It is with much pleasure that the writer presents the following sketches, however brief and imperfect they may be, of the men to whom Hamilton, in a large measure, owes its prosperity today and the proud position it occupies among the prosperity today and the proud position it occupies among the substantial cities of the state.  They are men who have almost grown up with the city; who have at all times worked for the best interests of the city, and who have always been in the lead where the city needed their influence and support.  Some of them have gone to honored graves, but many yet live to witness the growth of the city and the results of their labors in behalf of the public.  They are citizens whose influence has always been felt and which has always exerted a beneficial effect:

     WILLIAM BECKETT was born in Hanover township, Butler county, Ohio, Mar. 17, 1821. His father, Robert Beckett, was a native of Pennsylvania, as was also his mother, Mary (Crawford) Beckett.  Robert Beckett came to Ohio, with his parents in 1803, when he was eleven years old.  From that time until his death, in 1863, he resided in this county.
     William Beckett was one of nine children, five sons and four daughters. Of the sons but one survives, Robert Beckett, who now resides in Fair Haven, Preble county, somewhat

WILLIAM BECKETT

[Pg. 397]
broken in health, caused by hardships of army life during the Civil War.  Major David Beckett, a graduate from Miami University, and a man of fine ability, was killed at the battle of Kenesaw mountain.  James Beckett died in Hamilton in 1874; and John passed away in boyhood.  The daughters of Robert Beckett are all living, namely: Eleanor, wife of Rev. John Y. Scuyller, of Fair Haven; Sarah, widow of Captain John McKee, who died from the effects of a wound received at the battle of Murfreesboro; Mary the wife of William E. Brown, president of the Second National bank of Hamilton; and Martha, wife of Rev. John Aten, of this city.
     William Beckett was the recipient of excellent educational advantages.  He entered Miami University in 1840, from which he was graduated in 1844.  He then read law with his father in-law, John Woods, a prominent attorney of Hamilton, and was admitted to the bar in 1846.  At once forming a partnership with his preceptor, under the firm name of Woods & Beckett. Law was not congenial to Mr. Beckett's tastes, and after a short time he abandoned it.
     It was with the Beckett Paper company that the name of Mr. Beckett was most closely associated.  In 1848, he built a paper mill of which he was president until his death.  He was probably, the oldest paper maker in the United States.  The mill is a large one, having a capacity of twelve thousand pounds per day.  Mr. Beckett laid out eighteen additions to the city of Hamilton.  He was the chief promoter in the building of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad and aided in building various turnpikes of this county.  In the development of the city he was warmly interested, and Hamilton owes more to him than to any other one citizen.  In business Mr. Beckett accumulated vast wealth, but his kind heartedness cost him his fortune.  In 1873, when the Jay Cooke panic fell upon the country, he lost about $600,000, of which over one-half was security indebtedness.  He persevered and paid every dollar of the vast sum.  William Beckett in all business transactions was the soul of honor, strictly reliable and honest, and had the confidence and esteem of business men everywhere.

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     Mr. Beckett was united in marriage to Sarah Woods, Sept. 22, 1846.  Eight children resulted from this union, namely, Robert, Sarah, Frank, Eleanor, John, William, Thomas, Cyrus, Howard, David and May. Of these, Robert, Howard and David are deceased.  Sarah, the wife of Horace Woodruff, lives in Hamilton.  Eleanor became the wife of Colonel Robert C. McKinney, of Hamilton, and May, the wife of Dr. Mark Millikin. Mr. Beckett was a deacon in the United Presbyterian church during his life time.  He was active and prominent in the councils of the Republican party; was a delegate to the convention that nominated Abraham Lincoln for president in 1860.  His last sickness was of short duration.  His spirit passed gently and peacefully to his Heavenly Father, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 1895.

     M. C. McMAKEN. - Ashort sketch of M. C. McMaken's life, now residing in Hamilton, Ohio, written by himself when he was ninety-five years old: "My father and mother, Joseph McMaken and Elizabeth McMaken (nee Elizabeth Campbell) were born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, and came to the northern territory in the year 1789.  Through the advice of Judge Symmes, they took shelter in the North Bend, where they remained until after the treaty at Greenville, when they bought land of Judge Symmes, in what is now Union Township, Butler county Ohio, and built on it a cabin and moved into it on Dec. 15, 1795.  On this land they lived the balance of their lives.  They were of Scotch-Irish descent and were all Protestants of the Psalm singing denomination."
     "I was born in the above mentioned cabin on Jan. 1, 1800, and was brought up on the same farm and land that my father bought.  When I was twenty-two years old I married Martha McCrakken, a neighbor.  I followed farming until I was forty-seven years old when I rented my farms and came to Hamilton where I now live.  In my early boyhood days I remember of my parents bringing me to Fort Hamilton where the Indians were being paid by an Indian agent, Sutherland.  At that time there was but very few houses in Hamilton.  I

[Pg. 399]
remember how I feared the Indians. I had only the advantages of a subscription school, held about three months in each year in a cabin, without a nail or glass in its construction.  Cat and clay chimney.  After I grew up to be help we cleared off the timber, fenced in fields, plowed the grounds, harvested the crops.  We erected the first frame house for many miles around, erected barns, and stables, etc., and lived on that farm and one adjoining it until I moved to Hamilton to be near the female academy to enable me to school my children.  While I was on the farm I gave much attention to raising good stock and found it profitable.  I was, without my solicitation made a school director for many years and was trustee of Union township for sixteen years, or until I left the township.  I represented Butler county in the House of Representatives at Columbus, Ohio, in 1842, 1843 and 1844.  During the late war I was commissioned a sanitary agent and served until the close of the war.  I was made a deputy United States Marshal under General Hickenlooper, United States Marshal for the southern district of Ohio, and continued under Dr.Thrall, Hickenlooper's successor, until the end of Thrall's terms.  I was a member of the board of health of Hamilton for more than forty years and health officer for more than thirty years when I resigned and have been a member of the board of directors of the Hamilton, Springdale and Carthage turnpike, for more than forty years.  Am now a director."
     "My grandmother McMaken died at my father's house in Butler county, Ohio, when I was a small boy.  I remember seeing her.  When she died she was one-hundred years old.  I claim one great-great-grandchild which enables me to say that I have seen living, seven generations of my father's family."
     "I was one of the originators of our beautiful Greenwood cemetery and have always taken an active interest in National, State, county and city affairs.  Am now forty pounds heavier than I was when I was forty years old and am able to attend to my business.  This month, March, 1895, I have attended three turnpike meetings and had to travel twenty-eight miles each meeting."

[Pg. 400]

     "I have seen the Miami Valley transformed from a wilderness (in which roamed bears, panthers, wolves and in fact all kinds of native wild animals) to a beautiful farming country and grand manufacturing city and from the oxen and sled to the steam and electric railroads with telegraph and telephone."
     "I saw the first steam boat that run on the Ohio river and crossed the first bridge (foot bridge) that was built across the Niagara river, near Buffalo, New York State.  I can distinctly remember matters that transpired ninety-two years ago.  Looking back to that time I can say that the blessings of God, as bestowed on me during those ninety-two years of my recollection, have been worth living for."

