Memoirs
of the
Miami Valley
pages 351-399
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Cornelius Irwin. The progressive and energetic agriculturists of the Miami Valley are usually loath to turn over their interests to other hands, but when they have completed a long service of labor in developing the rich soil of this fertile region and finally settle down to retirement, they make substantial citizens who represent the best element of country life. One of the men of Darrtown who, after many years spent in farming and stock raising in Butler county, is now enjoying the comforts of retired life, is Cornelius Irwin. This highly respected citizen was born two miles north of Darrtown, February 25, 1842, a son of John and Caroline (Horner) Irwin, a grandson of Morton Irwin, Esq., of Pennsylvania, and a great-grandson of emigrants from Scotland. The first of the Irwin family of this branch to locate in Ohio was John Irwin, who was among the first settlers in the Darrtown vicinity, where he secured wild land, cleared a farm, and established a home for himself and family. He was a progressive citizen who took an interest in the needs of his community, and contributed his labors to the early efforts of the people at road-making, by assisting to cut highways through the woods. He married a Miss Crawford, daughter of James Crawford, an early settler and merchant of Darrtown. Squire Morton Irwin secured land north of Darrtown, where he cleared a farm and made a home, and there he and his worthy wife passed their entire lives as highly esteemed citizens. Their children were eight in number, as follows: John, James, Stephen, William, Sylvester, Thomas, Robert and Mary. John Irwin, father of Cornelius, grew up on the old home place and received his education in the local public schools. He was married in 1832 to Caroline Horner, and together they worked to the accumulation of an entire section of land, section 17, in Milford township, which at one time was all in heavy timber, but a large part of which was cleared through Mr. Irwin's industry. He was a general farmer, but also did a good deal of stock raising, and his progressive nature was exemplified in the fact that he was the first to bring Poland China hogs into his part of the county. He was widely known in his community, where he served as township trustee, and was a democrat in his political views. Both he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Darrtown, in the faith of which he died at the age of seventy-one years, Mrs. Irwin passing away in 1854. John and Caroline Irwin were the parents of the following children: Joseph, deceased, of Milford township, who married the late Christina Wengling; Cornelius of this notice; Adelia Ann, who died in 1870; Harriette who died in 1852; Frank, who is single and lives at Hamilton; William; and Caroline, of Niles, Mich., widow of Robert King. William Irwin, brother of Cornelius Irwin, was married June 8, 1870, to Harriet, daughter of
Adam and Catherine (Wehr) Flenner, farming people of near Overpeck Ohio, who subsequently secured a farm near Darrtown and finally moved to Wooddale, where they continued farming all their lives. By his first marriage Mr. Flenner had the following children: Chambers B., deceased; Nathan, who remained single and was a farmer all his life in Milford township; Louisa, deceased, who was the wife of Huston Kuyger; Harriett, who married William Irwin; Lavanda, the widow of John Clemons, of Hamilton; and Catherine. Mr. Flenner married for his second wife, Amanda Hamrick, and they had six children: Belle, who married John Cook, of Westchester, Ohio; Elizabeth, who married James Wehr, of Overpeck, Ohio; Mr. and Mrs. William Irwin located on a part of the old home place James, of Trenton, Ohio; and Maggie. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. William Irvin located on a part of the old home place in Milford township, where they lived for fifteen years. Their two sons were Orville D. and Oscar L. Cornelius Irwin was educated in the public schools and reared as a farmer on the home place. He was married June 3, 1874, to Catherine Flenner, who died in June, 1912. To this union there was born a son who died in infancy. In young manhood Mr. Irwin had devoted a great deal of his time to school teaching, but following his marriage settled down to farming, and for several years resided on the home place. He then purchased eighty acres of land north of Darrtown, on which he carried on successful operations in farming and stockraising for more than a quarter of a century, but finally retired from active pursuits, having accumulated a satisfying competency, and has since resided in his comfortable home at Darrtown, in which community he is held in the highest esteem and respect. Mr. Irwin has always been interested in local affairs and is a citizen who has faithfully discharged the duties of citizenship. In 1870 he took the values of real estate, and for several years served as township assessor. Politically he is a Democrat, and fraternally has been affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for many years. His friends in the county are as numerous as his acquaintances.
Russell T. Irwin. Two vocations, hotel keeping and farming, have occupied the energies and abilities of Russell T. Irwin, one of the substantial and highly respected citizens of Reily township, Butler county. Mr. Irwin came of an agricultural family and was reared as an agriculturist, but allowed his attention to be diverted to the management of hostelries. Eventually, however, he answered the call of the soil, and at this time owns the old Taylor Alexander place, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation and productiveness. Mr. Irwin was born at Bunker Hill, Ohio, November 6, 1869, a son of Morton Irwin. His father was born at Darrtown, son of John Irwin, who emigrated from Ireland to the United States in young manhood and settled in the vicinity of Darrtown, Butler county, where he passed the remaining years of his life as an agriculturist and there died. Morton Irwin was given the advantages of attendance at the home schools of his native locality and grew up as a farmer's son remaining- at home and assisting his father until his marriage to Mary Marshall, of Darrtown. Following his union, he
embarked in farming on his own account, but later went to Fairhaven, Ohio, where he established himself in business as the propietor of a large store which he conducted for several years. Still later he disposed of his holdings at Fairhaven and removed to Bunker Hill, which continued to be his place of residence until his death in 1912, when he was eighty-four years of age. His wife passed away in 1910, when she had reached the age of seventy-six years, and both were God-fearing people and church members who were highly respected in their community. Mr. Irwin was independent in his political belief and voted for the candidate whom he thought best fitted for the office, refusing to be governed by party lines. He and his wife became the parents of eleven children, of whom nine grew to maturity: Louisa, of Reily township, widow of Alfred Stitzel; Maude; Russell T.; Bert, a hotel keeper at Reily; Merle, a farmer; John, Cora and Gertie, who are deceased; and Harry, who lives at Kansas City, Mo. Russell T. Irwin attended the district schools and the public school at Mt. Auburn, Ohio, and resided at home until he reached the age of twenty-five years, for the most part being associated with his father in the elder man's business ventures. When he left the parental roof he went to Millville, and for three years was engaged in the hotel business there, but disposed of his interests at the end of that time and located at Reily, where for fifteen years he was the proprietor of a popular caravansery which secured a large patronage from the traveling public as well as from the residents of the community. Eventually, he decided to again turn his attention to farming, and in 1917 located on the farm which he now occupies, the old Taylor Alexander place, where he has 167 acres in a high state of cultivation. He has made numerous improvements, including Delco lights throughout, and in addition to his comfortable and attractive home, has a large and commodious barn, fully equipped, and outbuildings of a substantial character. Mr. Irwin is a general farmer and has a thorough knowledge of the business as is evidenced by the success which he has made therein. He is a man of high principles whose name stands high in commercial circles and whose signature is instantly accepted on commercial paper, and as a citizen has shown his public spirit on numerous occasions. As a voter he is a Democrat, and his fraternal connection is with the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Hamilton Lodge, No. 407. Mr. Irwin was married at Bunker Hill to Elizabeth, daughter of George and Anna Popp, both deceased, natives of Germany who were farming people for some years in the Bunker Hill neighborhood. To this union there has been born one son, Howard L., born at Bunker Hill, Ohio, in February, 1900, who has always been associated with his father and is now assisting him ably in his farming operations.
J. M. Iseminger. After more than sixty years of business existence, the firm of Caldwell & Iseminger is still one of the leading establishments of its kind, this company being extensively engaged at Middletown in contracting, building and manufacturing, making a specialty of veneered doors, hardwood interiors and bank and office furniture and fixtures of an artistic design. During a period of
thirty-five years, J. M. Iseminger has been identified with this business, twenty-one years of this time as a partner, and during this long period has established himself thoroughly In the confidence and esteem of the general public and his business associates. Mr. Iseminger was born on a farm in Morgan township, Butler county, Ohio February 14, 1857, and received a common school education. He was nineteen years of age when he secured a clerkship in a general store at Okeana, Ohio, and this he retained three years, then taking a position with the firm of T. V. Howell & Son, of Hamilton. Remaining with this concern for five years he resigned the position of general manager, which he had held for one and one-half years, to become, in February, 1884, manager of the William Caldwell Lumber Dealer and Manufacturer Company, at Middletown. This had been established as early as 1856, and under Mr. Iseminger's management it grew and flourished exceedingly. In 1898 Mr. Iseminger was given an interest in the business by Mr. Caldwell, the firm at that time becoming, as at present, Caldwell & Iseminger, in 1912 it was incorporated as the Caldwell & Iseminger Company, and during a half a century of unremitting business energy, Mr. Iseminger has established a record for business shrewdness and absolute diligence and integrity. His standing as a citizen is also an excellent one, and he has never failed to perform his full duties and responsibilities. Mr. Iseminger's wife, Laura C., whom he married February 5, 1884, is a daughter of Mr. Iseminger's business partner, William Caldwell. To Mr. and Mrs. Iseminger were born a daughter, Myrtle May, who married Mr. C. E. Daley, who is a partner of his father-in-law in the lumber business, and lives in Middletown. Mr. and Mrs. Iseminger and family belong to the Presbyterian church. Mr. Iseminger is proud to assert that the greatest part of his success is due to his wife and the early training of Mr. Caldwell as he was a very young man when he entered business.
Karl Jack. Of the men who have aided in the success of the American Rolling Mill, at Middletown, one whose ability and industry have been contributing factors is Karl Jack, a most popular employee of this large plant. A man of good education, he is a millman by choice, temperament and long experience, and during his connection with the company at Middletown he has risen to a high place in the confidence of his employers. Mr. Jack was born at Leechburg, Pa., June 19, 1879, a son of William B. and Evelyn (Marland) (Taylor) Jack. His maternal great-grandfather, Matthew Taylor, came as a British soldier to this country during the War of the Revolution, but, becoming convinced of the justice of the Colonists' cause, deserted from the English army and cast his fortunes with the Patriots under George Washington. Mr. Jack's mother died at Middletown, January 6, 1913, and his father is also deceased. Karl Jack is a man of brilliant mind and splendid education, being a graduate of the high school of Leechburg Pa., and of Lafayette college, Easton, Pa. In 1911 he came from Zanesville, Ohio, to Middletown, where he became associated with the American Rolling mill in the capacity of roller, a position which he has since retained, and in which he has discharged every duty in a commendable
and highly satisfactory manner. He is a Democrat in his political views and a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and is very popular among his fellows, being possessed of a likable personality. March 2, 1905, Mr. Jack married at Canal Dover, Ohio, Lottie B., daughter of J. D. and Cora (Kline) McGill, and to this union there has been born one son McGill, born in 1908. Mrs. Jack's father was for many years clerk of courts and recorder of Tuscarawas county, Ohio, and for a long period of this time she served in that office as his deputy.
Charles Jacoby, president of the Farmers National bank of Seven Mile, is of those men who have worked their own way to positions of prominence. Mr. Jacoby was born on a farm at Seven Mile, Butler county, Ohio, and is a son of Henry and Caroline (Birch) Jacoby, natives of Pennsylvania who are both deceased. They passed their lives as farming people after coming to Ohio, won the respect and esteem of all who know them, contributed to the development of their community and to its religious and educational institutions, and after death were reverently laid to rest in the Hickory Flat cemetery. They were the parents of six children: Charles; Henry, a resident of Hamilton; Edward, of Seven Mile; David, of Middletown; Mrs. I. W. Boatman; and Mrs. Alfred Yingling, who is deceased. Charles Jacoby received his education in the public schools at Seven Mile, after leaving which he applied himself to farming. This he has continued to the present time, although of late his attention has largely been centered in banking matters, but he is still the owner of a handsome and highly productive property of 149 acres, situated near Trenton. Mr. Jacoby became identified with the Farmers National bank of Seven Mile in August, 1909, at the time of its organization. At that time he joined Thomas H. Bell and other men in founding this institution and was elected to the vice-presidency, and later became president of the institution which under his wise management has prospered greatly. Mr. Jacoby is a business man and banker of marked ability and a public-spirited citizen, and during the war was a prominent factor in assuring the success of the various war activities. He was married in 1885 to Emma, daughter of John Beatty, a farmer of the Overpeck community. Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby are members of the Presbyterian church.
Mrs. Hattie S. James, who has been continuously identified with the Lane Public library at Hamilton, Ohio, since 1903, is one whose talents and acquirements well fit her for the post of librarian. Mrs. James possesses that general familiarity with literature that only a lover of books strives for, has infinite tact and patience, and also has the business acumen that is a very necessary adjunct of the office she fills. Mrs. James was born at Hamilton, Butler county, Ohio, daughter of Joseph C. and Martha (Smith) Symmes, the latter a very distinguished family in America. She was married in 1894 to Clement V. James, now deceased. He was born at Hamilton, Ohio, April 28, 1871, son of Barton and Mary J. (Longfellow) James, his maternal grandfather, John Longfellow, being a pioneer settler in Butler county. Barton James was a farmer for a number of years in Hanover township, later moved to Hamilton and engaged in the
drug business in the old P. G. Smith building on Main street, subsequently removing to the southwest corner of Main and B streets. He was elected clerk of the common pleas court in 1878, in which office he served from February, 1879, until his death. Clement V. James was educated in the public schools of Hamilton and Miami university, and afterward for eight years was with the Niles Tool works in the capacity of cost clerk. He then took a position as traveling salesman with the Foundry Supply company, of Pittsburg, with which concern he remained four years. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. James: Laird, Evelyn, Temple. Laird James, after completing the high school course at Hamilton, was employed in clerical capacities with the C. H. & D. and the B. & O. railroads, until March, 1918, when he entered military service in the Coast Artillery, and was stationed at Fortress Monroe, Va. While in the National Army he was promoted rapidly on account of his clerical ability, becoming corporal and later supply sergeant. He was discharged in February, 1919, honorably, and immediately secured civilian work, taking a position with the American Wire & Steel company, at Birmingham, Ala. Evelyn, the only daughter, is the wife of Leon J. Ziliox, a prominent lawyer of Hamilton. Temple James completed the entire public school course at Hamilton, after which he learned the machinist trade and was employed as a machinist with the Niles Tool works until July, 1917, when he enlisted in the National Army, entering the Field Artillery branch and was stationed at Camp Sheridan, Alabama. While there he was promoted to the rank of corporal, and in June, 1918, went to France, and was one of the American heroes who took part in the engagements on the Meuse, in the Argonne and the Marbach Sector. March 10, 1919, he was honorably discharged at Camp Sherman, and on his return from France, was married to Mildred Chadwick, daughter of Capt. Harry R. and Grace (Flenner) Chadwick, and at present is employed by Black & Clawson, as a machinist. The late Clement V. James belonged to the Elks and the Knights of Pythias. From December, 1903, until January, 1912, Mrs. Hattie S. James served as assistant librarian of the Lane Public library, at Hamilton, on the latter date being appointed librarian. She is a member of the Current Events club of Hamilton. Mrs. James resides with her son Temple, at No. 336 High street, Hamilton.
John Jasbring. One of the valuable and attractive farm properties of Butler county is that belonging to John Jasbring which lies in St. Clair township. He is of those men of Butler county who have made their own way and have gained success through the exercise of their native ability and industry. He was born in Butler county, Ohio, January 13, 1866, a son of Frederick and Mary (Rupp) Jasbring. Frederick Jasbring was born in Germany and was a young man when he emigrated to the United States, settling first in the rural districts of Butler county and later moving to Middletown. There he met and married Mary Rupp, who was born at Hamilton, and whose parents had located in Butler county as farming people on the Middletown .pike. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Jasbring
went to Flenner Corner, where they resided for a time, subsequently going to near Middletown, and then to Linn county, Kansas, where they made their home for five years. Disappointed with conditions as they found them in that state, they returned to Butler county and settled in Wayne township, three miles north of Seven Mile, where the father rounded out a long and honorable career as an agriculturist. Mrs. Jasbring survives him and makes her home at Hamilton and is beloved by all in her community. There were eight children in the family: Jacob, who is engaged in agricultural operations in Hanover township, Butler county; Erasmus; Peter, who follows agricultural pursuits in St. Clair township, this county; Katie, who is deceased; Henry, who carries on farming in St. Clair township; Elizabeth, who is deceased; Amanda; and John, of this review. John Jasbring was still a small child when his parents removed to Kansas, and it was in the public schools of that state that he received his early education. When he was nine years old he was brought back to Ohio, and after completing his education in the schools of Butler county commenced working on the home farm. In 1891, he was united in marriage with Anna, daughter of Abraham Wolverton, a farmer of St. Clair township, now deceased. Mrs. Jasbring has one brother, Wilbur. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Jasbring moved to their present farm, a fine tract of 175 acres, located in St. Clair township. In 1915, after eighteen years of hard and persistent work, Mr. Jasbring purchased the property, and now has one of the best farms in the locality, with the most modern improvements and commodious, substantial and artistic buildings. During the war period he faithfully and generously contributed to the Red Cross, the Liberty Loan and other movements. He is a Democrat in politics, and is fraternally affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, in which he has numerous friends. He and the members of his family worship in the Presbyterian faith. Mr. and Mrs. Jasbring are the parents of one son: Earl, born in December, 1893, one of the progressive and enterprising young agriculturists of Butler county, residing on the home farm. He married Edith McVicker and has one child, Harold Richard, born August 3, 1919.
