Clinton Oscar Remsburg, one of the most progressive farmers of Middletown Valley, is now cultivating “Fertile Plains,” the property of Josephus Harley, situated in Petersville District, Frederick County, Md. Mr. Remsburg, son of Josephus and Catherine (Crone) Remsburg, was born on Keller street, Middletown, Md., September 20, 1852.

Joseph Remsburg, grandfather of Clinton O. Remsburg, had a brother Christian and several others whose names are unknown. He was a wheelwright and worked at his trade all his life. For many years, his shop was situated one mile west of Middletown; he afterwards moved to Middletown where he died, aged ninety. Joseph Remsburg was married to Madeline Bowlus. Their children are: 1, Josephus; 2, Beckey, (Mrs. Joseph Gaver) ; 3, Levi, died in Illinois; 4, Edward, died in Middletown, Md.

Mr. Remsburg’s father, Josephus Remsburg, was born at his father’s home near Middletown, in 1824. He received a fine education and was a teacher in the schools of Frederick County, Md., for fifty years. For twenty-seven years. He was principal of Mount Tabor school, northwest of Middletown. At his death, which occurred in 1893, all the schools of the county were closed to do honor to his memory. Mr. Remsburg was a Whig and later, a Republican, interested in all that concerned the wellfare of the county. He was a member of the Lutheran Church in Middletown and was, for many years, a teacher in the Sunday School. Josephus Remsburg was married to Catherine, daughter of John and Elizabeth Crone. (Grandmother Crone was a Miss Leach). His widow resides in Middletown, aged seventy-eight. Their children are: 1, Jennie, widow of Millard Funk, resides in Middletown; 2, Clinton Oscar; 3, Maud (Mrs. Elmer Routzahn), of Middletown.

Clinton Oscar Remsburg was educated in the public schools of Middletown and the vicinity. When he reached his twelfth year, he was put to work on the farm and, at eighteen was apprenticed to John W. Long, blacksmith, at Koogle’s Bridge, near Middletown. When his three years’ apprenticeship was over, Mr. Remsburg went to West Lebanon, Warren County, Ind., where he was employed in the shop of Bell and Cheesman for three years. Returning to Maryland, he opened a shop at Harmony, Frederick County, where he carried on business successfully for twenty-three years. His large family of boys and girls were now growing up and, thinking of their interest, he decided to turn his attention to farming. In 1904 he settled on the farm which he now occupies. His venture has proved a decided success. He has brought his land to a high state of cultivation; it is now very productive and makes large returns for his care in heavy crops of the best quality. He is considered one of the best farmers in the valley. Mr. Remsburg is a life-long Republican, interested in public affairs.

Clinton Oscar Remsburg was married, October 10, 1876, to Amanda C. daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Snyder) Wiles. Their children are; 1, John W., born 1878, at home; 2, Alice, 1880, (Mrs. Lewis Cline), resides near Ellerton, Frederick County, Md., 3, Jacob, born in 1881, at home; 4, Charles, born 1887, at home; 5, Mary Lizzie (Mrs. John Kefauver), born 1885, resides near Middletown, Md.; 6, Harry, born 1890, at home; 7, Effie, born 1891, at home; 8, Annie, born 1893, at home; 9, Roger, born 1895, at home; 10, Lillian, born 1898, at home; and three children, Millard, Ida Kate, and Estelle, who died in youth, Mr. Remsburg was brought up in the Lutheran Church, and has taught for two years in the Sunday School of the Lutheran Church in Harmony. When he was a young man, he studied vocal music, and is now musical director of the choir in the same church. Mrs. Remsburg’s father died in Spoolville.

From History of Frederick County. p. 1176-1177:

William B. Cutshall, ex-register of wills of Frederick County, Md., and one of the county’s best known citizens, is a native of Woodsboro District, where he was born February 10, 1865. He is a son of William and Henrietta (Hull) Cutshall.

Philip Cutshall, the grandfather of William B. Cutshall, was a descendant of an old German family. He was a native of Pennsylvania, and emigrated to Maryland about a century ago, settling in Frederick County. He was the father of three children: John H., Louisa and William.

William Cutshall, the father of William B. Cutshall, is a native of Frederick County, Md., where he was born in 1833. During his active life, he followed the occupation of a farmer, and is now living retired in Woodsboro District. He is well-known and held in high regard by all who know him. Politically, Mr. Cutshall is a supporter of the Republican party, and he is allied in a religious way with the Lutheran Church. The name of his wife is Henrietta Hull. They are the parents of five children, four of whom are living: George M., a farmer, residing in Woodsboro District; Annie, the wife of William A. Smith, of Woodsboro; William B., of whom presently; and Catharine, the wife of George D. Barrick, of Woodsboro.