     DR. CYRUS FALCONER

[Pg. 401]

     THOMAS V. HOWELL was born in Rossville, Sept. 28, 1826.  He received an education in the common schools, and when from ten to twelve years of age entered the employment of G. P. Bell, a merchant, and continued with him some ten years, when he went to Cincinnati, with the firm of Reily & Woods.  He returned to Hamilton, and entered the employment of Brown & Leigh, remaining there until March, 1849, when, in company with D. G. Leigh, they purchased the business of William B. Van Hook, and began the firm of Leigh & Howell, under which title they traded for two and a half years.  Mr. Leigh then sold out to John Dye.
     About 1854, Mr. Howell purchased the interest of his partner and carried on business by himself for twelve years.  On beginning in 1849, his trade was not limited exclusively to dry goods, but embraced all that is commonly sold in country stores, including at one time a large stock of boots and shoes, and afterward of millinery.  In 1870, he admitted his son, David Leigh Howell, as a partner, under the firm name of T. V. Howell & Son.  In 1875, they built the store since occupied by the firm, a handsome three story building, and admirably adapted to its present use.   Their former store had been on the corner of Third and High streets.  The firm also carries on an extensive concern in Middletown, and are large

[Pg. 402]
dealers in all lines.  Much of their goods is imported directly by themselves.
     Mr. Howell was married Oct. 20, 1849, to Miss Sarah A. Connor, daughter of David Connor, a former well-known resident of this place.  They were the parents of one daughter and one son, the former being Kate C. Howell, and the latter David L,. Howell.  T. V. Howell is a self-made man, and had no early advantages.  He is a member of the Masonic order and the Royal Arcanum, and contributed liberally of his means and influence in sustaining the government during the Civil War.  Mrs. Howell died Apr. 30, 1896.

     MAJOR JOHN M. MILLIKIN

[Pg. 403]
parents of four children, namely: Minor, Daniel, Joseph and Mary.

     HENRY S. EARHEART was born three miles east of Franklin, Warren county, Ohio, Feb. 17, 1800.  He first came to Hamilton on a visit, about 1815, but did not reside in the county until the year 1822, when, in conjunction with his uncle, John L. C. Schenck, of Franklin, the leading merchant of this section at that time, he established a store at Jacksonsburg.  After remaining there a few years, he came to this city.   He was in partnership with George W. Tapscott for a number of years, finally, however, discontinuing business.  Possessed from youth with a love of mathematics, he next took up civil engineering, and projected the hydraulic works and the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton railroad.  He was married Mar. 10, 1823, in Franklin, to Elizabeth Tapscott, daughter of James Tapscott and Mary Hendrickson.  They came from New Jersey in 1814.  Mr. Earheart was for many years one of the leading citizens of Hamilton.  He was councilman from 1854 to 1859; was Civil Engineer of the city and identified with all its improvements.

     GEORGE W. TAPSCOTT

     CAPTAIN ALEXANDER DELORAC settled in Franklin in the year 1805, where he was engaged as a trader for many years, making regular trips to New Orleans.  He was an officer in the army in 1812, and he was in several brushes with

[Pg. 404]
the Indians.  In his earlier life he was somewhat celebrated in sporting circles, and was proclaimed fistic champion on general muster days, and at race courses.  He was also noted as a pedestrian.
     He resided for many years on Prospect Hill and later at the corner of Front and North Streets, in West Hamilton, a point where the Indians in olden time laid in wait to shoot and scalp persons who straggled from the fort.  In his youth he was a clerk for John Sutherland.

     WILLIAM C. FRECHTING

[Pg. 405]
H., Helm Philip, Ralph, Corrine and Camilla.  Mr. Frechtling is devoted to his family and business and has few affiliations aside from this church.  He has been married twice.

     W. C. COPE was born Middleton, Columbiana county, Ohio, Mar. 21, 1850.  He received his earlier education in the district schools.  At the age of sixteen years he entered the High School at Lisbon, Ohio, where he spent two years.  Afterward he attended Alliance college, for the next three years, and completed his collegiate course in the following year and a half at Hiram college, from which he was graduated in 1872 and received the degree of B. A.  After leaving college , he accepted the position of principal of the High School at Burton, Ohio, serving from 1872 to 1873.  He was later elected as superintendent of the schools of Columbiana, Ohio, where he remained until 1876.  Leaving Columbiana, he became superintendent of the Woodsfield, Ohio, schools for one year.  In 1877, he served as acting professor of mathematics in Heidelberg college, at Tiffin, Ohio, and the next year was recalled to Woodsfield as superintendent of the schools.  In 1880, he was elected as superintendent of the schools of Brooklyn, Ohio, which has now been made the Forty-second ward of Cleveland.  He served in this locality for five years, when he received the call to Hamilton as principal of our High School.  The present high standing and reputation of our High School is largely due to his perseverance and work. 
     On July 24, 1878, he was married to Miss Rose Tilden, of Welshfield, Ohio, and two children, DeWitt Tilden and Ella May have been born to them.
     In 1881, he received a High School life certificate, authorizing him to teach in any High School in this state.
     Since he has come to Hamilton he has taken a non-resident post-graduate course at the University of Wooster.  He was graduated from this university in 1890, in the course in political science, receiving the degree of D. P.
     Prof. Cope is a member of the Masonic order and holds the office of Senior Deacon in the Blue lodge.

[Pg. 406]

     There has never been a man in our schools more popular among the people and scholars than Prof. Cope. It is largely through his efforts that the High School library has grown from a very small beginning to nearly one thousand volumes of carefully selected books.
     Prof. Cope has been a trustee of Lane Free Library for several years, and has done much toward broadening its scope and increasing the number of its volumes.
     His views of education are broad and liberal.  He is a man of a genial and kind disposition and an honor to our schools.

     JOHN C. HOOVEN was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, Sept. 29, 1843.  He was educated in the public schools of Franklin, Ohio, where the family removed in 1849.  In 1864 he removed to Xenia, Ohio, where the firm of Hooven & Sons was formed, in the hardware business.  In 1874, Mr. Hooven came to Hamilton where he engaged in the agricultural implement business with the firm Hooven & Sons.  In 1876, the father, J. P. Hooven, retired, but the old farm name was retained by the two sons.  In November, 1878, John C. Hooven became the sole proprietor and engaged in the manufacture of portable engines, threshers and saw-mills.  In 1880 the Hooven, Owens & Rentschler Company was organized and incorporated under the laws of Ohio, for the manufacture of their celebrated Corliss engines.  This enterprising company, from the inception of its business has steadily pushed its way to public favor and confidence, building up in a short while an extensive and flattering patronage.  President Hooven is a man of energy, judicious, enterprising and thoroughly con versant with his calling.  In 1864, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Forty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  He is a Knight Templar in the order of Free and Accepted Masons.  Politically, he is a Republican; in religion, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

[Pg. 407]
this union, namely, Blanche, the wife of Dr. E. S. Griffis, Earle, Enyeart, Paul M. and Don W.

