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Hon. Wes1ey B. Hedding, who for many years has been a progressive and representative citizen of Midd1etown, was born at Milton, Northumberland county, Pa., in 1827, a son of William and Susan (Black) Hedding, and a grandson of William Hedding of New Jersey. The Black family originated in Ireland, while the father of Squire Hedding was born in Pennsylvania, and the parents came to Butler county in 1843, locating in Lemon township, where William Hedding continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits during the remainder of his life. Wesley B. Hedding was sixteen years of age when the family came to Butler county, and here his education was completed in the country schools, following which time he was engaged in farming. Subsequently he mastered the trade of blacksmith, and while following this vocation was appointed postmaster at Lesourdsville, Ohio, a position which he held for two years. Moving to Middletown at that time, he resumed his trade, and during the administration of President Buchanan was appointed United States deputy marshal, a capacity in which he took part in settling the difficulties with the negroes at Chillicothe. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the Union army for service during the Civil war, becoming a member of Company I, 83d Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and took part in many engagements, including the siege of Vicksburg and the fighting in the Gulf. After a brave and faithful service he was mustered out at Cincinnati, in 1865, and returned to Middletown, where he secured employment as a clerk in the grocery store of James H. Mitchell. Subsequently, he was with James P. Curtis for eighteen months, and was then connected with J. M. Johnson in the dry goods business for two years, and later for four years in the same line with Simon Goldman. During that time he was elected justice of the peace and held that position for a period of thirty-five years. His judgment, sagacity, knowledge of human nature and absolute sense of justice made Squire Hedding one of the most popular officials who ever discharged the duties of this office and brought to him public confidence and high esteem. Eventually, he was chosen mayor of Middletown, and his first term was followed by three re-elections. Every measure for the advancement of Middletown along material, social and intellectual lines received his endorsement and encouragement, and to him in no little degree are due a number of the advantages which the city now possesses. His means, advice and energy were often called upon and freely given in
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John L. Hedges began his career in Hamilton county in 1883 as an agriculturist and at the time of his death, in 1903, he was one of his community's prosperous and prominent agriculturists and a citizen who had high standing and reputation among his fellow-men. Mr. Hedges was born in Colerain township, Hamilton county, Ohio, a son of Stephen O. and Sarah (White) Hedges, and a grandson of Elias Hedges, who came to Ohio from Morristown, N. J., and whose grandson, Elias Hedges, jr., fought as a soldier in the Civil war. The children of Stephen O. and Sarah Hedges were: Elias, just mentioned; John L., of this notice; and Amelia, the widow of I. B. Willey. The education of John L. Hedges was acquired in the public schools, supplementing this by attendance at the select schools of his time and locality. When he put aside his schoolbooks, for several years he was his father's assistant in carrying on the work of the home place, but in 1883 founded a household of his own when he was united in marriage with Johanna, daughter of William and Mary (Kennedy) Curry. The parents of Mrs. Hedges were born in Limerick, Ireland, in which country they were married, and on their arrival in the United States settled near Evansville, Ind., but later moved to Crosby township, Hamilton county, Ohio, and then to Colerain county, where they passed the rest of their lives in agricultural pursuits. They were the parents of the following children: Michael, Patrick, Anna, Mary, John, Johanna, Ellen and William of whom Johanna, Mary and John survive. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hedges settled down to farming and so continued until the time of Mr. Hedges' death, which occurred September 23, 1903, burial being made at Venice cemetery. Mr. Hedges was a successful farmer and the owner of 220 acres of land, a part of which is still operated by Mrs. Hedges, who survives him in the midst of a circle of appreciative friends, having her own comfortable home at Venice. Throughout his life Mr. Hedges maintained a high reputation for honesty, public spirit and ability. He was a devout member of the Presbyterian church, to which faith Mrs. Hedges also belongs. She has reared two adopted daughters, Ruth and Margaret Taylor, the latter of whom is now the wife of Howard Carrol, superintendent of schools, at Mason, Ohio.
George H. Helvey. On the list of retired citizens of Hamilton
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Anthony J. Hemsteger. Among the most favorably known and comfortably circumstanced of the employees of the American Rolling mill at Middletown, is Anthony J. Hemsteger. He is one of the fortunate few representing this element of the community whose diligent exertions and good management have enabled them, while still in the prime of life, to enjoy the rewards of unremitting industry under conditions of sound health, contentment and freedom from care, while still discharging his duties as superintendent of the sheet mills at the central works of his company. Mr. Hemsteger was born at Pi qua, Ohio, April 3, 1877, a son of Joseph and Theresa (Dobmeyer) Hemsteger. His father was born in Germany and was still a lad when he accompanied his parents to the United States, the family settling at West Alexandria where Joseph Hemsteger became identified with the tailoring business. Later he moved to Piqua, Ohio, where his death was caused by an attack of the grippe, in 1889, but his widow survived him until August 29, 1902. They were the parents of twelve children, as follows: two who died in infancy; Joseph M. A., who died at the age of thirty-seven; Francis died at the age of six years; Benjamin, who died at the age of forty years; Louise, who died at Columbus, Ohio, in 1918; Clara, who is now Mrs. Michael Kramer, of Columbus, Ohio; Rose, who is unmarried and a resident of Columbus; Margaret, who married Richard Ferman, of Piqua; Mame, who married John Alexander of Dayton; Edward, of Columbus; and Anthony J., of this review. Anthony J. Hemsteger received his education in the Catholic schools of Piqua, Ohio, where, at the age of fourteen years, he entered the Third National bank, with which he continued to be identified until 1900. In that year he became identified with the American Sheet & Tin Plate company, at Piqua, and in 1911 was transferred to Middletown, where he associated himself with the American Rolling Mill company, as superintendent of the sheet mills at the central works, his present post, He is one of the most trusted of his company's employees and deserves the confidence in which he is held, for he is industrious, painstaking and thoroughly conscientious, as well as capable and competent in any matter which he undertakes. He is a Republican in his political affiliation and is a man of fine presence and very popular. With his family, he belongs to Holy Trinity Catholic church. April 19, 1896, Mr. Hemsteger married Florence
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Rollin J. Henley. From the unvarying hard daily work of a worker at a trade to the proprietorship of a flourishing and extensive business enterprise, from obscurity to prominence in the business world, and from dependence upon others to self-reliance and independence - these things form the advancement and progress made by Rollin J. Henley within the space of a few short years. At this time Mr. Henley is proprietor of the Modern Planing mill, at 318 N. B street, Hamilton, and occupies a place in the business world that has come to him as a result and reward of his own efforts. Mr. Henley was born at Straughn, Henry county, Ind., where he received a public school education, and as a young man learned the trade of carpenter with his father, Charles Henley, who was a carpenter at Straughn all his life and died at that place in 1900 at the age of fifty-six years. Charles Henley married Martha White, of Henry county, Ind., who now makes her home at Richmond, Ind. They had four sons and five daughters, but the only ones to come to Hamilton have been Rollin J. and his brother Claude, the latter of whom has always been a carpenter and is now carpenter foreman at Coke Otto, Ohio. Rollin J. Henley followed his trade at various places as a journeyman, and following nine years at Buffalo, N. Y., came to Hamilton in 1903. Here he entered the planing mill of S. D. Mayer, with whom he worked for a number of years, and in 1917 became its purchaser, this being his present property, known as the Modern Planing mill. This is a two story structure, 48x86 feet, and is operated by ten motors, one for each planer or machine. He manufactures sash, doors, screens, kitchen cupboards, china closets and high class mill and specialty work, and makes a specialty of automobile bodies, selling in seven different states. His mill is well equipped throughout with modern machinery, appliances and appurtenances, and his second floor is used as an assembling room. From a modest beginning, Mr. Henley has worked his way steadily upward to prosperity and has done so in a way that has gained and held for him the respect and esteem of his associates and business competitors alike. In August, 1903, Mr. Henley was united in marriage with Charlotte Voss, who was born at Williamsville, N. Y., and they are the parents of two daughters: Eliza Nora and Leota Beatrice. They are devout members of the Church of Christ. The pleasant family residence is located at No. 222 Millikin street, where they extend hospitality to their many friends. Mr. Henley maintains an independent stand in regard to politics, and has been too busy with his business affairs to be an aspirant for public honors. He has not, however, been indifferent to the responsibilities of citizenship and has been a supporter of all good and constructive movements which have secured the approval of his judgment. Fraternally, he is affiliated with the I. O. O. F. in its various branches, and Mrs. Henley belongs to the Rebekahs.
