OHIO: OHIO of Our PARKERs, PARKERs in OHIO
On this page:
• "History of Fayette County, Ohio: Her People, Industries and Institutions," Frank M. Allen, 1914
• "History of Fayette County [OHIO]: together with historic notes on the Northwest, and the State of Ohio, gleaned from early authors,
old maps and manuscripts, private and official correspondence, and all other authentic sources" R. S. Dills, 1881
• "Portrait and biographical record of Fayette, Pickaway and Madison counties, Ohio : containing biographical sketches of prominent
and representative citizens, together with biographies and portraits of all the presidents of the United States" Chapman Brothers, 1892.
• "Pioneer record and reminiscences of the early settlers and settlement of Fayette County, Ohio,, Rufus Putnam, 1872.
Latest update: Monday, June 18, 2012
Learn more about our PARKERs in the Family Tree Database .
BOOK "History of Fayette County, Ohio: Her People, Industries and Institutions"
Frank M. Allen, 1914
[S337]
[editorial comment]
[These are the references to the surname PARKER in the book "History of Fayette County, Ohio: Her People, Industries and
Institutions," Frank M. Allen, 1914. These PARKERs have been identified within current data. If you have additional
identifications or corrections, PLEASE contact us.]
page 88
Sol Parker, also a Virginian, settled on the Springfield road in 1808.
page 116
PRESIDENTIAL VOTE IN FAYETTE COUNTY.
1904 — Theodore Roosevelt had 3,331 and Judge Alton G. Parker, 1,880.
page 174-189
MILITIA MUSTER DAYS.
In early times, throughout this country, there was no national guard system, but nevertheless all males between the ages of
sixteen and fifty years were subject to military training and had to drill at "general training days." The law in Ohio establishing a
militia of this type was dated at Marietta July 28, 1788, and was approved by Governor St. Clair. It provided that all within the
above named ages (if able bodied) should perform military duty, be armed with a musket and bayonet, cartridge box and
pouch, or powder- horn and bullet-pouch, one pound of powder and four of lead, priming wire, brush and flint, six in number....
From the muster-roll of the Third Company, odd battalion. Third Brigade, of the militia of Ohio, we give a few of the names,
which will be of local interest to many still residing in this county, being, as they are, from well-known families for the most part:
… Solomon Parker, Aaron Parker...
Company K — … Richard Parker
Company E — … George W. Parker, … David Parker…
page 240
OLDEST CHURCH BUILDING IN COUNTY.
The oldest church building in Fayette county was destroyed by a severe wind storm in February, 1912. It stood on land owned
by William S. Parker, five miles north of Bloomingburg, and was erected by the Baptist denomination about 1813 to 1815. It
was a frame structure and for many years has been used as a machine shed by the owner of the farm where it stood. It was
on the side of the Bloomingburg and Sedalia pike. The storm demolished this old landmark and threw its ancient roof across
the highway into a field.
page 299
In 1910 the population of Allentown (Octa) was ninety-one. Its business interests consisted of: General stores by T. W. and
Milton Murphy, brothers; John Stemmitz; an elevator by John Parker: a carpenter, named Will Stevens, and the postoffice.
page 324
There is a large, two-story frame town building, in which is a public hall and the postoffice has been kept in the corner room of
the first story since June, 1914.
The merchants, professions and tradesmen of Good Hope are now: Banking, Farmers Bank of Good Hope (see banking
chapter); blacksmiths, Willis Boyer; barbers, C. C. Fountain; broom factory, J. B. York, president; elevators, grain and coal,
Moore & Black; feed stable, W. F. Black; general dealers, F. M. Kisling, W. H. Miller, N. F. McCallister, who also handles
hardware; hotel, Mrs. Mattie Walker; jewelry, J. J. Parker; lumber, A. VV. Rife; meats, A. M. Murry; pool halls (with
restaurants), O. E. Harper, J. J. Parker; stock dealers. Free & Steers, Hugh Rodgers, T. O. Smalley; veterinary surgeon, O.
A. Divines; physicians, S. E. Boggs, A. E. Stemler.
There are churches, Methodist Episcopal and Baptist, each having brick edifices (see chapter on churches). The lodges are
confined to the Modern
page 329
Chapter XXVII
Paint Township
Paint is the central sub-division of the county, on the northern border, with Madison county at its north. Madison and Marion
townships at the east, Union and Jefferson townships at the south and Jefferson township at its west. Its population in 1910
was, including the village of Bloomingburg, two thousand and seventy-nine. Its chief pike is the Bloomingburg and Midway
road. It was named from the creek that forms one of its boundaries. It was one of the original townships of Fayette county at
its organization. Nature has made this a fertile domain. The wash from Paint creek gives a natural fertilizer for its otherwise
naturally rich soil.
EARLY SETTLEMENT
To George Coil must be given the distinction of having been the first white man to enter this township with the intention of
becoming a resident. It was in the very early days of the last century — about 1802 — when this man of push and genuine
enterprise came in and erected his cabin and at once set about clearing up land which he might utilize as a farming spot. But
little is known of him, where he came from or how many years he remained in the county. But records point to the fact that he
must have been the first settler.
In 1803 William Hays emigrated from Kentucky, settling on Big Walnut, where he remained until 1805, then moved to this
township, settling on a portion of survey No. 1063, on the banks of Paint creek, with his father James and the family, consisting
of David, John, James, Jr., Rankin, Benjamin, Jane, Mary, Hannah, Elizabeth and Sarah. William and John served as privates
in captain McElwain's military company, which was ordered out to Fort Sandusky, where they assembled and built the fort. At
the close of the war they returned home and farmed.
It was also in 1805 when Solomon Salmon, of Delaware, came to Paint creek country, settling on the low lands later owned by
his son Perry. In 1880 Perry Salmon had in his possession the military patent for four hundred acres granted to Solomon
Salmon, assignee of John McClain, assignee of Benjamin Parker, assignee of William Johnston, assignee of Samuel
Kercheval, assignee of Thomas Jenkins, only living representatives of Joshua Jenkins, a sergeant in the Revolutionary War.
