History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Clarence R. Strickland, M. D., one of the leading specialists in internal medicine in Indianapolis, was born in Greenfield, Indiana, May 18, 1883. He received his preparatory education in the graded and high schools of his home community, being graduated from the high school in 1898. He then matriculated at DePauw University where for three years he pursued a classical course. He then attended Indiana University from which he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1909. Electing to follow the medical profession, he entered the medical college of Indiana University and received his degree of Doctor of Medicine from that institution in 1910. He then became an interne in the Methodist Hospital for a year and when that service had been completed went into active practice for himself. With the outbreak of the war with Germany, Doctor Strickland offered his services to his country . His work in the medical corps of the United States Army was of such a degree of excellence that he was several times promoted, he having attained the rank of major as assistant chief of the medical service by the time of his discharge from the army which occurred in July, 1919. Following his discharge, he was sought by the medical staff of Indiana University to become a member of the faculty of that institution. He accordingly accepted the position which he also held previous to his enlistment in the army. Since 1910, Doctor Strickland has been a member of the faculty in the department of internal medicine. Since 1919, he has specialized in internal medicine and in this field of his profession he has won an enviable reputation. In addition to his other work, Doctor Strickland is the chief of the medical service of the City Hospital and along the same line, he is a member of the Methodist Hospital Research Society. On June 20, 1917, Doctor Strickland married Jessie Holcomb, of Indianapolis, and they have a beautiful home at 44th and Cold Springs Road. Doctor Strickland holds membership in the Masons and the Elks, and he also is a member of the Beta Theta Pi college fraternity, Phi Rho Sigma professional medical fraternity, Lion's Club, of which he is the president, Chamber of Commerce, and Indianapolis Athletic Club. He affiliates with the Meridian Street Methodist Episcopal Church.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Abraham L. Teetor, the president of the General Piston Ring company, was born in Hagerstown, Indiana, in 1853, the son of Daniel and Sarah (Schultz) Teetor, both of whom were natives of Ohio, the former dying at the age of fifty-three years and the latter dying when she had attained her eighty-third year in 1915. Daniel Teetor during the early part of his life engaged in flour and saw milling but for some time before his death he was an inventor, earning quite a reputation as a genius in this respect. He designed an engine for use on railroads which he completed on July 20th, but with success and realization of his dreams within his grasp, he died suddenly on July 26th at Hagerstown where he lived throughout his useful life. He was the father of seven children of whom three are now living: Louis W., of Hagerstown; Abraham L., the subject of this review; and Mrs. Christina Deeter. A. L. Teetor received his elementary education in the graded and high schools of Hagerstown. In 1883, he came to Indianapolis where he first was employed with the Sinker-Davis company as a designer. He remained with this firm for a time and then became associated with the C. H. Wolcott Mill Supply company. He gave up this work, however, to enter the employ of the Steel Pulley & Machine company where he served as the superintendent for four years. During this time, the company began the manufacture of a sand moulding machine that had been designed by Mr. Teetor. Later the firm undertook the construction of bicycles in 1888. Shortly afterward the plant was moved to Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, but Mr. Teetor not wishing to break up his family remained in Indianapolis. He then allied himself with the Steel Pulley Machine works and while in the employ of that company he was the superintendent of one of the departments of the plant and also designed bicycles. Desiring to be an independent manufacturer, he organized the Standard Manufacturing company for the construction of the Planet bicycle, the name of which was changed at the end of a few years to that of the Arrow Cycle. After one year of manufacturing this bicycle, the plant was gutted by fire and was a total loss. Mr. Teetor then became associated with the Howe Engine Works building fire engines, and he continued with this firm until 1898. From then until the year 1910, he engaged in engineering work, doing experimental building and designing and patent work. In May, 1910, he organized the Teetor Manufacturing company, now the General Piston Ring company, making piston rings. The first home of the company was in the experimental shops in the rear of the Teetor home, and the first piston rings were built by Mr. Teetor. He designed special machines for the manufacture of the piston rings, and since the inception of the company, it has been thoroughly tn0dern in every phase of the business in which it is engaged. When working at full capacity; the plant supplies work for about sixty men. The company has an excellent reputation for the worth of its product, and for the success that he has won, Mr. Teetor is indebted to no one but himself. November 26, 1879, Mr. Teetor married Josephine M. Jamison, of Centerville, Indiana, and to this union have been born five children: Lula T., Ralph J.; who graduated from Purdue University and is now the superintendent of the Malleable Iron works, of Cadillac, Michigan, and who as a major served in the army for four months in France during the World War; Daniel C., who saw service for a year in France as a captain in the Motor Repair division; and is now associated with his father in the business; Ella D; Carrie, now Mrs. Trouhvine. Mr. Teetor is considered one of the substantial citizens and reputable business men of Indianapolis where he has so greatly helped the commercial interests of the city.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

John R. Thrasher, M. D., a leading physician of Indianapolis, was born in Irvington (now a part of Indianapolis) on November 4, 1881. Woodson Thrasher, the grandfather of Doctor Thrasher, came to Indiana from Kentucky at an early date, and spent the remainder of his life in this state. Wm. M. Thrasher, the doctor's father, was born in Fairview, Indiana, and graduated from the Fairview Academy. He spent several years studying abroad, and during that time developed an excellent speaking knowledge of German, French and Spanish. He made mathematics his chief study, and was one of the prominent mathematicians of his time. He held the chair of Professor of Mathematics at Butler College for thirty-four years. He died in Indianapolis in 1900 at the age of sixty-seven years. John R. Thrasher received his preparatory education in the preparatory department of Butler College. He then entered the University of California where he studied for a time, and then entered the University of Michigan, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts. By that time he had decided that he wished to follow the medical profession, and accordingly entered the medical college of the same institution. He studied in that department of the University of Michigan for three years, and then entered the Indiana University School of Medicine, from which he was graduated in 1905 with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. He took post-graduate work in Harvard University, and at Philadelphia, and when he had completed this special work, he returned to Indianapolis and went into active practice. He specializes in syphilis, and in this phase of medical science is recognized as one of the most capable men in Indianapolis. Doctor Thrasher maintains offices at 710 Knights of Pythias Building. In 1921, he married Winifred Siever, of Kansas, and to this union has been born one son, John R., Jr., who was born September 16, 1922. Doctor Thrasher is a Thirty-second degree Mason and a Shriner, and he also holds membership in the Phi Beta Pi professional medical fraternity and the Indianapolis Country Club.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

