloe, born 1747; Chauncey, born 1748; Ambrose, born
1750, was a soldier in Captain Titus Watrous'
company, in the Revolutionary army, and died July 8, 1776, of camp
distemper; Amos, born 1751; Brewer, born 1753; Abraham,
born'1755, died June 5, 1777, at Milford, Conn., on his way home from
British prison ships; Esther, born 1757; Obil, born Dec.
27, 1758;Sarah, born 1760; Isaac, born 1762; Roswell,
born in 1764, and died May lst, 1858, in Belmont County, Ohio; Sarah,
born 1766. Of the eight sons above named, all were soldiers in the
Revolutionary army. The mother of these children died in 1820, at
the home of her son Brewer, in Goshen, Conn., aged ninety years.
Of the above children, Obil Beach, born in Goshen, Conn.,
Dec. 27, 1758, was my grandfather. In October, 1777, when two
months less than eighteen years of age, he entered the Revolutionary
army, under Capt. Chapman and Col. Swift;
and was present and witnessed the surrender of Burgoyne, at Saratoga,
Oct. 17, 1777. He served for three years, and was mustered out in
New Jersey in October, 1780. On the 27th day of June, 1782, he
married Miss Elizabeth Kilbourne, or Kilborn, of
Litchfield, Conn., born June 9, 1765. She used the Quaker dialect;
but I think she was a Presbyterian at the time of her marriage.
She is said to have been of Scotch descent. They each had small
interests in real estate, the one in Goshen and the other in Litchfield;
but soon after marriage they moved to the township of Poultney, in
Rutland County, Vt. By a deed, now in my possession, it appears
that one Ebenezer Hyde, of Poultney, County of Rutland,
for and in consideration of the sum of twenty-three pounds and ten
shillings, “lawful money," sold to Obil Beach, of Goshen,
Conn., seventy-five acres, “in said Poultney," on the 8th day of March,
“ in the sixth year of American Independence," Anno Domini, 1782.
And on the 6th day of November, 1782, he also received a deed from
Jason Bell, of the Township of Poultney, County of Rutland,
for fifty acres; for which he paid sixty pounds. On the 10th day
of September, 1783, Joseph Ballard, of Fairhaven, County of
Rutland, State of Vermont, for the sum of thirty pounds, sold to Obil
Beach, “of the Township of Poultney," one hundred acres; so it
would seem probable that he moved to Vermont in 1782, the same year of
his marriage, or early in the spring of 1783. He subsequently
moved to New Haven Gore, Addison County, Vt; and on the 5th day of
December, 1788, Oliver Strong, of Poultney, deeded him
seventy-six acres “in a gore of land called New Haven Gore,” in the
County of Addison, State of Vermont, for sixty pounds, “lawful money;"
and also, with even date, fifty acres for forty pounds at the same
place, to Elizabeth Beach, his wife. So that, in the
absence of better proof, it is presumable that he moved to New Haven
Gore in 1788. To him and his wife Elizabeth were born
twelve children, as follows: Susannah, born Sept. 20, 1783;
Amos, born July 9, 1785; Marova, born Apr. 18, 1787; Uri,
born Dec. 7, 1789; Ambrose, born Mar. 17, 1792; Rhoda,
born June 24,1794; Sarah, born June 9, 1797; Lorenzo, born
Nov. 7, 1798; Roswell, born Aug. 3, 1801; Irene, born Feb.
19, 1804; Obil and Oren, twins, born Mar. 19, 1807.
Of the above twelve children, the three first were born in the township
of Poultney, Rutland County, Vt., and the nine last were born at New
Haven Gore, Addison County, Vt. In the year 1812, Uri, the
third son and the fourth child, when he was twenty-three years of age,
determined upon emigrating to Ohio. He met with great opposition
from the family; but he arranged his “pack,” and, swinging it over his
shoulder, started alone and on foot. He came first to Cleveland,
near where he stopped for three days to replenish his purse by working.
He worked for three days for a farmer, in helping to build a mill-dam,
where he had to work all the time in water, some times waist-deep.
For this he received $1 a day; but as he had to pay the tavern keeper 75
cents a day for his board, he found he was only 75 cents better off for
his three days’ hard work. He then struck a “bee line" for
Marietta, Ohio, which had then been settled for twenty-four years.
There he made four barrels of cider, for a farmer, on the halves; and
taking his two barrels down to Marietta, sold it out of his skiff, at a
lively rate, to the United States soldiers quartered there, at 12½
cents a quart. Returning up the river with his skiff, he washed
out of the pomace, at the cider mill, about three pecks of apple seeds,
which, adding to the weight of his original pack, he swung over his
shoulder and took another bee line for Worthington, Ohio, directing his
course through the wilderness as he best could, and strapping himself in
the tops of trees at night to save himself from being devoured by wolves
while trying to obtain his needed rest. In the spring of 1813, be
rented a small piece of ground, at Worthington, and planted a part of
his apple seeds for a nursery. In the spring of 1814, he came to
Madison County and bought ninety-two acres of land of Walter and Ann
May Dun, in Darby Township, and planted more of his apple seeds on
it; and on the 1st day of September, 1816, he married Mrs. Hannah
(Noble) Gorham, of Worthington, Ohio - a widow with two children -
daughter of Rev. Seth and Hannah (Barker) Noble, born at
Kenduskeag Meadow (Bangor), Province of Maine, Sept. 11, 1789. He
brought her to his home in Darby Township, and they both remained
citizens of Madison County until the time of their death. He died
at Amity, Canaan Township, Jan. 11, 1832, aged forty-three years; and
she at Amity on the 17th day of November, 1854, aged sixty-five.
To them were born seven children, four daughters and three sons, as
follows: Elizabeth (“Eliza”), Mary, Hannah Noble,
Malona Case, Uri, John Noble, William
Morrow. In 1813, Lorenzo Beach came to Ohio,
and joined his brother Uri at Worthington; and in 1814 his
brothers, Amos and Ambrose, and his sister Sarah (Ketch)
and her husband, came to Madison County. In 1815, Ambrose
went back to Vermont and married Joanna Perry; and in 1817,
Obil, their father, came on with all the remainder of the family,
reaching their destination on the Darby Plains on the 25th day of
October of that year. Of what they wrought in Madison County, it
is presumable that sufficient reference has been made by the historians
of Darby and Canaan Township, and will appear elsewhere in the history
of these townships. Brief biographical sketches of some of the
individual members of the family will be
found elsewhere in this work also. Of this family, Obil
died at the home of his son Dr. Lorenzo, in Darby
Township, September, 1846, aged eighty-eight; Elizabeth, his
wife, in Canaan Township, at her son Uri’s, in September, 1826.
aged sixty-one; Susannah (Hallock), in 1856, aged
seventy-three; Amos, in Plain City, Ohio, Feb. 25, 1875, aged
ninety; Marova, in infancy; Uri, Jan. 11, 1832, of
pneumonia, at Amity, aged forty-three; Ambrose, in Brown
Township, Franklin County, Ohio, Sept. 20, 1870, aged seventy-eight;
Rhoda (Hallock), on the Darby Plains in Canaan Township, of
milk sickness, Sept. 23, 1823, aged twenty-nine; Sarah (Ketch-Converse),
at Plain City, Ohio, Jan. 16, 1876, aged seventy-nine; Lorenzo,
at Fairbury, Ill., August, 1878, aged eighty; Roswell, still
living, at Centerville, Iowa; Irene, September, 1824, aged
twenty; Obil, still living at Bucks Grove, Kan.; Oren,
died in Kansas (or Missouri) Nov. 4, 1863, from fatigue in being chased
by rebel guerrillas, aged fifty-six. The descendants of “ye
pilgrim Thomas, of Milford,” Conn., are scattered through
Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Ohio,
Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, California, Texas, Georgia and
elsewhere. Joseph Perkins Beach, our
genealogist, in a recent personal communication, says: “For over thirty
years, I have been gathering in the Beaches. from every ‘original
record’ I thought likely to yield returns; and I am not ashamed of any
record of any of them I have yet found. They are-a good race,
enterprising, brave, of average longevity, average piety, full of
energy, and in all respects worthy of a history.”
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio - Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1072
*By William Morrow Beach, M.D. |
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Darby Twp. -
I. W. BEACH,
undertaker, and manufacturer and dealer in furniture, Plain City, was
born in Franklin County, Ohio, July 21, 1850. He is a son of
Uri and Elenore (Downing) Beach, the former a native of this county
and the latter of Pennsylvania, and both of English descent. Our
subject received his education in the common schools, at Ohio Wesleyan
University at Delaware, and at a commercial college in Pittsburgh, Penn.
He worked at farming until thirty one years of age when he came to Plain
City and embarked in his present enterprise, with Mr. Barlow,
under the firm name of Barlow & Beach. He was married, in
1874, to Ruth Alma Slyh, a daughter of Matthias Slyh.
They have one child, Lulu Ann, born Jan. 6, 1875. Mr.
and Mrs. Beach are Baptists, and he is a Republican, He served
one term as Township Assessor.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 961 |
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Jefferson Twp. -
URI BEACH, son of Uri,
the pioneer Beach to Madison County, and his wife, Hannah
(Noble) Beach, was born in Canaan Township, where Amity now stands,
Jan. 13, 1826. He received such education as the common schools
and his limited facilities afforded. He was the oldest of the
three brothers, and was left an orphan by the death of his father when
only six years of age, and his services were early demanded in helping
his mother care for a large family of children. His father
organized a Sunday school in Canaan Township in 1826, and he also
organized a subscription school in that township, for the support of
which he was the most liberal of his means of any man in the township,
and he probably imbued his little child with something of his own spirit
and enterprise. On the 6th day of March, 1845, he married
Eleanor Downing, born in Canaan Township, Madison County, Ohio, Nov.
22, 1825, daughter of Timothy and Elizabeth (Hayden) Downing.
