OHIO GENEALOGY EXPRESS

A Part of Genealogy Express
 

Welcome to
NOBLE COUNTY, OHIO
History & Genealogy


 

Source:
History of Noble County, Ohio
with portraits and biographical sketches of some of its pioneers and prominent men.
 
Chicago:  L. H. Watkins & Co., 
1887


CHAPTER XIII.

MEDICAL PROFESSION
Page 187

Remarks Upon the Physicians Vocation - Early Medical Practitioners in Noble County - Dr. Ziba Lindley, of Brookfield, 1815 - Dr. David McGarry, The Pioneer Physician - An Estimate of His Character - He Died in 1851 - Three of His Sons Successful, Doctors - Dr. William McKee - Mr. James F. Capell and Other Physicans of Sarahsville - Medical History of Sharon, Sumerfield and Batesville - The Physicians of Caldwell, Early and Late - The Profession in Other Towns and Villages - Hiramsburg - Mount Ephraim - Harriettsville - Carlisle, East Union and Middleburg - Jackson Township, Dexter City and Fulda.

A poet who was also a physician said:

     "God and the doctor we alike adore
     Just on the brink of danger - not before
     The danger post, both are alike requited -
     God is forgotten and the doctor slighted."

     Although the physician's vocation is justly regarded as among the most important of human pursuits, it is nevertheless true that, considering the qualifications and the labor required, it is among the least profitable, in a pecuniary sense.  Especially is this true of the country doctor who attends faithfully to his work and holds himself in readiness to attend to al calls, by day or night, in "winter's cold or summer's heat."  Such a man is a public benefactor; and although he is often poorly paid, even in thanks, the world could not do without him.
     In this chapter it has been the endeavor of the editor to give the name of every physician of prominence who has resided in the county, together with such facts in the history of his life as could be gathered from trustworthy sources.
     Dr. Ziba Lindley was one of the pioneer physicians.  He settled in Brookfield Township about 1815, and for several years was successful medical practitioner.  He was probably the first regular doctor who settled within the limits of the county.  He was a son-in-law of Judge William Rannells, one of the early pioneers.

     Dr. Ebenezer Bowen and his brother, Dr. George Bowen, of Waterford; Dr. John B. Regnier, Dr. Hodge and Dr. Benjamin Brown, of Macksburg, all had more or less practice in the valleys of Duck Creek in early years.
     Dr. George Bowen, of Waterford, Washington County, had a large practice throughout the western portion of Noble County.  Dr. Clark of Seelysville, Morgan County was another early doctor who practiced in the same field.  Dr. McGarry, of Olive, and Dr. Ziba Lindley of Brookfield were the only resident physicians at an early day in the western part of the territory now forming the county.

     Dr. David McGarry may properly be regarded as the pioneer physician of the county, inasmuch as he was the first medical graduate to settle in this section of the country, and had through life an extensive practice.  He died at his home in Olive Township Oct. 6, 1851.  The Investigator of the same date said of him:  "In his death we shall not mourn the loss of any political signification, but the departure of one who, living, was worthy of noblest name with which the Almighty stamps his creatures - a man: one of those very few who regard their neighbor's welfare as their own and do unto others as they would that others should do unto them * * * *  The poor may bless his beneficence; the rich, his talent and skill; his friends his never-failing radiance of affection; his enemies, if any he had, his kind and forgiving disposition, and a merciful and all-wise God will take charge of the rest."  Dr. McGarry was a native of Ireland, and graduated in medicine at the university of Glasgow.  He came to America when a young man and about 1816 settled in Olive Township, near what afterwards became the village of Olive.  He was the first physician of prominence in the county, and with the exception of Dr. Wm. McKee, and one or two others, probably the only medical graduate in the county up to the time of his death.  His practice was extensive.  He was sound in judgment, and in every way well-fitted for his calling.  He was therefore one of the most respected and honored citizens of the community in which he resided.  He married Miss Reed after coming here, and was the father of several sons.  Three of these sons, Samuel, Robert and John, adopted their father's profession and were all prominent as good physicians.  Through not having the educational advantages which their father enjoyed, they had a good knowledge of medicine, and were competent practitioners.  Dr. Samuel McGarry, who died at Olive in 1874, was an unusually excellent physician and was held in high esteem.  His brothers, John and Robert, also practiced in the county until their deaths, and were generally popular.

     Dr. William McKee was one of the best of the pioneer physicians of the county, and for many years had an extensive practice.  He was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1797; received an academic education and in 1828 graduated in medicine at the university of Glasgow, Scotland.  He practiced in Belfast, Ireland, a few years, and in about 1832 came to America, whither some of his relatives had preceded him.  He remained only a few years, meantime teaching a few terms of school in Zanesville and Sharon.  He then returned to his native country, but came back again about 1836, and locating at Olive, made his home with his cousin, Robert McKee.  Good doctors were then very few in the newly settled country; his practice soon became extensive, and he had calls by day and night to attend patients in the country for twenty miles around.  He led a busy and useful career and was greatly esteemed by all.  He continued to practice in Noble County until his death, July 1, 1865.  He was a man of modest, unassuming ways; of sound and reliable judgment and through knowledge.  He married Martha J. Clymer of Olive Township in 1841, and was the father of seven children, five of whom survive and live in Noble County - Andrew C., Isaac E., Flora F. (Lund), Orvil O. and Charles W.