John Herberth, who is a representative citizen, successful
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Martin Hess. Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, seldom fails of success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulus to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are usually attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinary qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunity for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and for self-improvement. It is along such lines that Martin Hess had won a substantial position among the agriculturists of Butler county, where he is the owner of a valuable and well-cultivated farm on the Franklin road. Mr. Hess was born at Alexandria, Campbell county, Ky., December 6, 1875, a son of William and Catherine (Smith) Hess. His father, a native of Germany, emigrated to the United States as a youth of eighteen
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Jabez Hetzler. Since its establishment in Butler county at an early date in the history of this community, the vocation of agriculture has received decided impetus through the labor and good judgment of the members of the Hetzler family. The present representative of this family in Madison township, who possesses the same characteristics that established the reputation of the earlier residents bearing that name, is Jabez Hetzler, of section 35, who was born in this township, November 6, 1861, a son of Gideon G. and Susanna (Lehmer) Hetzler. The pioneer founder of this family in Butler county was the great-grandfather of Jabez Hetzler, Peter Hetzler, a son of George Hetzler of Pennsylvania, and himself a native of that state, who settled on, Brown's Run, in Madison township, and there passed the rest of his life in farming. The great-grandfather was a soldier of the Revolution, who fought in the battle of the Brandywine, and was the father of nine sons and five daughters. Peter Hetzler, the grandfather, and his wife Nancy, had three children: Nancy, who married Joseph Stout and lived at Union City, Ind.; Peter, who married Mollie Wagner and lived in Darke county, O.; and Gideon G. Gideon G. Hetzler lived for seventy-six years on the old homestead, all of his life, with the exception of two years spent at Canton, and died at the home of his son, Gideon, in Darke county. He was a man of exemplary
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Thomas V. Hicks. It is not unusual to find the men of a family following the same line of activity for several generations, inherited inclinations causing son to follow father in a given line of work until it has become a family tradition to be so engaged. In the case of Thomas V. Hicks, of Middletown, there is found an illustration of this fact, for the Hicks family, for more than 200 years, has been identified in some way with the iron industry, the present subject being connected with the American Rolling mill. The family originated in Machen, Monmouthshire, Wales, where for many years its members were well known. Mr. Hicks' great-grandfather was William Hicks, and his grandparents, James and Martha Hicks, the latter born in 1785, while his parents were Isaac and Mary Ann (Vigors) Hicks. Thomas V. Hicks was born in Wales, April 11, 1863, and was about six months old when brought to the United States, the family locating at Cleveland, where his father, a refiner of iron, found employment. He continued to follow his chosen vocation during the remainder of his life and died at Cleveland, November 20, 1893, Mrs. Hicks having passed away there April 30, 1880, Thomas V. Hicks received his education in the public schools of Cleveland, and as a youth adopted the family vocation, which he has
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George W. Hileman, whose operations are conducted on one of the splendid farms of Fairfield township, Butler county, finds not only profit but also special satisfaction in the enterprise which thus engages his attention, for the farm is not only known as one of the best of its area in the county but is also the old homestead of his father, John Hileman, in whom the ownership of the property is still vested. Due record concerning' the family is given in the sketch of the career of the father, on other pages of this volume, so that further review is not demanded in the present connection. George W. Hileman was born at Symmes Corner, Fairfield township, December 22, 1868, and in the schools of his native township he received his early educational discipline. Thereafter he continued to be associated with his father's farm activities until he had attained to his legal majority, when he initiated independent operations by renting a part of the Slade farm, upon which he remained two years. For the ensuing three years he rented a farm near Schenck station, and the next three years found him similarly engaged on the DeForest farm, which he rented. He then, in 1900, removed to his father's fine homestead farm, which comprises 107 acres, all available for effective cultivation with the exception of seven acres. Here Mr. Hileman is giving prolific exemplification of the success which is to be achieved through modern and scientific methods of farm enterprise, and he thus has a secure place as one of the representative agriculturists of his native township, the while he is known as a liberal and public-spirited citizen well worthy of the unqualified esteem that is reposed in him. He has had no ambition for the activities of practical politics but is found arrayed loyally in the local ranks of the Democratic party. The year 1898 recorded the marriage of Mr. Hileman to Miss Martha E. Beeler, daughter of John and Martha A. Beeler, well known residents of Butler county, and the supreme loss and bereavement in the life of Mr. Hileman came when his devoted wife passed to eternal rest, in 1912. She is survived by seven children: Ivy, Harry, Earl, Albert, Freda, Eva and
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John S. Hileman, a retired farmer residing at Symmes Corner, Butler county, has long been associated with agricultural industry in this his native, county, and he is now one of the venerable and honored native sons of the county. John S. Hileman was born in Fairfield township, Butler county, November 14, 1842, and is a son of John and Nancy (Smiley) Hileman. The father was also born in this county, and the mother claimed Pennsylvania as the place of her nativity. John Hileman not only developed a productive farm in this county but also followed his trade, that of blacksmith, for a long period of years. Of the children the subject of this review is the eldest; and the names of the others are here given in respective order of birth: William, Mrs. Eliza Claybaugh, James, Mrs. Mary Miller and Daniel. John S. Hileman gained his initial farm experience in Butler county, and while he thus assisted in the work of the home farm he did not neglect the advantages that were offered in the common schools of the locality and period. His marriage was solemnized in 1866 and he and his young wife established their home at Symmes Corner. Later he engaged in farming on rented land, and finally he purchased a farm near Fairplay, where he continued his successful activities as an agriculturist and stock grower for many years. In 1900 Mr. Hileman and wife removed to their present attractive home at Symmes Corner, a pleasant little rural community in which they established their residence. He recently sold his farm, comprising 107 acres and known as one of the excellent places of Fairfield township. His political allegiance is given to the Republican party and he and his wife have been liberal in the support of religious work in their community. They are venerable representatives of pioneer families of the beautiful Miami valley, and their gracious and unassuming lives have won to them a host of friends. The year 1866 recorded the marriage of Mr. Hileman to Lydia Ellen Applegate, and their devoted companionship has thus continued during a period of more than half a century. Mrs. Hileman is a daughter of Hamilton and Olivia (Whelan) Applegate, both of whom were born and reared in Hamilton county, this state. The father was a potter by trade and for a number of years he operated a pottery in Mercer county. Of the children Mrs. Hileman is the eldest; John O. was next in order of birth; Catherine is the wife of Joseph Pierson; and Aaron and Margaret are deceased. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Hileman are George, who is a prosperous farmer in Fairfield township, married Martha E. Beeler, and they have seven children: Ivy, Harry, Earl, Ada, Freda, Albert and Eva. Earl was in active service with the American Expeditionary Force in France during the World war, and likewise saw service in connection with war activities in Italy. Charles is a substantial farmer in Fairfield township, married Alida Pfeiffer, and they have one child, Naomi. Benjamin, who is also connected with agricultural industry in Fairfield township, wedded Miss Olive Coombs, and they have two children, Echo and Edith. Burton, who resides at
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Thomas Hincks. For industry, skill in workmanship and fidelity to his company's interests, the American Rolling Mill company's list of employees contains no name more worthy of mention than that of Thomas Hincks, who during the period of his employment at Middletown has proven faithful to every trust imposed in him. He is a native of Manchester, England, and a son of Moses and Susan (Bristow) Hincks, who still survive. Mr. Hincks was a young man when he came to the United States and was variously employed at his trade until coming to Middletown, when he became a roller in the plant of the American Rolling mill, a position which he has since held. He is a Knight Templar Mason, is liberal in his political views, and, with his family, belongs to the Episcopal church. In 1917 he erected a handsome dwelling at the corner of Third and Monroe streets, where he entertains his numerous friends with lavish hospitality. Christmas Day, 1891, Mr. Hincks was united in marriage with Hannah Jane, daughter of George and Ellen (Robson) Davis, the former of whom died in June, 1891, and the latter November 17, 1.908. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hincks; Helen, who married Ralph A. Kerschbaum, and who is in the employ of the C. & R. R. R.; Susanna, who married Francis E. Williams, who was with the Motor Transport Corps at Camp Sherman for twelve months; George, who entered the United States Army in 1918 as a member of the Thirteenth Service Company of Aviators, at Camp Vail, N. J., George, after spending some fourteen months in this service, became a student in the Detroit (Mich.) university. Francis E. Williams, son-in-law of Mr. Hincks, also saw like service in the aviation corps at Camp Vail, N. J.; and Mabel and Thomas, jr., who reside with their parents. Francis E. Williams is a son of Frank H. and Dica (Keplinger) Williams, who came from Morrow to Middletown, Ohio, in 1892. He has three sisters: Fern, the wife of Porter Beekman; Mildred and Muriel.
Gustav Hinkle, the owner of the old Petry farm, in Reily township, and a man esteemed for his integrity and good citizenship, was born near Darrtown, Ohio, January 7, 1869, a son of Charles and Lena (Baldwin) Hinkle, natives of Germany. The mother of Mr. Hinkle came to the United States when a child, with her parents, the family settling near Trenton, Ohio, in which community she met and married Charles Hinkle, who had emigrated to America in company with his brother. Following their union, the parents located near Darrtown, and there the father passed away in 1877. His widow survived him until 1904, and at the time of her death was one of the highly esteemed women of her community. There were
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Benjamin Hinkle. The present generation has little conception of the great obstacles which had to be overcome by the farmers of a half a century or more ago, or appreciation of the changes that have taken place in agricultural methods, and which have transformed farm life to such an extent that today it offers greater inducements than at any previous time in the world's history. Butler county has a most interesting history, made equally so by the pioneers and those who came after them, and a family that has been important from pioneer times and has played its part in the development of the county is that of Hinkle, which is honorably represented by the venerable Benjamin Hinkle of West Middletown. Mr. Hinkle was born in Butler county, Ohio, December 24,1827, and represents one of the pioneer families of the state, to which his paternal grandfather came during the closing years of the eighteenth century, before Ohio had been admitted to the Union. Joseph Hinkle, father of Benjamin, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1787, and five years later was brought to Ohio, where he passed the remainder of his life, dying July 3, 1881, the day President Garfield was shot. He was well versed in Indian lore and customs, having passed the early portion of his life in Ohio at a time when the Indians were more in evidence than the white settlers. The grandfather of Benjamin Hinkle was a half brother of the noted inventor, Robert Fulton. Four of his father's brothers were soldiers of the War of 1812, and his step-grandfather, Gabriel Hutchins, was in the Revolutionary war.