     O. V. PARRISH

Sharon Wick's Note:  The surname is listed as it is in the book.

     LEWIS A. DILLON was born on a farm in the vicinity of this city April 4, 1866.  At the age of six years he entered the Hamilton public schools.  He is of American parentage.  Very early in his school studies he displayed an extraordinary adaptness in mathematics, and before his graduation, which occurred in 1885, he had fully decided to become a civil engineer.  Shortly after graduation, he went to Cincinnati where he entered the office of A. L. Hobby, sanitary and civil

[Pg. 408]
engineer. During his four years study under Mr. Hobby, he made excellent progress, being actively engaged, a major por tion ofthe time, in the restoration of the engineering records that had been destroyed in the great riot of 1884. Afterthe completion of his work in 1890, he came to this city as assist ant of James R. Smedburg, the gas engineer in charge ofthe construction of the Hamilton gas plant. Mr. Dillon did all the civil engineering work in connection with the new plant and his map of the lines is accredited with being one of the most perfect in the country. After these arduous duties were completed he opened an office as a private engineer, and a few months later became civil engineer of Dayton. He held this position till 1893 having been made the civil engineer of Ham ilton in 1891, which position he still holds.
     In connection with his public duties he has at various times been employed by different syndicates in laying off their sub-divisions, having mapped out all the streets of East Ham ilton, Lindenwald, Prospect Hill and Gordon's addition. He was also the civil engineer employed in the construction of the Hamilton and Lindenwald electric road. Mr. Dillon is a member of the Royal Arch Masonsand Knights ofPythias. In 1887, he was married to Miss Laura Faist, who has born him two children. Mr. Dillon fills his position very accepta bly, and is already an established and useful figure in our public life. In 1896 he was elected county surveyor, and as sumes the duties ofthe office in September, 1897.

     SAMUEL SHAFFER was born in Chambersburg, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, May 4, 1816.  His parents were Pennsylvania Germans.  He received an ordinary education and when but a youth he was apprenticed to the trade of a chair maker at which he served three years, working two weeks out of each year as a harvest hand and receiving as wages his board only.  When he was nineteen years old he started out in life for himself, went to Pittsburgh, worked there a short time and came by boat to Cincinnati.  He was a steerage passenger and only had enough money to pay his passage.  Mr. Shaffer

[Pg. 409]
came here in 1835 and located in the village of Rossville, where he went to work at his trade, under the late Joshua Delaplane.  He subsequently worked for a time in Dayton and Columbus, and ultimately in the chairmaking business for him self in this city, his shop being located in a little frame building that stood in the rear of the Rumple building on B street.  He followed his trade for some years and then took a position as clerk in the hardware and gun store of Robert L. Howard.  He remained there for some years.  He served two terms as infirmary director; was a member of the old Rossville fire department; was a member of the village council from 1848 to 1852; was clerk of Rossville at the time of the annexation in 1854.  He was a foremost champion of the rights of Rossville in the terms of consolidation.  He was marshal of Rossville for some time; was a trustee of St. Clair township; was the first real estate assessor for Hamilton and collector of income tax for Hamilton and Fairfield townships, serving by appointment under Judge Dunlevy, Col. O. C. Maxwell and the late Judge VanDerveer, and continuing in service until the office was abolished. During the war, in company with  Squire M. C. McMaken, Oliver Traber and Philip Berry he wasone of the commissioners sent by Hamilton to Pittsburg Landing with supplies for the relief of the Union soldiers.  He was one of the charter members of Harmony lodge No. 14, I. O. O. F. instituted in 1841 and was the last of the charter members formerly surviving.  He was the oldest Odd Fellow in Hamilton in point of membership and one of the oldest in the United States.
     Mr. Shaffer was married twice.  His first wife was Sarah Jane Mills, a daughter of Colonel James Mills, who served in the war of 1812.  She only survived the union for a brief time and a few years later Mr. Shaffer was again married to Miss Mary Laird, who died a few years ago.  No children resulted from the first union.  Of the second, five children survive.  Mr. Shaffer was a man of fine character, unswerving honesty and of unquestioned integrity.  His life was spotless and in his death he leaves a name to be spoken with respect and a

[Pg. 410]
character to be emulated and patterned after.  In the lodge, in business, in the family circle, among friends or passing acquaintances, in all the responsibilities of official duties, in all the relations of life, he was upright, honorable and a man of men.  His death takes one more name from the record of the men that made a greater Hamilton and laid the foundation for our city.  His remains were followed to the grave with reverence and mourning and his life, his genial personality, his many fine traits will long be remembered and revered.
     The funeral services took place from the house, Saturday afternoon, Oct. 17, 1896, at 2 o'clock.  The burial services at the grave were conducted by Washington lodge, No. 17, F. and A. M. and Harmony lodge, No. 14, I. O. O. F.

     COLONEL ROBERT C. McKINNEY

     J. M. JOHNSON was born Oct. 15, 1817, seven miles south of Hamilton.  He remained on the farm until he was seventeen years of age.  In 1837, he came to Hamilton and accepted a position as clerk for Andrew McCleary & Co., the Dilg building on High street.  Three years later he

[Pg. 411]
became a salesman for Isaac Fisher.  Afterward, in 1840, he bought the A. D. Kyle store.  In 1842, he removed his store to New London, Morgan township, where he formed a partnership with Smith Hart, in the dry goods business.  Shortly afterward Mr. Hart sold his interest to Mr. Johnson.  In the latter part of 1842, he removed to Hamilton and occupied the Southerland building, corner Front and High streets.  He rented and occupied both rooms for $150.00 per annum.  In 1843, ne purchased Andrew McCleary's store, the business then being conducted under the firm name of J. M. & S. Johnson.  In 1846, F. S. Wilks purchased Samuel Johnson's interest in the store, the firm occupying the Earheart building corner Third and High streets, the firm was then known as the F. S. Wilks Co.  They had a line of freight boats to Cincinnati; sold out the store to Frank Martin and Fred Creighton.  Mr. Johnson remained with the firm one year by contract.  In 1871, Mr. Johnson purchased a farm near McGonigle's, farmed for seven years, then sold out to J. P. P. Peck, and returned to Hamilton in 1878.

     ADAM LAURIE

[Pg. 412]
respect and veneration of his fellow men.  Upon his large posterity will descend the example of a just and useful career and the sacred memories and associations of his life.  He is now spending his declining years in retirement, after half a century of unremitting industry.

     STEPHEN D. CONE

[Pg. 413]

[Pg. 414]

[Pg. 415] -
fruition of a life of labor and to enjoy the blessings which a kind Providence has bestowed upon him.