He shortly thereafter purchased a farm, in Brown Township, Franklin
County, Ohio, adjoining the Jonathan Alder farm, but on the
opposite side of Big Darby, where he continues to reside. He is an
extensive shipper of live stock to Eastern markets, having made his
enterprise a specialty for the past thirty years. He has been the
Assessor of his township for twenty-five consecutive years. His
children are Timothy Downing Beach, M. D., of Catawba, Clark
County, Ohio; Isaac Beach, Plain City, Ohio; Eva Noble (Beach)
Simms, A. B. wife of Rev. Joseph Simms, A. M., of the
Northeast Ohio Conference, M. E. Church; Elizabeth Hayden (Beach)
Converse, wife of Henry B. Converse, of Canaan Township;
John, died in infancy; Mary Ettie, now in her junior year at
Wesleyan Female College, Delaware, Ohio, and Uri.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 986 |
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Deer Creek Twp. -
DR. WILLIAM MORROW BEACH,
youngest child of Uri and Hannah (Noble) Beach, was born
in Amity, Madison Co., Ohio, May 10, 1831. He lived in Amity until he
was four years old, and afterward on a farm in Darby Township, until he
was about twelve, when his mother returned to Amity, where he lived
until he was fifteen, when he went as a dry goods clerk for Holcomb
Tuller, in Dublin, Franklin Co., Ohio, and in the same year, in
another store, in the same village, for Orange Davis. In
the fall he returned to Amity, Ill, and was not again able to labor
until the following year, when, on the 23d of September, 1847, when in
his sixteenth year, he entered the store of George A. Hill &
Co., of Pleasant Valley, for the astonishing salary of $36 a year,
or about eleven cents a day and board. His second year with them
brought him $84, and for the third year was offered $800 in the main
establishment—Pinney & Lamson, of Columbus, Ohio. This
offer he declined, as the sedentary life, with no leisure for books, was
distasteful to him; and at the commencement of the fall term he was a
matriculant at the Ohio Wesley an University, Delaware, Ohio, after the
close of which he taught a school in the Crabb District, Brown Township,
Franklin Co., Ohio. In the spring of 1850, he commenced the study of
medicine at Amity, with Dr. James F. Boal, but suspended through
the summer and traveled on foot over nearly all of the counties in
Central Ohio, as an agent for the Ohio State Journal Company, of
Columbus, Ohio. In the fall of that year (1851), he entered the office
of Prof. Samuel Mitchell Smith, of Columbus, as a student; and
during that winter attended a course of medical lectures at Starling
Medical College—the first course delivered in the new building on State
street. He attended his second course there at the session following;
and in February, 1853, was graduated as M D. He located at Unionville
Centre, Union Co., Ohio, where he remained two years, when he sold out
his property and location to Isaac N. Hamilton, a brother to
Prof. John W. Hamilton, of Columbus, after which he spent about four
months in the West, prospecting for Congress lands, and upon his return
he settled, in September, 1855, in La Fayette, Madison County, Ohio,
where he remained until he was commissioned by the Governor of Ohio—David
Tod—Assistant Surgeon in the Volunteer forces of Ohio, in the
service of the United States, Apr. 3,1862, when he joined the army at
Shiloh, Tenn., Apr. 12, 1862, the Sunday morning after the battle; he
was assigned to duty, temporarily, at the Brigade Headquarters of
Gen. William B. Hazen; and afterward to the Twentieth Ohio Regiment.
On the 3d of May, 1862, he was further commissioned by Gov. Tod
as Assistant Surgeon of the Seventy-eighth Regiment Ohio Infantry
Volunteers, to rank as such from Apr. 20, 1862, which position he held
until commissioned by Gov. John Brough as Surgeon of the One
Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment Ohio Infantry Volunteers, May 19, 1864,
which commission reached him at Ackworth, Ga., on the Atlanta campaign,
on the 9th day of June, 1864, when he was mustered in and entered at
once upon duty with his new command. This position he held until the
close of the war, and until his muster out at Saulsbury, N. C, in June,
1865. He was with Grant when Holly Springs was sold out; was at Port
Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Champion Hills, and during the siege of
Vicksburg, and his brigade had the honor of being the first to march
within its lines on the morning of July 4, 1863. During the Vicksburg
campaign he was Division Hospital Director of Logan's Division; and
after the surrender, was in charge of the convalescent camp, and also of
all the confederate sick and wounded within the lines. He was with
Blair on the Yazoo raid, with Sherman on the Meridian raid,
and on the raid of Shreveport, La. He re-enlisted or veteranized with
his command for the remainder of the war, in the spring of 1864, when
the term of the Seventy, eighth Regiment expired. He was in he Army of
the Tennessee under Grant, Sherman, McPherson,
Logan and Blair until the commencement of the Atlanta
campaign, when he was transferred, by promotion, into the Second
Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, under Schofield. He followed the
fortunes of that army up until the end of that campaign, and when
Sherman started off on that long picnic "to the sea," he came North with
Schofield, and was at Columbia, Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville; and
after the ruin of Hood's brave and magnificent army, was transferred
with the Twenty-third Army Corps to Fortress Monroe, thence by sea to
Smithville, at the mouth of Cape Fear River, and directly to the four
days' siege of Fort Anderson; and then to Town Creek, and then across
the Cape Fear at night to the siege of Wilmington, where we forced an
evacuation of the works, and entered that long and bloodily disputed
stronghold on Washington's birthday anniversary, Feb. 22, 1865. On
his way to Raleigh, after the junction with Sherman's "bummers"
at Jonesboro, he heard of Lee's surrender, and Johnson's
capitulation soon followed. At the close of the war, he was Division
Hospital Director of the Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, and
one of the three surgeons of that Division that constituted the
"Operating Board.'' He had campaigned for three years and three months
in six different States; had been a witness to about one hundred and
fifty days of carnage; and had traveled, whilst campaigning in the army,
more than nine thousand miles. He is a member of the society of the Army
of the Tennessee. After the close of the war, he settled on this farm,
two miles north of London, Madison County, Ohio, but has continued in
the practice of his profession up to this date. In the fall of 1869, he
was elected by the Republican party of Madison County to the State
Legislature; and, in the fall of 1871, was elected to the State Senate
by the counties of Madison, Clark and Champaign. He is a member of the
Madison County Medical Society, and has been its President; of the
Central Ohio Medical Society; of the State Medical Society, and in the
year 1881 was elected its First Vice President; and is also a member of
the American Medical Association. On the 12th day of April, 1860, he was
married to Miss Lucy E. Wilson, of La Fayette, Madison County,
Ohio, only daughter of James and Elenor (Smith) Wilson, born in
Somerford Township, Madison County, Ohio, Mar. 28, 1844. Mary,
only child, born July 9, 1862, at La Fayette, Madison County, Ohio, and
graduated as A. B. at Rutger's Female College, 489, 490 and 491 Fifth
avenue, New York City—the Valedictorian of the class— in June, 1882.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio - Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1016 |
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Pleasant
Twp. -
CHARLES H. BEALE, farmer, P. O. Mt. Sterling, was
born in Virginia Mar. 5, 1833. His parents were Stephen S. and
Harriett (Elmore) Beale. When two years of age, with them he
came to Madison County, Ohio. After their arrival in this county,
for a short time they located in Jefferson Township, when they settled
in Pleasant Township, where they remained until their decease, he in
1881, she in 1879. Five of their family of seven children are now
living - Charles H. (the eldest), Mary A., David, John
W. and Smith. Our subject was reared to man's estate on
a farm, and received but an ordinary English education. On June
16, 1857, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Nye,
daughter of Samuel and Jane Nye, of Pleasant Township. They
have five children - William S., Clark, Stephen W., Elmer
and Elva V. He has served as Trustee of Pleasant Township,
and at present is officiating as one of our efficient County
Commissioners. He is a member of the F. & A. M. fraternity, and
the owner of 650 acres of land in a good state of cultivation.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio - Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1030 |
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Jefferson Twp. -
ELIJAH BELL, farmer, P. O. West Jefferson, is a
son of Joseph and Nancy (Shubridge) Bell, the former a native of
Pennsylvania, where he was raised, and the latter a native of Virginia,
where she was brought up. They were married in Morgan, now Noble
County, Ohio, where they were early settlers. In that county both
lived and died, he Jan. 7, 1866, and she Feb. 15, 1870, both members of
the Baptist Church, and he through life by occupation a farmer.
Their children were thirteen in number, and seven are now living, viz.
John W., in Oregon; James, of Athens County, Ohio;
George, in Oregon; Elijah, our subject; Leander, of
Noble County, Ohio; Clarissa C., of Oregon, and Charlotte C.,
of Athens County, Ohio. Elijah was born in Noble County,
Ohio, in 1832. He was raised to farm life and acquired a
common-school education. He remained in his native county until
1853, when he came to Madison County and commenced teaching, which
claimed his attention several years. In 1857, he married Mary,
daughter of the pioneer David Sidener, of Jefferson Township,
where she was born. They have ever since resided in Jefferson
Township, where he now owns a good farm of 150 acres, and where he is an
enterprising and well-to-do farmer. He and wife are the parents of
eight children, of whom four are now living, viz., Joseph M., David
C., Nancy E. and Lucy J. Elijah's twin brother,
Elisha, is deceased.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 988 |
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Fairfield Twp. -
JOSEPH BENJAMIN,
farmer, P. O. Big Plain, a native of this county and township, was born
Jan. 31, 1832, and is a son of William and Clarissa Benjamin, he
a native of Maryland, and she of the State of New York. The
grandparents were Jonathan and Elizabeth Benjamin. He was
born in New Jersey, but became a resident of Maryland, where he married
Elizabeth Barnes, and about 1803 removed to Ohio and settled
near Chillicothe; thence about land now owned by D. D. Downing,
where he purchased a long tract of land, and had it nearly paid for,
when another owner presented himself with a bonafide title to the land,
and Mr. Benjamin was compelled to leave it; he, however, remained
a resident on the land till his death.
William, the father of our subject and the eldest child of his
father, was born Mar. 4, 1790, being thirteen years of age when their
family came to Ohio. Here he grew to manhood, and was seventeen
years of age when they became settlers of Madison County. After he
arrived at manhood, and after his father, Joseph, our subject,
now lives, and here cleared up his farm, and made a home right from the
woods; and here he resided till his death, May 28, 1877. He
married Clarissa Waldo, with whom he lived till his death.