The date of survey of said tract was many years prior to the signing of the instrument by James Monroe, March 26, 1819,
several years after possession had been taken by Solomon Salmon. Perry, a relative of his, accompanied him and settled on
land owned later years by Gideon Vezay. In the eighties the old cabin erected by him was still standing where built.
page 333-4
THE VILLAGE OF BLOOMINGBURG.
This is the only considerable Village of Paint township… About 1827 a woolen industry sprung up in the township. Philip
Dodridge, later of Circleville, started a carding machine in the town of Bloomingburg, continuing a year. The machinery was
driven by horse-power and a tread-wheel. He sold to Eber Patrick, a practical manufacturer, who sold to Mr. Parker, and
removed to Washington C. H. Parker soon sold to Mr. Carr, who moved the machinery to Indiana.
page 357-8
BUSINESS INTERESTS IN 1913 - 14.
The list of business factors in Washington C. H. in the above date run as follows: Five banks (see banking chapter) and the
usual number of retail and wholesale stores, with factories, etc., as follows: Washington gas and electric light plant;
Washington Milling Company; Bachert's carriage factory; Byron Sign and Mirror Works: Craig Manufacturing Company; tile
works, by James L. Dodd; buggies, by W. B. Prskine: hard woods and manufacture of same; Hagerty Shoe Company; cement
blocks and silo works, A. C. Henkle; Inskip Manufacturing Company; Ireland Manufacturing Company; brick-making plant, by J.
E. Lamus & Company; E. L. Miller, fertilizer factory; New Wonder Company, makers of heating stoves; mill work, by Parker &
Wood [Charles B. PARKER]; Purcell Blacking Company; Washington Concrete Block Company; Washington Manufacturing
Company; broom factory, by J. B. York; the artificial ice company's plant; the Brownell Packing Company, and possibly a few
more lesser concerns.
page 404-5
There are individuals in every community who by pronounced ability and force of character rise above the heads of the
masses and command a place among the leaders of their locality. Characterized by perseverance and a directing spirit, two
virtues that never fail, such men always make their presence felt and the vigor of their strong personality serves as a stimulant
and incentive to the young and rising generation. To this energetic and enterprising class Charles B Parker, of the firm of
Parker & Wood very properly belongs. A native of this county, he has traveled far and wide over the western part of the
United States and been engaged in business as a railroad contractor in many states. For the past ten years he has been a
resident of this city of his birth and a member of the manufacturing company of Parker & Woods, manufacturers of all kinds of
wood work. His life has been characterized by indomitable energy and perseverance, and the success to which he has
attained has been the result of the utilization of these qualities.
Charles B. Parker, the son and only child of Joseph and Eliza (McElwain) Parker, was born in Washington C. H. October 25,
1875. His father was born in Warren county, this state, and reared to manhood in that county. As a young man he learned the
carpenter trade and followed the building and contracting business all of his life. He came to Fayette county shortly before the
Civil War and married Eliza McElwain, a native of the county, and located in Good Hope, where he lived for a number of years.
He then moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he followed his business as a builder and contractor for a short time. In
1878 he returned to Good Hope, in Fayette county, Ohio, where his death occurred in the same year, his wife still surviving
him. He was reared as a Baptist, while his wife has been a life-long member of the Methodist church.
Joseph Parker was the son of Joseph and Julia (Holcomb) Parker, natives of Ohio. Joseph Parker, Sr., was a Hardshell
Baptist preacher, although the meager compensation of the preachers of the early days compelled him to follow some other
occupation for a means of livelihood. He farmed for many years in Warren county, and later in life moved to Good Hope,
Fayette county, where he died at an advanced age. His wife afterwards died in Washington C. H. Rev. Joseph Parker and wife
reared a family of four children: Capt. John B. Parker, of Portland, Oregon; Mrs. Catherine Yeoman, of the state of
Washington; Joseph B., the father of the immediate subject of this sketch, and Charles F., deceased. The parents of
Eliza McElwain, the wife of Joseph Parker, Jr., were William and Maria (Nye) McElwain, early settlers of Fayette county, Ohio,
where they died at an old age. Maria was an aunt of the renowned poet and wit, "Bill Nye," and the daughter of Major Ichabod
Nye, who made a gallant name for himself in the War of 1812. The original McElwain stock came from Scotland and the first
members of the family settled in Virginia. William McElwain and wife reared a family of nine children, Capt. John McElwain,
Mrs. Nancy Burner, Mrs. Mollie Nitterhouse, Judge Thomas D., Mrs. Eliza C. Parker, Mrs. Asenath Blanchard. Robert T., Mrs.
Eva McLean and Mrs. Willie Carmean.
Charles B. Parker was reared in Washington C. H. and received the best education which was afforded by the city schools.
Upon reaching his majority he went to Arizona and located in Kingman, where he engaged in the mercantile business and
mining for three years. In 1896 he returned to Washington C. H., and a year later returned to the West, where he was
engaged in railroad construction work. His father had been a builder and contractor and in this way he had acquired a fair
knowledge of the business. He remained in the West and Southwest until 1904, when he returned to Washington C. H. and, in
company with J. M. Wood and C. F. Parker, organized the Parker & Wood Manufacturing Company. They manufacture all
kinds of wood work and have in their employ from twenty to thirty people all the time. Owing to the excellence of their work and
their honest methods of dealing, they have built up a large trade in their line and are classed among the most prosperous and
substantial firms of the city.
Mr. Parker was married June 21, 1910, to Harriett E. Swope, the daughter of George B. and Mary (Pringle) Swope, and to this
union have been born two children, Charlotte S. and Harriett Ann. The mother of Mrs. Parker is deceased, while her father is
still living in Washington C. H. Mrs. Parker is one of three children born to her parents, the others being John and Opal.