F. E. Tischbein, superintendent of the Indianapolis district of the Metropolitan Life Insurance company of New York, has been identified with this great insurance organization for many years, trained in its methods and held trustworthy in all its affairs. He was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, September 9, 1887, son of Michael and Sophia (Herman) Tischbein, the former a native of Germany, the latter of Cincinnati. Michael Tischbein was brought by his parents to the United States in his childhood. The larger part of his life was spent in industrial pursuits at Cincinnati, where he died July 7, 1895, for some years previously having been superintendent of the Bearing Shoe factory of that city. After finishing his public school course, F. E. Tischbein spent two years as a student in the University of Cincinnati, subsequently, for five years being Instructor in Physical Training, in the Hughes high school. He then entered the service of the Metropolitan Life Insurance company, soon made headway and gained promotion, and after serving two and a half years as assistant manager, became manager of the Cincinnati office, with fifteen men under him. In June, 1920, he was transferred to the Indianapolis district, with offices in the Merchants Bank Building. At that time his force of agents numbered twenty-five, which number has been doubled since. October 25, 1913, he married Miss Florence Wollenhaupt, of Cincinnati, and they have one son, Jack, who is attending school. Mr. Tischbein is a Mason and belongs to the Shrine, and is a member of the Columbia Club, the Indianapolis Athletic Club, and the Life Underwriters' Association.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Oscar N. Torian, M. D., who is recognized as one of the most successful specialists in the diseases of children in the city of Indianapolis, was born in Evansville, Indiana, October 6, 1875. His graded and high school education was received in that city, he being graduated from the latter institution in 1893. He then matriculated at the University of the South, in Tennessee, and in due course received the degree of Bachelor of Arts from that university. He decided by that time to follow the medical profession and accordingly entered the medical college of the University of Pennsylvania. In 1900 he was graduated with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. His interneship was served in Kings County Hospital, of Brooklyn, New York. With the close of that year, he chose Indianapolis as his future home and in 1901 began practice in this city. He has always specialized in the diseases of children and in this particular branch of the medical profession, Doctor Torian is one of the recognized leaders. His work has won for him an enviable reputation among the members of his profession as well as among the people of Indianapolis. Doctor Torian maintains offices at 620 Hume-Mansur Building. In 1907, Doctor Torian was united in marriage with Sarah Hodgson of Tennessee, and to Doctor and Mrs. Torian have been born three children: Anna, Telfair, and John. He and his family are members of the Episcopal Church. Doctor Torian is a member of the medical board of the Methodist Hospital. He is a member of the faculty of the medical school of Indiana University and is also a member of the board of trustees of the University of the South. He is a member of the county, state, and American medical associations and also holds membership in the Meridian Hills Country Club and the Highland Golf Club.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Peter B. Trone. A representative citizen of Indianapolis who for many years has been particularly active in the insurance field, is Peter B. Trone, secretary and treasurer of the Indiana Travelers Accident & Health Association, maintaining his offices in the Meyer-Kiser Bank building, this city. He was born in Saline county, Missouri, May 10, 1863, son of Rev. Peter H. and Eliza W. (Clark) Trone, born near Fredericksburg, Virginia. His father in early manhood, learned the black smith trade, later taught school and then entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a man of sterling character and mental capacity, respected and esteemed wherever known. In 1889, when his friend the late Hon. Champ Clark, was speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, he filled the office of chaplain of that legislative body. Although life experiences and association all through with intelligent, well informed. people, have left no traces of early educational neglect, Peter B. Trone had but few school advantages in boyhood. As the seventh born in a family of eleven children, when fourteen years old he had to become more than self supporting and no longer could even irregularly pursue his studies in the little old brown schoolhouse, two and a half miles distant from his home. In 1887 he visited Frankfort, Indiana, then spent five years in Kansas City, Missouri, at the end of which time he came to Indianapolis, and subsequently, for twenty- three years, was a commercial traveler, in this connection covering a wide territory, and while attending to business, cementing friendships that have ever since continued. In 1910, after long identification with its affairs, he was elected secretary and treasurer of the Indiana Travelers Accident & Health Association, and for the past fourteen years has devoted himself closely to the interests of this corporation. September 18, 1888, he married Miss Eleanora Green, of Frankfort, Indiana, daughter of Col. John B. Green, a prominent citizen of Indiana, and they have two children: Margaret, who is the wife of F. S. Severns, of the Pacific Mutual Life Insurance company; and Donald Green Trone, graduate of Butler College and president of the college alumni, who is business manager of his father's company. Mr. Trone is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Travelers' Protective Association, the Elks and the Columbia and Optimist clubs.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

George Lewis Turner. A resident of Indianapolis for half a century, George Lewis Turner has witnessed many changes take place in the capital, has advanced with the city's advancement and has prospered with its prosperity. Originally a tradesman, through industry he has worked his way to a position of business preferment, and is now secretary and treasurer of the Fashion Dry Cleaners. Mr. Turner was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, a son of Edward and Mary (Studt) Turner, natives of Germany, who came to the United States as children and met and were married at Baltimore, Maryland. Edward Turner was a soldier of the Civil War, as a member of the Seventh Ohio Infantry. He and his wife were the parents of seven sons and one daughter, of whom two sons and the daughter are residents of Indianapolis. George Lewis Turner was educated at Cincinnati, Ohio, whence he removed to Batesville, Indiana, and there was employed at the trade of cabinetmaker. He was married at Batesville, in 1874, to Frances Hackman, who was born at Oldenburg, Franklin county, Indiana, and to this union there were born seven children: Edward, of Detroit, Michigan, who married Minnie Wolford, of Indianapolis, and had two sons and two daughters; Laura who married Lee Houck, of Indianapolis, and has one daughter; Minnie, who married Harry Mounts, of Indianapolis, and has twin sons; Elsie, who married Frank Hawkins, of Indianapolis, and has two sons and one daughter; George Lewis, Jr., president of the Fashion Dry Cleaners, Incorporated, of Indianapolis, living at 1525 West Twenty-seventh street, who married Daisy Simpson and has two daughters; Lottie, who married Harry Jackson; of Indianapolis, and has a son and a daughter; and Hazel, who married Luther Benton, of Indianapolis, and has one son. Following his marriage, Mr. Turner took up his residence at Indianapolis. Among his many memories of the early days are the old Court House, the first Union Station, etc., and he has witnessed the many changes that have made Indianapolis the great city that it is today. He has contributed to this advancement a sterling type of citizenship both constructive and public-spirited, has lived an honest and wholesome life, and has reared a family of worthy sons and daughters who have proved a credit to their community. For a long time Mr. Turner continued to be employed at the cabinetmaking trade, but of more recent years has been identified with the Fashion Dry Cleaners, Incorporated, a successful and growing concern which is doing a prosperous business, occupying the post of secretary and treasurer. Mr. Turner is an independent voter and the family belongs to the Lutheran Church. He and his worthy wife celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary, January 13, 1924, in the midst of the members of their family and their many sincere and appreciative friends.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Herbert Willard Foltz, with offices in the J. F. Wild Bank Building, is one of the representative men of Indianapolis and a citizen who has never neglected his civic responsibilities. Among the outstanding architects in Indianapolis who have reached a distinguished position in their chosen profession is Mr. Foltz, a son of Howard M. and Mary Virginia (Jones) Foltz. He was born in Indianapolis, February 23, 1867,and received his technical training at Rose Polytechnic Institute, Terre Haute, Indiana, where he obtained the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1886. Later he studied at the Chicago Art Institute. He has been in the practice of architecture in Indianapolis since 1891 and during that time has designed many important structures, including: Tudor Hall School for Girls at Indianapolis; high school buildings at Terre Haute, Newcastle and Greensburg; Indiana Reformatory at Pendleton; Bobbs-Merrill and Y. M. C. A. buildings in Indianapolis; Rose Polytechnic Institute at Terre Haute; Southeastern Indiana Hospital for the Insane at Madison; Indiana Village for Epileptics at Newcastle. Whenever there is need of his services, he has always been found ready and willing to work in behalf of his home city and for its best interests, and what he has accomplished in helping to make Indianapolis a better city in which to live stands as a monument to his industry and capability. Mr. Foltz is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, president of the Indiana Chapter of the Institute, and president of the Indianapolis Architects Association. He is a member of the Indiana Society of Architects, American Association of Engineers, Indiana Artists, Rose-Tech Club, Scientech Club, Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, Real Estate Board, vice-chairman of the Indiana State Board for the Registration of Professional Engineers, a director of the Indianapolis Art Association, a member of the Citizens' Advisory Committee for the Indianapolis Public Library, and was for two years president of the Indianapolis Board of School Commissioners. Mr. Foltz is a Shriner, a Thirty-second degree Mason, a Republican, a trustee of the First Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the following clubs: Hoosier Motor, Indianapolis Athletic, Indiana Audubon Society, Society of Indiana Pioneers, Woodstock, Meridian Hills Country, Dramatic, Portfolio, Players, Marion, Columbia, Century, University, Old Colony, Contemporary, and Indianapolis Literary clubs. He married Clara Louise Bowen of Joliet, Illinois, August 3, 1893, and to this union were born three children, Howard Franklin, Bertina Louise and Barbara Louise.

