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ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
III
BEYNO? n<^ H-'c:-.- ^ 1833 02484 1592
GENEALOGY CX)LiSTl^
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977.101
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385421
HISTORY
SENECA COUNTY,
OHIO
CONTAINING A HISTORY OF THE COUNTY, ITS TOWNSHIPS, TOWNS,
Villages, Schools, Churches, Industries, etc.; Portraits of
Early Settlers and Prominent Men; Biographies;
History of the Northwest Territory; His-
tory OF Ohio; Statistical and Mis-
cellaneous Matter, etc., etc.
IX_.LUSTI^j^TEID.
CHICAGO:
WARNER, BEERS & CO
1886. '
/
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1886,_by
WARNER, BEERS & CO;,
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, B.C.
3854 91
PREFACE.
AS one who to some long-locked chamber goes,
And listens there to what the dead have said.
So there are moments when my thoughts are led
To those dull chronicles, whose volumes close
Epochs and ages in the same repose.
That shall the future as the past o'erspread;
And when but memory may tend the dead,
Or prune the ivy where once grew the rose ;
And as there, to me, from their pages streams
The incoherent story of the years.
The aimlessuess of all we undertake.
I think our lives are surely but the dreams
Of spirits dwelling in the distant spheres,
Who, as we die, do one by one, awake!
A written memorial of the Past and a record of the Present are works
which civilization demands. In local history, alone, are found the ways and
means to comply with this demand; because the page of history is carried
down the years, and is read and analyzed centuries after the inscription on
iron is effaced by rust, and Old Time has destroyed the marble monu-
ment. Many of the men and women who settled in the wilderness of the San-
dusky Valley a half-century ago, have gone to join the Church Triumphant.
One who was here sixty-seven years ago is still a resident, and not more than
a dozen who were here sixty years ago still dwell in this garden land which
they helped to raise out of the wilderness. The well-kept places of interment
throughout the county tell the simple tale of death; but it is remarkable that
of the great majority who have been laid to rest in the soil, comparatively few
claim the temporary record which the grave-stone offers. A look through the
cemeteries, particularly the old ones, will convey the writer's idea more
clearly; for here, a tablet, sunk deep in the dank earth; there, one broken with
its face downward on the grave of the departed one whom it battled to
memorialize; beyond, a little mound, where grasses wave over an unknown
grave— all point out unmistakably the transient character of every record, other
than the printed page of history.
In presenting this volume to the people, we feel that some contri-
bution to National history has been made. The First Part deals with the estab-
iv PREFACE.
lishment and progress of the Northwest Territory, and contains many direct
references to the Sandusky^ Valley. The Second Part, treating on the civil
and military history of Ohio, deals with Indian and political life within the
State. The history of Seneca County, forming the Third Part, contains the
story of the county, its townships, cities and villages, each chapter reviewing
the subject to which it is devoted. The thirteen chapters of general history
and fifteen chapters of township history contain a record of names and events
connected with this division of Ohio from the earliest times. The material for
these twenty-eight chapters was collected and compiled by M. A. Leeson, from
State, County, Township, City, Village, Church, Society and other written
record books, and fi'om the files of the Sandusky Clarion and other pioneer
journals. A greatly fund of history was obtained from the invaluable collection
of local newspapers (1832 to 1885) in possession of the proprietors of The
Seneca Advertiser, and from the files of the Tiffin Tribune, Fostoria Democrat,
Fostoria Review, and other journals.
Thp Fourth Part is devoted to Personal History and Reminiscences. Its
vahie can scarcely be overestimated; for in its pages are found a thousand
records, each containing the minutiae of history, not only bearing on this county
but also relating to other parts of the Union. This important branch 'of his-
tory has claimed a great share of attention fi'om the gentlemen engaged in its
compilation. The Appendix contains a complete list of the original land
entries in the county, as copied from the official records.
With all the attention which has been bestowed on this volume, some errors
in chronology and some in nomenclature may have crept in. The difficulties
attendant on the publication of a work of this class, the number and variety of
names and incidents, and the many avenues open to mistakes, preclude the pos-
sibility of absolute perfection. We trust, however, that the work will be
received in that generous spirit which applauds conscientious effort, rather than
in that captious mood which is satisfied only with unattainable accuracy.
To the gentlemen of the press and public officials of the county, who aided
the general historian so cordially, as well as to all the people who made the
publication of the work possible, we tender our sincere thanks with an expres-
sion of hope that the history of Seneca fi-om 1782 to 1885 may prove itself
authentic, and be acceptable.
THE PUBLISHERS.
Chicago, Februarv, 1886.
COI^^^TENTS.
PAET I.
HISTORY OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
PAGE.
Geographical Position 17
Early Explorations 17
Discovery of the Ohio 26
English Explorations and Settlements 28
PAGE.
American Settlements •5-3
Division of the Northwest Territory 58
Tecumseh and the War of 1812 fi]
Black Hawk and the Black Hawk War 64
PART II.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
History of Ohio 7.3
French History 76
Ordinance of 1787. No. .32 87
Comments upon the Ordinance of 1787, from the
Statutes of Ohio. Edited by Salmon P.
Chase, and Published in the year 1833 91
The War of 1812 107
Banking Ill
The Canal System 113
Ohio Land Tracts 114
Improvements 119
State Boundaries 121
Organization of Counties 122
Description of Counties 122
Early Events 122
Governors of Ohio 143
Ancient Works 157
Some General Characteristics 160
Outline Geology of Ohio 162
Ohio's Rank During the War of the Rebellion... 165
A Brief Mention of Prominent Ohio Generals... 172
Some Discussed Subjects 177
Conclusion 181
PART III.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER I.— ToPOGKAPHY— Townships and
Cities— Natural History— Arch.eology
187-196
Boundaries— Population — Altitudes — Rivers
and Creeks — Townships — Cities — Postal
Towns— Villages— Review of Surface Features
and Soil — Wells and Springs — <Tas Wells —
Zoology — Botanv — riimatoln^v — Ancient
Relics— Old Fortifio;iti..ii - linum Mounds—
Curios— Fossils— Hum ;i)i !;i im,;mis.
CHAPTER II.— SENEf.vs Kk,. 1'imn-i:ers 196-217
The Shawuees— The Wyanclots— The Dela-
wares— The Senecas of Sandusky — Indian
Christianity and Early Preachers — Two Early
Treaties — Indian Treaties Affecting Seneca
County— Cession and Recession— Tecumseh—
Elsq iiat a— Leat her-1 ips — Rou ndh ead— Logan —
Pumplcin — Witchcraft — Death of Seneca
.John— Comstock— Wiping Stick— Tequania—
Peter Pork — Buck-ong-a-lie-las — Blue Jacket
— Beaver — Soo-de-nooks — Grey Eyes — Lolla-
way — Betweeu-the-Logs — Warpole — Other
Chiefs and Uraves— White aud Colored Cap-
lives and Breeds — Couclusiou.
CHAPTER III.— Pioneers OF Sen I :. a r„iM y—
Pioneer Association- OldTimi In. .ikm-.
Customs, fjtc Jls-'238
Pere Rasles- -Moravians— S:i,i.|ii-i-.i--' apt.
Elliott, John Leith and Others— Treaty of the
Miami of the Lake— Actual Settlement— Eras-
tus Bowe, Welch Family aud Others— Early
Town Builders— Pioneer Meetings— Pioneer
Reminiscences— Jacksonian Days and Man-
ners—Land-hunting and Cabin Building-
Temperance Raisings— Old Time Grist-Mills—
Wolves— Deer Hunting— Toledo War— Indians
and Pioneers — Pioneer Weddings— Matrimon-
ial Peculiarities— Pioneer Women— Tobacco
Smoking Fashionable— Female Costume.
CHAPTER IV.— Organic History — Public
Buildings 238-259
Organization — Transactions of the Commis-
sioners' Board— Meetings from 1839 to 1866—
Treasurer Heabler— Recorder's Office— Secon 1
Jail— Court Houses— New Court House-
County Poor Institution.
CHAPTER v.— Political History 259-289
Review of Earlv Elections— County Elec-
CONTENTS.
tions from 1821 to 1885 — County Conventions,
1885 — October Elections and the Liquor
Question — Conclusion.
CHAPTEE VI.— Judiciary 290-311
Courts and Bar of Seneca County — Early
Criminal and Civil Cases — " Judge Lane's
Gang " — Reminiscences — Pioneer Courts —
Judicial Districts — First Judges — Early and
Modern Lawyers — Associate Judges— State Bar
Association.
CHAPTEPt VII.— Physicians— Medical Associ-
ations 311-319.
Pioneer and Modern Disciples of ^Esculapius
— Army Surgeons and Assistant Surgeons —
Fostoria Medical Society — Seneca County
Medical Society— Nortliwestern Ohio Eclectic
Medical Association.
CHAPTER VIII.— The Press 319-328.
Tiffin Newspapers— .Seneca Patriot— Inde-
pendent Chronicle and Seneca Advertiser— Tiffin
Gazelle and Seneca Advertiser — Gazette — Van
Burenite — Chasseurs' Own—Sunday Advertiser
— Seneca Advertiser — Star — Seneca County Fair
Bulletin — Whig Standard — Western Whig Stand-
ard— Tribune — Seneca Adler — Northwestern Con-
tinent — Evening Herald — Journal — Unsere
Flagge — Die Tiffin Presse — Gazette— News —
Monthly Trade Review — Heidelberg Monthly
Journal — Daily Courier — Enterprise — Reporter
and Advertiser. Fostoria Newspapers — News
— Review — Observer — Democj-at. Attica News-
papers— Journal — Medical Compend — Noonday
Sun. Green Spring Newspapers — Sentinel —
Times — Mutual Underwriter — A'etv Academy.
Bloomville 'i^evrspapers— Enterprise — Banner —
Seneca County Record — Record — Daily Record.
Bettsville Newspapers — Opiic — Enterprise —
Other Publications — County Histories— Sen-
ey's Code — Conclusion.
CHAPTERIX.— Military History 328-371.
IMtish Occupation— War of 1812— Build-
ing of Fort Ball — Building of Fort Seneca —
Harrison at Fort Seneca— Toledo War— Pio-
neer Militia of Seneca County— Mexican War
— War for the Union — Organization of Com-
panies and Regiments — Relief Associations —
Drafting— Military Statistics, etc.— Record of
Officers — Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infan-
try — Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry —
One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry—One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio
Volunteer Infantry— Roster— Soldiers' Monu-
ment.
CHAPTER X— Societies 372-379.
Seneca County Agricultural Society —
Grange Organization— Stock Breeders' Associ-
ation— Short-horn Breeders' Association Meet-
ing—Bee Keepers' Association— Clinton Pro-
tective Society— Seneca County Teachers' In-
stitute.
CHAPTER XL— Railroads 380-386.
Mad River & Lake Erie RaUroad— Indiana,
Bloomington & Western Railroad — Melmore<t
Republic Railroad— Ohio, INiiami i*c Waliash
Railroad— Fort Ball & Lower Minduskv Kail-
road— Tiffin & Fort Wayne i:;iilroaa-^<leve-
land. Ft. Wayne & Chicago Railroaa— Colum-
bus, Tiffin & Toledo Railroad — Pittsburgh,
Canton & Chicago Railroad— Baltimore & Ohio
Railroad— Columbus, Hocking Valley it Toledo
Railroad— Ohio Central Railroad— Mansfield,
Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad — jSorth-
western Ohio Railroad—" Nickel Plate " Rail-
road—Lake Erie <t Western Railroad— Akron
& Fort Wayne Railroad.
CHAPTER XIL— Ba>-ks and Insurance 386-387
First Bank— Bank of Tiffin— National Ex-
change Bank — Tiffin Savings Bank — Com-
mercial Bank— Foster & Co.— Emerine & Co.
— Seneca County Mutual Fire Insurance
Company — Farmers' Mutual Relief Insurance
Tompany— Tiffin Mutual Aid Association—
Crolden Rule Aid Company — Mechanics Mu-
tual Protection Society No. 2.5 — Union Aid
Society— Foreign Insurance Companies.
CHAPTER XIII.— St.\tistics 388-398
Early Surveys— Schools in 1847— School Sta-
tistics—Census, 1830-1880— Taxes, 1826-1884—
Valuation of Real and Personal Property-
Agricultural Statistics— Abstract of Personal
Property, Moneys and Credits for 1885— As-
sessors' Returns— Wheat Crop of 1884-85—
New Structures— Births and Deaths— Asses-
sors— Conclusion.
CHAPTER XIV.— Adams Township 398-417
Surveys — Geological Notes — Topography —
Railroads— Organic and Official— School Lands
—Pioneers— Common Schools —Statistics —
Sulphur Springs Village— Adamsville
Village— Lowell Village— CooPERSTOWN
Village— Town op Green Spring — Settle-
ment—Survey—Additions—Organic and Offi-
cial — Business Interests — Churches — Green
Spring Academy — Cemeteries — PostoiEce —
Banks. Bankers, etc. — Secret and Benevolent
Societies— Green Spring Cure and Health Re-
sort— Statistics of Corporation — Conclusion.
CHAPTER XV.— Big Spring Township 418-429
Surveys — Indian Reservation — Topography
—Organic and Official— Schools— Statistics—
Pioneeip and Old Settlers — Adrian Vili age
Survey — Postmasters — Business Circle —
Schools^ Societies — Churches — New Riegel
Village— Surveys and Additions— Organic
and Official — Business Circle — Churches —
Schools — Springville Village — French
Town Village— Alvada Village — Rail-
roads in Big Spring Township— Conclusion.
CHAPTER XVI.— Bloom Township 429-445
Population— Physical Features — Cornifer-
ous Formation — Dynamite Explosion — Soil —
Organic and Official— Pioneers — Bloomville
Village— Surveys and Additions— Organiza-
tion and Officers— Postmasters— Churches-
Schools — Newspapers — Societies — Business
and Professions — Manufacturing Industries —
St. Stephen Village— Catholic Church—
Elizabethtown Village —Survey— Loca-
tion and Population — Railroads in Bloom
Township— Statistics.
CHAPTER XVIL— Clinton Township and Tif-
fin City , 446-536
Boundaries — Origin of Name — Establish-
ment— Rivers and Creeks — Topography — Set-
ment by Pioneers, and Old Residents— Official
History — Swander Village— Viona Village
-General Statistics— Tiffin City— Location—
Sandusky River and Rock Creek— Population
(White), 1817-85— A Reverie— Origin of the
Town— Fort Ball, or the Second Ward— Origi-
nal Survey of Titiin, and Additions — Incidents
of First Settlement — Postmasters — Municipal
History — City Solicitors — Assessors, 1885 —
School Census Enumerator — Councilmen —
Corporation Statistics— The Police Force-
Fire Department — Churches — Schools — Ursu-
line Convent, Schools and College^Heidel-
berg College— Cemeteries— Hospital and Asy-
lum— Societies — Libraries — Banks, Insurance,
etc. — Pioneer Notes— Pioneer Manufactures
—Manufacturing Industries, 1885- Coal Yards
— Hotels — Telegraph, Telephone and Express
Companies— Railroads— Tiffin Waterworks-
Places of Amusement— Tiffin Board of Trade-
Conclusion.
CHAPTER XVIII.— Eden Township 536-550
Introductory — Survey — Van Meter Reserva-
tion— Topography— Organic and Official — Gen-
eral Statistics— School Statistics— Pioneer His-
tory— Personal Mention of Pioneers — Mel-
more Village— Postmasters— Mills and Mill-
ers— Business and Professional Circle — Socie-
ties— Churches — Cemeteries — Conclusion.
CHAPTER XIX.— Hopewell Township 551-560
Survey — Early History — Population — Rail-
roads-River and Creeks — Topography— Or-
ganic and Official — Pioneers and Incidents of
Pioneer Times— Bascom Village- I^ocation
and Additions — Its Brief History — Business
Circle— Lodge — Churches — Cemetery Associa-
tion — Hopewell Village — Steinerville
Village— Statistics Hopewell Township-
School Statistics— Conclusion.
CHAPTER XX.— Jackson Township 560-567
Survey — First Purchases — Population —
Railroads — Physical Characteristics — Organic
CONTENTS.
PAGE.
and Official— Small Settlements— Churches-
Assessment Roll, 1841— Valuation and Taxa-
tion, 1884-85— General Statistics— School Sta-
tistics—Conclusion.
CHAPTER XXI.— Liberty Township 568-579
Survey — Organization — Population — Rail-
roads— Physical Features — Topography — Or-
ganic and Official — Pioneers and Old Residents
— Bkttsville Village — Its Boundaries-
Survey and Additions, Incorporation and Or-
ganization — Churches — Societies — Business
Circle of Bettsville— Kansas Village— Its
Survey and Additions, Location, Business
Houses,etc. — Small Settlements — Cemeteries-
General Statistics — School Statistics.
CHAPTER XXII.— Loudon Township and Fos-
TORIA City 579-625
Survey and Topography — Streams — Rail-
roads—Population—Organic and Official— Pio-
neers and Pioneer Incidents— Schools of Lou-
don— General Statistics — Predial Statistics —
Review — P'ostoria City — Introduction —
Location and General Description— Geology-
Climatology— Statistics— Railroads— History
of Location — Original Survey and Additions
— Additions to Fostoria — Organic and Official
History of Rome— Organic and Official His-
tory of Fostoria— Settlement and Progress-
Old Consumers and Producers — Tiffin and
Findlay State Roads— Post Offices and Post-
masters — Physicians — Early Manufacturing
IndHstries—Risdon— Beginning of the Brick
Building Era— Churches— Cemeteries — Soldiers
Buried at Fostoria — Societies — Fire Depart-
ment— Banks — Fostoria Opera House — News-
papers— Modern Manufacturing Industries —
Hotels — Livery Establishments.
CHAPTER XXIII.— Pleasant Township 625-637
Introduction and Population — Streams-
Topography — Railroads — Organic and Official
— Pioneers and Pioneer Events — Churches-
Schools and School Statistics — Cemeteries —
Fort Seneca Village— Town of Sulphur
Springs — Old Fort Seneca Village —
Shedenhelm's Station Village— Bridges-
General Statistics.
CHAPTER XXIV.-Reed Township 638-647
Survey— The " Gore"— Seneca John— Ori-
gin of Name — Population — Topography-
Streams and Ponds— Railroads— Organic and
Official— Pioneers and Pioneer Events— Lodi
Village— Reed Town Village— Town of
Omar — Detrcjit Village — Churches—
Schools— General Statistics— Conclusion .
CHAPTER XXV.— SciPio Township 648-664
Description— Organization— Origin of Name
—Population— Survey— Streams and Wells-
Topography — Railroads — Organization and
Officers— Pioneers and Pioneer Incidents-
Schools— School Statistics— General Statistics
—Republic— Early History— Pioneer Inci-
dents—Original Town and Additions— Organ-
ic and Official— Churches— Cemetery— Schools
—Fire Department— Societies— Roll of Busi-
ness Men— Railroads and Highwavs— Conclu-
sion.
CHAPTER XXVL— Seneca Township 064-674.
Its Establishment — Streams — Railroads-
Topography- Organic and Official — Pioneer
Tax Pay ers— Pioneer History— Berwick Vil-
lage—McCutchenville Village— Churches
—Cemeteries— Schools— Valuation and Taxa-
tion— Predial Statistics — Conclusion.
CHAPTER XXVII.— Thompson Township....675-683.
Survey— Population— Geology— Sink Creek
— Singular Phenomena — Topography— Rail-
road Facilities — Organic and Official — Pio-
neers — Thompsontown Village — Lewis-
VIlleVillage— Churches— Schools— Orphan-
ages—General Statistics.
CHAPTER XXVIII.— Venice Township 684-696.
Survey, Organization and Population— Ori-
gin of Name— Streams— Pike Roads— Rail-
roads— Organic and Official — Pioneers— Early
Industries- Attica Village— Organic and
Official— Business Interests— Churches— Ceme-
teries — Societies — Review — Carrothers
Village — Caroline Village — Schools-
General Statistics — Conclusion.
PAET IT.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Adams Township 699
Big Spring Township 715
Bloom Township 732
Clinton Township and Tiffin City 752
Eden Township 846
Hopewell Township 854
Jackson Township 868
Liberty Township 877
Loudon Township and Fostoria City 887
Pleasant Township " 934
Reed Township 953
Scipio Township 969
Seneca Township 887
Thompson Township 1003
Venice Township 1016
APPENDIX.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
Adams Township 1064
Big Spring Township 1047
Bloom Township 1061
Clinton Township 10.58
Eden Township 1056
Hopewell Township 1053
Jackson Township 1050
Liberty Township 1055
Loudon Township 1049
Pleasant Township 1059
Reed Township ,1066
Scipio Township 1062
Seneca Township 1052
Thompson Township 1067
Venice Township 1065
The Gore 1069
CONTENTS.
PORTRAITS.
Arbogast, Michael, Seneca Township 493
Armatage, John, Venice Township 523
Ash, William, Jackson Township 433
Baldwin, A. C, Tiffin 313
Bosworth, George R., Adams Township 213
Brunner, L. A., Tiffin 233
Cassety, Samuel, Keed Township 513
Cooley, Orange, Scipio Township 553
Creeger, Laurence, Hopewell Township 503
Crocker, Roswell, Fostoria... 204
Crocker. Sarah Ann, Fostoria opp. 204
Cupp, William, Hopewell Township 333
Detterman, John H., Bloom Township 373
Fauble, Michael, Thompson Township 303
Foster, Charles W., Fostoria 81
Foster, Charles, Fostoria 183
Fry, Philip H., Pleasant Township 4G3
Hedges, Josiah, Tiffin 47
Holmes, David, Venice Township 473
Hubbard, E. B., Tiffin 353
Huffman, J. W., Venice Township 593
Keppel, George, Hopewell Township 323
King, George, Liberty Township 543
Lawhead, J. W., Big Spring Township 443
PAGE.
Leonard, Samuel H., Venice Township 263
McClellan. Robert, Seneca Township 273
McClelland, A. B., Bloom Township 393
Myers, Conrad, Jackson Township 283
Myers, John, Adams Township 343
Kiebel, Levi, Loudon Township 533
Noble, Montgomery. Jackson Township 413
Noble, Warren P., Tiffin 223
Pennington, R. G., Tiffin 293
Pultz, Jacob. Pleasant Township 563
Reid, J. T., Bloom Township 253
Rosenberger, Henry, Hopewell Township 149
Seitz, Daniel, Bloom Township 403
Seitz, John,t:den Township 423
Seney, George E.. Tiffin 115
Signs, John, Loudon Township 573
Skinner, Morris P., Fostoria 193
Stackhouse. Silas J., Liberty Township 243
Teare, Caisar, Adams Township 583
Titus, R. R., Pleasant Township 363
Valentine. T. G.. Bloom Township 483
Watson, T. W., Pleasant Township 383
Yambert, Aaron, Seneca Township 453
MISCELLANEOUS.
Map of Seneca County 10-11
Population of theL'nited States 69
Area of the United States 69
Area of the Principal Countries in the World 69
Population of Principal Countries in the World... 69
Population of Ohio by Counties 70
List of Governors of Ohio 72
Population of Seneca County, by Townships 389
PART I.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
The ]sroRTHWEST Territory.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION.
When the Norihwestern Territory was ceded to the United States
by Virginia in 1784, it embraced only the territory lying between the
Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers, and north to the northern limits of the
United States. It coincided with the area now embraced in the States
of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and that portion of
Minnesota lying on the east side of the Mississippi River. The United
States itself at that period extended no farther west than the Mississippi
River ; but by the purchase of Louisiana in 1803, the western boundary
of the United States was extended to the Rocky Mountains and the
Northern Pacific Ocean. The new territory thus added to the National
domain, and subsequently opened to settlement, has been called the
"New Northwest," in contradistinction from the old "Northwestern
Territory."
In comparison with the old Northwest this is a territory of vast
magnitude. It includes an area of 1,887,850 square miles ; being greater
in extent than the united areas of all the Middle and Southern States,
including Texas. Out of this magnificent territory have been erected
eleven sovereign States and eight Territories, with an aggregate popula-
tion, at the present time, of 18,000,000 inhabitants, or nearly one-third of
the entire population of the United States.
Its lakes are fresh-water seas, and the larger rivers of the continent
flow for a thousand miles through its rich alluvial valleys and far-
stretching prairies, more acres of which are arable and productive of the
highest percentage of the cereals than of any other area of like extent
on the globe.
For the last twenty years the increase of population in the North-
west has been about as three to one in any other portion of the United
States.
EARLY EXPLORATIONS.
In the year 1541, DeSoto first saw the Great West in the New
World. He, however, penetrated no farther north than the 35th parallel
18 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
of latitude. The expedition resulted in his death and that of more than
half his army, the remainder of whom found their way to Cuba, thence
to Spain, in a famished and demoralized condition. DeSoto founded no
settlements, produced no results, and left no traces, unless it were that
he awakened the hostility of the red man against the white man, and
disheartened such as might desire to follow up the career of discovery
for better purposes. The French nation were eager and ready to seize
upon any news from this extensive domain, and were the first to profit by
DeSoto's defeat. Yet it was more than a century before any adventurer
took advantage of these discoveries.
In 1616, four years before the pilgrims " moored their bark on the
wild New England shore," Le Caron, a French Franciscan, had pene-
trated through the Iroquois and Wyandots (Hurons) to the streams which
run into Lake Huron ; and in 1634, two Jesuit missionaries founded the
first mission among the lake tribes. It was just one hundred years from
the discovery of the Mississippi by DeSoto (1541) until the Canadian
envoys met the savage nations of the Northwest at the Falls of St. Mary,
below the outlet of Lake Superior. This visit led to no permanent
result ; yet it was not until 1659 that any of the adventurous fur traders
attempted to spend a Winter in the frozen wilds about the great lakes,
nor was it until 1660 that a station was established upon their borders by
Mesnard, who perished in the woods a few months after. In 1665, Claude
Allouez built the earliest lasting habitation of the white man among the
Indians of the Northwest. In 1668, Claude Dablon and James Marquette
founded the mission of Sault Ste. Marie at the Falls of St. Mary, and two
years afterward, Nicholas Perrot, as agent for M. Talon, Governor Gen-
eral of Canada, explored Lake Illinois (Michigan) as far south as the
present City of Chicago, and invited the Indian nations to meet him at a
grand council at Sault Ste. Marie the following Spring, where they were
taken under the protection of the king, and formal possession was taken
of the Northwest. This same year Marquette established a mission at
Point St. Ignatius, where was founded the old town of Michillimackinac.
During M. Talon's explorations and Marquette's residence at St.
Ignatius, they learned of a great river away to the west, and fancied —
as all others did then — that upon its fertile banks whole tribes of God's
children resided, to whom the sound of the Gospel had never come.
Filled with a wish to go and preach to them, and in compliance with a
request of M. Talon, who earnestly desired to extend the domain of his
king, and to ascertain whether the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico
or the Pacific Ocean, Marquette with Joliet, as commander of the expe-
dition, prepared for the undertaking.
On the 13th of May, 1673, the explorers, accompanied by five assist-
THE NOKTHWEST TERRITORY. 19
ant French Canadians, set out from Mackinaw on their daring voyage of
discovery. The Indians, who gathered to witness their departure, were
astonished at the boldness of the undertaking, and endeavored to dissuade
them from their purpose by representing the tribes on the Mississippi as
exceedingly savage and cruel, and the river itself as full of all sorts of
frightful monsters ready to swallow them and their canoes together. But,
nothing daunted by these terrific descriptions, Marquette told them he
was willing not only to encounter all the perils of the unknown region
they were about to explore, but to lay down his life in a cause in which
the salvation of souls was involved ; and having prayed together they
separated. Coasting along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, the
adventurers entered Green Bay, and passed thence up the Fox River and
Lake Winnebago to a village of the Miamis and Kickapoos. Here Mar-
quette was delighted to find a beautiful cross planted in the middle of the
town, ornamented with white skins, red girdles and bows and arrows,
which these good people had offered to the Great Manitou, or God, to
thank him for the pity he had bestowed on them during the Winter in
giving them an abundant " chase." This was the. farthest outpost to
which Dablon and AUouez had extended their missionary labors the
year previous. Here Marquette drank mineral waters and was instructed
in the secret of a root which cures the bite of the venomous rattlesnake.
He assembled the chiefs and old men of the village, and, pointing to
Joliet, said : " My friend is an envoy of France, to discover new coun-
tries, and I am an ambassador from God to enlighten them with the truths
of the Gospel." Two Miami guides were here furnished to conduct them
to the Wisconsin River, and they set out from the Indian village on
the 10th of June, amidst a great crowd of natives who had assembled to
witness their departure into a region where no white man had ever yet
ventured. The guides, having conducted them across the portage,
returned. The explorers launched their canoes upon the Wisconsin,
which they descended to the Mississippi and proceeded down its unknown
waters. What emotions must have swelled their breasts as they struck
out into the broadening current and became conscious that they were
now upon the bosom of the Father of Waters. The mystery was about
to be lifted from the long-sought river. The scenery in that locality is
beautiful, and on that delightful seventeenth of June, must have been
clad in all its primeval loveliness as it had been adorned by the hand of
Nature. Drifting rapidly, it is said that the bold bluffs on either hand
" reminded them of the castled shores of their own beautiful rivers of
France." By-and-by, as they drifted along, great herds of buffalo
appeared on the banks. On going to the heads of the valley they could
see a country of the greatest beauty and fertility, apparently destitute of
20 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
inhabitants, yet presenting the appearance of extensive manors, under
the fastidious cultivation of lordly proprietors.
On June 25, they went asliore and found some fresh traces of men
upon the sand, and a path which led to the prairie. The men remained in
the boat, and Marquette and Joliet followed the path till they discovered a
village on the banks of a river, and two other villages on a hill, within k
half league of the first, inhabited by Indians. They were received most
hospitably by these natives, who had never before seen a white person.
After remaining a few days they re-embarked and descended the river to
about latitude 33°, where they found a village of the Arkansas, and being-
satisfied that the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico, turned their course
up the river, and ascending the stream to the mouth of the Illinois,
rowed up that stream to its source and procured guides from that point
to the lakes. " Nowhere on this journey," says Marquette, " did we see
such grounds, meadows, woods, stags, buffaloes, deer, wildcats, bustards^
swans, ducks, parroquets, and even beavers, as on the Illinois River."
The party, without loss or injury, reached Green Bay in September, and
reported their discovery — one of the most important of the age, but of
which no record was preserved save Marquette's, Joliet losing his by
the upsetting of his canoe on his way to Quebec. Afterward Marquette
returned to the Illinois Indians by their request, and ministered to them
until 1675. On the 18th of May, in that year, as he was passing the
mouth of a stream — going with his boatmen up Lake Michigan — he asked
to land at its mouth and celebrate Mass. Leaving his men with the canoe,
he retired a short distance and began his devotions. As much time
passed and he did not return, his men went in search of him, and found
him upon his knees, dead. He had peacefully passed away while at
prayer. He was buried at this spot. Charlevoix, who visited the place
fifty years after, found the waters had retreated from the grave, leaving
the beloved missionary to repose in peace. The river has since been
called Marquette.
While Marquette and his companions were pursuing their labors in
the West, two men, differing widely from him and each other, were pre-
paring to follow in his footsteps and perfect the discoveries so well begun
by him. These were Robert de LaSalle and Louis Hennepin.
After LaSalle's return from the discovery of the Ohio River (see
the narrative elsewhere), he established himself again among the French
trading posts in Canada. Here he mused long upon the pet project of
those ages — a short way to China and the East, and was busily planning an
expedition up the great lakes, and so across the continent to the Pacific,
when Marquette returned from the Mississippi. At once the vigorous mind
of LaSalle received from his and his companions' stories the idea that by fol-
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 21
lowing the Great River northward, or by turning up some of the numerous
western tributaries, the object could easily be gained. He applied to
Frontenac, Governor General of Canada, and laid before. him the plan,
dim but gigantic. Frontenac entered warmly into his plans, and saw that
LaSalle's idea to connect the great lakes by a chain of forts with the Gulf
of Mexico would bind the country so wonderfully together, give un-
measured power to France, and glory to himself, under whose adminis-
tration he earnestly hoped all would be realized.
LaSalle now repaired to France, laid his plans before the King, who
warmly approved of them, and made him a Chevalier. He also received
from all the noblemen the warmest wishes for his success. The Chev-
alier returned to Canada, and busily entered upon his work. He at
once rebuilt Fort Frontenac and constructed the first ship to sail on
these fresh-water seas. On the 7th of August, 1679, having been joined
by Hennepin, he began his voyage in the Griffin up Lake Erie. He
passed over this lake, through the straits beyond, up Lake St. Clair and
into Huron. In this lake they encountered heavy storms. They were
some time at Michillimackinac, where LaSalle founded a fort, and passed
on to Green Bay, the " Bale des Puans " of the French, where he found
a large quantity of furs collected for him. He loaded the Griffin with
these, and placing her under the care of a pilot and fourteen sailors,
started her on her return voyage. The vessel was never afterward heard
of. He remained about these parts until early in the Winter, when, hear-
ing nothing from the Griffin, he collected all the men— thirty working
men and three monks — and started again upon his great undertaking.
By a short portage they passed to the Illinois or Kankakee, called by
the Indians, '' Theakeke," wolf, because of the tribes of Indians called
by that name, commonly known as the Mahingans, dwelling there. The
French pronounced it Kiakiki, which became corrupted to Kankakee.
" Falling down the said river by easy journeys, the better to observe the
country," about the last of December they reached a village of the Illi-
nois Indians, containing some five hundred cabins, but at that moment
no inhabitants. The Sieur de LaSalle being in want of some breadstuffs,
took advantage of the absence of the Indians to help himself to a suffi-
ciency of maize, large quantities of which he found concealed in holes
under the wigwams. This village was situated near the present village
of Utica in LaSalle County, Illinois. The corn being securely stored,
the voyagers again betook themselves to the stream, and toward evening,
on the 4th day of January, 1680, they came into a lake which must have
been the lake of Peoria. This was called by the Indians Fim-i-te-wi, that
is, a place where there are many fat beasts. Here the natives were met
with in large numbers, but they were gentle and kind, and having spent
22 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
some time with them, LaSalle determined to erect another fort in that
place, for he had heard rumors that some of the adjoining tribes were
trying to disturb the good feeling which existed, and some of his men
were disposed to complain, owing to the hardships and perils of the travel.
He called this fort " Crevecoeur " (broken-heart), a name expressive of the
very natural sorrow and anxiety which the pretty certain loss of his ship.
Griffin, and his consequent impoverishment, the danger of hostility on the
part of the Indians, and of mutiny among his own men, might well cause
him. His fears were not entirely groundless. At one time poison was
placed in his food, but fortunately was discovered.
While building this fort, the Winter wore away, the prairies began to
look green, and LaSalle, despairing of any reinforcements, concluded to
return to Canada, raise new means and new men, and embark anew in
the enterprise. For this purpose he made Hennepin the leader of a party
to explore the head waters of the Mississippi, and he set out on his jour-
ney. This journey was accomplished with the aid of a few persons, and
was successfully made, though over an almost unknown route, and in a
bad season of the year. He safely reached Canada, and set out again for
the object of his search.
Hennepin and his party left Fort Crevecoeur on the last of February,
1680. When LaSalle reached this place on his return expedition, he
found the fort entirely deserted, and he was obliged . to return again to
Canada. He embarked the third time, and succeeded. Seven days after
leaving the fort, Hennepin reached the Mississippi, and paddling up the
icy stream as best he could, reached no higher than the Wisconsin River
by the 11 th of April. Here he and his followers were taken prisoners by a
band of Northern Indians, who treated them with great kindness. Hen-
nepin's comrades were Anthony Auguel and Michael Ako. On this voy-
age they found several beautiful lakes, and "saw some charming prairies."
Their captors were the Isaute or Sauteurs, Chippewas, a tribe of the Sioux
nation, who took them up the river until about the first of May when
they reached some falls, which Hennepin christened Falls of St. Anthony
in honor of his patron saint. Here they took the land, and traveling
nearly two hundred miles to the northwest, brought them to their villages*
Here they were kept about three months, were treated kindly by their
captors, and at the end of that time, were met by a band of Frenchmen,
headed by one Sieur de Luth, who, in pursuit of trade and game, had pene-
trated thus far by the route of Lake Superior ; and with these fellow-
countrymen Hennepin and his companions were allowed to return to the
borders of civilized life in November, 1680, just after LaSalle had
returned to the wilderness on his second trip. Hennepin soon after went
to France, where he published an account of his adventures.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 23
The Mississippi was first discovered by De Soto in April, 1541, in his
vain endeavor to find gold and precious gems. In the following Spring,
De Soto, weary with hope long deferred, and worn out with his wander-
ings, fell a victim to disease, and on the 21st of May, died. His followers,
reduced by fatigue and disease to less than three hundred men, wandered
about the country nearly a year, in the vain endeavor to rescue them-
selves by land, and finally constructed seven small vessels, called brig-
antines, in which they embarked, and descending the river, supposing it
would lead them to the sea, in July they came to the sea (Gulf of
Mexico), and by September reached the Island of Cuba.
They were the first to see the great outlet of the Mississippi ; but,
being so weary and discouraged, made no attempt to claim the country,
and hardly had an intelligent idea of what they had passed through.
To La Salle, the intrepid explorer, belongs the honor of giving the
first account of the mouths of the river. His great desire was to possess
this entire country for his king, and in January, 1682, he and his band of
explorers left the shores of Lake Michigan on their third attempt, crossed
the Portage, passed down the Illinois River, and on the 6th of February
reached the banks of the Mississippi.
On the 13th they commenced their downward course, which they
pursued with but one interruption, until upon the 6th of March they dis-
covered the three great passages by which the river discharges its waters
into the gulf. La Salle thus narrates the event :
" We landed on the bank of the most western channel, about three
leagues (nine miles) from its mouth. On the seventh, M. de La Salle
went to reconnoiter the shore of the neighboring sea, and M. de Tonti
meanwhile examined the great middle channel. They found the main
outlets beautiful, large and deep. On the eighth, we reascended the
river, a little above its confluence with the sea, to find a dry place beyond
the reach of inundations. The elevation of the North Pole was here
about twenty-seven degrees. Here we prepared a column and a cross,
and to the column were affixed the arms of France with this inscription :
"Louis Le Grand, Roi de France et de Navarre, regno ; Le neuvieme April, 1682."
The whole party, under arms, chanted the Te Deum, and then, after
a salute and cries of " Vive le Boi^'" the column was erected by M. de
La Salle, who, standing near it, proclaimed in a loud voice the authority
of the King of France. La Salle returned and laid the foundations of the
Mississippi settlements in IlKnois ; thence he proceeded to France, where
another expedition was fitted out, of which he was commander, and in
two succeeding voyages failed to find the outlet of the river by sailing
24 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
along the shore of the gulf. On the third voyage he was killed, through
the treachery of his followers, and the object of his expeditions was not
accomplished until 1699, when D'Iberville, under the authority of the
crown, discovered, on the second of March, by way of the sea, the mouth
of the " Hidden River." This majestic stream was called by the natives
" Malbouchia,'' and by the Spaniards, " la Palissade,'" from the great
number of trees about its mouth. After traversing the several outlets,
and satisfying himself as to its certainty, he erected a fort near its western
outlet, and returned to France.
An avenue of trade was now opened out which was fully improved. In
1718, New Orleans was laid out and settled by some European colonists. In
1762, the colony was made over to Spain, to be regained by France under
the consulate of Napoleon. In 1803, it was purchased by the United
States for the sum of fifteen million dollars, and the territory of Louisiana
and commerce of the Mississippi River came under the charge of the
United States. Although La Salle's labors ended in defeat and death,
he had not worked and suffered in vain. He had thrown open to France
and the world an immense and most valuable country ; had established
several ports, and laid the foundations of more than one settlement there.
" Peoria, Kaskaskia and Cahokia, are to this day monuments of LaSalle's
labors ; for, though he had founded neither of them (unless Peoria,
which was built nearly upon the site of Fort Crevecceur,) it was by those
whom he led into the West that these places were peopled and civilized.
He was, if not the discoverer, the first settler of the Mississippi Valley,
and as such deserves to be known and honored."
The French early improved the opening made for them. Before the
year 1698, the Rev. Father Gravier began a mission among the Illinois,
and founded Kaskaskia. For some time this was merely a missionary
station, where none but natives resided, it being one of three such vil-
lages, the other two being Cahokia and Peoria. What is known of these
missions is learned from a letter written b}^ Father Gabriel Marest, dated
" Aux Cascaskias, autrement dit de I'lmraaculate Conception de la Sainte
Vierge, le 9 Novembre, 1712." Soon after the founding of Kaskaskia,
the missionary, Pinet, gathered a flock at Cahokia, while Peoria arose
near the ruins of Fort Crevecceur. This must have been about the year
1700. The post at Vincennes on the Oubache river, (pronounced Wa-ba,
meaning summer cloud moving siviftly,') was established in 1702, according
to the best authorities.* It is altogether probable that on LaSalle's last
* There is considerable dispute about this date, some asserting It was founded as late as 1742. When the
new court house at Vincennes was erected, all authorities on the subject were carefully examined, and 1702 tised
upon as the correct date. It was accordingly engi-aved on the corner-stone of the court housa.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY 25
trip he established the stations at Kaskaskia and Cahokia. In July,
1701, the foundations of Fort Ponchartrain were laid by De la Motte
Cadillac on the Detroit River. These stations, with those established
further north, were the earliest attempts to occupy the Northwest Terri-
tory. At the same time efforts were being made to occupy the Southwest,
which finally culminated in the settlement and founding of the City of New
Orleans by a colony from England in 1718. This was mainly accom-
plished through the efforts of the famous Mississippi Company, established
by the notorious John Law, who so quickly arose into prominence in
France, and who with his scheme so quickly and so ignominiously passed
away.
From the time of the founding of these stations for fifty years the
French nation were engrossed with the settlement of the lower Missis-
sippi, and the war with the Chickasaws, who had, in revenge for repeated
injuries, cut off the entire colony at Natchez. Although the company
did little for Louisiana, as the entire West was then called, yet it opened
the trade through the Mississippi River, and started the raising of grains
indigenous to that climate. Until the year 1750, but little is known of
the settlements in the Northwest, as it was not until this time that the
attention of the English was called to the occupation of this portion of the
New World, which they then supposed they owned. Vivier, a missionary
among the Illinois, writing from " Aux Illinois," six leagues from Fort
Chartres, June 8, 1750, says: "We have here whites, negroes and
Indians, to say nothing of cross-breeds. There are five French villages,
and three villages of the natives, within a space of twenty-one leagues
situated between the Mississippi and another river called the Karkadaid
(Kaskaskias). In the five French villages, are perhaps, eleven hundred
whites, three hundred blacks and some sixty red slaves or savages. The
three Illinois towns do not contain more than eight hundred souls all
told. Most of the French till the soil ; they raise wheat, cattle, pigs and
horses, and live like princes. Three times as much is produced as can
be consumed ; and great quantities of grain and flour are sent to New
Orleans." This city was now the seaport town of the Northwest, and
save in the extreme northern part, where only furs and copper ore were
found, almost all the products of the country found their way to France
by the mouth of the Father of Waters. In another letter, dated Novem-
ber 7, 1750, this same priest says : " For fifteen leagues above the
mouth of the Mississippi one sees no dwellings, the ground being too low
to be habitable. Thence to New Orleans, the lands are only partially
occupied. New Orleans contains black, white and red, not more, I
think, than twelve hundred persons. To this point come all the lumber,
bricks, salt-beef, tallow, tar, skins and bear's grease ; and above all, pork
26 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
and flour from the Illinois. These things create some commerce, as forty
vessels and more have come hither this year. Above New Orleans,
plantations are again met with ; the most considerable is a colony of
Germans, some ten leagues up the river. At Point Coupee, thirty-five
leagues above the German settlement, is a fort. Along here, within five
or six leagues, are not less than sixty habitations. Fifty leagues farther
up is the Natchez post, where we have a garrison, who are kept prisoners
through fear of the Chickasaws. Here and at Point Coupee, they raise
excellent tobacco. Another hundred leagues brings us to the Arkansas,
where we have also a fort and a garrison for the benefit of the river
traders. * * * From the Arkansas to the Illinois, nearly five hundred
leagues, there is not a settlement. There should be, hower, a fort at
the Oubache (Ohio), the only path by which the English can reach the
Mississippi. In the Illinois country are numberless mines, but no one to
work them as they deserve." Father Marest, writing from the post at
Vincennes in 1812, makes the same observation. Vivier also says: " Some
individuals dig lead near the surface and supply the Indians and Canada.
Two Spaniards now here, who claim to be adepts, say that our mines are
like those of Mexico, and that if we would dig deeper, we should find
silver under the lead ; and at any rate the lead is excellent. There is also
in this country, beyond doubt, copper ore, as from time to time large
pieces are found in the streams.
At the close of the year 1750, the French occupied, in addition to the
lower Mississippi posts and those in Illinois, one at Du Quesne, one at
the Maumee in the country of the Miamas, and one at Sandusky in what
may be termed the Ohio Valley. In the northern part of the Northwest
they had stations at St. Joseph's on the St. Joseph's of Lake Michigan,
at Fort Ponchartrain (Detroit), at Michillimackanac or Massillimacanac,
Fox River at Green Bay, and at Sault Ste. Marie. The fondest dreams
of LaSalle were now fully realized. The French alone were possessors of
this vast realm, basing their claim on discovery and settlement. Another
nation, however, was now turning its attention to this extensive country,
and hearing of its wealth, began to lay plans for occupying it and for
securing the great profits arising therefrom.
The French, however, had another claim to this country, namely, the
DISCOVERY OF THE OHIO.
This " Beautiful " river was discovered by Robert Cavalier de La-
Salle in 1669, four years before the discovery of the Mississippi by Joliet
and Marquette.
THE ^'OK.T^WEST TERRITORY. 27
While LaSalle was at his trading post on the St. Lawrence, he found
leisure to study nine Indian dialects, the chief of which was the Iroquois.
He not only desired to facilitate his intercourse in trade, but he longed
to travel and explore the unknown regions of the West. An incident
soon occurred which decided him to fit out an exploring expedition.
While conversing with some Senecas, he learned of a river called the
Ohio, which rose in their country and flowed to the sea, but at such a
distance that it required eight months to reach its mouth. In this state-
ment the Mississippi and its tributaries were considered as one stream.
LaSalle believing, as most of the French at that period did, that the great
rivers flowing west emptied into the Sea of California, was anxious to
embark in the enterprise of discovering a route across the continent to
the commerce of China and Japan.
He repaired at once to Quebec to obtain the approval of the Gov-
ernor. His eloquent appeal prevailed. The Governor and the Intendant,
Talon, issued letters patent authorizing the enterprise, but made no pro-
vision to defray the expenses. At this juncture the seminary of St. Sul-
pice decided to send out missionaries in connection with the expedition,
and LaSalle ofi'ering to sell his improvements at LaChine to raise money^
the offer was accepted by the Superior, and two thousand eight hundred
dollars were raised, with which LaSalle purchased four canoes and the
necessary supplies for the outfit.
On the 6th of July, 1669, the party, numbering twenty-four persons,
embarked in seven canoes on the St. Lawrence ; two additional canoes
carried the Indian guides. In three days they were gliding over the
bosom of Lake Ontario. Their guides conducted them directly to the
Seneca village on the bank of the Genesee, in the vicinity of the present
City of Rochester, New York. Here they expected to procure guides to
conduct them to the Ohio, but in this they were disappointed.
The Indians seemed unfriendly to the enterprise. LaSalle suspected
that the Jesuits had prejudiced their minds against his plans. After
waiting a month in the hope of gaining their object, they met an Indian
from the Iroquois colony at the head of Lake Ontario, who assured them
that they could there find guides, and offered to conduct them thence.
On their way they passed the mouth of the Niagara River, when they
heard for the first time the distant thunder of the cataract. Arriving
among the Iroquois, they met with a friendly reception, and learned
from a Shawanee prisoner that they could reach the Ohio in six weeks.
Delighted with the unexpected good fortune, they made ready to resume
their journey ; but just as they were about to start they heard of the
arrival of two Frenchmen in a neighboring village. One of them proved
to be Louis Joliet, afterwards famous as an explorer in the West. He
28 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
had been sent by the Canadian Government to explore the copper mines
on Lake Superior, but had failed, and was on his way back to Quebec.
He gave the missionaries a map of the country he had explored in the
lake region, together with an account of the condition of the Indians in
that quarter. This induced the priests to determine on leaving the
expedition and going to Lake Superior. LaSalle warned them that the
Jesuits were probably occupying that field, and that they would meet
with a cold reception. Nevertheless they persisted in their purpose, and
after worship on the lake shove, parted from LaSalle. On arriving at
Lake Superior, they found, as LaSalle had predicted, the Jesuit Fathers,
Marquette and Dablon, occupying the field.
These zealous disciples of Loyola informed them that they wanted
no assistance from St. Sulpice, nor from those who made him their patron
saint ; and thus repulsed, they returned to Montreal the following June
without having made a single discovery or converted a single Indian.
After parting with the priests, LaSalle went to the chief L-oquois
Tillage at Onondaga, where he obtained guides, and passing thence to a
tributary of the Ohio south of Lake Erie, he descended the latter as far
as the falls at Louisville. Thus was the Ohio discovered by LaSalle, the
persevering and successful French explorer of the West, in 1669.
The account of the latter part of his journey is found in an anony-
mous paper, which purports to have been taken from the lips of LaSalle
himself during a subsequent visit to Paris. In a letter written to Count
Frontenac in 1667, shortly after the discovery, he himself says that he
discovered the Ohio and descended it to the falls. This was regarded as
an indisputable fact by the French authorities, who claimed the Ohio
Valley upon another ground. When Washington was sent by the colony
of Virginia in 1753, to demand of Gordeur de St. Pierre why the French
had built a fort on the Monongahela, the haughty commandant at Quebec
replied : " We claim the country on the Ohio by virtue of the discoveries
of LaSalle, and will not give it up to the English. Our orders are to
make prisoners of every Englishman found trading in the Ohio Valley.'*
ENGLISH EXPLORATIONS AND SETTLEMENTS.
When the new year of 1750 broke in upon the Father of Waters
and the Great Northwest, all was still wild save at the French posts
already described. In 1749, when the English first began to think seri-
ously about sending men into the West, the greater portion of the States
of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota were yet
under the dominion of the red men. The English knew, however, pretty
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 29
conclusively of the nature of the wealth of these wilds. As early as
1710, Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, had commenced movements to
secure the country west of the Alleghenies to the English crown. In
Pennsylvania, Governor Keith and James Logan, secretary of the prov-
ince, from 1719 to 1731, represented to the powers of England the neces-
sity of securing the Western lands. Nothing was done, however, by that
power save to take some diplomatic steps to secure the claims of Britain
to this unexplored wilderness.
England had from the outset claimed from the Atlantic to the Pacific,
on the ground that the discovery of the seacoast and its possession was a
discovery and possession of the country, and, as is well known, her grants
to the colonies extended " from sea to sea." This was not all her claim.
She had purchased from the Indian tribes large tracts of land. This lat-
ter was also a strong argument. As early as 1684, Lord H oward. Gov-
ernor of Virginia, held a treaty with the six nations. These were the
great Northern Confederacy, and comprised at first the Mohawks, Onei-
das, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas. Afterward the Tuscaroras were
taken into the confederacy, and it became known as the Six Nations.
They came under the protection of the mother country, and again in
1701, they repeated the agreement, and in September, 1726, a formal deed
was drawn up and signed by the chiefs. The validity of this claim has
often been disputed, but never successfully. In 1744, a purchase was
made at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, of certain lands within the " Colony of
Virginia," for which the Indians received ^200 in gold and a like sum in
goods, with a promise that, as settlements increased, more should be paid.
The Commissioners from Virginia were Colonel Thomas Lee and Colonel
William Beverly. As settlements extended, the promise of more pay was
called to mind, and Mr. Conrad Weiser was sent across the mountains with,
presents to appease the savages. Col. Lee, and some Virginians accompa-
nied him with the intention of sounding the Indians upon their feelings
regarding the English. They were not satisfied with their treatment,
and plainly told the Commissioners why. The English did not desire the
cultivation of the country, but the monopoly of the Indian trade. In.
1748, the Ohio Company was formed, and petitioned the king for a grant
of land beyond the Alleghenies. This was granted, and the government
of Virginia was ordered to grant to them a half million acres, two hun-
dred thousand of which were to be located at once. Upon the 12th of
June, 1749, 800,000 acres from the line of Canada north and west was
made to the Loyal Company, and on the 29th of October, 1751, 100,000
acres were given to the Greenbriar Company. All this time the French
were not idle. They saw that, should the British gain a foothold in the
West, especially upon the Ohio, they might not only prevent the French
30 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
settling upon it, but in time would come to the lower posts and so gain
possession of the whole country. Upon the 10th of May, 1747, Vaud-
reuil, Governor of Canada and the French possessions, well knowing the
consequences that must arise from allowing the English to build trading
posts in the Northwest, seized some of their frontier posts, and to further
secure the claim of the French to the West, he, in 1749, sent Louis Cel-
eron with a party of soldiers to plant along the Ohio River, in the mounds
and at the mouths of its principal tributaries, plates of lead, on which
were inscribed the claims of France. These were heard of in 1752, and
within the memory of residents now living along the " Oyo," as the
beautiful river was called by the French. One of these plates was found
with the inscription partly defaced. It bears date August 16, 1749, and
a copy of the inscription with particular account of the discovery of the
plate, was sent by DeWitt Clinton to the American Antiquarian Society,
among whose journals it may now be found.* These measures did not,
however, deter the English from going on with their explorations, and
though neither party resorted to arms, yet the conflict was gathering, and
it was only a question of time when the storm would burst upon the
frontier settlements. In 1750, Christopher Gist was sent by the Ohio
Company to examine its lands. He went to a village of the Twigtwees,
on the Miami, about one hundred and fifty miles above its mouth. He
afterward spoke of it as very populous. From there he went down
the Ohio River nearly to the falls at the present City of Louisville,
and in November he commenced a survey of the Company's lands. Dur-
ing the Winter, General Andrew Lewis performed a similar work for the
Greenbriar Company. Meanwhile the French were busy in preparing
their forts for defense, and in opening roads, and also sent a small party
of soldiers to keep the Ohio clear. This party, having heard of the Eng-
lish post on the Miami River, early in 1652, assisted by the Ottawas and
Chippewas, attacked it, and, after a severe battle, in which fourteen of
the natives were killed and others wounded, captured the garrison.
(They were probably garrisoned in a block house). The traders were
carried away to Canada, and one account says several were burned. This
fort or post was called by the English Pickawillany. A memorial of the
king's ministers refers to it as " Pickawillanes, in the center of the terri-
tory between the Ohio and the Wabash. The name is probably some
variation of Pickaway or Picqua in 1773, written by Rev. David Jones
Pickaweke."
* The following is a translation of the inscription on the plate: "In the year 1749. reign of Louis XV..
liing of France, we, Celeron, commandant of a detachment by Monsieur the Marquis of Gallisoniere, com-
mander-in-chief of New France, to establish tranquility in certain Indian villages of these cantons, have
buried this plate at the confluence of the Toradakoin, this twenty- ninth of July, near the river Ohio, otherwise
Beautiful Kiver, as a monument of renewal of possession which we have taken of the said river, and all its
tributaries; inasmuch as the preceding Kings of France have enjoyed it, and maintained it by their arms and
treaties; especially by those of Ryswick, Utrecht, and Aix La Chapelle."
THE NORTHWEST TERRITOEY, 31
This was the first blood shed between the French and English, and
occurred near the present City of Piqua, Ohio, or at least at a point about
forty-seven miles north of Dayton. Each nation became now more inter-
ested in the progress of events in the Northwest. The English deter-
mined to purchase from the Indians a title to the lands they wished to
occupy, and Messrs. Fry (afterward Commander-in-chief over Washing-
ton at the commencement of the French War of 1775-1763), Lomaxand
Patton were sent in the Spring of 1752 to hold a conference with the
natives at Logstown to learn what they objected to in the treaty of Lan-
caster already noticed, and to settle all difficulties. On the 9th of June,
these Commissioners met the red men at Logstown, a little village on the
north bank of the Ohio, about seventeen miles below the site of Pitts-
burgh. Here had been a trading point for many years, but it was aban-
doned by the Indians in 1750. At first the Indians declined to recognize
the treaty of Lancaster, but, the Commissioners taking aside Montour,
the interpreter, who was a son of the famous Catharine Montour, and a
chief among the six nations, induced him to use his influence in their
favor. This he did, and upon the 13th of June they all united in signing
a deed, confirming the Lancaster treaty in its full extent, consenting to a
settlement of the southeast of the Ohio, and guaranteeing that it should
not be disturbed by them. These were the means used to obtain the first
treaty with the Indians in the Ohio Valley.
Meanwhile the powers beyond the sea were trying to out-manoeuvre
each other, and were professing to be at peace. The English generally
outwitted the Indians, and failed in many instances to fulfill their con-
tracts. They thereby gained the ill-will of the red men, and further
increased the feeling by failing to provide them with arms and ammuni-
tion. Said an old chief, at Easton, in 1758 : " The Indians on the Ohio
left you because of your own fault. When we heard the French were
coming, we asked you for help and arms, but we did not get them. The
French came, they treated us kindly, and gained our affections. The
Governor of Virginia settled on our lands for his own benefit, and, when
we wanted help, forsook us."
At the beginning of 1653, the English thought they had secured by
title the lands in the West, but the French had quietly gathered cannon
and military stores to be in readiness for the expected blow. The Eng-
lish made other attempts to ratify these existing treaties, but not until
the Summer could the Indians be gathered together to discuss the plans.
of the French. They had sent messages to the French, warning them
away ; but they replied that they intended to complete the chain of fortd
already begun, and would' not abandon the field.
Soon after this, no satisfaction being obtained from the Ohio regard-
32 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
ing the positions and purposes of the French, Governor Dinwiddie of
Virginia determined to send to them another messenger and learn from
them, if possible, their intentions. For this purpose he selected a young
man, a surveyor, who, at the early age of nineteen, had received the rank
of major, and who was thoroughly posted regarding frontier life. This
personage was no other than the illustrious George Washington, who then
held considerable interest in Western lauds. He was at this time just
twenty-two years of age. Taking Gist as his guide, the two, accompanied
by four servitors, set out on their perilous march. They left Will's
Creek on the 10th of November, 1753, and on the 22d reached the Monon-
gahela, about ten miles above the fork. From there they went to
Logstown, where Washington had a long conference with the chiefs of
the Six Nations. From them he learned the condition of the French, and
also heard of their determination not to come down the river till the fol-
lowing Spring. The Indians were non-committal, as they were afraid to
turn either way, and, as far as they could, desired to remain neutral.
Washington, finding nothing could be done with them, went on to
Venango, an old Indian town at the mouth of French Creek. Here the
French had a fort, called Fort Machault. Through the rum and flattery
of the French, he nearly lost all his Indian followers. Finding nothing
of importance here, he pursued his way amid great privations, and on the
11th of December reached the fort at the head of French Creek. Here
he delivered Governor Dinwiddie's letter, received his answer, took his
observations, and on the 16tli set out upon his return journey with no one
but Gist, his guide, and a few Indians who still remained true to him,
notwithstanding the endeavors of the French to retain them. Their
homeward journey was one of great peril and suffering from the cold, yet
they reached home in safety on the 6th of January, 1754.
From the letter of St. Pierre, commander of the French fort, sent by
Washington to Governor Dinwiddie, it was learned that the French would
not give up without a struggle. Active preparations were at once made
in all the English colonies for the coming conflict, while the French
finished the fort at Venango and strengthened their lines of fortifications,
and gathered their forces to be in readiness.
The Old Dominion was all alive. Virginia was the center of great
activities ; volunteers were called for, and from all the neighboring
colonies men rallied to the conflict, and everywhere along the Potomac
men were enlisting under the Governor's proclamation — which promised
two hundred thousand acres on the Ohio. Along this river they were
gathering as far as Will's Creek, and far beyond this point, whither Trent
had come for assistance for his little band of forty-one men, who were
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 33
working away in hunger and want, to fortify that point at the fork of
the Ohio, to which both parties were looking with deep interest.
" The first birds of Spring filled the air with their song ; the swift
river rolled by the Allegheny hillsides, swollen by the melting snows of
Spring and the April showers. The leaves Avere appearing ; a few Indian
scouts were seen, but no enemy seemed near at hand ; and all was so quiet,
that Frazier, an old Indian scout and trader, who had been left by Trent
in command, ventured to his home at the mouth of Turtle Creek, ten
miles up the Monongahela. But, though all was so quiet in that wilder-
ness, keen eyes had seen the low intrenchment rising at the fork, and
swift feet had borne the news of it up the river ; and upon the morning
of the 17th of April, Ensign Ward, who then had charge of it, saw
upon the Allegheny a sight that made his heart sink — sixty batteaux and
three hundred canoes filled with men, and laden deep with cannon and
stores. * * * That evening he supped with his captor, Contrecoeur,
and the next day he was bowed off by the Frenchman, and with his men
and tools, marched up the Monongahela."
The French and Indian war had begun. The treaty of Aix la
Chapelle, in 1748, had left the boundaries between the French and
English possessions unsettled, and the events already narrated show the
French were determined to hold the country watered by the Mississippi
and its tributaries ; while the English laid claims to the country by virtue
of the discoveries of the Cabots, and claimed all the country from New-
foundland to Florida, extending from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The
first decisive blow had now been struck, and the first attempt of the
English, through the Ohio Company, to occupy these lands, had resulted
disastrously to them. The French and Indians immediately completed
the fortifications begun at the Fork, which they had so easily captured,
and when completed gave to the fort the name of DuQuesne. Washing-
ton was at Will's Creek when the news of the capture of the fort arrived.
He at once departed to recapture it. On his way he entrenched him-
self at a place called the " Meadows," where he erected a fort called
by him Fort Necessity. From there he surprised and captured a force of
French and Indians marching against him, but was soon after attacked
in his fort by a much superior force, and was obliged to yield on the
morning of July 4th. He was allowed to return to Virginia.
The English Government immediately planned four campaigns ; one
against Fort DuQuesne; one against Nova Scotia; one against Fort
Niagara, and one against Crown Point. These occurred during 1755-6,
and were not successful in driving the French from their possessions.
The expedition against Fort DuQuesne was led by the famous General
Braddock, who, refusing to listen to the advice of Washington and those
34 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
acquainted with Indian warfare, suffered such an inglorious defeat. This
occurred on the morning of July 9th, and is generally known as the battle
of Monongahela, or " Braddock's Defeat." The war continued with
various vicissitudes through the years 1756-7 ; when, at the commence-
ment of 1758, in accordance with the plans of William Pitt, then Secre-
tary of State, afterwards Lord Chatham, active preparations were made to
carry on the war. Three expeditions were planned for this year : one,
under General Amherst, against Louisburg ; another, under Abercrombie,
against Fort Ticonderoga ; and a third, under General Forbes, against
Fort DuQuesne. On the 26th of July, Louisburg surrendered after a
desperate resistance of more than forty days, and the eastern part of the
Canadian possessions fell into the hands of the British. Abercrombie
captured Fort Frontenac, and when the expedition against Fort DuQuesne,
of which Washington had the active command, arrived there, it was
found in flames and deserted. The English at once took possession,
rebuilt the fort, and in honor of their illustrious statesman, changed the
name to Fort Pitt.
The great object of the campaign of 1759, was the reduction of
Canada. General Wolfe was to lay siege to Quebec ; Amherst was to
reduce Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and General Prideaux was to
capture Niagara. This latter place was taken in July, but the gallant
Prideaux lost his life in the attempt. Amherst captured Ticonderoga
and Crown Point without a blow ; and Wolfe, after making the memor-
able ascent to the Plains of Abraham, on September 13th, defeated
Montcalm, and on the 18th, the city capitulated. In this engagement
Montcolm and Wolfe both lost their lives. De Levi, Montcalm's successor,
marched to Sillery, three miles above the city, with the purpose of
defeating the English, and there, on the 28th of the following April, was
fought one of the bloodiest battles of the French and Indian War. It
resulted in the defeat of the French, and the fall of the City of MontreaL
The Governor signed a capitulation by which the whole of Canada was
surrendered to the English. This practically concluded the war, but it
was not until 1763 that the treaties of peace between France and England
were signed. This was done on the 10th of February of that year, and
under its provisions all the country east of the Mississippi and north of
the Iberville River, in Louisiana, were ceded to England. At the same
time Spain ceded Florida to Great Britain.
On the 13th of September, 1760, Major Robert Rogers was sent
from Montreal to take charge of Detroit, the only remaining French post
in the territory. He arrived there on the 19th of November, and sum-
moned the place to surrender. At first the commander of the post,
Beletre, refused, but on the 29th, hearing of the continued defeat of the
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. . 35
French arms, surrendered. Rogers remained there until December 23d
under the personal protection of the celebrated chief, Pontiac, to whom,
no doubt, he owed his safety. Pontiac had come here to inquire the
purposes of the Enghsh in taking possession of the country. He was
assured that they came simply to trade with the natives, and did not
desire their country. This answer concihated the savages, and did much
to insure the safety of Rogers and his party durin^their sta^;, ^nd while
on their journey home. .') 5 O '-*■ "^ '
Rogers set out for Fort Pitt on December 23, and was just one
mouth on the way. His route was from Detroit to Maumee, thence
across the present State of Ohio directly to the fort. This was the com-
mon trail of the Indians in their journeys from Sandusky to the fork of
the Ohio. It went from Fort Sandusky, where Sandusky City now is,
crossed the Huron river, then called Bald Eagle Creek, to " Mohickon
John's Town" on Mohickon Creek, the northern branch of White
Woman's River, and thence crossed to Beaver's Town, a Delaware town
on what is now Sandy Creek. At Beaver's Town were probably one
hundred and fifty warriors, and not less than three thousand acres of
cleared land. From there the track went up Sandy Creek to and across
Big Beaver, and up the Ohio to Logstown, thence on to the fork.
The Northwest Territory was now entirely under the English rule.
New settlements began to be rapidly made, and the promise of a large
trade was speedily manifested. Had the British carried out their promises
with the natives none of those savage butcheries would have been perpe-
trated, and the country would have been spared their recital.
The renowned chief, Pontiac, was one of the leading spirits in these
atrocities. We will now pause in our narrative, and notice the leading
events in his life. The earliest authentic information regarding this
noted Indian chief is learned from an account of an Indian trader named
Alexander Henry, who, in the Spring of 1761, penetrated his domains as
far as Missillimacnac. Pontiac was then a great friend of the French,
but a bitter foe of the English, whom he considered as encroaching on his
hunting grounds. Henry was obliged to disguise himself as a Canadian
to insure safety, but was discovered by Pontiac, who bitterly reproached
him and the English for their attempted subjugation of the West. He
declared that no treaty had been made with them; no presents sent
them, and that he would resent any possession of the West by that nation.
He was at the time about fifty years of age, tall and dignified, and was
civil and military ruler of the Ottawas, Ojibwas and Pottawatamies.
The Indians, from Lake Michigan to the borders of North Carolina,
were united in this feeling, and at the time of the treaty of Paris, ratified
February 10, 1763, a general conspiracy was formed to fall suddenly
36 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
upon the frontier British posts, and with one blow strike every man dead,
Pontiac was the marked leader in all this, and was the commander
of the Chippewas, Ottawas, Wj-andots, Miamis, Shawanese, Delawares
and Mingoes, who had, for the time, laid aside their local quarrels to unit^
in this enterprise.
The blow came, as near as can now be ascertained, on May 7, 1763.
Nine British posts fell, and the Indians drank, " scooped up in the hollow
of joined hands," the blood of many a Briton.
Pontiac's immediate field of action was the garrison at Detroit.
Here, however, the plans were frustrated by an Indian woman disclosing-
the plot the evening previous to his arrival. Everything was carried out,
however, according to Pontiac's plans until the moment of action, when
Major Gladwyn, the commander of the post, stepping to one of the Indian
chiefs, suddenly drew aside his blanket and disclosed the concealed
musket. Pontiac, though a brave man, turned pale and trembled. He
saw his plan was known, and that the garrison were prepared. Ke
endeavored to exculpate himself from any such intentions ; but the guilt
was evident, and he and his followers were dismissed with a sever©
reprimand, and warned never to again enter the walls of the post.
Pontiac at once laid siege to the fort, and until the treaty of peace
between the British and the Western Indians, concluded in August, 1764,
continued to harass and besiege the fortress. He organized a regular
commissariat department, issued bills of credit written out on bark,
which, to his credit, it may be stated, were punctually redeemed. At
the conclusion of the treaty, in which it seems he took no part, he went
further south, living many yeass among the Illinois.
He had given up all hope of saving his country and race. After a
time he endeavored to unite the Illinois tribe and those about St. Louis
in a war with the whites. His efforts were fruitless, and only ended in a
quarrel between himself and some Kaskaskia Indians, one of whom soon
afterwards killed him. His death was, however, avenged by the northern
Indians, who nearly exterminated the Illinois in the wars which followed.
Had it not been for the treachery of a few of his followers, his plan
for the extermination of the whites, a masterly one, would undoubtedly
have been carried out.
It was in the Spring of the year following Rogers' visit that Alex-
ander Henry went to Missillimacnac, and everywhere found the strongest
feelings against the English, who had not carried out their promises, and
were doing nothing to conciliate the natives. Here he met the chief,
Pontiac, who, after conveying to him in a speech the idea that their
French father would awake soon and utterly destroy his enemies, said :
" Englishman, although you have conquered the French, you have not
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 37
yet conquered us ! We are not your slaves I These lakes, these woods,
these mountains, were left us by our ancestors. They are our inheritance,
and we will part with them to none. Your nation supposes that we, like
the white people, can not live without bread and pork and beef. But you
ought to know that He, the Great Spirit and Master of Life, has provided
food for us upon these broad lakes and in these mountains."
He then spoke of the fact that no treaty had been made with them,
no presents sent them, and that he and his people were yet for war.
Such were the feelings of the Northwestern Indians immediately after
the English took possession of their countr3\ These feelings were no
doubt encouraged by the Canadians and French, who hoped that yet the
French arms might prevail. The treaty of Paris, however, gave to the
English the right to this vast domain, and active preparations were going
on to occupy it and enjoy its trade and emoluments.
In 1762, France, by a secret treaty, ceded Louisiana to Spain, to pre-
vent it falling into the hands of the English, who were becoming masters
of the entire West. The next year the treaty of Paris, signed at Fon-
tainbleau, gave to the English the domain of the country in question.
Twenty years after, by the treaty of peace between the United States
and England, that part of Canada lying south and west of the Great
Lakes, comprehending a large territory which is the subject of these
sketches, was acknowledged to be a portion of the United States ; and
twenty years still later, in 1803, Louisiana was ceded by Spain back to
France, and by France sold to the United States.
In the half century, from the building of the Fort of Crevecoeur by
LaSalle, in 1680, up to the erection of Fort Chartres, many French set-
tlements had been made in that quarter. These have already been
noticed, being those at St. Vincent (Vincennes), Kohokia or Cahokia,
Kaskaskia and Prairie du Rocher, on the American Bottom, a large tract
of rich alluvial soil in Illinois, on the Mississippi, opposite the site of St.
Louis.
By the treaty of Paris, the regions east of the Mississippi, including
all these and other towns of the Northwest, were given over to England;
but they do not appear to have been taken possession of until 1765, when
Captain Stirling, in the name of the Majesty of England, established him-
self at Fort Chartres bearing with him the proclamation of General Gage,
dated December 30, 1764, which promised religious freedom to all Cath-
olics who worshiped here, and a right to leave the country with their
effects if they wished, or to remain with the privileges of Englishmen.
It was shortly after the occupancy of the West by the British that the
war with Pontiac opened. It is already noticed in the sketch of that
chieftain. By it many a Briton lost his life, and many a frontier settle-
38 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
ment in its infancy ceased to exist. This was not ended until the year
1764, when, failing to capture Detroit, Niagara and Fort Pitt, his confed-
eracy became disheartened, and, receiving no aid from the French, Pon-
tiac abandoned the enterprise and departed to the Illinois, among whom
he afterward lost his life.
As soon as these difficulties were definitely settled, settlers began
rapidly to survey the country and prepare for occupation. During the
year 1770, a number of persons from Virginia and other British provinces
explored and marked out nearly all the valuable lands on the Mononga-
hela and along the banks of the Ohio as far as the Little Kanawha. This
was followed by another exploring expedition, in which George Washing-
ton was a party. The latter, accompanied by Dr. Craik, Capt. Crawford
and others, on the 20th of October, 1770, descended the Ohio from Pitts-
burgh to the mouth of the Kanawha ; ascended that stream about fourteen
miles, marked out several large tracts of land, shot several buffalo, which
were then abundant in the Ohio Valley, and returned to the fort.
Pittsburgh was at this time a trading post, about which was clus-
tered a village of some twenty houses, inhabited by Indian traders. This
same year, Capt. Pittman visited Kaskaskia and its neighboring villages.
He found there about sixty-five resident families, and at Cahokia only
forty-five dwellings. At Fort Chartres was another small settlement, and
at Detroit the garrison were quite prosperous and strong. For a year
or two settlers continued to locate near some of these posts, generally
Fort Pitt or Detroit, owing to the fears of the Indians, who still main-
tained some feelings of hatred to the English. The trade from the posts
was quite good, and from those in Illinois large quantities of pork and
flour found their way to the New Orleans market. At this time the
policy of the British Government was strongly opposed to the extension
of the colonies west. In 1763, the King of England forbade, by royal
proclamation, his colonial subjects from making a settlement beyond the
sources of the rivers which fall into the Atlantic Ocean. At the instance
of the Board of Trade, measures were taken to prevent the settlement
without the limits prescribed, and to retain the commerce within easy
reach of Great Britain.
The commander-in-chief of the king's forces wrote in 1769 : " In the
course of a few years necessity will compel the colonists, should they
extend their settlements west, to provide manufactures of some kind for
themselves, and when all connection upheld by commerce with the mother
country ceases, an independency in their government will soon follow."
In accordance with this policy. Gov. Gage issued a proclamation
in 1772, commanding the inhabitants of Vincennes to abandon their set-
tlements and join some of the Eastern English colonies. To this they
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 39
strenuously objected, giving good reasons therefor, and were allowed to
remain. The strong opposition to this policy of Great Britain led to its
change, and to such a course as to gain the attachment of the French
population. In December, 1773, influential citizens of Quebec petitioned
the king for an extension of the boundary lines of that province, which
was granted, and Parliament passed an act on June 2, 1774, extend-
ing the boundary so as to include the territory lying within the present
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan.
In consequence of the liberal policy pursued by the British Govern-
ment toward the French settlers in the West, they were disposed to favor
that nation in the war which soon followed with the colonies ; but the
early alliance between France and America soon brought them to the side
of the war for independence.
In 1774, Gov. Dunmore, of Virginia, began to encourage emigration
to the Western lands. He appointed magistrates at Fort Pitt under the
pretense that the fort was under the government of that commonwealth.
One of these justices, John Connelly, who possessed a tract of land in the
Ohio Valley, gathered a force of men and garrisoned the fort, calling it
Fort Dunmore. This and other parties were formed to select sites for
settlements, and often came in conflict with the Indians, who yet claimed
portions of the valley, and several battles followed. These ended in the
famous battle of Kanawha in July, where the Indians were defeated and
driven across the Ohio.
During the years 1775 and 1776, by the operations of land companies
and the perseverance of individuals, several settlements were firmly estab-
lished between the Alleghanies and the Ohio River, and western land
speculators were busy in Illinois and on the Wabash. At a council held
in Kaskaskia on July 5, 1773, an association of EngHsh traders, calling
themselves the " Illinois Land Company," obtained from ten chiefs of the
Kaskaskia, Cahokia and Peoria tribes two large tracts of land lying on
the east side of the Mississippi River south of the Illinois. In 1775, a mer-
chant from the Illinois Country, named Viviat, came to Post Vincennes
as the agent of the association called the " Wabash Land Company." On
the 8th of October he obtained from eleven Piankeshaw chiefs, a deed for
37,497,600 acres of land. This deed was signed by the grantors, attested
by a number of the inhabitants of Vincennes, and afterward recorded in
the office of a notary public at Kaskaskia. This and other land com-
panies had extensive schemes for the colonization of the West ; but all
were frustrated by the breaking out of the Revolution. On the 20th ot
April, 1780, the two companies named consolidated under the name of the
" United lUinois and Wabash Land Company." They afterward made
40 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
strenuous efforts to have these grants sanctioned by Congress, but all
signally failed.
When the War of the Revolution commenced, Kentucky was an unor-
ganized country, though there were several settlements within her borders.
In Hutchins' Topography of Virginia, it is stated that at that time
" Kaskaskia contained 80 houses, and nearly 1,000 white and black in-
habitants — the whites being a little the more numerous. Cahokia con-
tains 50 houses and 300 white inhabitants, and 80 negroes. There were
east of the Mississippi River, about the year 1771 " — when these observa-
tions were made — " 300 white men capable of bearing arms, and 230
negroes."
From 1775 until the expedition of Clark, nothing is recorded and
nothing known of these settlements, save what is contained in a report
made by a committee to Congress in June, 1778. From it the following
extract is made :
" Near the mouth of the River Kaskaskia, there is a village Avhich
appears to have contained nearly eighty families from the beginning of
the late revolution. There are twelve families in a small village at la
Prairie du Rochers, and near fifty families at the Kahokia Village. There
are also four or five families at Fort Chartres and St. Philips, which is live
miles further up the river."
St. Louis had been settled in February, 1764, and at this time con-
tained, including its neighboring towns, over six hundred whites and one
hundred and fifty negroes. It must be remembered that all the country
west of the Mississippi was now under French rule, and remained so until
ceded again to Spain, its original owner, who afterwards sold it and the
country including New Orleans to the United States. At Detroit there
were, according to Capt. Carver, who was in the Northwest from 1766 to
1768, more than one hundred houses, and the river was settled for more
than twenty miles, although poorly cultivated — the people being engaged
in the Indian trade. This old town has a history, which we will here
relate.
It is the oldest town in the Northwest, having been founded by
Antoine de Lamotte Cadillac, in 1701. It was laid out in the form of an
oblong square, of two acres in length, and an acre and a half in width.
As described by A. D. Frazer, who first visited it and became a permanent
resident of the place, in 1778, it comprised within its limits that space
between Mr. Palmer's store (Conant Block) and Capt. Perkins' house
(near the Arsenal building), and extended back as far as the public barn,
and was bordered in front by the Detroit River. It was surrounded by
oak and cedar pickets, about fifteen feet long, set in the ground, and had
four gates — east, west, north and south. Over the first thi-ee of these
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 41
gates -were block houses provided with four guns apiece, each a six-
pounder. Two six-gun batteries were planted fronting the river and in a
parallel direction with the block houses. There were four streets running
east and west, the main street being twenty feet wide and the rest fifteen
feet, while the four streets crossing these at right angles were from ten
to fifteen feet in width.
At the date spoken of by Mr. Frazer, there was no fort within the
enclosure, but a citadel on the ground corresponding to the present
northwest corner of Jefferson Avenue and Wayne Street. The citadel was
inclosed by pickets, and within it were erected barracks of wood, two
stories high, sufiBcient to contain ten oflScers, and also barracks sufficient
to contain four hundred men, and a provision store built of brick. The
citadel also contained a hospital and guard-house. The old town of
Detroit, in 1778, contained about sixty houses, most of them one story,
with a few a story and a half in height. They were all of logs, some
hewn and some round. There was one building of splendid appearance,
called the " King's Palace," two stories high, which stood near the east
gate. It was built for Governor Hamilton, the first governor commissioned
by the British. There were two guard-houses, one near the west gate and
the other near the Government House. Each of the guards consisted of
twenty -four men and a subaltern, who mounted regularly every morning
between nine and ten o'clock. Each furnished four sentinels, who were
relieved every two hours. There was also an officer of the day, who pjr-
formed strict duty. Each of the gates was shut regularly at sunset ,.
even wicket gates were shut at nine o'clock, and all the keys were
delivered into the hands of the commanding officer. They were opened
in the morning at sunrise. No Indian or squaw was permitted to enter-
town with any weapon, such as a tomahawk or a knife. It was a stand-
ing order that the Indians should deliver their arms and instruments of
every kind before they were permitted to pass the sentinel, and they were
restored to them on their return. No more than twenty-five Indians were
allowed to enter the town at any one time, and they were admitted only
at the east and west gates. At sundown the drums beat, and all the
Indians were required to leave town instantly. There was a council house
near the water side for the purpose of holding council with the Indians.
The population of the town was about sixty families, in all about two
hundred males and one hundred females. This town was destroyed by
fire, all except one dwelling, in 1805. After which the present " new "
town was laid out.
On the breaking out of the Revolution, the British held every post of
importance in the West. Kentucky was formed as a component part of
Virginia, and the sturdy pioneers of the West, alive to their interests,.
42 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
and recognizing the great benefits of obtaining the control of the trade in
this part of the New World, held steadily to their purposes, and those
within the commonwealth of Kentucky proceeded to exercise their
civil privileges, by electing John Todd and Richard Gallaway,
burgesses to represent them in the Assembly of the parent state.
Early in September of that year (1777) the first court was held
in Harrodsburg, and Col. Bowman, afterwards major, who had arrived
in August, was made the commander of a militia organization which
had been commenced the March previous. Thus the tree of loyalty
was growing. The chief spirit in this far-out colony, who had represented
her the year previous east of the mountains, was now meditating a move
unequaled in its boldness. He had been watching the movements of the
British throughout the Northwest, and understood their whole plan. He.
saw it was through their possession of the posts at Detroit, Viucennes,
Kaskaskia, and other places, which would give them constant and easy
access to the various Indian tribes in the Northwest, that the British
intended to penetrate the country from the north and soutn, ana annihi-
late the frontier fortresses. This moving, energetic man was Colonel,
afterwards General, George Rogers Clark. He knew the Indians were not
unanimously in accord with the EngUsh, and he was convinced that, could
the British be defeated and expelled from the Northwest, the natives
might be easily awed into neutrality ; and by spies sent for the purpose,
he satisfied himself that the enterprise against the Illinois settlements
might easily succeed. Having convinced himself of the certainty of the
project, he repaired to the Capital of Virginia, which place he reached on
November 6th. While he was on his way, fortunately, on October 17th,
Burgoyne had been defeated, and the spirits of the colonists greatly
encouraged thereby. Patrick Henry was Governor of Virginia, and at
once entered heartily into Clark's plans. The same plan had before been
agitated in the Colonial Assemblies, but there was no one until Clark
came who was sufficiently acquainted with the condition of affairs at the
scene of action to be able to guide them.
Clark, having satisfied the Vii-ginia leaders of the feasibility of his
plan, received, on the 2d of January, two sets of instructions — one secret,
the other open — the latter authorized him to proceed to enlist seven
companies to go to Kentucky, subject to his orders, and to serve three
months from their arrival in the West. The secret order authorized him
to arm these troops, to procure his powder and lead of General Hand
at Pittsburgh, and to proceed at once to subjugate the country.
With these instructions Clark repaired to Pittsburgh, choosing rather
to raise his men west of the mountains, as he well knew all were needed
in the colonies in the conflict there. He sent Col. W.- B. Smith to Hoi-
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 43
ston for the same purpose, but neither succeeded in raising the required
number of men. The settlers in these parts were afraid to leave their
own firesides exposed to a vigilant foe, and but few could be induced to
join the proposed expedition. With three companies and several private
volunteers, Clark at length commenced his descent of the Ohio, which he
navigated as far as the Falls, where he took possession of and fortified
Corn Island, a small island between the present Cities of Louisville,
Kentucky, and New Albany, Indiana. Remains of this fortification may
yet be found. At this place he appointed Col. Bowman to meet him
with such recruits as had reached Kentucky by the southern route, and
as many as could be spared from the station. Here he announced to
the men their real destination. Having completed his arrangements,
and chosen his party, he left a small garrison upon the island, and on the
24th of June, during a total eclipse of the sun, which to them augured
no good, and which fixes beyond dispute the date of starting, he with
his chosen band, fell down the river. His plan was to go by water as
far as Fort Massac or Massacre, and thence march direct to Kaskaskia.
Here he intended to surprise the garrison, and after its capture go to
Cahokia, then to Vincennes, and lastly to Detroit. Should he fail, he
intended to march directly to the Mississippi River and cross it into the
Spanish country. Before his start he received two good items of infor-
mation : one that the alliance had been formed between France and the
United States ; and the other that the Indians throughout the Illinois
country and the inhabitants, at the various frontier posts, had been led ta
believe by the British that the " Long Knives" or Virginians, were the
most fierce, bloodthirsty and cruel savages that ever scalped a foe. With
this impression on their minds, Clark saw that proper management would
cause them to submit at once from fear, if surprised, and then from grati-
tude would become friendly if treated with unexpected leniency.
The march to Kaskaskia was accomplished through a hot July sun,
and the town reached on the evening of July 4. He captured the fort
near the village, and soon after the village itself by surprise, and without
the loss of a single man or by killing any of the enemy. After sufficiently
working upon the fears of the natives, Clark told them they were at per-
fect liberty to worship as they pleased, and to take whichever side of the
great conflict they would, also he would protect them from any barbarity
from British or Indian foe. This had the desired effect, and the inhab-
itants, so unexpectedly and so gratefully surprised by the unlocked
for turn of affairs, at once swore allegiance to the American arms, and
when Clark desired to go to Cahokia on the 6th of July, they accom-
panied him, and through their influence the inhabitants of the place
sxirrendered, and gladly placed themselves under his protection. Thus
44 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
the two important posts in Illinois passed from the hands of the English
into the possession of Virginia.
In the person of the priest at Kaskaskia, M. Gibault, Clark found a
powerful ally and generous friend. Clark saw that, to retain possession
of the Northwest and treat successfully with the Indians within its boun-
daries, he must establish a government for the colonies he had taken.
St. Vincent, the next important post to Detroit, remained yet to be taken
before the Mississippi Valley was conquered. M. Gibault told him that
he would alone, by persuasion, lead Vincennes to throw off its connection
with England. Clark gladly accepted his offer, and on the 14th of July,
in company with a fellow-townsman, M. Gibault started on his mission of
peace, and on the 1st of August returned with the cheerful intelligence
that the post on the " Oubache " had taken the oath of allegiance to
the Old Dominion. During this interval, Clark established his courts,
placed garrisons at Kaskaskia and Cahokia, successfully re-enlisted his
men, sent word to have a fort, which proved the germ of Louisville,
erected at the Falls of the Ohio, and dispatched Mr. Rocheblave, who
had been commander at Kaskaskia, as a prisoner of war to Richmond.
In October the County of Illinois was established by the Legislature
of Virginia, John Todd appointed Lieutenant Colonel and Civil Governor,
and in November General Clark and his men received the thanks of
the Old Dominion through their Legislature.
In a speech a few days afterward, Clark made known fully to the
natives his plans, and at its close all came forward and swore alle-
giance to the Long Knives. While he was doing this Governor Hamilton,
having made his various arrangements, had left Detroit and moved down
the Wabash to Vincennes intending to operate from that point in reducing
the Illinois posts, and then proceed on down to Kentucky and drive the
rebels from the West. Gen. Clark had, on the return of M. Gibault,
dispatched Captain Helm, of Fauquier County, Virginia, with an attend-
ant named Henry, across the Illinois prairies to command the fort.
Hamilton knew nothing of the capitulation of the post, and was greatly
surprised on his arrival to be confronted by Capt. Helm, who, standing at
the entrance of the fort by a loaded cannon ready to fire upon his assail-
ants, demanded upon what terms Hamilton demanded possession of the
fort. Being granted the rights of a prisoner of war, he surrendered to
the British General, who could scarcely believe his eyes when he saw the
force in the garrison.
Hamilton, not realizing the character of the men with whom he was
contending, gave up his intended campaign for the Winter, sent his four
hundred Indian warriors to prevent troops from coming down the Ohio,
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 45
and to annoy the Americans in all ways, and sat quietly down to pass the
Winter. Information of all these proceedings having reached Clark, he
saw that immediate and decisive action was necessary, and that unless
he captured Hamilton, Hamilton would capture him. Clark received the
news on the 29th of January, 1779, and on February 4th, having suffi-
ciently garrisoned Kaskaskia and Cahokia, he sent down the Mississippi
a " battoe," as Major Bowman writes it, in order to ascend the Ohio and
Wabash, and operate with the land forces gathering for the fray.
On the next day, Clark, with his little force of one hundred and
twenty men, set out for the post, and after incredible hard marching
through much mud, the ground being thawed by the incessant spring
rains, on the 22d reached the fort, and being joined by his " battoe," at
once commenced the attack on the post. The aim of the American back-
woodsman was unerring, and on the 24th the garrison surrendered to the
intrepid boldness of Clark. The French were treated with great kind-
r.ess, and gladly renewed their allegiance to Virginia. Hamilton was
.sent as a prisoner to Virginia, where he was kept in close confinement.
During his command of the British frontier posts, he had offered prizes
to the Indians for all the scalps of Americans they would bring to him,
and had earned in consequence thereof the title " Hair-buyer General,"
by which he was ever afterward known.
Detroit was now without doubt within easy reach of the enterprising
Virginian, could he but raise the necessary force. Governor Henry being
apprised of this, promised him the needed reinforcement, and Clark con-
cluded to wait until he could capture and sufficiently garrison the posts.
Had Clark failed in this bold undertaking, and Hamilton succeeded in
uniting the western Indians for the next Spring's campaign, the West
would indeed have been swept from the Mississippi to the Allegheny
Mountains, and the great blow struck, which had been contemplated from
the commencement, by the British.
" But for this small army of dripping, but fearless Virginians, the
union of all the tribes from Georgia to Maine against the colonies might
have been effected, and the whole current of our history changed."
At this time some fears were entertained by the Colonial Govern-
ments that the Indians in the North and Northwest were inclining to the
British, and under the instructions of Washington, now Commander-in-
Chief of the Colonial army, and so bravely fighting for American inde-
pendence, armed forces were sent against the Six Nations, and upon the
Ohio frontier. Col. Bowman, acting under the same general's orders,
marched against Indians within the present limits of that State. These
expeditions were in the main successful, and the Indians were compelled
to sue for peace.
46 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
During this same year (1779) the famous " Land Laws" of Virginia
were passed. The passage of these laws was of more consequence to the
pioneers of Kentucky and the Northwest than the gaining of a few Indian
conflicts. These laws confirmed in main all grants made, and guaranteed
to all actual settlers their rights and privileges. After providing for the
settlers, the laws provided for selling the balance of the public lands at
forty cents per acre. To carry the Land Laws into effect, the Legislature
sent four Virginians westward to attend to the various claims, over many
of which great confusion prevailed concerning their validity. These
gentlemen opened their court on October 13, 1779, at St. Asaphs, and
continued until April 26, 1780, when they adjourned, having decided
three .thousand claims. They were succeeded by the surveyor, who
came in the person of Mr. George May, and assumed his duties on the
10th day of the month whose name he bore. With the opening of the
next year (1780) the troubles concerning the navigation of the Missis-
sippi commenced. The Spanish Government exacted such measures in.
relation to its trade as to cause the overtures made to the United States
to be rejected. The American Government considered they had a right
to navigate its channel. To enforce their claims, a fort was erected below
the mouth of the Ohio on the Kentucky side of the river. The settle-
ments in Kentucky were being rapidly filled by emigrants. It was dur-
ing this year that the first seminary of learning was established in the
West in this young and enterprising Commonwealth.
The settlers here did not look upon the building of this fort in a
friendly manner, as it aroused the hostility of the Indians. Spain had
been friendly to the Colonies during their struggle for independence,
and though for a while this friendship appeared in danger from the
refusal of the free navigation of the river, yet it was finally settled to the
satisfaction of both nations.
The Winter of 1779-80 was one of the most unusually severe ones
ever experienced in the West. The Indians always referred to it as the
"Great Cold." Numbers of wild animals perished, and not a few
pioneers lost their lives. The following Summer a party of Canadians
and Indians attacked St. Louis, and attempted to take possession of it
in consequence of the friendly disposition of Spain to the revolting
colonies. They met with such a determined resistance on the part of the
inhabitants, even the women taking part in the battle, that they were
compelled to abandon the contest. They also made an attack on the
settlements in Kentucky, but, becoming alarmed in some unaccountable
manner, they fled the country in great haste.
About this time arose the question in the Colonial Congress con-
cerning the western lands claimed by Virginia, New York, Massachusetts
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 49
and Connecticut. The agitation concerning this subject finally led New
York, on the 19th of February, 1780, to pass a law giving to the dele-
gates of that State in Congress the power to cede her western lands for
the benefit of the United States. This law was laid before Congress
during the next month, but no steps were taken concerning it until Sep-
tember 6th, when a resolution passed that body calling upon the States
claiming western lands to release their claims in favor of the whole body.
This basis formed the union, and was the first after all of those legislative
measures which resulted in the creation of the States of Ohio, Indiana,
Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. In December of the same
year, the plan of conquering Detroit again arose. The conquest might
have easily been effected by Clark had the necessary aid been furnished
him. Nothing decisive was done, yet the heads of the Government knew
that the safety of the Northwest from British invasion lay in the capture
and retention of that important post, the only unconquered one in the
territory.
Before the close of the year, Kentucky was divided into the Coun-
ties of Lincoln, Fayette and Jefferson, and the act establishing the Town
of Louisville was passed. This same year is also noted in the annals of
American history as the year in which occurred Arnold's treason to the
United States.
Virginia, in accordance with the resolution of Congress, on the 2d
day of January, 1781, agreed to yield her western lands to the United
States upon certain conditions, which Congress would not accede to, and
the Act of Cession, on the part of the Old Dominion, failed, nor was
anything farther done until 1783. During all that time the Colonies
were busily engaged in the struggle with the mother country, and in
consequence thereof but little heed was given to the western settlements.
Upon the 4th of July, 1773, the first birth north of the Ohio River of
American parentage occurred, being that of John L. Roth, son of John
Roth, one of the Moravian missionaries, whose band of Christian Indians
suffered in after years a horrible massacre by the hands of the frontier
settlers, who had been exasperated by the murder of several of their
neighbors, and in their rage committed, without regard to humanity, a
deed which forever afterward cast a shade of shame upon their lives.
For this and kindred outrages on the part of the whites, the Indians
committed many deeds of cruelty which darken the years of 1771 and
1772 in the history of the Northwest.
During the year 1782 a number of battles among the Indians and
frontiersmen occurred, and between the Moravian Indians and the Wyau-^
dots. In these, horrible acts of cruelty were practised on the captives,
many of such dark deeds transpiring under the leadership of the notorious
3
50 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
frontier outlaw, Simon Girty, wliose name, as well as those of his brothers,
was a terror to women and children. These occurred chiefly in the Ohio
valleys. Cotemporary with them were several engagements in Kentucky,
in which the famous Daniel Boone engaged, and who, often by his skill
and knowledge of Indian warfare, saved the outposts from cruel destruc-
tion. By the close of the year victory had perched upon the American
banner, and on the 30th of November, provisional articles of peace had
been arranged between the Commissioners of England and her uncon-
querable colonies. Cornwallis had been defeated on the 19th of October
preceding, and the liberty of America was assured. On the 19th of
April following, the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, peace was
proclaimed to the army of the United States, and on the od of the next
September, the definite treaty which ended our revolutionar}^ struggle
was concluded. By the terms of that treaty, the boundaries of the West
were as follows : On the north the line was to extend along the center of
the Great Lakes ; from the western point of Lake Superior to Long Lake ;
thence to the Lake of the Woods ; thence to the head of the Mississippi
River : down its center to the 31st parallel of latitude, then on that line
east to the head of the Appalachicola River ; down its center to its junc-
tion with the Flint ; thence straight to the head of St. Mary's River, and
thence down along its center to the Atlantic Ocean.
Following the cessation of hostilities with England, several posts
were still occupied by the British in the North and West. Among these
was Detroit, still in the hands of the enemy. Numerous engagements
with the Indians throughout Ohio and Indiana occurred, upon whose
lands adventurous whites would settle ere the title had been acquired by
the proper treaty.
To remedy this latter evil, Congress appointed commissioners to
treat with the natives and purchase their lands, and prohibited the settle-
ment of the territory uutil this could be done. Before the close of the
ye?iv another attempt was made to capture Detroit, which was, however,
not pushed, and Virginia, no longer feeling the interest in the Northwest
she had formerly done, withdrew her troops, having on the 20th of
December preceding authorized the whole of her possessions to be deeded
to the United States. This was done on the 1st of March following, and
the Northwest Territory passed from the control of the Old Dominion.
To Gen. Clark and his soldiers, however, she gave a tract of one hundred
and fifty thousand acres of land, to be situated any where north of the
Ohio wherever they choose to locate them. They selected the region
opposite the falls of the Ohio, where is now the dilapidated village of
Clarksville, about midway between the cities of New Albany and Jeffer-
sonville, Indiana.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 51
While the frontier remained thus, and Gen. Haldimand at Detroit
refused to evacuate, alleging that he had no orders from his King to do
so, settlers were rapidly gathering about the inland forts. In the Spring
of 178-1, Pittsburgh was regularly laid out, and from the journal of Arthur
Lee, who passed through the town soon after on his way to the Indian
council at Fort Mcintosh, we suppose it was not very prepossessing in
appearance. He says :
" Pittsburgh is inhabited almost entirely by Scots and Irish, who
live in paltry log houses, and are as dirty as if in the north of Ireland or
even Scotland. There is a great deal of trade carried on, the goods being
brought at the vast expense of forty-five shillings per pound from Phila-
delphia and Baltimore. They take in the shops flour, wheat, skins and
money. There are in the town four attorneys, two doctors, and not a
priest of any persuasion, nor church nor chapel."
Kentucky at this time contained thirty thousand inhabitants, and
was beginning to discuss measures for a separation from Virginia. A
land office was opened at Louisville, and measures were adopted to take
defensive precaution against the Indians, who were yet, in some instances,
incited to deeds of violence by the British. Before the close of this year,
1784, the military claimants of land began to occupy them, although no
entries were recorded until 1787.
The Indian title to the Northwest was not yet extinguished. They
held large tracts of land, and in order to prevent bloodshed Congress
adopted means for treaties with the original owners and provided for the
surveys of the lands gained thereby, as well as for those north of the
Ohio, now in its possession.
On January 31, 1786, a treaty was made with the Wabash Indians.
The treaty of Fort Stanwix had been made in 1784. That at Fort Mc-
intosh in 1785, and through these much land was gained. The Wabash
Indians, however, afterward refused to comply with the provisions of the
treaty made with them, and in order to compel their adherence to its
provisions, force was used.
During the year 1786, the free navigation of the Mississippi came up
in Congress, and caused various discussions, which resulted in no definite
action, only serving to excite speculation in regard to the western lands.
Congress had promised bounties of land to the soldiers of the Revolution,
but owing to the unsettled condition of affairs along the Mississippi
respecting its navigation, and the trade of the Northwest, that body had,
in 1783, declared its inability to fulfill these promises until a treaty could
be concluded between the two Governments.
Before the close of the year 1786, however, it was able, through the
treaties with the Indians, to allow some grants and the settlement
52 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
thereon, and on the 14th of September, Connecticut ceded to the Genera!
Government the tract of land known as the " Connecticut Reserve,"
and before the close of the following year a large tract of land north
of the Ohio was sold to a company, who at once took measures to
settle it.
By the provisions of this grant, the company were to pay the United
States one dollar per acre, subject to a deduction of one-third for bad
lands and other contingencies. They received 750,000 acres, bounded
on the south by the Ohio, on the east by the seventh range of townships,
on the west by the sixteenth range, and on the north by a line so drawn
as to make the grant complete without the reservations. In addi-
tion to this. Congress afterward granted 100,000 acres to actual set-
tlers, and 214,285 acres as army bounties under the resolutions of 1789
and 1790.
While Dr. Cutler, one of the agents of the company, was pressing^
its claims before Congress, that body was bringing into form an ordinance
for the political and social organization of this Territory. When the
cession was made by Virginia, in 1784, a plan was offered, but rejected.
A motion had been made to strike from the proposed plan the prohibition
of slavery, which prevailed. The plan was then discussed and altered,.
and finally passed unanimously, with the exception of South Carolina.
By this proposition, the Territory was to have been divided into states
by parallels and meridian lines. This, it was thought, would make ten
states, which were to have been named as follows — beginning at the
northwest corner and going southwardly : Sylvania, Michigania, Cher-
sonesus, Assenisipia, Metropotamia, Illenoia, Saratoga, Washington, Poly-
potamia and Pelisipia.
There was a more serious objection to this plan than its category of
names, — the boundaries. The root of the difficulty was in the resolu-
tion of Congress passed in October, 1780, which fixed the boundaries
of the ceded lands to be from one hundred to one hundred and fifty miles
square. These resolutions being presented to the Legislatures of Vir-
ginia and Massachusetts, they desired a change, and in July, 1786, the
subject was taken up in Congress, and changed to favor a division into
not more than five states, and not less than three. This was approved by
the State Legislature of Virginia.
The subject of the Government was again taken up by Congress in
1786, and discussed throughout that year and until July, 1787, when the
famous "Compact of 1787" was passed, and the foundation of the gov-
ernment of the Northwest laid. This compact is fully discussed and
explained in the history of Ohio in this book, and to it the reader is re-
ferred.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 53
The passage of this act and the grant to the New England Company
was soon followed by an application to the Government by John Cleves
Symmes, of New Jersey, for a grant of the land between the Miamis.
This gentleman had visited these lands soon after the treaty of 1786, and,
being greatly pleased with them, offered similar terms to those given to
the New England Company. The petition was referred to the Treasury
Board with power to act, and a contract was concluded the following
year.
During the Autumn the directors of the New England Company
were preparing to occupy their grant the following Spring, and upon the
23d of November made arrangements for a party of forty-seven men,
under the superintendency of Gen. Rufus Putnam, to set forward. Six
boat-builders were to leave at once, and on the first of January the sur-
veyors and their assistants, twenty-six in number, were to meet at Hart-
ford and proceed on their journey westward ; the remainder to follow as
soon as possible. Congress, in the meantime, upon the 3d of October,
had ordered seven hundred troops for defense of the western settlers, and
to prevent unauthorized intrusions ; and two days later appointed Arthur
St. Clair Governor of the Territory of the Northwest.
AMERICAN SETTLEMENTS.
The civil organization of the Northwest Territory was now com-
plete, and notwithstanding the uncertainty of Indian affairs, settlers from
the East began to come into the country rapidly. The New England
Company sent their men during the Winter of 1787-8 pressing on over
the Alleghenies by the old Indian path which had been opened into
Braddock's road, and which has since been made a national turnpike
fro)n Cumberland westward. Through the weary winter days they toiled
on, and by April were all gathered on the Youghiogheny, where boats had
been built, and at once started for the Muskingum. Here they arrived
on the 7th of that month, and unless the Moravian missionaries be regarded
as the pioneers of Ohio, this little band can justly claim that honor.
Gen. St. Clair, the appointed Governor of the Northwest, not having
yet arrived, a set of laws were passed, written out, and published by
being nailed to a tree in the embryo town, and Jonathan Meigs appointed
to administer them.
Washington in writing of this, the first American settlement in the
Northwest, said : " No colony in America was ever settled under such
favorable auspices as that which has just commenced at Muskingum.
Information, property and strength will be its characteristics. I know
54 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
many of its settlers personally, and there never were men better calculated
to promote the welfare of such a community."
On the 2d of July a meeting of the directors and agents was held on
the banks of the Muskingum, " for the purpose of naming the new-born
city and its squares." As yet the settlement was known as the " Mus-
kingum," but that was now changed to the name Marietta, in honor
of Marie Antoinette, The square upon which the block-houses stood
was called ^'-Campus Martins;^'' square number 19, ^'- Capitolium ;'"'
square number 61, " Cecilia;^'' and the great road through the covert
way, " Sacra Via.'''' Two days after, an oration was delivered by James
M. Varnum, who with S. H. Parsons and John Armstrong had been
appointed to the judicial bench of the territory on the 16th of October,
1787. On July 9, Gov. St. Clair arrived, and the colony began to assume
form. The act of 1787 provided two district grades of government for
the Northwest, under the first of which the whole power was invested in
the hands of a governor and three district judges. This was immediately
formed upon the Governor's arrival, and the first laws of the colony
passed on the 25th of July. These provided for the organization of
the militia, and on the next day appeared the Governor's proclamation,
erecting all that country that had been ceded by the Indians east of the
Scioto River into the County of Washington. From that time forward^
notwithstanding the doubts yet existing as to the Indians, all Marietta
prospered, and on the 2d of September the first court of the territory was
held with imposing ceremonies.
The emigration westward at this time was very great. The com-
mander at Fort Harmer, at the mouth of the Muskingum, reported four
thousand five hundred persons as having passed that post between Feb-
ruary and June, 1788 — many of whom would have purchased of the
" Associates," as the New England Company was called, had they been
ready to receive them.
On the 26th of November, 1787, S3'-mmes issued a pamphlet stating
the terms of his contract and the plan of sale he intended to adopt. In
January, 1788, Matthias Denman, of New Jersey, took an active interest
in Symmes' purchase, and located among other tracts the sections upon
which Cincinnati has been built. Retaining one-third of this locality, he
sold the other two-thirds to Robert Patterson and John Filson, and the
three, about August, commenced to lay out a town on the spot, which
was designated as being opposite Licking River, to the mouth of which
they proposed to have a road cut from Lexington. The naming of the
town is thus narrated in the " Western Annals" : — " Mr. Filson, who had
been a schoolmaster, was appointed to name the town, and, in respect to
its situation, and as if with a prophetic perception of the mixed race that
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 55
were to inhabit it in after days, he named it Losantiville, which, being
interpreted, means : ville^ the town ; anti, against or opposite to ; os, the
mouth ; L. of Licking."
Meanwhile, in July, Symmes got thirty persons and eight four-horse
teams under way from the West. These reached Limestone (now Mays-
ville) in September, where were several persons from Redstone. Here
Mr. Symmes tried to found a settlement, but the great freshet of 1789
caused the " Point," as it was and is yet called, to be fifteen feet under
water, and the settlement to be abandoned. The little band of settlers
removed to the mouth of the Miami. Before Symmes and his colony left
the " Point," two settlements had been made on his purchase. The first
was by Mr. Stiltes, the original projector of the whole plan, who, with a
colony of Redstone people, had located at the mouth of the Miami,
whither Symmes went with his Maysville colony. Here a clearing had
been made by the Indians owing to the great fertility of the soil. Mr.
Stiltes with his colony came to this place on the 18th of November, 1788,
with twenty-six persons, and, building a block-house, prepared to remain
through the Winter. They named the settlement Columbia. Here they
were kindly treated by the Indians, but suffered greatly from the flood
of 1789.
On the -tth of March, 1789, the Constitution of the United States
went into operation, and on April 30, George Washington was inau-
gurated President of the American people, and during the next Summer,
an Indian war was commenced by the tribes north of the Ohio. The
President at first used pacific means ; but these failing, he sent General
Harmer against the hostile tribes. He destroyed several villages, but
was defeated in two battles, near the present City of Fort Wayne,
Indiana. From this time till the close of 1795, the principal events were
the wars with the various Indian tribes. In 1796, General St. Clair
was appointed in command, and marched against the Indians; but while
he was encamped on a stream, the St. Mary, a branch of the Maumee,
he was attacked and defeated with the loss of six hundred men.
General Wayne was now sent against the savages. In August, 1794,
he met them near the rapids of the Maumee, and gained a complete
victory. This success, followed by vigorous measures, compelled the
Indians to sue for peace, and on the 30th of July, the following year, the
treaty of Greenville was signed by the principal chiefs, by which a large
tract of country was ceded to the United States.
Before proceeding in our narrative, we will pause to notice Fort
Washington, erected in the early part of this war on the site of Cincinnati.
Nearly all of the great cities of the Northwest, and indeed of the
56 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
whole country, have had their nuclei in those rude pioneer structures,
known as forts or stockades. Thus Forts Dearborn, Washington, Pon-
chartrain, mark the original sites of the now proud Cities of Chicago,
Cincinnati and Detroit. So of most of the flourishing cities east and west
of the Mississippi. Fort Washington, erected by Doughty in 1790, was a
rude but highly interesting structure. It was composed of a number of
strongly-built hewed log cabins. Those designed for soldiers' barracks
were a story and a half high, while those composing the officers quarters
were more imposing and more conveniently arranged and furnished.
The whole were so [)laced as to form a hollow square, enclosing about an
acre of ground, with a block house at each of the four angles.
The logs for the construction of this fort were cut from the ground
upon which it was erected. It stood between Third and Fourth Streets
of the present city (Cincinnati) extending east of Eastern Row, now
Broadway, which was then a narrow alley, and the eastern boundary of
of the town as it was originally laid out. On the bank of the river,
immediately in front of the fort, was an appendage of the fort, called the
Artificer's Yard. It contained about two acres of ground, enclosed by
small contiguous buildings, occupied by workshops and quarters of
laborers. Within this enclosure there was a large two-story frame house,
familiarly called the " Yellow House," built for the accommodation of
the Quartermaster General. For many years this was the best finished
and most commodious edifice in the Queen City. Fort Washington was
for some time the headquarters of both the civil and military governments
of the Northwestern Territory.
Following the consummation of the treaty various gigantic land spec-
ulations were entered into by different persons, who hoped to obtain
from the Indians in Michigan and northern Indiana, large tracts of lands.
These were generally discovered in time to prevent the outrageous
schemes from being carried out, and from involving the settlers in war.
On October 27, 1795, the treaty between the United States and Spain
was signed, whereby the free navigation of the Mississippi was secured.
No sooner had the treaty of 1795 been ratified than settlements began
to pour rapidly into the West. The great event of the year 1796 was the
occupation of that part of the Northwest including Michigan, which was
this year, under the provisions of the treaty, evacuated by the British
forces. The United States, owing to certain conditions, did not feel
justified in addressing the authorities in Canada in relation to Detroit
and other frontier posts. When at last the British authorities were
called to give them up, they at once complied, and General Wayne, who
had done so much to preserve the frontier settlements, and who, before
the year's close, sickened and died near Erie, transferred his head-
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 57
quarters to the neighborhood of the lakes, where a county named after
him was formed, whicli included the northwest of Ohio, all of Michicran,
und the northeast of Indiana. During this same year settlements were
formed at the present City of Chillicothe, along the Miami from Middle-
town to Piqua, while in the more distant West, settlers and speculators
began to appear in great numbers. In September, the City of Cleveland
was laid out, and during the Summer and Autumn, Samuel Jackson and
Jonathan Sharpless erected the first manufactory of paper — the " Red-
stone Paper Mill" — in the West. St. Louis contained some seventy
houses, and Detroit over three hundred, and along the river, contiguous
to it, were more than three thousand inhabitants, mostly French Canadians,
Indians and half-breeds, scarcely any Americans venturing yet into that
part of the Northwest.
The election of representatives for the territory had taken place,
and on the 4th of February, 1799, they convened at Losantiville — now
known as Cincinnati, having been named so by Gov. St. Clair, and
considered the capital of the Territory — to nominate persons from whom
the members of the Legislature were to be chosen in accordance with
a previous ordinance. This nomination being made, the Assembly
adjourned until the 16th of the following September. From those named
the President selected as members of the council, Henry Vandenburg,
of Vincennes, Robert Oliver, of Marietta, James Findlay and Jacob
Burnett, of Cincinnati, and David Vance, of Vanceville. On the 16th
of September the Territorial Legislature met, and on the 24th the two
bouses were duly organized, Henry Vandenburg being elected President
of the Council.
