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Clark County, Ohio
History & Genealogy



 

BIOGRAPHIES

Source:
The History of Clark County, Ohio:

containing a history of the county, its cities, towns, etc., general and local statistics, portraits of early settlers
and prominent men, history of the Northwest Territory, history of Ohio, map of Clark County, Constitution
of the United States, miscellaneous matters, etc., etc.

Publ. Chicago:  W. H. Beers & Co., 

1881

< CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO 1881 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX >
< CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO LIST OF BIOGRAPHICAL INDEXES >

  Springfield Twp. -
JAMES BACON, farmer and stock-breeder; P. O. Springfield. He lives in a beautiful brick house near Taylor’s mill, about three miles east of Springfield; he takes great pleasure in raising fine horses and cattle, and has at present some very fine ones; he is a son of John and Mary (Cavileer) Bacon, and was born in Springfield Feb. 1, 1823; his father came to Ohio in 1812, locating in Urbana, Champaign Co., where he lived six years; thence to Springfield, living there until his death, which occurred March 5, 1878. His mother was born in Chestertown, Md.; her parents were among the earliest settlers of this county; she departed this life Dec. 22, 1868. James attended school until 15, when he entered his father’s shop—he being a saddler—as an apprentice, and, at the end of six years, entered into partnership with his father, continuing the same some five years; he then went to New York City, clerking some five years in a wholesale hardware store; then, returning to Springfield, engaged in the dry goods business, under the firm name of Baldwin & Bacon, for ten years, when they sold out; he was then appointed, in 1861, Revenue Collector for this district, conducting the same satisfactorily two years, when he resigned, not engaging in any particular business until 1869, when he moved to where he now lives, and engaged in milling for a short time; since leaving the mill, he has devoted his time to his present occupation. He was united in marriage, Oct. 12, 1854, to Mary L. Topping, daughter of William and Mary Topping; four children—two boys and two girls—have gladdened their hearts. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have enjoyed their married life very much, and would be willing to live it over again. An incident in his father’s life is worthy of note. The family, which consisted of father, mother and two children, moved from Connecticut to Ohio in a wagon drawn by two oxen; John, then 12 years old, drove the team the entire distance.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 781 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Mad River Twp. -
TEMPLETON W. BAILEY, farmer; P. O. Enon. Mr. Bailey was born in Augusta Co., Va., Dec. 14, 1819, and removed with his parents to Ohio in 1829, locating in Pike Township, Clark County. He received his education in the common schools of Virginia and Ohio. He married, Dec. 6, 1846, in Greene Co., Ohio, Miss Nancy Cox, who was born in Warren Co., Ohio, Nov. 1, 1822. They are the parents of eight children, viz.: David, born March 14, 1848; Elizabeth, born Jan. 30, 1850; Martha Jane, born Oct. 25, 1851, died March 6, 1855; Susan, born Nov. 13, 1853; infant son, born Aug. 28, 1855, and died on the following day; Mary Ellen, born April 25, 1860; Rozety, born July 14, 1864; and William Charles, born April 6, 1868.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1039 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz

William D. Baid
Harmony Tp.


Mrs. Sarah Baird
(Deceased)