J. R. FULKERSON

     JAMES R. FULKERSON

[Pg. 416]
erson has a host of friends who at once love and respect him.  Loving him for his true and unfailing friendship at all times, and respecting him for his generosity and sterling integrity.
     For twelve years Mr. Fulkerson was superintendent of the Hamilton, Darrtown and Fair Haven turnpike.

     S. H. MILLIKIN

CHARLES MASON (betw. 168-169)

     CHARLES E. MASON was born in Hamilton, Ohio, on Mar. 5, 1873.  He is the youngest son of Martin and Barbara Mason, who came to America in the fifties and settled in Hamilton.  Martin Mason died in 1877, at the time that the youngest son was four years old.  Charles e. Mason was

[Pg. 417]
educated in the public schools of this city, where he proved himself an adept scholar.  At the age of fifteen he entered upon his business career in the office of Seward & Sloneker.  In December, 1889, he accepted a position in the Miami Valley National Bank as bookkeeper.  He soon mastered such a knowledge of the banking business as to be advanced to the position of teller.  On Jan. 1, 1896, he was elected, unanimously, by the board of directors to the position of assistant cashier, in which position he comes in contact with the business world of Hamilton, and with whom no one is more popular.  He is an expert accountant, and has a clear mind for the unraveling of complex business transactions.

     JOSEPH H. LONG was born in Hamilton, Oct. 4, 1858.  He was educated in the St. Stephen's parochial schools.  Afterward, he graduated from Beck's Commercial College in a course of book keeping and penmanship.  In 1871, he started on the road for the firm of Long & Allstatter, where he remained for six years.  He then entered the office and took charge of the books for the next ten years.  In 1891, when the Long & Allstatter Company was incorporated,  he was elected vice-president, which position he still occupies.  He was a member of the city council for four years; is a member of the water works trustees, of which board he is president.  The Long & Allstatter Company manufacture corn cultivators, sulky plows, hay rakes, harrows, power punching and shearing machinery and all class of iron work, for car shops.  The location of the company's shops are at the corner of Fourth and High streets, and the plant covers five acres with fine buildings

     FRANK  ERWIN  BERNADOTTE BRANDT

[Pg. 418]

[Pg. 419]

[Pg. 420]

[Pg. 421]

     REV. EDWARD W. ABBEY

JUDGE JOSEPH COX

     JUDGE JOSEPH COX

[Pg. 422]

[Pg. 423]

\
WM. C. RINEARSON

     WILLIAM C. RINEARSON

F. B. RINEARSON

     FRANK B. RINEARSON was born at Hamilton, in 1870.

[Pg. 424]
He was educated in the public schools of this city.  Afterward, he was employed for three years as city ticket agent for the Erie railway, in Cincinnati.  In 1893, he accepted the important and responsible position of cashier of the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton railroad passenger department in Cincinnati, where he remained until the time of his death.  In social circles he was best known and will be long remembered by the people of Hamilton.  From his earliest youth he possessed the faculty of attaching to himself the strong and abiding affection of others, and there was in Hamilton no young man more generally known and liked.  His other fraternal connections were with Washington Lodge No. 17, Free and Accepted Masons and with Hamilton Chapter No. 21 Royal Arch Masons, and the Hamilton Rifles.  He was a young man of superior ability, and death alone prevented the fulfillment of his high promise of a useful and successful career in his chosen work.  The funeral took place from the residence of his mother on Heaton street, Tuesday morning, Aug. 4, 1896, at 10 o'clock.  The services were conducted jointly by the Rev. Mason W. Pressley, Chaplain of the Hamilton Rifles and the Rev. F. E. J. Lloyd, rector of Trinity Episcopal church.  The burial in Greenwood cemetery was attended by the immediate family alone.  The pall bearers were Earl Hooven, Robert Giffen, Paul Brown, Neal Harper, Edward Poor and George Smith, of Cincinnati, William Radcliffe, Robert Schaeuble, Thomas Dowling, David Brant, Charles Hunter and Charles Mathes.

     E. B. ROGERS

[Pg. 425]

LUCIEN C. OVERPECK

     LUCIEN C. OVERPECK was born in St. Clair township, Butler county, Ohio, May 15, 1853.  He attended district school in his native township.  In 1870, he became the proprietor of a drug store in Trenton, this county.  During his spare moments he practiced photography, and read much relating to the subject.  He made a special study of chemistry with the one idea in view of practicing his chosen art.  Upon his retirement from business in 1873, an opportunity was opened for him to devote himself seriously to the calling toward which he was so strongly inclined.  Coming to Hamilton he established a gallery in the Jacobs building where he built up a large and permanent patronage.  In 1887, he removed to the gallery formerly occupied by Tattersall, in which he has ever since continued.  After getting his business in good shape, he visited New York, Philadelphia, and other large cities of the east, with a view of ascertaining the true state of photography.  Mr. Overpeck's standing in his profession is so high and so widely known that it needs no praise here.  He was one of the most active factors in the organization of the Ohio State Association of photographers in 1890, and has served on its executive board four of the six years of its existence in the various capacities of president, vice-president and secretary.  At the meeting of the National Association at Minneapolis in 1888, $50 in gold was awarded him for cabinet work and a gold medal for excellence in flash light photography.  The Ohio State Association in 1893 awarded him three of the most important prizes in its gift.  In 1893, he received

[Pg. 426]
two medals from the National Association for carbonette pictures and photographs of machinery.  He has served on the national awarding committee - which is a very high professional honor - on three different occasions

WILLIAM WINKLER

     WILLIAM WINKLER was born in Hamilton, Nov. 1, 1862.  After leaving the public schools in 1878, he accepted a position as salesman in the Strauss clothing house.  Afterward, he was employed by Gilcrest & Millikin in the same capacity.  The experience and reputation which these years of service gained for him were the best possible foundation upon which to build an independent business enterprise.
     This fact was grasped by no one sooner than by Mr. Winkler.  In association with Mr. Thad Straub, he organized the well known firm of Winkler & Straub, dealers of exclusive hats and haberdashery.  In 1895, Mr. Straub retired and the business has since been conducted by Mr. Winkler alone.  To a man of taste his store is a delightful place.  He is an enterprising business man, whose efforts a community does itself an honor in recognizing.  He is a well known young man and prominent in various social organizations.
     In 1889, Mr. Winkler was united in marriage to Miss Adeline Straub.

M. D. LINDLEY

     MILES D. LINDLEY

[Pg. 427]

JOHN KAEFER

     JOHN KAEFER

HENRY FRECHTLING, JR.

     HENRY FRECHTLING, JR.