She survived him till in November, 1881. She died from being
burned by her closes taking fire in front of their fire-place, in her
eighty-first year. They had two children - Herrick
(deceased) and Joseph. The former grew to manhood, and
enlisted in the war of the rebellion, in the Twenty-sixth Regiment, Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, (Company K), and died of camp diarrhoea at
Gallipolis, Ohio, Nov. 12, 1851, in his thirty second year. The
subject of this sketch was raised and grew to manhood on the old home
place, where he still resides. On Aug. 13, 1856, he was united in
marriage with Margaret Perigo, a native of this county, who was
born Feb. 22, 1835. By this union they had five children,
William H., born Oct. 27, 1858; Alfred H., born May 23, 1860;
Herrick J., born Aug. 1, 1863; Thomas J. T., born Apr. 22,
1865; and Clarissa, born Sept. 3, 1868. Mrs. Benjamin
died Nov. 27, 1880. Mr. Benjamin has heeded the old motto,
"A rolling stone gathers no moss," and has spent his life upon the old
home place of this father, which has now been in possession of the
family forty-seen years - nearly half a century.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1081 |
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Darby Twp. -
EPHRAIM W. BIDWELL,
deceased, was born Oct. 28,1817, and was the fourth son of Elisha
Bidwell, one of the earliest settlers of Madison County, having
settled here as early as 1814. His mother's maiden name was
Dorothy Willy, and they came to Ohio from the State of Vermont, and were
Yankees, or New Englanders. Ephraim was a farmer, know only
to the early settlers of Madison County. Ephraim was a
farmer, as also were his father and most of his brothers. He
received only the limited education to be obtained in the district
schools of those days, and was a self-made man, being well informed on
all subjects, both political and religious. He held many offices
of trust both township and county offices, and was a member of the State
Legislature during the years of 1864 and 1865, and was also a teacher in
the district schools the years of 1864 and 1865, and was also a teacher
in the district schools both before and after his marriage. He was
united in marriage to Miss Laura Lombard, Nov. 4, 1841.
Ephraim and wife were the parents of six children - three daughters and
three sons - all of whom are living. The eldest daughter, Olive,
is now the wife of David D. Brooks, and resides in Nuckolls County, Neb.
The second daughter, Dorotha Ellen, is now the wife of J. H.
McKinnon, and now resides in Cass County, Neb. The third
daughter, Virginia Ann, now the wife of John D. Crego,
resides near Sedalia, Mo. Their husbands are all farmers.
The eldest son, Monroe Bidwell, married Miss Martha C. Kreamer
and resides on the old home farm, in the family homestead, where he was
born and raised and where his parents lived for thirty-three years.
Monroe is a farmer and stockraiser. The second son,
Webster Bidwell, who married Miss Sarah Buswell, also resides
on a part of the home farm, and is a farmer. The third and
youngest son, Hamilton Bidwell, married Miss Nettie Spink,
of Wooster, Ohio, and now resides in Lincoln, Neb. He is by
profession a lawyer, Ephraim Bidwell and wife commenced
life without means, but, by their united industry and economy, they
succeeded in securing an ample fortune, consisting of a fine farm of 500
acres, situated in securing an ample fortune, consisting of a fine farm
of 500 acres, situated between the Big and Little Darby.
Ephraim also owned a fine town property and residence near Plain
City, where he resided at the time of his death, and where his widow now
resides. He and wife were firm believers in universal salvation,
and members of the Universalist Church. He was very
public-spirited, and well-informed on all political and religious topics
of his day, and ever ready to uphold the right and denounce the wrong.
In politics, he was an ardent worker and a thorough Republican. He
died July 10, 1881, in the sixty-fourth year of his age, and lies in the
family burial grounds at Foster Chapel, Madison County, Ohio. We
will now give a short genealogy of Jesse Lombard and wife,
parents of Laura E., wife of Ephraim Bidwell; Jesse was
one of the earliest settlers of Madison County, having come here in an
early day, from the State of Vermont, and settled on what is known as
the Darby Plains, where his children still reside. He was a New
Englander. His wife, Olive Carlton, was of German
parentage, her mother being a German. Jesse and wife were
the parents of six children - three sons and three daughters - five of
whom are living. Jesse was a farmer, a firm believer in
universal salvation, and a Whig politically. He died in 1874, in
the eighty-second year of his age. His wife, Olive, died in
1858, in the sixty-fifth year of her age.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio - Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 961 |
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Pike Twp. -
JOSEPH BIDWELL, farmer, P. O. Rosedale.
Elisha and Dorotha Bidwell, parents of the subject of this sketch,
settled in Madison County about the year 1814. To them were born
seventeen children, eight of whom are now living, viz., Mahlon S.,
Addison, Nathan, Mary, Jackson, Augustus, Leonard and Joseph.
They remained in Madison County until their decease. Joseph
Bidwell, subject of this sketch, was born Sept. 6, 1832, in Canaan
Township, Madison County. In November, 1859, he married Miss
Lucetta J. Morse, daughter of Isaac and Lois Morse, by whom
he has two children -
Ellsworth and Jennie. She died in February, 1868.
He again was married in February, 1873, to Martha J. Paugh,
daughter of Solomon and Roxanna Paugh. To them have
been born two children, viz.: Walter and Clarence.
Mr. Bidwell is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge at Plain City, and
the owner of 159 acres of land. He resides in the southeastern
portion of Pike Township.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1054 |
|
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Jefferson Twp. -
WEBSTER BIDWELL, farmer, P. O. West Jefferson, son
of Ephraim Bidwell, was born on the farm where he now lives Mar.
28, 1853. He was raised to farm life, and, under the care of
religious parents, he matured and received a common-school education.
His parental roof was his home until his marriage, Apr. 7, 1877, with
Sarah, daughter of George Buswell, of this township.
She was born in Jefferson Township in 1855. They settled on the
farm where he now owns 163 acres of good land. He devotes
considerable time to raising and feeding stock. He and wife have a
family of three daughters, viz., Ada M., Minnie A. and Edith
B.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 988 |
|
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Deer Creek Twp. -
WILLIAM
H. BIERBAUGH, farmer, P. O. London, a native of Madison County,
Ohio, born June 4, 1846, is a son of Christopher and
Catherine Bierbaugh, he a native of Russia and she of
Strasburg, France. They emigrated to America when young and single.
Mrs. Bierbaugh came in 1831 to her brother in Columbus; he
came in 1841. They were married in 1844, and settled in LaFayette,
Madison County, and have resided in the county ever since, with the
exception of one year's residence in Iowa. In 1862, they located upon
the place where they, with their son William now lives and have
since resided. They have now been residents of this county over forty
years. They have had four children, one only living—William H.,
our subject, who was born and grew to manhood in Madison County. He was
married, Mar. 25,1880, to Martha A. Headly, who was born in
Pennsylvania, Oct. 2, 1857, a daughter of James and Sarah Headly,
he a native vf Greene County, Penn., born May 28, 1817, and his
wife, Sarah Johnson, a native of Pennsylvania. The
grandparents, Elizabeth and Isaac Headly,
were natives of New Jersey. The great-grandfather was Ephraim
Headly, who removed from New Jersey to Greene County, Penn., where
he lived and died. Isaac Headly and wife spent their lives
and died in Greene County. They had three sons and six daughters.
James, the second son of his father, grew to manhood in his native
State and married Sarah Johnson; they settled in Greene
County, Penn., where they resided till the fall of 1867, when they
removed to Ohio and settled in Licking County, and resided there till
the fall of 1872, when they came to Madison County and bought and
located on the place where they now live. They have had ten children,
seven now survive—Nicholas L, Malinda (married David
Lemley), Benson F., Lewis, Martha Ann, William Henry and
Credola. In 1862, the eldest son enlisted in the war of the
rebellion in the Eighteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served three years
to the close of the war. He was taken prisoner and suffered almost
starvation in Libby Prison, where he was kept for many weeks, but was
finally exchanged, and then served in the army till the close of the
war, and returned home, having received but one slight wound in the arm
from a stroke of a sabre by one of the rebels. Mr. Headly
and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which they
have belonged for over forty years. Mr. Bierbaugh and wife
have one child—Imo C., born Jan. 14, 1881. He has devoted his
life to farming, except three years' clerkship in a store in London
during the war. Mr. Bierbaugh has a good farm of forty
acres, with good improvements. He has served the township as Trustee for
three terms, and is one of the reliable and prosperous farmers of Deer
Creek Township.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1017 |
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|
Darby Twp. -
FILMORE C. BIGELOW,
P. O. Danville, Ill., born Jan. 23, 1848, at Plain City, Madison Co.,
Ohio. His parents were Dr. Daniel K. and Lydia (Custer) Bigelow.
He was engaged in farming and clerking in a grocery store up to 1866;
then attended College at Columbus, Ohio, and began telegraphing in 1867.
He was married in Apr. 14, 1875, to Miss Annie M. Ball, at
Clarksville, Tenn., after which he settled in Danville, Ill. Has
two children, Edith I., born Nov. 13, 1878, and Pearl K.,
born Nov. 11, 1880. In 1880, he quit telegraphing and commenced as
billing clerk for the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railroad Company,
which position he still holds. Mrs. Bigelow's parents were
Ephraim and Sarah (Peek) Ball. Her grandparents were John
and Mary (Grimes) Ball. Mrs. Bigelow was born May 10,
1857 at North Manchester, Wabash County, Ind.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 963 |
|
|
Darby Twp. -
ISRAEL ELIPHAZ BIGELOW, retired, Plain City, was
born at Adamsburg, Westmoreland Co., Penn., Jun. 7, 1825. He was a
son of Dr. Daniel K. and Lydia (Custer) Bigelow, the former a
native of Saratoga County, N. Y., and the latter of Fayette County,
Penn. They were married in Fayette County, and, coming West in
1831, settled on a farm adjoining Plain City, where both died - he Nov.
10, 1850, and she Nov. 14, 1854. Their family consisted of six
boys and five girls, of whom four boys and two girls are living.
The father was one of five sons of Dr. Israel Bigelow, who came
to Ohio in 1828. These sons were all physicians, and all, with one
exception, life practitioners. The town of Plain City was for a
time called Bigelow Town, in honor of the senior Dr. Bigelow.
The subject of this sketch was the second of his parents' children.
He came West with his parents, and remained at home until twenty-two
years of age, when he engaged in farming on land adjoining Plain City.
He had previously read medicine with a view of adjoining Plain City.
He had previously read medicine with a view of adopting the profession,
but for reasons satisfactory to himself, decided not to continue his
studies in that direction. On June 27, 1817, he married Betsey
M. Smith, who was born in Vermont Oct. 31, 1828, and was a daughter
of Capt. E. C. and Irena (Doty) Smith, natives of Vermont.
The father was Captain of a company of militia, and for a short time
served in the war of 1812. Mr. and Mrs. Bigelow have had
seven children, viz.: Lydia Irena, born Jul. 31, 1848, and
died at the age of twenty-two years: Clarence E., a grocer of
Plain City, born Nov. 20, 1851, and, on Mar. 19, 1871, married Mary,
daughter of Luther Lane, who died Nov. 26, 1874, and on Dec. 22,
1877, he married Catharine J., daughter of Charles and Mary
Ann (Beard) Shipman; an infant son died aged four months;
Eliphaz McClellan, born Apr. 16, 1862, and married Elizabeth,
daughter of William and Jane (Phillips) Manning; Daniel
Crocker, a farmer, at home, born Sept. 1, 1864; Emmett Custer,
born Mar. 19, 1867, and now engaged in a jewelry store in Plain City;
and Charles Smith, who died Mar. 13, 1870, aged one year.