Politically, Mr. Parker has always been allied with the Republican Party, but owing to the fact that he has been away from the
county so much and since returning been so busy with his manufacturing interests, he has not had the time to take an active
part in political affairs. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, while he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
church.
page 416
HUMPHREY JONES
He is the son of William H. and Olivia (Hid) Jones
…
On June 19, 1888, Humphrey Jones was united in marriage with Laura B. Willis, the daughter of James M. and Emily
(Southward) Willis, of Rloomingburg, this county, where Mrs. Jones was born and reared. Her parents were both natives of
Ohio, and both are deceased, her father dying in 1888, aged eighty years, and her mother passing away at about the same
age. They were the parents of three children. William R., James W. and Laura B. Mrs. Jones' paternal grandparents were
Nathaniel and Mary (Parker) Willis, who, in an early day. came to Ross county, Ohio, from Boston, Massachusetts. Nathaniel
Willis is deserving of specific mention as the founder of the Yoiitli's Companion, and after his location in Ohio he founded the
Scioto Gazette, said to be the first newspaper established in Ohio and which is still being published. This worthy couple passed
away in Ross county, this state, and were buried near Bainbridge. By a former marriage Nathaniel Willis was the father of two
children, "Fannie Fern," the noted novelist, and Nathaniel Parker Willis, well known as a poet.
page 553
The name of William S. Parker is one familiar to the residents of Paint township, Fayette county, Ohio, as that of a hard-
working, neighborly and accommodating farmer, whose time and toil spent in the cultivation of his fertile farm have brought
him prosperity and a competence. He lives on his excellent farm of four hundred and sixty-five acres located on the Midway
road, about three miles from Bloomingburg, and on this farm he has passed his entire life, having been born on August 28,
1860, in one of the log and frame houses now standing. He is the only child of Robert and Margaret (Selsor) Parker, the
former of whom was born on November 28, 1828, on the state land near Bloomingburg. He was a son of John and Mary
(Whiteman) Parker. John was a native of Virginia and when a young man came from his home in Hampshire, that state, to
this locality. He had left his family in Virginia, to remain there until he found a suitable location. This he found in the tract where
Robert, father of the immediate subject, was born. He was there for a short time, when he purchased the land and brought his
family on from the East. John Parker was one of the best educated and most influential men of his day in this section and to
the pioneer life of this locality brought many of the finer customs of life as found in that older section of our country and which
added a much needed charm to the almost sordid life of the pioneer.
William S. Parker received his elementary education in the Larimer school of Paint township, taking the more advanced grades
at the Bloomingburg high school. From his earliest boyhood he assisted the father in the duties of the homestead and when
quite a young man was skilled in the science of agriculture and stock raising. Mr. Parker's farm is considered one of the best
managed in this section and in every department it testifies by appearances to the thought and care expended on it. Aside
from general farming, Mr. Parker gives considerable time to live stock, and in this line of agricultural work he is eminently
successful.
On January 8, 1891, Mr. Parker was united in marriage with Eva Creath, daughter of William A. and Mary E. (McCafferty)
Creath, and in view of the fact that he was the only child of his parents he brought his bride to his father's house, where the
four lived happily until separated by death. The father died in 1908 and the mother in 1892. both being laid to rest in
Bloomingburg cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Parker have been born three children, the eldest of whom, Robert C. is now
eighteen years old and a graduate of Washington high school. Selsor graduated from Bloomingburg high school and
Kathleen, the youngest of the family, is now attending school at the latter place. All are promising young people, much
admired and respected by the circles in which they move. Mr. and Mrs. Parker and their children are consistent members of
the Presbyterian church and give earnest attention to the spiritual verities of life, contributing liberally of their means to the
support of all religious and benevolent movements. In fact, they are regarded as among the leading citizens of this section,
whose support can be counted on for anything which tends to upbuild the moral, social or educational life of their fellow men.
Mr. Parker's political affiliation is with the Republican party, although he has never been active in such circles.
page 571
O. WADE CREATH
… The subject is one of a family of four children, being the third child in order of birth. Eva, the oldest of the family, is Mrs.
William Parker and resides near Bloomingburg.
page592
Mr. Lynch was, on February 7, 1894, united in marriage with Emma Hays, daughter of Charles and Catherine (Parker)
Hays, who bore him four children, and departed this life on April 16, 1908. Mrs. Lynch was an earnest and devoted woman,
winning to herself many friends by her sterling qualities of heart and mind. She is buried at Bloomingburg cemetery. Charles
E.. the oldest child of the family, is engaged in farming and remains in the home, as do also Ray Parker, Candace and Walter
M., all of whom are still in school. Mr. Lynch surrounds his family with many of the comforts and conveniences of life, carefully
directing his children in ways of usefulness and happiness. He is regarded as one of the substantial men of the community and
as such is eminently entitled to representation in a work of this character.
page 685
OSCO YEOMAN
Robert Yeoman was the only child born to Ira and Osea (McElwain) Yeoman, and grew to manhood in Wayne township, this
county, and married Elizabeth J. Hill, and to this union were born five children: Osco, the immediate subject of this review;
Sarah, deceased, who was the wife of Andrew Clark; Ella, deceased, who was the wife of Charles Doster; Emma, the wife of
Joseph White, and William Ira, deceased. The first wife of Robert Yeoman died and he afterwards married Caroline Parker,
and to the second union eight children were born, Mary, Joseph W., Effie, Martha, Robert, Earl, Luella and Nellie.
[end section]
----------------------------------------------
BOOK "History of Fayette County [OHIO]: together with historic notes on the Northwest, and
the State of Ohio, gleaned from early authors, old maps and manuscripts, private and official
correspondence, and all other authentic sources"
R. S. Dills, 1881
[S329]
[editorial comment]
[These are the references to the surname PARKER in the book "History of Fayette County [OHIO]: together with historic notes
on the Northwest, and the State of Ohio, gleaned from early authors, old maps and manuscripts, private and official
correspondence, and all other authentic sources," R. S. Dills, 1881. These PARKERs have been identified within current data.