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Clarence A. Hoelle. Never before in the annals of American history has the farmer come into his own so thoroughly and emphatically as at the present time, for the tension of the great World war proved conclusively the inestimable value of his productive service, which post-war conditions still further enhance. Butler county, Ohio, is fortunate in claiming a fine contingent of enterprising and progressive young disciples of husbandry, and of these aggressive exponents of farm enterprise in these exigent times Clarence A. Hoelle is a prominent representative of Fairfield township, where he is conducting successful operation on the old Grey farm, of 112 acres. He removed to this place in the summer of 1919 and here is demonstrating his splendid capacity for productive farm enterprise. As a public-spirited citizen he takes loyal interest in community affairs, his political support being given to the Democratic party and both he and his wife being active communicants of
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Henry Hoelle. Ross township, Butler county, Ohio, is noted for its large number of farms of comparatively small acreage and in most instances these have become popularly known because of their excellent productivity. It is a well-known fact that many farmers much prefer to own small-sized farms, every acre of which is given the most critical attention, than to have a farm of hundreds of acres which is not so well cared for. It has been shown that a large percentage of the small acreage farms are more desirable from the standpoint of crop yield and financial returns from investment than the more extensive tracts, furthermore the farmer is relieved if the countless worries which invariably are associated with large land holdings. Among the Ross township agriculturists who has achieved most enviable results with his comparatively small acreage is Henry Hoelle. Although his holdings consist of but fifty-five acres he has developed each and everyone of these to the highest stage of productivity and those familiar with agricultural affairs in that section assert that he has one of the most desirable of the numerous small farms to be found in the township. Incidentally, it might be stated that Mr. Hoelle is thoroughly enthused over his acres and has the greatest faith in their future as producers. It is said of him that he is typical of the Ohio agriculturist who gets results, as he is untiring in his efforts at all times and realizes that hard and faithful work is the determining factor in bringing about success. He was born
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Timothy Hoelle maintains due relative precedence as one of the vigorous farmers of the younger generation in his native county, where he conducts successful operations on a well improved farm of 125 acres, known as the Tischner place and eligibly situated in Fairfield township, Butler county. Here he gives his attention to diversified agriculture, besides which he raises a due complement of live stock, as a proper adjunct to his enterprise. He established his residence upon this farm in 1917, soon after his marriage, and here his activities demonstrate his business ability, as well as his thorough and comprehensive knowledge of the policies best adapted to farm industry in this section of the Buckeye state. Mr. Hoelle was born in Ross township, Butler county, November 28, 1894, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Hogan) Hoelle, the former a native of the city of Hamilton, Ohio, and the latter of Ross township, Butler county. The father has given his entire active life to farm enterprises and he and his wife now reside on their farm in Union township, Butler county, both being earnest communicants of St. Mary's Catholic church at Hamilton and his political allegiance being given to the
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A. W. C. Hoffman, who is serving in his second term as clerk of Butler county, is well known in business circles at Hamilton, where he has filled positions of responsibility for many years. Mr. Hoffman was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, October 11, 1873. His parents were Christian and Louise (Phillips) Hoffman. Both were born in Germany, came young to the United States and were married in this country. Until the death of the father, in 1875, the family lived in Cincinnati, where he followed the tinner's trade, when the mother and two children, A. W. C. and Carrie, came to Hamilton and the mother died in this city. A. W. C. Hoffman obtained his education in the public schools of Hamilton, and a commercial college, after which he was a clerk in the dry goods store of T. V. Howell, then entered the First National bank in a clerical capacity and remained five years. Mr. Hoffman then became bookkeeper for the American Malting company and continued with that corporation for twenty-one years. In 1916 he was elected county clerk, on the Democratic ticket, assumed the duties of the office in 1917, and was shown approval of his administration of the office by re-election. In 1902 Mr. Hoffman married Miss Sadie, daughter of Valentine and Marie Becker, of Hamilton, in which city Mr. Becker followed the trade of a cabinet maker. Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman have the following children: Robert B., William E., Louise K., Ruth C., and Richard E., the two older sons being students in the high school. Mr. Hoffman and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. During the late war, he was active in promoting many patriotic movements, giving time, money and effort. He is identified with the order of Eagles, Knights of Pythias, Loyal Order of Moose, Monkey Mutual Aid and also the Modern Woodmen, and takes an active interest in the West Side Aid association. The family resides at No. 401 Miller avenue, Hamilton.
Conrad Hoffman, who is an experienced and successful farmer in Union township, Butler county, has been a resident of the United States for thirty-six years and during all that time has followed an
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Jacob Hoffman. The fertile agricultural community of Wayne township, Butler county, has a capable and highly respected representative in the person of Jacob Hoffman, who rents and farms 273 acres of highly cultivated land and has been a resident of Butler county all his life. He was born on a farm two and one-half miles south of Miamisburg, Ohio, June 26, 1861, a son of Adolph and Margaret (Agney) Hoffman, natives of Germany. The parents of Mr. Hoffman came to the United States as young people, single, and met and were married in Mercer county, Ohio. There Adolph Hoffman carried on operations on a farm which had been purchased him by his father, and, being a hard-working man, made a success of his labors. He died in 1917 in the faith of the Lutheran church, of which Mrs. Hoffman, who is likewise deceased, was also a member. He was a Democrat in politics and a man who had in full degree the respect and esteem of his neighbors. There were five children in the family, namely: Phoebe, who married Charles Krauth of Trenton, Ohio; Jacob, of this review; Frank, a resident of Miamisburg, an engineer by vocation; Margaret, who married Albert Fornshell, of Miamisburg; and Charlotte, who lives with her brother, Jacob. Jacob Hoffman had only a limited education as he was expected to furnish his father with much assistance in his boyhood and youth, and a great deal of hard work fell to his lot. Until he was eighteen years of age he remained under the parental roof, and then left home and began working out among the farmers of his locality. In 1892 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Truster, of Wayne township, a daughter of Lewis Truster, a sketch of whose career will be found on another page of this volume. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman: Clarence J., Elmer A., Paul, Clyde,
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George H. Holbrock. In a single room on the present site of the Hotel Howell, at Hamilton, there was founded February 1, 1888, a modest but ambitious dry goods business. The personnel of the firm whose foresight and good judgment led them to choose Hamilton as the scene of their activities, included two brothers, George H. and William G. Holbrock, who had previously had some small experience as merchants. From this unassuming beginning has been developed the great business enterprise known as Holbrock Brothers, now the leading dry goods establishment of Hamilton and one of the most prominent of the city's business institutions. George H. Holbrock, senior member of the firm, was born February 15, 1865, at Hamilton, a son of John H. and Mary Ann (Schumacher) Holbrock, early settlers of Hamilton. The father, a shoemaker by trade, arrived from the East at Cincinnati in 1847 and in 1854 came to Hamilton, where, two years later, he established himself in the boot and shoe business at No. 112 South Third street. He became one of Hamilton's highly respected citizens and honored business men, and continued to be identified with the same business until his retirement, and both he and Mrs. Holbrock are now deceased. They were the parents of five children, of whom three survive: George H., of this notice; Mary, the wife of Henry Segers, living at Hamilton; and John J., who carries on the shoe business founded by his father, at the same address. George H. Holbrock attended the parochial school of St. Stephen's Church, and prepared himself for a commercial career by a course at Nichols Business college, where he was a student three years. He entered upon his career in the same line as that which he now follows, dry goods, being apprenticed to William O. Shank for five years. Next, he became connected with the Alms-Doepke company, of Cincinnati, where he remained four years, with varying degrees of success. Returning to Hamilton, he embarked in business, February 1, 1888, with his brother, William G., under the firm style of Holbrock Brothers. As previously noted, the first store of this concern was located on the present site of the Hotel Howell, but after three years the store was moved to more desirable quarters in the old Riley block, where they continued to occupy one room. The chief capital of the concern at the time of its founding had been the ambition and inherent energy of its members, but as time passed they were able to accumulate further resources, and when an increase in business warranted were able to take over the room adjoining, which had been formerly occupied by Mrs. Sue Lorentz, a milliner. Business continued to be prosperous, more stock was added, and as a result more space was needed, and the brothers secured the corner room, which had been occupied by Ike Hirsch. Following this they took the rear room, now occupied by the Postal Telegraph company, and this proved to be sufficient
their numerous friends. As a fraternalist, Mr. Hogan is an interested and active member of the local lodges of the Knights of Columbus, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Loyal Order of Moose. Mrs. Hogan is the possessor of a beautiful voice and sang in public when she was a mere girl. The children have inherited the talents of their mother.