Peter Jasbring. Prominent among the energetic, farseeing and successful agriculturists of Butler county, is Peter Jasbring. Integrity, activity and energy have been the crowning points of his career, and his connection with several farming enterprises has been of decided advantage to the communities in which he has lived, promoting their material development in no uncertain manner. Mr. Jasbring was born near Flenners Corner, Butler county, Ohio, October 11, 1863, a son of Frederick and Mary (Rupp) Jasbring, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Hamilton, Ohio. Frederick Jasbring was a young man when he emigrated to the United States, settling first in Butler county and then locating at Middletown. While there he met and married Miss Rupp, whose parents had located in Butler county as farming people on the Middletown pike. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Jasbring went to Flenners Corner, where they resided for a time, subsequently lived near Middletown, and then went to Kansas, where they made their home for five
years in Linn county. Returning to Butler county, they located three miles north of Seven Mile, in Wayne township, where the father rounded out a long and honorable career as an agriculturist and a highly respected and esteemed citizen of his community. Mrs. Jasbring, one of the venerable and greatly esteemed women of her locality, survives him and makes her home at Hamilton. There were seven children in the family, namely: Jacob, engaged in agricultural operations in Hanover township, Butler county; Erasmus; Peter, of this review; Katie, who is deceased; Henry, who is engaged in agriculture in St. Clair township, Butler county; Elizabeth, who is deceased; and John. Peter Jasbring was educated in the public schools of his native community and accompanied his parents to Kansas, whence he returned to Ohio in 1875. He continued as his father's assistant until his marriage, in January, 1894, to Katie, daughter of Andrew and Frances (Voeickle) Wirtley, natives of Germany who were for many years farming people on Seven Mile pike. They are both deceased, and are survived by the following children: Henry, a resident of Dayton; Joseph and John, of Wayne township; Charles, of Trenton; Frank and William, of Wayne township; Katie, who is Mrs. Jasbring; and Sophia, the wife of William Truster, a farmer of Wayne township. Another daughter, Anna, who is deceased, was the wife of William Cunningham. After his marriage, Mr. Jasbring lived north of Seven Mile in Wayne township for one year, and then spent four years on the Cotton Run road, on the S. Beard place. About the year 1900 he located on his present property, which was known as the old Baird homestead. Here he has continued his operations with increasing success, and is accounted one of the skilled and progressive farmers of his locality. He has his 110 acres in a high state of cultivation, and his buildings are substantial and his improvements modern, testifying to his advanced ideas and industry. As a good citizen he has staunchly supported good movements and during the war period generously subscribed to war activities. His political belief makes him a Democrat.
James M. Jewell, one of the highly esteemed residents of Middletown, is now living retired from business cares, having earned his present leisure by years of industry and the practice of thrift. He was born at Hamilton, Butler county, Ohio, in 1840, a son of John D. and Jane (Milner) Jewell, both of whom were natives of Hamilton. The paternal grandfather, Elijah Jewell came from Maryland to Butler county, Ohio, probably as early as 1796. Locating at Hamilton, he followed his trade as a millwright there until his death, which occurred in 1858. The maiden name of his wife was Lavina Whitehead, and she was brought to Cincinnati, Ohio, at an early day. Both she and her husband were devout members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and very active in it, assisting in founding that denomination at Hamilton. James M. Jewell was reared under the parental roof, and early taught the dignity of honest labor and the necessity to save money earned through industrious habits. He was given a better educational training than is afforded to some even in these days, and certainly fell to the lot of but few when he was young, as he was sent to Dayton, Ohio, to pursue his studies.
Completing them, he went to Maysville, Ky., and while living there enlisted for service in the war between the states in Company I, Sixteenth Kentucky Infantry, and was in the service for three years and some months, after which he was honorably discharged. Returning home, Mr. Jewell became a salesman for the Singer Sewing Machine company, and sold their product over a wide territory for nineteen years, and during that period built up an extensive acquaintance and made many warm personal friends. Leaving the road Mr. Jewell then established himself in a grocery business at Middletown, conducting it until 1916, when he retired, and since then he has occupied his attention with looking into civic matters, and national policies, being very well posted. In 1865, he was married to Miss Martha Baggs of Montgomery county, Ohio, born June 18, 1845, a daughter of Steven and Nancy (Mahoney) Baggs of Greene county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Jewell have two children, namely: William and Charles, both of whom live at Middletown. Mr. Jewell is a Republican, but has not sought to bring himself before the public as an office seeker, nor has he cared to permit the use of his name on the party ticket. His popularity has always been great. Both he and Mrs. Jewell belong to the Methodist Episcopal church, the same one his grandparents were instrumental in founding. His wife's father lived to be 102 years of age, and when he died had never worn glasses, and had enough of his own teeth to do away with the necessity of false ones. Judging by the alertness and keen intelligence of Mr. Jewell, he bids fair to attain to a ripe old age himself, and as each year adds something to his store of knowledge, longevity on his part will be a distinctive benefit to his community.
John B. Johnston. During a period of nearly a quarter of a century, from the time of his arrival at Oxford in 1889 until his lamented death in 1912, the late John B. Johnston was identified with the lumber industry of Butler county, and became one of the foremost and most highly regarded business men of his day and locality. His was a career in which he demonstrated what manner of success may be gained through adhering to one line of endeavor, for his lumber interests formed this chief and practically only activity during life and to them he gave the best of his energies and abilities although he engaged in farming for a time. John B. Johnston was born in Preble county, Ohio, and was a member of an old and honored family of that county, a sketch of which will be found in the review of Mr. Johnston's brother, William T. Johnston, elsewhere in this volume. His educational training was secured in the public schools of his native locality, and he was brought up with a respect for honesty and honor which can only be instilled by the influence of God-fearing and earnest Christian people. His boyhood and youth were largely devoted to the tasks to be discharged on the home farm, and he remained under the parental roof until his first marriage, to a Miss Brown, who bore him two children, both of whom are now deceased. Following the death of his first wife, Mr. Johnston was married again, in 1883, to Mrs. Elizabeth (Ramsey) Cramer. She was the widow of H. L. Cramer, of Butler county, Ohio, and the mother of two children by her first marriage: Hugh L., who married
Bertha Mitchell and has a daughter, Marcia Elizabeth and makes his home at Oxford; and Joseph L., of Covington, Ohio, who married Fannie Brown and has a son, Hugh L. Mrs. Johnston is a daughter of. Thomas and Jane (Steele) Ramsey. The Ramsey family came originally from Virginia to Preble county, Ohio, in 1805, while the Steele family originated in North Carolina and came about the same time to Preble county. Both families located here for a time and the Ramseys still remain, although the Steeles for the most part moved on to Frankfort, Ind. The Ramsey family has an excellent military record, Grandfather Ramsey having been a captain of Ohio State Militia in the War of 1812, while his father was a soldier from Pennsylvania in the Continental line during the Revolutionary war. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Johnston resided on a farm near Morning Sun, Ohio, for six years. During this time Mr. Johnston had made a success of his operations, but recognized the opportunities offered by the lumber interests, and accordingly disposed of his agricultural holdings and moved to Oxford, where he joined his brother, William T. Johnston, in the lumber trade. They remained as partners and proprietors of yards at Oxford, and built up a large and constantly increasing patronage, the association only being terminated by John B. Johnston's death, which occurred June 8, 1912. The business was then conducted by Mr. H. L. Cramer, youngest son of Mrs. Johnston, who later on sold it and bought a farm, which he is now conducting. Mr. Johnston was a man of splendid business qualifications, shrewd and accurate in his judgment, and keen and farsighted in his transactions. In all of his operations he was strictly honorable, and his well known integrity served to give him a place of prominence in the confidence of his associates and the general public.
William T. Johnston, one of the old and honored citizens of Oxford, both in longevity and length of residence, was formerly one of Preble county's most energetic and successful farmers and coal and lumber merchants, but is now passing his declining years in the retirement of private life. He was born in Preble county, Ohio, April 8, 1845, a son of William Johnston, the latter born in 1809, in County Antrim, Ireland, from whence he came to the United States in 1823 with his father, Archibald Johnston. The family formed part of the pioneer settlement of the community of Morning Sun, Preble county, where the grandfather secured land, cleared a farm, made a home, and rounded out his life in the pursuits of the soil. William Johnston grew up in this community, attending the early district schools, and remained on the original home place until his marriage in 1830, when he bought 160 acres of land, which he developed into a good farm, in the clearing of which he was assisted by his brother Archibald. His life was passed in agricultural work, of which he made a success, and his death, in 1879, removed one of the public-spirited and useful citizens of his community, and a faithful member of the United Presbyterian church, which he had joined after leaving the Reformed Presbyterian faith. His wife passed away in 1888. Mr. Johnston was a man highly respected in his community and was a staunch Republican. He and Mrs. Johnston were the
parents of ten children of whom three are living: Melissa, who is the wife of Edward R. McDill, a retired farmer of Oxford; Margaret, the wife of John Elliot, of College Corner, Ohio; and William T. William T. Johnston obtained his education in the rural schools and at Morning Sun, and remained at home assisting his father until he reached the age of twenty-eight y-ears. At that time he was united in marriage with Anna, daughter of William and Isabella McCreary, natives of Preble county, and early settlers of near Morning Sun, Preble county, and to this union there were born four children: Bessie, who died at the age of twenty-three months; a son who died in infancy; Mabel, the wife of Howard Britton of Newark, N. J., with two children, Isabella and Jeanette; and Jennie, a graduate of Oxford College and a popular teacher in the public schools, who resides with her parents, her mother also being a graduate of that institution. Following his marriage, Mr. Johnston continued to live on the old home place for twelve years, and then came to Oxford, where he established himself in business as the proprietor of a coal and lumber business, with which he was successfully identified for a period of seventeen years. He continued to retain his interest in agricultural affairs during this time, and while he is now retired from active pursuits still has a number of farming interests which he controls with all of his former sagacity and good management. Mr. Johnston has taken a decided interest in civic affairs and has rendered his community valuable public service, having been township trustee for seven years and township treasurer for six years. He has been identified with all movements tending to promote the best interests of his locality, and has made an irreproachable record as a man of strict probity and pure motives. He votes the Republican ticket. By his old neighbors and his fellow townsmen at Oxford he is regarded with the utmost respect and esteem. He and the members of his family belong to the United Presbyterian church.
Reuben F. Jones has had long experience in connection with farm industry in the Miami valley and is today giving exemplification of the full possibilities for successful enterprise along this line in Butler county, where he is conducting vigorous operations in general farming in Fairfield township, considerable attention being given by him to the live stock department of his farm activities. He has under rental a well improved farm of 100 acres, and on this place he has resided continuously since 1892, prior to which he had farmed on other places, which he rented, he having been thus engaged for twenty-six years in Colerain township, Hamilton county, and the following eight years having found him similarly established in Butler county, his present farm, which was owned and developed by the mother of his wife, who was born on this attractive old homestead. Mr. Jones was born in Fairfield township, Butler county, January 26, 1855, and is a son of Reuben F. and Mary Ann (Rogers) Jones, the former of whom was born in North Carolina and the latter in Miami county, Ohio. As a young man Reuben F. Jones, sr., came from the south to Rush county, Ind., where for a short time he was engaged in teaching school, after which he found employment at
farm work. From Indiana he came to Butler county, Ohio, where he was for a time employed in a sawmill. Later he engaged in farming, and with this basic industry he continued his active association until a few years prior to his death. He owned and improved a good farm of 100 acres, in Fairfield township, and was one of the highly esteemed citizens of Butler county. He was twice married, and there were two children born of the first union, Mary Hester and John S. The five children of the second marriage are here named in respective order of birth: James R., William E., Reuben F., jr., Andrew Jackson, and Abraham Lincoln. Reuben F. Jones, jr., whose name initiates this article, passed the period of his childhood and early youth on the old home farm, and was afforded the advantages of the public school at Jones station. After his school days were over he continued to be associated with his father's farm operations until his marriage, in 1883, when he began farming on rented land, his activities from that time forward until his locating on his present farm having been mentioned earlier in this context. Mr. Jones has always taken lively interest in community affairs and has done his part in the furtherances of enterprises and measures projected for the general good. His political allegiance is given to the Republican party, but he has not consented to serve in any public office save that of school director. His wife is a zealous member of the Presbyterian church, and in their home county their circle of friends is limited only by that of their acquaintances. The year 1883 recorded the marriage of Mr. Jones to Miss Mary L. Jones, who was born in the house they now occupy and who is a daughter of the late M. T. and Elvira A. (Smith) Jones, the former a native of Butler county and the latter of Hamilton county. M. T. Jones followed the carpenter's trade in earlier years and thereafter was a successful farmer, his operations as such having been carried on both in Butler and Hamilton counties. Of his twelve children, six are living: Mary, wife of the subject of this review; Luella, Leroy, Logan and Jesse and Laura. To Mr. and Mrs. Reuben F. Jones have been born three children: Clarence L., who married Miss Pearl Francis, is engaged in farming in Montana; Oliver, who likewise farms in Butler county, married Miss Elmina Luechauer and they have one child, Edna Mae; and Melvin, the youngest of the children, died when about four and one-half years of age.
Jonson Brothers, well known confectioners of Hamilton, located at High street between Second and Third, are natives of the Valley of Sparta, Greece, and have been residents of this country for only a comparatively short period. The brothers received their educational training in the schools of the Valley of Sparta, where they are the owners of considerable property and farming lands, and whence they came to the United States: John, in 1902, Nicholas in 1908, Charles in 1912 and George in 1914. After his coming to Cincinnati, where he settled upon his arrival in this country, John learned the confectionery business, a course which was followed by Nicholas Jonson upon his arrival six years later. In 1910 these two brothers opened a confectionery store at 937 Central avenue, Cincinnati, the firm being known as Jonson Brothers, and this is still owned by
them although managed and operated by a relative. November 23, 1915, Nicholas Jonson came to Hamilton, where he purchased the interest of Peter Vlchos in the confectionery business of Mehas & Vlchos, the firm becoming Mehas & Jonson. April 26, 1918, Nicholas Jonson left Hamilton for Camp Sherman and one month later went with the 33lst Infantry for France. Owing to his knowledge of the French language he was promoted to the rank of corporal and served in the capacity of interpreter, seeing eight months of active service overseas. He was sent back to the United States and honorably discharged at Camp Sherman, February 8, 1919, following which he returned to his business at Hamilton. March 1, 1919, Mr. Jonson purchased the interest of his uncle Mehas in the business and admitted his brothers to partnership under the firm style of Jonson Brothers. Since then numerous additions and improvements have been made to the establishment, and, under a policy of honorable dealing and excellence of product the patronage has shown a healthy and gratifying increase. The firm, progressive and public-spirited, belongs to the Retail Merchants association and the Chamber of Commerce, and Nicholas Jonson is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Hamilton Cycle club. The brothers are all unmarried. Their parents, now living in comfortable retirement (the father being sixty years of age and the mother fifty-eight) have every reason to be proud of their sons, who have won their way to success and business position.