     Dr. Orvil O. McKee is one of the prominent physicians of Caldwell.  He was born in Olive Township Feb. 9, 1854.  After attending the common schools and academies of this locality, he took a four years' course at the University of Michigan, graduating from the medical department of that institution in 1882.  Immediately afterward he settled in Caldwell where he has since been pursuing his vocation with good success.  Dr. McKee was married to Sarah Wharton, of Cambridge, in 1885.

     Dr, James F. Capell was one of the brightest and best men of the county.  He not only succeeded admirably in his profession, but he also edited a paper with conspicuous ability, and was distinguished for the force and vigor of his writings.  Dr. Capell was one of the early treasurers of Noble County, and in the controversy which resulted in the removal of the county seat from Sarahsville, he was always an active participant.  He was born and reared in Marion Township, and after receiving both a common school and collegiate education, he began the study of medicine under Dr. Waddell, of Belmont County.  He located at Sarahsville early in the history of that town, and was soon in successful practice.  For thirty years he was an untiring worker in the professional field, and had the esteem and respect of all who knew him.  Probably his practice was larger than that of any other physician of the county of his time.  He died in the vicinity of Caldwell, at the home of his father-in-law, Dr. David McGarry.   Preceeding Dr. Capell at Sarahsville, there were several physicians who were brief residents - Dr. Welch, originally from Belmont County; Dr. Connor, from the vicinity of Cumberland, and others.  Dr. J. Y. Hopkins was a resident of Sarahsville in 1851.  He remained several years.  The present physicians are:  Dr. W. S. Spriggs and Dr. J. D. Aldridge.

 
D. S. SPRIGGS. -- Dr. William S. Spriggs, M. D., is among the old and reputable physicians of Noble County.  For nearly a quarter of a century he has devoted himself to the practice of his profession in Sarahsville and vicinity.  He was born in Belmont County, Ohio, in 1837.  His father, Morris Spriggs, was one of the early settlers of the county, and the father of eight children who grew to maturity.  Benjamin F.,  the elder, was one of the leading lawyers of the county; John P. is an attorney of Monroe County; David S. is a prominent member of the Noble County bar;  J. W. is a lawyer and a leading citizen of Salem, Oregon; Dr. William the subject of this notice; Dr. Alfred R., of Illinois;   and Eliza and Sarah R.  The family are a race of teachers, and in early life all followed that vocation.  William S. received a thorough common-school education, and at the age of twenty began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. John Kellar, of Mt. Ephraim, Ohio.  Completing his preparatory course he entered the Starling Medical College.  The following year he began practice at Mt. Ephraim, and in the comparatively short time was in the possession of a remunerative business.  His attention, however, was diverted from his professional duties by the stirring scenes that were then being enacted, and, in company with others, he recruited Company H, of the One Hundred and Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  Upon the organization of the regiment he was elected first lieutenant of this company.  He served under General Milroy in the Valley campaign; was at the battle of Winchester, and was with the regiment until 1864, when he resigned his commission, returned to his home and resumed his practice at Mt. Ephraim.  Shortly after he removed to Sarahsville, where he has since remained, giving his time wholly to his professional duties, and it's but just to say that no physician in the county has attained a more enviable position in the practice than he, or enjoys a greater degree of confidence and esteem of the people.  While he has devoted himself assiduously to his practice he has interested himself in all matters pertaining to Sarahsville, especially in the advancement of its educational interests.  In political belief he is a Democrat, and while he is not a politician in the ordinary sense of the term, has identified himself prominently with local politics.  In 1859 the doctor was married to Miss Matilda Gant.  She died in 1878, and in 1879 he was again married to Miss Ida Hickle.  By the first marriage there were three children - Edgar, Ethelind and Clement D.; by the second, Frank, Sadie and Ernest.

     John D. Aldridge, M. D. was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1860.  He received his literary education at Mt. Union College, and began the study of medicine under the tuition of T. H. Wilson, of Dennison, Ohio.  He graduated with honor from the Starling Medical in 1883, and in the same year established himself in the practice of his profession in Sarahsville, where he has built up a successful and remunerative practice.  He is a member of the County Medical Society.  The doctor was married in 1882 to Miss Alice Sheppley, of Blue Bell, Guernsey County, Ohio.
     The first settled physician in Sharon was Dr. John Kirkpatrick, who came about 1835 from Guernsey County.  In 1837 he located on a farm near Sharon, from which he removed about a year later.  He was considered a good doctor.  Next came Dr. Joseph V. Allison, from Washington County, who remained eight or nine years, leaving in 1847.  He had a good practice and was a most worthy citizen.  Dr. Jesse M. Stone came to Sharon soon after Dr. Allison.  He was a successful doctor and a man of good intelligence.  He was one of the associate judges of Morgan County, chosen to that position just before the adoption of the new Constitution of Ohio.  Dr. John Hardy was located in Sharon at the same time with Drs. Allison and Stone, and remained several years.  Later physicians have been quite numerous, many young physicians having located here, each of whom remained but a short  time.  The present medical practitioner is Dr. Felix O. Neptune, son of Wesley Neptune, of Middleburg.

     Dr. Charles Shraeber was a German who located in Sharon prior to the formation of the county and practiced there several years.

     Dr. Howells, practiced in Sharon several years prior to the war.  He went out with the Ninety-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry as a surgeon.  He was killed in a steamboat disaster after the war.