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John J. Holbrock. In the boot and shoe establishment now conducted by John J. Holbrock, at Hamilton, Ohio, there is found an establishment that has handed down its policy and traditions from father to son and which has been located at Hamilton for a period of sixty-three years. During this time the methods under which it has been conducted and the principles which have guided its operation have been of a character to gain and hold friends and patrons and the same high quality of workmanship and service still maintain that did when the honored founder of this business first threw open the doors of his modest establishment and solicited the custom of the little town in which he was a new arrival. John J. Holbrock was born November 25, 1860, at Hamilton, a son of John H. and Mary Ann (Schumacher) Holbrock, early settlers of Butler county, where they were destined to become highly respected and well-to-do people. John H. Holbrock had arrived at Cincinnati in 1847, and seven years later pushed on to the little town of Hamilton, where he thought he saw better opportunities for a man of small capital, and where he felt that he could grow up with the community and develop himself with its development. He was in the village two years before he established himself in business as the proprietor of a small boot and shoe store, this being located at No. 112 South Third street. While additions have been made and more space taken in, the location has always remained the same, and the establishment has come to be looked upon as a landmark. Mr. Holbrock the elder, was content to follow this line of business throughout his life, and, aside from his home, few other interests ever attracted him. He did not care for public life, although a man of keen intelligence and thoroughly informed as to the leading questions of the day. When he passed away there was lost to Hamilton a good citizen who had been honest and honorable in all his dealings and who had contributed to its commercial upbuilding a substantial and reliable business house. He and his wife were the parents of five children, three of whom survive, as follows: George H., one of Hamilton's leading dry goods merchants, a sketch of whose career will be found on another page of this work; Mary, who is the wife of Henry Segers, a cigarmaker of Hamilton; and John J., of this notice. John J. Holbrock received ordinary educational advantages in his youth, as a student at St. Stephen's parochial school, and when it came to a choice of vocations he allied himself to the business which his father had always followed. Under the elder man's skilled and kindly preceptorship he learned the shoemaker's trade in all its details and particulars, and was later rewarded for his industry and energy by being taken into partnership. When his father in his declining years retired from active affairs, John J. Holbrock purchased the business from him, thus succeeding to the ownership, which he has never relinquished. The little establishment founded so many years ago has developed into an enterprise of pretentious proportions, taking in two store fronts, at 110 and 112 South Third street, and carrying a full line of up-to-
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William L. Hollenbaugh, one of the very successful general farmers of Madison township, has long been regarded as an excellent representative of the best class of agriculturists of Butler county, but was for some years equally prominent as an educator, and is a very well informed man. He was born at Farmersville, Ohio, November 22, 1864, a son of William and Caroline (Sheets) Hollenbaugh. William Hollenbaugh was born in Schuylkill county, Pa., a son of Michael Hollenbaugh, also natives of Schuylkill county, Pa., who died at Pine Grove, Pa., married Elizabeth Cook, who was brought to Farmersville at the age of eighteen years, and there died. Michael Hollenbaugh and his wife had the following children: Daniel, William, John, Emerel, Kate, Sophia and Lydia. Of the above named children, William Hollenbaugh, the father of William L. Hollenbaugh received but few educational advantages, his attendance at school being limited to thirteen days at an English speaking school, and three months at one taught in German, but he always sought knowledge from books, and accumulated what was then considered a very large library. He remained at home until his marriage, learning the shoemaking trade and he also learned to make pumps, and manufactured quite a number by hand. Late in life, he acquired a small farm on Twin creek, where he died in 1900, aged eighty-four years, his wife passing away in 1893, aged sixty-nine years. They both belonged to the Lutheran church. The children born to them were as follows: Daniel, a self-made man, is now a retired farmer of Farmersville, Ohio; Priscilla, who died in 1884, was Mrs. Levi Stoneroad; Joseph, who is a farmer of Whitley county, Ind.; Susan, who is Mrs. John Brandenburg, lives near West Elkton, Ohio; Ella, who is Mrs. Charles Stanton, lives at Mercersburg, Ohio; William L., whose name heads this review; J. F., who is a farmer of Preble county, Ohio, and two children who died in infancy. Caroline (Sheets) Hollenbaugh, the mother of William L. Hollenbaugh, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, a daughter of Jacob Sheets, who was born at Lebanon, Pa., but carne with his wife, also a native of Lebanon, to Montgomery county, Ohio, at an early day, and located at Farmersville, where he operated a farm and kept a blacksmith shop. Both are now deceased, he passing away in 1870. After the death of his first wife, he was married (second) to a Miss Long. The children of Jacob Sheets were as follows: Henry, Solomon, William, John, Samuel, David, Amos, Caroline, Susan, Maria, Lizzie, Catherine, Lydia, and four who died in childhood. William L. Hollenbaugh attended the schools of his native township, he being in the Shafer district, and then he spent sixty weeks
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Hollmeyer Brothers. For more than a half a century there has existed at Oxford, Ohio, a business which has been conducted under a policy of fair and honorable dealing, and which, working upon such a principle, has secured and held the confidence and patronage of the buying public. This business, known as Hollmeyer Brothers, dealers in all kinds of fresh and salt meats, fish, oysters, game and poultry, is now owned and conducted by Henry F. J. and Charles W. Hollmeyer, brothers. This business was started by their father, the late Henry F. Hollmeyer, who was one of Oxford's early business men and a man universally esteemed and respected. Henry F. Hollmeyer was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1839, and was a twenty-year-old youth when he emigrated alone to the United States and located in Cincinnati. In his native country he had been employed on a large stock farm, but on his arrival here, having no means wherewith to back him, had to accept such employment as he could get, at first being a common laborer. Later he came to Oxford, where his knowledge of stock secured him employment at the old
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Rev. S. K. Holtsinger. Where eminent abilities and unblemished integrity, combined with unimpeachable virtue, derivable from the daily practice of religion and piety, contribute to adorn the character of an individual, then it is most proper to be prominently set forth as an example to those who would make themselves useful to the rest of mankind. In the life of the late Rev. S. K. Holtsinger there was presented a lesson of zeal, religious fervor and unselfish service that should be beneficial to the youths of any community. This reverend gentleman, who for over thirty years ministered to the spiritual wants of the people of Sharonville and nearby communities in Butler county, was born at Greeneville, Greene county, Tenn., December 22, 1839, a son of Rev. John P. and Nackey (Roberts) Holtsinger, the former a native of Tennessee and the latter of Maryland. The father, who was a minister of the Presbyterian
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John A. Holzberger. Prominent on the list of names of those who have contributed to the civic betterment of Hamilton by faithful, conscientious and constructive public service, is found that of John A. Holzberger. Mr. Holzberger has worked his way up from the ranks, and his career is one that is eminently worthy of emulation, as it indicates the high awards in position attainable through properly directing one's activities both as to personal affairs and in the larger life of the community in general. Ex-Mayor Holzberger was born October 8, 1871, at Hamilton, a son of John and Catherine (Eiler) Holzberger, who were early settlers of Butler county. The father, who received an ordinary education, learned the trade of blacksmith and followed it until his death at the age of thirty-eight years, but the mother still survives. There were nine children in the family, as follows: Anna, the wife of Charles Brannon, of Hamilton, with four children; Sallie, the wife of Daniel Wheaton, of Cincinnati; Mary, the wife of John Held of Hamilton, with four children; Elizabeth, deceased, who married William Seiffert and had one child, also deceased; Minnie, who married Louis Saurber of Hamilton, and had one child, now deceased; Fred, of Akron, who married Mary Stephens, and has two children; William and Peter, who are deceased; and subject. John A. Holzberger received his education in the country schools, and owing to the early death of his father it was necessary that he begin early to assist in his own support. Accordingly for several years he was variously engaged at whatever honest employment presented itself, but eventually he realized that such methods were not enabling him to make any definite progress, and in 1891 he applied himself to learning the plumbing business, under John P. Henn. Having mastered his trade, he worked thereat until April, 1898, at which time he received recognition by the appointment to the position of superintendent of streets and sewers of Hamilton. This appointment nearly cost him his life, for it was while he was working in his official capacity that in the flood of 1898 he was trapped and imprisoned in the sewer pumping station, where he was only rescued after forty-eight hours without food or drink. At the expiration of his term of service, Mr. Holzberger purchased a cafe from E. H. Heckerman, on Front and High streets, and conducted it for twelve and one-half years. During the time he was thus engaged as a business man, he was elected councilman-at-
