FLUSHING TOWNSHIP
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Page 497.
WILLIAM BEATTY is the leading dealer in boots, shoes and gents’
furnishing goods, of Flushing. Mr. Beatty is a son of William H. and Mary
(Miller) Beatty, who are the parents of the following named children:
Tecumseh S., a blacksmith by trade; A. William, Charles L., a professor in
the New Orleans Commercial college; Dora, John O., Frank C. and Birdie.
William H. Beatty came with his father’s family to Ohio in 1835, his wife
was a daughter of John and Mary Miller, Mary was born and raised in
Harrison county, Ohio, while her parents were of German parentage. Mr. and
Mrs. Beatty were members of the Presbyterian church of Stillwater, and Mr.
Beatty was an elder in the same for many years, being one of the leading
men in the church, but is now a member of the Nottingham Presbyterian
church. His wife dying August 22, 1879, in her thirty-fourth year, Mr.
Beatty some time after took to himself in marriage, Margaret McCleary, by
whom he has had one child: Fannie. Mr. Beatty was for several terms trustee
of Flushing township. He enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Eighty-
fifth Ohio volunteer Infantry, under Capt. Bell, and serving with the true
purpose of a patriot he received his honorable discharge from service in
June, 1865. He is a member of the Mitchell-Bethel post of the G. A. R. He
has a farm of 120 acres in the highest state of cultivation, and is very
successful in all his enterprises. A. William Beatty spent his boyhood on
his father’s farm, acquiring a good education, having graduated from the
Delaware Business college at Delaware, Ohio, he taught for some time in the
public schools. Receiving a call from the New Orleans Business college, he
spent one year in that college as superintendent of the commercial and
penmanship department, and assistant principal of the mathematical
department. Retiring from the vocation of teacher, he returned home and
engaged in the business in which he still continues, having met with the
most gratifying success, being recognized as one of the leading business
men of the county in his line. Mr. Beatty married Miss Laura Lafferty, July
11, 1889. She was a daughter of Joseph and Mary Lafferty. The former was an
old settler of Harrison county, he died March 29, 1886; the mother is still
living. Mr. Beatty is a member of Morefield lodge of Knights of Pythias,
also of the order of the Sons of Veterans, Camp No. 290.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 497-498.
ALFRED BETHEL – Among the old and influential citizens of Flushing is
Alfred Bethel, who is the son of James and Mary Bethel, both natives of
Virginia. They came to Ohio in 1790, where James bought a land lease. They
were among the first settlers and became well known throughout the
community. They were both members of the Rock Hill Baptist church. The
father died about 1850, and the mother followed him about the year 1857.
Their children were: Sarah, deceased; Lucinda, Edward, deceased; Benjamin,
deceased; Alfred; Abner, deceased; Elizabeth Ann, deceased; Mary; Eliza
Jane, deceased; Francis M., deceased; and James S. Alfred Bethel was born
in 1819, having been reared on his father’s farm and receiving the best
education that the schools of that day afforded. He was married when
twenty-three years of age to Margaret McCall. Mr. and Mrs. McCall are the
parents of eight children: John A., Mary E., deceased; James O. and Nancy,
deceased; Jesse B., Thomas F., and a pair of twins that died in infancy.
The four living children are all established in homes of their own and all
have bright prospects in life. John A. answered his country’s call
enlisting in the Ninty-eighth Ohio Infantry, and afterward going to
Louisville, Ky., where he entered the marines under Capt. Fisher, serving
for thirty-one months with much courage and efficiency; he was honorably
discharged at Vicksburg one year after the close of the war. Mr. Bethel has
served his township as a trustee for several terms with great credit to
himself and much benefit to the community. Although now in his seventieth
year, yet he is well preserved and gives promise of living for years to
come. Mrs. Bethel is also well along in years, being sixty-seven, but like
her husband, she is still in the enjoyment of good health and bids fair to
live for many years yet.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Page 498.
JAMES BETHEL, an extensive agriculturist of Flushing, is one of five living
children who were born to William and Elizabeth Bethel. The children are:
Susan, Jane, James, Sarah, now Mrs. Hall, and John A. William Bethel came
from Stafford county, Va., in 1812; one of his brothers, Thomas, who fought
in the war of 1812, settled with him in Belmont county. He worked hard all
of his life, having cleared several farms, and died about 1865, after
living a life of usefulness. James Bethel lived with his father until he
was twenty-six years of age, being obliged to carry his part of the family
burden. In 1846, he espoused Miss Caroline Bethel. He worked for others for
three years before he bought a farm of his own, he then bought 118 acres of
land, going into debt for the same. By hard work and the exercise of much
energy, he has not only paid off the debt, but has added 166 acres to the
original property, and has some money invested in other enterprises. He is
a man who holds the confidence and esteem of his neighbors in an unusual
degree. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Bethel. Two sons
reside in Flushing and are comfortably situated on their father’s farm.
Mrs. Bethel was a member of the Disciples church until her death, December
11, 1883. She was a woman of many fine qualities, and her death caused much
sorrow in her large circle of friends and acquaintances.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 498-499.
DAVID BRANSON is a son of Smith and Jane (Frame) Branson, the former a
native of Virginia, and the latter a native of Maryland. They were married
in Flushing, and always resided there. They had nine children; seven of
them are now living: Lydia, wife of John Hoge, a resident of the state of
Iowa; David; Rachel, wife of Israel Sidwell, a citizen of this county; Asa,
now living in Iowa; Elizabeth, also a resident of Iowa; Mary Jane, wife of
Nathan Steer, a resident of Belmont county; and Smith, a citizen of
Flushing. David was brought up on his father’s farm, and having received a
common school education, he worked for his father upon his farm and in the
grist-mill, situated on Wheeling creek, which was run by his father in
connection with his farm. This mill was at first operated on rather a small
scale, but as the needs of the community increased, the business of the
mill increased also. David was of great service to his father, being able
to do most that is required about a mill. He was united in marriage to Miss
Sarah B. Holloway, daughter of Jacob and Martha Holloway. The Holloway
family was from Virginia; Martha, mother of Mrs. Branson, whose maiden name
was Bye, was a native of Maryland; her family migrated to Ohio, and it was
in that state that Mr. Holloway and Mrs. Warfield were married April 29,
- Mrs. Branson was one of six children: Daniel, born March 4, 1814,
died April, 1873; Eliza, born May 5, 1816, died April 8, 1842; William,
born December 23, 1818, now a resident of Bridgeport, Ohio, and president
of the bank of that place; Martha, born December 11, 1820, died in 1825;
Jacob, born March 6, 1823; Mrs. Branson, born April 10, 1827; and there is
also a half-brother, John, and two half-sisters, Mary and Maria Warfield.