William Jordan. In the great army of employees which forms the human machinery used in the operation of the big plant of the American Rolling mills at Middletown are to be found men from many states of the Union. Not all, however, are natives of outside states, for a goodly majority claim the Buckeye state as the place of their nativity, and among these latter is to be found William Jordan, who occupies the position of sheet metal roller. Mr. Jordan was born in Ohio, October 8, 1872, a son of Thomas and Anna (Vail) Jordan, of Niles, Ohio. His maternal grandfather, George Vail, was a native of England who emigrated to the United States at an early day, while on the paternal side his family has been American for a number of generations. Mr. Jordan had two sisters and three brothers: Agnes, one of the sisters, married William Bridgens, of Niles, Ohio, and they are the parents of Leroy, William and Carrie; Elizabeth, the second sister, and now deceased, became the wife of James Trotter. The three brothers were George, Tom and Frank. William Jordan received a public school education, and as a youth began to apply himself to the mastering of the metal worker's trade. Having served his apprenticeship, he spent some years as a journeyman, traveling to different towns and cities, and eventually settled at Middletown permanently, where he has since been connected with the American Rolling mill in his present capacity. Mr. Jordan is an efficient and reliable workman, who has the esteem of his employers and the friendship of his fellow-employees. He is a man of generous instincts and no worthy cause finds him unprepared to make a donation, while his liking for the comradeship of his fellows is shown in his membership in the local lodges of the Fraternal
Order of Eagles and the Order of Elks, in both of which he is very popular. He also is a member of the Amalgamated Association of Metal Workers. In his political adherence he is inclined to favor the Republican party, but in local matters votes rather for the candidate than the party. September 16, 1905, Mr. Jordan was united in marriage with May Milburn Homan, whose ancestors on her mother's side, the Greathouse family, were among the earliest of the pioneer settlers of the Miami valley. One son, William, jr., has been born to this union, he being at present a pupil in the Middletown graded schools. Mr. and Mrs. Jordan own their own pleasant home on Baltimore street, and with them lives Mrs. Jordan's mother, Mrs. Sarah Homan, a widow. The family belongs to the Episcopal church.
C. W. Kaefer, who is favorably known in business circles as secretary and treasurer of the Hamilton Mattress company, has passed his entire business career at Hamilton, where his abilities have been exercised in developing the interests of the company of which he was one of the founders. Mr. Kaefer was born at Hamilton, in 1880, a son of John and Anna Barbara (Winkler) Kaefer. His father was born in Germany and as a lad of twelve years accompanied his parents to the United States, the family locating at Hamilton, where he attended the public schools. Possessing some native mechanical ability he served a full apprenticeship to the machinist's trade at the plant of Owen, Lane & Dyer, and subsequently was with the Niles Tool works and the Phoenix Caster company for eleven years. Later he was identified with the Miami Brass works, and in 1912, became president of the Hamilton Mattress company. He is one of the prominent business men of Hamilton, where his connections are numerous and important in business and social life, while his civic activities have made him a helpful and constructive citizen. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and belongs to St. Paul's church. Mr. Kaefer married Anna Barbara Winkler, of Switzerland, who has two brothers and one sister: John Martin, proprietor of a prosperous grocery at Hamilton; Christian Barber, president of the Hamilton Building and Loan association; and Rosa, who is single and a resident of Hamilton. To Mr. and Mrs. John Kaefer were born five children: C. W.; John George, of Cincinnati; Nettie Louise, of Hamilton; Ida B., and Hildah Catherine, at home. C. W. Kaefer attended the graded schools and the Hamilton High school, and after his graduation from the latter pursued a course at Elmhurst college, Elmhurst, Ill. He then entered business with his father, remaining with the elder man for two years, following which he became a bookkeeper for Frank Schantz, by whom he was employed seven years. Later he was identified with the National Cash Register company, but in 1911, embarked in business on his own account, as one of the founders of the Hamilton Mattress company, at Sixth and Rigdon streets. This business was incorporated September 23, 1912, with the following officials: John R. Schantz, president; John Kaefer, vice-president; and C. R. Kaefer, secretary and treasurer. In addition to high grade mattresses, the company manufactures cotton felt batts for bedding, furniture, automobiles
and carriages, and ships principally throughout Ohio and to points m New York and Pennsylvania. The factory, a modern structure 105x200 feet, is equipped with the latest improved machinery, and offers an ideal place for congenial and comfortable work by the employees, of whom there are fourteen. Mr. Kaefer is looked upon as one of the enterprising, progressive and popular members of his community, where he has numerous friends, and where he has been identified with a number of worth-while civic movements. Mr. Kaefer married Magdalena Weiler and they are the parents of one daughter: Mary Elizabeth. Mr. Kaefer possesses more than local reputation as a vocalist, and has a voice which makes him much in demand at various gatherings, particularly those of the First Presbyterian church at Hamilton, of which he has been a member for years.
George S. Kapp. The growth and development of Butler county has been rapid and sure, and its present general prosperity is due to the efforts of citizens who have been steadfast and earnest in their efforts in behalf of progress. One of the families which has contributed materially to this advancement has been that of Kapp, a worthy representative of which is found in George S. Kapp, the owner of a handsome and valuable farm in Milford township. Mr. Kapp was born on his present farm, a son of Abraham and Hannah (Null) Kapp, the former born on this property and the latter on a farm north of Oxford. He was a son of Samuel and Mary Kapp, from Lancaster county, Pa., who located in Milford township as early as 1837, and had the following children: Abraham, Martin, Eli, John, Samuel, Sarah, Mary A., Frank and William, of whom only Samuel and Sarah survive. The Null family also pioneered into Butler county, and the grandparents had four children: Hannah, Ephraim, Joseph and Amanda. Abraham Kapp was first married to Harriet Stout, by whom he had three children: Charles, of Milford township; Jennie, of Montpelier, Ind.; and Harry, of Milford township. By his second marriage, with Hannah Null, he had two children: Joseph, who is deceased; and George S. After leaving the paternal homestead, which they bought in 1880, Abraham and Hannah Kapp lived for a time at Collinsville, but spent their last years at Somerville, where both passed away in the faith of the Lutheran church. George S. Kapp was educated in the public schools of the towns of Jericho and Somerville and as a young man entered business at the latter place as proprietor of a butcher shop. Later he took up contracting as a vocation, but in 1909 turned his attention to farming, having purchased this property of 145 acres in 1904. Here he has made numerous valuable improvements, including the erection of a large and substantial barn, and is at present the owner of a handsome and. productive country estate. Mr. Kapp was married in 1897 to Cassie, daughter of Cornelius and Sarah Connaroe, of Somerville, who had four other children: William Katurah, Lillie and one who is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kapp are the parents of two children: Eloise, born in 1900, a graduate of high school; and Lawrence, born in 1902, who is attending that school. Mr. Kapp has ever been ready to support good movements in the
interests of his community, and is accounted a substantial and thoroughly reliable citizen, as well as one who has numerous friends in Milford township.
Robert A. Kaser, an energetic and progressive business man and useful and constructive citizen of Middletown and who has spent practically his entire life here and has combined honorable business transactions with a high grade of public service, was born at Wheeling, W. Va., in 1853, a son of John and Anna (Zbinden) Kaser, natives of Switzerland. The parents came to the United States about 1851 and first settled in Virginia, when, in 1858, they came to Middletown, where John Kaser established himself in the grocery business, an enterprise with which he was connected until his death in 1877. His widow survived him until 1901. Robert A. Kaser received a public school education, and at the time of his father's death, in 1877, took over the grocery business which he conducted for several years. Subsequently he disposed of his interests therein and entered the employ of the William Sebald Brewing company, being then with the P. J. Sorg Tobacco company for four years and A. T. Wilson & Co. eight years. For the thirteen years that followed he was identified with the Tytus-Gardner Paper Manufacturing company, but in 1905 left the employ of that concern to become superintendent of the Middletown Hydraulic company, with which he has been associated for the past fourteen years. Mr. Kaser's business interests have been heavy and his time in demand by his private affairs, but he has found time to serve his city and community, ably and conscientiously. He has been a member of the city council; was a member of the school board for an extended period, and for eight years served as township clerk, and in his voting ardently espouses the cause of the Democratic party. He is a member of the Protestant Episcopal church. Mr. Kaser was married in 1878 to Katie, daughter of Jodocus and Margaret (Theobald) Pfeiffer, the former a native of Prussia and the latter of Bavaria, and to this union there were born seven children: Robert J. J.; Erna Elizabeth; William C. and Paul F., deceased; Gertrude M.; Karl E., deceased; and Margaret K. A great sorrow came into Mr. Kaser's life in 1919, when his wife passed away in death. She was a lovely Christian character, an affectionate and sympathetic helpmate and a loving mother, and her many beautiful qualities of mind and heart had bound to her innumerable friends.
O. W. Katz, one of the leading druggists of Hamilton, has spent his whole life in this line of business, and having devoted himself so singleheartedly to it, understands it and the requirements of his trade with a thoroughness not given to all to acquire. He was born at Wapakoneta, Auglaize county, Ohio, October 7, 1860, a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Buckel) Katz, both born in Germany. They came to the United States, and after stopping for a time at Cincinnati, Ohio, they went to Pomeroy, Ohio, and finally settled at Wapakoneta, Ohio. The paternal grandfather assisted in the construction of St. Mary's reservoir, located about eleven miles west of Wapakoneta, which is one of the largest
artificial bodies of water in the country, its area being about eleven acres. There were eleven children born to Jacob Katz and his wife, of whom the following three survive: Louisa, who married, has four children and lives at Fostoria, Ohio; Matilda, who married John Swan is now a widow; and O. W., whose name heads this review. O. W. Katz was reared in the place of his nativity, and attended its schools. Entering the employ of a druggist of Wapakoneta, Mr. Katz began to learn the drug business, and studied it with various pharmacists in different places until 1890, when he came to Hamilton, and for five years he was engaged with a Doctor Meyers, then a druggist, of Hamilton. Leaving him, Mr. Katz was with Doctor Markt, then a druggist, for fourteen years. Mr. Katz then purchased the drug business at 601 East avenue from Jacob Bonner, and since then has conducted his own store. Here he carries at all times a full and assorted line of drugs and sundries, and enjoys a large and profitable trade. O. W. Katz was married to Alice Stevenson, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Stevenson of Hamilton. Mr. and Mrs. Katz have two sons. Raymond, the eldest, aged twenty-three years, attended the Hamilton public schools, and was reared at Hamilton. He entered military service May 29, 1918, in the artillery branch, and after having about three months' training in this country, he was sent to France, where he still remains. The younger son, Russell, aged twenty-one years, was graduated from the grammar and high schools of Hamilton, and is now attending the Chicago Academy of Art. While not active in politics, Mr. Katz conscientiously discharges his right of citizenship, and votes the Republican ticket. The family all belong to the First Methodist Episcopal church. For some years Mr. Katz has maintained membership with the Knights of Pythias and the Foresters. Mr. Katz enjoys a reputation for sense and good judgment, and his business has prospered through his alertness and courtesy in behalf of his patrons.
Edward J. Kautz, judge of the municipal court at Hamilton, and formerly a leading member of the Hamilton bar, belongs to an old agricultural family of Brown county, Ohio, which has produced men of great military as well as professional achievement. Among the former may be mentioned Rear Admiral Albert Kautz who, in March; 1899, while commanding the "Philadelphia," in the Pacific station, took a prominent part in settling the Samoan troubles. After distinguished service as a naval officer he was retired in 1901. He was born at Georgetown, Brown county, Ohio, in 1839. Not far from the city of Georgetown is the village of Arnheim, in Brown county, and there Edward J. Kautz was born, April 23, 1881, son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Bohrer) Kautz both natives of Brown county. The father was a farmer also a tobacco dealer and man of general affairs, and at one time was treasurer of Brown county. To his marriage with Elizabeth Bohrer the following children were born: William, who is a bookkeeper in a railway office at Cincinnati, married Elizabeth Bohl; Luella who is the wife of Clarence W. Smith, connected with the Cincinnati Traction company at Norwood, Ohio; Harvey, who is a resident
of Georgetown; and Judge Kautz, of Hamilton. The father is deceased but the mother survives and is a resident of Georgetown where Edward J. Kautz attended the public schools. After completing the high school course he entered the Ohio Northern university, and later spent three years in the law school of the University of Michigan. He entered into practice at Hamilton, Ohio, his legal qualifications advancing him rapidly, and in November; 1917, he was elected municipal judge and is serving in his first term on the bench, where he has shown judicial qualities of a high order. In 1906 he married Frances M., daughter of Frank Theiss, of Georgetown, and they have two children: Samuel, a sturdy little lad of six years; and Margaret, who is nine months old. The family resides at No. 828 Buckeye street, Hamilton. Judge Kautz has always been identified with the Democratic party. During the late war he took an active part in advancing the different patriotic movements. He has a wide acquaintance in the state and is connected with a number of fraternal organizations, these including: the Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, Eagles, Moose, Ben Hur and Mutual Monkeys.
John Kehr. Well up on the list of substantial farmers carrying on operations in Butler county is found the name of John Kehr, an intelligent representative of his vocation and a public-spirited citizen of his community in Wayne township. His entire career has been passed in Butler county and no other vocation has held out sufficient attractions to entice him from the tilling of the soil, an occupation in which he has found both contentment and prosperity and the means of establishing himself firmly in the confidence of his fellow-citizens. Mr. Kehr was born on a farm in Oxford township, Butler county, Ohio, March 17, 1877, a son of Philip and Mary (Willer) Kehr. His parents, natives of Germany, emigrated to the United States in 1872, locating near Hamilton, Ohio, where for several years the father worked as a farm hand on the property of Charles Sohngen. Having thus gathered together the means wherewith to establish himself as a farmer on his own account, Mr. Kehr moved to Oxford township, although for sixteen years he was compelled to operate merely as a renter, his capital not being sufficient for him to buy a property of his own. Later he lived on the Schwartz farm for nine years, but eventually was able to buy a farm of 125 acres, on the Eaton road, in Wayne township, on which he carried on operations during the remainder of his life. An industrious man, he patiently and persistently worked toward a given end, and his reward was the accumulation of a substantial property, for when he died in October, 1917, at the age of seventy-two years, he was accounted one of the well-to-do farmers of his locality. He was an honest, God-fearing man and attended church services at Hamilton. His widow, who survives him, resides with her children on the old home place. The children are: Mary, John, Louise, Freda, Emma and Fred. The district schools of Oxford township furnished John Kehr with the somewhat limited education that he acquired. During his boyhood his father was only a renter, working earnestly in an endeavor to acquire property of his
own, and the youth was called upon to do his full share in contributing to the family finances. As a result his boyhood and young manhood were filled with much hard work and little recreation, but he came to learn the dignity of hard labor and the value of money, something that has helped him considerably in his subsequent career. Mr. Kehr resided at home until his marriage, at the age of twenty-seven years, to Mary, daughter of John L. and Christina (Bensing) Kilian, of Hamilton. The parents of Mrs. Kehr were born in Germany and upon their arrival in the United States located in Hamilton, near which city they took up farm land. The father, however, secured a position with the Niles Tool works, at Hamilton, and in his declining years moved to Dayton, where he lived retired. Mrs. Kehr has one brother, Carl, a merchant of Charlotte, N. C., who married Hazel Howe. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kehr: Edna Mary, Edward Philip, Arthur John, Elsie Martha, Paul Frederick William, John Christian and Freda Louise. After his marriage, Mr. Kehr located on the Beardsley farm north of Hamilton, Ohio, on which he carried on operations for nine years, and in the fall of 1912 took up his residence on his present property, the old Pottenger place in Wayne township, a tract of 100 acres. Mr. Kehr has made many valuable improvements on this property, on which he carries on general farming and raises some cattle, mixed hogs and draft horses. He is considered a thoroughly well informed and skilled agriculturist, and his reputation among his associates is one that makes his name an honored one on commercial paper. He votes the Republican ticket, and he and the members of his family belong to Zion Evangelical Lutheran church of Hamilton.
C. R. Keller, M. D., of Hamilton, Ohio, was born in this city, and is the son of John A. and Cami M. Keller, both natives of Hamilton. John A., the father, is a mechanical engineer for The Black-Clawson company of this city. Doctor Keller received his early education in the schools of Hamilton, graduating from the high school in 1902. He then entered the Miami Medical college, finished the four year course and received his degree from that institution in 1906. Entering the general hospital of Cincinnati he served as an interne for eighteen months. After leaving the general hospital he became first medical assistant at the Long View hospital, which position he held for one year. In 1909 he came to Hamilton and opened an office for the practice of his profession, which practice he has continued with increasing success. In 1913, he married Grace Evelyn Spangler of Cincinnati, and to them were born three daughters: Carolyn, Jane and Dorothy. Doctor Keller is a member of the Butler county, Ohio, State and American Medical societies, a member .of both the Masonic and K. of P. lodges and of the United Presbyterian church. He has no political affiliation, being an independent voter.