The message of Gov. St. Clair was addressed to the Legislature
September 20th, and on October 13th that body elected as a delegate to
Congress Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison, who received eleven of the votes
cast, being a majority of one over his opponent, Arthur St. Clair, son of
Gen. St. Clair.
The whole number of acts passed at this session, and approved by
the Governor, were thirty-seven — eleven others were passed, but received
his veto. The most important of those passed related to the militia, to
the administration, and to taxation. On the 19th of December this pro-
tracted session of the first Legislature in the West was closed, and on the
30th of December the President nominated Charles Willing Bryd to the
office of Secretary of the Territory vice Wm. Henry Harrison, elected to
Congress. The Senate confirmed his nomination the next day.
58 THE NOKTHWEST TERRITORY.
DIVISION OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
The increased emigration to the Northwest, the extent of the domain,
and the inconvenient modes of travel, made it very difficult to conduct
the ordinary operations of government, and rendered the efficient action
of courts almost impossible. To remedy this, it was deemed advisable to
divide the territory for civil purposes. Congress, in 1800, appointed a
committee to examine the question and report some means for its solution.
This committee, on the 3d of March, reported that :
"In the three western countries there has been but one court having
cognizance of crimes, in five years, and the immunity which offenders^
experience attracts, as to an asylum, the most vile and abandoned crim-
inals, and at the same time deters useful citizens from making settlements
in such society. The extreme necessity of judiciary attention and assist-
ance is experienced in civil as well as in criminal cases. * * * * Xo
minister a remedy to these and other evils, it occurs to this committee
that it is expedient that a division of said territory into two distinct and
separate governments should be made ; and that such division be made
by a line beginning at the mouth of the Great Miami River, running
directly north until it intersects the boundary between the United States
and Canada."
The report was accepted by Congress, and, in accordance with its
suggestions, that body passed an Act extinguishing the Northwest Terri-
tory, which Act was approved May 7. Among its provisions were these :
" That from and after July 4 next, all that part of the Territory of
the United States northwest of the Ohio River, which lies to the westward
of a line beginning at a point on the Ohio, opposite to the mouth of the
Kentucky River, and running thence to Fort Recovery, and thence north
until it shall intersect the territorial line between the United- States and
Canada, shall, for the purpose of temporary government, constitute a
separate territory, and be called the Indiana Territory."
After providing for the exercise of the civil and criminal powers of
the territories, and other provisions, the Act further provides:
" That until it shall otherwise be ordered by the Legislatures of the
said Territories, respectively, Chillicothe on the Scioto River shall be the
seat of government of tlie Territory of the United States northwest of the
Ohio River; and that St. Vincennes on the Wabash River shall be the
seat of government for the Indiana Territory."
Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison was appointed Governor of the Indiana
Territory, and entered upon his duties about a year later. Connecticut
also about this time released her claims to the reserve, and in March a law
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. O^
was passed accepting this cession. Settlements had been made upon
thirty-five of the townships in the reserve, mills had been built, and seven
hundred miles of road cut in various directions. On the 3d of November
the General Assembly met at Chillicothe. Near the close of the year^
the first missionary of the Connecticut Reserve came, who found no
township containing more than eleven families. It was upon the first of
October that the secret treaty had been made between Napoleon and the
King of Spain, whereby the latter agreed to cede to France the province
of Louisiana.
In January, 1802, the Assembly of the Northwestern Territory char-
tered the college at Athens. From the earliest dawn of the western
colonies, education was promptly provided for, and as early as 1787.
newspapers were issued from Pittsburgh and Kentucky, and largely read
throughout the frontier settlements. Before the close of this year, the
Congress of the United States granted to the citizens of the Northwestern
territory the formation of a State government. One of the provisions of
the "compact of 1787" provided that whenever the number of inhabit-
ants within prescribed limits exceeded 45,000, they should be entitled to
a separate government. The prescribed limits of Ohio contained, from a
census taken to ascertain the legality of the act, more than that number,
and on the 30th of April, 1802, Congress passed the act defining its limits.
and on the 29th of November the Constitution of the new State of Ohio,
so named from the beautiful river forming its southern boundary, came
into existence. The exact limits of Lake Michigan were not then known,
but the territory now included within the State of Michigan was wholly
within the territory of Indiana.
Gen. Harrison, while residing at Vincennes, made several treaties
with the Indians, thereby gaining large tracts of lands. The next year is
memorable in the history of the West for the purchase of Louisiana from
France by the United States for $15,000,000. Thus by a peaceful mode,
the domain of the United States was extended over a large tract of
country west of the Mississippi, and was for a time under the jurisdiction
of the Northwest government, and, as has been mentioned in the early
part of this narrative, was called the "New Northwest." The limit.s
of this history will not allow a description of its territory. The same year
large grants of land were obtained from the Indians, and the House of
Representatives of the new State of Ohio signed a bill respecting the
College Township in the district of Cincinnati.
Before the close of the year. Gen. Harrison obtained additional
grants of lands from the various Indian nations in Indiana and the present
limits of Illinois, and on the 18th of August, 1804, completed a treaty at
St. Louis, whereby over 61,000,000 acres of lands were obtained from the
(30 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
aborigines. Measures were also taken to learn the condition of afifairs in
and about Detroit.
C. Jouett, the Indian agent in Michigan, still a part of Indiana Terri-
tory, reported as follows upon the condition of matters at that post :
" The Town of Detroit. — The charter, which is for fifteen miles
square, was granted in the time of Louis XIV. of France, and is now,
from the best information I have been able to get, at Quebec. ^ Of those
two hundred and twenty-five acres, only four are occupied by the town
and Fort Lenault. The remainder is a common, except twenty-four
acres, which were added twenty years ago to a farm belonging to Wm.
Macomb. * * * A stockade incloses the town, fort and citadel. The
pickets, as well as the public houses, are in a state of gradual decay. The
streets are narrow, straight and regular, and intersect each other at right
angles. The houses are, for the most part, low and inelegant."
During this year. Congress granted a township of land for the sup-
port of a college, and began to offer inducements for settlers in these
wilds, and the country now comprising the State of Michigan began to
fill rapidly with settlers along its southern borders. This same year, also,
a law was passed organizing the Southwest Territory, dividing it into two
-portions, the Territory of New Orleans, which city was made the seat of
government, and the District of Louisiana, which was annexed to the
domain of Gen. Harrison.
On the 11th of January, 1805, the Territory of Michigan was formed,
Wm. Hull was appointed governor, with headquarters at Detroit, the
change to take effect on June 30. On the 11th of that month, a fire
occurred at Detroit, which destro5^ed almost every building in the place.
When the officers of the new territory reached the post, they found it in
ruins, and the inhabitants scattered throughout the country. Rebuild-
ing, however, soon commenced, and ere long the town contained more
houses than before the fire, and many of them much better built.
While this was being done, Indiana had passed to the second grade
of government, and through her General Assembly had obtained large
tracts of land from the Indian tribes. To all this the celebrated Indian,
Tecumthe or Tecumseh, vigorously protested, and it was the main cause
of his attempts to unite the various Indian tribes in a conflict with the
settlers. To obtain a full account of these attempts, the workings of the
British, and the signal failure, culminating in the death of Tecumseh at
the battle of tlie Thames, and the close of the war of 1812 in the Northwest,
we will step a^ide in our story, and relate the principal events of his life,
iind his connection with this conflict.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. Ql
TECUMSEH, AND THE WAR OF 1812.
This famous Indian chief was born about the year 1768, not far from^
the site of the present city of Springfield, Ohio. His fiither, Puckeshinwa,
was a member of the Kisopok tribe of the Swanoese nation, and his-
mother, Methontaske, was a member of the Turtle tribe of the same
people. They removed from Florida about the middle of the last century
to the birthplace of Tecumseh. In 1774, his father, who had risen to be
chief, was slain at the battle of Point Pleasant, and not long after Tecum-
seh, by his bravery, became the leader of his tribe. In 1795 he was
declared chief, and then lived at Deer Creek, near the site of the
present City of Urbana. He remained here about one year, when he
returned to Piqua, and in 1798, he went to White River, Indiana. In
1805, he and his brother, Laulewasikan (Open Door), who had announced
himself as a prophet, went to a tract of land on the Wabash River, given
them by the Pottawatomies and Kickapoos. From this date the chief
comes into prominence. He was now about thirty-seven years of age,
was five feet and ten inches in height, was stoutly built, and possessed of
enormous powers of endurance. His countenance was naturally pleas-
ing, and he was, in general, devoid of those savage attributes possessed
by most Indians. It is stated he could read and write, and had a confi-
dential secretary and adviser, named Billy Caldwell, a half-breed, who-
afterward became chief of the Pottawatomies. He occupied the first
house built on the site of Chicago. At this time, Tecumseh entered
upon the great work of his life. He had long objected to the grants of
land made by the Indians to the whites, and determined to unite all the
Indian tribes into a league, in order that no treaties or grants of land
could be made save by the consent of this confederation.
He traveled constantly, going from north to south ; from the south
to the north, everywhere urging the Indians to this step. He was a
matchless orator, and his burning words had their effect.
Gen. Harrison, then Governor of Indiana, by watching the move-
ments of the Indians, became convinced that a grand conspiracy was
forming, and made preparations to defend the settlements. Tecumseh's
plan was similar to Pontiac's, elsewhere described, and to the cunning
artifice of that chieftain was added his own sagacity.
During the year 1809, Tecumseh and the prophet were actively pre-
paring for the work. In that year. Gen. Harrison entered into a treaty
with the Delawares, Kickapoos, Pottawatomies, Miamis, Eel River Indians
and Weas, in which these tribes ceded to the whites certain lands upon
the Wabash, to all of which Tecumseh entered a bitter protest, averring
62 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
as one principal reason that he did not want the Indians to give up any
lands north and west of the Ohio River.
Tecumseh, in August, 1810, visited the General at Vincennes and
held a council relating to the grievances of the Indians. Becoming unduly
angry at this conference he was dismissed from the village, and soon after
departed to incite the southern Indian tribes to the conflict.
Gen. Harrison determined to move upon the chief's headquarters at
Tippecanoe, and for this purpose went about sixty-five miles up the
Wabash, where he built Fort Harrison. From this place he went to the
Prophet's town, where he informed the Indians he had no hostile inten-
tions, provided they were true to the existing treaties. He encamped
near the village early in October, and on the morning of November 7, he
was attacked by a large force of the Indians, and the famous battle of
Tippecanoe occurred. The Indians were routed and their town broken
up. Tecumseh returning not long after, was greatly exasperated at his
brother, the Prophet, even threatening to kill him for rashly precipitating
the war, and foiling his (Tecumseh's) plans.
Tecumseh sent word to Gen. Harrison that he was now returned
from the South, and was ready to visit the President as had at one time
previously been proposed. Gen. Harrison informed him he could not
go as a chief, which method Tecumseh desired, and the visit was never
made. In June of the following year, he visited the Indian agent at
Fort Wayne. Here he disavowed any intention to make a war against
the United States, and reproached Gen. Harrison for marching against his
people. The agent replied to this ; Tecumseh listened with a cold indif-
ference, and after making a few general remarks, with a haughty air drew
his blanket about him, left the council house, and departed for Fort Mai-
den, in Upper Canada, where he joined the British standard.
In the Summer of 1813, Perry's victory on Lake Erie occurred, and
shortly after active preparations were made to capture Maiden. On the
•27th of September, the American army, under Gen. Harrison, set sail for
the shores of Canada, and in a few hours stood around the ruins of Mai-
den, from which the British army, under Proctor, had retreated to Sand-
wich, intending to make its way to the heart of Canada by the Valley of
the Thames. On the 29th Gen. Harrison was at Sandwich, and Gen.
Mc Arthur took possession of Detroit and the territory of Michigan.
The pursuit of Proctor began October 2. He was overtaken on the
5th at the Thames. Tecumseh fell * in that battle and British power
was forever broken, Canada alone being left them, as the Americans had
no orders to follow up their victory eastward. Burr's incipient
insurrection of 1805 was quelled, and the murderer of the eloquent
Hamilton driven from his beautiful island fortress in the Ohio River.
* Supposed at the tands of Col. R. M. Johnson of Kentucky.
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 63
In January, 1807, Governor Hull, of Michigan Territory, made a
treaty with the Indians, whereby all that peninsula was ceded to the
United States. Before the close of the year, a stockade was built about
Detroit. It was also during this year that Indiana and Illinois endeavored
to obtain the repeal of that section of the compact of 1787, whereby
slavery was excluded from the Northwest Territory. These attempts,
however, all signally failed.
In 1809 it was deemed advisable to divide the Indiana Territory,
This was done, and the Territory of Illinois was formed from the western
part, the seat of government being fixed at Kaskaskia. The next year,
the intentions of Tecumseh manifested themselves in open hostilities, and
then began the events already narrated.
While this war was in progress, emigration to the West went on with
surprising rapidity. In 1811, under Mr. Roosevelt of New York, the
first steamboat trip was made on the Ohio, much to the astonishment of
the natives, many of whom fled in terror at the appearance of the
*' monster." It arrived at Louisville on the 10th day of October. At the
close of the first week of January, 1812, it arrived at Natchez, after being
nearly overwhelmed in the great earthquake which occurred while on its
downward trip.
The battle of the Thames was fought on October 6, 1813. It
effectually closed hostilities in the Northwest, although peace was not
fully restored until July 22, 1814, when a treaty was formed at Green-
ville, under the direction of General Harrison, between the United States
and the Indian tribes, in which it was stipulated that the Indians should
cease hostilities against the Americans if the war were continued. Such,
happily, was not the case, and on the 24th of December the treaty
of Ghent was signed by the representatives of England and the United
States. This treaty was followed the next year by treaties with various
Indian tribes throughout the West and Northwest, and quiet was again
restored in this part of the new world.
On the 18th of March, 1816, Pittsburgh was incorporated as a city.
It then had a population of 8,000 people, and was already noted for its
manufacturing interests. On April 19, Indiana Territory was allowed
to form a state government. At that time there were thirteen counties
organized, containing about sixty-three thousand inhabitants. The first
election of state officers was held in August, when Jonathan Jennmgs
was chosen Governor. The officers were sworn in on November 7, and
on December 11, the State was formally admitted into the Union. For
some time the seat of government was at Cory don, but a more central
location being desirable, the present capital, Indianapolis (City of Indiana),
was laid out January 1, 1825.
64 THE NORTHWEST TEREITORf.
On the 28th of December the Bank of Illinois, at Shawneetown, was
chartered, with a capital of $300,000. At this period all banks were
under the control of the States, and were allowed to establish branches
at different convenient points.
Until this time Chillicothe and Cincinnati had in turn enjoyed the
privileges of being the capital of Ohio. But the rapid settlement of the
northern and eastern portions of the State demanded, as in Indiana, a
more central location, and before the close of the year, the site of Col-
umbus was selected and surveyed as the future capital of the State.
Banking had begun in Ohio as early as 1808, when the first bank wa*
chartered at Marietta, but here as elsewhere it did not bring to the state
the hoped-for assistance. It and other banks were subsequently unable
to redeem their currency, and were obliged to suspend.
In 1818, Illinois was made a state, and all the territory north of her
northern limits was erected into a separate territory and joined to Mich-
igan for judicial purposes. By the following year, navigation of the lakes
was increasing with great rapidity and affording an immense source of
revenue to the dwellers in the Northwest, but it was not until 1826 that
the trade was extended to Lake Michigan, or that steamships began to
navigate the bosom of that inland sea.
Until the year 1832, the commencement of the Black Hawk War,,
but few hostilities were experienced with the Indians. Roads were
opened, canals were dug, cities were built, common schools were estab-
lished, universities were founded, many of which, especially the Michigan
University, have achieved a world wide-reputation. The people were
becoming wealthy. The domains of the United States had been extended,
and had the sons of the forest been treated with honesty and justice, the
record of many years would have been that of peace and continuous pros-
perity.
BLACK HAWK AND THE BLACK HAWK WAR.
This conflict, though confined to Illinois, is an important epoch in
the Northwestern history, being the last war with the Indians in this part
of the United States.
Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiah, or Black Hawk, was born in the principal
Sac village, about three miles from the junction of Rock River with the
Mississippi, in the year 1767. His father's name was Py-e-sa or Pahaes ;
his grandfatiier's, Na-na-ma-kee, or the Thunderer. Black Hawk early
distinguished himself as a warrior, and at the age of fifteen was permitted
to paint and was ranked among the braves. About the year 1783, he
went on an expedition against the enemies of his nation, the Osages, one
THE NORTHWEST TERRTTORT. 65
of whom he killed and scalped, and for this deed of Indian bravery he was
permitted to join in the scalp dance. Three or four years after he, at the
head of two hundred braves, went on another expedition against the
Osages, to avenge the murder of some women and children belonging to
his own tribe. Meeting an equal number of Osage warriors, a fierce
battle ensued, in which the latter tribe lost one-half their number. The
Sacs lost only about nineteen warriors. He next attacked the Cherokees
for a similar cause. In a severe battle with them, near the present City
of St. Louis, his father was slain, and Black Hawk, taking possession of
the " Medicine Bag," at once announced himself chief of the Sac nation.
He had now conquered the Cherokees, and about the year 1800, at the
head of five hundred Sacs and Foxes, and a hundred lowas, he waged
war against the Osage nation and subdued it. For two years he battled
successfully with other Indian tribes, all of whom he conquered.
Black Hawk does not at any time seem to have been friendly to
the Americans. When on a visit to St. Louis to see his " Spanish
Father," he declined to see any of the Americans, alleging, as a reason^
he did not want two fathers.
The treaty at St. Louis was consummated in 1804. The next year the
United States Government erected a fort near the head of the Des Moines
Rapids, called Fort Edwards. This seemed to enrage Black Hawk, who
at once determined to capture Fort Madison, standing on the west side of
the Mississippi above the mouth of the Des Moines River. The fort was
garrisoned by about fifty men. Here he was defeated. The difficulties
with the British Government arose about this time, and the War of 1812
followed. That government, extending aid to the Western Indians, by
giving them arms and ammunition, induced them to remain hostile to the
Americans. In August, 1812, Black Hawk, at the head of about five
hundred braves, started to join the British forces at Detroit, passing on
his way the site of Chicago, where the famous Fort Dearborn Massacre
had a few days before occurred. Of his connection with the British
Government but little is known. In 1813 he with his little band descended
the Mississippi, and attacking some United States troops at Fort Howard
was defeated.
In the early part of 1815, the Indian tribes west of the Mississippi
were notified that peace had been declared between the United States
and England, and nearly all hostilities had ceased. Black Hawk did not
sign any treaty, however, until May of the following year. He then recog-
nized the validity of the treaty at St. Louis in 1804. From the time of
signing this treaty in 1816, until the breaking out of the war in 1832, he
and his band passed their time in the common pursuits of Indian life.
Ten years before the commencement of this war, the Sac and Fox
66 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
Indians were urged to join the lowas on the west bank of the Father of
Waters. All were agreed, save the band known as the British Band, of
which Black Hawk was leader. He strenuously objected to the removal,
and was induced to comply only after being threatened with the power of
the Government. This and various actions on the part of the white set-
tlers provoked Black Hawk and his band to attempt the capture of his
native village now occupied by the whites. The war followed. He and
his actions were undoubtedly misunderstood, and had his wishes been
acquiesced in at the beginning of the struggle, much bloodshed would
have been prevented.
Black Hawk was chief now of the Sac and Fox nations, and a noted
warrior. He and his tribe inhabited a village on Rock River, nearly three
miles above its confluence with the Mississippi, where the tribe had lived
many generations. When that portion of Illinois was reserved to them,
they remained in peaceable possession of their reservation, spending their
time in the enjoyment of Indian life. The fine situation of their village
and the quality of their lands incited the more lawless white settlers, who
from time to time began to encroach upon the red men's domain. From
one pretext to another, and from one step to another, the crafty white
men gained a foothold, until through whisky and artifice they obtained
deeds from many of the Indians for their possessions. The Indians were
finally induced to cross over the Father of Waters and locate among the
lowas. Black Hawk was strenuously opposed to all this, but as the
authorities of Illinois and the United States thought this the best move, he
was forced to comply. Moreover other tribes joined the whites and urged
the removal. Black Hawk would not agree to the terms of the treaty
made with his nation for their lands, and as soon as the military, called to
enforce his removal, had retired, he returned to the Illinois side of the
river. A large force was at once raised and marched against him. On
the evening of May 14, 1832, the first engagement occurred between a
band from this army and Black Hawk's band, in which the former were
defeated.
This attack and its result aroused the whites. A large force of men
was raised, and Gen. Scott hastened from the seaboard, by way of the
lakes, with United States troops and artillery to aid in the subjugation of
the Indians. On the 24th of June, Black Hawk, with 200 warriors, was
repulsed by Major Demont between Rock River and Galena. The Ameri-
can army continued to move up Rock Rivei- toward the main body of
the Indians, and on the 21st of July came upon Black Hawk and his band,
and defeated them near the Blue Mounds.
Before this action. Gen. Henry, in command, sent word to the main
army by whom he was immediately rejoined, and the whole crossed the
THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 67
Wisconsin in pursuit of Black Hawk and his band who were fleeing to the
Mississippi. They were overtaken on the 2d of August, and in the battle
which followed the power of the Indian chief was completely broken. He
fled, but was seized by the Winnebagoes. and delivered to the whites.
On the 21st of September, 1832, Gen. Scott and Gov. Reynolds con-
cluded a treaty with the Winnebagoes, Sacs and Foxes by which they
ceded to the United States a vast tract of country, and agreed to remain
peaceable with the whites. For the faithful performance of the provi-
sions of this treaty on the part of the Indians, it was stipulated that
Black Hawk, his two sons, the prophet Wabokieshiek, and six other chiefs
of the hostile bands should be retained as hostages during the pleasure
of the President. They were confined at Fort Barracks and put in irons.
The next Spring, by order of the Secretary of War, they were taken
to Washington. From there they were removed to Fortress Monroe,
*' there to remain until the conduct of their nation was such as to justify
their being set at liberty." They were retained here until the 4th of
June, when the authorities directed them to be taken to the principal
cities so that they might see the folly of contending against the white
people. Everywhere they were observed by thousands, the name of the
old chief being extensively known. By the middle of August they
reached Fort Armstrong on Rock Island, where Black Hawk was soon
after released to go to his countrymen. As he passed the site of his birth-
place, now the home of the white man, he was deeply moved. His village
where he was born, where he had so happily lived, and where he had
hoped to die, was now another's dwelling place, and he was a wanderer.
On the next day after his release, he went at once to his tribe and
his lodge. His wife was yet living, and with her he passed the remainder
of his days. To his credit it may be said that Black Hawk always re-
mained true to his wife, and served her with a devotion uncommon among
the Indians, living with her upward of forty years.
Black Hawk now passed his time hunting and fishing. A deep mel-
ancholy had settled over him from which he could not be freed. At all
times when he visited the whites he was received with marked atten-
tion. He was an honored guest at the old settlers' reunion in Lee County,
IHinois, at some of their meetings, and received many tokens of esteem.
In September, 1838, while on his way to Rock Island to receive his
annuity from the Government, he contracted a severe cold which resulted
in a fatal attack of bilious fever which terminated his life on October 3.
His faithful wife, who was devotedly attached to him, mourned deeply
during his sickness. After his death he was dressed in the uniform pre-
sented to him by the President while in Washington. He was buried in
a grave six feet in depth, situated upon a beautiful eminence. " The
€8 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY.
body was placed in the middle of the grave, in a sitting posture, upon a
seat constructed for the purpose. On his left side, the cane, given him
by Henry Clay, was placed upright, with his right hand resting upon it.
Many of the old warrior's trophies were placed in the grave, and some
Indian garments, together with his favorite weapons J "
No sooner was the Black Hawk war concluded than settlers began
rapidly to pour into the northern parts of Illinois, and into Wisconsin,
now free from Indian depredations. Chicago, from a trading post, had
grown to a commercial center, and was rapidly coming into prominence.
In 1835, the formation of a State Government in Michigan was discussed,
but did not take active form until two years later, when the State became
a part of the Federal Union.
The main attraction to that portion of the Northwest lying west of
Lake Michigaa^now included in the State of Wisconsin, was its alluvial
wealth. Copper ore was found about Lake Superior. For some time this
region was attached to Michigan for judiciar}^ purposes, but in 1836 was
made a territory,, then including Minnesota and Iowa. The latter State
was detached two years later. In 1848, Wisconsin was admitted as a
State, Madison being made the capital. We have now traced the various
divisions of the Northwest Territory (save a little in Minnesota) from
the time it was a unit comprising this vast territory, until circumstances
compelled its present division.
69
POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES.
STATES AND
AREA IN
SQUARE
MILES.
POPULATION.
MIL'S
R. R.
1882.
STATES AND
TERRITORIES.
AREA IN
SQUARE
MILES.
POPULATION.
MIL'S
R. R.
1882.
TERRITORIES.
1870.
1880.
1870.
1880.
STATES.
50,722
52,198
188,981
996,992
484,471
560,247
1,262,505
8u2,uz6
864,694
194,327
6^2,700
146,608
269,493
1,542,180
3,077,871
1,978,301
1,624,615
996,096
1,648,690
939,9*6
648,9.36
934,943
1,783,085
1,606,93;
780,773
1,131,597
2,168,380
452,402
62,26b
346,991
1,802
1,011
2,266
2,274
958
278
793
2,581
8,325
4,764
6,112
3,718
1,714
999
1,021
1,047
1,934
4,2t>3
3,390
1,231
4,211
2,310
890
1,0Z5
STATES.
Oregon
95,244
46,000
1,306
29,385
45,600
237,504
10,212
40,904
23,000
53,924
90,923
3,521,791
217,353
705,606
1,258,520
818,579
330,551
1,225,163
442,014
1,054,670
174,768
4,282,891
276,631
995,577
1,542,359
1,591,749
332,286
1,512,565
618,457
1,315,497
689
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
6,690
211
South Carolina
Tennessee
1,483
4,674
2,120
59,268
58,000
55,410
33,809
55.0t5
81,3i8
37,6wU
41,346
31,776
11,184
7,8u0
56,451
83,531
47,156
65,350
75,995
112,090
9,280
8,320
47,000
50,704
39,964
537,454
125,015
187,748
1,184,109
2,539,891
1,680,6.37
1,191,792
364,399
l,3:il,011
7^6,915
626,915
7o0,894
1,457,351
1,184,059
4d9,706
827,922
1,721,295
123,993
42,491
318,.300
906,096
4,382,759
1,071,361
2,665,260
1,973
5,344
Florida
Vermont
915
Virginia
2,193
IlllncMS
West Virginia
Wisconsin
711
Indiana
3,441
Iowa
Total States
TERRITORIES.
Arizona
1,950,171
113,916
104,500
147,490
60
90,932
143,776
121,201
80,056
69,944
93,107
38,113,253
9,658
39,864
14,181
131,700
14,999
20,595
91,874
86,786
23,955
9,118
40,440
557
Maryland
Colorada
135,177
177,624
32,610
39,159
119,565
143,963
75,116
20,789
1,638
Michigan
DistrictofColumbia
Idaho
265
231
New Mexico
975
Utah
908
479
New Hampshire
533
Total Territories.
Aggregate of U. S...
5,082,871 16,278
1,399,750 1,619
965,032
442,730
North Carolina
2,915,203
38,555,983|50,155,783
'
PRINCIPAL COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD.
POPULATION AND AREA.
COUNTRIES.
POPULATION
China
British India
Russia
United States— with Alaska.
German Empire
Turkey
Austria and Hungary
France
.Japan
Great Britain and Ireland-
Italy
Egypt
Spain
Mexico
Brazil
Persia
Sweden and Norway
Belgium
Roumania •.
Portugal
Dominion of Canada
Netherlands
Switzerland
Peru
Bolivia
Chili
Venezuela
Greece
Denmark
Argentine Confederation
Servia
Guatemala
Ecuador
Liberia
Hayti...
San Sahador
Uruguay
Nicaragua
Honduras
San Domingo
Gosta Rici
,627,183
,899,516
,297,407
,442,066
,234,061
,213,400
,786,246
,405,240
,925,313
,262,762
,452,639
1,952,000
.,625,860
1,025,649
',883,622
,653,600
;,497,245
i,519,844
1,290,000
,.348,551
,324,810
:,n4,077
1,846,102
1,699,945
1,300,000
:,223,434
:,075,245
,979,305
,969,039
>, 859,685
1,700,211
1,252,497
1,066,137
1,050,000
800,000
554,785
438,245
350,000
350,000
300,000
180,000
AREA OF
SQUARE
MILES.
4,413,788
1,425,723
8,387,816
3,602,990
212,091
2,396,692
240,942
204,092
148,700
120.879
114,296
1,406,250
182,750
743,948
3,287,963
610,000
293,848
11,373
48,307
36,510
3,470,392
12,648
15,992
.503,718
207,350
439,120
25,041
13,784
1,204,486
20,850
41,830
248,372
14,300
10,204
7,225
73,5.38
49,500
39,600
18,045
26,040
Pekin
Calcutta
St Petersburg (1881)..
Washington
Berlin
Constantinople
Vienna
Paris
Yeddo
London
Florence
Cairo
Madrid
Mexico
Rio de Janiero
Teheran
Stockholm
Bucharest
Lisbon
Ottawa
Amsterdam
Geneva
Lima
La Paz
Santiago
Caraccas
Athens
Copenhagen
Buenos Ayres (1881)
Belgrade
Santiago de Guatemala .
Quito..
Monrovia
Port au Prince
San Salvador
jNIontevideo ,
Managua ,
Tegucigalpa.
San Jose.
;,000,000
500,000
876,575
147,293
,122,360
800,000
,103,857
;,269,023
200,000
:,764,312
169,000
250,000
397,690
315,996
274,972
200,000
168,775
350,000
221,805
246,343
27,412
328,047
68,320
101,488
387,081
60,000
63,374
234,850
289,925
27,000
55,728
70,000
13,000
22,000
18,500
73,353
8,000
12,000
10,000
2,500
POPULATION OF OHIO BY COUNTIES.
The State
Adams . . .
COUNTIES
Ashland
Ashtabula. . .
Athens
Auglaize ...
Belmont . . . .
Brown
Butler
Carroll
Champaign .
Clark
Clermont . . .
Clinton
Columbiana
Coshocton . .
Crawford . . .
Cuyahoga . .
Darke
Defiance . . . .
Delaware . . .
Erie.
Fairfield .
Fayette . . ,
Franklin .
Fulton ...
Gallia
Geauga. . .
Greene
aOlGuernsey ,
31 'Hamilton
32IHancock .
33jHardin ...
34 Harrison .
35lHenry ....
36|Highland-
37| Hocking .
38lHolmes ..
39| Huron ...
40!jackson ,
Jefferson
Knox
Lake
Lawrence . .
Licking
Logan
Lorain
Lucas
Madison
Mahoning —
Marion
Medina
Meigs
Mercer
Miami
Monroe
Montgomery.
Morgan
Morrow
Muskingum .
Noble
Ottawa
Paulding
Perry
Pickaway . . .
Pike
Portage
Preble
Putnam
Richland ....
Ross
Sandusky
Scioto
Seneca
r Summit
J Trumbull ...
) Tuscarawas .
80 Union
Van Wert . . .
Vinton
Warren
Washington .
Wayne
Williams . . . .
Wood
88 Wyandot ...
21746
■■8479'
158-20
3717
■7639'
16633
6316
10292
"'im
7791
105'29
28827
17867
27142
12131
13114
20466
11436
35592
11161
4791
16345
4008
9135
13341
5941
224S9
17085
4645
15999
5297
8429
13149
4253
15719
4037S
21590
13152
31924
10984
25049
16291
230
24006
24068
2851
8740
5159
?671
26153
1429S
3192
49
18352
11452
8277
19688
18521
31938
20852
2248
1034
19344
19725
19482
5189
44532
27460
10182
1119-2
18128
12154
at603
22560
38107
25631
84-22
1577
1766
20775
21006
10953
24419
21736
7-221
30879
30490
31761
12204
19185
22951
31814
21364
25300
33031
21461
14043
-2-2043
15817
26197
•24474
216410
22886
13570
19110
17941
■26115
27735
15576
23-249
37011
20996
29744
25831
13015
25894
15490
2-2517
26534
14104
29959
25741
52230
22119
20445
44416
20751
7016
4945
19678
12808
31158
35071
21429
24-297
30868
17493
32517
23768
20041
39714
30802
39912
14491
24188
13-2010
32278
15719
25175
28188
31133
17170
18177
28532
21759
29188
31001
16184
20092
31465
17254
3-2740
25779
64006
8544
18453
24875
15447
24584
21809
17031
32516
37097
25503
29302
30827
a074g
52508
34674
18730
158-23
15027
40609
35116
20991
24596
37139
28411
25144
49633
329U
4'25T9
1641-;
27817
4194S
36713
ai756
4860-2
2664-2
305*3
196943
4049^
22515
27:«I
2105:5
28124
14251
31-349
27197
313374
27784
27023
20456
20585
30-281
21128
20T76
31609
23686
33013
27431
163-26
39063
40450
21808
36158
26496
78550
20074
19072
49774
21133
19762
13485
28218
27415
17927
27500
24533
2:3713
36306
40307
32057
335U
2-2375
23028
17-223
PART II.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
GOVERNORS.
From the organization of the first civil government in the Northwest Territory, of which the State of Ohio
was a part, until the year 1884.
Term, Two Years.
NAME.
COUNTY. 1 TERM. 1
NAME.
COUNTY.
TERM.
Arthur St Clair (1)
1788-1802
1802-1803
1803-1807
1807-1808
1808-1810
1810-1814
1814
1814-1818
1818-1822
1822
1822-1826
1826-1830
1830-1832
1832-1836
1836-1838
1838-1840
1840-1842
1842-1844
1844
Mordecai Bartley . .
Richland
1844-1846
Charles W. Byrd (2)
Edward TiflBn (3)
Hamilton
Ross
William Bebb
Seabury Ford (8)
ftoaiiiT!.
1849 1850
Reuben Wood (9) Cnvahop-a
1850-1853
Samuel Huntington
Return Jonathan Meigs (5)..
Othniel Looker*
Trumbull
Washington
Hamilton
William MediO (10)
Salmon P. Chase
William Dennison
Fairfield
1853-1856
Hamilton
Franklin
1856-1860
Mahoning
Cuyahoga
Montgomery....
Trumbull
Hamilton
Hamilton
Highland
Warren
1864-1865
Allen Trimble*
(^harles Andersonf
1865-1866
Jeremiah Morrow
Jacob D Coic
1866-1868
Allen Trimble
Highland
Rutherford B. Hayes
1868-1872
Robert Lucas
Pike
William Allen
Rutherford B. Hayes (12)....
1874-1876
Joseph Vance
Wilson Shannon
Champaign
Belmont
Sandusky
1876-1877
1877 1878
Belmont
Richland
Charles Foster
George Hoadly
Thomas W. Bartley*
Hamilton
1884-
(1) Arthur St. Clair, of Pennsylvania, was Governor of the Northwest Territory, of which Ohio was a part,
from July 13, 1788, when the first civil government was established in the Territory, until about the close of
the year 1802, when he was removed by the President.
(2) Secretary of the Territory, and was acting Governor of the Territory after the removal of Gov. St.
Clair.
(3) Resigned March 3, 1807, to accept the office of United States Senator.
(4) Return Jonathan Meigs was elected Governor on the second Tuesday of October, 1807, over Nathaniel
Massie, who contested the election of Meigs on the ground "that he had not been a resident of this State for
four years next preceding the election as required by the Constitution," and the General Assembly, in joint
convention, decided that he was not eligible. The oifice was not given to Massie, nor does it appear from the
records that he claimed it, but Thomas Kirker, Acting Governor, continued to discharge the duties of the otfice
until December 12, 1808, when Samuel Huntington was inaugurated, he having been elected on the second
Tuesday of October in that year.
(5 1 Resigned March 25, 1814, to accept the office of Postmaster-General of the United States.
(6) Resigned January 4, 1822, to accept the office of United States Senator.
(7) Resigned April 13, 1S44, to accept the office of Minister to Mexico.
(8) The result of the election in 1848 was not finally determined in joint convention of the two houses of
the General Assembly until January 19, 1849, and the inauguration did not take place until the 22d of that
month.
(9) Resigned July 15, 1853, to accept the office of Consul to'Valparaiso.
(10) Elected in October, 1853, for the regular term, to commence on the second Monday of January, 1854.
(11) Died August 29, 1865.
(12) Resigned March 2, 1877, to accept the office of President of the United States.
* Acting Governor. Succeeded to office, being the Speaker of the Senate.
t Acting Governor. Succeeded to office, being the Lieutenant-Governor.
72
HI8T0EY OF OHIO.
IT is not our province in a volume of this description, to delineate the chronol-
ogy of prehistoric epochs, or to dwell at length upon those topics pertaining
to the scientific causes Avhich tended to the formation of a continent, undiscov-
ered for centuries, by the wisdom and energy of those making a history of the
Old World, hy the advancement of enlightenment in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Naturally, the geological formation of the State of Ohio cannot he entirely
separated from facts relative to the strata, which, in remote ages accumulated
one layer above the other, and finally constituted a "built-up" America, from
a vast sea. The action of this huge body of water washed sedim-ent and what-
ever came in its way upon primitive rocks, which were subjected to frequent
and repeated submersions, emerging as the water subsided, thus leaving a
stratum or layer to solidify and mark its number in the series — a system of
growth repeated in trees of the forest — in those descernible rings that count so
many years. The southeastern part of North America emerging a second
time from the Silurian Sea, which extended west to the Rocky Mountains and
north to the primitive hills of British America, a succession of rock-bound,
salt-water lakes remained. These covered a large portion of the continent, and
their water evaporating, organic and mineral matter remained to solidifyo This
thick stratum has been designated by geologists as the water-lime layer. This
constitutes the upper layer of rock in the larger portion of the west half of
Ohio. In other sections it forms the bed rock.
Following the lime-rock deposit, must have been more frequent sweeps of
the great sea, since the layers are comparatively thin, proving a more speedy
change. During this scientific rising and falling of the sea, other actions were
taking place, such as volcanic and other influences which displaced the regular-
ity of the strata, and occasionally came out in an upheaval or a regular perpen-
dicular dip. A disturbance of this character formed the low mountain range
extending from the highlands of Canada to the southern boundary of Tennes-
see. This "bulge" is supposed to be the consequence of the cooling of the
earth and the pressure of the oceans on either side of the continent. Geolo-
gists designate this as the Cincinnati arch. This forms a separation between
the coal fields of the Alleghanies and those of Illinois.
Passing over several periods, we reach the glacial, during which the topog-
raphy of the continent was considerably modified, and which is among the
latest epochs of geology, though exceedingly remote as compared with human
73
74 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
history. Previously, a torrid heat prevailed the entire Northern hemisphere.
Now the temperature of the frigid zone crept southward until it reached Cincin-
nati. A vast field of ice, perhaps hundreds of feet thick, extended from the
north pole to this point. As this glacial rigor came southward, the flow of
the St, Lawrence River was stopped, and the surplus water of the great lake
basin was turned into the Ohio and Mississippi. This glacial sea was by no
means stationary even after its southern limit had been reached. It possessed
the properties of a solid and a fluid. Its action was slow but powerful, grind-
ing mountains to powder and forming great valleys and basins. Separating
into two glacial portions, one moved toward the watershed north of the Ohio
River ; and, continuing westerly, it hollowed out the basin of Lake Erie and
crushed the apex of the Cincinnati arch. From this point, it turned south-
ward and swept with a regular course through the INIaumee and Miami Valleys
to the Ohio River. The southern border constantly melting, and flowing toward
the Gulf of Mexico, the great field was pressed forward by the accumulation*
of ice in the northern latitudes. Thus for ages, this powerful force was fitting
the earth for the habitation of man. The surface was leveled, huge rocks
broken and reduced to pebbles, sand, clay, etc., other soil and surface-material —
while the debris was embedded at the bottom. Li some sections, as the ice
melted and freed the bowlders and rocks, the lighter material was swept away.
The glacier moving forward, and the forces proving an " equilibrium," the
edge of this ice-field was held in a solid stronghold, and the material thus de-
posited forms a ridge, called by geologists "terminal moraine," first exemplified
in Ohio by the "Black Swamp," in the Maumee Valley.
The most extreme rigor of this period beginning to wane, the ice of the
Maumee and Miami Valleys began to move slowly forward, toward the north,
reaching the points now termed Hudson, Mich.; Fort Wayne, Ind., and Kenton,
Ohio — reaching somewhat further south than Lima and Van "Wert. The edge of
the glacier was defined in outline by the present western border of Lake Erie, and
parallel with it. Climatic influences " acting and counteracting," the glacial
force was concentrated, the Maumee Valley being subjected to a grinding proc-
ess, and a deposit of material going on, which now forms the boundary of the
"Black Swamp." As our readers are aware, the waters of the St. Joseph and
St. Mary's meet at Fort "Wayne, and their united waters form the Maumee ;
thence the turn is northwest, and, wearing an outlet through the ridge, it
reaches the head of Lake Erie.
The torrid zone yet gaining the ascendency, the ice-fields continuing their
reverse motion, and retreating toward the north, the basin of the great lakes
was formed ; and the blocks of ice melting therein, a vast sea of fresh water was
formed, which gradually overflowed a portion of Canada and Michigan. But
the St. Lawrence, that important outlet, was under the restraint of an ice
blockade, and the surplus water of the fresh sea was turned into the Ohio and
and Mississippi.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 75
Later, mountains of ice-float were drifted from the north by winds and cur-
rents, into temperate latitudes, and melting, deposited rocks, stones and general
debris. Following the iceberg-drift, came the permanent elevation above the ocean-
level. The St. Lawrence outlet was formed. The inland sea was assuming its
division into lakes. The united waters of Erie and Huron flowed through the
Wabash Valley and into the Ohio, until, through some agency, that section was
dry, and the lakes drained in another direction. The action of the glacial
period in the Erie basin -sdcinity created what is known as the " Niagara lime-
stone," by grinding upper strata and drifting the debris elsewhere. This seems
to have occurred at intervals, exposures being made in Seneca, Sandusky and
Wood Counties, and beneath the axis of the Cincinnati arch. Oriskany lime-
stone is also available in another stratum, which has been brought to the surface.
Again, there is a carboniferous stratum of limestone, and along the Maumee is
a thin exposure of the Hamilton limestone and shale.
A glacier having both fluid and solid properties, it will readily be compre-
hended that obdurate projections of rock resisted its action, and created currents
in other directions, for its forces. When this specified epoch had ceased to be,
Ohio was a rough, irregular and crude mixture of ridges and knobs and pinnacles^
which were " leveled up " and finished by iceberg-drift and inland-sea deposits.
This settled and accumulated, and the work of hundreds of years produced a
beautiful sui-face, its inequalities overcome, the water having receded and " terra
firma" remaining. A deep bed of clay, sufficiently compact to hold the germs
of organic matter, and sufficiently porous to absorb moisture, was especially
adapted to encourage the growth of vegetation. These seeds had been brought
by the winds and waves and natural agencies, and now began to produce plants
and shrubs, which withered to enrich the soil, after scattering broadcast seeds
that would again perpetuate verdure. Worms, land crabs and burrowing ani-
mals assisted in the creation of soil, while the buffalo, deer and bear followed,
as soon as forestry appeared. Decomposed foliage and fallen timber aided in
the great work of preparing the present State of Ohio for the habitation of man.
Prairie, marsh, forest, rivers and lakes were formed, which, in turn, were modi-
fied and prepared for a grand destiny by other influences.
In glancing over the compiled histories of Ohio, those containing details of
her early struggles, afflictions and triumphs, we are especially impressed with
its near and sympathetic relation with the great Northwest, and the republic of
the United States of America. From the early years when white men built
their rude cabins in the then tangled wilderness, to the opulent and magnificent
present of this united nation, Ohio has been stanch, loyal and earnest, both
in action and principle.
We shall endeavor to trace the history of the State concisely and accurately,
according to the data given by the most reliable historians. We are obliged to
glean the prominent events only, our space being limited, compared with the
multitudinous interests connected with this important part of the United States,
76 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
FRENCH HISTORY.
All through early French history, is the fact especially prominent, that in
their explorations and expeditions, they united piety and business. They were
zealous in sending out their missionaries, but they were always attended by
traders and those who were as skilled in the world's profit and loss, as their
companions were in propagating Christianity.
Prior to the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers upon Plymouth Rock, the
Upper Lakes were visited by the French, and records prove that during the first
half of the seventeenth century, a vagabondish set, working in the interests of
the fur company of New France, understood the geographical position of the
lakes and their tributary streams. M. Perrot, an intelligent explorer, made
overtures of peace to the Indian tribes around these bodies of water, and
effected a treaty, which, it is claimed, established the right for the French, in
the name of their king, to hold the place near St. Mary's Falls. They further
assert that the Mississippi was discovered by the French from Lake Superior,
but this is not authenticated, and Father Marquette and M. Joliet are accepted
as the first who found this large stream, in 1763. The good missionary won
his way with his patient and sympathetic nature.
Ohio was, like the other portions of the West, originally in the possession
of aborigines or Indians. Of their origin, many suppositions are advanced,
but no certainties sustained. From practical evidences, the Mound-Builders
were active in Ohio, and here as elsewhere, their work marked retrogression
rather than advancement. The territory of Ohio was claimed by the French,
and included in that wide tract between the Alleghanies and the Rockies, held
by them under the name of Louisiana. Before the year 1750, a French trad-
ing-post was established at the mouth of the Wabash, and communication was
established between that point and the Maumee, and Canada. Between the
years 1678 and 1682, the intrepid La Salle and Father Hennepin, assisted by
Fondi, an Italian, with a small band of followers, inaugurated a series of
explorations about the great lakes and the Mississippi, building forts on their
way and planting the French priority. In 1680, La Salle erected a stockade at
the foot of the rapids of the Maumee, which Avas a general rendezvous for mission-
aries, traders and explorers, besides constituting a primitive "stock exchange."
The English colonies were at this time east of the AUeghanies, while the
French were establishing themselves west of this range, gaining an entrance
north and south, the two portions separated by hostile and barbarous foes.
La Salle's spirit of adventure led him into new fields, but Father Hennepin
was detailed to investigate that part of the world now known as the State of
Ohio. The records assert that he- published a volume containing an account of
his observations "in the country between New Mexico and the frozen ocean,"
in 1684, together with maps of Lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan, and a plat
•of the larg-er streams in Ohio.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 77
Apparently, the French more speedily comprehended the value of their
advantages in the New World than the English, and vigorously inaugurated and
sustained commercial and religious projects. They were essentially benefited
by the mediation of the Catholic priests between settlers and Indians, this
really earnest class everywhere ingratiating themselves with the savages. The
Order of Jesuits were very vigorous, and representatives were stationed at every
trading-post, village and settlement. The English colonists engaged mostly in
ao-riculture, while the French took a lively interest in the fur trade with the
natives, probably from their former settlement in Quebec and thereabouts, where
the climate is advantageous for this business. This added to the influence of
the priests, and the natural assimilation of French and the Indians, through
the tact and amiability of the former, the French possessions gained more
rapidly than the English or Spanish. They courted their daughters and
married them. They engaged in feasts and trades, and took advantage of
those unimpeded times to extend their dominion with surprising celerity. A
chain of trading, missionary and military posts extended from New Orleans to
Quebec, by way of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, thence via Mackinaw and
Detroit to Lakes Erie and Ontario. This route was shortened thereafter by
following the Ohio River to the Wabash, following the latter upward, and
down the Maumee to Lake Erie.
About the same time, and to check the advancement of the French, the
Ohio Company was formed by the English. This was an outgrowth of the
contest between these two nations for the ascendency, whether empire, settle-
ment or individual. After thirty years' peace between these two nations,
"King George's War" opened the campaign in 1744, but terminated in 1748,.
the treaty at Aix-la-Chapelle unfortunately omitting a settlement of any division
of claims in America. The English, French and Spanish were the first to
enter America, and the right of possession by each monarch or empire was
held by right of a first discovery. The only right that England could advance-
regarding Ohio was that the portion of the Six Nations found in the Ohia
Valley had placed some of their lands under British jurisdiction, and that other
portions had been purchased at Lancaster, Penn., by means of a treaty with
the same nations. All this was strenuously denied and ignored by the French.
Thus several conflicting influences swept carnage over fair Ohio. The Indians were
allied to one side and the other, and were against each other. The Indians and
French would advance against the English, and they, in retaliation, would
make a raid into the Indian territory and overcome a French settlement.
Whenever they could as well, Indians would take the cause in their own keep-
ing and fight each other. The wide, verdant fields of Ohio were drenched
ghastly red under a glowing sun, and the great forests echoed moans from the
dying and distressed. The English colonists had partially overcome their
deprivation, caused by a struggle for subsistence, and means to guard against
the savages— this distress augmented by campaigns against Canada— by their
78 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
increased numbers and wealth, but were now alarmed by the French rule in
America, which gained so rapidly, unmolested as it was by Indian raids and
other devastating circumstances. A constant conflict was going on between
Lake Erie and the Upper Ohio. Atrocities and massacres were committed
indiscriminately, which opened the way for a desperate class of marauders and
villains from the colonies and European States. These people enlisted with
the Indians on either side for the purpose of leadership and plunder. Every
fortification, trading-post and settlement was garrisoned or deserted, and the
ground betAveen the Alleghanies and the Maumee became a conflict field, rife
with thrilling deeds, sacrifice and adventures, the half never having been
chronicled, and many heroes falling uncrowned by even a lasting memory, since
during these times the. people kept few annals, and cared less for historical
memories than anything on earth. They were living, and dying, and struggling,
and that was more than they could carry through safely. The French formed
a road from the Ohio River to Detroit, via the foot of the Lower Rapids of the
Maumee, and the foot of the Lower Rapids of the Sandusky.
The Ohio Company obtained a charter under English views, from the
British Government, with a grant of 6,000 acres of land on the Ohio. The
English now reverted to the times of the Cabots, and protested that by right
they held the entire country between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, bounded
by those parallels of latitude defining their Atlantic coast settlements. France
claimed the region drained by the Mississippi and tributaries, the great lakes
and their tributaries, the area being west of the Alleghanies. Ohio was thus
included in the disputed tract.
The Ohio Company was formed in 1748, by a number of Virginians and
Londoners, two brothers of George Washington taking conspicuous parts in the
movement ; Thomas Lee was especially active. When the surveys were begun,
the Governor of Canada entered vigorous protests, and indicated his displeasure
by a prompt line of posts from Erie to Pittsburgh, named respectively, Presque
Isle, Le Boeuf, Vedango, Kittaning and Du Quesne. The latter was begun
by the English, captured by the French, and by them completed.
The first English settlement of which we can find traces was a block-house
at Piqua, about the year 1752. It was attacked, and a bitter struggle ensued,
resulting in the death of fourteen of the assailants. Those within the garrison
suffered severely, many being burned, and the remainder captured and dis-
patched to Canada.
In 1753, the French and Indian war actively began. It did not extend
beyond the American continent until 1756, when the home governments took
an interest in its progress beyond encouraging their respective colonists to pur-
sue the war-path to a direful finale for their adversaries. For four years, the
French captured and conquered, spreading terror wherever they went, and
they followed every Englishman that set his foot on Ohio soil to the death.
We may state that these people had not retained their civilized habits, and
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 79
constant association with savages had embued them with barbarous methods of
warfare which were sickening and revolting to the English, and to which they
could not resort. It is highly probable that French success was vastly brought
about by these means, together with the assistance of their Indian allies. In
1758, when the English hope was almost exterminated, the elder Pitt being
placed at the head of the administration, a new and energetic system was
inaugurated, wise measures instituted, and military science triumphed over
savage cunning and French intrigue. The first brilliant English achievement
was the conquest of Canada. When the home governments interfered, the
war assumed the character of a French and English conflict, regardless of
Indian right, yet the tribes continued to participate in the carnage.
A certain Christian, Frederick Post, a Moravian missionary, located upon
the Muskingum, near Beavertown. Heckewelder consented to become his
associate. The Indians receiving them kindly, under conditions that Post
should serve as tutor, this missionary began clearing a field for the purpose of
planting corn for sustenance. This did not accord with Indian logic. They
had stipulated that he teach and he was planting corn, which to them was a
signal of the coming of other whites, the building of a fort and encroachments
upon the Indians. They referred to the French priests, who were in good
physical condition, did not till land, but were in charge of the Great Spirit
who provided for them, a conclusive proof to them that when divine work was
acceptable to the Great Spirit, priests were somehow sustained by other than
the plans which disturbed their great hunting-grounds. However, they
allowed him a small space, and he remained with them, preaching and teaching
during the summer of 1762, when, accompanied by one of the principal chiefs,
he returned to Lancaster, Penn., where a treaty was concluded. On his return
to his post, he was met by Heckewelder, who imparted the tidings that friendly
Indians had warned him that the war was about to sweep over their section,
and destruction awaited them if they remained. The mission was accordingly
abandoned. This failure was not so bitter as the English effort to sustain their
trading-post in 1749, on the Great Miami, afterward called Laramie's store.
It pursued a feeble existence until 1752, when a French raid upon the Twig-
twees and English colonists proved fatal.
A European treaty now excluded the French from any rights to make
treaties with the Indians, and the English, in their flush of victory after Pitt's
succession, assumed the authority over Indians and lands. The savages did
not accept the situation with anything resembling the gentle spirit of resigna-
tion, and the Ottawa chief, Pontiac, led the several tribes into a general war
against the intruders. It was no longer French and English, but Indian and
English, the former being instigated and assisted many times by the French,
now desperate and unscrupulous in a mad spirit for revenge.
The intention of the Indians was to drive the whites east of the mountains,
destroying their numerous strongholds in Pennsylvania and Virginia, if they
80 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
failed in their hope of utterly exterminating them. Pontiac had effected a
consolidation of the tribes ranging from Mackinaw to North Carolina, thus
being enabled to swoop down upon all the settlements simultaneously. A
deadly beginning was made in the Ohio Valley, and only two or three English
traders escaped out of the one hundred and twenty located in that vicinity.
The forts at Presque Isle, St. Joseph and Mackinaw, were captured amid scenes
of slaughter too terrible to perpetuate in description. The years 1763 and
1764 were literally drenched in human carnage and anguish. Ohio was a
great field of crime, murder, pain and horror. The expeditions of Bradstreet
and Bouquet crushed the war in 1764, and Pontiac with his Ottawas removed
to the Maumee and settled. English settlement now progressed with great
rapidity, but this was destined to be disturbed in 1774, by the action of Lord
Dunmore, who led an expedition against the tribes of the Ohio country, termi-
nated by his treaty on the Scioto plains. At this period, the colonists were not
in strict harmony with England, and the spirit of revolution was spreading
every day.
When Lord Dunmore made his treaty, the afiirmation was made and gained
ground that he, being a thorough loyalist, had compromised under such terms
as held the Indians British allies against the settlers. Directly following this
treaty, was the deliberate murder of a number of Indians, near Wheeling,
including the family of the great chief, Logan — which inaugurated retaliating
atrocities.
In the year 1773, July 4, the first white child was born within the
present limits of Ohio, and was christened John L. Roth, son of a Mora-
vian missionary. All the settlers of these Moravian towns on the Muskingum
were made prisoners in September of the same year. Heckwelder was trans-
ported to Detroit, but English tyranny failed to find any evidence against him
or his colaborers, and they were reluctantly released, and returned to their fam-
ilies in Sandusky. Poverty added to their sufferings, and in the forlorn
hope of finding a remnant of their property at the old settlements, which might
assist in mitigating their necessities, they Avearily went thitherward. They
began gathering their grain, but the Wyandots attacked them, and many lives
were lost. Frontiersmen had also grown jealous of them, and a body of about
ninety marched out together, for the fiendish purpose of pillaging, slaughtering
and laying waste all Moravian towns and posts. With the wily insidiousness of
savages, they went about their diabolical plan. The Moravians were cordial and
bade this band welcome, when they reached their towns in the guise of friend-
ship. Williamson, the leader, and the gleaners, were called from the fields,
Avhen, to the dismay of these trusting and frank people, they were all bound,
and only fifteen out of the marauding band of ninety were in favor of even
sparing the lives of these hapless men, women and children. Forty men,
twenty-two women and thirty-four children were then cruelly and heartlessly
murdered, their sufferings laughed to scorn, and the last sound that fell on their
^''^
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r^tn v^ yi^^/'cK^
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 88
ears was exultant derision. Succeeding this tragic event was the expedition
against the Indian towns upon the Sandusky. The hostile Indians had been
making frequent incursions upon the settlements of Western Pennsylvania and
Virginia, destroying both life and property. There seemed to be no bounds
to their bloody work, and it became necessary, for the peace and safety of the
settlers, to take some measures to prevent their outrages. Accordingly, in
May, 1782, Gen. William Irvine, who was then commander of the Western
Military Department, with headquarters at Fort Pitt, called a council of the
officers of his department to meet at Fort Pitt. At this meeting it was de-
cided to form and equip a body of men, and make an expedition into the
Indian country. Upper Sandusky, then the rendezvous of the hostile Wyan-
dots, Delawares, Shawanese and Mingoes, was to be the point of attack.
Col. William Crawford led the expedition, which counted 480 men. Warn-
ing had in some manner reached the towns, and the troops found them de-
serted. But the Indians were incensed, and their wrath had not driven them
to hiding-places, but to a preparation to meet their foes. They fought desper-
ately, and Crawford's troops were defeated and scattered, many being capt-
ured, and among them Col. Crawford himself. It is hardly probable that
Crawford could justly expect much mercy at the hands of his captors. Ac-
counts state that Crawford implored the aid of Girty, and at last secured a
promise to use his power to obtain the Colonel's pardon. However, this was of
no avail, and it is doubtful whether Girty was disposed to intercede. The
prisoners were tortured and put to death, and Crawford's agonies were pro-
tracted as long as possible. Dr. Knight managed to disable the Indian who
had him in charge, and made his escape to the settlements, where he related
the result of the expedition and the tortures of the captured.
On October 27, 1784, a treaty was concluded at Fort Stanwix, with the
Bachems and warriors of the Mohawks, Onondagas, Senecas, Cayugas, Onei-
das and Tuscaroras, and the Six Nations then ceded to the Colonial Govern-
ment all claims to the country west of a line defined by the western boundary
to the Ohio — thus rendering the Indian claim to a large portion of Ohio lands
practically extinct.
Although the French and Indian war was a series of heart-rending events,
it was a serious and remarkable school of discipline for the untrained troops
which soon engaged in the Revolutionary struggle. On the fields of Ohio, many
valuable officers, who earned distinction in the war of independence, learned
their first lessons in intrepid valor.
During the Revolution, the colonial troops were engaged east of the mount-
ains, and western settlements and frontier people were left alone to defend
themselves and their property against encroachments and attacks.
The Indian tribes again became belligerent, and united with the English
against the " Americans." The latter held a line of posts along the Upper
Ohio, while the British were stationed in- the old French strongholds on the
lakes and the Mississippi. The unscrupulous whites and Indians ranged at ran-
dom between this boundary and the Cuyahoga, thence southerly to the Ohio,
84 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
thus including the Scioto and Miami Valleys. Southeastern Ohio constituted
"the neutral ground."
Gen. Clarke's expedition, although chiefly confined to Indiana and Illinois,
greatly influenced the settlement of Ohio. His exploits and the resolution of
his troops were chiefly instrumental in holding the country west of the Alle-
ghanies, and insuring its possession by the United States during the Revolution.
The British had been emphatic, in the Paris treaty, at the time of the settlement
of the French and English difficulties, in demanchng the Ohio River as the
northern boundary of the United States. The American Commissioners relied
upon Gen. Clarke's valor and energy in holding the country Avest of the Alle-
ghanies, which he had conquered, and the British Commissioners were compelled
to give their consent, under civil and military measures. In 1783, by the
treaty of Paris, at the close of the Revolutionary war, the English relinquished
all rights to the fertile territory between the Alleghanies and the Mississippi,
and the United States held undisputed possession.
January 10, 1786, Gens. Rufus Putnam and Benjamin Tupper circulated a
pamphlet, proposing the formation of a company for the purpose of settling the
Ohio lands, and soliciting the attention and consideration of all those desiring a
future home and prosperity. A meeting was also called, to assemble during the
following February, and select delegates to represent each county in IMassachu-
setts. These dignitaries should convene during the month of March, at the
" Bunch of Grapes " tavern, in Boston, for the purpose of definitely forming the
association, and adopting such measures as would benefit all directly interested.
The meeting and " convention " followed, and the subscription books were opened.
One million dollars, chiefly represented by Continental certificates, was the
price of the land. The shares were valued at $1,000 each, and there was a
division of a thousand shares. The first payment was to be $10 per share, this
money to be set aside for such expenses as might accrue. A year's interest was
to be devoted to the establishment of the settlement, and those families who
were unable to incur the expense of moving were to be assisted. Those who
purchased shares to the number of twenty were entitled to a representation by
an agent, who was permitted to vote for Directors. This plan matured and was
acted upon during the following year. It may be that the action of Connecti-
cut, in ceding her territorial claims to the General Government, with few excep-
tions, greatly encouraged this new undertaking. That tract was, until recently,
designated the " Western Reserve " — an extent 170 miles from the western
boundary of Pennsylvania, and parallel thereto, being reserved.
On October 27, 1787, a contract was made between the Board of the Treas-
ury, for the .United States, and Manasseh Cutler and Winthrop Sargent, agents
for the Directors of the New England Ohio Company, for the purchase of a tract
of land, bounded by the Ohio, and from the mouth of the Scioto to the inter-
section of the western boundary of the seventh townships, then surveying ;
thence by said boundary to the northern boundary of the tenth township from
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 85
the Ohio ; thence, by a due west line, to the Scioto ; thence, by the Scioto, to
the beginning.
However fertile and attractive Ohio was known to have been, settlement did
not gain rapidly after the close of the war with England, although the United
States has gained her freedom. It was more than six years after Cornwallis
laid doAvn his sword, before a white settlement was formed on the Ohio side of the
river. The French and Indian war had incited the English to be jealous of her
colonial conquests, and mistrusting their loyalty, they had, so soon as the Frencli
claims were annulled, taken measures to crush all colonial claims also, and a
royal proclamation rescinded all colonial land grants and charters, holding all
the country west of the sources of the Atlantic rivers under the protection and
sovereignty of tl:e king of Great Britain, for the use of the Indians. All white
persons were forbidden to remain or settle within the prescribed limits. Parlia-
ment then attached this tract to Quebec, and the English Government felt assured
that the thirteen colonies were restricted and held secure east of the Alleghanies.
The result of the war between the colonies and England did not constitute
an Indian treaty. Although England signed over her title and right, the sava-
ges held the land and ignored all white agreements, one way or the other.
Whenever an attempt at settlement was undertaken, Indian depredations proved
disastrous. The tribes were encouraged by the English fur traders, and the
English commandant at Detroit incited them to destroy all Americans who
attempted to usurp the rights of red men.
Added to this serious difficulty was the unsettled debate regarding State
claims, which rendered a title precarious. A treaty, signed at Fort Mcintosh,
previous to the war, and authenticated, shows that during the conflict the Dela-
wares and Wyandots occupied the Indian and British frontier, on the southern
shore of Lake Erie, from the Cuyahoga to the Maumee, and from the lake to
the sources of its tributaries. Later, these two tribes ceded to the United
States "the neutral ground," by warranty deed, and by quit-claim, the terri-
tory south and west of the described tract, set apart for their use.
By special measures, the grant of Congress in the matter of the Ohio Com-
pany extended to nearly 5,000,000 acres, valued at $3,500,000. The original
Ohio Company obtained 1,500,000 acres, the remaining being reserved by indi-
viduals, for private speculation.
The same year. Congress appointed Arthur St. Clair, Governor, and Win-
throp Sargent, Secretary, of the Territory.
Fort Harmar had previously been built, at the mouth of the Muskingum,
and in 1788, a New England colony attempted the "Muskingum settlement,"
on the opposite side, which was afterward named Marietta. In July, 1788, the
Territorial ofiicers were received in this village, and there established the first
form of civil government, as set forth in the Ordinance of 1787. Three United
States Judges were appointed, and Courts of Common Pleas, Probate and
Justice were established.
86 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
If the stormy times were supposed to be of the past, that composure was
rudely broken by the utter disregard of the Shawnee and other Indian tribes,
who soon induced the Delawares and Wyandots to repudiate their consent in the
matter of settlement. The miseries of frontier horrors were repeated. The
British commandant at Detroit instigated many of these hostilities, yet the
American Government took honorable action in assuring the English represent-
ative that American military preparations in the West was not an expedition
against Detroit, or other British possessions, although the possession of Detroit
by that nation was in direct opposition to the treaty of 1783. Gov. St. Clair,
to avert the direful consequences of a border war, dispatched a Frenchman,
Gameline, to the principal Indian towns of the "Wabash and Maumee countries,
to request them to meet the United States agents, and make a compromise for
the benefit of both parties, at the same time reiterating the desire of the General
Government to adhere to the Fort Harmar treaty. The Miamis, Shawnees,
Ottawas, Kickapoos and Delawares received this representative kindly, but
declined the wampum sent by the Governor, and deferred giving an answer
until they had considered the subject with the " father at Detroit."
Blue Jacket, chief of the Shawnees, informed the Frenchman that the Indi-
ans doubted the sincerity of the Americans. The new settlement on the Ohio
was a proof that the whites intended to crowd further and further, until the
Indians were again and again robbed of their just right. He then emphatically
asserted that unless the north side of the river was kept free from these inroads
there could be no terms of peace with the Shawnees, and many other tribes.
Blue Jacket was unusually intelligent and sagacious, and expressed himself
eloquently. He was persistent in his determination to engage in the war of
extermination, should the white settlements continue north of the Ohio.
These overtures were continued, but they failed in producing any arrange-
ment that permitted the whites to locate north of the Ohio.
Congress called upon Kentucky and Pennsylvania to lend the aid of their
militia. Gen. Harmar was instructed to destroy the Miami villages at the
head of the Maumee. Late in the fall of 1790, he executed this order.
The Indians had stored a large quantity of provisions, in expectation of a
campaign, and this dependence was devastated. Without authority, and with
undue carelessness, he divided his army and attempted to achieve other victo-
ries. He more than lost what he had gained. Two raids upon the Wabash In-
dians, thereafter, proved successful, but the campaign under Gov. St. Clair was
not calculated to establish peace or obtain power, and was deemed but little less
than a failure.
The year 1792 was a series of skirmishes, so far as a settlement was con-
cerned, but 1793 succeeded well enough to convene a meeting of United States
Commissioners and representatives of the hostile tribes, at the rapids of the
Maumee. It is highly probable that a satisfactory treaty might have been
arranged, had it not been for the intervention and malicious influence of the
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 87
British Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Col. McKee, his assistant Capt.
Elliott, and the notorious Capt. Simon Girty, who instigated the savages to
deeds more horrible than their own barbarisms.
It was evident that a severe struggle must ensue, and Capt. Wayne, in
1792, appointed to the command of the Western army, was called upon to con-
duct the campaign. He exhibited his wisdom in the beginning, by preparing
his men in military discipline and fully equipping them before marching to meet
a savage foe in a wilderness. Various causes detained the army, and it was not
until the fall of 1793, that the force marched from Fort Washington (Cincin-
nati) to begin the battle.
It was already late in the season, and, before any progress had been made,
the army went into winter quarters at Greenville, on a branch of the Big
Miami.
In the mean time, the Ohio Company had not matured its practical " settle-
ment plan," although a generous grant had been obtained. In 1792, they
received a clear title to 750,000 acres of land, for which the full price had pre-
viously been paid, in Continental currency. Congress set aside 214,285 acres
as army bounties, and 100,000 acres to actual settlers. The two latter appro-
priations joined that of the Ohio Company.
There had been numerous conventions, discussions and other fruitless
attempts to somehow form a plan for the government of the Northwest Terri-
tory, but it was not until July 13, 1787, that an ordinance was passed, and that
was the result of Dr. Cutler's efforts. Every State sustained its measures.
This ordinance was the foundation of the constitution of the future State of
Ohio, and indeed, permeates the entire Northwestern creed.
ORDINANCE OF 1787.— No. 32.
An Ordinance for the Government of the Territory of the United States, Northwest of
THE Ohio River.
Be it ordained hy the United States in Congress assembled, That the said Territory, for the pur-
pose of government, be one district ; subject, however, to be divided into two districts, as future cir-
cumstances may, in the opinion of Congress, make it expedient.
J3e it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That the estates of both resident and non-resident
proprietors in the said Territory, dying intestate, shall descend to and be distributed among their
children and the descendants of a deceased child, in equal parts; the descendants of a deceased
child or grandchild to take the share of their deceased parent in equal parts among them. And
when there shall be no children or descendants, then in equal parts to the next of kin in equal
degree ; and among collaterals, the children of a deceased brother or sister of the intestate shall
have, in equal parts among them, their deceased parent's share; and there shall in no case be a
distribution between kindred of the whole and half blood, saving in all cases to the widow of
intestate, her third part of the real estate, for life, and one-third part of the personal estate; and
this law relative to descents and dower, shall remain in full force until altered by the Legis-
lature of the district. And until the Governor and Judges shall adopt laws as hereinafter
mentioned, estates in said Territory may be devised or bequeathed by wills in writing, signed
and sealed by him or her in whom the estate may be (being of full age), and attested by three
witnesses; and real estate may be conveyed by lease and release, or bargain and sale, signed and
sealed, and delivered by the person (being in full age) in whom the estate may be, and attested
88 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
by two witnesses, provided such wills be duly proved, and such conveyances be acknowledged, or
the execution thereof duly proved and be recorded within one year after proper magistrates,
courts and registers shall be appointed for that purpose. And personal property may be trans-
ferred by delivery, saving, however, to the French and Canadian inhabitants and other settlers of
the Kaskaskias, St. Vincent's and the neighboring villages, who have heretofore professed them-
selves citizens of Virginia, their laws and customs now in force among them, relative to the
descent and conveyance of property.
Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid. That there shall be appointed from time to time, by
Congress, a Governor whose commission shall continue in force for a term of three years, unless
sooner revoked by Congress. He shall reside in the district and have a freehold estate therein,
of a thousand acres of land while in the exercise of his office.
There shall be appointed from time to time by Congress, a Secretary whose commission shall
continue in force for two years, unless sooner revoked. He shall reside in the district, and shall
have a freehold estate therein in 500 acres of land, while in the exercise of his office. It shall be
his duty to keep' and preserve the acts and laws passed by the Legislature, and the public records
of the district, and the proceedings of the Governor in his executive department, and transmit
authentic copies of such acts and proceedings every six months, to the Secretary of Congress.
There shall also be appointed a court to consist of three Judges, any two of whom to form a
court, who shall have a common law jurisdiction and shall reside in the district and have each
therein a freehold estate in 500 acres of land, while in the exercise of their office, and their
commissions shall continue in force during good behavior.
The Governor and Judges, or a majority of them, shall adopt and publish in the district
such laws of the original States, criminal and civil, as may be necessary and best suited to the
circumstances of the district, and report them to Congress from time to time, which laws shall be
in force in the district until the organization of the General Assembly therein, unless disapproved
by Congress. But afterward, the Legislature shall have authority to alter them, as they shall
think fit.
The Governor, for the time being, shall be commander-in-chief of the militia, appoint and
commission all officers in the same, below the rank of general officers. All general officers shall
be appointed and commissioned by Congress.
Previous to the organization of the General Assembly, the Governor sliall appoint such mag-
istrates and other civil officers in each county or township, as he shall find necess.ary for the
preservation of the peace and good order in the same. After the General Assembly shall be
organized, the powers and duties of magistrates and other civil officers shall be regulated and
defined by the said Assembly, but all magistrates and other civil officers not herein otherwise
directed, shall, during the continuance of this temporary government, be appointed by the
Governor.
For the prevention of crimes and injuries, the laws to be adopted or made shall have force
in all parts of the district, and for the execution of process, criminal or civil, the Governor shall
make proper divisions thereof, and he shall proceed from time to time as circumstances may
require, to lay out the parts of the district in which the Indian titles shall have been extin-
guished, into counties and townships, subject, however, to such alterations as may thereafter he
made by the Legislature. So soon as there shall be 5,000 free male inhabitants of full age in the
district, upon giving proof thereof to the Governor, they shall i-eceive authority with time and
place, to elect representatives from their counties or townships, to represent them in the General
Assembly. Provided, That for every 500 free male inhabitants, there shall be one representative,
and so on progressively with the number of free male inhabitants, shall the right of representa-
tion increase, until the number of representatives shall amount to twenty-five. After which, the
number shall be regulated by the Legislature. Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified
to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three
years, and be a resident in the district, or unless be shall have resided in the district three
years, and in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right in fee simple 200 acres of land
within the same.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 89
Provided, Also, that a freehold in 50 acres of land in the district, having been a citizen of
one of the States, and being a resident in the district, or the like freehold and two years' resi-
dence in the district, shall be necessary to qualify a man as an elector of a repi'esentative.
The representatives thus elected, shall serve for the term of two years. And in case of the
death of a representative or removal from office, the Governor shall issue a writ to the county or
township for which he was a member, to elect another in his stead, to serve for the residue of the
term.
The General Assembly or Legislature shall consist of the Governor, Legislative Council, and
a House of Representatives. The Legislative Council shall consist of five members, to continue
in office five years, unless sooner removed by Congress ; any three of whom to be a quorum.
And the members of the Council shall be nominated and appointed in the following manner, to wit :
As soon as representatives shall be elected, the Governor shall appoint a time ami place for
them to meet together, and when met, they shall nominate ten persons, residents in the district,
and each person in a freehold in 500 acres of land, and return their names to Congress, five of
whom Congress shall appoint and commission as aforesaid. And whenever a vacancy shall hap-
pen in the Council by death or removal from office, the House of Representatives shall nominate
two persons, qualified as aforesaid, for each vacancy, and return their names to Congress, one of
whom Congress shall appoint and commission for the residue of the term. And every five years,
four months at least before the expiration of the time of service of the members of the Council,
the said House shall nominate ten persons qualified as aforesaid, and return their names to
Congress, five of whom Congress shall appoint and commission to serve as members of the
Council five years, unless sooner removed. And the Governor, Legislative Council and House
of Representatives shall have authority to make laws in all cases, for the good government
of the district, not repugnant to the principles and articles in this Ordinance, established and
declared.
And all bills having passed by a majority in the House, and by a majority in the Council,
shall be referred to the Governor for his assent. But no bill or legislative act whatever, shall be
of any force without his assent. The Governor shall have power to convene, prorogue and dis-
solve the General Assembly, when in his opinion it shall be expedient.
The Governor, Judges, Legislative Council, Secretary, and such other officers as Congress
shall appoint in the district, shall take an oath or affirmation of fidelity and of office. The Gov-
ernor before the President of Congress, and all other officers before the Governor.
As soon as a Legislature shall be formed in the district, the Council and House assembled
in one room, shall have authority by joint ballot to elect a delegate to Congress, who shall
have a seat in Congress, with a right of debating, but not of voting, during this temporary gov-
ernment.
And for extending the fundamental principles of civil and religious liberty, which forms
the basis whereon these republics, their laws and constitutions, are created ; to fix and establish
those principles as the basis of all laws, constitutions and governments, which forever hereafter
shall be formed in said Territory. To provide for the establishment of States, and permanent
governments therein, and for their admission to a share in the Federal Council on an equal footing
with the original States, at as early periods as may be consistent with the general interest.
It is hereby ordained and declared by the authority aforesaid, That the following articles shall
be considered as articles of compact between the original States and the people, and States in
said Territory, and forever remain unaltered unless by common consent, to wit:
Article II. The inhabitants of said Territory shall always be entitled to the benefits of the
writ of habeas corpu% and of the trial by jury; of a proportionate representation, of the people
in the Legislature, and of judicial procedure according to the course of common law. All per-
sons shall be bailable, except for capital offenses, where the proof shall be evident or the pre-
sumption great. All fines shall be moderate, and no cruel or unreasonable punishment shall be
inflicted. No man shall be deprived of his liberty or property, but by the judgtnent of his peers
or the law of the land. And should the public exigencies make it necessary for the common
preservation, to take any person's property, or to demand bis particular services, full compensation
90 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
shall be made for the same. And in the just preservation of rights and property, it is under-
stood and declared that no law aught ever to be made or have force in the said Territory,
that shall in any manner whatever interfere with or effect private contracts or engagements bona
fide and without fraud, previously formed.
Art. III. Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the
happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged. The
utmost good faith shall always be observed toward the Indians; their lands and property shall
never be taken from them without their consent; and in their property, rights and liberty they
shall never be invaded or disturbed, unless in just and lawful wars authorized by Congress. But
laws founded in justice and humanity, shall from time to time be made for preventing wrongs
being done to them, and for preserving peace and friendship with them.
Art. IV. The said Territory and the States which may be formed therein, shall ever remain
a part of the confederacy of the United States of America, subject to the articles of confedera-
tion and to such alterations therein as shall be constitutionally made, and to all the acts and
ordinances of the United States in Congress assembled conformable thereto. The inhabitants and
settlers in said Territory shall be subject to p.iy a part of the federal debts contracted or to be
contracted, and a proportional part of the expenses of the Government, to be apportioned on
them by Congress, according to the same common rule and measure by which apportionments
thereof shall be made on the other States, and the taxes for paying their proportion shall be laid
and levied by the authority and directions of the Legislature of the district or districts or new
States, within the time agreed upon by the United States in Congress assembled. The Legisla-
tures of those districts or new States, shall never interfere with the primary disposal of the soil
by the United States in Congress assembled, nor with any regulations Congress may find neces-
sary for securing the title in such soil to the bona-fide purchasers. No tax shall be imposed on
lands the property of the United States, and in no case, shall non-residents be taxed higher than
residents. The navigable waters leading into the Mississippi and St Lawrence, and the carry-
ing places between the same, shall be common highways, and forever free as well to the inhabi-
tants of the said Territory as to the citizens of the United States and those of any other States
that may be admitted into the confederacy, without any tax, impost or duty therefor.
Art. V. There shall be formed in said Territory not less than three, nor more than tive,
States, and the boundaries of the States, as soon as Virginia shall alter her act of cession and
consent to the same, shall become fixed and established as follows, to wit : The western State in
the said Territory shall be bounded by the Mississippi, the Ohio, tlie Wabash Rivers; a direct
line drawn from the Wabash and Post St. Vincent, due north to the Territorial line between the
United States and Canada ; and by the said Territorial line to the Lake of the Woods and Missis-
sippi. The middle State shall be bounded by the said direct line, the Wabash from Post St. Vin-
cent to the Ohio, by the Ohio, by a direct line drawn due north from the mouth of the Great
Miami to the said Territorial line. The eastern State shall be bounded by the last-mentioned
direct line, the Ohio, Pennsylvania and said territorial line. Provided, however, and it is further
understood and declared, that the boundaries of those three States shall be subject so far to be
altered, that, if Congress shall hereafter find it expedient, they shall have authority to form one
or two States in that pai't of the said Territory which lies north of an east and west line drawn
through the southerly bend or extreme of Lake Michigan. And whenever any of the said States
shall have 60,000 free inhabitants therein, such State shall be admitted by its delegates into the
Congress of the United States on an equal footing with the original States in all respects what-
ever, and shall be at liberty to form a permanent constitution and State government. Provided,
The constitution and government so to be formed, shall be represented, and in conformity to the
principles contained in these articles ; and so far as it can be consistent with the general interest
of the confederacy, such admission shall be allowed at an earlier period, and when there may be
a less number of free inhabitants than 00,000.
Art. VI. There shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the said Territory,
otherwise than in the punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly convicted.
Provided alwai/s, Thnt any person escaping into the same from whom labor or service is lawfully
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 91
claimed in one of the original States, each fugitive may be lawfully claimed and conveyed to the
person claiming his or her labor or services as aforesaid.
Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid. That the resolutions of the 23d of April, 1784,
relative to the subject of this ordinance, be and the same are hereby repealed and declared null
and void.
COMMENT BY S. P. CHASE 1833.
It would be difficult to find a more comprehensive review of the founda-
tions of our system of laws than is given in the " Preliminary Sketch of the
History of Ohio," by this distinguished representative of the bench and the
bar of America. The work is now out of print, and is not easily obtained;
besides, its great author has passed away; so these extracts are made more
with a view of preserving old historical literature, than of introducing new;
furthermore, the masses of the people have never had convenient access to the
volumes, which, for the most part, have been in the hands of professional men
only. The publication of the work first brought its compiler before the public,
and marked the beginning of that career which, during its course, shaped the
financial system of our country, and ended upon the Supreme Bench of the
nation.
"By the ordinance of 1785, Congress had executed in part the great national
trust confided to it, by providing for the disposal of the public lands for the
common good, and by prescribing the manner and terms of sale. By that of
1787, provision was made for successive forms of Territorial government,
adapted to successive steps of advancement in the settlement of the Western
country. ■ It comprehended an intelligible system of law on the descent and
conveyance of real property, and the transfer of personal goods. It also con-
tained five articles of compact between the original States, and the people and
States of the Territory, establishing certain great fundamental principles of
governmental duty and private right, as the basis of all future constitutions and
legislation, unalterable and indestructible, except by that final and common
ruin, which, as it has overtaken all former systems of human polity, may yet
overwhelm our American union. Never, probably, in the history of the world,
did a measure of legislation so accurately fulfill, and yet so mightily exceed
the anticipations of the legislators. The ordinance has been well described, as
having been a pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night, in the settlement and
government of the Northwestern States. When the settlers went into the
wilderness, they found the law already there. It was impressed upon the soil
itself, while it yet bore up nothing but the forest. The purchaser of land
became, by that act, a party to the compact, and bound by its perpetual cove-
nants, so far as its conditions did not conflict with the terms of the cessions of
the States.
*********
This remarkable instrument was the last gift of the Congress of the old
confederation to the country, and it was a fit consummation of their glorious
92 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
labors. At the time of its promulgation, the Federal Constitution was under
discussion in the convention ; and in a few months, upon the organization of
the new national government, that Congress was dissolved, never again to re-as-
semble. Some, and indeed most of the principles established by the articles of
compact are to be found in the plan of 1784, and in the various English and
American bills of rights. Others, however, and these not the least important,
are original. Of this number are the clauses in relation to contracts, to slavery
and to Indians. On the whole, these articles contain what they profess to con-
tain, the true theory of American liberty. The great principles promulgated
by it are wholly and purely American. They are indeed the genuine princi-
ples of freedom, unadulterated by that compromise with circumstances, the
effects of which are visible in the constitution and history of the Union.
*********
The first form of civil government, provided by the ordinance, was now
formally established within the Territory. Under this form, the people had no
concern in the business of government. The Governor and Judges derived
their appointments at first from Congress, and after the adoption of the Fed-
eral Constitution, from the President. The commission of the former oflScer
was for the term of three years, unless sooner revoked ; those of the latter
were during good behavior. It was required that the Governor should reside
within the Territory, and possess a freehold estate there, in one thousand acres
of land. He had authority to appoint all officers of militia, below the rank of
Generals, and all magistrates and civil officers, except the Judges and the Sec-
retary of the Territory ; to establish convenient divisions of the whole district
for the execution of progress, to lay out those parts to which the Indian
titles might be extinguished into counties and townships. The Judges, or any
two of them, constituted a court with common law jurisdiction. It was neces-
sary that each Judge should possess a freehold estate in the territory of five
hundred acres. The whole legislative power which, however, extended only to
the adoption of such laws of the original States as might be suited to the cir-
cumstances of the country, was vested in the Governor and Judges. The laws
adopted were to continue in force, unless disapproved by Congress, until re-
pealed by the Legislature, which was afterward to be organized. It was the
duty of the Secretary to preserve all acts and laws, public records and executive
proceedings, and to transmit authentic copies to the Secretary of Congress
every six months.
Such was the first government devised for the Northwestern Territory. It
is obvious that its character, as beneficent or oppressive, depended entirely upon
the temper and disposition of those who administrated it. All power, legisla-
tive, judicial and executive, was concentrated in the Governor and Judges, and
in its exercise they were responsible only to the distant Federal head. The
expenses of the Government were defrayed in part by the United States, but
were principally drawn from the pockets of the people in the shape of fees.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 93
This temporary system, however unfriendly as it seems to liberty, was,
perhaps, so established upon sufficient reasons. The Fedei'al Constitution had
not then been adopted, and there were strong apprehensions that the people of
the Territory might not be disposed to organize States and apply for admission
into the Union. It was, therefore, a matter of policy so to frame the Territorial
system as to create some strong motives to draw them into the Union, as States,
in due time.
The first acts of Territorial legislation were passed at Marietta, then the
only American settlement northwest of the Ohio. The Governor and Judges
did not strictly confine themselves within the limits of their legislative author-
ity, as prescribed by the ordinance. When they could not find laws of the
original States suited to the condition of the country, they supplied the want
by enactments of their own. The earliest laws, from 1788 to 1795, were all
thus enacted. The laws of 1788 provided for the organization of the militia ;
for the establishment of inferior courts ; for the punishment of crimes, and for
the limitations of actions ; prescribed the duties of ministerial officers ; regu-
lated marriages, and appointed oaths of office. That the Governor and Judges
in the enactment of these laws, exceeded their authority, without the slightest
disposition to abuse it, may be inferred from the fact that except two, which
had been previously repealed, they were all confirmed by the first Territorial
Legislature.
*********
At this period there was no seat of government, properly called. The
Governor resided at Cincinnati, but laws were passed whenever they seemed to
be needed, and promulgated at any place where the Territorial legislators hap-
pened to be assembled. Before the year of 1795, no laws were, strictly speak-
ing, adopted. Most of them were framed by the Governor and Judges t'>
answer particular public ends ; while in the enactment of others, including ail
the laws of 1792, the Secretary of the Territory discharged, under the author-
ity of an act of Congress, the functions of the Governor. The earliest laws,
as has been already stated, were published at Marietta. Of the remainder, a
few were published at Vincennes, and the rest at Cincinnati.
In the year 1789, the first Congress passed an act recognizing the binding
force of the ordinance of 1787, and adapting its provisions to the Federal Con-
stitution. This act provided that the communications directed in the ordinance
to be made to Congress or its officers, by the Governor, should thenceforth be
made to the President, and that the authority to appoint with the consent of
the Senate, and commission officers, before that time appointed and commis-
sioned by Congress, should likewise be vested in that officer. It also gave the
Territorial Secretary the power already mentioned, of acting in certain cases,
in the place of the Governor. In 1792, Congress passed another act giving to
the Governor and Judges authority to repeal, at their discretion, the laws by
94 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
them made ; and enabling a single Judge of the general court, in the absence
of his brethren, to hold the terms.
At this time the Judges appointed by the National Executive constituted the
Supreme Court of the Territory. They were commissioned during good
behavior; and their judicial jurisdiction extended over the whole region north-
west of the Ohio. The court, thus constituted, was fixed at no certain place,
and its process, civil and criminal, was returnable wheresoever it might be in
the Territory. Inferior to this court were the County Courts of Common Pleas,
and the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace. The former consisted of any
number of Judges, not less than three nor more than seven, and had a general
€ommon-law jurisdiction, concurrent, in the respective counties, with that of
the Supreme Court ; the latter consisted of a number of Justices for each
county, to be determined by the Governor, who were required to hold three
terms in every year, and had a limited criminal jurisdiction. Single Judges of
the Common Pleas, and single Justices of the Quarter Sessions were also
clothed with certain civil and criminal powers to be exercised out of court.
Besides these courts, each county had a Judge of Probate, clothed with the
ordinary jurisdiction of a Probate Court.
Such was the original constitution of courts and distribution of judicial
power in the Northwestern Territory. The expenses of the system were
defrayed in part by the National Government, and in part by assessments upon
the counties, but principally by fees, which were payable to every officer con-
cerned in the administration of justice, from the Judges of the General Court
downward.
In 1795 the Governor and Judges undertook to revise the Territorial laws,
and to establish a complete system of statutory jurisprudence, by adoptions
from the laws of the original States, in strict conformity to the provisions of
the ordinance. For this purpose they assembled at Cincinnati in June, and
continued in session until the latter part of August. The judiciary system
underwent some changes. The General Court was fixed at Cincinnati and Mari-
etta, and a Circuit Court was established with power to try in the several coun-
ties, issues in fact depending before the superior tribunal, where alone causes
could be finally decided. Orphans' Courts, too, were established, with jurisdic-
tion analogous to but more extensive than that of a Judge of Probate. Laws were
also adopted to regulate judgments and executions, for limitation of actions,
for the distribution of intestate estates, and for many other general purposes.
Finally, as if with a view to create some great reservoir, from which, whatever
principles and powers had been omitted in the particular acts, might be drawn
according to the exigency of circumstances, the Governor and Judges adopted
a law, providing that the common law of England and all general statutes in
aid of the common law, prior to the fourth year of James I, should be in full
force within the Territory. The law thus adopted was an act of the Virginia
Legislature, passed before the Declaration of Independence, when Virginia was
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 95
yet a British colony, and at the time of its adoption had been repealed so far as
it related to the English statutes.
The other laws of 1795 were principally derived from the statute book of
Pennsylvania. The system thus adopted was not without many imperfections
and blemishes, but it may be doubted whether any colony, at so early a period
after its first establishment, ever had one so good.
*********
And how gratifying is the retrospect, how cheering the prospect which even
this sketch, brief and partial as it is, presents ! On a surface covered less
than half a century ago by the trees of the primeval forest, a State has grown
up from Colonial infancy to freedom, independence and strength. But thirty
years have elapsed since that State, with hardly sixty thousand inhabitants, was
admitted into the American Union. Of the twenty-four States which form
that Union, she is now the fourth in respect to population. In other respects
her rank is even higher. Already her resources have been adequate, not only
to the expense of government and instruction, but to the construction of long
lines of canals. Her enterprise has realized the startling prediction of the
poet, who, in 1787, when Ohio was yet a wilderness, foretold the future connec-
tion of the Hudson with the Ohio.
And these results are attributable mainly to her institutions. The spirit of
the ordinance of 1787 pervades them all. Who can estimate the benefits
which have flowed from the interdiction by that instrument of slavery and of
legislative interference with private contracts? One consequence is, that the
soil of Ohio bears up none but freemen ; another, that a stern and honorable
regard to private rights and public morals characterizes her legislation. There
is hardly a page in the statute book of which her sons need be ashamed. The
great doctrine of equal rights is •everywhere recognized in her constitution and
her laws. Almost every father of a family in this State has a freehold interest
in the soil, but this interest is not necessary to entitle him to a voice in the
concerns of government. Every man'may vote ; every man is eligible to any
office. And this unlimited extension of the elective franchise, so far from pro-
ducing any evil, has ever constituted a safe and sufficient check upon injurious
legislation. Other causes of her prosperity may be found in her fertile soil, in
her felicitous position, and especially in her connection with the union of the
States. All these springs of growth and advancement are permanent, and
upon a most gratifying prospect of the future. They promise an advance in
population, wealth, intelligence and moral worth as permanent as the existence
of the State itself. They promise to the future citizens of Ohio the blessings
of good government, wise legislation and universal instruction. More than all,
they are pledges that in all future, as in all past circumstances, Ohio will cleave
fast to the national constitution and the national Union, and that her growing
energies will on no occasion, be more willingly or powerfully put forth, than in
the support and maintenance of both in unimpaired vigor and strength."
96 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
INFLUENCE OF THE ORDINANCE OF 1787.
The passage of this ordinance, since known as the " Ordinance of 1787,"
was immediately followed by an application to the Government, by John Cleves
Symmes, of New Jersey, in behalf of the country, between the Miamis, and a
contract was concluded the following year. The Ohio Company were exceed-
ingly energetic in inaugurating settlements. Gen. Putman, with a party of
forty-seven men, set out on an exploring expedition, accompanied by six boat
builders. On the 1st of January, 1788, twenty-six surveyors followed, from
Hartford, Conn. They arrived in Ohio on the 7th of April, 1788, and their
active energy founded the permanent beginning of this great Western State-
When we review the dangerous experiments that have been made, in this land
west of the Alleghanies, the horrors which had overwhelmed every attempt, we
can faintly realize the stalwart courage that sent these men on their way, and
sustained them in their pioneer hardships. With characteristic vigor, they
began their little town. Enthusiastic and happy, they did not rest from their
toilsome march over the old Indian roads, but kept busily at work to estab-
lish an oasis in this wide expanse of wilderness, before they should take nec-
essary ease to recuperate their strength.
The wise men met on the 2d of May, and the little town was named
Marietta. Situated as it was, in the midst of danger, they had used precaution
to build and equip a fortified square, which was designated Campus Martius ;
Square No. 19 was Capitolium, and Square No. 61 was Cecelia, and the main
street was Sacra Via.
Marietta was especially fortunate in her actual " first families." • Ten of the
forty-eight men had received a thorough college education ; the remaining were
individuals of sterling merit, honorable, and several had already attained reputations
for superior excellence of abilities. Patriotic and brave, the settlement certainly
possessed a foundation that promised well for the future. The following 4th of
July was an auspicious event, and the Hon. James M. Varnum was the eloquent
orator of the occason.
The opening of the court, on the 2d of September, was a solemn ceremonial,
the High Sherifi" leading with drawn sword, followed by citizens, with an escort
of officers from Fort Harmar, the members of the bar, the Governor and Clergy-
men, the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas — Gen. Rufus Putman and
Benjamin Tupper — all these constituted an imposing spectacle, as they pro-
gressed over a path which had been cut through the forest to Campus Martius
Hall, the edifice of law and order.
The Judges took their seats, a prayer was ofiered by the Rev. Dr. Cutler,
and immediately the Sheriff, Col. Ebenezer Sprout, proclaimed the response,
and the court of impartial justice was convened.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 97
This ceremonial was, perhaps, made all the more impressive by the presence
of several powerful Indian chiefs, who had journeyed to Marietta for the pur-
pose of making a treaty.
The settlement now increased rapidly, new cabins were erected constantly.
On the 17th of December, a society event occurred, in the form of a grand ball,
fifteen ladies being present.
John Cleves Symmes had contracted for 2,000,000 acres of land, and suc-
ceeded in obtaining his grant, but circumstances prevented him from meeting
his part of the obligations, and the specification was reduced to 1,000,000.
After vain attempt to make his payments, a settlement was finally effected for
248,540 acres, and Symmes was prepared to dispose of clear titles to new-com-
ers. In 1788, a town was established within the boundaries of his grant, at the
mouth of the little Miami, known as Columbia, and in the early part of 1787
another was formed opposite the mouth of the Licking River, by name Losanti-
ville, analyzed by a frontier scholar — ville, the town ; anti, opposite to ; os, the
mouth of; i, Licking.
Judge Symmes had projected building his main town at North Bend. This
plan was frustrated by reason of Ensign Luce — who had been commissioned by
Gen. Harmar to erect a fort — deciding that North Bend was not suitable for the
purpose. He selected Losantiville for the purpose, and Fort Washington was
the result. In 1790, Gov. St. Clair was called to inspect the settlement, and
proceeded to organize Hamilton County, at the same time calling the town
Cincinnati.
It will be remembered that Connecticut ceded most of her western lands to
General Government, retaining, however, a minor portion. As the settlements
began to increase on the "Virginia Reserve" and between the Scioto and Miami
Rivers, all those holding claims were not disposed to part with them, while
others were anxious to secure grants for the purpose of speculation, rather than
the advancement of civilization. The Scioto Company was a questionable ad-
herent of the Ohio Company, and began operations, which resulted well, what-
ever their purpose may have been.
Gen. Putnam cleared the land and directed the building of 100 dwellings and
six block-houses. During 1791, the colony arrived, consisting of 500 persons.
Only ten of these were tillers of the soil. Viscount Malartie ventured into the
wilderness, but instead of settling, joined Gen. St. Clair's army, and was ulti-
mately his aid-de-camp. Indian conquests were not to his taste, and he soon
returned to France. This new colony was essentially French, and its location
was Gallia County. The name " Gallipolis " was selected.
These settlers, being unaccustomed to severe toil, and disinclined to learn
its hard lesson, soon became demoralized, through deprivation and absolute
want. Congress came to their aid with a land grant of 24,000 acres, but few
of them cared to enter claims, and soon all traces of the old town were lost, and
its inhabitants scattered.
98 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Gen. St. Clair having become unpopular, through repeated failures in Indian
campaigns, and Gen. Anthony Wayne having wintered at Fort Washington,
the spring of 1793 was opened by a march of the army, well disciplined and
led by " Mad Anthony," on a campaign that must crush the rapidly increasing
depredations of the Indians, notwithstanding which these new settlements had
been made. All winter. Gen. Wayne had dispatched scouts, spies and hardy
frontiersmen on errands of discovery, and his plans were, therefore, practically
matured. His army cut its way through the forests, gathering horses, provis-
ions, etc., as they marched, and finally came nearly up to the enemy before dis-
covery. They again returned to Fort Washington, as the Commander-in-Chief,
under the order of the Executive, had proclaimed inaction until the Northern
or British Commissioners and Indians should convene and discuss the situation
and prospects. Gen. Wayne, meantime, drilled his men at " Hobson's Choice,"
a place near Fort Washington.
The Commissioners came from Detroit, and assembled at Capt. Matthew
Elliot's house, at the mouth of the Detroit River.
A meeting was called at Sandusky, and twenty Indian representatives were
present, to argue the grounds of a treaty. Simon Girty acted as interpreter,
and has been vehemently accused of unfaithfulness in this trust, since he did
not advocate the adjustment of matters on any grounds. The Indians reiterated
their rights and wrongs, and ofiered to receive the half of the purchase money,
provided the actual settlers would accept it as the price of the land, move away,
and leave the original owners the proud possessors of their lands. The Govern-
ment would then expend less money than they would have done in a full Indian
purchase, or a long and cruel war. This being out of the question and rejected,
a decided specification was made that the Ohio boundary was to be obliterated,
and a new one adopted, that encompassed a mere fraction of territory. This
was also rejected. The Indians indignantly bade the Americans to go back to
their father, and they would return to their tribes.
The council was terminated in confusion. It is highly probable that some
settlement might have been made, had it not been for English influence which
instigated the savages, in the hope of ultimately making conquests for them-
selves. The commander at Detroit evinced great uneasiness whenever there
was a shadow of an opportunity for a peaceful understanding.
On Christmas Day, 1793, a detachment of the army encamped on the
identical ground made memorable by St. Clair's horrible defeat. A reward was
offered for every human skull that was found, and 600 were gathered. The
bones of the victims were removed from the spot where they built Fort Recovery.
This point was left in charge of Alexander Gibson.
Early in the year 1794, Lord Dorchester addressed the Commissioners in
behalf of the English. Even at this time, Gen. Wayne, to avoid the terrors of
a great war, again made overtures of peace, dispatching Freeman, Trueman and
Hardin, all initiated in savage tactics, on errands of mercy — and the three men
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 99
were inhumanly murdered. The English went so far as to order Gov. Simcoe
to erect a fort, in April, 1794, on the Rapids of the Maumee, thus rousing the
Indians by a bold proof that they had espoused their cause. In May, the
Spanish, who were ever jealous of colonial encroachments, were willing to aid
in a general raid against the Americans.
In June, a scouting party from Fort Recovery, fell into an Indian ambush
and suffered severely, their foes following them to the very entrance. The siege
continued for two days. It was plainly evident that white men augmented the
Indian force ; ounce balls and buck-shot surely came from their rifles. Again,
the Indians immediately began a search beneath the logs where pieces of artillery
were hidden during the great battle of St. Clair, but fortunately. Fort Recovery
had the use of them and they accomplished much.
On July 26, Scott joined Wayne at Greenville, with 1,600 mounted
Kentuckians, and on the 28th, the legion took up its line of deadly march.
Halting at Girty's Town, they built Fort Mary's, later on Fort Adams. Throw-
ing the enemy off their guard by feints and counter-marching, the troops surprised
the Indians, and without the slightest resistance took possession of their villages
at the confluence of the Auglaize and Maumee. They found provision in
abundance, and tarried a week building Fort Defiance.
Again Gen. Wayne would have made tenns of peace, on the principle of the
Government to arrest bloodshed, but the Indians were rendered cruelly intent
on war by an addition of a body of British militia from Detroit, and by regulars
stationed at a fort they had built on the left bank of the river, below the rapids,
called Fort Miami. The "Fallen Timber" ground was selected as the field
for a battle by the savages, in the expectation that the trees cast down by a
tornado and there remaining, would seriously impede American progress.
August loth, Wayne marched down the river, and at Roche de Boeuf, erected
a fortification for their stores and luggage, naming it "Fort Deposit." On the
20th, the American army began the attack. Maj. Price and Maj. Gen. Scott
were heroic in their assistance, and after a sharp, deadly conflict, the enemy
was routed, fleeing in confusion, and leaving their dead and wounded strewn
thickly over the field. The savages were pressed to the front always, and when
the carnage was painful, the British troops not engaged looked on coolly from the
fort and offered no assistance, aiding their own, however, when possible. Gen.
Wayne being an ardent soldier, was apt to forget his position, and impetuously
place himself constantly in danger. Lieut. Harrison is reported to have-
requested the General not to forget to give him field orders, in his own partici-
pation in the battle, and to have received the reply that the standing order was
always to charge bayonets.
Notwithstanding the treaty of 1783, and the fact that the British were tres-
passing, they encroached upon the Ohio soil, and essayed to vindicate their
action by discarding American claims and recognizing the Indian rights, whereby
they might seek their own colonization and make treaties.
100 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Maj. Campbell was in command at Fort Miami, and when he saw the sava-
ges being cut down almost mercilessly, he not only refrained from offering aid,
but when, in their desperate retreat, they attempted to enter the fort for pro-
tection, he ordered the doors closed in their faces.
On the following day, Campbell sent a message to Wayne, demanding a
reason for hostile action, adding that Great Britain was not now at war with the
United States. He received a characteristic reply.
During the Revolution, Detroit was an important British point, and the
Maumee was its outlet. Therefore, the English clung tenaciously to this pos-
session, giving, as it did, the advantage of the great fur trade. The English
Government evidently regretted ceding so much of her territory in the West,
and were searching for an excuse to quarrel and attempt to regain at least a part
of what they had lost. Their policy was to sustain the bitter hatred between
the Indians and the Americans.
The settlement of the Maumee Valley had been rapid, but the very name
was an agony of remembrance of frightful massacres and atrocities. Col.
McKee, the British Indian agent, and his assistant, Capt. Elliott, were from
Pennsylvania, but being Tories, they had assimilated with the Indians. They
joined the Shawnee tribe and married Indian wives, and made their fortunes
thereby, through British appointments to secure the savage interests. The
Indians were directly served by McKee and Elliott, with ammunition and sup-
plies, during the Wayne conflict.
Several skirmishes ensued, but severe Aveather approaching, the troops
moved for quarters, and on the 14th day of September, they attacked the Miami
villages, captured them with provisions and stores, and erected a fort, leaving
it in charge of Lieut. Col. Ilamtramck. With cheers and rifle-shooting, this post
was named Fort Wayne. The main army marched into Greenville and went into
winter quarters.
Wayne had achieved a brilliant victory, but his success did not overcome his
practical reasoning, and he was unwilling to subject his men to a severe winter's
campaign unless necessity was peremptory.
Gov. Simcoe, Col. McKee and a few of the most savage Indian chiefs
attempted to rally the Indians for a new attack. Gov. Simcoe, of Detroit, was
aware that the mounted volunteers under Wayne had been allowed to return
home, and that the term of service of a portion of the " Legion " was about to
expire.
The British and Indians held a conference, but the latter were weary with
■fighting for the glory of the Great Father at Detroit, and did not enter into the
plan. The winter proved most poverty stricken to them, the English failing to
supply them, and their crops and sustenance having been' destroyed by Wayne.
They were then fully prepared to listen to the faintest signal from Wayne to
conciliate affairs, and the Wyandots and Delawares were the first to confer with
him on the subject. Their position was exposed and they had suffered severely.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 101
They soon influenced other tribes to consider the question. As a mass, they
were convinced of their inability to overcome the Americans, and had become
impatient and disgusted with the duplicity of their British friends, who had not
hesitated to sacrifice them in every instance, and who deserted them in their
hour of distress. United, they sued for peace. Terms were made, and about
the 1st of August, the famous Greenville treaty was ratified and established,
and the old Indian war in Ohio terminated.
The Wyandots, Delawares, Shawnees, Chippewas, Ottawas, Pottawatomies,
Miamis, Eel Rivers, Weas, Kickapoos, Piankeshaws and Kaskaskias were thus
conciliated. The old Indian boundary line, settled upon at the Fort Mcintosh
treaty, was retained, and the southwestern line was prolonged from old Fort
Recovery, southwest of the Ohio River.
" The general boundary lines between the lands of the United States and
the lands of the said Indian tribes shall begin at the mouth of the Cuyahoga
River, and thence run up the same to the portage between that and the Tus-
carawas Branch of the Muskingum ; thence down that branch to the crossing-
place above Fort Laurens ; thence westerly to a fork of that branch of the
Great Miami River (running into the Ohio), at or near which fork stood Lar-
amie's store — Mary's River, which is a branch of the Miami that runs into Lake
Erie ; thence a westerly course to Fort Recovery, which stands on a branch of
the Wabash ; thence southwesterly on a direct line to the Ohio, so as to inter-
sect that river opposite the mouth of the Kentucky or Cuttawa River."
This boundary line has, ever since this memorable treaty, been a prominent
landmark, and may now be traced as the southern boundary line of Stark, Ash-
land, Richland and Marion Counties, and the northern line, in part, of Tuscar-
awas and Knox. Old Fort Recovery was located in Mercer, near the Indiana
line. Laramie's store was in Shelby.
Within the Indian Reservation, the United States held sixteen distinct sec-
tions of land, for the purpose of military posts, so arranged that the Govern-
ment had full right of way north and west.
The "Joy treaty " between England and the United States was ratified early
in 1796, and the British were obliged to vacate Detroit and Fort Miami, and recall
the fact that they had no claim or right to either points. Gen. Wayne received
them, and accompanied by Gov. St. Clair, proceeded to Detroit. Here the lat-
ter laid out a county, calling it Wayne, and designated Detroit as its seat of
justice. This was the fifth county in the Northwest Territory, north of the
Ohio River. Washington County, with Marietta as a seat of justice, was first
established ; next Hamilton, with Cincinnati as a county seat. Wayne County
was organized in 1796, and included about twenty-six of the present counties,
in the northwest part of the State, covering about a quarter of its area, besides
parts of Indiana and Michigan.
In other parts of the State, the population was rapidly increasing. In May,
1795, the Legislature authorized a committee to institute measures for the
102 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
disposal of their Western lands. The Virginia and Connecticut Reservations
required some action on the part of Government, inasmuch as ceding a portion
and re-selling had in a measure disturbed free titles. Fifty-six persons negoti-
ated and purchased lands, receiving quit-claim titles and entire rights. They
re-sold to John Morgan and John Caldwell and Jonathan Bruce, in trust. Thus
3,000,000 acres were prepared for settlement. Upon the quit-claim deeds of
these representatives, the full title of lands included within the old Western
Reserve rests.
Judge Symmes began his active operations in 1796, and by the close of
1797 all lands east of the Cuyahoga were laid out in townships, five miles square.
The agent of the Connecticut Land Company was Gen. Moses Cleveland, and in
his honor the leading city in the Reserve was named. Some townships were
retained for private sale, and others were disposed of by lottery, in 1798.
Wayne's treaty led to the formation of Dayton, and the peopling of that
section. A difficulty arose regarding the original Symmes grant and its modifi-
cation. Symmes had sold land titles, in good faith, beyond his vested power,
and Congress was now called upon to adjust these claims and titles. Seventeen
days after the Wayne or Greenville treaty, St. Clair, Wilkinson, Dayton and
Ludlow contracted with Symmes for seven and eight ranges, between the Mad
and Little Miami Rivers. November 4, 1795, jNIr. Ludlow laid out Dayton.
During the years 1790 and 1795, the Governor and Supreme Judges of the
Northwest Territory had published sixty-four statutes. Thirty-four of these
were ratified at Cincinnati, for the purpose of forming a complete statutory. It
was termed the " Maxwell Code."
Mr. Nathaniel Massie founded a town on the Scioto, which was called
Chillicothe. The Iroquois treaty had previously invited settlement, and embryo
towns had begun as early as 1769, under the protection of the Connecticut
Company. A land company was organized in Hartford, Conn., in 1795, sending
out forty-three surveyors to divide the townships of that part of the Western
Reserve, east of the Cuyahoga, five miles square. The first resident of the town
of Cleveland was Mr. Job Stiles and family, and Mrs. Stiles was the mother of
the first white child born on the Reserve. Some other parts of the territory
progressed more rapidly in population.
Along the Muskingum, Scioto and Miami, towns began to spring up, which
might perhaps better be termed farming settlements.
Cincinnati was increasing, and in 1796, had reached 100 cabins, 15 frame
houses and 600 persons, with prospects for a firm future.
The Virginia Military Land District was between the Little Miami and
Scioto, and was rapidly increasing in population.
Mr. Massie was unceasing in his efforts to advance the West, and laid out
Manchester, offering inducements that could not fail to attract settlers.
Ebenezer Zane procured a grant in consideration of opening a bridle path
from the Ohio River at Wheeling, over the country via Chillicothe, to Limestone,
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 103
in Kentucky. The year following, the United States mail was taken over
this route.
The comparatively tranquil condition of the country and the inducements it
had to offer encouraged a rapid settlement of the Territory. A prominent
feature of the early growth of Ohio was the general prevalence of reliable,
stanch principle. The people were of the good colonial stock.
In 1800, Chillicothe Avas denominated the seat of the Territorial govern-
ment, and the first stone edifice in the State was begun in this town, soon after
this appointment. About this time, a serious diflBculty suddenly occurred to
those individuals who had taken lands on the Western Reserve of Connecticut.
That Eastern power had, it is true, ceded a part of her claim to the General
Government, and had stipulated for the sale of certain other tracts. At the
same time, the State had not signed away her jurisdiction over some sections of
her claim, and those unfortunate people in and about Dayton found themselves
without any government upon which they might depend in a case of emergency.
The matter was, accordingly, presented to the Territorial government, which
interceded Avith the Eastern State, and, sanctioned by the Assembly at Congress,
Connecticut relinquished her jurisdiction in 1800.
Cleveland was an important point, and was growing in the mean time. How-
ever, it had suffered exceedingly from the ravages of fever and ague. For a
period of two months, there was not an individual, but a boy thirteen years
of age, able to procure food for the others. Flour was out of all rational con-
sideration, and the meal upon which they lived Avas pounded by hand. In
1799, Williams and Myatt erected a grist-mill at the falls, near Newbury.
A startling agitation occurred in 1801, Avhieh in these days would cause but a
ripple in the political sea, but happening during a time Avhen legislative digsity
and state authority Avere regarded with reverential awe, it created the most
intense feeling. Great indignation was openly expressed.
The Governor and several legislators felt that they had been insulted in
the performance of their respective duties, at Chillicothe, while the Assembly
was in session in 1801. No measures being taken by the authorities at the
capital to protect the Executive, a hiAv was passed removing the seat of govern-
ment to Cincinnati.
This circumstance led to a general consideration of the advantages of a
State government, and a popular desire Avas expressed for a change in this
respect. Gov. St. Clair had fallen into disfavor through his failure as a military
leader and his failures in the Indian campaigns, and from his assuming powers
Avhich were not vested in him, especially the subdivision of counties. He was
also identified with the Federal party, which was not popular in Ohio. The
opposition Avas strong in the Assembly, but was in the minority in the House of
Representatives. The boundary question was agitated at the same time. The
intention was to thus effect the limits of Ohio that a State government would
necessarily have to be postponed. Against this measure, Tiffin, Worthington,
104 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Langham, Darlington, Massie, Dunlavy and Morrow strenuously objected. After
considerable discussion, Thomas Worthington obtained leave of absence from
the session, and journeyed to Washington in behalf of a State government. It
was obvious that the Territory, under the ordinance, was not entitled to a
change. Massie suggested the feasibility of appointing a committee to address
Congress on the subject. This the House refused to pass.