If you have additional identifications or correction, PLEASE contact us.]
page 256
Sol. Parker, also a Virginian, settled on the Springfield road in 1808.
page 298
The Old Muster
As it may be a matter of interest to many to know the military discipline to which the youth of early days were subjected, we
devote a page to its explanation.
July 25, 1788, a law was published at Marietta for " regulating and establishing the militia," which was confirmed by the
territorial legislature, and approved by the governor (St. Clair).
…
(301) We subjoin a few of the names given us by J. L. Myers, from the muster-roll of the third company, odd battalion, third
brigade, of the militia of the State of Ohio.
…
(302)
page 394
IN THE REBELLION
NINETIETH OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY.
This regiment was organized at Lancaster, Ohio, on the 15th of July, 1862, by the military committees of the counties of
Fayette, Pickaway, Fairfield, Hocking, Vinton, and Perry. August 28, 1862, the organization of the regiment was completed,
and it was mustered into service. Its aggregate strength was thirty-eight commissioned officers, and nine hundred and forty-
three, men. At 8 o'clock p. M., August 29th, it was on its way to Covington, Ken- tucky, where it reported to Major General
Wright, on the 30th.
…
(401)
COMPANY K.
The following original members enlisted in 1862 :
Richard Parker, private, enlisted August 7.
…
(427)
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTEENTH O. V. I.
COMPANY G.
The following original members enlisted in 1862 :
Joseph Parker, sergeant, enlisted August 13.
(428)
Joseph Parker, sergeant, enlisted August 13.
(436)
TWELFTH BATTERY LIGHT ARTILLERY.
Milbey M. Parker, corporal, enlisted June 8, 1861.
page 875
Wayne Township
Robert Yeoman, son of Ira and Oce (McElwain) Yeoman, was born on the old homestead, one and one-half miles west of his
present home, April 13, 1831. He spent his youth on the farm, and enjoyed few educational advantages.
In January 6, 1853, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth, daughter of John A. Hill, who bore him five children: Osco, Sarah
J,, Ella E., Emma F., and "William Ira; the latter deceased. Mrs. Yeoman died, October 11, 1863, and on the 23d of March,
1865, he married Caroline H., daughter of Joseph Parker, of Warren County, the result being nine children: Mary 0.,
Joseph W., Effie J., Mattie E., Robert S., Madora C, Arthur Earl, Lula, and Bertha Ellen; all living. Mrs. Yeoman is a member of
the Paint Baptist Church.
page 891
Marion Township
May 2, 1880, J. H. Harland was elected superintendent; G. H. Matson, assistant; Eden Parker, treasurer; John Parker,
secretary; Allie Dunlap, organist; Brollier VanPelt, chorister. Average attendance for the year, forty-five.
Officers elected April 17,1881: Mr. Matson, superintendent; Mr. Morgan, assistant; Mattie Haney, secretary; Eden Parker,
treasurer; John Parker, chorister; Jennie Kearney, librarian; Ellsworth Matson, assistant; Ada Johnson, organist; Mr.
Morgan, J. B. Parker, Jennie Kearney, Mrs. Matson, and Mrs. Timnions, teachers. Average attendance, forty -five.
page 906
JOHN JOHNSON, SR.
John Johnson, sr., son of Samuel Johnson, was born in Pendleton County, Virginia, where he married Sallie, daughter of
Jacob Harper, who bore him nine children, six sons and three daughters, those surviving being: Sallie Ann Stookey, living in
New Holland; Abbie, widow of William Woods, now residing in Indiana, and John. The latter was born in 1801, in Pendleton
County, Virginia, and when seven years of age came to this state, with his parents, and settled in Ross County, then one vast
wilderness, with few white settlements, and chiefly inhabited by Indians. Twelve years later they came to Fayette County,
settling in Marion Township, and in about 1830, located on the farm now in the possession of our subject, where his father
died; his mother died at the residence of her son-in-law, in Ross County.
Our subject was married, January 2, 1824, to Nancy Parker, the result being ten children: Aaron, Jesse, Sarah Ann, Mary
J., Catherine, and Emily Ann, now living; Mary Ann, Margaret, Sarah Ann, and Mary Jane, deceased. Jesse resides with his
father; Aaron lives in New Holland; Rebecca is now Mrs. Lennox Campbell, and lives in Washington; Catherine is the wife of
Abner Briggs, and Emma is married to Abner Rowe, of Ross County.
Mr. Johnson has lived on his present farm since the age of twenty-eight years, and at present owns three hundred and eighty-
five acres of land, well improved, and located on " Johnson's Crossing." He and wife are members of the Pairview German
Baptist Church, and strive to obey the Master's will.
page 925
BAPTIST CHURCH.
(926)
In 1826 or 1827, J. B. Moore, of Kentucky, united with this congregation by letter, was chosen its pastor, and continued in this
capacity for twenty-five years, when he was succeeded [abt 1850]], by John Parker, of Hardin County, whose pastorate
extended over a period of seven years. He was followed by George Tusing, who remained two years, and was succeeded in
1877 by Thomas Cole, the present incumbent.
page 954
WILLIAM M. LEACH.
Our subject was married, March 18, 1847, to Clarissa J., daughter of Adoniram and Roxaua Bostwick, of Madison County. She
was born July 29, 1827. Her father's children were Sally, Clarissa J., William, Caroline, Eliza Ann, Benjamin F. and Otho W.
(twins), and Celesta.
They have had eight children born to them : Asher B., born August 31, 1848, died April 15, 1854; Adoniram B., born October
5, 1849, married Myrtle Parker, and lives in Kansas …
page 959
LEMUEL p. LOOFBOURROW.
(960)
Annette married, October, 1859. Her husband, Joseph Parker, was a member of Company G, 113th 0. Y. I., and was killed
at Keuesaw Mountain, Georgia, June 27, 1864. His widow remarried, October, 1869, to Dr. J. B. F. Morgan, of Eoss County.