Jacob Keller. While twenty years have passed since the death of Jacob Keller, this sterling citizen and industrious farmer of Milford township is still well remembered by many of Butler county's older residents. For thirty-one years he lived and labored
on the old Keller homestead, and during that period established a record for upright living and good citizenship. He was born in Milford township, May 20, 1836, a son of Jacob and Sarah (Spoon) Keller, of Lancaster county, Pa. His parents had come to this locality in true pioneer style, making the journey in a wagon and arriving at their destination after a trip of several weeks. Settling in the woods, they erected a log cabin and small log stable, set about clearing the land, and eventually established a valuable property and a comfortable home. In their declining years they retired and moved to Somerville, where the father died at the age of seventy-two years, Mrs. Keller having passed away some time previously. They were members of the German Reformed church, and the parents of nine children: John, who married Elizabeth Meredith and made his home at Stanford, Ind.; Samuel, who spent most of his life in Milford township, but died at Somerville, in 1914, married, first, Rebecca Grimes, second, Mary Greenfield, and third, Elizabeth Tooker, the last-named being at present a resident of Somerville; Solomon, who lived for many years at Oxford, Ohio, but died at Somerville, married, first, Elizabeth Geer and second, Mrs. Catherine Steele; Susan, deceased, who was the wife of the late Reuben Moore; Sarah, deceased, who was the wife of Levi McCormick; Kate, who died young; Jacob; George, deceased, who married Mary Murray, also deceased, and lived for years in Preble county, Ohio; and Henry, the father of Oliver Keller of Somerville, a sketch of whose career appears elsewhere in this volume. For his second wife, Jacob Keller, sr., married in March, 1888, Barbara, widow of Philip Shire. Her first husband was born in Germany and in young manhood came to the United States and located at Trenton, Ohio, where he was engaged in farming. Later in life he drove through to Iowa in a wagon and after a trip of four weeks arrived at his destination near West Point. There he secured a farm and settled down to agricultural pursuits, but died one year later. Mrs. Keller was born in Germany and was a young woman when she accompanied her father to the United States. The family settled at Miltonville, Ohio, in which locality Mrs. Keller's father continued to be engaged in farming during the rest of his life. He had two daughters: Mrs. Keller; and Margaret, the widow of Lewis Myers, of Kokomo, Ind. Jacob Keller, the younger, received his education in the home schools, which he attended only during the short winter terms, the summers being passed in assisting his father on the home farm. He was married in August, 1859, to Elizabeth Shires, who was born near Trenton, Ohio, and after marriage they located east of Somerville, Ohio, where they resided for nine years. In 1868 they removed to the old Keller homestead in Milford township, and there Mr. Keller continued to be engaged in farming until his death, April 21, 1899, he being buried at Oxford cemetery. In politics Mr. Keller was a Democrat, and his religious faith was that of the Methodist Episcopal church, which he attended at Oxford. He was a man of high principles and excellent character, and well merited the respect and confidence in which he was held. He and Mrs. Keller became the parents of three children: Emma M.
Annie Mary and George W. Emma M. Keller married Samuel Coulter, who was born in Milford township, a son of John Coulter, and always lived as a farmer in that township, where his death occurred in August, 1899. There were two children in the family: Roy E., a farmer of Oxford township, who married Mabel Bryant; and Lynn Nelson, who died at the age of three and one-half years; Annie Mary Keller has never married, and continues to make her home with her aged mother on the homestead in Milford township, a devoted daughter and excellent housekeeper. George W. Keller has always been a farmer on the homestead, where he now resides, a good manager and skilled agriculturist. He married Carrie Mendenhall, and they have three children: Glen Mendenhall; Frank Donald, who served in the 72d Field Artillery, at Camp Knox; and Lois Elizabeth. Mrs. Jacob Keller, who survives her husband and lives on the homestead, is an old and well-known resident of this community and during her long residence here has made and maintained numerous friends.
Oliver Keller. Preble county is largely agricultural, but its prosperous towns, its many manufactories, its schools and its churches prove that a vigorous life underlies every activity, although here, as in every section of the earth, dependence is naturally placed upon the products of the land and the labor of those who cultivate it. It makes no difference in what way men toil, or how much they achieve in any direction, they must all be fed, and it is the farmer, in the background, who furnishes the food products. In Preble and the other counties of the Miami valley country, there are found numerous contented owners of land, who intelligently and willingly carryon the peaceful pursuits of agriculture. They are usually men of strong intellect and sturdy body, qualified for public service, for the proper cultivation of the soil and a realization of its utmost yield require knowledge of many subjects. One of the younger generation of agriculturists of Preble county, who however makes his home at Somerville, in Butler county, is Oliver Keller. Mr. Keller was born on a farm in Milford township, Butler county, Ohio, September 22, 1871, a son of Henry Keller. His paternal grandfather was John Keller, a native of Lancaster county, Pa., who was an early settler of Milford township, Butler county, and there passed the rest of his life in agricultural pursuits. His children were: John, Jacob, Solomon, George, Henry, Samuel and Sarah. Henry Keller grew to manhood in Milford township, where he married Sarah Conarroe, also of that township. After their marriage they located on a farm near Seven Mile section 6 Milford township, but subsequently went to Preble county. Three years later they returned to Milford township, but finally located at Somerville, where the mother died in 1906, at the age of sixty years, while the father passed away in June, 1911, when sixty-seven years of age. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. Keller was a Democrat in his political adherence. There were six children in the family: John, born in 1869, a farmer in Milford township, who married Cora Smith; Oliver; Oscar, born in 1884, a farmer of Preble county; Iva, who married Edward Mendenhall
a farmer of Wayne township, Butler county; Lela, the wife of Edgar L. Inman, an undertaker of Somerville; and Ruth, who married Charles Garrett and lives near Gratis, Ohio. Oliver Keller received his education in the public schools of his home community, and resided with his parents until reaching the age of twenty years. At that time he and his brother, John, took over the management and operation of the old home place, which they conducted for one year, and then spent a like period in farming for their father. They then went to Preble county, one mile north of Somerville, and farmed in that community from the spring of 1896 until 1908. At that time Oliver Keller took up his residence at Somerville, where he has since made his home. January 30, 1901, he married Nettie, daughter of Charles and Letty Falk, of Preble county, and a granddaughter of Jacob and Louisa Falk, natives of Germany and early settlers of Somerville. The grandparents had three children: Jacob, Sallie and Charles. Charles Falk was a farmer in Preble county, where he passed his career, and died in September, 1895, his widow surviving until 1909. They were members of the Presbyterian church, and Mrs. Keller their only child. To Mr. and Mrs. Keller there has come one daughter, Martha, born May 6, 1907. While he has made his home at Somerville since 1908, Mr. Keller still is the owner of a valuable farm of 160 acres in Preble county, on which he carries on mixed farming and stock raising. Naturally progressive and capable, he brings to his work energy, enthusiasm and the kind of ability that has been developed through study and experience, and modern methods and ideas govern his actions. He has put good improvements on his property and his farm presents' an attractive appearance, as well as being made more valuable by the presence of substantial buildings. Mr. Keller is a director in the Somerville National bank. He votes the Democratic ticket at elections, and has discharged the duties of citizenship when called upon to serve in public office, having acted for several years as a member of the local board of school directors, and is also a member of the city council. Mrs. Keller is a consistent member of the Presbyterian church.
Edward Kemp, who is one of the substantial and reliable representatives of the agricultural industry of the northeastern corner of Butler county, belongs to a family that has long been well and favorably known in this locality, and is the owner of property which was secured by its members from the United States Government. He was born on this homestead, a son of Jacob and Mary (Zehring) Kemp, natives of Berks county, Pa., who as young married people came from the Keystone state and located in Butler county, taking up a land claim from the Government. There they rounded out peaceful and useful careers, living content in the esteem of their neighbors and in the prosperity which they gained as a reward of industry and right living. Edward Kemp attended the district schools, where he was given his educational training, and remained on the home farm, where he contributed to the comfort of his parents during their declining years. At the time of his father's death he took over the property, which consists of 200 acres, and
since then has made a number of improvements which have added greatly to both its appearance and value. He carries on general farming operations, and his efforts have resulted in the gaining of success and his attainment of a position among the substantial agriculturists of his community. He is a believer in modern methods and avails himself of the benefits derivable from the use of improved machinery. In business circles, Mr. Kemp is known as a man of integrity, and his standing is accordingly high. Mr. Kemp has reared several nieces to womanhood, one of whom, Miss Mabel Farris, was sent by him to Miami college, Oxford, O., where she studied Liberal Arts. Mr. Kemp is a Democrat and has been selected by his fellow-citizens to fill several positions as a public servant, having acted in the capacity of township trustee and member of the school board. He is a member of the Baptist church in the work of which he takes a helpful interest, and in several other ways fills an important place in the life of the community in which he has spent his entire career. Miss Emma Kemp, a most cultured woman and one whom it is a pleasure to meet, lives with her brother Edward and keeps house for him.
Robert H. Kemp. Prominent among the young business men of Hamilton who have worked their own way to positions of business importance and substantiality is found Robert H. Kemp, proprietor of the Hamilton Welding & Manufacturing company. Mr. Kemp belongs to the class that is known as self-made, for he entered upon his career with only his own resources of ability, determination and ambition to assist him, and with these as capital has eventually established himself among the men who are making business history at the county seat of Butler county. Mr. Kemp was born in 1885, at Union City, Ind., a son of Joshua Kemp, of Randolph county, Ind., who was an educator all his life and died in his native state at the age of seventy-four years. Professor Kemp married Rachael Fields, also of Randolph county, who died in 1889, and of their eleven children, seven are living. Robert H. Kemp attended the home schools of Randolph county, Ind., and received further instruction under the tuition of his father. He was an industrious and ambitious lad, and early became at least partly self-supporting, for when he was only fourteen years of age he started to learn the wagon wheel maker's trade, a vocation which he followed for some years. When he was twenty-one years old he determined upon another course of action, which caused him to learn the trade of moulder, an occupation which he followed as an employee of the Hamilton Foundry and Machine company for seven years. In 1913 he embarked in business in partnership with A. D. Stucky and C. E. Freeman, under the style of Hamilton Welding & Manufacturing company, the plant being located at Chestnut street and the C., H. & D. railroad tracks. This association continued with a moderate degree of success for one and one-half years, but it was found at that time, at least, that there was not sufficient profit in it for three partners, and Mr. Kemp bought out his associates and enlarged the business. He continued with increasing success at the same location until December, 1918, when
he moved his business to its present location, at 121 N. B street, in the plant formerly occupied by the National Caster company. Mr. Kemp was married in 1904, the year of his arrival at Hamilton, to Gertrude Glunt, of Union City, Ind., and they are the parents of two sons: Clem Eugene, aged thirteen years; and Robert Emerson, aged five years. Mr. Kemp is a popular member of the local lodges of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, in which he has numerous friends. He has a number of civic connections, as well as affiliations with big business interests, and is vice-president of the Hamilton Thermometer Works. His religious faith is that of the Methodist church, while Mrs. Kemp belongs to the Christian church.
Clarence Kennedy, one of the highly respected men of Hamilton who is now living retired from further participation in business life, was formerly active along several varied lines, and has always been connected with the best element in his community. He was born at Hamilton, Ohio, August 11, 1845, a son of Charles R. Kennedy, who was born in England, December 17, 1910, and was there reared and taught the trade of a tailor by his father. As a journeyman, Charles R. Kennedy traveled all over the British Isles, and became an expert cutter, although in the meanwhile, while only nineteen years old, he came to the United States, and after a period spent in Delaware, he came to Ohio, and was at Dayton for a time, subsequently settling permanently at Hamilton. While living at Dayton, he was married to a Miss Lane, who died a year later. Following his location at Hamilton, he was married (second) to Jane Rich, July 26, 1836. She was a daughter of Capt. William Rich, who conducted a blacksmith shop on Main and C streets, Hamilton, and there he carried on a large business and also dealt in coal. He had been born in Pennsylvania, where he was reared and married to a Miss Blue. After their marriage, Captain and Mrs. Rich came overland to Ohio, the trip taking many weeks, and located at Hamilton. Captain Rich died August 27, 1.848, aged seventy-six years. His wife died in Delaware county, Ohio. Their children were as follows: William, Lucinda, Mary, Jane, Emma, John and Caroline. After he came to Hamilton, Charles R. Kennedy opened a tailoring establishment and received a large patronage, but as it was so difficult to get assistants, he was put to a great deal of trouble to complete his orders. More than once he walked to Cincinnati to try and find helpers. Because of this shortage of labor, he was forced to work at night, and so strained his eyes that eventually he became blind. After he was well settled in the new world, two brothers and a sister joined him, they being as follows: James, who became a plumber of Cleveland, Ohio, served in the 7th Ohio Volunteer Infantry during the Civil war; Hiram, who served as a lieutenant of cavalry in the regular army during the Civil war; and Mary, who died at Delaware, Ohio. The second wife of Charles R. Kennedy, the mother of Clarence Kennedy, died October 31, 1858, aged forty-one years, having borne her husband six children, namely: Charles, who was a druggist of Hamilton; William, who was killed at the battle of Perryville, while serving
in the Union Army during the Civil war; James who was a druggist, died March 10 1860; Clarence whose name heads this review; Mary, who died February 17, 1854; Alice, who died June 6, 1853. After the death of his second wife Charles R. Kennedy was married (third) to Kate Bruck of Ohio. Clarence Kennedy attended the public schools of his native city, and was self-supporting from childhood, selling papers when a boy, and later learned the machinist trade. He went with Owen, Lane & Dyer of Hamilton, manufacturers of saw mills, portable and stationary engines and threshing machines, and was with this company for fifteen years, and for the subsequent fifteen years was with the Long-Allstatter company, also of Hamilton. Owing to an attack of rheumatism, Mr. Kennedy was then forced to stop working at his trade, so entered the Hamilton postoffice, and for seventeen years was a letter carrier and for eight years carried a rural route. At the expiration of the latter period of years, he retired, leaving the government service January 19, 1915. August 7, 1909, Mr. Kennedy was united in marriage with Flora May Dillon, born at Hamilton, Ohio, a daughter of John and Martha Jane (Hull) Dillon, he was born at Trenton, Ohio, and she at Reily, Butler county. John Dillon was a son of Samuel Dillon, born in Butler county, Ohio, a son of Samuel Dillon, who was born in Ireland, but came to Butler county, Ohio, locating near Trenton. All of the earlier members of the Dillon family were Old School Baptists. John Dillon settled in Milford township, Butler county, and was engaged in farming, but later, he moved to Hamilton and established a tile factory, building up a large business, specializing on making drain tile. His plant was located on the present site of the home of Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy. Still later, he built a feed mill, and was successful in operating that, and in his last years he did a good deal of gardening, being so active he felt he had to keep himself occupied. After the death of his first wife, September 28, 1884, Mr. Dillon was married (second) to Mrs. Harriet Cornelia Gard, of Indiana, who died December 15, 1899, he having died in 1898, aged seventy-four years. By his first marriage, John Dillon had the following children: Eliza Ellen, who married Joseph D. Millspaugh, lives at Milwaukee, Wis.; Mary Emma, who married Harry T. Barry, lives at Hamilton, Ohio; Lewis A., who was surveyor of Butler county, and city civil engineer for nineteen years, now lives at No. 617 Park avenue, Hamilton; and Flora May, who is Mrs. Kennedy. During the Civil war, Mr. Kennedy served his country as a soldier, enlisting in 1862, in the 88th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In order to do so, he ran away from home to Columbus, Ohio, and offered himself at Camp Chase. Taking sick, he was discharged for disability, and returned home. In 1864, he re-enlisted in Company E, 167th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Lewis. Mr. Kennedy is a member of the Episcopal church, and his wife belongs to the First Presbyterian church. Mrs. Kennedy also belongs to the Woman's Relief Corps, the Eastern Star, and other fraternities. For over twenty-five years Mr. Kennedy played the cornet in the Apollo band of Hamilton. He is a staunch Republican, and was one of the
most enthusiastic admirers of President McKinley, whom he accounted as one of his personal friends. Mr. McKinley always called him by his first name. Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy are very fine people, and are liked by a wide circle of friends. They have had the right ideals of life, and the courage to live up to them, and their influence in their community has always been for good.