William B. Cutshall, son of William and Henrietta (Hull) Cutshall, was reared on a farm, and attended the public schools of the county until he was seventeen years of age. He then came to Frederick City, and became employed in the confectionery store of A. C. McCardell as a clerk. Here he remained for a period of three years, when he returned to Woodsboro, and embarked in the coal and lumber business in partnership with William A. Smith. Later his partner was John R. Lough and at a still later time, John T. Fogle. Mr. Cutshall continued active at the head of the several partnerships until the spring of 1905, when he sold his interest in the business. The enterprise met with success from the start, and during the many years during which Mr, Cutshall was at its head, he directed the affairs of the establishment with an ability, foresight and sagacity that stamped him as a man of high executive capacity and rare mercantile acumen. To his forceful personality was due much of the prosperity and prestige attained by the enterprise. His business methods were always characterized by the highest principles, and he commands the respect and confidence of business circles generally. Mr. Cutshall’s business interests are both diversified and important. He is manager of the Woodsboro Canning Company, and in the management of that flourishing establishment, he has displayed the same abilities that characterized the direction of his lumber and coal business. At the same time, he conducts his fine farm, situated near Woodsboro, which contained 156 acres of fine agricultural land. Since its organization in 1902, he has been one of the directors of the Woodsboro Savings Bank. Mr. Cutshall is one of the most active and best known business men of the county, and is recognized as one of its public spirited and progressive citizens.

Since attaining his majority, Mr. Cutshall has always been an ardent adherent and stanch supporter of Republican principles. He has been a hard worker for the success of his party, and in the fall of 1903, he was nominated and elected register of wills for Frederick County for a term of six years.

Mr. Cutshall is also prominent in fraternal circles, being an active member of Lynch Lodge, No. 163, A. F. and A. M.; Mountain City Lodge, No. 29. Knights of Pythias; Frederick City Lodge of Elks, No. 684; King David Lodge, No. 50, I. O. O. F.; and Winfield Scott Schley Camp, No. 9, Knights of Maccabees.

Mr. Cutshall has been twice married. He was married first to Myrtle Lough. By this marriage, he had three children: Mary J., Neva M. and Gail L. After the death of his first wife, he was married secondly to Cora E. Shaw. By this marriage, he is the father of two daughters: Catharine E. and Sarah Louise.

William E. Bittle, prominent among the young farmers of Jackson District, Frederick County, Md., son of William M. and Catherine (Floyd) Bittle, was born on the old Bittle homestead, one mile north of Bellesville, now Harmony, Jackson District, Frederick County, Md., March 1, 1868.

The Bittle family, which is of German descent, settled at first in Pennsylvania. George Bittle, great-grandfather of William E. Bittle, removed from Adams County, Pa., to the northern part of the Middletown Valley, in Frederick County, Md. He was among the early settlers of that section of Maryland, where he purchased a large tract of timber land, which he cleared and converted into a fertile farm. Here he spent the remainder of his life cultivating and improving his property, on which he erected suitable buildings. Mr. Bittle was a successful farmer and a prominent man in the county. George Bittle married and had five children. Mr. Bittle and his wife died at their home in Frederick County.

The late Jonathan Bittle, youngest son of George Bittle, grandfather of William E. Bittle, was born in 1800, on the old Bittle homestead in Jackson District, Frederick County, Md. He grew up on his father’s farm, and received his education in the public schools of the district. He devoted his energies to the cultivation of the soil, and remained on the farm, working for his father. After his marriage, Mr. Bittle took charge of the homestead for his father. His management was very successful and, after his father’s death, he purchased 155 acres of the homestead, and began farming for himself. He improved his land in every way, and finally purchased from his brother, George Bittle, the remainder of the home farm, 150 acres. This also he improved, making of the whole two fine farms. Each place has a two-story brick house, a fine bank barn, and all the necessary outbuildings. Mr. Bittle ascribes his success to hard work and close attention to business. He was one of the prominent farmers of his generation, well-known and respected in the community. Jonathan Bittle was married to Rachel, daughter of John Bogner, of Dauphin County, Pa., a prominent farmer of that section, who lived to celebrate his one hundredth birthday. Jonathan and Rachel (Bogner) Bittle had six children, five of whom reached maturity. 1, Malinda, deceased, wife of the late Elias Routzahn, a farmer of Catoctin District, Frederick County; 2, John H., deceased, a farmer of Jackson District, Frederick County; 3, Marah E., deceased, married Peter Grossnickle of J., a retired farmer of Catoctin District, Frederick County; 4, Thomas F., merchant, Ellerton, Md.; 5, William M., retired farmer of Myersville, Md. Mr. Bittle and his wife were members of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Church Hill.