An effort was then made to take a census, but any action on this subject
was postponed until the next session.
During all this ineffectual struggle, Worthington was doing his best in Wash-
ington, and succeeded so well that on March 4, a report was made to the House
in favor of the State government. This report was made on a basis that the
census, in 1800, summed up over 45,000 for Ohio.
April 30, Congress passed a law carrying into effect the views expressed on
this subject. A convention met on November 1. Its members were generally
Jeffersonian in their views. Gov. St. Clair proposed to address them as their
chief executive magistrate. Several members resolutely opposed this action,
insisting upon a vote, which, through courtesy and not a sense of right, resulted
in permitting him to address them. He advised the postponement of the State
government until the original eastern portion of the State was sufficiently pop-
ulated to demand this right. Onl;y one, out of thirty-three, voted to sustain
the Governor in these views.
The convention agreed to the views of Congress. November 29, the agree-
ment was ratified and signed, as was the constitution of the State of Ohio.
The General Assembly was ordered to convene the first Tuesday of March, 1803,
This was carried into effect. A constitution was framed for the new State,
adhering to the Ordinance of 1787. The rights and duties of citizens were
plainly set forth, and general business was transacted. The new State consti-
tution was signed by :
Edward Tiffin, President and Representative from Ross County.
Adams County — Joseph Darlington, Israel Donalson, Thomas Vinker.
Belmont County — James Caldwell and Elijah Woods.
Clermont County — Philip Gatch and James Sargent.
Fairfield County — Henry Abrams and Emanuel Carpenter.
Hamilton County — John W. Brown, Charles Willing Byrd, Francis Dun-
lavy, William Goforth, John Gitchel, Jeremiah Morrow, John Paul, John Riley,
John Smith and John Wilson.
Jefferson County — Rudolph Blair, George Humphry, John Milligan, Nathan
Updegraff and Bezaleel Wells.
Ross County — Michael Baldwin, James Grubb, Nathaniel Massie and F.
Worthington.
Washington County — Ephraim Cutler, Benjamin Ives Gilman, John Mc-
Intyre and Rufus Putnam.
Thomas Scott, Secretary.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 105
The first Legislature of the State, under the new constitution, created eight
new counties, viz., Gallia, Scioto, Franklin, Columbiana, Butler, Warren,
Greene and Montgomery.
The first State officers were : Michael Baldwin, Speaker of the House ; Na-
thaniel Massie, President of the Senate ; William Creighton, Secretary of
State ; Col. Thomas Gibson, Auditor ; William McFarland, Treasurer ; Return
J. Meigs, Jr., Samuel Huntington and William Sprigg, Judges of the Supreme
Court ; Francis Dunlavy, Willis Silliman and Calvin Pease, Judges of the Dist-
rict Court.
The General Assembly held a second session in December, at which time
the militia law was revised, also giving aliens equal proprietary rights with native
citizens. The revenue system was modified and improved. Acts authorizing
the incorporation of townships were passed, and for the establishment of coun-
ties. Furthermore, Jacob White, Jeremiah Morrow and William Ludlow were
authorized to locate a township for collegiate purposes, according to previous
specified terms of Congress. The Symmes grant and the college specification
collided materially, but the irregularity of the former was not to create any
inconvenience for the latter. Mr. Symmes had in good faith marked off this
township, but circumstances preventing the perfection of his plans, that lapsed
with the others, an<l the original township was now entered by settlers.
Accordingly, thirty-six sections, west of the Great Miami, were selected,
and are now held by the Miami University.
Gov. St. Clair, notwithstanding his unpopularity, was re-appointed.
Ohio was under a system of government which guaranteed the best improve-
ments ; her Legislature being composed of her best statesmen, and the laws
passed having the general interest of the people embodied in them.
A bill was passed, appropriating the net proceeds of the land lying within
said State, sold by Congress after the 20th day of June, 1802, after deducting
all expenses incident to the same, to be applied to the laying-out of roads,
leading from the navigable waters emptying into the Atlantic to the Ohio, to
the said State, and through the same ; such roads to be laid out under the
authority of Congress, with the consent of the several States through which the
road shall pass. In conformity with these provisions, steps were taken, in 1805,
which resulted in the making of the Cumberland or National road.
Burr, at this time, began an organization for the ostensible purpose of
making a settlement on the Wachita, but his party being armed and his plans
not being frankly disclosed, an investigation proved that his real design Avas a
mutinous revolt against Governmental powers, and to gratify his ambition by
founding his «wn kingdom in Mexico, and defeating the Spanish. If success
crowned his efibrts, his ultimate victory was to rupture the Union by forcing the
Western States to withdraw from their allegiance. By gaining an influence
over the noble but misguided Blennerhasset, he established his headquarters on
his island in the Ohio. The history of Burr's expedition is already well known.
IQQ HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
The final capture by Gov. Tiffin, of ten boats loaded with stores, on the Mus-
kingum, and four near Marietta, decided the fate of this scheme, and Burr was
finally arrested and put on trial May 22, 1807.
The advancement of the settlement of the State was in no manner impeded,
and towns sprang up, farms were laid out, and all other improvements inaugu-
rated which tended to a permanent prosperity.
In 1808, Tecumseh left Greenville to join the Prophet on the banks of the
Tippecanoe, a tributary of the Upper Wabash, on a tract of land granted herein
by the Pottawatomies.
The Indians were virtually by treaty allowed but a small proportion of land
within the boundaries of the State, and were maintaining peaceful attitudes
toward the whites, with exceptional border depredations, which were settled by
mutual understanding.
Although the United States had gained independence, and was treating with
England as with other foreign powers, the British persisted in violating the
national rights of the United States, impressing American seamen into the
British service, seizing American vessels engaged with France in trade, and
otherwise violating the rights of an independent nation, at peace with the Brit-
ish power.
The mission upon which Henry was sent by the British, to create disturb-
ance between the States, and thus broken, to weaken the strength of the Gen-
eral Government, added fuel to the fire, and united indignation cried for war.
British agents again bargained with the Indians of the Wabash and Maumee
Valleys, desiring them to inaugurate another war upon the western sections and
to make a desperate attack upon the settlements south of the lakes. The Brit-
ish agent at Maiden negotiated in rifles, powder, ball, merchandise, lead, blank-
ets and shirts. The Indians were inspired again with the hope that the whites
would be driven back, and that all the country north of the Ohio would again
revert to them.
The Canadians in league with the English, gave the savages unlimited
quantities of whisky, which naturally aroused their fierce natures to acts of
violence and blood. It is highly probable that the use of liquor was the main
cause of the deterioration of the best traits of the Indian character, after the
Revolution. Again, many unscrupulous men upon the frontier did not hesi-
tate to commit the most merciless crimes against the Indians, such was the
prejudice against them, and the courts invariably failed to indict them for these
atrocities. This error on the part of the Americans served to influence the
savages against them.
At this time, the seats of justice were distant over a hundred miles each
from the other, uninhabited tracts frequently extending between them which were
absolute wildernesses. The routes were in many cases difficult and circuitous.
As early as 1808, there was a mail communication for the people on the
Lower Maumee, many days elapsing between the arrivals and departures of
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 107
the same, however. Horace Gunn was the carrier. Benoni Adams brought
the news from Cleveland to the same point, his trip requiring a fortnight. It
must be remembered that this journey was mostly made on foot. The Black
Swamp could not be traversed in any other manner.
THE AVAR OF 1812.
The war of 1812 can be called a continuation of the Revolution, with all
justice. Although rumors had reached Ohio, that active preparations were
being made for general action, no official tidings had been sent to Hull, com-
mand^-in-chief of the Western forces.
The Secretary of War, instead of sending a special messenger directly to
Hull, communicated with the post adjacent, depending upon a continuation of
the news from that point. At the same time, advices were sent the British
post at Maiden and Detroit. Hull sent out a packet with official papers, stores,
etc., the day previous to that on which the official intelligence arrived that an
open rupture existed between the two powers, and this was of course captured.
The Western forces marched to Detroit and crossed over to Sandwich, pre-
paratory to attacking Maiden, a post most favorable for the transportation of
stores, troops, etc. which was therefore considered valuable.
Peter Minard first gave the news to the settlers of the Maumee. He had
heard from a Delaware chief, who assured him a general massacre was to take
place in the valley. Maj. Spaffijrd paid no heed to this "idle fear," until a
few days thereafter a messenger came to his quarters, reporting a band of fifty
Pottawatomies on the march to join the hostile tribes near Maiden. They had
plundered and burned Monclova, and had nearly reached the rapids.
The Major, with his family and settlers, immediately launched a barge on
the river and were able to reach old Fort Miami just as the savages reached
Maumee City. They could plainly witness the flames that devoured their old
homes. They kept on their Avay in their miserable craft, until they reached
Milan, where they learned that the entire country was in danger.
Although the Indians were defeated in the battle of Tippecanoe in the fall
of 1811, they plotted vigorously with the English for the invasion of Ohio.
Gen. William Hull marched from the southwestern part of the State
directly north, crossing the counties of Champaign, Logan, Hardin, Hancock
and Wood, establishing military posts along the route and cutting a way
through the wilderness of the unsettled portions. He crossed the Maumee oa
the 1st of July, and marched to Detroit.
Hull was evidently actuated in his succeeding disgraceful failures by two
fears — lack of confidence in the ability of his troops, and the belief that they
might desert him in action. He proclaimed freedom, and a necessity of sub-
mitting to the Canadians under existing circumstances. He held out induce-
ments to the British regulars to desert their cause and essayed to pacify the
savages, but he accomplished nothing beyond jeopardizing the American cause
108 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
and disgracing his army. His men became restless. Col. Miller and Col.
Cass were delighted when detailed on scouting expeditions, and did not hesi-
tate to attack advancing squads of the enemy. At last, an attack was made on
the Niagara frontier, and Hull speedily abandoned his project and collected hia
forces at Detroit.
Meantime, Col. Proctor had reached Maiden, and quickly perceiving the
advantage of a post at that point, whereby he could cut off supplies and starve
Hull into subjection, he massed his forces about this section, captured Van
Horn and his two hundred men, and Avithstood the attack of Miller, although
he gained nothing by so doing. Again Hull displayed his weakness by recall-
ing his forces from further molestations.
Gen. Brock, however, reached Maiden on the 13th of August, 1812, and
began war preparations.
Gen. Dearborn placed a force on the Niagara frontier, but an armistice was
made with the British. Hull dispatched a third party under McArthur, to
open communications to the Raisin River.
Gen. Brock appeared at Sandwich and began to erect batteries, which Hull
would not allow to be molested. The result was, that on the 26th of August
Detroit Avas surrendered to the enemy, and not a blow had been struck in its
defense.
By this dastardly act, 1,400 brave men who had not been permitted to
make a single effort to sustain the American cause, were surrendered to 300
English regulars, 400 Canadians and their Indian allies. Gen. Hull was, in
consequence of this series of "mistakes," accused of treason and cowardice,
and convicted of the latter. By the middle of August, the British had gained
the control over most of the Northwestern Territory.
The appointment of William Henry Harrison to the position of com-
mander in chief of the Western forces, was most opportune. He speedily
raised a vigorous army, and advanced by three routes to the foot of the rapids.
Gen. Harrison commanded the right wing, and marched by the way of Upper
Sandusky, where he located his depot of supplies. Gen. Tupper commanded
the center. Fort McArthur, in Hardin County, being his base, while Gen. Win-
chester marched from Fort Defiance down the Maumee to the foot of the rapids.
A large force of British and Indians moved up the left bank of the Mau-
mee toward Fort Wayne, and Gen. Harrison, to intercept them, marched to
the confluence of the Auglaize with the Maumee.
Harrison was aware that the enemy would be also hemmed in by Win-
chester. The weather was rainy, and the prospects were that a most unfortun-
ate season was to follow the expected engagements. Harrison heard that
Winchester had reached Fort Defiance, and that the Indians and British were
retreating down the Maumee. He followed, and marched to Winchester's
camp, where he arrived in season to quell a mutiny under command of Col.
Allen, of the Kentucky troops.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 109
In January, 1813, Winchester had reached the rapids, where he received
tidings that Frenchtown was menaced and exposed. Without orders, he sent a
party to the rescue, which defeated the enemy. The weather was intensely
cold, and the company lay within eighteen miles of Maiden, where the enemy
was collected in full force, consequently re-enforcements must be dispatched
immediately or the town again left to its fate.
Winchester then marched with a force of 259 men, and upon arriving at
nightfall, insisted upon remaining on open ground, although warned repeatedly
that this would be a most dangerous experiment.
In the morning, he was surprised by the enemy, massed directly before
him, with a battery within three hundred yards of his camp, and a shower of
bombs, balls and grape-shot falling among his exposed troops, and the yells of
Indians reminding him of his fatal error. Lewis, who led the party out in the
beginning and had apprehended the danger, bravely defended himself behind
garden pickets. Winchester was defeated on the 22d of January, 1813, and
the Indians were permitted to massacre the prisoners and the settlers.
Harrison fell back to the foot of the rapids. On the 1st of February, he
began the construction of Fort Meigs. On the 27th of April, Proctor and
Tecumseh attacked this fort, and laid siege with the full expectation of success.
The stipulation was that Gen. Harrison was to be delivered to Tecumseh.
While the balls and bombs were making havoc with the fort, the Indians were
climbing trees and pouring a galling fire down upon the troops. Gen. Proctor
invited Harrison to surrender, which was politely declined, with the assurance
that the British General would have the opportunity to distinguish himself as a
soldier before such a proceeding was enacted.
Gen. Clay was descending the Maumee with 1,200 Kentuckians in flat
boats. Orders went from Harrison that 800 men should land on the left bank,,
take and spike the British cannon, and then to enter the fort, from which
soldiers were to issue to assist the re-enforcements.
Capt. Hamilton was to pilot Gen. Clay to the fort, cutting their way
through. All succeeded. Col. Dudley taking the batteries and spiking the
cannon. But his men, too much elated by their success, against orders, and
against the repeated expostulations of Col. Dudley, insisted on pursuing the-
Indians. Col. Dudley would not desert them. This act proved their ruin.
By a decoy, they were led into a defile which proved an ambush, and the men
found themselves surrounded by savages, without means of escape.
A most frightful massacre began, and every man would have fallen had not
Tecumseh sternly forbidden the cowardly carnage. One of his principal chiefs,
ignored this order, and the next instant the great warrior buried his hatchet in
his head. The brave Col. Dudley was, however, tomahawked and scalped.
There were no immediate signs that the fort would be surrendered, and the
siege was raised on the 9th of May. It was renewed on the 20th of July, and
abandoned a few days later. The enemy decided this stronghold was invulnerable.
110 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
On the 1st of August, the enemy proceeded to Fort Stevenson, at Lower
Sandusky, garrisoned by 150 men under Maj, Croghan. The fort had the
use of but one piece of cannon. The enemy with Tecumseh's Indians num-
bered 3,300 strong, with six pieces of cannon.
Gen. Proctor again tendered the offer to surrender, adding that a refusal
i^'ould only bring about a useless resistance, and a massacre by the Indians.
The reply was, that before the fort went over to the British, not an American
-would be left to be massacred, as they should hold out to the last man. Proc-
tor opened fire. The first movement was an assault upon the northwest angle
of the fort, as if to make a breach and thus carry the works. The command-
ant strengthened that point by bags of sand, and during the night stealthily
placing his one cannon in a concealed position, he filled it with slugs.
The following day, the fire again swept the northwest corner, and, evening
approaching, a column of 350 men swept up within twenty yards of the walls.
They were met by the musketry, which had little efi"ect, and the ditch was soon
filled with men. The next instant the hidden cannon, so placed as to sweep
the ditch, suddenly began action, and the surprised assailants quickly recoiled,
and the fort was saved, with the loss of only one man.
The next morning, the enemy had disappeared, evidently in haste, as guns,
clothing and stores were left behind. They had lost over one hundred and
fifty men by this useless attempt. Croghan had previously received orders to
evacuate the fort from Gen. Harrison, and his determination to hold the position
merited Harrison's reprimand and remand of commission. Such was the sev-
erity of military law. However, the rank of Colonel was immediately conferred
upon him by the President, for his gallantry. The ladies of Chillicothe pre-
sented him with an elegant testimonial in the shape of a sword.
It was decided to make a naval warfare effectual in the recovery of the
Northwestern Territory, and accordingly vessel-building began under Commo-
dore Perry's supervision.
The British looked upon this proceeding with derision, fully intending to
use these boats for their own purpose. They publicly proclaimed their intention.
By the 1st of August, 1813, Commodore Perry set sail a flotilla, the Law-
rence and the Niagara, of twenty guns each, with smaller vessels following.
Some diflSculty was encountered in launching the larger vessels, on account of
the shallowness of the water.
Perry's first destination was Put-in-Bay, thirty miles from Maiden, where
the British fleet lay under the guns of the fort. On the 10th of September,
the British fleet — exceeding the American by ten guns — under Commodore
Barclay, appeared off" Put-in-Bay, distant about ten miles. Perry immediately
set sail. The wind shifting, the Americans had the advantage.
Perry hoisted his battle-flag and a general preparation was made for the
conflict. An ominous silence settled over all as the fleets approached. A
bugle sounded on the enemy's ship Detroit, and a furious fire was opened upon
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. Ill
the Lawrence. The frightful and desperate battle that ensued is so familiar
that it is not necessary for us to repeat its details. It forever remains in his-
tory as a prominent, desperate struggle that turned the tide most decisively in
favor of the Americans. Hand to hand, for three hours, this furious struggle
surged, resulting in a pronounced victory for the Americans.
Commodore Perry immediately requested parole for his severely wounded
antagonist. Commodore Barclay. Capt. Elliott was at this engagement highly
commended by Perry for his bravery.
Gen. Harrison now made preparations to follow Proctor, and reached Mai-
den on the 27th of September.
Proctor had retreated to Sandwich, and thence Harrison followed him,
overtaking the enemy on the 9th of October, on the bank of the Thames. An
engagement ensued, which was not particularly marked in its events, but which
practically terminated the war in the Northwest.
Tecumseh fell during this battle, and his death disheartened the savages to
such an extent that they were willing to make terms of peace. Accordingly
a treaty was concluded on the 22d of July, 1814, with the Wyandots, Dela-
wares, Shawnees, Senecas and Miamis, the tribes engaged in hostilities.
Again Ohio was able to turn her attention to the improvements within her
own boundaries. Weary and disabled though she was, her ambition -and
energy were unimpaired. The struggle had been severe, but a grand reward
had been won, and peace and independence belonged to these sturdy, earnest,
pioneers.
In 1815, a town was founded near Fort Meigs, and, in 1816, Gen. John
E. Hunt and Judge Robert A. Forsythe located at Maumee.
Up to the year 1817, Ohio had no banking system, and on the 28th of
January of that year, the United States Bank opened a branch at Cincinnati,
and yet another during the following October at Chillicothe. These branches
found a large amount of business to transact, and while being of assistance in
various ways to the State, also received a fine revenue themselves. The State
therefore resolved upon a tax levy, and, in 1819, the branches were to pay
150,000 each, and the State Auditor was authorized to issue his warrant for
the collection of the same.
The bank branches demurred, but the State was decided, and the banks
accordingly filed a bill in chancery, in the United States Circuit Court, setting
forth reasons whereby their prayer that Ralph Osborn, State Auditor, should
be restrained from making such collection, should be seriously considered.
Osborn being counseled not to appear on the day designated in the writ, an
injunction was obtained, with the security given in the shape of bonds from the
bank, to the amount of $100,000. On the 14th of September, the bank sent a
commissioner to Columbus, who served upon the Auditor a copy of the petition
112 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
for the injunction, and a subpoena to make an appearance before the court
on the first Monday in the following January. Osborn submitted both the
petition and the injunction to the Secretary of State, with his warrant for col-
lecting the tax. Legally, the matter was somewhat complicated.
The Auditor desired the Secretary of State to take legal advice, and if the
papers did not actually amount to an injunction, to give orders for the execu-
tion of the warrant.
The decision was that the papers did not equal a valid injunction. The State
writ for collection was therefore given over to John L. Harper, with directions
to enter the banking-house and demand the payment of the tax. In case of a
refusal, the vault Avas to be entered and a levy made upon the amount required.
No violence was to be used, and if force was used to deter the act, the
same was to be reported to a proper magistrate and an afiidavit made to that
fact.
On September 17, Mr. Harper went about his errand, taking with him T.
Orr and J. MacCollister. After securing access to the vault, a demand was
made for the payment of the tax. This was promptly refused, and a notice
o-iven of the granting of the injunction. This was disregarded, and the ofiicer
seized |98,000 in gold, silver and notes. This was placed in charge of the
State Treasurer, Mr. H. M. Curry.
The officers were arrested and imprisoned by the United States Circuit
Court, and the money returned to the bank. The case was reviewed by
the Supreme Court, and the measures of the Circuit Court were sustained. The
State, therefore, submitted. In the mean time, the Legislature had prepared
and passed a resolution, as follows :
Resolved, by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That in respect to the powers of the
Governments of the several States that compose the American Union, and the powers of the Fed-
eral Government, this General Assembly do recognize and approve the doctrines asserted by the
Legislatures of Kentucky and Virginia in their resolutions of November and December, 1798,
and January, 1800, and do consider their principles have been recognized and adopted by a
majority of the American people.
Resolved further. That this General Assembly do assert and will maintain by all legal and
constitutional means, the rights of States to tax the business and property of any private corpo-
i-ation of trade, incorporated by the Congress of the United States, and located to transact its
corporate business within any State.
Resolved further, That the bank of the United States is a private corporation of trade, the
capital and business of which may be legally taxed in any State where they may be found.
Resolved further, That the General Assembly do protest against the doctrines that the politi-
cal rights of the separate States that compose the American Union and their powers as sovereign
States, may be settled and determined in the Supreme Court of the United States, so as to con-
clude and bind them in cases contrived between individuals, and where they are, no one of them,
parties direct.
The bank was thus debarred from the aid of State laws in the collection of
its dues and in the protection of its rights. An attempt was made to effect a
change in the Federal constitution, which would take the case out of the
United States Courts. This, however, proved ineffectual.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 113
The banking system in Ohio has, by reason of State surveillance, not been
subjected to those whirlwind speculations and questionable failures which have
marked many Western States, in the establishment of a firm basis upon which
a banking law could be sustained, with mutual benefit to the institution and the
people.
THE CANAL SYSTEM.
In the first part of 1817, the Legislature considered a resolution relating
to a canal between Lake Erie and the Ohio River. No action was taken and
the subject was not again agitated until 1819. Gov. Brown appointed three
commissioners in 1820, for the purpose of employing an efficient engineer and
such assistants as he deemed necessary, for the purpose of surveying a practical
route for this canal. The commissioners were restricted in their actions until
Congress should accept a proposition in behalf of the State, for a donation and
sale of the public lands lying upon and near the route of the proposed canal.
A delay was thus occasioned for two years.
In 1822, the matter was referred to a committee of the House of Repre-
sentatives. This committee approved and recommended the employment of the
engineer. They furthermore added illustrations to prove the feasibility of the
project.
James Geddes, a skillful engineer of New York, was in due time appointed
to the position and instructed to make the necessary examinations and sur-
veys.
The surveys were made, and estimates given of the expenses, which docu-
ments were laid before the Legislature at several sessions.
In 1825, an act was passed providing for the internal improvement of the
State by navigable canals. Directly thereafter, the State set vigorously about
the work of constructing two canals, one leading from the Ohio to Lake Erie,
by way of the valleys of the Scioto and Muskingum, the other from Cincinnati
to Dayton.
The first canal-boat from Cincinnati to Dayton, reached her destination in
1829, on the 25th of January. This outlet of communication was extended
to Lake Erie, and was completed in 1845. The largest artificial lake now
known is on the elevation between the Ohio and the lake, in Mercer County,
and supplies the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Canal, about three miles dis-
tant, eastwardly. This reservoir is about nine miles long, and from two to
four broad.
Two walls of earth, from ten to twenty feet high, were formed, on the east
and west, which united with the elevations north and south, surrounded this
basin. When the water was admitted, whole farms were submerged, and the
"neighbors" complained lest this overflow should tempt miasma. So great
was the excitement, that over one hundred and fifty residents of the county
united, and with shovels and spades, made a breach in the embankment.
Many holding prominent positions in the county were engaged . in this work,
114 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
and all laid themselves liable to the State laws, which made the despoiling of
public works a penitentiary offense.
The matter was taken up by the courts, but a grand jury could not be
found in Mercer County to find a bill of indictment.
The officers who had charge of the work, ignored the law requiring the cut-
ing and saving of the timber on lands appropriated, for canal reservoirs. The
trees were ruthlessly girdled, and thousands of acres of valuable timber that
might have been highly desirable in the building of bridges, etc., were
destroyed. However, an adjustment was finally efi'ected, and the work was
prosecuted with the entire approbation of the people, who were convinced that
convenient transportation was to be desired.
OHIO LAND TRACTS.
After the Indians relinquished all claims against the lands of those States
west of the Alleghanies, as they had been obtained by conquest, the United
States, as a government, owned the soil. When Ohio was admitted into the
Union, a stipulation was made that the fee simple to all the lands within its
boundaries, with the exception of those previously sold or granted, should vest
in the General Government. At the present writing, but few tracts remain
that can be called " public lands." In this, as in other States, tracts are des-
ignated by their pioneer signification or the purpose to which they were origi-
nally devoted. In Ohio, these tracts are known as :
Symmes' Purchase. 15. Maumee Road.
Refugee Tract. 16. School Lands.
French Grant. 17. College Lands.
Dohrman's Grant. 18. Ministerial Lands.
Zane's Grant. 19. Moravian Lands.
Canal Lands. 20. Salt Sections.
Turnpike Lands.
The lands sold by the direct officers of the Government, under the direc-
tion of Congress, according to the laws, are known as Congress lands. They
are properly surveyed, and laid out in townships six miles square, under the
direction of the Government, and the expense incurred settled by Congress.
These townships are subdivided into sections, containing 640 acres. One sec-
tion is reserved, in every township, for educational purposes, to be utilized in
any manner approved by the State as being the best to aid the cause for which
they are assigned.
The Western Reserve will be remembered as the tract originally belonging to
Connecticut. It lies in the northeast quarter of the State. A half-million acres
were donated by the old Eastern State, when her claim was in force, to sufferers
from fire during the Revolutionary war, which created the name, " fire lands."
Many settled here whose homes were destroyed by the British during the war.
It will be remembered, that on account of discoveries by subjects of empires,
in the New World, the " Old World " kings laid claim to difierent portions
1.
Congress Lands.
8.
2.
United States Military.
9.
3.
Virginia Military.
10.
4.
Western Reserve.
11.
5.
Fire Lands.
12.
6.
Ohio Company's Purchase.
13.
7.
Donation Tract.
14.
I h
«)iTSt
'jtfftA
nfieitn
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 117
of the young continent. At that period, European knowledge of American
geographical positions and limits was exceedingly meager, which occasioned
several wars and more discussions. These Old-World sovereigns also assumed
the authority to sell or present tracts of land to their subjects, in those terri-
tories they deemed their own.
King Charles II of England granted to his loyal subjects the colony of
Connecticut, in 1662, placing with them a charter of right to all lands within
certain prescribed boundaries. But these " boundaries " frequently conflicted
with those of others, and sometimes extended to the Pacific Ocean, or " South
Sea," as it was then termed. Connecticut, by her original charter rights, held
all lands between the forty -first and forty-second parallels of north latitude, and
from Providence Plantation on the east, to Pacific Ocean on the west, except-
ing the New York and Pennsylvania colonies. As late as the establishment of
the United States as an independent government, those colliding claims fre-
quently engendered confusion and warm discussion between the nation and
Connecticut, regarding the original colony claim. This was compromised by
the national claims being relinquished in regard to the territorial claim in Ohio,
and Connecticut holding the 3,800,000 acres described as the " Western Reser-
vation." The Government held the right of jurisdiction.
In 1796, Congress set aside a certain division of land, to satisfy the claims
of officers and soldiers of the Revolutionary war. It includes the 2,500,000
acres between the Greenville treaty line and the Congress and refugee lands,
and " VII ranges of townships," on the east, and the Scioto River, west. This
constitutes the '' Military Tract." The " Virginia Military Tract " lies between
the Scioto and Little Miami Rivers, and extends south to the Ohio.
James I, in his authorized charter to the Virginia colony, in the year
1609, made rather visionary boundary lines, sweeping over the continent, west
of the Ohio River, " of the north and south breadth of Virginia." Virginia
reconciled the matter by relinquishing all her claims northwest of the Ohio
River, with the exception of a tract for the purpose of donating the same to her
troops of the Revolution — their claims demanding such a return in some section.
Unfortunately, this tract was not regularly surveyed, and conflicting "lines "
have given rise to litigation ever since that stipulation was made.
The Ohio Company's Purchase has already been described — as has the
Symmes Purchase.
The Refugee Tract covers an area of 100,000 acres, extending eastwardly
from the Scioto River forty-eight miles, in a strip of country four and one-half
miles broad, north to south. Columbus, the capital of the State, is situated in
the western portion. This land was donated by Congress to those individuals
who left the British dominions and rule, during the Revolution, and espoused
the American cause.
The French Tract borders on the Ohio River, in the southeastern quarter
of Scioto County. It includes 24,000 acres, and was ceded to those French
118 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
families that lost their claims at Gallipolis, through invalid titles ; 1,200 acres
were added, after the above grant of 1795.
Dohrman's Grant includes a section, six miles square, in the southeastern
portion of Tuscarawas County. It was granted to Arnold Henry Dohrman, a
Portuguese merchant, as a token of appreciation of the aid and shelter he ren-
dered American cruisers and vessels of war, during the Revolution.
The Moravian Lands were originally grants by the old Continental Con-
gress, in 1787, and confirmed by the act of the Government Congress, in 1796,
to the Moravian Brethren, of Bethlehem, Penn., in sacred trust, and for the
use of those Indians who embraced Christianity and civilization, desiring to live
and settle thereon. These three tracts include 4,000 acres each, and are situ-
ated in Tuscarawas County. In 1823, the Indians relinquished their rights to
the 12,000 acres in this county, for 24,000 acres, in a territory designated by
the United States, together with an annuity of $400.
Zane's Tracts included a portion of land on the Muskingum, whereon Zanes-
ville was built ; another at the crossing of the Hocking, on which Lancaster is
located : and yet another on the left bank of the Scioto River, opposite Chilli-
cothe. These grants were made to Ebenezer Zane, by Congress, in 1796, as a
reward for opening a road from Wheeling, Va., to Maysville, Ky. In 1802,
Mr. Zane received three additional tracts, one square mile each, in considera-
tion of being captured and held a prisoner, during the Revolutionary war,
when a boy, by the Indians. He lived with these people most of his life, secur-
ing many benefits for the Americans. These tracts are located in Champaign
County.
The Maumee Road Lands extend the length of the road, from the Maumee
River, at Perrysburg, to the western limits of the Western Reserve, a distance
of forty-six miles — in a strip two miles wide. This includes about 60,000
acres. These lands Avere ceded by the Indians^ at the treaty of Brownstown, in
1808. The original intention of Congress was to mark a highway through this
strip, but no definite action was taken until 1823, whe ,i the land was ceded to
the State of Ohio, under an obligation that the State make and sustain the pro-
jected road, within four years after the transfer.
The Turnpike Lands extended over 31,360 acres along the western side of
the Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike, in the eastern parts of Seneca, Craw-
ford and Marion Counties. They were designed for the transportation of mail
stages, troops and other United States property, free from toll. The grant was
made in 1827.
" The Ohio Canal Lands " comprise about 1,000,000 acres, set aside for the
purpose of canal construction.
When Ohio was admitted to the Union, a guarantee was given that the State
should not tax Government lands until they should have been sold for five years.
That the thirty-sixth part of all territory within the State limits should be de-
voted to educational purposes, for the general benefit of the population. In
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 119
order to secure tracts which would prove available, and thus insure returns,
they were selected in small lots. No. 16 was designated as the sectional portion,
in each township of Congress lands, the Ohio Company's and Symmes Pur-
chases, the United States Military Lands, the Connecticut Reserve, and a num-
ber of quarter townships. These school lands were selected by the Secretary
of the Treasury.
The college townships are thirty-six miles square. A section, thirty-six
miles square, in the center of Jackson County, in the vicinity and containing
the Scioto Salt Licks, was also reserved by Congress, together with a quarter-
mile township in Delaware County. This swept over 27,040 acres. In 1824,
Congress authorized the State to sell these lands. The proceeds were to be
devoted to literary requirements, such as might be specified by Congress.
IMPROVEMENTS.
We have heretofore briefly alluded to the canal system of Ohio, which in
the beginning caused considerable anxiety to settlers directly in the course of
its survey. The Legislature passed the " Internal Improvement by Navigable
Canals " act, in 1825, and the work was immediately inaugurated and hastened.
The " Ohio Canal " extends from the lake to the Ohio, and the " Miami " con-
nects Cincinnati with Dayton. The latter was completed to Toledo in 1844, a
length of 493 miles. Its total cost, including reservoir cutting and feeders, was
17,500,000. The Ohio Canal was finished in 1833.
During the construction of these canals, the curiosities which have attracted
antiquarians and scientists, in the State of Ohio, were found in various places.
Relics were discovered that must have belonged to a giant race. Nearly 3,000
graves were found, of the " mound type."
A third canal was begun in 1836, reaching from Walhonding, in Coshocton
County, to Roscoe, its length being twenty-five miles, involving an expense of
$610,000. This was completed in 1842. The Hocking Canal, between Car-
roll, in Fairfield County, and Athens, in Athens County, a distance of fifty-
six miles, was also cut, about the same time, at a cost of nearly $1,000,000.
The Muskingum improvements were also being carried forward. Locks and
dams weve requisite for the perfection of navigation in this water-course, from
Dresden to Marietta, a distance of ninety-one miles. This added an expense
of $1,630,000 to the call for improvement appropriations. To the Miami Canal
was added a feeder, known as the "Warren County Canal — extending from
Franklin to Lebanon, which was not completed, although over $250,000 were
expended in its construction as far as it went.
Railway transportation was a subject Avhich engrossed the attention of those in-
terested in State perpetuity and general prosperity. About the year 1831, the Leg-
islature received applications for railway charters. The first one granted was the
" Cincinnati, Sandusky & Cleveland Railroad," on June 5, 1832. The " Sandusky,
Mansfield & Newark Railroad " obtained a charter in 1836, March 11, followed.
120 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
three days thereafter, by the " Cleveland, Columbus & Cincinnati Railroad."
The " Little Miami" was begun in 1837. Notwithstanding these chartered
rights, but 129 miles were completed in 1847, and in operation. In 1878,
the mileage had increased to 6,264. The valuation of the operating roads
was estimated the same year, at |76,11 3,500. Their taxation summed up
$1,128,116.
No State in the Union has been more zealous in her educational interests than
Ohio. Public lands were generously granted by Congress, and the State added
her affirmation. However, no practical and effectual system was adopted until
1825.
An act was then passed to tax all real property one-half mill per dollar for
the establishment of schools in each township, and the support of the same.
An act of 1829, increased the tax to three-fourths of a mill. Trustees of
townships were instructed to make divisions and locate convenient school dis-
tricts. Householders were to elect three school directors, a clerk and treasurer
annually. Privileges and restrictions were enjoined in all cases. The house-
holders were allowed their discretion, governed accordingly, in imposing taxes
for the erection of school buildings. The Courts of the Common Pleas
appointed a committee to examine the qualifications of those individuals mak-
ing application for the position of teachers. The school extended equal privi-
leges to all white children. Those of colored parentage were excluded, and no
tax was levied for school purposes upon colored parents. An amendment has
admitted the children of colored parents. The system has continued the same,
with a few amendments. A State Commissioner of Common Schools is electe*!
every third year, who has general charge of the interests of public schools. A
State Board of Examiners, composed of three persons, appointed by the State
Commissioner, for two years' term, is authorized to issue life certificates of high
qualifications, to such teachers as it may find to possess the requisite scholarship,
character, experience and ability. These certificates, signed by the Commis-
sioner, are valid throughout the State. A County Board of Examiners, of
three members, is formed in each county. Boards of education, for cities, are
made up of one or two members from each ward. City Boards of Examiners
are also appointed. Section 4 of the law of 1873, was amended in 1877, which
made the territory annexed to an incorporated village, at the option of the
voters of the village and tributary section, whether it be included with the vil-
lage as one school district, or left as two school districts. Section 56 of the law was
amended, in its bearing upon cities of 30,000 to 75,000 inhabitants, by limiting
to five mills on the dollar of taxable property, the levies in such cities for con-
tinuing schools, for purchasing sites for schoolhouses, for leasing, purchasing,
erecting and furnishing school houses, and for all school expenses. The public
funds are subject to the discretion of voters, and boards are authorized, under
instructions, to make the best use of such funds. Taxation is subject to the
discretion of the State, certain limits being prescribed.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 121
In 1878, the number of youth of the school age numbered 1,041,963.
On the rolls, 740,194 names were recorded. In the year 1878, 23,391 teach-
ers were employed, receiving $4,956,514.46 for their services.
Ohio not only sustains her public schools on a broad, liberal basis, but she
encourages educational pursuits in superior universities and colleges throughout
the State. These institutions are not aided by State funds, but are sustained by
society influence, added to their self-supporting resources. Ohio also possesses
a large number of normal schools, academies, seminaries and business colleges.
These are not entitled to the privileges of the school fund. Scientific, profes-
sional, theological, legal and medical instructions are in no manner limited in
their facilities. Industrial and reformatory schools are especially thorough.
Institutions for the instruction of the deaf and dumb, and blind, and feeble-
minded, are under the best discipline.
We may add, many female seminaries have been established which are entirely
sustained by other than State aid. Ohio has, from its inception, been solid and
vigorous in whatever tended toward improvement and enlightenment.
We have also referred to the banking system of this State, as being first
established on a basis through a contest between the State and the General
Government. Authorities differ regarding the exact date and location of the
very first house established in the State for the purpose of transacting banking
business. It is highly probable that Marietta is more directly associated with
that event than any other town. There are at present over one hundred and
sixty-seven national banks, with an aggregate capital of $27,794,468. It also
has eighteen banks of deposit, incorporated under the State banking laws of
1845, representing an aggregate capital of $539,904. Twenty-three savings
banks, incorporated under the State act of 1875, with an aggregate capital of
$1,277,500. Of private banks it has 192, with an aggregate capital of
$5,663,898. The State represents in her banking capital over $36,275,770.
The First National of Cincinnati has a capital stock of over $1,000,000.
The others fall below that sum, their capital diminishing from 10,000 shares of
$100 each. The valuation for taxation is $850,000— Merchant's National of
Cincinnati— to the valuation of a tax of $5,000 on the First National of
Beverly.
BOUNDARY LINES.
We must not omit the subject of the State boundaries. Ohio was especially
the field for most animated discussions, relative not only to State limits but
county lines and township rights. In 1817, a severe controversy arose, which
was settled only after violent demonstrations and Government interference.
In primitive times, the geographical position, extent and surface diversities
were but meagerly comprehended. In truth, it may be asserted they could not
have been more at variance with actual facts had they been laid out " hap-
hazard." The ordinance of 1787 represented Lake Michigan far north of its
real position, and even as late as 1812, its size and location had not been
122 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
definitely ascertained. During that year, Amos Spafford addressed a clear, com-
prehensive letter to the Governor of Ohio, on this subject, relative to the
boundary lines of Ohio. Several lines of survey were laid out as the first
course, but either Michigan or Ohio expressed disapproval in every case. This
culminated in 1835, when the party beginning a " permanent " survey began
at the northwest corner of the State, and was attacked by a force of Michigan
settlers who sent them away badly routed and beaten. No effort was made to
return to the work until the State and various parties had weighed the subject,
and finally the interposition of the Government became necessary.
A settlement resulted in Ohio being bounded on the north by Lake Erie
and the State of Michigan, on the east by Pennsylvania and West Virginia, on
the south by the Ohio River, and on the west by Indiana.
It is situated between the 38° 25' and 42° north latitude, and 84° 50'
west longitude from Greenwich, or 3° 30' and 7° 50' west from Washington.
From north to south, it extends over 210 miles, and from east to west 220
miles — comprising 39,964 square miles.
The State is generally higher than the Ohio River. In the southern
counties, the surface is greatly diversified by the inequalities produced by the
excavating power of the Ohio River and its tributaries. The greater portion
of the State was originally covered with timber, although in the central and
northwestern sections some prairies were found. The crest or watershed
between the waters of Lake Erie and those of the Ohio is less elevated than
in New York or Pennsylvania. Sailing upon the Ohio the country appears
to be mountainous, bluffs rising to the height of two hundred and fifty to six
hundred feet above the valleys. Ascending the tributaries of the Ohio, these
precipitous hills gradually lessen until they are resolved into gentle undulations,
and toward the sources of the river the land is low and marshy.
Although Ohio has no inland lakes of importance, she possesses a favorable
river system, which, aided by her canals, gives her prestige of a convenient
water transportation. The lake on her northern boundary, and the Ohio
River on her southern limit, afford most convenient outlets by water to impor-
tant points. Her means of communication and transportation are superior in
every respect, and are constantly being increased.
ORGANIZATION OF COUNTIES AND EARLY EVENTS.
Adams County was named in honor of John Adams, second President of
the United States. Gov. St. Clair proclaimed it a county on July 10, 1797.
The Virginia Military Tract included this section, and the first settlement made
•within its boundaries was in this county in 1790-91, between the Scioto and Little
Miami, at Manchester, by Gen. Nathaniel Massie. In this town was held the
first court of the county.
West Union, the present county seat, was laid out by the Hon. Thomas
Kirker. It occupies the summit of a high ridge. The surface of this county is
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 123
hilly and broken, and the eastern part is not fertile. It produces corn, wheat, oats
and pork. Beds of iron are found in the eastern part. Its hills are composed of
aluminous shale. The barren hills afford a range for cattle and hogs. A sort
of vagrant class derive a support by collecting stones, hoop-poles and tanners'
barks from these hills.
Ashland County is one of the finest agricultural sections. It was formed
February 26, 1846. Wheat comprises its principal crop, although large quan-
tities of oats, corn, potatoes, grass and fruit are raised. Ashland is its county
seat, and was laid out by William Montgomery in 1816. It was called Union-
town for several years. Daniel Carter raised the first cabin within the county
limits in 1811.
Auglaize County was formed in February, 1848, from Allen and Mercer
Counties. Wapakoneta is its county seat.
Allen County was formed from the Indian Territory April 1, 1820. Lima
is its county seat.
Ashtabula County was formed June 7, 1807, and was organized January
22, 1811. The surface is level near the lake, while the remainder is undulat-
ing. The soil is mostly clay. Very little wheat is raised, but considerable
corn and oats. Butter and cheese are the main marketable productions. This
was the first county settled on the Western Reserve, and also the earliest in
Northern Ohio. On the 4th of July, 1796, the first surveying party arrived
at the mouth of Conneaut Creek. Judge James Kingsbury was the first who
wintered there with his family. He was the first man to use a sickle in the
first wheat-field in the Western Reserve. Their child was the first born on the
Western Reserve, and was starved to death. The first regular settlement was
at Harpersfield, in 1798.
Jeiferson is the county seat. Ashtabula is pleasantly situated on the river,
with a fine harbor two and a half miles from the village.
The first church on the Western Reserve was founded at Austinburg in
1801.
Athens County was formed from Washington March 1, 1805. It produces
wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. The surface is hilly and broken, with rich bot-
tom lands between. Coal, iron ore and salt add materially to its commercial
value. It has the advantage of the canal, as well as other transportation.
Athens, its county seat, is situated on the Hocking River. The Ohio Uni-
versity, the first college founded in the State, is located here. We have
mentioned the ancient mounds found in this county, heretofore. Yellow pine is
abundant in the lower part of the Hocking Valley.
Brown County was formed March 1, 1818, from Adams and Clermont. It
produces wheat, corn, rye, oats and pork. The southern part is prolific in
grain, while the northern is adapted to grazing purposes. The surface is undu-
lating, with the exception of the Ohio River hills. Over this county Tecumseb
once held sway
124 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Georgetown is the county seat, and was laid out in 1819. Ripley is the larg-
est business town in the county,
Belmont County was announced by Gov. St. Clair September 7, 1801. It
produces large crops of wheat, oats, corn and tobacco, an annual crop of over
2,000,000 pounds of the latter being the average. It also trades largely in
wool and coal. It is a picturesque tract of country, and was one of the
pioneers in the early settled portions.
In 1790, Fort Dillie was erected on the west side of the Ohio. Baker's
Fort was a mile below the mouth of the Captina. Many desperate Indian bat-
tles were fought within the limits of this county, and the famous Indian scout,
Lewis Wetzel, roamed over the region.
St. Clairsville is the county seat, situated on the elevation of land, in a fer-
tile district. Capt. Kirkwood and Elizabeth Zane, of historic fame, were early
pioneers here.
Butler County was formed in 1803, from Hamilton. It is within the blue
limestone formation, and one of the most fertile sections of Ohio. It produces
more corn than any other county in the State, besides fine crops of whea,t,
oats and large quantities of pork. Hamilton, the county seat, is situated on the
Great Miami. Its hydraulic works furnish superior water-power. Rossville,
on the opposite side of the Miami, is a large mercantile town.
St. Clair passed through this county on his Indian campaigns in 1791,
building Fort Hamilton on the Miami.
Champaign County was formed March 1, 1805, from Greene and Franklin.
It is drained by Mad River and its tributaries, which furnishes extensive mill
privileges. Nearly a half is undulating, a quarter rolling, a fifth hilly, and
5 per cent wet prairie. The soil is fertile, and produces wheat, corn, oats,
barley, hay, while beef and wool add to the general wealth. Urbana, the
county seat, was laid out in 1805, by Col. William Ward. He was chief owner
of the land and donated many lots to the county, under condition that their
proceeds be devoted to public improvements. Joseph Vance and George
Fithian were the first settlers. The Methodists built the first church in 1807.
The main army of Hull concentrated at this point before setting out for Detroit.
Many Indian councils were called here, and Tecumseh was located for a time
near Deer Creek.
Carroll County was formed fi'om Columbiana in 1832-33. It produces
wheat, oats and corn, and valuable coal and iron. The surface is hilly. Car-
rollton is its county seat. At Harlem is a celebrated chalybeate spring.
Clark County was formed March 1, 1817, from Champaign, Madison and
Greene. Its second settlement was at Kreb's Station, in 1796. It is highly culti-
vated, well watered and very fertile. The Mad River, Buck and Beaver Creeks
furnish abundant water-power. It produces principally wheat, corn and oats.
Tecumseh, the old Indian warrior, was born at the ancient Indian vil-
lage of Piqua, on the Mad River, on the site of New Boston. Piqua was
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 125
destroyed by Gen. George Rogers Clarke. Skeletons, beads, gun barrels,
tomahawks, kettles, etc., have been found in the vicinity.
Springfield, the county seat, is situated on the National road. It has con-
venient transportation facilities, is handsomely laid out, and is noted for its
cultured citizens. It is near Mad River, and Buck Creek runs through it.
Clinton County was formed in 1810. It produces chiefly wheat, oats,
wool and pork. Its surfice is undulating, in some parts hilly, and the soil fer-
tile. Its streams furnish desirable water-power. The county was settled in
1798-99. Wilmington is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810. The first
log house was built by William Hobsin.
Clermont County was the eighth formed in the Northwest Territory, by
proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, December 9, 1800. The soil is exceedingly
rich, and the surface is broken and, near the Ohio, hilly. Wheat, corn, oats,
hay, potatoes, tobacco, barley, buckwheat and rye form the main crops, while
beef, pork, flour, hay and whisky constitute its main exports. Its streams
furnish good water-power. Batavia, its county seat, is situated on the Little
Miami River, and was laid out in 1820, by George Ely.
Columbiana County was formed March 25, 1803, from Jeff'erson and Wash-
ington. Its soil is very fertile, producing Avheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It
is wealthy in mineral deposits, coal, iron ore, lime and freestone being abun-
dant. Its water-lime stone is of superior quality. Salt water is found on Yel-
low and Beaver Creeks. This is also the great wool-producing county of
the State. It was settled in 1797. New Lisbon, its county seat, is well
built.
The first paper-mill in Ohio was erected in this county, on Little Beaver
Creek, by John Coulter and John Bever.
Coshocton County was organized April 1, 1811. Its principal products are
wheat, corn, oats and wool. Hills and valleys alternate along the Muskingum
R,iver. Abrupt changes are strongly marked — a rich alluvum being overhung
by a red-bush hill, while directly beside it may be seen the poplar and sugar
tree. Coal and iron ore add to its general importance, while salt wells have
proven remunerative.
Coshocton, the county seat, is built on four wide, natural terraces, at the
junction of the Tuscarawas with the Walhonding.
Cuyahoga County was formed June 7, 1807, from Geauga. Near the lake,
the soil is sandy, while a clayey loam may be found elsewhere. The valleys
near the streams produce wheat, barley and hay. Fruit is successfully groi^^n,
and cheese, butter, beef and wool are largely exported. Bog iron is found in
the western part, and fine grindstone quarries are in operation. The sandstone
from these quarries is now an important article of commerce. As early as
1775, there was a French settlement within the boundaries of Cuyahoga. In
1786, a Moravian missionary came to the present site of Cleveland, and set-
tled in an abandoned village of the Ottawas. Circumstances prevented a
126 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
permanent settlement, and the British tacitly took possession, even remaining
upon the lake shores after the Revolution.
The first permanent settlement was made at Cleveland in 1796. Mr. Job
V. Stiles and family and Edward Paine passed the first winter there, their log
cabin standing where the Commercial Bank is now located. Rodolphus
Edwards and Nathaniel Doane settled here. The town was, in 1813, a depot
of supplies and a rendezvous for troops engaged in the war.
Cleveland, the county seat, is situated at the northern termination of the
Ohio Canal, on the lake shore. In 1814, it was incorporated as a village, and
in 1836, as a city. Its elevation is about a hundred feet above the lake. It
is a lovely city, and has one of the best harbors on Lake Erie.
Ohio City is another important town, nearly opposite Cleveland, on the
Cuyahoga. It was incorporated in 1836.
Crawford County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory.
The entire county is adapted to grazing. The soil is generally composed of
rich vegetable loam, and in some parts the subsoil is clay mixed with lime.
Rich beds of shell marl have been discovered. It produces wheat, corn, oats,
clover, timothy seed, wool and cattle. Fine limestone quarries are worked with
success.
Bucyrus is the county seat, and was laid out February 11, 1822, by Samuel
Norton and James Kilbourn, original owners of the land. The first settler in
the town proper was Samuel Norton. A gas well has been dug in Bucyrus,
on the land of R. W. Musgrove, which burns in a brilliant light when con-
ducted to the surface by means of pipes. Crawford's Sulphur Springs are
located nine miles from Bucyrus. The -water is impregnated with sulphuretted
hydrogen. It deposits a reddish-purple sediment. In its nature the water is a
cathartic, and is diuretic and diaphoretic in its effects. A few rods away is a
burning spring. The Annapolis Sulphur Spring is clear and has gained consid-
erable fame by its curative qualities. Opposite Bucyrus is a chalybeate spring
of tonic qualities*
There are some beds of peat in the county, the most extensive one being a
wet prairie called Cranberry Marsh, containing nearly 2,000 acres.
Darke County was organized in March, 1817, from Miami County. It is
abundantly timbered with poplar, walnut, blue ash, hickory, beech and sugar
maple. It yields superior wheat, and is well adapted to grazing. In this
county occurred the lamentable defeat of St. Clair, and the treaty of Greenville.
'Greenville is the county seat, and was laid out August 10, 1808, by Robert
Gray and John Dover. In December, 1793, Wayne built Fort Greenville on
this spot, which covered about the same extent as the present town.
Delaware County was formed February 10, 1808, from Franklin. It pro-
duces mainly wheat, corn, oats, pork and wool.
Delaware is the county seat, and was laid out in the spring of 1808, by
Moses Byxbe. The Delaware Spring in the village is of the white sulphur or
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 127
cold hydro-sulphurous nature, valuable for medicinal qualities in cases of bilious
derangements, dyspepsia, scrofulous affections, etc.
Defiance County was inaugurated March 4, 1845, from Williams, Henry
and Paulding. The Maumee, Tiffin and Auglaize flow through it. The Black
Swamp covers much of its area.
Defiance, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee. It was laid out in
1822, by B. Level and H. Phillips. A large Indian settlement occupied its
site in very early times. Wayne arrived here August 8, 1794, captured the
place, finding about one thousand acres of corn, peach and apple orchards, and
vegetables of all varieties. Here he built Fort Defiance.
Erie County was formed in 1838, from Huron and Sandusky. The soil is
alluvial, and yields large crops of wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It possesses
inexhaustable quarries of limestone and freestone. Immense quantities of bog
iron are also found. The Erie tribe is said to have once occupied the land, and
were extirpated by the Iroquois. As early as 1754, the French had built set-
tlements. In 1764, the county w^as besieged. Pontiac came here with warlike
demonstrations, but made peace with the whites. Erie was included in the
"fire lands" of the Western Reserve.
Sandusky City is the county seat, and was laid out in 1817, then termed
Portland. At that time it contained two log huts. The town is finely situated,
and is based upon an inexhaustible quarry of the finest limestone. In the
"patriot war" with the Canadians, this city was the rendezvous for the
"patriots."
Franklin County was formed April 30, 1803, from Ross. It contains
much low wet land, and is better adapted to grazing than agricultural purposes.
It was in early times occupied by the Wyandot Indians. Its first white set-
tlement was made in 1797, by Robert Armstrong and others. Franklinton
was laid out in 1797, by Lucas Sullivan. Worthington was settled by the
Scioto Company in 1801. Col. Kilbourn, who was interested in the work,
constructed the first map of Ohio during his explorations, by uniting sectional
diagrams.
Columbus, the capital of the State of Ohio, is also the county seat of
Franklin County. After the organization of a State government, the capital
was "portable" until 1816. In 1810, the sessions were held at Chillicothe,
in 1811 and 1812 at Zanesville, removing again- to Chillicothe, and, in 1816,
being located at Columbus. The town was laid out during the spring of 1812.
A penitentiary was erected in 1813, and the State House was built in 1814.
It was incorporated as "the borough of Columbus," February 10, 1816. The
city charter was granted March 3, 1834.
It is beautifully located on the east bank of the Scioto. The Columbus
Institute is a classical institution. A female and a theological seminary also
add to its educational advantages.' The Ohio Lunatic Asylum is also located
here — also the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Blind. East of the
128 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
State House is the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Deaf and
Dumb.
Fairfield County was formed by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, December
9, 1800.
The soil is varied, being in some parts exceedingly rich, and in others very
sterile. It produces principally wheat, corn, rye, oats, buckwheat, barley,
potatoes and tobacco.
Lancaster is the county seat, laid out by Ebenezer Zane in 1800. In 1797,
he opened the road known as "Zane's Trace," from Wheeling to Limestone —
now Maysville. It passed through Lancaster, at a fording about three hundred
yards below the present turnpike bridge. Near the turn stands an imposing
eminance called " Standing Stone." Parties of pleasure frequently visit this spot.
Fayette County was formed from Ross and Highland in 1810. Wheat,
corn, cattle, hogs, sheep and wool comprise its main productions. " The bar-
rens" are situated in the northeastern part. This tract is covered by a growth
of grass.
Washington is its county seat, laid out in 1810,
Col. Stewart was active in the interests of this section, and his memory is
sacredly revered. Jesse Milliken was prominent in public afiairs.
Fulton County, bordering on Michigan, was organized in 1850. It is
drained by Bean Creek and other small afiluents of the Maumee River. The
surface is nearly level, and a large part of it is covered with forests of ash,
beech, elm, hickory, white oak, black walnut, etc., furnishing excellent timber.
The soil is fertile. Wheat, corn, oats and hay are the staple products. Wau-
seon is the county seat.
Guernsey County was organized in March, 1810. Wool is a staple prod-
uct, together with beef, horses and swine. It produces wheat, corn and oats.
Cambridge is the county seat and was laid out in June, 1806. Mr.
Graham was the first settler on the site of the town, and his was the only
dwelling between Lancaster and Wheeling.
The first cannel coal found in the county was discovered near Mill's Creek.
Greene County was formed May 1, 1803, from Hamilton and Ross. It
•produces wheat, corn, rye, grass-seed, oats, barley, sheep and swine. The
j^treams furnish good water-power. There are five limestone quarries, and a
marble quarry of variegated colors. The Shawnee town was on the Little
Miami, and was visited by Capt. Thomas Bullit in 1773. When Daniel Boone
was captured in 1778, he was brought to this town, and escaped the following
year. Gen. Clarke invaded this county and the Indians reduced the town to ashes.
Xenia, the county seat, was laid ofi" in the forest in 1803, by Joseph C.
Vance. The first cabin was erected in April, 1804, by John Marshall. The
Rev. James Fowler built the first hewed-log cabin. David A. Sanders built
the first frame house. Nine miles north of the town, on the Little Miami
River, are the Yellow Springs, which are impregnated with sulphur.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 129
Geauga County was formed in 1805 from Trumbull. It exports sheep,
cattle, butter and cheese. It is situated at the head of Chargrine, Cuyahoga and
a part of Grand Rivers, on high ground, and is subjected to snowstorms more
frequently than any other part of the Reserve. Its first settlement was made
in 1798, at Burton. Chardon is fourteen miles from Lake Erie, and is 600
feet above it. It was laid out as the county seat in 1808.
Gallia County was formed April 30, 1803, from Washington. Its princi-
pal crops are wheat, corn, oats and beans. The surface is generally broken.
Its first settlement was made in 1791, by a French colony, at Gallipolis. This
colony was sent out under the auspices of the Scioto Company. This town is
now the county seat.
Hamilton County was the second established in the Northwestern Territory
by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, January 2, 1790. Its surface is gen-
erally rolling. It produces the ordinary farm products, and a great variety
of fruits and vegetables for the Cincinnati market. Vineyards thrive well
within its limits, and the manufacture of wine is carried on to a considerable
extent.
This county was the second settled in Ohio, and the first within the Symmes
purchase. Settlers arrived at the spot now occupied by Cincinnati, and three
or four log cabins were erected. Gen. Arthur St. Clair arrived here in Janu-
ary, 1790. The army of Wayne encamped here later, at Fort Washington.
Mr. Maxwell established in 1793 the Sentinel of the Northwestern Territory^
the first newspaper printed north of the Ohio River. In 1796, Edward Free-
man became its proprietor, and changed the name to Freeman's Journal.
January 11, 1794, two keel-boats sailed from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh, making
regular trips every four weeks. In 1801, the first sea vessel built at Mari-
etta came down the Ohio.
Cincinnati, the county seat, was incorporated January 2, 1802, It was char-
tered as a city in 1819. The city is beautifully laid out and delightfully situ-
ated. Its public buildings are elegant and substantial, including the court
house and many literary and charitable institutions.
The Cincinnati College was founded in 1819. It stands in the center of
the city. It is built in Grecian-Doric style, with pilaster fronts and facade of
Dayton marble. Woodward College is also popular.
The Catholics have founded the St. Xavier's College, Lane Seminary, a
theological institution, is at Walnut Hills, two miles from the center of the city.
It has over 10,000 volumes in its libraries. No charge is made for tuition.
Rooms are provided and furnished at |5 per year, and board ranges from 62|
cents to 90 cents a Aveek. The Cincinnati Law School is connected with Cin-
cinnati College. The Mechanics' Institute was chartered in 1828, and is in all
respects well supplied with apparatus. A college for teachers was established in
1831, its object being to perfect those contemplating entering that profession in
their studies and system.
130 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
The Cincinnati Orphan Asylum is an elegant building, and has a library
and well-organized school attached. The Catholics of the city have one male
and female orphan asylum. The Commercial Hospital and Lunatic Asylum of
Ohio was incorporated in 1821.
Cincinnati is a large manufacturing city, and possesses fine water-power
facilities. It communicates with the world by means of its canal, river, turnpikes,
and railways. North Bend is another prominent town in this county, having
been the residence of Gen. William H. Harrison, and the site of his burial
place. The town was of considerable importance in the early settlement of the
State. About thirty yards from Harrison's tomb is the grave of Judge
Symmes.
Hancock County was formed April 1, 1820. It produces wheat, oats, corn,
pork and maple sugar. The surface is level and its soil is fertile. Blanchard's
Fork waters the central and southern part of tne county. Findlay, the county
seat, was laid out by ex-Gov. Joseph Vance and Elnathan Corry, in 1821. It
was relaid in 1829. Wilson Vance settled there in the fall of 1821. Located
in Findlay are the greatest gas wells of Ohio, the city being lighted and heated
by natural gas, which has been known for over 40 years to exist at Findlay.
Hardin County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian Territory.
It produces, principally, wheat, corn and swine. A portion of the surface is
level, and the remainder undulating. Fort McArthur was built on the Scioto
River, but proved a weak stockade. Kenton is the county seat, situated on the
Scioto River.
Harrison County was formed from JeflFerson and Tuscarawas January 1,
1814. The surface is hilly, abounding in coal and limestone. Its soil is clayey.
It is one of the important wool-growing counties in Ohio. It produces large
quantities of wheat, corn, oats and hay, besides a considerable number of horses,
cattle and swine.
In April, 1799, Alexander Henderson and family settled in this county, and
at the same time, Daniel Peterson and his family resided at the forks of Short
Creek. The early settlers were much annoyed by Indians and wild beasts.
Cadiz is the county seat, and was laid out in 1803 and 1804, by Messrs. Briggs
and Beatty.
Henry County was formed from the old Indian Ten-itory, April 1, 1820.
Indian corn, oats, potatoes, and maple sugar constitute the main products.
The county is well supplied with running streams, and the soil is unusually rich.
The greater portion of this county is covered by the " Black Swamp."
Throughout this swamp are ridges of limestone, covered with black walnut, red
elm, butternut and maple. The soil is superior for grain. Fruit thrives and
all varieties of vegetables are produced in large quantities. Simon Girty, noto-
rious for his wicked career, resided in this county. Girty led the attack on
Fort Henry, in September, 1777. He demanded the surrender of the fort,
and menaced its inmates with an Indian massacre, in case of refusal. The
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 131
action began, but the fort gained the victory. He led a ferocious band of Indi-
ans, and committed the most fiendish atrocities.
Napoleon, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee River.
Highland County was formed in May, 1805, from Ross, Adams and Cler-
mont. It is a wealthy, productive county. Its wheat commands a high mar-
ket price. The crops consist of wheat, corn, oats, maple sugar, wool, swine
and cattle. Its first settlement began in 1801, at New Market, by Oliver Ross,
Robert Keeston, George W. Barrere, Bernard Weyer and others. Simon Ken-
ton made a trace through this county in early times. Hillsboro is the
county seat, and was laid out in 1807, by David Hays, on the land of Benja-
min Ellicott. It is situated on the dividing ridge, between the Miami and Sci-
oto. The Hillsboro Academy was founded in 1827.
Hocking County was formed March 1, 1818, from Ross, Athens and Fair-
field. Its principal products are corn, wheat, tobacco and maple sugar. Its
surface is broken and hilly, but is level and fertile beside the streams.
The Wyandots once occupied this tract, and built a large town herein. In
1798, a few white families ventured to settle. Logan is its county seat, and is
situated on the Hocking River.
Holmes County was formed from Coshocton, Tuscarawas and Wayne, Janu-
ary 20, 1824. It produces wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, maple sugar, swine,
sheep and cattle. The southwestern portion is broken. Thomas Butler was
the first settler, in 1810. Millersburg is the county seat, and was laid out in
1830.
Huron County was organized in 1815. It produces hay, wheat, corn, oats,
barley, buckwheat, flaxseed, potatoes, butter, cheese, wool and swine. Nor-
walk is the county seat.
Jackson County was organized March, 1816. The country is rich in min-
erals and abounds in coal and iron ore. The exports are cattle, wool, swine,
horses, lumber, millstones, tobacco and iron. Jackson, the county seat, was
laid out in 1817. The old Scioto salt-works were among the first worked in
Ohio by the whites. Prior to this period, the Indians came some distance to
this section to make salt. When Daniel Boone was a prisoner, he spent some
time at these works.
Jeiferson County was proclaimed by Gov. St. Clair July 29, 1797, and
was the fifth county established in Ohio. It is one of the most important
manufacturing counties in the State. Its resources in coal are also extended.
The surface is hilly and the soil fertile, producing wheat, corn and oats. The
old "Mingo" town was on the present farms of Jeremiah Hallock and Mr^
Daniel Potter. The troops of Col. Williamson rendezvoused at this point,
when they set out in their cruel Moravian campaign, and also the troops of
Col. Crawford, when they started on the campaign against the Sandusky
Indians. Here Logan, the powerful and manly chief of the Mingo nation,
once resided. He took no active part in the old French war, which closed in
132 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
1760, except that of a peacemaker. He was a stanch friend of the whites
until the abominable and unprovoked murder of his father, brother and sister,
which occurred in 1774, near the Yellow Creek. He then raised the battle
cry and sought revenge.
However, Logan was remarkably magnanimous toward prisoners who fell
into his hands. The year 1793 was th6 last spent in Indian warfare in Jeffer-
son County.
Fort Steuben was erected on the present site of Steubenville, the county seat,
in 1789. It was constructed of block-houses, with palisade fences, and was dis-
mantled during Wayne's campaign. Bezaleel Wells and Hon. James Ross laid
the town out in 1798. It was incorporated February 14, 1805. It is situated
upon an elevated plain. In 1814, Messrs. Wells and Dickerson built a woolen
manufactory, and introduced merino sheep to the county.
Knox County was formed March 1, 1808, from Fairfield. It is drained by
the Vernon River. It produces wheat, corn, oats, tobacco, maple sugar, pota-
toes and wool. Mount Vernon was laid out in 1805. The early settlers found
two wells on the Vernon River, built of hammered stone, neatly laid, and near
by was a salt-lick. Their direct origin remains a mystery. Gilman Bryant,
in 1807, opened the first store in Mount Vernon. The court house was built
in 1810. The Indians came to Mount Vernon in large numbers for the pur-
pose of trading in furs and cranberries. Each Saturday, the settlers worked
on the streets, extracting stumps and improving the highway. The first settler
north of the place was N. M. Young, who built his cabin in 1803. Mount
Vernon is now the county seat, beautifully situated on Vernon River. Kenyon
College is located at Gambier. It is richly endowed with 8,000 acres, and is
valued at $100,000. This institution was established under the auspices of
Bishop Chase, in July, 1826, in the center of a 4,000-acre tract belonging to
Kenyon College. It was chartered as a theological seminary.
Lucas County is of comparatively recent origin. A large portion is covered
by the "Black Swamp." It produces corn, wheat, potatoes and oats. This
county is situated in the Maumee Valley, which was the great arena of histori-
cal events. The frightful battle of Wayne's campaign, where the Indians found
the British to be traitors, was fought near Fort Miami, in this county. Maumee
City, once the county seat, was laid out in 1817, as Maumee, by Maj. Wm. Oliver
and others. It is situated on the Maumee, at the head of navigation. The
surface is 100 feet above the water level. This town, with Perrysburg, its neiglibor,
is exceedingly picturesque, and was in early times frequented by the Indians.
The French had a trading station at this point, in 1680, and in 1794, the Brit-
ish Fort — Miami — was built. Toledo is on the left bank of the Maumee, and
covers the site of a stockade fort, known as Fort Industry, erected in 1800.
An Indian treaty was held here July 4, 1805, by which the Indians relinquished
all rights to the " fire lands." In 1832, Capt. Samuel Allen gave an impetus
to the place, and Maj. Stickney also became interested in its advancement.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 133
Speculation in lots began in 1834. The Wabash & Erie Canal interest arose in
1836. Mr. Mason and Edward Bissel added their energies to assist the growth
of the town. It was incorporated as a city in 1836. It was the center of the
military operations in the " Ohio and Michigan war," known as the "boundary
conflict."
The Ordinance of 1787 provided for the division of the Northwestern Terri-
tory into three or five States. The three southern were to be divided from the
two northern by a line drawn east and west through the southern point of Lake
Michigan, extending eastward to the Territorial line in Lake Erie. The consti-
tution of Ohio adds a provision that if the line should not go so far north as the
north cape of Maumee Bay, then the northern boundary of Ohio should be a
line drawn from the southerly part of Lake Michigan to the north cape of the
Maumee Bay.
The line of the ordinance was impossible, according to its instructions and
the geography of the country.
When Michigan became a Territory, the people living between the " Fulton "
and '• Harris " lines found it more to their wishes to be attached to Michigan.
They occupied disputed ground, and were thus beyond the limits of absolute
law. In 1835, the subject was greatly agitated, and J. Q. Adams made a warm
speech before Congress against the Ohio claim. The Legislature of Ohio dis-
cussed the matter, and an act was passed to attach the disputed section to Ohio,
according to the constitutional decree. An active campaign opened between
^lichigan and Ohio. Gov. Lucas came out with the Ohio troops, in the spring
of 1835, and Gov. Mason, of Michigan, followed the example. He marched
into Toledo, robbed melon-patches and chicken-houses, crushed in the front
door of Maj. Stickney's house, and carried him away prisoner of war. Embas-
sadors were sent from Washington to negotiate matters — Richard Rush, of Penn-
sylvania and Col. Howard, of Maryland. At the next session of Congress, the
matter was settled. Samuel Vinton argued for Ohio, in the House, and Thomas
Ewing in the Senate. Michigan received an equivalent of the large peninsula
between Lakes Huron, Michigan and Superior. Ohio received the disputed
strip, averaging eight miles in width. Manhattan, Waterville and Providence
are all flourishing towns.
Lorain County was formed from Huron, Cuyahoga and Medina, on Decem-
ber 26, 1822. The soil is generally fertile, and the surface level. Wheat,
grass, oats, corn, rye and potatoes constitute the principal crops. Bog-iron ore
is found in large quantities. A curious relic has been found in this county, bear-
ing the date of 1533. Elyria is the county seat, and was laid out in 1817.
The first settler was Mr. Heman Ely. Oberlin is situated about eight miles
southwest of Elyria. The Oberlin Collegiate Institute has attained a wide
celebrity.
Logan County was formed March 1, 1817. The surface is broken and hilly
near the Mad River, but is generally level. The soil is fertile, producing
134 HISTORY OF TflE STATE OF OHIO
wheat, corn, rye, oats, clover, flax and timothy seed. The Shawnee Indians
were located here, and built several villages on the Mad River. These towns
were destroyed in 1786, by a body of Kentuckians, under Gen. Benjamin
Logan. The whites surprised the towns. However, they returned after the
work of destruction had been completed, and for many years frequented the
section. On the site of Zanes field was a Wyandot village. By the treaty of
September 29, 1817, the Senecas and ShaAvnees held a reservation around
Lewistown. April 6, 1832, they vacated this right and removed west. Isaac
Zane was born about the year 1753, and was, while a boy, captured and after-
ward adopted by the Wyandots. Attaining the age of manhood, he had no
desire to return to his people. He married a Wyandot woman, who was half
French. After the treaty of Greenville, he bought 1,800 acres on the site qf
Zanesville, where he lived until the year 1816, when he died, lamented by all
his friends.
Logan County was settled about the year 1806. During the war of 1812, ^
it was a rendezvous for friendly Indians, Bellefontaine, the county seat, was
laid out March 18, 1820, on land owned by John Tulles and William Powell.
Joseph Gordon built a cabin, and Anthony Ballard erected the first frame
dwelling.
Gen. Simon Kenton is buried at the head of Mad River, five miles from
Bellefontaine. He died April 29, 1836, aged eighty-one years and twenty-six
days. This remarkable man came West, to Kentucky, in 1771. He probably
encountered more thrilling escapes than any other man of his time. In 1778,
he was captured and suffered extreme cruelties, and was ransomed by the British.
He soon recovered his robust heakh, and escaped from Detroit the following
spring. He settled in Urbana in 1802. He was elected Brigadier General of
the militia, and in the war of 1812, joined Gen. Harrison's army. In the year
1820, he removed to Mad River. Gen. Vance and Judge Burnet secured him
a pension, of $20 per month
Licking County was formed from Fairfield March 1, 1808. The surface is
generally level, diversified by slight hills in the eastern portion. The soil is
fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and grass. Coal and iron ore of good
quality add to the wealth of the county. Wool and dairy productions are also
staples. Newark is the county seat, and is situated at the confluence of the
three principal branches of the Licking. It Avas laid out by Gen. William C.
Schenk, George W. Burnet and John M. Cummings, who owned this military
section of 4,000 acres, in 1801. In 1802, Samuel Elliott and Samuel Pan-
built hewed-log houses. The picturesque "Narrows of the Licking" are in
the eastern part of the county, which have elicited general praise from scenic
hunters.
Lawrence County was organized March 1, 1816. There are many high
and abrupt hills in this section, which abound in sand or freestone. It is rich
in minerals, and the most important section of Ohio for iron manufacture.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 135
Coal is abundant, and white clay exists in the western part suitable for pot-
tery purposes. Agricultural productions are not extensive.
The county was settled in 1797 by the Dutch and Irish. The iron region
extends through the west part of this county. Lawrence County produces a
superior quality of iron, highly esteemed for castings, and is equal to Scotch
pig for furnace purposes. Burlington is the county seat.
Lake County was formed from Geauga and Cuyahoga March 6, 1840. The
soil is good and the surface rolling. It produces wheat, corn, oats, buckwheat,
barley, hay and potatoes. Dairy products, cattle and wool are also staples.
Its fruits — apples, peaches, pears, plums and grapes are highly prized. As
«arly as 1799, a settlement was formed at Mentor. Painesville, the county
seat, is situated on Grand River, in a beautiful valley. The Painesville Acad-
emy is a classical institution for the education of both sexes. Near the town
is the Geauga furnace. Painesville Avas laid out by Henry Champion in 1805.
At Fairport, the first warehouse in this section, and probably the first on the
lake, was built by Abraham Skinner in 1803. This town has a fine harbor,
and has a light-house and beacon. Kirtland, southwest from Painesville, was,
in 1834, the headquarters of the Mormons. At that time, they numbered
about three thousand. The old Mormon temple is of rough stone, plastered
over, colored blue, and marked to imitate regular courses of masonry. As is
well known, the Mormons derive their name from the book of Mormon, said to
have been translated from gold plates found in a hill in Palmyra, N. Y.
Madison County was organized in March, 1810. The surface is generally
level. It produces grass, corn, oats and cattle — the latter forming a chief
staple, while wool and pork add to the general wealth.
Jonathan Alder was much interested in the settlement of the county. He,
like some other whites, had lived with the Indians many years, and had formed
a lasting affection for them, and had married a squaw, with whom he became
dissatisfied, which caused him to desire finding his own family. He suc-
ceeded in this through the assistance of John Moore. He left his wife and
joined his people.
This county was first settled in 1795. Benjamin Springer made a clearing
and built a cabin. He settled near Alder, and taught him the English lan-
guage. Mr. Joshua Ewing brought four sheep to this place, and the Indians
exhibited great astonishment over these strange animals. When the hostilities
of 1812 began, the British offered inducements to the Indians to join them, and
they consulted Alder regarding the best policy to adopt. He advised them to
preserve neutrality until a later period, which they did, and eventually became
firm friends of the Americans.
London is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810-11, by Patrick McLene.
Marion County was organized March 1, 1824. The soil is fertile, and pro-
duces extensive farm crops. The Delaware Indians once held a reservation
here, and conceded their claims in 1829, August 3, and removed west of the
136 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Mississippi. Marion, the county seat, was laid out in 1821, by Eber Baker
and Alexander Holmes. Gen. Harrison marched through this section during
his campaign.
Mahoning County was formed in 1846, from Trumbull and Columbiana,
The surface is rolling and the soil generally fertile. The finer qualities of woo<l
are produced here. Bituminous coal and iron are found in large quantities.
Col. James Hillman came to the Western Reserve in 1786. The settlement
of the county went forward. Canfield is the county seat.
Medina County was formed from the Western Reserve February 12, 1812.
The surface is rolling and the soil is fertile, producing fine agricultural prod-
ucts. The first trail made through the county was made by George Poe,
Joseph H. Larwell and Roswell M. Mason. The first settlement was made
by Joseph Harris in 1811. He was soon joined by the Burr brothers. Me-
dina is the county seat.
Meigs County was formed from Gallia and Athens April 1, 1819. The
general character of the soil is clayey, producing large quantities of wheat, oats,
corn, hay and potatoes. Vast quantities of salt are made and exported. Pom-
eroy, the county seat, is situated under a lofty hill, surrounded by picturesque
scenery. Mr. Nathaniel Clark was the first settler of the county. He arrived in
1816. The first coal mine opened in Pomeroy was in 1819, by David Bradshaw.
Mercer County was formed from the Indian Territory in 1820. The sur-
face is generally flat, and while covered with forests, inclined to be wet ; but^
being cleared, it is very fertile, and adapted to producing farm crops. St,
Clair's Battle was fought on the boundary line between this and Darke County.
The Hon. Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur made a treaty at St. Mary's with
the Wyandots, Shawnees and Ottawas, in 1818. The odious Simon Girty lived
at one time at St. Mary's. Wayne built St. Mary's Fort, on the west bank of
the river. John Whistler was the last commander of the fort. The largest
artificial lake in the world, so it is asserted, is formed by the reservoir sup-
plying the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Extension Canal. It is about nine
miles long, and from two to four broad. Celina is the county seat.
Miami County was formed January 16, 1807, from Montgomery. It abounds
in excellent limestone, and possesses remarkable water-power facilities. Its agri-
cultural products rank highly in quality and quantity. John Knoop came into this
section about the year 1797, and its first settlement began about this time. Troy,
the county seat, is situated upon the Great Miami. Piqua is another lovely
town. The Miami River affords delightful scenery at this point.
Monroe County was formed January 29, 1813, from Belmont, Washington,
and Guernsey. A portion of its surface is abrupt and hilly. Large quantities
of tobacco are raised, and much pork is exported. Wheat and corn grow well
in the western portion. Iron ore and coal abound. The valleys pf the streams
are very narrow, bounded by rough hills. In some places are natural rock
grottoes. The first settlement was made in 1799, near the mouth of the Sunfish.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 137
At this time, wolves were numerous, and caused much alarm. Volney entered
this county, but was not prepossessed in its favor. One township is settled by
the Swiss, who are educated and refined. Woodsfield is the county seat.
Montgomery County was formed from Ross and Hamilton May 1, 1803.
The soil is fertile, and its agricultural products are most excellent. Quarries of
grayish-white limestone are found east of the Miami.
Dayton is the county seat, situated on the Great Miami, at the mouth of Mad
River. A company was formed in 1788, but Indian wars prevented settlement.
After Wayne's treaty, in 1795, a new company was formed. It advanced
rapidly between the years 1812 and 1820. The beginning of the Miami Canal
renewed its prosperity, in 1827. The first canal-boat from Cincinnati arrived
at Dayton on the 25th of January, 1829. The first one arrived from Lake
Erie in June, 1845. Col. Robert Patterson came to. Dayton in 1804. At one
time, he owned Lexington, Ky., and about one third of Cincinnati.
Morgan County was organized in 1818, March 1. The surface is hilly and
the soil strong and fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. Pork is a
prolific product, and considerable salt is made. The first settlement was made
in 1790, on the Muskingum. McConnelsville is the county seat. Mr. Ayres
made the first attempt to produce salt, in 1817. This has developed into a
large industry.
Morrow County was organized in 1848. It is drained by the Vernon
River, which rises in it, by the East Branch of the Olontangy or Whetstone
River, and by Walnut Creek. The surface is undulating, the soil fertile.
The staple products are corn, wheat, oats, hay, wool and butter. The sugar
maple abounds in the forests, and sandstone or freestone in the quarries.
Mount Gilead, the county seat, is situated on the East Branch of the Olen-
tangy River.
Muskingum County was formed from Washington and Fairfield. The sur-
face is rolling or hilly. It produces wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, tobacco, wool
and pork. Large quantities of bituminous coal are found. Pipe clay, buhr-
stone or cellular quartz are also in some portions of the State. Salt is made in
large quantities — the fine being obtained from a stratum of whitish sandstone.
The Wyandots, Delawares, Senecas and Shawanoese Indians once inhabited this
section. An Indian town occupied the site of Duncan's Falls. A large Shawan-
oese town was located near Dresden.
Zanesville is the county seat, situated opposite the mouth of the Licking.
It was laid out in 1799, by Mr. Zane and Mr. Mclntire. This is one of the
principal towns in the State, and is surrounded by charming scenery.
Noble County, organized in 1851, is drained by Seneca, Duck and Wills
Creeks. The surface is undulating, and a large part of it is covered with for-
ests. The soil is fertile. Its staples are corn, tobacco, wheat, hay. oats and
wool. Among its mineral resources are limestone, coal and petroleum. Near
Caldwell, the county seat, are found iron ore, coal and salt.
138 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Ottawa County was formed from Erie, Sandusky and Lucas, March 6, 1840,.
It is mostly within the Black Swamp, and considerable of its land is prairie and
marsh. It was very thinly settled befere 1830. Extensive plaster beds exist
on the peninsula, which extends into Lake Erie. It has also large limestone
quarries, which are extensively worked. The very first trial at arms upon the
soil of Ohio, during the war of 1812, occurred upon this peninsula. Port Clin-
ton, the county seat, was laid out in 1827.
Perry County was formed from Washington, Fairfield and Muskingum,
March 1, 1817. Fine tobacco is raised in large quantities. Wheat, corn, oats,
hay, cattle, pork and wool add to the general wealth. This county was first set-
tled in 1801. First settler was Christian Binckley, who built the first cabin in
the county, about five miles west of Somerset, near the present county line.
New Lexington is now the county seat.
Paulding County was formed from old Indian territory August 1, 1820,
It produces corn, wheat and oats. Paulding is the county seat.
Pickaway County was formed from Fairfield, Ross and Franklin, January
12, 1810. The county has woodland, barren, plain and prairie. The barrens
were covered by shrub oaks, and when cleared are adapted to the raising of corn
and oats. The Pickaway plains are three and a half miles west of Circleville,
and this tract is said to contain the richest land in Ohio. Here, in the olden
times, burned the great council fires of the red man. Here the allied tribes met
Gen. Lewis, who fought the battle of Point Pleasant. Dunmore's campaign
was terminated on these plains. It was at the Chillicothe towns, after Dun-
more's treaty, that Logan delivered his famous speech. Circleville, the county
seat, is situated on the Scioto River and the Ohio Canal. It was laid out in
1810, by Daniel Dresbach. It is situated on the site of ancient fortifications.
Portage County was formed June 7, 1807, from Trumbull. It is a wealthy,
thriving section. Over a thousand tons of cheese are annually produced. It
also produces wheat, corn, oats, barley, buckwheat, rye, butter and wool.
Ravenna is the county seat, and was originally settled by the Hon. Benjamin
Tappen in June, 1799. In 1806, an unpleasant difficulty arose between the
settlers and a camp of Indians in Deerfield, caused by a horse trade between a
white man and an Indian. David Daniels settled on the site of Palmyra in 1799.
Pike County was organized in 1815. The surface is generally hilly, wliich
abound with freestone, which is exported in large quantities for building pur-
poses. Rich bottom lands extend along the Scioto and its tributaries. John
Noland and the three Chenoweth brothers settled on the Pee Pee prairie about
1796. Piketown, the former county seat, was laid out about 1814. Waverly,
the present county seat, is situated on the Scioto River.
Preble County was formed March 1, 1808, from Montgomery and Butler.
The soil is varied. Excellent water-power fiicilities are furnished.
Eaton, the county seat, was laid out in 1806, by AVilliam Bruce, who owned
the land. An overflowing well of strong sulphur water is near the town, while
directly beside it is a limestone quarry, Holderman's quarry is about two
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 139
miles distant, from which is obtained a beautifully clouded gray stone. Fort St.
Clair was built near Eaton, in the winter of 1791-92. Gen. Harrison was an En-
sign at the time, and commanded a guard every other night for three weeks, during
the building. The severe battle of November 6, 1792, was fought under its very
guns. Little Turtle, a distinguished chief of the Miamis, roamed over this county
for a time. He was witty, brave and earnest, and, although engaged in several
severe contests with the whites, he was inclined toward peace. But when his
warriors cried for war he led them bravely.
Putnam County was formed April 1, 1820, from old Indian territory. The
soil is fertile, its principal productions being wheat, corn, potatoes and oats.
Large quantities of pork are exported. Kalida, once the county seat, was laid
out in 1834. Ottawa is the county seat.
Ross County was formed August 20, 1798, by the proclamation of Gov. St.
Clair, and was the sixth county formed in the Northwestern Territory. The
Scioto River and Paint Creek run through it, bordered with fertile lands.
Much water-power is obtained from the many streams watering it. The main
crops are wheat, corn and oats. It exports cattle and hogs.
The Rev. Robert W. Finley, in 1794, addressed a letter of inquiry to Col.
Nathaniel Massie, as many of his associates had designed settling in the new
State. This resulted in packing their several effects and setting out. A triv-
ial Indian encounter was the only interruption they ni.-t with on their way.
After Wayne's treaty, Col. Massie and many of these early explorers met
again and formed a settlement — in 1796 — at the mouth of Paint Creek. In
August of this year, Chillicothe was laid out by Col. Massie, in a dense forest.
He donated lots to the early settlers. A ferry was established over the Scioto,
and the opening of Zane's trace assisted the progress of settlement.
Chillicothe, the county seat, is situated on the Scioto. Its site is thirty
feet above the river. In 1800, it was the seat of the Northwestern Territorial
Government. It was incorporated as a city in January, 1802. During the war
of 1812, the city was a rendezvous for the United States troops. A large num-
ber of British were at one time guarded here. Adena is a beautiful place, and
the seat of Gov. Worthington's mansion, which was built in 1806. Near this
is Fruit Hill, the residence of the late Gen. McArthur, and latterly the home
of his son-in-law, the Hon. William Allen. Eleven' miles from Chillicothe, on
the road to Portsmouth, is the home of the hermit of the Scioto.
Richland was organized March 1, 1813. It produces wheat, corn, oats, hay,
potatoes, rye, hemp and barley. It was settled about 1809, on branches of the
Mohican. Two block-houses were built in 1812. Mansfield, the county seat,
is charmingly situated, and was laid out in 1808, by Jacob Newman, James
Hedges and Joseph H. Larwell. The county was at that period a vast wilder-
ness, destitute of roads. From this year, the settlement progressed rapidly.
Sandusky County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian Territory.
The soil is fertile, and country generally level. It mainly produces corn, wheat.
140 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
oats, potatoes and pork. The Indians were especially delighted with this tract.
Near Lower Sandusky lived a band of Wyandots, called the Neutral Nation.
These two cities never failed to render refuge to any who sought their protec-
tion. They preserved their peacemaking attributes through the Iroquois
conflicts. Fremont, formerly called Lower Sandusky, the county seat, is
situated at the head of navigation, on the Sandusky, on the site of the old
reservation grant to the Indians, at the Greenville treaty council. Fort
Stephenson was erected in August, 1813, and was gallantly defended by Col.
Croghan.
Summit County was formed March 3, 1840, from Medina, Portage and
Stark. The soil is fertile and produces excellent fruit, besides large crops of
corn, wheat, hay, oats and potatoes. Cheese and butter may be added as
products.
The first settlement made in the county was at Hudson, in 1800. The old
Indian portage-path, extending through this county, between the Cuyahoga, and
Tuscarawas Branch of the Muskingum. This was a part of the ancient boundary
between the Six Nations and the Western Indians. Akron, the county seat, is
situated on the portage summit. It was laid out in 1825. In 1811, Paul
Williams and Amos and Minor Spicer settled in this vicinity. Middlebury was
laid out in 1818, by Norton & Hart.
Stark County was formed February 13, 1808. It is a rich agricultural
county. It has large quantities of mineral coal, iron ore, flocks of the finest
sheep and great water-power. Limestone and extensive beds of lime-marl exist.
The manufacture of silk has been extensively carried on. Frederick Post, the
first Moravian missionary in Ohio, settled here in 17G1.
Canton is the county seat, situated in the forks of the Nimishillen, a tribu-
tary of the Muskingum. It was laid out in 1806, by Bezaleel Wells, who
owned the land. Massillon was laid out in March, 1826, by John Duncan.
Shelby County was formed in 1819, from Miami. The southern portion is
undulating, arising in some places to hills. Through the north, it is a flat table-
land. It produces wheat, corn, oats and grass. The first point of English set-
tlement in Ohio was at the mouth of Laramie's Creek, in this county, as early
as 1752. Fort Laramie was built in 1794, by Wayne. The first white family
that settled in this county was that of James Thatcher, in 1804. Sidney, the
county seat, was laid out in 1819, on the farm of Charles Starrett.
Seneca County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory.
Its principal products are corn, wheat, grass, oats, potatoes and pork.
Fort Seneca was built during the war of 1812. The Senecas owned
40,000 acres of land on the Sandusky River, mostly in Seneca County.
Thirty thousand acres of this land was granted to them in 1817, at the treaty
held at the foot of the Maumee Rapids. The remaining 10,000 was granted
the following year. These Indians ceded this tract, however, to the Govern-
ment in 1831. It was asserted bv an old chief, that this band was the remnant
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 141
of Logan's tribe. Tiffin, the county seat, was laid out by Josiah Hedges in
the year 1821.
Scioto County was formed May 1, 1803. It is a good agricultural section,
besides producing iron ore, coal and freestone. It is said that a French fort
stood at the mouth of the old Scioto, as early as 1740. In 1785, four families
settled where Portsmouth now stands. Thomas McDonald built the first cabin in
the county. The "French grant" was located in this section — a tract com-
prising 24,000 acres. The grant was made in March, 1795. Portsmouth, the
county seat, is located upon the Ohio.
Trumbull County was formed in 1800. The original Connecticut Western
Reserve was within its limits. The county is well cultivated and very wealthy.
Coal is found in its northern portion. We have, in our previous outline, given
a history of this section, and it is not, therefore, necessary to repeat its details.
Warren, the county seat, is situated on the Mahoning River. It was laid out
by Ephraim Quinby in 1801. Mr. Quinby owned the soil. His cabin was built
here in 1799. In August, 1800, while Mr. McMahon was away from home,
a party of drunken Indians called at the house, abused the family, struck a
child a severe blow with a tomahawk and threatened to kill the family. Mrs.
McMahon could not send tidings which could reach her husband before noon
the following day. The following Sunday morning, fourteen men and two
boys armed themselves and went to the Indian camp to settle the difficulty.
Quinby advanced alone, leaving the remainder in concealment, as he was better
acquainted with these people, to make inquiries and ascertain their intentions.
He did not return at once, and the party set out, marched into camp, and found
Quinby arguing with Capt. George, the chief Capt. George snatched his
tomahawk and declared war, rushing forward to kill McMahon. But a bullet
from the frontierman"s gun killed him instantly, while Storey shot " Spotted
John" at the same time. The Indians then fled. They joined the council at
Sandusky. Quinby garrisoned his house. Fourteen days thereafter, the
Indians returned with overtures of peace, which were, that McMahon and
Storey be taken to Sandusky, tried by Indian laws, and if found guilty, pun-
ished by them. This could not be done. McMahon was tried by Gen. St.
Clair, and the matter was settled. The first missionary on the Reserve was the
Rev. Joseph Badger.
Tuscarawas County was formed February 15, 1808, from Muskingum. It
is well cultivated with abundant supplies of coal and iron.
The first white settlers were Moravian missionaries, their first visits dating
back to 1761. The first permanent settlement was made in 1798. Miss Mary
Heckewelder, the daughter of a missionary, was born in this county April 16,
1781. Fort Laurens was built during the Revolution. It was the scene of a
fearful carnage. It was established in the fall of 1778, and placed under the •
command of Gen. Mcintosh. New Philadelphia is the county seat, situated on
the Tuscarawas. It was laid out in 1804 by John Knisely. A German
-[42 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
colony settled in this county in 1817, driven from their native land by religious
dictation they could not espouse. They called themselves Separatists. They
are a simple-minded people, strictly moral and honest.
Union County was formed from Franklin, Delaware, Logan and Madison in
1820. It produces corn, grass, wheat, oats, potatoes, butter and cheese.
Extensive limestone quarries are also valuable. The Ewing brothers made the
first white settlement in 1798. Col. James Curry, a member of the State Leg-
islature, was the chief instigator in the progress of this section. He located
within its limits and remained until his death, which occurred in 1834. Marys-
ville is the county seat.
Van Wert County was formed from the old Indian territory April 1, 1820.
A great deal of timber is within the limits of this county, but the soil is so
tenacious that water will not sink through it, and crops are poor during wet
seasons. The main product is corn. Van Wert, the county seat, was founded
by James W. Riley in 1837. An Indian town had formerly occupied its site.
Capt. Riley was the first white man who settled in the county, arriving in 1821.
He founded Willshire in 1822.
Vinton County was organized in ] 850. It is drained by Raccoon and Salt
Creeks. The surface is undulating or hilly, and is extensively covered with
forests in which the oak, buckeye and sugar maple are found. Corn, hay, but-
ter and wool are staple products. Bituminous coal and iron ore are found.
McArthur is the county seat.
Washington County was formed by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair July 27,
1788, and was the first county founded within the limits of Ohio. The surface
is broken with extensive tracts of level, fertile land. It was the first county
settled in the State under the auspices of the Ohio Company. A detachment
of United States troops, under command of Maj. John Doughty, built Fort
Harmar in 1785, and it was the first military post established in Ohio by
Americans, with the exception of Fort Laurens, which was erected in 1778.
It was occupied by United States troops until 1790, when they were ordered
to Connecticut. A company under Capt. Haskell remained. In 1785, the
Directors of the Ohio Company began practical operations, and settlement
went forward rapidly. Campus Martins, a stockade fort, was completed in
1791. This formed a sturdy stronghold during the war. During the Indian
war there was much sufi"ering in the county. Many settlers were killed and
captured.
Marietta is the county seat, and the oldest town in Ohio. Marietta College
was chartered in 1835. Herman Blannerhassett, whose unfortunate association
with Aaron Burr proved fatal to himself, was a resident of :Marietta in 1796.
About the year 1798, he began to beautify and improve his island.
Warren County was formed May 1, 1803, from Hamilton. The soil is
very fertile, and considerable water-power is furnished by its streams. Mr.
Bedell made the first settlement in 1795. Lebanon is the county seat. Henry
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 14'd
Taylor settled in this vicinity in 1796. Union Village is a settlement of
Shakers. They came here about 1805.
Wayne County was proclaimed by Gov. St. Clair August 15, 1796, and
was the third county in the Northwest Territory. The settlement of this sec-
tion has already been briefly delineated. Wooster is the county seat. It was
laid out during the fall of 1808, by John Beaver, William Henry and Joseph
H. Larwell, owners of the land. Its site is 337 feet above Lake Erie. The
first mill was built by Joseph Stibbs, in 1809, on Apple Creek. In 1812, a
block-house was erected in Wooster.
Wood County was formed from the old Indian territory in 1820. The soil
is rich, and large crops are produced. The county is situated within the Mau-
mee Valley. It was the arena of brilliant military exploits during early times.
Bowling Green is the county seat.
Williams County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory.
Bryan is the county seat. It was laid out in 1840.
Wyandot County was formed February 3, 1845, from Marion, Hardin, Han-
cock and Crawford. The surface is level, and the soil exceedingly fertile.
The Wyandot Indians occupied this section, especially the reservation, from
time immemorial until 1843. The treaty of 1817, by Hon. Lewis Cass and
Hon. Duncan McArthur, United States Commissioners, granted to the Indians
a reservation twelve miles square, the central point being Fort Ferree, now
within the corporate limits of Upper Sandusky. The Delaware Reserve was
ceded to the United States in 1829. The Wyandots ceded theirs March 17,
1842. Col. John Johnston, the United States Commissioner, conducted the
negotiations, and thus made the Indian treaty in Ohio. It was the scene of
Col. Crawford's defeat and tragic death, June 11, 1782. The Wyandots were
exceedingly brave, and several of their chiefs were distinguished orators and
men of exalted moral principles.
Upper Sandusky is the county seat, and was laid out in 1843. Gen. Har-
rison had built Fort Ferree on this spot during the war of 1812. Gov. Meigs^
in 1813, encamped on this river with several thousand of the Ohio militia.
The Indian village of Crane Town was originally called Upper Sandusky,
The Indians, after the death of Tarhe, or " the Crane," transferred their town
to Upper Sandusky.
GOVERNOES OF OHIO.
The Territorial Governors we have already mentioned in the course of our
brief review of the prominent events of the State of Ohio. After the Terri-
tory was admitted as a State, in 1802, Edward Tiflfin was elected to that posi-
tion, and again received the same honor in 1804 and 1806. In 1807, circum-
stances led him to resign, and Thomas Kirker, Speaker of the Senate, acted as
Governor until the close of the term.
Edward Tiffin was born in Carlisle, England, coming to this country in
1784, at the age of eighteen. He entered the University of Pennsylvania, and
applied himself to the study of medicine, graduating and beginning his practice
at the age of twenty, in the State of Virginia. In 1789, he married Mary,
144 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
daughter of Col. Worthington, and sister of Thomas Worthington, who subse-
quently became Governor of Ohio. In his profession, Gov. Tiffin was highly
esteemed, and his public labors were carried forward with a zealous earnestness
which marked his career as one of usefulness. He settled in Chillicothe, Ohio,
in 1796, where he died, in 1829.
Samuel Huntington, the recipient of the honor of third Governor, was
inaugurated in 1808. He was an American by birth, Norwich, Conn.^
being his native place. He was a diligent student in Yale College, graduating
in 1785. He removed to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1801. He attained a reputation
for integrity, ability and rare discretion. As a scholar, he was eminently supe-
rior. He resided in Cleveland at the time of his death, in 1817.
Return Jonathan Meigs followed Gov. Huntington. He was born in Mid-
dletown, Conn., in 1765. He was also a student in Yale College, graduating
in 1785, with the highest honors. He immediately entered the study of law,
and was admitted to practice in his twenty-third year. He married Miss Sophia
Wright, and settled in Marietta, Ohio, in 1788. He took his seat as Gover-
nor in 1810, and was re-elected in 1812. In 1813, President Madison appointed
him to the position of Postmaster General, which occasioned his resignation as
Governor. Othniel Looker, Speaker of the Senate, acted as Governor during
the remainder of the term. Mr. Meigs died in 1825, leaving as a memento of
his usefulness, a revered memory.
Thomas Worthington, the sixth Governor, was born in Jefferson County,
Va., in 1769. He gained an education in William and Mary's College.
In 1788, he located at Chillicothe, and was the first Senator from the new
State. He was also the first man to erect the first saw-mill in Ohio. He
served two terms as Senator, from 1803 to 1815, resigning in 1814, to take his
position as Governor. In 1816, he was re-elected. He was exceedingly active
in paving the way for the future prosperity of Ohio. His measures were famous
for practical worth and honesty. Chief Justice Chase designated him as " a
gentleman of distinguished ability and great influence." He died in 1827.
Ethan Allen Brown followed Mr. Worthington. His birthplace was on the
shore of Long Island Sound, in Fairfield County, Conn., July 4, 1766. His
education was derived under the most judicious instruction of a private tutor.
In classics, he became proficient. Directly he had reached the required stand-
ard in general education, he began the study of law, at home. After becoming
conversant with preliminary requirements, he entered the law office of Alex-
ander Hamilton, who at that time was a national pride, as a scholar, lawyer and
statesman. Opportunities coming in his way, which promised a fortune, he
abandoned the law, and achieved success and a fortune. He then decided to
return to his study, and was admitted to practice in 1802. Thereafter, he was
seized with an exploring enthusiasm, and with his cousin as a companion, set
out upon a horseback tour, following the Indian trails from east to west, through
Pennsylvania, until they reached Brownsville, on the Monongahela River. Here
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 145
they purchased two flatboats, and fully stocking them with provisions and
obtaining efficient crews, started for New Orleans. Reaching that city, they
found they could not dispose of their cargoes to any advantage, and shipped the
flour to Liverpool, England, taking passage in the same vessel. They succeeded
in obtaining good prices for their stock, and set sail for America, arriving in Bal-
timore nine months after first leaving " home," on this adventure. Mr. Brown's
father decided to secure a large and valuable tract of Western land, as a per-
manent home, and authorized his son to select and purchase the same for him.
He found what he desired, near Rising Sun, Ind. After this, he settled in
Cincinnati, and engaged in the practice of law, speedily achieving prominency
and distinction. Financially, he was most fortunate. In 1810, he was elected
Judge of the Supreme Court, which position he filled with honor, until he was
chosen Governor, in 1818. He was re-elected in 1820. In 1821, he received
the honor of Senator, and served one term. Allen Trimble, Speaker of the
Senate, acted as Governor the remainder of the term. In 1830 he was
appointed Minister to Brazil. He remained there four years, and returning,
was appointed Commissioner of Public Lands, by President Jackson, holding
this position two years. At this time, he decided to retire from public life.
Since he never married, he was much with his relatives, at Rising Sun, Ind.,
during the latter part of his life. His death was sudden and unexpected, occur-
ring in February, 1852, while attending a Democratic Convention, at Indianap-
olis, Ind. He was interred near his father, at Rising Sun.
Jeremiah Morrow, the ninth Governor of Ohio, was born at Gettysburg,
Penn., in October, 1771. His people were of the " Scotch-Irish " class, and his
early life was one of manual labor upon his father's farm. During the winter,
he had the privilege of a private school. With a view of establishing himself
and securing a competency, he bade the old home farewell, in 1795, and set out
for the " Far West." A flatboat carried him to a little cluster of cabins, known
by the name of Columbia, six miles from Fort Washington — Cincinnati. He
devoted himself to whatever came in his way, that seemed best and most worthy
— teaching school, surveying and working on farms between times. Having
accumulated a small capital, he ascended the Little Miami, as far as Warren
County, and there purchased an extensive farm, and erected an excellent log
house. In the spring of 1799, he married Miss Mary Packtrell, of Columbia.
The young couple set out upon pioneer farming. Gaining popularity as well as
a desirable property, he was deputized to the Territorial Legislature, which met
at Chillicothe, at which time measures were inaugurated to call a Constitutional
Convention, during the following year, to organize the State of Ohio. Mr.
Morrow was one of the Delegates to this convention, and steadfastly worked in the
interests of those who sent him, until its close in 1802. The following year,
he was elected to the Senate of Ohio, and in June of the same year, he was
appointed the first Representative to the United States Congress from the new
State.
146 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Ohio was then entitled to but one Representative in Congress, and could not
add to that number for ten years thereafter. During these years, Mr. Morrow
represented the State. In 1813, he was sent to the United States Senate, and
in 1822, was elected Governor of Ohio, almost unanimously, being re-elected in
1824. It was during his administration that work was begun on the Ohio
Canal. Mr. Morrow received the national guest. La Fayette, with an earnest
and touching emotion, which afiected the emotions of the generous Frenchman
more profoundly than any of the elaborate receptions which paved his way
through America. On the 4th of July, 1839, Gov. Morrow was appointed to
lay the corner stone of the new State capitol, at Columbus, and to deliver the
address on this occasion. Again, in 1840, he was in the House of Representa-
tives, filling the vacancy caused by the resignation of Hon, Thomas Corwin.
He was elected for the following term also. He died at his own homestead, in
Warren County, March 22, 1853.
Allen Trimble was a native of Augusta County, Va. The date of his birth
was November 24, 1783. His ancestors were of Scotch-Irish origin, and were
among the early settlers of Virginia. His father moved to Ohio in 1804, pur-
chasing a tract of land in Highland County. His cabin was remarkably spa-
cious, and elicited the admiration of his neighbors. He cleared six acres of
land for an orchard, and brought the trees on horseback, from Kentucky. Be-
fore this new home was completed, Allen, then a young man of twenty, took
possession. This was in the year 1805. Four years thereafter, he occupied
the position of Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and Recorder of High-
land County. He was serving in the latter capacity at the breaking out of the
war of 1812. Naturally enthusiastic and patriotic, he engaged a competent
person to perform his civil duties, while he went into active service as Colonel
of a regiment he had summoned and enlisted. He was always eager to be in
the front, and led his men with such valor that they were termed soldiers who
did not know the art of flinching. His commanding General lavished praises
upon him. In 1816, he was in the State Senate, representing Highland
County. He occupied the same position for four terms, two years each. In
1818, he was Speaker of the Senate, over Gen. Robert Lucas. He remained
in this office until elected to the United States Senate, to fill the vacancy caused
by the death of his brother, Col. William A. Trimble. When Governor Brown
resigned to accept the office of United States Senator in 1822, he succeeded to
the office, acting as Governor the remainder of the term. In October, 1826,
he was elected Governor of Ohio, by an astonishing majority. The united vote
of his three competitors was but one-sixth of the vote polled. Gov. Trimble
was an earnest Henry Clay Whig. In 1828 he was re-elected. Gov. Trimble
was married in 1806 to Miss Margaret McDowell. Three years thereafter
she died, leaving two children. He was united in marriage to Miss Rachel
Woodrow, and they lived together sixty years, when he died, at home, in Hills-
boro, Highland County, Feb. 3, 1870. His wife survived him but a few months.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 147
Duncan McArthur, the tenth Governor of Ohio, was born in Dutchess
County, N. Y., in 1772. While yet a child, his parents removed to the west-
ern part of Pennsylvania, where they entered upon the hard life of pioneers.
While there, young Duncan had the meager advantages of a backwoods school.
His life was a general routine until his eighteenth year, when he enlisted under
Gen. Harmer for the Indian campaign. His conduct and bravery won worthy
laurels, and upon the death of the commander of his company, he was elected
to that position, although the youngest man in the company. When his days
of service had expired, he found employment at salt-making in Maysville, Ky.,
until he was engaged as chain-bearer in Gen. Massie's survey of the Scioto
Valley. At this time, Indian atrocities alarmed the settlers occasionally, and
his reputation for bravery caused him to be appointed one of the three patrols
of the Kentucky side of the Ohio, to give the alarm to scattered cabins in case
of danger. This was during the summer of 1793. Gen. Massie again secured
his services, this time as assistant surveyor. He was thus engaged for several
years, during which time he assisted in platting Chillicothe. He purchased a
large tract of land just north of town, and under his vigorous and practical
management, it became one of the finest estates of Ohio, which reputation it
sustains at the present time. He amassed wealth rapidly, his investments
always being judicious. In 1805, he was elected to the State Legislature.
He was a Colonel of an Ohio regiment, and accompanied Gen. Hull to Detroit
in 1813. At Hull's surrender he was a prisoner, but released on parole,
returned to Ohio in a state of indignation over his commander's stupidity.
Soon thereafter he was sent to Congress on the Democratic ticket. Soon there-
after he was released from parole by exchange, and, greatly rejoiced, he
resigned his seat, entered the army as a Brigadier General under Gen. Harri-
son, and the following year succeeded him as commander of the Northwestern
forces. At the termination of the war, he was immediately returned to the
State Legislature. He occupied State ofBces until 1822, when he was again
sent to Congress. Serving one term, he declined re-election. In 1830, he
was elected Governor of Ohio. When his term expired, he decided to enjoy
life as a citizen on his farm, " Fruit Hill," and lived there in contentment until
1840, when he died.
Robert Lucas was another Virginian, having been born in 1781, in Jeffer-
son County of that State. While a boy, his father liberated his slaves, moving
to Chillicothe as one of the early settlers. He procured a proficient tutor for
his children. Robert became an expert in mathematics and surveying. Before
he reached his majority, he was employed as surveyor, earning liberal compen-
sation. At the age of tAventy-three, he was appointed Surveyor of Scioto
County. At twenty-five, he was Justice of the Peace for Union Township,
Scioto County. He married Miss Elizabeth Brown in 1810, who died two
years thereafter, leaving a young daughter. In 1816, he married Miss Sum-
ner, The same year he was elected a member of the Ohio Legislature. Tor
148 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
nineteen consecutive years he served in the House or Senate. In 1820 and
1828, he was chosen one of the Presidential electors of Ohio. In 1832,
he" was Chairman of the National Convention at Baltimore, which nom-
inated Gen. Jackson as President of the United States. In 1832, he
became Governor of Ohio, and was re-elected in 1834. He declined a third
nomination, and was appointed by President Van Buren Territorial Governor
of Iowa and Superintendent of Indian Affairs. On the 16th of August,
1838, he reached Burlington, the seat of government. He remained in Iowa
until his death, in 1853.
Joseph Vance, the twelfth Governor of Ohio, was born in AVashingt^n
County, Penn., March 21, 1781. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, and his
father emigrated to the new Territory when Joseph was two years of age. He
located on the southern bank of the Ohio, building a solid block house. This
formed a stronghold for his neighbors in case of danger. In 1801, this pioneer
decided to remove north of the Ohio River, and eventually settled in Urbana.
Joseph had the primitive advantages of the common schools, and became pro-
ficient in handling those useful implements — the plow, ax and rifle. The first
money he earned he invested in a yoke of oxen. He obtained several barrels
of salt, and set out on a speculative tour through the settlements. He traveled
through a wilderness, over swamps, and surmounted serious diflSculties. At
night he built a huge fire to terrify the wolves and panthers, and laid down to
sleep beside his oxen, frequently being obliged to stand guard to protect
them from these ferocious creatures. Occasionally he found a stream so swol-
len that necessarily he waited hours and even days in the tangled forest, before
he could cross. He often suffered from hunger, yet he sturdily persevered and
sold his salt, though a lad of only fifteen years. When he attained his major-
ity, he married Miss Mary Lemen, of Urbana. At twenty-three, he was
elected Captain of a rifle company, and frequently led his men to the front to
fight the Indians prior to the war of 1812. During that year, he and his
brother piloted Hull's army through the dense forests to Fort Meigs. In 1817,
with Samuel McCullough and Henry Van Meter, he made a contract to supply
the Northwestern army with provisions. They drove their cattle and hogs
many miles, dead weight being transported on sleds and in wagons. He
engaged in mercantile business at Urbana and Fort Meigs— now Perrysburg.
While thus employed, he was elected to the Legislature, and there remained
four years. He then purchased a large tract of land on Blanchard's Fork,
and laid out the town of Findlay. He was sent to Congress in 1821, and was
a member of that body for fifteen years. In 1836, he was chosen Governor of
Ohio. Again he was sent to Congress in 1842. While attending the Consti-
tutional Convention in 1850, he was stricken with paralysis, and suffered
extremely until 1852, when he died at his home in Urbana.
Wilson Shannon was a native of Belmont County, Ohio. He was born
during 1803. At the age of fifteen, he was sent to the university at Athens,.
^^f^'^'m
36/^
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 151
where he remained a year, and then changed to the Transylvania University,
at Lexington, Ky. He continued his studies two years, then returning home
and entering upon reading law. He completed his course at St. Clairsville,
Belmont County, and was admitted to practice. He was engaged in the courts
of the county for eight years. In 1832, the Democrats nominated him to Con-
gress, but he was not elected. He received the position of Prosecuting Attor-
ney in 1834, in which position his abilities were so marked that in 1838 he was
elected Governor by a majority of 3,6U0. He was re-nominated in 1840, but
Tom Corwin won the ticket. Two years thereafter he was again nominated and
elected. In 1843 he was appointed Minister to Mexico, Thomas W. Bartley,
Speaker of the Senate, acting as Governor the remainder of the term. When
Texas was admitted as a State, Mexico renounced all diplomatic relations with the
United States. Mr. Shannon returned hom and resumed the practice of law. He
was sent to Congress in 1852. President Pierce conferred upon him the posi-
tion of Territorial Governor of Kansas, which duty he did not perform satis-
factorily, and was superseded after fourteen months of service. He settled in
Lecompton, Kan., and there practiced law until his death, which occurred in
1877.