Mr. and Mrs. Branson have been made happy by the birth of six children:
Martha B. Hobson, wife of Dr. J. A. Hobson, born August 24, 18.51; Anna
Eliza, born January 23, 1854, wife of Henry Hall; Mary Ellen, born August
14, 1856; Lizzie M., born January 14, 1859, wife of Nathan R. Smith; Emma
- Branson, born November 21, 1862; and Myra D., born March 3, 1869. Mr.
Branson has served his township and county in various honorary positions,
and is at present the president of the Flushing & Uniontown Pike, being one
of the original projectors of that road. He is also one of the organizers
of the bank of Flushing, and at present a director. Mr. and Mrs. Branson
are members of the Society of Friends, and the entire family have
birthrights. Mr. Branson has 495 acres of land under the highest
cultivation, and now, that he has retired from active life, he can live
comfortably from the fruits of his energetic labors. He is one of the most
influential and one of the most highly respected of Belmont county’s
citizens.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 499-500.
ISAAC CLEVENGER was born in Maryland, about the year 1791, moving to Ohio
with his father’s family when a young man. In 1818 he was married to Rachel
Howell, by whom he had the following children: Thomas, Elizabeth, wife of
George Latham; Catharine, deceased; James A., deceased, and Isaac M.,
deceased. Isaac was in Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth regiment
Ohio volunteer infantry serving with the true devotion of a patriot. In
1845 Mrs. Clevenger died, and some time after Mr. Clevenger espoused Miss
Catharine Smith. Their one child is Galen S., who is a Baptist minister,
now located in South Dakota. Thomas Clevenger, the subject of this sketch,
was born in Belmont county, where he obtained a fair education, working on
his father’s farm during the summer, and attending school in the winter
season. When twenty-eight years of age he was married to Miss Isabel
Morrison, the ceremony taking place December 25, 1867. Mrs. Clevenger is a
daughter of Joseph and Martha (Chambers) Morrison. The former was born in
Ohio, about the year 1825, son of Alexander Morrison, an American by birth,
but of Scotch descent. Martha Chambers was born in Ohio, daughter of
Alexander Chambers, but like her husband, she was of Scotch parentage.
Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Clevenger: Ora V., born
October 11, 1868; Eva L., born October 30, 1872, and Wilfred M., born
January 24, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Clevenger and their two daughters are
members of the Nottingham Presbyterian church. Mr. Clevenger has
178 acres of very fine farming land, situated on what is known
as the “Trail Fork, in a very beautiful and fertile valley. He does a
general farming business, and besides is a most successful stock-raiser,
having some very fine breeds. The family has been prominently Identified
with the settlement and growth of Belmont county, and its different members
are among the most prominent citizens of the county.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Page 500.
JAMES B. COLLINS, a successful farmer and fine stock-raiser, is an only
child of George P. and Minerva (Dunn) Collins. The father was born in
Morefield, Harrison Co., Ohio, about the year 1833; having acquired a good
education, he was married when twenty years of age. After his marriage he
lived on a farm and operated a saw-mill in connection with his farming,
continuing this for some time; he then moved with his family to Belmont
county, locating at Belmont Ridge. In February, 1865, he offered his
services to his country by enlisting in Company H, One Hundred and Eighty-
fifth regiment Ohio volunteer infantry, under Capt. Bell; he served until
the following September, when he received his honorable discharge. He was
one of fourteen children born to George and Eliza C. Collins. His
grandmother was born in 1803, and died March 23, 1890. Minerva (Dunn)
Collins was a daughter of James and Harriet (Long) Dunn, of Irish descent.
Mr. and Mrs. Collins were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and
Mr. Collins is also a member of Post No. 15, G. A. R. He is a resident of
Harrison county, where he is operating a farm with much success, although
now well along in years. James H. Collins was born and raised on a farm in
Belmont county. He obtained a common school education, and October 3, 1878,
took unto himself in marriage Miss Jennie Price, a daughter of John and
Agnes (Bethel) Price. John Price was born in Belmont county, and his wife,
a daughter of John Bethel, was a native of Harrison county. The union has
been blessed by the birth of three children: an infant, born March 24,
1880, died when but a few hours old; Lawrence W., born January 28, 1882,
and an infant born January 24, 1890. Mr. Collins is a member of the Sons of
Veterans. The farm and stock owned by Mr. Collins are unsurpassed in
quality by anything of their kind in the county.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 500-501.
FRANK M. COWEN is a son of one of the most distinguished lawyers who has
ever practiced at the Belmont county bar. Judge D. D. T. Cowen, his father,
was a son of Benjamin Sprague Cowen, a noted jurist and statesman, of the
same county. Judge Cowen’s father and mother were natives of Washington
county, N. Y., whence they removed to Ohio in 1825, settling in Harrison
county, where Judge Cowen was born January 20, 1826. A few years later his
family removed to St. Clairsville, Ohio, where his early education was
acquired in the public school and at Brooks institute, of that place, his
father being one of the founders of the latter institution. His classical
training was received under the tutelage of Doctor McBane, of Cadiz, Ohio;
later he studied medicine and surgery with his uncle, Dr. Sylvanus Wood, of
Cadiz, and Dr. John Alexander, of St. Clairsville. He did not study
medicine with the intention of practicing it, however, but with the idea of
gaining a broader and more comprehensive education, and as preparatory to
the practice of law. His chosen profession was the law, and under the wise
guidance of his eminent father, and his father’s partner, Hugh J. Jewett,
afterward president of the Erie railroad, he was fitted for the bar, being
admitted to the bar by the supreme court of Ohio, January 20, 1847. After
his admission to the legal ranks, Judge Cowen began to practice at St.