Albert Ross Parker, son of Joseph Parker, before named, has been a part of his grandfather's family from infancy.
page 967
WILLIAM D. WOOD.
William Doddridge Wood is the oldest child of Daniel and Tabitha (Leach) Wood, and was born in this county on the 27th of
February, 1841. The genealogy of the Wood family appears in connection with the biography of Daniel Wood.
Our subject was fairly educated in the common schools of his neighborhood, and acquired studious habits, which he still
retains. He gave the years of his minority to hard work on his father's farm. He was married, February 27, 1866, to Mary
Parker, second daughter of Elder Joseph Parker, of Warren County, Ohio. She bore one son, John F., born January 19,
1867; died April 27, 1875. Mrs. Wood was born, May 17, 1843, and died July 15, 1871.
page 968
DANIEL WOOD.
The Wood family are of English descent, but nothing definite is known as to the date of their immigration to America.
...
William married for his first wife, Mary Parker, February 27 1866, she dying; for his second wife, he married Rebecca
Swoup, May 2, 1872. Cordelia married General Stephen B. Yeoman, in 1865, and lives in Washington.
page 970
PAINT TOWNSHIP
EARLY SETTLEMENTS.
Perry Salmon has in his possession, the military patent for four hundred acres, granted to Solomon Salmon, assignee of John
Mc- Clain, assignee of Benjamin Parker, assignee of William Johnston, assignee of Samuel Kercheval, assignee of Thomas
Jenkins, only living representative of Joshua Jenkins…
page 992
PAINT TOWNSHIP
WOOLEN MILL.
In 1826, or 1827, Philiip Dodridge, who afterward removed to Circleville, and there was connected with somewhat extensive
manufacturing of woolens, started a carding machine in the town of Bloomingburg, and continued the business about one
year. The machinery was driven by horse-power and tread-wheel. He sold to Eber Patrick, a general practical manufacturer,
who, being desirous to locate permanently, sold to a Mr. Parker, and removed to Washington, to engage in the same
business, and Mr. Parker soon after sold to Mr. Carr, who removed the machinery to Indiana.
page 1000
PAINT TOWNSHIP
Charles D. Hays was born in Ross County, this state, in 1826. When about four years of age, he went with his father's family
to Pike County, and settled on a farm near the town of Piketon, where he spent seventeen years of his youth assisting on the
farm. In 1847, he came to this county, and for nearly three years lived in Union Township. In 1849, he purchased a farm three
miles north of Bloomingburg, and in 1850 moved upon it, where he still resides. He has made many improvements; among
them the erection of a commodious residence. He united in marriage, in 1848, with Miss Catherine daughter of John and
Mary A. Parker, of Paint Township, Rev, William Dickey officiating. Six children blessed this union; three sons and three
daughters: John, George, Grant, Mary A., Emma and Margaret; all living at home except John and George, who are married.
George resides in Fayette, and John in Clinton County.
page 1013
PAINT TOWNSHIP
John Parker, father of Robert C, was born in Hampshire County, Virginia, in 1799. He married Mary A. Whiteman, in 1826,
by whom he had six children, two sons and four daughters, all of whom lived to be grown, but three have since passed to the
spiritland. Those living are Mrs. L. L. Barker, Mrs. C. D. Hays, and Robert C. He came to Ohio in June, 1826, and settled in
Marion Township, where he remained five years, then removed to this township, and settled on what is now well known as the
Parker farm. He died in January, 1873. His wife still survives, but is in poor health.
Robert C, our subject, was born in Marion Township, and came with his father to this township, where he still lives. He married
Margaret, daughter of Frederick Selsor, by whom he had two children: Alice and William S. Little Alice died in May, 1868,
when eleven years of age. William is at home, and aids his father in running the farm.
In politics, he is a Republican, a staunch temperance man, and never used tobacco in any form. Both himself and wife are
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He owns a farm of five hundred acres, and is erecting a house, which, when
completed, will be one of the fine houses of the county. He is a good and safe man.
page 1016
PAINT TOWNSHIP
Frederick Selsor was born in West Virginia, in 1800. He came to Ohio in 1816, and stopped in Pickaway County; from thence
removed to Madison County. In 1828 he married Polly, daughter of William and Betsey Rankin, of Paint Township, Fayette
County. In the fall of 1852, he came to this county and settled on what was then known as the Kankin farm, having purchased
this land in 1848. Here he still resides, having erected a commodious dwelling thereon. His family consists, at this writing, of six
children: Elzabeth, married to William Tway, Margaret, married to R. C. Parker, Susanna, married to Daniel Morris, Mary,
married to Alfeert Groves, William, married to Letitia Morris, all living in the vicinity of the homestead, and John, who is single
and at home, giving attention to the business of the farm.
Mr. Selsor's father came from Germany to the United States during the Revolutionary war. His mother was born in Virginia.
Mrs. Frederick Selsor died in the spring of 1852. Her mother died at the Rankin farm before it passed into the hands of Mr.
Selsor. Her father removed to Illinois, where he died. Her uncles, Sinith and Jacob Rankin, went to Missouri, and being
staunch Union men, were greatly annoyed by rebels during the late civil war.
Mr. Selsor, our subject, is a strong Republican; has never voted for a Democratic president since General Jackson vetoed the
United States Bank. He has been a business man highly respected. He is now somewhat advanced in life, but strong in body
and mind for one of his age.
page 1020
NATHANIEL TWAY.
Nathaniel Tway, son of Nathaniel Tway, sen., was born in this township, October 16, 1838. He was educated under the
instruction of David C. Eastman and Professor Parker. After passing through an educational course, he entered the field as a
teacher, and for two years gave special attention to his profession.