Click here for photo.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Claude T. Tuck, former secretary and director of the Century Life Insurance company and now identified with the People's Life Insurance company of Frankfort, Indiana, which consolidated with the Century company, was born January 9, 1880, at Pittsford, Hillsdale county, Michigan, son of Mark F. and Mary (Thorne) Tuck, the latter of whom belonged to an old settled family of Hillsdale county. Mark F. Tuck was a native of New York, who came to Michigan in early manhood and was successfully engaged in the lumber business at Greenville, that state, until his death in 1910. Completing his high school courses at Greenville, in 1898, Claude T. Tuck then entered the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated in 1902. After teaching in the Shortridge high school for eighteen months, Mr. Tuck entered the Citizens Trust company and continued there for five years as secretary and treasurer. In March, 1909, he became agency manager for the Meridian Life Insurance company, serving five years in this official position, and during the interval before he went to the Century Life Insurance company, was officially identified with the Preferred Life Insurance company of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and the Equitable Life Assurance Society of New York, in the latter's offices at Columbus, Ohio. June 15, 1904, Mr. Tuck married Miss Helen Carson of Indianapolis, and they have three children, John, Mary and Helen. While in the University of Michigan, he took an active part in its social and literary activities and still keeps up his interest in his Greek letter fraternity, Phi Delta Theta. In political sentiment a Democrat, he has membership in the Democratic Club of this city.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

C. E. Utley, one of the prominent men in the paint business of Indianapolis, was born in Adams, New York, May 15, 1858, the son of John Elliot and Marion E. (Warren) Utley, both of whom were natives of New York, the former being a prominent member of his community where he engaged in general farming. Mr. Utley was educated in the country schools of his home community, and when he had completed his educational career, he went to work on the railroad as a laborer. He continued in this employment for a time and then secured employment as a hand on a steamboat. He did not remain in this work for long but gave it up to become a traveling salesman for the Rubber Paint company of Chicago. In this new work he found congenial employment and also acquired a good knowledge of the fundamentals of the paint business. He left that concern to become associated with the Carter Lead company. In this work he perfected his knowledge about the paint industry with a thoroughness that assured his future success in the same line of work. By 1898, he believed that his experience was sufficient to permit him to go into business for himself, and accordingly in that year, he organized the Marion Paint company at Marion, Indiana. Under the expert direction of Mr. Utley, the firm grew so rapidly that it was decided to seek a larger field of operations, and in 1909 the plant was moved to Indianapolis and Mr. Utley became the president, treasurer and general manager. The firm manufactures pure linseed oil paint which it sells direct to the consumer. This plan of sale allows a considerable reduction in the sale price of the paint, and the way in which this method of doing business has been received by the people is best attested by the fact that the firm is now rated as one of the most substantial and successful ventures of its kind in the city. Mr. Utley has come to be recognized as one of the ablest executives in the city through his achievement in building up such an excellent business enterprise. In 1883, Mr. Utley married Elizabeth Coburn and to this union were born three children: Loneta Middleton, of Marion, Indiana; Edith Belle Cooper, of Great Falls, Montana, and Dorothy Wilkenson, of Indianapolis. Mrs. Utley died in 1911, and in 1914 Mr. Utley married Beryl Connor, of Flox, Indiana, and to this marriage has been born one son, John E. Fraternally, Mr. Utley is a valued member of the Masons and the Knights of Pythias. He also holds membership in the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Frank C. Walker, M. D., specialist in gynecology and abdominal surgery, was born in Orange county, Indiana, July 12, 1880. He received his elementary education in the graded schools of his home community, and after 1898 engaged in teaching for two years. He then matriculated at DePauw University and in due course the degree of Bachelor of Science was conferred upon him by that institution. He entered Rush Medical college, of Chicago, after his graduation from DePauw, and in 1907 he received his degree of Doctor of Medicine. He served his interneship in St. Anthony's Hospital and the Cook County Hospital of Chicago. In 1908 he came to Indianapolis and engaged in a general practice which he continued for eight years. However, in 1916 he began specializing in gynecology and abdominal surgery, a type of practice which he follows at the present time. When the United States declared war upon Germany in 1917, Doctor Walker offered his services to the government. He was commissioned lieutenant in the medical corps and was assigned to Base Hospital 32. He was soon after sent overseas and at that time was transferred to Hospital No. 7 at the front, where he served eight months. He returned to the United States after the signing of the Armistice and was honorably discharged from the service as captain, having served for a year and a half. Following his discharge, he returned to Indianapolis and resumed his interrupted practice, which has been attended by such success that he is recognized as one of the leading specialists in gynecology and abdominal surgery in the city. In 1904, Doctor Walker married Blanche Osborn, of Paoli, Indiana, and they have one son, William Henry, who was born January 31, 1906, and who after his graduation from the Manual Training high school in 1921 went to Culver Military academy where he is now in attendance. Doctor Walker is a member of the county, state, and American medical associations, the Nu Sigma Nu professional medical fraternity, the Sigma Nu college social fraternity, and the Indianapolis Athletic Club. He is a Thirty-second degree Mason and a shriner.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Clay L. Ward, M. D. The name of Ward is well known in medical circles of Marion county, where it has been borne with honor by several members of the science, father and sons, the present representatives being Drs. Clay, L. Ward and C. V. Ward, highly honored practitioners at Indianapolis. Clay L. Ward was born in Franklin township, Marion county, January 22, 1868,a son of Dr. Albert O. Ward, who during his day was one of the prominent physicians of the county. He was born in Grant county, Indiana, July 13, 1842; studied medicine at the University of Michigan, graduated from Indiana University, and after following his profession for half a century, passed to his final rest May 2, 1916. He married Miss Minerva Eppley, a native of Ohio, born January 18, 1845, who survives him and resides at Indianapolis. They had three children, of whom two are living: Dr. Clay L. and Dr. C. V. Dr. C. V. was born in Marion county, September 6, 1875, and after attending Washington College, Tennessee, graduated from the Kentucky School of Medicine in 1900, since which time he has been in active practice at Indianapolis. He is unmarried and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Dr. Clay L. Ward attended the Central Normal College of Danville, Indiana, after his graduation from the Central high school of Marion county, and following a period in the school room as an educator enrolled as a student at the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons, from which he was graduated in 1894 with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. At that time he began practice at Indianapolis, which has been interrupted only by post-graduate work at the New York Post Graduate College, 1898, and the Dearborn Street Hospital, Chicago. Doctor Ward carries on a general practice and maintains offices at 345 Bankers Trust Building, where he has a large following. He is a member of the Marion County Medical Society, the Indiana State Medical Society and the American Medical Association, and as a fraternalist belongs to the Masons and the Knights of Pythias. His religious connection is with St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Doctor Ward married Georgealice, daughter of Captain John Schley, the latter a cousin of Admiral Schley of Spanish-American War fame. Captain Schley still survives at Indianapolis, at the age of eighty-five years.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

James S. Watson. One of the men of recognized ability and business importance at Indianapolis, whose activities connect him with country-wide manufacturing interests, is James S. Watson, manager of the Link Belt company, who has been a resident of this city since 1921. He belongs to a well known old family of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he was born February 5, 1875, son of Samuel, Fisher and Sarah A. (Shoemaker) Watson. For many years his father was a wood merchant and broker. Mr. Watson attended the public schools of his native city, where he afterward had his business and mechanical training, beginning at the bottom of the ladder and constantly advancing through proficiency, until he became identified with the Link Belt company as sales manager, later becoming manager. This company operates plants at Indianapolis, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle. Mr. Watson married Miss Elizabeth Ferguson Carson, of Philadelphia, and they have three daughters: Elizabeth C. and Edith, graduates of Tudor Hall Seminary; and Ann Jean, a student in that institution. Mr. Watson is a Thirty-second degree Mason. Always an advocate of wholesome sports, he has membership in the Athletic and the Germantown Cricket clubs, belonging also to the Indianapolis Kiwanis Club.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Harry C. Webster. As president of the oldest detective concern of Indianapolis, Harry C. Webster has been connected with the detection of crime and the capture of offenders against the law for nearly forty years, during which time he has been identified with many important cases. He was born at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, September 12, 1858, and is the son of Harry D. and Ada (Thompson) Webster, natives of New York State. Harry D. Webster, who was a hardware merchant during the greater part of his career, and a Whig in political sentiment in his early life, died about 1884, his widow surviving him several years. Harry D. Webster was fifty-two years of age at the time of the birth of Harry C. Webster, who was an only child. The latter attended the public schools and after graduation from high school spent one term at the old Maryland Institute, taking a general course of study in 1874-1875. During the famous Centennial at Philadelphia, in 1876, he was employed in connection with that exposition, and for some years he also worked in his father's hardware establishment. Following the death of the elder man, Mr. Webster came to Indianapolis, where, in 1885, he founded the detective agency which has since borne his name, and which, as noted, is the oldest enterprise of its kind in the city. Shrewd, capable and thoroughly reliable, with all the attributes necessary to the professional investigator and detective, Mr. Webster has been retained in some of the most important cases that the city has known, with great success, and has also been a factor in clearing up some of the community's most baffling mysteries. He maintains offices in the Hume-Mansur Building. In early life Mr. Webster was a Republican, but later transferred his allegiance to the Democratic party. While he has not been a candidate for office, he has been somewhat interested in politics, and for a time served as committeeman from the First ward. He is a churchman, and is broad-minded and tolerant in his views. Mr. Webster acts as president of a concern founded by his sons, the City Cleaners and Dyers, of Detroit, Michigan. He has been twice married, and is the father of three sons: Willard J., Earl R. and Buren S.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