     Dr. Francis Slater, a native of England and an Edinburgh graduate, settled at Sharon in 1855.  Though a man of unquestioned ability, he obtained but a small practice here.  At the beginning of the war he was appointed by Governor Dennison assistant surgeon of the Seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry and his ability and skill soon brought him into prominence.  He served as surgeon-in-chief, Kanawha division, department of Ohio; medical director, post of Chattanooga; medical director, fourteenth army corps; medical director, cavalry corps, and finally as medical director, department director, department of Alabama.  From 1868 to 1874 he was medical referee in the U. S. Pension Office.  He died at Washington, D. C., in 1879.

     Dr. Jesse M. Stone, a native of Harrison County, began practicing at Hiramsburg, and prior to 1848 located in Sharon, where he remained some years.  He afterwards practiced in other parts of the county.  He removed to Tennessee and died there.  Dr. St one was a prominent politician of the Democratic party, and was once an aspirant for member of Congress from this district.  He was elected associate judge of Morgan County, under the old constitution, while Sharon was a part of Morgan County.  He was moderately successful as a doctor.

     Dr. Joshua Craig who was born and educated in Ireland, came to Marion Township when the country was new, and for many years was the only medical adviser in that section of the county.  He had an extensive practice, and was considered a good and useful member of his profession.
     The first resident physician of Summerfield was Dr. David Frame.  He came in 1880 from Guernsey County, and after about three years' practice returned to that county.  Dr. John Banford came next, and first engaged in school teaching.  He was unmarried, and lived with James W. Shankland.  He took up the study of medicine without a preceptor, and after acquiring some knowledge of the art, began practicing.  From Summerfield he removed to Cincinnati.  Next came Dr. John Waterman, from Waterford, Washington County, who remained a year or two.  Dr. Nathan Johns, a "steam doctor," or an adherent to the Thomsonian system, was here several years and bore an excellent reputation, though his school generally was held in no great favor.  He died in Summerfield.  About the same time came Dr. Foreman, and later, Dr. Graham.  Dr. William Hare, Dr. Williams and Dr. Mechem also practiced here a short time each.  Dr. Carder, a professed cancer doctor, was also in Summerfield several years.  Dr. Robert Stephenson, an Englishman, formerly a traveling Methodist preacher, came here from Somerton about 1846, and remained in the town and vicinity until about 1866, when he removed to Centerville, Iowa, where he died later.  He was a competent physical and quite successful in his practice.

     Dr. R. B. Taylor, who was brought up in the vicinity of Summerfield, studied medicine in McConnelsville, and practiced in Carlisle and Summerfield.  He was a useful member of his profession.  For a time he was a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but he joined the Free Methodist Episcopal Church before leaving Summerfield.  He went to Kansas.  Dr. Taylor was the son of Rev. Edward H. Taylor, a well known Methodist circuit preacher of pioneer days.  His mother, Lydia (Brewster) Taylor, was a lady of remarkable intelligence and agreeable manners.  She was a teacher among the Indians in the early years of Ohio.  Both she and her husband are buried at Summerfield. 

     Dr. William Horton, son of Moses Horton, was reared and educated at Summerfield, and practice his profession here for several years at different periods.  He studied under Dr. Graham, who married his sister and practiced some years in the town.  Dr. Graham removed to Kansas and was in the "border war."  Dr. Horton removed to Southern Indiana about 1871, and now lives near Cincinnati.  Dr. A. A. Staats is now the oldest resident physician of Summerfield.  He has practiced hereabout eighteen years.  Dr. W. R. Taylor has practiced in the town several years and is a competent physician.  His brother, Dr. David Taylor, formerly practiced here.  Dr. R. S. Brown is in the drug business in Summerfield.
     Dr. A. A. Staats is now the oldest resident physician of Summerfield.  He has practiced hereabout eighteen years.  Dr. W. R. Taylor has practiced in the town several years and is a competent physician.  His brother Dr. David Taylor, formerly practiced here.  Dr. R. S. Brown is in the drug business in Summerfield.

     Dr. Reuben P. Summers

was born in Fayette County, Pa. in 1818.  In 1822 he came to Ohio with his parents.  His father was a prominent farmer in Harrison County, where he died in 1856.  He reared a family of four children.  Reuben P. Summers passed his early life on the  

(P. 193)

     Dr. A. A. Staats, of Summerfield, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, in 1838.  He attended school in Sarahsville, and was for a time a student at Marietta College.  In 1864 he enlisted in the Eighty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until mustered out July 3, 1865.  In 1866 he began the study of medicine under Dr. R. C. Downey, now of Caldwell.  He attended medical lectures at the Starling Medical College one term, and in 1868 graduated at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery.  After a short residence in Sarahsville, he located at Summerfield in 1869, where he is still in practice.

     Robert Stephenson, M. D., a prominent practitioner of Centreville, Iowa, was born in Ohio September16, 1841.  He studied medicine with his father and graduated from the Iowa State University in 1867.  September 17, 1861, he enlisted as a private soldier in Company D., Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, a regiment made famous by its gallant commander, General James A. Garfield.  He served with credit until his discharge from the service as first sergeant, September 30, 1864.  The following year he removed to Iowa, where he married Miss Ruth E. Pennington, a native of West Virginia.  The doctor is in possession of an extensive and lucrative practice, and, although a young man, has attained an enviable position among the physicians of the State.  In 1883 he was elected to the chair of demonstrator of anatomy and gynecology, in the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Des Moines, Iowa.  He is now making a specialty of surgery and gynecology, his practice taking him to all portions of the State.  He is local surgeon for the Wabash, St. Louis and Pacific, and the Kansas and Missouri Railroads.  He is a prominent member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and in the Masonic order occupies the position of Captain General of St. John's Commandery, No. 21.  He is a member of the State Medical Society, also the Des Moines Valley Medical Association, and the Appanoose County Medical Society.  He takes a deep interest in the welfare of the Grand Army of the Republic, and is prominently connected with that organization.  In his religious affiliations he is a Presbyterian.  He has four children, Ralph O., Robert, Glenn and Bessie B.