George L. Keppler. There is much of an attractive nature to be found in the history of the career of a young man who starts out in life handicapped in a number of ways, without capital or influence, and who, notwithstanding these obstacles, pushes manfully toward the goal of success which he has set before him. Such a man was the late George L. Keppler, who, from small beginnings so exercised his talents and native abilities that he rose to be one of the substantial and highly respected citizens of Butler county. Mr. Keppler was born in Germany, May 31, 1847, and received only a common school education in the country of his birth, where he started life as a factory hand. His outlook for the attainment of success did not seem very bright to the ambitious and determined youth, and accordingly, at the age of eighteen years, he decided to come to the United States, confident that here he could find the opportunities that had before then been denied him. Arriving at New York in 1865, he made his way to Hamilton, where he found friends of the family who secured him employment on a farm in Milford township. Later for two years he was similarly employed at Millville, then moving to Darrtown, where he met and married Margaret Smith, who was born near Seven Mile, Butler county, a daughter of Frederick and Barbara Smith, natives of Germany. Frederick Smith had come to the United States in young manhood and located near Seven Mile with his parents, and had subsequently entered upon his independent career as a gardener, this vocation being cast aside when he developed into a full-fledged farmer. He continued to be actively interested in agricultural pursuits during the remainder of his life and died on his valuable farm at the age of sixty years, his widow surviving him some time and being seventy years old at the time of her demise. His home place was in Milford township, where Mrs. Keppler now resides, and where he was widely known as a man of good heart, of sound integrity and of public-spirited citizenship. He and his good and worthy wife were consistent members of St. John's Lutheran church at Hamilton, the movements of which they supported generously. Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Keppler settled on the Smith farm, where Mr. Keppler continued to carryon operations throughout the remainder of his life, and where his death occurred in January, 1915. He was a skilled and progressive farmer, combining practical methods with modern ideas in a way that brought about excellent results, and his standing in the confidence of the public was high as his dealings were always carried on in an honorable and straightforward manner. As a voter he supported the principles and candidates of the Democratic party, and on a number of occasions was himself chosen as the incumbent of public office, the duties of which he discharged in an entirely capable, satisfactory and conscientious
manner. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran church, to which all the members of the family belong. Mr. and Mrs. Keppler were the parents of five children. William F., the eldest, was educated in the home schools and has devoted his life to farming and running a threshing outfit, being at present the operator of the home farm, which he manages for his mother. The second child died in infancy. Frank Edward, the third in order of birth, was also educated in the home schools, and is now successfully engaged in farming operations in Milford township. He married Nellie Barnes, and is the father of two sons, - John and Harold. The fourth child, Addie, married Henry Popst, a farmer south of Darrtown, in Butler county, and has two sons, - Fred and Sherley. Pearl, the youngest of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Keppler, is the wife of William Wiley, a farmer of Hanover township. The home farm, located in Milford township, consists of 260 acres, all under a high state of cultivation, and here under Mrs. Keppler's direction and her son's capable supervision general farming is done and some stock is raised, and the manner in which the property is handled leaves no doubt as to the presence of able management. Mrs. Keppler is one of the highly esteemed ladies of her community, where she has made her home for so long, and where she has been active in church and charitable work and in the movements which have added to the progress of the locality and to the well-being and happiness of its people.
Frank Kerbel, who has been a resident of Hamilton, Ohio, for over half a century, has been very generally connected with those agencies that bring about growth and development in a city, as typified in progressiveness, public spirit and substantial business policies. For many years proprietor of large and well equipped hotels, he became well and favorably known to the traveling public and it is safe to say that few men over the country have a wider casual acquaintance, many of these ripening into warm friendships. During his long career as hotelkeeper, on many occasions he has had some of the most distinguished men of the times as his guests. Mr. Kerbel was born in Bavaria, Germany, October 6, 1840. His father was a substantial blacksmith in Bavaria and a man of public consequence, serving for twelve years as burgomaster in his district. Frank Kerbel was well brought up and as the son of a burgomaster, had excellent educational advantages in youth, afterward entering the German army and serving five years. He was twenty-six years old when he came to the United States, one member of the family being the grandfather, Peter Kerbel, who was a resident of Hamilton for thirty-two years. In Germany Frank Kerbel had learned the blacksmith trade, and after coming to Hamilton he worked for nine years in the foundry of Long, Black & Allstatter in the scythe and sickle department. In 1875 he started in the hotel business establishing the Farmers hotel on North Monument avenue, where he remained nine years, then sold, and in May, 1886, purchased a building on the corner of Front and Court streets. This was an ideal location for business and under his improving and remodeling of the five-story building, the corner became one of the most attractive parts of the business
district. When ready to open the second Farmers hotel, Mr. Kerbel had fine accommodations, a big dining room, a bar, well arranged kitchens, sixty bedrooms, and a stable in connection that offered facilities to the farmers and he had all the farmer trade. It was said that Mr. Kerbel was the only hotel keeper that had ever been able to make the business profitable at Hamilton. In the memorable flood of 1913 his actual loss amounted to $40,000, but he continued in business until in May, 1916, when he retired disposing of the business to his son-in-law, August Iskie. Mr. Kerbel still owns the building and has other valuable improved real estate here. In 1867 he married Helena Gluck, who was born in Germany and died at Hamilton in 1884, the mother of six children, two of whom are living, namely: Louise, who is the wife of August Iskie, and they have five children; and Mary, who is the wife of Charles Troutman, of Cincinnati, a former wine merchant. Mr. Kerbel's second marriage took place in December, 1885, to Maggie Weisbrodt. Their three children are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kerbel are members of St. Stephen's church. The family residence is No. 202 S. Front street, Hamilton, Ohio.
Thomas H. Kerns. The connection of Thomas Henry Kerns with the agricultural interests of Butler county covers a long period of years and includes varied experiences all culminating in well won success. At the present time he is one of the substantial residents of the Middletown community, where he is accounted a citizen of worth and public spirit. Mr. Kerns was born in Berkeley county, Virginia (now West Virginia), and is a son of Henry and Rebecca (Hammond) Kerns. His father, born October 11, 1815, passed away in March, 1873, and his mother, born in May, 1820, died in 1871. There were ten children in the family, of whom five survive: John W., Thomas Henry, Charles, James and Albert. July 4, 1875, Mr. Kerns married Catherine Weikel, and to this union there were born five children: Anna E., Willard, Cameron, Walter Hammond and Clara May, the last-named of whom resides at home. Mr. Kerns is a man of superior intelligence and has served his community well for a number of years as a member of the board of directors of the Kumler school. He and the members of his family belong to the Methodist Episcopal church at Seven Mile.
Frank Kinch. A leading contractor in cement work at Hamilton, Ohio, Frank Kinch is a good type of self-made manhood and a citizen of repute and standing in his community. He was born at Hamilton, April 15, 1858, a son of George and Eliza (Brereton) Kinch, natives of County Roscommon, Ireland, who emigrated to the United States in June, 1850, and located at Hamilton. The father conducted a dray line during the rest of his life and died April 20, 1882, his widow surviving until April 6, 1890, and both were faithful members of the United Presbyterian church. They had six children: John, born in Ireland, connected with a circus for a number of years, and later engaged in the candy manufacturing business at Hamilton until his death; George, who operated a moving wagon until his death at the age of twenty-six years; Robert, deceased, a moulder, who married Mattie Mathews, now a
resident of California; William, a bridgetender at Hamilton; Frank; and Susan, the wife of Squire Martin of Hamilton. After attending the public schools of Hamilton, Frank Kinch joined his brother John in the manufacture of candy at Hamilton, but subsequently took up newspaper work, as the first pressman for the Republican News, a publication with which he continued to be connected for two years. At that time he embarked in business taking contracts for cement work a line with which he has continued to be identified ever since, and in which he has achieved a satisfying success. Mr. Kinch has served in several public capacities, having been a member of the police force six years and of the fire department five years, and also acted as county commissioner four years. He is a staunch Democrat in his political views. His career has not been entirely one of unalloyed success, for he has at times met with reverses, particularly in the flood of 1913, when he suffered heavy losses but after each setback has only worked the harder, with the result that he has obtained an enviable reputation in business circles. He is widely known in fraternal circles, among others belonging to the Elks; the Eagles, of which he is a charter member; the Loyal Order of Moose, of which he is also a charter member; the Improved Order of Red Men; the West Side Aid society; and the Modern Woodmen of America, and he and his wife are members of the Knights and Ladies of Security. Mrs. Kinch belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church, while he belongs to the United Presbyterian church. Mr. Kinch was married to Elizabeth Becker, of Hamilton, who died March 16, 1890, leaving one son, Walter F., a machinist of Hamilton, who married Lillian Mauer, and has a son, Earl. He also has a stepson, Arthur Becker, also a moulder, who is married and has two children, - Margaret and Shirley. April 19, 1892, Mr. Kinch was united in matrimony with Matilda, a sister of his first wife, and daughter of Valentine and Mary (Grossberger) Becker, natives of Germany who came to America single and located at Hamilton. Mr. Becker was a foreman woodworker at Hamilton, but later went to Lawrenceburg, Ind., subsequently returning to Hamilton, where he died April 1, 1899, his widow surviving until December 11, 1901. They were faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the parents of six children: Rose, the wife of Christian Link of Hamilton; John, of Dayton; Paul, of Cleveland; Sadie, wife of W. C. Hoffman, of Hamilton, clerk of the Butler county court; Elizabeth, the first Mrs. Kinch; and Matilda, the present Mrs. Kinch. Mr. and Mrs. Kinch have had the following children: Paul, educated in the high school of Hamilton, worked for the county surveyor, was engaged in concrete work at West Middletown with the Duersch Coal company, and was then associated with his father until his enlistment April 26, 1918, in the army, where he made an excellent record. The following are a few of the interesting facts of this record: Leaving Camp Sherman he went to Camp Merritt, N. J., thence to Montreal, Canada, where he embarked on the English freighter Nankin and started on his journey overseas to France, which proved to be a very pleasant one. Like all soldiers who entered the service of Uncle Sam, he
saw many strenuous days, his time being occupied in drilling, marching and m engagements with the enemy. We herewith mention a few of the most interesting facts in which he was concerned while overseas. He was greeted by an Italian princess in Trent; was in parade at Milan; passed in review before the King of Italy on one of the famous old battlefields; also participated in the drive across Piave front and assisted in the capture of Codroiko and the taking of thousands of prisoners. After the signing of the armistice moved on to Austria; was in a hospital at Padova; was chosen as honor guard for President Wilson while abroad. He also delivered a message to him while at the Quirinal palace. Acted as page at the home of the American ambassador where President Wilson and his party were guests at a dinner, and assisted in getting in readiness for shipment the President's effects. While in Italy he visited Bologna, Florence, Genoa, Milan, Rome and Naples. At the latter place took the incline car up to Mt. Vesuvius and descended into the crater. The points of interest visited while in Rome were the Vatican, the catacombs, Appian Way, the Forum, the Colosseum, St. Peters and St. Paul, thence to Pompeii for a short stay. Starting for home March 29, 1919, on board the Duca D'Osta he arrived in New York harbor April 14, and crossed the river to Camp Merrit. After the necessary sanitary examination he left for Camp Sherman, where he received his honorable discharge May 5, 1919. He was educated in the public schools, and now a foreman machinist with Hooven, Owen & Rentschler, at Hamilton; Donald, at home; Dorothea, deceased; and Russell, at home.
Andrew P. King, a successful and enterprising farmer and the owner of a 292-acre farm lying in Reily township, was born in Butler county, on the old home place, a son of Samuel King, born in 1824, the latter being a son of Dr. Andrew King. Dr. Andrew King was a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, and a man of splendid education. He studied medicine at Edinburgh, Scotland, and on coming to the United States in 1832, settled in Reily township, and in addition to cultivating and developing a farm, practiced medicine and conducted a general store. Through his various activities he became widely known and was accounted one of his community's foremost men and a practitioner whose labors were both skilled and unselfish. He was twice married, and he and both his wives were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. All of his children were by his first wife, who bore the maiden name of Grace Wallace, namely: Rebecca, who lived in Indiana; Sarah, who was a resident of Reily township; John, who remained single and lived at home; James, who lived in Indiana; Margaret and Martha, who both died single; Samuel, the father of Andrew P.; and Mary, who died small. Samuel King secured his education in the district schools, and resided on the home farm in his youth and young manhood. He married Mary Ellen Port, of Reily township, daughter of Samuel and Jane Port, of Ireland, early settlers of Reily township, where Mr. Port was a farmer throughout his life. They had eight children: William, who lived in Indiana, Illinois and Kansas, and died in the last-named state; Richard, John and James, who all went to Kansas and died
there; Andy, who went to Kansas and later to California, but later returned to Kansas where he died; Samuel who died at home; Mary Ellen, who became Mrs. King; and Elizabeth, who became the wife of Frank Blacker and lived in Indiana, Ohio and Tennessee. Samuel King continued as a farmer and a moderate raiser of stock all of his life, and was a man well known and highly respected. He was a Republican, and he and Mrs. King were faithful members of the Presbyterian church at Reily, Ohio. Of their seven children, only three are living: Carrie Elizabeth, who has always made her home on the old King farm; Henry Morton, formerly a miner and storekeeper of Dawson City, Alaska, and now a merchant and real estate operator of Seattle, Wash., who married Ellen McClure; and Andrew P. Andrew P. King went to the home schools while assisting his father in the work of the farm, and grew up amid agricultural scenes, so that it was but natural that he should adopt farming as his life work when he reached man's estate. He married Florence Jenkins, of Peoria, Ind., a daughter of Wilson and Susan (Smith) Jenkins, of Franklin county, Ind., farming people, who are both now deceased. Mrs. King died in the spring of 1910, leaving the following children: Ellis, an operator in the oil fields of Wyoming; Paul, who is engaged in operations on a part of the old home place, married Elizabeth Lemon and has four children, Jack, Mary Ellen, William F. and Pattie Lee; Emma, who died young; Dorothea, who died at the age of ten years; and William, who always lived on the old place and died in 1909. Andrew P. King was a farmer throughout his active life, but has practically retired although he still makes his home on the 292-acre tract. He is a Republican in politics and a public-spirited and useful citizen.
George W. King. The opportunity has been given to some individuals to assist in the development of the country, to shape their surroundings according to their needs, and to be factors in the advancement and elevation of standards along material lines. Butler county is the home of many men who have worked out their own destiny and while doing so have contributed to the progress of their communities, and in this connection it is well to mention George W. King, the owner of a valuable farm in Oxford township, and a man who has played his part in the agricultural development of this locality. Mr. King was born on a farm southwest of the one which is his present home, February 11, 1868, a son of William and Margaret (Johnson) King, a review of whose lives will be found elsewhere in this work, in the sketch of William King. After attending the district schools of Oxford township, he pursued a course at Oxford High school, and then returned to the home place where he applied himself to the task of assisting his father in the development of the home acres. Mr. King resided under the parental roof until February 8, 1899, when he was united in marriage with Nora, daughter of Leonard and Mary Ann (Gates) Farr and granddaughter of John and Susan (Knotts) Farr, early residents of Franklin county, Ind., who later lived in Union county in the same state. They had eleven children, of whom seven reached maturity, and among the latter, Leonard, Henry and Caleb fought as soldiers of the Union
during the war between the North and the South, while Charles, another son, was at one time assistant superintendent of schools of Cook county, Ill. Mary Ann Gates, the mother of Mrs. King, was a daughter of John and Sarah (Merril) Gates, whose other children were: Richard, deceased; Thomas, Elmer and Elmira. Leonard and Mary Ann (Gates) Farr, the parents of Mrs. King, first lived in Franklin county, Ind., later in Butler county, Ohio, near Okeana, and finally in Union county, Ind., and were highly respected people. Leonard, the father, was a mechanic by occupation. He is deceased and buried at Liberty, Ind., while Mary Ann, the mother, resides in Liberty. They had two children: Frank, who married Lizzie Williams and resides at Milwaukee, Wis.; and Nora. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. King settled on a farm in Union county, Ind., where they made their home for five years, and then moved to the old King homestead in Oxford township, Butler county, Ohio. Here Mr. King has made many fine improvements and has developed an excellent and productive property and one which pays him well for the labor which he expends upon it. He is a practical farmer who believes in the use of time-tried methods, but does not let his conservatism extend to too great a point, for a strain of progressiveness makes him ready to always tryout new ideas that seem to have something to commend them. He is a Democrat, but never has been a politician in the generally accepted meaning of the word, and has not sought public office, although he takes a keen and intelligent interest in township affairs and supports actively all movements which promise to be of benefit. During the period of the war he was a generous contributor to the various drives and activities through which the civilian public assisted in the winning of the war. Mr. and Mrs. King are the parents of two children: Ruth, who is a student at Miami university; and Dorothy, who is attending Oxford High school.