George A. Weidely. In the control and direction of industrial enterprises of broad scope no country in the world has offered to the young man of initiative power and worthy ambition so splendid opportunities as has our American republic. Here encouragement and support are never denied to any legitimate business undertaking, and here it has been possible for young men of ability; and spirit to develop from modest inception, industrial and commercial enterprises of important order. Among those who have taken advantage of the opportunity offered here for business preferment and have attained thereby notable success, none is more worthy of mention than George A. Weidely of the Weidely Motors company. The name of Weidely has been prominently identified with the manufacturing interests of Indianapolis for many years and it probably stands for as much in modern industry as any that might be spoken. Weidely Motors, which are of the highest type on the market, now lend efficiency to both national and international industry, and have gained fame for Mr. Weidely both at home and abroad. Mr. Weidely; was born December 19, 1870, and though a native of Switzerland, all the real experiences and achievements of his life have identified him with America. His educational advantages were those afforded by the common and high schools and a national technical school of his native country, in which he made good use of his time and opportunity, his work being of such grade that he was given a scholarship in the latter before attaining the age of seventeen. Like many young men of ambitious temperaments, Mr. Weidely was not satisfied with the environments of his native land and, believing that America afforded better opportunities, he decided, in 1887, to come to this country. Soon after his arrival here he secured employment as an apprentice at the machinist's trade at Akron, Ohio. He also acquired in that city a practical knowledge of the rubber industry, and for a time was with the B. F. Goodrich company. In October, 1897, he came to Indianapolis, and for a time was master mechanic and later superintendent of the G. & J. Tire company, being associated with H. O. Smith in the wonderful success attained by this concern. In describing Mr. Weidely's later activities we quote in part from the Horseless Age, the oldest automobile journal in the world. "On the day before Christmas, 1902, these two men (Mr. Smith and Mr. Weidely) were instrumental in organizing the Premier Motor Manufacturing company, with Mr. Weidely in charge of engineering, and the splendid, sterling worth of that car in the hands of the public, in Glidden tours and record runs demonstrated that George Weidely was not only a successful tire manufacturer but an automobile designer above the ordinary. Finally, after fourteen years, the disintegration of the old Premier company paved the way for the realization of a long cherished dream; the exclusive manufacture of a 'Weidely' motor. Although the Weidely Motors company, with George A. Weidely as vice-president arid general manager, was organized late in the spring of 1915, it has had to seek more adequate quarters twice during this short period of time, and the busy hum of machines in its present modern factory building, at the corner of Georgia and Shelby streets, covering 128,000 feet of floor space devoted exclusively to the manufacture of motors, tell its own story of a dream materialized." As this quotation indicates Mr. Weidely really made the Premier Motor car famous, but the motor designed by him and which bears his name, has overshadowed his earlier accomplishments as an automobile designer. He has various mechanical devices which he has patented, having the first patent on the Q. D. rim now universally used, and all his inventions are applied to the automobile industry. Mr. Weidely is justly proud of his American citizenship and America is justly proud of him as a citizen. His work is really one of the chapters in the history of American industrialism, and demonstrates the possibilities of achievements in this great republic for the man who will make the very most out of opportunity. Although the scope of his work has always been broad and he gives close and loyal attention to his splendid enterprise, Mr. Weidely also finds time to get the most out of the finer social amenities of life. He is a Mason in good standing, and also belongs to the Columbia and other social and benevolent organizations and many automobile societies and clubs. In 1893 he was married to Miss Jennie Long, a woman of refinement and much beauty of character, and they have one son, Walter A. Weidely, who is service manager of the Stutz Motor company of Indianapolis.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Charles Alfred Weller, M. D., who is numbered among the capable and reliable physicians of Indianapolis, where in recent years he has specialized in the field of surgery, was born at Dale, Spencer county, Indiana, July 31, 1886. He acquired his early education at Dale, and after his graduation from high school adopted the profession of school teaching in order to obtain the means wherewith to continue his studies. In 1916 he was graduated from Indiana University, with the degree of Bachelor of Science, and immediately entered the School of Medicine of the same institution, from which he received his degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1918. From then until after the close of the World War he acted as an interne in the City Hospital, and when his interneship was completed began the private practice of his calling at 614 Hume-Mansur Building. He specializes in surgery, in which he has a large and representative practice, and in the ranks of his calling is well and favorably known. Doctor Weller is a close student of his profession and has taken post-graduate courses at the Indiana University School of Medicine and the New York Post-Graduate School. He belongs to the medical organizations, county, state, and national, and is a member of the staff of the City Hospital. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Phi Beta Pi. June 30, 1920, Doctor Weller married Miss Dollie Sutton, a graduate of Indiana University, and they reside in a pleasant home at 3720 North Delaware street.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Hannah M. Graham, M.D. Among the more notable women physicians of Indianapolis who have established a reputation for ability and have gained honorable success in their profession, none is more worthy of mention than Dr. Hannah M. Graham. She was born in Charleston, Illinois and obtained her early education in the graded and high schools of that community. Later she matriculated at St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, where she pursued a course of study for three years. Having determined upon the practice of medicine as a life work, she then entered the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons at Indianapolis, and was graduated from that institution in 1897, with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. To further her education, she went to Europe, where she took up post-graduate work in the Universities of Berlin, Vienna and London. At the first named university she took special work in gynecology and abdominal surgery, a branch of the science in which she has specialized ever since her entry into active practice. After completing her course at Berlin, she returned to Indianapolis, and established herself in the practice of her profession in which she has since continued. Doctor Graham has always been a great student, and has not only taken work in connection with her profession, but has also taken post-graduate courses in the postgraduate schools of New York and Johns Hopkins universities. In 1914, she was graduated from the Indiana Law School, Indianapolis. These various studies have made her an exceptionally well-informed woman, not only in the medical profession, but also in other fields of knowledge. During the World War she was active in work connected with the Medical Corps, and was often called upon to make speeches urging the people to extend themselves to the utmost in the defense of their country. She has also gained distinction as a composer and writer, and is the author of a patriotic song entitled "America, The Land of Liberty." Although Doctor Graham has never married, she has adopted two boys who are ready for college at the present time. She is recognized as one of the leading specialists in the city in gynecology and abdominal surgery, in which branch of the medical science she has gained all enviable reputation. She is a member of the County, State, American and Mississippi Valley Medical associations. She also holds membership in the University and Woman's clubs. She resides at 2125 North Meridian street, and maintains adequate offices in the Kahn Building. She was appointed a member of the Medical Reserve Corps, October 8, 1918, by the President of United States, and is also a member of Chamber of Commerce of Indianapolis and of Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral.