Clairsville, and soon attained a high standing at the bar of Belmont
county, which, since its organization, has been in high repute on account
of the great number of exceptionably able men who have practiced there.
Notable among which are such men as William Kennon, Sr.; William Kennon,
Jr.; John M. Goodenow, Ex-Governor Wilson Shannon, W. B. Hubbard, Carlo C.
Carrol, Benjamin S. Cowen, Hugh J. Jewett, and many others of marked
ability. In time Judge Cowen came to be the recognized leader of this
association of leaders, and practiced in all of the courts of that section
and in the supreme court of Ohio. Soon after the commencement of
hostilities between the North and South he was commissioned lieutenant
colonel of the Fifty-second regiment of Ohio volunteer infantry, of which
Daniel McCook was colonel. That officer being assigned to the command of a
brigade, the command of the regiment devolved upon Colonel Cowen. He
participated in all of the engagements in which his regiment was involved,
until the sad news of his wife’s failing health forced him to resign his
commission and return to her to whom he owed his first allegiance.
Tendering his resignation he was honorably discharged in February, 1863. On
his return home he was made chairman of the military committee of Belmont
county, of which Judge William Kennon, Judge Kelley and Benjamin S. Cowen
were members. Mr. Cowen was the prosecuting attorney of Belmont county from
1852 to 1858, he also served as clerk and mayor of St. Clairsville, and was
a member of the board of education and the board of school examiners from
1854 to 1862, at which time he resigned to enter the army. Judge John Okey
resigning as common pleas judge, Colonel Cowen was made his successor,
serving the remainder of the term. Judge Cowen’s superior abilities were
recognized by his selection as a delegate to the constitutional convention
of 1873, receiving a majority of 2,300 votes in a county about evenly
divided politically. Judge Cowen was twice married, his first wife being
Hannah Frances Martin, and his second espousal being to Anna Martin, her
sister. He was the father of twelve children. From its organization he was
the president of the First National bank of St. Clairsville. April, 1884,
this distinguished man passed away to his eternal rest, his death causing a
sorely felt vacancy in the county. Frank M. Cowen was born February 4,
1855, in Belmont county, and his boyhood days were passed in St.
Clairsyille, where he attended the common schools until he was fourteen
years of age, at which time he went to live with an uncle, Gen. B. R.
Cowen, of Cincinnati, Ohio. That gentleman receiving the appointment of
assistant secretary of the interior, Mr. Cowen was given a first-class
clerkship in the, Pension bureau, at Washington city, which office
he filled acceptably until he resigned for the purpose of
attending college. He entered the Ohio Wesleyan university at
Delaware, Ohio. After leaving college, Mr. Cowen returned to St.
Clairsville, and on the completion of the study of law, and
his admission to the bar, entered into a partnership with his father. He
remained there until the opening of the Flushing bank in 1884; he then
removed to Flushing with his family, haying accepted the position of
cashier of that institution. He was united in marriage to Miss Kate Meyer,
daughter of Henry and Katherine Meyer. Their marriage has been crowned by
the birth of one child, a bright little girl, who was born May 30, 1881.
Mr. and Mrs. Cowen are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church of
Flushing. Mr. Cowen is a member of the town council, president of the
Gallaher tool manufacturing company, and secretary of the Building and Loan
association of Flushing, and in those as well as in his position of cashier
of the bank, he holds the confidence and esteem of the community at large,
being a financier of much ability. This building and loan association,
organized by the efforts of Mr. Cowen and other gentlemen in the spring of
’88, by limiting its dividends to a low rate, and by a system of rebating
excessive earnings to its borrowers originated by Mr. Cowen, certainly is
one of the most liberal and equitable institutions of that character in the
state, and its beneficial results are already felt and appreciated in that
comm unity. While living at St. Clairsville, he was town clerk and
secretary of their building association, and he was also honored by his
associates with the position of captain of the St. Clairsville Light
Guards, which company in a competitive drill at Marietta, in the summer
1878, re- ceived the second prize for proficiency in drill; their captain
afterward received a letter from the late lamented General Cooke, of the
United States army, a judge at that drill, congratulating him and his
command for their admirable discipline and exhibition, and speaking in high
terms of the Ohio National Guard in general.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 502-503.
ABIJAH B. FISHER is one of the rising young farmers and stock-raisers of
Belmont county, having a finely improved farm of ninety acres, which he
operates after the most approved and progressive style. His stock is of the
finest breeds and is gaining him an enviable reputation. Mr. Fisher is a
son of Samuel and Eve Fisher; the latter’s maiden name was Packer. Mr. and
Mrs. Fisher were early settlers of Belmont county, Mr. Fisher being an old
and respected farmer and citizen of that county. Abijah lived on his
father’s farm, receiving his schooling from the common schools in the
vicinity of his home. January 4, 1881, he was married to Miss Derotha
Wilkins, daughter of John and Sarah Wilkins, who were born in Virginia, but
removed to Ohio in their childhood. Four children have come of this
marriage: Charley S., born August 21, 1882; Ethel R., born January 10,
1884; Elsie A., born January 11, 1886, and John W., born September 2, 1887.
Mr. and Mrs. Fisher are both active communicants of the Methodist Episcopal
church, of which Mr. Fisher is a class leader and trustee, being one of the
most aggressive church workers in the community. John Wilkins was born in
Virginia, but removed to Ohio in his childhood; his wife, Sarah McCollough,
was born in Ohio. John Wilkins enlisted in the late war and died in the
hospital at Nashville, Tennessee, in April, 1864.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Page 503.