[end section]
----------------------------------------------
BOOK "Portrait and biographical record of Fayette, Pickaway and Madison counties, Ohio:
containing biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens, together with
biographies and portraits of all the presidents of the United States"
Chapman Brothers, 1892
[S343]
[editorial comment]
[These are the references to the surname PARKER in the book "Portrait and biographical record of Fayette, Pickaway and
Madison counties, Ohio : containing biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens, together with biographies
and portraits of all the presidents of the United States" Chapman Brothers, 1892. These PARKERs have been identified within
current data. If you have additional identifications or correction, PLEASE contact us.]
page 426
SAMUEL PARKER. (Ancestry.com) Throughout Pickaway County there is no gentleman more highly esteemed or better
known than this native born citizen of Salt Creek Township, who is operating a splendid farm of two hundred and nine acres.
Combining the advantages of a fertile soil and convenient location, the value of the estate is equaled by few farms in the
county, and the buildings with which it has been embellished are first-class in every respect.
An honored inmate of the pleasant home of Mr. Parker is his venerable father, Labin, who was born in Pickaway Township,
this county, October 10, 1812. In spite of his advanced age, he is in robust health, and for sixty-five years has not been ill
enough to be confined to his room. Possessing a mental constitution no less vigorous than his physical development, he is
universally esteemed for his noble qualities and upright character. His father, Allen, who was probably born in Maryland in
1759, died in Pickaway Township in 1828, having emigrated hither with his family at a very early day.
When quite young, Labin Parker moved to Salt Creek Township, where he attended school held in a primitive log building
whose furniture consisted of a few slat seats and a rude desk. The surrounding country was a wilderness, where deer, bear,
wolves and wild turkeys roamed at will, unmolested save by an occasional hunter. After commencing to operate as a farmer,
Mr. Parker was married, in 1828, to Miss Susan Bunn and the young couple settled down to housekeeping in a small log
house. Mrs. Parker, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, died in 1852, leaving three sons: Samuel, of this sketch; Thomas C,
who enlisted during the Civil War and fell at Vicksburg, May 22, 1863; and George W., who spent three years as a soldier in
the late war, and died in Illinois soon after his return from the service.
...
page 528
[page 529 - drawing of the "Residence of Robert C Parker, Paint TP. Fayette, Co., Ohio"]
ROBERT C. PARKER is a farmer and stockman of wide experience and business qualifications of a high order, who has been
an important agent in developing the rich agricultural resources of Fayette, his native county. He is one of the first of his class
in Paint Township, where he has a large and finely equipped farm, situated two and one-half miles north, and a little west, of
Bloomingburgh. Upon the place he has erected a beautiful residence, a view of which accompanies this sketch.
Mr. Parker was born in Marion Township, November 28, 1828. His father, John Parker, who was one of the foremost pioneers
of Fayette County in his day, was a Virginian by birth. He was married in his native State to Mary A. Whiteman, who was born
in the same place as himself. Soon after marriage, he brought his bride to Ohio, in 1826, to brave the hardships and trials of
frontier life, in order to build up a comfortable home for themselves. He bought two hundred acres of land in Marion Township,
but after living upon it five years, removed with his family to Paint Township, and bought seven hundred and fifty acres of land,
which he afterward developed into one of the finest farms in the neighborhood, and that was his home until he closed his eyes
in death, at the age of seventy-three, in the year 1873. He was a man of large enterprise, and acquired wealth and
prominence as a farmer and stockman. In early life, he was a Whig, and in later years the Republican party had in him an
earnest advocate, from the time of its formation until the hour of his death. He was Township Trustee for many years, and had
the interests of his community at heart at all times. Religiously, he was of the Presbyterian faith, and was a member of the
church of that denomination at Bloomingburgh. His wife survived him until 1883, and then passed away at the age of seventy-
five. They were the parents of six children, four daughters and two sons, all of whom grew to maturity, and two of whom are
still living, our subject, and his sister, Mrs. Hannah B. Barker, of Paint Township. Their paternal grandfather, Robert Parker,
was a native of Virginia, and is supposed to have been of Irish descent.
Robert C. Parker, of this biographical record, is the second child and first-born son of his parents. His education was
conducted in the common schools of his boyhood days, and on his father's farm he was well trained in agricultural pursuits. He
continued to assist his father in the management of his extensive farming interests until he was twenty-seven years old, and at
that age took upon himself the responsibilities of domestic life, being married January 29, 1856, to Miss Margaret Selsor, who
has nobly performed her part in the upbuilding of their home, proving to be a true homemaker, devoted to the interests of her
household. Mrs. Parker is a native of Madison County, and was born June 13, 1832, a daughter of Frederic and Mary (Rankin)
Selsor, the former of whom was an early settler of the State, coming here in 1815. Her father was born in Virginia, and her
mother was a native of Fayette County. The former died at the age of eighty-six, and the latter when forty-two years old. Our
subject and his wife have had two children: Alice M., who died at the age of eleven years; and William S., who married Miss
Eva Creath, and resides on his father's farm.
Immediately after his marriage, Mr. Parker located on the farm in Paint Township on which he still lives. It was mostly in its
natural condition when it came into his possession, but he has wrought a wonderful transformation, whereby it has become
one of the best ordered farms in the county, its four hundred and eighty acres of rich soil nearly all under cultivation, and
valuable improvements on ever hand adding to its worth and attractiveness. A substantial class of buildings adorn the place,
the handsome and commodious residence, of a pleasing style of architecture, being built in 1881, at a cost of $6,000. Mr.
Parker is now interested principally in raising stock, devoting the most of the grain grown on his farm to feeding his stock. He
has three hundred hogs, fifty head of cattle of superior breeds, beside other well-bred stock.
Our subject is endowed with strength of mind and native ability, and his sensible, practical views on all subjects with which he
is familiar give him weight and influence in the community. In his active and busy career he has not stayed to ask if life is worth
living, but has made it so by always doing the duty nearest at hand. In this way he has acquired wealth, and gained the
universal respect of his community. He is a Republican, who stands by his party whether defeat or victory perches on its
banners. He was Township Trustee some years, and made a good record as a civic official, who looked carefully after the
interests entrusted to him.
page 550
HON. DAVID I. WORTHINGTON, one of the prominent attorneys of Washington C. IL, has been in active practice here since
1874. He is a native of this State, having been born in Greene County, May 26, 1844, and is the son of Jesse J. and Catherine
B. (Creamer) Worthington, residents of this county. The father of our subject was one of the early settlers of the northern part
of Fayette County and for a number of years was Superintendent of the city schools of Washington C. H.