Click here for photo.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Fred J. Wheeler, of the Wheeler Brothers Furniture company, was born in Harrison county, Kentucky, July 30, 1877, the son of George Monroe and Mary A. (Johns) Wheeler, the former of whom was born in Harrison county, Kentucky, and the latter in Owens county. George M. Wheeler served in the Union army during the Civil War as a private in a Kentucky company and after the war he figured prominently in the activities of the Grand Army of the Republic, being present at nearly all of the national encampments of that organization. He was a farmer throughout his life, and in political faith, he was a supporter of the Republican party. He was one of the old school of political fanatics and steadfastly refused to have any business dealings with anyone who was not a Republican. He died in 1921 at the advanced age of eighty-four years, and his wife is still living, having attained her seventy-ninth year. Fred J. Wheeler receiyed a common school education in the public schools of his home community, but was forced to forego his educational career to work on the farm, stripping tobacco and husking corn. He worked at this until he was twenty-one years old, putting in long hours for he had to arise at four o'clock in the morning. The habit of early rising has clung to him so that he still gets up at the same time. When he was twenty-one, he went to work in Lexington, Kentucky, in the employ of his brother, Alfred F., receiving two dollars and a half per week as his wages for the first few months of his service. For a year thereafter he earned five dollars per week and then was paid eight dollars. At that time he was allowed to sell goods on a commission basis and often he made as much as two hundred and fifty dollars per month. Close application to his work and the practice of rigid economy enabled him to save sufficient money to buy a share in the business with his brother at Owensboro, Kentucky. He remained there for a time, and on February 15, 1909, he came to Indianapolis. Here he opened a furniture store, the success of which was instantaneous. The place of business is located 311-313 East Washington street and is one of three stores operated by the Wheeler Brothers Furniture company, the others being located at Paris, Kentucky, and Lexington, Kentucky. Mr. Wheeler was married June 6, 1916, to Margaret Bain Blair, of Washington, Indiana. Mr. Wheeler is considered one of the substantial and reliable business men of the city of Indianapolis.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Dr. Joel Whitaker, Ophthalmologist, was born at Warrenton, North Carolina, October 5, 1877, son of Joel and Helen (Jones) Whitaker. His early education was obtained at Raleigh (North Carolina) Male Academy, after which he attended the North Carolina State College and then the University of North Carolina. Following this course of study, Doctor Whitaker attended the University of Maryland Medical School, from which he graduated in 1899 with the degree of D.D.S. and in 1900 with the degree of M.D. In 1905, he took a post-graduate course in the diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat at the University of Maryland and in the same year pursued a clinical course at the Presbyterian Eye and Ear Hospital at Baltimore, Maryland. During 1906-7 he was resident physician at the Presbyterian Eye and Ear Hospital at Baltimore which, until 1915, was followed by the general practice of the treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat at Raleigh, North Carolina. In that year, however, Doctor Whitaker came to Indianapolis and here he has since devoted himself exclusively to ophthalmology-diseases of the eye. During his collegiate training Doctor Whitaker was actively identified with the football and baseball teams of the universities attended. He was for two years on the football and baseball teams of North Carolina State College, for three years and two years respectively on the football and baseball teams of the University of North Carolina and for two years on the football and baseball teams of the University of Maryland. Doctor Whitaker is a member of the American Medical Society, Academy of Ophthalmology and Oto-laryngology, the Chicago Ophthalmology Society, the Indiana State Medical Society, Indianapolis Medical Society and the Indianapolis Review Club. In addition to these he is a member of the Columbia Club, Indianapolis Athletic Club, Woodstock Club, and is affiliated with the Masonic bodies. The marriage of Doctor Whitaker to Miss Mellisa Myers, daughter of the late Quincy A. and Jessie (Cornelius) Myers, occurred November 23, 1910. There are two children, Quincy Myers Whitaker and Helen Courtnay Whitaker. The family residence is at 1707 North Pennsylvania street. He is a member of the board of St. Vincent's Hospital and of the staff of the City Hospital. He maintains office at No. 305 Hume-Mansur Building.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Albert H. Winter, one of the certified public accountants of Indianapolis, was born at Truxton, Missouri, November 26, 1891, son of Henry F. C. and Florentina (Fiegenbaum) Winter, both natives of Missouri, the father being born at Truxton, and the mother at Higginsville. She died in 1919, at the age of sixty-five years and four days. The father still survives at the age of seventy-one. For many years he was a farmer, but is now retired and resides at Truxton, Missouri. He has always been active in the work of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for a long period was a class leader. Seven children were born to him and his wife: Louis H., Otto, Paul, Martin, Albert H., Meta and Alma. The paternal grandfather was early in life a tailor, but in later years was engaged in farming. When the Republican party came into being he espoused its principles, and his grandson, whose name heads this review, has the same political faith. The latter attended the common and high schools, and had a year, during 1911-12, at Central Wesleyan College where he took a portion of the academic course. Still later he acquired a commercial training at a business college of Chillicothe, Missouri, and later took up penmanship in the Art Department of the Chillicothe Business College, and for a time was assistant instructor at that institution. From there he went to York, Nebraska, where, for a year he was connected with its business college, and he spent another year with the business college of Taylorville, Illinois. For, two years he taught in the Campbell Commercial School at Cincinnati, Ohio. Later he entered the employ of the firm of Ernst & Ernst, public accountants. During 1918 and 1919 he was in the accounting section of the army ordnance, but resigned in the latter year to go with the Cofield-Herdrich Accounting company. In 1920, having passed the state examinations and securing his, degree as a certified public accountant, he went into business for himself, and has offices in the Fletcher Trust Building. The Methodist Episcopal Church has his membership and active support. Through the Chamber of Commerce he keeps in touch with local affairs. August 8, 1914, he was married to Miss Mabel W. Canterbury, of Missouri, and they have two children: Darline E., who was born August 18, 1916; and Albert H., Jr., who was born February 10, 1918.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

William C. Woerner, of the Home Screen company, of Indianapolis, was born in Colorado, February 11, 1881, the son of Charles F. and Ada C. (Connor) Woerner, the former of whom was a native of Indianapolis and the latter of Noblesville, Indiana, which was founded by her grandfather. Charles F. Woerner was a prominent citizen of the city where he was born and where he spent his entire life. For a great many years, he was the president of the Central Chair company and the success of this concern was due in a large measure to his efforts. He died February 20, 1922. William C. Woerner, was educated in the grade schools and Manual Training high school of Indianapolis. For a time after his graduation from high school, he engaged in the newspaper business in this city. He then accepted a position with the Mobile (Alabama) "Register" company. His efforts in the employ of that concern soon brought their own reward for he was appointed business manager of the paper, retaining that office until 1918, in which year he severed his connections with the paper. On August 8, 1918, he became associated with his father and nephew in the Home Screen company, which is today the largest manufacturer in the country of made-to-measure screens. All work accepted by the company is done on contract, and the fact that the entire country comes to the company for screens is indicative of the success with which the enterprise has met. One large contract filled by the Home Screen company was that to supply the screens for the Old Soldiers' Home at Marion, Indiana. William C Woerner was married, September 10, 1904, to Ida Bernett, of Laurel, Mississippi, and they have five sons and two daughters. They are: Charles F., William C, Paul B., Marie, Philip, Adelaide, and John. Mr. Woerner is a Mason and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife affiliate with the Presbyterian Church.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Pliny H. Wolfard. The efficient administration of the affairs of a great state like Indiana, calls for the best efforts of able, scholarly, experienced men of ripened judgment, and such a one is found at Indianapolis, in Pliny H. Wolfard, deputy Secretary of State. Mr. Wolfard is of old American stock, being a direct descendant of the Carroll family of Maryland, among whom was Charles Carroll of Carrollton, who was the last survivor of the signers of that immortal document, The Declaration of Independence, having lived six years longer than any of his illustrious associates. Mr. Wolfard was born at Middletown, Henry county, Indiana, December 10, 1876, only son and eldest of four children, of Rev. Nathan D. and Elizabeth (Ulrich) Wolfard, natives of Wayne county and members of the United Brethren church, of which religious body the father was a minister. Pliny H. attended the public schools, then took a course in Hartsville College that prepared him for Taylor University, from which institution at Upland, Indiana, he was graduated, subsequently taking special courses in modern languages and political economy at Indiana State University. During the decade following he devoted himself mainly to work in the educational field, teaching for two years in Wayne county, three years in the high school at Greensboro, and five years in the high school at Knightstown, then for two years was associated with the Citizens State Bank at Knightstown. In the meanwhile he had become well and favorably known to his fellow citizens in Henry county, who demonstrated their confidence by appointing him deputy auditor, in 1908, for a term of four years and in 1912 he was elected auditor and served in that capacity for four years. November 27, 1916, he was appointed deputy Secretary of State, in which office he has continued until the present, having direct charge of the corporation department. In party affiliation he is a Republican, and during the campaign of 1916, did yeoman service for his organization as county chairman in Henry county. April 30, 1900, he married Maud, daughter of Henry and Alice (Boyle) Harvey, of New Castle, Indiana, and they have two children: Margaret Alice, born November 6, 1901; and Philip Harvey, born May 21, 1918. In Masonry he is a member of Greensboro Lodge No. 175, F. & A. M.; New Castle Chapter No. 50, R. A. M., and Indianapolis Council No.2. He belongs also to the Knights of Pythias and the Columbia and Marion clubs.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