MRS. RACHEL FISHER is a daughter of Isaac and Phoebe (Kirk) Hollingsworth,
natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania, respectively. Isaac Hollingsworth
came to Ohio with his parents when he was four years old; the family
located in Flushing where Isaac received as much schooling as was
obtainable in those days to people in moderate circumstances. When he was
thirty years of age he married Miss Phrebe Kirk, and they founded a home in
Flushing township. Mr. and Mrs. Hollingsworth were members of the Hicksite
Society of Friends. By hard work the husband accumulated a good property
which he left his widow on his death, May 2, 1874. The wife died February
5, 1877. The man and wife lie side by side in the Friends’ cemetery at
Flushing. Rachel was born December 12, 1835, living with her parents until
her marriage in October, 1876, to Samuel Fisher, a son of Barreck Fisher,
of Frederick county, Va. Samuel Fisher came to Ohio with his widowed mother
and commenced farming upon the same property where his widow now lives. He
was a prominent man in the township, having been township trustee, and also
a member of the board of the Uniontown pike. He left a farm in the highest
state of cultivation, the property consisting of nearly 400 acres. He was
also a very successful sheep raiser. His death occurred February 3, 1886,
and the sad event cast a gloom over the entire community, as his life of
probity and kindness had won him many friends.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 503-504.
EDWARD L. HOBSON is one of six children born to Stephen and Margaret
Hobson. The former was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, and the latter in
Belmont county, same state. The father died in July, 1887, at the age of
fifty-seven years. Their children are: Rebecca, died in 1889; Edward,
Joseph, a prominent physician of Cleveland, Ohio; Alice, died in 1886; Mary
and Clarence, both living with their mother. Edward L. was born March,
1860, and was raised in Flushing, where his father was engaged in the
mercantile business for twenty- five years. Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Hobson
were members of the Society of Friends, and the family were members of the
same by birthright. Edward obtained a good education, spending two terms at
the Friends college, of Barnesville, in connection with other schooling.
After leaving college he entered his father’s store and continued in this
business until 1889, since which time he has been engaged exclusively in
the wool business. Mr. Hobson has been buying and selling wool more or less
since 1878, but since he has given his time solely to this interest, he has
increased his business until in the past year he bought the enormous
quantity of 135,000 pounds of wool. In May, 1885, he was married to Miss
Sarah Alma Mills, a daughter of Elias and Mary (Brown) Mills. Two children
are the issue of this union: Harold A., born April 3, 1886, and Francis H.,
born June 30, 1889. Mr. Hobson is thoroughly informed in all the details of
his business, and is rapidly coming to the front as one of the largest wool
dealers of the state. Mrs. Hobson is a communicant of the Methodist
Episcopal church of Flushing, and both she and her husband are prominent in
the cultivated circles of Flushing and vicinity.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 504-505.
JOHN A. HOBSON, M. D., is one of six children born to Thomas and Unity
Hobson; the former was born 1812 in Jefferson county, Ohio, and spent his
early life in teaching school in the old pioneer log schoolhouse in
Jefferson county, Ohio. His ambition was to become a physician, and at one
time he had all his arrangements made for commencing the study of his
chosen profession, but the sickness of his father compelled him to abandon
his project. The mother was a daughter of John and Dorothy Johnson, and was
born in Loudon county, Va., in 1811. She, with her father and mother and
her twin sister, rode on horseback from Loudon county to Columbiana county,
Ohio, in the year 1812, the parents each carrying one of the children. The
family were Quakers as far back as they can be traced. Their children’s
names are: Benjamin J., Mary C., wife of Thomas Conrow, a resident of
Flushing township; Sarah Ann, who resides with John Hoyle, an uncle, of
Columbiana county, Ohio; Dorothy, widow of John Stratton, the organizer of
the large grist-mill at Flushing; since his death she has been engaged in
teaching in the Friends’ seminary, at Barnesville, being the principal of
the same; John A., and Belinda, wife of Joseph Binns, a resident of
Harrisville, Ohio. Dr. Hobson was born in 1849 in Jefferson county, Ohio.
His boyhood was spent in the common schools and in working upon his
father’s farm. When he was four or five years of age his father removed to
Washington county and at the age of eighteen he entered the Friends’
seminary at Mt. Pleasant. Having chosen medicine as his vocation in life,
he studied for three years with Smith Branson, M. D., of Chester Hill,
Morgan county, Ohio; he then entered the Miami medical college at
Cincinnati, and was graduated therefrom in 1872; at two different times he
was a student at the New York Polyclinic. After leaving college he settled
at Plymouth, Ohio, remaining for one year, he then removed to Flushing,
Belmont county, Ohio, and has by his undoubted skill and integrity won for
himself an enviable reputation and practice. In 1873 he married Miss Martha
- Branson, by whom he has had four children: Mary Bertha, born April 20,
1874, died February 25, 1877; Emma Gertrude, born August 10, 1876; Anna
Sarah, born November 4, 1878, and James David, born November 17, 1884. Mr.
and Mrs. Hobson are members of the Society of Friends, and the former is
also a member of the American Medical society; he is also a member of the
Belmont County Medical society, in the re-organization of which he was
prominently identified. He has, since the completion of the C. L. & W. R.
R., served as surgeon of the road with satisfaction.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Page 505.
HON. ISAAC HOLLOWAY was born in the southern part of Virginia, earn
Fredericksburgh, Stafford county, December, 1805, being one of two children
born to Nathan and Anna Holloway. Mr. Holloway was reared on the paternal
farm. Had few school privileges. At the age of twenty-one he came on horse-
back across the mountains into Ohio, locating in Flushing township. In that
day this was a long and tedious journey, and the end of it was considered a
great ways west. Mr. Holloway taught school until he entered the mercantile
business at Rock Hill. By strict honesty and a determined purpose to win he
came to be one of the most respected citizens of the township. After some
time spent in business at Rock Hill he removed to Flushing, which, at that
time, was a very small town, here he opened a general store and continued
the mercantile business until his death. He also was quite extensively
interested in land investments, being successful in this, as well as in
other enterprises. Mr. Holloway had accumulated a large property at the
time of his death. When he started teaching he was possessed of just 12 1/2
cents, and like nearly all self-made men, so-called, he was systematic in
all his arrangements, regular in his habits, and economical in his
expenditures. He served in the Ohio state senate in the sessions of 1858
and ’59, and major of Ohio militia. For thirteen years he was a justice of
the peace, and his decisions were never reversed. He died July 23, 1885,
being sick only a short time. In May, 1850, he was married to Ann Eliza
Norton, who now survives him, residing in the comfortable home which he
left her in Flushing. By a previous marriage Mr. Holloway had three
children, they are: Mrs. Atkinson, Otho and Nathan, the latter a resident
of Canton, Ohio. Mr. Holloway’s parents were members of the Baptist church,
and he was reared under that pursuasion.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Pages 505-506.
