Euclid Ohio

Biography of Thomas Smith

Thomas Smith, born in Oxfordshire, England, in 1823, emigrated to the U.S. in 1830, eventually settling in Indiana. In 1847, he journeyed westward as a teamster, facing numerous challenges typical of pioneer life. He settled in the Willamette Valley, engaging in various labor, including rail-splitting, before establishing a ferry near Winchester. Smith became a prominent local figure, serving as a county commissioner and later as county judge. His marriage to Arethusa E. Lynn produced twelve children, contributing to his legacy in Douglas County.

Biographical Sketch of Samuel Cooper Blake

Samuel Cooper Blake, born on December 29, 1855, in Euclid, Ohio, was an accomplished attorney. Educated in local public schools and at the University of Michigan, he earned his LL.B. and was admitted to the Ohio Bar in 1883. Blake married Mary A. Camp in 1889 and had two children. He served as clerk for the Euclid School Board and the township, taught in local schools, and was active in the Garfield Savings Trust Co. and Masonic organizations.

Biographical Sketch of Charles Francis Brush

Charles Francis Brush, born on March 17, 1849, in Euclid, Ohio, was a prominent scientist and engineer. He earned his degrees from the University of Michigan and Western Reserve University. Notably, Brush invented the electric arc light and the storage battery, which significantly advanced electrical engineering. He founded the Brush Electric Co. and held leadership roles in various organizations, including the Cleveland Arcade Co. and Linde Air Products Co. Throughout his career, he received several honors, including the Rumford medal and was an active member of numerous scientific societies.

Biographical Sketch of Franklin H. Ruple

Franklin H. Ruple was born on May 19, 1848, in Euclid Township, Ohio. After receiving his education locally, he married Mary C. Seaber in 1871 and had five children. Ruple served six years as a councilman and two years as marshall in Collinwood. He began his career in express business and later expanded into livery, boarding, and hotel services. He also ventured into coal and teaming. Ruple was an active community member, serving on the church board and as a charter member of the Knights of Pythias.