Thomas Corwin, the fourteenth Governor of Ohio, was born in Bourbon
County, Ky., July 29, 1794. His father settled at Lebanon in 1798. The
country was crude, and advantages meager. When Thomas was seventeen
years of age, the war of 1812 was inaugurated, and this young man wa.s
engaged to drive a wagon through the wilderness, loaded with provisions, to
Gen. Harrison's headquarters. In 1816, he began the study of law, and
achieved knowledge so rapidly that in 1817 he passed examination and was
admitted to practice. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of his county, in
1818, which position he held until 1830. He was elected to the Legislature of
Ohio in 1822. Again, in 1829, he was a member of the same body. He was
sent to Congress in 1830, and continued to be re-elected for the space of ten
years. He became Governor of Ohio in 1840. In 1845, he was elected to
the United States Senate, where he remained until called to the cabinet of Mr.
Fillmore, as Secretary of the Treasury. He was again sent to Congress in
1858, and re-elected in 1860. He was appointed Minister to Mexico, by Pres-
ident Lincoln. After his return, he practiced law in Washington, D. C,
where he died in 1866.
Mordecai Bartley was born in 1783, in Fayette County, Penn. There he
remained, on his father's farm, until he was twenty-one years of age. He mar-
ried Miss Wells in 1804, and removed to Jefferson County, Ohio, where he
purchased a farm, near Cross Creek. At the opening of the war of 1812, he
enlisted in a company, and was elected its Captain. He entered the field under
Harrison. At the close of the war, he removed to Richland County, and opened
a clearing and set up a cabin, a short distance from Mansfield. He remained
on his farm twenty years, then removing to Mansfield, entered the mercantile
152 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
business. In 1817, he was elected to the State Senate. He Avas sent to Con-
gress in 1823, and served four terms. In 1844, he became Governor of Ohio,
on the Whig ticket. He declined a re-nomination, preferring to retire to his
home in Mansfield, where he died in 1870.
William Bebb, the seventeenth Governor, was from Hamilton County, Ohio.
He was born in 1804. His early instructions were limited, but thorough. He
opened a school himself, when he was twenty years of age, at North Bend,
residing in the house of Gen. Harrison. He remained thus employed a year,
during which time he married Shuck. He very soon began the study of law,
continuing his school. He was successful in his undertakings, and many pupils
were sent him from the best families in Cincinnati. In 1831, he was admitted
to practice, and opened an office in Hamilton, Butler County, remaining thus
engaged for fourteen years. In 1845, he was elected Governor of Ohio. In
1847, he purchased 5,000 acres of land in the Rock River country. 111., and
removed there three years later. On the inauguration of President Lincoln, he
wag appointed Pension Examiner, at W^ashington, and remained in that position
until 1866, when he returned to his Illinois farm. He died at Rockford, 111.,
in 1873.
Seabury Ford, the eighteenth Governor of Ohio, was born in the year 1802,
at Cheshire, Conn. His parents settled in Burton Township. He attended
the common schools, prepared for college at an academy in Burton, and entered
Yale College, in 1821, graduating in 1825. He then began the study of law,
in the law oflBce of Samuel W. Phelps, of Painesville, completing his course
with Judge Hitchcock. He began practice in 1827, in Burton. He married
Miss Harriet E. Cook, of Burton, in 1828. He was elected by the Whigs to
the Legislature, in 1835, and served six sessions, during one of which he was
Speaker of the House. He entered the State Senate in 1841, and there
remained until 1844, when he was again elected Representative. In 1846, he
was appointed to the Senate, and in 1848, he became Governor of Ohio. On
the first Sunday after his retirement, he was stricken with paralysis, from which
he never recovered. He died at his home in Burton in 1855.
Reuben Wood, the nineteenth Governor, was a Vermonter. Born in 1792,
in Middleton, Rutland County, he was a sturdy son of the Green Mountain
State. He was a thorough scholar, and obtained a classical education in Upper
Canada. In 1812, he was drafted by the Canadian authorities to serve against
the Americans, but being determined not to oppose his own land, he escaped
one stormy night, accompanied by Bill Johnson, who was afterward an Ameri-
can spy. In a birchbark canoe they attempted to cross Lake Ontario. A
heavy storm of wind and rain set in. The night was intensely dark, and they
were in great danger. They fortunately found refuge on a small island, where
they were storm-bound three days, sufiering from hunger and exposure. They
reached Sacket's Harbor at last, in a deplorable condition. Here they were
arrested as spies by the patrol boats of the American fleet. They were prisoners
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 153
four days, when an uncle of Mr. Wood's, residing not far distant, came to
their rescue, vouched for their loyalty, and they were released. Mr. Wood
then went to Woodville, N. Y., where he raised a company, of which he was
elected Captain. They marched to the northern frontier. The battles of
Plattsburg and Lake Champlain were fought, the enemy defeated, and the com-
pany returned to Woodville and was disbanded.
Young Wood then entered the law office of Gen. Jonas Clark, at Middle-
bury, Vt. He Avas married in 1816, and two years later, settled in Cleveland,
Ohio. When he first established himself in the village, he possessed his wife,
infant daughter and a silver quarter of a dollar. He Avas elected to the State
Senate in 1825, and filled the office three consecutive terms. He was appointed
Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. He was promoted to the Bench of the
Supreme Court, serving there fourteen years, the latter portion of the term as
Chief Justice. He was termed the "Cayuga Chief," from his tall form and
courtly bearing. He was elected Governor in 1850, by a majority of 11,000.
The ncAV constitution, which went into effect in March, 1851, vacated the office
of Governor, and he was re-elected by a majority of 26,000. The Democrats
holding a national convention in Baltimore in 1852, party division caused fifty
unavailing votes. The Virginia delegation offered the entire vote to Gov.
Wood, if Ohio would bring him forward. The opposition of one man pre-
vented this. The offer was accepted by New Hampshire, and Frank Pierce
became President. Mr. Wood was appointed Consul to Valparaiso, South
America, and resigned his office of Governor. He resigned his consulship and
returned to his fine farm near Cleveland, called "Evergreen Place." He
expected to address a Union meeting on the 5th of October, 1864, but on the
1st he died, mourned by all Avho knew him.
William Medill, the twentieth Governor, was born in New Castle County,
Del., in 1801. He Avas a graduate of DelaAvare College in 1825. He began
the study of law under Judge Black, of New Castle, and was admitted to the
bar in 1832. He remoA^ed to Lancaster, Ohio, in 1830. He Avas elected Rep-
resentative from Fairfield County in 1835. He was elected to Congress in
1838, and Avas re-elected in 1840. He was appointed Assistant Postmaster
General by President Polk. During the same year, he was appointed Com-
missioner of Indian Affairs. In 1851, he was elected Lieutenant Governor, and,
in 1853, he became Governor. He occupied the position of First Comptroller
of the United States Treasury in 1857, under President Buchanan, retaining the
office until 1861, Avhen he retired from public life. His death occurred in
1865.
Salmon P. Chase was a native of Cornish, N. H. He was born in 1803.
He entered Dartmouth College in 1822, graduating in 1826. He was there-
after successful in establishing a classical school in Washington, but finan-
cially it did not succeed. He continued to teach the sons of Henry Clay,
William Wirt and S. L. Southard, at the same time reading law when not busy
154 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
as tutor. He was admitted to practice in 1829, and opened a law office in Cin-
cinnati. He succeeded but moderately, and during his leisure hours prepared
a new edition of the "Statutes of Ohio." He added annotations and a weli-
written sketch of the early history of the State. This was a thorough success,
and gave the earnest worker popularity and a stepping-stone for the future.
He was solicitor for the banks of the United States in 1834, and soon there-
after, for the city banks. He achieved considerable distinction in 1837, in the
case of a colored woman brought into the State by her master, and escaping
his possession. He was thus brought out as an Abolitionist, which was further
sustained by his defense of James G. Birney, who had suffered indictment for
harboring a fugitive slave. In 1846, associated with William H. ScAvard, he
defended Van Zandt before the Supreme Court of the United States. His
thrilling denunciations and startling conjectures alarmed the slaveholding
States, and subsequently led to the enactment of the fugitive-slave law of 1850.
Mr. Chase was a member of the United States Senate in 1849, through the
coalition of the Democrats and Free-Soilers. In 1855, he was elected Gover-
nor of Ohio by the opponents of Pierce's administration. He was re-elected
in 1859. President Lincoln, in 1861, tendered him the position of Secretary
of the Treasury. To his ability and official management we are indebted for
the present national bank system. In 1864, he was appointed Chief Justice of
the United States. He died in the city of New York in 1873, after a usefvil
career.
William Dennison was born in Cincinnati in 1815. He gained an educsa-
tion at Miami University, graduating in 1835. He began the study of law in
the office of the father of George H. Pendleton, and was qualified and admitted
to the bar in 1840. The same year, he married a daughter of William Neil,
of Columbus. The Whigs of the Franklin and Delaware District sent him to
the State Senate, in 1848. He was President of the Exchange Bank in Cin-
cinnati, in 1852, and was also President of Columbus & Xenia Railway. He wa»
elected the twenty-second Governor of Ohio in 1859. By his promptness and
activity at the beginning of the rebellion, Ohio Avas placed in the front rank of
loyalty. At the beginning of Lincoln's second term, he was appointed Post-
master General, retiring upon the accession of Johnson. He then made his
home at Columbus.
David Tod, twenty-third Governor of Ohio, was born at Youngstown, Ohio,
in 1805. His education was principally obtained through his own exertions.
He set about the study of law most vigorously, and was admitted to practice in
1827. He soon acquired popularity through his ability, and consequently was
financially successful. He purchased the Briar Hill homestead. Under Jack-
son's administration, he was Postmaster at Warren, and held the position until
1838, Avhen he was elected State Senator by the Whigs of Trumbull District, by
the Democrats. In 1844, he retired to Briar Hill, and opened the Briar Hill
Coal Mines. He was a pioneer in the coal business of Ohio. In the Cleveland
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 155
& Mahoning Railroad, he was largely interested, and was its President, after the
death of Mr. Perkins. He was nominated, in 1844, for Governor, by the Dem-
ocrats, but was defeated. In 1847, he went to Brazil as Minister, where he
resided for four and a half years. The Emperor presented him with a special
commendation to the President, as a testimonial of his esteem. He was also the
recipient of an elegant silver tray, as a memorial from the resident citizens of
Rio Janeiro. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, which
met at Charleston in 1860. He was Vice President of this Convention. He
was an earnest advocate for Stephen A. Douglas. When the Southern members
withdrew, the President, Caleb Cushing, going with them, the convention
adjourned to Baltimore, when Mr. Tod assumed the chair and Douglas was nom-
inated. He was an earnest worker in the cause, but not disheartened by its
defeat. When Fort Sumter was fired upon, he was one of the most vio-orous
prosecutors of the war, not relaxing his active earnestness until its close. He
•lonated full uniforms to Company B, of the Nineteenth Regiment, and contrib-
uted largely to the war fund of his township. Fifty-five thousand majority
elected him Governor in 1861. His term was burdened with war duties,
and he carried them so bravely as Governor that the President said of him :
" Governor Tod of Ohio aids me more and troubles me less than any other Gov-
ernor." His death occurred at Briar Hill during the year 1868.
John Brough was a native of Marietta, Ohio. He was born in 1811. The death,
of his father left him in precarious circumstances, which may have been a discipline
for future usefulness. He entered a printing office, at the age of fourteen, in
Marietta, and after serving a few months, began his studies in the Ohio Uni-
versity, setting type mornings and evenings, to earn sufficient for support. He
occupied the leading position in classes, and at the same time excelled as a
type-setter. He was also admired for his athletic feats in field amusements.
He completed his studies and began reading law, which pursuit was interrupted
by an opportunity to edit a paper in Petersburg, Va. He returned to Marietta
in 1831, and became editor and proprietor of a leading Democratic newspaper
— the Washington County Republican. He achieved distinction rapidly,
and in 1833, sold his interest, for the purpose of entering a more extended field
of journalism. He purchased the Ohio Eagle, at Lancaster, and as its editor,
lield a deep influence over local and State politics. He occupied the position
of Clerk of the Ohio Senate, between the years 1835 and 1838, and relinquished his
paper. He then represented the counties of Fairfield and Hocking in the Leg-
islature. He was then appointed Auditor of State by the General Assembly'
in which position he served six years. He then purchased the Phcenix news-
paper in Cincinnati, changed its name to the Enquirer, placing it in the care
of his brother, Charles, while he opened a law office in the city. His editorials
in the Enquirer, and his activity in political afiairs, were brilliant and strono-.
He retired from politics in 1848, sold a half-interest in the Enquirer and carried
on a prosperous business, but was brought forward again by leaders of both
156 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
political parties in 1863, through the Vallandigham contest, and was elected
Governor the same year, by a majority of 101,099 votes in a total of 471,643.
He was three times married. His death occurred in 1865 — Charles Anderson
serving out his term.
Jacob Dolson Cox, the twenty-sixth Governor, was born in 1828, in Mon-
treal, Canada, where his parents were temporarily. He became a student of
Oberlin College, Ohio, in 1846, graduating in 1851, and beginning the practice
of law in Warren in 1852. He was a member of the State Senate in 1859,
from the Trumbull and Mahoning Districts. He was termed a radical. He
was a commissioned Brigadier General of Ohio in 1861, and, in 1862, was pro-
moted to Major General for gallantry in battle. While in the service he was
nominated for Governor, and took that position in 1865. He was a member of
Grant's Cabinet as Secretary of the Interior, but resigned. He went to Con-
gress in 1875, from the Toledo District.
Rutherford B. Hayes, the nineteenth President of the United States, and
the twenty-seventh Governor of Ohio, was born at Delaware, Ohio, in 1822. He
was a graduate of Kenyon College in 1842. He began the study of law, and,
in 1843, pursued that course in the Cambridge University, graduating in 1845.
He began his practice at Fremont. He was married to Miss Lucy Webb in
1852, in Cincinnati. He was Major of the Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer
Infantry in 1861, and in 1862, was promoted to Colonel on account of bravery
in the field, and eventually became Major General. In 1864, he was elected to
Congress, and retired from the service. He remained in Congress two terms,
and was Governor of Ohio in 1867, being re-elected in 1869. He was again
elected in 1875, but resigned in 1877, to accept the oflSce of President of the
United States, Thomas L. Young acting as Governor the remander of the term.
Edward F. Noyes was born in Haverhill, Mass., in 1832. While a lad of
fourteen, he entered the office of the Morning Star, published at Dover, N. H.,
in order to learn the business of printing. At the age of eighteen, he entered
the academy at Kingston, N. H. He prepared for college, and entered
Dartmouth in 1853, graduating with high honors in 1857. He had begun the
study of law, and continued the course in the Cincinnati Law School, and began
to practice in 1858. He was an enthusiast at the opening of the rebellion and
was interested in raising tho Twentieth Regiment, of which he was made Major.
He was promoted to Colonel in 1862, At the conflict at Ruff's Mills, in
Georgia, in 1864, he was so unfortunate as to lose a leg. At the time, amputa-
tion was necessary, but was unskillfully performed. He was brought to Cincin-
nati, and the operation was repeated, which nearly cost him his life. He reported
three months later, to Gen. Hooker for duty, on crutches. He was assigned to
command of Camp Dennison. He was promoted to the full rank of Brigadier
General, and while in discharge of his duty at that place, he was elected City
Sohcitor of Cincinnati. He occupied the position until 1871, when he was
elected Governor, by a majority of 20,000.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 157
William Allen, the twenty-ninth Governor of Ohio, was born in 1807, in
Chowan County, N. C. While an infant, he was left an orphan, and his sister
superintended his education. He was placed in a private school at Lynchburg,
Va., at the age of fourteen. Two years later he joined his family at Chilli-
cothe, and attended the academy a year, when he entered the law office of
Edward King. Before he was twenty-five he was sent to Congress by a strong
Whig district. He was elected United States Senator in 1837 and served
until 1849. In 1845 he married Effie Mc Arthur, who died soon after the
birth of their daughter. In 1873 he was elected Governor. His administra-
tion gave general satisfaction. He died at his home at " Fruit Hill," in 1879.
Richard M. Bishop, the thirty-first Governor of Ohio, was born November
4, 1812, in Fleming County, Ky. For several years he devoted himself to
mercantile business in his native State. In 1848 he engaged in the wholesale
grocery business at Cincinnati, and subsequently admitted his three sons part-
ners, under the firm name of R. M. Bishop & Sons. He was a member of the
Council of Cincinnati, and in 1859 was its Mayor, holding that office until 1861.
In 1877 he was nominated by the Democrats and elected Governor of Ohio.
Charles Foster, the thirty-second Governor of Ohio, was born in Seneca
County, Ohio, April 12, 1828. He was educated at the common schools and
the academy at Norwalk, Ohio. Engaged in mercantile and banking business
at Fostoria, and never held any public office until he was elected to the Forty-
second Congress; was re-elected to the Forty-third Congress, and again to the
Forty-fourth Congress as a Republican. In 1879 he was nominated by the
Republicans and elected Governor of the State, was re-elected in 1881, and
served through both terms winning the esteem of all political parties.
George Hoadly, the thirty-third Governor of Ohio, was born at New
Haven, Conn., July 31, 1826. His parents, George and Mary Ann (Woolsey)
Hoadly, names well known in the educational circles of Connecticut, were inti-
mately connected with the commercial and social progress of that State. Gov.
Hoadly completed his education at what is now known as Adelbert College, of
which he is a LL. D., while in 1884 he received the same honor from Yale. In
1844 he entered the law school of Cambridge, Mass.; in 1846 entered the
office of Chase & Ball, Cincinnati, Ohio ; was admitted to the bar in August
following; elected Judge of the Cincinnati Superior Court in 1851, succeeded
Judge Gholson on the bench of the present Superior Court in 1859, and was
re-elected in 1864 ; refused a seat on the Supreme bench in 1856 and again in
1862 ; was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention 1873-74. He
was nominated by the Democrats for Governor in 1883 and elected.
ANCIENT WORKS.
Ohio has furnished a prolific field for antiquarians and those interested in
scientific explorations, either for their own amusement and knowledge, or for
the records of "facts and formations."
158 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
It is well known that the " Mound Builders " had a wide sweep through this
continent, but absolute facts regarding their era have been most difficult to
obtain. Numerous theories and suppositions have been advanced, yet they are
emphatic evidences that tliey have traced the origin and time of this primeval race.
However, they have left their works behind them, and no exercise of faith
is necessary to have confidence in that part of the story. That these works are
of human origin is self-evident. Temples and military works have been found
which required a considerable degree of scientific skill on the part of those early
architects and builders.
Evidently the Indians had no knowledge of these Avorks of predecessors,
which differed in all respects from those of the red men. An ancient cemetery
has been found, covering an area of four acres, which had evidently been laid
out into lots, from north to south. Nearly 3,000 graves have been discovered,
containing bones Avhich at some time must have constituted the framework of
veritable giants, while others are of no unusual size. In 1815, a jaw-bone was
exhumed, containing an artificial tooth of silver.
Mounds and fortifications are plentiful in Athens County, some of them
being of solid stone. One, differing in the quality of stone from the others, is
supposed to be a dam across the Hocking. Over a thousand pieces of stone
were used in its construction. Copper rings, bracelets and ornaments are
numerous. It is also evident that these people possessed the knowledge of
luirdening copper and giving it an edge equal to our steel of to-day.
In the branch formed by a branch of the Licking River and Raccoon Creek,
in Licking County, ancient works extend over an area of several miles. Again,
three miles northwest of this locality, near the road between Newark and Gran-
ville, another field of these relics may be found. On the summit of a high hill
is a fortification, formed to represent an alligator. The head and neck includes
82 feet ; the length of the body is 73 feet ; the tail was 105 feet ; from the termini of
the fore feet, over the shoulders, the width is 100 feet ; from the termini of
the hind feet, over the hips, is 92 feet ; its highest point is 7 feet. It is composed
of clay, which must have been conveyed hither, as it is not similar to the clay
found in the vicinity.
Near Miamisburg, Montgomery County, are other specimens. Near the
village is a mound, equaled in size by very few of these antiquities. It meas-
ures 800 feet around the base, and rises to a height of sixty-seven feet. Others
are found in Miami County, while at Circleville, Pickaway County, no traces
remain.
Two forts have been discovered, one forming an exact square, and the other
flescribing a circle. The square is flanked by two walls, on all sides, these
being divided by a deep ditch. The circle has one wall and no ditch. This is
sixty-nine rods in diameter, its walls being twenty feet high. The square fort
measures fifty-five rods across, with walls twelve feet high. Twelve gateways
lead into tlie square fort, wliile the circle has but one, which led to the othei', at
]nSTOIlV OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 159
the point Avlierc tlie walls of the two came together. Before each of these
entrances were mounds of earth, from four to live feet high and nearly forty
feet in diameter. Evidently these were designed for defenses for the openings,
in cases of emergency.
A short distance from Piketon, the turnpike runs, for several hundred feet,
between two parallel artificial walls of earth, fifteen feet high, and six rods
apart. In Scioto County, on both sides of the Ohio, are extensive ancient
works.
" Fort Ancient " is near Lebanon in Warren County. Its direct measure-
ment is a mile, but in tracing its angles, retreating and salient, its length would
be nearly six miles. Its site is a level plain, 240 feet above the level of the
river. The interior wall varies in height to conform with the nature of the
ground without — ranging from 8 to 10 feet. On the plain it reaches 100 feet.
This fort has 58 gateways, through one of which the State road runs, passing
between two mounds 12 feet high. Northeast from these mounds, situated on
the plain, are two roads, about a rod wide each, made upon an elevation about
three feet liigh. They run parallel to each other about a quarter of a mile,
when they each form a semicircle around a mound, joining in the circle. It is
^probable this was at some time a military defense, or, on the contrary, it may
have been a general rendezvous for games and high holiday festivities.
Near Marietta, are the celebrated Muskingum River works, beino; a half-
mile from its juncture with the Ohio. They consist of mounds and Avails of
earth in circular and square forms, also tracing direct lines.
The largest square fort covers an area of 40 acres, and is inclosed by a wall
of earth, 6 to 10 feet in height, and from 25 to 30 feet at its base. On each
side are three gateways. The center gateways exceed the others in size, more
especially on the side toward the Muskingum. From this outlet runs a covered
means of egress, between two parallel walls of earth, 231 feet distant from each
other, measuring from the centers. The walls in the interior are 21 feet high
at the most elevated points, measuring 42 feet at the base, grading on the exte-
rior to about five feet in heigth. This passage-way is 3G0 feet in length, lead-
ing to the low grounds, which, at the period of its construction, probably reached
the river.
At the northwest corner, Avithin the inclosure, is a plateau 188 feet long, ,
132 feet broad and 9 feet high. Its sides are perpendicular and its surface
level. At the center of each side is a graded pathway leading to the top, six
feet wide. Another elevated square is near the south Avail, 150x120 feet square,
and 8 feet high, similar to the other, with the exception of the graded walk.
Outside and next the Avail to ascend to the top, it has central hollow ways, 10
feet wide, leading 20 feet toAvard the center, then arising Avith a gradual slope to
the top. A third elevated square is situated at the southeast corner, 108x54
feet square, with ascents at the ends. This is neither as high or as perfect as
the others.
160 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Another ancient Avork is found to the southeast, covering an area of 20 acres
with a gateway in the center of each side, and others at the corners — each of
these having the mound defense.
On the outside of the smaller fort, a mound resembling a sugar loaf was
formed in the shape of a circle 115 feet in diameter, its height being 30 feet.
A ditch surrounds it, 15 feet wide and 4 feet deep. These earthworks have
contributed greatly to the satisfactory results of scientific researches. Their
builders were evidently composed of large bands that have succumbed to the
advance of enlightened humanity. The relics found consists of ornaments,
utensils and implements of war. The bones left in the numei'ous graves convey
an idea of a stalwart, vigorous people, and the conquests which swept them away
from the face of the country must have been fierce and cruel.
Other mounds and fortifications are found in different parts of the State, of
which our limited space will not permit a description.
Many sculptured rocks are found, and others with plainly discernible
tracery in emblematical designs upon their surface. The rock on which the
inscriptions occur is the grindstone grit of the Ohio exports — a stratum found
in Northern Ohio. Arrow-points of flint or chert have been frequently found.
From all investigations, it is evident that an extensive flint bed existed in Lick-
ing County, near Newark. The old pits can now be recognized. They
extended over a hundred acres. They are partially filled with Avater, and sur-
rounded by piles of broken and rejected fragments. The flint is a grayish-
white, with cavities of a brilliant quartz crystal. Evidently these stones were
chipped into shape and the material sorted on the ground. Only clear, homo-
genous pieces can be wrought into arrow-heads and spear-points. Flint chips
extend over many acres of ground in this vicinity. Flint beds are also found
in Stark and Tuscarawas Counties. In color it varies, being red, white, black
and mottled. The black is found in Coshocton County.
SOME GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS.
Ohio, as a State, is renowned as an agricultural section. Its variety, quality
and quantity of productions cannot be surpassed by any State in the Union. Its^
commercial importance ranks proudly in the galaxy of opulent and industrious
States composing this Union. Her natural resources are prolific, and all improve-
ments which could be instituted by the ingenuity of mankind have been added.
From a quarter to a third of its area is hilly and broken. About the head-
waters of the Muskingum and Scioto, and between the Scioto and the two
Miami Rivers, are wide prairies ; some of them are elevated and dry, with fertile
soil, although they are frequently termed "barrens." In other parts, they are
low and marshy, producing coarse, rank grass, which grows to a height of five
feet in some places.
The State is most fortunate in timber wealth, having large quantities of
black walnut, oak of different varieties, maple, hickory, birch, several kinds of
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 161
beech, poplar, sycamore, papaw, several kinds of ash, cherry, whitewood and
buckeye.
The summers are usually warm, and the winters are mild, considering the
latitude of the State. Near Lake Erie, the winters are severe, corresponding
with sections in a line with that locality. Snow falls in sufficient quantitie-^^
in the northern part to aflford several weeks of fine sleighing. In the southern
portion, the snowstorms are not frequent, and the fall rarely remains long on
the ground.
The climate is generally healthy, with the exception of small tracts lying
near the marshes and stagnant waters.
The Ohio River washes the southern border of the State, and is navigable
for steamboats of a large size, the entire length of its course. From Pitts-
burgh to its mouth, measuring it meanderings, it is 908 miles long. Its current
is gentle, having no falls except at Louisville, Ky., where the descent is twenty-
two and a half feet in two miles. A canal obviates this obstruction.
The Muskingum is the largest river that flows entirely within the State. It
is formed by the junction of the Tuscarawas and Walhonding Rivers, and enters
the Ohio at Marietta One hundred miles of its length is navigable.
The Scioto is the second river in magnitude, is about 200 miles long, and
flows into the Ohio at Portsmouth. It affords navigation 130 miles of its length.
The Great Miami is a rapid river, in the western part of the State, and is 100
miles long. The Little Miami is seventy miles in length, and enters the Ohia
seven miles from Cincinnati.
The Maumee rises in Indiana, flows through the northwestern part of the
State, and enters Lake Erie at Maumee Bay. It afibrds navigation as far a&
Perrysburg, eighteen miles from the lake, and above the rapids, it is again nav-
igable.
The Sandusky rises in the northern part of the State, is eighty miles long^
and flows into Lake Erie, via Sandusky Bay.
Lake Erie washes 150 miles of the northern boundary. The State has sev-
eral fine harbors, the Maumee and Sandusky Bays being the largest.
We have, in tracing the record of the earlier counties, given the educational inter-
ests as exemplified by difierent institutions. We have also given the canal system
of the State, in previous pages. The Governor is elected every two years, by
the people. The Senators are chosen biennially, and are apportioned according
to the male population over twenty-one years of age. The Judges of the
Supreme and other courts are elected by the joint ballot of the Legislature, for
the term of seven years.
During the early settlement of Ohio, perfect social equality existed among the
settlers. The line of demarkation that was drawn was a separation of the good
from the bad. Log-rollings and cabin-raisings were mutual affairs. Their
sport usually consisted of shooting, rowing and hunting. Hunting shirts and
buckskin pants were in the fashion, while the women dressed in coarse material.
1C2 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
woven by their own hands. A common American cotton check was con-
sidered a magnificent addition to one's toilet. In those times, however, the
material was f 1 per yard, instead of the shilling of to-day. But five yards
was then a large "pattern," instead of the twenty-five of 1880, In cooking
vitensils, the pot, pan and frying-pan constituted an elegant outfit. A few plain
dishes were added for table use. Stools and benches were the rule, although a
few wealthy families indulged in splmt-bottom chairs. The cabin floors were
rough, and in many cases the green sward formed the carpet. Goods were very
expensive, and flour was considered a great luxury. Goods Avere brought by
horses and mules from Detroit, or by wagon from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh,
and then down the Ohio. Coarse calicoes were ^1 per yard ; tea $2 to $3 per
pound; cofiee 75 cents ; whisky, from $1 to $2 per gallon, and salt, $5 to ^6
per barrel. In those towns where Indian trade constituted a desirable interest,
a bottle was set at each end of the counter — a gratuitous offering to their red
friends.
OUTLINE GEOLOGY OF OHIO.
Should we group the rocks of Ohio, according to their lithological characters,
we should give five distinct divisions. They are marked by difference in appear-
ance, hardness, color and composition :
1 — Limestone.
2— Black shale.
3 — Fine-grained sandstone.
4 — Conglomerate.
5 — Coal series.
They are all stratified and sedimentary. They are nearly horizontal. The
lowest one visible, in a physical as well as a geological sense, is " blue lime-
stone."
The bed of the Ohio River near Cincinnati is 133 feet below the level of
Lake Erie. The strata incline in all directions from the southwestern angle of
the State. In Scioto County may be seen the outcropping edges of all these
rocks. They sink at this point in the direction south 80|^° east ; easterly at the
rate of 37-^ feet per mile. The cliff" limestone, the upper stratum of the lime-
stone deposit, is 600 feet above the river at Cincinnati ; at West Union, in
Adams County, it is only 350 feet above the same level.
The finely grained sandstone found on the summit of the hills east of Brush
Creek and west of the Scioto sinks to the base of the hills, and appears beneath
the conglomerate, near the Little Scioto. Although the rock formations are the
same in all parts of the State, in the same order, their thickness, mass and dip,
are quite different.
Chillicothe, Reynoldsburg, Mansfield, Newburg, Waverly and Rockville, are
situated near the western border of the " fine-grained limestone." Its outcrop
forms a continuous and crooked line from the Ohio River to Lake Erie. In the
southwest portion of the State is the "blue limestone," occupying a circular
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 168
space from West Union via Dayton, to the State line. The conglomerate is to
the east of the given towns, bending around from Cuyahoga Falls to Burton, in
Geauga County, and then eastward into Pennsylvania. Near this outcrop are
the coal-bearing rocks which occupy the east and southeastern portions of Ohio.
From Rockville to Chillicothe, the course is north, about 10° east, and nearly
corresponds with the line of outcrop of the fine-grained sandstone for an equal
distance. The dip at Rockville, given by Charles Whittlesey, is 80|°, almost
at a right angle, and at the rate of 37 feet per mile.
At Chillicothe, the other end of the line, the general dip is south 70° east^
30 feet to the mile, the line curving eastward and the dip line to the southward.
This is the universal law.
The northern boundary of the great coal fields passes through jMeadville, in
Pennsylvania, and turning south arrives at Portage Summit, on the summit of
the Alleghanies, 2,500 feet above the ocean level. It then plunges rapidly to
the westward. From the Alleghanies to the southwest, through Pennsylvania,
Virginia and Tennessee, sweeps this great coal basin.
Much of the county of Medina is conglomerate upon the surface, but the
streams, especially the South Branch of the Rocky River, set through this sur-
face stratum, and reach the fine-grained sandstone. This is the case with
Rocky, Chagrin, Cuyahoga and Grand Rivers — also Conneaut and Ashtabula
Creeks. This sandstone and the shale extend up the narrow valleys of these
streams and their tributaries. Between these strata is a mass of coarse-grained
sandstone, without pebbles, which furnishes the grindstones for which Ohio is
noted. In Lorain County, the coarse sandstone grit nearly displaces the fine-
grained sandstone and red shale, thickening at Elyria to the black shale. South
of this point, the grindstone grit, red shale and ash-colored shale vary in thick-
ness. The town of Chillicothe, the village of Newburg, and a point in the west
line of Crawford County, are all situated on the "black shale."
Dr. Locke gives the dip, at Montgomery and Miami Counties, at north 14^,
east, six feet to the mile; at Columbus, Whitelesey gives it, 81° 52' east, 22yW
feet to the mile. The fine-grained sandstone at Newburg is not over eighty
feet in thickness ; at Jacktown and Reynoldsburg, 500 ; at Waverly 250 to
300 feet, and at Brush Creek, Adams County, 343 feet. The black shale is
251 feet thick at Brush Creek ; at Alum Creek, 250 to 300 feet thick ; in Craw-
ford County, about 250 feet thick* The conglomerate in Jackson County is
200 feet thick ; at Cuyahoga Falls, 100 to 120 feet ; at Burton, Geauga County,
300 feet. The great limestone formation is divided into several numbers. At
Cincinnati, at the bed of the river, there is :
1 — A blue limestone and slaty raarlite.
2 — Dun-colored marl and layers of lime rock.
3 — Blue marl and layers of blue limestone.
4 — Marl and bands of limestone, with immense numbers of shells at the
surface.
164 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
In Adams County, the detailed section is thus :
1 — Blue limestone and marl.
2 — Blue marl.
3 — Flinty limestone.
4 — Blue marl.
5 — Cliff limestone.
The coal-fields of Ohio are composed of alternate beds of coarse-grained
sandstone, clay shales, layer? of ironstone, thin beds of limestone and numer-
ous strata of coal. The coal region abounds in iron. From Jacktown to Con-
cord, in Muskingum County, there are eight beds of coal, and seven strata of
limestone. The distance between these two points is forty-two miles. From
Freedom, in Portage County, to Poland, in Trumbull County, a distance of
thirty-five miles, there are five distinct strata. Among them are distributed
thin beds of limestone, and many beds of iron ore. The greater mass of coal
and iron measures is composed of sandstone and shale. The beds of sandstone
are from ten to twenty or eighty feet thick. Of shale, five to fifty feet thick.
The strata of coal and iron are comparatively thin. A stratum of coal three
feet thick can be worked to advantage. One four feet thick is called a good
mine, few of them averaging five. Coal strata are found from six to ten and
eleven feet. There are four beds of coal, and three of limestone, in Lawrence
and Scioto Counties. There are also eight beds of ore, and new ones are con-
stantly being discovered. The ore is from four to twelve inches thick, occasion-
ally being two feet. The calcareous ore rests upon the second bed of limestone,
from the bottom, and is very rich.
The most prominent fossils are trees, plants and stems of the coal-bearing
rocks, shells and corals and crustacene of the limestone, and the timber, leaves
and dirt-beds of the "drift" — the earthy covering of the rocks, which varies
from nothing to 200 feet. Bowlders, or " lost rocks," are strewn over the State.
They are evidently transported from some remote section, being fragments of
primitive rock, granite, gneiss and hornblende rock, which do not exist in
Ohio, nor within 400 miles of the State, in any direction. In the Lake Supe-
rior region we find similar specimens.
The superficial deposits of Ohio are arranged into four geological formations :
1 — The ancient drift, resting upon the rocks of the State.
2 — The Lake Erie marl and sand deposits.
3 — The drift occupying the valleys of large streams, such as the Great Miami,
the Ohio and Scioto.
4 — The bowlders.
The ancient drift of Ohio is meager in shell deposits. It is not, therefore,
decided whether it be of salt-water origin or fresh water.
It has, at the bottom, blue clay, with gravel-stones of primitive or sedimen-
tary rocks, containing carbonate of lime. The yellow clay is found second.
Above that, sand and gravel, less stratified, containing more pebbles of the
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 165
sedimentary rocks, such as limestone and stone, iron ore, coal and shale. The
lower layer contains logs, trees, leaves, sticks and vines.
The Lake Erie section, or "Lake Erie deposits," may be classed in the
following order :
1 — From the lake level upward, fine, blue, marly sand — forty-five to sixty
feet.
2 — Coarse, gray, water-washed sand — ten to twenty feet.
3 — Coarse sand and gravel, not well stratified, to surface — twenty to fifty feet.
Stratum first dissolves in water. It contains carbonate of lime, magnesia,
iron, alumina, silex, sulphur, and some decomposed leaves, plants and sticks.
Some pebbles are found. In contact with the water, quicksand is formed.
The Hickory Plains, at the forks of the Great Miami and White Water, and
also between Kilgore's Mill and New Richmond, are the results of heavy dilu-
vial currents.
In presenting these formations of the State, we have quoted from the experi-
ence and conclusions of Charles Whittlesey, eminent as a geologist, aj»d who
was a member of the Ohio Geological Corps.
Ohio's rank during the war.
The patriotism of this State has been stanch, unswerving and bold, ever
since a first settlement laid its corner-stone in the great Western wilder-
ness. Its decisive measures, its earnest action, its noble constancy, have earned
the laurels that designate it "a watchword for the nation." In the year 1860,
Ohio had a population of 2,343,739. Its contribution of soldiers to the great
conflict that was soon to surge over the land in scarlet terror, was apportioned
310,000 men. In less than twenty-four hours after the President's proclama-
tion and call for troops, the Senate had matured and carried a bill through,
appropriating $1,000,000 for the purpose of placing the State on a war footing.
The influences of party sentiments were forgotten, and united, the State
unfurled the flag of patriotism. Before the bombardment of old Fort Sumter
has fairly ceased its echoes, twenty companies were offered the Governor for
immediate service. When the surrender was verified, the excitement was
tumultuous. Militia ofiicers telegraphed their willingness to receive prompt
orders, all over the State. The President of Kenyon College — President
Andrews — tendered his services by enlisting in the ranks. Indeed, three
months before the outbreak of the war, he had expressed his readiness to the
Governor to engage in service should there be occasion. He was the first citi-
zen to make this offer.
The Cleveland Grays, the Rover Guards, the State Fencibles, the Dayton
Light Guards, the Governor's Guards, the Columbus Videttes and the Guthrie
Grays — the best drilled and celebrated militia in the State — telegraphed to
Columbus for orders. Chillicothe, Portsmouth and Circleville offered money
and troops. Canton, Xenia, Lebanon, Lancaster, Springfield, Cincinnati,
166 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Dayton, Cleveland, Toledo and other towns urged their assistance upon the State.
Columbus began to look like a great army field. The troops were stationed
wherever they could find quarters, and food in sufficient quantities was hard to
procure. The Governor soon established a camp at Miamiville, convenient to
Cincinnati. He intended to appoint Irvin McDowell, of the stafi" of Lieut.
Gen. Scott, to the leading command, but the friends of Capt. McClellan became
enthusiastic and appealed to the Governor, who decided to investigate his case.
Being satisfied, he desired Capt. McClellan to come up to Columbus. But that
officer was busy and sent Capt. Pope, of the regular army, in his stead. This
gentleman did not suit Gov. Dennison. The friends of McClellan again set
forth the high qualities of this officer, and Gov. Dennison sent an earnest
request for an interview, Avhich was granted, and resulted in the appointment
of the officer as Major General of the Ohio militia. Directly thereafter, he
received an invitation to take command of the Pennsylvania troops, but Ohio
could not spare so valuable a leader.
For three-years troops were soon called out, and their Generals were to be
appointed by the President. Gov. Dennison advised at once with the War
Department at Washington, and McClellan received his appointment as Majoi*
General in the regular army.
Cincinnati and Louisville became alanned lest Kentucky should espouse the
Confederate cause, and those cities thus be left insecure against the inroads of a
cruel foe. Four hundred and thirty-six miles of Ohio bordered Slave States.
Kentucky and West Virginia were to be kept in check, but the Governor pro-
claimed that not only should the border of Ohio be protected, but even beyond
that would the State press the enemy. Marietta was garrisoned, and other river
points rendered impregnable. On the 20th of May, 1861, official dispatches
affirmed that troops were approaching Wheeling under the proclamation of
Letcher. Their intention was to route the convention at Wheeling.
Military orders were instantly given. Col. Steedman and Ids troops crossed
at Marietta and crushed the disturbance at Parkersburg — swept into the country
along the railroad, built bridges, etc. Col. Irvine crossed at Wheeling and
united with a regiment of loyal Virginians. At the juncture of the two tracks
at Grafton, the columns met, but the rebels had retreated in mad haste. The
loyal troops followed, and, at Philippi, fought the first little skirmish of the war.
The great railway lines were secured, and the Wheeling convention protected,
and West Virginia partially secured for the Union.
After preliminary arrangements, McClellan's forces moved in two columns
upon the enemy at Laurel Hill. One remained in front, under Gen. Morris,
while the other, under his own command, pushed around to Huttonsville, in
their rear. Gen. Morris carried his orders through promptly, but McClellan
was late. Rosecrans was left with McClellan's advance to fight the battle of
Rich Mountain, unaided. Garnett being alarmed at the defeat of his outpost,
retreated. McClellan was not in time to intercept him, but Morris continued
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 167
the chase. Steedman overtook the rear-guard of GaVnett's army at Carrick's
Ford, where a sharp skirmish ensued, Garnett himself falling. The scattered
portions of the rebel army escaped, and West Virginia was again free from
armed rebels — and was the gift of Ohio through her State militia to the nation
at the beginning of the w^ar.
At this period. Gen. McClellan was called to Washington. Gen. Rose-
crans succeeded him, and the three-years troops left in the field after the dis-
banding of the three-months men, barely sufficed to hold the country. He
telegraphed Gov. Dennison to supply him immediately with re-enforcements, the
request being made on the 8th of August. Already had the Confederate lead-
ers realized the loss they had sustained in Western Virginia, and had dispatched
their most valued General, Robert E. Lee, to regain the territory. Rosecrans
again wrote: "If you. Governor of Indiana and Governor of Michigan, will
lend your efforts to get me quickly 50,000 men, in addition to my present
force, I think a blow can be struck which will save fighting the rifled-cannon
batteries at Manassas. Lee is certainly at Cheat Mountain. Send all troops
you can to Grafton." Five days thereafter, all the available troops in the
West were dispatched to Fremont, Mo., and the plans of Rosecrans were
foiled.
Heavy re-enforcements had been sent to the column in Kanawha Valley
under Gen. Cox. He became alarmed, and telegraphed to Gov. Dennison.
Rosecrans again appealed to Gov. Dennison, that he might be aided in march-
ing across the country against Floyd and Wise to Cox's relief, "I want to
catch Floyd while Cox holds him in front."
The response was immediate and effective. He was enabled to employ
twenty-three Ohio regiments in clearing his department from rebels, securing
the country and guarding the exposed railroads. With this achievement, the
direct relation of the State administrations with the conduct and methods of
campaigns terminated. The General Government had settled down to a sys-
tem. Ohio was busy organizing and equipping regiments, caring for the sick
and wounded, and sustaining her home strength.
Gov. Dennison's staff officers were tendered better positions in the national
service. Camps Dennison and Chase, one at Cincinnati and the other at
Columbus, were controlled by the United States authorities. A laboratory was
established at Columbus for the supply of ammunition. During the fall and
early winter, the Ohio troops suffered in Western Virginia. The people of
their native State responded with blankets, clothing and other supplies.
In January, 1862, David A. Tod entered upon the duties of Governor.
The first feature of his administration was to care for the wounded at home,
sent from Pittsburg Landing. A regular system was inaugurated to supply
stores and clothing to the suffering at home and in the field. Agencies were
established, and the great and good work was found to be most efficacious in
alleviating the wretchedness consequent upon fearful battles. A. B. Lyman
168 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
had charge of affairs in Cincinnati, and Royal Taylor held the same position
in Louisville. J. C. Wetmore was stationed at Washington, F. W. Bingham
at Memphis, Weston Flint at Cairo and St. Louis. Thus the care which Ohio
extended over her troops at home and in the hattle-field, furnished a practical
example to other States, and was the foundation of that commendable system
all over the Union. Stonewall Jackson's sudden advent in the valley created
the greatest consternation lest the safety of the capital be jeopardized, and the
W^ar Department called for more troops. Gov. Tod immediately issued a
proclamation, and the people, never shrinking, responded heartily. At Cleve-
land a large meeting was held, and 250 men enlisted, including 27 out of 32
students attending the law school. Fire bells rang out the alarm at Zanesville,
a meeting was convened at 10 in the morning, and by 3 in the afternoon, 300
men had enlisted. Court was adjourned sine die, and the Judge announced
that he and the lawyers were about to enter into military ranks. Only three
unmarried men between the ages of eighteen and twenty-three were left in the
town of Putnam. Five thousand volunteers reported at Camp Chase within
two days after the proclamation.
Again in June, the President called for troops, followed by yet another call.
Under these calls, Ohio was to raise 74,000 men. The draft system was
advised to hasten and facilitate filling regiments. It has always been a repul-
sive measure. To save sections from this proceeding, enormous sums were
offered to induce men to volunteer, and thus fill the quota.
Counties, townships, towns and individuals, all made bids and urged the
rapid enlistment of troops. The result was, that the regiments were filled rap-
idly, but not in sufficient numbers to prevent the draft. Twenty thousand four
hundred and twenty-seven men were yet lacking, and the draft was ordered,
September 15. At the close of the year, Ohio was ahead of her calls. Late
in the fall, the prospect was disheartening. The peninsula campaign had failed.
The Army of Northern Virginia had been hurled back nearly to Washington.
The rebels had invaded Maryland ; Cincinnati and Louisville were threatened,
and the President had declared his intention to abolish slavery, as a war meas-
ure. During the first part of 1862, artillery, stores and supplies were carried
away mysteriously, from the Ohio border ; then little squads ventured over the
river to plunder more openly, or to burn a bridge or two. The rebel bands
came swooping down upon isolated supply trains, sending insolent roundabout
messages regarding their next day's intentions. Then came invasions of our
lines near Nashville, capture of squads of guards within sight of camp, the seizure
of Gallatin. After Mitchell had entered Northern Alabama, all manner of depre-
dations were committed before his very eyes. These were attributed to John
Morgan's Kentucky cavalry. He and his men, by the middle of 18G2, were
as active and dangerous as Lee or Beauregard and their troops. Morgan was a
native of Alabama, but had lived in Kentucky since boyhood. His father was
large slave-owner, who lived in the center of the "Blue Grass Country." His
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 169
life had been one of wild dissipation, adventure and recklessness, although in
his own family he had the name of being most considerate. The men who fol-
lowed him were accustomed to a dare-devil life. They formed and independent
band, and dashed madly into the conflict, wherever and whenever inclination
prompted. Ohio had just raised troops to send East, to assist in the overthrow
of Stonewell Jackson. She had overcome her discouragements over failures,
for the prospects were brightening. Beauregard had evacuated Corinth ; Mem-
phis had fallen ; Buell was moving toward Chattanooga ; Mitchell's troops held
Northern Tennessee and Northern Alabama ; Kentucky was virtually in the
keeping of the home guards and State military board. And now, here was
Morgan^ creating confusion in Kentucky by his furious raids ! On the 11th of
July, the little post of Torapkinsville fell. He issued a call for the Kentuckians
to rise in a body. He marched toward Lexington, and the southern border of
Ohio was again in danger. Cincinnati was greatly excited. Aid was sent to
Lexington and home guards were ready for duty. Morgan was not prominent
for a day or so, but he was not idle. By the 9th of July, he held possession of
Tompkinsville and Glasgow ; by the 11th, of Lebanon. On the 13th, he
entered Harraldsburg ; Monday morning he was within fifteen miles of Frank-
fort. He had marched nearly 400 miles in eight days. Going on, toward
Lexington, he captured the telegraph operator at Midway, and his messages
also I He was now aware of the plans of the Union armies at Lexington,
Louisville, Cincinnati and Frankfort. In the name of the operator, he sent
word that Morgan was driving in the pickets at Frankfort ! Now that he
had thrown his foes oflF guard, he rested his men a couple of days. He
decided to let Lexington alone, and swept down on Cynthiana, routing a few
hundred loyal Kentucky cavalrymen, capturing the gun and 420 prisoners, and
nearly 300 horses. Then he was off to Paris ; he marched through Winchester,
Richmond, Crab Orchard and Somerset, and again crossed the Cumberland River.
He started with 900 men and returned with 1,200, having captured and paroled
nearly as many, besides destroying all the Government arms and stores in seven-
teen towns. The excitement continued in Cincinnati. Two regiments were
hastily formed, for emergencies,* known as Cincinnati Reserves. Morgan's raid
did not reach the city, but it demonstrated to the rebel forces what might be
accomplished in the " Blue Grass " region. July and August were passed in
gloom. Bragg and Buell were both watchful, and Chattanooga had not been
taken. Lexington was again menaced, a battle fought, and was finally deserted
because it could not be held.
Louisville was now in danger. The banks sent their specie away. Railroad
companies added new guards.
September 1, Gen. Kirby Smith entered Lexington, and dispatched Heath
with about six thousand men against Cincinnati and Covington. John Morgan
joined him. The rebels rushed upon the borders of Ohio. The failure at Rich-
mond only added deeper apprehension. Soon Kirby Smith and his regiments
170 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
occupied a position where only a few unmanned siege guns and the Ohi&
prevented his entrance through Covington into the Queen City. The city was
fully armed, and Lew. Wallace's arrival to take command inspired all with
fresh courage. And before the people were hardly aware that danger was so
near, the city was proclaimed under strict martial law. " Citizens for labor,
soldiers for battle."
There was no panic, because the leaders were confident. Back of Newport
and Covington breastworks, riflepits and redoubts had been hastily thrown up,
and pickets were thrown out. From Cincinnati to Covington extended a pon-
ton bridge. Volunteers marched into the city and those already in service
were sent to the rescue. Strict military law was now modified, and the city
being secured, some inconsiderate ones expressed themselves as being outraged
with " much ado about nothing." But Gen. Wallace did not cease his vigilance.
And Smith's force began to move up. One or two skirmishes ensued. The
city was again excited. September 11 was one of intense suspense. But
Smith did not attack in force. He was ordered to join Bragg. On the Mon-
day following, the citizens of Cincinnati returned to their avocations. In the
spring of 1863, the State was a trifle discouraged. Her burdens had been
heavy, and she was weary. Vicksburg was yet in the hands of the enemy.
Rosecrans had not moved since his victory at Stone River. There had beea
fearful slaughter about Fredericksburg.
But during July, 1863, Ohio was aroused again by Bragg's command to
Morgan, to raid Kentucky and capture Louisville. On the 3d of July, he was
in a position to invade Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. He continued his depre-
dations, bewildering the militia with his movements. His avowed intention
was to burn Indianapolis and " take Cincinnati alive." Morgan's purposes
were never clear. It was his audacious and sudden dashes, here and there,
which gave him success. Before Cincinnati was aware, he was at Harrison —
18th of July. He expected to meet the forces of Burnside and Judah, and to
cut his way through. His plans here, as everywhere, were indefinable, and he
succeeded in deceiving everybody. While printers in Cincinnati were setting
up " reports " as to his whereabouts, he was actually marching through the sub-
urbs, near troops enough to devour them, and yet not encountered by a single
picket ! They fed their horses within sight of Camp Dennison. At 4
o'clock that day, they were within twenty-eight miles of Cincinnati — having
marched more than ninety miles in thirty-five hours.
The greatest chagrin was expressed, that Morgan had so easily eluded the
great military forces. A sudden dash was made to follow him. There was a
universal bolting of doors, burying of valuables, hiding of horses, etc., all along
the route of the mad cavalryman and his 2,000 mounted men. They plundered
beyond all comparison. They made a principle of it. On the 14th of July,
he was feeding his horses near Dennison ; he reached the ford at Buffi ngtaa
Island on the evening of the 18th ; he had encountered several little skirmishes.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 171
but he had marched through at his own will, mostly ; all the troops of Kentucky
had been outwitted. The Indiana forces had been laughed to scorn. The
50,000 Ohio militia had been as straws in his way. The intrepid band would
soon be upon friendly soil, leaving a blackened trail behind. But Judah was
up and marching after him, Hobson followed and Col. Runkle was north of
him. The local militia in his advance began to impede the way. Near Pome-
roy, a stand was made. Morgan found militia posted everywhere, but he suc-
ceeded in running the gantlet, so far as to reach Chester. He should have
hastened to cross the ford. Fortunately, he paused to breathe his horses and
secure a guide. The hour and a half thus lost was the first mistake Morgan is
known to have made in his military career. They reached Portland, and only
a little earthwork, guarded by about 300 men, stood between him and safety.
His men were exhausted, and he feared to lead them to a night attack upon a
position not understood perfectly ; he would not abandon his wagon train, nor
his wounded ; he would save or lose all. As Morgan was preparing next
morning, having found the earthworks deserted through the night, Judah came
up. He repulsed the attack at first, capturing Judah's Adjutant General, and
ordering him to hold the force on his front in check. He was not able to join
his own company, until it was in full retreat. Here Lieut. O'Neil, of the Fifth
Indiana, made an impulsive charge, the lines were reformed, and up the Chester
road were Hobson's gallant cavalrymen, who had been galloping over three
States to capture this very Morgan ! And now the tin-clad gunboats steamed
up and opened fire. The route was complete, but Morgan escaped with 1,200
men ! Seven hundred men were taken prisoners, among them Morgan's brother,
Cols. Ward, Duke and Huffman. The prisoners were brought to Cincinnati,
while the troops went after the fugitive. He was surrounded by dangers ; his
men were exhausted, hunted down ; skirmishes and thrilling escapes marked a
series of methods to escape — his wonderful sagacity absolutely brilliant to the
very last — which was his capture, on the 26th, with 346 prisoners and
400 horses and arms. It may be added, that after several months of con-
finement, Morgan and six prisoners escaped, on the 27th of November. Again
was he free to raid in the " Blue Grass " country.
John Brough succeeded Gov. Tod January 11, 1864. His first prominent
work was with the Sanitary Commission. In February, of the same year, the
President called for more troops. The quota of Ohio was 51,465 men. The
call of March added 20,995. And in July was a third demand for 50,792. In
December, the State was ordered to raise 26,027. The critical period of the
war was evidently approaching. Gov. Brough instituted a reformation in the
"promotion system " of the Ohio troops. He was, in many cases, severe in his
measures. He ignored " local great men " and refused distinction as a bribe.
The consequence was that he had many friends and some enemies. The acute-
ness of his policy was so strong, and his policy so just, that, after all his severe
administration, he was second to no statesman in the nation during the struggle.
172 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Ohio during the war was most active in her relief and aid societies. The most
noted and extensive organization was the Cincinnati Branch of the United
States Sanitary Commission. The most efficient organization was the Soldiers'
Aid Society of Northern Ohio.
When the happy tidings swept over the land that peace was proclaimed, an
echo of thanksgiving followed the proclamation. The hrave sons of Ohio
returned to their own soil — those who escaped the carnage. But 'mid the
rejoicing there was deepest sadness, for a fragment only remained of that hrave
army which had set out sturdily inspired with patriotism.
A BRIEF MENTION OF PROMINENT OHIO GENERALS.
George Briton McClellan, the first General appointed in Ohio, was born
December 3, 1826, in Philadelphia. His father was a physician of high stand-
ing and Scottish descent. Young George was in school in Philadelphia, and
entered West Point at the age of sixteen. At the age of twenty, he was a bre-
vet Second Lieutenant, tracing lines of investment before Vera Cruz, under the
supervision of Capt. R. E. Lee, First Lieut. P. G. T. Beauregard, Second Lieut.
G. W. Smith. At the close of the Mexican war, old Col. Totten reported in
favor of them all to Winfield Scott. He had charge of an exploring expedition
to the mountains of Oregon and Washington, beginning with the Cascade Range.
This was one of a series of Pacific Railway explorations. Returning to Wash-
ington, he was detailed to visit the West Indies and secretly select a coaling sta-
tion for the L'nited States Navy. He was dispatched by Jefferson Davis,
Secretary of War, to Europe, with instructions to take full reports of the organ-
ization of military forces connected with the Crimean war. This work elicited
entire satisfaction. He returned in January, 1857, resigned as regular army
officer, and was soon installed as engineer of Illinois Central Railroad. In 1860,
he was President of the Ohio k Mississippi. He removed to Cincinnati, where
he was at the opening of the war.
William Starke Rosecrans was born September 6, 1819, in Delaware County,
Ohio. His people were from Amsterdam. He was educated at West Point.
When the war opened, he espoused the cause of the Union with enthusiastic
zeal, and was appointed by McClellan on his staff as Engineer. June 9, he
was Chief Engineer of the State under special law. Soon thereafter, he was
Colonel of the Twenty-third Ohio, and assigned to the command of Camp
Chase, Columbus. On May 16, his commission was out as Brigadier General
in the United States Army. This reached him and he was speedily sum-
moned to active service, under Gen. McClellan. After the battle of Rich Moun-
tain, he was promoted to the head of the department.
In April, 1862, he was succeeded by Fremont, and ordered to Wash-
ington to engage in immediate service for the Secretary of War. About the
15th of May, he was ordered to Gen. Halleck, before Corinth. He was
relieved from his command December 9, 1864.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 173
Ulysses S. Grant, whose history we cannot attempt to give in these pages,
was born on the banks of the Ohio, at Point Pleasant, Clermont Co., Ohio,
April 27, 1822. He entered West Point in 1839.
" That the son of a tanner, poor and unpretending, without influential friends
until his performance had won them, ill-used to the world and its ways, should
rise — not suddenly, in the first blind worship of helpless ignorance which made
any one who understood regimental tactics illustrious in advance for what he
was going to do, not at all for what he had done — but slowly, grade by grade,
through all the vicissitudes of constant service and mingled blunders and suc-
cess, till, at the end of four years' war he stood at the head of our armies,
crowned by popular acclaim our greatest soldier, is a satisfactory answ^er to
criticism and a sufficient vindication of greatness. Success succeeds."
" We may reason on the man's career ; we may prove that at few stages has
he shown personal evidence of marked ability ; we may demonstrate his mis-
takes ; we may swell the praises of his subordinates. But after all, the career
stands wonderful, unique, worthy of study so long as the nation honors her
benefactors, or the State cherishes the good fame of the sons who contributed
most to her honor."
Lieut. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman was another Ohio contribution to
the great Union war. He was born at Lancaster February 8, 1820. He
entered West Point in June, 1836. His " march to the sea " has fully brought
out the details of his life, since they were rendered interesting to all, and we
refrain from repeating the well-known story.
Philip H. Sheridan was born on the 6th of March, 1831, in Somerset,
Perry Co., Ohio. He entered West Point in 1848. During the war, his
career was brilliant. His presence meant victory. Troops fighting under his
command were inspired. Gen. Rosecrans said of him, "He fights, he fights."
A staff officer once said, "He is an emphatic human syllable."
Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson was born in Sandusky County, town of
Clyde, November 14, 1828.
Maj. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore was born February 28, 1825, at Black River,
Lorain Co., Ohio.
Maj. Gen. Irvin McDowell was born at Franklinton, Ohio, October 15,
1818.
Maj. Gen. Don Carlos Buell was born near Marietta on the 23d of March,
1818. His grandfather on the maternal side was one of the first settlers of
Cincinnati.
Maj. Gen. 0. M. Mitchell was a native of Kentucky, but a resident of
Ohio from the age of four years.
Maj. Gen. Robert C. Schenck was born October 4, 1809, in Franklin,
Warren Co., Ohio.
Maj, Gen. James A. Garfield, was born in Orange, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio,
November 19, 1831.
174 ISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Maj. Gen. Jacob D. Cox was born in Canada in 1828, and removed to
Ohio in 1846.
Maj. Gen. James B. Steedman was born in Pennsylvania July 30, 1818,
and removed to Toledo in 1861.
Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley was born in Wayne County, Ohio, June 1,
1828.
Maj. Gen. George Crook was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, Septem-
ber 8, 1828.
Maj. Gen. Mortimer D. Leggett was born in New York April 19, 1831,
and emigrated to Ohio, in 1847.
Brevet Maj. Gen. John C. Tidball was born in Virginia, but removed while
a mere lad to Ohio with his parents.
Brevet Maj. Gen. John W. Fuller was born in England in 1827. He
removed to Toledo in 1858.
Brevet Maj. Gen. Manning F. Force was born in Washington, D. C, on
the 17th of December, 1824. He became a citizen of Cincinnati.
Brevet Maj. Gen. Henry B. Banning was born in Knox County, Ohio,
November 10, 1834.
We add the names of Brevet Maj. Gens. Erastus B. Tyler, Thomas H.
Ewing, Charles R. Woods, August V. Kautz, Rutherford B. Hayes, Charles
C. Walcutt, Kenner Garrard, Hugh Ewing, Samuel Beatty, James S. Robinson,
Joseph W. Keifer, Eli Long, William B. Woods, John W. Sprague, Benjamin
P. Runkle, August Willich, Charles Griffin, Henry J. Hunt, B. W. Brice.
Brig. Gens. Robert L. McCook, William H. Lytle, William Leroy
Smith, C. P. Buckingham, Ferdinand Van Derveer, George P. Este, Joel A.
Dewey, Benjamin F. Potts, Jacob Ammen, Daniel McCook, J. W. Forsyth,
Ralph P. Buckland, William H. Powell, John G. Mitchell, Eliakim P. Scam-
mon, Charles G Harker, J. W. Reilly, Joshua W. Sill, N. C. McLean, Will-
iam T. H. Brooks, George W. Morgan, John Beatty, William W. Burns, John
S. Mason, S. S. Carroll, Henry B. Carrington, M. S. Wade, John P. Slough,
T. K. Smith.
Brevet Brig. Gens. C. B. Ludlow, Andrew Hickenlooper, B. D.
Fearing, Henry F. Devol, Israel Garrard, Daniel McCoy, W. P. Richardson,
G. F. Wiles, Thomas M. Vincent, J. S. Jones, Stephen B. Yeoman, F. W.
Moore, Thomas F. Wilder, Isaac Sherwood, C. H. Grosvenor, Moses E.
Walker, R. N. Adams, E. B. Eggleston, I. M. Kirby.
We find numerous other names of Brevet Brigadier Generals, mostly of late
appointments, and not exercising commands in accordance with their brevet
rank, which we omit quoting through lack of space. They are the names of
men of rare abilities, and in many cases of brilliant achievements.
In looking over the "War Record of Ohio," we find the State a great
leader in men of valor and heroic deeds. It was the prolific field of military
geniuses.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 175
Ohio was draped with the garb of mourning at the close of the war. Her
human sacrifice in behalf of the nation had been bitter. There were tears and
heart-aches all over the land. Her ranks were swept by a murderous fire, from
which they never flinched, and many officers fell.
Col. John H. Patrick will be remembered as opening the battle of Lookout
Mountain. He fell mortally wounded, during the Atlanta campaign, May
15, 1862, while actively engaged. He was struck by a canister shot, and
expired half a hour thereafter.
Col. John T. Toland, in July, 1863, was placed in command of a mounted
brigade, including his regiment, and was instructed to destroy the Virginia &
Tennessee Railroad. He reached Wytheville, Va., on the afternoon of the
18th of July. The rebels were safely intrenched in the house, and poured a
galling fire into the national troops. Col. Toland was on horseback, at the
head of his command. A sharpshooter sent a bullet with fatal certainty, and
he fell on the neck of his horse, but was instantly caught by his Orderly
Sergeant, who heard the fervent words : " My horse and my sword to my
mother."
Lieut. Col. Barton S. Kyle accompanied his regiment to the battle of Pitts-
burg Landing. The regiment was forced back, though resisting bravely.
Lieut. Col. Kyle was at his post of duty, encouraging his men, when he received
a bullet in his right breast. He survived five hours.
Col. William G. Jones was engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, June,
1863. His regiment, the Thirty-sixth Ohio, was included in Turchin's Brigade
of the Fourteenth Corps. He wrote in his pocket memoranda : " Off to the
left ; merciful Father, have mercy on me and my regiment, and protect us from
injury and death " — at 12 o'clock. At 5 that afternoon, he was fatally wounded
and expired at 7 that same evening, on the battle-field His remains were
taken by the rebels, but in December, 1863, they were exhumed and interred
in Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati.
Col. Fred. C. Jones held command of the Tenth Brigade, in October, 1862,
marching from Wild Cat, Ky., to Nashville, through a perpetual skirmish,
During the battle of Stone River, Col. Jones' regiment, the Twenty-fourth, was
on the front and left of the line. During the afternoon, when the rebel assault
upon the left became furious. Col. Jones ordered his men to lie down and hold
fire, which was obeyed. They rose to pour a deadly volley into the rebel ranks,
and rush forward in a fierce charge. The capture of an entire rebel regiment was
thus efiected, but Col. Jones was shot in the right side. He was carried to the
rear. " I know it ; I am dying now ; pay no attention to me, but look after
my wounded men." He survived about ten hours. His remains are buried in
Spring Grove, Cincinnati.
Col. Lorin Andrews went with his command to Western Virginia, where
he succumbed to exposure and severe duty. He was removed to his home,
Gambler, Ohio, where he died surrounded by friends September 18, 1861.
176 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
Col. Minor Milliken was sent to repel the attacks of the rebels at the rear„
He led a superb cavalry charge against the enemy, vastly superior in numbers,
and was cut off with a small portion of his regiment. He disdained to sur-
render, and ordered his men to cut their way out. A hand-to-hand conflict
ensued. Col. Milliken, being an expert swordsman, was able to protect himself
with his saber. While parrying the strokes of his assailant, another shot him.
The regiment, again charging, recovered his body, stripped of sword, purse and
watch.
Col. George P. AVebster, with his regiment, the Ninety-eighth, left Steu-
benville for Covington, Ky., August 23, 1862, marching from that point to Lex-
ington and Louisville. He was placed at the command of the Thirty-fourth
Brigade, Jackson's division, Cooke's corps. He fell in the battle of Perryville,
and died on the field of battle.
Col. Leander Stem was appointed Colonel of the One Hundred and First
Ohio Infantry August 30, 1862. His premonitions that he should fall during
his first regular engagement proved too true. As the army was advancing on
Murfreesboro, the engagement of Knob Gap occurred, when Col. Stem's regi-
ment charged and took a rebel battery, with several prisoners. The army
closed around Murfreesboro, and on the evening of the 30th, the One Hun-
dred and First was engaged in demonstrations against the enemy. Next
morning, the battle of Stone River began in earnest. When Col. Stem's regi-
ment began to waver, he called out: "Stand by the flag now, for the good
old State of Ohio ! " and instantly fell, fatally wounded.
Lieut. Col. Jonas D. Elliott held his position in May, 1863. During the
summer of 1864, he commanded the left wing of the regiment at Dodsonville,
Ala.; in September, he was sent after Wheeler, and was ordered into camp at
Decatur. On the 23d, he was dispatched to Athens, to participate in the attack
of Gen. Forrest, of the rebels. Col. Elliott was sent out, with 300 men, and
being surrounded by Gen. Forrest, with vastly superior numbers, a forced resist-
ance enabled them to sustain their own ground, until a fresh brigade of rebels
arrived, under Gen. Warren. This officer instructed one of his men to shoot
Lieut. Col. Elliott, and a moment later he fell. He lingered nineteen days.
Col. Joseph L. Kirby Smith took command of the Forty-third Ohio Regi-
ment. He fell at the battle of Corinth, under Rosecrans.
Lieut. Col. James W. Shane fell, June 27, 1864, in an assault upon the
enemy's works at Kenesaw. He survived but forty minutes.
Col. Augustus H. Coleman displayed the abilities of a successful commander.
He was in the first charge on the bridge across Antietais Creek. He waa
fatally wounded. His last words were inquiries regarding his men.
Col. J. W. Lowe commanded the Twelfth Ohio, and was ordered to assist
the Tenth in the battle of Carnifex Ferry. Cheering his men, in the thickest
of the fight, a rifle ball pierced his forehead, and he fell dead — the first field
oflBcer from Ohio killed in battle in the war for the Union.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 1T7
•
Lieut. Col. Moses F. Wooster was engaged with his regiment, the One Hun-
dred and First Ohio, at Perryville. He was mortally wounded on the Slst
of December, 1862, in the grand effort to stem the tide of defeat at Stone
River. .
The list of staff officers we refrain from giving, through lack of space.
At the opening of the war, William Dennison was Governor of Ohio. David
Tod succeeded him. John Brough was the third War Governor.
Secretary Edwin M. Stanton was one of the most popular war Ministers.
He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, in 1815 ; he was engaged in the United
States Circuit Court, in 1860, in a leading law suit, at Cincinnati, known as the
Manny and McCormick reaper trial ; on the 20th of January, 1862, he was
appointed Secretary of War by Mr. Lincoln.
Ex-Secretary Salmon P. Chase's public services in Ohio have already been
mentioned in these pages. In 1861, he was appointed Secretary of the Treas-
ury, in Mr. Lincoln's cabinet.
United States Senator B. F. Wade made his reputation in Ohio. This
Senator of the State stood at the head of the Committee on the Conduct of the
War throughout its duration.
United States Senator John Sherman was a leading member of the Finance
Committee, during the war. For some time he was its Chairman.
Jay Cooke was the financial agent of the Government, furnishing money for
the payment of the troops. He was born in Portland, Huron Co., Ohio.
In our brief review of the war record of Ohio, we have omitted a vast
amount of detail information that would prove interesting to our readers. We
believe we have been accurate in whatever we have given, taking as our authority^
that accepted " encyclopedia " of Ohio war facts — Whitelaw Reid, who has pub-
lished a valuable volume on the subject.
SOME DISCUSSED SUBJECTS.
It may be well in glancing over the achievements of Ohio, her momentous
labors and grand successes, to refer to the Ordinance of 1787, more minutely
than we have done, in relation to many events, since its inherent principles are
not only perpetuated in the laws of the entire Northwest, but have since been
woven into the general Constitution of the United States. It made permanent
the standard and character of immigration, social culture and political and edu-
cational institutions. It was thoroughly antislavery and denounced involuntary
servitude, which was sanctioned in every other State at that time, with the
exception of Massachusetts. It protected religion and property. As late as
1862, Gen. William Henry Harrison, Governor of Indiana, called a conventioa
for the purpose of considering the slavery question, and the feasibility of intro-
ducing the system in the new States and Territories being formed. There
was at this time a spirited contest, and Illinois, Indiana and possibly Ohio,
barely escaped a decision that a full support should be given its introductioa
178 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO
into these States. Its adoption was based upon certain specifications and
limits of time, which upon a deeper consideration was deemed perplexing and
impractical.
An animated discussion arose not long since, regarding the correct author-
ship of this important ordinance, and its chief worker in gaining its sanction
hj Congress.
Mr. Webster ascribed its authorship to Mathew Dane, of Massachusetts,
•which statement was immediately refuted by Mr. Benton, of Mississippi, who
laid claim to it as the birthright of Thomas Jefferson, of Virginia.
It has been almost impossible to obtain accurate reports of the actions of the
old Continental Congress, from the fact that its meetings were held in secret,
and any reports either narrated or shown in schedules or lists, were deemed a
striking lack of trust on the part of the person who furnished the information.
It was sufficient that its acts and conclusions be proclaimed without any prelude
or reasoning process. Hence it has been difficult to obtain early Congressional
documents. But it has been conclusively proven that the great motive power
in gaining the approbation of the Ordinance of 1787, was neither Dane nor
Jefferson, but Dr. Cutler.
He arrived at New York, July 5 of that year, after a journey from Ipswich,
Mass., in his sulky. He obtained lodgings at the "Plow and Harrow," and
saw that his good horse was properly cared for and fed at the same place.
Congress was then in session, and he had come on a mission for the Ohio Com-
pany, to negotiate their grant and its privileges in the new Territory of Ohio.
He remained in New York three weeks, constantly engaged in the work vital to
the interests of the future great State. But he secured the installment of the
principles deemed the corner-stone of a future powerful State constitution. Mr.
Poole, Librarian of the Chicago Public Library, searched assiduously for con-
clusive proof of Dr. Cutler's right to this honor, and in the Worth American
Review, Vol. 122, this is emphatically set forth with substantiating proof under
his signature.
Other facts have been discussed and proven at a very recent date, relative
to the State of Ohio, which heretofore have been omitted, and nearly lost from
the historic thread which unites the present with the past.
The first settlement of the lands of the Northwest is necessarily surrounded
with interest. But those were exciting, troublesome times, and a few links
were passed over lightly. However, the years are not so far removed in the
past but the line may be traced.
Mr. Francis W. Miller, of Cincinnati, has supplied some missing chapters.
The earliest documentary trace extant, regarding the southern settlement at
Cincinnati, is an agreement of partnership between Denman, Filson and Pat-
terson, in the fractional section of land to which the city of Cincinnati was
originally limited. It bears the date August 25, 1788. This was entered on
the records of Hamilton County, Ohio, October 6, 1803.
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 179
A letter from Jonathan Dayton to the Hon. Judge Symmes, dated Septem-
ber 26, 1789, says: "You have been selling your lands, I am told, for two
shillings specie, the acre. The price at this moment is, and seems to be, and
undoubtedly is, a good one; but as much cannot be said of it when you find
hereafter that in consequence of the rise of certificates, another acre, in another
payment, may cost you in specie two shillings and sixpence."
A letter from John C. Symmes to Capt. Dayton, dated April 30, 1790^
says : " The land in the reserved township is held at much too high a price.
Not a foot of land beyond the five-acre lots will sell. Five shillings, specie,
or two dollars in certificates, is the utmost they will bring, and they will rarely
sell at that."
This state of affairs was in a large degree brought about by the breaking-up
of North Bend and a removal of the town to Fort Washington, or Cincinnati,
later. A search through the old letters and other preserved documents prove
that North Bend was at one time the beginning of the great city on the Ohio,
rather than Cincinnati. Judge Symmes wrote. May 18, 1789: "I have not as
yet been able to make a decisive choice of a plat for the city, though I have
found two pieces of ground, both eligible, but not upon the present plan of a
regular square. It is a question of no little moment and difiiculty to deter-
mine which of these spots is preferable, in point of local situation. I know
that at first thought men will decide in favor of that on the Ohio, from the-
supposition that the Ohio will command more trade and business than the
Miami. * * * gyt if jt were built on the Miami, the settlers
throughout the purchase would find it very convenient."
Another of the earliest selections of town sites was adjacent to the most
southerly point of what is now Delhi Township. To this the name of South
Bend was given. Judge Symmes reports November 4, 1790, of this place,
over forty framed and hewed-log two-story houses, since the preceding spring.
Ensign Luce is said to have taken his troops to North Bend, but decided to
remove to Cincinnati, on account of the object of his afiections having settled
there— the wife of a settler. But this story is refuted by contradictory evi-
dence from Judge Symmes' letters, which illustrate the fact that the post of
North Bend was abandoned by Ensign Luce and his men in consequence of a
panic, caused by Indian attacks. The removal of the troops caused a general
decline of the town. Again, history and letters from the same eminent Judge,
assert that Fort Washington was completed and garrisoned by Maj. Doughty
before the close of that same year, and was begun by him during the summer,
that Ensign Luce must have still been at his post at the bend at that time. It
has been, therefore, recently accepted that the traditional "black eyes" and
the "Indian panic," had nothing to do with the founding of Cincinnati, and
that the advantages of the position gained the victory.
Cincinnati has advanced, not only in prosperity and culture, but in national
significance. Our readers must have observed, in perusing these pages, that
180 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
from this city and the State which it represents, have emanated some of the
superior intellects which have used their wise faculties and talents, tempered by
a wise judgment, in behalf of the American Union.
The originality of the Senecas and Wyandots have been debated at some
length, while others have called the tribes the same, having two branches. We
have searched the earlier records and have found an authenticated account of
these two tribes.
The Indian tribes of Ohio were originally bold, fierce and stalwart. The
country watered by the Sandusky and its tributaries was frequented by the
Wyandot tribe, who came from the north side of the St. Lawrence River. The
Senecas were blood relatives of this tribe. Both tribes were numbered by the
thousands. A war originated between them, in this manner: A Wyandot
chief desired to wed the object of his affections, who laughed him to scorn,
because he had taken no scalps, and was no warrior " to speak of." To change
her opinion, he led out a party, and falling upon a number of Senecas, slaugh-
tered them mercilessly, that he might hasten to the side of his dusky belle, with
his trophies. This act inaugurated hostilities, which extended through a century.
The Wyandots began to fear extermination, and, gathering their entire effects,
the natives escaped to Green Bay, and settled in several villages. But the Sen-
ecas made up a war party and followed them, killing many Wyandots and burn-
ing some of their villages. They then returned to Canada. Soon thereafter,
they secured fire-arms from the French. Again they followed the Wyandots,
firing their guns into their huts, and frightening them severely. They did not
succeed as well as they expected. But the third party nearly exterminated the
villages, because the young warriors were nearly all gone to war with the Foxes.
The few at home escaping, promised to return with the Senecas, but desired
two days for preparation. The Wyandots sent word to the two villages left
undisturbed, and held a consultation. They decided to go as near the Senecas
as possible, unobserved, and discover their real motive. They found them feast-
ing on two roasted Wyandots, shouting over their victory. They danced nearly
all night, and then fell asleep. A little before daylight, the Wyandots fell on
them, leaving not one to carry back the news.
The Wyandots then procured guns, and began to grow formidable. They
set out to return to their own country, and proceeded on their way as far as
Detroit, where they met a party of Senecas, on the lake. A fierce conflict
ensued, and the Wyandots beheld the Senecas fall, to the last man, suffering
fearful carnage themselves. They soon settled in this part of the world, their
principal village being on the Sandusky. Northwestern Ohio was particularly
dangerous with new Indian tribes, and the Wyandots were cruelly aggressive.
The death of their chief, and their total defeat by Harrison, destroyed their
power forever.
On the 29th of September, 1817, a treaty was held, at the foot of the rapids
of the Miami of Lake Erie, between Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur,
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 181
Commissioners of the United States, and the sachems, chiefs and warriors of the
Wyandot, Seneca, Delaware, Shawnee, Potawattomie, Ottawa and Chippewa
nations. All their lands in Ohio were ceded to the United States forever.
There was really not a Seneca in the Seneca nation. They were chiefly
Cayugas, Mohawks, Onondagas, Tuscarawas, Wyandots and Oneidas. But the
Mingoes were originally Cayugas, and their chief was the celebrated Logan.
After the murder of his family by the whites, the Mingoes were scattered over
the territory northwest of the Ohio.
The notorious Simon Girty was adopted by the Senecas. Girty's name was
a terror and fiendish horror for many years. He not only led the Indians in
their atrocities, but he added barbarism to their native wickedness.
CONCLUSION.
When peace was proclaimed, after the surrender of Gen. Robert E. Lee to
Gen. U. S. Grant, the volunteer troops disbanded, and a return to home indus-
tries instituted, Ohio, like many other States, gave direct attention to the inter-
ests of returned soldiers. The thrift of the State was augmented by a spasmodic,
and thereafter recognized as a fictitious, demand for products, commercial and
industrial pursuits redoubled their forces. But the great wave of stagnation
swept over this fair land — the re-action of a war excitement. Laborers were
many, but wages were inadequate. Deeper and deeper settled this lethargy —
called by many " hard times" — until the wheels of commercial life revolved
slowly, and from the workshops and the factories went up the echoes of priva-
tion and distress. There was no famine, no fever, no epidemic, it was simply
exhaustion. In the larger cities there was much suffering. Idle people loitered
about, barely seeking employment, the task seeming Avorse than hopeless.
During the years 1870, 1871 and 1872, the stringent measures brought
about by the depressed state of business retarded any material advancement in
general matters. The years 1873-74 were marked by a preceptible improve-
ment, and a few factories were established, while larger numbers were employed
in those already founded. The year 1875 was under the direction of a Demo-
cratic Legislature. It was marked in many respects by a " reverse motion " in
many laws and regulations.
The Legislature which convened in 1876, January 3, was Republican in the
main. It repealed the " Geghan Law" passed by the preceding body. At
the time of its adoption, there was the most intense feeling throughout the State,
the charge being made that it was in the interests of the Catholics. Among
the general enactments were laws re-organizing the government of the State insti-
tutions, which the previous Legislature had ordered according to their own belief
to follow new doctrines. The ofiice of Comptroller of the Treasury was abolished.
The powers of municipal corporations to levy taxes was limited, and their
authority to incur debts was limited. Furthermore, this body prohibited any
municipal appropriations, unless the actual money was in the Treasury to meet
182 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO.
the same in full. A law was passed for the protection of children under fourteen
years of age, exhibited in public shows.
The temperance cause received more vigorous and solid support than was
ever rendered by the State previously. A common-sense, highly moral and
exalted platform was formed and supported by many leading men.
This year witnessed the serious "strikes" among the miners in Stark and
Wayne Counties. The consequences were painful — distress, riots and distrac-
tion of property.
The State Mine Inspector reported 300 coal mines in the State, with only
twenty-five in operation. Not over 3,000,000 tons of coal were raised during
the year, owing to the dullness of the times.
The State charities reported the aggregate number under public care to be
29,508. The taxation for the maintenance of these classes was one and one
six-hundredth of a mill on each dollar of taxable property.
The reports given of the year 1877 indicated a revival of business interests
and prosperity. The State produced of wheat, 27,306,566 bushels; rye,
914,106 bushels; buckwheat, 225,822 bushels; oats, 29,325,611; barley,
1,629,817 bushels ; corn, 101,884,305 bushels ; timothy, tons of hay, 2,160,334 ;
clover, tons of hay, 286,265; flax, pounds of fiber, 7,343,294; potatoes,
10,504,278 bushels; sweet potatoes, 126,354^ bushels; tobacco, 24,214,950
pounds; sorghum, sugar, 7, 507 J pounds; syrup, 1,180,255 gallons; maple
sugar, 1,625,215 pounds; maple syrup, 324,036 gallons; honey, 1,534,902
pounds.
The growth of manufacturing industries, the remarkable annual increase
in stock and in agricultural products since 1877, leave no room to doubt the
rapid advancement of Ohio in general wealth.
d«e
Bipie
PART III.
HISTORY OF SENECA CODNTY.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY,
CHAPTER I.
TOPOGRAPHY AND NATURAL HISTORY,
SENECA COUNTY is bounded on the north by Sandusky, on the east by
Hiu-on, on the south by Crawford and AVyandot. and on the west by Wood
and Hancock Counties, embracing fifteen original siu-veyed townships, extend-
ing north fi'om the parallel of latitude 41° north to latitude 41° 18', and east
from the west line of Range 13, east of longitude west of Washington, D. C,
7° 50', the principal meridian, to the east line of Range 17, east of longitude
west 1^ 50', or over 540 square miles. The population, according to the census
of 18S0, was 3r5,947, but the estimate for 1885, based on school statistics, places
the number of inhabitants at 41,000 or 75.02 inhabitants per square mile.
The altitude at Berwick is 345 feet above the level of Lake Erie; at Repub-
lic,^ 308 feet; at Lodi. in Reed Township, 282 feet, and at Tiffin, 183 feet.
Geologists claim that Attica is the highest point in the coiinty.
The Sandusky River enters the county in Section 36, Seneca To^vTiship:
winds east into Section 31, Eden To^vnship; thence west into Seneca Town-
ship, flowing north by east through the southeastern sections of HopeweU
Township, the city of Tiffin, the northwestern sections of Clinton Township,
and, entering Pleasant Township, flows on in its tortuous channel, leaving that
township in Section 5. The Sandusky River is associated with much of the
early history of Ohio. Along its banks the beginnings of many little common-
wealths were made, but to-day those beginnings have almost disappeared, to
give place to the many important cities, beautiful villages and pleasant farm
homes which grace its valley and terraces.
Honey Creek, a name endeared to hundreds of old settlers, Indians and
half-breeds, has its head-waters in Hiu-on Coimty, and flows through Venice,
Bloom and Eden Townships, entering the Sandusk}^ in Section 36, Hopewell
TowTiship. This creek is fed by numerous streams, all, like the parent river,
contributing to the wealth of one of the most fertile tracts in all Ohio. Silver
Creek, which may be called a native of Bloom Township, is one of Honey
Creek's principal feeders, entering the latter almost on the Eden Township
line. The plateau on Section 20, Eden Township, is iifty-eight feet above the
summer level of Honey Creek.
Rock Creek has its head-waters in Section 33, Reed Township, flows north
into Section 17, joins other streams, and thence enters the lake on the Beeghley
farm, in Section 18, Reed Township ; thence runs southwest through Republic, to
Section 10, Eden Township, where it takes a northwesterly course, to join the
188 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Sandusky, east of Washington Street bridge, at Tiffin. In the history of the
townships and of Tiffin City, many references are made to this little river.
Sugar Creek, in its course through Section 27, Pleasant Township, flows
42 1- feet below its plateau. Wolf Creek rises in Seneca Township, flows north-
east through Hopewell, Liberty and Pleasant Townshijjs, and leaves the county
in Section (3, Pleasant. This creek drains a very large area, being the reservoir,
so to speak, of the numerous little creeks in Hopewell and Liberty Townships.
Harrison Creek and the western fork of Wolf Creek rise in Loudon Township,
and flow north through Jackson and Liberty Townships, entering the main stream
below Bettsville. Risdon Creek and tributaries flow north through the western
sections of Jackson Township, and, with Little Portage Creek, afford good
di-ainage. There are himdreds of small streams (many of which, like that on
the Coleman farm in Seneca Township, never fi'eeze up) to be found in the
county, to which names have never been given; in fact, every section may be
said to claim some water-right, thus bestowing upon the land a high value.
Along the Sandusky and other large streams the face of the country is
somewhat broken, the terrace in Section 24, Seneca Township, being (38-^ feet
above summer level, but outside the river valleys proper the land may be said
to be slightly rolling, except in Thompson Township, which is marked by
decidedly rolling lands. Even the Big Spring marsh, so long barren, has been
broiight under cultivation. In ten of the fifteen townships, which make up the
county, there is an abundance of large hardwood timber of almost every
species.
Townships and Cities. — The fifteen townships, into which the county is
divided, are named as follows, with the number of original surveyed township
and range:
Big Spring, 1 north, Range 13 east. Bloom, 1 north. Range 16 east.
Eden, 1 north. Range 15 east. Seneca, 1 north. Range 14 east.
Venice, 1 north. Range 17 east. Clinton, 2 north, Range 15 east.
Hopewell, 2 north. Range 14 east. Loudon, 2 north, Range 13 east.
Reed, 2 north, Range 17 east. Scipio, 2 north. Range 16 east.
Adams, 3 north, Range 16 east. Jackson, 3 north. Range 13 east.
Libertj', 3 north. Range 14 east. Pleasant, 3 north. Range 15 east.
Thompson, 3 north. Range 17 east.
Tiffin, the county seat, is a beautiful city, most conveniently situate, and re-
plete in everything which wealth and intelligence suggests. The main part of
the city of Fostoria is in this coimty, and like her older and greater sister
Tiffin, is one of the most pleasant and business-like towns in northwestern Ohio.
Postal Tow7is. — The postal towns of the county in 1885 are Adiian, Alvada,
Amsden, Angus, Attica, Bascom, Berwick, Bettsville, Bloomville, Carrothers,
Cromer's, Flat Rock, Fort Seneca, Fostoria, Frank, Green Spring, Kansas,
Melmore, Morris, New Riegel, Old Fort, Omar, Reedtown, Republic, Rocka-
way, St. Stephen, Siam, Tiffin, Watson, West Lodi. The pay attached
to these offices, in 1884, ranged fi'om $4.38 to $2,200, viz. : Angus, $4.38; Old
Fort, $34.37; Cromer's, $42.91; Amsden, $48.08; Fort Seneca, $86.77; Kan-
sas, $207.79; Bettsville, $384.70; Fostoria, $1,900; Tiffin, $2,200. Owing
to the reduction in postage, the value of many of the offices to the incumbents
has been lessened. The new settlement on the Nickel Plate Railroad, named
Her, was established as a postal town in September, 1885.
Scattered throughout the county are a number of small settlements, many
of which cannot, however, take on the dignity of villages for some years.
Others consist of a few houses grouped around a post office. These tiny set-
tlements will, no doubt, spring into activity and request the future historian to
record them as villages or cities before many decades. So early as 1844 a few
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 189
of these hamlets aimed at importance. Then came the central cities and
the mining stampedes, and an age intervened; then came the war, when the
graces and amenities of civilized life were ignored for the " signal -sound of
strife' ' and ' 'battle' s magnificently-stern array. ' ' A large delegation was taken
fi"om each village to serve in all branches of the new industries the first year of
the struggle, and each succeeding le\y gradually drained the vicinity of very
much of the enterprise and public spirit which had come in and manifested its
presence by works in former years. As a consequence, improvements for the
period between the firing lapon Fort Siimter and the surrender at Appomattox
were neither numerous, costly nor architecturally elaborate. The same is to be
remembered with reference to the advent of citizens at that time, neither were
they numerous nor valuable,' save, of course, in exceptional instances. The
village, as will be readily conceded, escaped remarkable growth or develop-
ment; but as years grow apace they give some evidence of advancement.
Geology. — Political lines have a most su]ireme disregard for geological
boundaries; but the county in this respect is a part of a vast territory which
has been more or less carefully explored and its obvious characteristics noted.
The townships of Pleasant, Liberty, Jackson, Hopewell (in the northerly part),
and Loudon (in the northwesterly part), show the Niagara system above the drift;
sand-formations and healthy looking boulder rock. Over the greater area of these
townships the rock and sand are covered by a drift material. A complete knowl-
edge of the history of a single pebble composing this drift would give its possessor
more knowledge of geologj^ than is now extant in the wide world. East of the
Sandusky Kiver (the same territory which, in 1820, was attached to Sandusky
County under the name of Seneca Township) the outcrop of the Niagara rock is a
phenomenon. The State geologist, in his first report on this county, says : " The
eastern part of the county is considerably more elevated than the middle and west-
ern, and the siirface is characterized at once by longer and more considerable
undulations, which have the form, very often, of ridges evenly covered by di'ift,
running about northeast and southwest. * * * There are still, even in
the eastern part of the county, flat tracts where the drainage is so slow that
the washings from hill sides have leveled up the lower grounds with alluvial
and marshy accumulations. In such cases the elevated drift knolls are
gravelly, and show occasional boulders; but in the level tract, which has been
filled, no boulders, or even stones of any kind, can be seen.
The Niagara limestone, in Pleasant Township, found in the bed of Wolf
Creek and on Section 10, shows a northeast dip, and a variable dip on Section
20. Below the dam, in the Sandusky, near Fort Seneca, a remarkable hard or
flinty blue stone, presumably of the Niagara conformation, was quarried some
years ago, and has since been used for macadamizing and other purposes. On
Spicer Creek, Section 28, Pleasant Township, a more pronounced Niagara lime-
stone exists.
In the extreme southeastern corner of Jackson Township, in a tributary
of Wolf Creek, there is an exposure of limestone, and also along the railroad
on Section 22. Also in the old town of Risdon, and north of it along the
county line, the Niagara stone shows itself. The lime manufactured at Fos-
toria is equal to that of Springfield or Carey.
The outcrop in Hopewell Township is decided in Sections 22 and 10, and
by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, at Bascom. The immense boulders and
beds of Niagara above Tifiin, in the Sandusky River, also belong to the out-
crop in this township.
In Liberty Township, on Section 4, this rock outcrops, dipping gradually
west. Along Wolf Creek there are several surface showings of this rock, and
190 History of senega county.
in almost every pait of the township it may be considered as merely covered by
the drift. In the southern tier of sections this stone is quarried and exten-
sively used in housebuilding, bridges, lime manufacture and macadamizing.
About the year 1870, George King's house was constructed of this rock.
In Clinton Township the river may be said to act the part of the old
quarmnan. For centui'ies the Sandusky has been carving an under channel
for its waters until, in 18'25, man came to its help. Along the fi'ont of old
Fort Ball, now in Tiffin City, the Niagara or rather Guelph stone shows itself
very distinctly. In fact the whole north bank of the river may be considered
a roclc, extending fi'om the summer level of the river up the terrace about
sixty feet in depth, with an exjiosure of about eighteen feet, dipping from
five to ten degrees southwest. The main showing, of waterlime is found at this
point. A junction of the Niagara and waterlime formations occui's within
Tiffin City, above Washington Street bridge. ♦
In Section 22, Hopewell; Section 23, Seneca; and Section 29, Clinton;
waterlime is exposed, while in many other townships it appears in beds of
creeks.
The conformation known as Oriskany sandstone underlies portions of
AdauLs, Pleasant, Clinton and Eden Townships.
The lower corniferous outcrop appears in Scipio, Bloom, Eden and Adams,
while the upper corniferous gives good exposures in Thompson and Bloom
Townships, where extensive quarries are worked.
The drift formation is evident throughout the county, particularly in Eden
and Venice Townships.
The economical geology is represented by numerous stone quarries, de-
posits of bog-iron ore, brick clay and pottery clay. The red brick, manufac-
tured in almost every division of the county, are of excellent quality, but
wanting in some cases that regular, tradesmanlike finish, which have won for
foreign manufacturers a large trade. This biu'ned clay, when pulverized
and mixed with other products, such as bone and sand, makes a cement equally
as diu'able as Portland cement and far less expensive. The tile industry of
Seneca has made much greater advances toward perfection than the older
brick-making industry, and for this reason the product of sewer and di-ainage
tile, pottery, etc. , has grown very large. A reference to the pages of local
history will point out many of, if not all, the varioiTs workers in the field of
economical geology.
Wells and Sjyrings. — Wells for domestic use are generally obtained in the
loose gravel within the drift, or in that sheet of gravel and sand which very
often is the lowest part of the drift. As in Ottawa County siTch wells are often
artesian, and show the source of their water in the mineral impurities it con-
tains. The waters of the mineral spring at Green Spring and of the spring in
Section 7, Adams Township, issue from the rock, which, although exposed at
no point within six miles, is probably the Niagara limestone. Wells, also, which
do not reach the bottom of the di'ift, are sometimes supplied by slow seepage
fi'om the hardpan, or by penetrating some of the sand or gravel beds contained
within the drift. Wells from such higher beds of gravel are common oiitside
the area of the Black Swamp. Within that tract such beds of gravel are more
rarely met with, above that lying on the rocky conformations. The medic-
inal qualities of the water at Green Spring are so marked as to induce the in-
vestment of considerable capital in a Water Cure establishment. The analy-
sis made by O. N. Stoddard, of Miami University, Ohio, is published by the
pro])rietors.
The analysis of one gallon of Green Spring water shows the following con-
stituents:
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 191
Grains. Grains.
Sulphate of Lime, 105.41 Bromide of Potassa, 16.76
Sulphate of Magnesia, 36.14 Chloride of Potassa, 2.48
Sulphate of Iron 6.53 Silica, 6.10
Carbonate of Iron, 19.70 Alumina, 98
Carbonate of Magnesia, 22.39 Car. Acid Gas, 96.48 cub. in.
Density, 1.0258. Temperature, (summer and winter same) 50® Fahrenheit.
The Big Spring, in the southwestern part of the county, was known in
early days as the Lime Spring. Unlike the northern waters (Adams) the waters
of Big Spring do not show even a particle of sulphur.
Gas Wells. — Gas wells in Ohio, exhaustless fountains of carburetted hy-
drogen gas, have come into prominence only within the last fifteen years, al-
though evidences of inexhaustible supply were manifest fi'om the beginning of
settlement. It was known that the Chinese had for centuries utilized natiu-al
gas in their workshops and homes, but not until about a half century ago was
this knowledge applied in the United States, when a Fredonia, N. Y. , enterprise
introduced it. Since that time many localities in Pennsylvania and Ohio have
searched for and found this great light and heat giver, and in 1884-85 local
enterprise at Findlay, Fostoria, Bowling Green and other places has brought
this hidden wealth to the doors of Seneca County, leaving little doubt of its
extension throughout the county with a few years.
Prof. Edward Orton, in his paper on oil wells in Ohio, says : ' ' The wells
begin in the Niagara limestone, or in the waterlime. The drill goes through 300
to 400 feet of nearly unbroken sheets of solid rock. Below this the red shales
of the Medina group come in, ranging from fifty to 200 feet in thickness. The
Hudson Kiver group, next below, consists of about 400 feet of calcareous shales,
gray or blue, and highly fossiliferous. The fossils are found distinct enough
for identification in the di-illings. The brown or black Utica shale follows next
in order. It is 250 to 300 feet thick. It has but few fossils, but these few are
characteristic. The gas ' sand ' or ' oil sand ' of the driller comes next.
The Pennsylvania driller knows no rock but a sand- stone as an oil or gas pro-
ducer, and so this soiirce of gas goes by the name of sand-stone. Analyses of
four samples of the rock from Findlay, Fostoria, Lima and Bowling Green, all
agree in proving the rock to be an impure limestone, of a dijfferent type from
any in the Ohio scale. It is clearly the Trenton limestone of the Eastern
States and of Canada. It has been drilled into for 400 feet in several wells,
but the gas all comes fi-om its upper surface. No gain has been made by go-
ing deeper in any case yet, though several thousand dollars have been spent in
this way in difPerent localities. Torpedoes have been used with good effect in
several wells. The gas comes to the surface with fair pressure when released,
but with little of the explosive violence of the great wells of Pennsylvania.
These latter are at least twenty times as strong as the strongest of the Findlay
wells. The relations of the gas territory to the Cincinnati arch are a matter
of interest. Newberry located the arch too far to the eastward, as it now ap-
pears. He thought the islands of Lake Erie were carried on top of the arch,
but this is thirty or forty miles oxit of the way. No determination was possi-
ble until these drillings were made, and the number is far too small to allow
any accurate and final determination. The facts so far obtained show Findlay
to be on the highest part of the arch. Taking the gas-bearing rock as our
guide, we find it at the following named places and depth below the ocean
level: Findlay, 310; Bowling Green, 387; Lima, 446; Fostoria, 471; Fre-
mont, 696. The fact that the two points where gas is most abundant are
found on the highest portions of the lower limestone will be noticed. The axis
seems to be bearing about north and must pass near Toledo, instead of through
192 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
the islands. The effect of the arch is, however, problematical. Even two
swallows do not make a summer. Gas may be found away from the arch in
some of the wells now going down, in which case the deductions drawn fi'om the
first facts would immediately lose their value. Drilling is sure to go forward
rapidly in the State, and by means of it we shall learn very much in regard to
the structure of the arch that we could not otherwise know. After a little ge-
ology can begin to predict. Already one conclusion of much economic value
seems fairly well established. It is this : When the Trenton limestone is
reached and penetrated twenty or thirty feet, if no reward is found, the drill-
ing would best be abandoned. Oil is found at Lima and at Findlay. The oil
is of the usual type of limestone oils, viz. : Thirty-six degrees gravity, black,
rather low in lubricating quality and somewhat offensive in odor. It is ' be
twixt and between,' being neither well adapted to refining nor to lubricating
pm-poses, but, if found in quantity, may prove a source of value. As to the
quantity, no conclusions are as yet fairly deducible. About 200 barrels are re-
ported fi-om the Lima well. The geological facts as to the occurrence of the
oil and gas are very interesting and important. Our supplies elsewhere
through the State nearly all come from the Berea Grit, but the new horizon
lies 2, 500 feet below, and, moreover, is a limestone. Its supplies must there-
fore be derived fi'om animal life, while ^he supplies of the Berea Grit are de-
rived from the vegetable matters of the black shale. It appears that gas and
oil both are rendered characteristic by the source from which they come.
The well drilled at South Fostoria, to a depth of 1,775 feet, was not a suc-
cess. The history of this enterprise is given in the history of Fostoria. The
proposed well at"^ Tiffin is only a matter of history so far as the projectors of
the entei-prise are concerned.
Zoology. — There was a time when deer were killed by the first settlers of
Tiffin and Fort Ball, within the limits of their villages. The bear, wild hog,
wolverine and wolf, were all here; while the reptile species claimed many and
venomous representatives. Indeed blue-racers may still be found in this part
of Ohio, while garter- snakes are still numerous. In July, 1883, four or five
blue-racers had been killed in the northern part of Jackson Township, San-
dusky- County. The county was at one time a favorite camping ground for sea-
hawks and eagles. It is related that some years before the Senecas left the
county, a hawk carried off a pappoose that was left by its Indian mother in a
grove' which then stood on the south bank of the river, near Washington Street
bridge. In June, 1882, Daniel Misner, living on the Aikens farm, five miles
southwest of Tiffin, shot a bald eagle which measured seven feet from tip to tip,
killing it with a charge of number six shot, at a distance of fifty yards. In
February, 1885, Philip E. Fox, living three and one-half miles southeast of
Fostoria, detected a large bald eagle in the act of carrying away a good sized
lamb. He prociu-ed his gun and shot the eagle at a distance of fifty feet in the
air, and brought him down, together with his mutton.
In the Indian times, the rivers and streams of the county were teeming
with fish. As settlement advanced, the finny tribe decreased, and ultimately
faded away in the general ruin which fell upon animals of the woods and waters
of the wilderness. New species have, however, taken the place of the fish of
pioneer times, and now inhabit the rivers and streams. In Pleasant Town-
ship, the breeding of German carp may be classed among the industries.
Botany. — It is as imnecessary as it is difficult to name the trees, shrubs,
grasses, herbs and flora of this county. Every plant and flower known in this
latitude floimshes throughout the length and breadth of Seneca County, while
many exotics may be brought, and are brought, to perfection in the homes of the
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HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 195
people. Many wild flowers, known only to the pioneers, have disappeared for
ever, hundreds of new ones having usm-ped their place even within the pioneer
period.
Horticulture is well represented, the orchards and vineyards of the county
being among the first in the northern part of Ohio. In 1824 the first orchard
of the county was set out in Clinton Township by John Keller; but prior to
this many wild trees offered abundance of fruit to the Indians and pioneers.
Climatology. — It has been stated by veiy many old settlers of Ohio, that the
winter of 1884-85, and indeed the summer of 1885, reached the very limit of
the lowest temperatiu'e of the respective seasons. History, however, does not
bear out the statement; for about the beginning of the pioneer pei'iod of the
coiuity, the wild animals were frozen in their tracks, and vegetation killed. Since
that time the climate of this latitude has not varied very much in the case of
Seneca. Atmospheric phenomena were rare indeed, and those appalling out-
bursts of nature which have devastated towns, villages and farm houses in
other counties, are unheard of here.
The frost of May 15, 1834, destroyed all the fruit crop and potato crop, to-
gether with more than one-half the wheat crop. Later that year, floui-, in the
Tiffin market, was cpioted at $14 per barrel.
The drought of 1838 resulted in destroying the grain crop, and reducing
the corn crop to the amount of seed sown. A great hail storm swept over the
county in May, 1839. This part of Ohio may be said to have escaped the frost
of September, 1885.
Archceology. — The archaeologist must be forever a speculator; for, notwith-
standing the researches of the ethnologists of the world, and particularly of
our own searchers, the origin of the vase, moimd, stone hatchets, flint aiTOw-
heads, and all the rude adjuncts of prehistoric life, remains imsettled. While
some of the mounds are doubtless very ancient, others, similar in character and
equally interesting, have certainly been built up since the advent of Europeans.
A string of sleigh bells much corroded, but still capable of tinkling, was found
among the flint and bone implements in a mound in Tennessee, whilst in Mis-
sissii)pi, at the point where De Soto is supposed to have tarried, a Spanish coat
of arms in silver, one blade of a pair of scissors, and other articles of Exu'opean
manufacture were found in positions which indicated that they were buried by
the original builders of the moimds. In a Georgia mound two copper plates
were found, upon which were stamped figm-es resembling the sculptures upon
the Central American ruins. The workmanship is vastly superior to that dis-
played on the articles of potterj^, stone and bone found in the mounds, and their
origin and piu-pose are not yet explainable. Aside fi-om these plates nothing
has been found to indicate a connection between the Mound-Builders and the
Aztecs or the Pueblos, while on the other hand, there appears many reasons for
not going beyond the Cherokees, and their fellow red men of the Ohio and Mis-
sissippi Valley, to find the origin of these cimous erections. The piu'pose of
the mounds still remains in some cases a mysterj^, but in others they are known
to have been made sometimes for biirial places, and sometimes as foundations
for Indian villages seciu'e from the floods to which the low lands were period-
ically subjected.
The old fortifications on Honey Creek, in Eden Township, near the Mo-
hawk Road, embrace an area of about two acres. They are attributed to the
military genius of the Fishermen, or Eries, in their war with the Iroquois in-
vaders; but there is nothing in history or archaeology to warrant a statement
that the Eries were the builders. That the position was defended since the
introduction of the shot-gun or rifle is told by the fact that leaden bullets of
196 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
every size have been found in the vicinity. Joseph Swigart, passing through
Honey Creek in 1819, stopped at the spring about a mile northwest of the
present village of Bloomville, and, while there, noticed two circular stone works,
each about 100 yards south fi-om the spring. A well-beaten path led fi'om the
spring to the entrance of each work. The spring and each work formed a
corner of a perfect triangle. Stone hammers, flints, etc., have been found
there. There were remains of the walls as late as 1830, when they were re-
moved, and burned for lime.
In 1850 a few of the ancient mounds in Pleasant Township were opened;
although for years prior to this date several small mounds were plowed over,
and bones, pottery, and other relics of a past age. brought to light. The
explorations of 1850 resulted in the discovery of a number of burned sand-clay
pitchers, pipes, a stone pitcher, and other curios, many of which are still to
be seen in the county. Among the collections of fossils, rocks, boulders and
■curios in the county, that of the editor of the Fostoria Democrat is considered
the best. The fossil remains found in connection with the rocks of this county,
and particularly with the limestone conformation, comprise the Lithostrotion
mamrnullare, the L. longiconicum the Cyaihophyllum, fimgites, and the Syringo-
pore, all belonging to the Polypi class. The only evidence of the Echiyiodermata
is furnished by the remains of the common species. The Bryozoa class is repre-
sented in the limestone by no less than seven species; the Brachiopoda by
eighteen species; the Lamellibranchiata by six species; the Trilobites by two
very distinct species, showing the tails. The remains of iish and reptiles are
very common. Human remains are uncommon in the strata, though in other
parts they have been found mysteriously commingled with some of the first
formations. In all the townships east of the Sandusky there are hillocks visi-
ble, none of which have been explored systematically, if at all. Throughout
the county, relics of the aborigines have been found; stone and clay pipes,
volcanic glass spear-heads, arrow heads, and in some instances copper articles
have been brought to light, all in evidence of the fact that a people dwelt here
long before the immigration of the Indians, who inhabited the Sandusky
countrv when the first settlers arrived.
CHAPTER IL
SENECA'S RED PIONEERS.
IN the introduction to the Military History of the county, references are
made to the occupation of Pleasant Township by the English soldiery under
the Irish Tory, Butler, in 1782, its subsequent occupation by Gen. Harrison's
troops in 1813, and the occupation of Clinton Township by Col. Ball's cavalry,
the same year. All those movements, expensive, and sometimes costing valua-
ble citizen lives, were not called for directly by Indian aggression. The pres-
ence of a trans- Atlantic enemy, and the spirit which that enemy's lies and
largesses fostered in the Indian mind were the first causes. The arch-enemy
being driven away and punished, Hull's treachery was remedied, and peace
was restored.
The Shan-nees. — The Eries, a tribe of fishermen and hunters, inhabited the
country along Lake Erie, and hunted through the country southward until
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 197
1655, when their villages were destroyed, their women and children slain, and
their wan-iors driven to flight or to the grave. The wild chase of those blood-
thirsty Iroquois after human blood, led them away from this jDortion of the
wilderness in search of other tribes to mm-der, and in their place came the
Shawnees, who fled hither from the Iroquois, who had just evacuated this
country. This was in 1672. In 1728 they migrated to the Scioto country;
and thirty-five years after assumed ownership of the upper Miami countrv.with
their principal villages at the Mac-a-chack towns. This tribe produced
Tecumseh, the savage, who checked up Proctor's fiendish cruelty to the
Americans. Their reservations and latter-day villages at Wapakoneta, and near
Lima, Allen County, are well described in the history of Ohio, so also their
dealings with the British. This tribe was removed, in 1831, to Kansas, where
they are Reservation Indians.
The Wyandot s are undoubtedly a branch of the great Algonquin race. The
history of their persecution by the Iroquois, who di-ove them from the Simcoe
country in Western Canada to the islands of the St. Mary's River, and thence
into the country of the Sauks in the lower peninsula of Michigan, is one long,
long tale of cruelty and rapine on one hand; death, disease and poverty on
the other. They located on the west side of Lake St. Clair in 1690, and dur-
ing the following century spread out over the Miami and Sandusky country,
where they were known until 1812, or over a century and a half. Pomoacaii,
theii- great chief, had his wigwam at what is now called Brownstown, below
Detroit. He is known in history as the Half-King. In 1781 he moved to
Sandusky, making the cabin of the nefarious Billy AVyandot his abode. Here
he received the infamous Elliot, and the no less guilty Simon Girty, both
ofiicers in the service of the British. This was the Half-King, who, contrary
to the new practices and laws of his tribe, permitted the Delawares to carry
out Elliott's sentence against Col. Crawford. At the time of Crawford's
defeat, Zhaus-sho-toh was their war-chief, and this fellow had no less than 400
warriors out of a total Wyandot population of over 1,700. Catherine Walker,
of Seneca Township, was a woman of this nation.
In 1800 the Wyandot nation numbered 2, 200 souls. Under the influence
of Christian example and teachings, the whole tribe decreased to 800 in 1842.
In 184;-3 only 664 members of the tribe moved beyond the INEississippi, of whom
only 585 were on the New Reserve in 1844, and forty years later, only a bare
representation can be seen.
The Delawares inhabited the territor}^ known as the State of Delaware up
to the time when the tide of European settlement set in. Before this tide they
moved westward, and continued to follow the sun until 1724, when they located
on the Muskingum, then a wilderness hitherto uninhabited and unknown.
In 1780 the greater number of the Delaware devils returned fi-om the Mus-
kingum, and took up their residence with the Senecas, Shawnees and Wyan-
dots on the Sandusky; those who remained at the middle village on the Mus-
kingum were cut down by Williamson's command. Remembering this mas-
sacre they allied themselves with the British in 1781-82, and were among the
most diabolical enemies of the United States. Their villages extended along
each bank of the Tymochtee, just south of Seneca Township, one and one-
half mile north of Crawfordsville, and eleven miles below the old Wyandot
town, and eight miles below the new town of Upper Sandusky. Winge-
mund was the war-chief, and had his wigwam twenty-five miles east of the
old town of Sandusky, while the notorious Capt. Pij^e, or Kogieschquanoheel,
commanded at the Tymochtee villages the Wolf Tribe. He always was in the
minority when the question of peace with the Long Knives was bi'ought up in
198 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
council, yet he was one of the most fiendish enemies of Crawford. He died in
August, 1794.
The Senecas of Sandusky. — This was a miscellaneous tribe — a number of
remnants of inter-tribal wars grouped under one name, who claimed Logan as
one of their nation. The Cayugas formed the leading band, then the Mohawks,
and a few Oneidas, Onondagas, Tuscarawas, and mixed breed Wyandots; a few
Mingoes. relics, as it were, of Logan' s tribe, were among the Cayugas, of which
tribe the Mingoes were a branch. Their names still live in New York State,
where wealthy white communities have sprung up on the old hunting
grounds of those tribes: flying before the incoming tide of immigration, they
located in the Scioto and Olentangy Valleys a himdi-ed years after the war
of 16S2, and diu'ing the first decade of this century moved to the west bank of
the Sandusky, in this county, where they resided until j)laced on their reserva-
tion in 1817-19. Here they lived in peace until 1831, when civilization again
forced them to resume their westward movement, and placed them in the
Neosha country. In 1831 the Senecas numbered 510, of whom twenty-eight
died before they left the Mississippi Valley. Death and disease have reduced
this niunber now to about 100. The Mohawks in 1831 numbered twentj^-five
lodges.