[Pg. 428]

GEORGE RUPP

     GEORGE RUPP

[Pg. 429]

ABE ROTHWELL

     ABE ROTHWELL

NELSON F. POTTERF

     NELSON F. POTTERF was born in Preble county, Ohio, Oct. 14, 1856.  He was the son of James and Mary Potterf; his mother died some years ago.  When a young boy he moved to Eaton, Ohio, where he attended school till he was twenty years of age.  He resided in Eaton for nine years, when he apprenticed himself to learn the carpenter trade, serving

[Pg. 430] -
for term of three years.  He then worked as a journeyman carpenter for some five years all through the Miami Valley.  In 1880, he began contracting at Seven Mile and later he settled in Hamilton.  He has resided in this city for the past ten years.  Owing to his ability as a contractor, he was employed by Freeman Compton to superintend the building of the Butler county court house, which is one of the most creditable pieces of work ever turned out in this county.  He moved to this city in 1886.
     In 1881, Mr. Potterf was married to Mary M. Goodman and four children, three boys and one girl, have blessed their union.  In 1893 Mr. Potterf was elected a member of the Board of Education for one term fromthe Fifth ward.  Mr. Potterf has the superintending of the buildings of the public schools, he has charge of all repairs.  He is an earnest worker and a better man for the position could not be found in the county.

JAMES A. KELLY

     JAMES A. KELLY was born in Oxford township, Butler county, Ohio, Feb. 18, 1856.  In his early manhood he passed directly into the profession which he has made his life work.  Three years later he pursued a special course in pedagogy at the well known National Normal University at Lebanon, which completed an education of the highest order.  Not long after Professor Kelly's claim upon the public recognition were fulfilled by his election to the place he now occupies, and his record in it covering so many years, fully indicates the judgment of those who first chose him to the place.  For fifteen years he has been principal of the First ward schools, and the fact that he has survived so many changes of municipal administrations and has administered his important trust with such uniform credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituency, bespeaks his ability in his, the highest of all secular professions.  He is a thoroughly popular man, knowing and known to everybody.  He is a leading Elk and a member of the Y. M. I. and the A. S. of C.

[Pg. 431]

C. M. SEMLER

     CONRAD M. SEMLER was born in Hamilton, Aug.  20, 1863.  He was educated in the public schools of this city, which was afterward supplemented by a business course in a Commercial College.  Later he learned the miller's trade with his father, John Semler, who came west from Pennsylvania in 1849, locating at Amanda, this county.  In 1862, he came to Hamilton and engaged in the milling business for himself.  In 1886, he erected the Eagle Mills, when our subject became his father's partner, and has ever since been a member of the firm of Semler & Co.  At the death of John Semler, Apr. 28, 1892, at the age fifty-six, the business passed into the full management of the oldest son, Conrad.  Later in the same year Anderson & Shaffer's plant was purchased and the out-put of the mill increased from seventy-five to five hundred barrels per day.  The local trade is managed by George Semler, and the offices are under control of Philip Semler.  In addition to an extensive local trade, the firm annually sends thousands of barrels of flour to the Eastern and Southern markets.  The Semler Brothers have a thorough knowledge of the milling business; are courteous gentlemen and their solidity and integrity is unquestioned.  Conrad Semler is the owner of valuable residence property and a number of lots in Semler's Addition to South Hamilton.  Socially, he is a member of Hamilton Council No. 338, Royal Arcanum.  In politics he is a Democrat.  He is a member of the First Presbyterian church.  He is a faithful and unswerving friend to the best interests of Hamilton and contributes liberally to every movement for her advancement, which entitled him to a representation in a history of his native city.

     OLIVER BRABER

Pg. 432]

DAVID R. CONE

     DAVID R. CONE

Pg. 433]

     AARON POTTER

Pg. 434]

     MATTHIAS ARENT

     RICHARD COLE

[Pg. 435]

HENRY SCHLOSSER     

     HENRY SCHLOSSER

[Pg. 436]

WM. O. SCHLOSSER

     WILLIAM O. SCHLOSSER

S. C. LANDIS

     SAMUEL C. LANDIS

[Pg. 437]

DAVID BELL

     DAVID BELL

HARRY G. WALLACE

     HARRY G. WALLACE

     CHARLES SOHNGEN

[Pg. 438]

BERT S. BARTLOW

     BERT SURENE BARTLOW

[Pg. 439]

[Pg. 440]

     JOSEPH W. MYERS

[Pg. 441]

LUCIUS B. POTTER

     LUCIUS B. POTTER

     LOUIS SOHNGEN

[Pg. 442]

     MEYER STRAUSS
 

JOHN B.  CORNELL

     JOHN B. CORNELL

[Pg. 443]

     JOHN L. BLAIR

FRANK L. DICKINSON

     FRANK L. DICKINSON

[Pg. 444]

FRANK N. BLACK

     FRANK X. BLACK

JAMES I. TULLY

     JAMES I. TULLY

[Pg. 445]
1858, and came to Hamilton in 1876.  He was educated in the Hamilton schools and Nichol's Commercial College.  In 1876, he was elected a member of the Board of Gas Trustees.  He was married June 19, 1889, to Carrie Schrunder.  He has achieved success in his calling, and posesses a natural aptitude for the business, with a pride to excel.

THOMAS B. DOWLING

     THOMAS B. DOWLING was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dec. 23, 1863.  He was educated and reared in Covington; has followed his trade in various cities of the Union for years.  He was married in 1888, to Minnie Goodman.  Mr. Dowling is an Elk and an officer of the Hamilton Rifles.
     The popular tailoring establishment of Tully & Dowling was founded at its present location in this city in 1887.  It was instituted as a sort of protest against the conservative methods which then prevailed in the trade in this city, and it has always adhered closely to the progressive policy upon which it is based.  Both proprietors are gentlemen of experience in this particular line.  Mr. Dowling, the junior partner is, and has been for years, known to the trade as one of the most expert cutters in the country.  Their principle line, was early supplemented by the addition of a haberdashery department Messrs. Tully & Dowling are courteous gentlemen and business men without reproach.

     ISAAC RILEY was born in Wood's Station, Butler county, Ohio, Sept. 21, 1852.  He attended district school and followed farming until 1870, when he came to Hamilton; was clerk in the Butler House for five years.  In April, 1876, he went west, where he remained until 1879.  Upon his return to Hamilton he engaged in the livery business with his father on the West Side.  In 1882 he was employed in the fire department under Chief Boose.  Afterward, he was salesman for H. C. Gray in the agricultural business; was Deputy Sheriff, for three years, under George W. St. Clair; was on the police force during Mayor Getz's administration.  In September, 1890, he was appointed Truant Officer of the public schools, which position he still retains.  He was married June 24, 1890, to Laura

[Pg. 446]
L. Rooke.  Mr. Riley is a man of natural ability and perseverance and has won official prominence in the discharge of his duties.