Mr. Bittle was a liberal contributor to the needs of the congregation in which he held the office of deacon and of elder for many years. He died at his home in Myersville, in 1855. His widow, who was born in 1804, died in 1885. Both rest in the cemetery adjoining the Lutheran Church at Church Hill. William M. Bittle, father of William E. Bittle, was born on the family homestead, in Jackson District, Frederick County, Md., March 21, 1851. He grew up on his father’s farm, and received his education in the public schools of his native district. He was fourteen when his father died, and remained at home, assisting his mother on the farm until he was twenty-one. On reaching his majority, Mr. Bittle purchased, from his mother, the home farm of 150 acres of farm and timber land, which he improved in many ways. He built a new barn and convenient outbuildings, and by intelligent cultivation increased the value of the land until it was regarded as one of the best farms in the section. He remained on the homestead until the spring of 1902, when he retired from farming, and removed to Myersville, where he purchased his beautiful home at the southern end of the village. Mr. Bittle also owned two other fine farms, one of them a place of 155 acres of good land, purchased from Elias Gaver, which he cultivated and improved until it was greatly increased in value, when he sold it to Charles Grossnickle. Mr. Bittle then bought a place of 60 acres situated a mile and a half south of Myersville on which he made many improvements. When he retired, Mr. Bittle sold his farms to two of his sons. Mr. Bittle has been more than ordinarily successful in business, and attributes all to honest labor and watchful care. He is a Republican, and is highly respected by his fellow citizens. He is a stockholder, and a member of the board of directors of the Myersville Savings Bank, and a stockholder of the Jefferson and Frederick Electric Railroad. William M. Bittle was married to Catherine, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Routzahn) Floyd, whose father was a prominent farmer of Catoctin District, Frederick County, Md. Of their eight children seven reached maturity: 1, Charles J., manufacturer of coaches, Myersville, Md.; 2, John O., farmer, Fauquier County, Va.; 3, Annie C, married George D. Toms, a farmer of Jackson District, Frederick County; 4, William E., farmer, of Jackson District, Frederick County; 5, Daniel F., farmer of Jackson District; 6, Lawson F., merchant, Myersville, Md.; 7, Emry L., of Myersville, conductor on the Inter Urban Railroad. Mr, Bittle and his wife were members of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Church Hill, where he held the office of deacon. When they removed to Myersville, their membership was transferred to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church at Myersville. Mr. Bittle is an elder in the congregation. He is active in church work and contributes liberally to all benevolent enterprises. William E. Bittle grew up on the homestead, and received his education in the public schools of Jackson District. He remained at home and after his marriage, took charge of the homestead for five years. He was a successful farmer and, after his marriage, and the five years spent on the homestead, began farming for himself on rented land, a place of 175 acres situated near Funkstown, Washington County, Md., where he remained for four years. Mr. Bittle then returned to the homestead in Jackson District, and two years later, purchased the property from his father. The farm consists of 154 acres of excellent land, well improved with a comfortable two-story dwelling, a bank barn, and all the necessary outbuildings, and is situated one mile north of Harmony on the road leading from Harmony to Ellerton. By careful attention to his business, Mr. Bittle has made his farm one of the most valuable properties in Jackson District. He also owns 35 acres of fine timber land in the Catoctin Mountain. Mr. Bittle ascribes his financial success to honest toil, and unceasing watchfulness. He is an active member of the Republican party, interested in public affairs, and highly esteemed in the community. William E. Bittle was married to Fannie M., daughter of Ezra and Sophia (Doub) Toms, whose father was a prominent farmer residing near Myersville, Jackson District, Frederick County, Md. They have two children: Glenn E.; and William M.; both at home. Mr. Bittle is a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church at Church Hill. Mrs. Bittle holds her membership in the United Brethren Church at Myersville.

From History of Frederick County. p. 1174:

Singleton E. Remsburg, a prominent and well known farmer, who resides three miles southwest of Middletown, was born November 3, 1843. He is a son of Samuel and Maria (Bowlus) Remsburg, members of an old Middletown district family (see sketch of Henry C. Remsburg and the Remsburg History).

Samuel Remsburg was born in 1807, and died in 1880. He followed the occupation of a farmer during the period of his active life and was well known as a successful agriculturist. In, politics he was in early life an Old Line Whig, but upon the formation of the Republican party, he became an adherent of the latter organization. In religion, he was a consistent member of Zion’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Middletown. He was married to Maria Bowlus. They were the parents of eleven children, six of whom grew to maturity: Charlotte, married William Slifer, of Washington County, Md.; Mary Susan, married Henry Young; Elizabeth, married Dawson Huffer, a farmer of Burkittsville District, Frederick County; Amanda, the wife of David Ausherman, of Burkittsville District, who is engaged in farming and a teacher; Singleton E.; and Emma, the wife of John Stone, of Middletown.

Singleton E. Remsburg, son of Samuel and Maria (Bowlus) Remsburg, was born and reared on his father’s farm, on which he became well versed in the duties of agriculture. He was educated in the public schools and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. He is the owner of the old home farm, which contains 164 acres and is well improved with good buildings. This is one of the most productive farms in Middletown Valley. He is also the owner of two other farms, one of 60 acres and one of 14 acres, both of which are also well improved and under a good state of cultivation. Mr. Remsburg has been very successful at farming and by the use of practical and progressive methods his farms annually yield large crops. He is a director in the Valley Savings Bank of Middletown, a flourishing financial institution.