Indian Christianiiy and Early Preachers. — The early preachers of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, known at the Wyandot Mission, all of whom were also
visitors to the settlements of Seneca County, were John Stewart (colored), James
Montgomery, Moses Henkle, Sr., James B. Finley (1821), Harriet Stubbs,
George Eiley, Charles Elliott, Jacob Hooper, John C. Brooke, Between-the-
logs, James Gilruth (1827). Gilruth was succeeded by Messrs. Thompson,
Shaw, Allen, Wheeler and Squire Grey Eyes. Kev. Mr. Badger, of Lower
Sandusky, introduced Presbyterian doctrine, while the Delawares were inclined
to Moravianism, if to any branch of Christianity. The Indians looked upon
their new Ckfistian teachers as something to be tolerated for convenience sake.
Plenty of money poured into the district for their conversion, and, with this
money, they piu'chased new pleasures, which ruined them physically, and low-
ered the standard of their savage code of morals. A reference to statistics,
showing their numbers to have decreased in forty-three years from 2, 200 to 664,
reveals the effect of the Christian education they received within that time.
Tivo Early Treaties. — The treaty of Fort Mcintosh, negotiated January 21,
1785, established a boundaiy line between the United States and the new
country of the Wyandots, Delawares, Ottawas and Otchipwes. This line ex-
tended from the mouth of the Cayuga to the portage between that river and
the Tuscarawas, feeder of the Muskingum; thence down the feeder to Fort
Laurens, and westward to the portage of the Big Miami; thence along this
portage to the Maumee, and along the south bank of this river to its mouth;
thence along the south shore of Lake Erie to the mouth of the Cayuga Kiver.
A few special reservations were made, six miles square, at the mouth of the
Maumee, one township on the portage of the Big Miami, one on Lake San-
dusky, and two sections on each side of the Lower Sandusky rapids.
The treaty of Greenville, August 3, 1795, negotiated by Gen. Wayne, pro-
vided for the reduction of Indian territory on the east. Again, the treaty of
1805. at Fort Industiy, provided that the boundary line of the "Thirteen Fires"
— the Fnited States — should be a line drawn north and south on the meridian,
120 miles west of the Pennsylvania line to the intersection of the northern
boundary of United States territory, and to that of the south line established
by the treaty of Greenville. The ti-eaty of Detroit, November 17, 1807, ceded
a large area of Michigan and a portion of Ohio to the United States, while the
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 199
treaty of Brownstown, negotiated November 25, 1808, provided for free travel
and the construction of roads, one 120 feet wide from Lower Sandusky to
the boundary line named in the treaty of Greenville.
Indian Treaties Affecting Seneca County. — The treaty of the Maumee
Rapids, negotiated by Lewis Cass and D. McArthur at the foot of tlie Maumee
Eapids, September 29, 1817, with the Indians commonly called Senecas (Cay-
ugas, Mingoes, Mohawks, Onondagas, Tuscarawas, AVyandots and Oneidas),
and the Wyandots, Delawares, Shawnees, Pottawattomies, Ottawas and Ot-
chipwes, was the first which affected the district now known as Seneca County.
Takaw-ma-do-aw, Josef, Tawg-you, Kunning-about, Coffee-house, Wipino--
stick, Capt. Harris, Capt. Smith, Is-ahow-ma-saw, chiefs of the several bands,
were the signers. Under this treaty a tract of 30,000 acres was set off alon^
the eastern bank of the Sandusky- River for the exclusive use of the Senecas,
to which 10,000 acres were added by the treaty of St. Mary's, September 17,
1818. This large tract comprised, in Seneca County, the territoiy within
the following boundaries : From a point eighty rods south of the south line of
Section 7, in Clinton Township, east on the line running parallel with the south
section line of Section 7 to Section 13, Clinton; thence to a point south of Sec-
tion 10, Scipio Township; thence north, through Scipio and Adams Townships,
to the north boundary line of county, west on that line to the Sanduskv' River,
and south along the river to the point of beginning, in Clinton Township.
After the hvmting season of 1818 was past, those Indians settled on this
Reservation cleared their garden patches and erected their cabins. The agency
provided for in the treaty was established in 1819, when a Methodist preacher
was appointed agent, with power to feed and teach this red flock. This agent
was James Montgomery, who settled with his family in one of the block-houses
at old Fort Seneca, November 19, 1819. Five years and two months later,
Seneca County was organized, and within nine years the Indian title was
relinquished. The cession was made at Washington, D. C, February 28, 1831,
when the Cayugas accepted a reservation in the Neosho and Cowskin River
country, southwest of Missomi.
Cession and Recession. — In this treaty with the Senecas, a provision was
made for the Van Meter family as follows: "To John Van Meter, who was taken
prisoner by the Wyandots, and who has ever since lived amongst them, and has
married a Seneca woman, and to his wife and three brothers, Senecas, who
now reside on Honey Creek, one thousand acres of land, to begin north 45 de-
grees west, 140 poles, thence and fi'om the beginning, east for quantity. " This
was in Eden Township. The lands were sold to Lloyd Norris in 1828, and the
Mohawks left in 1829.
The Ai-mstrong Reservation is founded on the treaty which provided that
640 acres of land should be set apart for Robert Armstrong, a captive of the
Wyandots, in recognition of his services as interpreter and guide to United
States officers. The President located this reservation on the west side of the
river, near the Fort Ball Military Reservation, so with the second Fort Ball or
the McCulloch Reservation. A grant of 640 acres was made by the treaty of
Miami of the Lake for the use of the childi-en of William McCulloch, and
located north of and joining the Armstrong Reservation, near Fort Ball. This
William McCulloch was employed by Gen. Harrison as interpreter, and while
engaged on duty at Foi-t Meigs was struck by a cannon ball and killed. The
land was parcelled out to his seven children {vide History of Tiffin and Pioneer
History). The Armstrong tract of 640 acres was patented October 12, 1823;
Armstrong sold 404 acres to Jesse Spencer October 29, same year.
The John Walker Reservation is a tract of 640 acres in Seneca Township, just
200 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
west of the Van Meter grant, was bestowed upon the Wyandot woman, Cath-
erine Walker, and her sons John and William. They sold a large part of this
grant to A. Lngenbeel and moved to Upper Sandusky. The Treaty of Wash-
ington, D. C. , by the Senecas, February 28, 1831, provided that 160 acres
should be granted to Heniy C. Brish in recognition of his services as sub-
agent, and for si:)ecial kindness extended to the Senecas.
The treaty with the Delawares, made at Little Sandusky, August 3, 1829,
provided for their evacuation of the Delaware Reservation of nine square miles
adjoining the Wyandot Reservation, of the Big Spring, and their removal be-
yond the IVIississippi. Of this tribe Wingemund, Capt. Pipe and other notori-
ous enemies of Crawford were members. The widow Armstrong (known as
Tishatahooms), Ayenucere. Hoomaui'on (known as John Mings), Yondorast,
John Hill. Isaac Hill. Capt. Wolf. Billy Montour. Black Raccoon, Silas Arm-
strong. John Armstrong or Mahantoo, James Armstrong and Capt. Pipe Jr. ,
were living about the time of their removal.
The parties to the treaty of Washington, in 1831, were James B. Gardiner,
United States Commissiner, Heniy C. Bi'ish, sub-agent of the Senecas. and
W. H. Lewis, Hemy Tolan, P. G. Randolph, witnesses; George Hemn, inter-
preter; Hard-Hickory. Seneca-Steel, Good-Hunter. Small-Cloud, Spicer and
Coonstick. Col. Mcllvain. the chief Seneca agent, was not present. Henry C.
Brish succeeded James Montgomery in the agency and remained with the
Senecas until they left the State.
Their removal was effected in the fall of 1831. when they started in two divis
ions for their Neosha and Cowskin Reservations. The division in charge of Gen.
Brish and Martin Lane, traveled by river to the Missouri River, and there
waited for the second division, under HeiTin and Hart, who made the trip over-
land. They met near the mouth of the Missouri, April 26, 1832, when twenty-
eight were reported to have died en route, and resuming their journey an-ived
in the Neosha Valley on April 26, 1832. The Senecas then numbered 510
strong: buL, like their recent neighbors, the Nez Perces, they faded away, as it
were, until they may be counted by tens instead of hundi-eds.
The treaty of McCutcheonville, January 19, 1832, between the United
States and the Wyandots of Big Spring Reservation, provided for the cession to
the United States of 16,000 acres of land, granted to them by the treaty of St.
Mary's, made September 17, 1818, located at Big Springs on the head of
Blanchard' s Foi'k between Upper Sandusk^^ and Fort Findlay. The treaty stipu-
lated that the 16,000 acres, in the Big Spring Reservation, should be sui-veyed,
off'ered for sale, and SI. 25 per acre paid to the chiefs for the Big Spring band
of Wyandots, and a reservation of 320 acres kept for Roe-nu-nas, one of the
oldest chiefs. Joseph McCutcheon was named as appraiser and recommended
as sub-agent. The treaty was signed by J. B. Gardiner, the special commis-
sioner: Mat. Greyeyes. Isaac Driver, John D. Bro-svTi, Alexander Clark,
John McLean, Roe-nu-nas, Bear Skin, She-a-wah (John Solomon), and wit-
nessed by Dr. G. W. Sampson of Seneca County, Dick Reynolds, J. C. DeWitt,
James McCutcheon and C. Clark. The reservation embraced twelve square
miles in Big Spring Towns*liip. and twelve miles square adjoining.
The proclamation authorizing the sale of the various reservations ceded in
1831, was made under date November 13, 1832, by Andi-ew Jackson.
In this proclamation the location of the Seneca Reservation as well as of
that of the Wyandots is given.
This treaty ended the residence of the Wyandots in this county, and led to
the treaty of Upper Sandusky in 1842, by which they relinquished title to the
last large Indian reservation in Ohio. In 1832 the lands formerly iDelonging
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 201
to the Senecas and Wyandois were surveyed by J. W. Christmas, offered for
sale under the President's proclamation, and the homes of the Indians were
soon occupied by the white men.
INDIAN BIOGRAPHY.
Many references have been made in the first part of this chapter to the
Indian chiefs who were once masters of this county and neighborhood. Again
in the tirst part of this book, devoted to a history of Ohio, such names as Pontiac,
Tecumseh, Logan, Blackhoof — find a very full mention. For these reasons the
following personal notices of Indians who were at once famous or notorious,
are given in a most concise form, each sketch containing only some important
point or points not credited in the first part of the history.
So much has been written regarding Tecumseh (pp. 61 to 64), it is only
necessary here to make one reference to the man. Few there are who have not
read of the barbarity of the English troops dui'ing the whole war of the Eevo-
lution, as well as the war of 1812; fewer still are ignorant of the premium
offered by the English commanders to their soldiers and Indian allies. Who
does not remember the massacres of Fort Meigs and of the Kiver Eaisin ? Who
has not heard of Gen. Proctor's infamous doings there, of his order to kill all
prisoners, of his enthusiasm in witnessing, for two hours, how ably his own
troops and his Indians carried out his diabolical command ? Tecumseh came on
the scene too late to save all, yet in time to cast a ray of light on his own char-
acter, and save his Indian brethren fi-om the obloquy which, to this day,
attaches itself to the white man. According to the chronicler, it is said: "He
sprang fi-om his horse, caught one Indian by the throat and the other by the
breast, and threw them to the ground; then, drawing his knife and hatchet,
and running between the Indians and prisoners, brandished his weapons wildly
and dared the attack on another prisoner. Maddened by the barbarity which
he loathed, he sought Gen. Proctor, and demanded why this massacre was
allowed.
' Sir, ' replied the General, ' your Indians cannot be commanded. '
' Begone ! ' answered the chief with a sarcastic sneer, ' you are unfit to
command; go, you are not a man.' " Let the rebuke be the reproach of a sav-
age; it is worthy of recognition to-day, for in the humanity of manhood is
the philosophy of life.
Elsquata, the twin brother of Tecumseh, is known in history as the Prophet.
This false friend accompanied the renegade Shawnees, under the lead of Tecum-
seh, to the British service in Canada; retiu-ned after the war to Wapakonetta;
went west of the Mississippi with a large number of his tribe in 1828, and died
of cholera in 1833 in Kansas. In a reference to him Jonathan Elder says: "I
was very well acquainted with the Prophet. He was not a warrior, but a lOw,
cunning fellow. He prophesied many things that did not come to pass. He
was a vain man, with a great amount of show, but with little sense. His pow-
ers of prophecy were not well sustained by the Indians in general ; in fact, they
had but little faith in him. ' ' After the treaty of Fort Wayne in 1809, it is
related by Dr. Hill that the Prophet ordered the execution of Leather-lips, a
noted Wyandot chief, for pretended witchcraft, but really to get rid of his
influence. Six Wyandot warriors were sent to put him to death. The warri-
ors and their leader. Roundhead, went directly from Tippecanoe to execute
him. They found him encamped on a stream about twelve miles above the
present city of Columbus. When the warriors arrived, and their purjDose was
ascertained, several white men made an ineffectual effort to save his life. A
council took place, and the warriors resolved to kill the chief, as ordered. An
202 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Indian, with much, waiinth, accused him of magic or witchcraft ; but Leather-
lips denied the charge. When the sentence of death was passed upon him, he
retm-ned to his camp, ate a dinner of jerked venison, washed and dressed in
his best Indian clothing, and painted his face. He was tall and dignified, and
his hair quite gray. When the time of his execution aiTived, he shook hands
with those present, and turned from his wigwam and commenced to chant his
death song. He then moved toward the point where the warriors had dug a
grave. When he got to the grave, he knelt down and prayed to the Great
Spirit. When he finished. Roundhead also knelt and prayed. Leather-lips
again knelt and prayed, and when he ceased, one of the warriors drew from his
skii-ts a keen, new tomahawk, stepped up behind the chief and struck him on
the head with his whole strength. The chief fell forward in the agonies of
death. The executioner struck him again, once or twice, and finished his suf-
ferings. The body was buried with all his Indian ornaments, and the warriors
and whites disappeared. An attempt has been made to fix the responsibility of
this o-reat crime upon the Wyandot chief. Crane. Crane was the fi'iend of the
whites, and opposed to the schemes of the treacherous Prophet, and it is clear
never could have authorized the execution of a fellow Wyandot chief.
The Wyandot chief. Roundhead, had a village on the Scioto in the south-
west corner of Hardin County, where the town of Round Head was subse-
quently laid out. At what precise date the Indians started this village is not
known, but about the year 1800 Maj. James Galloway, of Greene County, vis-
ited them at this point, and says that there was then quite a number of apple
trees in the village, and that the Indians raised many swine. Some of those
irees, said to have been planted by this old chief, are yet standing. Round-
head, whose Indian name was Stiahta, was a fine-looking man. He had a
brother named John Battise, a man of great size and personal strength. He
was well remembered by the pioneers of the Miami and Scioto Valleys on
account of possessing an enoiTQOUs nose, which resembled in size and hue an
immense blue potato full of indentations, and when he laughed it shook like
jelly. He lived at a place called Battisetown some miles west of his brother's
village, joined the English in 1812, and was killed at the siege of Fort Meigs.
In 1807 Roundhead was present with Tecumseh and other chiefs at a council
held at Springfield, Ohio, between the whites and Indians to settle a difficulty
which arose over the killing of a white man named Myers, a few miles west of
Urbana. The execution of Leather-lips, a well known W^yandot chief, which
took place twelve miles north of Columbus, Ohio, in 1810, on "the charge of
witchcraft, was intrusted by Tecumseh to Roundhead, who, at the head of six
braves, came fi'om Tippecanoe and did the deed.
The celebrated Mingoe chief, Logan, with a band of followers, had a village
in the southeastern part of Hardin County as early as 1778. It is probable
that he moved fi'om the lower Shawnee towns on the Scioto, where his cabin
stood in 1774, to this point, soon after Lord Dunmore's campaign. The exact
location of this village is not known, some old settlers claiming that it stood in
the vicinity of "Grassy Point." Col. John McDonald, in his biography of
Simon Kenton, when telling of his capture in 1778, says: "As the Indians
passed fi-om Wapakoneta to Upper Sandusky, they went through a small vil-
lage on the river Scioto, where then resided the celebrated chief, Logan, of
Jefferson memory. Logan, unlike the rest of his tribe, was humane as he was
brave. At his wigwam, the party who had the care of the prisoner, stayed
over night. ' ' From this account, it seems they also remained the succeeding
day and night, not leaving for Upj^er Sandusky until the second morning after
their arrival at Logan's village. The old Shawnee trail crossed the Scioto
t'
,v^|^^^:
#" .^
6^.<c-^ '-^rtr.
-<)cV-a>lrz^ JPryio^x^ U^^(y-e^
s^a.^yi^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 205
near the residence of the late Judge Fortius Wheeler, several miles northeast
of Grassy Point, and as the Indian village was on the Scioto, it is safe to infer
that the wigwams of Logan and his band were in the vicinity of the Shawnee
ford and not at Grassy Point. The main reason why the latter place has been
thought to have been the site of the Mingoe Camp, is that the Indians had
cleared and cultivated some land in that locality, which, upon subsequent
abandonment, had grown up in blue grass, hence the name. Grassy Point. It
is more probable that the land referred to was cultivated by the Shawnees and
Wyandots, who owned this territory in common, while the Mingoes occupied
it only by consent of these tribes, who loved it as one of their favorite camp-
ing grounds, and a sacred depository of their dead. Logan, the noble Mingoe
chief, and the principal victim of Col. Cresap's mad zeal, belonged to this
county as much as to any other locality in the State {vide History of Ohio).
His celebrated speech, delivered near Circleville, Ohio, conveys an idea of the
deep wrongs which were, in some instances, heaped upon the Indians through
the malice of individuals. This man, more noble than the white man, passed
the winter of his life in the very neighborhood of Tiffin, and moved away to
die. He was killed by a brother Indian while sitting at his camp fire.
Piuiipkin, the Taway Indian, was about six feet high, and as savage and ill-
looking as he was tall. George Heck, in his relations, speaks of this red-skin
as one of whom even Indians were afraid. He killed Mrs. Snow, on Cold
Creek, during her husband' s absence, cut open her womb, took a full grown
babe, roasted the little human being, and made his meal off it. The Senecas
captured this terrible savage, brought him to Snow for sentence; but the white
man feared to avenge the murder of his wife and child, so that Pumpkin was
allowed to go free. Some short time after this cannibal quarreled with a
■\, yandot, and of course killed him. He was then arrested by the Wyandots,
who placed him on a log, and there six tomahawks were buried in his brain.
In the year 1822, Good Spring's mother and three other squaws were
executed on a charge of witchcraft. It appears that during the summer of
that year a peculiar disease attacked the Senecas, and they attributed their
troubles to those four unfortunate women. They were condemned to die, and
while waiting, proceeded to Lower Sandusky for whisky, with which they re-
turned to hold their last orgie. Diu-ing their drunken fit, they called on the
executioner to end them, when Jim Sky — the di-one of the reservation — ad-
vanced with a pipe tomahawk upraised, and striking each of the old women in
the head, declared that the witches were gone.
Death of Seneca John.— This fi-atricidal affair took place in the fall of 1828.
It appears that in 1825, three Senecas, viz. : Coonstick and Steel, brothers, with
sub-chief Cracked Hoof, traveled w^est to seek new hunting-grounds, leaving
theii- eldest brother, Comstock, chief of the tribe, and their youngest brother,
Seneca John, sub-chief. On retui-ning they found Seneca John chief, and
learned that Comstock was dead. Tribal gossip was not idle, but with jealous
tongue poiired stories of John's treachery into the ears of his brothers, who
accused him of poisoning the head chief, and said that he should die. The
stoic received the sentence calmly, yet protested his innocence. In the morning
he was executed near the hut of Hard Hickory, the Indian Shane and his two
brothers being the executioners. Steel taking the leading part. Hard Hickory
stated in after years, that prior to John's death, he turned to Coonstick saying:
Now brother, you take yom- revenge. ' ' Coonstick at once relented and was
going to the relief of his dying brother, when Steel rushed forward and com-
pleted the mm-der.
In 1829 Seneca Steel was brought before the court at Upper Sandusky, and
206 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
acquitted of the charge of mui'der, it being made clear that the murdered chief
had his brother poisoned.
In 1832 theWyandots, under Chief Thomas Koon, resided in Jackson Township
and passed the whole season there hunting, killing 107 deer, eleven bears, and
thousands of small game. John P. Gordon, who then had a saloon at Risdon,
sold them whisky at wholesale, and this, on one occasion, almost led to civil war
among them. Nestlerode, acting under instructions of Koon, took their knives
and whisky bottles fi'om them, and sent them to camp. He, however, surrendered
the whisky, and when their di-unken fit was over returned them their knives.
Tarhe, or the Crane, named by the French Monsieur Grue, or ]VIi\ Crane,
was born near Detroit, in 1742, and died near Upper Sanduskj^, in 1818,
his bvu'ial being attended by various tribes. He was always a remarkable In-
dian. His wife was a white girl named Sally Frost.
Comstock, chief of the Seneca Indians for some years previous to 1825, and
eldest brother of Seneca John, Seneca Steel, and Coonstick, was poisoned in
1825, and Seneca John, the youngest brother elected chief (vide Gen. Brish's
Nari'ative).
Seneca John was a splendid specimen of Indian manhood. He was born
here in 1787, and mui'dered by his brothers in 1825, near Green Spring
{vide Gen. Brish's Narrative). His wigwam was where Dr. Williams' house
now stands. While visiting the Doctor' s father' s house, east of Reedtown, his
little child was scalded. Dr. Williams did everything to relieve the little suf-
ferer, but death ensued.
Seneca Steel, the murderer of his brother Seneca John, in 1825, moved to
the Neosha country in 1831-32.
Coonstick, the third brother of Seneca John, and participator in his miu-der,
moved to the Cowskin River country in 1832.
Hard Hickory, born about 1780 in this district, was considered an excel-
lent Indian, spoke French fluently and English fairly, and was one of the head
chiefs of the tribe. Next to Joseph Tequania he was the most polished war-
rior, and far above him in shrewdness, until after his removal to the Neosha
Country. Previous to leaving Seneca County, he with a few other Cayugas
received annually $1,600 fi'om New York State, and afterward this sum was
mailed to them on the new reservation. In 1834 Hard Hickory and one of
the Herrins — either Joseph or George — were deputed to go to Fort Gibson and
receive cash for their draft. Having received the cash. Hickory proposed a
visit to Washington City, believing that the President would refund him any
moneys expended on such a trip. This journey was accomplished; the Indian
Department refused to pay for IVIr. Hickoiy's pleasiures, so that when he
returned to Neosha very little money was visible. This, in addition to a num-
ber of lies which he told, drew upon him the condemnation of the tribe. He
resisted the tribal law for a short time, but was ultimately executed by Shane
in his own cabin and in presence of his own wife.
Wiping Stick, referred to in the history of Fort Seneca garrison, was a
Cayuga chief, who possessed all the noble qualities of his race, without any of
the bad ones.
She-a-wah, or John Solomon, who signed the treaty for the Wyandots in
1818, moved from Big Spring in 1832, and joined the leading band of Wyan-
dots at Upper Sandusky, where he remained until after the removal of the
tribe in 1842. He returned to Wyandot in 1849, and made the place his home
until his death in 1878. The pioneers who assembled at Shoch's Woods, Eden
Township, September 1, 1877, saw this tall old chief for the last time. There
he made his last speech.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 207
Joseph Tequania, a half-brotlier of Tequania, who was killed by Peter
Pork, was born about 1755; was a commissioned officer in the French Canadian
service, and one of the most polished residents of Seneca County even up to
1831, when he went West with his tribe. This man belonged to the Catholic
Church, and, with one of his sisters, would proceed long distances to attend
service, di-essed in a red vest, white ruffled shirt, leggings, hair braided, fancy
shawl and some jewelry. With all his refinement, he looked down upon his
less fortunate brother Indians, and sometimes hated them for the little they did
know.
Strong Arm Tequania, son of the twin-sister of Tequania, the victim of
Peter Pork and known as the One-Eyed Medicine Woman, was, like his mother,
very benevolent, and much liked by the settlers.
Tequania, or Strong Arm, miu'dered in 1829 by Peter Pork, was the twin-
brother of the medicine woman of the tribe. Each of them was born with
only one eye; both were extra good Indians, and great fi-iends of their white
neighbors.
Good Springs was a young savage, corresponding with the modern dude of
white communities. His mother was executed in 1822 for witchcraft, and after
the deed was done by Jim Skj', this fellow feared to meet the mui'derer.
Greorge Washington, who served as scout during the war of the Revolution,
reached a ripe old age in 1822. During that year his squaw— Martha Wash-
ington— was condemned to death for witchcraft. The executioners entered her
cabin, saw the old scout looking on at his doomed wife pounding hominy, and
then without ceremony, Shane stepped forward, struck her with the tomahawk,
and called upon Jim Sky to cut her neck.
Peter Pork, whose only good trait was a desire to murder villains like him-
self, was the worst character in the Seneca country. While attending one of
Benazah Parker's orgies in the latter' s saloon at Fort Seneca, October 4, 1829,
he stabbed this white wretch, immediately after he had administered a mock
sacrament of corn dodgers and whisky to his guests. Parker died of his
wounds in January, 1881, having suffered terribly in the meantime. Previous
to his attack upon Parker, he cut up Tequania or Strong Arm with an ax.
This occiu-red while en route home fi'om Lower Sandusky, and would have re-
sulted in the immediate death of Tequania, had not Dr. Ely Dresbach exer-
cised his skill in binding up the wounds. The Indian, however, died nine days
after, and ten days before Parker received his death wounds from the same Pork.
He also killed Joseph Silas, a Mohawk half-breed, and another Indian, a friend
of Silas, together with the squaw Brandt, known as "Thomas Brandt's old
wife, " who lived a solitary life in one of Brandt's cabins. In 1836 Joseph
Herrin, a Mohawk half-breed and interpreter, revisited Fort^Seneca, learned of
his cousin Silas' death, and on his retui-n to the Neosha country cut Peter
Pork's head oflF (ride History of Coiu'ts and Bar).
Mrs. Sally Ingham, in referring to the murder by Pork of Parker, related for
Mr. Stewart in 1873, and for the wi-iter in September, 1885, the following rem-
iniscence: "On the 4th of October, 1829, an Indian of the Seneca tribe, named
Peter Pork, called at the house of Parker, in a state of intoxication, and de-
manded some whisky. Observing his condition Parker refused to comply with
his demand, when the Indian became exasperated, and said, with an oath, that
'he would have some, ' at the same time making a movement to procure the
'firewater. ' Parker seized a fire-brand from the fireplace, and made an at-
tack on the Indian, in the hope that he would desist. This only tended to
infuriate the savage, who di-ew his knife and stabbed Parker in the side, in-
flicting a painful and dangerous wound, from which he died about a year
208 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
afterward. After tlie committal of the deed, Peter Pork went to his hut and
made some preliminary preparations for defense, well knowing that his deed
would be detected, He placed his tomahawk within reach of his bed, and
stuck his knife in a crevice in a wall just above his head. His squaw, notic-
ing these actions, comprehended that something was vsa'ong, and after he had
fallen into a sort of drunken stupor, she removed the knife, placing in its
stead a piece of wood of about the same dimensions. The following persons
repaired to his house in order to arrest him: Jaques Hulberd (afterward
judge), Phineas Frary, Anson Gray and Stephen Ross. He was a gigantic
savage, and on the entrance of the party a terrible struggle ensued, which
was carried on in the dark. Pork having kicked the lantern out of the hand of
Frary at the onset. Mr. Hulberd clinched the Indian, and caiight him by the
throat, when Pork seized the piece of wood, supposing it to be his knife, and
gave Hulberd a terrible stab, the stick penetrating through his coat. After
being nearly throttled, the Indian was seciu-ed; and April 28, 1830, he
was arraigned before the court of common pleas of this county, and found
guilty of * stabbing with intent to kill. ' He was sentenced to three years in
the Ohio State Penitentiary."
Buck-ong-a-he-las, a noted old Delaware chief, mixed much with the
Shawnees. He is supposed to have been born near Philadelphia, Penn. , a
few years after tht^ treaties with Penn, and, when he lived on the Auglaize,
was well advanced in age. In colonial days, with Jacobs and other leading
Delawares, he resided in western Pennsylvania, and is believed at that time to
have been identical with the "Shingess" who entertained Washington, when
a young man, in 1753. ^hingess was an active warrior when Fort Du Quesne
was taken in 1759. Heckewelder speaks of meeting him at the Tuscarora
town on the Muskingum, as early as 1760. As early as 1764, King Beaver,
who was a brother of Buck-ong-a-he-las, is met by Gen. Gibson at the mouth
of Big Beaver. Just what time he settled in western Ohio is not known. At
the capture of Col. Hardin, Maj. Truman and others in 1792, as bearers of a
flag of truce fi-om Washington, after having treacherously murdered Hardin,
the Indians arrived near the Indian town of Auglaize, and reported to the old
chief, ' 'who was very sorry they had killed the men, and said, instead of so doing,
they should have brought them along to the Indian towns, and then, if what
they had to say had not been liked it would have been time enough to have
killed them. Nothing could justify them for putting them to death, as there
was no chance for them to escape. ' ' This chief fought against Harmar, St.
Clair and Wayne. He signed the treaty of 1795. He must have been over
one hundred years old. He died at Ottawa village, on the Auglaize, in 1804.
One of the most noted chiefs was the venerable Blackhoof — Cul-the-we-ka-
saw — in the raids upon Kentucky sometimes called Blackfoot. He is believed
to have been born in Florida, and, at the period of the removal of a portion of
the Shawnees to Ohio and Pennsylvania, was old enough to recollect having
bathed in the salt water. He was present, with others of his tribe, at the
defeat of Gen. Braddock, near Pittsburgh, in 1755, and was engaged in all
the wars in Ohio from that time until the treaty of Greenville, in 1795. He
was known far and wide as the great Shawnee warrior, whose cunning, sagac-
ity and experience were only equaled by the force and desperate braven- with
which he carried into operation his military plans. He was the inveterate foe
of the white man, and held that no peace should be made, nor negotiation at-
tempted, except on the condition that the whites should repass the mountains,
and leave the great plains of the West to the sole occupancy of the red men.
He was the orator of the tribe dui-ing the greater part of his long life, and is
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 209
said to have been an excellent speaker. Col. John Johnston says he was
probably in more battles than any living man of his day, and was the most
graceful Indian he had ever seen, and possessed the most natural and happy
faculty of expressing his ideas. He was w^ell versed in the traditions of his
people, and no one understood better their relations to the whites, whose set-
tlements were gradually pressing them back, and could detail with minuteness
the wrongs inflicted by the whites on his people. He remembered having
talked with some of the aged chiefs who had been present at the treaty with
William Penn, in 1682. He fought the battles against Harmar, St. Clair and
Wayne, hoping to retain his country; but when Anally defeated, in 1794, he
decided that further resistance was useless, and signed the treaty of Green-
ville, in 1795. and continued faithful to its stipulations until his decease, which
occurred in the summer of 1831, at Wapakonetta, at the advanced age of one
hundred and twenty years! Blackhoof is said to have been opposed to polyg-
amy and the practice of burning prisoners. He lived forty years with one
wife, raising a large family of children, who both loved and respected him.
He was small in stature, not more than Ave feet eight inches in height. He
was favored with good health and unimpaired eyesight to the period of his
death.
Quasky, his elder son, was the successor to Blackhoof. He possessed many
of the qualities of his distinguished father. He went West with his people in
1832, and was living in 1853. He, like his father, was a fine speaker.
The chief Blue Jacket, it will be remembered, commanded the Indian army
at the battle of "Fallen Timber," in 1794, and, with much reluctance, signed
the treaty with Wayne, at Greenville, in 1795. He was very bitter in his
feelings toward the ' ' Long Knives, ' ' who were rapidly settling upon the
lands that formerly belonged to the red man. His feelings were quite as in-
tense as those of Tecumseh, though he did not possess his abilities for organi-
zation. As a matter of prudence, he did not join Tecumseh in the war of
1812. He is supposed to have died at Ottaw^a village, down the Auglaize,
just prior to the treaty at Maumee Rapids, in 1817. It appears that Gens.
Cass and McArthur, in that treaty, made provision for his family at Wapako-
netta, in which James, George and Charles Blue Jacket received each about
1,000 acres in the reservation.
Quilna, another chief, was actually popular among the white pioneers.
He shared in all their sports and industries; was as good a workman as he
was a himter.
Little Fox, a brother of Pht, was an irreconcilable. Up to the departure
of this Indian for Kansas, he could not believe that he was doomed to leave
Ohio.
Tui'keyfoot, a peculiar formation, just as broad' as he was long, was a sav-
age capable of entertaining and practicing the most diabolical ideas. At
times he would induce himself to believe that he was on good terms with the
whites, and while in such a mood he would make a circuit of all the white
settlements.
Beaver, a young Delaw^are chief, who, with his band, made his home with
the Shawnees, was a favorite of Gen. Harrison. He it was who executed Lit-
tle Blue Jacket, in July, 1813, when that emissary of Proctor was on his way
to assassinate Gen. Harrison, at Fort Seneca.
Little Blue Jacket, an itinerant bravado of the Shawnee nation, who passed
some time with the British at ^Maiden, was dispatched by Gen. Proctor to
Ohio to introduce himself into the camp of the American Shawnees and Dela-
wares, who were then aiding the American army, and, when an opportunity
210 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
offered, to assassinate the American commander. Owing to the loyalty of Beaver
his design was foiled, and himself made the victim of his treachery.
Soo-de-nooks, son of Black Chief, mui'dered John Barnet's half brother
in October, 1830; was brought before a council of the Wyandots (of which
tribe both were members), and sentenced to banishment, while his property was
to become common to the tribe. This sentence was vetoed by the tribe, and
all men over twenty-one years of age assembled to try the case. There were
112 votes in favor of capital punishment and twelve in favor of the sentence
of the council. Three Christian and three heathen Indians were appointed
to caiTy out the new decision, viz. : Silas Armstrong, Joe Enos, Francis Cot-
ter, Lump-on-the-head, Soo-knh-guess and Saw-yan-wa-hoy. These savages
fired at the murderer, and Soo-de-nooks went straight to the country of all bad
Indians.
Grey Eyes was a regular Methodist minister — a pure Wyandot, and an un-
compromising ojiponent of the sale of the Big Spring and other reservations
until after the majority agreed to sell, when he also acquiesced. In 1843, he
moved West with the tribe, under Chief Jacques.
La-wa-tu-cheh (John Wolf), was a Shawnee of some note. Col. John
Johnston hired of him a trading house at Wapakonetta, and he often accom-
panied the Colonel on his trading trips in the forest among the different tribes.
He died at Wapakonetta.
Wa-the-the-we-la, or Bright Horn, was another noted chief, who was pres-
ent when Logan was mortally wounded in the contest with Winemac in 1812,
and was severely wounded in the thigh in the same fight, but recovered and
lived at Wapakonetta. He was, with Blackhoof, the especial friend of Gen.
Harrison in the war of 1812. He was a brave man, and of sound integrity.
He fought like a hero for our cause in the war of 1812. He was a large and
commanding Indian in appearance, and was quite shrewd and intelligent. He
died in 1826, at Wapakonetta.
Peter Cornstalk was a chief in succession to his father, who was assassin-
ated at Point Pleasant, Va. This Peter was a fine specimen of the Indian,
and a true fi-iend of the settlers in the Auglaize country. He moved to Kan-
sas in 1828 with the Prophet.
Nern-pe-nes-he-quah, also a son of Chief Cornstalk, went to Kansas in
1832.
Henry Clay, son of Capt. Wolf, was educated under the supervision of
Col. John Johnston, at Upper Piqua, at the expense of the Quaker Friends.
He af"t,erward became a leading chief and married the daughter of Jeremiah
McLaiu, formerly a member of Congress from the Columbus District, in 1835.
Way-wel-ea-py was the principal speaker among the Shawnees at the period
of their removal. He was an eloquent orator, grave, gay or humorous, as oc-
casion required. At times, his manner is said to have been quite fascinating,
his countenance so full of varied expression, and his voice so musical, that
surveyors and other strangers passing throiigh the country listened to him with
delight, although the words fell upon their ears in an unknown language.
During the negotiation for the sale of their reserve, he addressed his people
and Mr. Gardiner several times. His refutation of Gardiner's assumed supe-
riority over the Indian race was complete and full of irony. Col. George C.
Johnston often met this chief at his trading post in Wapakonetta, and says he
was a fine looking Indian, and cultivated the fi-iendship of the pioneers. He
was the principal speaker of the Shawnees, and delivered the opinions of
the tribe at treaties and in public assemblies. He removed West with his tribe,
where he died in 1843.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 211
Lollaway (John Perry), head chief of the Shawnees, often traded at the
station of Col. Johnston. He signed the treaty of 1831, at Wapakonetta.
He could converse fluently in English. He was a man of influence Avith his
tribe, and of good habits. He was much grieved when he learned that the
Shawnees had been deceived as to the value of their reservations. He went
West in 1832, and died in 1843.
The chief Oxonoxy resided where Charloe Village now stands. About the
year 1827 this savage killed his son-in-law and grandson; he was tried by a
council of chiefs, sentenced to be beheaded, but instead of cariying out the
sentence one of deposition was substituted.
Between-the-Logs, son of a Cayuga warrior and a woman of the Bear
band of Wyandots, was born at Lower Sandusky about three years prior to
Crawford' s defeat. At the age of twenty-five years he was sent to the Senecas
further up the river to study the doctrine and ways of the Seneca prophet, and
in 1806 visited the notorious brother of Tecumseh on a similar errand. He
exposed those false prophets, and in 1812 opposed the political teachings of
Tecumseh' s brother, even going so far as to ask the chief to ignore him, and
join the American army. Dui-ing the war of 1812 he won all the Senecas and
many of the Wyandots to the American standard; subsequently settled at Up-
per Sandusky; became a drunkard, killed his squaw, immediately became tem-
perate, visited Washington in 1817, and aftei-ward joined John Stewart' s Meth-
odist Mission, of which he was appointed exhorter. He died in 1827, and on
January 2, the day after, he was buried near the Mission Church, erected in
1825.
Warpole, the first chief of the Shawnees, elected after the death of Chief
Deimquot, gave place to Jacques, who was re-elected on New Year's day for
many years.
Mononcue, one of the ablest Indians of the decaying Wyandots, and one
of the chiefs after Warpole, died about 1835. He was an orator of the tribe,
and considered by old men to be much superior to Pomoacan, the great chief of
the tribe in 1782.
William Walker, son of the squaw Catherine Walker, died in 1871. He
was a quarter-blood Seneca.
Among the leading men of the Wyandots in 1843, known to the people of
Seneca County, were Jacques (the chief), Porcupine, Providence, Split-the-
Logs, Stand-in-the-Water, White Wing, Mud Eater, Bull Head, Peacock, Big
River, Big Tree, Black Sheep, Chop-the-Logs, Blue Jacket, Bear Skin, Caiy-
Hoe, Ciuly-Head. Washington, Lump-on-the-Head. John Hicks, Kill Buck,
Spy Buck, and others named in the foregoing sketches.
Sum-mum-de-Wat, one of the Christian Wyandots, and a chief of that
tribe, was one of the traest friends the first settlers of Seneca County claimed
among all the Indians. While entertaining a few whites, alleged land-hunters,
the guests murdered their hospitable host in Wood County in 1841, the genial
old Indian rested here in Seneca for a while, but in 1843 his ashes were re-
moved to Mission Church Cemetery.
White and Colored Cajytives and Breeds. — Sam Wells, the negro captive,
mentioned heretofore, did not go West with the Wyandots. He became
a charge on the people of Wyandot County, under the care of Reuben Low-
master, of Eden Township.
Spibey-the-Tailor, a breed, and Old Abe Taylor, a negro with Russell Russ,
a breed, and a few Indians, were to be found on the borders of this county.
Spicer' s sons and daughters — all of them as grotesque as their father' s cab-
in— maiTied in this county.
212 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John Carpenter was made captive by the Delawares (two of whom were
Moravians and speakers of the Dutch language) in February, 1<82, at Buffalo
Creek, Washington Co., Penn., and carried into Ohio. He escaped subse-
quently and retiu-ned to Pittsbui'gh. The same year Thomas Decker, Samuel
AVells,*a negro boy, were also captured. Timothy Dorman and his wife were cap-
tm-ed near Fort Buchanan, and carried into the wilderness of Ohio, but there is no
further account of them. About this time, also, the Delawares carried away the
wife and three childi-en of Eobert Wallace, while he was away fi'om home.
They murdered INIi's. Wallace and her infant near the Sanduskj^ River: one of
her 'boys died in the Sandusky country; the other was sold to the Wyandots
about 1812, and was rescued by his father about 1815. Even in 181 < there
were several captives among the Senecas and Wyandots, such as Spicer. Knisely,
Sarah Williams. IMi-s. Castleman, Eliza "Whittaker, SaUy Frost. Yan
Meter and others refeiTed to in the history of Ohio. Those who were carried
away in their youth, were raised by Indian foster mothers, and became more
Indian than the Indians themselves.
Sally Frost was a white girl, raised by a Wyandot woman after her capture,
and survived Tarhe, her Indian husband many years, and was among the
white pioneers of the Sandusky country.
Jonathan Pointer, was the name of a negro, who was captui-ed in Virginia,
taken to the Wyandot country, and who grew up here to be the slave of Tarhe.
He was also Girty's servant, 'subsequently Capt. Pipe's servant, and again an
employe of John Van Meter; was a fair interpreter, as well asrenderer of sacred
vocal inusic. While at the Van Meter place, he would interpret for preacher
Stewart and others, but when Stewart's doctrine became enigmatical, Pointer
would look as comic as a negro can look, and add: ''I don't know meself
whether that is so or not so. ' " He was leader in all musical entertainments at
the Mission Chm-ch, even as he was at an Indian or pioneer dance.
Benjamin Franklin Warner was not a captive, but a citizen of the Seneca
nation, having withdi-awn from American civilization. He was married to a
Mohican woman, named Konkepot, and with her came fi'om Green Bay. Wis.,
to Ohio, where he was hospitably received by the Senecas. In accompanying
his Indian fi-iends to the Xeosha. Konkepot 'died near the mouth of the Mis-
soui-i, leaving her child to Warner, who cared for the little Indian until he was
able to enter life for himself. Warner was the man-of-all-work, liberal, sober,
industrious and always agreeable.
Charlieu, like Jo'seph Tequania, was in the service of the French-Cana-
dian, and was presen^t on the Plains of Abraham, when the unfortunate death
of Montcalm gave the victory of that day. and all Canada to the British. He
subsequently served with the British. Charlieu was born about 1730. as a
child of the Mohawks, a nephew of the Brandts, man-ied a French half-breed,
spoke the French language, embraced Catholicism, came to Ohio with his tribe,
and in 1829 joined the Senecas. When the tribe moved, in 1831-32, to the
Neosha country, he set out on the overland trip, but died at St. Louis, Mo. .
April 26. 1832, from eating warm bread, and was interred in the old Catholic
cemeterv.
William Spicer, or Big Kittles, a captive of the Wyandots, was a native of
Pennsylvania, made captive about 1775, and brought to the Ohio River, where
the W'yandots would tie him to a tree near the river bank, so as to attract the
attenti'on of white travelers, who, on coming to release the boy, would them-
selves be captm-ed. He was moved to the Sandusky about 1 <78, grew up here,
and became a large stock-raiser and farmer. About 1821 he was hearten and
then robbed of several thousand dollars, it is alleged, by a carpenter named
X
':t€m '^>-
A;V
4, Vs, **
^'r'Xw
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 215
William Eollins, an employe of P. D. Butler, at Fort Ball, in 1821. At that
time Benjamin Barney and a constable named Papineau, a polished French-
Canadian, and Caleb Rice espoused Spicer's cause, arrested Rollins, Downing,
Butler and Case, brought them to trial, and had Rollins sentenced to eleven
years in the penitentiary. A year later Spicer himself signed a petition asking
pardon for the robber. A good deal of the !BG,000 or $7,000 stolen was
returned to this prosperous captive, who died here about 1830. One of his
daughters was the second wife of Crow, another captive. Spicer's cabin, like
himself, is said to have been the filthiest west of the Alleghenies. This Will-
iam Spicer was charged, in 1830, with the miirder of Drake, the mail carrier,
son of Judge Drake, of Marion County.
Robert Armstrong, to whom a section of land was granted at Fort Ball in
1817, was made captive in Pennsylvania, and adopted by a woman of the
Wyandot nation. He married a half-breed Indian, presumably of the Cayugas,
was employed as interpreter by the United States, as he could speak English
and Indian well, and thus ingratiated himself into the confidence of both
parties, until he was rewarded by the United States with this grant of 640
acres in one of the most beautiful spots in the State. In 1823 the President
issued a patent to him for this land, and the same year he sold 404 acres of it
to Jesse Spencer. He moved from Upper Sandusky to Fort Ball that year,
returned in 1824, and died within two miles of Upper Sandusky in 1825, on
the Wyandot Reservation.
William McCulloch, named in the treaty of 1817, was engaged for some
months as an interpreter by Gen. Harrison, and killed by a cannon ball while,
on duty at Fort Meigs in 1813. To his seven childi-en a section of land was
granted adjoining the Ai-mstrong Reservation at Fort Ball, which was subdivided,
and sold. In the history of Ohio McCulloch is mentioned as a half-bred, mar-
ried to a squaw or squaws.
John Van Meter, captured in West Virginia in 1778, by the Wyandots,
transferred to the Mohawks or Senecas in later years by his foster-mother,
was married to a Mohawk woman named Susan Brandt, sister of Thomas, Isaac
and Paulus Brandt, the last chiefs of the Mohawk nation, the remnant of whom
settled near Tiiln and resided in this county. The treaty of 1817 provided
that 1,000 acres of land should be granted to John Van Meter, his wife and
her three brothers. This was known as the ' ' Van Meter Reservation, ' ' on
Honey Creek, and was the home of John, Sr., until his death about 1824. In
1828 John Van Meter, Jr. , Thomas, Isaac and Paulus Brandt sold their inter-
ests in this reservation to Lloyd Norris for $2,500, and in 1829 young Van
Meter accompanied the twenty-five Mohawk families on their trans-Mississippi
journey.
Crow, or Jacob Knisely, was made captive in his youth by the Wyandots at
Loyal Hannah, Penn., and carried to the Ohio River; thence brought to the
Sandusky and transferred to the Senecas, with whom he moved West in
1831-32. He was made captive in 1778. Fifty years later his father came to
Seneca County and stayed at Crow' s cabin. The captive refused to answer any
questions, until Mr. Knisely said: "If you are my son, then your name is
Jacob. ' ' Crow responded enthusiastically, saying : ' ' That is my name and I
am your son. I recollect that, but I kept it all to myself for fear that somebody
would claim me and take me away." A very old Wyandot squaw, the woman
who adopted young Knisely and named him Crow, was sent for to the Wyandot
Reservation, and she confirmed the fact, but watched her foster-son, lest his
father would induce him to return to civilization. In early years Crow married
a Wyandot woman, who died, but before leaving for the West he took William
216 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Spicer' s daughter as his wife. He would not retiu-n with his father, parting with
him forever at Bellevue. He died in 1833. White Crow, a son of Crow by
his second wife, visited the old reservation here in 1852, after leaving his sons
in school at Dayton. He is now known as Jacob Knisely. "When here he
reported that the interpreter HeiTin murdered Peter Pork on the Neosha.
Good Hunter, a full-blooded Cayuga, is supposed to have been born on the
Sandusky about 1780. After the murder of Seneca John he took his place as
chief and counsellor.
Catherine Walker, and John Walker and William Walker her sons, were
well known settlers of Seneca Township. A grant of 610 acres was made to
them under the treaty of 1817, in consideration of John AValker's ser^dces to
the United States as a soldier, and on account of a severe wound which he
received. Their claim was away west of the Mohawk Reservation. Catherine
and her son William, conducted a store at Upper Sandusky. On their grant
was some fine timber, and there they established a saw-mill about 1856, built
a large house and soon cleared a beautiful forest.
John Stewart, an eighth-breed negro and Indian, was a native of Powhatan,
Va., failed in an effort to commit suicide in the Ohio River, next became a
convert to Methodism and then considered himself an instrument in the hands
of God to convert the Indians and even the French. In August, 1817, he
repeated his visit of November, 1816, to the Wyandots, used the negro —
Pointer — and Tom Lyons as interpreters and was making fair progress, when
Methodist missionaries visited Upper Sandusky in 1818 and spread the report
that Stewart was an unlicensed preacher, if not a mere pretender. In March,
1819, a Methodist Conference at Urbana conferred a license upon him, allowed
Anthony Banning to assist him, and when, in August, 1819, James B. Finley
was api^ointed presiding elder of the Wyandot country, this Stewart, as well as
James Montgomery, the Seneca sub-agent, were appointed missionaries.
When Montgomery was really established at Fort Seneca he retired fi'om
missionary life among the Wyandots. Moses Henkle succeeded Montgomery,
and henceforth John Stewart' s teachings and influences declined.
Buckwheat, a Delaware who had negro blood in his veins, was burned in
1827 for his secret dealings with witches, a charge proved against him at Little
Sandusky. Anthony Bowsher, who platted Bowsherville, Ohio, was present at
this execution, which was only sui-passed in cruelty by that of Col. Crawford,
forty-five years previously.
Tom Lyons, a Delaware and the friend of Anthony Wayne, who named him
Tom Lyons, was a very old and fierce wari'ior, having lived with his people in
Pennsylvania long before they retired into Ohio. He often stated that he sent
ninety-nine white men to meet in the happy hunting-grounds, and owing to his
prowess was given the fairest woman of the Delaware tribe as his wife. On
making his home at Fort Ball, he was accustomed to buy trinkets, ribbons, etc. ,
for this woman, and array her in the outfit of a queen. While living in this
simple way, two white hunters from Delaware County visited Fort Ball, and
finding Lyons in his cabin, sent him to the happy hunting-grounds.
Sally Williams, a quarter-breed, daughter of the Castleman woman, who in
her youth was made captive in Pennsylvania, became the squaw of Solomon
Jolmnycake. Three of her sons by Solomon served in the Kansas Infantry dur-
ing the war. Johnnycake and his wife were well known to all the settlers
along the Sandusky fi-om Tiffin up the river.
Billy Dowdee, known as Capt. Billy, was a fellow-scalper of old Tom Lyons,
but an extra-good Indian after the war of 1812. His son Tom, and his son-in-
law. Nickels, were two of the worst characters in the Wyandot country, the
HISTORY OF SENECA COUiNTY. 217
peers of Pixinpkin of the Senecas. Nickels was killed by one of the settlers of
Wyandot County, much to the satisfaction of his father-in-law.
Abduction of a paj^poose. —Immediately after the first business houses were
established at Tiffin, while yet the forest was untouched by the ax, save in a
few places on "Washington Street, south of Perry, the Indians were accus-
tomed to visit the new stores to trade. On one occasion a large number of men
and women crossed the river where now is the Washington Street bridge. The
men hitched their horses in a grove, which then stood between the site of the
Shawhan House and the river, while the women left their pappoose caches stand-
ing by the trees. All marched up to the village, but were no sooner gone than
an immense hawk, called by the Indians sea-eagle, swooped down, took one of
the little Indians in his talons, and soared away. On this discovery being
made, there was great son-ow among the savages. They quieted down after a
little while, and remained in the grove for three days, observing a solemn si-
lence all the while. On the third day the sea-eagle returned as if to explore,
when one of the women stepped forth, fired, and broiTght down the great bird.
Rejoicing followed, for the death of the little Indian was avenged.
CONCLUSION.
The dignity which poets and untraveled persons ascribe to the red man,
vanished the moment the European appeared. From this time he lost
all the noble qualities of the child of nature, and measured his evil doings
by his opportunities. He imbibed, as it were, all the viciousness of the
whites, but never essayed to emulate any of the few virtues with which the
conquerors were credited. To-day, in the far West, remnants of those old res-
idents of Ohio are still to be found, and among them many who remember their
old hunting grounds on the Sandusky. With few exceptions they are animated
monuments of moral deformity and physical decay, growing weaker and weaker,
dying in their young days with a curse for the white race lingering on their lips.
Only a short time and their history will alone remain to acquaint the future with
their existence ; the traveler will never find the camp of Ohio' s Red pioneers.
The Indians with then- bitter feuds, their wars of extennination, their alli-
ances with the British, their invasions, their revenges, theii- hates, are all gone.
Seldom do the thoughts of the higher people, who now own and cultivate their
lands, turn toward the West in sympathy with the aborigines. How different
with the exiles ? In their day-dreams, far away in Oklohoma, they look toward
the rising sun, and long to return to the land where they passed their youth,
to su.rround themselves again with the memoried scenes. May we not hope
that before they pass away these children of natui'e may learn from the past;
may arrive at a high state of civilization and then come among us to realize the
barbarous condition of their fathers, and conceive the littleness of their tribal
glories ?
218 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER in.
PIONEERS OF SENECA COUNTY.
COULD we evoke the genius of memory, and draw from those who are pass-
ing away so rapidly now, the reminiscences of pioneer times, how many sto-
ries we should glean of hairbreadth escapes in the wilds or in the waters — how
the hunters returned from the hunt laden with spoil, or of the adventiu-es of
those who had found some new paradise in then- wanderings over the prairie or
through the forests. We- can imagine how, after the long days had passed in
toil, and the semi-occasional mail had come in, that those few old settlers
would gather around their respective hearthstones and, with their pipes in their
mouths, and after carefully perusing the papers, not more than a month old,
review the events of the times, and compare notes as to progress in breaking
and clearing the lands. And especially when the shorter days of winter came,
and alone in the wilderness a month at a time, removed from communication
with fi-iends or relatives at their Eastern homes, how the ties of Western
fi'iendship would seem to di'aw closer, and the gatherings come oftener, and
when the shades of evening came, the wagon would be hauled up, the box
filled with a generous supply of hay, and the whole family take seats in the
bottom and hasten to visit their neighbors, a dozen miles away. And then the
sorrow, when some loved one was nearing the grave, and the cfoctor, hastily
summoned fi'om a score of miles away, gave no hope; how the sympathy of
all the country around was shown in kindly offers, watchers coming a long dis-
tance to give their aid, and the funeral gatherings, comprising the neighbors
for miles round. There were many bitter trials and hardships not conceivable
in these days, but they had their compensations, too, in the enlargement of the
love of humanity, in the earnest and true-hearted sympathy, and in unbounded
hospitality. Almost every house was a hotel, but it was a hotel without money
and without price, every traveler was welcome to come and go at fi"ee will, and
the thought of compensation seldom entered the minds of those free-hearted
dwellers in the wilds.
The first white man to whom travel in northwestern Ohio is credited, was
P6re Rasles. In 1G89 Father Easles came to America as a missionary to the
Abenaquis Indians. He was a devout man and a scholar, publishing a diction-
ary of the Indian language as one of the evidences of his zeal. Later on he
became a missionary to the IroqiTois, and followed them in their wanderings in
the West. In 1691 he returned to the East, settling in Norridgewock, Me.,
where, on the 12th of Axigust, 1724, he was killed diu'ing an attack iipon the
Indians by Capts. Harmon and Moulton, who ascended the river with a force
of 200 men. In August, 1885, a man named Hitchcock, while digging on the
site of the old village, unearthed a silver cross about five inches in length,
bearing the figui-e of the Saviour and a skull and cross-bones. From marks
upon this relic it is identified as the former property of the slaughtered priest,
whose memory is reverently regarded, and whose work is again brought to
mind by this singular discovery.
Probably the next white men to pass across this territory were the Mora-
vians, who, as prisoners, were taken fi'om the Moravian towns on the Tusca-
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 219
rawas River to Upper Sandusky, by British, emissaries. These peaceable Chris-
tian Indians were charged with being spies, and with holding treasonable cor-
respondence with the Americans at Pittsburgh and perhaps other points, and of
harboring other Indians friendly to the American cause. Upon these charges
they were arrested by Capt. Matthew Elliott, of the British army, who had
under his command about 300 hostile Indians. Making no resistance, they
were made captives, September 11, 1781, and by this overpowering force com-
pelled to leave their much-loved homes and take up their line of march for the
Sandusky River. Upon this march they followed the Indian trail down the
Tuscarawas to the mouth of the Walhonding, in Coshocton County; thence up
that stream to the mouth of the Kokosing; thence up the Kokosing, passing
over the spot upon which Mount Vernon now stands, and on to the Wyandot
town, near the present site of Upper Sandvisky. The missionaries thus forci-
bly removed were Revs. Zeisberger, Senseman and Jungman, of New Schon-
brunn; Revs. John Heckewelder and Jung, of Salem, and Rev. "William
Edwards, of Gnadenhutten. The point at which they were left to take care of
themselves, their wives, childi-en and Indian captives, was on the banks of the
Sandusky River, not far from where the Broken Sword Creek empties into it,
about ten miles fi'om Upper Sandusky. Here they selected a location, and,
without delay, built a village of small huts to protect themselves from the
inclemency of the weather. This village soon took the name of ' ' Captive' s
Town, ' ' and was situated on the right bank of the Sandusky River, about a
mile above the mouth of Broken Sword Creek.
The first French, Irish and Scotch settlers in the district of which Seneca
Coimty is the center were distinctly adventurers. Some of them were most
treacherous enemies of the young Republic, and all their consciences were elas-
tic when patriotism interfered with their purses or business prospects. San-
duski was the only true j)ioneer among them all. In reference to this ancient
settler in the Sandusky country, Jacob J. Greene, of Tiffin, wi'iting under date,
February 28, 1842, to the American Historical Journal, said: "The name, San-
dusky, is in such general use in our section of the State, that it has become
more extensively known, perhaps, than any other in the Union. The associa-
tions connected with it, ever since our State has been known to the whites,
with its conquest and settlement, are such as to make anything concerning it
interesting. Thinking that the origin of the name is not known to j ou, I send it
for the Pioneer, if this sketch should fall in with the design of yom' paper. At
the time the French were establishing their line of trading posts on the Wabash
and Maumee Rivers, nearly 100 years ago, connecting their operations on the
Ohio with their settlements at Detroit, a Polish trader, by the name of San-
dusky, or more properly spelt Sanduski, established himself near the present
site of Lower Sandusky, at the foot of the rapids of the river. His operations
in trading for furs, etc. , with the Indians, being entirely confined to the river
and bay, they soon became known to Europeans, and afterward to the Indians,
as Sanduski' s River and Bay. Sanduski, quarreling with the Indians, was
forced to quit the countiy for the settlements beyond the Ohio for safety. The
Indians, sometime after, followed and killed him in Virginia. So far as I can
learn, there are but two of the name in the country — his grandsons. One lives
in Kentucky, the other a few miles fi-om Danville, Vermilion Co. , 111. "
Capt. Matthew Elliott, an Irish Tory, who resided in that hot-bed of Tory-
ism, Path Valley, Penn. , remained there until his views led himself with others
of like opinions to fly to the West or to the British lines. He came to the Mus-
kingum in 1776, about the time the less prominent enemy of the young Repub-
lic settled there. November 13, 1776, he, with his squaw, and it is thought.
220 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John Leith, started out for the Scioto to trade, but was followed by six Indians,
who confiscated his goods and threatened to take his life. He escaped, how-
ever, and, going to Detroit, he and the notorious Alex. McKee were coiilmis-
sioned spies and Indian agents; and prior to 1785 were rewarded by Hamilton,
the British commandant, for their loyalty to the mother country. Elliott served
during the war of 1812 with the British, was afterward appointed agent of
Indian affairs, and died in Western Canada about the year 1818, the year
Simon Girty died (British Occupation, Longman, London). He it was
who brought the Moravians into captivity on the Sandusky and led on the
advance guard of Butler's white rangers, in 1782, and directed the man-
euvers of the Indians during the battle. There is but little doubt regarding
the presence of this British officer at the burning of Col. Crawford.
Thomas Girty, son of the notorious Simon Girty (who fled from Ireland to
escape the vengeance of the people, whom he betrayed), was the only one of
this really vicious band of Girtys, who failed to continue notorious.
Simon Girty, or Katepa-Comen, son of Simon first, was made a prisoner
during Braddock' s war, was adopted by the Delawares, and died a drimken
brawler. He had time to engage in those disgraceful murders which marked
the warfare of those times against the Americans. This white rascal died at
Maiden in 1815, where he resided, receiving a small pittance.
George Girty, another child of infamy, died without gratifying his
murderous inclinations.
James Girty, the fourth son of Old Simon, was an officer in the British serv-
ice. He was made a prisoner during Braddock' s war, was a notorious crim-
inal, as a thousand family histories in Kentucky and Ohio can tell, and died the
death becoming so much cruelty.
Michael Girty, another son of Old Simon, born after his father's murder,
and after the wife' s union with his murderer, was the son of an Indian woman.
This cut-throat served the British in Ohio some time, but in 1821 moved to
Illinois, where he engaged in wholesale miirder and rapine. In 1827 he was
interpreter for Gen. Cass, at the treaty of Bureau, subsequently aided Black-
Hawk, murdered the settlers at Indian Creek, carried off the Hall girls and died
in 1830.
William Hazle, whose father was a native of the north of Ireland, of
Scotch descent, and an associate of the Girty boys, must be ranked with them
in the social record, and hold the same place in the estimation of all good
citizens.
Alexander McCormick, one of the traders, who resided at Sandusky for
some years following the war of the K evolution, may be classed as an Irish-
American of the Path Yalley Tory type, but not so dangerous as Elliott, McKee,
Girty, and others of that class.
Francis Lavalle, one of the French traders of Lower Sandusky, was a most
impartial individual. He wished to see the British whipped, but detested the
idea of losing Americans, Indians and Moravians in such numbers. This was
the man who disobeyed the orders of Simon Girty, who told him: " Drive the
Moravians to Detroit, round the head of Lake Erie, on foot, and don't halt
even to let the women give suck to their children." Not only did he occupy
four days in taking the Moravians to Lower Sandusky, but sent to Detroit for
boats to transport them thither. While waiting Girty returned, threatened
to annihilate Lavalle as well as the Moravians, and woiild at least have made
them tramp to Detroit, had not the boats arrived. This same Lavalle visited
the Moravians at New Gnadenhutten, Macomb Co., Mich., afterward, and was
one of that band of American friends which comprised the Godfreys, Knaggs,
etc. , of the Detroit country.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 221
Jolin Leith, a native of Scotland, came to the colonies with his parents,
moved to Ohio with an Indian trader, was adopted by the Indians, and about
1779, mai'ried a white captive, named Sallie Lowry, abducted fi'om Big Bone,
near Pittsbm-gh. On the dispersion of the Moravians, he was factor for some
British traders at Sandusky, ,and may be said to have remained in this neigh-
borhood until 1790, when he moved to Pittsbui-gh. Before the Senecas left
this county, Leith returned, and died in 1S32. His son, Samiiel, was the first
white child of English speaking parents born in the Sandusky Valley, his birth
taking place about 1779 or 1780. June 3, 1782, he packed his cattle, horses,
goods and valuables in readiness to flee from Col. Crawford's army, and set out
on the -Ith to Lower Sanduskj^. Late in the forenoon of that day, he met Capt.
Matthew Elliott, pushing forward to Upper Sandusky, and, later, encountered
Col. Butler's white rangers, who deprived him of his cattle, and then gave
him a permit to proceed to Lower Sandusky. That night he camped in the
Seneca country, on the west bank of the Sandusky, fourteen miles above the
lower village.
Butterfield, in Cranford's Expedition against Sandusky, relates the follow-
ing incident: "It will be remembered that this man (John Leith) had en-
camped on the night of June 4, 1782, about fourteen miles above Lower San-
dusky, on the river. Just after he had fixed his camp and put his horses out
to graze, a Frenchman, an interpreter to the Indians, made his appearance
from below. 'Well,' said he, 'I believe I will stay with you to-night, and
take care of you.' Leith informed his visitor that he was welcome for the
night, at the same time explaining his intention of making a very early start
on the morrow. Next morning, * * * ^ report was heard which
they believed to be a cannon at Upper Sandusk}-. The interpreter clapjDed his
hands in great glee. ' I shall be there before the battle is begun,' said he, and
rode off. This Frenchman joined the "Wyandots, disguised as an Indian, and
was shot through the heart the same day on which he parted fi'om Leith. The
story is told to show that the British regular troops and their artillery were en-
gaged against the Americans, at Battle Island. ' ' At this time also, the Dela-
ware and Wyandot women and children, and a negro boy, named Samuel
Wells, a captive among them, wei'e placed in a camp constructed in a deep ra-
vine, north of the mouth of Tymuchtee Creek, in what is now Seneca County.
The negro stated that this camp was about one mile south of the mouth of the
Tymochtee, but William Walker assured Butterfield that the young African's
compass, or his idea of it, was wrong. Otherw^ise the Delaware women and
children alone camped south of the Tymochtee.
The treaty of the Miami of the Lake, negotiated September 29, 1817, gives
some facts of general interest to the reader of pioneer histoiy, becaiise therein
are set forth a number of names of white captives, who intermairied with the
Indians, and became the fii*st white American settlers in Seneca County. In
Article VIII, of that treaty, the following provisions are made:
"To Robert Armstrong, who was taken prisoner by the Indians about 1786,
when four years old, and has ever since lived with them, and has married a
Wyandot woman, a daughter of Ebenezer Zane, O-IO acres on the west side of
the Sandusky; to begin at the place called Camp Ball, and to run up the river
with the meanders thereof 160 poles, and fi*om the beginning down the river
with the meanders thereof 160 poles, and from the extremity of these lines
west for quantity. ' ' The name given to him by the Big Turtle band was Ono-
vandoroh. He died at Upper Sandusky' in April, 1825. To the children of
the late William McCulloch, who was killed in AngiTst, 1812, near Manguajon,
and who are quarter-blood Wyandot Indians, 640 acres on the west side of the
222 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Sandusky River, adjoining the lower line of the tract granted to Armstrong,
and extending in the same manner, with and from the river.
James Ai-mstrong, or Zee-Shawhan, a chief of the Delawares, and his
fi-iend, San-on-doy-om--ay-quay, or Silas Armstrong, another chief of the same
tribe, were granted nine square miles of land for their own use, which was laid
out at Capt. Pipes' village, at the mouth of the Tymochtee.
The Tequania family, particularly Joseph, Louis, head chief of the Senecas,
and the one-eyed medicine woman, twin sister of the chief, possessed a fair
knowledge of the iirst civilization of the period, and imitated the French-
Canadians as far as it was possible for the Indian to mimic.
South of the Seneca Reservation the Van Meters. Walkers and others, bore
a similar relation to the Americans of the thirteen States, and to them were
granted large and beautiful tracts of land, within a few miles of the present
county seat.
In addition to the grants named, one Elizabeth Whitaker, who was taken
prisoner by the Wyandots, was granted 1,280 acres (presumably for herself
and her Indian childi-en), on the west side of the Sandusky, just below Cro-
ghansville.
Still another grant was made of 160 acres, on the east side of the Sandusky,
below Croghansville, at a place called Negro Point, to Sarah Williams, widow
of the deceased Isaac Williams, a half-blood Wyandot, and her children,
Joseph and Rachel Williams, the latter just then married to a half-breed
named Nugent. Sarah Williams was a white captive of the Wyandots. but
thoroughly Indian in her habits and manner.
The Cherokee Boy or Horonn, a chief of the Wyandots, and a great friend
of the whites, pretending to be a white man himself, was granted a section of
land on the Sandusky. His brother, also, was considered in the treaty.
The Walkers, Van Meters and others, mentioned in the Indian Chapter-, as
well as in the histories of the townships, may be classed among the Indian
residents.
Actual Settlement. — The settlement of the county by Americans may be said
to begin in 1817, though, in reality, the actual useful pioneer did not make
his presence known here until 1819, when Eden, Clinton and Pleasant Town-
ships received their first quota of American pluck and enterprise. In these
townships, and in those times, men cast aside old fi'iends, childhood' s home, a
thousand endearing scenes, to embrace a life in the forest, with Indians for
neighbors and the wilderness for a garden. Then it was that the rail-fence,
a time-honored institution, was introduced into northwestern Ohio. In Pleas-
ant and Eden Townships the first fences were erected, and there also were they
entwined in shrubs and wild flowers — wild ivy, cinque foil, dewberry, sweet
fern, anise, artichoke, sun-flower, gaunt mullens, red-capped sumac, rasp-
berry, and a thousand other weeds and flowers and shrubs, such as the creep-
ing mallow and hazel. Then the fi'isky squirrel played along his new highway
and garnered his winter fare at ease, and the animals of the forest came to its
corners and viewed, as man would some novel sight, the first faint gleam of
civilization among the trees.
O Time! preserve this picture; photograpli it on my mind I
In richest colors print it there; leave no outline undefined!
What care I what foreign tourists tell; 'tis of little consequence—
They can never mar the beauty of the zigzag old rail-fence!
Erastus Bowe, who was, in fact, the first permanent white settler within
the present limits of Seneca County, arrived at Fort Ball, November 18, 1817,
in company with two other men. who remained just long enough to assist him
.J
^••iif
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 225
in erecting a log-house. That log-house stood almost in the center of North
Washington Street, near the bridge, and within it the first hotel or tavern in
Seneca County was established, and the first actual settlement of the county
begun.
Erastus G. Bowe, born in Delaware County, Ohio, April 5, 1818, was brought
to Tiflin by his parents, June 7, 1818, and is the senior old resident of the county.
He resides in a brick cottage on the east side of the street, opposite St. Mary' a
Church, and gives promise of participating in the Centennial of the first set-
tlement of what now constitutes Tiffin City.
Paul D. Butler and others, referred to in the history of Tiffin, were con-
temporary settlers, coming fi'om Massachusetts to Delaware, Ohio, in 1808,
and to Fort Ball in 1817.
Hugh Welch, son of Felix and Margaret (Barnes) Welch, the former of
Derry, Ireland, and a soldier of the Kevolutionaiy war, was born in Beaver
County, Perm., February 18, 1801; moved with his parents to Huron County, in
1816, and to Seneca County in February, 1819, making the first American
settlement in Eden Township. He married, vSeptember 18, 1823, Miss Polly,
daughter of John Gibson ; was appointed the second postmaster in the county,
August 4, 1825; moved to Wyandot County about 1834, and was commissioned
associate judge of Crawford Comity in September of that year; founded the
village of Mexico, and resided in that neighborhood until his removal to Green
Spring. His wife died June 6, 1869, at the springs, where she was the first
patient on their opening, January 1, 1868.
Thomas Welch, brother of Hugh, settled in Eden Township in February,
1819, and dying here soon after, was the first white American bm-ied in the
township.
John Welch, another brother, settled in Eden Township in June, 1819.
He was the first preacher stationed at Toledo, and was subsequently represent-
ative from Seneca County in the Legislature.
Martin Welch, still another brother, moved to Wyandot County about 1834,
and died there.
Felix Welch, the father of these pioneers, was also a pioneer of the county,
and is buried in Seneca County.
James Montgomery, the first Indian agent for the Senecas, and known to
them by the name, Kuckoo-Wassa. or New Acorn, was born in Westmoreland
County, Penn. , November 20, 1776, about the time his father died at Johns-
town, N. J., while serving in the American army against the British. In
1793 he, with his mother, moved to Kentucky, and located on one of the Tom-
ahawk claims. Thirteen years later, in 1806, he married Miss Keziah Eouse,
and the same year settled within eight miles of Urbana, Ohio, where he was a
local Methodist preacher. Dru-ing the war of 1812 he was appointed commis-
sary officer by the governor. In 1819 he was appointed agent for the Senecas,
and, in November of the same year, moved to old Fort Seneca, in Pleasant
Township. He resided in one of the block-houses for some time; then moved
another block-house close to the first one, which the family occupied, and both
houses formed the agency quarters until 1826, when he built the log-house
near the old fort, in which he resided to the time of his death, June 1, 1830.
Of his eleven children, IVIrs. Sally Ingham, of Tiffin, alone survives. This
lady was born in Champaign County, Februaiy 4, 1811; was married, March
25, 1832, to Milton Frary, who died in 1852. In 1869 she married Alexander
Ingham, of Cleveland, Ohio, who died in April, 1870.
The Barneys, Rices, McNutts, and others, reference to whom is made in
the history of Pleasant Township, were contemporary settlers.
226 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Nehemiah Hadley was the first white settler in Bloom Township, having come
here from Fairfield County, Ohio, with J. C. Hampton, who brought his goods
to this point in 1821. Hampton retm-ned the following year with the Seitzes,
Kagys and others. About this time the Hadleys left the township, sailing to
Cau'o, 111. , by the water coiu'ses, and thence by steamer up the Mississijjpi, to
their new hunting grounds in Iowa. Hadley was a most successful hunter and
trapper, being accustomed to take down a half dozen of deer, in the Honey
Creek countiy, between sundown and sunrise. The first permanent settlement
is credited, however, to Noah Seitz, April 5, 1822.
William Anway, who settled in Scipio Township in 1821, erected the first
cabin in the township. His granddaughter, Mary (Anway) Wilcox, was the
first white child born there, and her father, John Anway, the first man mar-
ried in the township.
Michael Arbogast, it is claimed, was the first settler of what is now Seneca
Township. Owing to the condition of the old records, and the general char-
acter of the history contained in them, it is difficult to credit the township with
its fii-st white pioneer. Arbogast settled there in 1820; William Arnold settled
south of the base line in 1823; the Aikens, Andersons and Crockers located
there about that time.
Joseph Parmenter, at whose house the first township election was held, in
May, 1820, and his contemjDorary settlers, were the first jjermanent residents of
Thompson Township — Trapper Snow, however, must be considered the first
white resident.
Cornelius Gilmore, a blacksmith, settled on Honey Creek, where now is the
village of Attica, in 1827. His was the first cabin erected in Venice Township;
Johnson Ford, Ezra Gilbert and Samuel Halsted cut the first road in this town-
ship in 1828.
John Chaney and Williard Sprague may be named as the fii-st settlers of
Hopewell Township in 1822 or 1823, having made some improvements on the
school section. Robert and Nathan Shippey were contemporary settlers.
Neal McGaffey, one of the earliest settlers of Tiffin, was also one of the
first to set foot in Loudon Township. Owing to the fact that the first actual
settlement of Loudon was eflPected simultaneously by several families, there is
no first settler to be named in connection with this division of the county.
Heniy HofPman, who settled in Jackson Township in 1827, came thither fi-om
Perry County, Ohio, and entered lands on the southeast quarter of Section 36.
His death is noticed in the local history.
George Puffenberger entered land on Section 28, Liberty Township, and
settled there in August, 1825, as the pioneer of the township.
The Jenkins brothers, old traders at Big Spring, and Arch Johnson, may
be named as the first settlers of Big Spring Township.
Seth Read and George Raymond were contemporary settlers of Reed Town-
ship. They came fi'om Steuben County, N. Y., and entered their lands on
Section 24 (near Omar), in January, 1825. The townshij) was named Read,
but is now known as Reed Township, and Cook's Gate, on Section 12, is known
as Reedtown. Hunter Snow was a contemporary settler, after his first settle-
ment in Thompson Township.
Early Town Builders. — In the foregoing pages brief references are made to
the men who fii'st entered each division of the county, and opened the way, as
it were, to future settlers. No sooner were the first clearings made in each of
the townships, than a continuous stream of immigrants poured in, spreading
out from Fort Ball in every direction until almost every section contained a
family. Among the new-comers were such men as Josiah Hedges, who founded
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. *227
a beautiful city; the Crockers and Fosters, founders of Eome; J. Gorsuch,
founder of Risdon; tlie Eobertses, Butlers. Welches. Benjamin and John Jenkins,
Erastus H. Cook, D. C. Henderson, Anthony Schindler, Philip J. Price, Julius
and Thomas T. Treat, Case Brown, John "^Miller, Samuel Waggoner. Isaiah
Hollopeter, John Betts, Abraham Ash, Erastus Bowe, Vincent' Bell, John
Terry. Isaac Catlin, Sidney Smith (Sea), Hemy F. Kaestner, William Brinker-
hoff, John Campbell, Frederick Harpster, Jacob Komer, George Schock, Will-
iam Miller, Samuel Miller, Hector Kilbourne, Myron Kilbourne and Cornelius
Gilmore — all founders of cities or villages. Then came the Gibsons, Seneys,
Nobles and hundi-eds of others, who settled throughout the county, and be-
queathed, so to speak, to their adopted home a number of men who do honor
to-day to the professions and trades. It is deemed proper to deal with the
pioneers of 1819-40, in the history of the townships wherein they settled; be-
cause their lives, as a rule, have heen identified with the beginnings and prog-
ress of such townships, and, further, for the reason that the part they have,
taken in building up the county, as a whole, is precisely treated on in the several
chapters of the general history of the county — notably the organic, political
and military chapters, the courts and bar, physicians and other chapters.
PIONEEE ASSOCIATION.
It has ever been a day of rejoicing when pioneers should meet; when the
old settlers of the land should come together to renew their memories and
cheer up their souls. In the dim past, when, after Babel, the migrations of
the people first assumed an extensive form, the idea of periodical reimion was
initiated, and soon was rendered practicable. Over 2,000 years ago the spot
on which the capital city of the French republic now stands, was hallowed by
an assembly of its first settlers, asseml^led to sacrifice to the gods in thanks-
giving for their new and beautiful land. Revert to those olden times, and the
conception of those happy gatherings will remind us of their utility. If. then,
the barbarians of antiquity observed the custom, and were soothed into peace
during the observance of such a festival, how much more is it becoming in
the people of this our day to participate with the old settlers in celebrating
their coming and their stay; to meet old and tried fi'iends; to share in the joy's
of such an occasion ? Throughout the length and breadth of this great land,
the large-souled pioneers, who contributed in the first instance to make it
great, assemble periodically to commune with one another, to interchange
thoughts of the past, and express their admiration of the busy activities of
the present. The pleasui-es of such meetings are known only to " the pioneers.
Their childi-en never can conceive the feelings such meetings awaken, or the
happy memories which they summon up. For the old settlers alone these
meetings have an undying interest; and though the young may possibly share
a little in the joys of the old, youth can never summon to its aid the same
endearing thoughts of the past, or entertain for the soil they tread that beau-
tiful veneration implanted in the hearts of the old settlers. They alone saw
the virgin soil, and linked their fortunes with it; their industry tamed the
beautiful wild land until it yielded retm-ns a hundred-fold; their 'hands deco-
rated the forest farm with a modest yet comfortable cottage; and now, in
declining years, they have that homestead in which to take a pride, and these
happy meetings to yield them pleasiore.
The meetings of old residents of Seneca County were carried on for years
irregularly without organization, and were consequently sectional in character.
During the summer of 1868 and the winter of 1868-69, a determined efPort
was made to organize an old settlers' association. Notices of the meetino-s
228 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
were published in the newspapers, signed by many representative pioneers,
and February 22, 1869, a society was organized — Mrs. Anne E. Seney sign-
ing the roll tirst.
The first officers of the association were Hemy Kuhn, president; Philip
Seewald, vice-president; William Lang, secretary, and Lyman \Yhite, treas-
urer. This organization may be said to have continued intact until October,
1878, when the president died; and since that time there is no record of trans-
actions.
The pioneer society of Crawford, Seneca and Wyandot Counties, has, in
fact, taken the place of an old association of this county, and is presided over by
Dr. Isaac Kagy, of Eden Township. The last annual meeting was held in Shock' s
Grove, near Melmore, September 5, 1885. Dr. Kagy, in an addi-ess delivered
on this occasion, says : "It was the original purpose of the institution of these
picnics to show oui- respect, and to testify our appreciative regard for the bold-
hearted pioneers of this country. The events of their useful lives, collated and
recorded, constitute the history of our countiy. To locate a home in an Amer-
ican forest, inhabited by savage beasts and by a still more savage human race,
and unbroken for miles around by the stui'dy woodsman's blow, was an act of
moral heroism that equals the most daring exploits of the battle-field. His
dangers, his privations, his arduous labors and his unflagging courage entitle
him to be hailed the hero of the forest. But when dangers threatened and
enemies environed his glorious country the hero of the forest became, also, the
hero of the field. When we follow his line of march and chronicle his succes-
sive achievements, we find his labors combined the matters and facts of his-
tory; the expansion of communities; the institution of schools and other educa-
tional agencies; the planting of churches, developing the arts and resources of
peacefuf industry; the processes of manufacture, and the means and methods
of commerce." Gen. W. H. Gibson, ex-Gov. Foster and others dwelt on the
importance of local history, and related many stories of pioneer days.
Pioneer Reminiscences. — The story of early settlement is filled with stir-
ring reminiscences of olden days, some ranging away up in the sublime, others
lying away down in the regions of the ridiculous, all forming a part in that
di-ama of real life out of which has risen one of the wealthiest counties of rich
Ohio. Some of such stories have found a place already in the Indian history,
a great number find mention in the histories of the townships; in one or two
instances they creep into church history, and even the very dryness of the
political chapter could not keep them out. Here, however, a few sketches are
introduced in portrayal of pioneer days, so that the younger reader may hear
of the manners and customs of the past; the primitive, humble ways in which
the county was raised in its infancy, and, reading, learn to appreciate the advan-
tages which the present offers.
Among the first events which mark the beginning of progress in this county,
are those referred to in the following memoranda. It could be extended to
great length, but, in the history of the townships, the history of those enter-
prises is fully given.
The first block-houses erected in the county, other than Indian cabins, were
at Fort Ball.
The first road was cut from Upper to Lower Sandusky in 1812.
Erastus Bowe was the first American settler, in 1817.
Paul D. Butler erected the first saw-mill, in 1819.
Ezra and Case Brown erected the first grist-mill, above Melmore, in 1821.
Oakley or Vance' s Town was the first surveyed village.
The first postoffice was established at Oakley in 1820, with David Kisdon,
postmaster.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 229
The first high water in the Sandusky, within the historic period, was in
1821.
The first township election, that of Thompson Township, was held May 20
1820.
The first county elections were held in April, 1824, but not till October of
that year were the annual elections held.
James Montgomeiy was the first Indian agent, and took a part also in
proselyting the Indians, 1819.
The first United States survey of the county was made in 1820.
Capt. Eice and J. Chapin made the first coffin, in 1820.
The first patent for lands was issued to John Anway for the west half of the
southwest quarter of Section 23, Township 2, Range 15.
The first frame house was erected for Josiah Hedges, in 1822.
Dr. Eli Dresbach was the first resident physician, in 1823.
The first orchard was set out by John Keller, in 1824, in Clinton Township.
Rudolphus Dickenson was the first lawyer, in 1824.
The first citizen naturalized in the county was William Doyle, in 1824.
The first court of justice was opened April 12, 1824.
The first person lost in the coimty was a son of Elijah Brayton, in 1825.
The first jail was completed in March, 1826.
The second United States survey of the county was made in 1832.
The first newspaper. The Seneca Patriot, was published in 1832.
Political parties were first regularly organized in the cou.nty in 1832.
The first case of cholera in the county resulted in the death of John Hub-
ble, in August, 1834. Sixty-three persons died of this di-eadfid disease at that
time.
The first call for the Seneca County Militia, to take part in the Toledo war,
was made April 22, 1835.
The town of Tiffin was incorporated March 7, 1835.
The first village election held in the county was that of Tiffin, in June, 1836.
Dr. Henry Kuhn was elected the first mayor of Tifiin, in June, 1836.
The first agricultural society was organized in 1839.
The first railroad entered the county in 1839, being constructed to Republic
that year, and to Tiffin in 1841.
The Seneca County Bank opened November 13, 1847.
The first telegraph line was built in 1849.
The first plank and toll roads were begxm in 1849.
Jacksonian Days and Manners. — The people, their manners, their customs
in their homes and outside their homes, differed materially fi'om the citizens of
to-day, in the fact that they were better than the times in which they lived and
acted, and, perhaps, superior in many respects to the remarkable cosmopolitan
race who came after them to take up their enterprises and complete the first
half-centuiy's work.
Looking back over the last half-centiuy a contemporary writer gives the fol-
lowing word-painting of early times, manners and customs: ''The United
States of to-day is quite another nation from the seven by nine United States of
Jackson's time. Then California was almost a myth. Indiana was the 'far
West. ' People traveled by stage coach. Thousands lived and died without
ever going beyond the bounds of their native counties. The steamboat paddle-
wheels had just begun churning our river water. Washington was a dismal
country village. More than suspicion of insanity would have attached to the
man who would have announced that his children would ' cable ' a message
from New York to London, or that the people miles apart would talk to each
230 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
other viva voce. Sails alone bore the traveler across the Atlantic. Fortunate
was the ship that made the passage in three weeks. Cultured travelers from
Em-ope were shocked at the rawness and provincialism everjTvhere prevalent.
Opera all but unknown. The danseuse was an immoral spectacle. Negro min-
strelsy had just commenced its career in the shape of a single burnt cork per-
former at the circus. His popular melody was * Jump Jim Crow. ' Popular
sentimient still handed down fi'om the war of 1812 was bitter against England.
City landlords sat at the head of their own tables and carved the beef-steak.
In religion 'liberalism' was heretical. In no pulpit was any compromise
allowed in the matter of eternal punishment. The locality for lost souls was
then a clearly dehned fire and brimstone reality. Preachers of different sects
waged bitter war against each other. Presbyterianism fi'owned on Methodism.
In countiy towns Catholicism meant the dreaded dominion of the Pope, and
the burning of all Protestants at the stake, if possible. ' Stocks ' and high
shirt collars were then the fashion for gentlemen's neck wear. Beards and ,
mustaches were not respectable. Gentlemen did their own shaving. Panta-
loons were strapped under the boots. All boots were ' "Wellingtons ' and had
legs. The general school system meant the ' district school, ' and the acad-
emy, a consiunptive and irritable Connecticut teacher, a 'box stove' filled
with wood, and a Pike's Arithmetic. Party feeling was far more bitter than
to-day. The old Federal and colonial families who had held office since Wash-
ington" s time, and deemed ofiice theirs by a sort of divine right, had just been
ousted, and they never forgave Jackson, the ouster. The militia were anned
with fiint-lock muskets. A militia-general was then a man of mark. Eveiy-
body chewed Mrs. Anderson' s or Miller' s fine-cut tobacco. The spittoon found
its place even in the family pew at chm-ch. A visit to New York by the vil-
lager resident 200 miles distant was an event to be talked over for months. A
man who had seen Europe was a marked man for the remainder of his days.
Doctors dosed with "blue mass.' black di-aughts and the lancet, yet people occa-
sionally recovered in spite of them. Good butter was a shilling a pound, and
eggs dear at 18 pence a dozen. Few men took over one daily paper, and this
often served more than one household. Democrats were known as ' Locofo-
eos,' to whom were opposed the' Whigs.' All the elders stood bolt-upright
in church diu-ing prayer. Deacons with red noses were more common than
to-day. The minister was not averse to a glass of toddy dui-ing a parochial
call. Pillars of the church and of society sometimes walked home fi'om their
business" offices rather unsteadily about 5 or 6 o" clock. Such habits were more
overlooked than at present. The yearly expenses of the Federal Government
was not much over that per annum of the city of New York to-day. Rum was
the popular di-ink; brandy next. ' ' To-day the survivors of pioneer times are the
most abstemious inhabitants, and all round the country the thinking citizen has
abolished the use of alcoholic drinks within his home.
Land-hunting and Cabin Building. — When the lands of Seneca County
were declared open for entry, the land-hunters came in great numbers, so that
by the year 1882 there were very few sections in the county but belonged to
the actual settler or speculator. Some buyers were guided to the lands, while
others relied solely on the United States land map of the district. After many
troubles and difficulties in finding the location, they generally sl^cceeded. built
the log-house, and actually made a small clearing. This primitive dwelling
was constructed of small logs, with a roof of split wood, each rail having a
channel or glitter hewed on the flat side. Over the under tier of those rails
was another tier, arranged with the semicircular surface exposed, and the
edges resting on the verge of gutters cut in the center of the flat side of the un-
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 231
der tier. The floor was planked with pnncheon staves; the door and instruments
for dealing with intrnding Indians were also made of the same. The fire-place
was constructed of clay, which one of the builders pounded into mortar by the
use of his bare feet. This was mixed with small twigs, and placed in shape.
The chimney, springing from such a foundation, was formed of small sticks
and a mortar similar to that just referred to, was generally built outside the log
walls, but in some instances, as in Bloom Township, within the cabin. There
are a few of the original cabins still standing; while many modern log-cabins,
with shingled roofs, plastered and papered interior, and well furnished, are
found throughout the county. Even in Tiffin and Fostoria the modern log-
cabin is still to be seen, but there is little of the romance of the old home in
the forest attached to them.
Temperayice Raisings. — The construction of a log-cabin in the wilderness
generally brought together two parties of men, each party differently consti-
tuted. The first were men accustomed to the use of the ax — shanty -men who
selected a tree at a glance and as soon had it cut down. Those were the log-
rollers. The second party ranked as raisers, were ruled by the corner-man, and
labored with a will and earnestness which money could not purchase. The
chief of the raising-bee was the owner of the proposed cabin, and fi'om him
was expected all that pioneer hospitality suggested or his means would allow.
Plenty of whisky was the first actual necessity of such an occasion, and for
years the primitive cabins were, so to speak, raised and dedicated in whisky.
The evil was too manifest to be tolerated many years, and fi'om each corner
of the county came whisperings that Hezekiah and Jonas, and Elijah would
have their cabins raised on the temperance plan. AVhen such resolutions were
made, they were, as a riile, earned out; but in some instances whisky had to
be procured before the log-rollers woiild proceed into the forest, or the corner-
man lay the first ground-log. In later years, however, men learned to respect
the opinions of others, and hundi-eds of cabins were raised without the presence
of alcohol.
Old- Time Grist-MiUs. — In the earlier years of the county, and even for two
decades after its organization, the corn-grinder and wheat-pounder were grum-
bling members of the pioneer's family. The difference between the mills now
used for the manufacture of flour and those of half a century ago are as marked
as those between the modern woolen-mill and the old-fashioned loom in which
homespun cloth was manufactured for the purpose of providing stout and serv-
iceable garments to clothe the hard-working farmer and his sons. During
the first days of settlement corn was ground in a hollow stump with a huge
pounder inserted in it worked by manual labor, and sometimes so arranged as
to warrant the application of horse-power. In this county however, the use
of this primitive mill was very limited. In ancient times wheaten bread was
the exception; the daily bread of the rural household was made of rye and
Indian corn. Two or three bushels of wheat were regarded as a sufficient
allowance for a moderate family, and that ground into flour was kept for such
state occasions as quiltings, weddings. Thanksgiving and other holidays, when
the good wife was wont to exercise her culinary skill in compounding short-
cake to grace the bountifully-spread table. It was also considered the proper
thing to have a loaf or two of wheat bread on hand in the house should the cler-
gyman or other respected visitor come to take tea. The grinding of the wheat
was usiially a matter of considerable solicitude on the part of the owner of the
grist. A bushel or two was measured up in a bag and thrown across the back
of a gentle and trusty farm-horse, and the owner would wend his way to the
mill, where, while waiting for it to be ground, he would have an opportunity
232 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
to gossip with the dusty-coated miller, if that gruff individual would only eon-
descend to chat with his customer, The miller, however, would satisfy the
farmer that the run of stone was perfectly clean, and free from rye flour and
corn meal, and this point settled, the wheat was dumped into the hopper and
ground. The farmer then wended his way homeward, knowing that the good wife
would test the flour, and reward him for his supervision of the mill and miller
by short-cake and golden butter.
There are several instances of record where the early settlers had to subsist
on a soup made of flour and milk or flour and water, so that the small supply
of flour could be extended, so to speak, until the hungry consumers could labor
under the delusion that they had a meal. During such times the hunters of
the settlements were not idle; so that while the pioneers were denied many, if
not all, those various tempting morsels which the house-wife could prepare
from flour, they were treated to rich meals of venison and copious draughts of
whisky, two staple articles of domestic life in pioneer times.
Wolves. — "Wolves were rather troublesome neighbors in early days. They
made frequent visits to the early settlers, and would make the very earth
tremble with their howlings and complaints to the intruders of their time-
honored homes. Some parts of the county were unenviable settlements on
this account. One occupation of the boys and larger girls of the day used to
be to fire the old stumps aboiit the place in the evening, to scare away the
wolves. On the east side of the river these animals were particularly vicious,
and for years after the organization of the county, hunters and trappers
earned large sums of money as bounty for wolf-scalps. There was, however,
one old wolf, a wanderer, which made periodical trips along the river bank.
The dogs would not molest her, and she seemed to care for neither man nor
beast. She had been caught once in a steel trap, and all efforts to entrap her
again were, for a long time, unsuccessful. Even the children, in time, seemed
to distinguish her voice from other wolves, and were in the habit of listening
for her on certain nights. She seldom disappointed them, and made night
hideous with her howls. She, however, went the way of all such game, and
may be said to be the last of her tribe which made the county a home.
Deer Hunting. — It is said that deer were plentiful in the comity up to the
fall of 1832, when the noise made by Jackson Democrats caused them to flee
to some less demonstrative district. Such hunters as Snow and Hadley had,
however, something to say in the matter of the disappearance of this beautiful
habitant of the wilderness.
Toledo Wai'. — September 7, 1885, a half -century had elapsed since the
closing up of the Toledo war— well styled the arch-squabble of the pioneer
days of Ohio and Michigan. This trouble grew out of the claims of Michigan
to a strip of land, known as the Six Mile Strip, now belonging to Ohio. It was
early in the spring of 1835 that Gov. Mason, acting-governor of Michigan,
ordered Gen. Brown to hold the Michigan militia in readiness, and later the
militia was called into service.
A large force was marched down from Detroit, and were joined at Monroe
by the force raised here, and the army then marched upon Toledo. Capt.
Hemy Smith, afterward a colonel in the army, and Alpheus Felch were on
Gen. Brown' s staff, and the late Warner Wing was colonel. One of the most
conspicuous figures in that campaign, Capt. Lewis Darrah, who commanded a
company, mostly of Frenchmen, with Gabriel and David Bissonette as lieu-
tenants, is still residing in Michigan. Capt. Darrah had a gorgeous uniform,
four rows of gilt buttons, chapeau with red feather and white top, and a sword
dangling by his side, and was the observed of all. Many of the soldiers of
"kf^ ^^. x?i
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 235
Michigan and Ohio were armed with broom-sticks, but that did not matter.
The former were bound to strike terror to the Buckeyes. Intense excitement
reigned, and a bloody conflict was thought to be inevitable. The army
marched on to Toledo, but Gen. Lucas kept the larger part of his forces on the
other side of the Maumee, and the Michigan troops entered Toledo without
opposition. The troops remained there three or four* days, and were very
handsomely treated. Such was the excitement during the summer that at one
time an attack was expected fi"om the Ohio troops, but they did not come.
Gen. Lucas surreptitiously organized a coui-t at Toledo, in the night time, but
the judge fled in fear of the Michigan troops. The militia of Seneca County
were all ready for a fight.
Matters finally became so warm that President Jackson recommended Gov.
Mason to suspend hostilities, which he refused to do, and consequently was
removed, and although the Wolverine and Buckeye armies were disbanded
and matters were quieted down, the dispute was not finally settled until Mich-
igan applied for admittance to the Union as a State, when it was made a
condition that she should surrender her claim to the disputed territory and
take the upper peninsula instead, which she agreed to.
The few remaining participants in that bloodless war remember it as the
most exciting event in the early history of the State, and ridiculous as the
affair afterward seemed, every man was ready to lay down his life to sustain
the honor and maintain the rights of his respective State. Many of the sol-
diers of Seneca who actually marched forward to guard Judge Higgins in his
attempt to hold court of common pleas at Toledo, are still residents of the county.
Indians and Pioneers. — From 1819, until the Indians evacuated the
county, both whites and Indians were on fi-iendly terms, each party making
an effort to help the other. Dr. B. D. "Williams, in his reminiscenses, printed
by Stewart in 1874, says: "During the early period of the settlement of the
township (Read), the Indians were very nvmierous, and, as a general thing,
lived amicably with the few whites who were there at an early day. Some-
where about the year when the first settlements were made, an accident of a
fatal character happened to an Indian maiden, a daughter of the renowned
chief and warrior, Seneca John. The Indians made fi-equent visits to the
present village of Reedtown each winter for the purpose of hunting and trap-
ping. On one of these occasions, a party, encamped here, was preparing an
evening meal. A large kettle, full of boiling water, was suspended from a
pole over the fire, and the unfortunate girl was lying in front of it, when the
pole burned through, letting the kettle fall, spilling its heated contents upon
the body of the girl. Some of those present immediately enveloped her in a
blanket, and conducted her to a house near by, where she was attended by
Dr. Williams. On removing the blanket the flesh literally clung to it, leaving
her almost a living skeleton. Death, however, soon ended her sufferings.
After her death William Williams made a hand-sled, and a number of the
Indian boys, followed by a moiu-nful cortege, conveyed the remains to the
Wyandot Cemetery, above Tiffin. Many of the old settlers in Reed, Thompson
and Clinton Townships well remember this funeral as one of the saddest
scenes of pioneer days.
Pioneer Weddings. — The wedding was an attractive feature of pioneer life.
There was no distinction of life and very little of fortune. On these accounts,
the first impressions of love generally resulted in marriage. The family estab-
lishment cost but little labor — nothing more. The marriage was always cele-
brated at the house of the bride, and she was generally left to choose the
officiating clergyman. A wedding, however, engaged the attention of the
236 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
whole neighborhood. It was anticipated by both old and young with eager
expectation. In the morning of the wedding day the groom and his intimate
friends assembled at the house of his father, and after due preparation,
departed, en masse, for the ' ' mansion ' ' of his bride. The jom-ney was some-
times made on horseback, sometimes on foot and sometimes in farm wagons
and carts. It was always a merry journey; and, to insure merriment, the bot-
tle was taken along. On reaching the house of the bi'ide, the maiTiage ceremony
took place, and then dinner or supper was served. After the meal the dancing
commenced, and generally lasted until the following morning. The figui'es of
the dances were three and four-hanAed reels, or square sets and jigs. The
commencement was always a square four, which was followed by what pioneers
called ''jigging; " that is, two of the four would single out for a jig, and were
followed by the remaining couple. The jigs were often accompanied with
what was called ' ' cutting out, ' ' that is, when either of the parties became tii-ed
of the dance, on intimation, the place was supplied by some one of the com-
pany, without interruption of the dance. In this way the reel was often con-
tinued until the musician was exhausted. About 9 or 10 o' clock in the evening
a deputation of young ladies stole off the bride and put her to bed. In doing
this, they had to ascend a ladder from the kitchen to the upper floor, which
was composed of loose boards. Here, in this pioneer bridal chamber, the young,
simple-hearted girl was put to bed by her enthusiastic friends. This done, a
deputation of young men escorted the groom to the same department, and
placed him snugly by the side of his bride. The dance still continued, and if
seats were scarce, which was generally the case, says a local writer, every young
man when not engaged in the dance, was obliged to offer his lap as a seat for
one of the girls; and the offer was sure to be accepted. During the night's
festivities whisky was fr'eely used, but seldom to great excess. The infair was
held on the following evening, when the same order of exercises was observed.
Matrimonial Peculiarities. — On May 14, 1810. Henry M. Stone, of Fort
Ball, and Mrs. Eliza Mercer, of Tiflin, were maiTied by Eev. F. Putnam, who
caused the following to be published under the notice of marriage:
"Health and prosperity to the first couple joined together by me, in Seneca County.
F. P."
A peculiar marriage contract is on record, made April 16, 1858, in Hope-
well Township, between Henry Creeger and Catherine Brendle, and executed
in presence of Levi Keller, justice of the peace, April 19, that year. It pro-
vided that before the proposed marriage Catherine waives all right to all dower
or expectancy of dower in lands of Creeger, on condition that he, by his last
will and testament, would provide for the payment to her of $500, This was
actually accepted by the prospective bride.
In January, 1865, another marriage contract — a strange agreement was
perfected between Catherine (Fridel) Kuemet, widow of Fridel, and her sec-
ond husband, George Kuemet. After a few disagreements the wife left Mr.
Kuemet to look after his own affairs. His repentance soon followed, when he
agreed to lodge S400 with the superior of the convent of Maria at the IManger,
Wolf Creek, to be paid out only on the following conditions: That the lady
retiu-n to live with him, the money to go to her in case of his death, or in case
of her dying first, then to the childi-en of her first marriage. ' 'But should
both parties separate again (which God forbid), then the priest or bishop should
investigate whether Kuemet kept his promises to treat his wife dutifully, edu-
cate her two children until they receive second confirmation, and to disclaim
all ownership to her property owned before marriage with him, and also
whether Catherine has discharged her duty as wife, when the money shall be
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 237
ordered in conformity with such investigation. Should both parties be the
cause of such provocations and mischievous conduct, then neither of them shall
have the money, and the same shall be apj)ropriated for the reformation of
both in the best possible manner. ' ' This agreement was made between Kue-
met and Joseph Henry Dress, and witnessed by William Lang, May 16, 1866.
Pioneer Women. — There are few sons and daughters, to-day, let us hope,
who have not a good idea of the pioneer mother, and entertain toward her a
respect born of all that is noble in humanity. She came into the forests with
her young husband to make a home for a family, and, by her woman' s work
and woman's judgment, made that home to which her childi'en look back for
their happiest days. She was the cook, tailor, dress-maker, and oftentimes
cloth manufacturer, for the whole household, and, with all this, kept the cabin
as neat and clean as if such work were her only care. All this was accom-
plished without any of the modern appliances, without the noise and hurry of
modern times, and generally without the grumbling that the modern lady be-
stows upon almost every little easy task which domestic life now may call
upon her to perform. She took a pleasiire in this work, and her life was one
long stream of usefulness and health, of benevolence and peace. She made
herself an actual something which any community would miss, and accom-
plished all this without drudgery. She read and learned and taught as a con-
sequence of her active life, and in her declining years di-ew rich rewards from
her works, going higher, to the better land, with a consciousness of duty
done below. She was the Christian mother, whose example it is now found so
hard to imitate.
Tobacco Smoking Fashionable. — When the Hall family settled in Bloom
Township, over a half century ago, it appears that the women smoked tobacco,
and one who did not smoke this weed was the exception. Mrs. Rice, in a recent
contribution to pioneer history, says : ' 'Our neighbors were a strange mixture
in regard to nationality, and we could never get used to their ways or language,
and if you wou.ld ask them a question in regard to a given quantity, they
would say: 'O, yes, we have a right smart chance.' When we had lived there
but a few days a girl called in to see me, and almost the first thing she said
was, 'Mrs. Rice, do you smoke?' 'No, indeed,' said I. 'Well,' she said,
'you will have to, or nobody will think anything of you, for everybody smokes
around here.' I told her I was sorry, but I neither could nor would smoke to
miake friends with anybody. But I found lots of friends, and did not smoke
either, and when we were sick, and they knew it, they were very kind, and when
we had the misfortune to have our house burnt down with all its contents,
homes and hearts were opened to us, and, although we would not take pecu-
niary aid of them, for we had plenty of i*elatives who were both able and wil-
ling to assist us, they turned out with men and teams, and in a few days we
had. a nice home again. And the seven years we lived there, though years of
sickness and toil, we look back upon as among the happiest of our lives."
Female Costume. — Among the moral folks a fashionable dress goods was
turkey-red calico, with flashy yellow flowers, large as an oak leaf. The great
scoop bonnet and smoke-stack leghorn formed the headgear. Shoes were
made from cow-hide leather, with the seams on the outside. Many of such
curiosities are in possession of Mrs. S. S. Stickney.
It will not be claimed that the pioneers were faultless; perfection would not
be expected of them. They were impulsive, too firm in many erroneous ideas
to be liberal, too narrow in experiences of the world to be able to apjilaud vir-
tue in others or deciy vice in themselves. With all this, they were men of the
period — in fact, in advance of the period — strong in heart and arm, enthusi-
238 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
astic and earnest in the work which they had undertaken, and never equaled
in the greatest task of their lives, which raised up the wilderness to a garden,
and gave to Ohio one of her greatest divisions. Looking back some years over
a half centiu-y ago, all the faults of the pioneer must be credited to the time
in which he* lived, and all his virtues to himself , so that, with the poet, the
writer of this prose will say, with all his heart:
All honor and praise to the old pioneers;
You never may know all their story;
What they found but a desert a garden became,
And their toil and success is their glory.
CHAPTER IV.
ORGANIC HISTORY.
ORGANIZATION, COMMISSIONERS' BOARD AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS.
IN the second part of this work, the Histoiy of Ohio, the political divisions
of the State are named, and their organization noted. The act of Feb-
ruary 12, 1820. authorized the New Purchase or the territory acquired under
the Indian treaties, to be laid off into fourteen counties, one of which— Seneca
— was to embrace surveyed Townships 1, 2 and 3, north of latitude 41°;
Ranges 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17, east of the first Ohio meridian. This territory
was attached to Sandusky County for judicial purposes until April, 1824, a
period of four years. Dui;ing this time a ten-itory (now known as Thompson,
Reed and Venice Townships, with a strip two and a half sections in width,
along the east side of the territoiy, now known as Adams. Scipio and Bloom
Townships), 143| square miles, was set off April 25, 1820, by the commis-
sioners of Sanduskj^ County, under the name of Thompson Township. The
toAvnship of Seneca was set off May 8, 1820. This embraced the whole coun-
ty outside of the original Thompson Township and the reservations. In June
following, that portion of the present township of Clinton east of the San-
dusky River, was established under its present name, and one year later the
present township of Eden was ordered to be organized, and the election to be
held at John Searle's house June 4, 1821.
Organization of Seneca County.— The act of the legislature passed January
22, 1824, provided for the organization of Seneca County, the election of offi-
cers, continuation of law suits, etc. , etc. The elections under the act were
held in April, 1824, when Agreen Ingraham received 190 votes for sheriff, and
Leverett Bradley 206 votes for coroner. Those, with the commissioners, Clark,
Olmsted and Whitmore, were the only officers elected in April (vide Political
History).
The seat of justice for Seneca County was not located until March 25,
1822, when Herford, Spink and Miner, the commissioners appointed for that
purpose, arrived and selected the village on the east bank of the river to be
the county seat.
In the following pages a review of the transactions of the commissioners'
board fi-om June, 1824, to the close of the Rebellion, is given.
Transactions of the Commissioners' Board. — At a meeting held at Tiffin,
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 239
Jtine 7, 1824, William Clark, Jesse S. Olmstead and Benjamin Whitmore, com-
missioners present, a petition to build a road from the northeast corner of Section
16, Township 2, Range 14 east, to Levi Cressa's house and Bowes' land on
the State road, was granted. Joseph Pool, George Stoner and W. D. Sher-
wood were appointed viewers, and David Risdon, surveyor. A permit was
granted on the petition of Isaac Gurnee to build a road from Zinn's Mill to
Henry Crow's, on the State road. Ezra Brown, Elisha Clark and Rd. Jaqua
were viewers, and Franklin Baker, sui-veyor. On petition of Thomas Boyd, a
road was ordered fi-om the south side of Stony Creek to the Seneca Reserva-
tion. Thomas Boyd, William Wright and William Anway were appointed
viewers, and David Risdon, sui-veyor. Thomas Boyd and Lowell Robinson
petitioned to have the road known as the Mansfield and Tiffin Road reviewed,
with the object of changing its course before its opening. Rd. Jaqua, Ed.
Sutherland, John Seitz, Lowell Robinson, R. Munsell and George Denison were
reviewers.
June 7, 1824, Thomas Boyd presented a petition to the commissioners,
signed by many qualified electors of Eden Township for the establishment of
Bloom Township. The petitioners stated: "Laboui'ing under grate inconvin-
ance from the distance of attending Public Elections, and also having a suffi-
cient number of quallified electors in the township, we therefore pray that the
Honorable board to sit off said Township, No. 1 and 2 in the 16th Range, and
constitute it a legal Township, to be known by the name of Bloom Township. ' '
The commissioners, in granting this petition, decreed that Townships 1 and 2,
in the Sixteenth Range, formerly organized with the township of Eden, and
Townships 1 and 2 in the Nineteenth Range, together with fractional Town-
ships No. 1 and 2 in the Eighteenth Range be established as one township,
under the name of Bloom.
Bloom Township was established June 7, 1824. On the same date Milton
McNeal was appointed treasurer of Seneca County, and David Risdon tax col-
lector. A petition to have a road from fractional Section 19, Range 18, on
the county line, thence on the best route from Tiffin via Monroe to Norwalk,
was granted. S. D. Palmer, Chris Stone and Thomas Webb were viewers.
This authority was repealed immediately. June 8. 1824, John Mimm was
allowed |12. 18 for repairing court house. Judge Jacques Hubbard was allowed
$6 for three days' services as associate judge of Seneca County, and a similar
amount was allowed Judge Matthew Clark. The sum of $2.25 was allowed
Nathan Whitney for listing Thompson Township; Joseph Osborne was allowed
$3.75 for listing Eden Township; George Park, $1.87i^ for listing Clinton
Township; Joseph Keeler, $2.25 for listing Fort Seneca Township, and D.
Smith was allowed $3 for services as clerk of the commissioners' board for three
days, and $1.43^ for a blank book which he purchased (a book which could be
purchased to-day for 30 cents. — En.). June 9, 1824, the commissioners
authorized the auditor to purchase blank books for the use of the county offi-
cers, and pay for them from the first moneys received into the cou.nty treasury.
They also authorized payment to Benjamin Whitmore and Jesse S. Olmstead for
three days' service, and to William Clark for one day's service as commission-
ers. This completed, the first meeting of the commissioners of Seneca County
was something of the past.
December 6, 1824, Dr. Dunn, Thomas Boyd and Benjamin Whitmore,
commissioners, met at Tiffin. Elisha Clark presented a petition for a road from
Seneca Creek, ' ' at the Heights of Land, at the present new travelled Road, ' ' to
the southwest corner of east half of southwest quarter, of Section 28, thence
to ' ' Henry Crows' new dwelling house. ' ' Franklin Baker, John Downs and
240 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Selden Graves were apj>ointed viewers, and were instructed to meet at John
Gibson' s house on December 24, to view and locate the road. Case Brown
petitioned for a road from the corners of Sections 18, 14, 23 and 24, in Clinton
Township, south to the Kilbourne State road, at Sections 13 and 14, Eden
Township. Eoswell Munsell, Henry Blackman and Richard Jaqua were ap-
pointed viewers, William Clark, surveyor, and Hamilton McCollister's house
was designated as the place of meeting. On the same day, on petition of David
Clark, the same viewers and surveyor were ordered to locate a road from Honey
Creek through the center of Clinton Township, on Section line between 14 and
15 and 10 and 11. December (3, 1824, William Anway presented a petition
for the establishment of Scipio Township, signed by sixteen legal voters. John
Cary presented a petition for a road from his house in Crawford Township, to
Joseph Gates' (or Gales') house, thence to the county road and from Joseph
Chaffee's west. Cyprian Stevens, Peter Carr and Elisha Brayton were ap-
pointed viewers, and David Risdon, surveyor.