P. E. WELSH - 446a

     P. E. WELSH ex-Health Officer of the Board of Health, was born in Hamilton, Jan. 21, 1860.  He received his education in the schools of this city, and afterward learned the art of printing.  For several years he was the able superintendant of the job department of the Butler County Democrat.  Later he formed a partnership with Peter A. Clair, and for six years conducted a cafe and sample room on Third street.  Mr. Welsh is a Democrat of the thirty-third degree.  He has frequently represented his party as councilman from the Fourth ward, and his record as a member of that body is one that he can always point to with pride.  In 1896, he remodeled his place of businesss business - a transformation that marked a new era for elaborate decorations in this city.  Nothing since has been attempted that equals "The Mecca" in gorgeousness.  He was married Oct. 28, 1896, to Mary Murphy.  Mr. Welsh is a politician of no mean ability, and is always true to his friends.  He is a liberal contributor in the cause of charity.

JOHN HAHN, UR. - 446a

     JOHN HAHN, JR. was born in Hamilton, Mar. 10, 1864.  After a liberal education in our public schools, he entered the employment of his father, where he was thoroughly educated in the craft of a butcher.  He followed this avocation, till by dint of hard work, unflagging industry and frugality he acquired sufficient means to start business on his own account.  In 1893, he established himself in the old Sutherland building, near the corner of High and Front streets, where he success fully conducts a prosperous trade.  His store is neatly finished and is provided with all the modern appliances necessary for the complete prosecution of a daily meat market.  He carries at all times a full supply of fresh and salted meats.  He is a member of Hamilton Council, No. 338, Royal Arcanum.  Mr. Hahn was united in marriage with Miss Kate M. Holdefer in 1885.

GEORGE P. SOHNGEN -p. 446a

     GEORGE P. SOHNGEN was born in Hamilton, June 25, 1860.

[Pg. 447]
He was partly educated in the schools of this city.  Subsequently he entered the Ohio State University at Columbus, where he remained several years.  Later he completed a thorough business course in the Cincinnati Commercial College, after which he began malting with his father, Louis Sohngen, who retired from the business in 1878, and was succeeded by his sons, Charles and George, under the firm name of Charles Sohngen & Co.  The subject of this sketch is secretary and treasurer of the Sohngen Malting Company.  He also occupies the same official positions in the Sohngen & Brown Company.  They fill promptly all orders at the lowest ruling market prices, and always transact business on the highest principles.  Mr. Sohngen is interested, with Charles Conner, in the management of the St. Charles Hotel, the leading hostlery of Hamilton.  Politically, he affiliates with the Republican party; socially, he is a member of Hamilton Council No. 338 Royal Arcanum, and the Modern Woodmen.  Mr. Sohngen was united in marriage with Miss Ida M. Conner, Dec. 14, 1881.  He is an able and progressive business man, ever working for the best interests of Hamilton.

HENRY WELSH - p. 446a

     HENRY WELSH was born in Rossville, Feb. 20, 1855.   After receiving a common school education, he was employed in Louis V. Feme's restaurant on West High street, opposite the old market house.  Subsequently he worked for J. & J. Kirn, pork packers, for two years.   In 1870, he began his career as a railroad man on the C., H. & I. railway, as brake man.  After serving in this capacity for two years he accepted a position as switchman in the C., H. & D. yards, and by close application to business, worked himself up to yardmaster.  He was in the employ of this railroad company for fifteen years.  In August, 1887, he became yardmaster of the P., C., C. & St. L. railroad, which place he retains today.  In April, 1888, he was elected councilman from the Fourth ward; was re-elected in 1891 and 1893; was vice-president of this body for two years.   While in council he was first to agitate the question of sewer age and street paving.  Mr. Welsh is the father of Hamilton's electric light plant, which was completed in July, 1896, at a

[Pg. 448] -
cost of $100,000. It was through his efforts, in council, that the Hamilton and Lindenwald street car station, which stood in the center of High street, was forcibly removed at night time.  Socially, he is a member of the B. P. O. E., and C. K. of O.  Mr. Welsh was married Feb. 24, 1876, to Miss Maggie Dowd, daughter of the late John Dowd.  Eight children have resulted from this union, seven sons and one daughter, and each boy has a sister.  He is just the man for yardmaster, alert, attentive and experienced.  The public finds him painstaking and obliging.

GEORGE BRUNER - p. 446a

     GEORGE H. BRUNER was born in Hamilton, Oct. 7, 1859, where he was reared and educated.  He took a course in Beck's Commercial College.  Afterward he learned the carpenter trade, which calling he is following today.  In April, 1895, he was elected to council from the First ward, and re-elected in 1897.  Mr. Bruner was united in marriage with Augusta Bruck, Oct. 26, 1887.  Two children have been born to them.  Mr. Bruner possesses a comprehensive and far-reaching knowledge of his calling in all of its details.  He is held in high repute in business circles, and is in every way a representative man and citizen.

HENRY HAMMERLE - p. 446a

     HENRY HAMMERLE, Assistant Postmaster of Hamilton, was born in this city Dec. 25, 1865, where he received a liberal education in the public schools.  Afterward he learned the gunsmith trade with his father.  Later he was employed by B. Kittredge, of Cincinnati, in his extensive gun manufactory.  After his return to Hamilton, he became stock and time keeper for the Hamilton Buggy Company, where he remained two years.  He was letter carrier under Postmaster Lohman, during his first administration, for two years.  On July 1, 1893, Mr. Hammerle was appointed Assistant Postmaster, in his duties, and of high standing in the community.  He is active and energetic, upright and reliable in official and business transactions.  Mr. Hammerle was united in marriage with Miss Grace Sheley, Sept. 5, 1894.

[Pg. 449] -

     JAMES K. CULLEN was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Feb. 18, 1853, where he was reared and educated.  In 1871, he began learning the machinist trade with the C, H. & D. Railway Company, where he remained for four years.  Afterward he was with the Big Four Road for nearly four years, first as foreman and later as draughtsman.  In 1879, he came to Hamilton, where, for one year he was foreman of the Niles Tool Works, and subsequently was chosen superintendent of the works.   In 1886 he was sent to Chicago to manage the Western business, and for eight years made his home in that city.  On his return to Hamilton he became secretary.  The Niles Tool Works are among the most important of Hamilton's industries.  He married Nov. 27, 1879, Miss Addie Barnes. Their family consists of two children.  Mr. and Mrs. Cullen are attendants at the services of the Presbyterian church.  Socially, he is a Thirty-second degree Mason.  A Republican in politics, he takes great interest in party matters, and few men are better informed on the topics of the day than he.  Mr. Cullen is enterprising and public spirited; always lends substantial assistance to all enterprises that benefits his adopted city.  He is a man of practical experience, and of high standing in the community.  His past success is a sufficient assurance of his continued prosperity.

     JACOB STILLWAUGH was born in Bavaria, Germany, June 23, 1823.  He emigrated to America in 1833, landing at Baltimore, Maryland.  He located in Wheeling, Virginia, for four year.  In 1839, he came to Hamilton, where he learned the brick making business, which he followed until 1857, when he removed to Chester, Illinois, where he remained thirteen years.  In 1870, Mr. Stillwaugh returned to Hamilton and opened up a brick-yard, and continued the business until a short time age, when he retired, when his son Philip susceeded him.  Socially, Mr. Stillwaugh is identified with the Masonic fraternity, in which he has attained a high degree.  He has always been held in high repute in business circles, and is a representative man and citizen.