David I. Worthington received a thorough education in the common schools of this city, and later read law at Indianola, Iowa,
under Col. P. Gad Bryan. He was admitted to the Bar in 1865, before the Supreme Court of Des Moines, Iowa, and a year
later located at Liberty, Clay County, Mo., where he remained for five years engaged in the practice of his profession. He then
removed to lola, Allen County, Kan., and in 1874 returned to his native place, where he occupies a high place as a lawyer. He
became connected with Judge Williams, who is now Chief Justice, and afterward, in 1889, with J. D. Post, who is his partner at
the present time.
The Hon. D. I. Worthington was elected a member of the State Legislature on the Republican ticket in 1885, and was the
incumbent of that office for two successive terms. During that time he served on various important committees, performing
efficient service on the Judiciary, Corporation and Insurance Committees. At the present time, he occupies the important office
of President of the City Council and has shown himself capable of close application to the duties which lie before him. His
judicious decisions and wise course in attempting to bring about a worthy object are well known to those who are acquainted
with the history of the State.
Miss Kate Parker, of Liberty, Clay County, Mo., was married to our subject May 1, 1866. They have an interesting family of
three children, who bear the respective names of Jesse, Edgar P. and Bessie. Mr. Worthington, in his political predilection, is a
thorough Republican and during the last congressional election of this district was chosen as its Chairman. In 1889, he erected
the fine brick block at the corner of Market and Main Streets, which bears his name. It is three stories in height, the Postoffice
being located in the corner, the Knights of Pythias Hall above, and on the third floor are eleven finely finished offices.
page 591
SOLOMON McCLIMANS. This representative farmer of Range Township, Madison County, is at present engaged in farming
and stock-raising on his fine estate, located one-half mile south of Danville. He is a native of this township, having been born
August 15, 1835, and is the son of Isaac and Mary (Parker) McClimans. The father was born in Ross County, this State,
March 23, 1805, and was about seven years of age when his father, John McClimans, came to Range Township, and located
on a piece of land on the Yankeetown and London Road, which property is still in the possession of the McClimans' family.
Isaac McClimans was given a good education, and here married our subject's mother. She was a native of this county,
and received a fair education in a country school. The paternal grandfather of our subject was a native of Pennsylvania,
and was of Scotch origin. At his death, he left a family of nine children, among whom he divided his estate of two hundred
acres. They bore the respective names of George, John, William, Samuel, Isaac, David and James; Margaret, who married
William Johnson, and Sarah, who became the wife of Isaac Howsman.
The father of our subject was twice married, rearing a family of four children by his first union, and nine by his second. Our
subject was the youngest of the first family, and had two sisters, Mary and Rebecca, and one brother, John. The mother of
our subject was born in December, 1809, and died February 17, 1838, having been married just seven years. The
father was very wealthy, and at his death left an estate of six hundred and eighty acres of land in Range Township. He was a
Democrat in politics, casting his first vote for Andrew Jackson in 1836.
Solomon McClimans grew to manhood on the farm in Range Township, and made his home with his father until he was
twenty-five years of age. October 15, 1861, he was married to Eliza Ann Henry, who was born in Ross County, this State, June
14, 1841. She is the daughter of Hugh and Maria (Rogers) Henry, both natives of Ross County, and after her marriage with
our subject lived for live years on the home farm. In 1865, they purchased three hundred and eighteen acres, where they now
reside, upon which they removed the following year. In addition to the property just mentioned, Mr. McClimans owns one
hundred and fifty-seven acres one and one-half miles north of Danville, which he purchased in 1883.
To Mr. and Mrs. McClimans have been born three children: Herman Albertis, who married Mirte Yates, and resides in Range
Township, where they have one son, Wilbur; Ella May and Charles William are at home. Though not a politician, Mr.
McClimans casts his vote for Democratic candidates, and served his township as Trustee for eight years. He has been School
Director in the Danville district since locating here, and possesses the entire confidence of his friends and neighbors.
page 785
WILLIAM D. WOOD, a retired farmer of Mt. Sterling, and an honored veteran of the late war, was born in Union Township.
Fayette County, Ohio, on the 27th of February, 1841. His parents were Daniel and Tabitha (Feach) Wood. He was reared to
manhood upon his father's farm and acquired his education in the common schools, which he attended during the winter
season, while in the summer months he worked in the fields. He remained under the parental roof until twenty years of age,
when he responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in Company A, Fifty-fourth Ohio Infantry. The regiment was
assigned to the Army of the Tennessee, and he participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, the siege of Vicksburg, Jackson,
Mission Ridge, and the Atlanta campaign. Previous to this, he had re-enlisted as a veteran, his three-years term of service
having expired. While his regiment was engaged in the Atlanta campaign, Mr. Wood served on detached duty, guarding
railroad bridges. He rejoined his regiment in Goldsboro, N. C, and participated in the Grand Review in Washington, D. C., the
most brilliant military pageant ever seen in this country. He then went to Louisville, Ky., and on to Little Rock, Ark., where he
was mustered out in August, 1860.
When the war was over. Mr. Wood returned to his home, and on the 27th of February, 1866, was joined in wedlock with Miss
Mary Parker. He began farming on a part of his father's farm, and afterward his father gave him seventy acres or more of
land. In 1871, he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 12th of July. He was again married. May 2,
1872, his second union being with Miss Rebecca Swope, of Fairfield County. Two children grace their union: Albert Thomas,
who was born in Madison Township, Fayette County, Ohio, March 23, 1874, is now attending the High School of Mt. Sterling;
and Arley Ray was born in Madison Township on the 13th of November, 1878.