George Wood, M. D., a prominent physician of Indianapolis, was born in Mt. Carmel, Wabash county, Indiana, October 13, 1879. He received his elementary education in the graded and high schools of his home community and then attended Carbondale University. After a course of study in that institution, he taught school for four years, and in the meanwhile attended Valparaiso University during the summer months. His natural predilection being toward that of the medical profession he matriculated, in 1904, at the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons, now the Indiana School of Medicine, and was graduated from that institution in 1908, with the degree of Doctor of Medicine, being a member of the first graduating class of that school. Since that time he has been in active practice at Indianapolis, and is recognized as one of the able physicians of the city with offices at 24 Stokes Building. In 1903 Doctor Wood married Anna Bushawn, of Lafayette, Indiana, and they have one son, Leland Edwin, who is a graduate of Shortridge high school, and is now attending Indiana University. When war was declared upon Germany, Doctor Wood offered his services to the government. He was sworn into the medical department of the navy on April 11, 1917, and served in that capacity for twenty-two months. He was discharged in May, 1919, at the receiving ship at Boston, Massachusetts. Doctor Wood is a member of the Indianapolis, state, and American medical associations. He is also a member of the Indianapolis Athletic Club, the Hoosier Motor Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and of the various Masonic bodies. He was made a Mason at North Park Lodge, No. 464, (Indianapolis) in 1913, and he is a Royal Arch Mason. He affiliates with the Northwood Christian Church.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Homer A. Woods, known in business circles as the owner of Dad's Factories, was born in Hendricks county, Indiana, December 5, 1875, and received his public school education in that community. He then matriculated at DePauw University and was graduated from that institution in 1898 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. For a time thereafter, he attended business college. He then secured employment with the Merritt Woolen Mills company and thoroughly learned every phase of the woolen manufacturing industry with this firm. With the death of Mr. Merritt, the company was sold out, and Mr. Woods became associated with The Procter-Collier Advertising Agency, of Cincinnati, Ohio. For twenty years he remained in the employ of that concern and during that time promoted and built up several business organizations, among which are: the Hoosier Stove company, of Marion, Indiana; Glascock Brothers Manufacturing company, of Muncie, Indiana; the Indiana Silo company, of Anderson, Indiana; and for several years he was with the Hassler Shock Absorber company, of Indianapolis. This wide experience in the manufacturing business and his evident ability in business administration encouraged Mr. Woods to go into business for himself and he accordingly established a manufacturing enterprise under the registered name of Dad's Factories. The venture is a fitting monument to the hard work and indefatigable energy of our subject, for he left school without a penny; and the business of which he is the sole owner has a handsome fireproof plant with a floor space of sixty thousand square feet located on Ludlow avenue at Nevada street, where Mr. Woods also owns a considerable amount of adjoining property, he having confidence that the future will necessitate an increase in the size of the plant. Although the business was only started in 1919, it has already come to be recognized as one of the substantial commercial enterprises in Indianapolis and the owner has won an enviable reputation as a keen business executive. Dad's Factories specializes in the manufacture of patented sheet metal articles, such as Dad's electric lanterns and Dad's Rain or Shine windshield protectors, etc. Homer Allen Woods, Jr., is now a senior in the University of Illinois where he is studying along scientific lines with the intention of furthering the business of Dad's Factories. Besides being the owner of Dad's Factories, our subject is also a stockholder in several other corporations. Mr. Woods is a popular member of the various Masonic bodies, he being a Thirty-second degree Mason and a member of the Shrine.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

J. William Wright, M. D., successful specialist in the ear, nose and throat, was born in Chatsworth, Ontario, Canada, October 6, 1887. At the age of seven years he removed to Indianapolis with his parents, and obtained his education in the graded and Manual Training high schools of this city, being graduated from the latter in 1907. Having determined upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he matriculated at the Indiana University School of Medicine, and was graduated therefrom in 1911 with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. After one year as interne in the Methodist Hospital, he took post-graduate work at Chicago and New York, and then established himself in practice at Indianapolis, specializing in diseases of the ear, nose and throat. In 1915 Doctor Wright was married to Mary Ethel Woodard, of Indianapolis, and they have one son, J. William, Jr., who was born October 30, 1916. Doctor Wright is a member of the county, state and American medical associations, American College of Surgery, American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology, and also holds membership in the Phi Chi medical fraternity, the University Highland Golf and Country, Indianapolis Athletic, and Meridian Hills Country clubs, and is a communicant of the First Presbyterian Church. His offices are in the Hume-Mansur Building, and his residence is at 3707 North Meridian street.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Parvin F. Wright, secretary and treasurer of the Central Machine Works, was born in Salem, Washington county, Indiana, April 7, 1860. At the age of ten years, he removed to Plainfield, Indiana, where he completed his public school education that had been begun at his former home. He then matriculated at Earlham College where he pursued a course of study. Having completed his educational career, he came to Indianapolis to learn the machinist's trade, and he acquired a thorough knowledge of every phase of that vocation. By 1902, he had become so well acquainted with the trade which he had elected to follow that he believed himself well enough versed in it to establish a machine company of his own. In that year, therefore, he organized the Central Machine Works and during the first year of its existence the company was located on Delaware street. In 1903, it was found necessary to find quarters better adapted to the needs of the business and the present plant at 437 South Senate avenue was then occupied. Although the firm does a general line of machining work, it specializes in repairing engines and pumps, and fifteen men are employed by the firm. Since the organization of the company, Mr. Wright has ably filled the offices of secretary and treasurer, and his keen financial judgment and business acumen have placed the firm on the secure basis that has caused it to be rated in commercial circles as one of the substantial firms of the city of Indianapolis. The success of the company, and incidentally his own advancement, has been due almost entirely to his own efforts which have won for him the reputation of being one of the representative citizens and able business men of Indianapolis. In 1896, Mr. Wright married Theresa Barr, the daughter of Joseph Barr, of Indianapolis, and Mrs. Wright is the center of a wide circle of admiring friends.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