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Harry J. Honerlaw. In many ways Union township is a prosperous agricultural section of Butler county, one reason being that intelligent men of practical farm experience are here bending every effort to add to production. Such substantial farmers and right-thinking men as Harry J. Honerlaw are men who pay close attention to their business and the results that follow are not only profitable to themselves but also to the country at large. Harry J. Honerlaw was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, January 21, 1888, son of Henry and Mary Honerlaw, and grandson of Joseph Honerlaw, who was the founder of the family in Ohio. Mr. Honerlaw attended the public schools in Hamilton county, after which he assisted his father on the home farm until his own marriage, then, for a time operated a farm of 100 acres, moving then to the Baker farm in Union township, Butler county. One year later he came to the Howard farm, which contains 122 acres, and this he has operated very profitably for five years, giving attention to both crop and stock raising. In 1913, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry and Sophia Wintrong, and they have two children, Robert and Daniel. Mr. and Mrs. Honerlaw belong to the Catholic church. In politics he is a Democrat. Herman Honerlaw, who is a representative citizen and very substantial agriculturist of Butler county, belongs to an old Ohio family that was established in Hamilton county by his grandfather, Joseph Honerlaw, who came to Cincinnati from Germany, when twenty-two years old. Herman Honerlaw was born at Reading, Hamilton county, January 24, 1883, son of Henry and Mary Honerlaw, who had five more children, namely: Joseph, Kate, Harry, Adelaide and Allie. Both parents were born in Hamilton county and during his entire active life the father was a farmer there or in Butler county. He now lives retired at Deer Park. Herman Honerlaw
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Walter Horning, a farmer, of Fairfield township, Butler county, Ohio, was born in Bavaria, November 5, 1850, a son of Louis and Caroline Weise, also of Bavaria, who came to America in 1850, located in Hanover township, Butler county, Ohio. For four years the father worked in the saw mill of George Tobias, and then farmed for the same person for a number of years. He died in 1888 at the age of fifty-nine years; the wife dying in 1909, aged eighty years. They were members of the St. John's Lutheran church at Hamilton. There were nine children in the family: Walter, subject of this sketch; Michael, a gardener at Lindenwald, Ohio, married Annie Henning; Catharine, Mrs. Philip Weiland, of Hamilton; George, farmer in Clermont county, Ohio; Henry, farmer in Kansas; Annie, Mrs. John Schwab, of Reily township, Butler county; Paulina, unmarried, in Fairfield township; Jacob, farmer, of Fairfield township; Emma, Mrs. Charles Funstine, of Fairfield township. Walter Horning, subject of this sketch, attended the public schools and in addition was a student in the Lebanon Normal school for two years. After leaving school, he remained at home up to his marriage in 1879 to Mary Rahmes, daughter of John and Barbara (Fichter) Rahmes. For seven years following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Horning lived in Port Union, Ohio, and then went to LaBette county, Kans., where they remained for some time when they concluded to return to Fairfield township, and after a twenty-two years' tenancy, purchased the old homestead - the John Rahmes place - which continues to be their home. Mr. Horning has always been a farmer, and has achieved considerable success in this line. At present he is conducting a general farming and mixed stock business. To Mr. and Mrs. Horning eight children have been born: Annie, Mrs. Eugene Rau, lives in Cincinnati, has two children, Norbert and Stanley Walter; Lenora, wife of Stephen Jackson, a farmer of Fairfield township, they have one son, Paul Stephen; John, conducts a confectionery in Cincinnati; Carl, a
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Albert Hossfeld. A business which, established in a small way, has been developed to large proportions under the favoring conditions offered by Hamilton for advancement, as well as through the good judgment, sterling ability and sound business sense of its owners, is the C. Hossfeld & Son company, a concern now nearly fifty-five years old. The present directing head of this large business is Albert Hossfeld, who was born at Hamilton, a son of Charles and Ida (Muller) Hossfeld. His parents were born in Germany, where they were reared and educated, and were married there September 13, 1864, the father at that time being twenty-six years of age and the mother twenty-two. The day following that of their marriage they started for the United States, and first located at Indianapolis, where they remained one year. Coming then to Hamilton, they established a combined grocery and liquor business, but later the grocery was abandoned, and the father continued in charge of the liquor business until his death, March 7, 1906. Charles Hossfeld was content to devote himself to his business and his home and never mixed in public affairs. He and his wife were the parents of seven daughters and one son, as follows: Minnie, who has never married; Albert; Anna, the wife of Otto Metzner of Cincinnati, with one child; Clara, who died at the age of twenty-nine years; Gusta; Eda, a resident of Hamilton; Lina, also of this city; and Lotta, the wife of Fred Mueller, the well known Hamilton architect, with two children. After completing his studies in the Hamilton graded schools, Albert Hossfeld entered the business with his father, for whom he worked until 1894, at that time being accepted as a partner in the business. In 1904 the firm was incorporated as the C. Hossfeld & Son Co., and since the death of the father, in 1906, the same name has been retained, it being well known in trade circles as that of a strictly reliable and trustworthy concern. In 1907, under the direction of Albert Hossfeld, the large building on Second street, between Court and Ludlow streets, of which the Hamilton hotel is a part, was erected, and is still owned by the corporation. Mr. Hossfeld is one of Hamilton's aggressive, progressive and alert business men, who has impressed his abilities upon his associates in a way that has made them place the utmost confidence in his judgment, foresight and acumen. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Elks and United Commercial Travelers. He is unmarried and lives with his mother at her home on South D street.
Jacob Hossfeld. Among the citizens of Reily township none is more deserving of representation in this volume than Jacob Hossfeld, who has for years been connected with the hotel and agricultural interests of this section of Butler county and who has through well-directed efforts, gained a handsome competence that
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Oliver H. House. One of the important divisions of the plant of the American Rolling Mill, at Middletown, is that known as the masonry department, the work of which is exacting and calls for directing ability of more than ordinary calibre. The supervision of the work of this department is at present in safe hands, being in charge of Oliver H. House, who throughout a long and active career has been identified with work similar to that which attaches to his present position. He has been identified with his present concern seven years, has formed enduring relations both with those in charge of the business and with his associates at the plant. Mr. House was born in Wheeling, W. Va., March 26, 1865, a son of John William and Margaret (Rodus) (Horton) House, the former a native of Lancaster, Pa., and the latter of Minersville, that state, and both now deceased. John W. House was a brick manufacturer by vocation, and was well known to the trade of the Keystone state as a man of integrity and sound business sagacity. There were four children in the family: Oliver H.; George L.; Nora, the wife of Ala Montgomery; and Emma, the wife of William Baughman. Mr. House's brother and sisters are all residents of Braddock, Pa. The education of Oliver H. House was secured in the public schools of his native state, following which he became associated with his father in the manufacture of brick at Braddock, Pa. Later he entered the same line of business on his own account, and in this connection came into associations that brought him in contact with the rolling mill business. In 1912 he was called to the American Rolling Mill at Middletown, to take the position of superintendent of the masonry department, a post which he has held to the present time, and in which he has discharged his duties in an entirely efficient and satisfactory manner. Mr. House was married April 5, 1888, to Gertrude Murphy, daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Hambelton) Murphy, of Morgantown, W. Va., and to this union there have been born three children: Maude, who is the wife of Thomas Needham, of Middletown; Harry B., contractor and builder, of Whitaker, Pa., and Oliver H., jr., who is attending school at Middletown. Mrs.
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Joseph C. Hubner, retired construction engineer, was born in Flushing, L. I., son of John and Clara Hubner. He received his education in the public schools of Flushing and at the Wright Polytechnic institute, of Brooklyn, N. Y., specializing in mechanical and hydraulic engineering. From 1890 to 1896, he engaged his services to the Westinghouse company, in the installation of electric power plants throughout the country. Early in his career, a very important task was committed to his supervision - the installation of a power plant at Niagara Falls and the success of the undertaking is in itself sufficient testimonial as to the thorough mastery of his profession by Mr. Hubner. Subsequent to this, he built the plant for the Coke-Otto company, at Hamilton, Ohio, and was also construction engineer of the Zenith Furnace company, of Duluth, Minn., vice-president and general manager of the Lake Superior Dredging company. He did a large amount of Government river and harbor work, among the most important of which was: Constructed the channel through Galveston to Texas City; Hanna Coal Dock and Y. & L. coal dock at Duluth; channel work at Duluth; Superior entry at Duluth; channel work at Houghton; channel work at Sault Ste Marie; construction work at Sandusky, Ohio; tunnel and channel at Erie, Pa.; work on Lake St. Clair Channel; Georgia Bay Channel work. In 1889, Mr. Hubner was married to Louise M. Reiss, who through the years has proved a real companion and a true helpmate. In 1896 Mr. G. F. Reiss and J. C. Hubner purchased a country residence in Fairfield township, and Mr. Hubner makes his home there. On this estate there has recently been completed the construction of a Dutch Colonial residence, a beautiful innovation in this style of architecture. It is complete in every particular and is undoubtedly one of the most handsome and attractive homes in Butler county. Mr. Hubner has had an active life, replete with responsibility and hard work, but by his determination and intense energy, he achieved success to which he was justly entitled, and through the years of his retirement he will retain the esteem and good-will of his almost numberless friends. A genial, whole-souled man, noted for his loyalty to his former employees, many of whom he has helped to a competency, his chief interest now is in their welfare, and information of their success and achievements is to him a pleasure and delight.