DANIEL WHEELER HUFF is one of nine children born to Daniel and Nancy
(Vanpelt) Huff. The children are: Juliet, deceased; Mary, wife of Lewis
Wood, of Spiceland, Ind.; Sarah, wife of Samuel Branson, living in Des
Moines, Iowa; John, deceased; Mahlon, who went west about 1860, and has not
been heard from since 1885; Aaron; Phrebe, deceased; Jesse, a resident of
Belmont county, and Daniel. Daniel Huff, Sr., was a son of Daniel Huff who
moved to Ohio from South Carolina with his family about the year
1790, settling in Highland county; his wife, Nancy, was a daughter of
John Vanpelt, who came from Virginia and settled in Belmont county, Ohio.
Mr. and Mrs. Huff were married in Highland county, where the former died
in 1866; the latter died in 1875 at Spiceland, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Huff
were members of the Society of Friends. One of the sons rendered valiant
service to his country during the war of the rebellion. The subject of
this sketch was born in Highland county in 1842, and his boyhood was
spent on the farm and in the public schools of the township. When
twenty-two years of age he married Miss Rachel Cannon, the
ceremony taking place February 11, 1864. Mrs. Huff is a
daughter of John and Lydia (Mercer) Cannon, the father was born in Harrison
county, where he lived during his lifetime; the mother was born and lived
in Ohio all her life. Mr. Cannon was born January 16, 1799, and died in
1855; his wife was born June 7, 1807, and died in 1887. Mr. and Mrs. Huff
are the parents of six children: Charles S., born March 16, 1865; William
E., December 25, 1867; Whiticere, March 24, 1869; Sarah, March 14,1872;
Grace M., December 20, 1874; and Lydia E., May 20, 1877. Mrs. Huff is an
active member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while Mr. Huff holds a
birthright from the Society of Friends. Mr. and Mrs. Huff have a host of
friends, and are thoroughly respected by all with whom they come in
contact. Mr. Huff is a very successful liveryman and dealer in horses. All
of the children live at home with the exception of William, who married
Miss Iola Shepherd, and has a home of his own.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO
“History of the Upper Ohio Valley” Vol. II, 1890.
Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.
Page 506.
FRANK M. JUDKINS, the senior partner in the firm engaged in the publication
of the Flushing News-Advertiser, is a son of J. P. and Elizabeth Judkins,
was born September 4, 1848. He was married February 25, 1869, to Miss L.
Ada Hollingsworth, daughter of Elihu and L. A. Hollingsworth. They have
four children: Clyde H., the oldest, is the junior member of the Advertiser
firm, and a member of the class of ’91, in the classical department of Scio
college. Anna Maude, the second child, is a member of the class of ’90 in
the Flushing high school. She is also an elocutionist of some merit. The
other children, Wheeler E. and Rae D., boys of sixteen and fourteen years,
are members of the high school, and during vacation, can “set” the
newspaper with ease and dispatch. Their home is on Spring street. Mr.
Judkins has succeeded in making his journal one of the best local papers in
the county, wielding a strong influence for morality and the material
prosperity of the community.
Pages 506-507.
THOMAS W. KIRK, an enterprising merchant of Rock Hill, Belmont Co., Ohio,
is the son of Robert and Sarah Jane Kirk. The former was born in 1837, and
married October 1, 1858, being the father of seven children: Anna L., born
August 19, 1859; Thomas W., born February 15, 1862; Flora L., born January
17, 1866, died March 25, 1873; James E., born September 25, 1871, died
March 5, 1873; George B., born January 9, 1876; Chester C., born August 1,
1878, and Robert J., born September 4, 1880. Thomas W. was brought up in
his father’s family, attending school in Flushing, and later graduating
from the Zanesville Business college. He married Miss Louie E. Judkins,
April 20, 1887. She is a daughter of James E. and Lucinda (Vance) Judkins.
One child has come of this marriage, Brenton S., born November 17, 1888. Mr.
and Mrs. Kirk are active members of the Flushing Methodist Episcopal
church, and are very popular with their many friends and acquaintances, Mr.
Kirk being regarded as one of the most promising young business men in the
county. Mrs. Kirk’s grandfather came to Ohio from Virginia at a very early
date, living to be eighty-five years of age; he and his wife now sleep side
by side in the Rock Hill cemetery. The family have been prominently
identified with the settlement and growth of Belmont county. Mr. Kirk is a
member of Flushing lodge, No. 291, of the K. of P., Uniform Rank, No. 92,
and is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, Flushing lodge, No. 298.
Page 507.
GEORGE S. LATHAM – George S. Latham, born August 21, 1823 Robert A., born
November 26, 1801, died November, 1865; Sarah, born March 14, 1809, widow
of Alexander Johnson; Lucinda, born September 18, 1810, wife of Rev. Lewis
Davidson; Mary, born May 8, 1812, widow of C. G. Kennedy; Anne, born
July 2, 1814; Fanny, born February 8, 1817, died in 1853; John, born April
12, 1819, a prominent resident of Harrison county, Ohio, having represented
his district in the state legislature, and also having served as county
commissioner, and Elizabeth, born May 30, 1821, died in 1865, these are the
children which were born to John and Lucy Latham. The father was a native
of Virginia, as was also his wife; they came to Ohio and settled in Belmont
county, about a mile from the place where George Latham now resides in
Flushing township, in the year 1814. Mr. Latham commenced to work on a farm
after his settlement in Ohio, continuing in this until he had saved enough
to buy property of his own. He served in the War of 1812, and lived his
whole life as a man of integrity and purity. Mr. Latham passed to his
reward in 1835; his widow survived him until 1876, when she too was laid to
rest, at the advanced age of ninety-eight years. She drew a pension from
the government as the wife of a soldier of the war of 1812. John Latham
married Lucy Ross, January 1, 1807. George Latham was reared on the farm
with his mother, receiving a good common school education. Arriving at the
years of manhood he was united in marriage September 4, 1845, to Elizabeth
Clevenger, daughter of Isaac Clevenger, of Flushing township. Mr. and Mrs.