Louis A. King, is a well-known and highly respected citizen of Oxford township, Butler county, where he is the owner of a valuable property. He was born in this township, on the old King homestead, July 17, 1865, a son of William and Margaret (Johnson) King, and a review of the family will be found in the sketch of William King, elsewhere in this work. The public schools of Oxford furnished Mr. King with his education, and when he laid aside his studies he settled down to farming, a vocation which has claimed his undivided attention throughout his career. In 1888 he was united in marriage with Harriet, daughter of Walter and Susan Garrod, of Oxford, the father being a cabinet maker by trade. There were five children in the Garrod family: George L., Walter, Alfred, Grace, who is now Mrs. P. M. Reisch, of Denver, Colo.; and Harriet, who is Mrs. King. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. King settled on a part of the old King homestead in Oxford township, where they now have 100 acres under a high state of cultivation. Mr. King erected the buildings on this property and put in various other modern improvements, making of it an ideal and model country estate. He carries on general farming, making a specialty of the raising of thoroughbred hogs, and his good management and industry have combined
to bring him prosperity. Mr. King is independent in politics, is a good and public-spirited citizen supporting all movements for the benefit of his community, and during the period of the war was a liberal contributor to wartime activities and measures. Mr. and Mrs. King are the parents of three children: Ruby, who married Bennett Cross, of Oxford township; George, who married Fern Wehr; and Walter, who is home and his father's assistant.
William King. The Butler county farmer, if he is enterprising and energetic, is usually loath to transfer the control of his operations to other hands, even when he has reached an age that men in other lines of industry would consider advanced years; but when finally he does relinquish his hold upon active labor and retires to a residence in the town or city, he makes one of the substantial, solid citizens of his new community and as such is a welcome addition. One of the best and most favorably known retired residents of Oxford is William King, who for many years was engaged in farming in Oxford township. He was born two miles west of Oxford, on the old King homestead, now occupied by George King, January 17, 1842, a son of Michael and Angeline (Cutter) King, the former born at Williamsburg, Mass., and the latter at Wheatley, that state. The paternal grandparents were William and Rachael (Appleby) King, the great-grandparents William and Thankful (Horner) King, and the great-great-grandparents were William and Jemima (Bliss) King, one William was a Minute Man during the Revolution, with the rank of lieutenant, and another of whose sons, Solomon, also fought as a soldier of the Continental line. William King last named was a son of John and Sarah (Allen) King. The family in this country is traced to John King, who came from Edwarston, England, in 1679, settling at Palmer, Mass., whose son, Benjamin, was killed by Indians in Massachusetts in 1756. Byron Loomis, son of Lucretia (King) Loomis, of the fifth King generation, fought as a soldier during the Civil war. Michael King, the father of William King of this review, was married in Massachusetts, and in 1834 came with his bride to Ohio, settling on a farm about three miles west of Oxford. There he continued to carryon agricultural pursuits for many years, but in the evening of life moved to a small tract west of the town, where his death occurred in 1884, his widow surviving him ten years. They were the parents of the following children: Charles, who died at Richmond, Ind., in 1918, married Sarah Montford and they had two children, Mrs. William Swan wife of the former state representative from Preble county, Ohio, and Mrs. Charles Moss; William, of this review; Mary, deceased, who married William Finch and had three children, Mrs. M. Crick, William and Margaret; and Jerome, who died in 1915, married Olive Gibbs and had six children, Charles of Kansas, Nettie of California, Elmer, also of that state, Nellie, deceased, and Georgia and Jerome, of California. William King received his education in the public schools of Butler county, and was reared on his father's farm, being the elder man's associate until his marriage, in 1864, to Margaret, daughter of Louis and Margaret (Hopper) Johnson. Louis Johnson and his wife were the parents of four children: Helen, who died as Mrs. Bradfield.
Mary, who married Jonathan Stout; Ma:rgaret, who became Mrs. King; and Albert, deceased. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. King moved to a farm three miles west of Oxford, the old King homestead, on which they made their home until 1904, in which year they retired to their fine modern home at Oxford, which they had previously built. The farm is now being conducted by their son, George. Mrs. King died at the Oxford home in 1914, universally respected and beloved. During his long career Mr. King has won and held in full degree the confidence of those with whom he has come in contact. A man of sterling integrity and probity, his acts have been governed by a high sense of right and justice. As a citizen he has discharged faithfully and conscientiously every duty which has devolved upon him. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. King were the parents of four children: Louis, of Oxford township, who married Harriet Garrod and has three children, Ruby, who married Bennett Cross; George, who married Fern Wehr, and they have two children, Castle and Don; and Walter; George, residing on the old homestead, who married Nora Farr and has two children, Ruth and Dorothy; Emily, who is single and resides with her father; and Frank, who is deceased. William, George and Lewis Sadler, sons of Cordelia (King) Sadler of the fifth generation, enlisted in the Civil war in 1862; William was killed. Edwin, son of Jerome King, fifth generation, was a soldier of the Civil war. Jerome King, son of Jerome King, sixth generation, served in the World war.
Samuel Kinsinger, living in the community of Collinsville, Ohio, was born on the old home place two miles north of Collinsville, on March 11, 1851. He is the son of Joseph Kinsinger, who was born in 1801, in Bavaria, Germany, and who came to America in 1824, and located in Butler county. Joseph Kinsinger was married in 1830, to Magdalena, daughter of Christian and Catherine (Hauter) Augspurger, the former of Alsace, France, and the latter of Bavaria, who were married in the latter country in 1805. Christian Augspurger and family came to America in 1817 and settled in Pennsylvania, and a year later returned to Europe and in 1819 they again came to America and settled in the woods two miles north of Collinsville, Ohio. There they cleared a farm and made a home but subsequently disposed of it and moved to another property located two miles south of Trenton, Ohio. There they passed away and were buried in the family burying ground at that place. They were the parents of twelve children: Joseph, Catherine, Magdalena, Barbara, Christian, Mary, Jacob, John, Jacobina, Anna, Samuel and Frederick. After his marriage, Joseph Kinsinger purchased the old Augspurger homestead north of CollinsviIle, where he continued to be engaged in farming until his death in 1857, at the age of fifty-six years. He was always a farmer, but also labored faithfully in the Mennonite church, in which he was one of the early preachers in the Miami valley. During the early days the services of the followers of this faith were held in the various homes of the members, but later when a sizable congregation had been formed, a meeting place was secured at Trenton, Ohio. Mr. Kinsinger was widely known as a man
of ability and honor, and took an active part in the public and private welfare of the community in which he lived. .In politics he voted the Democratic ticket. He was the father of nine children: Barbara, who died in 1918 was the wife of the late David Sommers, they had ten children: Catherine who died in 1850; Christian, who died in 1868, was married to Mary Schrock, also deceased, and had two children; Magdalena, who died in 1911, was the wife of the late Joseph M. Goldsmith, and had nine children; Joseph, who died in 1886 was married to the late Helena Kennel, and had five children; Fannie, still living, of Collinsville, Ohio; Mary, who died in 1918; Jacobina, who died in 1867; and Samuel of Collinsville, who, in 1885, married Emma B. Jotter, daughter of the late Peter and Mary (Bender) Jotter, who were early residents of Monroe, Ohio. He is the father of two children. He, with his family, is now living on a farm west of Collinsville and is still actively engaged in general farming.
Samuel Harman Kitchen. Among the live and hustling business men of Middletown, one who in recent years has caused his name to become well and favorably known in realty circles, is Samuel Harman Kitchen, sales manager for the firm of Nein Brothers. Formerly identified with matters of an electrical nature, he early became convinced of the great future existing in the real estate field, and in this he has made a convincing success. He is likewise one of his city's most public-spirited citizens, and his constructive work in a number of civic bodies has tended to advance his community's welfare in no small degree. Mr. Kitchen was born in Berkeley county, W. Va., February 3, 1883, a son of Henry C. and Mary E. (Nelson) Kitchen. His maternal grandfather was the Rev. Henry S. Nelson, who was a circuit-riding minister of the United Brethren church during the period of the war between the North and the South. Bethule M. Kitchen, his paternal grandfather, was for a number of years president of the Martinsburg National bank and a leader of the Republican party in his community in antebellum days, and when the conflict between the states came on was elected to congress at that time. His children were: John B., of New Jersey; W. E., of Dayton; and Fannie, the wife of Ed Grove, of West Virginia; Sallie and William, who died in youth. Samuel Harman Kitchen commenced his education in the public schools of West Virginia, and was still a child when his parents removed to Ohio, the family settling one mile west of Shiloh church, where they lived one year. Later they changed their residence to the city of Dayton, and where the mother continues to make her home. The public school course at Dayton completed the educational training of Samuel H. Kitchen, following which, in 1898, he secured a position with the Bell Telephone company, where he worked his way to wire chief of the city of Dayton. Later he was made plant chief, at Springfield, where he remained twenty months, returning to Dayton in December, 1912. Shortly thereafter he was sent to Middletown to become manager of the Middletown Telephone company, and held that post from January 15, 1913, until December 15, 1916, when he resigned to become associated with the real estate firm of Nein Brothers, for which he
has since acted in the capacity of sales manager. He is one of the best-informed men in his line in the city, and his energy and hustling qualities have served to materially advance his company's interests. Mr. Kitchen was married June 20, 1906, to Grace, daughter of Benjamin F. and Eliza (Morgan) Metherd, who both survive, and to this union there have been born three children: Grace Elizabeth, born in 1908; Virginia Louisa, born in 1910 and Benjamin Metherd, born in 1915. The family resides on Superior avenue, where Mr. Kitchen recently purchased a beautiful home. As before noted he is very public-spirited, possessing a large degree of civic pride. During the period of the great World war he took an active and helpful part in the work of the Red Cross society, and at present he is secretary of the board of directors of the local Y. M. C. A., and secretary-treasurer of the Middletown Real Estate Board. He is fraternally affiliated with Scout Council, Knights of Pythias; the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Masons, and in the last named is past master of Jefferson Lodge. In his politics he is liberal, voting for the man rather than with the party. Like her husband, Mrs. Kitchen is very popular in Middletown, where both have numerous friends. She had two sisters and one brother: Mrs. Minnie I. Schulz, Verna Belle, and Benjamin Franklin, who is deceased.
Augustus Kloman. Representing the stable, industrious and capable element recruited from the farming class of Butler county, Augustus Kloman, during his incumbency of the position of cashier of the Sharonville bank, has built up a reputation for ability, integrity and practicality that has done much to establish him in the confidence of the public and in the esteem of his associates. His career has been one in which teaching and banking have each received the benefit of his ability and in both connections he may be said to have made his name known and honored. Mr. Kloman was born on a farm in Union township, Butler county, Ohio, November 8, 1865, a son of Adam and Elizabeth (Aufranc) Kloman, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Ohio. Adam Kloman was educated in his native land, where he learned the trade of baker, but as he saw no future before him in Germany, at the age of twenty-three years he emigrated to the United States, and for a time was employed at his trade at Cincinnati. He then came to Butler county and became a farmhand, and after he had saved a little capital rented a small property of his own. This he left when he was able to buy a farm of forty-one acres, in Union township, upon which he continued industriously to carryon operations until the time of his death in 1903, Mrs. Kloman having passed away in 1896. They were highly respected people, of the best agricultural class, honest, unassuming and God-fearing, and had many friends. Of their ten children, eight are still living. Augustus Kloman attended the public schools of Union township, and, expressing a desire for further education, was sent to the normal school at Lebanon, for three terms of ten weeks each. With this preparation, he taught school for two years, and this enabled him to take the classical course at Wesleyan university for a like period. Again resuming his teaching activities, he had
schools at Tylerville for one year, at West Chester for four years, at Stockton four years and at Woodlawn three years. He thus became widely and favorably known as an educator and formed lasting friendships with his pupils and their parents. In 1910 Mr. Kloman became one of the organizers of the Sharonville bank of which he became the first cashier, a position which he has retained to the present time. This institution, capitalized at $25,000, has enjoyed a healthy growth, and much of the credit for its high standing in banking circles and public confidence is due to Mr. Kloman's straightforward and conservative methods and to the influence which his personal integrity and probity exert. Mr. Kloman was formerly a member and clerk of the school board of Union township. Fraternally he is a Royal Arch Mason and a member of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics, at West Chester, and his political faith makes him a Democrat. With his family, he belongs to the Presbyterian church. Mr. Kloman was married in 1898, to Bessie M., daughter of John M. and Louise Cary, and they are the parents of two sons: Russell and Everett. The pleasant family home is located at West Chester, where both Mr. and Mrs. Kloman have numerous friends.
Howard L. Knepshie1d. Many of the men who make up the army of employees in the service of the American Rolling mill, at Middletown, have passed their entire careers in the service of this company and have risen to substantial positions through earnest and persistent effort. Among these, one who has fairly earned the success which has come to him is Howard L. Knepshield, whose assigned duties make him known as a roller. He was born at Leechburg, Armstrong county, Pa., June 11, 1889, a son of Jacob U. and Tillie H. (Hillard) Knepshield, and was one of a family of sixteen children, of whom ten are deceased, seven having died in infancy. Lewis died September 6, 1908, from injuries incurred in a bicycle accident; and Edna, Mrs. Lloyd Thompson, died December 9, 1918, of the influenza, leaving one son, William Alfred, aged eight years. Anna Belle married Clarence Geralds, of Miltonville, Ohio; Clair married Freda Ross, and lives at Newport, Ky.; Mary married Hugh Greer and resides at Middletown; Russell Hobson, now at home enlisted July 29, 1917, and served twenty-one months abroad as a member of Company E, Sixteenth Engineers; and Florence is the wife of A. C. Braun, who was a member of Company G, Twenty-ninth Civil Engineers, and crossed the seas to France during the World war. Mr. Knepshield's parents, natives of Pennsylvania, were married at Kittaning, that state, May 31, 1882, and came with their family to Middletown, July 3, 1900, Mr. Knepshield securing a position as heater with the American Rolling mill, by which concern he is still employed. For a man of his years he is exceptionally youthful and vigorous, showing plainly the beneficial results of a cleanly lived life. Mrs. Knepshield died February 10, 1917, leaving behind her many not only to mourn her many lovable qualities of mind and heart, but the memory of her splendid and inspiring gift for music. This latter talent has been inherited by her daughter, Mrs. Florence Braun, who is the possessor of a lovely voice of wide
range. Howard Lee Knepshield had just passed his eleventh birthday when he came to Middletown, and in the public schools of this city his education was completed. When he reached years of discretion he chose as his lifework the vocation of iron worker, and his training in this occupation was secured through experience as a worker in the American Rolling Mill, where for several years he has occupied the position of roller. He is a capable, willing and expeditious workman, upon whom both his employers and his associates can rely. September 28, 1909, Mr. Knepshield was united in marriage with Pearl Vance McChesney, daughter of David and Mary E. (Weikel) McChesney, the latter of whom still survives. Mrs. Knepshield's father died in 1897, having always been troubled with the after-effects of his experiences as a soldier during the Civil war. In that struggle between the North and South, Uriah Knepshield, an uncle of Howard, also took part. Mrs. Knepshield had the following brothers and sisters: ZelIa and Charles, who are deceased; George, of Middletown; Leah, who is the wife of George Wise; Mamie, who is the wife of Jack Brookover, of this city; and John, also of Middletown. Mr. and Mrs. Knepshield are the parents of five attractive, healthy and interesting children: Howard Jacob, who was born in 1911; Mary Elizabeth, born in 1912; Ruth Louise, born in 1914; Harold David, born in 1915; and Charles McChesney, born in 1917. In his political allegiance Mr. Knepshield stands for principle rather than party, and in his citizenship is progressive. He fraternizes with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Junior Order of United American Mechanics and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, in all of which he is popular. He and his family are members of the Methodist church, and reside in their own attractive home located on Linden avenue.