[Pg. 450] -

LOU J. BEAUCHAMP

     LOU J. BEAUCHAMP was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Jan. 14, 1831.  He was educated in the public schools of his native city and Hamilton.  At the age of fourteen he began the profession of printing in the Hamilton Telegraph office.  Before reaching his majority he was telegraph and news editor of the Cincinnati Daily Star and was connected with several other papers for five years.  Then he fell a prey to the drink habit and lost his business standing but was saved by his wife.  Immediately upon his reformation he began a brilliant career as a temperance and Prohibition lecturer, traveling in the past nineteen years over 900,000 miles, all over the United States, British America, Mexico, Great Britain, and the continent of Europe, accompanied all the time by his faithful wife.  Half a million persons have signed the Total Abstinence pledge through his instrumentality.
     Mr. Beauchamp has established a reputation as a writer.  He is the author of a book entitled, "Sunshine," a series of charming sketches, and "What the Duchess and I Saw in Europe," an absorbing tale of travel told in Mr. Beauchamp's best style.  He is also the author of a number of poems, which have appeared in magazines and newspapers.
     Mr. Beauchamp is popularly known as "the Western Gough."  His lectures appeal to the heart.  He is a master of language; beautiful imagery falls from his lips as if by inspiration and his word-painted scenes glow with the divine fire of genius.  No lecturer has ever attracted so much attention or spoken to such large audiences.  Mrs. Beauchamp has been her husband's strong stay and constant companion.  She was a delegate to the session of the Grand Templars at Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1895.  The world needs more Mellie Beauchamps in the noble work of reclaiming fallen mankind.  Mr. Beauchamp is a member of the Presbyterian church, and lives with his wife and son, Earl Gardner, on Sycamore street, in this city.

ISAAC MATTHIAS - p. 452a

     ISAAC MATTHIAS for many years one of the best known residents of this city and whose name is indissolubly associated with the early history of Rossville, now the First ward of

[Pg. 451]
Hamilton, was born in Winchester, Virginia, Feb. 6, 1805.  He received his early education there and learned the trade of a coppersmith with J. A. Richardson of Winchester.  In the fall of 1827 he left his Virginia home, came west and located in Cincinnati, where he remained for one year.  In 1828, in company with his brother, Jacob, he settled in this city, locating at Nos. 31 and 33 Main street, Rossville, where he and his brother embarked in the coppersmithing and turning business, afterward adding a stove and tinware branch to the business.  At that early day Butler county was thickly studded with distilleries of a simple and primitive character.  There were seventeen in Oxford and twelve in St. Clair townships, alone.  Their equipment was largely furnished by the Matthias Brothers, and this work was a source of very considerable profit.  In 1839, the firm of Matthias, Reiser & Traber was formed for the sale of a general line of dry goods, groceries, hardware, etc.  The business was successfully carried on until March 1842, when Aaron Reiser retired and was succeeded by David Taylor and Benneville Kline, under the firm name of Matthias, Kline & Taylor.  From 1843 to 1849, Isaac Matthias conducted the coppersmith and stove business alone, as the following characteristic advertisement denotes:

     "STOVES! STOVES!- There is nothing in this lower world that conduces so much to true enjoyment as a good Cooking Stove: one that draws well and bakes better.  It is as good as a new milk's cow in the family, or a barrel of whiskey!  Why, see here!  I don't care if your wives have tempers as even and gentle as a lamb's (and most women have such,) they will most assuredly be spoiled if you oblige them to cook on an old worn out Stove, that won't draw, and won't bake, if it does draw.  Now just come to town and call on me, as I have, 'perhaps', the largest and best assortment of STOVES you ever saw; and I will sell them very low.  I continue to carry on the Copper and Tinning Business, as usual.     Old Copper and Castings taken in exchange for work.    "ISAAC MATTHIA
     "Rossville, Nov. 22, 1849."

     About that time, Jacob Matthias, who had formerly retired from the original business, re-entered it and the firm was established of I. & J. Matthias.  A large trade was built up and Isaac Matthias continued in the firm up until his death, June 26, 1879.  On Dec. 2, 1829, Isaac Matthias was

[Pg. 452]
married to Miss Fannie Grooms, who was born July 12, 1804 and died Jan. 8, 1852.  Of this union five children resulted: Emma, afterwards married to Abraham Van Dyke, Ann, married to Wilson H. Dowty, and both of whom, with their husbands are deceased, Jacob, George P., and Jennie Matthias, now the widow of the late Benjamin James, and living at Mexico, Missouri.  On Nov. 5, 1854, Mr. Matthias was again married to Miss Mary J. Galbraith, who died Jan. 6, 1895.  Five children were born of the union, of whom two, Lewis and John Matthias now survive.
     Isaac Matthias was never a candidate for office.  He was a man of sterling character and of a most genial and jovial disposition.  He was an inveterate joker and was always the life of any company in which he was found.  He leaves behind him a memory that will long endure as a citizen and as a man and his name, his life and character will not soon be forgotten.

     JOHN CRAWFORD

[Pg. 453]

PETER SCHWAB - p. 452a

     PETER SCHWAB

CHARLES H. LIPPHARDT - p. 452a

     CHARLES H. LIPPHARDT was born in Carlsrue, Baden, Dec. 7, 1845.  He emigrated with his parents to America in 1850, first locating at Cincinnati, then at New Rich-

[Pg. 454]
 

     JACOB SCHLOSSER

[Pg. 455]

     HON. F. R. VINNEDGE

     ELMORE T. ANDERSON

[Pg. 456]

     FLETCHER S. HEATH

[Pg. 457]

J. H. BEARD

     J. H. BEARD

CHARLES E. HEISER

     CHARLES E. HEISER was born in Hamilton, Butler County, Ohio, Feb. 26, 1857.  He received his early. education in the public schools of this city, but soon adopted a business career to which he is naturally adapted.  In 1872 he became associated with the Second National Bank, enter-

[P. 458]
ing the employment of the institution as messenger.  By careful and conscientious attention to his duties, Mr. Heiser worked his way up to the position he occupies today.  As cashier of the Second National Bank, his judgment is a standing reference.  His character is stainless and unimpeachable.  He is one of the most responsible business men in this city.