Harmony Twp. -
WILLIAM D. BAIRD, retired farmer; P. O. Springfield. Few men have had the good fortune to win the affectionate regard and kindly sympathy of the community in which they live that William D. Baird has gained among the people of Clark Co. His supple frame bending under the weight of years, his frank, open, generous face, his courteous bearing, his kindly and even-tempered disposition, unruffled by the cares and anxieties of a lifetime of business activity, and all conspire to excite respect. Nearly fourscore years have left him a hale, hearty and well-preserved old man; a quick, elastic step; busy, active and energetic in business; still in possession of his old-time habit of industry, which have been his stepping-stone to prosperity. His grandfather, William Baird, a native of Maryland, of English origin—the family having come to the American Colonies before the Revolutionary war—was a man of prominence in his county; was Justice of the Peace, and afterward represented his county in the State Legislature for three terms. He had a family of three children, one son and two daughters, and died at Hagerstown, in his native State. His son William, the youngest of his children, was born in Hagerstown, Md., March 16, 1762, and when 18 years of age, went into the patriot army to help free his native land from English tyranny. Some time after the close of that struggle for liberty, William was married to Dorothy Camerer, who was born in his native town in March, 1760. The Camerers were from Holland, and settled in Maryland at an early day, five of her brothers having been soldiers in the Revolution, fighting the battles for freedom under Washington. William Baird and wife remained in Maryland until 1790, then removed to Westmoreland Co., Penn., where they resided about four years; thence came down the Ohio on a flat-boat, to Maysville, Ky., and from there to Fleming Co., of the same State, where he intended settling on 500 acres of land previously entered by his father, and given to him on condition that he would settle upon it. He remained in Fleming Co. about fourteen years, but never settled on the land, for the reason that others claimed it, and he, putting his case in the hands of a lawyer, finally lost it all. In 1808, he and family came to Clark Co., Ohio, and he entered 160 acres of land in Sec. 30, Township 6, Range 9, Harmony Township, paying one-half entrance money down, and the balance in the next four years, receiving his patent in 1812. To William and Dorothy Baird were born the following children: Esther, Susannah, Sarah, Peter C., John, Elizabeth, Mary Ann and William D., only two of whom are living—Susannah, the widow of Joshua Tatman, and the subject of this sketch. William D. was born in Fleming Co., Ky., Feb. 4, 1803, and was in his 5th year when the family moved to this county. He grew to maturity on his father’s farm, attending school about two years at the primitive log schoolhouse of his neighborhood, most of the time having to walk three miles to get there. His mother died Sept. 4, 1824, a sincere member of the Methodist Church, and March 9, 1836, his father died, leaving to his family a farm of 394 acres of land, William D. receiving the old homestead of 160, on which were such improvements as were common fifty years ago. Two of the sons, Peter C. and John, were soldiers in the war of 1812. William D. Baird was married in Pleasant Township, Dec. 1, 1826, to Sarah M. C. Hodge, daughter of Andrew and Isabel (McTire) Hodge, natives of Virginia, who first settled in Kentucky, coming to Clark Co. in the fall of 1808, and settling in Pleasant Township. Mrs. Baird was born in Bourbon Co., Ky., April 12, 1804, and had born to her the following children: Isabel (wife of Henry Stickney), Andrew (deceased), Samuel E. (deceased), William W. (deceased), Mary Ann (deceased wife of John A. Yeazell) and James (deceased). Mrs. Baird died Feb. 19, 1876, after a wedded life of over half a century, leaving behind her partner in life’s battles to mourn the loss of his faithful helpmate.  Politically, he is a Republican, and, although connected with no religious denomination, he believes firmly in the fundamental principles of Christianity. Beginning in life at “the foot of the ladder,” he has, by hard, determined work and constant attention to his business affairs, made a wonderful success. He is now the owner of about 1,000 acres of land surrounding the old homestead, and about 300 in other parts of the county, and his wealth is to-day estimated at from $75,000 to $100,000. In his younger days he was an active stock-raiser, and in this manner, by untiring energy, has made a success. Seldom equaled in farm life, Mr. Baird is a living example of what pluck and perseverance can accomplish when backed by industry and true economy. He is now in his 79th year, and as hale and hearty as are most men at half his age; and although his life has been one of constant toil and business cares, his character stands unblemished, and his reputation for honesty and integrity is above reproach. His troubles have been many, having lost every member of his family, with the exception of one; but, with patient resignation, he bows to the will of the Great Creator, and awaits the day when he shall again meet those gone on before.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 954 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. -
A. A. BAKER, physician and surgeon, Springfield. Dr. Baker is a life-time resident of Clark County, and for many years has been a noted physician and surgeon in the locality in which he has done business. As one of our prominent men, then, he is deserving of a place in the history of the county. He was born in 1831, near Enon, and, during his boyhood, received an excellent education; his parents, Ezra D. and Anne (Morgan) Baker, reared four children—Cassandra, Leander, Gustavius and our subject. In 1845, Dr. Baker commenced the study of medicine under Dr. J. J. McElhinney, of Dayton; in 1846 and 1847, he attended medical lectures at Starling College, Ohio, since which time he has practiced his profession in this and Champaign Counties. His marriage to Miss Maggie Miller was celebrated in 1845; she is of the old Shellabarger stock that have ever been noted in the history of this and Champaign Counties; their children are four in number—Annetta M., Elizabeth A., Scipio E. and Nellie B.; the eldest daughter, Annetta, is the wife of Dr. E. Myers, who is now a partner of his father-in-law. In 1870, Dr. Baker graduated at the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati, although a highly reputable and educated physician, but wishing a diploma from one of the oldest schools in the West, and that the efficient instruction imparted at that institution would be of benefit to him, besides the release from business cares, determined him in this matter. Wishing to engage in a city practice, he came to Springfield in 1880 and associated in business with Dr. Myers, still being near enough his old patrons, who are loath to give him up. During the war, he was appointed Surgeon of the 53d O. N. G., but was forced to resign on account of disability. The Doctor is one of those genial men who will surely merit the confidence of the citizens of Springfield, and he already possesses this of numerous patrons in his former place of residence. His father is now the oldest living settler of Madison Township, and was County Commissioner four terms, besides being actively engaged in the county’s business enterprises for many years. His mother died in 1867 at the age of 63 years.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 785 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  German Twp. -
ADAM BAKER, farmer; P. O. Eagle City; born on his present farm Apr. 26, 1841; is a son of Adam and Susannah (Klinefelter) Baker, natives of York Co., Penn.; Adam and family became residents of Clark Co., Ohio, in 1836, remaining in Springfield about one year; then bought and located on the farm, 1863, aged 67 years.  In 1869, his wife moved to Springfield, where she resided until her death; she died Aug. 7, 1879, aged 77 years.  They were parents of twelve children, seven now survive- Elizabeth, Cornelius, William B., Elnora, Joanna, John W. and Adam.  Mr. Baker was an active, prominent man in this community; in connection with farming, he was quite an extensive dealer in stock, and became owner of about 800 acres of land along the Mad River bottoms; also bought the flouring-mills and distillery then located here, which he ran very successfully for about twenty years.  He also held various offices of the township and county; was County Commissioners several years.  Our subject remained with his father until his death.  Was married, Oct. 10, 1869, to Amanda, daughter of John and Sarah Ann Wilson, he a native of Champaign Co., Ohio, and she of Virginia, Amanda being the third of nine children; five now survive - Malissa E., William M., Amanda E., Mary Susanna and Sarah Caroline.  Mr. Baker has always resided upon the old home place, with the exception of fifteen months' residence with his father on the Hetzler property, below Springfield, when they returned to the old home farm.  Mr. Baker now owned 323 acres of fine land, constituting three farms.  The home place has now been in possession of the Baker family forty-four years.  He has never sought or held office; he is, like his father was be3fore him, a stanch Republican.  Mr. Baker has been an active business man; a good financier; has a pleasant home, and is well situated to enjoy the comforts of life.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 997
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
CORNELIUS BAKER, ex-Sheriff, Springfield. He was born in York Co., Penn., Sept. 28, 1823; came to Clark Co., Ohio, in 1836, and settled in Springfield, where he sold goods until 1852; he then moved to the country and carried on farming for several years; during the war of the rebellion, he was appointed Enrolling Officer for German Township, and was Revenue Assessor six years. In 1872, he was elected Sheriff of Clark County, and served in said office four years, being re-elected in 1874. Mr. Baker is noted for his generosity and acts of kindness; he performed the duties of his official positions to the satisfaction of all, coming out of office without a stain upon his character.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 782 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  German Twp. -
EMANUEL BAKER, farmer; P. O. Tremont City; born in Clark Co. Feb. 7, 1821; is a son of Martin and Eve (Friermood) Baker, natives of Virginia; the grandparents were also native of Virginia, but became among the early settlers of Clark Co.; in fact, were among the real pioneers, locating here before the county was organized.  Martin and Eve were in their childhood when their parents located in this county, consequently were mostly raised here; were here married, and lived and died in this county.  He died July 1, 1831.  They were parents of six children, five now surviving - Emanuel, Amos, Absalom, Louisa and Martin; deceased, Samuel.  Our subject, the oldest child, was but 11 years of age when his father died; this left the mother with the care and responsibility of raising these young children, and that in a new country, where she had to labor under many disadvantages and deprivations; but, with a courage and fortitude which only a mother seems to possess, she, with the assistance of kind neighbors, succeeded in keeping her family together until they arrived at maturity.  She died Feb. 9, 1860.  Mr. Baker was married Nov. 14, 1844, to Drusilla, daughter of Solomon and Leah Foltz, natives of Virginia.  By this union they have had two children, one only now surviving - Lydia; deceased, Andrew J.  Mr. Baker has spent his entire life in Clark Co., and followed farming as an occupation; has been located upon the farm where he now resides since the spring of 1845, a period of thirty-five years.  He has a farm of 50 acres, all in cultivation, with good improvements, constituting a pleasant home and residence.  Mr. Baker has held the office of Township Trustee for two years.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 998
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
JOHN R. BAKER, farmer; P. O. Springfield. John R. Baker, son of Rudolph and Eve (Kiblinger) Baker, was born Aug. 27, 1807, in Shenandoah Co., Va.; in 1818, came with his parents from Virginia to Ohio, and to Clark County, and settled in German Township, where they lived the remainder of their lives; the father died in 1825, and the mother in 1845. John R. Baker was married, Nov. 1, 1832, to Sarah Miller, daughter of William C. and Mary M. Miller; Sarah was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., March 31,1814, and came to Clark Co., Ohio, with her parents, in 1818, and settled near the Bakers, in German Township; her father departed this life in 1840, and her mother in 1860. Mr. and Mrs. John R. Baker are two worthy pioneers of this county; of their six children, but three are now living—Ezra K., James T. and Mary M. William C., in 1862 (at the end of his third year in Wittenberg College), enlisted in the 94th O. V. I., and was taken prisoner at the battle of Chickamauga; after suffering the horrors and privations of Libby, Danville and Andersonville Prisons, he died in Andersonville Prison Sept. 22, 1864, one year from the time he was taken prisoner. Ezra graduated at Wittenberg College in 1870, and is now a Lutheran minister; Mary was married, Nov. 22, 1855, to David Cutshaw; in 1866, she was left a widow by the death of her husband. Mr. and Mrs. Baker remember well when they first settled in this county; they had to “blaze” the trees when they went to a neighbor’s house, in order to find their way home again.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 782 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Mad River Twp. -
JOSEPH BAKER, farmer; P. O. Enon.  Joseph Baker is the son of Melyn and Mary Banker, both natives of New Jersey, and emigrated to Ohio about the year 1800, stopping in Cincinnati one year, then removing to Clark County, where they remained til their death.  Mrs. Baker lived to an advanced age, and recounted the following incident of her early life only a short time before her death:  During the war of 1812, our troops were being concentrated for the battle of the Thames; that noted Kentuckian, Col. Richard Johnson, in command of a force of United States troops, stopped at the house of her father, and requested her to furnish himself and staff with supper, lodging and breakfast.  Her parents being absent from home, she, a girl of 16, provided for their wants so acceptably that on his return, wounded, from the battle where history gives him teh credit of killing that noted Indian chief, Tecumseh, they again stopped at her father'shouse for entertainment.  Joseph Baker was born in Clark Co., Ohio, Sept. 12, 1830, and was educated in the common schools of his native place.  At the age of 14, he started for himself farming, in which pursuit he has continued to the present time.  He married, Nov. 1, 1855, Miss Elizabeth King, of Clark County.  They are the parents of four children, viz.: Mary, Tillie, Joetta and Maud.  Joetta died Oct. 9, 1872.  He purchased a portion of the old homestead, containing 98-2/3 acres, which is in a high state of cultivation, and he is in every way prepared to enjoy the comforts of life.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1039