     Dr. William Ross Taylor. - The subject of this notice was born in Switzerland County, Indiana, in 1850, and was reared on a farm.  He served two years as County Superintendent of schools in his native county, and in 1874 entered Urbana, (Ohio), University, from which he graduated in 1878.  He then taught school and read medicine for three years.  In 1881 he came to Summerfield where he continued his studies under the tuition of his brother, Dr. D. H. Taylor; attended the Miami University of Medicine in 1881-2, and in 1882 began practice in Summerfield.  In 1883-4 he attended the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Maryland, graduating March 4, 1884.  He returned in Summerfield, bought his brother's practice and is now successfully engaged in his profession.  Few doctors in the county have a larger practice.  Dr. Taylor was married in 1885 to Jenola Kean of Summerfield, and they have one child - Glen B.

     Dr. Robert Samuel Brown is a native of Noble County, born in Marion Township in 1856.  He was brought up on the farm of his parents, attending the common schools and two terms of normal school at Summerfield.  In 1878 he began reading medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. D. H. Taylor; attended the Columbus Medical College in 1879 - 80; was granted a certificate by the Noble County Medical Society in 1880, and began practice in that year; attended Columbus Medical College in 1882-3, and graduated in March, 1833.  He then located in Middleburg, where he remained until 1884, when he came to Summerfield and bought the drug store of Taylor Bros.  He has since followed the drug business.

     Dr. David Frame a physician in Beaver Township was taxed $4 on the Guernsey County tax duplicate for 1830.

The first physician who settled in Batesville was Dr. Joseph Wilcox.  He came in the infancy of the town, 1833, remained many years and had a large practice.  Dr. Wilcox studied medicine in Uniontown, Belmont County.  Dr. William B. Stotler, from Knox County came next.  He read medicine in Barnesville.  After some years practice in Batesville, his house was burned and he removed to Missouri, where he was still living at last accounts.  Dr. John Stotler, is brother, also practiced in Batesville a few years.  Dr. Hoops, a competent and skillful physician practiced several years and died in Batesville.  Dr. John Taylor, Dr. Grimes, Dr. Moore and others have been among the later physicians.  Dr. C. A. Moore remained several years, removing about 1880.  Dr. J. H. Tilton practiced about two years, and in 1883 went west.  The present physicians of Batesville are Dr. T. S. Rosengrant and Dr. Frank JamesDr. James came in 1886.  Dr. Rosengrant settled in the town in 1883.  He is a native of Guernsey County, and came from Fairview.  He is a graduate of the Columbus Medical College, and stands well professionally and socially.

     Dr. Frank James, of Batesville, is the son of Rufus P. James, of Sharon Township.  He was born in Noble County, July 16, 1855.  He worked on a farm until seventeen years of age, then engaged in school teaching and the study of medicine.  Dr. Bolen, of Cumberland, Ohio, was his medical preceptor.  He attended medical lectures at Columbus and Baltimore, graduating from the college of physicians and surgeons in the latter city.  He is now engaged in practicing his profession in Batesville.

     In Caldwell, probably the first settled physician was Dr. Atkinson Martin, whose biography appears elsewhere.  He came to the town in 1859, and for a time served as deputy auditor.  DR. J. M. Moorehead came to Caldwell about 1862 and remained two or three years.  Dr. Ernest Gibbs also located here during the war. Dr. Hopkins now of Macksburg, came from Monroe County and was among the early physicians.  Dr. J. W. Kraps, now of Dexter City, practiced in Caldwell form 1865 until about 1871.  Dr. John Martin came in 1864.  Dr. J. W. Hull (deceased) practiced here a few years.

     Dr. John McGarry was born in Olive Township in 1820.  He studied medicine under his father's tuition, and for over twenty years was engaged in practice in this county.  He married Elizabeth, daughter of George Walters, and reared five children - William G., Henry B., John B., James H. and Mary B. (deceased).  The sons all reside in Noble County except one.

     Dr. Erwin Gibbs is a prominent lawyer and an old resident of Noble County.  He is the son of Dennis Gibbs, one of the early New England settlers of Olive Township, and was born in that township, Dec. 25, 1825.  He was reared on his father's farm and shared the rough experiences of pioneer life.  He received such schooling as the inferior subscription schools of the early days afforded.  He was editorially connected with two of the early newspapers of Noble County.  He began the study of law in the office of Hon. Isaac Parrish and finished in the office of Hon. W. H. Frazier.   He was admitted to the bar in 1868, but did not enter upon the practice of the law until 1875.  His early political teachings were such that he became a "free-soiler" and cast his first vote for the nominees of that party.  On the formation of the Republican party he became an adherent to its principles and still remains constant to them.  He has taken an active part in politics for many years and is a sound and effective public speaker.  In 1863 Mr. Gibbs was elected to the office of probate judge and for two terms fulfilled the duties of that position.  In 1870 he went to Kansas where he embarked largely in the real estate business until 1873 when the panic brought financial disaster to him.  In 1875 he returned to Noble County and in partnership with William Chambers engaged in the practice of law.  He has since had a large practice and is a very successful lawyer.  Judge Gibbs has been twice married - first, in 1853 to Rhoda Chamberlain, of Beverly, O., who died in 1859; and, second, in 1864 to Ada M. Tuttle.  By the first marriage there was one child who died young.  Three children have been borne of the second union - Mattie L., Dennis C. and Ada M.  In religious belief, Judge Gibbs is a Universalist.