JOHN E. HEISER

     JOHN E. HEISER, Assistant Cashier of the Second National Bank, was born in Hamilton, Jan. 16, 1851.  Mr. Heiser was educated in the public schools of this city and rapidly began to turn his education to a good advantage.  His first business association, outside of the immediate connection. with his father was with Louis Sohngen, where he remained as a bookkeeper for one year.  He then worked for Bender & Bro., then for William Anderson & Co. for two years, when he was made Assistant Postmaster under the late Captain John McKee.  On Feb. 20, 1882, Mr. Heiser became Assistant Cashier of the Second National Bank of Hamilton, which position he still fills.  He is a careful and expert accountant, a man of unquestioned integrity, his word is as good as a dollar, his character as good as a government bond, and in all the walks of life, John E. Heiser is a thorough representative citizen.  He was a member of the Board of Education in 1886-87.  Mr. Heiser was married Mar. 29, 1875, to Annie O. Miller, daughter of Hon. William H. Miller, a former prominent attorney of Hamilton, and whose death was one of the saddest that occured occurred in local history during the Civil War.  As a man, Mr. Heiser commands the respect of the community.  In social and fraternal circles he stands high and of an old and an honored family he is at once looked up to and respected.

WILLIAM F. MASON - p. 452a

     WILLIAM F. MASON, Secretary and Treasurer of the Martin Mason Brewing Company, was born in Hamilton, May 26, 1869.  Coming from an old and sturdy German stock, he received a rudimentary education in the public schools, but while yet a youth he adopted a business career and went through a thorough business training.  After a course in the

[Pg. 459]
W. A. Nichols' Commercial College, Mr. Mason was employed as book keeper in the well known H. P. Deuscher manufacturing establishment, where he remained for seven years, discharging his responsible duties with fidelity and promptitude.  When later the Eagle Brewery in West Hamilton was con ducted by Deuscher & Mason, William F. Mason became book keeper of that concern, and later under the well known management of the Martin Mason Brewing Company, in his joint capacity as secretary and treasurer, he has commanded. the attention of the business world and has discharged his duties with fine executive ability and capacity.  Mr. Mason is one of the most promising young business men in Hamilton, and has a bright future in store.

GEORGE BISDORF - p. 452a

     GEORGE BISDORF, one of Hamilton's best known and highly respected citizens, was born in Jesberg, Kreis Fritzlar, Hessen, Germany, July 24, 1835.  His parents were John and Mary (Rissel) Bisdorf.  In 1848 Mr. Bisdorf sailed from Bremen on the "Venkey," and after thirty-six days voyage, landed at Baltimore, Maryland.  Shortly afterwards he went to Philadelphia, thence to Wilmington, Delaware.  Later he came west and for several months worked in a mill at Cincinnati.  At this place he joined a party bound for San Francisco, by the overland route and during the next three years visited Pike's Peak, San Francisco, Texas and other points in the West.  Returning, he went to Chicago, and afterward spent several months cruising the Great Lakes.  In 1852 he came to Hamilton, where he has resided ever since.  In 1860 he married Miss Catherine Straher and they have an interesting family consisting of nine children and fourteen grandchildren.  Mr. Bisdorf is a staunch and active supporter of the Democratic party and this, together with his well known quality of devoting scrupulous care and attention to duty, has gained for him repeated honors.  In 1863 he was appointed Supervisor of the Second ward, in which capacity he served for four years.  In 1867 he was elected Constable of Fairfield Township, which then included Hamilton.   In 1873 he was elected Street Commissioner of the city of Hamilton, and

[Pg. 460]
served for two years.  In 1888 he was appointed janitor for the Court House, which position he now holds.  In 1882, Mr. Bisdorf's mother came to America and resided with her son, until her death in 1891, at the age of seventy-four years.  He has three brothers and three sisters living, of which one brother and one sister reside in this country.  Socially, Mr. Bisdorf is a member of the Hamilton lodge, F. and A. M. with which he has been connected for twenty-nine years.  Religiously he is a member of the St. John's church in which he holds the position of Ruling Elder.

     JAMES R. ELRICK, was born in Wheeling, West Virginia, Sept. 14, 1819.  His parents removed to Cincinnati in 1828, where they remained for two years.  May 21, 1830 they came to Hamilton, where our subject has resided ever since.  Mr. Elrick was educated in a private school in this city.  After completing his studies he learned the carpenter trade under the tutorship of his father, Jacob H. Elrick, who died Oct. 22, 1852. For a number of years Mr. Elrick has been engaged as a contractor and builder and is one of the finest workmen in the city.  Mar. 24, 1846, he married Mary L. Wood of this city.  As a result of this union, seven children were born of which two are now living.  Mr. Elrick is an old line Democrat and is well informed on the political issues.  His early residence here gave him an intimate acquaintance with the pioneers of fifty years ago, and he takes delight in recounting the early history of our city and county.

     JOSEPH B. BILLINGSLEA was born in Harford County, Maryland, July 26, 1843.  He received a common school education in his native county and in 1869 he came West and located at Princeton, Butler county, Ohio, where he followed huckstering for three years and butchering for a period of twelve years.  In 1883 he removed to Hamilton and engaged in the dairy business.  He began with a trade of less than five gallons of milk a day but by close attention and honest dealing he built up a large and paying business.  In 1888 he was elected as a Democrat to the office of Infirmary Director, serving with

[Pg. 461]
ability during 1889-90 and discharging his duties with honestly and fidelity.  Mr. Billingslea was married, Jan. 1, 1873 to Rebecca Clawson, a neice niece of the late Hon. Thomas Corwin and a most estimable woman.  Four children resulted from the union, three of whom survive, namely: Clara J., Celia and Stanley.  As a business man and as a citizen, Joseph B. Billingslea stands high in the community and enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him.  His word is as good as his bond and his integrity of character beyond reproach.

JOHN P. DAY - p. 460a

     JOHN P. DAY, one of the most prominent of Hamilton's mechanics, was born in Dover, Delaware, Dec. 17, 1860, where he received a good education.  Subsequently he went to Philadelphia and began learning the machinist's trade with William Sellars, one of the largest manufacturers in that city.  In 1887 he came to Hamilton and entered The Niles Tool Works as general foreman, in which capacity he has remained ever since and is still serving.  Mr. Day was elected member of the city council on the Republican ticket in 1893, serving two years, taking a prominent part in all public measures coming before the body and discharging his responsible duties with credit to himself and the entire satisfaction of his constituents.  He was married in 1879 to Effie M. Steel, of Philadelphia.  Socially, Mr. Day is a Knight of Pythias and an Elk.  He enjoys the confidence of his employers and the number of his friends is legion.

IN CONCLUSION

We here find it necessary to close the volume.  It has exceeded by one hundred and fifty pages the original estimate and agreement with our subscribers.  Its cost of publication has passed the thousand dollar limit, which has been secured by subscriptions alone.  Not a line, or any other amount, of paid matter has been used in the work.  The volume is already too large, when we take into consideration the size of the pages.  It is complete within itself.  But we know so much more of Hamilton's history which unavoidably could not be touched upon within the limits of the present volume, but which is of equal historic interest, that we are not satisfied to leave the subject in an unfinished condition. It will require a second volume to complete our history, which we will publish shortly and hope to receive that encouragement which we believe the undertaking is justly entitled to.

END OF VOLUME