  Mad River Twp. -
MOSES BAKER, farmer; P. O. Enon.  Mr. Baker is the son of Jonathan and Sarah Baker, who were natives of New Jersey, and emigrated to Ohio in1802, locating in Butler County, where they remained three years, when they removed to Clark County, residing there until their death.  Our subject was born in Clark County Aug. 8, 1809, just twenty-nine years after Clarke's battle with the Indians.  The country at that time was still a wilderness, abounding with wild animals, and Indians roamed the forests of the frontier county as it was called.  Great labor was required to clear up the land in those days, and young Baker assisted his father in this work, in the meantime receiving such education as was afforded in the log schoolhouses of the day.  At the age of 18, Mr. Baker started in business for himself, learning the mason trade, which business he followed until 1836.  He then purchased a farm of 108 acres in Mad River Township.  He married Miss Mary Davis the same your.  They were the parents of six children, four of whom are now living.  Mrs. Baker departed this life in the year 1865.  Mr. Baker married to Mrs. Cenith Leggett, who died in 1867.  He now resided with his daughter, and is now, as he has been for many years, an earnest worker in the cause of Christ.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1039
  Pike Twp. -
SAMUEL M. BAKER, farmer; P. O. Dalton; is the son of Martin and Elizabeth Baker who were natives of Virginia and moved to Clark Co. about 1823 and purchased 53 acres of land, where he remained until his death July 20, 1854; Mrs. Baker survived him until March 6, 1870.  They were both consistent members of the Reformed Church.  Samuel M., the subject of this memoir, was born Dec. 10, 1830, and assisted his father until his (father's) death, after which he managed the farm until 1869, when he purchased the farm where he now resides.   Sept. 26, 1871, he celebrated his marriage to Malinda, daughter of David and Elizabeth Jenkins; this union was blessed with four children -Viola G. and Sidney G. (twins), born June 22, 1872, and Asa M. and Charles O. (twins), born July 13, 1877.  Mr. Baker has never been aspirant for office, but has served his township in the office of Trustee with honor to himself and his constituents.  On the breaking-out of the rebellion, he volunteered his services, enlisting in Co. I, 44th O. V. I., Sept. 12, 1861, serving his country until the close of the war, receiving his discharge on Aug. 9, 1865.  Mr. and Mrs. Baker are members of the Reformed Church, Mr. Baker having been Sabbath-school Superintendent and teacher for over twenty years, and has been honored with the offices of Deacon and Elder in the church for a number of years.  They are surrounded with all the comforts of life, earned by the incessant toil of years.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1012
  German Twp. -
THOMAS BAKER, farmer; P. O. Eagle City; born in this county and township Aug. 4, 1820; is a son of John and Susannah (Nawman) Baker, natives of Virginia (for the Nawman family, see sketch of Samuel Nawman in this work).  The grandfather, Henry Baker, was a native of Virginia, but became one of the early pioneers of Clark Co., and died here.  John and Susannah were parents of eight children; five now survive - Thomas, Elizabeth, John, Cyrus and Susanna.  They located about one mile north of Lawrenceville, where they lived until their death; she died some fifty years ago.  He was again married, to Christiana Miller, by whom he had ten children; seven now living - Henry, Aaron, William H., George W., Catharine, Levi and Simon.  He died over twenty years ago.  Our subject made his home with his father until 28 years of age.  Was married, in 1849, to Lydia, daughter of John and Margaret Hause, natives of Pennsylvania.  Issue, six children; three now survive - Harmon H., Emanuel A. and Cyrus W.  Mr. Baker, after his marriage, located upon the farm where he now resides, and has made a continued residence of thirty-one years.  His farm consists of 36 acres of fine bottom land in the Mad River Valley, most of which is in good cultivation, and constitutes him a very pleasant home and residence.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 998
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
CHARLES P. BALLARD, deceased. Mr. C. P. Ballard was born at Framington, Mass., on Nov. 7, 1820; he came to Athens, Ohio, in 1840, where he was engaged in mercantile pursuits, and to Springfield just after the war; he commenced manufacturing in Springfield about 1866, buying out McClellan’s interest in the firm of Rinehart & McClellan, the firm thus formed of Rinehart, Ballard & Co., continuing up to the present time. Mr. Ballard was twice married, first to Electa Stewart Hawkes, whom he lost by death, and then, on May 15, 1862, he married in New York City Miss Eunice E. Hibbard, of Massachusetts. Of Mr. Ballard’s children three are living, to wit: William Whiting, who is in Colorado for business and health; and Misses Susie and Helen, who live with their mother in their elegant home on High street. Mr. Ballard was an exemplary Christian, estimable citizen, and essentially a substantial man in every way; he was Deacon in the Presbyterian Church at Athens, and Elder in the Second Presbyterian Church here; he died July 19, 1878. Mrs. Ballard retains her interest in the firm, of which appropriate mention is made in the historical part of this work. Two of his children are dead—Mary and John. Mr. Ballard’s father died the 23d of August, 1880, nearly 90 years old.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 885 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  German Twp. -
JAMES V. BALLENTINE, Justice of the Peace, Lawrenceville; born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Oct. 14, 1823; is a son of William and Nancy A. (Nail) Ballentine, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America in 1798 and located in Pennsylvania, where he raised a family of thirteen children, six sons and seven daughters, of whom four sons and two daughters still survive- Robert, Mathew, David, James V., Margaret and Elizabeth.  In 1831, Mr. Ballentine came to Ohio with his family, and, after a short stay in Montgomery Co., removed, in 1832, to German Township, Clark Co., where he spent the remainder of his life; he died Nov. 15, 1851; his wife died June 11, 1843.  He was an industrious, hard-working man; left his native land to escape the oppression of the English Government; he sought and obtained an asylum in this  "land of the free," landing here when the hand of civilization and enterprise had done comparatively little toward building cities and developing the wonderful resources of this now great and growing country.  Our subject was brought up to farm labor, receiving a common-school education, with two terms of six months each attendance at a high school in Springfield.  Was married, Aug. 20, 1853, to Rosanna, daughter of John and Sarah Domer, natives of Maryland; issue, five children; four now survive - Charles F., Sarah Jane, Anna and Marion S.  Mrs. Ballentine followed dealing in stock till 1855; thence gave his attention to farming, following agricultural pursuits till the spring of 1877, when he sold his farm and bought property in Springfield and some in Lawrenceville, locating upon the latter, where he has since resided.  This course he took that he might have better privileges to educate his children, being one of those believing in education and progress.  His eldest son is now in Springfield studying for the profession of a lawyer.  The youngest son is prosecuting his studies, in preparation for some profession.  Mr. Ballentine has been a prominent man of his township, having held office of great portion of his life.  Was Assessor seven years, and Assistant Assessor five years; Revenue Assessor five years; Revenue Assessor two years; Real Estate Assessor one year, and Justice of the peace nine years.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
LOUIS BANCROFT, retired merchant, Springfield. Mr. Bancroft is perhaps the oldest man who has lived continuously in the city; he came to Springfield in 1816, and established himself as one of the leading dry goods merchants during his business life; he also engaged in other ventures, all of which proved successful; at one time, he was a wholesale dealer in liquors, but, through the remonstrances of friends, relinquished the very profitable business; for ten years he was County Gauger and Government Inspector, and he handled annually 10,000 barrels of liquor. He was born in Massachusetts in 1792, came West in 1816, and was married to Miss Mary Christie in 1819; she was born in 1800, in New Boston, N. H.; they are the parents of six children—Leonidas, Phraotes E., La Fayette, Oscar Fitz, Amanda M., and Flavilla G. Another son, Louis Waters, died in infancy. Leonidas married Miss Mary Hartwell; Pharotes wedded Miss Lou Mayhew; Oscar is the husband of Miss Jennie Myers; Amanda is the wife of Benjamin P. Churchill; and Flavilla, married Mr. William Kleiman. All were wedded before except one, and, with the exception of Mrs. Churchill, live in the city. Mr. Bancroft was a resident of this county two years before the organization of Clark County, and has until the past few years been actively connected with its business interests. In October he will be 89 years of age. There is only one house now standing in the city that stood when he came here. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and while Deputy Sheriff during the early settlement of the county, achieved quite a reputation as an efficient officer, the men in some parts of the county being a very lawless set. He and his wife now live at their ease in a tasty cottage on West Washington street, and enjoy the respect of every one in the city.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 785 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
PHRAOTES E. BANCROFT, hatter, Springfield. Mr. P. E. Bancroft was born in Springfield on Jan. 28, 1822, and is one of six children—four brothers and two sisters; he has been twice married—first, to Miss Catherine Moody, in 1844, by whom he had no children to live: and he married again in 1859, Lou M. Mayhew, of Warren County, by whom he has had one son, Robert Christie, born Nov. 7, 1866—an exceptionally good and dutiful boy, and a great source of comfort and pride to his parents. Mr. Bancroft learned his trade with the firm of Cotes, Lathrop & Arden, entering his apprenticeship in 1839: commenced business for himself in his present stand in 1851, where he has grown with Springfield, been quite successful, and is doing now the principal hat and cap trade. His family attend the First Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bancroft, although not drafted, sent voluntarily to the army a substitute, at an expense to himself of about $700. Of his brothers and sisters, Leonidas has a billiard room; La Fayette is a tinner; Oscar F. is a photographer; and his two sisters are Mrs. Amanda Churchill and Mrs. Flavilla G. Kleiman. Mr. Bancroft’s father, Louis Bancroft, is entitled to the distinction of being the oldest citizen, and no man knows more of early Springfield than he.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 786 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
SAMUEL BARNETT, deceased. This well-known gentleman was born in Hanover, Dauphin Co., Penn., Sept. 30, 1790, and, at the age of 16, was left an orphan; had to struggle with adversity for many years, but finally, by dint of energy and honesty of purpose, he surmounted every obstacle to substantial success. He came to Ohio in 1817, settling in Warren County, residing in that and Butler Counties until 1841, when he came to Springfield, where he and his brother James, who had preceded him several years, erected a large flouring-mill, which was at that time the largest industrial enterprise of which Springfield could boast. He continued his milling business until 1859, then selling out to his son William A. Barnett and William Warder, retired from business. He was married, at West Hanover, Penn., Aug. 27, 1815, to Mary Mitchell, by the Rev. James Sharon, Pastor of Derry Church. She was born in West Hanover Jan. 16, 1790, and had born to her ten children, viz., James, Susannah W. (deceased), David M. (deceased), Mary, William A., Levi, Nancy A., Sarah, George W. and Samuel. Mrs. Barnett died May 17, 1851, and her husband May 10, 1869, full of honorable years. Samuel Barnett was a humble and devoted Christian, and warmly attached to the United Presbyterian Church, of which he was an active and useful member; he lived to see all his children married, and all with sons-in-law and daughters-in-law members of his own church, with the exception of two, who are connected with another denomination. James, his eldest son, a graduate of Miami University, is a minister, and was sent in 1844 as a missionary to Damascus, Syria, and Cairo, Egypt, where he resided many years in establishing the now flourishing United Presbyterian Mission of the latter place, being in the foreign mission service thirty years, and now residing in Emporia, Kan. Mary married Dr. Joseph G. Paulding, and they accompanied James as missionaries to Damascus, where they resided eleven years. Mr. Barnett was a man of great personality, a vigorous character, of undeviating integrity; in personal appearance, tall, raw-boned, commanding, yet amiable, a man universally trusted and respected, whose counsels were sought, and whose friendship was esteemed a privilege to enjoy.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 786 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
WILLIAM A. BARNETT, miller, Springfield. Mr. William A. Barnett was born Oct. 8, 1822, in Butler Co., Ohio, and passed the early part of his life in Butler and Warren Counties until 1841, when he came with his father, Samuel Barnett, to Springfield. The family are now much scattered, some living in Illinois, some in Kansas and elsewhere. William A. went to Miami University in early life; was in his father’s mill from August, 1845, to July 1, 1859, when he and William Warder (of the Warder family so prominent here), bought the property and business from Mr. Samuel Barnett, and have been carrying on the business under the name and style of Warder & Barnett, with gratifying success for twenty-one years, making thirty-five years in all of one business in one spot—a rare example of continuity of purpose and effort. On Dec. 18, 1855, he was married to Miss S. Belle Grove, of Chambersburg, Penn; of their children, Annie S., Ella M. and a son are living, and they lost a son at 3 months of age. Their daughter Ella has recently married the Rev. Joseph Kyle, Pastor of the United Presbyterian Church of this city, of which Mr. Barnett’s family are members. For full history of the Warder & Barnett milling interest reference is made to the industrial branch of this history. Mr. Barnett mentions a curious fact that in his daily walks to and from his residence during his business life here, he has traversed on Limestone street alone over twenty-five thousand miles, or more than the whole circumference of the globe. He is one of those straightforward true men, the same to-day, to-morrow and always, and one whom all respect and honor; a man upon whom one can depend to the full extent of all he promises.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 787 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz

Horatio Banes, J.P.
(Deceased)
Moorefield Twp.
Moorefield Twp. -
HORATIO BANES

 

 

  Madison Twp. -
DR. W. H. BARNWELL; P. O. South Charleston; was born Sept. 10, 1832, in Ashtabula Village, Ashtabula Co., Ohio; has been a resident of this county twenty-three years.  His father and mother were natives of Northamptonshire, England, and came to this country in the early part of 1832.  The latter is still living in Harmony Village, this county, in the 74th year of her age.  April 23, 1861, he enlisted as a private soldier with Capt. Phil. Kershner, 16th O. V. I., and served four months; assisted in organizing the 44th O. V. I. in the fall of 1861; sworn into the service as a private soldier; elected Second Lieutenant Co. F; served in that capacity until promoted to First Lieutenant and assigned to Co. B, where he served until the expiration of term of enlistment of the 44th, participating in every battle or skirmish the regiment was ever engaged in, among which was the battle of Lewisburg, Va., May 23, 1862, that Gen. George Crook's said was "the neatest little stand-up fight of the war."  April, 1865, he was appointed United States Detective, with headquarters at Nashville, Tenn., under orders of Gen Thomas, and held that position until after the close of the war, and the office was abandoned March, 1866; read medicine with Dr. James S. R. Hazzard, of Springfield, and graduated at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery June 1871; since which time has been constantly in the active practice of his profession; is a member of Clark County Medical Society, and served one year as its President; married to Lucina E. Sprague, daughter of Davis Sprague, of Harmony Township, this county, Nov. 14, 1867, by whom he has three children - Jessie H., born Aug. 27, 1868; Ollie L., born Mar. 9, 1872, and William Hayes, born Nov. 6, 1876; present residence, South Charleston, Clark Co., O.; is and always has been a firm adherent to the regular practice of medicine.
SOURCE:  The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago:  W. H. Beers & Co.,  1881 - Page 1059 - Transcribed by Sharon Wick
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
EDWIN L. BARRETT, publisher of specialties, Springfield. Mr. Edwin L. Barrett is a New Englander, having been born on Aug. 20, 1827, in Worcester Co., Mass; his family on both sides was long lived; his mother, who now lives alternately with her children, being 78; her family name was Lawrence. His father was among the early cotton manufacturers of Massachusetts; owned a cotton-factory in Mr. Barrett’s native county. On Jan. 4, 1849, he married, at Ashburnham, Mass., Miss Sarah B. Petts, a native of New York, daughter of Dr. John Petts and sister of Quincy A. Petts, Clark County Auditor, both residents of Springfield, the former being in his 84th year; by this union he had eight children—six sons and two daughters—of whom only three sons are living now, viz., Edward L., aged 30, and Fred W., aged 22, partners in business with their father; and George Lawrence, aged 19, now in Wittenberg College. Having lost his wife in 1865, Mr. Barrett married, on March 18, 1867, Miss Clara D. Hulsey, a native of Milledgeville, Ga., by whom he has had a son and a daughter now respectively 8 and 11 years old. At the age of 21, on account of failing health, Mr. Barrett went to North Carolina, living alternately in Franklin, Halifax and Warren Counties, where he remained until 1856, spending his time in teaching, having, in the meantime, charge of a female seminary at White Sulphur Springs, and one also at Warrenton; he went from North Carolina to Oxford, Butler Co., Ohio, where, in connection with Rev. J. H. Buchanan, he conducted the Oxford Female Institute, continuing until 1861, from where, at that time, he came to Springfield, Ohio; here he went into the book business with Charles L. Petts, under the firm name of Barrett & Petts, later becoming associated with G. W. Hastings (now of the Springfield Republic), under the firm name of Hastings, Barrett & Petts, together carrying on, with their former business, book-binding and printing; this was in 1862, and continued several years; his brother-in-law and partner, Charles L. Petts, is now no more. On the dissolution of this firm, Mr. Barrett was for several years out of active business, his health again failing him; in 1865, he bought him a little farm a few miles out on the Charleston road, more, as he says, to die upon than anything else, and spent the intervening years between 1865 and 1867 in maturing legal and other forms, subsequently utilized in business, and, his health in the meantime becoming re-established, he commenced, in 1867, the business of his present firm of E. L. Barrett & Sons, for the manufacture of specialties in the line of legal, election and other blanks and forms and conveniences, which, under his thorough and careful management, has grown to be quite extensive and profitable. In 1872, he took his eldest son into partnership, and on Jan. 1, 1880, his second son was admitted to the firm; on the 27th of April, 1875, his eldest son, Edward L., was united in marriage with Miss Flora C. Lyon, of Cincinnati, and has now two sons and one daughter. Mr. Barrett, Sr., and his married son and their families, live in adjoining houses in the same farm he purchased in 1865. Most of Mr. Barrett’s family are members and all attend the First Presbyterian Church. Mr. Barrett is one of those excellent, even-tempered men who go so largely to make up the most worthy part of all communities—kind, exact, careful, moderate, temperate, earnest and honorable; the influence of such men, while not sensibly pervading and aggressive, is only felt for good.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 787 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
AMOS BARR, general insurance agent, Springfield. While Mr. Amos Barr has not been a resident of Springfield as long as some others, he is most thoroughly identified with its interests. Born in Lancaster Co., Penn., in 1810, he came to Lebanon, Ohio, upon attaining his majority; removed to Cincinnati in 1858, and to Springfield in 1865. In 1834, he married Miss Martha H. Smith, of Strasburg, Penn., and of seven children born him, four daughters and one son are living, to wit, Mrs. Mary Winger, Mrs. Ann E. Smith, both of Springfield; Mrs. Martha B. Sperry, of Nashville, Tenn.; Mrs. Emma B. Scholl, of Baltimore; and Benjamin H. Barr, a resident of Chattanooga, Tenn., making a family group of seventeen when all together. The venerable subject of this sketch has been for many years identified with insurance interests, having been, since 1863, agent of that mammoth and honorable institution, the Cincinnati Mutual Life Insurance Company, with its $50,000,000 assets, and Mr. Barr has paid out to beneficiaries in Springfield alone over $100,000, and numbers among his policy-holders several hundred of Springfield’s best men; he is also privileged agent of the Northwestern Mutual Life of Milwaukee, and regular agent of the Firemen’s Fund of California, Farmer’s Fire of York, Penn., and Amazon Fire of Cincinnati. Mr. Barr is one of those benign, courteous men, whom to know is to respect and admire; quiet, unostentatious, fatherly, and the embodiment of true innate gentility.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 788 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
MRS. EMILY BARTHOLOMEW, Springfield. Mrs. Emily Bartholomew, nee Ebersole, is a native of Clark County; her father, John Ebersole, of Virginia. In his school days, Mr. Ebersole walked three miles to the nearest school, his path leading over the celebrated natural bridge. In early youth, he removed with his parents to Ohio; in 1819, married Miss Sally Keifer, of Sharpsburg, Md., who, with her parents, came to Ohio in childhood; after marriage, they went on horseback to his home in Cincinnati. In 1822, they removed to his forest home in German Township, this county, where he built one of the finest hewed-log houses of that day and generation, every log, plank, beam and panel passing through his skilled hands. Of their family of one son and four daughters, Dr. E. P. Ebersole has been for years the leading physician in Preble County, and the daughters reside in this and adjoining counties, and have all had experience as teachers in this county. From 12 to 15 years of age, Emily was with relatives in Troy, Miami Co., receiving careful training in the family, church and school; when 16, she received from Isaac H. Lancey, her first certificate as teacher, and her first efforts were in old log houses, teaching nine hours a day, thirteen weeks to a quarter, and receiving the princely remuneration of $8 per month. In some districts, almost any books were thought suitable for “readers,” Robinson Crusoe being quite a favorite in some localities. She spent eight years teaching in the county and attending the Ohio Conference High School, during which time great progress was made in the methods of and facilities for education; feminine ability was recognized, new and better houses and books were freely provided, fewer hours required and better wages paid. In 1852, she accepted a position in the Springfield Female Seminary, remaining five years. In 1859, she married Dr. J. Bartholomew, of Butte Co., Cal., a native of Ohio, a graduate of Dennison University, in which he remained a number of years after graduation as instructor, preparing, meanwhile, for the practice of medicine; in 1850, he drove an ox team across the plains to California, acting as Captain and physician of his company. Soon after marriage, they sailed from New York for the Pacific Coast; the Doctor’s death occurred four years thereafter, and Mrs. Bartholomew remained four years longer, and, in 1867, she, with her two little sons, Frank and Ralph, took the steamship Constitution, bound for New York, arriving in safety after a voyage of twenty-six days. Since 1868, she has resided permanently in this city, and her sons are each pursuing a college course. It is appropriate to make in this connection passing mention of Miss May Ebersole, a most estimable aunt of Mrs. Bartholomew, who commenced her life-work as a teacher in 1825; in 1833, she built the house still standing on the northwest corner of Columbia and Factory streets, and opened a day and boarding school for girls. The greater part of her life was devoted to instructing the young, and her zeal and earnestness in this direction were remarkable. She often remarked that the material she handled was imperishable, and that her work would be completed in eternity, and that therefore her vocation was especially dear to her. She died at an advanced age, at Murfreesboro, Tenn.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 788 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
CHARLES A. BAUER, Superintendent of Champion Bar & Knife Company, Springfield. Mr. Bauer is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany; in 1852, his father’s family then consisting of the father, mother and four children, of which number the subject of this sketch was the third, sailed for New York; during a long and stormy voyage, the ship was drifted from her course, and the family were unexpectedly landed at New Orleans, where, after the lapse of but ten months, the father fell a victim to the yellow fever. Mrs. Bauer’s situation was now a truly trying one—a stranger in a foreign country, surrounded by the depressing influences of a wide-spread epidemic; the little means originally possessed by the family wasted by travel and sickness; but, with that true fortitude which has ever been a characteristic of the German people, she resolved to seek a healthier home in the North, and arrived in Cincinnati in 1853, where she yet resides. At the age of 11 years, Mr. Bauer was employed in the pyrotechnic manufactory of H. P. Diehl; in 1861, he became an apprentice to the gunsmithing business; in 1864, he entered the shops of Miles Greenwood & Co. as practical machinist, devoting his leisure hours to the study of mathematics and applied mechanics; so successful was he in this that, in 1867, he was called to the Ohio Mechanics’ Institute as a teacher of drawing; in 1871, he resigned this situation to become Superintendent of the Niles Tool Works at Hamilton, Ohio, which he vacated in 1873 to assume the duties of Consulting Engineer for Lane & Bodley, at Cincinnati. In 1875, Mr. Bauer was tendered the position of Assistant Superintendent of the Champion Bar & Knife Company Works in Springfield; in 1878, he was promoted to be the Superintendent in charge of the establishment, where he now remains. In 1868, he was married to Miss Louise Haeseler, who came with her parents from St. Goar, Prussia, in 1851. Mrs. Bauer is a lady possessed of much refinement and culture with admirable social qualities; the children of this union are three in number—Charles L., William A. and Louis E. Mr. Bauer is a self-made man, and his career demonstrates what can be accomplished by application and economy of time; few mechanical men of this country can excel him in that peculiar faculty which enables one to analyze a difficult problem in mechanics, or trace causes to results, while his natural and acquired resources furnish a constant fund of cultivated ideas, ready for application in any emergency. He has a fine collection of technical works, which, with a choice selection of general and standard books, compose one of the best private libraries in the city.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 790 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
ELIJAH BEARDSLEY, deceased, was born in New Fairfield, Conn., May 27, 1760; at the age of 16, he entered and served in the war for American independence; was married at New Fairfield, the place of his nativity, to Sally Hubbel, June 27, 1780, to whom were born fourteen children—six sons and eight daughters; about A. D. 1796, removed to Delaware Co., N. Y.; early in the war of 1812, he removed with his family to the State of Ohio; lived a short time in Urbana, Champaign Co., thence to Springfield, then Champaign (now Clark) County, where his good wife died, July 23, 1823; he survived until Oct. 2, 1826, and died at the age of 66 years; he lived and died a true and honored patriot. At this time, the only member of his family now living at Springfield, Clark Co., Ohio, is Laura, the wife of J. S. Christie, aged 78 years.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 790 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
JOHN BEAVER, brick-mason and contractor, Springfield. John Beaver was born May 23, 1829, in England; came to Springfield in 1859, at the age of 30 years. He was married in England, in 1849, to Helen Corcoran, and of six children, only three daughters are living. Mr. Beaver has been successful in Springfield—the result, however, of unflagging energy, close attention to business, and living strictly up to all his contracts. A great number of the buildings of this thriving city are of his erection, and all of the many and immense Champion shops. Mr. Beaver is a member of good standing of the Palestine Commandery, No. 33, Knights Templar; Springfield Council, No. 17, Royal and Select Masters; Springfield Royal Arch Chapter, No. 48; Clark Lodge, No. 101, of Free and Accepted Masons; and Springfield Lodge, No. 33, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; also the Encampment. He lives in his own snug little home, with his daughters, at No. 18 Clifton street.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 790 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
READ LETTS BELL, M. D., allopathic physician, Springfield. Dr. R. L. Bell was born in Morgan Township, Knox Co., Ohio; was the recipient of a liberal education, graduating from the Dennison University, Licking Co., Ohio, in June, 1872; then took a full medical course in Harvard University, of Massachusetts, graduating in 1876; practiced one year in Toledo, after which he settled permanently in Springfield, where he has had gratifying success, even beyond his expectations. On Jan. 18, 1877, he consummated a matrimonial alliance with Miss Sarah J. Robinson, of Coshocton, Ohio. Dr. Bell, although intended by his parents for a healer of souls, finds himself to-day in the almost as important work of healing bodies; as a boy he was, and even now is, a close student and a great reader, and possesses a fine memory, clearly calling to mind his schoolmates at the early age of 3 years. Dr. Bell stood well in his class in college; was its poet, and in his junior year was associate editor of the college paper. Dr. Bell is a man of prepossessing appearance, clear-cut features, pleasing address, and possesses all the qualities for success in his profession. The Doctor is also Fellow of the Massachusetts Medical Society of Boston.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 790 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