     Dr. John Martin, a prominent physician of Caldwell, was born in Monroe County, Ohio, May 1, 1832.  He was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education and afterwards attended Monroe Academy at Woodsfield.  He began the study of medicine under Dr. W. T. Sinclair, of Woodsfield, remaining with him four years, assisting him in his practice during the last year.  He next attended the Forest City Medical College at Cleveland, and on his return practiced in Woodsfield for two years.  He then removed to Monmouth, Ill., where he remained farming, practicing medicine and following the drug business until 1861.  In October of that year he was appointed by Governor Yates assistant surgeon of the Fifty-fifth Illinois (fractional) Regiment.  In February, 1862, the Regiment was consolidated with the Fifty-seventy Illinois, and he returned to Ohio soon after volunteering as surgeon in the Ninety-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until November, when he left the regiment on account of ill health.  In 1864 he came to Caldwell and engaged in practice.  In 1868-9 he attended the Miami Medical College where he graduated in March, 1869, and has since practiced in Caldwell.  In the spring of 1865 he was commissioned surgeon for drafted soldiers with the rank of major.  Has been government pensioner examiner since 1873.  Dr. Martin has served as school examiner of the county, and is at present president of the board of education in Caldwell.  He was married in 1856 to Charlotte C., daughter of Judge Kirkbride, of Woodsfield.  His children were Walter C., station agent at Mount Gilead, O.; Frank M., editor Caldwell Journal; Willis K. (deceased), and Carl Otto.

     Dr. Robert C. Downey, M. D. - The grandparents of the subject of this notice were born near Winchester, Va.; his father, who was the seventh son, was named Doctor.  He came to Ohio and settled in Noble Township about 1820.  There Robert C. Downey was born in 1834.  In early life he farmed and taught school.  He studied medicine in Guernsey County and in Indiana, and graduated from the Starling Medical College.  In 1863 he became assistant surgeon of the Thirteenth Ohio Cavalry and served until the close of the war, being present in all the battles in which his regiment was engaged.  Sine the war he has practiced his profession in Noble County.  He has been married four times and is the father of three children.  Dr. Downey served as county coroner four years.  He is a Republican and a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Masons and Odd Fellows.

     Dr. Charles Perry Simons, M. D., was born in Zanesville, Ohio, January 26, 1812.  His father, John White Simons, was one of the early settlers of Muskingum County, and was born near Philadelphia, Pa., in 1819.  He followed the vocation of an iron worker, and removed to Zanesville in 1830.  He died in Cambridge in 1871.  Dr. Simons received an academical education, and studied medicine under the tutelage of Dr. Andrew Wall, of Cambridge.  Completing his preparatory course he attended the Michigan Medical College, graduating, however, from the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati in 1864.  In the spring of 1862 he entered the army as assistant surgeon in the general hospital at Camp Dennison, Ohio.  After passing an examination before the State board of medical officers, he was commissioned assistant surgeon of the Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  His division joined Sherman's command, and he followed the fortunes of this army from "Atlanta to the Sea".  At the close of the war he was mustered out with his regiment at Cleveland, in 1865.  Flattering offers were made him to accept a position in the regular army which he declined.  Returning to Cambridge he established himself in practice, making a specialty of surgery and diseases of the eye and ear.  In his practice the doctor was highly successful, and soon attained an enviable position among his professional brethren.  Aside from his professional duties he gave some attention to political matters, and in 1881 received the nomination for State senator.  In 1883 he came to Caldwell, and engaged in the drug business.  Since this time he has not been in active practice, giving his attention to special cases only.  In 1884 the doctor was married to Mrs. Arrena Kells, daughter of Henry Teener, of Caldwell.

     Dr. G. A. Way has practiced his profession in Caldwell since 1869.  He is thoroughly well-read and a very competent medical adviser.  He was born in Marietta in 1844.  His parents removed to a farm in Monroe County in 1857 but he continued to attend school and college in Marietta.  In 1861 he entered the service as a private in the One Hundred- and Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served through the war and at its close was mustered out as second lieutenant.  This, considering the youthful age at which he entered the army, is a remarkably good record.  Before entering the army he began the study of medicine under Dr. Joshua Way, of Monroe County.  He afterward attended the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati, from which he graduated Mar. 2, 1869.  In 1870 he married Miss Maria Skinner of Meigs County.  Two children have been born of this union.  Dr. Way is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Noble County Medical Society.  He was one of the original members of the latter in 1869 and has served continuously as its secretary ever since.

     Dr. W. S. Bebout, a prominent young physician, is a native of Athens County, born in 1852.  He was educated at Beverly College, Washington County; studied medicine under Dr. P. H. Kellyof Waterford; attended the Columbus Medical College and graduated with the class of 1880.  He began his professional career in Caldwell where he has a large practice.  Dr. Bebaut is a Republican and has served one term as coroner of the county.  He is a member of the Presbyterian Church.  He was married in 1878 to Miss M. A. Keever of Washington County and they have three children.