Latham have had two children, Rachel Anne, born May 26, 1847, she is now
the wife of William Junkins, of Butler, Harrison county, and Taylor J.,
born March 7, 1850, died March 14, 1875. Mr. Latham and his family are
members of the Baptist church of Rock Hill, and are held in high esteem by
the community in which they live. Mr. Latham has served with distinction as
a township trustee for years, and is accounted one of the most successful
agriculturists in the county.
Pages 507-508.
FRANK MEAD is a prosperous farmer and a prominent citizen of Flushing
township, of which he was a trustee for four years, he has also served with
great credit to himself as land appraiser of the township, and has always
been true to himself, to his friends and to the political faith which he
holds. He is a staunch supporter of the republican party. Mr. Mead was born
in Belmont county, Ohio, and was raised on his father’s farm in that
county. He obtained a very good education, graduating from the Iron City
college, of Pittsburgh. After leaving college he taught school for eight
terms, and when twenty-nine years of age was married to Miss Parley M.
Collins, daughter of Zachariah and Rachel Collins. The former was born in
Maryland, and the latter was of English extraction. Mr. Collins died
November 12, 1884. His widow still survives him. Mr. and Mrs. Collins were
communicants of the Methodist Episcopal church and raised their family in
that faith. Frank Mead’s parents were Joseph and Phoebe G. (Nichols) Mead.
The father was born on July 2, 1911, and died August 1, 1884, he was a son
of John Mead, a native of Loudon county, Va.; the mother was born May 14,
1821, and died August 24, 1881. She was the daughter of Isaac and Mary
Nichols, both natives of Virginia. Their children are: William T., Joseph
J., Charles E., deceased; Mary E., deceased, was the wife of Isaac W.
Haines; Cornelia M., wife of Leander Vickers; Frank J., Phoebe, Alice,
Pineous E. and Archie R., deceased. These parents were married about 1839.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mead are earnest communicants of the Methodist Episcopal
church, of Flushing, and are very influential people in the community. Mr.
Mead has a finely cultivated farm of ninety-eight acres and carries on a
general farming business. His children are: Maud R., born October 22, 1883,
and Lulu Alice, born December 11, 1885.
Page 508.
MORRIS FAMILY HISTORY.- The first member of this family that came to
eastern Ohio was Daniel Morris, who came to Cadiz, Ohio, from West Liberty,
- Va., then a part of the “old Dominion,” in 1811, and built a cabin at
the corner of what is now Marion and Warren streets, where he resided until
1846, when he removed to Monroe county, Ohio, where he died. The second
member was John Morris, Sr., son of James Morris, who resided in West
Virginia, opposite Marietta, Ohio, who came to Cadiz, Ohio, in 1813, he
also being from West Liberty, W. Va. He resided with his brother Daniel
until 1816, when he married Charlotte Huff, daughter of Joseph Huff, of
whom we shall treat later, and moved to a farm one mile northeast of New
Athens, Ohio, now owned by Robert McFarland, where he resided until 1826.
During this residence there was born to them five children, namely:
Alexander, Joseph, Margaret, John (now living at Marquette, Neb.), and a
daughter who died in infancy. During 1826 he sold his farm and purchased
another from the heirs of Nicholas Smith, situated two miles west of New
Athens. Here he removed in the early autumn of 1826. During this residence
there were born five more children, namely: Mary Ann, Prudence R., Philip
Dodridge, Charlotte and Elizabeth. He continued to reside here until his
death, which occurred April 4, 1865, caused by paralysis. His widow resided
sometimes with her children and sometimes at the old home, until her son
Joseph removed from his farm near Flushing, to a farm near Hopedale, Ohio,
in 1879, when she removed with him and remained there until her death,
December 8, 1884, aged eighty-eight years, ten months and five days. The
third member of this family connected with this history, was Morgan Morris,
brother of John and Daniel, who came to New Athens township, Harrison Co.,
Ohio, in 1815, and there resided until his death; his descendants living in
the same township at this time, 1890. Joseph Huff, father of Charlotte
Morris, was born in Virginia about 1765, and at the age of fourteen ran off
from home and entered the American army, and acted as a scout until the war
closed, and in the same position in the Indian wars of the northwest
territory, and again in the war of 1812. He was an inveterate hater of
Indians and snakes, having acquired his hatred for the red men by his
brother, Jack and his entire family being massacred near old Warren block
house in the northeastern corner of Belmont county, Ohio, and he declared
vengeance on them and kept his word. When Harrison county was surveyed by
Daniel Morris, Huff furnished the men with wild meat, for which service the
government gave him a quarter section of land where Cadiz now stands. He
died three miles west of Westchester, in 1841. Joseph, eldest son of John
Morris, was born near New Athens, Ohio, March 16, 1822, being the third
child of John Morris, Sr.; he removed with his father to the Smith farm in
1826, and remained with his father until March 9th, 1843, when he married
Mary Brock, daughter of George S. Brock, when he removed four miles west of
New Athens, on the farm now occupied by John Morris, eldest son of Morgan
Morris. Here he resided eight years, during which time were born: John A.,
January 11, 1844, now living near Kennon, Belmont county, Ohio; Mary E.
Charlotte, June 27, 1847, now living near New Athens, Ohio; George S.