WILLIAM H. BERGER, farmer; P. O. Lagonda. He is the son of Daniel and Ester (Body) Berger, and was born in Berks Co., Penn., Jan. 21, 1830; his parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and were married April 12, 1818; their family consisted of seven children—two boys and five girls; they came to this county in April, 1838, and settled in Lagonda, where they lived about one month; they then purchased (for $16 per acre) and removed to the farm which is now owned and occupied by William; his (William’s) father was born Nov. 5, 1794, and lived to the advanced age of 84 years; his mother was born Dec. 11, 1797; she is still in good health, living with William at the old homestead. William assisted his father, working for him until 22 years of age; he then rented the farm of his father, conducting it successfully seventeen years; during that time, he saved sufficient amount to enable him to purchase a part of the farm, and, by good management, in a few years more purchased the remainder, consisting in all of about 130 acres. At the age of 20, he taught the winter term of a school in Moorefield Township, this county; this was his first school; he continued teaching during the winter terms of the schools near home twenty-five years, being a successful teacher. He was married, March 18, 1852, to Mary J., daughter of John and Mary Jackson; she was born in Virginia Jan. 11, 1830; being left an orphan while yet a little child, she came to Ohio with her uncle, William Moore, and lived with him until her marriage with Mr. Berger. Five children have blessed their home; they mourn the loss of two of them—Daniel F., who died Nov. 1, 1855, and William H., Jr., who died Nov. 9, 1866; the other three—John M., Elizabeth A. and Mary E.—still remain, a comfort to their parents. Strict integrity and honorable dealing have been leading virtues of his life; he has frequently been selected and appointed guardian of children and administrator of estates. He has filled the office of Sunday-school Superintendent for twenty-five years, in which position he is still serving.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 791 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Pleasant Twp. -
L. BIRELY, retired farmer; P. O. Catawba.  He is a son of Philip and grandson of Lewis, who was a native of Germany; came to America and located in Lancaster Co., Penn., in the year 1730; he served in the Revolutionary war.  Philip was born Feb. 24, 1780, in Franklin Co., Penn.; came to Ohio and landed in Springfield Oct. 28, 1839.  In February, 1840, he moved upon the farm owned now by the subject of this sketch, and lived there until his death, which occurred Dec. 17, 1844.  Lewis was born Oct. 2, 1803, in Shippensburg, Cumberland Co., Penn.; was raised and educated in the town; when 15 years old, he learned the trade of a shoemaker, and worked at it till his parents came to Ohio; he came with them and began farming, and has been engaged in that way since with exception of the last ten years; he lives retired from hard labor.  He was married, May 19, 1829, to Miss Sarah Shank, of Maryland.  They had eleven children, of whom nine are living - Philip, Rebecca, Lewis R., Charlotte C., Elizabeth, Margaret, Sarah, Eliza and Henry C.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 971
  Pike Twp. -
A. B. BLACK, physician, New Carlisle.  Samuel Black was the son of John Black and was born near Londonderry, Ireland, about A. D. 1734.  He was a Scotch parentage, they having emigrated from Scotland to Ireland.  John Black emigrated to America about A. D. 1744, and settled upon the Brandywine River, in New Jersey, where they remained a short time, when they moved to Albemarle Co., Va., where Samuel was united in marriage with Jane Porter.  By this union they had nine children - four sons and five daughters - all lived to raise large families.  John, who married Jane Alexander; William, who married Jane McBeth; James; Samuel, who married Jane Porter; Jane, who married Mathew Alexander; Martha, who married ____ McCormick; Nancy, who married _____ Price; Mary, who married ____ Black. Samuel and Jane (Porter) Black died in Albemarle Co., Va.  March 28, 1793, William Black was united in marriage with Jane McBeth, daughter of Andrew and Sarah (Clinton) McBeth, of Albemarle Co., Va.  After their marriage they settled in Montgomery Co., Va., where he laid out the town of Blacksburg.  While there, they had six children born unto them; five raised large families, three sons and two daughters - Samuel, born Sept. 13, 1794, married Malinda Mitchell Nov. 20, 1817; Sallie, born May 20, 1796, married William Reyburn June 13, 1816; Agnes, born Apr. 18, 1798, married Giles W. Thomas Mar. 18, 1816; William Porter, born Apr. 26, 1800, married Susanna Verdier Nov. 16, 1820; Andrew Clinton, born Jul. 21, 1803; John, born Jul. 29, 1804, died Apr. 14, 1806.  In May, 1814, he moved with his family to this township, where they arrived June 14, 1814.  He purchased a part of Sections 13 and 19, upon which they settled, where they spent their last days with their son, Andrew C.  Jane (McBeth) Black died Jan. 23, 1843, aged 77 years; William Black died Dec. 22, 1851, aged 84 years, 10 months and 8 days.  Oct. 20, 1825, Andrew C. was united in marriage with Provy Baker Standiford, daughter of Elijah and Rebecca (Rouse) Standiford.  She was born in Mason Co., Ky., Jan. 5, 1806, and emigrated to Champaign Co., Ohio, with her parents January, 1807, where she continued to live until her marriage, at which time they settled upon a part of Sections 13 and 19, where she still lives.  Her husband, A. C., died Feb. 25, 1875, aged 72 years 7 months and 4 days.  They were the parents of thirteen children, seven now living, five sons and two daughters, viz., Rebecca Ann, born Mar. 10, 1828; married to William Funstone Mar. 18, 1852; Elijah Clinton, born Dec. 1, 1831, married Caroline C. Donnelson June 9, 1859; Charles Standiford, born Nov. 21, 1833, married Sallie L. Gregory May 1, 1863; John Fletcher, born Mar. 22, 1839, married Mary M. Monk April 22, 1860; she died Feb. 15, 1868; Caroline, born Dec. 18, 1844, married William H. James Jan. 17, 1871; Andrew Benjamin, born June 10, 1847, married Maggie B. (Pence) Beard Aug. 12, 1880.  William Sanford, born Jan. 11, 1851, married Margaret C. Mitchell, Jan. 20, 1871.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1014
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
ANDREW C. BLACK, merchant and capitalist, Springfield; was born in North Ireland in 1828; came to Springfield in 1847 and engaged as clerk with his brother, Robert T., who was then operating a general merchandise store. In 1853, he bought out his brother, and has continued in business ever since; the general store has become a dry goods and carpet store, and the firm was Black Bros. & Co., composed of A. C., W. M. and J. K. Black, W. M. being a younger brother, and J. K. being a cousin; they are located in Black’s Opera House Block, northwest corner of Main and Market streets. Mr. Black came to Springfield without means, and, by industry, economy and judicious management, he soon succeeded in becoming the head of one of the best mercantile establishments in Springfield, and has kept pace with the growth of the city, and is now one of its most substantial citizens. Black’s Opera House Block, built by him in 1868, and now being somewhat remodeled, will long remain a fitting testimonial of his liberal enterprise. He was one of the company who established Fern Cliff Cemetery; has been a Director of the Springfield Savings Bank since its organization, and is now Vice President. Mr. Black is a member of the First Presbyterian Church, and a supporter of all charitable and benevolent enterprises. He married, in 1860, Miss Octavia C., daughter of Dr. John Briggs, of Greenville, Darke Co.; from this union have been born four children, the younger two of whom are living—Annie and Warder S.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 792 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Pike Twp. -
JOHN BLACK, farmer; is the son of John and Elizabeth (Ross) Black, who were both natives of Virginia, and came to Ohio and settled upon the farm where the subject of this sketch now resides, about 1808, where he spent the balance of his days.  They were the parents of eight children - one son and seven daughters, of whom five are now living.  The first death in the family occurred Sept., 1873, viz., Elizabeth, born Dec. 29, 1820.  John, the subject of this sketch, always remained on the home farm.  He celebrated his marriage with Mary A. Wise April 18, 1871.  Four children were born to bless this union, viz., Martha J., born Feb. 3, 1876; Edna Amelia, born Sept. 18, 1872; John S., born Apr. 18, 1878; infant, born Oct. 12, 1880.  Mr. Black is the proprietor of 200 acres of land, with good outbuildings.  Mr. Black possesses good business qualifications, and is looked upon by all who deal with him as an upright and honest man.  Mrs. Black is member of the Presbyterian Church at Osborn, and is looked upon as a good Christian woman.  John Black died Aug. 12, 1835, aged 47 years; Elizabeth Black died May 5, 1859, aged 73 years.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1013
  Pike Twp. -
JOHN A. BLACK, feed and saw mill.  The subject of our present writing, is the youngest of a faily of ten children of James (born Aug. 17, 1789, died May 9, 1853), and Catharine Black (born Nov. 20, 1790, and died Aug. 29, 1863), who came from Virginia and located in this township in 1811, living with his brother two years, and then purchased the farm where our subject now resides, on which they remained until his death, May 9, 1853.  Mrs. Black survived him until Aug. 29, 1863.  They were the parents of ten children, viz.: Mary, born Nov. 22, 1812; Matthew, Feb. 12, 1815; Susannah, Sept. 14, 1816; Catharine (deceased), born Mar. 31, 1819; Dorcas (deceased), born Feb. 4, 1822; Joseph, Dec. 21, 1823; Samuel, Mar. 19, 1826; James, June 30, 1828; Julia A., Oct. 6, 1831; John A., Sept. 7, 1834.  John obtained the rudiments of his education in the district schools of the county, and remained with his parents during their life, and at their death he became owner of the home farm, on which he has resided until the present.  On the 27th day of October, 1859; Miss Mary J. Hawout, daughter of Joseph and Lydia Hawout, united her destinies with our subject.  She was born in Champaign Co., Ohio, Mar. 4, 1839.  Their children were, viz.: Lewis O., born Oct. 7, 1861; Herma O., Apr. 20, 1873, and died Mar. 20, 1875; Horace H., born May 30, 1878.  Mr. and Mrs. Black are members of the Presbyterian Church, and have the confidence and respect of all who know them as being good and efficient in the cause of Christianity.  Mr. Black has by close attention to business and fair dealing with his fellow men, accumulated a nice property and built a very desirable residence.  Although Mr. Black has but a common-school education, he ranks high among the business men of his township.  For ten years in succession, Mr. Black has been honored by the citizens of his township with six years,  the duties of which were discharged by him to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1014
  Pike Twp. -
REBECCA BLACK, New Carlisle; is the wife of Andrew Black and the daughter of Louis and Mary Cawmin.  Her parents were from Maryland and Virginia, respectively.  Her grandparents, Benjamin and Elizabeth Carmin, the former a native of Blackford Co., Md., emigrated to Ohio about the year 1812, settling in Pike Township, this county.  Louis was born April 13, 1800, and his wife Mary Oct. 2, 1807.  They were married in the year 1825, and became the parents of fourteen children, eleven of whom are still living.  Louis died in 1874.  Mary  is still living.  The names of the children are as follows:  Elizabeth, John, Benjamin, James, Hannah, Mary A., Zilpha, William, Rebecca, David, Louis, Jane, Emily and Abraham, all living but three.  Our subject was born in this county Aug. 13, 1841, and was united in marriage with Andrew Black, the son of Andrew and Susannah (Ross) Black, the first settlers in what is now Pike Township, Nov. 26, 1868, which union was blessed with one child - Andrew K., born Mar. 18, 1881.  Andrew Black, the husband of our subject, was born on the farm where he now resides Nov. 30, 1816.  His parents were natives of Montgomery Co., Va.; father born Mar. 6, 1783; mother, Dec. 7, 1781; were married Dec. 2-0, 1804; became the parents of nine children - Samuel A., Mary, James, William, Thomas, Jane, Andrew, Edward and Susannah.  Father died Oct. 18, 1854; mother Sept. 25, 1845.  Andrew hand been previously married to Catharine Black, by whom he had seven children, only two of whom are now living - Cyrus and Janettie, the former born Sept. 18, 1848, and the latter Sept. 12, 1856.  The mother of these children died Sept. 8, 1868.  Our subject and husband are members of the Presbyterian church.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1013
  Pike Twp. -
W. S. BLACK, farmer; P. O. North Hampton; is the son of Andrew C. and Provy Black; the father was born in Montgomery County, Va., in 1802, and the mother in Kentucky in 1806; they were married in 1825 and were the parents of thirteen children - seven boys and six girls, of whom seven are now living.  The subject of this sketch was the youngest, and lived with his parents until he was 21 years of age, assisting his father in the work of the farm until his marriage with Maggie C. Mitchell.  He lived on a part of his father's farm for four years thereafter, during which time he built him a house on a part of his father's farm.  In this he lived one year, during which time his father died.  He then sold his interest in the home farm and purchased the beautiful place adjoining the old homestead, where he now lives.  He was the father of two children, a son that died in infancy and a daughter, Leora E., born Jan. 5, 1874, who still lives.  They are earnest members of the M. E. Church.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1015
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
JOHN A. BLOUNT, manufacturer, Springfield; is a native of Clark County. Dr. Blount, who was an early resident, and for many years a prominent practicing physician, of Springfield, was his grandfather and the first of the family to settle in Clark County. John R. Blount, deceased, formerly a dry goods merchant of Springfield, was his father; he was also a native of this county. The subject of this sketch was born in Springfield in 1849; he became connected with the firm of Babbitt, Steel & Co., woolen manufacturers, in 1871; in 1874, they sold the machinery, etc., connected with the manufacture of woolens, and the firm dissolved partnership. In the fall of the same year, Mr. Blount formed a partnership with Kissell & Co., manufacturers of agricultural implements, who had been located on West Main street, and the new firm, Kissell, Blount & Co., removed into what had been the woolen-mill. In 1877, Mr. Alexander McWilson became a member of the firm, and in 1878 the firm became Blount & McWilson. They manufacture a line of agricultural implements, Excelsior cultivator, horse hay-rake and shovel-plows being the principal ones; they also manufacture a line of hardware specialties. Messrs. Blount and McWilson are young men, and comparatively a new firm, but the success thus far attained proves the ability of the management, and assures their greater success as the facilities and capital of their firm shall become augmented by the increasing trade. Mr. Blount married, in 1873, Miss Sarah L., second daughter of John W. Baldwin; they have two sons.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 792 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Pleasant Twp. -
W. E. BLOYER, physician and teacher, Catawba.  Among the Physicians of Catawba, who, by a successful practice have established a reputation for skill and ability as a physician, is Dr. Bloyer, who is a native of Chambersburg, Franklin Co., Penn.; born Feb. 13, 1853; was raised until 13 years of age in the town, when his parents moved upon a fine farm in that county; when 16 years old he began teaching school, and has been engaged in that avocation most of his time since.  He came to Ohio in 1871, and located first in Moorefield Township, this county, where he engaged in teaching; he began reading medicine under Dr. H. F. Wildasin, of Plattsburg, this county, in 1874.  He married Miss Helen A., daughter of William Pinckney, of Vernon, N. Y.  Their marriage occurred Nov. 2, 1876; they have one child - Maude G.  Mrs. Bloyer had been teaching school several years previous to their marriage.  He attended the Eclectic Medical Institute at Cincinnati, Ohio, and graduated from there in June, 1879, and located in Catawba in September following.  He has been dependent upon his own resources in the procuring of his medical education.  He is a son of Joseph Bloyer, a native of Germany, who came to America with his parents when quite small and located in Chambersburg, Penn., where he is living at the present time.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 972
  JASPER BODKIN, farmer; P. O. Catawba.  He is a son of Charles Bodkin, native of Virginia, who came to Ohio with his parents in an early day and located near Cincinnati, where he lived a short time previous to the late rebellion; he moved to this county and located in Pleasant Township, where he lived till his death; he served in the war of 1812, and was at Hull's surrender.  The subject of this sketch was born July 29, 1843, upon the farm where he resides; was raised and educated a farmer.  During the late rebellion he enlisted in the 16th O. V. A., and served to the close of the war.  After his return home, he engaged in farming and stock-raising, and still continues in the business.  He owns the old homestead containing 132 acres.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 972
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