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John J. Huffman, retired mill man and landowner in Fairfield township, Butler county, Ohio, was born January 23, 1853, in Fairfield township, son of Tobias and Mary Huffman, who were born and raised in Virginia, and on first coming to Ohio, located in Pi qua after which they moved near Mt. Pleasant, Ohio. After a residence of four years in the last-named place, they came to Fairfield township and bought seventy acres of land to which were soon added eighteen more acres, the land costing $20 an acre. The only improvements on the place were a log cabin and stable. An exceedingly small portion was cleared, and that in a very unsatisfactory manner. It was not a very encouraging outlook, but Mr. Huffman started in a small way, put in long hours, worked extremely hard and ultimately achieved the most gratifying success. He was a man widely-known and greatly respected, and an ardent Republican. Both Mr. and Mrs. Huffman were members of the Christian church, and both died on the place, he at the age of eighty-four years, and she at eighty. They had ten children, and of the family, our subject is the only one now living. One child died at the age of seven; Martha, Mrs. Thomas Huffman; Amanda, Mrs. Jacob Dittmore; Robert, farmer on Pleasant Run, never married; Solomon, farmer, married Mollie Strife; Sarah, twin of Solomon, never married; Paul, farmer, married Amy Dittmore; Israel, farmer, never married; Aaron, farmer, married Caroline Schmutsfel; John, subject of this sketch. John Huffman received his education at the Rieser school, which was the public school for the district in which the Huffman family lived. He remained at home until he had attained the age of thirty-five years, when he married Anna Springer, of Fairfield township, daughter of Peter Springer. Peter Springer and wife were natives of Germany, and on coming to this country, located in Fairfield township, and engaged in farming. They were members of the Mennonite church and very excellent people. They had five children: Joseph, deceased, a farmer, never married; Anna, Mrs. Huffman, wife of our subject; Mary, Mrs. George Rahmes, of Pleasant run, Ohio; Barbara, unmarried, lives on Pleasant run; Chris., a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume, lives on the home place. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Huffman moved into the handsome place which continues to be their home, a tract of eighteen acres located in Fairfield township. It was purchased and improved by Mr. Huffman solely for a home, and nothing was withheld that would add to the appearance and beauty of the place or the comfort and convenience of its occupants. To this couple three children have been born: Abram, died in infancy; Joseph, farmer, at home; Clara, Mrs. Peter Trigiser, of Venice, Ohio, has a son, Herbert. Probably few men in his vicinity are better known than is Mr. Huffman and every acquaintance is his warm friend. His long residence, his genial disposition, his successful career have impressed the community in such way that he will long be respected and remembered. Mr. Huffman has had a very active and busy life. For thirty-eight years he followed threshing and for an additional twenty-two years conducted a sawmill, neither of which callings is in the slightest way disconnected
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Elijah and Samuel K. Hughes. The eastern part of Butler county was settled largely by people from Maryland. Among the earliest to come was Elijah Hughes. Mr. Hughes located at what is now Hughes station. He was a blacksmith by trade, and at once built a shop which he conducted for many years. He acquired a large tract of land, and reared a large family. The children were Eliza, who married Simeon Matson; Daniel, who acquired a large tract of valuable land, and was well known in Butler county as a successful farmer and stock raiser; Micajah, who assisted in organizing and was the first president of The First National bank of Hamilton, which position he held until his death; Christopher, who was very prominent in politics, and who served in the Ohio legislature; Philip, who succeeded his brother Micajah as president of The First National bank of Hamilton; Joshua, a prominent farmer and banker; and Rachel who married James Kain. Butler county has produced no family of more prominence than the Hughes family.
Daniel, the father of the subjects of this sketch, married Ann B. Kain, a daughter of Samuel Kain, a wagon maker, located at Bethany, Ohio. After his marriage Daniel Hughes settled in the southern part of Lemon township, where by industry and business ability he acquired 500 acres of the most valuable farming land in the Miami valley. Mr. Hughes engaged in raising horses and hogs upon an extensive scale. In politics, he was a Democrat, but always a true American and supporter of the Union. His success as a stockman, and his activity in public affairs, brought him a wide recognition and popularity. He died July 14, 1884, at the age of seventy-nine years. His wife, who from childhood, was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, died in 1877, aged seventy-two years. Daniel Hughes and his wife became the parents of the following children: Mary Jane, who married Job Mulford; Elijah, one of the subjects of this sketch; Sarah, who died at the age of two years, and Samuel K., also one of the subjects of this sketch.
Elijah Hughes was born on the homestead of his father in Lemon township, September 9, 1835, and has always resided there. Samuel K. Hughes was also born on the family homestead, November 1, 1839. Elijah and Samuel attended the school held in the little log school house of the neighborhood, which is still standing and in use, but now as a dwelling. Some very distinguished men claim this little school as their Alma Mater. Samuel K. Hughes married Hattie Belle Boudinet of Butler county, Ohio. Mrs. Hughes was an artist of merit, using both oils and water colors, painting on china and canvas. Her husband was also interested in art, and in addition to the productions of his wife, owns a number of very valuable paintings, the work of some of the most noted artists in the country. Mrs. Hughes died several years ago, and Mr. Hughes married her
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In March, 1877, these brothers, Elijah and Samuel K., took charge of the home farm, and have ever since operated their 550-acre farm in partnership. After taking charge of the farm they made many improvements, remodeling their residence and making it thoroughly modern. Their farm is located between Hamilton and Middletown on the Dixie highway. In addition to this home farm of 550 acres, these brothers have acquired several hundred more acres of valuable farm land. These brothers have been extensive dealers in live stock, and in addition to their stock and farming interests, own stock in various banks in Butler and other counties, and in various corporations and manufacturing industries, and have been largely interested in coal mining in Kentucky. Samuel K. Hughes has been president of The Uniontown Coal and Mining company. Both are staunch Democrats. Elijah is a man who has devoted much time and thought to public questions, reading extensively upon various subjects, and he is well posted on current events.
Samuel K. Hughes has always devoted much time and attention to public matters in spite of the fact that his own private affairs and interests were sufficient to absorb all the time and attention of any ordinary man. His public service is always rendered without hope of reward. At one time, in order to assist and elevate the agricultural interests of Butler county, he accepted the position of president of the Butler County Agricultural Board, in which position he served for several years, devoting much time and attention to the affairs of the Butler County Fair, and thereby assisted in making the Butler County Fair one of the best known and popular of county fairs.
For many years Mr. Samuel K. Hughes has been a frequent contributor to the newspapers, especially of Cincinnati, Hamilton, Middletown and Dayton, and thereby has become one of the best known men in the Miami valley. In these writings his character is fully and clearly portrayed, and the most distinguishing characteristic is his intense and sympathetic interest in all matters which affect the well-being of his fellows. This is manifest in every page of his writings. No matter whether the subject be great or small, he considers and discusses it with the same earnestness and intensity.
That which concerns only his own neighborhood engages his earnest attention and consideration, as well as that which concerns the entire nation. Whether it is the repair of a township road in his own vicinity, or the negotiation of a Peace Treaty between nations, he is always earnest and vigorous in his style and advocacy. We use the word "advocacy" advisably, for the reason that his communications are always constructive. He is ever seeking to build up or produce something for the betterment of the public. His communications are always messages of encouragement and friendly and kindly advice. It is by reason of this characteristic that he has
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Although a partisan Democrat always, yet he can show numerous letters from men of the opposition party in the highest political and administrative positions, acknowledging words of encouragement and commendation for Mr. Hughes. There are many such letters from President McKinley, Roosevelt and Taft, and from Senators Foraker, Alison and others. Mr. Hughes has always been intensely American, and he believes that our government and institutions are not only the best for us, but that they would be the best for all of our neighbors, and by reason of his advocacy of the doctrine that we should seek by all honorable means to extend the sphere of our government and institutions, he has long been called the "Great Expansionist." On one occasion he made an earnest and vigorous effort to have the Democratic State convention of Ohio adopt a resolution in favor of retaining the Philippines, but it was not done. Later the Republican State convention adopted this very resolution, and was successful before the people, and Mr. Hughes was assured by persons high in Republican councils that it was the belief of the Republican manager that the Democrats could have won that year upon such a resolution.
A very marked characteristic of Mr. Hughes' writing is that he is always in favor of extending aid where it will be beneficial to society. His suggestions and purposes in this connection have frequently attracted great attention and consideration. As an instance, some years ago he addressed a communication to the Legislature of Ohio, advocating a bill for the creation of a State Commission for the examination and care of inebriates. This communication attracted wide attention, and Mr. Hughes received words of encouragement from many competent authorities. Dr. Dan Millikin in a lengthy letter to Mr. Hughes endorsed the plan, and discussed the cause and proper treatment of drunkenness with great force and clearness. Mr. Hughes has always been an advocate of treating public questions as matters of business, and not of politics. For instance, he once suggested to congress that a commission of thirty practical men, business men, be selected to prepare a tariff law. Mr. Hughes has never cared for political preferment. On at least two occasions he was assured that he could have the nomination of his party for congress, but he preferred to remain in the ranks. So far as we know he has never held but one office, road superintendent. The roads in his neighborhood needed attention, and he accepted the job in spite of the fact that he was a very busy man with his own affairs.
What a world of good could be accomplished if citizens generally took such an interest in public matters as Mr. Hughes has. It is not only current events and conditions that engage his attention, but he frequently takes a look into the future, and at times he has written that which appeared almost prophetic. More than five years before the outbreak of the World war Mr. Hughes in a public
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Although the dominant note in his character is peace, friendship and good-will, yet when occasion requires, he is a vigorous and persistent fighter, and this is especially true when he considers that the rights of his neighbors or neighborhood are interfered with. As an instance, many persons will remember the fight over changing of the postoffice at LeSourdsville many years ago. For some reason the First Assistant Postmaster General issued an order changing the name of this postoffice. This change was contrary to the wishes of a great majority of the patrons of the office, and Mr. Hughes was appealed to by his neighbors to lead the fight for the restoration of the old name. This he did, and with such vigor and persistency that in spite of much opposition in the postoffice department and elsewhere, he finally succeeded in getting the old name restored. This fight attracted a great deal of attention in the postoffice department and elsewhere. The chief inspector of the postoffice department in a letter to Mr. Hughes advising him that after a great deal of work and manipulation, the postmaster general had signed an order rescinding the order of the First assistant changing the name of this postoffice, said "LeSourdsville has become to be a pretty well known place by the people of the department, because the case has attracted a good deal of attention."