Upon the death of his father, Mr. Wood inherited more land, and now has four hundred and forty-eight acres in Madison
Township, beside twelve acres which he purchased in Mt. Sterling. He is industrious and enterprising and made of his
business life a success, so that he is now enabled to lay aside business cares, resting in the enjoyment of the fruits of his
former toil. Mr. Wood is a man highly respected throughout the community, and is recognized as a valued citizen of Mt.
Sterling, where he has made his home since 1884. He is a member of the Old-school Baptist Church, and in politics is a
Republican, having been a stanch advocate of that party and its principles since he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham
Lincoln. He was a faithful soldier during the late war, and may well be proud of the part which he bore in preserving the Union.
page 808
HON. THOMAS D. McELWAIN, Judge of Probate for Fayette County, is numbered among the honored and well-known
citizens of Washington C. H. To the position which he is now filling with credit to himself, he was first elected in the fall of 1887,
assuming the duties of the office in February of the ensuing year. Two years later, he was re-elected and entered upon his
second term in February, 1891. His mental acquirements and judicial bent of character admirably adapt him for the successful
and unprejudiced discharge of his official duties.
Thomas D. McElwain was born July 29, 1843, in the city of which he is still a resident. He is the son of William and Maria C.
(Nye) McElwain. His paternal grandparents, Robert and Jane (Taylor) McElwain, belonged to good old Kentucky families and
were pioneers of Fayette County, coming hither in 1811, and settling in Good Hope when that now flourishing village was a
wilderness. In the home they established in that place, they spent their remaining years and passed away at a good old age.
Grandfather McElwain was a Captain in the War of 1812, and was a man of resolute character, determined will and unflinching
purpose — a typical pioneer.
William McElwain, father of our subject, was born in Kentucky in 1809, and was therefore only two years old when he was
brought by his parents to the Buckeye State. He grew to manhood in Fayette County, where he was married to Miss Maria C.,
daughter of Ichabod Nye, Captain of a Light Horse Company in the War of 1812, and Master of Marietta Lodge, F. & A. M., in
1807-09, that being the first Masonic lodge in the State. After his marriage, William McElwain settled in Washington C. H., in
the growth of which he became an important factor. He was a prominent business man and also dealt considerably in real
estate, purchasing land adjoining the city and sub-dividing it into town lots, which he sold. His interest in the public affairs of the
community was deep and unwavering, and he was one of the influential members of the Republican party. He served two
terms as County Treasurer and was appointed to fill out a part of a third term.
At his death, which occurred December 27, 1891, William McElwain left a family of seven children, viz: Capt. John N., of
Washington, D. C; Thomas D., of this sketch; Asenath U., the widow of Mason Blanchard; Eliza C, who married Robert
Parker [? Lyda (Eliza) Catherine McELWAIN married Josephus Flavius PARKER]; Robert T. ; Willie C, wife of B. F.
Carraean, a merchant of Marysville, this State; and Eva, wife of John A. King.
When less than eighteen years old, our subject enlisted in Company A, First Ohio Cavalry, as Bugler. The first squadron of
said regiment, Companies A and C, was ordered to West Virginia, thence to Winchester, and later was with the Army of the
Potomac. Our subject participated in the battles of Gettysburg, Antietam, Fredericksburg, South Mountain, and the principal
engagements of the army in the East. In 1863, two years after his enlistment, the said companies joined the regiment with
Gen. Wilson in the West, and his company there become noted for sending out the spies who were with Jefferson Davis for a
long time, and were chiefly instrumental in his capture.
At the expiration of his term of enlistment, our subject returned home. During his service, he was wounded at the battle of Bull
Run. After visiting Illinois, he commenced the study of law with the Hon. Mills Gardner at Washington C. H., and was admitted
to the Bar in 1869. Under the administration of President Arthur, he was appointed Postmaster, but resigned at the expiration
of three years, and accepted a place on the Republican ticket as a candidate for the position of Judge of the Probate Courts.
In political affairs, he has always been interested, and was Chair- man of the Republican Central Committee for five years.
Until he became Postmaster, he was an active practitioner and filled the office of City Solicitor for some time.
Socially, the Judge is identified with Lodge No. 129, B. P. O. E.; the Knights of Pythias; John M. Bell Post, G. A. R., of which he
has been Commander; Fayette Lodge and Fayette Chapter, F. & A. M., and is a Past Eminent Commander of Garfield
Commandery; he is also a member of the Cincinnati Consistory, Scottish Rite. Mrs. McElwain bore the maiden name of Lydia
K. Davis, and is the daughter of Dr. James M. and Catherine (Tibbs) Davis, of Missouri. Judge McElwain and his wife are the
parents of two children: William and Mazie M., now the wife of William E. Shepherd, of Hartford, Conn. The daughter was
given every opportunity to develop her talent for music and is a graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music in both violin
and elocution.
[end section]
----------------------------------------------
BOOK "Pioneer record and reminiscences of the early settlers and settlement of Fayette County,
Ohio"
Rufus Putnam, 1872
[S345]
[editorial comment]
page 27-8
Good Hope Directory
- Joseph Parker, justice;
- Isaac Bainter, Isaac Depoy, W. B. Depoy, James Murry, Joseph Parker, and Robert Scott, carpenters
[Since there is no date for this Good Hope Directory, it is difficult to determine which Joseph is listed,
Joseph PARKER b. 1814 or his son Joseph PARKER b. 1845, but carpenters in Good Hope.]
- C. W. Bostwick, J. W. Parker, Rev. Barber, and Rev. Baker, preachers
Page 82
By William Hays.
(84)
page 112
By Kate Carder.
(113)
Thomas Parker [?] , farmer and pump-maker.
page 96
By William H. Harrison.
(97)
Nathah [Nathan] Parker [?], Jesse Barton, Henry Core, Ephraim Moore, Daniel Baker, William Sawyer, first settlers, are yet
living on good farms and in good houses—the fruits of industry.
[end section]