PATRICK BOLAN, produce dealer, Springfield; he was born near Ferbane, Kings County, Ireland, March 1,1834; is a son of Michael and Bridget (Eagan) Bolan; he came to America with his father and five other children in the spring of 1851, the mother having died in Ireland in 1847, May 2. After stopping a short time in New York, they came on to Springfield, this county; the father is still living here, being now 83 years old, and enjoys very fair health. Patrick worked the remainder of that year at manual labor (after his arrival at Springfield), saving $5, and, in the spring of 1852, with the $5 he bought a small stock of goods and started through the country on foot, going from house to house, offering his goods for sale. During the summer of that year, he saved $120, and, during the winter of 1852, attended school; in the spring of 1853, purchased a horse and wagon, and a larger stock of merchandise, and continued retailing through the country, but, in 1854, abandoned the retail trade and confined his sales to wholesaling in the small towns throughout the surrounding counties; but, on account of the Know-Nothing movement—he being an Irishman and a member of the Catholic Church—was compelled to sell his team, give up his trade and start anew, as it seemed to be one of the rules of that institution not to patronize a Catholic. Hence he started again on foot, this time through Indiana; but in 1855, the persecution of the Know-Nothings having died out, he again started with horse and wagon, and from that time on, fortune smiled him, and all his labor met with satisfactory results, and he now ranks among the wealthy men of Springfield. He continued traveling with the wagon until 1866, when he went to Wisconsin and engaged in farming, where be remained three years, when he returned to Springfield, and since then has been engaged in the produce trade, also handling scrap-iron, etc. He was married, July 3, 1858, to Ellen Hackett, daughter of Edward and Catherine (Connor) Hackett, natives of Kings County, Ireland; Ellen was also born in that county in 1835; she came to America in 1852 with her sister and two brothers, their parents having died some time previous. Of Patrick and Ellen’s eleven children, there are ten living, viz., John C., Katie A., Michael P., Mary Ann, Edward S., Elizabeth L., James, Charles, William H. and Ellen. Mr. Bolan, politically, is independent; religiously, a member of the Catholic Church; and his success in life is a striking illustration of what determined industry can accomplish when coupled with rigid economical habits.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 795 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  German Twp. -
HENRY BOOSINGER, apiarist and sorghum manufacturer, Bowlusville; born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Oct. 9, 1831.  Is a son of Henry and Catharine Boosinger; whose history appears in full in sketch of Martin L. Boosinger, in this work.  Our subject was raised to farm labor, and always followed that occupation till about seven years ago, when he entered extensively into bee culture, and also into the gardening business; these he has followed with good success.  In the fall of 1879, he bought a cane mill and built a furnace, and arranged full machinery for the manufacture of sorghum molasses, which business he is now carrying on extensively; and in this business, as well as an apiarist, he seems to be successful, evidently understanding the principles of the business which is always so necessary to the sure road to success.  He was married, Oct. 16, 1854, to Miss Lucy Ann, daughter of John and Rebecca (Henry) Dear, he was a native of Virginia, and she of Ohio.  They are parents of nine children; four now survive - Eliza Jane, Lucy Ann, Mary Harriet and John Simeon.  Mr. Boosinger and wife had had an issue of thirteen children; ten now survive - John Henry, Samuel Augustus, Charles Marion, William Ellsworth, Addie Louisa, Joseph Ezra, Thomas Lee, Mary Elizabeth, Emma Dora and Walter Forest.  Mr. Boosinger has never held office except that of School Director, which office he now holds.  His business demands all his attention, and he is one of those energetic men who attends strictly to his business, and as such is prosperous, and has the confidence of his community.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 999
  German Twp. -
MARTIN L. BOOSINGER, farmer; P. O. Bowlusville; was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Aug. 8, 1829; is a son of Henry and Catharine (Spickler) Boosinger, he a native of the Canton of Basil, Switzerland, and emigrating to America in 1817.  She was a native of Pennsylvania.  They were married in Pennsylvania, and lived there until 1837, when they removed to Ohio, locating in Clark Co., where he resided until 1872; thence removed to Logan Co., Ill., where he still resides, now about 78 years of age.  Of an issue of five children four now survive - Martin L., Henry, John S. and Augustus.  Mr. Boosinger has always been an athletic, hard-working man, and now, at his advanced age, is quite robust and healthy.  Is naturally quite gifted as an artist, as a portrait-painter and a sculptor; although never having served any apprenticeship, or taken any lessons in the art, yet he would, doubtless, have excelled in fine arts had his financial circumstances permitted him to have made it a study.  He has always been a man of great integrity of character, whose word could always be relied upon, and an active Christian worker, a member of the M. E. Church, and one who is respected and stands in high esteem by all who know him best.  His wife died in 1849.  He married for his second wife Nancy Downing, with whom he is now living in Illinois.  Our subject lived with his father until about 20 years of age, or till the death of his mother.  Was married in October, 1854, to Miss Eliza Jane, daughter of John and Rebecca (Henry) Dear, he a native of Virginia and she of Ohio; issue nine children, six now living - Mary C., John Franklin, Ella R., Annie E., Arthur H. and Laura MayMr. Boosinger has always lived in this county, with the exception of three years spent in Illinois.  Has been located upon his present farm about fifteen years.  Always made farming his business.  Has never held or sought office, but is a stanch Democrat in principle, but believes in the best men being elected to office, and that we should always adhere to the wishes of the people as expressed by their popular vote.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 999
  Harmony Twp. -
JESSE BOYD, farmer; P. O. Springfield; was born in Center Co., Penn., May 26, 1808; in the year 1814, his parents moved to Chillicothe, Ross Co., Ohio, arrived at the town on the evening of Oct. 30; his parents remained in the county until 1821, when they moved to Seneca Co., Ohio, where his father, Thomas Boyd, purchased a large body of land (1,100 acres); in the year 1835, Jesse left his father’s home for the purpose of starting in life for himself, and came to Clark Co., and settled in Harmony Township. In the same year, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Donnel, on the 5th day of March, 1835, the marriage ceremony being performed by the Rev. Saul Hinkel; this union having been blessed by the birth of ten children, three boys and seven girls, seven of whom are now living, viz., Elizabeth, born June 9, 1838; Thomas, Aug. 7, 1840; James D., Nov. 25, 1842; Margaret, Feb. 27, 1845; Wilhelmina, May 11, 1847; Emma, Feb. 3, 1850, and Frank H., Dec. 8, 1859. When treason dared to insult the flag of our country, and threatened to destroy this Union of States, two of his sons went in defense of their country, viz., Thomas Boyd enlisted in August, 1861 in Co. I, 44th O.V.I.; was discharged in July, 1865, at the close of the war, as a Sergeant; James D. Boyd enlisted in Co. I, 110th O.V.I., Aug. 10, 1862, and was discharged June 20, 1865, when there was no more “Southern Confederacy;” he served in the 3d Division, 6th Corps of the Army of the Potomac. Mr. Boyd resides on a beautiful farm of 311 acres of land, in the north corner of the township, surrounded with a very interesting family and the comforts of life; he, like many other successful farmers, has never sought after political honors, and has never served “the people” in any other office than a member of the School Board of Harmony Township, in that position, he has served for thirty-two years. Mr. Boyd has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Springfield for the past forty-seven years; he is a much respected and an honored citizen.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 955 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Madison Twp. --
ALMON BRADFORD, dealer in groceries and provisions; P. O. South Charleston; was born in Chili, Monroe Co., N. Y., Dec. 13, 1830.  His great grandfather was a direct descendant of William Bradford, who came to America in the Mayflower and who was the first Governor of the Plymouth colony in 1620.  His father was born in Massachusetts in 1796, but when quite small removed to Vermont, where they remained till he was about 16 years of age.  They then moved to near Rochester, N. Y., where till he was about 16 years of age.  They then moved to near Rochester, N. Y., where in 1821 he married Mary Sybil Brace.  She was born in Connecticut in 1802.  In 1838, they came to Ohio and settled near Springfield, Clark co.  their son, Almon, the subject of this sketch, when 17 years of age, went to learn the blacksmith trade, which he followed till July, 1862, residing mostly at Lisbon, in the last-named county.  On quitting his trade at the time just mentioned, he enlisted in Co. K, 45th O. V. I., and went forth to aid in suppressing the rebellion.  He was First Sergeant at the organization; afterward Second and First Lieutenant of the same regiment, predicated in fifty-eight battles, including the great John Morgan Raid.  He returned home in the fall of 1864, but having engaged at various kinds of business.  On the 15th of July, 1853, he joined the Odd Fellows in Springfield, Ohio; and in 1863, while at home on recruiting service, was made a Master Mason of Fielding Lodge, No. 192, South Charleston.  He was elected Justice of the Peace in Harmony Township, Clark County in 1868, and served till 1879, when he resigned, having moved to Madison Twp., where, in South Charleston, he engaged in the grocery and provision trade.  His marriage was celebrated Feb. 23, 1854, with Margaret Ann McBeth.  Three sons were the issue of this union, viz: Albert, Rufus Orren and Orlando Rolla.
SOURCE:  The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: 
W. H Beers & Co.,  1881 - Page 1060 - Transcribed by Sharon Wick
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
ASHLEY BRADFORD, Recorder, Springfield; is a native of New York State; was born in 1824; his parents, Clifford and Sibyl Bradford, removed to Clark County in 1838, coming by lake and canal to Columbus, and then by wagon to their new home in Springfield Township, where they resided the remainder of their lives. The subject of this sketch was brought up on the farm, and, when a young man, taught school during the winter for a number of years; he continued farming until Jan. 1, 1864, when he removed to Springfield to take charge of the Recorder’s office, to which he had been elected the previous October, and to which he has been re-elected each succeeding contest, which is sufficient proof of the able and satisfactory discharge of his duties. Mr. Bradford married, in 1848, Julia A., daughter of George and Mary Knaub, of Pennsylvania. His death occurred here in 1868. Mrs. Knaub still resides in Springfield, being now in the 81st year of her age. From this union are ten children—seven sons and three daughters all of whom are living; the oldest son, Oliver P., is agent of the American Express Company at Columbus; the second, Irving is Deputy in his father’s office; the oldest daughter is the wife of Rev. H. K. Fenner, of Louisville; the second daughter is the wife of Rev. J. C. Kauffman, of Orrville, Ohio, both of whom are prominent ministers in the Lutheran Church. Mr. Bradford is a quiet, unostentatious citizen, which is illustrated by the fact that, in the fall of 1863, when his friends went to apprise him of his nomination, they found him busy sowing wheat, and the nomination was a clear surprise, affording one of those rare instances in the days in which the office seeks the man.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 795 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
GEORGE BRAIN, SR., deceased, came from England to America in the year 1829; he left Liverpool in August in a sail vessel, and was six weeks on the voyage to Philadelphia; there were no ocean steamers then. He came to Philadelphia expecting to settle in Pennsylvania, but, becoming acquainted with Mr. Jeremiah Warder, who was about settling in Springfield, he took Mr. Warder’s advice and came to Springfield. Mr. Brain’s route was by way of New York and Albany, thence by Erie Canal to Buffalo, and by steamboat from Buffalo to Sandusky, and as it happened, the last steamer before the close of navigation for the season; from Sandusky to Springfield by wagon, over a corduroy road, in some places not very comfortable; the contrast between then and now as to travel is observable. Mr. Brain and his wife, Mary (Whitehead) Brain, brought with them seven children—Mary, now Mrs. Willard; Joseph J. W., deceased; Anna, the late Mrs. Green; Lydia and Martha, now living on High street; Lucy, now the widow of Dr. John Stoddard, who was a surgeon in the Union army, and killed while in that service; George, of whom more hereafter; William G. Brain, the youngest, is the only American born of the family, now lumber-dealer in Springfield. Maria Hipkins came to America with Mr. Brain, and is yet an inmate of the family and is now in her 77th year. Mr. Brain purchased a farm near what was then the village, but now the city, of Springfield, on which be lived till the time of his death, which occurred March 11, 1851, by his being thrown from his horse against a tree, killing him almost instantly. He was, as to his religious connection when in England, an Independent, but, finding none of the order in Springfield, he united with the First Presbyterian Church, and afterward with the First Congregational Church. His wife survived him more than twenty years, and died in 1872, in the 8lst year of her age. The younger George Brain was born in Staffordshire, England, March 2, 1827; he came with his parents to America, as before stated, in 1829, and has always lived on the farm, except a year or two when employed in Dr. John Ludlow’s drug store. He was married, May 22, 1860, to Sarah M. Willard, daughter of Levi and Sarah (Allen) Willard, in Decatur, DeKalb Co., Ga., at which place Sarah M. was born July 6, 1839, and where her father had been in successful business many years as a merchant. His residence is now on North Limestone Street, Springfield; too old and infirm to attend to any active business. Mr. Brain has six children living—Willard, Jessie A., George H., Mary, Bessie and Grace. Alice died in infancy. Mr. Brain was too young when he left England (only 2½ years old) to have any political opinions, and, in his growth to manhood, he became thoroughly Americanized; he is a quiet, unassuming gentleman, doing his duty throughout life in that upright, straightforward manner that has won for him the respect, good will and confidence of a large circle of the best citizens of Clark County.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 795 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
W. G. BRAIN, Springfield; a native of Springfield; is a son of George Brain, Sr. The subject of this sketch was born in 1830; when a youth, he engaged as clerk in a drug-store here, and subsequently engaged in the drug trade on his own account, and continued the business here ten or twelve years; he has been in the lumber trade here for the past eleven years, and has resided here, with the exception of one or two short intervals, all his life. He has been twice married, his first marriage being with Mary Dyer, of Cincinnati, in 1858; she having died, he married Elizabeth Dyer, a sister of his first wife, in 1876. By his first wife he had four children, two of whom are living; he has one child by his second marriage. His residence is No. 272 West Pleasant street. His oldest daughter living, Miss Belle M., is Superintendent of Drawing in the city schools; Robert D. is a graduate of the high school, and Stanley, the youngest, is a child of 3 years. Mr. Brain’s lumber-yard and office are between the C., S. & C., and L. M. depots; he is handling large quantities of lumber, mostly in car lots.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 796 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Mad River Twp. -
J. P. BREWER, proprietor Enon Hotel, Enon; is the son of Jacob and Nancy Brewer, and was born Nov. 26, 1817, in Maryland, where he grew to manhood and obtained his education in the common school.  About the time of his majority, he went to Berkeley Co., Va., where he learned distilling, which he mostly followed until 1872, remaining in Virginia until 1841, when he came to Greene Co., Ohio, locating near Xenia, and there continued his trade.  After abandoning the trade, he engaged on the farm and saw-mill a short time; thence purchased the Enon Hotel, of which he is now proprietor, and makes it a pleasant home for all who see fit to patronize him.  He is an active worker in the Democratic party, by which he was honorably elected Township Trustee in 1880.  In November, 1840, he married Kassia Mousby, of Washington Co., Md., and had born to them six children, five daughters and one son.  Thirteen months after Kassia's death, her married Mrs. Eliza Butler of Green Co., Ohio), who died in April, 1863.  His third wife was Mrs. Harrison K. Garlock, of Dayton, Ohio.  Three sons were born to the second marriage.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1043