In politics, he has been one of the leaders and most active supporters of the Republican party in his district for the past thirty years. In 1897, he was the nominee of his party for the office of county commissioner, and was elected. He served in this position for a term of four years, discharging his duties in a manner that reflects much credit upon him. Mr. Remsburg is one of Middletown’s best known and highly respected citizens. In religion, he is a leading spirit and consistent member of Zion’s Lutheran Church of Middletown, in which he has served in official capacities, including the office of elder.

Mr. Remsburg was married, November 10, 1864, to Frances Shafer, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Abrecht) Shafer, of Middletown Valley. They were the parents of eight children, of whom seven grew to maturity: Jennie, deceased, was the wife of Oliver Beachley; Hiram, married Emma Young; Amos, married Hannah Sigler; Elizabeth, the wife of Philip E. Flook; Joseph, married Estella Dean; Emma, the wife of Laurence Rudy; and Maria Catharine, resides at home.

The Shafer family, to which Mrs. Remsburg belongs, is of German origin and is one of the old families of Middletown Valley. Peter Shafer was a son of George Shafer. Peter Shafer and his wife, Elizabeth Abrecht, were the parents of two children: George; and Frances E., (Mrs. Remsburg.) After the death of Mr. Shafer, his widow married his brother, Joseph Shafer. The latter marriage had four children: Laura, the wife of Joshua Ahalt (see his sketch) ; Mary, married Joseph Huffer, a farmer, who resides in Jefferson District; Ida, the wife of Charles Adkins, of Middletown district; and ———.

Oscar Daniel Culler, owner of Locust Grove dairy farm, son of John Henry and Amanda L. (Derr) Culler, was born on a farm near Jefferson, Frederick County, Md., August 17, 1868.

Oscar Daniel Culler is a lineal descendant of Michael Culler, (see sketch of his uncle) Millard F. Culler. His great-grandfather was Captain Henry Culler, and his grandfather, Daniel Culler. John Henry Culler, father of Oscar Daniel Culler, was married to Amanda L., daughter of Daniel Derr, who lived two miles north of Middletown, Frederick County, Md. Mr. John H. Culler and his wife reside in Jefferson, Md. Their only surviving child is Oscar Daniel.

Oscar Daniel Culler was born on the farm now owned by A. C. McBride, of Frederick County, Md., and occupied by P. H. Cline, situated about one mile northeast of Jefferson, Md. He grew up on his father’s farm and received his education in the public schools of Jefferson. Mr. Culler worked for his father until the time of his marriage, and has spent the greater part of his life in the cultivation of the soil. After marriage, he farmed the homestead for three years, and then, in 1894, moved to Jefferson and engaged in the manufacture of wire fence. He next returned to the homestead and, after cultivating it for four years, purchased his present home, Locust Grove Dairy. In the spring of 1902, Mr. Culler received the appointment of superintendent of Montevue Hospital. Two years later, when his term of office expired, he settled in Jefferson, where he remained for two years, and then resumed the care of his farm, which had been rented. He has added a large dairy and does an extensive business. Mr. Culler is a stanch Republican, a genial, pleasant gentleman and, as he weighs 385 pounds, enjoys the distinction of being the heaviest man in Frederick County. He is a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Jefferson.

Oscar Daniel Culler was married, February 10, 1891, to Ella V. Feaster, daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Crampton) Feaster, who lived near Jefferson, Md. Mr. Jacob Feaster died February 23, 1882, and his wife, Mrs. Sarah Feaster, died April 15, 1901.

Harry G. Tritapoe, farmer, real estate, loan and insurance broker, residing near Frederick City, Md., son of Samuel E. and Sarah E. (Vincel) Tritapoe, was born at his father’s home near Lovettsville, Loudoun County, Va., September 24, 1881.

John Tritapoe, great-grandfather of Harry G. Tritapoe, was one of the early settlers of Virginia. In early manhood, he came from Germany to America and settled in Virginia where he became a prominent farmer of Loudoun County. John Tritapoe was a fine old gentleman, and was highly esteemed by his fellow citizens. He lived to a good old age.