Mr. Bigelow followed farming for ten years after marriage.
In 1857, he was appointed Postmaster at Plain City, and to this
occupation added merchandising. After six years' service, he
resigned the office of Postmaster, and became engaged in the warehouse
at Plain City, and as agent of the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati & St. Louis
Railroad, in which he continued two years and four months, when he again
entered the ranks as a merchant, and so continued until 1879, when he
retired from active business life. He is a member of the Masonic
fraternity of the Royal Arch degree, and of the Universalist Church.
In politics, he is a Democrat. He recently visited the Bigelow
family in the East, and paid his respects to 100 living descendants
of two of his father's brothers, Drs. Lebbens L. and Eliphaz Bigelow.
He also visited over forty descendants of his Grandfather Custer,
who was full cousin to Gen. George Washington. A
gold-headed cane and a gold watch, originally owned by his
great-great-grandfather, Isaac Bigelow, have been handed down
from generation to generation through the name of Isaac, and are
now in possession of the ex-Mayor of Newark, Ohio, who represents the
fifth generation, and at his death they pass to the next oldest Isaac
then living. The subject of this sketch has filled most of the
minor offices of the township, including Justice of the Peace from 1870
to 1873. He was also elected Mayor of Plain City at the same time,
and served one year, but then resigned the office. He was
re-elected in 1881, and served one year more. He was appointed and
commissioned Seventieth Census Enumerator of the Fifth Ohio District,
and discharged the duties of his office to the entire satisfaction of
his superiors. Mr. Bigelow has two grandchildren, viz.,
Bertha J., born Jun. 30, 1879; and Charles Eber, born Mar.
30, 1882, children of his eldest son.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 962 |
|
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Union Twp. -
NATHAN BOND
BLAIR, retired merchant, London, was born in London on the
present site of Houston & Burnham's hardware store, June
24, 1824. He is a son of John and Jency
Blair, of Scotch and Irish descent. John Blair was
an early pioneer of this county, and a moderate land-holder. He was also
an early resident of London. He traded his town property for a small
farm, on what is known as the "Lower Glade," five miles south of London,
to which he removed when our subject was but nine years of age. There
the latter's time was occupied in tilling the soil and attending school.
When he had secured such an education as the schools of those days
afforded, he returned to London, being eighteen years of age. He served
a three years' apprenticeship as carpenter and joiner, receiving, during
this time, the munificent wages of $3 per month. After serving his
apprenticeship, he commenced jour work, being recognized as a skillful
carpenter and builder. In 1847, he was married to Mary Penny.
To this union was born one son—Henry C. Mrs.
Blair died in the spring of 1849, and the son the following fall. In
the fall of 1850, Mr. Blair was again married, to Mrs.
E. A. Lamb, who had one son—Oscar E. They have
three children—Anna M., Amanda and Harry Nathan, all of
whom are living. The latter is managing editor of the London Enterprise.
At the time of his second union, Mr. Blair was engaged in milling
at Blairtown (named after a member of the family who owned large tracts
of land near there), but subsequently returned to London and resumed
work at his trade. He was engaged at that for the next seven years,
employing from ten to fifteen men. He again bought the sawmill at
Blairtown, and operated it for seven years. He then went to Jefferson
and engaged in the furniture and undertaking business in connection with
his brother, J. C. Blair. After some time, the partnership was
dissolved, and Mr. Blair continued the business until the spring
of 1877, when he removed his stock to London. He there carried on the
same business for two years, and then disposed of his stock and trade to
Lohr & Son. Mr. Blair united with the Methodist Episcopal
Church when seventeen years of age. He is a charter member of Jefferson
Lodge, No. 412 (I O. O. F.), and the Republican party. He is an honest,
upright citizen, and highly esteemed by all.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 852 |
|
|
Union Twp. -
A. J. BLUE,
farmer, P. O. London, was born in this State Oct. 31, 1849. He is a
son of Harvey A. and Emily (Bowman) Blue, of
German descent, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio.
Our subject attended the district schools of his native county and the
National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio, graduating from the latter
in 1871. He then chose milling for an occupation, and accordingly
purchased a grist-mill in London. He followed farming until Jan. 31,
1877, when he married Carrie A. Rankin, a daughter of Albert
and Margaret (With low) Rankin. She fell. heir to 100 acres of land
near London, on which they now reside. They have two children, viz.,
Harford and Emily A. Mr. Blue is a member of the
Baptist Church, and his wife of the Methodist. He is a Republican in
politics. His father was born in 1816, and is still living. His mother
was born in 1826, and died in 1881.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 852 |
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Union Twp. -
T. J. BOLDS,
the oldest boot and shoe merchant in London, and probably of Madison
County, was born in Maryland Oct. 20, 1828. His father, Thomas
Bolds, was also a native of Maryland, and a shoe-maker by
trade. He came to London in 1851, and resided there till his death, in
1864, at which time he was the senior member of the boot and shoe firm
of T. Bolds & Son. He married Louisa Jarman, a
native of Maryland. They were the parents of eight children, two now
living.
Mrs. Rachel L Haynes, of Jefferson, and our subject. Mrs. Holds
departed this life Feb. 19, 1837. Our subject was the fourth child
of this family, and has been engaged in his present business all his
life. He was a member of the firm of T. Bolds & Son, at the time
of his father's death, and has since continued the business alone.
Mr. Bolds is one of the oldest and most prominent merchants and
citizens of London, and a man well respected by the entire community. He
is a Republican in politics. He was married, July 18, 1865, to Amanda
F. Bryan, a sister of M. L. Bryan, of the Madison County
Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Bolds are members of the Episcopal
Church.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 852 |
|
|
Darby Twp. -
MRS. EMELINE BOND,
whose maiden name was Emeline Phillips, was born in the State of
New York in 1818. She was a daughter of Aaron and Catharine
(Lawson) Phillips, the former a native of Long Island of English
descent, and the latter a native of New York State, of German descent.
They came to Ohio in 1819. They had seven children, all of whom
are deceased but our subject. She was married in 1839, to S. O.
Worthington, of Franklin County, and in 1841 they moved into Plain
City and built the hotel in which she now resides. Mr.
Worthington died in 1853, leaving one child, Wilson S.,
who was born Jan. 29, 1843, and died Jan. 7, 1876. In 1876, Mrs.
Worthington married Hiram Bond, a native of Ontario County, N. Y., where
he was born in 1818. He is a miller by trade, but since 1876 has
been conducting the business of the hotel.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 963 |
|
|
Range Twp. -
WILLIAM JACKSON BONHAM, carpenter, Cross Roads P.
O., was born in Ross County, Ohio, and is a son of John and Ann
Bonham. His paternal grandparents were natives of Wales and
England, respectively, and his maternal grandparents of Scotland and
Ireland. They all emigrated to America and settled near Lancaster,
Penn. Our subject's father was a blacksmith in early life, but
afterward engaged in milling, which he followed until 1808, when he came
to Ohio and located in Franklin County. He afterward returned to
his native county. Our subject remained at home with his parents
until of proper age, when he began learning the trade of a carpenter,
which he has since followed. He owns 233 acres of land in Stokes
Township, and the property in Midway, where he resides. On Sept.
27, 1857. he married Lucinda Hays, a daughter of John
Hays, who was born in 1810, and died Aug. 10, 1859. Mr.
Bonham has had by his marriage two children—Scott B., born
Jan. 25, 1858, and Katie M., born Apr. 1, 1859. Mr.
Bonham is a man of considerable prominence in his township, and
for a number of years occupied the office of Justice of the Peace.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1045 |
|
|
Paint Twp. -
GEORGE W. BOTKIN, farmer, P. O. South Charleston,
was born near South Charleston, Clark Co., Ohio, Oct. 10, 1829.
His grandparents came to Ohio from Virginia, in 1802, and settled for a
time in Warren County, but afterward moved to Clinton County, near
Todd's Fork, three miles from Wilmington, where they remained until
1808, when they permanently settled in Clark County. The father of
our subject, Jeremiah Botkin, came West with his parents and
followed their fortunes to their settlement in Clark County. He
married Anna Elsworth, Dec. 9, 1806, and had by her nine
children, viz: Jesse, Levi S., Ruhama, Margaret, Amos, Moses E.,
George W., Annie and William I. Our subject remained
with his father, farming in summer and teaching school in winter, until
Apr. 5, 1849, when he married Eliza Maxey, daughter of Stephen
and Fanny Maxey. By her he had six children, viz.: Frances
E., Albert C., Mary E. (wife of Henry . Snyder, London), Florence
J., (deceased, wife of Franklin Pierce, of Franklin County),
Stephen H. and Annie J. After marriage, our subject
engaged in farming for himself, and has so continued, now owning 180
acres of good land. He is a Republican, a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and of the Grand Army of the Republic.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1147 |
|
|
Range Twp. -
SIMON BOUGHN, farmer, P. O. Range. Joseph
Boughn, the father of our subject, was born in Virginia, June 6,
1810. He came to Ohio at an early day, and here married Elizabeth
Boughn, who was born near Washington, Ohio, Aug. 24, 1819. Our
subject was reared on the farm, and remained at home with his parents
until his marriage. He received the benefits of the schools of the
township and from them obtained his education. In 1866, he married
Catharine Hay, by whom he had seven children, whose names
and the dates of their birth were as follows: Ida May
(deceased), Nov. 16, 1867; Charles, Oct. 26, 1869; Austin,
May 15, 1871; Otis, Dec. 26, 1873; Alma, Feb. 5, 1875;
Louis Fremans (deceased), Apr. 19, 1877, and Carl,
Feb. 25, 1881. Mr. Boughn, after his marriage, engaged in
farming, and he has since followed that honored avocation. He now
owns 305 acres of good land on the Bloomingburg road, where he resides
with his family.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1046 |
|
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Darby Twp. -
J. P. BOWERS, Sr., farmer, P. O. Plain City, was
born in Canaan Township Aug. 12, 1820. He is a son of Daniel
and D. (Phiney) Bowers, the former a native of Massachusetts and the
latter of Vermont, where she was born in 1798, being now eighty-four
years of age. Daniel Bowers was one of the early settlers
of this county, where he located some time about the year 1800. He
was a soldier in the war of 1812. Our subject's grandfathers on
both sides were soldiers of the Revolution. Mr. Bowers in
early life learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for three
years, at the expiration of which time he bought a farm, and since then
has engaged in farming, now owning about one hundred acres. In
1841, he married Ruhanna Guy who was born in Franklin County,
Ohio, in 1819. She was a daughter of Jacob Guy. By
this union eight children were born, of whom four survive, viz.,
Betsey L., Daniel E., John P. and Adda M. Mrs. Bowers
died in 1871. She was a good wife, an affectionate parent, and a
consistent member of hte Presbyterian Church. In 1872, Mr.