  Harmony Twp. -
ANDREW N. BROOKS, farmer, stock buyer and grain-dealer; P. O. Springfield, Box 1199. There are few more active business men in the county than the subject of this sketch. Mr. Brooks is a native of Clark Co., Ohio, having been born in Harmony Township June 7, 1835; he is a son of L. Brooks, deceased. Andrew’s father died when he was in his 6th year; at the age of 13, he left home and began life for himself; he worked on a farm by the month some time, then he commenced to drive cattle for cattle-dealers; when but 17 years old, he was put in charge of a large drove of cattle and drove them to Lancaster, Penn., over the mountains. He was united in marriage, Feb. 8, 1855, to Miss Mary Ann Foreman, a daughter of Harvey Foreman, of Harmony Township; this union has been blessed by the birth of seven children, five boys and two girls, all of whom are now living, viz., Dora, now the wife of John Stevens; H. L., who is a grain merchant at Catawba Station, in Pleasant Township; Frank A., Twing, Milton, Charles and Fannie. In 1855, Mr. Brooks commenced farming and has continued to farm since in connection with his other business. In 1857, he became a cattle-buyer and has been engaged in it quite extensively since. In 1868, he began the grain trade, and is one of the most extensive grain-dealers in Clark Co.; his shipments amount to 225 cars annually; he buys grain at five stations—Springfield, Oxtobey’s Station, Brooks’ Station, Plattsburg and Sharp’s Station; he is the owner of a very fine farm of 140 acres of land, where he resides—at Brooks’ Station. Mr. Brooks and wife are members of the Baptist Church, at Lisbon; he is a member of the A., F. & A. M., at South Charleston, and is also a Past Grand of Vienna Lodge No. 345, I. O. O. F. (he is the only living charter member of Vienna Lodge). Mr. Brooks is a gentleman of fine social qualities, very pleasant in his manners, social and affable, and very hospitable.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 956 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Harmony Twp. -
NATHAN T. BROOKS, deceased. Mr. Brooks, whose name heads this sketch, was born in Harmony Township, Clark Co., Ohio, and in which he resided to the date of his death; he was born June 15, 1831, and departed this life April 20, 1875. Elizabeth, widow of N. T. Brooks, was born in Harmony Township, Clark Co., Ohio, March 25, 1836. Mr. N. T. Brooks was married to Miss Elizabeth Rathburn July 19, 1855; the result of this union was five children, two sons and three daughters, all of whom are living; the names and ages of the children are respectively thus—the eldest, Margaret A., 24 years; William T., 22; Alice L., 20, Lemuel C., 16; Carrie L., 13. Margaret A. is married to Joseph Mason; Alice L. is the wife of William Sweet, the rest of the children are as yet unmarried. Mrs. Brooks, widow of N. T. Brooks, resides upon the homestead; the farmhouse, which is quite modern in its construction, is situated upon a picturesque and well-chosen eminence, which commands a magnificent view of the surrounding country.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 956 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Bethel Twp. -
CHRISTIAN BROSEY, Medway.  Gotlieb Brosey, the father of our subject was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, May 9, 1792.  In early manhood he served the King of Wurtemberg as body-guard; also served in the Light Horse Cavalry in the army of Napoleon Bonaparte, and was with him in his memorable and disastrous march to Russia, when he, with others, was taken prisoner.  He made his escape, however, and journeyed to Wurtemberg, suffering much from cold and hunger.  In the year 1817, he emigrated to this country, and settled in Lancaster Co., Penn.  His marriage with Susannah Goodyear was celebrated the 24th day of November, 1818; she was born Oct. 8, 1793.  Two children were the result of this union, viz., Noah, born July 19, 1820; Martha, born Dec. 16, 1822.  Mrs. Brosey departed this life Jan. 23, 1823.  Mr. Brosey remained a widower until July 23, 1826, at which time he was married to Christianna Moglin who was born in Wurtemburg, Mar. 26, 1798.  They were the parents of four children, viz., Anna, born June21, 1827; John, born Mar. 3, 1829; Christian, born Jan. 27, 1831; Barbara, born Apr. 6, 1833.  On the 16th day of April, 1835, he was left a widower the second time.  He married Elizabeth Keyler, his third wife, May 17, 1836, in Franklin Co., where he had previously moved.  They have had six children - Elizabeth, born Dec. 17, 1836, died Oct. 4, 1867; Samuel, born Jan. 13, 1839; Benjamin, born Feb. 20, 1841; Mary, born Feb. 1, 1843; Sarah, born June 7, 1845, died July 4, 1880; Martha, born May 3, 1874.  In the year 1841, he moved to Clark Co., Ohio, and settled near Medway, where he purchased several tracts of land.  Elizabeth, his wife, died Dec. 13, 1861, and he survived her until Dec. 7, 1866, when he died at the advanced age of 75 years.  Christian, the subject of this memoir, was joined in marriage, Nov. 17, 1859, to Anna Monk.  They have two children, viz., Mollie, born Nov. 15, 1861; Harry, born Sept. 13, 1863.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1026
  Bethel Twp. -
THOMAS BROWN, nurseryman.  The subject hereof is the son of Thomas and Susanna Brown, both natives of the State of Maryland, who emigrated to Miami Co., Ohio, in 1838, where they resided until their decease.  Their family consisted of four children, viz., John, born Jan. 25, 1819; David, born in 1820; George and Thomas, born Feb. 23, 1823.  The one with whom we have to deal is the last named.  Thomas.   He was born while his parents were in Maryland.  He received a rather meager education in his native State, and learned the cooper trade, in which he is now devoting his attention.  HE married Miss Hannah Maria Wyant, Mar. 28, 1838, who has since become the mother of the children whose names and dates of births follow, viz., Harriet M., born May 16, 1861, died Sept. 16, 1851; Mary C., born Feb. 19, 1853; Jacob N. and Thomas A., born Oct. 31, 1854; the former died Dec. 2, 1854; the latter Dec. 10, 1854; Martha J., born Dec. 22, 1855; Arbah A., born Sept. 7, 1858, died Aug. 14, 1870; Wilber W., born Jan. 9, 1861; Artemus C. E., born Mar. 10, 1863; Lulu B., born Apr. 23, 1866; Emma D., born June 23, 1868; Allie C. and Lilly D., born Sept. 26, 1870.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 1026
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
BENJAMIN F. BRUBAKER, farmer; P.O. Springfield. He lives one mile north of the city of Springfield, between the Springfield & Urbana and Clark Union Pikes; he erected his beautiful, convenient and cozy residence in 1876; he is the only brother of Ephraim Brubaker, who lives on the adjoining farm north. Benjamin was born July 24, 1853; he is an active young farmer, who believes in making farming a pleasure instead of a drudge; he owns an excellent farm of 100 acres, which he has very appropriately named “Sunny Side Farm.” He was married, Nov. 29, 1876, to Medora E. (familiarly known as Dora) Bosart; she is an intelligent, generous lady, well suited to make the life of a farmer radiant and cheerful; she delights in making her home pleasing to her husband and welcome to her friends and visitors; she is the daughter of T. L. and Matilda (Moss) Bosart, whose sketch will be found elsewhere in this work, and who were pioneers of the county. Mr. Brubaker is yet a young man, and his prospects are indeed bright and promising.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 796 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
WILSON G. BRYANT, M. D., physician, Springfield; is a native of Ohio, a son of Rev. Daniel Bryant, who was a native of New Jersey, born in 1799. He came West in 1818 with his father’s family who located in Indiana. Daniel acquired an education principally by his own unaided efforts and study, his only school advantages being an attendance at Miami University one term; he early became a teacher, and continued to teach many years. He married, in 1824, Elvira, daughter of Ichabod Corwin, and in the same year was ordained a minister of the Baptist denomination. In his earlier ministerial years, Elder Bryant was in charge of several important churches, the Freeman Street, Cincinnati, being one, but later in life, devoted himself to the work of strengthening the feeble churches in Southern Ohio, thus giving direction to the Baptist cause throughout all this region. His decease occurred at Honey Creek Church, Champaign County, in 1875, he being suddenly stricken with apoplexy while preaching in the pulpit, and expired in a few hours. His widow now resides at Urbana. The subject of this sketch was born in Burlington, Hamilton Co., Ohio, in 1825, and. during his youth, had more than ordinary educational facilities, having attended “Granville” one term before he was 18 years of age, but at this time was thrown upon his own resources and abandoned school and went to farming, and assisted his father in supporting the family until 1848; but his ambition for knowledge, and especially his desire for the study of medicine, would not be satisfied on a farm longer than necessity compelled him to remain. His spare time was spent in study and reading medicine, and, although he married in 1848, yet he pursued his studies and completed his medical education, supporting his family and defraying his educational expenses by his own labor. He began practice in Champaign County in 1852, but soon after removed to Grand Prairie, Ill., where he practiced about two years, then removed to Covington, Miami Co., Ohio, where he practiced until the spring of 1862, when he entered the United States service as Assistant Surgeon of the 122d O. V. I.; having been captured at Winchester, Va.; in 1863, he was placed in charge of the hospital by the Confederate States Medical Director; about two months later, was captured by the Union forces, in connection with the other occupants of the hospital; subsequently, the 6th Corps, to which his regiment was attached, took part in many of the important battles of the Armies of Virginia and of the Potomac, and he was almost constantly on detailed duty, being almost invariably placed in charge of the field hospital for the wounded. In 1865, as an acknowledgment of his meritorious services, he was promoted to the rank of Surgeon and assigned to the 197th O. V. I., and continued in the service until August, 1865. While in charge of the post hospital at Winchester, Va., after the battle in 1864, after caring for all other cases, he became interested in nine men whose wounds were considered fatal, being compound and cominuted fractures of the thigh so near the body as to suggest the necessity of the amputation at the hip joint, which operation, on account of its extreme risk, was forbidden by general order from the department at Washington; the Doctor’s sympathy for these, thus virtually abandoned to die, led him to attempt to save them; being a natural mechanical genius, he provided the necessary appliances and instituted conservative surgical treatment, and by improvising some “Smith’s Anterior Splints,” secured requisite extension and counter-extension, and, by otherwise adapting his treatment to each particular case, succeeded in saving with useful limbs seven of the nine thus treated; he also performed the exceptional surgical operation of ligating successfully the femoral artery, and frequently performed operations for the extraction of balls from the cervical angle of the neck. Feb. 3, 1865, the Surgeons of the corps and division united in a letter to the Surgeon General of the State, complimenting and explaining the services rendered by Dr. Bryant while in charge of the different hospitals. A copy of this letter, with other trophies, are now in the Doctor’s possession, prized mementos of achievements of which he has just reason to be proud, especially as his meritorious operations and surgical treatment were without precedent. After his return from army life to Covington, he removed, in November, 1865, to Springfield, where he has since practiced his profession, and now enjoys a large practice, and is held in high esteem both as a physician and citizen. He has no living children, except an adopted daughter, Frances A., who, with himself and wife, is a member of the First Baptist Church, Mrs. Bryant and Frances being identified with the different departments of church activities.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 796 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
EBENEZER M. BUCKINGHAM, M. D., physician, Springfield. Dr. Buckingham is a son of Milton and Belinda (Cooley) Buckingham; she was a native of Springfield, Mass., and he of New York State, from which they removed in the year 1800, to the Northwest Territory, and settled in what is now Athens Co., Ohio; he was a farmer, but removed to Zanesville in 1832 and engaged merchandising, and came to Springfield in 1843, where he continued in mercantile trade several years, having retired two or three years before his decease, which occurred in 1852; his widow and three children survived him; her decease occurred in Springfield in 1872; the two sons and a daughter still reside here. The subject of this sketch was born in Athens County in 1824; he received a rudimentary and preparatory education in select schools, and graduated from Kenyon College in 1846, after which he read medicine with the late Dr. Robert Rodgers, and began the practice of his profession here in Springfield, his first experience being in 1849, still remembered as the cholera year; in the winter of 1849-50, he attended lectures at and graduated from Jefferson College, Philadelphia, and has since practiced his profession here, having the deserved confidence and liberal patronage of the community. He has been a member of the Clark County Medical Society since its organization; is a member of the Episcopal Church, and has contributed toward the improvement of the city and county, having lately completed a fine three-story block on the southeast corner of Limestone and High streets. He married, in 1850, Miss Mary Berdan, daughter of the late Judge Berdan, of Toledo; her decease occurred in 1865; one son and a daughter survive—John M., now a medical student, and Miss Alice. In 1867, he married Miss Caroline Starring, of LaFayette, Ind.; from this union, four children survive—Benjamin S., Belinda, William L. and Avery.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 798 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Madison Twp. -
WASHINGTON BUFFENBARGER (deceased); was born in Madison Twp., Clark Co., Ohio, Jan. 17, 1809; a son of George and Hannah Buffenbarger, both natives of Virginia, who emigrated from their native State in 1807, and located on the Little Miami River, at the place above mentioned, where they purchased a very large tract of land, and where the residue of their lives was spent.  They were the parents of ten children.  The first born in Virginia, died in infancy.  the others were born in Ohio and lived to adult age.  Their names were as follows: Jesse, Washington, Samuel and Sampson (twins), Simington, Salmon, Eve, Mary and Angus.  Sampson, the only survivor, resides in Auglaize Co., Ohio.  Washington was raised to manual labor on his father's farm, and was always engaged in agricultural pursuits.  On the 24th of Feb., 1831, he was united in marriage with Mary Goudy, by whom he had five children - Peter, Mary H., Mahala A., Priscilla and Francis M.  Washington Buffenbarger departed this life in July, 1877.  His wife survives and resides on the farm.  She was born in Vance Township, Greene County (which is Green Township, Clark County since 818); Oct. 22, 1808 is the date of her birth.  John Goudy, her father, was of Irish descent, born in Redding Co., Penn.  His first marriage was celebrated in Kentucky, and, in 1803, they, had their two children, emigrated to Ohio and settled in Hamilton County.  Five years later they moved to the place previously mentioned.  Ten children were born to them - Alexander, Nancy, Ann, John, Rebecca, Mary, Robert S., Elizabeth, Isabel and Hannah.  His second marriage was consummated with Nancy Murphy.  The children of this union were seven in number. 
SOURCE:  The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago:  W. H Beers & Co.,  1881 - Page 1060 - Transcribed by Sharon Wick
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