Michael Tritapoe, son of John Tritapoe, grandfather of Harry C. Tritapoe, was born in Loudoun County, Va., in August, 1799. He attended the public schools of his native county, and remained with his father on the farm until he attained his majority, when he began working for himself. He soon turned his attention to the cultivation of the soil in which he was very successful, and was able to retire from farming a few years before his death. He ascribed his good fortune to honest toil and careful attention to business. Mr. Tritapoe was an Old Line Whig, and was esteemed and respected in the community. Michael Tritapoe was married twice. His first wife was a Miss Fry, who died shortly after her marriage. His second wife was Margaret, daughter of Henry and Christina (Spring) Fawley, whose father was a prominent citizen of Loudoun County, Va. Their children are: 1, Mary E. (Mrs. Richard J. Speaks), of Ohio, deceased; 2, Margaret A. (Mrs. Thomas Harrison), of Loudoun County, Va.; 3, Charles W., of Loudoun County; 4, George H., of Burkittsville, Frederick County, Md.; 5, Samuel E., of Petersville, Frederick County, Md. Mr. Tritapoe and his wife were members of the Lutheran Church in Lovettsville, Va. Mr. and Mrs. Tritapoe died some years ago.

Mr. Tritapoe’s father, Samuel E. Tritapoe, received his education in the public schools of Loudoun County, and remained at home until he was seventeen. On July 23, 1862, Mr. Tritapoe joined the Loudoun Rangers of Virginia, and was made a corporal in company A. He was with his company in several severe battles, and on August 26, 1862, be and several other soldiers of the company were captured at the battle of Waterford, Va., and was held a prisoner until October, 1862. He was released and joined his company in time to take part in the battle of Winchester, Va. He was with his company at Monocacy, where he was the bravest of the brave, and shared the dangers of the company on many a well fought field. He remained with the army until the close of the war. When the war was over, Mr. Tritapoe married and began farming in Loudoun County, Va. In 1882, he removed to Frederick County, Md., and rented a place near Petersville which he cultivated very successfully. Mr. Tritapoe next removed to the old Culler farm near Jefferson, Md., where he remained for a number of years. In 1906, he purchased his beautiful home, known as the Stroder property, situated at the western end of Petersville, about thirteen miles west of Frederick City, on the Frederick and Harper’s Ferry turnpike. After remodeling the dwelling, putting up all the necessary buildings, and making various other improvements, Mr. Tritapoe retired from farming, and removed to the home which he had made one of the most beautiful properties in that section of Maryland. He owes his financial success to hard work and close attention to business. He has always been a loyal Republican, interested in all that pertains to the progress of the community, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens.

Samuel E. Tritapoe was married to Sarah E., daughter of George and Susan (Frey) Vincel, whose father was prominent among the farmers of Loudoun County, Va. Of their eight children, six reached adult age: 1, Ada V., at home; 2, Edward H., of Petersville District; 3, Gertrude A. (Mrs. David C. Sulcer), of Jefferson, Md., deceased; 4, Alvira E. (Mrs. Arthur Poffenberger), of Jefferson District; 5, Harry G., real estate, loan and insurance agent, Frederick City, Md.; 6, Earl E., at home. Mr. Tritapoe and his wife are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jefferson; both are active workers in the congregation.

Harry G. Tritapoe was eight years old when his parents moved from Loudoun County, Va., to their farm near Petersville, Frederick County, Md. He was educated in the public schools of the district, and remained at home with his father until he married. After his marriage, Mr. Tritapoe began farming for himself on land belonging to his father-in-law, Hanson Boyer, situated near Broadrun, Burkittsville District, Frederick County, which he cultivated successfully for three years. Mr. Tritapoe next rented the Hopwood farm, one mile west of Frederick, Md., to which he removed in the spring of 1904. After farming this land for five years in the spring of 1910, he abandoned farming to give his whole time to dealing in real estate. During the Fall of 1910 Mr. Tritapoe had erected a beautiful residence in the Western suburbs of Frederick to which he now removed. He had already taken a course in Law in the International School of Scranton, Pa., and had graduated in the Real Estate, Brokerage and Insurance business, with the Cross Company of Chicago, Ill., of which he was one of a class of sixty-three that graduated with high honors. His percentage being 97 1-2. On April 1st, 1907, in addition to farming he began to deal in real estate, and formed a partnership with Harry Mohler, which lasted seven months. He next formed a partnership with G. Warring Tyson, the firm name being Tritapoe & Tyson. They prospered and had a large business connection. On June 1, 1909, Mr. Tritapoe bought out Mr. Tyson and continued the business alone. His offices are located at 29 Court street, where he does a thriving business. His hard work, patience and close application have been richly rewarded. He has built up a fine business and has made a number of large sales. Mr. Tritapoe is one of the most active Republicans in Frederick City. Socially, he is both prominent and popular and he has a host of personal friends in all classes.

Harry G. Tritapoe was married to Mary E., daughter of Hanson and Susan (Koogle) Boyer, whose parents were the descendants of families prominent in the Middletown Valley. Their children are: 1, Erma M.; 2, Velma G.; 3, Susan E.; 4, Harry E., all at home. Mr. Harry G. Tritapoe is a member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Jefferson. His wife holds her membership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Middletown, Md.