     Dr. Corwin E. BugherCorwin E. Bugher, M. C., was born in Blue Balls, Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1860.  He received a collegiate education and studied medicine under the tutelage of Joseph Runsoheff, M. D., F. R. C. S., who occupies the chair of descriptive anatomy and clinical surgery in the Medical College of Ohio at Cincinnati.  He took one course at the Michigan Medical College at Ann Arbor, thence to the Ohio Medical College where he graduated in the class of 1887.  In April of the same year he established himself in the practice of his profession at Caldwell.
     The first physician at Hiramsburgh was Dr. George who located there prior to 1836 and remained two or three years.  He came from Washington, Guernsey County.  Dr. Ramsey, a competent and scholarly physician practiced in this place about eight years and was highly esteemed.

     Dr. Nathan P. Cope was for several years engaged in medical practice at Hiramsburgh.  He was born in Harrison County, July 15, 1815, and was a member of the Society of Friends.  In 1841 he married Jane Black, who is still living, near Hiramsburg.  They reared a family of eight children.  Dr. Cope settled at Hiramsburgh in 1847 and remained until his death in March, 1868.
     A number of young physicians have been brief residents of Hiramsburgh.

     Dr. John Finley, of Hiramsburgh, is a native of this county, where his parents were early settlers.  He was born in 1845, and received his medial education at Baltimore and Cincinnati, where he graduated with the degree of M. D.  He has been engaged in the practice of medicine at Hiramsburgh since 1877, and has been very successful.  He has been twice married and has one child.  Dr. Finley is a Democrat, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the Masonic order.

     The first physician to locate in Mount Ephraim, was Dr. Edmund Mechem from Belmont County, who settled about 1842, and remained a few years.  About a year after he came he was joined by his brother, Dr. Jesse E. Mechem, who remained about ten years.  Dr. Edmund Mechem went West; his brother followed him in 1853, and is now living in Kansas.  They were both well-read physicians.  Dr. Jesse had a large practice and was very successful.

     Dr. John Kellar, of Mount Ephraim, was born in what is now Center Township, Noble County, December 26, 1822, and is a son of Levi Keller, an early settler of the county.  After receiving a common school education he studied medicine under Dr. Jesse E. Mechem, who he succeeded in practice in 1853.  He was the contemporary of Drs. David and Samuel McGarry.  James F. Capell and other physicians of the county.  He is probably the oldest physician now in the county.  His practice was large for many years.  Of late he as partially retired from practice.  Dr. Keller is a pronounced temperance man and bears an unsullied reputation.  He was married in 1851 to Sarah Ann, daughter of John Miley, an early settler of the county, and is the father of Elizabeth J. (deceased), Margaret E., Franklin V., Jefferson J., Arithela B., John W., Hester A. and Mary D.  Dr. Keller has served in all the township offices, including that of justice of the peace.  He is a Democrat and has been a candidate for the offices of county auditor and representative to the legislature, but was defeated, his party being as usual in the minority in the county.

     Dr. Michael H. Neville, one of the old medical practitioners of Noble County, is a native of Virginia.  Born in that State in 1812, at the age of nineteen he began his business life as a clerk in a store.  After about three years he engaged in buying and selling live stock.  In 1838 he married Miss Harriet Black.  Their children are Mary C. (Morris), Kansas; Malvine J., deceased; and Mary E. (Uhlrich).  He read medicine under Dr. William H. Dew, of Randolph County, Va., and began its practice in 1845.  In 1855 he came to Ohio, locating near Sarahsville, whence he removed to Mount Ephraim, his present home, in 1862.  He has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession.  He has served as coroner and justice of the peace.
     The first settled physician in Harriettsville was Dr. Baldridge, who came prior to 1849 and was only a brief resident.

     Dr. Frank M. Mason came to Harriettsville soon after Dr. Baldridge.  He went to California in 1849 and remained there a short time.  Returning to Noble County he was elected sheriff, removed to Sarahsville, and held that office until 1855.  He sold out to Dr. Wilson.  In 1857-8 he again practiced in Harriettsville, as a partner of Dr. Martin, to whom he sold out in 1858.  Dr. Mason then went west and is now in Oregon.  He was accounted a good physician.
     Dr. Wilson, who succeeded to Dr. Mason's practice while the latter was sheriff, was of the eclectic school.  He returned to his former home in Belmont County after a few years.  Dr. Patterson was here a short time, among the early physicians.  Dr. Curtis was here for a brief time,  later.  Dr. Nelson Walters came to Harriettsville prior to 1857 and remained several years.  He was reared in Sharon Township and studied medicine under Dr. John McGarry.  He now lives on a farm near Elba.

     Dr. William G. Martin practiced in Harriettsville from 1860 until his death, April, 8, 1882.  He was born in Monroe County, Feb. 23, 1838.  He passed his boyhood on a farm, receiving a common-school education.  He studied medicine under Dr. George Mason of Stafford and began its practice in Harrietsville.  He was kind, charitable and much esteemed both professionally and socially.  He was married in 1861 to Margaret Pryor, of Elk Township, who bore him two sons.  Dr. Martin was a prominent Odd Fellow and served as district deputy grand marshal.  Dr. J. W. Brock succeeded him in practice and is still in Harrietsville.