MRS. JULIA A BURNETT, Springfield. She is the widow of Thomas P. Burnett, deceased; her residence, on Woodside Farm, is just east of the city, on the road leading south from the Clifton Pike. Mrs. Burnett was born in Pennsylvania June 22, 1820; came with her parents to Ohio in 1828, and was united in marriage with Mr. Burnett May 10, 1847; four children were born unto them, of whom but two are still living—William D. and Thomas P., Jr.; the former was married, in 1872, to Florence, daughter of Thomas P. and Clara Norton; lives at home with his mother and carries on the farm; and Thomas is engaged in the lumber trade in Springfield, corner Main street and Western avenue, under the firm name of Woliston, Chambers & Burnett. William and Thomas attended the private school of the Hon. C. Robbins some three years, when Thomas ceased going to school, to go into business; but William continued his studies for awhile longer at Wittenberg College. Mr. Burnett was an early settler in this county, and was always highly esteemed by his acquaintances and friends; and Mrs. Burnett is a lady of culture and refinement.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 798 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Harmony Twp. -
THOMAS C. BUSBEY, retired teacher; P. O. Vienna Cross Roads.  Matthew Busbey, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in the county of Antrim, Ireland.  He came to America about the year 1771.  He settled on the south bank of the Potomac, in Hampshire Co., Va.  He was a soldier in the Revolutionary army.  At the time of his death he left a widow, five sons and one daughter.  Hamilton Busbey, the father of the subject of this sketch, being the youngest.  Hamilton Busbey was born in Hampshire Co., VA., on the old homestead, July 5, 1792.  He was married to Miss Sophia Lewis, of Winchester, Va., in the year 1813.  This union was blessed by the birth of seven sons and five daughters ten of whom are now living, the subject of this sketch being the oldest.  Hamilton Busbey and family came to Ohio in October, 1815, and settled in what is now Harmony Township, near the town of Lisbon.  Hamilton was a man of considerable influence.  He took an active part in the organization of Clark County and Harmony Township.  He did much in the organization of the schools of Harmony Township.  Hamilton Busbey, in 1815, was looking about for a suitable place to locate in the county.  At this time he was offered the lot upon which Jones & Miller's dry goods store is now situated in Springfield for a very small sum of money, but in his judgment at that time Lisbon was the most promising place of the two, where he purchased a corner lot.  What a change since then!  Hamilton Busbey was a Quartermaster in the war of 1812.  Mr. Busbey was for some years the owner of a farm near where the town of Plattsburg now is.  He and his family (excepting the subject of this sketch) moved to Illinois in 1839, and settled in Coles Co., where he died Dec. 16, 1847.  His wife, Sophia, died at the same place April 2, 1855.  The subject of this sketch, Thomas C. Busbey, was born in the town of Romney, in Hampshire Co., Va., Mar. 13, 1815.  He came to Harmony Township with his parents in 1815, where he has continued to reside since.  He commenced teaching school at the age of 19 years, and continued to teach for thirty-five years in Clark Co.  Mr. Busbey was united in marriage, May 24, 1838, to Miss Anna Bodkin, a daughter of Richard Bodkin, who was a pioneer of Ohio.  He was born in Harrison Co., Va., in 1878.  He settled in Hamilton Co., Ohio, in 1803, and moved to Clark Co. in 1808.  Richard Bodkin's wife, Elizabeth Bodkin (nee) Hester, was born July 28, 1782; she lived where Cincinnati,  Ohio, now is, when there were but three houses in that neighborhood.  As a result of the marriage of Thomas C. and Anna Busbey, there has been born to them ten children, nine of whom are now living - William (the political editor of the Inter-Ocean, of Chicago, Ill.), Hamilton (a contributing editor, and one of the proprietors of the Turf, Field and Farm, of New York City), L. W. (city editor of the Inter-Ocean, of Chicago, Ill.), Charles S. (a school teacher), T. A. (who lives with his parents), Louise (the wife of W. H. Neer), Angelina (the wife of James Rice), Hattie (who lives at home),  Mary (the wife of Theodore Postle), Daniel W. (a son who died May 9, 1865).  A very remarkable circumstance is connected with this family; nine out of the ten children have been school-teachers.  Where is there another family like them?  William and Hamilton were members of Co. C, 1st Ky. V. I.  Hamilton served three years.  William served two, and was discharged by special order, in order that he might edit the Louisville Journal.  Daniel W. was a clerk in the Provost Marshall's office at Clarksville, Tenn., and Post Librarian at Louisville, Ky.  Mr. Busbey enlisted as a "squirrel hunter" to to defend Cincinnati against the Kirby Smith raid.  Mr. Busbey has been elected Township Clerk; has served for ten years as a member of the Republican Central Committee; was appointed Deputy United States Marshal in 1870, and took the census of Pleasant, Madison and Harmony Townships.  Mr. B B. is now in his 66th year, a man of clear mind and possessed a wonderful amount of knowledge.
SOURCE:  The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago:  W. H Beers & Co.,  1881 - Page 957 - Transcribed by Sharon Wick
NOTE:  For more on the Busbey Family go to: www.usgenealogyexpress.com/~il/coles and click on Biographies.  ~SWick
ALSO NOTE:  FYI - In the 1820 Census, Romey, Hampshire Twp., Va., there is a Mary Busbey with children.  No husband there.
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
ASA S. BUSHNELL, manufacturer, Springfield; is a member of the oldest and largest manufacturing establishment of Springfield; he is a native of New York State, born in Oneida County Sept.16, 1834; came to Springfield in 1851, and was engaged as a dry goods clerk three years, then became book-keeper for Leffel, Cook & Blakeney, afterward Mason, Cook & Blakeney; in 1857, he entered the office of Warder, Brookaw & Child, and, in the fall of the same year, became a partner with Ludlow in the drug trade, in which he continued until 1867, when he became the junior partner of the firm of Warder, Mitchell & Co., now Warder, Bushnell & Glessner. He married, Sept. 17, 1857, Miss Ellen, daughter of John Ludlow. Mr. Bushnell’s career in Springfield is worthy of note; beginning when a youth as clerk, he gradually worked his way through office work to the confidence and esteem of his employers, and, after ten years’ experience as a druggist, was invited to a partnership with one of his former employers, and thus became identified with the leading manufacturing interest of the city; he is an active business man, social and courteous in all relations of life; he is highly esteemed as a citizen, and regarded as a man of rare business qualifications and prospects; his residence is No. — East High street, and compares favorably with the many elegant houses for which this street is noted. He was Captain of Co. E, 156th O. N. G., which company he recruited and accompanied in the 100-days service.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 798 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
A. W. BUTT, of P. P. Mast & Co., manufacturers, Springfield; is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Erie County in 1835; soon after his birth, his father removed with his family to La Porte, Ind., where he was engaged in milling and mercantile pursuits, which afforded excellent business advantages to the son, who became a partner with his father on arriving at his majority, but a year later they sold out, and Mr. Butt, Jr., went out West prospecting; after a stay of about four years, mostly spent in Kansas and Nebraska, he returned to La Porte and engaged in the sale of agricultural implements, in connection with the John H. Manny Reaper Works at Rockport, Ill., in which he continued about seven years; in 1862, he became connected as agent with the Buckeye Agricultural Works, then operated by Thomas & Mast; subsequently became general agent, and, at the re-organization of the firm, October, 1871, he became a member of the company, and, in the following January, was elected a Director, and has since been connected with the works; he now has charge of the trade throughout the North and Northwest, where is well and favorably known as a successful salesman. The extent of their business may be judged from the fact that the company do about $1,000,000 of business per annum, the sales department being under the supervision of Mr. Butt, W. C. Downey and C. C. Crane, the territory being divided between them. Mr. Butt married, in 1872, Frances G. Bagley; she was a native of Mercer Co., Penn., and, at the time of her marriage, resided with her parents at La Porte; her parents now reside there, both being nearly fourscore years of age. Mr. Butts’ residence is at 86 West High street; he is a successful business man, and a social, agreeable gentleman; he was a charter member of Anthony Lodge, F. & A. M., and also of Palestine Commandery, of which he is still an honored member.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 799 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
JOHN C. BUXTON, deceased; was prominently identified with the interests of Springfield. He was born in New Boston, N. H., where he attended school and afterward became a clerk in a dry goods store in Nashua. In 1848, he came to Springfield, and was employed as clerk in the office of the general local management of the C., S. & C. R. R.; subsequently succeeded to the local management, and in 1869 was appointed Assistant Superintendent, and for a number of years filled that position creditably; he was elected Cashier of the Savings Bank, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of John Newlove, which position he held at the time of his decease, which occurred July 21, 1880. Mr. Buxton left behind him the record of an active, honorable life; keen, active, far-seeing and wise in business, and affectionate with friends, he was held in high esteem in the business and social circles in which he moved, and he was not only one of the most active of business men in private affairs, but also connected with public enterprises. He was twice married; his first wife was a sister of Mr. John Norris whom Mr. Buxton succeeded in the local railroad management, and also a sister of Charles P. Norris, who was for a long time express agent here; she having deceased in 1860, Mr. Buxton subsequently married Miss Jennie Wiseman, who, with three children, survives him, and now resides on the property No. 394 East High street, which was purchased and improved by Mr. Buxton, and which is a handsome property, which, by its surroundings and furnishings, indicates culture and refined taste. Mrs. Buxton is the daughter of the Rev. John Wiseman, a well-known and prominent minister of the Presbyterian Church, and is an accomplished lady.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 799 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
ANDREW T. BYERS, attorney and manufacturer, Springfield; was born in Madison Co., Ohio, in 1847; he was the son of a farmer, and remained on the farm until 18 years of age, receiving, in the meantime, a rudimentary education at the common schools; subsequently took a preparatory course at Oberlin, and graduated at the Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, after which he read law in the office of Hon. Samuel Shellabarger, and was admitted to practice in 1875, and immediately began practice here, occupying the office a short time previously vacated by Shellabarger & Pringle, and has continued practice here since, having been twice elected City Solicitor—first in 1876, to fill a vacancy, and again in 1877 for a full term of two years. In 1878, he was admitted to the bar of the United States Courts. He is now, in addition to his professional business, a member of the Common Sense Engine Company, of which further mention is made in the chapter relating to Springfield. Mr. Byers is a young but active man, a lawyer of recognized ability, and a careful business man, and we predict a successful future to the new manufacturing firm. He married, in 1877, Miss Ida Bidwell; she is also a native of Madison County, and a graduate of the Wesleyan Female Seminary. Mrs. Byers’ mother, Jane Bidwell, is known in literary circle as contributor to some of the standard literary journals.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 791 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz
  German Twp. -
JOHN C. BYERS, farmer; P. O. Northampton; was born in Pennsylvania Apr,. 16, 1815; is a son of John and Nancy (Branaman) Byers, natives of Pennsylvania.  Benjamin Byers, the grandfather, also a native of Pennsylvania.  Christian Branaman, the maternal grandfather, was of English birth, and came to America a poor boy, and was sold to pay for his passage across the waters.  John and family became residents of Ohio in 1847, and, in one month after locating here his wife died.  After her death, he and his son-in-law bought and located upon a farm in Fairfield Co., residing there three years; thence to Putnam Co., where the father died Mar. 16, 1873 or 1874.  Our subject was raised to farm labor, living with the father until 23 years of age.  Was married Aug. 11, 1836, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Peggy Wangart, natives of Pennsylvania; issue eleven children; ten grew to maternity; nine now survive - Leah, Catharine, Lydia, Fannie, Andrew, Mary Melissa and Sarah; deceased, Nancy and Elizabeth.  Mr. Byers, after his marriage, lived in Pennsylvania seven years; thence to Franklin Co., Ohio, and resided nine years; he then took an extended tour through the States of Kentucky, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan, prospecting for a home and a location, and a location, and finally settled upon the farm where he now resides, have come to the conclusion that he saw no State or county possessed of all the advantages better than this.  Here he has resided twenty-seven years; has greatly improved his farm, erected all new and commodious buildings, and has everything fitted up, constituting a pleasant farmer's residence.  Mr. Byers started a poor man, and, by his own industry, economy and good management, has accumulated a good competency.  He has never sought or held office, preferring to attend quietly to his own business affairs; religiously, he is a Methodist.  Mr. Byers has always been a strictly temperate man, and a great friend to the temperance cause; has never used intoxicating liquors or tobacco in any form, and never swore an oath in his life.  Such an example is worthy of record and of imitation by all future generations.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 999
  Springfield Twp. & Springfield City -
ANTHONY BYRD, farmer; P. O. Springfield. Among the pioneers of Clark Co., Ohio, some there are who are recognized as true representatives of that class of men to whom the county owes its present wealth and prosperity, and whose characters, in over half a century of business activity, have never been stained by one act of wrong or injustice in their transactions with their fellow-man; and in this class stands “Squire” Byrd. He was born in Bedford Co., Va., April 13, 1805, and is the son of Luke and Elizabeth (Huffman) Byrd, who came to Clark Co., Ohio, in December, 1816, locating near Springfield, his father dying Aug. 31, 1823, and his mother in September, 1835. At the age of 24, Anthony was married to Jane Snodgrass, daughter of John and Jane (Steel) Snodgrass, to whom were born three children—two boys and one girl—all of whom are living. In the spring of 1829, Mr. Byrd purchased a portion of the farm he now lives upon, and from time to time has added to it, until he is now the owner of 240 acres of finely improved land. On the 8th of December, 1836, his wife died, and in 1839 he was married to Maria Wallace, daughter of Jonathan and Isabella Wallace, of which union four children were born, two yet living. Mrs. Byrd died June 25, 1851, and, in October, 1854, he was married to Mary Cowan, daughter of Jane and David Cowan, who died in April, 1868, leaving him again without a helpmate to cheer and comfort him in his declining years. On the 27th October, 1863, his son Wallace died from disease contracted in the army, whither he had gone to help preserve the Union. In 1834, Mr. Byrd was elected Justice of the Peace, and was re-elected seventeen years consecutively. Politically, an ardent Republican; he has always kept well informed upon the issues of the political parties, and, when Ft. Sumter was fired upon, he remarked. “That is the beginning of the end of slavery,” demonstrating that he was a man of far-seeing mind and keen political sagacity. Since 1837, he has been a consistent member of the United Presbyterian Church, and has ever been kind and charitable to the poor or afflicted, and no one was more prompt in times of sickness in giving aid to those in distress. Upon one occasion, a neighbor of his being sick with typhoid fever, every one refused to go near the house through fear of catching the dread disease, but Mr. Byrd went and sat up with the patient several nights in succession, saying, “A neighbor of mine shall never suffer alone so long as I am able to go to his aid”—words that stamp him as a true follower of Christ, who never fled from the poor or distressed. Mr. Byrd is a plain, practical man, who believes in fulfilling his promises to the letter, and his life has been strongly marked by undeviating, unswerving integrity in all its relations, being one of those rare men whose aim is to be right and do right at all times.
SOURCE: The History of Clark County, Ohio : Publ. Chicago: W. H. Beers & Co., 1881 - Page 800 - Transcribed for Ohio Genealogy Express by Cathy Portz

 



 
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