Bowers married Alvina Newton, a native of Darby Township.
This union has been without issue. Mr. Bowers is a member
of the Masonic and Odd Fellow fraternities.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 964 |
|
|
Darby Twp. -
DANIEL BOYD,
stock
dealer, Plain City, was born in Washington County, Penn., May 1, 1828.
He is the son of James and Martha (Millikin) Boyd, natives of
Pennsylvania, who emigrated to Ohio in 1831 and settled in Canaan
Township. Our subject was reared and educated in Canaan Township,
and has made stock-dealing a life occupation. He has also given
some attention to the wool trade during the past thirty years. He
was married, Feb. 14, 1850, to Mary A. Smith, a daughter of
Samuel Smith. By this union four children were born, viz.:
John S., a farmer of the township; Ella W., who died aged
four years; Dwight S., a farmer of this township; and Charles,
at home. Mr. Boyd is a Republican, and he has held the
offices of Township Trustee, Treasurer and Assessor, and for three years
was County Commissioner. He owns 125 acres of land, in addition to
other property. His wool and stock operations are very extensive,
but operated with care and sound judgment, and the profits from them
have enabled Mr. Boyd to amass a comfortable competency for his
declining years.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 964 |
|
|
Darby Twp. -
JAMES BOYD,
farmer, P.
O. Plain City, was born in Washington County, Penn., June 5, 1826, and
moved with his parents to Madison County in 1831, locating in this
township in 1852. He was a son of James and
Martha (Millikin) Boyd, natives of Pennsylvania.
Our subject's education was limited to the common schools of this
county. He early began the work of a farmer, and has sine spent
his life in that useful occupation. He owns a farm of 356½
acres of land, near Plain City, where he resides. He was married,
Nov. 20, 1864, to Ann E. Williams, a native of
Franklin County, Ohio, and a daughter of Ebenezer Williams.
They have three children - Emma, James Grant and Robert
Colfax. Mr. Boyd was a Whig until the formation of the
Republican party, since which he has been a Republican. His
grandfather, Col. Millikin, an officer in the war of 1812, was a
surveyor by profession, and at one time owned 2,200 acres of land here.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 964 |
|
|
Union Twp. -
ROBERT BOYD, farmer and
stock-raiser, and President of the London Exchange Bank, residence, West
High street, London, was born in Washington County, Penn., Oct. 9,
1824. He is a son of James Boyd, also a native of
Pennsylvania, and a farmer by occupation. He came to Madison. County,
Ohio, in September, 1830, locating in Canaan Township. Col.
James Milliken had located 2,200 acres of land in this
county, in 1829, and divided it equally among his nine children. One
daughter, Martha, was the wife of James Boyd, and
it was upon her portion of the estate (200 acres) that they settled.
They were the parents of four children, all living, and residents of
this county—two sons at Plain City, Darby Township; a daughter, wife of
Squire William Kilgore, of Canaan Township, and our
subject. James Boyd was about thirty-three years of age at
the time of his death. His widow is still living and in her eightieth
year. Robert Boyd was the oldest child and grew to manhood
on Darby Plains, Canaan Township. He assisted his mother on the farm
till the date of his marriage, Oct. 18, 1849, when he was married to
Caroline M., daughter of Valentine and Nancy (Roberts) Wilson.
They came to Ohio about 1810, and now reside in Somerford Township.
After marriage, Mr. Boyd engaged in farming for himself, on 145
acres of the home farm. He then sold his land and purchased 400 acres in
Jefferson Township (now a farm of 420 acres), where he resided live
years. He then removed to his present residence in London. When quite
young, Mr. Boyd commenced dealing in stock, and has since
continued in that business. He is a member of the firm of Boyd
& Byers, probably the largest grazers and dealers in stock in
Madison County. Mr. Boyd has been very successful in life, now
owning 1,380 acres of land, 113 of which is in the corporate limits of
London, and 110 acres constituting the home farm. He is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church and a Trustee in that body. His political
views are Prohibition-Republican. He was one of the first Directors of
the Madison County Infirmary; has been Township Trustee, and served six
terms in the Village Council. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd have been blessed
with five children—Nancy, wife of J. W. Byers, of Boyd
& Byers; Martha A., wife of A. G. Carpenter, an
attorney at law, of Cleveland, Ohio; Albert W., who married
Myrtie L. Fowler, of Wyandot County, Ohio; Caroline M. and Robert
W., the two latter graduates of the London High School.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 853 |
| |
Monroe Twp. -
CALVIN
BRADLEY, farmer, P. O. Lafayette, was born Oct. 13, 1843, in Monroe Township, Madison County, Ohio; he is
one of the sons of John Bradley (deceased) and
Sarah A. Bradley, whose sketch appears in this work.
From his youth up, he has been engaged in agricultural
pursuits. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Company A,
Fortieth Ohio Volunteer Inventory, Army of the Cumberland.
He participated in the battles of Chickamauga, Lookout
Mountain, the fighting at Atlanta, Mission Ridge and
numerous other engagements, and having served his county
faithfully he was, in October, 1864, honorably discharged.
On Nov. 14, 1867, he married Miss Margaret Johnson,
who was born Oct. 22, 1850, and a daughter of Lewis
and Eliza Johnson, of Jefferson Township, Madison
County. To them have been born four children -
Olive, born Dec. 21, 1869; Ida, born Sept. 29,
1871; Minnie, born Aug. 13, 1874; and John L.,
born Jan. 23, 1881. In May, 1868, Mr. Bradley
located where he now resides, in the eastern portion of
Monroe Township, near the waters of Little Darby Creek.
He has served as Trustee of Monroe Township, is a member of
I. O. O. F. Lodge, No. 193, at Plain City, and the owner of
140 acres of land.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1063 |
| |
Monroe Twp. -
DAVID BRADLEY,
deceased. The subject of this sketch was born Feb. 1,
1810, in Madison County, Ohio. He was the son of
Jonah and Susan Bradley, who were early settlers of
Madison County. In his youth he was trained to the
pursuits of agriculture which he afterward followed until
his decease. On May 24, 1835, he married Miss Nancy
Morrow, who was born in Onondaga County, N. Y., June 24,
1814. She was a daughter of John and Mary Morrow.
This union has been blessed with five children, four of whom
are now living - Delilah, John, Mary and Quincy.
In 1840, Mr. Bradley settled where his widow now
resides, near the central portion of Monroe Township.
He had served as Treasurer of Monroe Township, and was
highly respected by all who knew him. He departed this
life July 6, 1850, and left behind him a large circle of
friends and relatives who mourn their irreparable loss.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1064 |
| |
Monroe Twp. -
DAVID M.
BRADLEY, farmer, P. O. Lafayette. The subject
of this sketch was born Nov. 18, 1815, in Franklin County,
Ohio. His parents were David and Nancy Lawson
Bradley. His grandfather, James Bradley,
emigrated from Virginia to Madison County, Ohio, and settled
near where our subject a present resides about the year 1805
or 1806, and, where he remained until his decease. In
1816, David Bradley with his family removed from
Franklin County, Ohio, where he had been residing twelve
years, to his father's homestead in Monroe Township, Madison
County, where he spent the remainder of his days and
departed this life Apr. 18, 1848. His wife survived
him several years, having died June 10, 1862. Of the
several children that were born to them, but three of them
are now living. Our subject was in his youth trained
to the pursuits of agriculture, in which he is still
engaged. On Sept. 21, 1837, he married Miss
Hannah R. Kempf, by whom he had eleven children, one now
living, viz. William D. She died
Nov. 11, 1863, and he again married, on Oct. 3, 1866,
this time to Mrs. Mary C. Hesser, widow of the late
Henry Hesser. By hits union there has been
an issue f four children, three of whom are now living,
viz., Carrie, Nancy A., and Franklin I. Mr.
Bradley had two sons, Harvey and Henry,
who served in the late war of the rebellion. Henry,
who served in the late war of the rebellion.
Henry, who had been in the service more than one year,
owing to exposure, was rendered unfit for any further
service; he returned home, and, shortly after his arrival,
died. Harvey, the other son, served during the
greater part of the war, and when the expiration of the term
of his enlistment transpired, received an honorable
discharge. Our subject has served as Trustee of Monroe
Township; also as Treasurer and is the owner of 303 acres of
good, tillable land.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1064 |
James L. Bradley
(Deceased) |
Canaan Twp. -
JAMES L. BRADLEY,
deceased. The subject of this sketch was born in Virginia Dec. 9, 1806, and died
Sept. 14, 1881. He was married Sept. 30,
1832, to Elizabeth, daughter of James and Nancy ( Vankirk )
Mark. She was born Dec. 7, 1814, her father was born Nov. 25, 1787. Our subject was the father of seven children,
three boys and four girls; of which number three are living, viz.:
Nancy, deceased, born Sept. 6, 1833; Alma, born Feb. 3, 1836; James M., born
Nov. 14, 1838, and died Aug. 30,
1841; Eliza Ann, born Feb. 7, 1842; David, born
Apr. 14, 1844, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased, born Nov. 14,
1846; and Mathias, born Sept. 25, 1854. Our subject
came to an untimely end while crossing the railroad between his farm and
Plain City. He owned nearly nine hundred acres of land five miles
southwest of Plain City. He was a successful farmer and a large
stock-raiser.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1074 |
|
|
Monroe Twp. -
JOHN BRADLEY (deceased).
John Bradley, the subject of this sketch was born Aug. 12, about
the year 1812, in Madison County, Ohio. He was a son of Jonah
and Susan Bradley, who emigrated from Virginia and settled in
Madison County at an early day. He was reared to manhood on a
farm, and received a rudimentary education in a district school.