Brock, October 21, 1850, now living in Arkansas City, Kansas, being one of
the leading physicians of that place. During April, 1857, he removed to the
farm now owned by Jacob Harris, near Flushing, Ohio, and there resided two
years, and then again removed one mile west to the farm now owned by his
son John A., near Kennon, Ohio, and during this residence Luke V. was born
June 12, 1854, died February 28, 1885, at Flushing, Ohio, and in 1866, he
again removed to the Harris farm, where October 28, 1873, his faithful
companion departed this life, aged forty-seven years, eight months, and
twenty-four day. After her death he resided mostly with his son John A.,
until February 14, 1875, when he married Emma Moore, daughter of Cryus
Moore, and again began farming at his old home, where he continued until
1879, when he traded farms with Jacob R. Harris, of New Hopedale, and
removed to his present home, where he now resides (1890) being, at this
time, sixty-eight years of age. John A., eldest son of Joseph Morris, was
born near New Athens, Ohio, resided with his father, working on the farm in
summer and attending school in winter until August, 1862, when lie enlisted
in the war of the rebellion, serving in Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-
sixth Ohio Volunteer infantry, being with the army of the Potomac, Sixth
corps; being in several battles until the Wilderness fight, when he was
wounded in the left eye, May 12, 1864, during Grant’s flanking movements at
Spottsylvania Court House, Va. After being wounded he remained at different
hospitals for about one month when he was sent home on furlough, where he
remained but a short time, then reported to commanding officer at Camp
Chase, Ohio, then was sent to Camp Dennison, Ohio, when being unfit for
active field service, he was detailed as clerk at Kelton Barracks,
Cincinnati, Ohio. In the winter of 1864 and 1865 he acted as sergeant major
of a portion of the Thirty-seventh Iowa volunteer infantry, well known as
the “gray beard” regiment; then by special detail from Gen. Willich as
clerk. In May, 1865, he was mustered out. After remaining on the farm a
year or two, and attended a mercantile school at Columbus, Ohio; then was
engaged in mercantile business at Rock Hill two years. On October 28, 1869,
he married Margaret Ayers, daughter of Philander C. Ayers, and since that
time has resided at his present residence near Kennon, Ohio. Meredith D.
Morris, only child of John A. Morris, was born near Rock Hill, Kennon
post office, Ohio, June 15, 1871, began attending school at the age of eight
years, and continued to attend the country school until fourteen years of
age, when he began attending Flushing high school and continued two years,
when he attended the Belmont county teachers’ examination, and secured a
certificate to teach. He shortly afterward began teaching at Egypt,
Kirkwood township, Belmont county, Ohio, where he taught eight months, at
the expiration of which time, being offered better wages by No. 1 school
board of Flushing township, accepting this has continued up to the present
time.
Pages 510-511.
JAMES PARKS, one of Belmont county’s substantial farmers, and a justice of
the peace of Flushing township, is one of five children born to John B. and
Annis (Gillaland) Parks. The children are: James, William G., deceased;
Hlram N., a carpenter of Uricksville; Adam G., also a resident of
Uricksville, where he is foreman of a tile factory; Sarah E., deceased. The
father and mother were married in Lafayette county, Penn., about the year
- After marriage he worked at the carpenter’s trade until 1845, when he
moved with his family to Harrison county, Ohio, where he bought a farm. He
lived there until 1860, when he removed to Belmont county, living there for
five years; he then settled in Morefield village, where he remained until
his death, December 30, 1876. The mother still survives him, living with
the children. Mr. and Mrs. Parks were members of the Baptist church, and
brought their family up in that faith. Mr. Parks’ father, James, was a
native of Pennsylvania, coming to Ohio in 1800. He married Elizabeth Boyd,
also a native of Pennsylvania. James Parks, the subject of this sketch, was
born January 3, 1840, working on his father’s farm in the summer season; he
attended the common schools during the winter months. January 23, 1862, he
was united in marriage to Miss Phebe Alkire. A short time after his
marriage he left his bride and gave his services to his country, then
involved in the civil war. He enlisted for three years in Company B, One
Hundred and Twenty-sixth regiment Ohio volunteer infantry, fighting in
their ranks until he was badly wounded in the battle of the Wilderness, May
6, 1863. He was honorably discharged from the hospital March 16, 1865.
Returning from the war he entered the mercantile trade at Belmont Ridge.
Continuing in this for some time he bought a farm and engaged in farming.
James H., William H., Emma J., Sarah E., Mary P., Charles H. and Anna B.,
are the issue of his marriage. The mother died December 4, 1880, much
beloved and mourned by all who knew her as a friend. For his second wife
Mr. Parks chose Sarah Fisher, daughter of Samuel and Eve Fisher. This union
has been blessed by the birth of one child, Olive R., born July 23, 1884.
Mr. and Mrs. Parks are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which
Mr. Parks has been a class-leader for fifteen years. He is also a member of
A. R., post No. 315, and both he and his wife are very highly thought of
in the community.
Page 511.
JOHN W. PRICE is one of the leading agriculturists and citizens of
Holloway, Ohio. Mr. Price was born in Belmont county, October 16, 1849, on
his father’s farm, and attended the common schools of his township during
his early life. Reaching the years of manhood, he married Lucinda J.
Brewer, October 25, 1876. Corella B., born June 2, 1880, is the fruit of
this marriage. Mr. Price is a progressive, energetic farmer, and has met
with very gratifying success. He and his wife are influential members of
the Stillwater Presbyterian church. Mrs. Price is a daughter of Daniel
Brewer, of Belmont county. She was born May 29, 1853. She is descended from
an old and honorable family. Her paternal grandfather was Daniel Brewer,
who was born in Pennsylvania, being of Dutch descent. The maternal
grandfather was Peter Snedeker, who was also of Dutch descent. Mrs. Price’s
father died March 26, 1865. His wife still survives him, residing with a
daughter in Belmont county.
Page 511.
HENRY STANTON is a descendant of an illustrious family. The eminent lawyer,
citizen and statesman, E. M. Stanton, secretary of war during the trying
days of the war of the rebellion, was his cousin. Edmond and Sarah (Hoyle)
Stanton were his parents. The former was a native of Belmont county, Ohio.