Samuel D. Kochendarfer, a well known and thrifty farmer, who successfully pursues his vocation in Reily township, belongs to that class of Butler county agriculturists who invest their work with enthusiasm, energy and modern enterprise. He has had to work industriously for what he has accumulated and as his present holdings are all of his own securing he can be included among the selfmade men of his community. Mr. Kochendarfer was born at Morning Sun, Butler county, Ohio, August 28, 1868, a son of Peter and Anna (Slonaker) Kochendarfer, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Butler county. Peter Kochendarfer enlisted for service in the war between the States as a private in a Pennsylvania volunteer infantry regiment, and immediately following his honorable discharge came to Butler county, Ohio, and located in Milford township, where he worked at farming until his marriage. For five years he resided in Pennsylvania, but then returned to Butler county, and for many years was an agriculturist of Milford township, where he accumulated a good property and became one of his locality's substantial and highly respected citizens. When he retired he moved to his present home at Oxford. He and his wife are the parents of seven children: Mary Ann, the wife of Henry Geckler, of Hamilton; Nathan, :who is a resident, of Texas; Samuel D., of this notice; Harvey, a resident of Hamilton; Eliza, the wife of Glen
Wright, of Oxford; Amanda, the wife of John Wright, of that place; and Lydia, the wife of Frank Truax of Norwood Ohio. Samuel D. Kochendarfer was educated in the public schools in his home community, and when he entered upon his own career farmed at Jericho for one year, near Somerville for three years, at Darrtown one year, and then for a number of years at different places in Reily township. In 1908 he purchased the old Conklin farm in Reily township, where he now lives, a tract of 165 acres on which he has made numerous improvements. He has always carried on general farming and has worked hard for his success, combining industry with good management into a happy whole which has advanced him to a place of independence among the men of his community. He is well and favorably known in the county, where he has many warm friends. As a voter, Mr. Kochendarfer is a Democrat, but is not interested in politics, save as a supporter of good improvements tending toward general progress. Mrs. Kochendarfer is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. In 1888 Mr. Kochendarfer married Miss Olive Dawson, and they are the parents of three children: Stanley, who fought as a soldier in the American Expeditionary Force during the great World war; he enlisted December 12, 1917, at Hamilton, Ohio, most of his training was obtained at Camp Greene, N.. C. He set sail for France, July 15, 1918. During that time he is credited with a Victory Ribbon and two bronze stars. After the Armistice was signed he started for Germany and arrived in Coblenz, Germany, December 8, 1918, ,where his company was made a Service Park Unit, 696, Third Army Headquarters; after staying seven and a half months there, started back for Brest, France, and set sail for Camp Merritt, arriving there August 12, 1919, and received his honorable discharge at Camp Sherman, August 27, 1919; after his discharge returned to the home of his parents and spent a joyful vacation, and later married the daughter of a prominent farmer, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Imhoff of near Oxford, Ohio. The marriage took place December 25, 1919, and in the future he will give his time and attention to agriculture, operating a farm near Reily, Ohio; Harvey, a farmer near Millville, Ohio, who married Ethel Grison, October 18, 1911; and Nellie, the widow of Paul Sauer.
Harry J. Koehler, Jr. A native of stirring, progressive Hamilton, at the time of his first election to the post of city solicitor in 1915, Harry J. Koehler, jr., was one of the youngest men ever selected for that position. However, youth was no bar to his success in that capacity for his administration was an excellent one and his services received the ratification of the people in 1917, when he was again sent to that office to succeed himself, and being again elected to like office November 4,1919. Mr. Koehler, who is making rapid advancement at the Butler county bar, was born at Hamilton, March 6, 1890, a son of Harry J. Koehler, sr. He received his preliminary educational training in the public schools, and after graduating from high school in 1907 attended the law department of the university of Cincinnati, where he received the degree of L. L. B. June 4, 1910, when he was but twenty years of age. Here his youth rose up as a bar to his admittance to practice, but June 11, 1911, he
was given this admission, and since that time has built up an excellent clientele. His public service, as noted, has been of a valuable and valued character, and he is already accounted one of his community's useful citizens. He is a Democrat in politics, and is fraternally affiliated with the Elks, the Eagles and the Knights of Pythias.
Fred Koffer. The claim of Fred Koffer upon the good-will and consideration of his fellow-townsmen at Collinsville rests upon many years of effective work as an agriculturist, upon a meritorious record as a citizen, and upon his activity in promoting education and kindred accompaniments of advanced civilization. Mr. Koffer retired from active life in 1903, at the age of fifty-eight years, a fact which speaks well for his industry and business sagacity. He was born in Baden, Germany, March 12, 1846, a son of George and Barbara (Fuchs) Koffer, his father being a laboring man who was employed much of his time in working on the River Rhine. In 1855 the family came to the United States and after landing at New Orleans, La., remained there for a short time. Subsequently they came to Hamilton county, Ohio, where they lived for about two years, and in 1858 came to Butler county, where the parents spent the balance of their lives, the father passing away at the age of eighty-six years and the mother when she was seventy-one years old. They were the parents of the following sons: William and Charles, of Preble county; George, of Oklahoma City, Okla.; Chris, who died January 7, 1919; and Fred. Fred Koffer completed his education in the public schools of Butler county and was reared to the pursuits of agriculture, in which he continued to be engaged until 1902. He was a hard and well-informed business man, and was identified with many phases of country life. His judgment was of value because tempered by experience and held in leash by a natural tendency toward conservatism, and he was successful in the accumulation of valuable property, his last farm, a tract of fifty acres near Millville, being sold at the time he moved to Collinsville, in 1902. Here he has a comfortable home. To know him is to receive the inspiration of an upright and honest man, and the encouragement of one who has surmounted many obstacles. Mr. Koffer was married January 11, 1872, to Miss Margaret Probst, a native of Germany, and a daughter of John and Rosina Probst, who lived in Butler county for many years and are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Koffer have no children. Mr. Koffer was a Republican at the time he cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, but since then has voted the Democratic ticket. He and his worthy wife are consistent members of the Zion Lutheran church at Hamilton.
Martin Kohler, Jr., lifelong resident of Middletown, Ohio, son of Martin and Barbara (Masner) Kohler, was born July 26, 1872. His parents located on a farm, which land the Big Four railroad now occupies and where they reared the large family born to them, all but two of whom are living: Jacob, Fred, deceased; Mary, Mrs. Peter Prentenborbec; Martin; Barbara, Mrs. George Miller; John, deceased; Agnes, Mrs. John Dugan; Kate, Mrs. Fred Palmer. The mother died March 4, 1912; the father still lives in Middletown.
Young Martin was married November 29, 1894, to Stella Dye, daughter of William and Sarah (Thomas) Dye, who came from Campbell county, Ky., to Middletown which remains their home. Mrs. Kohler had six brothers and sisters: William Walter, Edgar Lewis, James Luther, Sara Pearl, Mrs. Chester Jones; Charles, Bertha May, Mrs. Edward Haller. Mr. and Mrs. Kohler have two children: Earl Raymond, born July 30, 1896, married to Susie Lee Hill October 27, 1918; Marie, born April 7, 1898, married to Thomas Dickey Linkin, November 7, 1917. Mr. Kohler holds a responsible position with the American Rolling Mill company as foreman of the open hearth department, is a valued employee and popular with the men under his supervision. While of a retiring nature, he abounds in energy and activity and takes much interest in public affairs. He owns one of the most handsome homes on Yankee road in which he delights and takes much pride. His recreation hours are devoted largely to the care of the grass lawns which are considered as among the most beautiful and attractive in the city. Politically Mr. Kohler is a Republican. He is a member of the Lutheran church and also of the Knights of Pythias.
Edward Kramer, superintendent of transportation of the American Rolling Mill plant. His popularity in his native city of Middletown, Butler county, was significantly demonstrated in the splendid record he made in his recent campaign for the office of city commissioner. His political allegiance is given to the Democratic party, and he is affiliated with the Knights of Columbus and the Ancient Order of Hibernians, as well as the local organization of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and both he and his wife are communicants of Holy Trinity Catholic church. Mr. and Mrs. Kramer are popular factors in the social activities of the "younger set" in Middletown, and their pleasant home is at 507 E. First street. Edward Kramer was born at Middletown January 22, 1881, a son of Joseph and Bridget (O'Connell) Kramer, who still reside in this city, their home being on East First street. Joseph Kramer came to Middletown from the city of Cincinnati, in 1870, and ten years he was in the employ of the Hill Paper company. He then assumed the position of foreman for the Sorg Tobacco company, with which concern he was connected until his retirement from active business, about the year 1914. His father represented the old Buckeye state as a valiant soldier of the Union in the Civil war, as a member of Company D, 2d Ohio Heavy Artillery, with which he served two years and nine months. Of the ten children of Joseph and Bridget Kramer the eldest is Henry, who is now a resident of Franklin, Ohio; William, and Charles remain at Middletown; Sabina, Mayme and Stella are deceased, as is also Frank; and Edward, Nicholas and Charles reside at Middletown. On November 18 1903 Edward Kramer was married to Mary Britt, daughter of John and Mary (Higgins) Britt, of Newport, Ky., and the two children of this union are Mary and Stella, both of whom are attending the parochial school of Holy Trinity church.
Harry L. Kramer. The early years of the nineteenth century were characterized by the immigration of that pioneer element who
made the great Miami valley what it is. These immigrants were sturdy, heroic, upright, sincere people, such as constitute the strength of a commonwealth. It scarcely seems probable that in the future history of the world another such period can occur, or indeed any period when such a solid phalanx of strong-minded men and heroic, self-sacrificing women will take possession of a new country. Descended from these God-fearing people have come strong, self-reliant and worthy descendants, who have continued the work started by their forebears and who now constitute the life of the fertile regions of the Miami valley; and among these worthy representatives of sturdy pioneer families is found Harry L. Kramer, a substantial agriculturist and property owner of Milford township, Butler county. Mr. Kramer was born on the old Kramer homestead, upon which he now resides, February 18, 1868, a son of Andrew Kramer, a native of Maryland who came to Butler county with his parents when one and one-half years old, in the early spring of 1822. He was born in Maryland, June 10, 1820, a son of George and Barbara Kramer. George Kramer first came to Butler county, Ohio, in 1821, and bought 320 acres of land, all in heavy timber, in which he cleared a small space and erected a primitive log cabin. He then returned to Maryland, near the Pennsylvania line, where he got his wife and children, the little party traveling in a flatboat down the river to Cincinnati and then making their way overland to their new wilderness home. While he had been a glass blower in the east, George Kramer adapted himself to his new surroundings and eventually made a success of his operations as a farmer, and at the time of his death was a well-to-do man for his day. He and his worthy wife were faithful members of the Lutheran church and the parents of eight children: Frederick Thomas, Margaret, Christina, Lewis, Elizabeth, Balser, George and Andrew. Andrew Kramer grew up amid pioneer surroundings and acquired such educational training as was given in the primitive schoolhouse of his day. He was reared to the hard and unending duties of the home place, and worked with his father until his marriage, October 17, 1844, to Eleanor Scott, who was born in Milford township, Butler county, a daughter of Richard and Rebecca Scott, natives of Virginia and early settlers of section 19, Milford township, where Mr. Scott followed farming. Mr. and Mrs. Scott were the parents of five children: William, John, Richard, Rebecca and Eleanor. After their marriage, Andrew and Eleanor Kramer lived on the farm now occupied by their son, Harry L., on which the father erected a two-story log cabin and cleared a large amount of land. His first acquirement was 160 acres, but to this he added from time to time until he was a large property owner, and at his death, in 1913, at the age of ninety-three years, was accounted one of his community's substantial citizens. He was a Republican in politics, and he and Mrs. Kramer, who died September 23, 1889, were faithful members of the Lutheran church. They were the parents of seven children: George, born June 30, 1846, a farmer west of Oxford, and a soldier during the Civil war, married Elizabeth Hansel; William, born March 3, 1850, a farmer of Milford township, married Catherine Nichol, who, since
his death in 1900, has resided at Hamilton; Mary Alice, born October 18, 1853, the wife of R. T. Nichol, of Oxford, Ohio; Lewis Scott, who died in infancy; John Scott, who also died in infancy; Harry L., of this notice; and LeRoy, born August 16, 1870, a farmer of Oxford township, married Minnie Jackson. Harry L. Kramer attended the country schools, the Lebanon university as well as the Miami University of Oxford, doing surveying and map work in Logan and Clermont counties and resided at home with his parents until his marriage in June, 1890, to Elizabeth Shields of Darrtown, a daughter of Edward B. and Maria (Walden) Shields. Edward B. Shields was born in Ireland and was a young man when he came to the United States. During the Civil war he was first sergeant of Company K, 22d Regiment, New York Volunteer Cavalry, and was honorably discharged from the service in Virginia, August 1, 1865, following which he came to Darrtown and first established himself in business as a merchant, subsequently turning his attention to farming. His wife first married James Elliott, of Kentucky, and was a daughter of James Walden, an early settler and farmer near Darrtown. She was one of a family of eight children, as follows: Sarah, Julia, Hannah, Eliza, Maria, Jane, Nancy and David. Mrs. Kramer was the only child born to her parents who, after their marriage, settled down at Darrtown, where Mr. Shields died in 1880. He was active in politics as a Democrat and served as a justice of the peace for many years, and in religious faith was a Catholic, while his wife was a member of the Methodist church. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Kramer located on the place which they have since made their home, and which for ten years was farmed by Mr. Kramer and his brother Le Roy. At the present time Mr. Kramer has 160 acres of productive and well-cultivated land, and in addition to carrying on farming in association with his son, is a large raiser of Shorthorn cattle, Duroc Jersey hogs and draft horses. He is accounted one of the skilled and thoroughly informed farmers of his locality, and is one who uses modern methods in his work. He has always been a great and loyal friend of the public schools and for eight years was a member of the board of education, and has to some extent been interested in Republican politics. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church, which he and the members of his family attend at Darrtown. Mr. and Mrs. Kramer are the parents of three children: Erma May, born May 22, 1891, a graduate of Miami university, class of 1911, and now the wife of Howard D. Fairley, of Hillsboro, Ohio, with one child, Richard K.; Fred Andrew, born July 15, 1892, who attended Oxford college for two years, and is now his father's associate in cultivating the home farm; and Ruth Elizabeth, born December 20, 1909, who is attending the public schools.
Le Roy Kramer. A number of the leading men of Butler county are to be found on well-regulated farms, the appearance and productiveness of which demonstrate the ability, business acumen and progressive spirit of the owners. Among these constructive citizens of real worth is found Le Roy Kramer, of Oxford, the owner of a well-cultivated and valuable farm. Mr. Kramer was born in Milford
township, Butler county, Ohio, August 16, 1870, a son of Andrew and Ellen (Scott) Kramer, the former a member of a family which settled in Milford township at an early date, and the latter a native of Butler county. The Kramers and Scotts were real pioneers of this part of the Miami valley, and a brother of Mrs. Kramer, Richard Scott, served as a soldier during the Civil war, in which he was captured by the Confederates and confined in Andersonville prison, where he died. After their marriage, Andrew and Ellen Kramer resided for a number of years in the vicinity of Darrtown, where they died, and where they were laid to rest in the cemetery of that place. They were the parents of the following children: George, Harry, Le Roy, Will, and Alice, who married Robert Nichol. George and Harry attended Miami university, and the former enlisted at eighteen years of age in the Civil war. Le Roy Kramer, after attending the country schools, went to Wittenberg college, Springfield, Ohio, where he spent two years, then began work on his father's farm. He was married in 1893 to Minnie, daughter of Samuel and Catherine (Gruver) Jackson, and a granddaughter of John and Nancy (Hough) Jackson, who removed from their native Virginia to Pennsylvania and later to Cincinnati, Ohio, where they came at an early day to Butler county, Ohio. Samuel Jackson, the son, had come to Cincinnati from Morgantown, W. Va., near which place his father had operated a gristmill and smelter, and upon his arrival built a paper mill for J. Graham & Brother at the foot of Western Row, secretly forging parts to preserve the secret of its construction. This was the first paper machine west of the Alleghanies, and the mill was later removed to Hamilton, under Mr. Jackson's supervision. Later he purchased a farm near Darrtown, and lived thereon from 1864 for a number of years. He first married Clarissa Lewis, who died leaving five children, among whom were James and John, who served in the Civil war, in which the former met his death on a southern battlefield. Mr. Jackson's second union was with Mrs. Catherine (Gruver) Stout, who had a son by her first marriage to John Stout, William H. Stout, who served in the Civil war. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Jackson: Joseph, Amos, and Minnie, who became Mrs. Kramer. Samuel and Catherine (Gruver) Jackson later removed to a farm near Brookville, Ind., where both passed away. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Kramer settled near Brookville, on her old home place, but in 1912 came to their present property in Oxford township, where, in 1919, they erected a handsome country home. This is now a valuable and attractive estate, with furnace heat, water works and Delco lighting system, and the entire farm shows the presence of good taste and excellent business management. Mr. Kramer is an excellent example of the live, up-to-date progressive farmer of the twentieth century, who knows how to make his land pay him a good profit, and how to enjoy his life in the midst of the surroundings that have always been his. He and the members of his family belong to the Methodist church. He is a public-spirited citizen, and during the war was a generous contributor to all movements promulgated. He and Mrs. Kramer are the parents of two children: Paul J., who was born in 1904; and Kathryn Eleanor, who was born in 1905.