Charles J. Ramsburg, the genial proprietor of the celebrated Lake View Park Hotel and Casino, located nine miles from Frederick City, at the foot of the beautiful Catoctin Mountain on the W. F. and G. R. R., is one of Frederick County’s best known and most prominent citizens. He was born on a farm in Lewistown District, Frederick County, April 24, 1861. He is a son of Nelson D. and Elizabeth (Harmon) Ramsburg.

The Ramsburg family is of ancient and honorable lineage, and is of German origin. Members of the family are found settled in Virginia at a very early date. Henry Ramsburg, the great-grandfather of Charles J. Ramsburg, was a native of Virginia. He resided in Berkeley County, where he owned a large and valuable plantation. He was accidentally killed by cutting himself while butchering.

Jacob Ramsburg, son of Henry Ramsburg, was but an infant at the time of his father’s death and he was brought to Lewistown District, Frederick County, where he was raised by relatives. He died at the age of sixty-five years. He was a farmer by occupation, and was one of the wealthy and influential citizens of the county. In politics, he was a Democrat, and very active in his support, but the only public position ever held by him was that of judge of elections. Mr. Ramsburg was married to Elizabeth Snook, daughter of Henry Snook, a farmer and miller of Frederick County. She lived to be ninety-one years old. They were the parents of these children: Lewis P., was born July 5, 1830, and died in December, 1908, was a farmer, married Julia Catharine Putman; Eliza, deceased, was the wife of Ezra Michael; Henry, died aged eighteen years; Nelson D.; Alexander (see his sketch); and Thomas C, of Creagerstown District.

Nelson D. Ramsburg, son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Snook) Ramsburg, was born in Lewistown District, Frederick County, May 21, 1836. He spent his active life in agricultural pursuits, and is now living retired in his native district. Mr. Ramsburg was married to Elizabeth Harmon. They were the parents of two children: Mary, the wife of John A. P. Garner; and Charles J.

Charles J. Ramsburg, son of Nelson D. and Elizabeth (Harmon) Ramsburg, was reared on his father’s farm in Lewistown District. While a boy he pursued studies in the public schools and was employed on the home farm. He afterwards entered Eaton & Burnett’s Business College of Baltimore, Md., from which he was graduated in 1884. He then returned to Frederick County, and began farming. He also embarked in the propagation of gold fish and has for the last fifteen years been one of the largest shippers of gold fish in Maryland. He sends about a million fish yearly to various parts of the country.

Mr. Ramsburg is best known through his erection recently of the splendid Lake View Hotel. This hotel is four stories in height, with a roof garden. It is a magnificent building and is equipped with all modern conveniences, having accommodations for a hundred guests. Adjacent to the hotel is the Casino, situated on the W. F. and G. R. R. This is a two-story building, 116 by 90 feet, with a first class skating rink and beautiful dance hall. On the first floor are located four bowling alleys, a pool room, and cloak and toilet rooms. Close to these two buildings, Mr. Ramsburg has built a large lake, which is utilized for bathing and boating. This spot Mr. Ramsburg has named Lake View, and it is one of the most picturesque and pleasant places in Western Maryland. This resort is widely and favorably known among pleasure seekers.

Mr. Ramsburg is a thorough business man. This he has demonstrated in the management of his summer resort, where he has displayed much executive ability. He is industrious and progressive in his methods, and his personality has contributed much to his success. Mr. Ramsburg is interested in the W. F. and G. Railroad, in which he is a large stockholder and a member of the board of directors. Mr. Ramsburg possesses a wide acquaintance and is held in high esteem by all who have come in contact with him.

Politically, Mr. Ramsburg is a supporter of the Democratic party. Fraternally, he is a member of Mountain City Lodge, No. 29, Knights of Pythias, of Frederick.

Mr. Ramsburg was married June 3, 1903, to Mayme E. Pitzer, of Martinsburg, W. Va. She is a daughter of George D. Pitzer, of Martinsburg, West Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Ramsburg have two children: Catharine Pitzer and Charles Garrett.

On May 24, 1910, at 3 :30 a. m., fire was discovered at the southwest corner of the Casino which caused a total loss of Casino and contents. The loss was fully $20,000. Insurance, $8,100.

George H. Davis, an enterprising and active farmer, who resides in Ballinger District, is a native of Frederick City, where he was born May 19, 1863, He is a son of Aaron and Elizabeth E. (Degrange) Davis, the latter deceased.

Jonathan C. Davis, the grandfather of George H. Davis, was born in England. When a boy he emigrated to this country. At Wilmington and Dover, Del., he learned the trade of a tailor. This occupation he followed for a number of years. He then bought a farm in the northern part of Frederick County, but what is now Carroll County, Md. This farm is now in the possession of William Raifsnider. Mr. Davis spent the rest of his active life at farming, and died on this place. He was buried in Carroll County. He was married to Mary Winters. They were the parents of the following children: John W., deceased; A. Maria, deceased; Edward Aaron; Joseph, lives in Carroll County, Md.; Jonathan C.; William; and George H. Mr. and Mrs. Davis were members of the Lutheran Church.