His great-grandmother migrated from North Carolina with her family of five
sons about the year 1804 or 1805, her wagon being the first to cross the
Ohio river at Portland, above Wheeling, W. Va., and the first that came
over that route to Mount Pleasant, Ohio. Henry Stanton’s father, who was a
farmer, was married about the year 1842, and was the father of six
children, who were: Nathan, died in infancy; Rebecca, wife of Robert Smith,
lived in Jefferson county; Tabitha, who is the wife of John F. Davis, now
living in Philadelphia; Henry; Benjamin, who lives near Barnesville; and
Daniel, also living in the vicinity of Barnesville. The father died in
1851, and the mother in 1884. Henry was reared by his stepfather, Ezekiel
Bundy, on a farm, his father dying when he was but four years old. He
received the average education given in the common schools, and attended
the Friends seminary at Mount Pleasant for two winters, afterward learning
the machinist’s trade, at which he worked for three or four years, at the
expiration of which time he purchased an interest in the Davis-Stanton
Planing Mill Company, of Barnesville, being connected with this company for
four years. He then went into the coal business in Barnesville, and in 1879
moved to Flushing, where he has since been engaged in the milling business
with Charles Stratton, having by honesty and fair dealing built up a
profitable business. March 8, 1871, he married Miss Mary Bailey, daughter
of Hezekiah Bailey, of Belmont county. One child, which died in infancy, is
the result of this marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Stanton are members of the
Wilberite branch of the Society of Friends.
Pages 511-512.
CHARLES STRATTON is a son of Benjamin D. and Ellen (Stanley) Stratton. The
former was a native of Salem, Columbiana county, and the latter of the same
place. B. D. Stratton was a cabinetmaker during the early part of his life,
but afterward engaged in the milling business. The grandfather of Charles
was a native of New Jersey. B. D. Stratton died in 1879; his widow survives
him, living near Salem with one of her children. Seven children were born
to these parents: Ruth Ann, wife of Joseph H. Branson, of Media, Penn.;
Abigail, married Elisha Llewellyn; John F., who married Dorothy Hobson,
died in 1878; Charles, Abram, married Hannah D. Brantingham, lives in
Media, Penn.; Mary Ellen and Sina. The latter is teaching school in Chester
county, Penn. Charles obtained a good education in the public schools and
at the Friends seminary in Chester county, Penn., attending the latter
school during one winter. Having acquired a thorough knowledge of the
milling trade, he started in the business for himself when twenty-five
years of age. In connection with his brother, John F., and his brother-in-
law, Joseph H. Branson, he built one of the best mills in the county. Since
the death of his brother, Mr. Stratton has been associated in business with
Henry Stanton, and has met with the most gratifying success. August 22,
1889, Mr. Stratton was united in marriage to Miss Mary French, of Salem,
Ohio. She is a daughter of David and Eliza M. French. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Stratton are members of the Society of Friends.
Pages 512-513.
ISAAC J. WALKER, senior member of the firm of I. J. Walker & Son, the
leading furniture dealers and undertakers of Flushing, Ohio, is a son of
Joel and Mary (Moris) Walker. The parents were married December 12, 1820,
at Newton, Delaware county, Penn., and in 1841, came to Belmont county,
Ohio. These parents had eight children, six boys and two girls. Isaac was
born while the family lived in York county, Penn., in 1823. Living on his
father’s farm, he received a good common school education, and afterward
learned the carpenter’s trade, then served his time as an apprentice at
wagon making under the instruction of Mr. Casley, of Pleasant Grove. After
learning his trade, Mr. Walker came to Flushing, and at once went to work
at his trade. May 5, 1851, about two years after his removal to Flushing,
he was married to Miss Angeline Cannon, by whom he has had three children,
they are: John C., born October 25, 1853, married September 10, 1879, to
Annie E. Bethel, now located in Kansas, is a graduate of the Scio college
and a minister in the Methodist Episcopal church: Joel P., born September
7, 1857; Mary L., born September 1, 1863, married to Dr. J. E. Barricklow,
September 10, 1883. Mr. Walker has always been one of the substantial,
popular men of the town. After he gave up the wagon business, Mr. Walker
engaged in the furniture and undertaking business, taking his son Joel into
partnership with him. This firm came into existence in 1880, and has since
done the largest business in its line in that section of the county. The
son is a practical embalmer, holding a certificate from Prof. John
Sullivan, of Boston, Mass., whose lectures he attended in 1888. The mother
passed to her reward, May 2, 1888, leaving the great vacancy that the loss
of a true mother and wife always occasions in a home. She was a most
estimable woman, and was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
Mr. Walker is a member of the Society of Friends. For four terms he has had
the honor of filling the important office of town treasurer.
Page 513.
JOHN V. WEBSTER, M. D., is an eminent physician and surgeon of Belmont
county. His preliminary education was derived from the old log school-house
which stood near his father’s house. He afterward entered Hopedale college
in Harrison county, and in 1870 graduated with honor from the Cincinnati
College of Physicians and Surgeons. After graduation he came to Flushing
and began the practice of his profession with his brother-in-law, Dr.
Shooley. Dr. Webster’s undoubted skill, and consequent success, has brought
him a large and lucrative practice. He is at present the proprietor of a
drug store in Flushing, which he runs in connection with his practice. In
1882 he was elected treasurer of Flushing township, being the candidate of
the democratic party, he was elected by a good majority in a strong
republican district. Dr. Webster was born January 13, 1846, being the son
of Naylor and Jemima Webster, both natives of Chester county, Penn., the
father being of English descent, and the mother of Scotch-English descent.
These parents had ten children, eight of whom are living: Abigail, Sarah,
Hannah, John, Mary, Lydia, George, Isabella, living; Mary Ann and Samuel,
deceased. The parents came to Ohio at an early date, about 1810 it is
thought, although the exact date is not known. Dr. Webster was united in
marriage to Miss Minnie B. Whitaker, daughter of Hiram and Alicenda
Whitaker, who were natives of Virginia and Ohio, respectively, in 1865.
Mrs. Webster was born in 1851. One child has been born to Dr. and Mrs.
Webster: Ella T., born June 11, 1869. Both the doctor and his wife are
members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Flushing. Mrs. Webster is one
of the most efficient religious workers in the community, being very
prominent in both church and Sunday-school work. Dr. Webster is also a
member of lodge No. 291, K. of P., and of lodge 298 of the Masonic
fraternity, being a past worshipful master of the same, and is a Knight
Templar.