We have felt impelled to write thus at length of Mr. Hughes, because we believe that his disinterested interest in and advocacy of the welfare of his fellow-men deserves recognition in a permanent form. We can say of Mr. Samuel K. Hughes what another great advocate of human rights said of himself: "The world is his country, to do good, his religion."
Frank M. Hughes. Long and prominent connection with the business, financial and agricultural interests of Butler county has made Frank M. Hughes one of the best known men of his locality, where his splendid abilities have been extended in the direction of furthering general progress and development. Mr. Hughes, who is president of the Hamilton Home Telephone company, was born on his present farm at Hughes Station, Liberty township, May 22, 1849, a son of Joshua and Mary Ann (Legg) Hughes, and a member of an old and honored family of Butler county. His paternal grandfather was Elijah Hughes, of Baltimore, Md., who, with his wife and five children drove through to this county in the early '20s in a covered wagon. His children were Daniel, Micajah, Christopher, Joshua, Eliza and Rachel, and after a journey of six weeks, he arrived in Butler county, where two more sons, Joshua and Philip, were born. Peter Gossage, a neighbor of the Hughes
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Harry A. Hughes, one of the reliable pharmacists of Hamilton,
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C. T. Hull, M. D. A comparative newcomer to Hamilton, Ohio, Dr. C. T. Hull has made an enviable reputation for himself by demonstrating conclusively that he is a thoroughly capable physician and one who is competent to treat the most difficult diseases human flesh is heir to, is today recognized as one of the foremost physicians of Hamilton. Like so many of the successful physicians of Butler county, Ohio, he was the son of a farmer and the admirable training received while living amid the wholesome atmosphere of the country was a strong factor in developing the traits of character for which he is noted. He was born in College Hill, Hamilton county, Ohio, the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Hull, and attended the public schools of Mt. Healthy and was graduated from the high school in 1889. From boyhood he had
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Fred P. Humbach. Among the many special industries which within comparatively recent years have combined to practically revolutionize modern modes and customs, one which has been developed to a high state of efficiency is the laundry business. The modern laundry is one of the institutions in our national life which has done away with much of the drudgery of housework, and as such is recognized to have its place in the established order of things. At Hamilton, Ohio, such an institution is the large laundry business conducted by Fred P. Humbach, with his business associates, this business having been established in 1904. Mr. Humbach is a product of Hamilton, where he was born June 25, 1859, and received his education in the public schools. As a young man he became connected with the county clerk's office, at the court house, and subsequently was elected president of the board of election, a position which he held for several years. In 1904 he embarked in his present business, he now being secretary and treasurer of this concern, a $20,000 corporation, with George Sohngen as president. Mr. Humbach ranks high among Hamilton business men, is identified with various civic bodies, and holds membership in the B. P. O. E., the K. P. and the M. W. A. In politics he is a Democrat. After his marriage to Miss Magdelina Bosch, he purchased his present home at No. 233 Chestnut street, which he remodeled and upon which he has since made numerous improvements, making it one of the attractive homes of Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Humbach are the parents of three children: J. Edward, Robert F. and Walter E. J. Edward Humbach was born in 1887, at Hamilton, and received his education in the graded and high schools. For a time he was identified with the Niles Tool Works, but in 1905 became associated with Albert Hossfeld, a wholesale liquor dealer of Hamilton, in the capacity of manager, a position which he still retains. Mr. Humbach is a Democrat. He is one of the prominent
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Arthur Baird Hunter. The supervision of some 1310 acres of Miami valley land in itself would indicate the possession of marked ability in an agricultural way, and this is the responsibility assumed by Arthur Baird Hunter, of the West Middletown community, who has for many years been engaged in agricultural pursuits in Butler county. Mr. Hunter was born November 2, 1868, near Trenton, O., a son of Calvin Symmes and Anna (Baird) Hunter. His parents, old-time residents and agricultural people, owned a farm in the neighborhood of Trenton, and the early education of the youth was secured in the country schools, following which he took a course in the normal school at Lebanon. At this time he is the owner of 1100 acres of land in Butler county, the operations on which he oversees, but his home is made on the old Graft homestead, which consists of 210 acres, and on which he personally carries on agricultural activities. Mr. Hunter has always been a farmer, and during his long and uniformly successful career has experimented extensively with the various branches of agricultural work. He is now principally a grain grower, but makes a specialty of raising Hereford cattle and Duroc hogs, and has met with much success in both directions. Naturally a progressive man, Mr. Hunter has not hesitated to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the use of modern, approved methods and highly improved farm machinery, and as a result, with hard work and good management, he has met with prosperity in the development of his farms, which are models for improvements and productiveness. It is not alone as a successful agriculturist that Mr. Hunter is known, however, but as an advanced and independent thinker and promoter of new movements. He has always been a great friend of the cause of education, having served as a member of the school board for twenty years, during which time he is accredited with having promulgated a number of the movements which have made for advancement and general elevation of the schools. More recently he became the father of the thought of "social centering" of the
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Calvin Symmes Hunter, father of Arthur Baird, Joseph Symmes, Clarence Noble and Harry Drayer Hunter, was of Scotch-Irish origin, the family being represented in the United States by Thomas Hunter, who came to southern Ohio when Cincinnati was in her infancy and there married Jane Noble, the daughter of William Noble, one of the leading merchants of that city. Of this union there was but one issue, William Noble Hunter, father of Calvin S. Hunter. William Noble Hunter was a thrifty farmer, a man who not only advocated a high standard of Christian living, but by his daily walk and conversation demonstrated the same. His aspirations were holy and afford a striking example of what may be accomplished when governed by noble impulses. The Bible was his daily textbook, and in the summer of 1827 at a camp-meeting held at Springdale, Hamilton county, Ohio, he and his wife made an open confession of their faith and erected a family altar and in 1828 identified themselves with the Presbyterian church of Hamilton, Ohio, and in 1837 Mr. Hunter was elected Elder of this congregation. Mr. Hunter was one of the founders and builders of the Pleasant run Presbyterian church, and served as Elder in that, and the Hamilton church for forty years or until his death, August 16, 1877. Mr. Hunter died on the fiftieth anniversary and at the very hour of their marriage ceremony. On August 16, 1827, William N. Hunter was united in marriage to Esther Woodruff Symmes, who followed him in death November 2, 1892. William N. Hunter's life was remarkable for his unswerving devotion to principle and his firm faith in Providence. It was said of him, by one of his intimate friends, "I do not doubt but that the Lord could have made a better man than William N. Hunter, but he did not do it." Esther Woodruff Symmes Hunter, mother of Calvin S. Hunter, was a daughter of Judge Celadon Symmes who was associate judge of Butler county from 1806 to 1820, and prior to that time assistant to Israel Ludlow in the survey of the Symmes purchase in the Miami country. He was nephew of Judge John Cleves Symmes, the proprietor. Mrs. Hunter's mother was Phebe Randolph, cousin of John Randolph of Roanoke, Va. Mrs. Hunter's grandfather, Timothy Symmes of Sussex county, N. J., served in the Revolutionary war as quartermaster. Calvin S. Hunter was born on the old homestead in Fairfield township January 22, 1838. Being reared on his father's farm he early learned the lessons of industry and thrift, which formed the basis of his successful career, and marked him distinctively as one of the notable men of his day. He was educated at Farmers college, College Hill, and Hanover college, Indiana. Mr. Hunter took up teaching as a profession for some ten year, acquiring an enviable reputation as an educator, shaping
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James Patrick Hussey. In the career of James Patrick Hussey is found an excellent example of safe and conservative enterprise, backed by sound judgment and constant industry. For years a railroad man, Mr. Hussey has always been close to the soil, and at this time in addition to being the owner of a valuable farming property, owns and operates three threshing outfits and clover hullers. He was born at Hamilton, Ohio, in 1856, a son of Patrick and Mary (Delaney) Hussey, the father being a native of Ireland and a stone mason by trade. He was a young man when he emigrated to the United States and first settled at Cincinnati, in which city he followed his trade for some years. There he was first married, his wife dying and leaving him one son, Michael, who served in the Union army during the Civil war in the army of General Sherman. After leaving Cincinnati, Mr. Hussey came to Hamilton, where he passed the rest of his life, and where he married Mary Delaney, their union resulting in the birth of four children: Agnes, the wife of James Carroll, of Decatur, Ill.; Mary, deceased, who was a resident of New York; James Patrick; and William, a resident of Indianapolis. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Hussey came to Hanover township, Butler county, and rounded out her life on a farm near the one on which her son is now living. Educated in the public schools of Hanover township, James P. Hussey was early called upon to make his own way in the world, and, being attracted to railroading, took up that work, which he followed as a fireman and in construction camps for many years. When he left railroading, he purchased a farm of ninty-six acres, located in Hanover