December 6, 1824, a petition was presented to the commissioners, which was
recorded as follows: "December 6, 1824, Mr. William Anway presented a
petition to the board from the inhabitants of the second township in Range 16,
now attached to Bloom Township, beg leave to represent to your honors the
nedcessity of seting off and organizing said township, and we wish your honors
to order the same organized, together with such other townships or parts of
townships as your honors should, in your wise consideration, think proper to
attach to said"^ township, and that the name may be known by the name of
Scipio Township. ' ' This petition was granted by the board, who declared a
legal organized township, to be known by the name of Scipio Townsnip, to-wit :
The second township in Range 16; second township in Range 17 and second
fi-actional township in Range 18 shall constitute the same.
On petition presented by Neal McGaffey, December 7, 1824, a road from
the public ground at Fort Ball, running across the Sandusky River to the pub-
lic ground at Tiffin, was authorized. Jesse Gale, George Free and Charles B.
Fitch were appointed viewers, and David Risdon, surveyor. On petition of
Joseph Chaffee, authority was granted the people of Crawford Township to
elect three trustees and one treasurer, on December 25, 1824, to take charge of
the school lands belonging to Crawford Township. Hopewell Township was
established December 7, 1824.
The following is of record: "December 7, 1824, the inhabitants of Seneca
Township presented an application for a new township, to be set off and or-
ganizedas follows, to-wit: Composing of original surveyed Township 2,
in Range 13, also the original surveyed township in Range 14, excepting
a fraction on the east side of the Sandusky River, to be known by the name of
Hopewell Township, was granted by the board, and ordered that the qualified
electors of said Hopewell Township shall meet at the house of Joseph Pools, in
said township, on Saturday, December 25, 1824, and proceed to elect township
officers. ' ' The board of commissioners declared the above township legally or-
ganized and to be known by the name of Hopewell Township, and at the same
time and place the qualified electors shall proceed to elect three trustees and
one treasurer, whose duty it shall be to take charge of the school lands belong-
ing to said township, and dispose of the same as the law directs.
December 7, 1824, Town 1, Range 13. and Town 1, Range 14, were estab-
lished as one township, under the name of Seneca Township, and the electors
ordered to meet at the house of Abram Courtwi-ight, December 25, 1824.
W^illard Wright presented a petition asking for a county road fi-om the
countv line, south of David Clark's house to the county road running from
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 241
David ITnderhiirs to Sandusky, where the road crosses the center line of
Thompson Township, thence to the Kilboiirne road, and thence by William
Frink's house to Tiffin. Agreen Ingraham, Rollin Muller and Ira Bassett
were aj^pointed viewers, and David Eisdon, surveyor, with instructions to lo-
cate the road on January 11, 1825. Elisha Smith was allowed |3 for list-
ino- Seneca Township. Chris Stone was allowed $1, and Thomas Webb $6
for viewing new roads. The roads from Zinn" s Mill to Eden Township, and
from Honey Creek to Seneca Reservation, were declared public highways,
December 7, 1824-. Reuben W^illiams asked for a road from the James Bearn-
sides lane or Mansfield road, in Section 28, Town 2, Range 15, by Eight-
een Mile Run and William M. Ewen's house, and thence to the Kilbourne road.
Bearnsides, Williams and Leverett Bradley were appointed viewers. De-
cember 8, 1824, it was voted that Thomas Boyd be commissioner for one year,
Benjamin Whitman for two years and Dr. Dunn three years. The auditor was
ordered to call on Sandusky for settlement of revenue and expenditure.
December 8, 182-4, the north room in George Park's house was rented,
at $1 per month, to be used for clerk and auditor's office. The commissioners
concluded their first year' s work by declaring new roads to be public highways,
and appropriating pay for their clerk, D. Smith, and themselves.
December 8, 1824, the commissioners ordered that the fraction on the
west side of Sanduskj^ River, included in original Township 2 north, Range
15, together with the fraction on the east side of the river, included in Town
2 north, Range 14, be attached to Clinton Township.
At a meeting of the commissioners, held March 7, 1825, Township 1,
Range 15; Township 1, Range 16; and Township 1, Range 17, south of base
line, Avere set ofP as one township under the name of Sycamore, and an elec-
tion ordered to be held March 25, 1825.
A road was authorized fi-om James T. Percas land Section 2, Township
3, Range 16, to the town of Tiffin. Willard Knight, W. D. Sherwood and
Joseph Pool were appointed viewers and David Risdon, surveyor. William
Mead, John Craig and Alexander McNutt entered security for the establish-
ment of this road. Elijah Bra}i;on petitioned for a road from his saw-mill, via
Chaffee's and Whitaker's stores, to the state road. Agreen Ingraham, Rollin
Moler and James Gardin were appointed viewers; E. Brayton and James
Richards were securities. A road from Upper Sandusky to the city of San-
dusky was authorized. On the application of the inhabitants of Crawford
Township, the electors of Township 1, Range 13 south, were ordered to elect
on the last Saturday of March, 1825, three trustees and one treasurer to
manage the school lands of the district. A similar decree was entered in the
case of Scipio Township, the meeting to be held at John Wright' s house.
On petition of Neal McGaffey a road from the east end of Miami Street, Fort
Ball, to the public square of Tiffin was authorized. McGaffey, Ingraham and
John Galbraith offered secm-ity.
In March. 1825, John Mimm asked for a road from Tiffin to Thomas
Leaper's house, on the Negro Town road. N. Egbert, James Earl and S. S.
Palmer, viewers, Solomon Kuder and Josiah Hedges were securities. Russell
Vibber, John Seitz and Willard Knight were appointed viewers of a road from
the north end of Washington Street to intersect the easterly end of Adams
Street, in the town of Fort Ball. In March, 1825, the electors of Clinton
Township were ordered to meet in April and elect three trustees and one
treasui-er to take charge of the school lands of Clinton. William Connell
was appointed keeper of the standard measiu'e on March 9. On the
same day the commissioners declared the roads which they authorized to be.
242 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
public highways, and, after appropriating their own and clerks' salary ad-
journed.
The fourth session of the commissioners was held June 6, 7 and 8, 1825.
A number of road petitions were granted, and bills aggregating about $70
were ordered paid; including $4.50 to George Park for use of room for fom-
and a half months.
The commissioners assembled in special meeting July 4, 1825, to consider
proposals for building a jail. Elijah Farquson was granted the contract on
his bid of $450. Josiah Hedges signed the contractor' s bond. An adjom-ned
meeting was held October 15, to receive Assessor "William Patterson's account.
He was allowed for assessing the county, $48.
The principal business of the commissioners, in session December 5, 6 and
7, 1825, pei-tained to roads. December 5, organic changes were made in
Clinton and Hopewell Townships. December 7, Neal McGfaffey was allowed
$17.85 for blank books and repairing clerk's and aiiditor's room, and David
Smith $4. 50 for blank books supplied to the auditor. Benjamin Whitman
was allowed one day's pay for services on the Board of Equalization and one
day's pay for inspecting work on new jail. Chris. Stone, appraiser of Clinton
Township, was allowed $1 for his services dm-ing the year 1825. Each of the
commissioners received pay for three days' services.
December 5, 1825, Agreen Ingraham presented a petition from the
inliabitants of the townships of Clinton and Hopewell, praying that all that
part of the original siuweyed township of Clinton, lying on the west side of
the Sandusky Eiver, should be attached to Hopewell Township. This petition
was granted, it appearing to the commissioners that the want in bridge con-
veniences justified a partition of the original town of Clinton.
The commissioners met March 6, 1826, when on petition they authorized
the establishment of " Tyamochtee " Township from Crawford Township.
Thomas Johnson was allowed $51 for blank books. Elijah Farquson received
$150 on account of jail building in $15 orders. The time of completing the
jail was extended to July 1, 1826. March 31, 1826, the commissioners
met to accept the jail building fi-om the contractor, and issue orders for $200
in his favor.
March 7, 1826, an application was made to the commissioners to set
off Township 1, Range 14 south, from Crawford Township and establish the
township of " Tyamochtee," which was granted. The electors of Crawford were
ordered to meet' in April at the house of Joseph Chaiff er to choose officers,
and the electors of the new township to meet at the house of Jesse Gales.
The special meeting of June 5 and 6, 1826, was devoted to road affairs
and accounts. Josiah Hedges was allowed $25.85 in exchange of an order
issued and paid for the location of the seat of justice for Seneca County, on
the treasurer of Sandusky County. Milton McNeal was reappointed treasurer
of the county, and William Patterson tax collector. Thomas Boyd, Ben
Whitmore and James Gordon were commissioners.
The meeting of December 5, 1826, was devoted to road permits and organic
changes. Reed and Adams Townships were set off; a portion of Clinton was
attached to Hopewell. The commissioners organized with James Gordon, com-
missioner for one year; Timothy P. Roberts, for three years, and Thomas Boyd,
two years.
Reed Township was set off December 5, 1826. It comprised Township 2,
Range 17, together with the fractional Township 2, Range 18, including land
east to Huron County line. The election was ordered to be held at Seth Reed' s
house in January, 1827.
r.^
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HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 245
Adams Township was set off December 5, 182G. It comprised fractional
Township 3, Range 16, including one tier of sections off the west side of
Township 3, Range 17. The election was ordered to be held at Samuel AYhite-
man's house December 25, 1826.
The commissioners decreed that all that part of Clinton Township, or Town-
ship 2, Range 15, lying on the west side of the Sandusky River, should be
attached to Hopewell Township, December 5, 1826.
The meeting of March 5, 1827, granted authority to construct a number of
new roads. Milton M. Neal reported $643.69 in county orders, being part of
his credits as treasurer for 1826. Neal McGaffey presented 127.05 as amount of
office rent and stationery. David Risdon was appointed assessor; a bounty of $2
in addition to State bounty, was offered by the commissioners in March, 1827.
A special meeting was held in June, 1827. David Risdon received $63.50 for
assessor's services of 1827. The taxes decided upon were 3 mills per dollar
for State tax; 8 mills per dollar for county tax; 3 mills per dollar for road
tax, and | mill per dollar for school purposes. In August, 1827, the board met
to consider the propriety of building a bridge across the Sandusky River, and
ordered one day's pay for each member.
December 3 and 4, 1827, Case Brown, Timothy P. Roberts and Thomas
Boyd, county commissioners, met at Tiffin. William Toll, jailer, presented
his bill of $3.46 for fees and boarding prisoners. The repairs of the jail, in
1827, cost abont $70.
The commissioners met March 3, 1828. John A. Rosenberger presented a
petition, praying that a part of the original town of Clinton, on the west side of
the Sandusky, should be attached to Clinton Township; not granted. David
Bishop was appointed sealer of weights and measures. The board at a special
meeting held March 24, 1828, decided to build a court house, and on April 11,
1828, advertised for proposals. There is no record of their meeting on April
14, 1828.
Granting petitions to establish roads was the only business of importance
before the board in December, 1828.
The commissioners in session, March 2, 1829, ordered that the State treas-
ury be called upon to pay $15.91-i\, the amount of three per cent fund
apportioned to Seneca County, under the act of February 9, 1826. The clerk of
the court of common pleas was authorized to purchase a desk for his office.
At a special meeting held June 1, 1829, Ezra Gilbert presented a petition
from the people of Township 1, Range 17, praying to have that township set
off under the name of Venice.
The township of Venice was set off June 1, 1829; as then established, it
comprised Township 1, Range 17, and fractional Township 1, Range 18. which
was attached to Bloom, formerly. The petition to establish was presented by
Ezra Gilbert.
David Beck was allowed $24 for making a secretary's desk for clerk's office,
in June. 1829. Joseph Howard, the county clerk, was allowed $10 in advance
to piirchase stationery for the use of his "^office. The board of equalization
made hea\T additions to the capital of local merchants.
The commissioners— James Gordon, T. P. Roberts and Case Brown — met
December 8, 1829. They allowed George Donaldson, trustee of the meeting-
house, $18 as rent of the same, for May, August and November terms of coiu't
in 1829. William Toll, jailer, presented his accoimt for the year, which
amounted to $12.42^.
This session of the commissioners opened March 1, 1830, with Gordon,'
Brown and Roberts, present. Apart fi-om the establishment of public roads,
246 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
little other business was transacted. Jacob Plane, treasm-er, was instructed to
demand from William Clark the county orders he received in June, 1828. The
$15.91fo of the three per cent fund was appropriated for the Mt. Vernon road
between Tiffin and Morrison State road. Matthew Clark was allowed Si 1.12
for a stove for the jail. ^o^ r-n
At the June meeting AVilliam Toll, jailer, was all9wed $88. <9 for boarding-
Peter Pork, 211 days; Walter Bates, 49 days; Merrit Goodyear, 2 days;
together with jailer's fees, for the year ending June, 1830. One-half of three-
fom-ths of a mill was authorized for township tax in Hopewell, / mills for
county purposes and 3 mills for road pui'poses. Harry Blackman, of Bloom
Township, was appointed a commissioner to expend the three per cent fund on
the Kilbourne State road. In August a special meeting was held, which
adjoiu-nedto September 18.
January 27, 1831, a meeting was held to consider road petitions. At the
June meeting a number of roads were authorized; Pleasant Township was
established. The tax levy was 8 mills for county purposes, 3 mills for roads and
1 mill for schools. A special session was held in December, 1831.
At a meeting of the commissioners, held June 6, 1831, a petition was pre-
sented by Caleb Pace, fi'om the inhabitants of Seneca Township, praying for a
new township, to be named Pleasant. The board ordered that fi-actional
Township 3, Range 15, and all that part of the Seneca Indian Reservation, lying
within Seneca County, be established under the name of Pleasant.
The commissioners met March 5, 1832. A number of road petitions were
oranted and viewers appointed. Loudon Township was established. In June,
1832, Liberty Township was set off. The tax levy was placed at 5 mills for
county pm-poses, 1 mill for school purposes, and 3 mills for road purposes.
Jackson Township was established December 4, 1832. The simi of !?6 was
allowed to George Donaldson, trustee of the meeting-house, as rent for that
building diu'ing the IMarch term of court.
The commissioners, in their order of March 5. 1882, decreed that Town-
ship 2 north. Range 18 east, be organized as a separate township under the
name of Loudon.
December 4, 1832, the inhabitants of Township 8, Range 13, Jackson,
petitioned the board to set off that division of the county as a separate town-
ship, under the name of Jackson. This petition was granted.
A petition was presented by John S. Fleck, fi'om the inhabitants of Town-
ship 3, Range 14, Liberty, then attached to Seneca Township, June 5, 1882.
In gi-anting this petition, the commissioners conferred the name of Liberty
upon the new township.
March 4, 1833, John Keller. David Risdon and Case Brown, commission-
ers, assembled at Tiffin. At this meeting the question of changing the town-
ship boundaries was discussed. The boundaries of Thompson, Scipio, Adams,
Clinton and Pleasant Townships were altered so that each would comprise an
original surveyed township. In March, 1833, John Tennis presented a peti-
tion praying for the organization of Township 2 north, Range 13, for school
purposes. This petition was granted.
In June, 1883, a number of road petitions were granted. In December
that portion of original township of Clinton, lying .west of the Sandusky, was
detached from Hopewell and attached to Clinton. The commissioners decided
to erect countv buildings, in December, 1833, and made application to Valen-
tine Pentzer, of Mechanics Town, Va., for a loan of $6,000. Calvin Bradley
and John Baugher were appointed commissioners to visit the county seats of
Lorain, Portage and Richland Counties, and to take a correct description, cost,
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 247
etc., of eacli court botise. John Seitz, Marcus Y. Graff and John Crum wore
commissioners.
The question of erecting good county buiktings was discussed in Novem-
ber, 1838. John Baugher and Calvin Bradley were appointed commissioners
by the board to visit Ravenna, Elyria and Mansfield, with a view of selectino-
a plan for the new county buildings. The site for the jail was purchased from
Josiah Hedges.
In March, 1833, at the twentieth meeting, the boundaries of Thompson
were so altered as to embrace the original surveyed townships 3 north. Ranges
17 and 18. -
The boundaries of Scipio Township were so changed under order of March
4, 1833, as to embrace Township 2 north. Range 16.
The boundaries of Adams Township were so altered in March, 1833, as to
embrace the original surveyed Township 3 north. Range 16.
The boundaries of Clinton Townshij) were changed in March, 1833, so as
to include the fractional part of the original surveyed Township 2 north, Range
15, which lies in the Seneca Reservation.
The boundaries of Pleasant Township were changed in March, 1833, so as
to embrace only original surveyed Township 3 north, Range 15.
On x:>etition of George W. Gist, that portion of the original township of
Clinton, on the west side of Sandusky River, was detached fi-om Hopewell and
reattached to Clinton, December 3, 1833. In March, 1834, David Risd on ^pre-
sented a remonstrance from the inhabitants of this i^art of the county.
In January, 1834, the visiting committee in re court house matters reported
in favor of adopting the style of the Portage County building. The bill of
expenses presented by this committee was $93. 80, which was ordered to be
paid. January 17, the board ordered advertisement for proposals to build a
court house, and February 14, the commissioners entered into a contract with
John Baugher to build a court house in the town of Tiffin, for $9. 500. David
Campbell was allowed $2 for printing the proposals in the Tiffin and Sandusky
Clarion.
In March, 1834, the twenty-second meeting of the commissioners accepted
a deed from Josiah Hedges for a certain lot of land for the purpose of erecting
a jail, valued at $150, in part payment of materials named in said Hedges'
bond due said county. Marcus Y. Graff*, one of the commissioners, notified Mr.
Hedges that the commissioners required payment of the residue of the moneys
and materials due on said bond. David Risdon presented a remonstrance fi'om
the people of that portion of Clinton Township west of the river, against the
action of the commissioners in reannexing it to Clinton in their order of
December, 1833. The board decreed that it was inexpedient to repeal their last
order in regard to this biennial question. A petition was presented by Charles
W. Foster from twenty electors in Loudon Township, praying that three trus-
tees and a treasurer be elected to take charge of School SectiorL 16, agreeable
to an act to incorporate the original surveyed township. The petition was
granted. In March, 1834, Enoch Trumbo asked for an order to elect trustees
and treasurer to take charge of School Section 16, in Jackson Township. The
order was issued.
Brown and Magill were allowed $3. 25 for printing notices to build court
house, and Calvin Bradley $15 for furnishing di-aft and bill of particulars for
court house. Orders for those amounts were issued in March, 1834. A sum
of $50 was appropriated towai'd building a bridge over Rock Run. at the
east end of Market Street, in the town of Tiffin. The board gave a bond to
Jacob Stem, and authorized him to obtain a loan of $6,000. David E. Owen.
248 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
county auditor, was allowed $58. 79 for his services for the year ending March
6, 1884. In May, 1834, Jacob Stem obtained the loan of $6,000, and lodged
the amount in the Baltimore Savings Institution, Maryland. The board loaned
this money to Stem until April, 1835, the interest being considered equivalent,
to his services in raising the money. In June $59. 42 were appropriated for
the sustenance of AVarren C. Burns, a convict in the county jail, from Septem-
ber. 1833. to May, 1834; James W. G. McCluer received this money. At the
June meeting Enoch Umsted was allowed $18 for the use of Methodist Episco-
pal Church as a court room in May, 1834. The cost of assessing the county, in
1834, was $47.25. The tax of 1834 was 5 mills for county. 2h mills for county
buildings. 1 mill for schools and 3 mills for roads. Nicholas Goetchius, John
Crum and John Seitz, were commissioners. In Augxist. 1834. $2,000 were
paid John Baugher on account of work on the court house. The commission-
ers, in November, 1834. were John Seitz, Benjamin AVhitmore and Lorenzo
Abbott. A sum of $45 was granted Alonzo Rawson for advertising ' ' Exhibit
of Receipts and Expenditures" in the Independent Chronicle.
March, 1835, session of the commissioners was devoted mainly to the con-
sideration of petitions for county roads. Willard Whitney presented a peti-
tion asking relief fi-om tax on his mercantile capital, as assessed in 1834.
Reuben "Williams resigned his office of assessor. M. Y. GrafP reported the
expenditure of $50 on the Rock Run bridge, at the east end of Market Street.
In April a special session was held. The June session opened with Benjamin
Whitmore, Lorenzo Abbott and John Seitz, present. The tax le\'y ordered was
4|^ mills, county; li mills, school, and 2 J mills for road purposes, of which
total, 1^ mills were ordered to be reserved for public buildings. Three mills
were added to the road tax in Scipio Township. In December, Nicholas Goet-
schius and Joel Stone presented bills for sustaining the prisoners Benjamin
Aleut and James King. A sum of $18 was allowed Henry Ebbei-t as rent for the
Methodist Episcopal Church in use during two sessions of the court in 1835.
Abel Rawson was allowed $25 for office rent and fire-wood for the year ending
December 6, 1835. John Walsh was sworn in as assessor. Alonzo Rawson
was allowed $2.75 for printing the sheriff's proclamation.
During the spring and summer sessions of 1836 a large number of road
petitions was presented and granted. The tax levy ordered was 4 1 mills for
county purposes, 1 ^ mills for school purposes and 3 mills for road purposes.
A further appropriation of $100 was made to complete the AVest Market Street
bridge. In August, 1836, David E. Owen, auditor, resigned, and Levi Davis
was appointed. In September, 1836, Ebenezer Smith was granted $100 to
build a bridge over Beaver Creek. In December $27 were granted as rent for
use of Methodist Episcopal Church during the three terms of coiu-t. Eli
Norris received $17.50 as rent for jury room during two terms in 1834, three
terms in 1835 and two terms in 1836.
In March. 1837, Lowell Robinson was appointed county assessor. John C.
Donnell and A. Maloney were appointed assistant assessors. The auditor was
sustained in his suit against Latham Stone & Co. , ' ' for attempting to show
their natural curiosities and horsemanship at Republic, on May 21, 1837."
One hundred and thirty-three dollars were appropriated toward the free bridge
over the Sandusky road on West Market Street. About this time the now
familiar notice, " no person shall be allowed to ride over this bridge faster than
a walk, ' ' was adopted. The limit of traffic was confined to ten head of cattle
or ten head of hogs at any one time.
The tax levy for 1837 was4| mills for county, 1 mill for school and 3 mills
for road purposes. In August, 1837, it was resolved to re-roof the court house,
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 249
and. in November. Uriah P. Coonrad presented a bil] of $281.50 for this work.
In March, 1838, Isaac P. Ingraham was appointed assessor, vice the
assessor elect, who failed to give bonds. Joel Stone received |38 for services
in guarding prisoners at night during the year ending June 9. The first
account for lamp-oil was rendered about this time. John W. Vrowman was
released from payment of $7.30. tax on $1,000 alleged to be loaned by him on
interest. In December Francis Bernard was allowed $9 for calcimining and
cleaning the county jail. Abel Kawson was allowed $29 for record book and
transcription of Seneca lands. John Teny, John Seitz and Lorenzo Abbott
presided at the last session in 1838.
MEETINGS FROM 1839 TO 18(36.
The several sessions of the commissioners in 1839 were principally devoted
to road matters. In December Joshua Seney was allowed $30 for attorney's
services rendered in the suits against Josiah Hedges and Jonathan Reed & Co.
In January, 1840, Lorenzo Abbott and Andrew Moore, commissioners,
present, $11 were granted to Samuel A. Griswold for printing. John
Terry was present in March, 1840. In June the tax levy was fixed at 3f mills
for county, 1 mill for school and 3 mills for road purposes. The taxes on
Josiah Hedges' saw-mill, $6.37i, were remitted in December, 1840.
The transactions of the commissioners in 1841. outside of road affairs, com-
prise the appointment of G. J. Keen, county agent, to collect $64 from James
Durbin, formerly county surveyor, paid him on an order issued July 10, 1838,
for obtaining plats and field notes of Seneca County from the surveyor-general' s
oifice, a duty which had to be performed in 1840 by John Teny. In March,
1841, the sheriff' was authorized to give the use of the court house for religious
and political meetings, as he may deem proper. In June, 1841. the aiiditor
was instructed to advertise for proposals to rebuild the court house in the
Van Burenite and Gazette of Tiffin, the Ohio Statesman and Ohio State Jour-
nal, of Columbus, the Norurilk Experiment the Sandusky Democrat, and the
Findlay Courier. For some time after the com-t house was destroyed in 1841,
courts were held in the Methodist Protestant Chiu-ch. The county paid the
Methodist Protestant Society $25 for rent for use of church in Mav and June.
1841.
In July, 1841, the question of rebuilding the court house was before the
board; John Baugher proposed to complete the carpenters' and joiners' work
for $2,990; Jacob Emick and Jacob Rowk contracted to do all the stone and
brick work for $800 ; Allison Philips the plastering for $450. These proposals
were accepted. John Andrews' bid to point the brick work for $150 was
accepted. George Stoner. John Terry and Andrew Moore were the commis-
sioners.
In March, 1842, Robert G. Pennington presented a petition to the board,
setting forth that the Seneca County Agricultiu-al Society had organized
according to law, and asking for a county subscription. The commissioners
appropriated $100. At this time also the act of January 13, 1829, to "improve
the breed of sheep, ' ' was adopted by the board of Seneca County.
In April, 1842, Uriah P. Coonrad received $13.75, for boarding an insane
man named Samuel Dorland. At the same time Dr. Ely Dresbach pro-
nounced the man' s insanity only periodical, and the commissioners ordered his
discharge.
Vincent Bell asked that the assessment for 1842, on his saw and grist-
mills, be remitted, as they were useless. In December Joseph McClellan
took his place on the board. John G. Breslin's bill of $202.50 for publish-
250 HISTOKY OF SENECA COUNTY.
ing the delinquent list of the county, was allowed. The notes of the Gran-
ville Bank and other uncurrent notes were ordered to be exchanged. Eden
Lease presented a bill of $3. 75 for guarding of the jail five nights during
the confinement therein of Thomas C. Bartlett. Dr. N. R. E. McMeen
received $2, for medical services to another prisoner, named Hiram Coch-
rane.
In June, 1843, the lightning-rod man placed a rod on the jail, at a cost
of S20. The new court house was completed in the summer of 1843. Pro-
posals for building a jail and sheriff's residence were opened June 9, 1843,
T. B. Piatt's bid of $3,487 was accepted, but he failed to give bond. The
contract was sold the same mouth to Ephraim Biker, of Erie County. In
December Morris P. Skianer took his place on the board.
In April, 1845, a disagreement between Piatt and Bicker in re the building
of the jail was settled by arbitration. "The business of the board during the
year was confined to road affairs.
In January, 18-10, the commissioners ordered the auditor to effect an
insurance on the court house. The tax levy for 184(3 was 5 mills for county,
bridge and public buildings, 1 mill for school, and 3 mills for road purposes.
In March, 1847, H. T. Dewey was permitted to place a clock in the court
house steeple, which he should be allowed to remove at pleasui'e if the county
or citizens did not deem it worthy of being paid for. This was not adopted,
but some years after Philip Siebold furnished a clock, which was used until
the last court house was taken down.
In March, 1847, Josiah Hedges siu'rendered his toll-bridge charter
(granted under the acts of January 13, 1829, February 9, 1830. February 7,
1832, and February 7, 1833) to the commissioners, on condition that the county
would build a free bridge. The original bridge, at the north end of Washing-
ton Street, was swept away January 1, 1847. In March and April the board
appropriated moneys to build the Washington Street bridge and other
bridges throughout the county. The tax levy ordered was 1 mill for road,
1y%- mills for county, i^ of a mill for school and t^ of a mill for bridge pur-
poses.
In March, 1848, the council of Tiffin was authorized to build on the public
square, in part occupied by the court house, and on the south side of the same,
along Market Street, a market house and engine house, and to have control of
the same for twelve years, after which the commissioners retained the privilege
of disposing of the location, while the council held that of disposing of the
buildings. In December John W. Patterson, William Lang and F. W. Green
formed a joint committee of the commissioners and council to superintend the
digging of a well on the public ground of Tiffin.
In June, 1849, the commissioners adopted the professional tax, assessed
as follows: Phvsicians, George A. Hudson. B. N. Freeman, J. S. Sparks, H.
Niles, Peter J. Smith, $1.50 each; W. W. Belville, $1; B. Eaymond, E.
Lynch, S. W. Bricker, James Fisher, Andrew Hepburn, Joseph Boehler, R.
McD. Gibson, Henry Ladd, Robert C. Castles, George W. Patterson, Simon
Bu-cher, Benjamin E. Vanatta, J. M. Ball, William L. Hamilton, H. L. Harris,
12 each; Ely Dresbach, J. A. McFarland, $4 each; Henry Kuhn. Rufus Nor-
ton, JosephMyers. $3 each; George Sprague, Grafton Bernard, Andrew Ben-
ham, J. D. Davidson, Jonathan Munger, Benjamin W. Day, Alonzo Lockwood,
William Wilson, John Bricker, Josiah Brown, R. P. Frazier, R. D. Williams,
David Heming, Isaiah Frederick, F. S. Kendall, Cyrus Pierce. Walter D.
Hutchias. W.^G. Ronipr, S. B. O wings, D. N. Pelors and F. A. Warren, $1
each.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 251
In June, 1849, the commissioners adopted the professional tax in the case
of the Lawyers, and assessed them as follows: ^\ . \\\ Culver, $1.50; John
L. Lamaraux, Leander Stem, James P. Pillars, John L. Graves, Kichard
Williams and William M. Johnson, $1 each; AVilliam Lang, $250; Joel W.
Wilson, Warren P. Noble, E. G. Pennington, Jesse Stem, $3 each; Luther
A. Hall, 12; Abel Eawson and William H. Gibson, $4 each.
In March, 1852, Philip Spielman. county clerk, presented a petition fi'om
the bar, requesting a complete index to the court dockets to be made. The
clerk was ordered to make a complete index up to that time, for which reason-
able pay would be granted, and to continue the index henceforth without pay.
John J. Steiner was appointed auditor, September 13, 1852, vice Eichard
Williams, deceased,
May 24, 1853, commissioners Saul, Bui'ns and Clark decided to purchase a
farm to be used as a poor farm. On the 25th the board examined the farms of
H. H. Steiner, Henry Creager, Charles Miller, W. C. Hedges, Henry Carpen-
penter, David Eickenbaugh and Daniel Brown. March 18, 1854, the lands
of Samuel Herrin, I. C. B. Eobinson and heirs of J. C. Murray were
purchased. In December, 1855, the commissioners visited the infirmaries of
Champaign and Clarke Counties, and David C. Myers was instructed to di-aft
the buildings at Champaign.
In June, 1852, the board appropriated $100 for the benefit of the Teachers'
Institute, on petition of S. S. Eickley and others. A number of appropria-
tions was made for the purpose of building new bridges and repairing old
ones in the several townships. The grant of a pai-t of the public square by the
county to the city of Tiffin, made March 10, 1848, was rescinded March 17,
1852, by the commissioners: Barnev Zimmerman. David Burns and Samuel
Saul.
John C. Dewitt was appointed surveyor, vice G. H. Heming, resigned,
September 9, 1853.
Thomas Heming was appointed county treasurer, June 9, 1854.
January 31, 185G, the commissioners, accompanied by D. C. Myers and
N. N. Speilman, visited the poor farm, and staked out the site of the infirmary
Ijuildings. September 19, same year, the board accepted the buildings.
In Jiuie, 1856, the sum of $36, in uncurrent and counterfeit money, was
destroyed by the treasurer.
The petition of Joseph Hedges, to have a strip of forty-four feet taken ofP
of the public square, for the purpose of widening Virgin Alley, was negatived
by the board, December 6, 1856.
In December, 1858, the board appropriated $100 to Independent Fire
Company No. 4, toward the purchase of a fire engine.
In December, 1858, the auditor of Seneca County was ordered to redeem
the northwest quarter of the southwest quarter of Section 12, Town 3, Eange
12, Wood County, sold by Wood County for the taxes of 1 856 and 1857. This
land belonged to Seneca County fi*Qm 1845 to January, 1862, when it was sold
to M. P. Skinner for a small consideration.
In March, 1859, the first oi'der was issued to have the newspapers in the
auditoi-'s office bound.
In March, 1860, the petition to incorporate the town of Bettsville was dis-
missed for the reason that the board did not consider it just ' ' to incorporate
men against their will. ' '
September 7, 1861, the Soldiers' Belief Committee, of Tiffin, petitioned
the board to aid in the support of volunteers' families. The sum of $250 was
appropriated. December 16, 1861, a tax lew of one-half of 1 mill per
252 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
dollar on assessment was ordered, and on the same day $4, 500 were borrowed
from Tomb, Huss & Co. , for one year at 6 per cent for the retired soldiers'
families.
In 1861 the controversy between the corporation of Tiffin and the county
commissioners, in respect to the title of the court house square, was amicably
settled. The city agreed to pay all costs and waive claim to title, and to join
the county in building a new engine house.
In September, 18(32, the commissioners authorized the issue of bonds to be
negotiated by John M. Naylor, military treasurer, and proceeds applied to the
payment of bounties to volunteers. September 6, the sum of $2,000 was
borrowed fi-om Samuel Hen-in at 8 per cent interest, to be applied to the
relief of soldiers' families. In January, 1863, the plan for distribution of
relief fund was changed, the new plan gi-anting $2.65 per week to a soldier's
wife without children, and $4. 64 to a wife with three or more children. In
March, 1863, a sum of $3,000 was transferred from the county fund to the
relief fund. A bounty of $25 was offered in May, 1863, to all who would
enlist in the One Hundred and First Regiment or in the One Hundred and
Twenty-third Regiment. In June a fm-ther transfer of $2,000 was made from
the county to the relief fund. The amount of soldiers' remittance fi-om
December," 1863, to March 10, 1864, was $8,535, and of the relief fund $7, 290.
From March 10, to June 9, 1864, the amoimt of soldiers' remittance was $4,-
530; from Jime to September 8, $1,610, and from September 8 to December 8,
1864, $6,850.26 relief fund and $3,566.25 soldiers' bounty. The soldiers'
remittance was $31,278. From December 8, 1864, to March 8. 1865, there
was paid out as soldiers' remittance, $16,640; military fund, $5,169.65; relief,
$12,873.80. and bounties, $37,570.36.
In February. 1864. the sum of $2,000 was transfeiTed from the relief fund
to the county* fund in lieu of the transfer of 1863. In March, 1866, the
amount of relief money due the townships and wards of the county was $9,443,
to be distributed among 1,472 necessitous persons, being a fraction of $6.41i^
to each person. The amount of relief appropriated for February, 1866, was
$7, 360, or $5 to each person entitled thereto.
In June, 1866, there were only 286 persons entitled to moneys from relief
fund in the county. The sum of $7,672.43 was appropriated, of which $6,864
was ordered to be distributed in the several townships and wards. July 5,
1866, the amount to be refimded by the townships to the county treasurer was
$12,759.44.
A sum of $140 was appropriated by the county to Ind. Steam Fire Com-
pany No. 4, toward the purchase of a steam engine.
Edson T. Stickney was appointed county treasurer April 29. 1865, vice S.
W. Shaw, deceased.
June 9, 1865, permission was granted for cattle, sheep and geese to run
at large within Seneca County.
In April, 1865. the qiiestion of the distribution of relief fund was consid-
ered and equalized; a few townships, having received more than their quota,
were ordered to pay the amount overdrawn to the county treasurer.
From March 8, to May 1. 1865; $1,655.78 were paid out to soldiers' fam-
ilies; $11,497.45 soldiers' remittance, and $508 soldiers' boimty. From May
1, to September 12, 1865, the amount of soldiers' remittance was $47,890.45;
of relief, $9,443; of bounty, $27,271.49; volunteer bounty and military, $90.
From September 12, 1865, to March 8, 1866. the soldiers' remittance
amoimted to $1,647.75; military fund, $1,656.25; township boimty, $38,688.
25; and volunteer bounty, $41.62.
? w.>^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 255
In July, I860, the transfer of moneys from the relief, military and volun-
teer bounty fund to the county and bridge fund, was ordered. The sum of .|7, 000
was transferred from the relief and military fund, and $7,586.00 fi-om the
volunteer bounty fund.
From March to September, 1866, there was paid out for relief of soldiers'
families, $8,006.58; soldiers' remittance, $177.33; volunteer bounty, $263.45;
military, $3, '255. 60; township bounty, $16,177.84.
To recount the work of the county board since 1866 is beyond the scope or
object of this history. The most important acts of that body are noticed how-
ever, in connection with that division of the history which they effect. Thus,
the history of court houses and jails is given with this chapter, and so on to the
end. In closing the organic chapter the historian takes much pleasure in
acknowledging the courtesies of the late Auditor Stoner, of the Deputy Audi-
tor, and of Auditor Norton, the present incumbent, and in congratulating the
county on possessing many valuable records of this important office.
Treasurer Heabler. — The death of Coiinty Treasurer Heabler resulted in
the discovery of a large deficit in the county funds. The first inquiry was
made by the county commissioners, George Heabler and Capt. Miller, chief
clerk in the deceased treasurer's office, in presence of George Hepler, Lester
Sutton and A. B. Brant, a committee appointed by the bondsmen. The cash
actually received was $153,541.22, and assets, $140,689, leaving $12,852,22
unaccounted for. Mr. Heabler was city as well as county treasurer, and on his
bonds were the following citizens:
First County Bond — S. A. Ringle, G. AV. Lemmon, Jacob Wise, Isaac
Tanner, William King, George W. Hoke, E. Weaver, George Hepler, John F.
Hoke, Henry Meyer (tailor), A. B. Brant. Samuel Ernest, Lester Sutton,
Henry Woolfert, J. M. Sillcox, Samuel H. Leonard, J. W. Link, Henry Heab-
ler.
Second County Bond — J. L. Couch, Lester Sutton, W. Everingim, J. F.
Hoke, S. A. Ringle, A. B. Brant, Jacob Wise, W. Souerwine, W. King,
Edward W^eaver, S. H. Leonard, H. F. Myers, C. Smeltz, Isaac Tanner,
George Hepler. George Heabler, Henry Heabler.
First City Bond— J. L. Couch, F. Steigmeyer, G. W. Steigmeyer, M. C.
Steinmetz, W. Souerwine, W. Everingim, Andi-ew Hoern, J. W. Armatage.
Second City Bond — Lester Sutton, James L. Couch, J. F. Hoke, S. A.
Ringle, A. B. Brant, James Wise, Henry Heabler.
Recorder s Office. — Recorder Bennehoff completed, in May, 1885, a general
index record of all patent deeds recorded in the county, by which he can tell in
a moment whether or not the patent deed of any piece of land in the county is
recorded. This is a great convenience, as heretofore it took from one to
twenty-four hours to ascertain this. The plan of the book is excellent and a
credit to the Recorder.
Public Buildings of the County. — In the first pages of this chapter it is
stated that the commissioners sold to Elijah Farquson the contract for build-
ing the first jail, July 4, 1825. This was a solid log box, laid off in two
compartments, with its vulnerable points marked by wagon-tire bindings. At
the south end of this little j^enal institution there was a frame building erected,
which was the jailer's official residence for some short time, and, in its later
days, John Fiege's cabinet-shop. This building stood on the southeast corner
of the public square, was completed the last day of March, 1 826, at a cost of
$450. The brick used in building the chimney of this jail were the first
burned in the county. Thomas Chadwick was the brick manufacturer, while
the jailer, W^illiam Toll, was the bricklayer, the first completing his kiln in the
256 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
summer of 1827, ^ud the latter finislimg tlie chimney in the fall of same
year.
During the winter of 1840-41 this pioneer county building was torn down,
as it was declared to be a trap for inducing practical jokes on the law.
Second Jail. — Succeeding the demolition of the old county prison, male-
factors wei-e variously disposed of.
Proposals to build a county jail at Tifl&n were advertised for up to Ju.ne,
1848. when the bid of Epraim Rikei-, |'3,487, to build a jail and sheriff's house
on Madison Street, opposite St. Mary' s Cemetery, was approved.
The new county jail and sheriff' s residence was completed in April, 1878.
The contractors were: X. N. Sj^eilman, of Tiffin, excavation, di'ainage, stone
work and brickwork; Fort AVayne Foundry Company, the iron work; Scudder
Chambei-lain, Tiffin, carpenter work; W. F. Gearhart & Co., Dayton, Ohio,
galvanized iron work; Rood & Co., Toledo, plumbing and gas-fitting; G. B.
Alexander, Delaware, painting and glazing; J. S. Norton & Co., Toledo, slate
work and cresting; Miller & Herrig, Tiffin, plastering. D. W. Gibbs, of
Toledo, was the architect. This building fronts on Market Street, in rear of.
the new court house. Under Sheriff Whalen's administration this institution
is well managed. ..
Court Houses. — The first meetings of the commissioners' board were held
in. Abel Rawson's office until December, 1824, when the county rented from
George Park a room in Eli Norris' tavern, standing where is now the National
Hall Building. This room was used as the clerk's and auditor's office, and
commissioners' room, until moved to the Hedges Building, on Yirgin Alley,
a two-story frame house which stood on a part of the site of the present Adver-
tiser office,.* and in which Judge Lane opened the first court April 12, 1824.
The recorder and sheriff' used their own offices and charged the county rent
for same. In May, 1829, the commissioners arranged with Donaldson, trustee
of the Methodist meeting-house, to have the use of such house for terms of
courts until the completion of a county building, then proposed. This old
church, a brick structure, stood where the Joseph Harter marble yard is now
located; was early English in style, and used by the sacred and profane indis-
criminately, until Aixgust 19, 1836, when the first county coui-t house was
completed. (Vide Transactions of the Commissioners' Board. Chap. IV.)
The court house, which was begun in 1884, and completed August 19,
1886, was destroyed by fire. May 24, 1841. Owing to the energy of the i:)eo-
ple, part of the county records was saved. The office of Cowdery & Wilson
was in this building, in connection with which is the story of Judge Lang's
extraordinaiy escape. Cowdery learned that a number of valuable papers
were not yet saved from the flames, and asked Judge Lang, then a young man,
to rescue the ' ' pigeon-hole ' ' and its contents. Without hesitating the latter
leaped into the room, cast out the "pigeonhole," and jumped fi'om the window
at the moment when the logs and sand of the second floor fell in. Even after
leaping to the ground, the cornice and debris came tumbling down, from under
which he had to be extricated.
From the destruction of the first court house to the completion of the sec-
ond one, in J anuary, 1848, courts were held in the Methodist Protestant Church,
while the official business of the county was carried on at such places as suited
the convenience of the officers. July 28, 1841, John Baugher, under con-
tract with the county, entered upon this work of rebuilding. The walls of
the old house, then standing, were used in the restored structure, and this
*The Hedges frame building on Virgin Alley was purchased about 18.56, by P. H. Ryan, for f200, and
Oioved to luoutli of Kock Creek.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUXTV. 257
(with the additions made in 1866) was the court house of Seneca County, until
vhe spring of 1884, when the building was removed to give i^lace to the present
house, the officers being transferred to a large brick building and fi-ame annex,
which fi-onted on Market Street, opposite the "Lang House," just east of the
south vestibule of the present building and the county jail. The cost of resto-
ration was over $4,400. The court house square was cleared of the old locust
trees in April, 1863.
The New Court House. — The corner-stone of this magnificent building was
laid June 24, 1884, with appropriate ceremonies. The members of the com-
mittee, appointed by the commissioners to arrange for the laying of the corner-
stone, met at the office of N. L. Brewer, and organized by electing N. L.
Brewer, chairman; J. A. Norton treasurer, and E. B. Myers secretary. On
motion the following named gentlemen were appointed as a finauce committee,
to raise funds to bear the necessary expenses of the occasion :
J. A. Norton, chairman; A. B. ^Hovey, John M. Nay lor, S. B. Sneath, John
D. Loomis, George E. Seney and John M. Kaull. The ward committees
comprised: First "Ward. E. B. Hubbard. Jacob Scheibley and Joseph Van
Nest; Second Ward, Ai Kaup, William Dore, W. P. Noble; Third Ward, J.
M. Hershberger, R. W. Shawhan and Jeremiah Rex; Foui-th Ward, J. H.
Ridgely. George D. Loomis and John Ehrenfi-ied ; Fifth Ward, J. N. Willard.
A. M. Hart and Julius Kiessling.
The corner-stone is a huge rock six feet two inches in length, two feet ten
inches wide, and one foot seven inches thick, and weighs over 6,000 pounds.
It was placed in position by the Masonic order, with the usual impressive cer-
emonies. The officers officiating were G. M., J. M. Goodspeed, of Athens;
P. G. M., A. H. Newcomb, Toledo. Sam Stackerwilliams, Newark: G. S.
W., A. F. Yance, Urbana; G. J. W., Levi C. Goodale, "Cincinnati; G. Treas.,
J. M. Chamberlain, Newark; G. Sec, John D. Caldwell, Cincinnati; G.
Tyler, C. C. Park, Tiffin; G. Chaplain, Rev. J. S. Reager; G. J. Deacon, Dr.
G. E. Davis.
Gen. W. H. Gibson delivered the orations in English, wl ile Judge Will-
iam Lang delivered an historical address in German. J. H. Good, D. D. ,
invoked the blessing on the work. Mayor Royer delivered the addi-ess of wel-
come, Rev. Mr. Reager offered prayer, and then the huge copper box, contain-
ing mementoes of our times, was placed within the stone, which was put in
position by the Masons. The box contains the following mementoes:
Copies of the Senem Advertiser, Tiffin Tiffin Turner Society.
Tribune. Tiffin Neics, Tiffin Presse, Daily K. of P., Pickwick Lodge.
Herald, Daily Courier, Fostoria Democrat, Grace Reformed Church.
Fostoria /?CT/ew,Bettsville Enterprise,Gree-a. Tiffin Zouaves.
Spring Times, Bloomville Record, Attica Ebenezer Evangelical Church.
Journal, College Monthly. Tiffin Fire Department.
Historical sketches and names of officers, Tiffin Bruderbund Society,
and members of the following societies: Isaac P. Rule Post, G. A. R.
Tiffin Lodge No. 77. F. & A. M. Leander Stem Post, G. A. R.
Metliodist Episcopal Church. Eureka Lodge, Prudential order of Amer-
Trinity Episcopal Cliurch. ica.
First Evangelical Church. First Reformed Church.
Presbvterian Church. I. O. O. F., Kansas, Seneca Co., Ohio.
First Baptist Church. St. Joseph's Church membership.
St. Mary's Catholic Church. Bloomville G. A. R.
Tiffiu Public Schools. Electric Light Company.
Tiffin Lodge Knights of Pythias. Green Spring I. O. O. F., Roll of Lodge.
Knights of St. George. Venice Lodge I. O. O. F., Roll.
St. Patrick's F. A. and B. A. Adrian Lodge No. 494, L O. O. F.
Heidelberg College. Wyandot Lodge No. 141, I. O. O. F.
Seneca County Medical Society. Fostoria Lodge No. 317.
258 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Seneca Lodge 35. Spanish 25 cent piece of 1784.
Oakley Lodge 317. List of Attorneys in Seneca County.
Bloomville Lodge 667. Photograpli of old court house building,
Melmore Lodge 174. and historical sketch of same.
Tiffin Water Works. Gold dollar, silver dollar, silver 50 cent
Also: Court docket of May term, 1884. piece, silver 25 cent piece, silver 10 cent
Premium list Seneca County Agricultural piece, silver 5 cent piece, nickel coin.
Society, 1883. copper 1 and 2 cent coins.
Catalogue Heidelberg College, 1884. Memorial badge and Ohio Building Stone
Official Directory of the City of Tiffin, Company's memo.
Seneca County. Cards of Contractor R. C. Greenlee.
Caldwell & Lane, Iron Contractors. Lang's History of Seneca County.
Tiffin Public Library catalogue and offi- Card of Commercial and National Ex-
cers. change Banks.
The memorial badge worn by the participants in this celebration was quite
in keeping with the elaborate details of the ceremony. The cost of this mon-
ument to Seneca County's advancement, was about $215,000, or about $5.40
per capita of the estimated number of inhabitants in 1885. A complete state-
ment of costs and expenses in connection with the building of the hew court
house, purchasing additional real estate, etc., is given as follows:
Real estate appropriated by proceedings in the probate court:
Property of Fiege Bros $18,000 00
Property of H. F. Fiege 6,900 00
Property of William Lang 3 600 00
Property of Vannest heirs 2,300 00
Attorney's fee: N. L. Brewer 250 00
Court costs 266 61
131,816 61
Deduct amount received for the Fiege Buildings. . . 665 00
Engine House 100 00
Fence around old grounds 455 00
$1,220 00
Total addition to real estate $30,096 61
M. E. Myers, architect for plans and specifications. 4,500 00
COURT HOUSE BUILDING.
Original contract price $145,778 00
Extra work in foundation 1,355 90
Repairing damage done by frost, etc 834 00
Other extras to date 658 65
Estimate of all future extras 500 00
Total cost of building 149,126 55
OTHER CONTRACTS LET.
Shaw, Kendall & Co., steam heating 7,950 00
Contract price of boiler house $4,464 00
Extra on boiler house, iail connection, etc 604 16
5,068 16
Estimate on furniture (order not yet completed). .. 8,000 00
Tower and office clocks in place 1,990 00
Tower bell in place 815 00
MISCELLANEOUS.
Grading lot, paving walks and street estimated. ... 2,000 00
Gas or electric light fixtures 1,500 00
R. G. Pennington, superintendent, May 1, 1883, to
November 1, 1885 3,175 32
Rent for Probate office, . hree years 300 00
Advertising for bids and other' items 300 00
$214,821 64
HISTORY OF SEx\ECA COUNTY. 259
The total value of taxable property in the county is $21,845,520; so it will
be seen that the total assessment in behalf of this improvement will be less than
1 per cent, on such valuation; and if paid for in ten years will require the pay-
ment of 11 per year upon every thousand dollars of valuation on the duplicate.
A tigiTre representing the goddess of justice surmounts this magnificent
structure, being placed in position May 26, 1885.
County Poor Institution. — In the pages dealing with the transactions of
the commissioners' board, the minutiae of the history of the Infirmary and Poor
Farm are given: while in the political chapter the vote on the question of their
establishment, as w^ell as the votes polled for members of the infirmary direct-
ors' board, are of record. June 7, 1841, the question of establishing an
infirmary was submitted to the board. Fourteen years later a site was selected
in Eden Township, and in 1856 a building was erected by Messrs. Speilman,
Myers and Toner, under contract with the commissioners. The farm comprises
240 acres which (with improvements) is valued at $78,000.
CHAPTER V.
POLITICAL HISTORY,
TT^ROM what has been written in the history of Ohio, regarding her politics,
J-} as well as that which appears in the Organic Chapter, just given, the reader
may acquaint himself wuth the events leading up to the organization of this
division of the State. From 1824 to 1832 county elections were held accord-
ing to law; but owing to the comparatively small interest taken in local affairs,
the distances and inconveniences of travel, such elections were carried out
much on the principle of society elections of the present day, with one great
objection, that men gathered at the polls, voted, drank whisky^, smoked, swore,
wrestled and fought, all for holiday fun. In 1832 this free and easy method
may be said to disappear. The campaign of that year called forth all the
energies of the people and their standard bearers, and gave to political life a
stimulus which won for it an important place in the minds of the people.
Since that time party warfare has been carried on regularly. The first elec-
tions were held in the county (Thompson and Seneca Townships) in October,
1820, when twenty votes were polled for the ofiices of Sundusky County. In
September, 1821, nominating caucuses were held at Lower Sandusky, and in
October of that year the candidates received the following vote in what is now
known as Seneca County:
ELECTION, OCTOBER, 1821.
COMMISSIONER. RErEESENTATIVE.
David Smith , 16 Lyman Farrel 26
Jiles Thompson 10
AUDITOR.
^E^^TOR. jogial, Rumeiy 15
Eben Merry 25 H.J.Harmon 10
D. Alford Kelly 1
The Sandusk}- County candidates of 1822 and 1823 received a full vote
from the settlers of Seneca; but beyond the total numl^er of votes polled there
is no record.
•26 0
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
The special election for officers of Seueca County was held in April. Ib'U
wlien Aa-reen Ingraham received nineteen votes for sheriff and was elected:
Leverett BradleyT 200 votes for coroner, and was elected; and William Clark,
Jesse S Olmsted and Benjamin Whitmore were elected county commissioners;
Milton McNeal was appointed treasiu-er; David Risdon, tax collector; David
Smith clerk and recorder; Neal McGaffey, clerk of courts; William Cornell,
Jaques Hulburt and Matthew Clark, associate judges. Ingraham' s bondsmen
for $5,000, were Rollin MoUer, Michael Schaul, Joseph Pool and J. A. Eosen-
^^ The first annual election took place in October, 1824. David H. Beards-
ley was elected State senator; Jeremiah Everett, representative; Agreen Ingra-
ham sheriff; David Smith, auditor; Christopher Stone, coroner; Benjamin
Whitmore. Thomas Bovd and Dr. Dunn were elected commissioners; Milton
McXeel was appointed treasurer, and Rudolphus Dickenson was appointed
proseciitor. The vote recorded for Allen Trimble, for governor, was 230, and
for David Morrow, 50. The Presidential election in November resulted as fol-
lows: John Q. Adams, Federalist, 112 votes; Henry Clay. Whig, 37 votes;
"and Andi-ew Jackson, Democrat, 2(3 votes.
ELECTIONS 1825.
The elections of 1825 lIiow a severe fight
for member of the Legislature:
Josiah Hedges ;33
Jeremiah Everett ^^
William Cornell ^j
Josiah Rumery ly
Hal-vey Harmon 1
The contest for county commissioner was
carried on between Thomas Boj-d and Will-
iam Claris, the former receiving 244 votes
and the latter 154. The other officers of
the county weie re-elected, held over, or
reappointed.
ELECTIONS loZO.
In 1826 Abel Rawson was appointed
prosecutor; Timothy P. Roberts and James
Gordon elected county commissioners; and
all the other officers re-elected. Eber Balder
was eleclcd representative in the State
Legislature. Milton McNeal was re-ap-
pointed treasurer, and William Patterson,
tax collector.
ELECTIONS 1827.
There were no less than seven candidates
for the Legislature before the people in (spe-
cial election) 1827, viz.: Josiah Hedges,
Geor^'-e Poe, Samuel Treat, Eber Baker,
Washington Conkliu, Joseph Chaffee and
Joseph* S. Newell. Hedges, who received
195 votes, and Baker, 80 votes, were the
only candidates who received votes in
Seneca County. The others, however, re-
ceived many votes in the representative
district, which then comprised Crawford,
Marion, Sandusky and Seneca Counties.
The annual election of 1827 resulted in the
choice of Samuel M. Lockwood. Case
Brown was elected commissioner; Agreen
Ingraham, treasurer, and David Risdon,
county assessor.
:317
9i»
317
99
283
112
19
ELECTIONS 1828.
PRESIDENT.
J. Q. Adams, Fed
Andrew Jackson, Dem
GOVERNOll.
Allen Trimble
J. W. Campbell
CONGRESS.
M. Barlley
W\ H. Hunter
Reuben Wood (Jackson)
SENATOR.
AsaSanford ^'
David Campbell 823
George Anderson (Jackson) 88
Abel Rawson was elected recorder; Will-
iam Patterson, sheriff; Jacob Plane, treas-
urer; David Smith, auditor; James Ciordon,
commissioner, and William Toll, coroner.
ELECTIONS 1829-30-31.
In 1829 Timothy P. Roberts was elected
commissioner, the other officers holding-
over.
The elections of 1830 resulted in a major-
ity of three for Gov. Lucas, and in the elec-
tion of Sam. M. Lockwood, State senator;
Josiah Hedges, representative; David Bish-
op, sheriff'; Abel Rawson, recorder and
prosecutor, and Case Brown, commissioner.
Joseph Howard was appointed clerk.
The elections of 1831 may be considered
the dawn of political enthusiasm in Seneca
County. Whigs and Democrats made regu-
lar nominations, and swore by their party
platforms. Harvey J. Harmon was elected
representative; David Risdon, commission-
er; John W^right, county assessor; Benjamin
Pittinger, Selden Graves and Agreen Ingra-
ham, associate judges. David E. Owen,
elected auditor, was proposed by Daniel
Dildine, Sr., as fully qualified to fill the
office of auditor. He was the first Democrat
ever elected in Seneca County.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
■261
ELECTIONS
1832.
A meeting was held in August, 1833, for
the purpose of nominating candidates for
the various county ottices. John L. Flack
presided, with Gabriel J. Keen, secretary.
The AVhigs met sul)sequeutly and made
their nominations, while the Wirt or anti-
Masonic party reported through William
Clark, Andrew Love and John Baker that it
was inexpedient to make nominations for
county officers.
The Wirt party was well organized. In
September, 1832, a committee of vigilance
was formed in each township, while a cen-
tral county committee directed the proceed-
ings. The members of these committees,
in each township, are named in the follow-
ing list:
Clinton Township. — George Ebbert. Jacob
Plane, Samuel Rider, George Donaldson,
D. H. Philip, James Mercer, Calvin Brad-
ley, E. Bates, Asa Crockett and Grafton
Bernard.
Scipio Townsliip. — A. Hance.Moses Spen-
cer, W. Smith, William Anwa3^ Timothy P.
Roberts and Charles Foz.
Eden Township. — John Searles.A. Bratz,
H. McCollister, John Wolf, T. J. Baker,
Mathew Clark, Noah Seitz, William Con-
nell and Elijah Musgrave.
Thompson Township. — Samuel Clark,
Thomas Clark and Ransom Purdy.
Hopewell Township. — O. Hart, John
Crum, John Roseuberger. Joseph Ogle and
Andrew Love.
Reed Township. — Ezra Witter, Thomas
Bennett, Seth Reed, Elijah Reed and George
Raymond.
xidams Township.— Samuel Elder, S.
Whiteman and Thomas Longwith.
Liberty Township. — A. Crum, J. Siberil,
J. Craum and Charles Foster.
Bloom Township. — Dr. McMuUen, John
Seitz, J. C. Marter, T. Boyd and George
Face.
Seneca Township. — John Crocker and
Peter Lot.
Venice Township. — Henry Speaker and
John Ford.
The two tickets in nomination. September
8, 1833, and the vote received in October, of
that year, are given thus:
CONGRESS.
Elutherous Cook, D 482
William Patterson, W 549
SENATE.
Charles Lindsay, D 482
Daniel Tilden, W 549
REPRESENTATIVES.
Andrew Lugenbeel, D 482
Samuel M. Lockwood, D 483
Jeremiah Everett, W • 549
Thomas McMullen, W 549
SHERIFF.
David Bishop, D -J83
WMUiam Toll, AV .549
AUDITOR.
David E. Owen, D 482
George W. Gist, W ,549
COMMrSSrONER.
John Keller, D 4S2
Enoch Umsted, W '.'.' 549
Ethan Smith, Ind
CORONER.
George Flack, D -, 433
Francis Bernard, W .049
PRESIDENT.
Andrew Jackson, D 555
Henrv Clay, W' 594
William Wirt, A. M .' ."
The vote by townships, in October, 1832,
was for Democrats, in Clinton, 105; Hope-
well, 55; Pleasant, 23; Seneca, 89; Liberty,
23; Loudon, 11; Scipio, 58; Bloom, 30;
Adams. 17; Thompson, 38; Eden. 32, and
other precincts, 53; aggregating 482 votes.
The Whig vote was in Clinton, 130; in
Hopewell, 78, in Pleasant, 41; in Seneca,
30; in Liberty, 14; in Loudon, 6; in Scipio,
70; in Bloom, 49; in Adams, 30; in Thomp-
son. 43; and in Eden, 78; aggregating 549
votes.
A small vote was polled in Venice and
Reed Townships, of which no regular
record was made.
The November elections drew forth the
full strength of each narly in the county.
The Jackson Democrats polled 555 votes,
and the Clay Whigs, 594 votes. There is
no record of anti-Masonic votes, nor is it
thought that the Wirt party cast a vote in
this county for the head of the anti-Mason
ticket. The first political jollilicatiou
party ever held in the county, was that by
the Democrats December 6, 1832, at
Goodin's Hotel, Tiffin, David E. Owen, pre-
siding. Henry Croni.se, George Flack,
Nathan L. Wright, Joseph CTraff, Col. R.
Jaqua, Uriah P. Coonrad, Gabriel J.
Keen, E. Brown, Jacob Kroh, Col. John
Goodin, A. Eaton, Sanmel S. Martin. J. H.
Brown, E. Locke, Frederick Kishler, P. J.
Price, William Anderson, John Campbell,
William H. Kessler, Joshua Seney and A.
Mainz were the leading participants.
ELECTIONS 1833-34-35.
Jeremiah Everett wa? elected representa-
tive; John Goodin, treasurer; Sidhev Smith
(Sea), prosecutor; John Crum, Marcus Y.
Graff and John Seitz, commissioners:
Reuben Williams, assessor, and David
Owen, auditor. Mr. Owen was appointed
receiver of the Ohio Canal Land Office, at
Tiffin, August 27, 1833. In June, 1838, Van
Buren appointed him receiver of the Wj^an-
262
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
dot Indian Land Office. In May, 1840, he
was succeeded by John Goodin.
In March, 1833, the auditor was ap-
pointed clerk of the commissioners' board
by nature of his office. , , .
The elections of 1834 resulted in the ,
choice of Joseph Howard, State senator; ;
Jacques Hulburt, representative; Luther A
Hall clerk: David E. Owen, auditor: Joel
Stone, sheriff; Lorenzo Abbott and Benja^
min Whitmore, commissioners, and Eli ;
Norris, coroner. With the exception of
Owen, all were Whigs. James Findlay,
(Whig) was nominated for governor, and ;
Mordecai Hartley (Whig) for Congress.
In 183o, W. B. Craighill was elected ,
representative; Luther A. Hall, clerk: ^
John Goodin, treasurer; Selah Chapin,
prosecutor; Benjamin Whitmore, commis-
sioner, and John Webb, assessor. i
ELECTIONS 1830.
The campaign of 1836 was opened the
last day of April by a meeting of Demo-
cratic-Republicans,held at the Seneca Hotel
Tiffin. Col. Henry C. Brish. presided. A
vigilance committee was appointed for each
township. In June, following, the Young
Men's Democratic-Republican Convention
was called to consider the advisability
of holding a State convention. The
Whigs also took steps to organize, and i
by August, the Democratic-Republicans ,
and Whigs had placed the following names
before the people as the choice of then-
conventions.
PRESIDENT.
Martin Van Buren, D. R 1129
William H. Harrison, W 948
CONGRESS.
William H. Hunter, D .- 914
Jabez Wright, W <o9
SENATOR.
David E. Owen, D gl8
Joseph Howard, W 850
REPRESENT.\TIVE.
William B. Craighill, D 935
Ezra Williams, W 747
SHERIFF.
Elam Lock, D Party vote
Joel Stone, W
AUDITOR.
Levi Davis, D Party vote
No Whig nominee.
RECORDER.
Daniel Dildine, Jr., D Party vote
JosiahF. Reed, declined.
John Goodin, declined.
No Whig nominee.
COMMISSIONER.
Lewis Seitz, D Party vote
Charles W. Foster, W
ASSESSOR.
John W. Eastman, D Party vote
John C. Donnell, W
SURVEYOR.
George W. Gist, D Party vote
Jonas Hershberger, D., declined.
David Risdon, W Party vote
CORONER.
Levi Keller, D Party vote
Eli Norris, W
This was the first time a county recorder
was elected— previously, he was appointed.
/
ELECTIONS 1837.
Samuel Treat was elected representative;
John Goodin, treasurer; John J. Steiner,
prosecutor; Lorenzo Abbott, commissioner,
and Robert Holley, county assessor. James
Durbin was appointed surveyor to succeed
David Risdon, who served from 1824 to
183G.
SCHOOL EXAMINERS 1837.
Selah Chapin, Jr Elected
John P. Cornell
Joseph Howard
ASSOCIATE JUDGES.
Andrew Lugenbeel Elected
Lowell Robinson
Henry C. Brish (pending).
ELECTIONS 1838.
The nominations by the Democratic-
Republican Convention were made at
Jamieson's house, September 23, 1838.
John Clagget presided, with S. H. Brown,
secretary. In July, the State convention
and Whig county convention were held.
The elections of October, 1838, are of rec-
ord as follows:
GOVERNOR.
Wilson Shannon, D 117-
Joseph Vance, W 959
CONGRESS.
George Sweeney, D 1173
Joseph M. Root, W 938
■ SEN.VTOR.
William B. Craighill, D 1167
Sardis Birchard, W 939
REPRESENTATIVE.
i JohnWelch,D 1155
Evan Dorsey. W 943
SHERIFF.
Levi Keller. D 1233
William McClure, AV 810
AUDITOR.
Levi Davis, D 1277
Joseph Lease, W. . 81 <
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY,
265
COMMISSIONER.
John Terry, D 1163
Benjamin Whitmore, W 923
ASSESSOR.
Samuel S. Martin, D 1182
Jesse Whiteman, W 905
CORONER.
Henry McCartney, D 1125
EliNorris, W 868
In May, 1838. a call for a Whig meeting
was signed by Dr. Kuhn, Eli Dresbach, Jo-
siah Hedges, Joseph Howard and Erastus
Bowe, to consider the question of abolishing
slavery. Dr. Kuhn was the only one who
survived to witness the triumph of the Ab-
olition party — in 1865. At that time he was
on surgeon's duty, at Camp Dennison. A
great Whig meeting was held at Fort Sen-
eca, with Robert Holly president, May 12,
1838. Minor meetings were held through-
out the county.
The first regularly organized temperance
meeting, held at Tiffin, was that of July 4,
1838, after the great celebration of that day.
ELECTIONS
1839.
Henry C. Brish was elected associate
judge,and David E. Owen State librarian.in
January, 1839. John Welch (D.) received a
majority of 184 over Abel Rawson, people's
ticket, for representative; W. H. Kessler,
(D.) beat John Walker (W.) and John P.
Cornell, People's candidate for the record-
ership; and Andrew Moore (D.) was elected
commissioner over John Seitz on the Peo-
ple's ticket; Jonas Hershberger (D.) was
elected surveyor, and Joshua Seney (D.)
beat Levi Davis (Ind. D.) and John Park,
People's candidate for the treasurership of
the county.
ELECTIONS 1840.
GOVERNOR.
Thomas Corwin, W 1446
Wilson Shannon. D 1607
CONGRESS.
James Hedges, W 1445
George Sweeney, D 1604
SENATOR.
Andrew CofBnberry, W 1447
John Goodin, D 1583
REPRESENTATIVES.
Lorenzo Abbott, W 1466
R. S. Rice, W 1439
McAnelly, D 1606
Wood, D 1.590
SHERIFF.
John Baugher, W 1399
Levi Keller, D 1625
COMMISSIONER.
Lorenzo D. Shawhan, W 1434
George Stoner, D 1604
AUDITOR
Thomas Treat, W 1436
Gabriel J. Keen, D 1597
ASSESSOR.
Micajah Heaton, W 1406
Benjamin Carpenter, D 1618
CORONER.
Timothy P. Roberts, W 1347
Daniel Brown, D 1630
PRESIDENT.
W. H. Harrison, W 1483
M. Van Buren, D ". 1616
J. J. Birney, L
Joshua Seney, elector, D 1616
Loudon Township gave a majority of ten
to the Whigs.
CLERK.
C. F. Dresbach (appointed).
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Abel Rawson, W. (did not run).
Joel W. Wilson, D 1602
The Democratic Whigs and Van Buren
Democrats formed the leading parties.
The year 1839, as well as 1840, may be
said to be devoted, by the people of Seneca,
to Whig, Democratic and variegated poli-
tics, log-cabin raisings, meetings, conven-
tions and caucuses. Agriculture and com-
merce were only secondary considerations;
even the record of election passed un-
heeded. A log-cabin was dedicated, at
Tiffin, July 8, 1840. A. Rawson, L. A.
Hall, Jos. Howard, H. Kuhn and J. K.
Gibson formed the Whig central commit-
tee.
In 1840 the office of county assessor was
abolished by the Legislature, and the duties
of assessment assigned to the township as-
sessors.
ELECTIONS 1841.
REPRESENTATIVES.
Ezekiel Rice, W 845
Chas. W. O'Neil, W 850
Geo. W. Baird, D 1143
AmosE. Wood, D 1144
COMMISSIONER.
Case Brown, W 892
John Terry, D 1047
TREASURER.
Levi Davis, W 908
Jos. Seney, D 1040
f5
266
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
ELECTIONS 1842.
A mass convention of the Whigs of north-
western Ohio was held at Tiffin, September
23, 1843. September 12, 1842, a county
convention was held here.
GOVERNOR.
T. Corwin, W 1268
W.Shannon, D 1829
Leicester King, Ab 35
SENATOR.
Sidney Sea, W 1175
Moses McAnelly, D 1811
Lowell Robinson, Ab 46
COMMISSIONER.
Evan Dorsey, W 1266
Jas. McClelland, D 1811
Joseph Jackson, Ab. . .- 38
AUDITOR.
Joseph Lease, W 1200
G.J. Keen, D 1866
Kites, Ab 36
RECORDER.
Daniel Cunningham, W 1226
W. H. Kessler, D 1858
Watson, Ab 36
SHERIFF.
Joel Stone, W 1348
U. P. Coonrad, D 1736
Bennett, Ab 33
REPRESENTATIVES.
John Webb, W 1245
John C. Spink, W (retired)
Chapman. W 1257
H. C. Brish. D 1839
Geo. W. Baird, D 1822
Boyd, Ab 36
Williard, Ab 36
CORONER.
Wm. Campbell, W (retired)
Geo. H. Show, D 1709
Joseph Gibson, W 1353
Watson, Ab 37
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Jesse Stem, W 1340
J. W.Wilson, D 1758
SURVEYOR.
David Risdon, W 1289
Thos. Heming, D 1775
R. G. Perry, Ab 34
Total vote 3148
ELECTIONS
1843.
Henry St. John, D 979
Lowell Robinson, L 34
REPRESENTATIVES.
Samuel Waggoner, D 951
W. B. Craighill.D 979
Joshua Maynard, L 35
James Merrick, L 46
TREASURER.
Richard AVilliams, D 993
R. G. Perry, L 35
COMMISSIONER.
Morris P. Skinner, D 970
Joseph Jackson, L 36
The Democrats were opposed by the Lib-
erty party. In February, 1842, the Liberty
party made its first appearance in Seneca
County, at Republic. A resolution against
the teachings of F. D. Parish was carried
by the meeting.
Richard Williams was Commissioner of
the Bankrupt Court for Seneca County,
Ohio, in May, 1842.
ELECTIONS 1844.
PRESIDENT.
James K. Polk, D 2318
Henry Clay. W 1707
James G. Birney, L 41
GOVERNOR.
David Tod. D 2218
Mordecai Bartley, W 1582
CLERK OF SUPREME COURT.
Joshua Seney. D
CONGRESS.
Henry St. John. D 2197
Abel Rawson, W 1582
SENATOR.
Amos E. Wood, D 2206
Sardis Birchard, W 1580
REPRESENTATIVE.
Henry Cronise. D 2141
Henry Kuhn, W 1567
SHERIFF.
Uriah P. Coonrad. D 2215
G. F. Kaestner, W 1546
AUDITOR.
Fred W. Green, D 2238
Isaac Small, W 1547
CORONER.
Geo. H. Show, D 2205
Dan. Cunningham, W 1568
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Wm. Lang, D 2157
R. G. Pennington, W 1594
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
267
COMMISSIONER.
Jacob Decker, D
W. P.White, W
2178
1559
Abel Rawson was a member of the Whig
National Convention held at Baltimore in
1844.
The above returns show a Democratic
gain in Seneca County of about 600 over
1840.
Democratic Hickory Clubs were organized
in the townships of Weneca County, during
the spring and summer of 1844.
Meetings in favor of the repeal of the
Union of Ireland and Great Britain were
held throughout the countj^in March, 1844.
ELECTIONS 1845.
REPRE SENTATIVE .
Daniel Brown, D 985
Keating, W 101
COJIMISSIONER.
Jos. McClellan, D 987
Schuyler, W 100
TREASURER.
Richard Williams, D 996
Joshua Maynard, W 98
RECORDER.
W. H. Kessler, D 995
Watson, W 103
ASSOCIATE JtTDGES.
Henry Ebert
Wm. Toll
Andrew Lugenbeel
SURVEYOR.
Thomas Heming, D 977
Myers, W 99
ELECTIONS 1846.
GOVERNOR.
David Tod, D 1962
Sam Lewis, L 157
William Bebb, W 1263
CONGRESS.
Rodolpus Dickenson, D I860
Joseph Jackson, L 140
Ely Dresbach, W ' 1361
SENATOR.
Henry Cronise, D 1894
Geo. Donelson, L
John L. Green, W 1228
REPRESENTATIVE.
Warren P. Noble, D 1859
Sam Myers, L
John Zimmerman, W.* 1312
*John Zimmerman was killed in the Nolan sand-
bank about 1851.
COMMISSIONER.
Morris P. Skinner, D 1990
E. S. Bartlett. L
Squire Rosenberger, W 1240
AUDITOR.
Fred W. Green. D 2039
Chancey Pool, L
John Seitz, W 1205
SHERIFF.
Eden Lease, D 2023
Harrison McClelland, L
John Zimmerman, W 1206
CORONER.
Sam Herrin, D 1938
John Wilkison L
W. P. White, W 1228
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
William Lang, D 1901
Pierce, W 1281
This campaign is memorable for the in-
terest it created throughout Ohio. Whigs
sang such couplets as:
Get out of the way each local railer.
Clear the track for Scott and Taylor.
The Democrats and Liberals had equally
ridiculous little songs, and all parties still
sang, drank, swore and fought as they did
twenty years before.
ELECTIONS 1847.
REPRESENTATIVE.
Warren P. Noble, D
TREASURER.
Geo. Knupp, D
RECORDER.
R. M.C.Martin, D
COMMISSIONER.
Jacob Decker, D
Elected without opposition.
Chas. F. Dresbach died in November,
1847.
ELECTIONS 1848.
PRESIDENT.
Zach. Taylor, W 1637
Lewis Cass. D 2826
Martin Van Buren, F. S 483
GOVERNOR.
J. B. Weller, D 2071
Seabury Ford, W 1403
CONGRESS.
Rudolphus Dickenson, D 1994
Cooper K. Watson, W 1421
SENATE.
John W. O'Neil, Ab 1486
Joel W. Wilson, D 1947
268
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
REPRESENTATIVES.
Jacob Souder, Ab 1491
John G. Breslin, D 19»5
COMMISSIONER.
Samuel Saul, D 2016
Elisha Umsted, Fed o51
M. B. Cain, V. B 624
AUDITOR.
Fred W. Green, D 2015
T. P. Roberts, Fed "795
J. A. McFarland, V. B 636
SHERIFF.
Eden Lease, D 2126
G. M. Ogden, V. B 517
Jos. Gibson, Fed 786
CORONER.
SamHerrin, D 2012
A. W. Childs. V. B 593
D. Parmer, Fed 857
SURVEYOR.
Geo. H. Heming, D 2012
G. Jones, V. B 593
B.F.Parker, Fed 857
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Warren P. Noble, D 1991
W. H. Gibson, Fed 920
J. P. Pillars, V. B 576
ELECTIONS 1849.
CONGRESS.
A. E.Wood, D 1941
REPRESENTATIVES.
John G. Breslin, D 1361
Isaac DeWitt, W 769
John G. Breslin voted to repeal the Black
laws, and was named among the Abolition-
ists.
TREASURER.
George Knupp, D .' 1887
COMMISSIONER.
Barney Zimmerman, D 1715
CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION.
For 1945
Against 90
The tickets in the field were the regular
Democratic and what was known as the
Bolters' ticket. The Abolition candidate
for the Legislature was elected. Samuel J.
Bayard was appointed one of the Commis-
sioners on boundary line between Mexico
and the United States.
ELECTIONS APRIL, 1850.
DELEGATE TO CONVENTION.
EdsonT. Stickney, D 1660
Abel Rawson, W 1578
JohnEwing, D* 1882
♦Senatorial district delegate from Seneca, Wyandot
and Hancock.
POOR HOUSE VOTE.
For Poor House 1031
Against 1315
The office of associate judge was abolished
by the Legislature tliis year. Thomas
Lloyd, chosen to fill vacancy, was the last
associate judge elected in Seneca County.
ELECTIONS OCTOBER, 1850.
GOVERNOR.
Reuben Wood, D 1977
William Johnson, P. T 1081
Edward Smith, Ab 30
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.
Alex. G. Conover, P. T 1077
Alex. P. Miller, D 1960
REPRESENTATIVE.
Jacob Decker, D 1598
Isaac Dewitt, P. T 1383
SHERIFF.
Stephen M. Ogden, D 1651
William Burkhalter, W 228
Samuel Rule, P. T 1072
AUDITOR.
Richard Williams, D 1677
R. G. Pennington, P. T 1347
RECORDER.
Jacob Wolf, P. T 1208
R. M. C. Martin, D 1784
Charles F. Dresbach, W 33
CONGRESS.
Fred W. Green, D 1756
SENATOR.
Michael Brackley 2197
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
W. P. Noble, D 1632
W. H. Gibson, P. T 1386
COMMISSIONER.
Levi Davis, P. T 1344
David Burns, D 1669
CORONER.
Jeremiah Williams, P. T 1314
George Ransburg, D 1669
ELECTIONS 1851.
GOVERNOR.
Reuben Wood. D 2311
S. F. Vinton, W 1345
TREASURER.
John G. Breslin, D 2206
A. A. Bliss. W 1406
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
Lawrence W. Hall, D 2115
Cooper K. Watson, W 1500
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
269
SENATOR.
Joel W. Wilson, D 2118
Abel Rawson, W 1543
KEPRESENTATIVE .
Jacob Decker, D 1976
William G. Gibson, W 1692
PROBATE JUDGE.
William Lang, D 2302
Gabriel J. Keen, W 366
CLERK OF COURT.
Philip Speilman, D 2215
M. V. Bogart, W 1437
TREASURER.
Thomas Heming, D 2180
John Kerr, W 1443
COMMISSIONER.
Samuel Saul. D 2127
Lorenzo Abbott, W 1443
PROSECUTINC4 ATTORNEY.
William M. Johnson, D 2202
Leander Stem, W 1475
SURVEYOR.
George H. Heming, D 2255
Aaron Schuyler, W 1417
ELECTIONS 1852.
SUPREME JUDGE.
Wm. B. Caldwell, D 2128
D. A. Haynes, W 1169
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.
James B. Steedman, D 2123
David H. Beardsley, W 1171
CONGRESS.
Fred W. Green, D 2133
Jas. H. Godman, W 1140
AUDITOR.
John J. Steiner, D 2122
Matthew Clark, W 1169
SHERIFF.
Stephen M. Ogden. D 2146
James Robinson, W 1119
COMMISSIONER.
Calvin Clark, D 2160
Timothy P. Roberts, W 1115
CORONER.
Geo. Ransburg, D 2142
PRESIDENT.
Franklin Pierce, D 2809
Winfield Scott, W 1972
John P. Hale, F. S 118
ELECTIONS 1853.
GOVERNOR.
William Medill, D 1870
J. W. Barrere, W 873
Sam. Lewis, Ab 249
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR.
James Myers, D 1833
L J. Allen, W 94l
TREASURER.
John G. Breslin, D 1844
Backman, W 769
Chafin, Ab 203
SENATOR.
Robert Lee, D 1868
Geo. Leith, W 932
John D. Paine (D.) for representative;
Thomas Heming (D.) for treasurer, David
Burns (D.) for commissioner; William M.
Johnson (D.) for prosecutor; and Wm.
Kline (D.) for recorder, received the full
party vote of the county, and were elected.
ELECTIONS
1854.
SUPREME JUDGE.
Jos. R. Swan, F. S 2703
S. F. Norris, D 1273
BOARD PUBLIC W^ORKS.
Jacob Blickensderfer, F. S.
i A.P.Miller,D 1178
I
CONCJRESS.
C. K. Watson, F. S 2687
■ Josiah S. Plants. D 1264
AUDITOR.
Wm. Stevens, F. S
J. J. Steiner, D
1168
I PROBATE JUDGE.
J. K. Hord, F. S 2781
Wm. Lang, D 1095
i TREASURER.
I Thomas Heming, D 3834
I No opposition.
i CLERK OP COURT.
Philip Speilman, D 3847
No opposition.
SHERIFF.
Eph. C. Wells, F. S 2684
Piper, D 1222
COMillSSIONEK.
Isaac Stillwell, F. S 2833
Levi Keller, D 1248
CORONER.
Alvison Flumerfelt, F. S 2719
Julius C. Mitchell, D 1219
270
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
This was the first time in fourteen years
the Democracy of Seneca was defeated.
The Know-nothings and Fusionists opposed
the regular Democratic nominees. During
the year 1854 a Know-nothing circle was
organized at Tifiin, followed by one at Fos-
toria, and the organization subsequently
spread throughout the townships. It is
stated on good authority that the United
Brethren refused to take the oath of the
Know-nothings, but supported the party at
the polls.
John P. Reynolds printed the tickets for
the Know-nothings of Seneca County, in
the office of the Tiffin Tribune. Seven
years later, many of the same class, who
were so friendly to the Whigs of 1854, took
out an issue of this journal, and burned it
in the streets of Tiffin.
ELECTIONS 1855.
GOVERNOR.
Salmon P. Chase, R 2332
William Medill, D 1961
TREASURER.
John G. Breslin, D 1918
W. H. Gibson, R 2352
PUBLIC WORKS BOARD.
A. G. Conover. R 2342
James B. Steedman, D 1965
SENATOR.
James Lewis, Am 2273
W. P. Noble, D 1978
REPRESENTATIVE.
Joseph Boyer, Am 2273
John W. Paine, D 1987
COMMISSIONER.
James Boyd, Am 2278
And. Lugenbeel, D 1996
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
L. A. Hall, Am 2310
R. L. Griffith, D 1963
The American ticket referred to above
was also called the Know-nothing ticket.
ELECTIONS 1856.
PRESIDENT.
James Buchanan, D 2605
J. C. Fremont, R 2565
Millard Fillmore, Am 103
DISTRICT PRESIDENTIAL ELECTOR.
Robert G. Pennington, R 2565
SUPREME JUDGE.
Rufus p. Ranney, D 2396
Josiah Scott, R 2420
SUPREME COURT.
Ozias Bowen, Am 2402
C. W. Searle, D 2396
CONGRESS.
L. W. Hall, D 2416
Cooper K. Watson, R 2354
Wm. T. Wilson, Am 57
JUDGE OP COMMON PLEAS.
M. C. Whiteley, D 2404
D. W. Swigart, Am 2421
AUDITOR.
Walter S. Burns, D 2384
James M. Stevens, Am 2423
TREASURER.
Geo. H. Heming, D 2419
Louis Seitz, R 2371
SHERIFF.
Jesse Weirick, D 2459
Erastus Bowe, R 2357
RECORDER.
Wm. Kline, D 2482
S. J. Kirkwood, R 2330
COMMISSIONER.
Robert Byrne, D 2394
Enoch Trumbo, R 2422
CORONER.
J. W. Love, D 2394
Henry Stone, R 2419
INFIRMARY DIRECTORS.
And. Lugenbeel, D., long term 2447
J. D. Loomis, R., long term 2365
A. S. White, D., middle term 2300
Dan. Brown, R., middle term 2391
M. P. Skinner, D., short term 2402
John Kerr, R., short term 2447
Jacob Milburne and James Lewis went to
Tiffin to search up Know-nothings. There
they met one York, who introduced them to
the Know-nothing society, and one of them
was sworn in, Milburne refusing to swear
political ostracism against foreigners. James
Lewis returned to Fostoria and organized
a society there in the basement of the old
frame Methodist Episcopal Church, when
100 members were initiated, among whom
was James Mofflt, now of Milgrove." In the
southeast part of Loudon the members of
the United Brethren Church refused to take
the oath of secrecy, but in lieu thereof they
took a number of the party tickets and
voted for the party, the county giving a
large party majority. At Tiffin the Know-
nothings carried every point. The late
Henry Ebert was grand counsellor for
Seneca County, and chief worker at Tiffin.
ELECTIONS 1857.
GOVERNOR.
H. B. Payne, D 2459
S. P. Chase, R 2198
P. Van Trump
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
271
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
Geo. E. Seney, D 2470
John C. Lee, R
2171
Robert McKelley, D 2446
Guy C. Worth, R • • • 2223
REPRESENTATIVE.
John W. Paine, D 2453
Charles Foster, R 2190
PROBATE JUDGE.
Truman H. Bagby, D 2446
Gabriel J. Keen, Ind
JohnK. Hord, R 2139
CLERK OF COURT.
Geo. S. Christlip, D
Geo. H. Kyle, R
2386
2159
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Robert L. Griffith, D 2450
Leander Stem, R 2197
COMMISSIONER.
Henry Opt, D 2380
Isaac Stillwell, R 2040
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Jonas Hampshire, D 2420
Benj. Tomb, R 2110
SURVEYOR.
Thomas Burnsides, D 2560
ELECTIONS 1858.
SUPREME JUDGE.
Thos. W. Bartley, D 2285
Peck, R 2236
CONGRESS.
Lawrence W. Hall, D 2165
John Carey, R 2337
AUDITOR.
Walter S.Burns, D 3163
Erastus Bowe, R 2333
TREASURER.
Samuel Herrin, D 2290
Louis E. Holtz, R 2144
SHERIFF.
Jesse Weirick, D 2468
J. V. Jones, R 2013
JUDGE OP COMMON PLEAS.
Josiah S. Plants
COMMISSIONER.
Robert Byrne, D 2284
Wilkinson, R 2220
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
T. Swander,D 3279
Wm. Randall, R 2240
CORONER.
JohnHouck, D 2165
J. W. Lawhead, R 2204
LAND APPRAISERS.
Edwin Pennington, John Gersbert, John
Seitz, David Burns, D. Rickenbaugh, Wm.
Fleet, Rezin Ricketts, Gideon Jones. Dan
Lynch, Nicholas Rosenberger, IraAllerton,
S. Bemenderfer, R. R. Titus, A. C. Baker,
S. J. Recher, T. P. Roberts, John Buun.
ELECTIONS 1859.
GOVERNOR.
RufusP. Ranney, D 2661
Wm. Dennison, R 2461
SENATOR.
Thos. J. Orr, D
James M. Stevens, R
2487
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION.
R. R. Titus. D 2756
Thos. V. Rebor, R 2369
REPRESENTATIVES.
M. P. Skinner, D 2634
William Lang, D 2429
Jones, R 2531
Huber, R 2499
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Robert L. Griffith, D
N. L. Brewer, R
2423
RECORDER.
Albert Beilharz, D 2699
John E. McCormick, R 2394
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Andrew Lugenbeel, D 2704
Wm. Randall, R 2417
COMMISSIONER.
Michael Beard, D 2647
JohnSwigart, R 2456
SURVEYOR.
Denis MoUoy, D 2551
L. E. Holtz, R 2533
ELECTIONS 1860.
PRESIDENT.
Abraham Lincoln, R
Stephen A. Douglas, Ind. D.
John Bell, Union
John C. Breckenridge, D. .
SUPREME JUDGE.
T. J. S. Smith, D
Jacob Brinkherhoff, R
CONGRESS.
Warren P. Noble, D
John Carey, R
3053
3175
43
70
3185
2918
3057
3040
272
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY
PROBATE JUDGE.
Truman H. Bagby, D 3168
John H. Pittinger, R 2916
CLERK OF COURT.
Geo. Christlip, D 3113
M. Heaton, R 2835
Isaac Kaey, D .
E. G. Bowe, R.
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Barney Zimmerman. D.
Hiram McClellan, R. . . ,
3113
2968
Stephen A. Douglas visited Tiffin, Ohio,
September 24, 1860, and addressed the larg-
est Democratic meeting ever held in north-
west Ohio.
TREASURER.
Samuel Henin, D 3184
Scudder Chamberlain, R 2913
SHERIFF.
Francis Wagner, D
Levi Weirick, R
2960
COMMISSIONER.
Henry Opt, D 3137
Wm. Holtz, R 2941
3181
3101
Paul Bolinger, D
John H. Nighswander, R 2937
Political life in 1860 may be summed up
as one continued round of excitement and
uncertainty. The shadow of civil war was
visible, while in Kansas, affairs took such a
course as to leave the question of war or
anarchy to be resolved, immediately. The
material interest taken by the people of
Seneca in the Kansas sufferers, is shown by
the following report:
First Ward, Tiffin $87 22
Second " " —per Rev. McLean. . . 20 00
" Zenser 12 75
Reed Township— per J. Sanford 44 54
—per H.B.Rakestraw 33 40
Seneca " — per J. Brinkerhoff.. 60 00
" — per H. Davison. ... 11 25
—per J. Galbraith... . 14 25
Scipio— per Daniel Brown 8 88
Republic— per Rev. J. A. Brown
(Thanksgiving Day)... 25 12
Egberts Church 14 13
Lodi and Rock Creek 1 75
Hopewell— per Levi Keller 19 22
— per Schloser 2 85
Adams— per H. Hall 39 55
Thompson— per J. C. Horner 86 00
Bloom— per J. Boyd and T. D. Reed. . 71 15
Eden— per D. Richards 80 62
Clinton— per J. S. L. D. and H. E. . . 10 00
$642 68
There has been remitted from this place
to S. C. Pomeroy, secretary of the Execu-
tive Committee, at Atchison. Kas., in sundry
drafts on New York, $514.22.
H. G. SPAYTHE,
December 21, 1860. Treasurer K. R. F.
While the great majority in the Xorth
looked toward the horizon and beheld the
cloud of civil war advancing as the sunlight
disappeared, there were many in both North
and South, hanging between doubt and
certainty. Many looked upon war as inev-
itable, and every one had an opinion or a
prophecy. The Abolitionist, the slave-holder,
and men who called for peace, all expressed
themselves. To point out clearly the sub-
stance of all suchopinions,in the first month
of 1861, the following is selected from the
Raleigh (N. C.) Standard. "If war once
breaks out it will rage in the interior, on
our sea coast, on the high seas and on our
frontiers. One section will let loose the
Indians on another section. Twenty mil-
lions of Northern people will at once become
our enemies. They will war upon us along
a line of 3,000 miles, from the Atlantic to
the Pacific. One section will call in foreign
troops against another section. One con-
federacy will humble itself before the powers
of Europe, to get better commercial terms
than the other confederacies. Meanwhile,
war will rage. Negro property will cease
to be valuable: because the products of slave
labor and of all other labor will be in a
great degree cut off from the markets of the
world. The negroes will know, too, that
the war is waged on their account. They
will become restless and turbulent. Heavy
taxes will result from the wars. These
taxes must be paid mainly out of slave labor.
Strong governments will be established, and
will bear heavily on the masses. The masses
will at length rise up and destroj^ every-
thing in their way. State bonds will be
repudiated. Banks will break. Widows
and orphans will be reduced to beggary.
The sword will wave everywhere paramount
to all laws. The whole world outside the
slave-holding States, except Great Britain,
is opposed to our system of slavery, and the
whole world, with'slave labor thus rendered
insecure and comparatively valueless, will
take sides with the north against us. The
end will be— Abolition."
ELECTIONS
1861.
GOVERNOR.
Hugh J. Jewett, D 2843
David Tod, R 2623
SECRETARY OF STATE.
Wm. W. Armstrong, D 2857
Benj. S. Cowen, R 2600
SENATOR.
Wm. Lang, D 2814
AV. C. Parsons, R 2615
f.
'^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
275
REPKESENTATIYE.
R. R. Titus, D 2906
John J. Steiaer, R 2531
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Alfred Landon, D 2919
Dan. F. DeWolf, R 2531
COMMISSIONER.
Robert Byrne, D
Levi Keller, R
2585
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Thomas Swander, D 2863
Jacob Hossler, R 2602
ELECTIONS 1862,
SUPREME COURT.
Rufus P. Ranney, D 3115
F. T. Buckus, R 2114
SECRETARY OF STATE.
W. W. Armstrong, D 3090
W. S. Kennon, R.
CONGRESS.
Warren P. Noble, D
S. T. Worcester, R
AUDITOR.
Isaac Kagv, D
J. H. Brinkerhoff, R.
TREASURER.
Silas W. Shaw, D
Scudder Chamberlain, R.. .
SHERIFF.
Edward Childs, D
Levi Weirick, R.
2129
3131
2094
3142
2094
3107
2108
2172
RECORDER.
Albert Beilharz, D 8177
John S. Smith, R 2031
COMMISSIONER.
Peter Ebersole, D 3106
A. C. Baker, R 2117
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Andrew Lugenbeel, D 3111
Levi Keller, R 2118
SURVEYOR.
Denis Malloy, D
Louis E. Holtz, R
CORONER.
Paul Bolinger, D
Lewis Seitz, Jr., R ,
3104
2126
3105
2117
A large meeting was held at Spetzler's
schoolhouse in January, 1862, to protest
against flooding the State with negroes.
Ira Gulie was chairman, and Benjamin F.
Siple, secretary.
The tickets in the field for State oflBcers
were the Democratic and Abolitionist. For
county officers, Democratic and Republican.
ELECTIONS 1863.
O. L. Vallandigham, D 3229
JohnBrough, R 2906
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.
JohnH. Heaton, D 3267
Barrere, R 2905
SENATOR.
William Lang, D.
Charles Foster, R.
3242
2917
REPRESENTATIVE.
Rassellus R. Titus, D 3271
Welker, R 2903
CLERK OF COURT.
William M. Dildine, D 3241
James M. Stevens, R 2927
PROBATE JUDGE.
William M. Johnson, D 3270
Andrew H. Byers, R 2904
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Alfred Landon, D 3272
Nelson L. Brewer, R 2903
COMMISSIONER— LONG TERM.
Thomas W. Watson, D 3266
D. F. Cramer, R 2911
COMMISSIONER— SHORT TERM.
Samuel Grelle, D 3269
Dicken, R 2907
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Barney Zimmerman, D 3271
Baker, R 2903
soldiers' vote, 1863.
Republican 321
Democratic 20
elections 1864.
president.
Abraham Lincoln, R 3042
George B. McClellan, D 3285
Republican soldiers' vote 492
Democratic soldiers' vote 125
VICE-PRESIDENT.
Andrew Johnson, R 2883
George H. Pendleton, D 3033
SECRETARY OF STATE.
William W. Armstrong, D 3033
Smith, R 2833
SUPREME JUDGE — LONG VACANCY.
Machias C. Whiteley, D.
276
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CONGRESS.
Warren P. Noble, D 2953
" " " Soldiers' vote 86
R. P. Buckland, R 2387
" " Soldiers' vote 435
The county officers elected in 1864 were
all Democrats, viz. : Edward Childs, sher-
iff; John F. Heilman, auditor; Silas W.
Shaw, treasurer; Samuel Grelle, commis-
missioner; Thomas Swander and George S.
Christlip, infirmary directors, and Jonas M.
Hershberger. coroner.
ELECTIONS 1865.
GOVERNOR.
Gen. Geo. W. Morgan, D 3058
J. D. Cox, R 2755
LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR.
William Lang, D 2988
A. G. McBurney, R 2764
SENATOR.
Curtis Berry, Jr., D 3024
James A. Haigh, R 2762
REPRESENTATIVE .
Isaac Kagy, D 3018
L. M. Strong,R 2751
TREASURER.
J. H. Zahm, D 3008
J. E. McCormick, R 2740
RECORDER.
J. T. Martin, D 2910
Thomas Kaup, R 2894
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
John McCauley, D 2930
N. L. Brewer, R 2746
COMMISSIONER.
Peter Ebersole, D 3045
Jonas Foster, R 2815
SURVEYOR.
Denis Malloy, D 3021
S. B. Gray, R 2761
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
H. Noble, D 3012
Benjamin Reeme, R 2761
The soldiers' vote was 52 Republican,
and 12 Democratic. The tickets were
known as Democrat and Union.
ELECTIONS 1866.
SECRETARY OP STATE.
William H. Smith, U 2979
Benj. Lefevre, D 3343
CONGRESS.
R. P. Buckland, R 2963
T. P. Finefrock, D 3336
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
C. K. Watson, R 2947
Chester R. Mott, D 3335
COUNTY CLERK.
Thos. J. Kaup, R 3022
W. M. Dildine, D 3292
PROBATE JUDGE.
G. J. Keen, R 2952
W. M.Johnson, D 3356
SHERIFF.
Levi Weirick, U 2998
P.P.Myers, D 3310
AUDITOR.
I. L. Cramer, U 2957
J. F. Heilman, D 3353
COMMISSIONER.
William Sneath, U 2991
T. W. Watson, D 3303
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Patrick Whelan, U 2991
Eden Lease , D 3329
CORONER.
Daniel Behm,U 2976
James Paine, D 3341
ELECTIONS 1867.
GOVERNOR.
R. B.Hayes, R 2739
A. G. Thurman, D 3584
LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR.
JohnC. Lee, R 2709
Dan. S. Uhl, D 3584
SENATOR.
George W.Leith, R 2726
Curtis Berry, Jr., D 3588
REPRESENTATIVE.
Horace Hall, R 2684
Edson T. Stickney, D 3622
. TREASURER.
David Huss, R 2733
Jacob M. Zahm. D 3580
COMMISSIONER.
John Rice, R 2720
H. B. Rakestraw, D 3586
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Upton F. Cramer, R 2718
John McCauley, D 3584
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
John W. Barrick, R 3733
Uriah P. Coonrad, D 3579
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
277
ELECTIONS 1868.
PRESIDENT.
U. S. Grant, R 2977
Horatio Seymour, D* 3340
CONGRESS.
William H. Gibson., R 2878
Ed. F. Dickenson, D 3588
AUDITOR.
William L. Myers, R 2871
Walter S. Burns, D 3602
SHERIFF.
Robert Adams, R 2884
Peter P. Myers, D 3584
RECORDER.
John O. Kaup, R 2964
James T. Martin, D 3504
COMMISSIONER.
Isaac Karn, R 2889
Joseph E. Magers, D 3597
SURVEYOR. ,
Samuel B. Gray, R 2864
Denis Maloy, D 3572
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Martin Wagner, R 2963
Harrison Noble, D 3512
CORONER.
William Davis, R 2908
Sylvester B. Clark, D 3565
JUDGE OP COMMON PLEAS.
James Pillars was elected judge of the
Fourth sub-division, Third District,in April,
1868.
Luther A. Hall was presidential elector in
1868, from Ninth Congressional District.
ELECTIONS
1869.
GOVERNOR.
Geo. H. Pendleton, D 3242
William S. Rosencrans. D. ..did not accept.
Rutherford B. Hayes, R 2581
LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR.
Thomas J. Godfrey, D 3230
John C. Lee, R 2559
PROBATE JUDGE.
A. Landon, D 2543
W. M. Johnson, R 3177
*WarreD P. Noble was elected an alternate dele-
gate to the Democratic National Convention, at
New York, with Thomas Beer, delegate. Owing to the
latter'3 illness, Mr. Noble representd the district in
the Convention. William W. Armstrong was elected
Delegate-at-large to the Democratic National Conven-
tion.
TREASURER.
William Lang, D 3041
D. M. Neikirk, R 2656
CLERK.
J. C. Milhelm, D 2880
Henry Brohl, R 2862
REPRESENTATIVES.
E. T. Stickney, D 3265
JohnSeitz, D 3203
J. V. Jones, R 2573
D. D. Ogden, R 2531
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Frank Baker, D 3236
H. E. Thompson, R 2531
COMMISSIONER.
Stephen M. Ogden, D 2950
Levi Keller, R 2855
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Eden Lease, D 3196
Dorsey Hartsock, R 2504
SENATOR, THIRTY-FIRST DISTRICT.
S. R. Harris, R 2583
A. E. Jenner, D 3233
ELECTIONS 1870.
SECRETARY OF STATE.
Wm. Heisley, D 8176
Isaac R. Sherwood, R 2690
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION.
Dickson, D 3153
Titus, R 2689
CONGRESS.
Chas. Foster, R 2851
E. F.Dickenson, D 3020
SHERIFF.
J. T. Kaup, R 2842
JohnWerley, D 2942
AUDITOR.
Henry Brohl, R 2767
G. A. Allen, D 3121
COMMISSIONER.
Levi Keller, R 2772
H. B. Rakestraw, D 3102
CORONER.
James Lewis, R 2718
James Van Fleet, D 3177
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Miron Sexton, R 2718
U. P. Coonrad, D 3100
ELECTIONS 1871.
GOVERNOR.
Geo. W. McCook, D 3200
EdF. Noyes, R 2608
P. M. Weddle, Pro 49
278
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR.
Samuel F. Hunt, D 3197
Jacob Mueller, R 2604
CLERK SUPREME COURT.
Chas. Patterson, D 3206
Rodney Foes, R 2607
Azra Alderman, Pro 45
CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION.
For 4203
Against 1296
, SENATOR.
A. E. Jenner, D 3180
U. F. Cramer, R 2642
REPRESENTATIVE.
JohnSeitz, D 3147
Isaac Seitz, R 2684
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
A. M. Jackson, D 3161
C. R. Mott, R 2588
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Frank Baker, D 3178
K L. Brewer, R 2643
TREASURER.
William Lang, D 3054
C. C. Park, R 2720
RECORDER.
Wm. DeWitt, D 3217
Wm. R. Smythe, R 2629
COMMISSIONER.
Jos. E. Magers, D 3057
John A. Bradner, R 2731
SURVEYOR.
P. H. Ryan,D 3129
P. J. Wilson, R 2652
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Jesse Weirick, D 3204
Myron Sexton, R 2627
ELECTIONS 1872.
SECRETARY OF STATE.
Aquilla Wiley, D 3757
Allen T. WlkofE, R 3166
Ferd Shumaker, Pro 52
CONGRESS.
Rush R. Sloane, D 3586
Chas. Foster, R 3170
Gideon T. Stewart.Pro 49
JUDGE OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS.
James Pillars, D 3726
No opposition.
CLERK OP COURT.
JacobC. Millhime, D 3838
Abner Niebel, R 3097
PROBATE JUDGE.
Alfred Landon, D 3341
Upton F. Cramer, R 3513
Wm. M. Johnson, R. died after nomi-
nation.
SHERIFF.
John Werley, D 3601
Edward Jones, R 3299
AUDITOR.
Levi D. Kagy, D 3699
James M. Stevens, R 3241
PRESIDENT.
U.S. Grant, R 3128
Horace Greely, D 3462
Charles O'Connor, D
Black, Tern
COMMISSIONER.
Steven V. Ogden, D 3563
Isaac Stultz, R 3336
CORONER.
James Van Fleet, D 3756
Daniel Behm, R 3192
INFIRMARY DIRECTORS.
G. W. Bachman (three years), D 3756
Peter Haefling (two years), D 3719
John L. Cross (three years), R 3174
Henry Davidson (two years), R 3185
ELECTIONS 1873.
GOVERNOR.
Wm. Allen, D 3182
E. F. Noyes, R 2290
Gideon T. Stewart. Pro 203
Isaac C. Collins, — 33
CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION.
J. D. O'Connor, D 2634
R. G. Pennington, R 2257
SENATOR.
John Seitz, D 3191
David Harpster, R 2282
David F. Hamilton, Pro 213
REPRESENTATIVE .
Jas. A. Norton, D 3174
Luther A. Hall, R 2143
R. McD. Gibson, Pro 282
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Geo. W. Bachman. D 3196
E. C. Boyd, R 2305
TREASURER.
Francis Wagner, D 2984
James H. BrinkerhofE, R 2428
Jeff. Freese, Pro 171
COMMISSIONER.
Robert McClellan, D 3095
Peter Brayton, R 2397
Christ. Bonnell, Pro 212
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
279
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
John Britt.D 2994
JohnM. Kaul, R 2381
David Butler, Pro 215
CORONER.
Geo. W. Willow, D 3197
Joseph Miller, R 2313
The Republicans fell behind their vote in
1872, 876, and the Democrats, 575.
ELECTIONS 1S74.
SECRETARY OF STATE.
Wm. Bell, D 3871
A. T. Wikoff, R 3005
J. R. Buchtel, Pro 132
CLERK OF SUPREME COURT.
Arnold Green, D 3069
Rodney Foos, R 3012
S. B. Foster, Pro 133
CONGRESS.
Geo. E. Seney, D 3721
Chas. Foster, R 3200
W. G. Mead, Pro 62
JUBGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
Thos. Beer, D 3865
Josiah Scott, R 3006
SHERIFF.
G. Acker, D 4068
C. Y. Brundage, R 2773
J. P. Woodruff, Pro 121
AUDITOR.
L. D. Kagy, D 3874
John Rice, R 3025
RECORDER.
Wm. DeWitt, D 3958
Gabriel J. Keen, R 2892
Jeff. Freese, Pro 132
COMMISSIONER.
Sol. Gambee, D 3878
Geo. Stearns, R 2985
C. Bonnell, Pro 130
SURVEYOR.
Denis Malloy D 3790
E.C.Cooke, R 3132
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Peter Haefiing, D 3841
John 31. Kaul, R 3002
D. Butler, Pro 131
ELECTIONS 1875.
GOVERNOR.
Wm. Allen, D 4015
R. B. Hayes. R 3221
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.
V. Hagan. D 4043
Thatcher, R 3284
SENATOR.
E. T. Stickney, D 3786
Thos. J. Monnett, R 3250
REPRESENTATIVE.
James A. Norto^, D 3848
Alfred L. Shafer, R 3446
CLERK.
Jeremiah Rex, D 3774
J. H. Pittinger, R 3526
PROBATE JUDGE.
Upton F. Cramer, R 3743
Jacob F. Bunn 3584
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Geo. W. Bachman, D 3891
Lester Sutton, R 3393
SUPREME COURT COMMISSION.
Yes 4694
Xo 1568
TREASURER.
Francis Wagner, D 3919
James M. Stevens, R 3402
RECORDER.
Thos. J. Kintz, D 3938
J. W. Shaw, R 3335
COMMISSIONER.
N. G. Hayward, R 3666
W. T. Histe, D 3650
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Chas. Mutschler, D 3774
Chas. G. Owen, R 3434
CORONER.
Geo. W. Willow, D 3935
Eli Spitler, R 3332
AMENDMENT TAXING DOGS.
Yes 1686
No 947
ELECTIONS 1876.
PRESIDENT.
Samuel J. Tilden, D 4516
Rutherford B. Hayes, R 3793
Peter Cooper, G 4
Green Clay Smith, Pro 11
James B. Walker
SECRET.\RY OF STATE.
Milton Barnes, R 3827
Wm. Bell, D 4493
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
Thos. Beer, D 4400
No opposition.
280
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CONGRESS.
Chas. Foster, R 3965
JohnH. Hudson, D 4348
AUDITOR.
Hiram Longbrake, R 3864
V. J. Zahm, D 4432
SHERIFF.
Edward Jones, R 3730
Geo. D. Acker, D : 4584
COMMISSIONER.
William Ash, R 3925
Robert McClellan, D 4366
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
D. J. Neikirk, R 3900
JohnBritt, D 4300
Among the Presidential electors were
Wra. Lang and G. W. Stokes.
George E. Seney was elected delegate to
the Democratic National Convention, held
at St. Louis, Mo., in 1876.
ELECTIONS 1877.
GOVERNOR.
R. M. Bishop, D 3945
W. H. West, R 3009
L. H. Bond. — 3
H. A. Thompson, Pro 84
Stephen Johnson, G 26
SENATOR.
John Seitz, D 3960
Lovell B. Harris, R 2903
REPRESENTATIVE.
James A. Norton, D 3928
Daniel C. Rule, R 3034
I. H.Davis, Pro 78
TREASURER.
John W. Barrick. D 3619
James J. Zint, R 3339
J. W. Stinchcomb, Pro 65
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
G. B. Keppell, D 3877
John H. Ridgley, R 3060
Florence Cronise, Pro 100
COMMISSIONER.
Solomon Gambee, D 3905
Jacob Raymond, R 3020
Jesse Bower, Pro 92
SURVEYOR.
Samuel Nighswander, D 3983
Ed. C. Cook, R 3080
JUDICIAL— COMMON PLEAS.
Henry H. Dodge, D 3948
Jacob F. Burkett, R 3038
John M. Hammond, Pro 85
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Lewis Spitler, D 3742
Patrick Duffcv, R 3058
A. T. McDonald, Pro 91
CORONER.
Wm. Smith, D 3890
Jacob Wise, R 3032
J. A. Buckingham, Pro 86
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT.
For 703
Against 3467
FREE BANKING LAW.
For 1155
Against 3316
ELECTIONS 1878.
SECRETARY OF STATE.
David R. Paige, D 4210
Milton Barnes, R 3345
Andrew Roy, G 544
Jeremiah N. Robinson. Pro
CONGRESS.
E. B. Pinley, D 3966
Charles Foster, R 3710
O. C. Brown, G .- 441
PROBATE JUDGE.
Jacob F. Bunn, D 4200
U. C. Cramer, R 3391
Benjamin F. Siple, G 470
CLERK.
Jeremiah Rex, D 4298
James T. Boyd, R 3237
O. B. Seitz, G 526
AUDITOR.
Victor J. Zahm. D 4042
J. N. Willard, R 3393
John H. Carpenter, G 554
SHERIFF.
Lloyd N. Lease, D 4120
James J. Zent, R 3109
Jacob Windnagle, G 754
RECORDER.
Thomas J. Kentz, D 4240
Harry Davidson, R 3232
W. H. Gordon, G 560
COMMISSIONER.
W. T. Histe. D 4237
N. G. Hawward, R 3095
James D. Rider, G 683
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
George Heplar, D 4570
Charles Mutschler, R 1584
Nicholas Lauer, G 533
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
281
ELECTIONS 1879.
GOVERNOR.
Thomas Ewing, D 4627
Charles Foster, R 3931
Gideon T. Stewart, Pro 18
A. Sanders Piatt, G 108
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.
Patrick O'Marah, D 4670
James Fullington, R 3853
James H. Horton Pro 17
George W. Piatt, G 121
JUDGE, FIRST SUBDIVISION, TENTH DISTRICT.
John McCauley. D 4549
John Stillings, R 3939
SENATOR, THIRTY-FIRST DISTRICT.
Moses H. Kirby, D 4680
Stephen R. Harris, R 3383
John Flick, G 119
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS.
Judicial, for 5193
Elections, Section 3, Article 2 5104
" 1, " 3 5350
" 4, " 10 5473
REPRESENTATIVE.
Amos Decker, D 4645
William Fleet, R 3845
John W. Kaga. G 131
TREASURER.
John W. Barrick. D 4685
David M. Neikirk, R 3854
Jacob Thomas, G 130
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Guilford B. Keppell, D 4663
Rush Abbott, R 3877
Jesse N. Lee, G 116
COMMISSIONER.
James H. Fry, D 4586
Charles Leiner, R 3955
Jacob S. Armstrong, G 131
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Joseph E. Magers, D 4659
Jacob Rickenbaugh, R 3875
Samuel Grelle, G 130
CORONER.
William Smith, D 4661
H. Whiteman, R 3870
J. H. Price, G 137
The national vote was 108 against 544 in
1878.
The Prohibition vote was 18. The Demo-
crats polled 177 votes more than on any
previous year.
ELECTIONS
1880.
PRESIDENT.
James A. Garfield, R 4008
W. S. Hancock, D 4845
James B. Weaver, G 109
Neal Dow, Pro 23
SECRETARY OF STATE.
William Lang, D 4700
Charles Townsend, R 3853
Charles A. Lloyd, G 116
CONGRESS.
Morgan D. Shafer, D 4636
JohnB. Rice, R 3967
John Seitz, G 130
BOARD OF EQUALIZATION, THIRTY-FIRST
DISTRICT.
Jonathan S. Hare, D 4746
SHERIFF.
Lloyd N. Lease, D 4834
Gideon H. Reese, R 4749
H. Stolzenbach, G 09
SURVEYOR.
Samuel Nighswander, D 4745
John A. Speilman, R 3837
Jerry Hill, G 123
COMMISSIONER.