He married Miss Sarah A. Jones, born Dec. 29, 1822, in
Madison County. She was a daughter of Zachariah and Elizabeth
Jones, who emigrated from Tennessee to Madison County at quite an
early day. This union has been blessed with seven children, viz.,
Calvin, Elizabeth A., Arthur, Charles S., Emma, Albert and
Martha A., the latter two of whom are deceased. Mr. Bradley
left to his family a large estate of about 1,100 acres of land, and
departed this life in February, 1874. He was an indulgent father
and a kind and affectionate husband, and respected by all who knew him.
His widow survives him, and resides on her homestead in the southern
portion of Monroe Township.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1064 |
|
|
Monroe Twp. -
JOHN M.
BRADLEY, farmer, P. O. Rosedale, was born July 17,
1833, in Madison County, Ohio. His parents were
Alfred and Jemima Bradley, who were early settlers of
Madison County. He was reared to manhood on a farm,
and received but a rudimentary education. In November,
1859, he married Miss Surrilda Morris, daughter of
David and Sarah Morris, deceased, of this county.
To them have been born seven children, six of whom are now
living, viz: Dewitt C., Sarah L., Lorenzo D., Stella M.,
Mary V. and David C. In 1859, he settled
where he now resides. He has served as Trustee and
Clerk of Monroe Township; is a member of the Christian
Church, and the owner of 148 acres of land in a good state
of cultivation.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1065 |
|
|
Darby Twp. -
M. D. BRADLEY, farmer, P. O. Plain City. The
subject of this sketch was born in Canaan Township, Madison Co., Ohio,
Sept. 25, 1854. He is a son of James L. and Elizabeth Mark
Bradley. His father was a native of Virginia, and his mother
of this county. Our subject is a farmer by occupation, and owns
202 acres of land in Darby Township and 278 in Canaan Township. In
politics, he is a Republican. He was married, Nov. 21, 1877, to
Ada A. Burnham, who was born in Pike Township, Madison County.
She is the daughter of John H. and Salina (Fullington) Burnham.
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley are members of the Universalist Church.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 965 |
|
|
Jefferson Twp. -
QUINN BRADLEY, druggist, Jefferson, is a son of
Daniel Bradley, who was a pioneer and native of Monroe
Township, Madison County, where our subject was also born in 1843.
He was left fatherless at an early age, and reared by a widowed mother.
As soon as he was large enough, he was hired out as a farm hand, and
thus continued until May, 1862, when he enlisted in Company E,
Eighty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until the expiration of
his enlisted term, one hundred days. In 1863, he re-enlisted in
Company C, Second Ohio Cavalry, and remained in service until the close
of the war. He participated in the common hardships connected with
military life. He returned home and resumed farming, and, in 1869,
married Miss Kate Zinn, of Franklin County, Ohio.
The issue of this union is one child - Elta. Farming was
Mr. Bradley’s pursuit until the centennial year, when he
located in Jefferson, and, two years later, opened a drug store.
He carries a full line of drugs, druggists’ sundries, paints, oils,
varnishes and stationery.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 991 |
|
|
Union Twp. -
J. C.
BRIDGMAN, auctioneer, London, can trace back his ancestry to
about the time of Oliver Cromwell, in England. He has in
his possession a wood-cut, engraved about that time, and bearing the
following inscription: "Charlotte Lady Middleton,
daughter of the Right Hon. Sir Orlando
Bridgman, Knight and Baronet, Lord-Keeper of ye Great Seale of
England, and Lady Dowager of Sir Thomas
Middleton, Chirkcastle, in Denbighshire, Baronet for ye advancement
of this work, contributed this Plate to whose Patronage it is Humbly
dedicated by R. Blome." It was in all probability his son,
James Bridgman, who came to America in 1640, and is of the "
Pilgrim Fathers " stock. He settled at Hartford, Conn., the same year,
thence moved to Springfield, Mass., and subsequently to Northampton,
N. H. John, his only son, had six sons—John, born in 1674:
James, born in 1677; Isaac, born in 1680; Ebenezer,
born in 1686; Thomas, born in 1688, and Orlando, born in
1701. John, the eldest son, had a son Jonathan, who was
born in Connecticut. He afterward moved to a farm on Moose Mountain, in
the Leming neighborhood, and near Hanover, H. H. He had six sons—Isaac,
John, Asa, Abel, Gideon and Orlando.
These sons were all ministers of the Baptist denomination, and when one
of them, Abel, died, another brother, Isaac, preached the
funeral sermon, and the four remaining brothers acted as pall-bearers.
This son, Abel, previously mentioned, married a Miss
Fowler, a cousin of O. S. Fowler, the great phrenologist of
New York City. He was a laborious worker, and died at the comparatively
early age of forty-four years. His widow subsequently married a Mr.
Bass. Abel's son, Erastus, was born at Hanover, N. H.,
in 1796, and there resided during his life. He was a farmer through life
and died in 1874, at the age of seventy-eight years. He married Mary
Flagg, a native of Massachusetts, and a daughter of Dr.
Bazalele Flagg, a great lover of, and indulger in, practical jokes.
They were the parents of seven children, three daughters and four sons,
three living—Mary Frances, John C. (our subject)
and Nathan C., Adeline, Charles, Augusta and
Mendal are deceased. Mrs. Bridgman departed this
life in the summer of 1868, and both parents are buried near Hanover. N
H., in the old cemetery near the brick church where Abel
Bridgman's sermon was preached. Our subject, the fifth child and
second son of this family, was born at Hanover, N. H., Mar. 24, 1831,
and was there reared. He obtained a fair common-school education, and
part of an academic one. He was married, Jan. 19, 1853, to Lucy B.
Pelton, and, on Apr. 13. 1854, Mr. Bridgman and wife arrived
at London, this county. Mr. Bridgman secured a position as
clerk for W. W. Fellows, in the dry goods liner and remained with
him six months. He then secured a similar position with Samuel Tenny,
and subsequently was with Shaw & Toland one year. He then
purchased a half-interest in the grocery trade of William Smith,
and the firm put out the following sign over their place of business: "Smith
& Bridgman, Genius and Capital Combined" Either the former quality
or latter necessity failed, for the firm carried on the business but a
few months. After engaging a short time in other enterprises, Mr.
Bridgman commenced at London in his present business. This was in
1856, at the beginning of the stock sales in Madison County. Since that
time, Mr. Bridgman has devoted nearly all his time to this
occupation, and his success as an auctioneer is beyond doubt, and does
not need any word from us. "Jack Bridgman," as he is
familiarly called, is well known all over this and adjoining counties,
and his jovial manners, free and ready wit, and common-sense qualities
have won for him the friendship of all. When his father's estate was
being settled up, he generously relinquished his claim to any part of it
to a younger brother who had stayed at home and taken care of the old
folks. Mr. Bridgman commenced life in Madison County
without a dollar in money, and has succeeded in life beyond his
anticipations. His sales of every description during the year 1882
amounted to $350,000. He is a Royal and Select Master in Masonry, and
connected with all the fraternity organizations at London. He is also a
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. and Mrs. Bridgman
had seven children given them four living—Marion Frances,
wife of William Chrisman, of London; Franklin
Ross, with Jennings, Ford & Paxtoa, live stock
commission merchants, Cincinnati; Mary S. and Ollie.
Charles M., Flora and Orlando are deceased. Mr.
Bridgman is a director in the Madison National Bank. Mrs.
Bridgman is a lady of education and refinement, and as jovial in her
manners as her husband. She is a daughter of David M. Pelton, who
was born in Lyme, N. H., Nov. 26, 1804. He was a son of David M.
Pelton, Sr., also a native of Lyme, N. H. He was a cattle drover,
and died in 1818. He married Lucy Stone, and his widow
subsequently went to New York State, and married the father of
Millard Fillmore, thus becoming step-mother to the President
of the United States. David M. Pelton, Jr., the father of
Mrs. Bridgman, married Sally Boss, who was born in
Hanover, N. H. They were the parents of five children—Lucy B.,
born May 2, 1834; Isabel F., born Aug. 3. 1840: David C.,
born June 26, 1843; Brewster, born Aug. 23, 1848, and
Franklin R., born Aug. 20, 1852. Lucy B. Bridgman
and David C. are the two living. Mr. Pelton died Apr. 3,
1872, aged sixty-eight years, and his wife Feb. 8, 1871. Mrs.
Bridgman's maternal grandfather was Thomas Ross, who
enlisted in the Colonial army during the Revolutionary war, at eighteen
years of age, and subsequently died at Hanover, N. H.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 853 |
|
|
Union Twp. -
BENJAMIN
BROBST, with Houston & Burnham, hardware,
London, was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, Jan. 21, 1842. He is a son
of Peter Brobst, a native of Berks County, Penn., and a farmer by
occupation. He accompanied his father, Jacob Brobst, to Ohio in
1806, the latter locating in Fairfield, near Pickaway County. Peter
Brobst is yet living and is in his seventy-seventh year. He married
Elizabeth Fellers, a native of Fairfield County. They were the
parents of ten children, seven now living, our subject the only one in
this county. Mrs. Brobst departed this life in 1879.
Our subject was reared on the home farm in Pickaway County, and in early
life "farmed it" for three years. In the fall of 1865, he came to
Madison County, locating at Jefferson. He there engaged in mercantile
pursuits for four years. He then sold his stock and removed to London,
engaging in the sewing-machine business. He remained at that for seven
years, and then clerked for P. C. Cowling for four years. Since
1880, he has been connected with Houston & Burnham. Mr. Brobst
is an influential member of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, and
Deacon and Clerk of the official board. Politically, he is Democratic.
Mr. Brobst was married, Apr. 7, 1862, to Loraine Culp, a
native of Pickaway County, Ohio. They have three children -Ernest E.,
Sarah E. and Anna F. Mrs. Brobst is also a
member of the Lutheran Church.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 857 |
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Pleasant
Twp. -
RICHARD N. BROWN (deceased). The subject of
this sketch was born in Ross County, Ohio, Oct. 18, 1840. His
parents were Thomas W. and Martha Brown, both natives of Ohio.
From his youth up he engaged in agricultural pursuits. On Mar. 7,
1865, in Pickaway County, he was united in marriage with Miss Marinda
Yates, who was born in Pickaway County Mar. 1, 1844, and is a
daughter of John Yates (deceased), and Elizabeth Yates.
Her mother at present resides with her in Pleasant Township. This
union his been blessed with six children - Theodosia B., Ariel, Lina,
Clement, Paul and Mary Y. In 1865, a short time after
their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Brown came to Pleasant Township and
settled where she now resides in 1867. He possessed a
sterling reputation, and a reliable business character. He
departed this life on Dec. 18, 1876, mourned alike by relatives and
friends. In his demise, his wife and children lost a faithful
husband and father, and Madison County one of her most worthy citizens.