Aaron Davis, son of Jonathan C. and Mary (Winters) Davis, was born at Uniontown, in what is now Carroll County, but at that time Frederick, October 18, 1819. He was educated in private schools and remained with his father until he was twenty years old. At that time he began to make his own way in the world. In the winter months he attended school and during the summer worked. He later took up the profession of teaching and was engaged in this line of work for a period of twenty-six years. In 1870, Mr. Davis purchased a farm in Buckeystown District, Frederick County, to which he removed and turned his attention to agriculture. He continued to farm until 1899, when he retired from active work. He is now living with his son in Ballinger District. Despite his age, he possesses a retentive memory and clear mind and is still quite active. Mr. Davis was married to Elizabeth E. Degrange, daughter of John and Elizabeth Degrange, of Ballinger district. They were the parents of nine children, five of whom reached maturity: Edward T., lives in Washington, D. C.; William O., of Chicago, Ill.; John W., resides in Carroll County, Md.; Flora A., makes her home with her brother; and George H.

George H. Davis, son of Aaron and Elizabeth E. (Degrange) Davis, received a public school education. He lived with his father until he purchased the farm from his parent in 1900. This farm consists of 66 acres of excellent land, situated about six miles south of Frederick on the Point of Rocks road, and is well improved with a fine dwelling and barn. There is also one of the finest fruit orchards in Frederick County on the place. This farm is called “Park Ridge,” which title it received on account of its beautiful location and fine orchards. Mr. Davis owes his success in life to industry, perseverance and close application to business.

G. S. Clinton Bopst, of Pearl, Md., formerly of the firm of Shipley and Bopst, now owner of “Pearl Bargain House,” at Bearl, was born at Clearspring, Washington County, Md., January 15, 1865. He is a son of William and Sarah (Lease) Bopst.

William Bopst, father of G. S. Clinton Bopst. was born in Frederick County, Md., about 1817, and died in 1875. He grew up in his native county, but afterwards resided for some time in Washington County, Md. He followed the occupation of a cooper. In politics, he was an old line Whig, and later supported the Republican party. In religion, he was a consistent member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Bopst was married to Sarah Lease. They were the parents of a large family only three of whom reached maturity: William M., of Frederick City, engaged in the dairy business; Fannie, the wife of David F. Mayne; and G. S. Clinton.

G. S. Clinton Bopst, son of William and Sarah (Lease) Bopst, was a child when his parents brought him to Frederick, where he was educated in the public schools of the city. At the age of sixteen, he became a clerk in the store of D. H. Smith, on the corner of Church and Market streets, Frederick, Md. He remained with Mr. Smith for sixteen years, during which he became thoroughly acquainted with all the details of mercantile life. In 1897, he formed a partnership with Harry F. Shipley. The firm of Shipley and Bopst managed one of the leading business houses in Frederick. Their store was stocked with all kinds of toys, phonographs, musical records, sewing machines, and bicycles. Their store, situated at Nos. 103-107 North Market street, was one of the largest establishments of its kind in that part of Maryland. In January, 1909, Mr. Bopst sold his interest to H. F. Shipley, and purchased Pearl Bargain House, at Pearl, Md., and is doing a large and increasing business. He has won success by his own efforts and is a self-made man. He is a thorough business man and stands well among the merchants of Frederick County. His store at Pearl is well stocked with all kinds of general merchandise. He deals in furniture, sewing machines, harness, men and boys’ clothing, dry goods, groceries, flour and feed of all kinds. The goods are well chosen, and of fine quality.

In politics, Mr. Bopst votes the Republican ticket. Fraternally, he is a member of Mountain City Lodge, Knights of Pythias; of Francis Scott Key Camp; the United American Mechanics; and the Knights of the Maccabees. In religion, he is affiliated with the United Brethren Church, of Frederick. Mr. Bopst is well known and is held in high esteem in the community.

Mr. Bopst was married in September, 1891, to Nettie J. Sponseller, of Frederick City. She is a daughter of Arthur and Jane (Roderick) Sponseller, and is a descendant of one of the old families of Frederick County. The children of G. S. Clinton and Nettie J. (Sponseller) Bopst are : Arthur C.; Edna L.; and Harrold S.

William H. Renn, a prominent farmer of Buckeystown District, Frederick County, Md., residing on his farm at Adamstown, Md., son of George C. and Mary C. (Zimmerman) Renn, was born on his father’s farm, five miles south of Frederick, Md., December 30. 1871.

The Renns were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania. The first family of that name came to Maryland in 1734, and bought twenty-three and a-half acres of land, which is still in the possession of the family. It has served five generations, having been purchased by a great-uncle of the great-grandfather of William H. Renn, which makes this family one of the oldest now resident in Ballinger District, Frederick County.