William H. Roberts, one of the foremost dairymen of Central Indiana, was born in Howard county, Indiana, August 26, 1860, and died July 18, 1922. He was the son of John T. and Rebecca (Walters) Roberts, the former of whom was born in Hendricks county, Kentucky, December 25, 1838, and the latter of whom was born in Marion county, Indiana. John T. Roberts served in the Union army during the Civil War, enlisting in Company E, 11th Indiana Cavalry, a regiment that was under the command of General Thomas. He is still living in Indianapolis at the advanced age of eighty-five years. William H. Roberts was educated in the public schools of Southport, Indiana, but was forced to leave school after he had completed the fifth grade to earn his living. He augmented the basic knowledge received in the schools of Southport by avidious reading, a habit that he continued throughout his life. The year 1879 marked the beginning of his business career. At that time, he entered the employ of a milk company at Schofield Place in Indianapolis, driving a milk wagon. He continued in this work until 1883, when with Silas Tyler, he bought a partnership in the firm with Mr. Schofield. This partnership continued as such until 1892, when he organized the William H. Roberts dairy business. For eighteen years, the firm under his wise direction, has grown to be one of its kind in the city of Indianapolis. In 1910, he took two of his sons, Guy L. and Ralph V., into partnership, and the firm style at that time was changed to that of W. H. Roberts & Sons. In 1919, when two more sons, William H., Jr., and J. Benjamin, had entered the organization, the firm was incorporated as William H. Roberts, Incorporated. The growth of the company would seem almost phenomenal to a superficial observer, but a study of the guiding genius of the firm would soon convince that observer that keen business acumen and boundless energy made possible the rapid growth of the firm. Not only did William Roberts engage in the milk and dairy business, but he also found time to divert his energies into other channels. He owned a considerable amount of land in Washington and Lawrence townships. Since 1922, he had been the president of the Lawrence State bank and was treasurer of the Lawrence Township Fire Insurance company. He always displayed a fine sense of civic duty and was a strong and impelling factor in Republican politics in the township and county. In 1906, he was elected county commissioner from the first district; he was a member of the advisory board of Washington township, served five terms as captain of the Horse Thief Detective Association in his section of the county. He was a figure in all community enterprises and was largely instrumental in building up Washington and Lawrence townships. He was married on April 26, 1882, to Cora B. Tyner, the daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Tyner, of Marion county. To this union were born eight children: Guy L.; Ralph V.; William H., Jr.; J. Benjamin; Agnes; Mabel, the wife of Walter K. Baity; Ina F., the wife of Harry Smith; and Rebecca Ann, wife of Robert L. Smelser. Guy L. Roberts was born October 11, 1884, and was married on June 12, 1907, to Ethel May Furgason. Ralph V. Roberts was born February 27, 1887, and married Marjory Farmer on June 1, 1921. William H. Roberts, Jr., was born July 16, 1891 and was married on June 9, 1917 to Ina May Wilcox. J. Benjamin Roberts was born September 9, 1897, and was married October 18, 1922 to Grace Hacklemeyer. The last four sons are now in direction of the affairs of William H. Roberts, Incorporated, and they are ably carrying on the work begun by their father. The company began with a few cows at its command and now has a herd of over one hundred head. The officers are: Guy L., president; Ralph V., secretary and treasurer; and William H., vice-president. Great forward strides have been made by the company in the last few years. The most modern methods are used and a fine new building with every improvement was erected in 1921.

Click here for photo.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Godfrey D. Yaeger, junior member of Keller & Yaeger, is an experienced attorney and capable public accountant of Indianapolis. He was born in Germany, February 23, 1886, son of Godfrey and Margaret Yaeger, natives of Germany. The mother died in 1914, at the age of forty-six years, but the father survives, being now seventy-two years old. He served as a civil engineer for the government-owned railroads in Germany for a number of years. Carefully educated, Mr. Yaeger of this review, attended the University of Berlin and Turbingen, from which he took the degrees of Bachelor of Laws and Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Economics. Later he took up post-graduate work at the Academy of France, Paris. In 1906 he did work in finance reporting for financial publications, while still a student of the University of Berlin. This work he continued, studying conditions in Italy, and Spain, and he was associated with several large financial companies of France and Germany. In 1910 he came to the United States, and for a year was located at New York City, going from there to Rochester, New York, where he had charge of the financial end of the World's Oolesak, the business of taking shadow photographs. In 1912 he came to Indianapolis to look after the business interests he had acquired in this city. He has considerable stock in several companies connected with the mining industry of this region, and he was also connected with the Commercial National Bank as assistant cashier until 1917, when he resigned, and went into an active practice of his profession, and the handling of intricate accounting problems as a public accountant. During his attendance at the University of Berlin he took up higher accounting and finance, and received his license to practice as a certified public accountant in Germany. In order to perfect himself in American law he studied at the American Central Law College oil Indianapolis, from which he was graduated, and he is now a member of the legal firm of Keller & Yaeger, his partner being Zeph E. Keller. He is a Scottish Rite Mason, and bas also been advanced through all the bodies of the York Rite. The Mystic Shrine, Marion, Old Colony, Mercator, and Athenaeum clubs holds his membership, and he also belongs to Sigma Delta Kappa. He is a director of a number of business organizations, is a man of high standing in professional and business circles, and in political faith is a Republican. June 11, 1914, he was married to Cecilia, daughter of Godfrey and Anna Koehler, of Indianapolis, and they have two daughters: Margaret Ann and Edrea Jane.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Philip Zoercher, a prominent citizen of Indianapolis, standing high in both professional and public life, was born at Tell City, Indiana, in 1866, son of Christian and Anna Mary Wilhelmina (Christ) Zoercher. His father was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1832, came to America in 1848 and at Cincinnati, Ohio, married Anna Mary Wilhelmina Christ, born at Alexandria, Kentucky. Six sons and two daughters were born to them. In boyhood, Philip Zoercher attended the public schools of Tell City until deemed old enough to learn the cabinet-makers' trade at which he worked for four years. In the meanwhile he had not neglected his studies and subsequently was graduated from Central Normal College, where he completed the teachers' course and also a course in law and business. For one year afterward he taught school in Tell City, then established his law office there, and when only twenty-two years old, was elected a member of the Indiana House of Representatives, and served two terms, 1889-1891, with marked ability. He has the distinction of having been the youngest man ever elected to the Indiana legislature. He was editor and publisher of the Tell City News from 1891 to 1900. In 1900 he was elected prosecuting attorney of the district in which Tell City is located, comprising Warrick, Spencer, and Perry counties. In 1912, he came to Indianapolis, having been elected Supreme Court reporter and served in this difficult position for four years, when retiring from the same offering the unusual condition of having all the office records complete. During this time he had worked out an admirable system of annotated cases, which proves very helpful to those consulting court reports. From early manhood has been active in Democratic politics. For a considerable period he has been a member of the State Board of Tax Commissioners, being appointed first by Governor Goodrich and afterward by Governor McCray. He is a member of the Democratic Club and of the Chamber of Commerce, and is an elder in the Irvington Presbyterian Church. For many years he has been a Mason, is past master of Tell City Lodge and is now a member of Irvington Lodge No. 666, F. & A. M. He is identified also with the Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias at Tell City. He was selected to make the plea before the Grand Lodge of Masons for the Indiana Eastern Star Home, and in recognition of his earnest work along this line, was made an honorary member of the Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star in 1910. He married Martha, daughter of James Ruffin and Martha Edith (Sherwood) McAdams, and they have three children: Mary, who is a graduate of the Shortridge high school and Butler College, married Robert Upton Carr, of Buffalo, New York; Martha, a graduate of Shortridge high school, who is attending Butler College; and James, who is a member of the sophomore class in Arsenal Technical high school. Mrs. Zoercher was born in 1868, at the home of her parents near High Point, North Carolina, one of a family of seven children, six of whom were born in North Carolina and one after the family had come to Indiana in 1872. She has three sisters residing in Indianapolis: Emily McAdams, Caroline McAdams, and Mrs. Anna Winings, of Irvington, the former two being well known educators, Miss Emily being president of the Teachers' Federation of Indiana. The great great grandfather, Christmas McAdams, was one of the signers of the Mechlenberg Resolution, and was a colonel in the War of 1812. A close and receptive student all her life, Mrs. Zoercher became an educator herself after completing her course at Danville and in Central Normal College, teaching for four years at Danville and for two at Attica, and then took up the study of law, and was admitted to the bar at Tell City, in 1898, and to Supreme Court practice in 1905, and before this august body made the plea which admitted Mrs. Franklin White to the bar. For fourteen years in association with Mr. Zoercher, she practiced law at Tell City, but when removal was made to Indianapolis, she retired from the active practice of her profession. This act, however, by no means meant giving up concern and participation in the wide and varied interests that had engaged much of her time and attention, her service and intellect, and today she is one of the city's busiest women. Acknowledged to be wholly admirable as wife, mother and home-maker, she has long been a social force in the best acceptation of the term, exerting a wise and wholesome influence in many directions, and has also found time to serve ably and earnestly in many positions of trust and confidence. For six years she was state chairman of legislation for the Federated Women's Clubs, and for two years, 1915-1916, was state president of the Parent Teachers' Association, long active in the W. C. T. U., superintendent of Women in Industry of this organization, secretary and treasurer of the Travelers' Aid Society and member of the local board of council. She was grand matron of the Eastern Star in 1915 and manager and editor of the Eastern Star, the leading publication of the organization. She is a member of the Democratic Club, of the Franchise League of Woman Voters, Irvington Fortnightly Literary Club, and belongs to the Irvington Presbyterian Church.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