He left to his widow, who still resides at her splendid homestead in
Pleasant Township, 500 acres of fine tillable land.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1030 |
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Union Twp. -
MARCELLTIS L.
BRYAN, editor and publisher of the Madison Democrat, was born at
Batavia, Clermont Co., Ohio, Mar. 29, 1823. His grandfather,
David C. Bryan, who died July 31, 1829, was born on Long Island
in 1771, and, in 1792, married Ruth Bryan. In 1800, he moved to
New Jersey, in 1803 to Williamsburg, this county, and, in 1825, to
Batavia. He was elected a Representative in the Legislature in 1806, but
his seat was contested and given to Thomas Morris, and served as
State Senator from 1807 to 1810, when he resigned to become Clerk of the
Courts, which place he ably filled until his death, a period of nineteen
years. His son, Malancthon A., was then Clerk for some two years.
He was born Sept. 26, 1803, and died Mar. 27, 1832. George S.,
another son, was born Sept. 3, 1792, and died Nov. 28, 1832, and
his wife Mary
died July 16, 1844, aged forty-seven years. Our subject's father, whose
name was also David C., was born on Long Island, and was quite
young when brought to Batavia by his parents. In 1828, when only
nineteen years of age, he married Miss Mary M. Moore, youngest
daughter of Capt. Charles Moore, an ex Captain of the war of
1812, and an early settler of Clermont County, from Philadelphia. To
this union eight children were born, viz., Marcellus L.;
Francis, wife of T. J. Bolds, of London;
Charles M., of California; Beuiah C., wife of Joseph
Kewley, of Richmond, Ind.; Dr. A. S., of Point Pleasant,
Clermont County; Rose, wife of
Mr. Patterson, of Point Pleasant; Eva, wife of Allen
Armacost, of Wayne County, Ind.; Learner L., a printer in
Chicago; and two daughters that died in infancy. The father was a man of
prominence in his community, and at the time of his death was serving as
Auditor of Clermont County. He was an Old-Line Whig until the
organization of the Republican party, when he became a Democrat. He was
held in high esteem by the people and for many years occupied the office
of Justice of the Peace. He died in 1867 from the effects of sunstroke
received about a year previous. His wife still survives, at the age of
seventy-three years. Our subject remained at home until nineteen years
of age, when he went to Columbus and engaged as a type setter on the
Ohio Statesman. Before leaving home, he had learned the printer's trade
under Andrew Gest, in the Clermont Courier office. After
remaining in Columbus one year, Mr. Bryan went to
Circleville, but after a year's residence there returned to Columbus,
where he married Miss Martha S. Masterson, a native
of Ireland and a daughter of Prof. John O. Masterson. After his
marriage, he went to Circleville, where he operated the Circleville
Herald one year. He then returned to Columbus and remained there one
year, after which he and
John A Kissinger came to London and took possession of the
National Democrat, of which Mr. Bryan soon became sole
proprietor, changing the name of the paper to the Madison Democrat,
under which title he has since continued its publication. While in
Columbus, he and four other journeymen printers established the Daily
Reveille, and in this office the great humorist, Artemus Ward
(Charles Brown) was employed for some time. Mr. Bryan
withdrew from the Reveille company one year after its organization, and
six months before it was discontinued. Of his family of eight children,
seven survive, viz., Mary L., Ormand M., Chester E., Charles M.,
Mattie T., Marcellus and Addison. Annie O., the next
to the youngest, is deceased. Mr. Bryan has been a Democrat ever
since he cast his first vote. He served as Mayor of the village of
London two terms and as County Recorder one term.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 857 |
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Paint Twp. -
JAMES E. BUEL, farmer, P. O. Walnut Run, was born
in Vermont Sept. 11, 1830. He is a brother of V. L. Buel,
in whose sketch an account of the family's settlement in Ohio is given.
Our subject was raised on a farm mostly in Ohio, and received his
education by an irregular attendance at the public schools of his
neighborhood. He enlisted in the war against Mexico, was sent to
Madison, Ind., from there to Jefferson barracks, and two weeks later to
Vera Cruz, where he remained until marched to the City of Mexico.
When he returned home he engaged in farming on seventy acres of land in
Range Township. He was married, in 1854, to Isabelle Bethards,
whose father was born in Maryland in 1800, and died in this county in
1871, and whose mother was born in 1809. They were the parents of
nine children, viz.: Theodore, William, Elizabeth, Charles A. and
Ada M. Mr. Buel now lives on the London & Midway pike,
where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1148 |
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Paint Twp. -
VINCENT L. BUEL, farmer, P. O. Walnut Run, was
born in Vermont July 1, 1828. His father came to Ohio in the fall
of 1833 or 1835, and located at Cleveland, where he remained five years.
He then moved to Circleville, and two years later came to Madison
County, Ohio. He was a farmer and lumber dealer by occupation.
His family consisted of eleven children, viz.: Julia E., Eliza
A., Fannie M., David C., Jane W., William H., Mary M., Vincent L., James
E., George W. and Caroline E. Our subject was raised on
the farm and attended the public schools, in which he received his only
education. On Mar. 25, 1854, he married Nancy H. Farrer,
who was born Sept. 1, 1834. By his marriage five children were
born, viz.: Albert L., born Oct. 20, 1858; Luther, born
Jan. 15, 1860, and died in infancy; John W., born in Jan. 25,
1861 and died Sept. 4, 1863; Edward Grant, born Nov. 28, 1867,
and F. M., born May 10, 1871. Mr. Buel cast his
first vote for a Democratic candidate, but since then has always voted
with the Republicans. He now resides on 187 acres of good land on
the London & Washington Turnpike, where he is engaged in farming and
stockraising.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1148 |
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Paint Twp. -
PETER BUFFENBERGER a
native of Virginia, while a young single man, emigrated to Madison
County, Ohio, and in 1810 located on Paint Creek, in this township, and
entered at once largely into the stock business on the prairie, and was
very successful. About 1816, he fenced in a large tract of these
prairies. He accumulated a large estate, and when, at the advanced age
of seventy-five years, married a young lady. Miss Angeline Hutson,
by whom he had two children—Eugene and May. The former
married a Mr. Crawford, of New York. Mr. Buffenberger died
a few years after his marriage, leaving his family 4,200 acres of fine
land, besides 700 acres which he had previously deeded in fee simple to
his wife. His wife subsequently married for her second husband Mr.
Colburn, and they now reside in New Jersey, and Mary, her
youngest daughter by her first marriage, who is unmarried, resides with
them. About 1810, George Linson, a native of Virginia, settled on
Paint Creek, just below the Buffenberger tract of land. He was
married in Virginia, and came here in very limited circumstances;
entered upon the stock business; was very successful and made money
rapidly, becoming the owner of over two thousand acres of excellent
land. He was the father of five sons and two daughters, of whom two now
survive— Margaret, now Mrs. Shough; and Jesse. The
former resides in Pleasant Township, this county; the latter in Fayette
County.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 830 |
| |
Pike Twp. -
DARIUS J. BURNHAM, farmer and
stock-dealer, P. O. Rosedale, a prominent young farmer of
Pike Township, was born Apr. 6, 1848, in Madison County,
Ohio. His parents are Johbn H. and Salina
(Fullington) Burnham. He, in his youth, received a
good English education, and on Oct. 4, 1876, he married
Miss Mattie L. Burnham, daughter of Henry and Eveline
Burnham, of Monroe Township, this county, whose sketch
appears in this work. Mr. Burnham has a fine
farm of 515 acres, upon which he built a very desirable and
commodious residence.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1054 |
| |
Monroe Twp. -
HENRY BURNHAM,
farmer, P. O. Rosedale. The subject of this sketch was
born Aug. 1, 1823, in Madison County, Ohio. His
parents were Darius, a native of Connecticut, and
Lucretia (Hunt) Burnham, who emigrated to Madison County
about the year 1820 or 1821. Mr. Burnham was
raised on a farm, and received but a common school
education. On Jan. 1, 1852, he married Miss
Eveline Williams, daughter of Ralston and Martha
Williams. To them have been born five children -
Lewis W., born Dec. 12, 1852; Martha L.,
born May 17, 1854; Amy, born Apr. 13, 1856;
Walter D., born Dec. 1, 1859, and Cora M., born
Oct. 29, 1863. In Apr. 1860, Mr. Burnham
settled in the northern portion of Monroe Township, where he
now resides. For six years he served as Justice of the
Peace in Pike Township, and he has also served as Clerk.
He has served as Trustee and Treasurer of Monroe Township,
and for one term he served as County Commissioner. He
is the owner of 6855 acres of land in Pike and Monroe
Townships.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1065 |
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Union Twp. -
L. W.
BURNHAM, of
Houston & Burnham, hardware merchants, London, was born in Pike
Township, Madison County, Dec. 12,1852. He is a son of Henry
Burnham, a native of this county and a farmer by occupation. He married
Eveline Williams, a native of this county. L. W. Burnham is
the elder of five children, and when a young man accepted the position
of Teller of the Trader's Bank of Mechanicsburg, Champaign Co., Ohio. He
remained in this position three years, and then came to London to accept
a similar one in the Central Bank of that city. After three years he
resigned that position, and engaged in his present business with T.
J. Houston, under the firm name of Houston & Burnham. Mr.
Burnham is a member of the M. E. Church, and Republican politically.
He was married, Oct. 5, 1875, to Ella M. Houston, a sister of
his present partner. She was a member of the M. E. Church and departed
this life June 6, 1880.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 858 |
| |
Monroe Twp. -
THOMAS BURRELL,
farmer, P. O. West Jefferson. The subject of this
sketch was born July 30, 1828, in Licking County, Ohio.