Edward Childs, D 4469
George Heplar, R 4102
Orville J. Fry, G 104
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Lewis Spitler, D 4495
David Asire, R 4012
John W. Sonder, G 115
In April, 1880, the question of building
pike roads was submitted to the people of
the county; 1,578 votes were recorded in
favor of this enterprise, while 5,156 opposed
the project. Tiffin alone gave a majority
in favor of such roads.
ELECTIONS
1881.
GOVERNOR.
J. W. Bookwalter, D 4273
Chas. Foster, R 3205
John Seitz, G 115
A. R. Ludlow, Pro 276
ATTORNEY-GENERAL.
Frank C. Dougherty, D 4273
Geo. K. Nash, R..." 3380
SENATOR.
Moses H. Kirby. D 4194
Martin Deal, Pro 38S
282
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
REPRESENTATIVE.
A. Decker, D 4080
W. O. Dean, R 3341
David Hale, G 183
J. T. Reed, Pro 229
PROBATE JUDGE.
J. F. Bunn, D 4228
J. M. Bever, R 3321
B. F. Seiple, G Ill
C. C. Nestlerode, Pro 243
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
P. M. Adams, D 4213
J. C. Rickenbaugh 3342
J. K Lee. G 116
J. R. Wilson, Pro 246
CLERK OF COURT.
James V. Magers, D 4132
J. H. Cole, R 3890
C. R. Martin, G 103
J. B. Wagner, Pro 247
TREASURER.
John Heabler, D 4271
D. M. Neikirk, R 3287
H. Spitler, G 99
M. Borough, Pro 245
AUDITOR.
F. E. Stoner, D 3967
W. H. Schlosser, R 3604
Jerry Hill, G 99
R. C. Young, Pro 230
COMMISSIONER.
W. T. Histe, D 4152
E. Thoma, R 3247
P. King, G 104
W. Cook, Pro 238
RECORDER.
J. H. Bennehoff, D 4112
R. A. Cole, R 3415
John Heck, G 104
W. H. Schultz, Pro 253
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Geo. Heplar, D 4222
Jacob Kemmet, R 3314
A. Horn, G 100
D. F. Hamilton, Pro 249
CORONER.
E. Lepper, D 4204
T. McManigal, R 3269
J. M. Sparks, G 118
M. P. Croninger, Pro 268
SOLDIERS' MONUMENT.
For 3017
Against 2877
ELECTIONS
1882.
SECRETARY OP STATE.
James W. Xewman, D 4481
Chas. Townsend, R 3391
George L. Hafer, G 89
Ferd. Thomas, Pro 67
JUDGE SUPREME COURT.
John W. Okey, D 4465
John H. Dovle. R 3406
Lloyd G. Tuttle, G 89
John ^V. Rosenbrough, Pro 67
CONGRESS.
Geo. E. Seney, D 4661
Lovel B. Harris, R 3189
John Seitz, G 104
H. C. Smith, 2
Martin Deal, Pro 40
JLT5GE OF COMMON PLEAS.
Henry H. Dodge, D 4548
Jacob F. Burkett, R 3324
SHERIFF.
Thos. F. Whalen, D 3950
Amandus Betts, R 3936
M. T. Lutz, G 75
COMMISSIONER.
Daniel P. Lynch, D 4285
Jacob R. Strandler, R 3617
Philip King, G 80
INFIRMARY DIRECTORS.
William Kline, D., full term 4434
John L. Cross, R., full term 3441
James Sanders, D., short term 4423
James J. Patton, R., short term 3403
Nicholas Lauer, short term 91
Orville J. Fry, G., short term 92
ELECTIONS 1883.
GOVERNOR.
Geo. Hoadlv, D 4910
J. B. Foraker, R 3677
Charles Jenkins, G 52
Ferd. Schumaker, Pro 113
TREASURER.
Peter Bradv, D 4919
JohnC. Brown, R 3665
John Seitz, G 58
John M. Whiton, Pro 107
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
George F. Pendleton, D 4864
L. M. Strong, R 3844
George R. Havnes, G 1
Wilham H. Johnson, Pro 10
>/?^^^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
285
SENATOR.
J. H. Wmiston, D 4929
Philip King, G 68
Martin Deal, Pro 133
REPRESENTATIVE.
David J. Stalter, D 4762
Rush Abbott, R 3796
W. H. Patterson, G 45
A. T. McDonald, Pro 107
TREASURER.
John Heabler, D* 4953
John B. Runyan, R 3598
John Shannon, G 68
Jesse B. Wagner, Pro 105
COMMISSIONER.
Edward Childs, D 4614
Levi Keller, R 3887
Edward Wagner. G 43
Em. Strowman, Pro 89
SURVEYOR.
Sam. Nighswander, D 4820
W. O. Bulger, R 3682
Rud. Emerson, G 47
D. Malloy, Pro 138
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Dan. Metzger, D 4852
N. D. Egbert, R 3691
David Betts, G 55
John D. Reed, Pro 108
CORONER.
Edward Lepper, D 5023
Geo. A. Blackwell, R 3642
W. H. Bare, G 52
AMENDMENT.
For Prohibition majority 972
First amendment, yes, 757; no, 3905
Second admendment yes, 3789; no, 3169
OCTOBER ELECTIONS 1884.
SECRETARY OP STATE.
James W. Newman, D 5064
James S. Robinson, R 3849
Evan Morris, Pro 110
Peter M. Herold, Nat 47
SUPREME JUDGE.
Chas. D. Martin, D 5051
Wm. W. Johnson, R 3878
John W. Rorebaugh, Pro 110
James R. Grogan, Nat 48
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS.
John H. Benfer, D 5016
Charles A. Flickenger, R 3889
Wm. J. Kirkendall, Pro 121
Wm. B. Ogden, Nat 52
* Dr. Isaac Kagy was appointed treasurer, July 2,
1885, vice John Heabler, deceased.
JUDGE OF COMMON PLEAS.
Geo. F. Pendleton, D 5016
Asher Cook, R 4004
CONGRESS.
Geo. E. Seney. D 5129
Dan'l Babst, R 3770
Chris C Nestlerode, Pro 117
Geo. W. Vail, G 50
PROBATE JUDGE.
Harrison Noble, D 4931
John F. Sohn, R 3949
Henry Cromwell, Pro 127
JUDGES OF THIRD CIRCUIT.
John J. Moore, D 5032
Thomas Beer, D 5019
Henry W. Seney, D 5037
Jacob Scroggs, R 3894
John A. Price, R 3894
I. N. Alexander, R 3889
J. W. Timberlake, G 35
John Z. Crutzer, G 34
Robt. E. Parker, G 35
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY.
Perry M. Adams, D 5051
A. Stackhouse, R 3856
James R. Wilson, Pro 116
COUNTY CLERK.
Jas. V. Magers, D 5050
Wm. H. Schuler, R 3851
J. Truman Bever, Pro 133
A. B. McClellan 3
AUDITOR.
Francis E. Stoner, D* 5051
W. H. Schlosser, R 3865
Ed. Bennuduffer, Pro 134
SHERIFF.
Thos. F. Whalen, D 5080
Frank M. Kelly, R 3835
John E. Snyder, Pro 119
COMMISSIONER.
T. H. Bagby, D 4573
Ed. F. Gray, R 4339
William Cook, Pro 98
RECORDER.
John H. Bennehoff, D .5053
Ira E. Strong, R 3870
Joseph Rhoad, Pro 108
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
James Sanders, D 4968
Isaiah Kline, R 3921
Peter Koffman Pro 136
The Democratic vote for secretary of State
was 5,064, and the Republican vote, 3,849.
*J. A. Norton was appointed auditor in August
1885, vice F. E. Stoner, who died, August 10, 1885. '
286
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
NOVEMBER ELECTION, 1884.
Adams
Green Sprins
Big Spring. .
Bloom
Clinton
Eden
Hopewell. . .
Jackson, N.
Jackson, S.
Liberty
Bettsv'ille. . .
Loudon
Fostoria.. . .
Pleasant . . .
Keed
Scipio
Seneca
Thompson. .
Ver"
Dem.
Vote.
lice
Tiffin, First Ward. . .
" Second Ward.
" Third Ward. .
Fourth Ward.
157
42
350
234
241
178
232
54
70
121
90
198
323
152
245
320
339
202
223
279
196
Fifth Ward 298
4,950 4,004
Rep.
Vote.
Peo-
ple's
Ticket
111
95
94
239
154
203
155
157
65
104
191
95
516
181
170
232
124
96
207
165
174
191
152
133
Prohi-
bition.
271
138
444
497
400
390
382
216
135
225
296
294
866
352
362
478
369
416
560
377
411
486
352
442
117 I 9,159
James G. Blaine and Gen. Logan represented the Republicans; Grover Cleveland and
Thomas Hendricks the Democrats; Benjamin F. Butler the People's ticket, and St. John
the Prohibition ticket. Dr. Norton was delegate to the Democratic National Convention
held at Chicago in 1884.
ELECTIONS, OCTOBER, 1885.
GOVERNOR.
J. B. Foraker, R 3601
George Hoadly, D 4444
A. B. Leonard, P 253
G. W. Northrup, G 83
LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR.
R. P. Kennedy, R 3613
J. G. Warwick, D 4445
STATE SENATOR.
John Hopley, R
Williston, D
C. C. Nestlerode, P
3609
4447
246
REPRESENTATIVE.
R. L. Knapp, R 3654
E. B. Hubbard, D 4369
J. W. Rhodes, P 248
AUDITOR.
F. M. Hart, R 3616
I. A. Norton, D 4357
J. W. Bonnell, P 228
TREASURER.
J. M. Kaull, R 3467
B. F. Myers, D 4573
Harry Cromwell, P 231
COMMISSIONER.
Levi Haines, R 4537
Henry Hoeltzel, D 3539
W. H. Norris, P 200
INFIRMARY DIRECTOR.
Adam Kiefer, R 3685
William Kline, D 4329
Peter Coffman, P 228
CORONER.
Alja Bickford, R 3604
Edward Lepper, D 4431
Dr. A. Benham, P 241
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS.
Yes. No.
Township officers 6182 836
Section 2, Article 3 6421 605
Section 1, Article 3 6407 597
Section 2, Article 10 6414 577
The amendments related to the aboli-
tion of the October Election System, a per-
nicious custom coming down from olden
times. The majority given by the State in
favor of the amendments settled the doom
of October's annual political sun-dance.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 287
COUNTY CONVENTIONS, 1885.
The Democratic convention assembled at Tiifin, August 22, 1885, when T.
H. Bagby was chosen chairman, pro fe»;..and Kora F. Briggs, secretary; and
the following committees appointed:
Credentials. — Adams, ^V. C. Shellhammer; Green Spring, A. McHasser;
Big Spring, Jacob Bloom; Bloom, Henry Kirgis; Clinton, George Keo-erreis;
Eden, Joseph Walter; Hopewell, Henry Downey; Jackson (N. P.T, Norh
Rhinebolt; Jackson (S. P. ), Christ Stahl; Liberty, Anson Anderson; Bettsville,
(P.). Abram Kerchner; Loudon, S. Ricketts; Fostoria, C. C. Clark; Pleasant'
William Shuman; Reed, Ed. Yale; Scipio, X. F. Charles; Seneca, Joseph
Sailor; Thompson, Frank Matz; Venice, Jacob Ringle; First Ward, W.R. McFar-
land; Second Ward, John B. Schwartz; Third Ward, Elias Boehler; Fourth
W^ard, Joseph P. Myers; Fifth Ward, Julius Keissling.
Resolutions. — Adams, Charles W. Coffman; Green Spring, John Joseph
Big Spring, H. C. Smith; Bloom, J. L. Hershberger; Clinton, T. L. Park
Eden, Samuel Koch ; Hopewell, Milton Ricketts; Jackson (N. P.), Homer Noble
Jackson (S. P. ), Daniel Parish ; Liberty, W. Brown; Bettsville, C. O. Snyder
Loudon, T. J. Leahy; Fostoria, N. Biu'tscher; Pleasant, George Sechman
Reed, J. L. Lake; Scipio, Samuel Musselman; Seneca, Jacob Smith; Thomp-
son, Joseph Dick; Venice, J. W. Walker; Tiffin, First Ward, Dr. Leon McCol-
lum; Second Ward, Leonard J. Martin; Third Ward, Anthony Krupp; Fourth
AVard. Jacob Scheiber; Fifth AVard, John Houck.
Permcment Organization. — Adams, Daniel Metzger; Green Spring, A. Mc-
Hasser; Big Spring, Andrew Werley; Bloom, Jacob Klahr; Clinton, Columbus
Harding; Eden, John Vorndi-an; Hoj^ewell, S. M. Kime; Jackson (N. P.),
Martin Mm-phy; Jackson (S. P.), J. E. Chilcoate; Liberty, A. C. Reice; Betts-
ville, (P.), B. F. Seem; Loudon, John Rinebolt; Fostoria, George Yarger;
Pleasant, Joseph Bauman; Reed, Hiram Hippler; Scipio, E. T. Stickney; Sen-
eca, John L. Clark; Thompson, Charles Paine; Venice, A. B. Brant; First
Ward, Frank Holmes; Second Ward, P. M. Adams; Third Ward, J. C. Royer;
Fourth Ward, Harvey Piatt; Fifth Ward, John W. Barrick.
Central Committee. — Adams, Daniel Metzger; Green Spring, John Joseph;
Big Spring, B. G. Wullenschneider ; Bloom, J. W. Snyder; Clinton, T. H.
Bagby; Eden, G. A. Allen; Hopewell, L. D. Creeger; Jackson (N. P.), W. F.
Myers; Jackson (S. P.), Joseph Shoup: Liberty, George Hoke; Bettsville, C.
W. Harris; Loudon, George D. Acker; Fostoria, N. Burtscher; Plexisant,
George Willow; Reed, J. W. Gambee; Scipio, Henry Mansfield; Seneca,
Charles Nepper; Thompson, Alonzo Bm-man; Venice, F. H. Steigmeyer;
Tiffin, First Ward, W. W. Keller; Second Ward, William H. Dore; Third
Ward, Charles Baker; Fourth Ward, Loiais Ulrich; Fifth Ward, Julius Keissling.
Congressman Seney was elected permanent chairman, the reports of com-
mittees were received, and the convention proceeded to nominations. Dr. E. B.
Howard was selected as representative; James A. Norton, auditor; Benjamin
F. Myers, treasurer; Henry Hoeltzel, commissioner; William Kline, Infirmary
director, and Edward Lepper, coroner.
The Prohibitionist convention, assembled at Tiffin, August 26, 1885. Harry
Cromwell was chosen chairman, and H. G. Day, secretary. The convention
was opened by prayer, by Rev. R. Rock, of Fostoria. The following commit-
tees were appointed : Prohibition Work, J. W.Rhodes, chairman; Finance, Rev.
A. Crabtree, chairman; Nominations, C. C. Nestlerode, chairman; Resolutions,
Rev. R. Rock, chairman. The following county ticket was nominated : repre-
sentative, James W. Rhoades; auditor, Jesse W. Bonnell; treasurer, Henry
Cromwell; commissioner, William H. Norris; infirmary director, Peter CofiF-
man; coroner, A. Benham, M. D.
288 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
The Republican county convention assembled August 29, 1885, when ex-
Gov. Foster was elected chairman, and J. C. Rickenbaugh, secretary. The
delegates were:
Adams.— R. B. Harris, D. C. Rule, A. Parmeter, A. Cole, William Zech-
man. Committeeman, R. B. Harris.
Clinton. — James Patterson, Norman D. Egbert, Lewis ClouseV, D. M. Nei-
kirk, John K. Rohn, James Stinchcomb, Lysander Reynolds, Edward H.
Swander. Committeeman, James Patterson.
Eden. — Isaiah Kline, C. Y. Brundage, A. R. Fleet, James Brinkerhoff, I.
R. Holmes, Adam Keifer, Horace Klaiss, James Patton, G. W. Kishler, I. L.
Cross.
Liberty. — James Lott, B. Stackhouse, B. Struble, F. C. Miller, Scott
Sheets, Upton Ash, Marion Feasel, Amandus Betts, H. Cromer, C. H. Zeis,
Edward Chatman, George Hartsock, John Jones.
Pleasant. — O. P. Saine, J. R. Drown, J. H. Loose, W. W. Jones, Byron
Rule, Ephraim Parker, J. R. McDonald, A. L. Shafer.
Scipio. — J. W. Stewai-t, ^\. S. Eastman, James H. Knapp, J. L. Anway,
George Stearns, D. B. Crissel, B. F. Moore, E. F. Gray, Leon Smith, A. T.
Jones.
Seneca. — Levi Haines, John M. Laughlin, William Sheldon, Daniel Reisz,
Henry Davidson, Si-., S. P. Bemisderfer.
Tiffin— First Ward.— C. K. Walker, Dr. H. L. Wenner, John L. Lott,
W. W. Sheibley, Charles Strauch, Henry Strouse, W. S. Cramer. Alternates,
Harry Ford, Andrew Shriner.
Second Ward. — A. C. Baldwin, A. M. Campbell, George Transue, William
Roland, Rush Abbott, George B. Stone, Jeff. Daywalt, J. F. Zeller. Com-
mitteeman, George B. Stone.
Third Ward. — George Delauter, H. Housel, Charles Morlock, John Fan-
ning, Joseph Secrist, James A. Sohn, Lewis Morlock. George M. Eidt.
Foui-th Ward. — Levi Weirick, Daniel Seeholtz, R. A. Gray, William Clay.
Ed. Jones, J. T. Sterner, John Helm.
Fifth Ward.— E. W. Stephenson, A. H. Pope, J. N. Williard, Philip
Scheib, Jesse Sneath, H. S. Wenner, J. W. Myers. James S. Yerk. Com-
mitteeman, E. W. Stephenson.
The nominations made were as follows: For representative, the names of
Russell L. Knapp, of Tiiiin; J. H. Loose, of Pleasant, and J. H. Brinkerhoff,
of Eden, were announced. Mr. Knapp was nominated on the first ballot.
For auditor, William Derr. of Clinton, and F. M. Hart, of Hopewell, were
announced, and Mr. Hart nominated on the first ballot. For treasiu-er. John
M. Kaull was nominated by acclamation. For commissioner, Levi Haines, of
Seneca; William Ash, of Jackson; J. J. Cessna, of Liberty; W. H. A. Boyd,
of Jackson, and S. B. Hossler. of Bloom, were presented. Mr. Haines was
nominated on the second ballot. For infirmary director, Adam Kieffer, of
Eden Township, was nominated on the second ballot. For coroner, Norman
D. Egbert, of Clinton Township, was nominated by acclamation; he declined,
when A. Bickford was selected. The county central committee (composed of
one member fi-om each ward and township) selected the following executive
committee: J. C. Rickenbaugh. Tiffin; Dr. T. J. Livers. Tiffin; U. F. Cra-
mer, Tiffin; George B. Stone. Tiffin; Dr. H. L. Wenner, Tiffin; Dr. William
Harman, Attica, and A. M. Dildine, Fostoria. The executive committee or-
ganized by electing J. C. Rickenbaugh chairman, and Judge U. F. Cramer
secretary.
October Elections and Liquor Question. — All through the State, a movement
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 289
among business and professional men has started, which has for its object, the abo-
lition of the present system of electing State officers in October. Ohio is the only
State that does so, and all classes vigorously ask that Ohio be put in the roll
of November States, for the sake of peace and the business interests. The
October State and November presidential elections of this year knocked the
bottom out of business. Hand in hand with the movement, is one for the
adoption of a registration law, in place of the present slipshod systeni. The
Legislature has already, by joint resolution, resolved to amend Section 4 of
Article X, relating to the election of township officers, and Articles II, III and
X, so as to provide for the election of all State and county officers in November,
instead of October. This question was decided affirmatively by the people in
October. 1885.
Another, and perhaps the most interesting question before the people, is
that known as the liquor question, or the Scott Law. A statement by the
commissioner of internal revenue, shows that, at the close of April, 1830,
the total number of liquor dealers in the State, as evidenced by the payment
of the special tax, at the close of the tax year, April 30, 1883, was 15,735, of
which number, 15,399 paid the tax as dealers in all kinds of liquors, and 336
as exclusively in malt liquors. The Scott law was passed April 17, 1883, and
took effect in the payment of the tax, June 20. 1883. From a statement fur-
nished by the auditor of the State of Ohio, the number of the retail liquor
dealers paying under the Scott law up to September, 1883, was 10,631. They
paid a revenue of tax of $1,785,509.85. This would show by the operation
of the law, a reduction 6f the number of retail liquor dealers, of about 5,000.
Four weeks later, in October, 1833, the crusade for the second amendment,
and against the Scott law, was commenced in earnest and resulted in a Demo-
cratic Legislature and supreme court.
At the close of April, 1884, there were 13.218 liquor dealers paying special
tax and on April 30, 1885, 14,920. The .Scott law was repealed April 14,
1884, but a part of it was re-enacted. In November, 1884, the majority of
the State Supreme Court declared the tax unconstitutional, and soon the work
of refunding the special liquor tax was commenced. The Supreme Court of
Ohio, before whom the validity of the tax was brought, comprised Judges
Mclllvaine, Follett, Okey, Owens and Johnson, — two Republican and three
Democratic judges.
CONCLUSION.
In this chapter a full effort has been made to deal intelligibly with political
battles for the last half century. To this end all disquisition had to be avoided
and a close adhesion to facts observed; therefore, he who expects to find the
writer's opinions on the different parties and their platforms in this work,
must be disappointed; for he who would be just in local history must not ex-
press an opinion, particularly as the readers of such works are all able to form
their judgment on the facts as presented. In connection with the chapter, it
must, however, be said, that a great amount of labor and expense has been
the result of former official carelessness in the matter of election records.
Without the aid of the press, within and without Seneca County, it woixld be
impossible for the State oi* county to supply the names and figures and party
tickets given in these pages, and to the press, particularly to the Advertiser,
the writer is principally indebted for the success which, he believes, marks
this chapter.
290 HISTORY UF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XL
THE COUKTS AND BAE.
AS man is the capital of nature, so does he afford to man a subject for
deep inquiry. It has been understood throughout the ages that crime is
hereditary. The gambler who placed his fortune at the small mercy of a die
long centuries ago, may possibly be the ancestor of a notorious mountebank
of the present time; and the creature whose passions led him to the crime of
murder, while yet Csesar ruled the Roman empire, may possibly have been the
first of a race whose representatives disgraced every generation of the j)f^st
and continue to stain the civilization of our time. Whatever faith may be
placed in the hereditary theory of crime by the great majority of people, it
seems to be approved by facts; demonstrations of passions transmitted fi'om
father to son are common, and therefore it is not a matter of surprise to learn
that he who is convicted of a great crime followed in the very footsteps of
some ancestor. Though the advance of civilization has materially retarded an
indulgence in criminal acts, it has not stayed the workings of nature in regard
to the fierce passions of man. They who in former times followed the voca-
tions of their fathers, now seek out varying labors, and thus the tendency of
intuitive viciousness is held in check, though it can never be wholly subdued.
Very few hereditary criminals join the fortunes of an early settlement;
they come in after years, often with the best intentions, and for a time observe
all the conventionalities of life; but afterward the ruling passion begins to re-
assert its terrible superiority over the mind, and the result is crime, some-
times insignificant, but generally monstrous and shocking.
To preserve the lives and properties of the people against the machinations
of such men, the State promulgated her ' 'statutes, ' ' or legal rules, which not
only prescribed the penalties and punishments to be inflicted on transgressors,
but also defined the manner in which the laws should .be administered.
The people of Seneca put these laws in operation the moment they organ-
ized the township of that name. The old justices, associate judges and chief
justice were the centei's of equity. The primitive appearance of the early
courts, the desire to do justice, evident in the words and gestures of the
judges, their genial dispositions, and the free and easy characteristics of the
bench, bar and clients, made the administration of the laws, admirably dem-
ocratic, fiilly suited to the requirements of the time, and capable of adjusting
all discords that might creep into existence within the young county. Under
the second order of affairs many cases of a serious character were present-
ed to the courts. With the advance in population and knowledge new
sources of discord became known — land disputes, boundary rights, even
forgery and perjuiy became common, and the era of divorce was introduced.
A few murders were perpetrated, one of which is treated on in the Indian
Chapter, and other causes, calling for legal aid, sprang up, and as the coui't
calendar extended itself, so also ambitions grew, and out of the evil came the
good that gave to the county a large number of men learned in law and
public economy.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 291
Men of that large profession, who can speak
To every cause, and things indeed contraries,
Till they are hoarse again, yet all be law;
That with most quick agility can turn
And return, make knots, and undo them.
Give forked counsel, take provoking gold t
From either side and put it up.
The first robbery, and the first law case which occurred in Seneca County, was
in 1821, when the Indian captive, William Spicer, was robbed of several thou-
sand dollars. This Spicer had his cabin and stock farm on top of the
plateau, on the west side, opposite the north end of the island in the Sandusky,
and four miles south of the old military post. AVhile alone in the cabin a
carpenter fi'om Fort Ball, named William Kollins, entered, told Spicer to give
up his gold and silver, and then struck him to the floor. "While in a semi-con-
scious state, he heard Rollins laugh and address other men who joined him: but,
on recovering, the robbers were gone and with them several thousand dollars
in gold and silver. Loiiis Papineau was then constable, and he, assisted by
Benjamin Barney and Caleb Eice, arrested Rollins, Butler, Case and Downing,
brought those of them who did not escape to trial, and succeeded in having
Rollins sentenced to eleven years in the penitentiary.
The history of the courts and bar of Seneca County may be said to l^egin
with the settlement of Rudolphus Dickenson, at Fort Ball, in 1824, and the
opening of the circuit court in Hedges' Building on Virgin Alley, April 12,
the same year. During the short period which elajised between the date of
his settlement at Fort Ball and the opening of the circuit court, the cele-
brated case of Spencer vs. Hedges, known to Judge Lane as the "Dam" case,
was prepared by him. Judge Ebenezer Lane, Associate Judges William Cor-
nell, Matthew Clark and Jacques Hulburt opened court on April 12; when
Neal McGaffey w^as appointed clerk. Agreen Ingraham, who was elected
sheriff a few days prior to April 12, opened court in regular form. The
case of Spencer vs. Hedges was begun in September, lS2-t, the particulars of
which are given in Vol. I, Court Records, now in Clerk Mager's office, at Tiflin.
The first case on record was that of Josiah Hedges vs. Jesse Spencer, tried
in chancery before Judge Ebenezer Lane, September 21, 1824, on a bill filed
May 3, 1824, in the clerk's office. R. Dickenson, for the defendant, filed his
demurrer, denying the sufficiency of the plaintiff's case as well as the authority
of the court. In April, 1825, the plaintiff withdrew the suit and the defend-
ant was empowered to recover costs.
The next entiy is made May 1. 1826, in the case of Thomas Butler vs.
Josiah Hedges and Jesse Spencer; the plaintiff being represented by C. Boult,
and O. Parish and R. Dickenson for defendants. In June, 1826, the case was
still before the courts, A. Coffinberry, representing Hedges, and continued to
May, 1827, and the demurrer sustained. In November, 1827, Ebenezer Lane,
Jacques Hulburt, William Cornell and Matthew Clark presided. In IMareh,
of that year, the case of Spencer r.s. McNeal was concluded, the complaint
being that the former left a note of about $150 value on the counter of the
latter, which was taken posession of by McNeal, and that he delivered to him,
by mistake, another note of $900, both of which McNeal refused accounting
for. A. Coffinberry was for plaintiff and Dickenson for McNeal. The bill
was dismissed with costs, it being apparent to the court that the defendant
had settled such notes. This was followed by the case of Spencer vs. Dicken-
son; A. Coffinbery for plaintiff', and O. Parish for defendant. The defeat
which waited upon Spencer was disastrous.
In November, 1828, Dickenson & Rawson. representing Abraham and
292 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Isaac Van Meter, appeared before Judge Lane and associates against Isaac
Brandt, and stated that the plaintiffs were tenants in common with the three
Brandts in 1,000 acres, known as the Van Meter Tract, granted to John Van
Meter, deceased, and his wife's three brothers, the Brandts, by the treaty of
September 29, 1817, and by that of St. Marj^'s, in 1818; also that Abram, son
of John Van Meter resides at Fayette, Ind. , and Isaac in Belmont County,
Ohio, and the three Brandts on the original grant. The bill prayed for a
partition of the reservation. The bill was tiled in 1827, continued by their
attorneys C. L. Boalt and O. Parish, and dismissed with costs, in November,
1828. by request of Van Meter's attorneys, on account of informality.
In November. 1828, the case of MeiTitt Goodyear vs. Charles Fitch and his
children A. Goodyear and James F. Goodyear, arose out of one of those pecul-
iar family quarrels which are bred by strong drink. Dickenson & Rawson
appeared for the father. Owing to the absence of the childi'en in New York
State the case was continued to November. 1829, when the conditional deed
given, pending the reformation of Merritt Goodyear, was declared invalid, and
a deed ordered to be executed by Charles B. Fitch, guardian of Goodyear' s
childi-en, to the reformed father for the east half of the southwest quarter of
Section 15, Town 2 north. Range 15 east.
The case in chancery of Josiah Hedges vs. Thomas Butler. Agi'een Ingraham,
Alexander Long and Sally Armstrong, administrators of Robert Armstrong,
(deceased), and Silas Mclntire Armstrong and Catherine AiTustrong. was heard
in November. 1828; was presented by R. Dickenson, Thomas Butler, heir of
Paul D. Butler, and James Piu'dy, guardian ad litem of Silas, Catherine and
John Armstrong, answered the complainant, and had the bill dismissed. This
case, as well as that of Isaiah, Jane and Marcus Heylin vs. Spencer, Hedges,
Long and the Annstrong family (brought before the court at this time) are
made imj^ortant by the fact that they relate closely to the settlement of Fort
Ball. The case of Agreen Ingi-aham vs. Mary, Benjamin, Martin, Fronica,
Esther and Samuel Messer. or Musser, was introduced by Abel Rawson and
R. Dickenson. May 30, 1827, was completed in November, 1828. when seventy-
five and a half acres were ordered to be conveyed to Ingraham, at §3 per acre.
This land is situated in the northern part of the southwest quarter of frac-
tional Section 36. Town 2 north. Range 14 east, and was valued by James
Gordon, William Clark and Ezra Brown, appraisers. In September. 1825,
William Sponable, son of John Sponable (deceased), applied for permission to
sell his late father's lands in this county. John Welch, David Clark and
James Mathers were appointed appraisers; but after several continuances the
case was dismissed in May. 1 829.
The bill in chancery filed by James Gordon, Joseph Pool and Sidney
Moore vs. Jesse Spencer and Agreen Ingraham was heard in May, 1829. This
was simply a suit on promissory note against Spencer, and also against Ingra-
ham. as sheriff. who held some moneys arising fi"om previous sales of Spencer's
property. The sheriff was ordered to pay to the plaintiff the sum of $162.26
and costs, $8. 71. Alexander McNutt filed a bill vs. Caleb Rice. Andi-ew Cut-
right, justice of peace, and Harry Fuller, in May, 1829, as an appeal from
justice Outright' s court (March, 1828). and a protest against a supposed decree
of the court of common pleas, alleged to be issued in 1828. Caleb Rice, the
original plaintiff', withdi-ew the suit and paid §20.40 costs.
The bill of Jacob Foncannon vs. Mary Foncannon, Jane, Amanda and
Samuel Chadwick was filed by Abel Rawson in 1829. This set forth that
Michael Foncannon (deceased in 1827), entered in February, 1822, the west half
of the northeast quarter of Section 29, Town 2 north, Range 15 east, which
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 295
lands were claimed by the defendants. The court decreed that this property
should be conveyed to Jacob Foncannon, and that the decree should be a valid
conveyance in itself, in the event of the respondents not conveying such lands
in legal form.
In June, 1831, president Judge David Higgins, with associate judges
Selden Graves and Agreen Ingraham, present. The petition of Mrs. Shaver, to
sell land, was the first case brought before them.
In October, 1830, the bill of Josiah Hedges vs. Zane McCullough, Elliott
McCullough, Samuel McCullough, Sidney McCullough, Levi Davis, Andi-ew
Lugenbeel and Rollin Moller was filed, and heard by judges Higgins, Graves,
Pittinger and Ingraham, in March, 1832, A. Coffinberry representing Hedges.
The case against the respondents was dismissed and the plaintiff ordered to
pay all costs. The petition for partition, filed by Orrel Kilbourn, vs. Case
Brown, Elizabeth Ann, James M., Maiy Ann, William C. and Samuel C.
Stevens, heard in March, 1832, dealt with that part of Melmore on the west
half of the southwest quarter of Section 23, Town 1 north, Eange 15 east.
Elisha Williams, George Dennison and John Downs were appointed appraisers,
with instructions to set off a fourth part to Orrel Kilbourn; three equal eighth-
parts to Case Brown; and three equal eighth-parts to each of the children of
James M. Stevens (deceased). This was followed by the bills of Buckley
Hutchins and Alice Stevens, administrators of the deceased, J. M. Stevens,
asking the courts to complete the contracts of the deceased J. M. Stevens with
Daniel Palmer, George McLaughlin and John Gibson. Judge Higgins author-
ized the petitioners to complete such contracts and convey the lots referred to.
In October, 1832, Thomas W. Williams (who came from Great Britain in 1801,
was proven, by Reuben Williams and Calvin Bradley, to have resided in the
United States continuously for over five years) was naturalized. John Sulli-
van, a native of Ireland, was also naturalized, Patrick Kinny giving evidence
of his residence.
In October, 1832, Joel Chaffin applied for the benefit of the act for the
relief of insolvent debtors. David xVndricks and Benjamin Carpenter pre-
sented like petitions. In 1832, the bill of the State of Maryland vs. Jacob Plane
and Josiah Hedges, was heard to compel the former to pay over to Jacob
Rusher a large sum of money, which he took with him to Seneca County,
belonging to the said Rusher, of whom he was guardian, and to draw away
from him the protection of Hedges. Parish and Bayard were counsel for
plaintiff. Lawyer Wilcox for defendants. Owing to want of jurisdiction, the
bill was dismissed by Judge Higgins. This case was retm-ned for hearing in
183G.
In May, 1833, the case of Joseph Walker and John Walker vs. Archibald
Johnson was heard. This was a suit to compel Johnson to convey to the
Walkers certain lands on Section 14, Town 1 north, Range 14 east, which he
delayed doing according to repeated verbal and written contracts. Prior to
judgment this case was settled out of court. At this term, also, John Sonder,
executor of William Montgomery (deceased), petitioned for leave to complete
contract with John Leatherman, entered into by Montgomery ,_ in September,
1830, for the sale of six acres in the southeast corner of Section 7, Town 2,
Range 15. Sidney Smith, guardian ad litem, represented Samuel Humb,
William and Isabella Montgomery, minors. The petition was granted. In
March, 1833, Jehosaphat McCauley was arrested and imprisoned at the suit
of Henry Cronise, and in October, 1833, he applied for the benefit of the act
for the relief of insolvent debtors.
In October, 1833, the bill filed by Enoch B. Merriman and John Miller,
296 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
partners, James McCrea, Moses Champion, David C. Morrow, Jolin McCrea,
Nathan Merriman and George Moyer, vs. Edward E. Foreman, stated that
lono- before 1832 one Joseph Foreman owned lands on Section 88, Town 1
north, Eange 17 east, and also Lot 8, in Location 8; but that such lands were
now (1888) in possession of his son, the defendant; that Joseph Foreman ob-
tained several lots of goods on the strength of his ownership of the lands and
then left for parts unknown. The petitioners were represented by Eawson &
Smith. Foreman's demui-rer was set aside, and a decree against the estate,
in favor of the plaintiffs, was entered,
Delilah Litt, who died in 1888, owned the northeast part of the west half
of the southwest quarter of Section 31, Town 2, Eange 15 east. George W.
Gist was appointed administrator, and C. L. Boalt guardian of his minor heirs
ad litem.
In October, 1834, Stales Edwards applied for the benefit of the Insolvent
Debtors Act, also J. Adam Houseknecht. In May, 1835, Eobert W. McClure
made application.
In March, 1835, the case of Eeuben Williams vs. Hedges was heard. This
set forth the contract for building the Washington Street bridge. Willianis
was represented by Sidney (Sea) Smith and Hedges by S. Smith. The bill
was dismissed.
The fir.st case in common pleas was that of Jesse Spencer m. Josiah Hedges,
petition for the issue of a summons. Thi,s was heard September 22, 1824,
was granted, and served by Agreen Ingraham, the same day. Eudolphus
Dickenson appeared for plaintiff , and Coffinberry, Parish and Parker for defend-
ant. The bill then filed by Dickenson set forth the following causes of action:
"That the said Hedges, on the 1st day of May, 1823, and at divers other days
and times between that day and the commencement of this action, with force
and arms, etc. , broke and entered a certain close of the said Jesse Spencer,
situate, lying and being in the township of Seneca (Clinton), and then and
there pulled^down, prosecuted and destroyed a great part, to wit: forty perches
of a certain mill-dam of the said Jesse Spencer, of gi-eat value, to wit: of the
value of $200; and also then and there tore down and dug up great quantities,
to wit: 1,000 wagon loads of stone from oft* the said close and dam of the said
Jesse Spencer, to wit: to the further value of $300, and then and there took and
carried away, and converted the same to his, the said Josiah Hedges' own use.
***** And also, that the said Josiah Hedges, on the day
and year last aforesaid, and on divers other days and times, etc. , broke and
entered another close of the said plaintiff, situate abutting toward the west
on that part of the Armstrong Eeservation, which lies between a place forty
poles north of the place called Camp Ball, and the south line of the said Arm-
strong Eeservation, and abutting toward the east on the eastern bank of the
Sandusky Eiver, opposite the saw-mill on said reservation, etc., etc., etc."
The defendant filed a demurrer and had the case continued imtil April,^ ^'^'^^2
when Hedges was found guilty by a jury, and assessed $8 damages and $26.75
costs. The jury in this case comprised Elisha Clark, Ezra Brown, William
Foncannon, Peter Yeaky, Ezekiel Sampson, James Cutright, Jacob S. Jennings,
Samuel Scothorn, Smith Kentfield, James Mathers, John C. Donnell and Jesse
Gale.
The first bill filed for naturalization or citizenship was that by William
Doyle, of Ireland, September, 1824. There was never a more demonstrative
or devout renunciation of loyalty to any government, or a more earnest deter-
mination to be true to his new citizenship, than that made by the said Doyle
before the said court of common pleas.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 297
Peter Pork stabbed Benazah Parker at Fort Seneca October 4, 1829, was
tried in April, 1830, found guilty, and sentenced by Judge Lane to three years'
imprisonment, with costs of trial, $69. 28. The jiuy in this case comprised Ezra
Baker, Henry Keller, Thomas R. Ellis, William Whitney, Thomas Brundage,
Joseph Foncannon, Solomon Dimick, J. Baughman, Adam Pennington, Sel-
din Graves, W. L. Clark and William Hunter. In October, 1829, when the
mui-der became known. Associate Judge Jacques Hulbui-t and others secured a
warrant for his aiTest. and the judge, accompanied by John Harris, Jeremiah
Hays, Jonathan Abbott, Stephen Ross, Silas Pike, Anson Gray, Henry Yearky,
and some yoimg people, proceeded to Pork' s cabin, was admitted by his sqiiaw,
and after a hard struggle, in which Hulburt was severely stabbed, captured the
desperado. Parker was equally notorious, -and no one regretted his end, when
he died fi'om the result of wounds in January, 1831, while Pork had his whole
mischievous head cut off in 1836 by the interpreter Herrin, whose three fi-iends
he had mui'dered. Justice waited on Parker and Pork (vide Indian History).
In October. 1830, the trial of MeiTit Goodyear for the murder of Arthur
N. Dezing was begun before Judge Lane and associate judges. The murder
was committed January 1, 1830, in Clinton Township, but notwithstanding the
barbarous manner in which it was carried out, Goodyear was indicted only on a
charge of manslaughter. Abel Rawson prosecuted. The jury was made up of
the following-named persons : William L. Clark, Julius Smith, Lyman Amsden,
Thomas Clark, George Dunbar, John Kime, Jacob Garm, Ed Cooley, Noah
Seitz, Joseph McClelland, Ozias Hart and David Underhill. They held the
defendant not guilty.
In May, 1834, Patrick Mm-phy sued Andi'ew McMillan and James S. Parks
for So, 000 damages, for malpractice, in not setting and curing his dislocated arm.
Before the close of 1834 a large number of cases for gaming for money and
property were before the coui-ts, also for selling liquor without licenses, and a
few cases of charivari, assault and battery, etc. , etc.
The pioneer lawyer was a mixtm-e of the sublime and the ridiculous. Like
stage actors, these old law interpreters could appear ' ' as mad as hatters, ' ' or
"as mild as lambs," but in both conditions they remained the pioneer lawyers
still, treating one another with childlike kindness out of court, but in court,
endued with the feelings of their clients, they fumed and fretted, roared at and
badgered witnesses, and made the neighborhood of the court house seem a very
babel. The presiding judge was sometimes subjected to their peculiar, good-
natured jokes, and the old associate judges never escaped their shafts of- wit.
As a rule the only thorough enemies the old bar had were the old associate
judges, whom they called ' ' broom sticks, " " Judge Lane' s dummies, ' ' and
sundiy equally uncomplimentary names. From early morning until late at
night,^ whether traveling, in court, hotel or private house, the lawyer of early
days — the members of "'Judge Lane's gang" — never lost an opportunity to
laugh at some one' s expense, and thus, while earning their fees, they treated the
people to a circus performance which presented more solid, side-splitting fun
in one hoiu' than all Barnum' s funny men could offer in a week.
In his reminiscences of the pioneer courts. Judge Burnett writes : ' ' The
journeys of the court and bar to those remote places through a country in its
primitive state, were unavoidably attended with fatigue and exposure. They
generally traveled with five or six in company, and with a pack-horse to trans-
port such necessaries as their own horses could not conveniently carry, because
no dependence could be placed on obtaining supplies on the route; although
they frequently passed through Indian camps and villages, it was not safe to
rely on them "for assistance. Occasionally smalt quantities of corn could be
298 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
purcliased for horse feed, but even that relief was precarious and not to be
relied on. In consequence of the unimproved condition of the country, the
routes followed by travelers were necessarily circuitous and their progress
slow. In passing from one county seat to another they were generally from six
to eight, and sometimes ten days in the wilderness, and at all seasons of the
year were compelled to swim every water-coiu'se in their way which was too
deep to be forded; the country being wholly destitute of bridges and ferries,
travelers had, therefore, to rely on their horses as the only substitute for those
conveniences. That fact made it common, when piu-chasing a horse, to ask if
]xe were a good swimmer, which was considered one of the most valuable quali-
ties of a saddle horse." Twenty years after Samuel Waggoner describes the
travels of a band of lawyers in this very district of Ohio. He says: "On
Thursday morning, February 5, 1846, the day after the Whig State Convention
which nominated William Bebb for governor, a stage-coach of the Concord
pattern, owned by Neil, Moore & Co. , left Columbus for Toledo with a full load
of passengers, including Morrison E. Waite, Samuel M. Young, Hemy Eeed,
Jr.. and Abner L. Backus, of Maumee City; Ralph P. Buckland and Ruther-
ford B. Hayes, of Lower Sandusky (now Fremont); and Alfred P. Edgerton,
of Williams County. There w^ere others not remembered.
"The route of the stage was by the old 'Mud Pike,' thi-ough Delaware,
Marion, Upper Sandusky, Tiffin, Lower Sandusky and Maumee City. The
January thaw had been followed by heavy rains, and the mud was very deep;
consequently, the stage made slow progress from the start. The male passen-
gers often found it desirable to get out and walk for miles at a^ time, and
frequently a long distance in advance of then- conveyance. Near Worthington
three or foiu- of them went about half a mile to a sugar camp, and there
enjoyed a 'tafPypulh' The company reached Delaware (twenty-four miles)
at midnight. After a capital supper at the 'Old Griswold Tavern,' they
passed on. The night was dark, and before they had gone a mile the stage
upset. This caused a delay of two horn's for repair of damages to the stage,
and to procure a surgeon to sew up the scalp of a passenger. Marion was
reached about midnight of the second day out. Proceeding at about the same
rate the stage arrived at Lower Sandusky Sunday morning, having made the
distance (105 miles) in seventy-two hours. It reached Toledo (forty miles) on
Monday morning, at the end of the fourth day. The more rapid move-
ment of the last day is accounted for by the fact that between Lower Sandusky
and Perrysburg the road had been macadamized, leaving only the distance
fi-om Maumee City to Toledo to be traversed in mud. Not less interesting than
these details of the trip is the fact that each of the passengers named has been
permitted to make the passage over substantially the same route by the Colum-
bus & Toledo Railroad in about as many hours as was then required in days.
On such trips one of the party would sing such quaint old songs as ' ' Lord
Lovell, ' ' and ' 'Rosin the Bow, ' ' while all would join in the chorus.
Even as the first circuit court was preceded by Dickenson' s settlement at
Fort Ball, the coming of Abel Rawson, in June, 1825, was premonitory of the
advent of the supreme court. July 28, 1826, Judges Charles R. Sher-
man and Jacob Burnett, accompanied by almost the whole bar of northwest-
ern Ohio, appeared at Tiffin, a few of whom were present here May 5,
same year, at the second term of the common pleas court. Mr. Rawson was
appointed prosecutor during the May term, and, though a little over a year in
the county, claimed a high place among the genial legal lights who now gath-
ered around him.
The nine judicial districts formed under the constitution of 1850, the first
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 299
of which embraced Seneca, were redistricted in 1853, and this county, with
Wood, Hancock, Wyandot and Crawford, was placed in the third sub-division
of the Third Judicial District, with Lawi-ence W. Hall, judge of the district.
Judge Hall was elected in October, 1851, on the Democratic ticket vs. Cooper
K. Watson. Judge M. C. Whitely was elected in October, 1856, although his
opponent, Swigart, had a majority of sixteen votes in this county. In April,
1857, an act was passed, providing for the election of an additional judge for
this district, and in the fall George E. Seney was elected judge of common
pleas over Lee, his Whig opponent. Josiah S. Plants was elected in the sec-
ond sub-division in October, 1858. In 1866 Charles R. Mott was elected over
Cooper K. Watson, the Republican candidate. A. M. Jackson succeeded in
1871, his election being opposed by Judge Mott. On Judge Jackson's resig-
nation Judge Beer was appointed to fill vacancy. James Pillars was elected
without opposition in 187*2; Thomas Beer defeated Josiah Scott in 1874, and
was re-elected without opposition in 1876. Henry Dodge was elected in 1877,
and John McCauley in 1879, as one of the judges of the first sub-division of
the Tenth District. In 1882 Henry H. Dodge was elected; in 1883 George F.
Pendleton, who was re-elected in 1884.
The circuit court, re-established in 1884, claims Seneca County in the
Third Circuit. In October of that year, Judges Henry W. Seney, Thomas
Beer and John J. Moore were elected by large majorities over their opponents
of the Republican and Greenback parties ; as given in the political chapter.
The redistribution of judicial districts since 1857 was effected with profit
to the people. Under the act of April 8, 1858, the Tenth District was organ-
ized, and Seneca, Crawford and Wyandot named as the third sub-division,
On April 12, same year, Seneca County was set off as the first sub-division of
the Tenth District. The act of May 1, 1862, disestablished the Tenth Dis-
trict, and in its place the Third Judicial District was reorganized — Seneca,
Hancock, Wyandot and Crawford being its fourth sub-division, thus intro-
ducing Whitely, Metcalf, Latta, Lawrence and Plants to the judiciary of this
county. February 21, 1868, Marion County was added to the fourth sub-
division, and in this form it existed down to 1879, when the legislature re-es-
tablished the Tenth Judicial District, with Seneca, Wood, Hancock and Har-
din its first sub-division. Under the provisions of this act an additional judge
was elected in October, 1879, in the person of Judge McCauley.
The probate court was established under the new constitution of 1850.
William Lang was elected judge of probate that year, and served until Janu-
ary 1, 1855, when John K. Hord succeeded him. T. H. Bagby was elected in
1857, re-elected in 1860, and was succeeded by W. M. Johnson, who served
three full terms from January 1, 1864, to January 1, 1873. Upton F. Cramer
was elected in 1872, and re-elected in 1875, serving until succeeded by Judge
J. F. Bunn, January 1, 1879. Harrison Noble was elected in October, 1884,
and is the present judge of the probate court.
Ebenezer Lane, first president judge of Seneca County, was a lawyer of
Norwalk, Ohio, and one who may be said to have administered the law honestly
from the head- waters of the Sandusky to the mouth of that river, and at a
time too, when it was a difficult and dangerous task to make the circuit. He
was generally accompanied by the old bar, Purdy, Spink, Coffinbeny, Hall,
"Tom" Backus (a man who well deserved his name), C. L. Boalt, James H.
Godman, Milo D. Pettibone, J. M. May, the Parish brothers, and others.
Judge Lane was one of the supreme court judges of Ohio, and served for
years after his retirement fi-om the common pleas court.
Judge David Higgins, a good lawyer and an honorable judge, the successor
300 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
of Judge Lane, was one of the heroes of the Toledo, and was credited with the
common sense of being desirous to fly from Toledo, rather than approach the
threatened seat of justice. He was elected president judge of the Second Dis-
trict in 1829, and held the position until 1837. Prior to 1830 his name appears
among the lawyers of the circuit. While buggy-riding near Delaware, Ohio,
he was thrown out, and, as a result, lost his leg by amputation. He was ap-
pointed clerk at Washington, D. C. , and died there.
Judge Ozias Bowen, whose district comprised Seneca, Sandusky, Erie,
Marion and Crawford, succeeded Judge Higgins. He opened the spring term
(April 2) 1838, at Tiffin, and was president judge of the district until Novem-
ber, 1851, when he retired after foui-teen years' service. Moses H. Kirby was
chairman, and E. G. Pennington, secretary of a committee of the bar com-
prising Cooper K. Watson, J. Plants, J. D. Sears, E. M. Kelly and J. P.
Pillars, who presented him with an addi-ess on his retirement. He was born
in Oneida County, N. Y., July 23, 1805, and died at Marion, Ohio, Septem-
ber 26, 1871. His career was marked by kindness and courtesy to all.
Andi-ew Coffinberry, favorably and generally known as Count Coffinberiy,
was one of the leading lawyers of the fii'st circuit court of northern Ohio. He
never resided in Seneca County, but was known as a member of "Judge
Lane's gang." The Count was born in Virginia, August 20, 1778, where his
French and German grandparents settled in 1750, and moved with his parents
to Ohio in 1806. He served two years under Bainbridge and Hull, and under
his father in the war of 1812. From 1815 to 1836 he studied and practiced
law at Mansfield, Ohio, moved to Perrysburg in 1836, and died at Findlay,
May 12, 1856. His son, James Coffinberry, w^as born at Mansfield in 1818.
James Purdy, born in 1793, was known as the major of Lane's brigade.
For over half a century he was an active member of the bar of northern Ohio,
and one of the pioneer lawyers of Mansfield.
John M. May, a lawyer, as sharp as a knife, was possessed of a great fund
of men'iment.
Charles L. Boalt, brother-in-law of Judge Lane, practiced here until about
1843, and then went into railroad work. His name is connected with the fii'st
law cases heard in this county.
Orris Parish died at Columbus years ago. He was one of the best soldiers
of ' -Judge Lane' s gang, ' ' as well as one of the ablest lawyers of the old bar.
Francis D. Parish, an old resident of Sandusky, now living at Overland,
attended the first coui-ts at Tiffin.
Josiah Scott, of Bucjtus, practiced in the courts of Seneca County.
John C. Spink, commonly called the leading actor in Judge Lane's cii'cus,
was a circuit lawyer and an old resident of Wooster, Ohio. He was one of the
practical jokers of the circuit, and the musician or violinist of the old bar.
James Pui'dy was accustomed to chide Spink on his pejic/ja?;^ for mimicry,
antics, music and general mischief, but remained very much attached to this
funny man of noiihwestern Ohio.
Lawrence W. Hall, the successor of Jiidge Bowen, in 1852, presided over
the circuit court until the close of 1856.
William Lawrence, a lawyer of Bellefontaine, Ohio, entered on the duties
of judge in 1857. It is related of him that when he opened com-t at Marion,
in May, 1861, he instructed the sheriff to hoist the stars and stripes above the
court house. This official refused to do so, was brought up for contempt, fined,
and then, when he had to obey, hoisted the national flag. In 1862 he entered
the army. In 1864 he was elected a member of Congress, and in 1880 was
appointed first Comptroller of the Treasury.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 301
Josiah S. Plants, whose election as judge of common pleas, is noticed in
the political chapter, was wounded while hunting in Indiana, and died shortly
after.
Chester E. Mott, born in Susquehanna County, Penn., in 1813, was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1837. at Erie, and moved to Upper Sandusky in 181:4. He.
was elected judge of common pleas in 1865. Judge Mott has filled several
important positions in Wyandot County.
Eleutheros Cooke, an attorney of 1829-30, was the solemn man of the pio-
neer law circle, and one of the good pleaders of the old bar.
"W. H. Hunter was the attorney for Leonard H. Alexander vs. Joseph Par-
meter, of Thompson Township, in 1829.
Philomon Beecher. an old resident of Sandusky City, practiced in the early
coui'ts of the county.
Ezra M. Stone, of Norwalk, ];)racticed here in the early couiis.
Price J. Bartlett, of Fremont, was an early lawv'er.
John M. May was the trombone player, and generally accompanied Spink,
the violinist, and sometimes played a duet with Coffinbeny, another trom-
bonist.
H. J. Harmon and M. M. May were law^'ers here in 1830.
Smith & Chaffin were solicitors here in 1836.
Jude Hall was a good lawyer, and an able abettor of his fellow-lawyers in
all jokes.
Joseph M. Root, Charles Olcott. and one Parker, practiced in the early
courts.
Asa Way, an old lawyer of Republic, and W. V. Way, of Pem^sbm-g, were
on the pioneer circuit.
Rudolphus Dickenson, born in Massachusetts, December 28, 1797, was
admitted to the bar of Columbus, settled at Fort Ball early in 1824, and was
appointed prosecutor that year. He moved to Lower Sandusky in May, 1826,
and married Miss L. Beaugrand there in 182/. He was elected Congi-essman
in 1846-48, and died at Washington, March 20, 1849.
Abel Rawson, born at Warwick, Mass., May 11, 1798, studied law at New
Salem and Northfield. Mass., and was admitted to the bar in August, 1823.
He practiced at New Salem, visited New York in 1824. taught school at Dover,
Ohio, in 1824, and at Norwalk in 1824-25, and was admitted to the Supreme
Court of Ohio, in August, 1825. He settled in Tiffin in June, 1825, was pros-
ecutor fi-om May. 1826, to October, 1833, and died August 24, 1871.
Robert G. Pennington, born in Delaware County. Penn., in 1816, came
with parents to Tiffin,, May 24, 1834; entered the office of Abel Rawson in
1839; was admitted to the bar in 1842; was presidential elector in 1856. and
in 1861, with Col. Lee and Maj. De Walt, organized the Fifty-fifth O. V. L,
and joined that command with rank of quartermaster. In 1862 he was com-
missioned adjutant-general on Gen. McLean's staff.
William H. Gibson, born in Ohio. May 16, 1822; read law in the office of
Rawson & Pennington: admitted to the bar in 1845; elected State treasiu-er in
1855; was commissioned colonel of the Forty -ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry
in 1861; commanded in forty-two battles, and was commissioned brigadier
general for distinguished service. He retired from the practice of law in 1872,
and was commissioned adjutant of State in 1880.
Warren P. Noble, born in Luzerne County, Penn., June 14, 1820, came
with his parents to Jackson Township, Seneca County, in 1836; studied law
in the office of Rawson & Pennington from 1842 to 1844, and was admitted to
the bar in 1844. He was elected State representative in 1846, and re-elected
302 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
in 1847; elected prosecuting attorney in 1848, re-elected in 1850, and in 1860
and 1862 was elected member of the Thirty-seventh and Thirty-eighth Con-
gress {vide General History and Biography; also History of Tiffin).
Lnther A. Hall, born August 30, 1813, in Onondaga County, N. Y. ; arrived
at Tiffin, May 5, 1833; read law with Abel Kawson; graduated from the Cin-
cinnati Law College in 1841; was admitted to the bar the same year, and con-
tinued in practice until his death, June 16, 1880.
Frederick Lord was one of the early lawyers who studied at Tiffin.
Edson Goit, an early settler of Lower Sandusliy^ where he presided over a
grammar school ; studied law under Abel Rawson, and became one of the well-
known circuit lawyers of this district. Died at Bowling Green within past live
years.
John H. Pittinger, born December 10, 1828, in Frederick County, Md.,
moved to Tiffin with his parents in 1830 ; studied law, and was admitted to the
bar in 1850. In 1877 he was elected mayor of Tiffin, which office he filled; was
one of the organizers of the Tiffin Fire Department, assisting in forming the first
company — the old No. 1 — of which Gen. W. H. Gibson was foreman, and him-
self treasurer, afterward secretary and treasui-er. He held this office until the
formation of the Young America Hose Company, when he was elected treasurer
of that organization, and still held the office at the time of his death, wjiich took
place very suddenly, January 14, 1885.
Cooper K. Watson, born in Kentucky, June 18, 1810; was admitted to the
bar at Columbus in 1831; practiced at Newark, Delaware, Marion and Fre-
mont; came to Tiffin in 1850; was elected by the Free Soil party a member of
Congress, in 1854; died at Sandusky, Ohio,' May 20, 1880.
Joseph Howard was appointed clerk of coui't in 1830, and served until
1834. He subsequently was appointed to a position in the Department of
State at Washington, where he died.
Geoi-ge E. Seney, born at Uniontown, Penn., May 29, 1832; graduated
from Norwalk Seminary ; studied law under Luther A. Hall ; was admitted to
practice in 1853; elected judge of common pleas in 1858; went to the fi'ont
with the One Hundred and First Ohio Volimteer Infantry in 1862, before the
expiration of his judicial term, and served two years as quartermaster of that
command. In 1874 he received the Democratic nomination for Congress, lead-
ing the Republican nominee in this county by 521 votes, but losing the district
majority. He was elected Congressman in 1882, and re-elected in 1884; was
delegate to the Democratic national convention at St. Louis, and is the author
of Seney' s Code.
James Pillars was elected judge of common pleas, without opposition, in 1872.
Jesse Stem was admitted to the bar at Columbus, in 1842 ; moved to Texas,
and was there killed by the Indians.
John L. Lamareaux, a resident of Attica, was a member of the Seneca
County bar.
R. P. Buckland, a prominent lawv^er and politician, may be named among
the members of the Seneca County bar.
William Lang, a native of Germany, was admitted an attorney at law July
25, 1842 ; filled many public positions, and is still a resident of Tiffin. The
second historical work on Seneca County was written by him.
Sidney Smith, otherwise Gen. Sea, formerly a shoe-maker in Connecti-
cut, moved to Tiffin in 1832; purchased lands in Scipio Township; moved to
Cincinnati in 1838; retiu'ned to Scipio in 1840; had his name changed to Sea
in 1841, and henceforth practiced law, and made more ordinaiy noise in this
county than "Judge Lane's gang" ever could make (see Military History and
Pioneer Sketches).
t^'cna e ^ ^a-u^i^^e
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 305
Joshua Seney, born in New York City, November 20, 1 793, graduated from
Columbia College and the University Law School; came to Tiffin in 1831;
was presidential elector in 1840, clerk of the supreme court, treasurer of
Seneca County, and one of the leading lawyers of Ohio. He died suddenly,
February 10, 1854 (see General History).
William W. Culver went to Fremont, and died there.
John J. Steiner (see Military History), a native of Frederick County, Md.,
was admitted to the bar at Tiffin, and practiced law until he entered the
army.
John K. Gibson was the first law student in the county, having studied
under Abel Eawson. His death occurred in 1841, a short time prior to that
set for seeking admission as an attorney at law.
Selah Chapin, a partner of Abel Rawson, died previous to 1842.
Manly Chapin was a partner of Abel Rawson in 1838-40; he died at Cin-
cinnati.
Ciu'tiss Bates went to Iowa City, and was elected judge.
Hugh M. Martin, a native of Seneca County, read law in Gibson & Tun-
ison's office; moved to Iowa about 1859, and while traveling in Colorado was
killed by a landslide.
Alfred Landon, deceased (see Pioneer History of Tiffin).
John K. Hord, now of Cleveland, was a lawyer of this county, and one of
its probate judges.
Anson Bui-lingame, of Chinese Treaty celebrity, was a school teacher in
Eden Township; was admitted to the bar of Michigan, but never practiced in
this county.
Harrison Noble, born in Wayne County, Ohio, Januaiy 28, 1826; was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1849; was elected Probate Judge, 1884.
John McCauley, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, December 10, 1834, com-
pleted his studies at Delaware University; was admitted an attorney at law in
1860; elected prosecutor in 1865; appointed delegate to the constitutional con-
vention, vice O'Connor, deceased, and elected judge of common pleas in 1879
(see Political History).
Nelson L. Brewer, born in Washington County, Md., September 17, 1832;
graduated from Heidelberg College in 1855; was admitted to the bar in 1858.
George W. Bachman studied law at Tiffin; was elected prosecuting attor-
ney, and was mayor of Tiffin; was killed by being thrown out of his buggy.
Mrs. Bachman still resides at Tiffin.
James Welsh was the first lawyer at Fostoria, having settled there about
1849 or 1850; after five or six years he moved to Wyandot County, thence
to Hancock County, and died.
John L. Cole, Republic, was admitted to the bar in 1862.
Junius V. Jones, born in Gallia County, Ohio, January 23, 1823; moved
to W^ood County with his parents in 1832, and settled in Fostoria in 1846.
He was admitted an attorney at law in 1868, and to practice in United States
courts in 1877.
John C. Lee, born in Delaware County, Ohio, studied law, and located at
Tiffin. He was commissioned colonel of the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infan-
try, November 25, 1861, and resigned in 1863; was commissioned colonel of
the One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio National Guards, and was mustered out
in 1864, as brevet brigadier-general. In 18(37, he was elected lieutenant-governor
of Ohio, and re-elected in 1869. Gen. Lee is now a member of the law firm
of Lee, Brown & Lee, Toledo.
Milo D. Pettibone, was a native of Connecticut, and it is believed that he
306 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
was also a graduate of Yale. He came to Delaware in 1818, w^as a good scholar,
and soon became a sound and trustworthy lawyer, occupying a highly respon-
sible position at the bar to the time of his death, in 1849. He devoted con-
siderable time to speculation in land. He died before the war.
John Masten came to Fostoria before the war, and before its close went
South.
A. H. Selden was the third lawyer who came to Fostoria, arriving in 1860
or 1861, from Medina, Ohio; had his office with Squire Jones, and with Mr.
Jones was engaged as pension lawyer until 1866, when he went to Paulding
County; was elected prosecuting attorney; went to Kansas, and died there
about seven years ago.
William J. Rigby, born in Fairfield County, Ohio, May 22, 1815; was ad-
mitted an attorney at law in 1860; opened an office at Fostoria, in 1867 (see
History of City).
David Hays, a native of Beaver County, Penn, born December 19, 1819;
settled at Fostoria in 1837; was admitted an attorney at law in 1860.
Nelson B. Lutes, born in Wyoming County, Penn., March 1, 1848; settled
at Tiffin in 1870, and was admitted to the bar 'in 1873; now of the firm of Lutes
& Lutes.
John H. Ridgeley, a native of Allegany County, Md., born August 16,
1845; graduated fi-om Heidelberg College, and was admitted to the bar in 1869.
Joel W. Wilson came to Tiffin about 1840; died in 1856.
R. L. Griffith, a native of Seneca County, was mayor of Tiffin, and prose-
cuting attorney of the county. He moved to Detroit, and died there.
John Payne, a farmer of Adams Township, was admitted to the bar, and
served two terms in the Legislature!
Oliver Cowdery, born in Vermont, October 3, 1804, is said to have been
one of the compilers of the Mormon Bible, as he was one of its most ardent
followers ; came to Tiffin in the fall of 1840, where he resided until 1847, when he
rejoined Strang's Mormons in Wisconsin; proceeded to Missoim the same year,
and died there in 1848. From the fact of his books and papers being in the
court house at the time of the fire of 1841, it is said that he had an office
there, as well as on Market Street. It was he who examined Squire Jones, in
1841, for school teacher.
John Smith was an old attorney of Republic.
Albert Pike, now of Toledo, a 'foreign Hebrew, studied law at Tiffin; was
admitted to the bar there, and moved to Toledo some years ago.
T. C. Tunison, a brilliant young lawyer of Tiffin, died there.
Porter H. Jayne, born in Pennsylvania in 1853; was admitted to the bar in
1878; is now in practice at Tiffin, and is a justice of the peace.
Robert McKelly, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in Ohio in 1834;^ was
admitted to the bar in 1842, and opened an office at Bucyrus. In 1845, he
was appointed register of the United States land office, at Upper Sandusky;
held local offices; in 1857, was elected Senator from the Thirty-first Ohio Dis-
trict, and was president of the Ohio & Indiana Railroad, before its consolida-
tion.
Peter A. Tyler, an old lawyer of McCutcheonville, moved to Upper San-
dusky in 1852. After serving a short time with the Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry he returned to Upper Sandusk>\ and some years later was wounded
in a row, from the effects of which he died.
John B. Barnes, born in Mahoning County, Ohio, June 20, 1846, was ad-
mitted to the bar May 3, 1870, located at Fostoria in 1877, now residing in
Kansas.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 307
P. B. King, who was admitted to the bar in April, 1873, moved to Merced
County, Cal., and died there in 1880.
David H. Everett, a native of Franklin County, Ohio, born February 6,
1849, was admitted to the bar in October, 1871, settled at Fostoria in 1874,
now resides in Columbus. Ohio.
J. M. Belver, a native of Seneca County, born December 9, 1853, gradu-
ated from Otterbein Universitv, Ohio, and was admitted an attorney at law,
April 11, 1878.
Charles Guernsey, born January 31. 1858, in Wood County, Ohio, was
admitted to the bar July 11, 1879, and the same year settled at Fostoria.
John A. Bradner, born at Niagara Falls, N. Y. , August 13, 1833, settled
in Ohio in 1849, and at Fostoria in 1863, was admitted an attorney at law in
1879.
Miss Nettie Cronise was admitted to the bar in April, 1873, on recom-
mendation of a committee of the bar, composed of George E. Seney, N. L.
Brewer, R. G. Pennington, John McCauley and W. H. Gibson. Miss Cronise
was the first lady admitted to practice law in Ohio. She studied at Heidel-
berg College and graduated in 1873. She was married to N. B. Lutes, who
was admitted to the bar on the same day.
Miss Florence Cronise graduated from Heidelberg College in 1876, studied
law with "Warren P. Noble, was admitted an attorney at law and is now prac-
ticing at Tiffin.
Miss Edith Sams read law at Tiffin, was admitted to the bar, man-ied a
lawyer named Seiders. and is now a resident of Paulding. Ohio.
Perry M. Adams, born in Wood County, Ohio, December 2, 1850, studied
law in the office of Hon. W. P. Noble, was admitted to the bar April 13,
1876. elected prosecuting attorney in 1881 and 1884; is now a member of the
firm of Noble & Adams.
Upton F. Cramer, born in Seneca County, January 19, 1842, studied at
Heidelberg College, was admitted an attorney at law in 1867, and elected
probate judge for three terms.
Charles H. Cramer, born in Seneca County, was admitted to the bar in
June, 1875; is now in Sandusky City.
Lafayette L. Lang, a native of Tiffin, son of William Lang, read law in
Judge Lang's office and was admitted an attorney at law in 1877; is now clerk
of the Ohio penitentiary.
John B. Schwartz, born in Texas, November 1. 1854, was admitted to the
bar in 1879, at Tiffin, Ohio.
W. L. Kershaw, born in New York City in 1856, was admitted an attorney
at law July 20, 1879; is now at Bellefontaine. Ohio.
H. J. Weller, a native of Seneca County, born January 21, 1856, was ad-
mitted to the bar June 2. 1880, at Columbus.
Frank Baker was admitted to the bar at Tiffin, practiced some time here,
moved to Chicago some years ago. where he has now a lucrative practice.
Gerald E. Sullivan, a native of Tiffin, born June 20. 1856, was admitted
an attorney at law December 12, 1878; now editing a newspaper in Iowa.
James F. Leahy, a native of County Kerry, Ireland, born May 14, 1855,
was admitted to practice, at Tiffin, December 30. 1879.
J. C. Rover, mayor of Tiffin, a native of Thompson Township, born in
1856; graduated from Heidelberg College in 1879, was admitted to the bar in
1881.
Walter S. Cramer, now attorney at law and insurance agent, was admitted
to the bar at Columbus.
308 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John C. Eickenbaugh, partner of Mayor Eoyer, is a native of this county.
Ira E. Strong, a la-sv-yer and real estate dealer, studied law at Tiffin.
Warren F. Noble, son of Warren P. Noble, studied law in his father's
office; he was educated in the State university and admitted to the bar, at
Columbus.
Lester Sutton, Attica, born in 1836, in Steuben County, N. Y., was ad-
mitted to the bar in 18G7.
John P. Cornell went to Cincinnati; studied under Abel Rawson; died at
Cincinnati.
Alexander Brown, a native of Perry County, Ohio, born in 1832, was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1804, and settled at Fostoria in 1872.
James R. Wilson, born in Greene County, Penn. , May 19, 1825, settled
with his parents in Bloom Township, in April, 1834; he was admitted an
attorney at law in 1 866.
John W. Schaufelberger, born at Fostoria, January 29, 1853, studied at
Heidelberg College; continued law readings in Judge Seney's office, and was
admitted to the bar in 1877; is now partner of Judge Seney.
Rush Abbott, born in Seneca County, was admitted to the bar April 12,
1877.
Guilford B. Keppell, born in Seneca County, May 8, 1845, graduated from
Heidelberg College in 1869, admitted an attorney at law in 1871, and was
elected prosecutor in 1879.
H. C. Keppell, born in Seneca County, March 20, 1847, studied at Heidel-
berg College, and was admitted to the bar in 1872.
Jacob F. Bunn, born in Seneca County, June 6, 1847, graduated from
Heidelberg College in 1870, was admitted to the bar in 1871 and elected pro-
bate judge in 1878 (see Political chapter).
Jacob K. Hottal, born in Seneca County, October 8, 1846, was admitted to
the bar in 1871, and two years later becameeditor of the Tiffin Star; is now in
Georgia.
William M. Johnson was elected and re-elected probate judge some seven
years ago.
Frank Dildine. born at Tiffin, October 15, 1849, graduated from Heidel-
berg College in 1869, and was admitted to the bar in 1872; is now in Indiana.
John K. Rohn, now a lawyer of Tiffin, is a native of Clinton Township.
Leander Stem (see Military History).
Robert B. Hurd was a lawyer of Findlay in 1860.
Chester Church was a lawyer of Findlay in 1860.
William C. Hedges, son of Josiah Hedges, was admitted to the bar, but
did not practice much in the courts.
James M. Patterson read law in W. P. Nobles' office; was admitted to the
bar, and subsequently practiced in Missouri.
Thomas Burnside was admitted to the bar here, went to Missouri, where
he died near Appleton.
Orlo D. Skinner read law under Judge Seney, attended the Cincinnati Law
School, where he contracted a fever, fi-om which he died.
James H. Piatt, city solicitor, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1854,
graduated fi-om Heidelberg College in 1875; was admitted to practice in 1881;
in 1883 and 1885 was elected city solicitor.
R. B. Reed read law in Judge Seney's office, and was admitted to the bar at
Columbus; is not now a resident of the county.
David W. Speilman read law at Tiffin, and studied at Cincinnati; is not
now a resident of the county.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 309
John W. Leahy read law under Judge McCanley; admitted to the bar at
Cohambus ; is now engaged in practice with his brother, James F. , in Tiffin.
Charles W. Repp was admitted to the bar, and practiced in this county.
Darius D. Hare, mayor of Upper Sandusky, was born in Seneca County in
1848; he Avas admitted to the bar in 1867.
Frank Hess read law under P. H. Jayne, was admitted to the bar in 1883,
and is now a citizen of Kansas.
John L. Lott, admitted to the bar at Columbus in 1884, is a native of
Liberty Township.
Augustus Skransewf ky is practicing law at Tiffin and engaged in real estate.
Milton Piatt read law in Tiffin, was admitted to the bar at Columbus, and
is now in practice at Findlay.
J. H. Dean read law under James Pillars, and is now a member of the
Kansas State bar.
C. A. Dimn, now of the State of Kansas, studied law at Tiffin, was
admitted to the bar here, and engaged in practice for some time previous to
going to Kansas.
Jasper Pillars, son of Judge Pillars, of Tiffin, studied law in his father's
office, and is now a practicing attorney at Bowling Green, Ohio.
William H. Dove, a native of Tiffiii, born April 6, 1862, studied law under
Warren P. Noble, was admitted to the bar in 1884, and is now practicing at
Tiffin.
John F. Sohn. now a lawyer of Tiffin, is a native of this city.
J. D. Finch, of Green Spring, is in partnership with Thomas P. Dewey.
A. J. Stackhouse, born in Columbiana County, Penn., in 1850. graduated
in 1881; read law under N. L. Brewer, was admitted to the bar at Columbus
in 1 883, and is now in practice at Fostoria.
C. S. Burton is one of the north country lawyers, having an established
law and collection office at Green Spring.
Charles G. Barnd, a native of Licking County, Ohio, came to Fostoria
from Findlay in 1881, but is not now in practice.
]\Ii-. Corbett. son of one of the old settlers of Eden Township, is studying
law in Judge Seney" s office. Other aspirants for legal honors are also to be
found scattered throughout the various law offices of the county.
Thomas P. Dewey, of Finch & Dewey, Green Sj^ring, is one of the popu-
lar lawyers of the town.
John Gwynn was a lawer of Tiffin in 1862, and continued in practice
there until his death in November, 1884.
George Gassman, born in Liberty Township. August 24, 1837, was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1867. Prof. Gassman has traveled extensively on this
continent and throughout Em-ope, and is a master of several languages. He
conducts a classical school at Tiffi.n.
Associate Judges. — Jacques Hulburt, one of the pioneers of old Fort Sen-
eca, pm-chased the fort lands in company with Shepard Patrick. He taught
the first grammar school in the county, purchased the Fort Stevenson Reserva-
tion, and, moving thither, opened a store at Fremont. He was elected asso-
ciate judge of Seneca County in 1824, served Sandusky County in the Legisla-
ture, and died December 25, 1836.
Matthew Clark, elected associate judge in 1824. was an old settler of Eden
Township. Notwithstanding his high position, one Hamilton McCollister, a
justice of the peace of Eden, had him arrested and tried for Sabbath breaking,
and had him fined November 13, 1827. This led to the cause celebre of that
time, Clark vs. McCollister for false imprisonment; Dickenson & Rawson for
310 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
plaintiff, David Higgins for defendant. The jury assessed damages at $21.50,
but McCollister appealed the case, the jury disagreed, and McCollister
brought the subject before the supreme court, where it was discontinued.
William Cornell, one of the pioneers of the county, was elected associate
judge in 1824.
Agreen Ingraham, the first sheriff, was subsequently elected treasurer, and
filled a large space in the pioneer official life of the county. He was elected
associate judge in 1831.
Selden Graves, who was elected associate judge in 1831, was a pioneer
physician, a man, in word and deed, of the old, old school. He settled in Eden
Township, March G, 1822. He served fi'om 1831 to the close of his term on
the bench, and, like the other associate judges, despised the members of the
old circuit.
Benjamin Pittinger, born in Frederick County, Md. , in 1798, came to Tif-
fin in September, 1825, with his brother John, and opened a store there, which
they carried on until 1834. In 1832 they established the Perry Street tannery.
Benjamin Pittinger was elected associate judge in 1831 on the Whig ticket,
and served on the bench with Judge Higgins for many years. In 1860 he
moved to his farm in Eden Township.
Henry Colgate Brish, elected associate judge in 1838, was a native of Fred-
erick County, Md., born in 1799, died near Tiffin, in February, 1866. In 1809
he was clerk in the recorder's office of that county, and remained until 1824,
when he married Mrs. Eleanor S. Carey. In July, 1828, they came to Seneca
County, making the trip in a small covered phaeton, and arriving July 6, that
year. Mrs. Brish, noticed among the pioneers, died recently. Gen. Brish
succeeded Montgomery as agent for the Senecas.
Andi'ew Liigenbeel, born in Maryland, in 1806, moved to Seneca County in
1832, was elected associate judge in 1838, and re-elected in 1845. He died
December 10, 1863, thirteen years after his judicial term ended.
Lowell Robinson settled in Bloom Township, Section 8, in 1823, was elected
associate judge in 1838, and had the unenviable notoriety of having to vacate
the bench to answer a charge of "assault and battery," made by his wife.
Some years after this scandal he moved to California, and died there.
William Toll, reference to whom is made in the Organic and Political chap-
ters, was one of the pioneers of Tiffin. At the beginning of his public career in
the county he was deputy sheriff, and had something to do in the care of feeding
prisoners. He was elected coroner in 1830, and associate judge in 1845.
Heniy Ebbei^t was one of the hatters of Tiffin in early days, and always one
of the city's working politicians. He was elected associate judge in 1845, and
was one of the leaders of the American or Know-nothing party of this county
in 1852-55. His antipathy to foreigners was all political, for when Mrs. Hoft'-
man died of cholera, in 1834, her child, Charlotte, was adopted by the Ebberts,
the same who married Mr. Lee, of Toledo, in recent years.
Thomas Lloyd was elected associate judge to fill vacancy, and served until
the ' 'abolition' ' of the ' 'side judges. ' '
STATE BAR ASSOCIATION.
Following are the names of the officers of the State Bar Association, elected
at the meeting in Columbus, in 1885:
President — A. W. Jones, of Youngstown.
Vice-Presidents — First district, Aaron F. Perry; Second, James M. Smith;
Third, T. J. Godfrey; Fourth, S. E. Williamson; Fifth, F. F. Bingham;
Sixth, Charles F. Follett: Seventh, Wells A. Hutchins; Eighth, D. A. Hol-
lingsworth; Ninth, M. Stuart; Tenth, John McCauley,
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 311
Executive Committee— John W. Herron, R. D. Marshall, Henry Newbe-
gin, John Doyle, P. C. Smith, C. H. McElroy, C. H. Grosvenor, A. W. Train,
Rush Taggart and E. B. Finley.
On Admission — W. A. Davidson, T. J. Pringle, C. A. Layton, A. T.
Brewer, C. A. White, J. C. Devin, A. W. Vorhes, R. G. Richards, R. W. Tay-
lor and H. C. Carhart.
Judicial Administration and Legal Reform — Lawrence Maxwell, H.
Elliott, Isaiah Pillars, E. P. Greene, T. A. Minshall, A. K. Dunn, O. F.
Moore, M. M. Granger, W. A. Lynch and H. T. Van Fleet.
Legal Education — Judson Harmon, M. B. Earnhart, John E. Richie, R.
P. Ranney, James E. "Wright, V. R, Mclntre, W. B. Loomis, H. T. Stock-
well, G. F. Arrell and R. W. Johnson.
Grievances — John J. Glidden, W. M. Rockell, J. L'H. Long, L. Russell,
George Lincoln and D. Dielam.
Legal Biography — M. F. Force, E. H. Munger, S. N. Owen, J. E. Inger-
8ol, W. H. Safford, J. W. Bannon, I. H. Miller and S. R. Harris.
Thomas Corwin, so prominent in the legal circles of Ohio, was at Fort
Seneca in July, 1813, freighting over the Delaware Army Road to this point
supplies for the army. From this occupation he derives the name of ' 'Tom, the
Wagon Boy."
A few names of lawyers, omitted in this chapter, find mention in the pio-
neer section of the township histories, and many of the lawyers now residing in
the county are fully treated on in the chapters devoted to personal history
and reminiscences.
CHAPTER VIL
PHYSICIANS OF THE COUNTY.
SO early as 1822, while yet the county was only tenanted by a few himdred
white people, the first physician arrived. The succeeding year more adven-
turous spirits pushed further westward, and thenceforward physicians came
here to reside or visit. In 1852 the medical profession was so numerously and
ably represented in the county, it was deemed desirable to organize a society.
This was accomplished the same year, when a number of physicians assembled
in the oiSce of Dr. Dresbach, adopted a constitution, and elected Dr. J. A.
McFarland president, with Dr. George Sprague secretary. There is no record
extant of the proceedings of this society. Of its members, however, the news-
paper press has kept a record, and from those old records much, if not all, re-
lating to them in the following pages, has been obtained. To the courtesy of
Dr. Gibbon, secretary of the present society, the writer is indebted for being
enabled to give the names of the physicians of the county in our own times.
Dr. Stephenson, of Hiiron County, was the visiting physician in 1819-20. Dr.
Brainard, of Sandusky, practiced medicine from that point to Tymochtee, and
attended the Seneca Indians previous to 1821.
Selden Graves, the first resident physician of Seneca County, settled in
Eden Township, March 6, 1822. In 1831 he was elected associate judge. Ely
Dresbach, born in Northumberland County, Penn. , in 1802, settled with his
parents, David and Catherine Dresbach, in Pickaway County, Ohio, and came
312 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
to Fort Ball February 23, 1823, having previously studied medicine at Circle-
ville. under Dr. Luckey. For over thirty years he labored in Seneca County,
and died at Tiffin April 14, 1853 (vide History of Tiffin).
Heniy Kuhn, born in Frederick (3ounty, Md. , in 1802. graduated from the
medical school of the University of Maryland in 1825. In 1829 he came with
his familv to Tiffin, and was among the men who cleared the fore.st on Market
Street, between Washington and Monroe Streets, that year. His office was on
East Market Street, and in recent years stood in rear of the new jail. Miss
Catherine Baltzell, of Woodsboro. *Md. . to whom he was married in 1826. died
at Tiffin in 1843. His second wife. Miss Maria Pennington, of Tiffin, sui'^dved
her husband, who died October 16, 1878.
Kobert C. J. Carey, a native of Maryland, born in November, 1800, settled
at Fort Ball in 1823, and was a partner of Dr. Dresbach. His death took
place November 9, 1 836, when he was buried in the old cemetery.
James Fisher, the founder of Elizabethtown, was born in Frederick County,
Md.. January 1, 1801, settled at Tiffin in 1832. In July, 1829. he man-ied
Elizabeth M. , daughter of Dr. Thomas Boyer, and was accompanied by his
father-in-law to Tiffin in 1832. Mis. Fisher died September 19, 1878. ' Dr.
Fisher was appointed postmaster at Tiffin shortly after his settlement here,
many years prior to his departure for Springfield, Mo.
Thomas Boyer, of Uniontown, Md. . whose daughters were married, Eliz-
abeth to Dr. James Fisher, and Mary M. to Lloyd Morris, in July, 1829, set-
tled at Tiffin in 1832, and died here'in 1835. Mrs. Boyer died in 1847.
J. A. McFarland, the first president of the old Seneca County Medical So-
ciety, settled at Tiffin in 1837; died June 1, 1883. He was delegate to the
great convention of physicians, held at San Francisco, Cal., in 18(1, and one
of the most estimable citizens of the county.
E. J. McCollum, born in Richland County, Ohio, in June, 1825, graduated
from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in March. 1853, and settled at
Tiffin about same time. He was at McCutchenville in 1849.
J. N. Heckerman, born at Chambersburg. Penn.. November 22, 1825, com-
pleted his medical course at the Columbian School of Medicine, Washington,
D. C, in 1846, and came to Tiffin in 1849.
E. W. Sullivan, born at Tiffin, March 22, 1856, graduated from the
Wooster Medical College in 18(8.
Dr. C. L. Jones, the pioneer physician of Attica, is still in practice.
H. B. Gibbon, born at Big Prairie, Wayne County, Ohio, March 12, 1852,
graduated fi-om the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Siu-geiy in June, 1877,
and located at Tiffin in 1880. He practiced for a short time at Kansas and
Bettsville, in this county.
J. B. Bland, born in Muskingum County, Ohio, July 22, 1840, is a grad-
uate of Starling (Columbus) Medical College. In 1869 he entered on the prac-
tice of medicine at Benton. Crawford County, Ohio.
L. E. Robinson, a graduate of Rush Medical College, Chicago, in 1873,
located at Republic in 1876.
Benjamin S. Stover, born at Brooklyn, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, June 13, 1856,
a graduate of Jefferson Medical College, located at Republic in 1878.
H. B. Martin, born at Chillicothe, Ohio, November 15, 1823, graduated
from Charitv Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1850; came from Melmore to Tiffin
about 1866-67; died March 1, 1884.
F. W. Schwan, born at Lancaster, Penn., March 3, 1843, is a graduate of
Rush Medical College. Chicago, of the class of 1867.
W. H. Paul, born in Richland County, Ohio, April 14, 1848, graduated
^4ih:,. '~"^'
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 315
from the Miami Medical Coll_ege, Ohio, in 1872, and opened his office at Adi-ian,
Big Spring Township, in 18 /6.
Miss Julia Rumsey, a female physician of Tiffin, was lost in the wreck of
the Pewabie.
Ariel B. Hovey, born in Orleans County, Vt. , February 9, 1829, entered
Oberlin College in 1843, where he studied until 1849 and also read medicine in
Dr. Johnsons office there. In 1850 he continued his medical studies under
Prof. Ackley, of Cleveland, graduated in March, 1852, and the same year
settled at Tiffin. His death occru-red October 2, 1884.
Maurice Leahy, born in Kerry County, Ireland, March 14, 1853, graduated
from AVooster University, in February, 1878, and entered on the practice of
his profession at Tiffin, in July, that year; he studied under Dr. McCollum.
John D. O'Connor was born at Woodsfield, Ohio, September 24, 1822;
studied medicine under Dr. Dillon; graduated fiom Miami Medical College in
1858: was elected senator in 1801, re-elected in 1863; settled at Tiffin in 1866,
and died while attending an adjourned session of the constitutional convention,
at Cincinnati, February 21, 1874. In 1845 he was married to Miss Euth C.
NeflF, of Clarington, Ohio.
C. A. Henry, born in Wood County, Ohio, January 5, 1844, located at Fos-
toria in 1871, as a partner of Dr. A. S. Williams.
Park L. Myers, born at Fostoria, May 28, 1860, graduated fi'oto the Ohio
Medical College of Cincinnati in 1879, and began the practice of medicine in
Fostoria in 1880.
F. J. Schaufelberger graduated fi^om the Jefferson Medical College of
Philadelphia in 1884, and commenced practice in Fostoria same year. From
1873 to 1882 he was engaged in the di-ug trade here.
John H. Norris has practiced medicine at Fostoria since 1881. Previous
to this time he was a physician of Wood County.
Amos S. Williams has practiced at Fostoria since 1867.
John H. Williams, a graduate of Wooster, commenced practice at Fostoria
in 1877.
Dr. William C. Cole moved to Republic in 1841, thence to Tiffin.
Dr. Pennington, who died January 23, 1862, studied medicine at Tiffin,
under Dr. Kuhn. He practiced some years at Delphos, Allen Co. , Ohio.
Dr. Williams, born January, 1812, in Genessee County, N. Y., settled at
Reedtown in 1835, as a physician; died about three years ago.
Dr. Henrv Wertz was a physician in Hopewell Township in 1852.
Dr Minard Obermiller, an old resident of Tiffin, died at Toledo, Sep-
tember 28, 1884.
Dr. I. T. Gilbert, who died at Bryan, Ohio, in recent tames, was one of
the early physicians of Reed Township.
Dr. 'Robert R. McMeens, born in Pennsylvania, February 26, 1820, set-
tled at Tiffin in 1841, married Miss Ann C. Pettinger, in 1843; moved to
Sandusky in 1846; died at Perryville, Ky., October 30, 1862.
Dr. W. H. Heckerman, who graduated fi'om Heidelberg College m 1878,
studied medicine and practiced in this county; he died in January, 1885.
Dr. George W. Beigh, who was engaged in practice at Plymouth, Md., died
April 14, 1882, and his remains were brought to Republic for interment.
Dr. A. S. Uberroth, of New Riegel, met his death at Stoner Wood, on the
Indianapolis. Bloomington & Western Railroad, February 16, 1883. On the
evening of Februaiy 16 he sent a dispatch to his wife stating that he would be
at Berwick on the night express, and requesting her to send his hired man to
meet him. The hired man was at the depot at Berwick, and as Mr. Uberroth
316 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
did not arrive lie made inquiry of the conductor, who informed him that a man
answering the description of the Doctor was put off the train just south of Tiffin
because he refused to pay his fare, and claimed that he bought a ticket and lost
it. The hired man returned to New Riegel, and Mrs. Uberroth immediately
sent friends in search of her husband. They followed the railroad track from
Berwick toward Tiffin, and found the body at the place above stated.
Dr. Usher Parsons joined Gen. Harrison' s army at Camp Seneca, and sub-
sequently was with Perry on the lakes. In later years he made his home at
Cincinnati.
Dr. A. H. Christy died September 19, 1884.
Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, a son of one of the pioneers of the county, born in
Tiffin in 1844, is president of the Medical Association of Seneca County.
Dr. John Montgomery died at Adrian, January 29, 1885, aged sixty-three
years. He was for many years a resident of that part of the county.
Dr. Joseph Boehler located at Tiffin prior to 1845.
Dr. G. W. Sampson was one of the witnesses to the treaty of McCutcheon-
ville, January 19, 1832, and was an old physician of the district.
Dr. John Kerr, a Thompsonian practitioner, resided at Rome in 1847.
Dr. E. B. Hubbard, born at Chester, Mass., December 28, 1840, came to
Tiffin in January, 1874, and, with Dr. Hershiser, established the Hubbard Drug
Store, southwest corner of Market and Washington Streets. He never prac-
ticed in this county.
Dr. Hudson, who practiced in specialties in his day, died in 1869.
Dr. Simon Bricker, one of the pioneer physicians of the western part of
Seneca County, and an old resident of Fostoria, died in 1856. His was the
first burial in the Fostoria City Cemetery.
Dr. T. S. Lang located at Springville in May, 1836.
Dr. Isaac Young, a resident of this county for a number of years, was sent
to the Seneca County Infirmary in August, 1885. He was at one time quite a
prominent citizen. He was freight and express agent on the Indianapolis,
Bloomington & Western Railroad at Berwick in the "sixties," and was also a
very successful physician. He moved from Berwick to Melmore, and thence
to Fostoria. His appetite for strong drink was his worst enemy, and it seemed
impossible for him to overcome the habit. AVhile at Fostoria he, for a long
period, abstained from drink, and did a good business at his profession.
Dr. F. Jaeck died April 16, 1856, aged thirty-nine years.
Dr. A. Metz, of Fostoria, was a practicing physician and druggist there
prior to 1849.
Dr. Asa Brayton, born in Wyandot County in 1831, studied under Dr.
Metz, of Fostoria, in 1849, and entered on practice at McCutcheonville.
Dr. E. W. Dubois, son-in-law of Mrs. Ditto, died July 2, 1873.
Dr. A. A. Freyman, born August 16, 1833, died October 6, 1874.
Dr. F. W. Entriken, of Findlay, also practiced in Seneca County before
the war.
Dr. J. Snyder was proprietor of the Tiffin Eye Infirmary (Houck' s Block)
in April, 1860.
Dr. J. R. Buckingham is an old resident physician, having practiced at
Attica for years prior to 1864, when he moved to Bloomville, retui-ning in 1872.
Dr. H. G. Blaine, a member of the faculty of the Toledo Medical College;
a member of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association, and of the Board
of Censors of the Indiana Medical College, was a member of the North-
western Ohio Eclectic Medical Association, and came to Attica in 1861.
W^illiam J. Culver, noticed among the pioneers of Scipio, was the first
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 317
physician at Eepublic. Drs. H. K. Spooner, J. A. Maguire. J. Roop and Dr
Storer have been for years identified with the profession in this division of the
county.
Henry Kegg Hershiser, born in Bedford County, Penn. , in 1831, graduated
from Cohimbus Medical College. Was in professional capacity during the
war, and siibsequently engaged in the drug business for nine years, then re-
sumed practice of medicine.
Charles Sandmeister, born in Germany in 1831, came to Thompson Town-
ship in 1853, where he commenced the practice of his profession. He gradu-
ated from the Eclectic Medical Institute, Cincinnati, in 1864.
Dr. S. D. Jones opened an office at Attica in 1847.
Dr. Stephen Fowler, the pioneer physician of the territory, now known as
Wyandot County, also practiced throughout Seneca County. He came to the
Sandusky Plains in 1827, and died at Upper Sandusky December 26, 1847.
Dr. M. H. Mills, now a resident of Attica, has practiced in the county for
about nine years.
Dr. Pagin was a visiting hydropathic doctor in 1860-61.
Dr. Gibson, of Bloom Township, was commissioned surgeon of the Seneca
County militia in 1835.
Dr. Spicer was a pioneer physician as well as a pioneer preacher. His
medical and religious methods were particularly peculiar, and sometimes led
to trouble in the locality in which he resided.
Dr. A. W. Knight settled at Attica in the spring of 1884.
Dr. Seymour came to Attica Station in July or August, 1885.
Dr. George Rubard is a native of Thompson Township, born in 1847;
graduated from Cincinnati Eclectic College in 1871, and commenced practice
at Flat Rock.
Other physicians, past and present, referred to in the history of the town-
ships, are named as follows:
Drs. D. Peters and G. H. Scoles, Springville (in 1847); George Sprague and
Hon. J. A. Norton, Tiffin; S. T. Finch and Thomas Cochran, Green Spring ; Alonzo
Lockwood, Simon Bricker and George Patterson, Rome; A. Metz, R. C. Caples
and Marcus Dana, Risdon; Robert P. Frazer, Reed; Bellville and Peter J.
Smyth, Bloom; F. M. Bell, Fort Seneca; Daniel M. Bate, Melmore; I. Breid-
inger, W. G. and G. P. Williard, Tiffin; Pierce, William L. Hamilton, F. S.
Kendall, J. S. Sparks and John Ball, Republic; Joseph Myers and Henry L.
Harris, Thompson; William Crawford, Tiffin; Charles Beilhartz, dentist
(1842), J. R. Huss and Wells, Tiffin; Barber and J. C. Myers, Venice (the former
gone to Iowa; the latter died January 18, 1884); F. H. Lang, Tiffin; A. M.
Magers, Alvada; H. C. Wells and Leon McCollum, Tiffin; J. W. Hoy, Bloom-
ville; M. Nighswander and Chancellor Martin, Fort Seneca; F. M. White,
New Riegel; H. Ladd, J. W. Holmes and Steele, Melmore; A. M. Martin,
Bloomville; Marshall Brothers, C. R. Walker, Skeggs, L. H. Sprague, I. W.
Moliere, F. W. Entrikin, A. R. McKellar, David P. Campbell, L. E. Robin-
son, J. L. Brown, and Thomas Cochran, Green Spring; W. P. Buckingham,
Bettsville; C. L. Jones, A. Force, C. A. Force, Attica; D. E. Bowman, Kan-
sas; Watson, I. H. Noiris, Myers, W. M. Cake, John Bricker and P. E. Bal-
lou, Fostoria; Charles T. Benner, Homer J. Bricker, S. W. Bricker, A. M.
Campbell, Levi Corfman, Fred Scheil and Henry C. Wells, T. J. West and
T. E. Wells, Tiffin; C. A. Henry, L. G. Williams, Fostoria; A. D. Orwig,
Reed; M. H. Mills, D. J. Deck, Venice; R. M. Sproul, Adams; W. H. Focht,
Big Spring; T. J. Foster, Bloom; O. B. Whittecar, C. M. Comer, Hopewell.
The physicians of this county, who served as army surgeons or assistant
surgeons during the war of the Rebellion are named as follows:
318 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Drs. Leopold Zander, Eobert \\. Thrift, W. H. Park, H. B. Lung, S. A.
Smith, S. H. Spencer, J. Kling, Joseph Hebble, Henry K. Spooner, J. L.
Morris, James C. Myers, Thomas M. Cook, George S. Tingling, Walter Cas-
well, Henry F. Lacey, H. H. Kussell. O. Ferris, W. B. Hyatt, J. H. Will-
iams, N. B.' Brisbani, *R. R. McMeens, George Weeks and Gibson, of Bloom,
(latter siu'geon of Seneca Militia, during Toledo war).
The practicing physicians on the southern borders of the county, residents
of Wyandot County, previous to 1845, were:
Joseph Mason and David Watson, of Crane ; Noah Wilson, of Ridge ; David
Adams, of Richland; William Cope, of Jackson; Westbrook (1835), Hall, Chis-
ney and Ferris, of Marseilles; Clark and Foster, of Crawford; Bingham, Free,
Letson, Ranger, G. W. Sampson (1828) and Dunn, of Tymochtee; A. W. Mun-
son, of Antrim; J. H. Drumm, of Pitt, and Stephen Fowler (182 <) and J. B.
McGill. of the same township ; McConnell, of Fpper Sandusky. Dr. Fowler
was well known to the first settlers of Seneca, while Dr. Sampson settled in this
county before taking up his residence south of the county line. Dr. E. J. Mc-
Collum settled at McCutcheonville in 1849, and practiced there for two years.
MEDICAL ASSOCIATIONS.
Fosforia Medical Society. — The Fostoria Medical Society was organized
April 18, 1876, with J. W. Bricker, F. J. Bricker (removed),' R. W. Hale, R.
C. Caples, G. L. Hoege, W. M. Cake (in Michigan). A. S. Williams, C. A. Hemy,
L. Williams, A. J. Longfellow, G. N. Lewis (Michigan), A. G. Owen, E. D.
Powers (di-uggist. removed), and A. E. Watson. Shortly after the organization
of the County Medical Society, the senior members of the profession at Fostoria
joined the new association.
Seneca County Medical Society. — September 13, 1878, a number of physi-
cians met at Dr. McFarland"s otfice at Tiffin, and issued an invitation to the
physicians of the county to meet on September 25th for the purpose of organiz-
ing a society. On the day named there were present: Drs. J. A. McFarland,
A. B. Hovey, E. J. McCollum, J. F. E. Fanning, G. P. Williard, B. F. Hittle,
Maurice Lekhy, E. W. Sullivan, A. L. Waugaman, H. B. Martin, Simon Bricker,
J. W. Heckerinan, J. T. Livers, of Tiffin; T. J. West, of Melmore; Barber, of
Attica; Nighswander, of Fort Seneca; A. S. Martin, of Bettsville; Whittaker,
of Bascom; G. L. Hoege, of Fostoria; W. H. Paid, of Adi-ian; A. S. Uberoth,
of New Riegel, and H. B. Gibbon, of Kansas (now of Tiffin). A resolution to
organize a medical society was caiTied, when A. B. Hovey was elected president,
J. A. McFarland, vice-president. A. L. Waugaman. secretary, andH. K. Spooner,
treasurer. Drs. Martin, of Bettsville. Nighswander, of Fort Seneca, and Wau-
gaman presented a form of constitution, which was adopted.
J. B. Bland, of Benton; Henderson, of Green Sjjring, and Patterson, of
McCutcheonville, were admitted to membership October 23, 1878. Dr. Benner
was a member prior to this date. February 26, 1879, F. W. Schwan, of Benton;
Wert, of Mexico; Ray R. Mitchell, Bellevue; Hoy. of Bloomville ; B. S. Stover,
of Republic ; W. R. Martin, of Melmore, and Chancellor Martin, of Fort
Seneca, were received as members. June 25, 1879, G. W. Sampson, of Mc-
Cutcheonville, L. G. Williams, R. W. Hale, A. S. Williams, R. C. Caples, A.
J. Longfellow, W. M. Cake, John Bricker and C. A. Heniy, of the Fostoria
Medical Association, were admitted to membership ; Dr. Martin, of Bloomville,
was admitted Januaiy 28, 1880, and L. E. Robinson April 28, that year. Drs.
Wenner, Foucht, Keller, McKellar, J. P. Kinnaman, J. S. Tingling and W.
H. Hershiser have been admitted since 1880.
Dr. Waugaman w^as elected delegate to the American Microscopic Associa
tion convention at Buffalo, which was held August, 1879.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 319
May 28, 1879, Drs. Williard, Bland and Fanning were elected delegates to
the Ohio State Medical Society, to be held June 3, 1879, with C. Martin,
Spooner and Hovey, alternates.
Dr. Norton received the thanks of the society May 28, 1879, for his efforts
in having the anatomy act passed by the Legislature.
In September, 1879, officers were elected as follows: J. A. McFarland, pres-
ident; A. S. Martin, vice-president; A. Wangaman, secretary; E. W. Sullivan,
assistant secretary; E. J. McCollum, treasiu-er.
In September, 1880, H. K. Spooner was elected president; E. W. Sullivan,
secretary; J. F. E. Fanning, treasurer; M. Leahy, assistant secretary. Those
officers held over until the close of 1882, owing to there being no election in
1881.
The election of September, 1882, resulted as follows: President, Dr. J. U.
Heckerman; vice-president, Dr. G. P. Williard; treasurer, Dr. H. B. Gibbon;
secretary, Dr. E. W. Sullivan. Executive committee: Drs. McFarland,
Hovey and McCollum. Finance Committee: Drs. Williard, Leahy and Ben-
ner. Medical ethics: Drs. Spooner, Gibbon and Fanning. Committee on
admissions: Drs. Hovey, Williard and Sullivan. In 1883 there were elected:
E. J. McCollum, president; J. F. E. Fanning, vice-president; E. W. Sullivan,
secretary; H. B. Gibbon, treasurer. On Dr. Sullivan's removal fi-om the
county his position as secretary devolved on Dr. H. B. Gibbon, the present
secretary of the society, and Dr. West was appointed treasurer.
The election of 1884 resulted in the choice of Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, presi-
dent; Dr. F. J. Livers, vice-president; Dr. H. B. Gibbon, secretary; Dr.
West, treasurer. Dr. Wenner, of Tiffin, was elected a member of the society
and Dr. Steel, of Melmore, was also admitted a member.
Norfhicestern Ohio Eclectic Medical Association. — This is not a local associa-
tion, but owing to its social connection with Tiffin, where many of its meetings
have been held, it claims a brief notice. The last meeting of the association
was held at Tiffin, October 16. 1884. when Dr. Breidinger, the president, de-
livered an addi-ess entitled ' ' Medical Truth. ' ' Dr. DeCrow, of Gallon, read
an essay on ' ' Laceration of the Perinseum, ' ' and Dr. Sandmeister, of Bellevue,
on "Pathology and Treatment of Typhoid." The officers elected were
Dr. H. DeCrow, of Gallon, president; J. A. Grove, of Mt. Blanchard, Ohio,
vice-president; H. Thomas, of Ada, Ohio, second vice-president; W. N.
Mundy, of Forest, Ohio, secretary; J. M. Crismore, of Helena, Ohio, corre-
sponding secretary; Charles Sandmeister, of Bellevue, Ohio, treasurer.
CHAPTER VIII.
THE PRESS OF SENECA COUNTY.
A GOOD newspaper is something which is above all price, when the quality
of its goodness springs from editorial principle rather than from mana-
gereal cupidity. The newsj)aper, when well conducted, is one of the evidences
of true advancement. It is to the people a great educator, and, when faithful
to its mission, forms an exponent of national ideas, a guard against treason
from within and treachery without. Half a centmy has glided into the past,
since the first newspaper was issued in this county. With the growth of the
320 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY,
cov
mty the press has kept pace, until now one daily newspaper, and several
weekly journals are supported directly by the people; while the daily press
of Toledo, Chicago and Cincinnati meets with a very liberal patronage. In the
following historical review, the writer confines himself to a brief notice of the
establishment and progress of the local newspapers, leaving the personal history
to be treated on by the wi'iters of the last part of this volume.
TIFFIN NEWSPAPERS.
The pioneer newspaper was the Seneca Patriot, printed August 4, 1832, by
J. H. Brown, and edited by Elisba Brown. The press used on this occasion
was taken beyond the Alleghenies to Washington, Penn. , about the year 1800,
by James Colerick; thence to several localities in Virginia and Ohio by J. P.
McArdle, who located his office at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, in 1816, and published
the Register. On the establishment of a printing office at Clinton, Ohio, this
itinerant press was present, next it appears at Norwalk, then at Sandusky City,
afterward at Tiffin, finally settling at Toledo. It appears that the Brown Broth-
ers purchased McArdle' s office at Norwalk, established an office at Sandusky,
and in 1832 moved to Tiffin with their printing outfit. The Browns made an ef-
fort to conciliate all political parties, but failed in this impracticable scheme, so
that November 17, 1832, the Patriot siu-rendered to the Jackson Party, the
Whigs and anti-Masons withdi-ew their support, the editor of the Patriot
retired to Cincinnati where he died, N. Y. Magill taking his place November
30, 1833. J. H. Brown remained a little while until the office passed into the
charge of Magill, who managed it until the spring of 1834, when Abel Kawson
purchased the printing business for his brother — Alonzo Rawson.
The Independent Chronicle and Seneca Advertiser, issued on the ruins
of the Patriot April 26, 1834, was printed by Alonzo Rawson and edited by
Abel Rawson. This journal was conducted on independent principles for a
short time, but for the greater part of its two years' existence it advocated
^Yhig principles, and brewed another storm which ended in its sale in Novem-
ber, "1835.
The Tiffin Gazette and Seneca Advertiser was projected by Josiah F. Reed,
November 25, 1835, and within a short time claimed Democratic support in San-
dusky County as well as in Seneca. It reached its nineteenth number April
16, 1836, and continued regular publication until the close of February, 1838,
when Luther A. Hall pui'chased the office and abolished all its Democratic
symbols, retaining the name Tiffin Gazette and Seneca Advertiser alone.
The Tiffin Gazette, an ultra -Whig newspaper, was established in February,
1838, by Luther A. Hall and Joseph Howard. Commercially it was the suc-
cessor of the Gazette and Advertiser, biit from a journalistic stand- point it
differed very widely from its parent. As Hall abolished all signs of Democracy
in the office, so Howard attacked the old title, dropping the name Seneca
Advertiser. April 7, 1838, Joseph Howard, who succeeded JMr. Reed as
editor of the Gazette, retired. S. A. Griswold, the new editor and proprietor,
took charge the same day. Under the new management it received a thorough
support.
The list of delinquent tax-payers for the year ending September 19, 1838,
occupied seven columns of the Tiffin Gazette. This occasioned a delay in
issuino- the paper, and brought forth a request fi-om the editor that the readers
of the'Gazette would not cry, because the paper had at length got a good adver-
tisement. The i:)aper continued to be regularly issued (except for four weeks in
September and October, 1839,) until September, 1842, when it ceased publica-
tion.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 321
The Van Bnrenite joiu-nal was established by Joshua Seney, Henry Cronise
and Gabriel J. Keen in 1840, as a campaign weekly journal. It was complete
in political satire, and lived its full length, dying in the fall of 1841. The salu-
tatory, written by Joshua Seney, is given as follows : ' ' We shall advocate with
a becoming zeal, and dignifiedly in manner, the great Democratic Republican
principles, as established and taught by Thomas Jefferson. That ours is a
government of specified and limited — not general — powers, and ought so to be
strictly observed, to attain the ends for which it was established, all must
admit. The few and venerable patriots, who, when our government dated its
existence, were upon the bright summit of glory, and have lived till this late
day, are willing to exclaim that our system of government has eminently
exceeded the most sanguine expectations of those who achieved the glorious
victory upon which it was established, and became an object, not only of
admiration, but of envy and emulation by the world. It is therefore our duty,
rendered imperious by the position we occupy as a nation, to preserve for its
character as pure and untarnished as the bright and illustrious spirit of liberty,
which dictated its existence among its framers, and still serves as a beacon
light to the benighted, and a home for the oppressed of mankind, the object
foi- which the blood of our forefathers and heroes— and labor of our ages —
have been bestowed to obtain. In regard to the present Federal administra-
tion, we unhesitatingly declare that we will wage against it and its measures
an unyielding opposition. AVe would banish from us all prejudice, cast oflf all
party predilection and admonish the American people to view the awful and
deplorable condition of our country, brought about by the short Federal pre-
domination of one year, and ask themselves if this is the ' change ' to which
they were invited. The Democracy who, in trying times, have been entreated
to rally and rescue our government, must appreciate the present as a crisis
equally important, and prepare to restore her fi-om the dominion of an unprin-
cipled and reckless political party, who are now plunging her into debt, dis-
grace and dishonor, regardless of consequences. We shall endeavor to
maintain a courteous but decided position in regard to the principles we intend
promulgating, and in discussion have a strict observance for the truth of what
shall appear in our paper. " * * * * * *
The Chasseurs' Own was issued on Thanksgiving day, 1861, by the First
Ohio Volunteer Chasseurs, at the front. The names of Seneca County soldiers
engaged in editing and printing this newspaper have not been given.^
The Sundatj Advertiser was issued in May and June, 1861. This was is-
sued fi'om the Advertiser office.
The Seneca Advertiser was first issued by John G. Breslin, May 6, 1842,
he having purchased the office of the Van Burenite. Its new press and new
type established the paper, which has been carried down to oui- own times with
commercial and political success. In 1854 Mr. Breslin received the nomina-
tion for State treasurer, leased the Advertiser to John Flaugher, who conducted
the paper until the close of 1855, when W. W. Armstrong took the position of
editor and publisher. In 1857 he was sole owner of the office, and published
the Advertiser regularly until the close of the winter of 1862-63, when he re-
tired fi-om newspaper work to attend to the duties of Secretary of State, he be
ing elected to that important office in 1862. He siibsequently, in April, 1865,
became owner of the Plain Dealer, which he sold for $70,000 in December,
1884. Early in 1863 J. M. Myers and Charles Beilharz leased the Advertiser.
In 1864 Mr. Myers became sole lessee and subsequently proprietor, conduct-
ing the Advertiser with marked ability up to 1884, when he sold to L. A. Brun-
ner & Co., of which company he is still a member. The paper is now edited
322 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
by L. A. Brunner, assisted by Kora F. Briggs. The management is in the
hands of John ^Y. Geiger. John M. Myers also devotes some attention to the
literary department.
S. A. Grisworld, editor of the Lancaster Gazette, in a letter to the writer,
dated May 18, 1885, says: "I can only state that the printing press referred
to was sold by me to Jacob Kosenburg, of Findlay, Ohio, in the sjiring of
1843. Eosenbnrg, with the material of the old Tiffiji Gazette, included in my
sale to him, started a Democratic paper at Findlay, which, according to my
recollection, lived only long enough to enjoy the county printing for a year or
two. Later I was informed that the press went to Toledo, at the end of Kos-
enburg' s ownership, and I have somehow got the impression that it has been
there preserved in some collection of antique relics. Of its antecedents I have
no exact information further than that its owner, immediately prior to that of
myself, was Joseph Howard, then a prominent attorney of Tiffin, who pur-
chased it of Messrs. Brown, father and son (Justin Brown was the name of
the son). The press was a wooden ' Eamage, ' of the very earliest pattern, and if
tradition told the truth about it, was one which had been owned and worked
by B. Franklin himself. The platen was but half the size of the bed, so that
it required two pulls of the ' devil's tail ' to print one side of a foui'-page
newspaper."
The Star was established May 5, 1869, and the first number issued that
day by Elmer White and L. L. Orwig as a joiunal "Independent on all sub-
jects, neutral on none," with the office in Gross' building. The press and
material were bought fi'om the Unsere Flagge. This was a re-organization of
the Tiffln Star, said to be issued for a short time in 1868, by Frank Rader and
Elmer White. The office of the Star was purchased in 1878 by Frank Dildine
and J. K. Huddle, and conducted by Mr. Huddle successfully, from 18^4 for-
ward. In December, 1874, the Tiffin Daily Star, a 3 cent evening paper, was
issued from this office. In 1875 this enterprise, this pioneer daily newspaper
of Tiffin, ceased to exist, owing to the very limited support offered by the
people.