The Dr. W. B. Fletcher Sanatorium. It is a great responsibility to be at the head of business enterprises that must enter the commercial field and contend with strong competitors and the men who ably fill such offices can neither be physical weaklings nor mental incompetents. On the other hand, the business problems of today carry so much weight that successfu.1ly to solve them requires health of body and clearness of mind far beyond such demands of a generation ago. While business men are beginning to learn the necessity of relaxation and exercise, there are still those who overtax themselves and thus institutions for the treatment of mental and nervous diseases occupy a vitally necessary place in the scheme of things. One of the best known of these is the Dr. W. B. Fletcher Sanatorium, of Indianapolis, of which Dr. Mary A. Spink is president, and her sister, Dr. Urbana Spink, vice-president. The Doctors Spink trace their ancestry back to Revolutionary forebears on both sides of the family and are daughters of Michael Urban Spink, a native of Kentucky, who came to Indiana at an early day and settled in Daviess county. After farming for some years he embarked in the drug business at Loogootee, and in 1913 settled at Indianapolis, where he spent the remainder of his life. Mr. Spink married Rosanna Morgan, a native of Daviess county, who survives him and resides with her daughters at 1140 East Market street, this city. There were eight children in the family, of whom five survive: Dr. Mary A.; Edgar G., a builder of Indianapolis, a review of whose career appears elsewhere in this work; Dr. Urbana; Everesta, the wife of R. B. Stevens, of Lisbon, New Hampshire; and Bonaventura, the wife of Bernard Cunniff, of Hanover, Massachusetts. Of this family, Mary A. Spink was born November 18, 1863, and received her preliminary educational training in the common schools of Washington, Daviess county, following which she attended St. Simon's Academy and the Indiana Medical College, from which she was graduated with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. As early as the age of fourteen years she demonstrated a predilection for a professional career, and as such inclinations were discouraged among the members of her sex at that time, she had to depend largely on her own initiative and resource to secure the necessary training. After being employed as a nurse for some time, in 1882 she began her medical studies at Pulte Medical College, Cincinnati, and while there had practical experience in the City Hospital. In 1884 Doctor Spink came to Indianapolis and became special night nurse in the Central Hospital for the Insane, a post which afforded exceptional opportunities for study along the line in the field in which she has since specialized. In 1885 she began the regular work of the medical college, and March 2, 1887, was graduated with the high honors of her class, receiving her degree. She immediately began practice at Indianapolis, and in 1888 took post-graduate work in mental and nervous diseases at the New York Post-Graduate School. During 1886 and 1887 Doctor Spink served as pathologist at the Central Indiana Hospital for the Insane, going into that work as assistant to Dr. W. B. Fletcher. Three years later she became a partner in the Dr. W. B. Fletcher Sanatorium and for many years was superintendent of the women's department. The success of this institution, which ranks among the first in the Middle West in the treatment and cure of mental and nervous disorders, has been largely the result of her skilled and capable supervision. While her abilities as an administrator and executive are exceptional, Doctor Spink has also distinguished herself in the technical side of her profession and has done much to advance knowledge of many phases of nervous disorders. One of her contributions to this phase of medical science is her system of preserving the inter-cranial circulation. Her career has been the more notable because of her unselfish devotion to the people and to interests affecting the general welfare. Since 1893 she has been a member of the Indiana State Board of Charities and has given much time to the Committee on Prisons and Insane Hospitals. She has served on the medical staff of the Indianapolis City Hospital and City Dispensary. As the possessor of much literary ability she has written extensively for medical publications, including the Medical Journal of Microscopy, of which for several years she was associate editor. She is also a member of the American Microscopial Society. Dr. Urbana Spink was born at Loogootee, Martin County, Indiana, and secured her early education at the Indiana public schools. After graduating from high school she pursued a course at the Indiana University, graduating therefrom in 1896 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and in 1899 received her Doctor of Medicine degree from the Woman's Medical College, Philadelphia. She had one year of hospital work in that city, where she lectured at the Woman's Medical College one year, and in 1901 came to Indianapolis, where she has since been identified with the Dr. W. B. Fletcher Sanatorium. Dr. Urbana Spink is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and both she and her sister belong to the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, the Marion County Medical Society, the Indiana State Medical Society and the American Medical Association. In connection with the Dr. W. B. Fletcher Sanatorium is a training school for nurses, which is recognized as a very superior institution, and is under the superintendency of Miss Ella Connelly, R.N. The Doctors Spink are ably assisted in their conduct of the sanatorium by Miss Elizabeth V. O'Brien, as secretary and treasurer.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

Robert J. Aley, A.M., A.B., LL.D., Ph.D., president of Butler College, is one of the best-known educators in the state of Indiana, and one whose long and useful career has been entirely devoted to the best principles of his worthy calling. Doctor Aley was born May 11, 1863, on a farm near Coal City, Owen county, Indiana, a son of Jesse J. and Pauline (Moyer) Aley, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Ohio. On the paternal side he is a grandnephew of a soldier of the War of 1812. After attending common school in Owen county, he pursued a course at Northern Indiana Normal School, (now Valparaiso University), and Indiana University, from which he was graduated in 1888 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, his Master's degree being conferred upon him two years later. He also has the honorary degree of Doctor of Law, from Franklin College, Butler College and the University of Pennsylvania, and earned the degree of Doctor of Philosophy from the latter institution. At the outset of his career Doctor Aley taught in the county schools of Owen county, and for one year was village principal at Coal City, later becoming high school principal at Spencer, where he remained four years. He was then advanced to professor of mathematics at Vincennes University, and in 1891 first came to Indiana University in the same capacity. After one year each at Stanford University and the University of Pennsylvania, he was for two years state superintendent of public instruction of Indiana, and while serving in that office was called to the University of Maine as president and remained there• for eleven years. He then became president of Butler College, in which position he has remained to the present. Butler College, a nonsectarian institution, was founded in 1850, and at the present time has about fifty instructors and in the neighborhood of 1300 regular students. Doctor Aley is a member of the National Educational Association, of which he was elected president at the New York City meeting of 1916, and served in that capacity at the Portland, Oregon meeting in 1917; the National Council of Education, of which he was secretary from 1911 to 1913 and president from 1913 to 1916; and former president of the Indiana Teachers' Association and the Maine Teachers' Association. During the World War he served in the Educational division of the National Council of Defense. As a Mason he belongs to Irvington Lodge No. 666, the York and Scottish Rites at Indianapolis, and received the Thirty-third degree while in Maine. He also belongs to the Mystic Shrine, the Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Delta Kappa and Sigma Xi fraternities, is an honorary member of the Scabbard and Blade, and a member of the Rotary and University clubs. In politics he is a Democrat, and his religious connection is with the Downey Avenue Christian Church of Irvington. Doctor Aley married Nellie, daughter of Capt. James W. and Elizabeth (Chambers) Archer, of Spencer, Indiana, the former of whom served during the Civil War as a member of the staff of General Buell. Mrs. Aley is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The family home is at 59 Hawthorn avenue, Irvington.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924

J. Martin Antrim, vice-president of the Furnas Ice Cream company, a reliable and well-managed business enterprise of Indianapolis, has been identified with this company for thirty years and is one of the best known men in this line in the city. He was born March 18, 1874, near West Newton, Marion county, Indiana, son of Joseph and Mila (Edwards) Antrim, the former a native of Indiana and the latter of North Carolina. J. Martin Antrim had grade and high school training and afterward assisted his father on the home farm. He was twenty years old when he came first to the Furnas Ice Cream company, where he began at the bottom, with the determination of learning the business in a thorough manner. Industry and business ability brought promotion, step by step, during the next five years, and since 1899 he has been vice-president of this company, and has other business interests. November 10, 1897, he married Miss Effie Reins, of Indianapolis, Indiana, and they have one daughter, Isabel, who is the wife of Roy C. Bain, a wholesale coal dealer. Mr. Antrim is a Mason and a Shriner, a member of the Board of Trade, the Kiwanis Club, the Hoosier Motor Club, and the Indianapolis Athletic Club, and belongs to the First Baptist Church.

History of Indiana From Its Exploration to 1922
With an Account of Indianapolis and Marion County Vol. IV
by Logan Esarey
Dayton Historical Publishing Co
1924