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C. N. Huston, M. D. For more than thirty-two years, Dr. C. N. Huston has been engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery at Hamilton, and in this time has been a worthy representative of his noble calling, a citizen of the highest mind and acts, the firm upholder of public charities which have appealed to his sense of justice and utility, and the dispenser of private benevolences to the full extent of his means and strength. Doctor Huston was born at Lawrenceburg, Ind., in 1856, and was a small child when his parents removed with him to Columbus, Ohio, where he secured his education in the public schools. His career was commenced as a schoolteacher, and for three years he was engaged in instructing the youthful mind in a class at Rensselaer, Ind., but in the meantime applied himself to the study of his chosen profession of medicine. Entering the Ohio Medical college, at Cincinnati, he was graduated with the class of 1887, receiving the degree of M. D., and immediately came to Hamilton where he embarked in practice, in which he has since been engaged. His professional attainments, his unfailing rectitude and ability, and his personal promptness and courtesy have served to attract and hold to him a large clientele, and by his fellow-practitioners he is recognized as one of the foremost of Hamilton's men of medicine. He is a member of the Butler County Medical society, the Ohio State Medical society and the American Medical association, and has been .active in local affairs of the city, having served as school examiner for two terms and as a member of the board of education
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Robert M. L. Huston was born at College Corner, Ohio, June 22, 1844, a son of Dr. Robert C. and Jane (Montgomery) Huston, natives of Pennsylvania who came to Ohio in 1829. Robert C. Huston was a son of John Huston, of Pennsylvania, who located first at Rushville, Ind., in 1829, and later married Sarah Morrison of Greene county, Pa. James Montgomery came to Ohio from Pennsylvania on horseback and secured wild land in Oxford township, Butler county, then returned for his family, which he brought to their new home. Eventually he cleared the land and developed a farm, and there passed the remainder of his life, dying in 1844, while his widow survived until 1882. Robert C. Huston was given better educational advantages than the majority of youths of his day and locality, for he attended Miami college and also spent two years in a medical college at Cincinnati. He began the practice of medicine at Liberty, Ind., where he remained for two years, and from 1844 to 1852 followed his profession at College Corner, then removing to Oxford, which continued to be his home and the scene of his professional success until 1887. He was a physician of the old school, who traveled extensively throughout the country on his missions of mercy and who became known and beloved all over the countryside. He belonged to the Miami Medical college and the Union Medical society, and at his death, in August, 1887, the Presbyterian church lost one of its faithful workers. Joining the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in 1848 he continued as a member thereof for nearly forty years and was widely known in fraternal circles. He and his wife, who died in 1871, were the parents of four children: Robert M. L., of this notice; James W., a retired farmer of Hamilton, Ohio; Sarah E., the widow of James N. Bradley; and John C., who was postmaster at College Corner for four years and a druggist there for twenty years, and also manager of a pharmacy at Hamilton for eight years. John C. Huston married Ella Loder. Robert M. L. Huston attended the home schools, following which he enrolled as a student at Miami university, Oxford, and was graduated therefrom in 1867. He began his career as a teacher in the township schools at Oxford, and during the next ten years became a skilled educator and one who had the friendship and esteem of parents and pupils alike, becoming well known in the country districts of Oxford and Reily townships. Next, for two years, he was in the postoffice at College Corner with his brother, John C., and then took up farming, which he followed in Milford township for a period of twenty-three years, when in 1909 he disposed of his property in Milford and moved to Oxford where at the present time he is the owner of considerable real estate. Mr. Huston was married in 1875 to Adeline Addis, ward of William and Susan Addis, of Oxford, Ohio, and to this union there were
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Hutchisson Brothers, leading grocers in Oxford, stand particularly high in public confidence. These enterprising merchants have the right kind of commercial spirit and have built up a paying trade. They carry several grades of goods, moderately priced, and in sufficient variety to encourage local patronage, and in consequence have won the confidence and support of the community. John W. and James D. Hutchisson were born at Oxford, sons of James and Margaret (Fields) Hutchisson, who still make their home here. The father, for a number of years a prominent farmer and stockdealer of Butler county, and later a butcher at Oxford, is now living in comfortable retirement, having amassed a goodly share of worldly goods. There were nine children in the family: Ella, who is the wife of Alfred Garrett, of Chicago, Ill.; Wealthy, who is the wife of P. O. Schultz, a resident of Franklin county, Ind., where Mr. Schultz is engaged in agricultural pursuits; John W.; Emma, who married Arthur Smith, a mail carrier of Oxford; William, who is identified with Carson, Pirie, Scott & company, of Chicago, Ill., and is married; Lottie, who makes her home with her parents; Laura, who is the widow of Clark Nelson and resides at Cleveland, Ohio; James D.; and Margaret, the wife of George Obergfeld, an oil and gas chemist, late of Pittsburg. John W. and James D. Hutchisson received their educational training in the public schools of Oxford and as youths entered as employees in an old established grocery business of Oxford. They were quick to learn all details of the trade, and in 1907 became by purchase the proprietors of the business, which they have since conducted with great success. They carry a full line of staple and fancy groceries thus making their establishment the leading grocery of Oxford and worthy of the patronage given the business. John W. Hutchisson married Althea Wagner, and James D. married Blanche Fry and has one child,
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L. R. Hyams, a real estate, insurance and investments operator of Hamilton, was born at Springfield, Ohio, a son of Al G. Hyams, who came to Hamilton when his son was three years old; and for twenty-six years was connected with the T. V. Howe company and The Mathes & Sohngen company. L. R. Hyams received his education in the public schools of Hamilton, and after leaving high school secured a position with the Mosler Safe company, a concern with which he remained two years. Later he entered the circulation department of the Hamilton Sun, remaining one and one-half years, when he accepted a position as traveling salesman and followed that occupation for four years. In 1908, Mr. Hyams entered the real estate business at Hamilton, dealing principally in business properties. He is a valued member of the Hamilton Real Estate Dealers association, as well as of the state and national bodies, and is known as a man of the highest integrity. He is a strong Democrat and prominent in the ranks of his party, and while a resident of Somerville, served in the capacity of postmaster from June, 1914, to December, 1915. He is likewise prominent in the Knights of Pythias, being deputy grand chancellor of Butler county and a member of the Butler County Pythian association, of which he was president one year. Mr. Hyams was married, in 1907, to Miss Jennie M. Stephens, of Somerville, Ohio, where he has since been making his home. Four children have been born to this union: Pauline, Robert, Marion and Dorothy, all at home.
Charles Ingle. On the roster of names appearing on the pay roll of the American Rolling Mill company is found that of Charles Ingle, an energetic and progressive citizen of Middletown who has long wielded an influence among his fellows and has held their respect as well as that of the company with which he has been identified for some years in the capacity of heater. As a skilled and industrious workman he has rendered his company excellent service during the period of his incumbency of his present position, and his ideals of citizenship are such as to make him a valuable man in his community. Mr. Ingle was born near Cozaddale, Warren county, Ohio, April 22, 1881, a son of John and Millie (Langa) Ingle, and came with his mother to Middletown about the year 1899. He comes of good stock, his ancestors on his father's side of the family being of English origin, while the Langa's were French. John Ingle, who for many years was engaged in agricultural pursuits in Warren county, was a veteran of the Civil war in which he fought bravely as a Union soldier, and was a man of influence in his community, where he was held in the highest esteem. In September, 1895, he met his death in a railroad accident,
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James Inloes. Farming has stimulated the best efforts of some of the leading men of various parts of Butler county, and through their participation therein they have become well-to-do and prominent in their communities. Such a man is James Inloes, of Morgan township, who is known in his community as a skilled and successful general farmer. Mr. Inloes was born in Butler county, Ohio, June 24, 1873, a son of David and Elizabeth (Hamlin) Inloes, the former a native of Hamilton county and the latter of England. The mother came to the United States a child and resided with her parents in Hamilton county, Ohio, until her marriage to Mr. Inloes, after which the young couple moved to a farm in Morgan township, Butler county, after a short residence in Franklin county, Ind. They became the parents of the following children: Alfred and John, residents of Oxford, Ohio; Clem, who resides in Reily township, this county; William, of Morgan township; James, of this review; Lois, deceased; Kate, deceased, who was the wife of Harry Hamilton of Okeana, and had one child, Charles; and Elizabeth and Lessie, deceased. William Inloes has two sons who were in the army during
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Jacob A. Inman. The prosperity that has come to many of the Butler county agriculturists is not due to chance but to a fortunate selection of location and persistent and intelligent working of the land. One of the retired farmers of this locality, who during a long, active and honorable career developed a valuable property and won and held the respect and esteem of those with whom he came into contact, is Jacob A. Inman, at this time a resident of Somerville, Mr. Inman was born in Randolph county, Ind., February 8, 1842, a son of Benjamin and Louise (Smith) Inman, natives of New Jersey. Benjamin Inman was but six years of age when he accompanied his father, Jacob Inman, and the rest of the family to Ohio, in 1818, in which year they located three miles northeast of Somerville, in Preble county. This was wooded country, but the grandfather, Jacob, aided by his sons, cleared a farm, cultivated it, and established a home. Although a civil engineer by profession, Jacob Inman continued to be engaged in farming all of his life, and died while on a visit to Cleveland. He and his wife were the parents of nine children: Anthony, Rebecca, Samuel, Benjamin, Axel, Jacob, Jobe, Joseph and Barzilla. Benjamin Inman grew up on the home place and went to the school located three miles west of Camden, and when he entered upon his career it was as an agriculturist. Later in life he went to Randolph county, Ind., where he became a prominent citizen and was for a number of years the incumbent of the office of justice of the peace. Returning to Butler county in 1876 he located near Seven Mile and bought the old home place in Preble county, but died two years later, at the age of sixty-six years. His widow survived him for some years and passed away when eighty-two. While they were of Quaker stock, there was no settlement of Quakers in their near community, and they became members of the
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