Charles Krebs. During a long period of years the late Charles Krebs was identified with agricultural pursuits in Butler county, where he established a reputation for unsullied citizenship and industrious application to the best tenets of his vocation. He was born at Escher, Erhausen, Germany, June 26,1837, and was but sixteen years of age when he first came to the United States, where he remained only one year. He then returned to his native land for a like period, but, having become imbued with the spirit of America again came to this country, this time to settle permanently. Locating at Hamilton, as a young man he worked at farming near Flenners Corners, and while there met and married his first wife, Mary Rabbett, of Butler county. After her death he married Elizabeth, daughter of Peter and Catherine (Fellsman) Kehm, natives of France, the former of whom emigrated to the United States alone at the age of twenty years, and the latter of whom came with her parents as a child of four years. They settled first at Monroe, Ohio, after their marriage, and Mr. Kehm also followed his trade of wagon maker at Hamilton, which was the family home for twelve years. Eventually he moved to LeSourdsville, where both he and his wife passed away. They were the parents of six children, namely: Phoebe, who is deceased; Elizabeth, who became Mrs. Krebs; August, who is deceased; Caroline, a resident of Shelby county, Ohio; Maggie, living at Chicago, Ill. ; and John, who lives at Minneapolis, Minn. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Krebs located on a farm in Lemon township, Butler county, where they lived for two years, subsequently going to southeastern Kansas, where they tried their fortunes for three years. Not being satisfied with that part of the country, they returned to Ohio, and for three years resided at Symmes Corners, subsequently going to Darrtown, which was their home for six years. Finally they took up their residence on a farm of 160 acres, the Adam Flenner place in Milford township, on which they made many valuable improvements and carried on extensive agricultural operations until they went to the Jones farm near Oxford. They then moved to Oxford, where they resided for three years, and where Mr. Kreb's death occurred September 30, 1914, he being buried at Darrtown. Mr. Krebs was always a farmer and a good one, and was a man widely and favorably known for his integrity and probity. He was a well-educated man and one well posted on a number of important topics, and the high esteem in which he was held by his fellow-citizens led them to elect him to a number of offices of trust in his township, in all of which he discharged his duties conscientiously and ably and with all due fidelity. His political views made him a Democrat and he was a faithful member of the Lutheran church, to which belongs his wife, one of the well known and highly esteemed women of Milford township. They were the parents of the following children: Dora, who married Elmer Coulter, of Oxford; Katie, who married Daniel Hetzel, of Pershing, Ind.; Lewis, who died in September, 1915, in Kansas; Edgar, who is engaged in farming at Morning Sun, Ohio; Charles, a farmer and stockman of Milford township; and Nellie, who in August, 1909, married J. R. Harris, a farmer and stockman of Milford
township, and has three children, James, Robert and Dwight.
George J. Krebs. Since entering the service of the American Rolling Mill company, at Middletown, at the time that concern began operations at its big plant, George J. Krebs has lent dignity and stability to a useful trade, and thus has maintained a reputation for ability and integrity in the pursuance of his vocational duties. Mr. Krebs was born June 18, 1879, at Newport, Ky., a son of John and Philomina (Stemler) Krebs, who still make their home at Newport. There were ten children in their family: George J.; Alfred; John; Stephen; Sylvester; Minnie, the wife of A. Schumacher, of Newport; Barbara, the wife of Lewis Otto, of Newport; Madeline and Lillian, who live with their parents at Newport; and Rose, who is deceased. George J. Krebs received a public school education and as a young man applied himself to learning his trade. He came to Middletown, about 1901, when the plant of the American Rolling Mill company was opened here. He now occupies the position of heater, and is highly regarded by his company as a man of steady habits, a skilled workman, and one who applies himself industriously to his tasks. He and his wife are popular with their fellow-townspeople, both possessing attractive personalities, and have a splendid home on Forest avenue. They are devout members of the Holy Trinity Catholic church, and Mr. Krebs holds membership in the local council of the Knights of Columbus. He takes an active interest in the welfare of his adopted city and supports movements which make for progress. October 6, 1901, Mr. Krebs was married in The Immaculate Conception at Newport, Ky., to Nellie, daughter of Robert and Lizzie (Galvin) Madget. Her father was born in the city of Liverpool, England, and was a youth when he emigrated to Canada, afterwards going to Cincinnati, where he was married, and where his death occurred October 30, 1916. Mrs. Madget died when Mrs. Krebs was still a child. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Krebs there have come two children: Mildred, born August 1, 1902; and Robert, born May 22, 1904, students at the Middletown high school.
George J. Krebs, now deceased, was connected with some of the leading business enterprises of Hamilton, and in other ways demonstrated his ability and sound common sense, so that when death claimed him, his community felt it had sustained a heavy loss. He was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, February 20, 1862, a son of Casper and Johanna Krebs, natives of Germany, who came to the United States at an early day, and after their arrival here, located at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was foreman in a large wholesale house. Later, removal was made to Newport, Ky., where both parents died. They had the following children: Bertha, who lives at Fairview, Ohio, Peter, who is deceased; Minnie, who is deceased; George J., whose name heads this review; and Casper, who lives at Metropolis, Ill. George J. Krebs attended the common schools of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Newport, Ky., and then, returning to Cincinnati, he learned the tailoring trade, following it in that city until 1894, when he came to Hamilton, Ohio, and he and his brother, Casper, established themselves in a mens furnishing and clothing business on High street near Second, subsequently moving to Third and High streets. After
attaining to considerable success in his original line of business, Mr. Krebs became a dealer in furniture at Nos. 15-17-19 S. Third street, under the firm name of Haberbash & Krebs, later buying out the interest of his partner, and continuing the concern alone until his death in September, 1915, at which time his store was one of the finest and most modern in Hamilton. March 22, 1883, Mr. Krebs was united in marriage with Rosalie Widrig, born at Newport, Ky., a daughter of Tobias and Margaret (Feth) Widrig, natives of Switzerland and Germany, respectively. Mr. Widrig was extensively engaged in a flour and feed business at Newport, Ky., where he died in 1900, aged seventy-two years, his wife having died in 1878, aged fifty-four years. Both were devout members of St. Stephen's Roman Catholic church of Newport, Ky. They had the following children: Angelina, who lives at Newport, Ky.; Rosalie, who is Mrs. Krebs; Tobias, who is a druggist of Newport, Ky.; Mary, who lives at Metropolis, Ill.; Louis, who is a druggist of Newport, Ky.; Joseph, deceased; Emma, who is Sister Lourdes, is located at Chatham, Canada; Edwin, who is a druggist of Newport, Ky.; and two who died when children. Mr. and Mrs. Krebs became the parents of the following children: Marie, who married Marr Hamilton, died January 14, 1915, leaving one son, George Edward; Adolph, who married Ada Griner, has two children, Carolyn Rose and Jane Marie, and is a member of the firm of Geo. J. Krebs Sons; Louis, who is also a member of the firm; Arnold, who served his country during the World war, was connected with the motor service of the 83d Division in France; Joseph, was also in the service during the Great War, and was at the base hospital at Camp Sherman; and Margaret, who is at home. The four sons took over their father's business at his death, but the two younger left the care of it to the others, and went into the service when the United States declared war. All of the children have been carefully educated, the two older ones at St. Xavier's at Cincinnati, Ohio; Arnold at Notre Dame; Joseph at the Catholic high school at Hamilton, Ohio, and Margaret at the Sacred Heart school at Clifton, Ohio. All of the family belong to St. Stephen's Roman Catholic church at Hamilton, Ohio. Mr. Krebs was an enthusiastic member of the Knights of Columbus and the Eagles. He was a staunch Democrat; but aside from giving his hearty support to the candidates of his party, he did not participate in public affairs. Beginning his business career in a small way, he gradually expanded his operations as his patronage warranted and built up a concern that rests upon the sound foundation of upright dealing and honest principles and his sons are reaping the fruits of their father's foresight and probity. They have already proved their ability to continue in their father's footsteps, and their establishment is handling a large and valuable trade, drawn not only from Hamilton, but the surrounding territory. Mr. Krebs was a man who found in his family circle the happiest moments of his life. It was his constant aim to give to his children those advantages which would enable them to take their place in any society or condition into which they might be thrown, and they have fully lived up to his expectations. Mrs. Krebs has always commanded the affection and
respect of her friends and neighbors, and in her church and neighborhood, she is highly regarded, and her children tenderly cherish her.
August Kriegenhofer. Upon manufacture and commerce rests in large degree the prosperity of nations as well as communities. Supplying the needs of purchasers, meeting the demands of producers and so regulating trade that injustice be done nowhere, make up so large a portion of the world's activities and engage the ablest efforts of so many people that the manufacturer stands in the position of being one of the nation's chief assets. The thriving community of Hamilton includes a number of prominent manufacturing concerns; and among these is found the Columbia Tool company, of which August Kriegenhofer has been superintendent since 1918. Mr. Kriegenhofer was born at Hamilton, Ohio, a son of John P. and Eva M. (Fleurer) Kriegenhofer, natives of Germany who came to the United States in 1856 and settled at Harrisburg, Pa., then coming to this city. In his native land John P. Kriegenhofer had learned the trade of carpenter, and at Hamilton applied himself to contracting and building, in which capacity he contributed materially to the upbuilding of his adopted community. In 1862 he joined the 167th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until the close of the war, and was honorably discharged with the rank of corporal. He was one of the popular men of his community and a valued comrade of the Grand Army of the Republic. His death occurred in 1889 and Mrs. Kriegenhofer passed away in 1893. They were the parents of the following children, three of whom are living: Michael, Margaret and August; those being deceased are: John P., John, Andrew, Frederick, Mary, and Elizabeth. August Kriegenhofer was educated in the Hamilton public schools, and after he laid aside his school books started to learn the trade of machinist as a helper in the Cope & Maxwell company's shops. He remained with that concern for eleven years, then transferring his services to Gordon & Maxwell, from whom he went to the Gorden Steam Pump company, where he had charge of the boring mills. Later he was with the Niles Tool company, and then entered the employ of the Hamilton Machine & Tool company, with which he remained for fourteen years. He resigned the position of assistant superintendent to become an official and stockholder of the Kern Machine & Tool company, which was sold in 1915 to the Simplex company, of Cleveland, and Mr. Kriegenhofer remained as superintendent of the company for one and one-half years. In 1918 he left that concern and identified himself with the Columbia Machine Tool company, of which he has been superintendent of the plant ever since. During the period of the United States' participation in the great World war, Mr. Kriegenhofer had charge of the parts made by the Columbia Tool company under subcontracts for the Hooven-Owen-Rentschler company, these parts being used in the construction of marine engines. He likewise superintended the building of shapers for other companies, this being likewise under war contracts, and his contribution to the winning of the war did not end there, as he took an active and leading part in selling Liberty
bonds. In 1891 Mr. Kriegenhofer married Miranda J., daughter of Campbell and Margaret Cornelius, and to this union there have been born four children: Eva M., who is a nurse at Christ hospital; Helen, who is attending Hamilton High school; Hazel M., who is at home; and Stanley A., at home. Mr. Kriegenhofer is a member of St. John's Evangelical church, Mrs. Kriegenhofer belongs to the Church of Christ and the children are Methodists. Fraternally, Mr. Kriegenhofer is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is a Republican, although not bound down by party lines, being somewhat independent in his views. He has been one of the active and public-spirited men of his city when civic movements have been at stake, and has been particularly active and helpful m matters pertaining to public education, having served as treasurer of the school board of Lindenwald and being one of the foremost factors in raising funds and instigating the building of the Lindenwald school.
Karl E. Krieger, the manager of the savings department of the First National bank, is a native son of Hamilton, his parents being Edward and Louise (Getz) Krieger, both deceased, the former for many years a highly respected citizen and prominent real estate and insurance operator. There were six children in the family: Carrie, the wife of Alfred J. Holbrook; Karl E.; Ida, the wife of Henry Kieser; Otto, in the Ordnance Department of the United States Army; Paul, an agent for the Fox Film corporation; and Alma. The family belongs to the Catholic church. Karl E. Krieger was educated in the public schools of Hamilton and at St. Joseph's parochial school, and as a youth began his career as a clerk in the freight department of the C. H. & D. railway office. Subsequently, he was sent to Toledo by that company and then to Cincinnati, where he continued in clerical work for some time. Returning to Hamilton, he was elected alderman of the second ward, and in 1910 became manager of the savings department of the Miami Valley National bank, which was later merged into the First National bank, with which institution Mr. Krieger has continued in the same capacity. During the period of the United States' participation in the great war, Mr. Krieger handled between $700,000 and $800,000 subscriptions in war bonds, stamps, etc., for the bank's customers. In addition to his duties at the bank, he is also capably discharging official responsibilities, as he occupies the position of city clerk of Hamilton, an office which he has held since his election thereto in January, 1916. Fraternally, he is a popular member of the local lodges of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Columbus, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Catholic Order of Foresters, and he and his family belong to St. Mary's Catholic church. In 1903 Mr. Krieger was united in marriage with Anna, daughter of Joseph and Philomena (Pater) Schumacher, of Hamilton, and to this union there has been born one son, J. Edward, who is attending the parochial schools.
Charles Krone. Among the pharmacists of the Miami valley, and one who has proven himself worthy of the trust reposed in him and who is capable of efficiently handling the demands made upon
him, is Charles Krone, of Hamilton. Mr. Krone was born at Lewistown, the county seat of Mifflin county, Pa., May 16, 1863, a son of Henry and Mary (Guyler) Krone, the former of whom was a prominent physician of Hamilton until his death in 1873, while the latter survived until 1914. The only one living of his parents' four children, Charles Krone was an infant when brought to Hamilton, where his early education was secured in the public schools. Subsequently he pursued a course in the Hamilton Commercial college, and then took up the study of his chosen vocation in the Cincinnati College of Pharmacy. Upon his return to Hamilton, he became associated with John C. Shwartz, a druggist of this city, with whom he remained for eight years, following which he went to Hot Springs, Ark., and remained one year. Again returning to Hamilton, he embarked in the drug business in partnership with his brother, on South Third street, this establishment being known as Krone Brothers for twenty years, during which it became a favorite with the buying public and was the means of establishing the proprietors firmly in the confidence of the people. At the end of that period, they sold their property and Mr. Krone's brother entered business at Second and Walnut streets, while Mr. Krone went to Cincinnati and became identified with the Owl Drug company, as manager of the store of that concern at Fifth and Walnut streets. At the time of his brother's death, Mr. Krone returned to Hamilton and purchased from the estate the store at Second and Walnut streets, which he has since conducted with much success. He has an establishment which is first class and up-to-date in every respect, and its proprietor has not only built up a prosperous business but has also gained a recognized position as a reliable and substantial man of affairs. Mr. Krone was married to Katie E. Hass of Hamilton, who died in 1915, without issue. The present Mrs. Krone was formerly Rose M. Iske, also of Hamilton. Fraternally Mr. Krone is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. His public service has been long, valuable and conscientious. He was appointed coroner of Butler county by the county commissioners to complete the unexpired term of Dr. John R. Brown, deceased. For ten years he was a member of the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, being appointed by Gov. James E. Campbell for five years and reappointed for a like term by Gov. Asa Bushnell, and was also president of the first board of public service, a position which he held two years. For six years he was a member of the board of health, having been first appointed by Mayor Thad. Straub and subsequently by Mayor John Holzberger. His public service, like his business life, has been characterized by fidelity, duty and honorable principles, and has added to his reputation as a valuable and useful citizen.
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