     Dr. Atkinson Martin was born in Monroe County in 1832; brought up on a farm; attended the common schools and Woodsfield academy; read medicine under Dr. W. T. Sinclair, of Woodsfield; went the Kansas in 1855 and began practice there.  In 1856-7 he attended the Cleveland, Ohio, medical college, and in 1857 settled at Harriettsville, where he remained three years.  He then went to Caldwell, where he served as deputy auditor under George Bell, and at the same time practiced medicine.  He was also in the mercantile business in Caldwell for two years.  In 1866 he went to Omaha, returning to Caldwell in 1870 and remaining until 1878.  He afterwards resided in Sharon and Dexter, and in 1882 returned to Harriettsville, his present residence.  In 1861 he married Martha Dudley, of Olive Township.  Two of his children are living - Erwin J. and Elizabeth.

     Dr. J. W. Brock has resided and practiced in Harriettsville sine March, 1882.  He was born at Antioch, Monroe County, in 1850; educated in the common schools at the National Normal School, Lebanon, Ohio; studied medicine under Dr. G. W. Mason, of Stafford, Ohio.  He attended medical lectures at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati; began practice at Calais, Monroe County, in 1877; moved thence to Elba, Washington County, and from Elba to Harriettsville, Dr. Brock was married in 1881 to Minnie Seidler, of Elba, Washington County.  He is a member of the Odd Fellows' Lodge and of the Noble County Medical Society.

     Dr. J. H. Williams has practiced medicine in Harriettsville since June, 1885.  His boyhood was spent chiefly on a farm.  He was educated at Summerfield and studied medicine under his father, Dr. J. B. Williams, of Monroe County.  He graduated from the Columbus Medical College in the spring of 1883, and entered upon active practice in 1885.  He is the partner of Dr. J. W. Brock.
    
The first physician in Carlisle was Dr. L. S. Cummins, who came in 1839 and remained until 1850, when he removed to California.  He was a competent physician and had a large practice.  Dr. McPherson, from Guernsey County, followed Dr. Cummins and remained six or seven years.  Dr. John McGarry, son of Dr. David McGarry, one of the pioneer physicians of the county, next practiced here.  Dr. Richard h. Kean from Monroe County, resided in Carlisle a number of years.  He was a successful doctor.  Several other physicians have been brief residents of the place.  Dr. A. L. Dorr is a present resident physician.
     The early medical practice of the southeastern part of the county was largely attended to by Dr. Brown, of Macksburgh, and Doctors McKee and McGarry, of Olive.  Dr. Miles Ogle, who now resides near Dudley, was the first settled physician of Middleburg, where he had a good practice.  He remained about fifteen years.  He was reared in the county.  Dr. J. H. Tilton was in Middleburg a number of years.  He came from Belmont County.  After leaving Middleburg he practice in Sharon, Caldwell and Batesville, finally moving to Illinois.  Dr. Felix O. Neptune, now of Sharon, practiced in Middleburg several years and was successful.  Several physicians have practiced here at different dates, each remaining but a short time.  Dr. A. Andrus, of Columbus, Ohio, is a young graduate who settled in Middleburg in 1886, is the present resident physician.

     Dr. Miles Ogle, who now lives on a farm near Dudley, practiced medicine for some years in Middleburg.  He was succeeded in 1867 by Dr. James T. Brown, who remained four years.
     At East Union Dr. Samuel McGarry was the first practicing physician.  Next came Dr. J. H. Hilton. Each of these remained but a short time.  Dr. Doughterty practiced several years with good success.  Dr. D. H. Taylor, a competent physician, practiced two years, then removed to Wheeling, his p0resent location.  Dr. Amos Day was here longer than any other physician  He came from Watertown, Washington County.  He went to Senecaville and thence to Olive, where he died. Other doctors have practiced here for a brief periods.  Dr. G. T. Tingle is the present physician.
     The medical men of Sharon, Olive, Beverly and Macksburgh attended to the wants of Jackson Township in early years.  Dr. Bowen of Waterford, Dr. McGarry of Olive, and Dr. Brown of Macksburgh, each had considerable practice in this township.  About 1850 Dr. Jacob Shaub located at Jacksonville (Crooked Tree), but he was only a brief resident.  Then came William Boyd, who was a good physician and had a large practice.  He also carried on the mercantile business for several years.  Dr. Boyd died in the West.  Dr. Black came later and was the last settled physician at Crooked Tree.