His parents were Charles and Susan Burrell, who
settled in Licking County at quite an early day. He
was from his youth up been engaged in the pursuits of
agriculture, and received but a rudimentary education in a
district school. While in Licking County he married
Margaret Hickey, born Nov. 13, 1834, and daughter of
Thomas and Betsy Hickey. To them have been born
eleven children, seven of whom are now living - Hezekiah,
Caleb I., Susan N., Rosa, Rebecca, Emma and Minerva;
the names of deceased are as follows: Mary E.,
Charles W., John H. and George. After his
marriage, for about fourteen years, Mr. Burrell
resided in Licking County, when he moved to Madison County,
and in 1874 settled in the eastern portion of Monroe
Township, where he now resides. He is a member of the
I. O. O. F. fraternity, and the owner of 216 acres of
tillable land.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1065 |
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Range Twp. -
E. W. BUSICK, farmer, P. O. Range, was born in Hanover County, W.
Va., in 1827. His parents, Samuel and Rhoda (Grubs) Busick,
married in West Virginia, and, coming to Ohio, settled in Licking
County. Our subject commenced life for himself when very young by
working for $6 per month, continuing three years. At the age of
twenty-one, he married, and rented land of James Foster,
on which he continued thirteen years. He then purchased a farm on
the Yankeetown road, sold it three years later, purchased 146 acres in
Fayette County; sold it six years later; then rented for two years; and
in 1879 came to his present farm. He has had ten children, viz.,
Mary Alice, Rhoda Ellen, Sarah F., George Franklin, John S., Joseph B. ,
Harriet E., Theodore S., Urias Clyde, and Charles W., deceased.
Mr. Busick is a sturdy, practical farmer, and in the past
has been successful in all his business transactions.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio
-
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1046 |
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Fairfield Twp. -
JOEL M. BYERS, farmer, P.
O. Lilly Chapel, was born in this county May 26, 1841, and is a son of
John W. and Sarah J. Byers, natives of Pennsylvania. The
grandfather, James Byers, a native of Pennsylvania, emigrated to
Ohio with his family, and settled in Ross county, in 1806. In
1826, he removed to Madison County and located in the north part of
Fairfield Township, where he died, being one of the first settlers of
that neighborhood. His house was one of the first places where
preaching and worship was had, long before ministers of Gospel.
Among the first preachers were Rev. Dr. Hogue, of Columbus, a
Presbyterian, and Rev. William Dickey. John W., the father
of our subject, was twenty-six years of age when they settled in Madison
County and here he married Matilda Hunter, a native of Franklin
County, Ohio, by whom he had three children, one now living - Matilda,
wife of Samuel Truitt. His wife died and he married for his
second wife Sarah J. Painter, by whom he had four sons and six
daughters. Eight now survive, viz.: Rosanna, wife of N.
P. Gardner, resides in Iowa; Jane, wife of T. J. Price,
resides in Emporia, Kan.; Flora, Kate, Joel M. and James
W. (twins), John C. and Andrew T., now a practicing
lawyer of Springfield, Ohio. Mr. Byers was a very
successful farmer. He commenced life here when the country was in
its wild, primitive state; when the stock roamed it will over the
parties and through the woods; and often he would early in the morning
start out on horseback and ride - over prairies with the wild sedge
grass higher than his head, to bring up their horses for work, a picture
which can now only be seen in imagination. Mr. Byers became
owner of more than 600 acres of excellent land, with good improvements.
The last year of his life he spent in London, having retired from the
active labors of the farm to pass in quiet and rest the declining years
of the active labors of the farm to pass in quiet and rest the declining
years of his life. He died Feb. 2, 1881, aged nearly eighty-one
years. He had lived a devoted Christian life, having been a member
of the Presbyterian church more than half a century, and an Elder in the
same many years. In business he was prompt and reliable, and
filled the offices of Trustee and Treasurer of his township many years.
His widow still survives and resides in London. The subject of
this sketch was married Nov. 23, 1864, to Louisa M. Fitzgerald, a
native of this county, where she was born Jun. 6, 1841, and a daughter
of Judge Edward O. and Lacy Ann Fitzgerald. By this union
they have three children: Luella, born Sept. 18, 1865; John E.,
born Mar. 20, 1872, and William G., born Jan. 24, 1878. In
the spring of 1865, Mr. Byers located on the farm where he now
lives and has since resided. The farm contains 152 acres of
excellent land with good improvements. Mr. Byers is a very
congenial and agreeable gentleman, and inherits many of the excellent
qualities of his father, and is highly esteemed and respected throughout
his circle of acquaintances.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1082 |
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Fairfield Twp. -
JOHN C. BYERS, farmer, P.
O. Lilly Chapel, is a native of Madison County, where he was born Jan.
18, 1845; he is a son of John W. and Sarah J. Byers, whose
history is given in the sketch of Joel Byers. The subject
of this biography was raised in this county. On Nov. 2, 1871, he
was united in united in marriage with Josephine Rickabaugh who
was born in Ross County July 10, 1849, and was a daughter of William
and Sophia Rickabaugh, natives of Gallia County, Ohio, where they
were married and soon after removed to Ross County, Ohio. In the
spring of 1869, they removed to Madison County and located in Fairfield
Township, where they have since resided. They have three children:
Mary, wife of Thomas McFarland; Francis M. and
Josephine. Mr. Byers and wife have one child, Jessie,
born Sept. 14, 1872. Mr. Byers located on the old
home place where they lived six years, and then in the fall of 1877 they
located at their present place of residence. This was known as the
Joel Painter farm. In the summer of 1877
Mr. Byers erected his present large frame house, and now has
a pleasant home and farmer's residence. He is one of the Township
Trustees and one of the prominent and reliable farmers of Fairfield
Township.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 1082 |
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Union Twp. -
JOHN W. BYERS,
deceased. The first of this name of whom any definite account can be
given was Thomas Byers, who, with his son James, both natives of
Scotland, emigrated from their native country to escape the persecutions
their people were subjected to in that country, and made their home in
Ireland, where they suffered in the siege of Londonderry. James,
with his three sons, Thomas, Andrew and Samuel,
emigrated to America at an early day, with other Scotch-Irish
Covenanters. Andrew settled in Pennsylvania in 1791 or 1792,
where he raised a family of children, of whom one son, James,
married in Fayette County, Penn., and had four children, one son and
three daughters. His wife died, and he was married the second time, to
Elizabeth Watson, by whom he had seven children, five
girls and two sons, John and Moses. In 1807, he moved to
Ross County, Ohio, where he lived nine years. He then purchased land in
Fayette County, and, four years later, finding his title defective, he
was persuaded to relinquish this land, receiving 300 acres in the wilds
of Madison County as an inducement to peaceably give up possession. He
located in Madison County in 1820. His son, John W., was born
near Uniontown, Fayette Co., Penn., May 9, 1800, and, in 1825, married
Matilda Hunter, by whom he had three children, of whom one
survives - Matilda, wife of Samuel Truitt. Mrs.
Byers died in 1831, and, in the fall of 1833, be married Sarah
Painter, by whom he had ten children—Mary R., wife of
N. P. Gardner; Louisa J., wife of Thomas Price;
Missouri, deceased, wife of George Truitt; Joel M., who
married Louisa Fitzgerald; James W., whose sketch appears
elsewhere; John C, who married Josephine Rickabaugh;
Andrew, who married Ida Bidwell; Mary E.,
deceased, and Laura and Kate, at home. Mr. Byers
retired from active life nine years before his death and, after six
weeks' illness, died, Feb. 2, 1881, his remains being interred in
Kirkwood Cemetery. Mrs. Byers' grandparents McGrew
emigrated from Virginia to Westmoreland County, Penn., at a very early
day, but the Indians were so hostile that they were obliged to bury
their possessions and return to Virginia several times, until finally
they resorted to block-houses for safety. He was a surveyor in
Pennsylvania and Kentucky. They had seven children, three sons and four
daughters. The youngest, Rossanna, was Mrs. Byers'
mother. Thomas Painter, Mrs. Byers'
grandfather, had three sons and seven daughters. Of these, Joel,
her father, was born in 1787, and moved to Pennsylvania from Harper's
Ferry, Va.. when he was quite small. In 1809, he married Rosanna
McGrew, and had four sons and two daughters. Of the latter,
Sarah was born in 1813, and when eleven years of age her mother
died. In 1825, her father married Jemima Allen. On Mar. 21, 1826 or 1827, they started for Cincinnati on a family fiat-boat,
arriving Apr. 12, 1832. They then went to Dayton on a canal boat. Soon
after, they returned to Cincinnati, and from there Mrs. Byers
went to Jefferson in a stage. Mrs. Byers was married to
Mr. Byers Nov. 28, 1833, by Rev. Allen. They lived
on a farm, one mile from Lilly Chapel, thirty-eight years,
and moved to London in March, 1872. She joined the Presbyterian Church
in 1832. While at Brownsville, she saw the first steamboat launched on
the Ohio River. It was called the Reindeer, and was built by Robert
Fulton, and was sent to Pittsburgh. Mrs. Byers is
descended from an old family of Quakers who lived in Virginia many
years. The subject of this sketch united with the Presbyterian Church in
1829, being one of the original members in the organization of that
church at London. For over fifty-one years, he continued a faithful,
consistent member of the same church, with the exception of a few years,
when he removed his membership to Jefferson to aid in organizing a
church there. As a citizen and business man, the integrity, loyalty and
generosity of his spirit were unquestioned. As a husband and father, he
was affectionate and self-sacrificing to the last degree. He loved life
and often expressed his gratitude to God that He had spared him to live
so long, but with great composure and assurance he awaited the
invitation to higher joys. The funeral services were conducted by
Rev. J. G. Paterson at the family residence.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 858 |
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Union Twp. -
J. W. BYERS,
of Boyd & Byers, stock-raisers and dealers, London, was born in
Fairfield Township, this county, May 26, 1841. His grandfather, James
Byers, was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio at an early
day. He first located in Ross County, and subsequently in Fairfield
Township, this county. One son, John W. Byers, was also a native
of Pennsylvania, and was twelve years of age when his father came to
Ohio. He was a farmer through life, and died Feb. 2, 1881. He
married Matilda Hunter, a native of Franklin County, Ohio. Two
children were born to this union, one now living. Mr. Byers'
second wife was Sarah J. Painter, also a native of the Keystone
State. Ten children were given to them, eight living. Mrs. Byers
is still living, and resides in London. Our subject was one of a pair of
twins, and resided in Fairfield Township until twenty-one years of age.
He then engaged in the grocery trade in London, remaining in that
business fifteen years. At the expiration of this time he engaged in the
cattle business with Robert Boyd (in 1879), and the firm are one
of the most extensive in their line of trade in the county. Mr. Byers
is a member of the Masonic Lodge and Council and the Presbyterian
Church. He is Republican in politics, and one year served as Assessor of
Union Township. He was married, Jan. 31, 1871, to Nannie E.,
daughter of Robert Boyd. They have three living children—R.
Boyd, Alice L. and John W. Mrs. Byers is a member of the M.
E. Church.
Source: History of Madison County, Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co.,
1883 - Page 860 |
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