John H. Renn, a prominent farmer of his generation, son of George and Catherine Renn, and grandfather of William H. Renn, was born May 23, 1811. He was of German descent, and spent his life in the improving of the estate which he had inherited. To the original tract of twenty-three and a-half acres, in which he began his wedded life, he made valuable accessions from time to time, until at his death, he was the owner of one thousand acres of farm land, besides other securities. All of this land is still in the possession of his children, who, in their turn, have made valuable additions. John H. Renn was married, October 18, 1838, by the Rev. Daniel Zacharias, of Frederick City, to Sarah Ann, daughter of Eli Pierpont and Ruth (Ridgley) House, whose parents were large landed proprietors in what is known as the famous Middletown Valley. Many of the descendants of the House family reside in this section of the state. The Ridgeleys have moved into the adjacent states, and to the West. Mrs. Renn’s parents were of both German and English descent, but both were natives of Maryland. The children of John H. and Sarah Ann (House) Renn, who reached adult age, are: 1, Ruth A. (Mrs. David Degrange), died aged twenty-two; 2, John L., deceased, a retired farmer of Frederick City; 3. George Calvin, a retired farmer of Adamstown, Md.; 4, Sarah A., widow of the late John Degrange; 5, Mary E., married to George Zimmerman, a farmer of Urbana District, Frederick County; 6, Emma E. (Mrs. William S. Flook) ; 7, Martha Alice, (Mrs. David H. Rheolkey), of Petersville District, Frederick County; 8, Annie E.; 9, Ida E. These two sisters, who are unmarried, reside with their brother on the homestead, “E——– Renn.” After spending forty-six happy years together, each having reached the golden age, Mr. Renn died, December 15, 1884, and was buried in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Mr. Renn was a stanch Democrat, influential in the community. He was an active member of the Lutheran Church in Feagaville. His widow, who was born April 17, 1819 died in 1890, and rests beside her husband.

George Calvin Renn, a retired farmer of Adamstown, father of William H. Renn, was born on the old Renn homestead. He received his education in the public schools of the district, and remained with his father on the homestead until he married, when he began farming for himself in Ballinger District, on land owned by his father-in-law, William H. Zimmerman. Some time later, Mr. Renn removed to the Joseph Zimmerman farm north of Frederick, and thence to a farm belonging to his father near Red Hill, Ballinger District, where he remained for several years. He then purchased the land on which he began his career, a fertile farm of 132 acres, on which he made many improvements. He afterwards sold this place and purchased the Old William H. Zimmerman farm of 100 acres, situated on the Point of Rocks road, five miles south of Frederick. On this place he put up a convenient two-story frame dwelling, a bank barn, and all necessary buildings, and by careful attention made it one of the fine farms of the district. He was a progressive farmer and improved all the land that came into his hands. He worked hard, applied himself closely to his business, and his reward was financial success, and the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens. George C. Renn was married to Mary E., daughter of William H. and Mary C. (Cronis) Zimmerman, both deceased, whose father was prominent among the older farmers of Frederick County. Of their six children, four reached maturity: 1, William H.; 2, Charles C, a farmer of Ballinger District; 3, George E., of Hagerstown, Md.; 4, Roy J. deceased. Mr. Renn and his wife are members of the Reformed Church on the Manor, to which he contributes liberally.

William H. Renn grew up on his father’s farm and received his education in the public schools of the district. He remained at home, and when his father bought the farm on which he now resides, he rented the place from his father. After cultivating this land success fully for five years, he purchased it from his father and made it his homestead.

His home farm of 98 acres of excellent land, is beautifully situated along the line of the Baltimore and Ohio R. R., adjoining Adamstown. It has fine stretches of meadow land and has been brought to a high state of cultivation. His farm has one of the best springs of water in Frederick County, and is an exceptional fine dairy farm, on which he keeps twenty-five choice milch cows. Mr. Renn has built for himself a comfortable two-story frame dwelling, a bank barn, and all the necessary buildings. Besides his farming, he has a fine traction engine, a threshing machine, and a hay packer with which he has been doing a profitable business for twelve years. Mr. Renn is a stanch Democrat. He is one of the leading business men of the county and was one of the organizers of the Adamstown Canning Company. He is the owner also of a desirable property in Adamstown on which he has recently erected a new dwelling.

William H. Renn was married to Edith G., daughter of Henry and Mary A. (Heller) Smith. Mrs. Renn’s mother is dead, but her father is still living. Nine of their eleven children reached adult age: 1, Stella V.; 2, Wilbur H.; 3, Ralph H.; 4, Mary L.; 5, Margaret G.; 6, William Z.; 7. Grayson S.; 8, Thelma A., 9, Meridith E.; all at home. Mr. Renn and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church in Doubs, Md. He contributes generously to the needs of the church and has served the congregation as deacon.