  Dr. R. J. W. Kraps, M. D., is among the oldest physicians of Noble County, and occupies a foremost position among the leading practitioners in this section of the State.  His family are of German extraction.
|     John Kraps, the progenitor of the family in this country, and the paternal-grand father of the doctor, was a soldier of the Revolution and at the close of that great struggle settled in Maryland, where he married and where Jacob Kraps, the father of John W., was born.  From Maryland the family removed to Ohio, taking their residence in Jefferson County, where John W. was born in 1826.  His father was an itinerant Methodist minister and unable to give to his son the educational advantages he so much desired, but by precept and example he instilled in his mind those principles which have since been the controlling factors in his career.  His mother nee Elizabeth Beal, an estimable lady, was of German parentage but born in Maryland, her grand-father, Alexander Clancy, was a revolutionary soldier.  But little is known of his history further than that he was an early settler of Ohio, where he died at an advanced age.  The early life of Dr. Kraps was not unlike that of most boys of that day.  He acquired largely through his own efforts a good English education, and was extremely anxious to enter the Military Academy at West Point, thinking a military life would be congenial to his tastes, but in deference to the wishes of his father he abandoned his project and chose the practice of medicine as his life's vocation.  In 1849 he became the student of an eminent physician of Zanesville, Ohio, completing his preparatory course he entered the Cincinnati College of Physicians and Surgeons, from which he graduated with honor in the spring of 1853, and soon after established himself in the practice of his profession at Gaysport, Ohio, where in a short time he found him self in the possession of a large practice.  Thence he removed to rural Dale, Ohio, where he was in active practice until 1863, when he entered the service as Surgeon of the One Hundred and Sixtieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry with the rank of major.  With this organization he remained about four months, when he was assigned to the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  The doctor soon attained an enviable reputation as a surgeon, and was detailed for the more intricate and difficult branches of the science.  He was at the battles of Monocracy, Monticello, Red Mountain, Columbia, Selma, Ala., Montgomery, Ala., and Columbus, Ga.  After the Close of the war he located in Caldwell, where for twelve years he had a large and lucrative practice.  In 1878 he removed to Dexter city where he now is engaged.  He is an acknowledged authority on everything pertaining to surgical science especially surgical gynecology, while in the general practice none heave attained a greater degree of success and in all matters involving a thorough knowledge of medical science he is considered an oracle.  Dr. Kraps is a gentleman to whom the Latin phrase "Fabor suæ fortunæ is eminently applicable.  In early life he was dependent upon his own resources, and through his own efforts he has won success in all departments of life.  In 1848, he was married to Miss Martha E. McNabb of Zanesville.  By this union, there were five children, Jacob, francis, Charles W., Sarah E., John H. and Lois P.; the three last are deceased.  In 1870, Mrs. Kraps died, and in 1873 the doctor was again married to Miss Susan L., daughter of  Doctor Erwin N. Gibbs, an eminent physician of Caldwell, Ohio.  The doctor is a worthy member of the Masonic fraternity and the Grand Army of the Republic.

     Samuel G. Wishard, M. D., is the son of John R. and Eliza J. (Adair) Wishard, and was born in Winchester, Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1843. In early life he followed teaching. He entered the army in June, 1861, in Company F, Twenty Sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered out as first sergeant in December, 1805. He was in the battles at Pittsburgh Landing, Perryville, Laverne, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, Adairsville, New Hope Church, Burnt Hickory, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Jonesboro, Love joy, Columbia, Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville. After the close of the war his regiment was sent to Texas in the Fourth Army Corps. In 1865 he married Miss Susie Gray, of Washington County. Two children, Proctor and Nellie, were born of this union; the latter died in 1881 at the age of ten months. Mrs. Wishard is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Dr. Wishard graduated at the old Cleveland Medical College in 1871. He is a member of the Noble County Medical Society; is located at Dexter City where he has a large practice. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows, and holds the office of surgeon in the Grand Army of the Republic post at Dexter City.

     Dr. P. M. McVay was born in Franklin Township, Monroe County, Ohio, in 1812. At the age of thirteen his mother died, and from that time he was dependent upon his own resources ; he acquired a good common-school education, taught school, and at the age of twenty began the study of medicine in the office of W. G. Martin, of Harriettsville.  He passed a creditable examination before the censors of Monroe County, and in 1865 established himself in the practice of his profession in Dexter City where he remained until 1879 at which time he was elected to the office of county treasurer, which position he filled creditably for two terms. In the autumn of 1885 he formed a co-partnership with W. H. Bush, and the firm established the Caldwell woolen mills. In 1861 the doctor was married to Miss Lovina Pryor; they have five children living.

     Dr. G. T. Tingle was born in Cambridge, Ohio, in 1812. His father, Dr. J. P. Tingle, is one of the oldest practitioners of Guernsey . County, having been in continuous practice since 1838. Both father and son were born in the same house and in the same room. This house has quite a remarkable history. During the War of 1812 it was a recruiting office, and the first court held in Guernsey County was held in it. The Tingle family where originally from Virginia. George R. Tingle, the progenitor of the family in the State, came to Cambridge in 1806 and built the third house in the village. During the War of 1812 he held a captain's commission. The doctor studied medicine with his father, and attended Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio. In spring of 1864 he enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventy-second Regiment, Ohio Infantry. Company A, of which his father was acting surgeon. In October of 1864 he was discharged in order to enter the hospital department. He began practice in 1866 at Otsego, Muskingum County, Ohio, and in 1881 came to East Union, Noble County, Ohio. In 1867 the doctor was married to Miss Amanda Shrigley, of Adamsville, Muskingum County, Ohio; they have four children, George, Bertie, Walter and Lina. The doctor is a successful practitioner and has a large and lucrative practice, and is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Grand Army of the Republic, and a staunch Republican.

     Dr. James H. Abbott began the practice of medicine at Kennonsburgh in 1872, and has since resided there. lie was born in Beverly, Ohio, in 1844, and in early life taught school and gave instruction in music. He began the study of medicine in I860, and in 1872 graduated from the Miami Medical College, Cincinnati. He married Lydia A. Law in 1874, and is the father of three children. Dr. Abbott served in the late war from May, 1864, until the close.

     Dr. W. R. Boggs, of Keiths, is a native of Noble County, where his parents reared a family of eight children.  He was born at Sharon, Mar. 23, 1854.  He followed teaching, and in 1883 graduated from the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville.  He settled at Keiths, where he is now in successful practice.  Dr. Boggs is an Odd Fellow and a Democrat.  He was married in 1876 to Sarah A. Barkley, of this county, and they have one child, Ola.

     Dr. James T. Brown, a native of Pittsburgh, Pa., settled in Fulda in 1874 and was the first physician in the place.  He still resides in Fulda, having a good practice.  Dr. Brown came to Middleburg, in this county in 1867, and practiced until 1871, when he returned to Pittsburgh and remained three years.

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