The Seneca County Fair Bulletin, printed in the Advertiser office, was is-
sued in October, 1869. This was a yearly journal, devoted to advertisements
and Fair news.
The Whig Standard was issued at Tiffin, by George L. Wharton. Novem-
ber 19, 1845. This was a strict Whig journal, instituted to convert the
"Locofocos," who appeared to Mr. Wharton as the very embodiment of po-
litical heathenism. In 1848 the editor transferred the Standard to Abraham
Daubach, who sold the office to Capt. McKee, one year later. The Standard
battled with its Democratic opponent until 1855, when McKee gave his edito-
rial place to W. C. Gray. Wharton's salutatory contained several paragraphs,
one of which is as follows: "We shall enter om- protest against the Locofoco
party, and labor ardently for those principles bequeathed to us by the patriots
of the Revolution— the principles of the Whig party; ji party whose origin
was our country's Revolution, and whose fidelity and patriotism achieved oui-
independence. Upon this broad basis we shall stand, adhering firmly to lib-
erty, despising anarchy and despotism, with an eye single to the interests of
our country, feeling assm-ed that upon the integrity of the Whig party rests
our destiny as a nation. "
The Western Whig Standard was issued (the first number, March 3, 1849),
by George L. Wharton, who also published The Northu-estern Continent,
October 1, 1850.
The Tiffin Tribune, successor to the Whig-Standard, was established by
hcn^QJi, /fW/^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 825
W. C. Gray in 1855, and conducted by him until May, 1857, when the office
was purchased by H. L. McKee, of The Home Coynj^anion, then published at
Findlay, Ohio. In 1861 John Bobbins bought the office, published the Trib-
une for four years, and sold it to Abraham Kagy in 1865. About the time
the echoes of the Rebellion were dying away the office was pui'chased by
Myers & Miller. O. T. Locke, C. N. Locke and W. G. Blymer piu-chased the
paper in November, 1868, from Myers & Miller, and issued the first number under
the new management, November 5, 1868. The Tribune is now the property of
Otis T. Locke, by whom it is edited, with H. E. Simon, assistant editor and
manager, and Fred L. Wenner, local editor and reporter. Russell L. Knapp,
foreman in this office for the past fifteen years, received the Republican nomi-
nation of representative in August, 1885.
The Seneca Adler was the first German newspaper published at Tiffin, the
first number being issued on April 5, 1848, with "William Lang, editor, and John
G. Breslin, publisher. The publication of the Adler was suggested by the
political necessities of 1848, and the recommendations of the Democratic cen-
tral committee, addi'essed by John G. Breslin, William Lang, Richard Will-
iams and Joel W. Wilson, to the German residents of the county. This has
been generally known as the pioneer German newspaper of this division of the
State; but the general knowledge must be somewhat astray, since a paper
printed in German was established twenty-three days previously. The Adler
was issued every week for six months, when its political mission ended.
The Northwestern Continent was issued by George L. Wharton, at Tiffin,
October 1, 1850. In November, 1850, the names of W. J. Forbes, Charles
Warner, A. F. Reed, W. M. McCracken, appear as printers.
The Evening Herald was established by W. H. Keppel, January 9, 1877,
and conducted by him up to November, 1880, when he sold the office to the Her-
ald Printing Company. Messrs. J. A. Norton and Henning. Dr. Norton was
the editor, with Mr. Henning, business manager, and Mi-. Burdette, local edi-
tor and solicitor. Mr. Burdette was subsequently local editor and manager.
August 6, 1877, the form of the Herald was changed, and the " New Issue "
form adopted. In August, 1885, Mr. Burdette resigned, and September 1,
Charles Parker assiuned charge of the local department of the daily Herald.
IVIr. Parker learned the printer's trade with the editor of the Neivs several
years ago at Port Clinton, Ohio. Dr. E. B. Hubbard is owner and editor.
T. H. Bobbins who published the Tribune in 1863, returned in June, 1865,
to establish an abolition paper to be called the Journal. The question of what
he was going to abolish was a secret.
The Unsere Flagge was founded by J. M. Zahm in October, 1854, as a Dem-
ocratic German paper. This continued publication until January, 1867, when
it ceased to appear. The office material was sold in 1 869 to the Star.
Die Tiffin Presse, a German Democratic joui-nal, carefully edited and well
printed, was first issued January 6, 1871, by George Homan, and it has been
published continuously since that time by George Homan & Son.
The Tiffin Gazette was founded in April, 1878, by Charles L. Zahm, as a
family journal. The publication of this paper was discontinued in 1879.
The Tiffin Neics was established by D. J. Stalter, in 1880, and the first
number issued April 3, that year. Mr. Stalter purchased the printing office of
the Tiffin Gazette, from C. L. Zahm, in 1880, introduced a new equipment,
and since that year has published a first class weekly newspaper. The editor
represented Seneca County in the last Legislature.
The Tiffin Monthly Trade Revieic was issued from the press of E. R. Good &
Bros, in July, 1879. It had a circulation of about 2,000 copies per month;
but was discontinued when the Heidelberg Journal was begun. ig
326 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
The Heidelberg Monthly Journal y^as fii*st issued. October 1, 1880, byE. K.
Good & Bro. at Tiffin. This joiu'nal is devoted solely to college matters and
literary contributions, and claims a bona fide monthly circulation of 500 copies.
The Tiffin Daily Courier, a morning paper, founded in 1884, was regulary
issued by ^Ir. Mann as editor, for some time, then passed into other hands, and
soon after ceased publication.
The Enterprise was established by the Enterjjrise Printing Company, in
1885.
The Rejjorter and Advertiser, issued dm-ing the annual fair of Seneca
County, is published by J. S. Yerk & Co. for fi'ee distribution. The issue
under notice, that of September, 1882, is good in its mechanical make up and
advertising pages.
FOSTOEIA XEWSPAPEKS.
The Fostoria Neicswas founded in February, 1860, by J. H. Foster, now of
Van "Wert, and conducted by him until 1866, when. August 13. that year, Julius
V. Jones and W. G. Blymer, piu'chased the office. "Within the following year
Mr. Jones purchased the entire interest. In August, 1866. the name was
changed to Fostoria Review. When, in February, 1860, the first volume of
the Fostoria Neivs appeared, its motto was ' ' Peace with all mankind, ' ' and its
principles "Neutrality in politics." February 22, 1861, the fij'st issue of
Volume II. the Neics announced itself in favor of that party which should stand
by the Union and the Constitution, and in 1866 adopted the principles of the
Republican party. Mr. Jones sold to E. W. Thomas, in 1868; he sold to Miss
L. Foster and Mr. Wilkerson, who in turn sold it to J. V. Jones. Mr. Jones
conducted the Review until 1876, when the office was purchased by O. J. and
J. P. De Wolfe, and carried on by them until 1883, when J. P. De Wolfe be-
came sole proprietor.
The Observer, an academical paper, was published for a short time at Fos-
toria. This journal gave place to the College Echo, in 1884, a paper now
published in the interest of the College of Music and of the Fostoria Acad-
emy.
The Fostoria Democrat was foimded July 19, 1875, by Meyer & Baird, in
which firm Frank Hays had one-third interest. The Democrcdrwiis continued un-
der the original management until May, 1876, when ]\Ir. Hays purchased James
B. Baird' s interest, and, with E. C. Meyer, conducted the paper rnitil July 22,
1880, when Frank Hays pru'chased the sole control. The Democrat is a five
cohimn quarto, well printed, ably edited, and is one of the leading Democratic
papers of northwestern Ohio. The office gives employment to fi'om foiu- to
seven hands. The circulation is about 1,100 copies weekly.
ATTICA NEWSPAPEKS.
The Attica Journal was first issued April 6, 1876, by C. W. Clough, who,
that year, came fi-om Mom-oeville, Ohio, bringing with him a full equipment
for a newspaper office. He sold the office to A. H. Baldsley (now of Findlay),
who sold the office to Dr. J. C. Meyers, who, in fact, owned the Journal up to
his death, January 18, 1884, C. W. DeBrant being editor and publisher for
the greater part of this time. Shortly after Dr. Meyer's death T. B. Walker
purchased the office, and conducted the Journal to January 1, 1885, when Dr.
H. G. Blaine became editor and proprietor. G. C. Lake, who has been con-
nected with the Journal for seven years past, is local editor, and superintends
the printing room.
The Medical Compend, pronounced by Rowell to be the cheapest medical
journal in the world, Avas issued at Attica in January. 1884, and regularly
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 327
every month since that time, by H. G. Blaine, M. D. It claims a monthly
circixlation ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 copies, always increasing. The Co)u-
pend is issued m magazine form.
The Noonday Sun, issued from, the Journal oQice, Attica, March 1, 1885,
is a monthly magazine, devoted principally to religions reading; is edited by
Kev. W. A. Keesy, of the United Brethren Church.
GREEN SPEING NEWSPAPEES.
The Green Sjyring Sentinel was issued May 1, 1874, at Green Spring, by
A. D. Ames. This was a weekly newspaper; independent in political matters.
The Gh'een Spring Times was established in 1876 by C. A. Seiders, after-
ward sold to W. J. Johnson, who sold it to D. S. Caldwell, and subsequently
repui'chased it. In 1881 the office was pui'chased by M. F. Van Buskirk, of
Manstield, Ohio. In February, 1884, a partnership was formed between M.
F. Van Buskirk and H. J. Ernsberger, the latter also of Manslield, under the
firm name of Van Buskirk & Co. The Times office changed hands in August,
1885, M. F. Van Buskirk selling his interest to D. B. Kowell.
The Midual Underuriter is edited and published in the Green Spring Times
office. It was established in Columbia, Penn. , in 1876, subsequently purchased
by J. E. Vernon, of Salem, and lastly by the present publishers. It is de-
voted to the interest of assessment insui-ance, and is the only paper of the kind
extant. It is the official paper of the cause in Ohio and neighboring States.
The New Academy was founded in 1884, edited by Rev. J. S. Axtell, and
printed by the publishers of the Times. It is devoted to the interests of modern
academic training.
BLOOMVILLE NEWSPAPEES.
The Bloomville Enterprise was founded July 4, 1874, by Robert Lockhart,
preacher, who transferred his interest in it to J. N. Lee, in October following.
IVIr. Lee sold the outfit to D. W. Fisher, in October, 1874.
The Bloomville Banner, founded January 1, 1875, as successor to the
Enterprise, by D. W. Fisher, was conducted by various parties for short terms
until W. S. Hammaker took the office and published the paper with some regu-
larity for about eight months, when he ceased publication.
The Seneca County Record was founded by O. M. Holcomb, in July, 1878,
who purchased the Banner office fi'om W. S. Hammaker.
The Bloomville Record was founded in July, 1878, and the first number
issued July 5, that year, by O. M. Holcomb, of Fayette, Ohio, who purchased the
old office. The Record is an eight column folio, has a circulation of 700 and
is independent in politics.
The Bloomville Daily Record was issued July 4, 1879, from the Record
office.
BETTSVILLE NEWSPAPEES.
The Optic was founded December 15, 1882, at Bettsville, by R. M.
Scott, who conducted the paper until July 1, 1883, when F. C. Miller, John
Miller, H. S. Raff and J. L. Hosier pui'chased the office.
The Bettsville Enterprise, successor to the Optic, was founded by the pur-
chasers of the last named office and the first number issued July 13, 1883, with
J. L. Hosier, editor. This paper has now a circulation of 600. It is a neat
four-page paper, well printed, newsy, and neutral in politics. In October,
1883, Mr. Hosier purchased the interests of his partners in the office.
OTHER PUBLICATIONS.
The first history of Seneca County was published about 1847, by Consul
328 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
W. Butterfield, of Melmore. The names of the supporters of this little book
are given in the history of the townships, where such supporters resided.
The second histoiy of the county, written by Judge William Lang, was
published in 1880, an excellent work showing much care in its compilation.
There has been a work written by a citizen of the county, which, more than
any other literaiy effort, has made the name of Seneca County familiar through-
out the whole country. The author is the son of one of the pioneer lawyers of Tifiin,
and is, himself, one of the ablest members of the present bar, and. indeed, one
of the most useful members of the United States Congress. The book is titled
Seney's Code, and the author is George E. Seney.
The educational papers by Prof. Aaron Schuyler, who in early days was
connected with the Seneca County Academy at Eepublic, have earned for him
a high reputation. Prof. Schuyler afterward filled the chair of mathematics at
the "Baldwin University, Berea, Ohio. P. H. Ryan has compiled a work of
the most complete character, which awaits publication. It embraces Algebra
and Mathematics.
CONCLUSION.
Many of the printers are gone to that land where there are no " devils. "
Their "ems" have been counted, and like all good typos, they have been rewarded
a hundi-ed-fold for then- labors. Many of the editors, too, have mingled with
their old fi-iends of the composing-room, and already met their brothers in the
happy hunting grounds, where there are no weekly quarrels, no criminations
or recriminations. The experiences of the journey thither have brought forth
this grand result, and looking down on their old confreres of the press, they
wonder why it is that civilization has not yet encircled them, or left imtaught
the lessons of peace and kind words. There are many of the old printers and
editors, fortunately, left. They are not without their faults; but such faults
are the excesses of their virtues', and incidental to the profession, if not part
and parcel of oiu- own times. In the pioneer chapter and in the chapters of
this work devoted to personal history and reminiscences, mention is made of a
large number of them, and to these the reader is referred. To the whole press
of Seneca County the wi-iter is specially indebted for much substantial aid in
obtaining material for this volume, and to each of its members he offers his
sincere thanks, as history itself owes them thanks.
CHAPTER IX.
MILITARY HISTORY.
IN this chapter the writer deals with the whole military history of the county
fi-om 1782 to the present time; omitting here only local military organiza-
tions, such as Grand Army Posts and latter day militia commands, which are
referred to in the histories of the cities and townships. Nothing is taken on
presumption in the following pages, and thus, perhaps, it may happen that a
few events and names are not recorded. It is notably the case with the history
of French military occupation that no mention is made of this district. The
Frtinch militaiw posts at Sandusky, Miami, Presque Isle and Fort Duquesne
have each a history; but the travels, explorations and dealings of the French
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 329
soldiers and citizens with the Indians of this particular part of the Sandusky
country are not of record. The first authentic reference to the territory, now-
embraced in Seneca County, is contained in a report of Capt. Butler to the
British commandant, at Detroit.
It is known that the English, under Bradstreet, with Israel Putnam in
command of a company of militia and a number of Iroquois, sailed up the
Sandusky in 1764, and made a treaty of peace with the Wyandots, but whether
they proceeded fi'om Lower Sandusky to the villages of Capt. Pipe and Half-
King, which were there located, is a question that cannot now be decided.
This Capt. Butler, an Irish Tory in the English army, was dispatched to
the Sandusky country by Depeyster, the British commandant, to aid the In-
dians in repelling Col. Crawford's advance, in June, 1782. On the night of
June 3, 1782, Butler's white cavalry and siounted battery, and Elliott's com-
mand camped within the great bend of the river, about fourteen miles above
Lower Sandusky (Pleasant Township), and thence proceeded to the south line
of the coxTnty, where a camp was pitched and from which point they advanced
toward Battle Island, within three miles of IJpper Sandusky, to assist the Del-
awares and Wyandots in the fight of June 5, 1782, which cost the Americans
the loss of seventy men of Col. Crawford' s force of 480, and led to the horrible
death of Crawford, in the township named after him in Wyandot County, re-
corded in the first part of this work. With Butler was Simon Girty, a less
refined villain than the captain, but equally well versed in cruelty {vide Pio-
neer History).
From 1782 to 1812 little or nothing was heard of military affairs in this
district. During the latter year Gen. Bell, acting under . orders from Gen.
Harrison, proceeded, with a small staff, down the west bank of the Sandusky
River, and marked a trail along the plateau or high ground, to be used as a
military road. John Meeker had charge of the workmen, and followed up
Bell so closely with the work that all small trees and shrubs were cleared away
between Upper and Lower Sandusky, within an hour after the general arrived
at the lower post. This highway was subsequently improved a little fi'om Del-
aware to Lower Sandusky, and by this route Harrison, Ball, Wells, McPherson,
McMahon, Croghan and other commanders led their troops northward in 1813.
Building of Fort Ball. — This military post was established in 1813, prior
to the construction of Fort Seneca, lower down. It appears that Gen. Han'i-
son sent forward Col. Ball' s cavalry command to erect quarters for the troops
at some favorable spot on the banks of the Sandusky, where they could rest
and recruit while acting as a corps of observation. Col. Ball was led to the
place by some friendly Indians, and was not disappointed when he beheld the
locality. Near the river bank a stream of crystal water poured forth from its
spring, and here the Colonel determined to erect the stockade. The command
worked steadily, and in a few days a camp (with di'ill- ground and houses) was
ready for occupation. The troops named the place Fort Ball, in honor of
their commander. After the completion of Fort Seneca a portion of Harrison' s
infantry replaced the cavalry gaiTison of Fort Ball, and made an entrenched
camp. During the month of July several soldiers died at Fort Ball, and even
on the morning of July 31, 1813, when the garrison moved to Camp Seneca, a
few died before the fort was lost sight of. John Searles, who served in the
war of 1812, moved with his family to Fort Ball in 1820, and made his home
in one of the block-houses of the old fort. Paul D. Butler and David Eisdon,
who boarded with him, lived in the same house during the building of Spencer' s
saw-mill, when Henri or Levi Creesy, the blacksmith, and David Smith,
the fiddler, had still another room in this quaint old hotel. At that time the
330 HISTORY OF SENECA COUXTY.
three block-houses were intact, all facing the river, with a half -acre parade
ground extending north. This ground was enclosed by posts twelve inches
thick, fixed firmly in the earth and fastened near the top with old bayonets,
and all surrounded by a deep ditch. The roofs of the houses were simply clap-
boards. This post was occupied at intervals until peace was restored, when
it was allowed to go the way of all fi-ontier buildings. Where the old fort
stood are the beautiful homes of a prosperous city's people, and close by
stands a magnificent pile of granite to link together the glories and sorrows of
1813 and 1801-65.
Building of Fort Seneca. — Early in June, 1813, a Mr. Connor and some
fi-iendly Indians appeared before Gen. Harrison to describe the country along
the Sandusky River, above the trading post at Lower Sandusky. Their infor
znation confirmed him in the opinion he had enteiiained of its strategic im-
portance. In June, 1813, to further satisfy himself that such a post was
necessary, he met a number of Delaware, Wyandot, Shawnee and Seneca In-
dians at Franklinton, and interviewed the chiefs regarding their military sym-
pathies. He failed not to discern that, under their assurances of friendship,
a design existed to aid the English, and seeing this he determined to erect a
fort some nine miles above Sandusky post. In July of that year he arrived on
the ground with a force of 600 men^ including Ball's and Wells' di-agoon com-
panies. During the first week the site was selected on Sections 8 and 9, Pleas-
ant Township, and lumber prepared. Then the work of construction was
caiTied forward with energy. This post stood on the west side of the river,
where the bank was about forty feet above the river-bed level. One acre and
a half of land at the springs was enclosed by oak posts twelve inches thick
and 144 inches high, with a clay wall six feet thick on the east fi'ont, and an
unstaked embankment between the ravine on the south and the single picket
fence of the foi-t. The embankment on the north was capped by a strong
chevaux-de-frise work. On the northeast corner was the bastion, used as a
store-house for ammunition. On the northwest was a strong block-house
twenty-five feet square and sixteen feet high, while sixteen feet square blocks
commanded the southeast and southwest corners.
Here the British conspired with the Indians to have Gen. Harrison assas-
sinated, and with this object hired a Shawnee, of Wapakonetta, at Maiden,
Canada, named Little Blue Jacket, to join the few Shawnees and other fiiendly
Indians, then en route to Camp Seneca, thus gain admission to the camp, and
murder the American commander. He confided his intention to Beaver, a
Delaware, in the following words : 'T will kill the General, even if I was sure
that the guard will cut me into pieces no bigger than my thumb nail. ' ' The
Beaver, already a friend of Harrison, was now a confidant of the Shawnee. His
duty was questionable. While debating within himself. Little Blue Jacket came
up, and at the sight of the drunken brawler and murderer, he formed the res-
olution to save the General. Addi-essiug the Shawnee, he said: "Blue
Jacket, you must be a great warrior. You will not only kill this white man
(Col. McPherson) for treating you as you deserve, but you will also murder
oiu- father, the American Chief, and bring disgrace and mischief upon us all.
But you shall do neither; I will serve you as I would a mad dog!'' So saying,
he struck the Shawnee to the ground, and one more of Proctor' s fellow-con-
spirators completed his earthly course.
This foi-t was untenanted * from the close of the war of 1812 to November
19, 1819, when Rev. James Montgomery arrived to take up his ofiice as agent
for the Seneca Indians. The site, three miles distant fi'om the village of Fort
Seneca, is still distinguishable, but every vestige of the building has disap-
peared, like the men who ei'ected it.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 331
Harrison at Fort Seneca. — Few readers are unacquainted with Maj.
Michael G. Croghan's magnificent disobedience of Gen. Harrison's orders in
holding Fort Stephenson "(Lower Sandusky), and in totally defeating the In-
dians and British, under Gen. Proctor, on August 2, 1813. For some time
prior to this, Gen. Harrison made his headquarters at Fort Seneca, a half
day's march up the river from Fort Stephenson. Having the opinion of a
military council that Croghan's position was untenable against the approach-
ing Indians and British, he dispatched Thomas Connor to that post with orders
for its instant evacuation. Connor and his guides did not arrive there until
July 28, when the commandant returned an answer to the general, that orders
came too late and the fort would be defended to the last. On July 30. Col.
Ball and Maj. Wells, in charge of two cavalry companies were sent for-
ward to arrest Croghan and place Wells there to cany out the evacuation.
Croghan was brought before Gen. Harrison, explained his plans, was restored
to his command, and on returning to Fort Stephenson completed his prepara-
tions and disposed his 160 men to receive the British and Indians. This re-
ception was held August 2, 1813, a most disastrous one for the English and
their allies. On August 3, Harrison' s force evacuated Fort Seneca to pursue
the allies.
Toledo War. — This ridiculous squabble of 1835. actually claimed the ear-
nest attention of the very men who laid the foundations of two great States.
No less than 300 men were enrolled in Seneca County, of whom the greater
number marched to the Michigan line under Gen. Henry C. Brish. A mention
of the fact that a large number of able-bodied men were drawn away from
their farms and their workshops in the spring of the year 1835, a time when
the county required the presence of all her workingmen, is enough to point out
the childishness of the two administrations. A full reference to this ' 'Comedy
of Errors' ' is made in the second part of this work, the history of Ohio, in the
sketch of Judge Higgins in the history of the Courts and Bar, in the pioneer
chapter, and in several personal sketches and reminiscences.
Pioneer Militia of Seneca Conniy. — On August 7, 1832, Col. Lowell Eob-
inson and Adjt. Calvin Bradley called a meeting of freeholders to meet at John
Goodin's house, at Tiffin, August 17, 1832, to elect oflicers of Company Four,
First Regiment, First Brigade, Seventeenth Division Ohio Militia. A military
review of officers of First Regiment was held August 31, 1832, at the request
of Lieut. -Col. William Toll, and repeated annually until 1834. In 1835 the
Seneca Blues organized, with Henry Ebert commanding. This organization
served five years. This was a uniformed company armed with flint-lock mus-
kets supplied by the State. Gen. George W. Gist of the First Brigade Ohio
Militia, appointed Jonathan Parker brigade major, James H. Wilson, aid-de-
camp, and John Staub, quartermaster, in June, 1830. A celebration of July
4, 1836, was the leading event of the kind up to that year. Eli Stem, briga-
dier-general First Battalion, Seventeenth Division, Ohio Militia and James
Dui-bin, brigade major, called a meeting of the First Battalion, at Sam Leard's
house, June 16, 1838.
In May, 1839, the officers of the First Regiment met at Staub' s house, in
Tiffin, the officers of the Second Regiment at Michael Hendel' s house, in Re-
public, and the Third Battalion at the house of Sam Leard, in Rome, by com-
mand of Maj. -Gen. John Bell and John Walker, quartermaster.
In June, 1839, Thomas M. Brashear was appointed brigade major; R.
W. Reid, aide-de-camp, and John Staub, quartermaster.
Col. Peter Lot ordered a muster of officers of First Regiment, at Tiffin,
August 30, 1839.
332 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Lewis Baltzell commenced the organization of a cavalry company at Tiffin,
in November, 1841.
A military encampment at Tiffin was held in July and August, 1842.
Maj.-Gen. John Bell was coui-t-martialed in February, 1843. Brig. -Gen.
Sea, then captain in a light-horse company, was a member of the court, against
whom Bell lodged a protest which led to his removal by Sergt. -at-arms Lang.
Mexicayi War. — The fact of a war with Mexico was made known to the
people of Seneca through the press and by the following notice :
HEADQUARTERS
FIRST BRIGADE, SEVENTEENTH DIVISION, O. M.
OKDER NO. 1.
Cherry Lrncn, May 28, 1846.
Our country is invaded. Her citizens have been slaughtered on her own soil. Rise,
People of Seneca, and let them be avenged.
Every Patriot is expected to convene at Tiffin, on Saturday, the 30th day of May, inst..
at 10 o'clock, A. M., to give his voice for the honor of the UNION.
By orderof theMajor-General, Sidney Sea.
Oeneral of Brigade.
This meeting was held, and the names of foi-ty-nine volunteers were en-
rolled. The total em-ollment was fifty-six.
The volunteers were presented with a flag June 8, 1846, by W. P. Noble,
on behalf of the ladies who made it.
Under instructions from Asst. Adjt. -Gen. B. W. Price, Jr. , June 17, 1846,
the Seneca company was ordered to be attached to J. F. Chapman' s command
of the Third Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
Of the fifty-six men whose names were enrolled, thirty-nine from this
county went to the field under Capt. Chapman, viz. : John H. Flenner, first
lieutenant; Smith D. Baldwin, second lieutenant; Thomas Little and Louis
A. Beilharz, sergeants; William Boy er, James Biirrows, William Carney, John
Cobert, Edward Dougherty, Peter Schultz, James Goshorn, Ben Gee, Jacob
Hessenauer, Henry Hoffman, L. Hoeffling, N. Hall, John Kennedy, George
and Daniel Kelly, Nick Kirsh, Martin Lieb, Christian Myers, G. Melcher, J.
Morehead, Arch McMullen, W. Norris, George Probasco, Joshua Prebble, L.
Prentz, T. Rosevelt, George Rockwell, N. Richards, Aloysius Rouk, Russel
Smith, Sol Smith, M. Smith, William Smith, Jacob Wolf and William Wells,
private soldiers. Men from adjoining counties came to Tiffin and enlisted.
In November, 1846, the Seneca volunteers were at Matamoras. Up to that
date the company lost two men — Arch McMullen and George Probasco.
Col. C. J. McNulty died July 12, 1846, en route to Mexico.
The Seneca volunteers left Cincinnati in Col. Curtis' command, July 3,
1846.
Peter Foncha, a sergeant of the United States Army, was engaged in Feb-
ruary, 1847, in enlisting Seneca County volunteers for the Mexican war, on a
$12 bounty. A few recruits joined the army at that time.
Seneca in the War for the Union. — Owing to the extent of this chapter, a
plain statement of facts is only given. Local events are arranged chronolog-
ically.
The proposed attack on Fort Moultrie, December 27, 1860, by a Charles-
ton mob, caused intense excitement throughout the county.
April 17, 1861, a large war meeting was held at Tiffin. W. H. Gibson,
W. P. Noble, Dr. Kuhn, J. K. Hord, T. C. Tunison and J. C. Lee were the
principal speakers. A telegram from the adjutant-general, in reference to or-
ganization, was replied to, saying that a company was organizing, a beginning
being made by thirty-three volunteers.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 335
A part of the edition of the Tiffin Tribune was burned April 19, 1861, on
the streets of Tiffin.
The mayor appointed a force of ninety special constables, in addition to
the police of Tiffin, same month, to prevent a repetition of the affair.
The Home Guard was organized in April, ISGl. Artillery Company A was
commanded by W. H. Gibson, captain, W. H. Parks, first lieutenant, and H.
S. Kendig, second lieutenant; Cavalry Company B, by R. McD. Gibson, cap-
tain, H. A. Spayth, first lieutenant, and Frank Abbott, second lieutenant.
Capt. Franklin's company of Seneca sharp-shooters left Tiffin April 22,
1861, en route to Cleveland. Their departure was signalized by the presenta-
tion of the silk banner carried in 1860 by the Douglas Gun Squad. D. F. De-
Wolf made the presentation on behalf of Capt. Bagby. Supt. Rice, of the
S. C. & D. Railroad, furnished a special train. This company was mustered
into the Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at Cleveland, May 2, 1861.
Foster & Co., of Fostoria, appropriated $1,000 for the support of volun-
teers' families, in April, 1861. D. Hays also made a liberal donation for the
purpose.
The Seneca Sharpshooters organized in April, 1861, with F. E. Franklin,
captain, B. F. Ogle, first lieutenant and C. W. Barnes, second lieutenant.
The volunteers were : S. S. Keisinger, S. F. Poorman, Enoch Travis, Andrew
Shriner, John Kaup, Lem Snover, Jacob Wademan, Daniel Barnhart, George
Baugher, Henry Baugher, Charles Kipka, Jacob Rauch, Charles Ranch, J. W.
Walker, Daniel Lee, William Niles, David Bell, D. L. Dubbs, Henry Bloom,
William Brestle, F. McBride, Marcus Dawd, Henry C. Myers, John Redd, A.
D. Lutz, J. Cloidence, John Loring, John Nichols, J. M. Henry, Henry Bri-
ner, J. H. Beatty, W. H. Pockmire, Val Bennington, Nick Barks, William
Bostin, Austin Beck, J. W. Canary, Jr. , Thomas McBride, L. D. Arnold, M.
B. Linn, E. J. Naylor, Charles Lampkin, Ed Bush, J. S. Harrison, Jacob
Smith, J. L. Wilson, Henry Bair, J. AV. Long, A. Miller, P. Grqpver, J. W.
Cramer, Val Shultz, S. Z. Bean, J. A. Hoover, D. F. Derr, S. C. Sloat, J. C.
Bowersock, George W. Beard, L. Huffman, Aug Shertzberg, W. H. Haas, S.
J. Loon, D. W. Hoffman, Joseph Coller, E. W. Clark, A. H. Byers, Joseph
Wismich, Andrew Miller, C. J. Hoote, H. H. Clark, James Branderberg, Louis
Sears, Joseph Gratis, John Gordon, John Herman, Maxime Fredo, M. W.
Shoemaker, D. J. Goodsell, Jr., Charles Seewald, H. Fleiserman, J. C. Lang-
don, Joseph McDowell, N. Drill, J. A. Julien, T. Neeley, James Logan, J. P.
Arnold, J. W. Vantassell, George W. Bristle, Henry Till, Ed Jones, George
Talbot, Daniel Herring, Joseph Leipold, Alonzo Wood, Isaac B. Lightcap,
Henry Gall, Con Shoup, William McDowell, J. M. Humphries, Vincent Hud-
der, George Brown, John Blair and D. H. Dawalt. The first casuality was
that of John Cramer, who accidentally shot himself at Cleveland, April 26,
1861.
April 22, 1861, John E. McCormack entered on the work of organizing a
company. Before the close of the week ninety men enlisted, with John E.
McCormack, captain, Joseph Park, first lieutenant, and Hiram Brettin, second
lieutenant.
Company A, Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry was the first company raised
in Seneca County for the war of 1861-65.
Dr. Franklin, captain of the Seneca Sharpshooters, was elected first lieu-
tenant-colonel of the Eighth Ohio Infantry, in May, 1861.
The daughter of G. W. Beard, of Tiffin, Ohio,' was adopted as daughter of
the Eighth Regiment.
A lady, dressed in volunteer uniform, joined Company B, Third Regiment,
336 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Governor's Guards, at Camp Dennison. She was in camp three weeks before
she reported herself to the captain as a female volunteer.
Camp Andrews, at Tiffin, was named in honor of Lovin Andrews. Capt.
McCormack' s company, of over 100 men, encamped there in April, 1861.
Gibson' s Rifle Company, formerly the Light Artillery Company, of Tiffin,
was reorganized as a rifle company, April 80. 18»)1. with W. H. Gibson, cap-
tain. Col. Gibson was presented with a very valuable horse before leaving
Tiffin with his command.
When Col. Depuy addressed the question to the Seneca company. May 26,
1861, "how many will enlist for three years' service '?" sixty-three members
of the Sharpshooters stepped 100 paces to the front, with the flag presented to
them at Tiffin. This company reorganized in June, 1861; Capt. Winslow and
Lieuts. Ogle and Barnes in command.
The Tiffin Union Grays completed organization June 6, 1861, with D. F.
DeWolf, captain, Van C. Coonrod, first lieutenant and Robert Lyle, second
lieutenant.
Lieut. -Col. Franklin and Capt. Clark left Tiffin June 3, 1861, with thirty
recruits for Camp Dennison.
The Clinton Guards completed organization June 5, 1861, with Robert
Crum, captain; Leander Stem, first lieutenant and Rev. E. E. Higbee. second
lieutenant.
A list of the Fostoria Invincibles, the first company organized in 1861, pre-
sents the following roster: A. M. Blackman. captain; M. H. Chance, first
lieutenant; Jonas Foster, second lieutenant; B. C. Harman, sergeant; A. T.
McDonell, second sergeant: J. L. Hollopeter, third sergeant; Sampson Swit-
zer. fourth sergeant; Hiram Chance, Thomas Conley, Jacob J. Bowman and
William Martin, corporals. The private soldiers were: F. J. Santer, J.
Myers, G. W. Foughty, A. Stearns, John Cregg, S. Crawford, T. Whitaker,
J. W. Swander, C. E. Fritcher, W\ W. Mourier, W. S. Bonnell, C. Warman,
J. J. Fry, F. Werner, G. M. Davidson, H. W. Kimkle, A. L. Cramer, D. F.
Eaton, Joseph Cramer, A. Wagner, G. Sabins, J. W. Grove, W. Whitaker,
N. G. Turner, G. W. McEwen, A. P. Hays, J. E. Kunkle, O. B. Burdette, R.
Adams, C. Birrer, W\ Leslie, F. M. Smith, C. Kredler, F. Metz, W. P. Noel,
F. Crowell, W. M. Dresskill, C. Days, J. R. Slaughterbeck. G. W. Bagley.
Thomas B. Boughton, M. Ash, M. Stahl, C. Wonders, A. Bates, P. Green-
swike, M. Rinehart, Moses Parkhurst, G. F. Beightle, W. Rollins, J. Hahn,
J. H. McCoy. P. Martin, H. Shontz, Jr., J. Zimmerman, M. Saum, M. M.
Hartsonck, W. Saum, M. Longernecker, J. H. Dicken, G. W. Slaughterback,
W. Miller, Jr. , W. S. Moses, blmer G. Jacobs. Em Lyberger. H. Beatty. S.
J. Graham, Ambrose Frv. William Harley, Al Everett, H. Whiteford, J. Boss-
ier, G. A. Gessner, J. M. Lacey, D. Smith, M. Miller, J. S. Oaks, George
Grove, G. W. Grove, H. H. John, J. B. Moore, Robert W. Adams, John Bry-
ant, Thomas Bouskin, Clayton Everett, A. J. Miller, S. C. Miller, J. Y. Yates,
O. P. Norris and H. S. Woolman. The original roster is printed on sheep-
skin, and was presented to the company in 1861 by J. W. Foster, of the Fos-
toria News.
In June, 1861, Republic organized a company for three years' service with
Asa Way, captain, Wesley Chamberlain, first lieutenant, and Daniel Metzger,
orderly sei'geant.
Fort Seneca Guards organized in June, 1861, with Mark Harris, captain,
Alexander Johnson, first lieutenant, and D. S. Blue, second lieutenant. This
company was well uniformed and armed with spears.
The farmers in the neighborhood of Fort Seneca organized a cavalry com-
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 337
pany in June, 1861, with Augustus Hoke, captain, Levi Z. Wagner, first
lieutenant, and John Hoke, second lieutenant.
Boos' Tiffin Cornet Band, of Tiffin, was employed by the Eighth Ohio Vol-
unteers in June, 1861.
Capt. Blackman' s company was organized in Fostoria and neighborhood in
June, 1861.
A comet was visible here diiring the last days of June, 1861, which was
taken by the superstitious to denote a long and bloody war.
Col. Franklin and Capt. E. W. Clark, Jr., in an advertisement of July 19,
1861, for volunteers in the Ohio Zouaves, state that a bounty of $100 cash and
160 acres of land will be paid to every man enlisting in that command for full
term, and $60 extra bounty to three months' service-men. who will re-enlist.
A company of Zouaves was organized at Tiffin in July, 1861, with M. Sul-
livan, captain; V. C. Coonrod, first Kent., and H. S. Kendig, second lieut.^
Twenty volunteers, under Capt. Higginbotham, left Tiffin for New York
July 22, 1861, to wait for other volunteers fi-om Green Spring and Clyde.
Col. A. S. Piatt's Seneca County Zouave Company was organized in July,
1861. In September, 1861, Messrs. Hord and Zigler were recruiting for
Piatt's Second Zouave Regiment.
On the last day of July, 1861, Col. William H. Gibson received the fol-
lowing despatch:
War Department, Washington, D. C, July 30, 1861.
Your regiment lias been accepted. Acceptance sent by mail. Muster in by companies
at Tiffin. Complete in twenty-one days.
On August 6, Capt. Langworthy' s company arrived from Hancock County,
103 strong, to be incorporated in Col. Gibson's command as Company A. The
place where they camped was named Camp Noble, in honor of Congress-
man Warren P. Noble. On August 12, the company raised by Capts.^ McCor-
mack, Porter and Abbot, joined Col. Gibson's cam]) on August 12, 1861. Be-
fore the close of August, 1861. Capts. Culver. Keller and Bartlett's three
companies had joined his command; then organized as the Forty-ninth Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, and the field official list was completed with William H.
Gibson, colonel; A. Blackman, lieutenant-colonel; F. Drake, major; H. A.
Spayth, quartermaster; V. C. Coonrod, adjutant; Dr. Shrift, surgeon; Dr. W.
H. Parks, assistant surgeon; E. H. Bush, chaplain. In the final organization
C. W. Noi-ton was appointed adjutant vice Coonrod. On September 9th, the
evening before departure, a reception was held at Camp Noble. Miss Ella
Gibson was adopted as the daughter of the regiment.
John L. Osborne and Frank Abbott were engaged in organizing a company
for the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry in September, 1861.
The condition of the Fifty-fifth Regiment early in October, 1861, accord-
ing to Maj. Lee's account, wi'itten at Norwalk, was as follows: Capt. Gam-
bee' s company and Capt. Steven's company nearly complete; Capts. Bement's
and Shipman's companies had the minimum; Capt. Thomas, of Bettsville, had
only sixty men; Capt. Robinson, of Republic, only forty; and Caj^ts. Patrick,
Jerry, Wildman. Powers, Sutton and Wickham had each a squad.
Lieut. -Col. Faulhaber, of Fostoria, joined his company with the Fifty-
seventh Ohio Vohinteer Infantry.
The Adi-iatic Guards. Company B, Forty-ninth Regiment, was organized
with B. S. Porter, captain, John E. McCormack, first lieutenant, and Moses
Abbott, second lieutenant.
Senecas and Wyandots, Company D, Foi-ty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry,
iully organized with G. W. Culver, captain, Jacob Mosier, first lieutenant,
and John Gear, second lieutenant.
338 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Company K, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry was organized in Sep-
tember, 1861, with J. M. Patterson, captain, Kev. Mr. Turner, first lieu-
tenant, and John Smith, second lieutenant.
Capt. J. M. Steven's company of the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry,
was organized at Melmore in September, 18(31, with K. Eastman, fii'st lieuten-
ant, and Robert Poole, second lieutenant.
The Township Committees appointed in 1861, by the County Military Com-
mittee, in October, this year, requested the people to send articles of clothing
and blankets to those committees for the use of soldiers in the field.
The Ladies' Military Aid Society, of Seneca, was engaged actively in mak-
ing clothing for the troops during the fall of 1861.
The Seneca County Agricultural Society appropriated $325, the net pro-
ceeds of the fair of 1861, toward the support of soldiers' families.
On Thanksgiving Day, 1861, the First Chasseui's Ohio Volunteer Infantry
issued a newspaper entitled The Chasseurs' Own. A copy was sent at once to
the Tiffin newspapers by Regimental Postmaster Hope.
The Congressional Military Committee of the Ninth Congressional District,
in October, 1861, comprised: R. P. Buckland, John Jenny, H. L. McKee,
Alexander S. Ramsay. Robert McKelly and D. W. Swigart. This committee
held a meeting at Tiffin. October 11, 1861, when a military committee
for Seneca County was appointed, viz. : Leander Stem, John J. Steiner, J.
M. Zahm, Gr. M. Ogden and Charles Foster. Township committees were in
turn appointed by the county committee (see list).
Michael Sullivan, of Tiffin, was commissioned suttler of the Fifty-fifth
Regiment, with H. S. Kendig and A. W. Miller, clerks, in October, 1861.
Dr. Leopold Zander, formerly of Seneca County, served as first surgeon in
the Red Shii-t Regiment, near Washington, in October, 1861.
Col. Gibson was in command of Rosseau's brigade at Camp Nevin, during
that officer's illness, in the fall of 1861. October 14 he delivered an address
to the command, which was noticed throughout the North and South.
Victor J. Zahm, of Tiffin, was commissioned adjutant of the Third Ohio
Cavalry in October. 1861.
Lieut. B. Brundage issued his advertisement for volunteers for the Seventy-
second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in October, 1861.
Lieut. William Smith made a last call for volunteers to fill a company for
Col. Piatt's brigade.
The Seventy-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry was formed in November,
1861, with R. P. Buckland, colonel, H. Canfiel'd, lieutenant-colonel, and O.
M. Ogden, major. Thomas W. Egbert was one of the first company com-
manders.
The organization of the Eighty-second Ohio Infantry was authorized in
November, 1861, under Col. James Cantwell.
In November, 1861, Maj. John C. Lee was promoted to a colonelcy; Adjt.
DeWolf was commissioned major Fifty-fifth Infantry, and Capt. Winslow, of
the Seneca Sharpshooters, major of the Eighth Ohio Infantry. George C.
Benham, formerly of Tiffin, was appointed assistant commissary with rank of
lieutenant, and assigned duty with the Ohio troops in Kentucky.
Lieut. James Fvirnald advertised for volunteers for the Seventy-second
Ohio Volunteer Militia, in November, 1861.
Leroy Crockett was appointed major of Seventy -second Infantry, vice G.
M. Ogden, declined; John B. Rice, surgeon, and Dr. Kaul, assistant surgeon.
Up to December 1, 1861, a force of l.'23() men represented Seneca County
in the Eighth, Twenty-fifth, Forty-ninth, Fifty-fifth and Fifty-seventh Ohio
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 339
Infantry commands, in Company I, First Chasseui's, and in the Third Cavahy.
In addition to this number 300 men from this county were serving in various
commands.
A great fair for the benefit of soldiers was held at Union Hall (formerly the
Wigwam) on December 22, 1861.
Capt. S. S. Carroll, of the Tenth United States Infantry, was appointed
colonel of the Eighth Ohio Infantry, vice DePuy, resigned.
There were only nineteen deaths in the Forty-ninth Regiment fi-om date of
organization to December 1, 1861, including Hollingshead, who died at Camp
Nevin, December 1.
A loan of $4, 500 was made by Tomb, Huss & Co. to the commissioners, in
January. 1862, at 6 per cent. This money was devoted to the relief of the
soldiers' families. Under the act of May 10, 1861, providing for the relief of
soldiers' families, the commissioners authorized a tax of one-half of 1 mill per
dollar valuation, adopted a series of rules, and appointed relief committees
for the townships.
The amounts allowed to soldiers' families per week are given as follows:
Wife without children or parents, $1; guardian of minor children of soldiers,
$1; wife with one child, $1.25; wife with two childi-en, $1.50; wife with three
or more children, $1.75.
The township certifying committees were appointed in January, 1862.
Capt. Callahan, of the Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, resigned in
January, 1862, when Isaiah Bernard was commissioned in his j^lace.
Rev. W. G. Caples (formerly of Fostoria), chaplain in Price's rebel com-
mand, was made prisoner, and incarcerated at St. Louis, in February, 1862.
Capt. Higginbotham, of the First United States Chasseurs, sent forwax'd his
command fi'om Tiffin, in March, 1862. David Milne was first lieutenant, and
Henry Ellis, second lieutenant, of this command.
A meeting to rejoice over the occupation of Nashville by the Union troops,
was held March 5, 1862, with J. W. Miller, president, and J. D. Loomis and
G. W. Cunningham, vice-presidents.
Maj. DeWolf received a present of a valuable horse fi'om his Tiflin fi-iends,
March 17, 1862. The presentation was made at Camp Kelly, Va. , by U. R.
Flenner.
At the battle near Winchester, in March, 1862, the Eighth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry lost six killed and a large number wounded.
Maj. Crockett, Surgeon Kaul, David Kaul, Capt. Buckland and others
were taken prisoners at Pittsbiu'g Landing; Lieut. J. Post was killed.
The Scipio Soldiers' Aid Society was organized April 18, 1862, with JNIrs.
D. M. Rhoad, president; jMrs. Dr. Hamilton, vice-president; Mrs. Lyman
Hall, treasurer, and Mrs. John Milliman, secretary.
The Tiflin three-months' men organized at Camp Chase in June, 1862, with
A. H. Byers, captain, J. B. Hymer, first lieutenant, and W. L. Myers, second
lieutenant. This company returned at the close of September, 1862.
David Hays, N. Portz and M. Ebersole entered on the work of organizing
a military company in the neighborhood of Fostoria, August, 1862.
Judge William Lang received authority to raise the One Hundi-ed and
Twenty-third Infantry Regiment, in August, 1862. Company A was organized
with F. K. Shawhan, captain; H. L. McKee, first lieutenant, and J. W. Leon-
ard, second lieutenant. Much indignation was exhibited by all parties when
Gov. Tod refu.sed to issue a colonel' s commission to the organizer.
The Squirrel Hunters, organized at Cincinnati in September, 1862, elected
Michael Sullivan, of Tiffin, captain, G. M. Ogden, of Republic, first lieuten-
ant, and William Naylor, of Tifiin, second lieutenant.
340 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Dr. W. H. Park was promoted brigade surgeon in December, 1862.
The Melmore Aid Society was organized in 1802, with Mrs. E. H. Webb,
secretary. Miss Mary Ebert was the secretary of the Ladies' Aid Society of
Tiffin.
In January, 1863, Drs. Gibson and McCollum, and Messrs. WiUiam Nay-
lor, Michael Sullivan, H. A. Buskirk and Andrew Arndt left Tiffin to take care
of the wounded at Mui'freesboro.
The Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry arrived home February 17, 1864.
The reception to this regiment of thirty-one battles was as demonstrative as it
was deserved. This command returned to the field on March 14, same year.
Three soldiers of the Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry were shot in
Fulton's di-ug store, at Bucyrus, March 14, 1864, by a copperhead mob.
The quota of the county under the call for 500,000 men was 512; under
the call for 200,000, in 1864, it was 278.
Rev. G. S. tPhillips, of Tiffin, was elected chaplain of Forty-ninth Regi-
ment in April, 1868.
The National Guards of Seneca, called out in April, 1864, for 100 days'
service, assembled at Tiffin in May, and elected John C. Lee, colonel, vice
DeWolf resigned. A. S. Bement was elected lieutenant-colonel; Michael Sul-
livan, major; D. M. Arndt, adjutant, and A. C. Baker, quartermaster. The
lailing price of substitutes ranged from $100 to $150.
The list of Seneca County soldiers, on board the exploded steamer ' 'Sultana,
at the time of its destruction were J. M. Feseler, Company B, Foi-ty-ninth In-
fantry; N. Gregory, Company C, Fifty-fifth Infantry, saved; B. Pease, Com-
pany's, Fifty-fifth Infantry; Jacob Rohr, Company H, One Hundred and
First Infantry, saved; E. Sharp, Company E, Fifty-fifth Infantry; J. A.
Shaffer, One Himdred and First Infantry; Lieut. E. J. Squire, One Hundred
and First Infantrv; S. E. Whyler, Company D, Fifty-fifth Infantry, saved;
John Huffey, Forty-ninth Infantrv, saved; James M. Phenceie, Forty-ninth
Infantry, saved; Albert Miles, Fifty-fifth Infantry, saved; Capt. Taggert,
The United States 10-40 bonds, authorized by Congress March 8, 1864,
were presented for sale by the Tiffin banking firm of Tomb, Huss & Co. , in
May. 1864.
The proclamation of the auditor of Seneca County, Isaac Kagy, issued
June 17, 1864, treated on the relations of the militia act of March 81, 1864,
to the em-olled militia of Seneca County.
The Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry arrived at Tiffin July 15, 1864, where
a public reception was tendered.
The funeral of Maj.-Gen. McPherson took place at Clyde July 29, 1864.
His death took place within sight of Atlanta, after leading his command 140
miles into the heart of Georgia.
The number of enrolled militia in Seneca County in July, 1864, was 2,043,.
together with 2,036 actually in service at that time.
In August, 1864, notice was given that should the 725 men called for as.
the quota of the county, under the call for 500,000 men, not be filled by Sep-
tember 5, the quota would be increased to 1,450 men.
The One Hundi-ed and Sixty-fourth Regiment, Ohio National Guards, re-
tiu-ned to Tiffin August 27, 1864, after 100 days' service. The command lost
twenty men while in service, and left a number in hospital at Washington.
The Home Relief Association was reorganized in October, 1864, with Mr.
Burns D. Fisher, president, and Mrs. ^\. H. Moe, secretaiy.
Walter Burns, a Seneca County Volunteer, in Company E, Twenty-first
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 341
O. V. I., serving under Sherman, in the march through Georgia, captured
Gen. Howell Cobb's $25,000 pacing mare. Some time after this young
Biu-ns was captured by the Eebels, who shot him through the brain and cut
his throat. His companions found his remains, and avenged his death with
Indian determination.
Peter Kissler of the Eighth O. V. I., re-captured Col. Hundley of the
Thirty-first Alabama Infantry, while escaping in Federal di-ess fi-om Johnson's
Island.
Under the call for 300,000, dated December 18, 1864, the quota of the
Ninth District was placed at 1,888 men. The quota of Seneca County was 386.
Tiffin City made a levy for bounties equal to $100 for each recruit, thirty-seven
being the quota of the two wards. The greatest excitement prevailed. No
one knew whose name might turn up in the lottery of death, and all heartily
wished that the war was over.
The military statistics of Seneca County, published January 20, 1865, are;
as follows: Number of soldiers in service, 2,036; of whom 219 died and 153
were disabled in the service. The number of soldier' s families was 576, com-
prising 1,599 persons. Of this number 291 families of 994 persons were ne-
cessitous. The amount received from soldiers in the army for deposit in the
county treasury was $33,011, from November 15, 1863, to November 15, 1864;
which with $1,578 to credit of lodgments for year ending November 15, 1863,
gave a total of $34,589. Of this total all was disbursed save $18,007 in treas-
ury November 15, 1864.
Capt. McCormack, formerly of the Forty-ninth O. V. I., was engaged in
enrolling a company for the One Hundi-ed and Eighty-seventh Eegiment, in
January, 1865. A government bounty of $100 and a local bounty of $400, for
one year's service were offered.
Capt. John Eeid, of the Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was court mar-
tialed in February, 1865, and found guilty of embezzling $13,910 due substi-
tutes and di-afted men who were being transported fi-om Tod Barracks to the
Army of the Potomac. He was cashiered and forever prohibited fi'om holding
any United States office, and ordered to be imprisoned until the sum embez-
zled was restored.
Maj. Skiles, commanding at Tod Barracks, gave the first news (in April,
1865, ) that no more soldiers were required.
The news of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln arrived April 15, 1865.
Newspapers, without regard to politics, used mourning lines, business houses
closed, bells tolled, flags were ch-aped, and the whole county placed under a
cloud of sorrow.
Provost Marshal John J. Steiner, of the Ninth District, resigned in April,
1865, when Capt. Wildman, of Norwalk, was appointed.
Company D, One Hundi-ed and Twenty-third Infantry, arrived at Tiffin, June
30, 1866.
Companies B and F, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, arrived at Tiffin,
in July, 1866.
EECOED OF OFFICEES.
Officers of the Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Col. W. W. Gibson,
took command in July, 1861, was commissioned in September of the same year,
and served as brigade commander. Col. Joseph R. Bartlett was commissioned
colonel in June, 1865, and mustered out same day with rank of lieutenant-
colonel.
The lieutenant-colonels of this command were A. M. Blackman, from Au-
gust 17, 1861, to September 30, 1862, when he resigned; Levi Drake, Septem-
342 HISTORY OF SExNECA COUNTY.
ber, 1862, to January 1, 1863, when he was killed at Stone Kiver. Benjamin
S. Porter succeeded Drake and served until api:)ointed major in the Invalid
Corps in July, 1863. Samuel F. Gray served from October, 1863, to October,
1864; Luther M. Strong, from December, 1864, to March, 1865; Joseph R.
Bartlett, fi'om May, -1865, to date of promotion; Milton F. Mills, fi'om June
26, , to June 26, 1865, mustered out on day of promotion, with rank of
major.
All the above named, except Gen. Gibson, served as majors prior to promo-
tion. The following named majors were not promoted: J. Kessler, June 26,
1875, mustered out same day; George W. Pool, Sej^tember 4, 1865, mustered
out same day.
The surgeons were R. W. Thrift, commissioned August 17, 1861; W. H.
Park, September 23, 1864; each served a full term, the latter having been com-
missioned assistant surgeon. August 17, 1861. H. B. Lung, S. A. Smith and
Samuel H. Spencer served as assistant sm-geons.
The chaplains were Eurotus H. Bush and George S. Phillips, the latter
from 1863 to 1864, former for one year in 1861-62.
The captains of this command in order of date of commission were: A.
Lano-worthy, Benjamin S. Porter. Amos Keller (killed at Stone River, Januaiy
1, 1863), George AY. Culver, William Callahan, Joseph R. Bartlett, Luther M.
Strong, Orrin B. Hays, George E. Lovejoy and James M. Patterson, all of whom
received their commissions September 18, 1861. Samuel F. Gray, Jonas
Foster, Lyman W. Mow, John E. McCormack and Morris C. Tyler were com-
missioned captains in 1862; Hiram Chance, killed June 24, 1863; John Green,
Daniel Hartsough and Samuel M. Harper were commissioned in 1863. John
L. Hollopeter, J. Kessler, George W. Pool, Thomas J. Ray, Shephard Green
(mortally wounded November 26, 1864), Theo C. Perault (died August 25,
1864), James Ewing, Jacob Her, George S. Crawford, Dwight R. Cook, Francis
R. Stewart and Milton F. Miles received their commissions in 1864; Nathan L.
Lutz. Anthonv W. Adams and Jonathan J. Rapp were commissioned captains
in 1865.
Those who served as first lieutenants are named as follows and the year in
which their commissions were issued-, noted: Charles A. Norton, Samuel F.
Gray, JohnE. McCormack, Aaron H. Keller (died of wounds January 26, 1863),
Jacob Mosier, Jonas Foster, Morris C. Tyler, Daniel Hartsough, Hiram Chance,
A. F. Prentice and William C. Turner in September, 1861; James W. Davidson,
William Martin, Moses Abbott (declined), C. W. Drake, John Green. J. L.
Hollopeter, John Kessler, Samuel M. Harper, M. F. Miles and H. A. Spavth
in 1862; J. A. Redman, M. Cowgill. Shephard Green. J. C. Miller, T. C. Pero,
G. W. Pool, Thomas J. Ray and Isaac H. White in 1863; James Ewing. John
C. Ramsav (killed at Dallas, Mav 27, 1864), Jacob Her. John Gleck, Silas W.
Simons (killed May 27, 1864). Charles Wallace (killed June 21, 1864). George
S. Crawford, Dwight R. Cook, F. R. Stewart, John K. Gibson (died of wounds),
N. L. Lutz, D. M. Fultz, A. W. Adams, J. J. Rapp. John Vandanburg. E. P.
Dana, J. W. Cline, J. J. Fiy and C. W. England in 1864; George W. Vail,
Ezra P. Phelps, James F. Harper, John H. Yarger, James J. Zint, C.
Flaiigher, B. H. Fansey, Caspar Snyder, F. H. Gibens and William Whittaker
in 1865.
The second lieutenants were Henry A. Spaythe, James W. Davidson. Moses
Abbott. Amos B. Charlton. John Green. William Martin, Timothy Wilcox, S.
M. Harper, John L. Hollopeter. C. W. Drake and John C. Smith received their
commissions September 18, 1861; M. F. Miles, John Kessler, Jeremiah Bern-
ard, W. F. Cannon, G. S. Blackman, A. N. Ellis, A. G. Brown, INIilton Cow-
^j^-^^C^ y^^i^Aji^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 345
gill, J. A. Eedmond, John C. Eamsey, J. C. Miller, I. O. Totten. I. H. White,
S. Green, T. J. Ray, Theo. C. Perault were commissioned in 1862; Jacob Her,
John Glick, Harvey Johns, Jacob Woolf (killed in 1863), Henry F. Arntt
(killed in 1863), Silas W. Simons, Charles Wallace and George S. Crawford
were commissioned in 1863; John K. Gibson, Edwin HafP, F. R. Stewart, D.
R. Cook, K L. LiTtz, Sheldon P. Hare, W. F. Gibbs and Daniel M. Fultz re-
ceived their commissions in 1864.
The foregoing roster and the record of private soldiers show, that the
Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry claimed about 500 men from Seneca
County. The total enrollment was 1552. Of the officers 8 were killed in battle,
6 mortally woiTuded and 14 wounded; 127 privates were killed in battle,
71 died of mortal wounds, 165 died of disease or fatigue, 7 died in Rebel
prisons, 616 were discharged on account of wounds or disability. The com-
mand was mustered out November 30, 1865.
Officers of the Fifhj-fifth Ohio Volimteer Infantry.— Col. John C. Lee
ranked as colonel of this regiment from November 25, 1861, was commissioned
January 20, 1862; resigned May 8, 1863, when Charles B. Gambee, who en-
tered the service as captain in September, 1861, was promoted to fill the va-
cancy. He was killed May 15, 1864, and on June 6, 1865, Lieut. -Col. Edwin
H. Powers, who entered the service as captain in 1861, was promoted colonel
and served until mustered out.
The lieutenant-colonels were George H. SafPord, ranking September 11,
1861, resigned in March, 1863. when Maj. Gambee w^as promoted lieutenant-
colonel, and in March, 1863, Maj. Stevens was commissioned, vice Gambee
promoted. Edwin H. Powers was commissioned June 27, 1864, and was suc-
ceeded by Charles P. Wickham, who served as lieutenant-colonel and was
mustered out with rank of major.
The majors were Lee, Gambee. Stevens and Wickham promoted. Daniel
F. DeWolf, commissioned November 25, 1862, ranking fi-om November, 1861,
Rudolphus Robbins, ranking from May 8, 1861, was killed May 15, 1864, and
Hartwell Osborne, ranking June 6, 1865, and mustered out same day with
rank of captain.
The surgeon was Jay Kling, succeeded in 1864 by Joseph Hebble. The
assistant surgeons were H. K. Spooner, J. L. Morris, Joseph Hebble and
James C. Myers.
The first chaplain, John G. W. Cowles, served about six months, and Al-
fred Wheeler one year. In August, 1863, the troops appear to have ignored
the uses of a chaplain, as no one was appointed to succeed Rev. Wheeler.
The captains of this command were Charles B. Gambee, August M. Be-
ment, Horatio N. Shipman, David S. Brown, F. A. Wildman, James M. Ste-
vens, R. Robbins, I. C. Terry, H. Robinson (killed at Chancellorsville),
Ed H. Powers, B. F. Eldi-idge and Charles P. Wickham, all commissioned
in 1862. Henry Miller, Albert E. Peck (killed May 15, 1864). Frank W.
Martin, Robert Bromley, Franklin J. Sauter (killed at Chancellorsville),
Charles D. Robbins and H. W. Persing in 1863. Hartwell Osborne, F. W.
Boalt, R. W\ Pool, Francis H.^ Morse, Butler Case, C. M. Stone (killed March
16, 1865), C. M. Smith, August M. Wormley, T. W. Miller, Henry H. Moore,
John R. Lowe. Jesse Bowsher, W. S. Wickham, O. B. Gauld,' Russel H.
Bever, were commissioned in 1864. Benjamin F. Evans, Joseph H. Gallup
and John H. Boss, Jr., received their commissions in 1865.
The first lieutenants of this command who are not named above, as pro-
moted, were Robert G. Pennington, W. D. Sherwood, Jacob Thomas, R.
Eastman, R. F. Patrick, all commissioned in 1862, ranking from the fall of
346 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1861. B. C. Taber, Eaymond Burr, Thomas O'Leary (commissioned in 1862),
Charles M. Stillman, James P. Jones, Phil C. Lathrop, Pliny E. Watson,
A. B. Chase (commissioned in 1864), Adam Cramer, Lewis Peck, H. B. War-
ren, F. Eesser or Eessecqne, James T. Boyd, John Bellman, E. Fewson,
Thomas S. Hosier, John Burkett and Henry J. Pelton, commissioned io 1865.
W. E. Childs and W. H. Hessinger declined commissions and served as private
soldiers.
Among the second lieutenants whose names do not appear among the high-
er officers were*" William H. Long, A. Cranston, James K. Agnew, Walter
W. Thomas (died April 6, 1862), Nelson Crockett, Hemy M. Began, Edward
Bromley (died March 24, 1863), and a few others to whom complimentary
commissions were issued after muster out on July 1(^, 1865. A large number
of fii-st and second lieutenants were promoted, and their names appear in the
rank of last promotion.
This command claimed on its roster 1,350 men, of whom 750 were either
killed or wounded in battle, and eight officers died of wounds received in
battle.
Officers of the One Hundred and Fir^t Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Col.
Leander Stem ranked fi-om August 14. 1862, was commissioned September 15
of that year, and killed December 26 following. He was succeeded by Maj.
Isaac M. Kirby, who commanded the regiment until final discharge.
Lieut. -Col.' John Trautz served fi-om August 9 to October 14, 1862, when
he resigned and was succeeded by Moses F. Wooster. who died of wounds
Januaiy 3, 1863. John Messer, his successor, resigned in 1864, when B. B.
McDonald was commissioned and served until muster out of command.
The majors were Wooster. Kirby and McDonald promoted. Daniel H. Fox,
who served fi'om February, 1864, to September that year, and John A. Latti-
mer, who served fi'om .May, 1865, to muster out. Surgeon Thomas M. Cook
served the full term. The assistant surgeons were George S. Yingling, Wal-
ter Caswell, Henry T. Lacy and H. H. Eussell. Oliver Kennedy ser\^ed as
chaplain fi'om August, 1862, to November, 1863, and E. M. Cravath from Jan-
uary. 1864, to muster out.
Among the captains were Lieut. -Cols. Kirby. McDonald and John Messer,.
and Maj. Lattimer. Charles C. Calaghan. T. C. Fernald. H. G. Sheldon, W.
C. Parsons, Jesse Shreiver, Newcomb M. Barnes. Montgomery Noble, Frank-
lin Pope, Lyman Parcher. Leonard D. Smith, Asa E. Hillier, all commissioned
in 1862. D. H. Fox, John P. Fleming, M. F. Ebersole. S. B. Becksvith, W.
H. Kelmer and Eobert D. Lord, in 1863. George E. Seney. AVilliam N. Beer,
B. F. Bryant, H. C. Taggart, I. B. Eeed. H. D. Olds. John F. NefP and
George W. Hale in 1864. James M. Eoberts and Jay C. Butler in 1865.
Of the first lieutenants Seney, Fleming, Ebersole. Smith, Beckwith, Pope,
Lord. Fox, Beer, Lattimer, Taggart, Bryant. Hale. Olds, Neff, Eeed, Eoberts,
Hillier, Parcher, Kelmer, J. C. Butler were promoted. Charles McGrath was
killed at Chickamauga; Alex C. Hosmer died May 12, 1864; J. B. Curtis and
Isaac Anderson resigned; H. G. Ogden, Eobert Lysle, Philip T. Kline
resigned in 1863; John M. Butler and John G. Petticord resigned in 1864;
E. J. Squire, John S. Millman, Jay C. Smith, J. F. Webster, William E.
Davis, O. J. Benham. C. Mosfoot, James E. Homer, John Shuman and David
Allison served as first lieutenants until mustered out.
Among the second lieutenants who did not arrive at a higher rank, were
John B. Biddle. killed December 31, 1862: O. L. Peck, honorably discharged
in April, 1864: Isaac P. Eule, killed at Chickamauga; Samuel Strayer, died
February 6, 1863, and Samuel S. Blowers, resigned January 9, 1864.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 347
This command was mustered out at Hiintsville, Ala., June 12, ISGo, and
subsequently discharged at Camp Taylor, near Cleveland.
Officers of the One Hundred and Twenty -tliird, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. —
The first actiial colonel of this regiment was Judge William Lang, who pre-
sided over and took a most active part in its organization from August 14 to
October 14, 1802. Owing to some peculiar influence exei'cised over Gov. Tod,
Judge Lang's claims to the honors of commander were set aside in favor of
one William T. Wilson, who had nothing whatever to do w^ith the organization
of the regiment, but received a colonel's commission October 14, 1862, rank-
ing from September 20, that year. The history of this command is a record of
military toils and misfortunes up to the day of Ap2;)omattox, when it was rescued
by the victorious Union troops from the hands of the rebels, who held the
whole command prisoners. Col. Wilson was mustered out June 12, 1865.
H. B. Hunter was commissioned lieutenant-colonel October 14, 1862, and
served until December 8, 1864, when he was succeeded by Maj. Horace Kel-
logg, who aided Judge Lang in organizing the regiment in August, 1862, and
served with the command through all its j)erils.
Maj. A. Baldwin Norton commissioned in August, 1802, resigned March 3,
1803, when Kellogg succeeded him. On the latter' s promotion, John W.
Chamberlin was commissioned as major until June, 1805.
The first chaplain was Rev. L. Molin, whose election was also set aside in
favor of Rev. Charles G. Ferris, who resigned in June, 1804. Dr. O. Ferris
was commissioned surgeon in October, 1802, resigned in November, 1804, and
was succeeded by AVilliam B. Hyatt, formerly assistant surgeon. J. H. Will-
iams and Napoleon B. Brisbine were assistant surgeons.
The first captains were John W. Chamberlin, Hoi-ace Kellogg, Charles
Parmeter, F. K. Shawhan, Samuel W. Reed, Curtis Berry, Sr., Charles H.
Riggs, John Newman and Richard A. Kirkwood received their commissions in
October, but ranked from August, 1802, when they shared with Judge Lang
and others in the work of organization. Lewis Zimmers was commissioned
November 3, 1802. and Alonzo Bobbins in December, 1802. V. R. Davis,
D. S. Caldwell. William H. Bender, died in South Carolina, September 15,
1804; Dwight Kellogg, J. F. Randolph, Jr., and O. H. Rosenbaum received
their commissions in 1803; Edwin H. Brown, W. V. McCracken in 1804;
Abner Snyder, H. S. Beverton, B. F. Blair, M. H. Smith, Josephus F. Schuy-
ler and Joshua W. Leonard in 1805.
The first lieutenants, whose records do not show promotion to a higher
rank, were Edgar Martin, R. B. Ferris, Caleb D. Williams, who was killed
July, 1804; James H. Gilliam, who died; F. B. Colver, honorably discharged,
April, 1805; J. W. Leonard, T. W. Boyce, M. W. Willoughbv, E. E. Husted,
C. H. Sowers, C. M. Keys, David Miller, F. A. Breckenridge, F. C. Wick-
ham, George A. Scoby and James Healy. all mustered out with regiment;
S. A. Johnson, honorably discharded in January, 1805; J. B. Pumphrey, on
detached service at muster out; Geo. D. Acker, resigned in 1805.
Among the second lieutenants not promoted, were A. P. Ingerson, resigned
in 1803; W. A. Williams, honorably discharged, July 29, 1804; W. B, Jen-
nings, Seymour C, Lester, Charles Long and Moses Allison mustered out.
SENECA SOLDIERS IN THE WAR OF 1801-05.
The following list of soldiers from this county iif the late war is based upon
the corrected list published in the Tiffin News last spring. Many changes and
additions have been made, and the record confined to name, date of enlistment,
company and number of regiment, and date of death or discharge. Where the
348 IIISTORV OF 8EiN£CA COUNTV.
regimental number only is given, it refers to one of the Ohio Volunteer Infan-
tiy or Ohio National Guard commands, the former numbered fi'om One to One
Hundi-ed and Twenty-nine, the latter fi'om One Hundi-ed and Thirty to One
Hundi-ed and Seventy-two, and other volunteer commands from One Hundred
and Seventy-two to One Hundred and Ninty-seven. Where soldiei's enlisted
in cavalry or artillery commands or in regiments of other States, or in United
States' commands, the full regimental title and number are given.
Adams, C A., 8th, died in hospital at Washington, D. C, iu Nov., 1862.
Armitage, George W.,Co. D 86th, e. May 10, 1862.
Armitage, John W., e. fall 1862, militia; dis. Aug. 24, 1864.
Armstrong, J. G., Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864; died Aug. 16, 1864.
Alspaugh, Michael, Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 18, 1862; dis. April 12, 1865.
Auble, Peter, Co. G 164th. e. May 2, 1864.
Arnold, Abraham M., Co. G 43d, e. Dec. 25, 1861; dis. Aug. 1, 1863.
Arudt. Henry F., Co. B 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; killed Nov. 25, 1863, at Mission Ridge.
Axt. Harman, Co. I 2d, e. April 17, 1861; dis. Aug. 9, 1861; re-e. Sept. 10, 1861, Co. I 4th,
U. S. C, dis. Sept. 10, 1864.
Arndt. Samuel F.. e. Co. B. 101st, wounded at Stone River, Dec. 31, 1862; died Jan. 3,1863.
Ash, Jacob, Co. E 164th, e. May 2, 1864.
Amende, F. A., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864.
Ash, Abraham, Co. E 164th, e. May 2, 1864.
Atkins, Richard, Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864.
Alcott. R., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864.
AUcutt, David, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 18, 1862; dis. June 29, 1865.
Albert, John Q., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Ash, E. R., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. Sept. 18, 1865;
Alley, James H.,Co. E 48th, e. July 20, 1861; re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; dis. Nov., 1865.
Adams, Martin, Co. I 123d. e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Adams, R., e. Aug. 27, 1861; dis. Sept. 22, 1862.
Abbott, Capt. Moses, Co. B 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; re-e. Co. C 108th, July 29, 1864; dis.
July 25, 1865; died May, 1885.
Abbott, Lyman, Co. D 123d, e. Sept. 24, 1862; dis. March 16, 1864; re-e. Co. B 195, March
15, 1865, final dis. Sept. 18, 1865.
Anders, David B., Co. H 101st, e. Aug. 13, 1862; dis. June 19, 1865.
Acker, George D., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 18, 1862; dis. March, 1865.
Armstrong, John W., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. June 29, 1865.
Arnold, L. D., 8th, trans, to 6th U. S. C.
Aunspach, Edward, Co. C 93d P. V. I., e. Sept. 21, 1861; dis. Oct. 28, 1864.
Ames, Dillen, Co. K 9th O. V. C, e, 1863; dis. Aug. 20, 1865.
Altaffer, Isaac M., Co. H 38th, e. Sept. 1861; dis. June 18, 1862; appointed to navy June
18. 1864; dis. Mar. 26, 1866.
Ash, G. W., Co. E 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 20, 1864.
Barnes, C. W., a Seneca County soldier and lieutenant in his command was wounded at
Antietam and died at Chambersburg, Penn., Oct. 4, 1862.
Burns, Walter (see history items preceding roster).
Brendle, George, Co. D 58th, e. Dec. 6, 1861; dis. Aug. 6, 1862.
Blackwell, George A., Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 21, 1861; final dis. July 21, 1865.
Bleckley, Andrew, Co. K 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Boos, Charles F., 55th, e. Oct. 12, 1861; dis. Aug. 1862.
Brewer. Capt. M. L., Co. A 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Beals, Thomas M., Co. K 4th U. S. I., e. June 21, 1873; dis. Dec. 16, 1873.
Beard, Selden M., Co. D 123d, dis. June 28, 1865.
Beard, G., W., 8th, transferred.
Beckmau, Solomon, Co. K 66th, e. 1863; dis. at Washington.
Beard, Osro R., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 17. 1862; died at Wilmington, Apr., 1865.
Beard, Samuel, cavalry, e. Nov. 1863; dis. at Indianapolis, Ind., Nov. 10, 1865.
Burns, C. H., Co. K 45th, e. July 3. 1862; dis. June 12, 1865. •
Buessay, Peter, Co. 1164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Buskerk. Albert, Co. A. 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Burkhart, William, Co. B 86th, e. May, 1862; re-e. farrier of Co. L 10th O. V. C, dis. July
24,1865.
Boyd, Franklin, Co. E 123d, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Boyd, William, Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Burkhalter, William H., e. at Tiffin.
Boyer, Jeremiah, Co. I 68th. e. Dec. 30, 1864; died at Rome, Ga.. JulvU, 1805.
Brandeberry, Andrew, Co. D 86th, e. July 18, 1861; re-e. Co. E 10th O. V. C, Oct. 20, 1862;
transferred to Co. A 14th U. S. I., Feb. 7, 1863; final dis. Oct. 20, 1865.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 349
Bowman J. J., Co. H 21st, e. April 17, 1861; re e. Co. I. 123d; dis. May 20, 1865.
Beverson, William, Co. G 16tli P. V. I., e. May 15. 1861; re-e. Co. D 87tli P. V. I., 8th
army corps, Sept. 19, 1861; dis. Oct. 3, 1863.
Bower, Joseph A., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Buckley, Michael, Co. E 72d, e. Dec. 2, 1861; re-e.; final dis. at Vicksburg, Miss., Sept.
16, 1865.
Bowen. H. C, Co. M 1st O. V. H. A., e. July 23. 1863; dis. at Columbus, Aug. 4, 1865.
Bowe C. W., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; re-e. Co. B 195tli, Feb. 7, 1865; dis. Dec. 18,
1865; died in Kansas, July 25, 1884.
Borer, Stephen, Co. H 57th. e. Nov. 8, 1861; dis. Nov. 21, 1864.
Berger, Wm. A., Co. E 164th, e. May 2, 1864; died in Washington, Aug. 13, 1864.
Berger, Jacob H., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 4, 1862; died at Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 13, 1863.
Boehler, E., Co. G 3d O. V. C, e. Sept. 12, 1861; dis. Oct. 3, 1864.
Barger, John, Co. H 101st, e. Aug., 1861; dis. June 30, 1865.
Babcock, Joseph N., Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; re-e. same company, Jan. 15, 1864; dis.
March 11. 1865.
Bonnell, E. W., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Billyard, Thomas, Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Bonnell, Christian, Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Beams, S. Z., wounded at Romney, and dis. from 8th O. I.
Bonnell, Moses, Co. I 123d, e. Aug, 22, 1862; dis. June 29, 1865.
Benham, George, Co. A 49th, e. Aug. 6, 1801; dis. at Columbus, Ohio, Aug. 13, 1864.
Bricker, John Homer. Co. D 86th, e. May 26,1862: re-e. Co. I 86th, Aug. 1, 1863; re-e. Co.
A 164th, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 26, 1864; re-e. Feb. 27, 1865; dis. Dec. 18, 1865.
Bower, Sam., Co. E 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Baird, AVilliam H., Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 1862; re-e. in Lookout Valley, Tenn., Dec. 13,
1863; final dis. Aug. 1865.
Burditt. O. B., Co. H 21st, e. April 23, 1861; re-e. Co. I 123d, Aug. 22, 1862; dis. fall of
1864; re-e. 164th, May 2, 1864; final dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Bish, Henry, Co. D 99th. e. Aug. 12. 1862; dis. at Camp Dennison, Jan. 21, 1865.
Bean, Joseph, Co. D 72d, e. Nov., 1861; re-e. .same company; Us. June, 1865.
Burger, James A., Co. D 123d, e. Feb. 23, 1864; dis. June 15, 1865. .
Bower, Moses, Co. F 8th. e. April 8, 1861; dis. June 24, 1861. '
Brinkler, A. W., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; killed Sept. 3. 1864, at Berryville, Va.
Burrier, John, Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 19, 1861; final dis. July 11, 1865.
Bonnell, John, Co. I 101st. e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Burks, David P., Co. D 50th I. V. I., Aug. 26. 1861; dis. at Indianapolis, Ind., Jan. 5,1865.
Bowersock. John C., Co. B 48th, e. Aug. 2, 1861; wounded at Pittsburg Lauding, April 7,
1862, dying next day.
Burton, Cyrus S.. Co. E 47th, e. Dec. 4. 1864; dis. May 31, 1865.
Beeler, W., Co. K 3d brigade, 3d div., 11 armv corps, e. August 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Beaver. Russell H., Co. H 5th, e. September 25, 1861; dis. July 2, 1865.
Bear, Joseph, Co. C 86th. e. Aug. 1. 1863; re-e. May 2, 1864. 164th; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Bogart, Jacob, Co. K 164th, e. May 2, 1864, re-e. Sept. 16, 1864, Co. K 45th; dis. April 3,
1866.
Bowersox. David R., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22. 1862; dis. June 29. 1865.
Braum, Fred G.. Co. K 100th, e. Aug. 2', 1862; dis. Jan. 21. 1865.
Bemisderfer, Simon P., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Babione, Elias, Co. A 111th, e. Aug. 13, 1862; dis. June 27, 1865.
Bassett, William James, Co. K. 123d, e. in 1864; died in service at Columbus, Ohio, Jaa.
4, 1865.
Bartlett. Hiram, Co. E 49th, e. Jan. 1864; dis Jan. 30, 1865.
Burkert, Joseph. Co. H 169th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Sept. 4, 1864.
Betts, J. F.. Co. F 55th, e. 1861; dis. 1862.
Briner, Henry, Co. A 8th. e. April 18. 1861; dis. July 16, 1864.
Brobst, Franklin S., Co. G 15th. e. in 1861 Co. K 49th, re-e. at Tiffin, April 8, 1862; dis. at
Louisville, Ky.. March 16. 1863.
Baeler, George, e. Co. C 180th; dis. at Columbus, Ohio.
Bender, Jerry. Co. I 3d Col. Cav., e. 4ug. 23, 1861; dis. at Denver, Dec. 29, 1864.
Betts, A., Co. D 123, e. Aug. 1862; dis. June, 1865.
Bachtel. Samuel. Co. B 195th, e. Feb. 14. 1865; died at Alexandria, Va.. Sept. 26, 1865.
Behm, Daniel, Co. K 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Behm, Abraham, Co. K 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1804, died in Seneca County.
Aug., 1883.
Beelman, Jacob, Co. A 169th, e. May, 1864; dis. June. 1864.
Boyd, J. T., Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 25, 1861; dis. July 25, 1864.
Boyd, Jacob H. C, Co. E 186th. e. Feb. 6. 1865; d'is. Sept. 18, 1865.
Byers, H., Co. K 101st. e. Aug., 1862; dis. Jan.. 1865.
Barrack, G. W., Co. B 164th, 'e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 2, 1864.
350 HISTORY UF SENECA COUMV.
Buvtel, G. W., Co. A 8th, e. April 18, 1864; re-e. Co. K 4tli U. S. I., March 4, 1865; dis.
March. 1866.
Burkett. Abraham. Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 30, 1861; re-e. Jan. 1, 1864, same company; dis. at
Cleveland, Ohio, Julv 17, 1865.
Burnside, John, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862, dis. June 28, 1865.
Bercaw, S. W., Co. G 6th, mustered in Sept., 1863; dis. April, 1865.
Beck, Israel, Co. B 58th, e. Feb. 23, 1864; dis. Sept. 16, 1865.
Bonnell, Rd., Co. I 101st, e. at Tiffin, Aug. 2, 1862; died Feb. 5, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn.
Bonner, William. Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 29, 1865.
Bray ton, Peter, e. May 29, 1862; dis. Aug. 1, 1862.
Breymau, Mahlon, Co. D 150th P. V. I., e. Aug.. 1862; surgeon by detail; dis. April 2,, 1863.
Burd, John, Co. B 207th P. V. I., e. Sept. 1864; dis. June 5, 1865.
Boyd. Hugh W. A., Co. C 86th, e. June 15, 1863; re-e. Co. E, 164th, May 2, 1864; re-e. Co.
G, lb3d, Oct. 10, 1864; dis. July 17, 1865.
Bartheson, Cephas, Co. A 49th, e. Aug., 1861; re-e. same company; dis. April 2-, 1865.
Borer, George J., 197th, e. April 5, 1865; dis. July 31, 1865.
Beals, Halsey, Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Bellman, John G., Co. K 182d, e. Oct. 1, 1864; dis. July, 1865.
Bender, William H., Co. 1 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; held at Libby prison 15 months; died at
Columbus. S. C, Oct. 8, 1864.
Backenstop, William, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 16, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Bonnell, James P.. Co. C 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Brooks, Samuel. Co. B 64th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Babbett, Lewis, Co. D 34th, e. Dec, 1864; dis. Feb. 20, 1865.
Baker, Frederick, Co. E 47th, mus. in Sept. 28, 1864; dis. May 31, 1865.
Baugher, George. Co. A 8th, e. April 17, 1861; dis. 1864.
Bate, Joseph M., Co. 1 137th, e. April 2. 1864; re-e. March 10, 1865; dis. May 15, 1865.
Bloom, F. P., 55th, e. Oct. 4, 1861; dis. Aug. 18, 1862.
Bloom H., 8th, transferred.
Brooks, Theron, Co. B, 164th, e. May 2. lo64; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Barrack, S. F., Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Bastian, Alfred, Co. D34th, e. Nov., 1868; dis. July, 1865.
Baker, Samuel, Co. B 164th, lieut., service 100 days, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 2., 1864.
Beelman, Edmund, dis.
Brown, Delaplaiu, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 15, 1865.
Beatty, J. H., 8tli, was killed, May 12, 1864, at Spottsylvania.
Camp, J. L., 8th, wounded at Winchester; was discharged.
Coughlin, John, Co. D 123d, e. Feb. 4, 1864; dis. June 28, 1865.
Crawford, James, U. S. Receiving Ship "Grampus," ship's steward, e. March 13, 1864; dis.
Cridler, Charles W^ Co. H 21st, e. April 23, 1861; re-e. Co. A 15th U. S. I., Sept. 3, 1861;
dis. May 16, 1863.
Craun, Isaac, Co. E 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Crauu, Jacob A., Co. G 111th, e. Aug., 1862; dis. July, 1865.
Cashuer, Jonathan, Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 25. 1861; dis. April 25, 1863.
Carson, Jacob, Co. C 123d, e. 1862; dis. 1865.
Cheney. Robert, 9th Ohio Sharpshooters, forming Co. G 20th. e. Feb 29, 1864; dis. June
1, 1865.
Craig, H. M., Co. G 118th P. V. I., e. July 38, 1863; dis. July, 1865.
Crosley, John A, J., Co. G 25th, e. June 18, 1861; re-e.; dis. June 18, 1866.
Chilcote, John W., Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; dis. May 10, 1865.
Collier. James T., Co. K 49th. e. March 8, 1862; dis. Nov., 1865.
Craig, A. W^illiam, Co. A 111th, e. Sept. 5, 1862; dis. March 7. 1863.
Church, Luther E., Co. I 9tli O. V. C. e. Nov. 10, 1863; dis. Nov. 24, 1865.
Chamberlain, James, 1st Heavy Artillery, e. Sept.. 1863; dis. Aug., 1865.
Campbell, Robert R., Co. E 98th P. V. I.; dis June 25, 1865.
Carrick, Charles, Co I 67th, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis., S. C, May 7, 1864.
Corbett, Martin, Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Coon, Jacob, Co. H 57th, e. Nov. 8, 1861; dis. Nov. 21, 1864.
Carrick. P., Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Cline, Charles, Co. C 64th, e. Sept. 22, 1864; dis. July 16, 1865.
Cline, Jacob, Co. D 49th, com. first lieut., e. Aug., 1861; resigned in May, 186.>.
Cline, Geo., e. in Jacob Cline's Co.; was dis. at Atlanta in Sept., 1864.
Chitterlev, M. A., Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 16, 1864.
Campbell A. M., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Campbell, John W., Co. B 12th, e. April 28, 1861; re-e. Co. D59th; dis. July 3, I860.
Corigan, Peter, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 28, 1865.
CuiTigan, Edward W., Co. H lOist, e. Aug. 5, 1862; re-e. Co. B 195th, Feb. 28, 1860; dis.
Dec. 18, 1865.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 351
Chadwick, H. C, Co. C 1st U. S. C, e. Dec, 1856; re-e. Co. L 1st Mich. V. C, at De-
troit Mich., Jane 10, 1863; final dis., at Salt Lake City, Utah, Jan., 1866.
Cramer, John W., Co. D 86th, e. May 27, 1863; dis. Dec. 35, 1863.
Chamberlain, S. O., Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 13, 1861; re-e.; final dis. Dec. 31, 1865.
Craun T. M., Co. A 31st. e. April 13, 1861; re-e. Co. F ooth, Sept. 13, 1861: re-e. m Co.
C 49th, April 13, 1863; dis. Sept., 1865.
Courtney, William, e. May 3, 1864; dis. July 37, 1864.
Cuager, Michael J., e. Sept. 16, 1861; dis. May 5, 1863.
Chamberlin, J. W., Co. A 133d, e. Aug. 13, 1862; twice brev. major; dis. June 3, 1860.
Crimshaw, Samuel, Co. G 131st P. V. I., e. March 2, 1863; dis. Dec. 1, 1864.
Carpenter, John H., Co. I I33d, e. Aug. 33, 1863; dis. June 15, 1865.
Cook. William, Co. D 3oth, e. Oct. 3, 1864; dis. Nov. 3, 1865.
Crunning Ira S., e. 100th; held at Belle Isle 6 months; died from ill treatment.
Carpenter, Daniel, Co. C 65th, e. Oct. 37, 1861; dis. Dec. 1, 1865.
Crosley, Jacob, Co. G 35th, e. Feb. 16, 1863; dis. June 18, 1866.
Chance. M. H., Co. H 31st, e. April, 1861; re-e. in Aug., 1861; dis. Aug., 1864.
Cook, Lloyd A., Co. G 187th N. Y. V. I., e. Sept. 34, 1864; dis. Sept., 1865.
Craven, John, Co. C 123d, e. June 20, 1864; dis. at Washington, June 20, I860.
Craun, Jacob, Co. G 65th, e. Oct., 1864; dis. July, 1865.
Childs, Francis, Co. H 146th, May 14, 1864; dis. Sept., 1864. , , .. ^ -.
Chance, T. H., Co. C 9th Ind. V. I., e. April 14, 1861; re-e. Co. K 30th Ind. V. I., Sept.
15, 1861; final dis. July 14, 1865.
Carlisle, T. G., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Cramblet, Elisha, Co. G 43d, e. Dec. 31, 1861; dis. July 19, 1863.
Cramer. I., e. Sept. 17, 1861; re-e.; dis. Aug. 38, 1865. „^ ,op.
Cake, William M.,reg. surgeon. 53d, e. Oct. 3, 1861; dis. Feb., 1864; re-e.; dis. Sept. 30. 1864.
Caldwell, David, Co. C 6th, e. June 16, 1863; dis. Feb. 10, 1864; re-e. Co. D. 6th O. V. C,
Feb. 13, 1864.; dis. Virginia, Aug. 7, 1865.
Canary, J. W., served in 8th. .
Cramer, Adam, Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 30, 1861; re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; final dis. Aug. 13, 1865.
Cramer, Upton F., Co. D 164th. e. May 3, 1864; dis. Aug. 33, 1864.
Cole, James H., Co. F 2d, e. April 17, 1861; dis. Aug. 4. 1861; 153d, re-e. ; dis. Nashville, Tenn.
Crawford, J. S., Co. H 3d 111. V. C, e. Aug. 6, 1863; dis. June 11, 1865.
Curtis, L. R., Co. F 100th, e. Aug. 8, 1863; dis. July 1, 1865.
Cahill, Patrick, Co. H 3d Battalion, 18th U. S. A., e. March 24, 1862; wounded at Mis-
sionary Ridge. 1863, captured at Mumfordsville, Ky., 1863, paroled; dis. March 24, 1865.
Chilcote. Joseph S., Co. I 133d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; wounded near Winchester, Va., captured
at Richmond, June 15. 1863; dis. July J 3. 1865.
Covell, Joshua. Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Carlisle, William H., Co. I 9th O.V.C. e. Oct. 24, 1863; dis. July 6, 1865; died Aug. 16, 1879.
Copley, John B., 78th, mus. Sept., 1864; died at Jefferson Barracks, Mo. Feb. 10, I860.
Cunningham, G. W., Co. G 81st. e. Nov. 9, 1861; dis. Nov. 9, 1864.
Cowgin, Milton, Co. G 15th. e. April 20, 1861; re-e. Co. D 49th, Aug., 1861; captured at
Stone River, Dec. 31, 1863.
Cole, Leonard G., Co. H lOlst, e. Aug. 3, 1863; dis. June 13, 1865.
Crooks. Henry, Co. A 164th, e. May 3, 1864; dis. Aug. 37, 1864.
Copley, Richard, Co. D 180th, e.; dis. Aug., 1865; died in Auglaize Co., O., March, 1868.
Colwell, F. N. and A. D., served in 8th O. V. M.
Deacon, Isaac, 49th, died at Louisville, Ky., in Sept., 1861.
Dowd, Michael, died at Grafton, Va., in Sept., 1861; served with 8th.
Dean, William O., Co. G 164th, e. May 3, 1864; dis. Aug. 37, 1864.
Durfee, Dialectus D., 64th O. M., e.; died.
Decker, Jacob, Co. C 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 37, 1864.
Dunn. Arlington, Co. D 133d. e. Aug. 33, 1863; dis. June 28, 1865.
Doran, James. Co. C 180th, e. Sept. 2, 1864; dis. July 12, 1865.
Doran. John B., Co. C 180th, e. Aug. 29, 1864; dis. May 3, 1865.
Doran, George W., Co. K 49th, e. Sept. 2, 1863; killed at Alatoona, Ga., May 37, 1864.
Dundore, Adam. Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 19, 1863; died at Danville Hospital, Nov. 1, 1863
Dildine, Samuel H., Co. A 8th, e. June 18, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864; died May 30, 1884.
Dildine, A. H.. 8th; was killed at Gettysburg July 3, 1863. _
Daywalt, Wallace P., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 13, 1863; dis. Camp Dennisou, Ohio, May 35, I860.
Dildine, John H., Co. H 55th. e.; died of wound at Portsmouth Grove, R. I.
Drake, A. W., Co. H 88th, e. July 3, 1863; dis. March 15, 1864.
Debusmann, Frederick. Co. K 107th. e. Aug. 25, 1862; dis. July 12, 1865.
Dickeu, J. M., Co. E 186th. e. Feb. 13, 1865; dis. Sept. 19, 1865. ^r a r tt
Debusman, Jacob, e. at Missouri July, 1861; service in Fremont's Battery No. 4; Co. K
107th, re-e. Aug. 25, 1863; dis. Aug. 10, 1865.
Drenning, Samuel, Co. E 49th, e. Dec. 30, 1863; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Dickens, Jesse S., Co. K 49th, e. Sept. 5, 1861; dis. at Texas, Nov. 30, I860.
352 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Davwalt, David H., Co. A 8th, e. April 19, 1861; Co. B 49th, re-e.; mus. out Dec. 22, 1865.
Dildine, James,. Co. F 9th Iowa V. I., e. Aug. 27, 1861; dis. Sept. 24, 1864.
Dildine, Henry A., Co. 1 123d, e. Aug. 21, 1862; re-e. Co. 1 164th; dis. Aug. 27, 1864; died
Feb. 12. 1868.
Dildine. A. M., Co. E 49th. e. Aug. 4. 1861; dis. June 2. 1865.
Dozer, Je^se L., Co. A 26th 111. Vet. V. I., e. Feb. 14, 1864; dis. July 28, 1865.
Derr, William, Co. D 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Davwalt, William J., Co. B 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; dis. June 24, 1865.
Diehl, Philip, Co. A 8th, e. May 12, 1861; dis. July 14, 1864.
Debusmaun, William A., Co. t) 86th, e. May 27. 1862, re-e. Co. A 164th, May 2, 1864.
dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Diehl, Julius, blacksmith, e. Dec. 19, 1864; dis. March 28, 1865.
Davis, John W.,Co. A 49th. e. Aug. 4,1861; wounded May 27. 1864; dis. Oct., 1864.
Dicken, J. W., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. May 27, 1865.
Duffer, Patrick. Co. E 25th, e. Oct., 1863; dis. June, 1865.
Doe, C. A., Co. 1 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Drenning, Samuel, Co. E 49th, e. Dec. 30, 1863; dis. Dec. 30, 1865.
Davidson, J. H., Co. D, 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 25, 1865.
Disler, Jacob, Co. G 111th, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. Aug. 27, 1865.
Durfee, Homer, Co B 55th, e. Sept. 19, 1861; died of wound at Washington Sept. 11,
1862. . He was buried at Fort Seneca.
Day. Homer, Co. K 46th, e. Feb. 17, 1864; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Drayton, George, Co. A 67th, e. Dec, 1861: dis. 1864.
Decker. Simeon. Co. D 64th, drafted Sept. 23, 1864; dis. Camp Deunison May 26, 1865.
Derr. John T., Co. D 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Drew, Horace, Co. K 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Dennis, Phares, Co. A 131st P. V. I., e. July 25, 1862; dis. May 23, 1863.
Dittman, John F., Co. G 42d Ind. V. I., e. July 20, 1862; dis. July 20, 1865.
Doughty, Arthur, Co. D 22d, e. Sept. 3, 1861; re-e. July 21, 1863, Co. L 11th O. V. C; dis.
July 21, 1866, in WVoming.
Ebersole, M. A., received severe wounds in the Georgia campaign, and died July, 1864.
Etcher, Louis, Co. B 57th, e. March 31, 1864; dis. Aug. 14, 1865.
Ennis, John B., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 24, 1863; dis. at Washington July 3, 1865.
Echelberry, J. Peter, Co. H 101st, e. Ausr.. 1862; Co.K 164th, re-e. May, 1864; dis.Dec..l864.
Echclberrv, Niles W.,Co.G 3dO.V.C., eTSept. 12, 1861; re-e. insamecompany Jan. 14,1864;
dis. Jan. 3, 1866.
Earbart, George W., Co. C 193d, e. March. 1865; service two months.
Emerson, ILeonard K., Co. G 49th, e. Sept. 3. 1861; dis. Sept. 1, 1863; died Sept. 25 fol.
Emerson, William W., Co. G 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; dis. March 3, 1863.
Emerson, John H., Co. I lOlst, e. July, 1862; dis. close war; died Nov. 16, 1867, at Tiffin.
Emerson. Bartholomew, Co. G49th, e. March 1. 1862; killed at Mission Ridge Nov. 25, 1863.
Egli, Jacob. Co. H 107th, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Ewiug, J. T., Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 20, 1861; sameco., re-e. Jan. 1, 1863; dis. Dec. 28, 1865.
Emmons, Lorenzo P., Co. E 49th, e. Aug 12, 1861; dis. Aug. 24, 1864.
Eveubeck, Benjamin, Co. E 130th, e. May 5, 1864; dis. Dec. 15, 1864.
Eissler, John, Co. K 107th, e. Sept. 19. 1862; dis. June 30, 1865.
Eaton, D. F., Co. A 21st, e. April, 1861; Co. B 57th, re-e. Jan., 1862; killed at Shiloh,
April, 1862.
Enos, George. Co. 1 1st O. V. H. Art., e. Jan. 13, 1863; dis. July 25, 1865.
Evy, Lewis, Co. E 186th, e. Feb. 14, 1864; dis. Aug. 28, 1865.
Enslow, James, Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; died at his home in Crawford County, Jan.
9. 1866.
Egbert, N. D., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; Co. H 164th, re-e. May2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Engler. William, Co. A 49th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Sept. 1864.
Fogel. Frederick, Co. A 13th, e. April 15, 1861; dis. 1864.
Ferris, O., surgeon of 15th, e. May, 2 1861, same rank, 123d, re-e. Dec. 14, 1862; dis. June 8,
1865; died at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, May 8, 1876.
Fisher, Frederick, Co. G4th, e. April 18, 1861; at Franklin, Va., re-e. June 11, 1862; dis.
July 28. 1865.
Fres, Robert, 38th. e. Sept., 1861; died at Chattanooga, March 8, 1863.
Frees. Hiram, Co. E 49th, e. Aug., 1861; died at Atlanta, Ga., May, 1864.
Fo.x, Robert, Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 22, 1861; dis. Oct. 6, 1862.
Faulhaver, Phillip, Co. B 57th, e. Oct. 4, 1861; captain; killed at Vicksburg, Miss., Dec,
28, 1862.
Flenner, Jos. L., lieutenant 2d; was drowned at Cincinnati in Sept., 1861. His services at
the first battle of Bull Run won him promotion.
Flenner. U. L., Co. G 12th Ind. V. I., e. April 22, 1861, Co. D 86th, sergeant; re-e. June 7,
1862; in detached service, P. A. Taylor's detachment, re-e. Feb. 27, 1864; final dis.
Aug. 22, 1865.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 355
Fitz, G. W., Co. M nth Peun. V. C, e. Sept. 9, 1863; dis. June, 1864.
Fetro, Daniel. Co. D 1st 111. V. Art., e. Nov lo, 1861; dis., 1864. ,
Frederick, Calvin Z., Co. D 4yth. e. Jan. 4, 1864; dis. Jan. 4 1866.
Frederick, Jacob, drafted for one year, Sept. 25, 1863; dis. Sept. 25, 1864.
Fish H. W.. Co. H 88th, e. July 25, 1863; dis. July o, 1865.
Frederici, Frank, Co. A 48th Penn. V. I., e. Aug. 15, 1861; re-e.; dis. at Alexandria, Va.,
July 17, 1865.
Fraver, John. Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 11, 1862; dis. June, 1863.
Foglesong, Simon. Co. C 180th, e. Sept. 2. 1864; died at Lenora Institute, S. C, April, 1865.
Ford, James, Co. C 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 16, 1864.
Funk, C. M., Co. 1 101st, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. June 19. 1865.
Ferguson, A.. Co. I 21st, e. Aug. 15, 1861; dis. April 4. 1865.
Frost, J. R., Co. H lOlst, e. Aug. 10, 1862; dis. Dec, 1863.
Franklin, A. G., Co. 1123d, e. Aug. 18, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Fortney, A., served with 8th.
Foster, Capt. Jonas, Co. H 21st, e. April 23, 1861; Co. E 48th, e. at Fostoria, Aug., 1861;
dis. April 27, 1864.
Fell, John, Co. A 8th, e. June 11, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864.
Fatzinger, Tillman W.. Co. I 47th, Penn. V. I., e. Aug. 5, 1861; dis. Sept. 18, 1864.
Flovd. Joseph E., Co. C. 12th Penn., V. Q., e. Jan. 27, 1862; dis. Feb. 21, 1865.
Free, W. H., Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Fisher, D. L., Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Flavian, W., Co. H 65th, e. Oct. 22, 1864; dis. Oct." 21, 1865.
Frankhouser, Nicholas, Co. G8th, e. April 9. 1861; dis. July, 1864.
Frankhouser, H., Co. G 65th, e. Sept. 26, 1864; dis. June 16.^1865.
Frankhouser, S., Co. A 64th, e. Sept., 1864; dis. May 28,1865.
Frary, Justin, was captured at Chickamauga and died in Danville prison, Va.
Frontz, John, Co. I72d, e. March 20, 1864; dis. May 29, 1865.
Frontz, Samuel, Co. E 25th, e. April, 1861; dis. Julj^ 20. 1864.
Fox, James B., Co. H 101st, e. Aug. 15, 1862; discharged.
Fables, George, Co, K 101st, e. Aug. 15, 1862; dis. Aug., 1865.
Feasel. Isaac. Co. K 1st O. V. H. A., e. Sept. 27, 1864; dis. June 20, 1865.
Frees, Amon. Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. Julv 13, 1865.
Farver, John K., Co. A 111th, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. Dec. 21. 1865.
Fleet, John Henry, Co. E 123d, e. May, 1864; dis. June, 1865.
Funk, Henry K.. Co. K 49th, e. Oct. 26, 1861 ; re-e.; dis. Dec. 21,1865.
Fritcher, Geo. W., Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; dis. May 29, 1863.
Fizer, James E., of the 7th Iowa Infantry, died at Bird's Point, Mo., Nov. 10, 1861.
Goodsell, D. J., Jr., was killed at Gettysburg, while serving with 8th.
German, D. F., Co. E 8th, e. April 1, 1863; re-e. May 2, 1864, Co. A 164th, final dis. Aug.
16, 1864.
Gettinger, W. H., Co. H 55th, e. Sept., 1861; dis. Sept., 1864.
Green. M. W., Co. A 25th, e. Oct. 17, 1864; dis. Oct. 12, 1865.
Gallatin, Henrv, Co. E 17th, e. April 19, 1861; re-e. Sept. 12, 1861, Co. E 49th; final dis.
June 16, 1865.
Groeich, Joseph, Co. I 7th O. V. S. S., e. October, 1862; dis. June, 1865.
Gibson, W. H., {vide hist, of Regt.) The general had seven nephews in his regiment,
of whom only one survives.
Gibbius, F. H.. Co. E 49th, e. Aug.'12, 1861; final dis. Dec. 30, 1865.
Green, James N., Co. A 8th, e. June 3. 1861; dis.
Gettinger, Robert H. Co. D 164th, e. May 1, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Gormley, L. A., Co. A 144th, e. May 1, 1864; re-e. 1864 Co. F. O.V.C, Kirkpatrick's brig-
ade; dis. June 6, 1865.
Click, William H., Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Grofi, Silas W., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. Aug. 3, 1865.
Griflan, Thomas, Co. K 12th Ind. V.I., e. Aug. 11. 1862; dis. Jan. 18, 1865.
Gruver, John, Co. A 160th. e. May 2. 1864; re-e. March. 1865, Co. D 187th; dis.March,1866.
Gettinger, John D., Co. H 55th, e. Oct. 12, 1861; dis. Oct. 23, 1864.
Gifford Samuel, Co. G 49th. e. Feb. 22, 1864; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Grummel, Henry, Co. K 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Grove, David, Co. D 2d Md. Art.; dis. June 7, 1865.
Godfrey, John, Co. B 21st. e. Aug. 28, 1861; dis. Sept. 24, 1864.
Garrison, T. M., gunboat Moneean, e. Aug. 22, 1864; dis. May 22, 1865.
Grove, Abraham, e. Co. E 7th Md. V. I.; re-e. in Co. D, 33d U. S. I., Dec. 1, 1866; dis.
Feb. 28. 1868.
Gorham, Jacob, Co G 147th Pa. V. I., e. Sept. 15, 1862; dis. Dec. 4, 1864.
Gaddas, J. W., Co. G 25th, e. June 18, 1861; dis. June 18, 1866.
Green, Owen P., Co. H 101st, e. Aug. 7, 1861; dis. June 19. 1865.
Green, John G., Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 20, 1861; dis. July, 1865.
856 HISTORY OF SENECA. COUNTY.
Oreen, G. H., Co. 1 164tli, e. Mav 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Grar, R. A., Co. C 6Ttb. e. Dec, 1861; dis. April 5, 1862.
Gaddas, Jolin, Co. C 164th. e. May 11, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Gilbert. John W., Co. A 44th Ind. V. I., e. Aug. 25, 1861; dis. Sept. 14, 1865.
Gries, P. J., Co. K 3d O. V. C, e. Oct.. 1861; dis. Aug. 18, 1862.
Green, Isaac H., 164th, e. Maj- 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, f864.
Georgia, Ansil. Co. F 4th Mich. V. I., e. Sept. 5, 1864; dis., at Detroit, Mich., Maj' 26, 1866.
Gabower, Charles, Co. K 107th, e. Aug. 19. 1862; dying in field hospital July 12. 1863.
Good, Noah, Co. B 55th. e. Sept. 23. 1861; transferred to Bat. A 1st 111. Art.; dis. Oct., 1864.
Grove, Levi, Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 18, 1862; mortally wounded at Atlanta, Ga.. Aug. 2,
1864, dying same day.
Gifford, G. W., Co. G 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Greise, T. J.. 8th, was captured at the Wilderness.
Gray, Henry, Co. B 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Gray, John'H., Co. C 39th Mo. V. I., e. 1863; dis. 1863.
Gregory, O., Co. H 166th, e. Mav 2. 1864; dis. Sept. 25, 1864.
Gaines, Bondy, Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 21, 1861; died at Grafton, W. Va., March 8, 1862.
Groves, Sampson F., Co. M 1st O. V. H. A., e. Dec. 22, 1863; dis. Aug. 3, 1865.
Higginbotham, T. P., colonel of 65th X. Y. Chasseurs, was killed at Cedar Creek, on the
Shenandoah, Oct. 19, 1864. His company, which was raised in Seneca County, fought
with this command.
Harr, Thomas, Co. F 1st Md. Y. C. e. April 2, 1862; dis. April 28, 1865.
Hartsock, G. W., Co. K lOlst, e. Aug., 1862; re-e. Co. K 164th, May 2, 1864: final dis. Aug.
27, 1864.
Heilman, John, Co. C 180th, e. Sept. 12, 1864; dis. Aug., 1865.
Hunt, Frank M., Co. I 55th, e. Sept. 18, 1861; dis. Oct. 24, 1864.
Harrison, A. J., e. July 21, 1861; dis. July 7, 1865.
Haines, Owen, Co. B 164th, e. Mav 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Harst, Joseph W., Co. C 48th, e. May 28, 1862; transferred to 164th; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Hunker, Matt. W., Co. D 43d, e. Xov. 16. 1864; dis. Julv 13, 1865.
Hawkins, Richard, Co. A 21st, e. Aug. 28. 1861; wounded Julv 13, 1865.
Hawkins, Richard, Co. A 21st. e. Aug. 28, 1861; wounded July 9, 1864; dis. Sept. 24, 1864.
Hospelhaun, George. Co. G 3d O. V. C. e. Aug. 1, 1861; prisoner at Kenesaw Mountain,
June 27, 1864;' dis. July 15, 1865.
Houcks, William. Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Heddem, H. F., Co. C 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 16, 1864.
Heater, John L., Co. K 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. xlug. 27,1864.
Hoover, Martin, Co. D 34th, e. Aug. 1, 1861; dis. April, 1865.
Hoover, J. A., dis.
Heslington. Thomas C, Co. G 1st battalion, 15th U. S. I., e. Sept. 7, 1861; re-e. Co. A
164th Mav 2, 1864; dis. Aus. 27. 1864.
Harman, ChaVles, Co. C 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; re-e. Co. C 49th, Aug. 15, 1862.
Haas, M. D., Co. — 86th, e. June 2, 1862; re-e. Co. I, June 16, 1863; re-e. May 2, 1864; dis.
Aug. 27, 1864.
Helm, John, e. for service in the Mexican war at Chicago, June 17, 1846, 1st 111. V. I., dis.
June 17, 1847; e. Co. G 2d, April 17, 1861; dis. Oct. 11, 1863.
Hushour, A., Co. E 104th, e. Feb. 19, 1864; re-e. Co. G 102d June 27, 1864; dis. June 18,
1865; was in three-months' service, e. July 3, 1861, dis. Nov. 17, 1861.
Haas, A. F., Co. 1 128th Penn. V. I. e. Aug. 6, 1862; re-e. Battery L, 3d Penn. H. A.,
Feb. 25, 1864; dis. Nov. 9, 1865.
Heck, D. G., Co. B 176th, e. Mav 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Hartzell, H. W., Co. I 8th, e. March 30. 1862; dis. May 25, 1865.
Hissong, Lyman J., Co. I 68th, e. Oct. 21, 1861; re-e. March, 1865, 5th U. S. H. Art.,
major, promoted lieut-col. ; brevetted colonel by President Johnson at expiration of
term of service; dis. June, 1866.
Hayes, Orrin B., Co. H 49th, e. Au2. 20, 1861; first enlistment at Fremont, April 23, 1861,
Co. H 21st; dis. Aug. 12, 1861; died at Fostoria Nov. 30, 1863.
Hartsoch. Dorsey, Co. K 101st, e. Aug., 1862; dis. May 31, 1865.
Henry, George W., Co. I 9th O.V. C, e. Nov. 9, 1863; dis. July 20, 1865.
Hossler, P. J., 8th, served a full term with this command.
Hathaway, W. W., 8th, discharged for disability.
Heisserman, H. 8th. dis. for wounds received Dec. 13, 1862.
Helsel, Jacob, Co. A 72d. e. Nov. 8, 1861; dis. March 20, 1865.
Haas, W. H., 8th, served full term.
Harper, Frank, a nephew of Gen. Gibson, and a captain in 49th, died in Kansas, Oct.^ 1885.
Harper, S. M., a brother of Frank, was a captain in the same command, died in Kansas
two years ago, both of wounds received or disease contracted during the war.
Hewitt, F. K., Co. C5th N. Y. V. Art., e. Mar. 6, 1862; re-e.: final dis. Feb. 13, 1865.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 357
Hughes, Gilbert, Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. May 27 1865.
Hale, Allen, Co.H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; re-e. to Co. I 164th, May 2,1864; dis Aug 2^ 1864.
Hall Georo-e W in the Mexican war, Co. I McGroden's bat. 1st L. A., e. Aug. 1847; dis.
Oct 1848; Co. E 48th, e. Sept. 8, 1861; re-e. Feb. 28,1864; dis. Dec. 30, 1865.
Heilman, John, Co. D 58th, e. Oct. 16, 1861; dis. Sept 1864 ,^ ,o^^ ^r q
Hollopeter. John L., 21st, e. Apr. 22, 1861; re-e. Co. H 49th, Aug. 15, 1861; re-e. Mar. 3,
1863; dis. May, 1866, with rank of major. „ ,. t .r ^o^r.
Hamilton, George, Co. B 125th N. Y. V. I., e. Aug. 2, 1862; dis. June 15, 1865.
Hartman, Lewis, Co. A 164th; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Holt, William, Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Herzog, Felix, Co. C 57th, e. Jan. 7, 1862; dis. Aug. 1862. r , rr * i -.qp-
Hartsook Nelson, Co. E 49th, e. Mar., 1864; died in camp near Green Lake.Tex., Aug. l,18bo.
Heabler, George, Co. C. 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Hiskey, R. B., Co. D 34th, e. Dec. 1862; service 4 years. „ , ,^. ^ ^ .^ , ^,,
Hartzell, James, Co. D 123d, e. Aug., 1862; killed at the 2nd Winchester, Va.. battle.
Holtz William, Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; died in Andersonville prison, Mar. 20, I860.
Horner, Hezekiah, Co. D 34th, e. Sept., 1862; dis. May 27, 1865
Heisserman, Henry, Co. A 8th, e. Apr. 16, 1861; dis. Apr. 4, 1863.
Hahn, Martin, Co. B 57th, e. Sept. 19, 1861; dis. Oct. 3, 1864.
Hoover, John A., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Hartzell. A. J., Co. K 28th Penn. V. I., e. Aug. 8, 1861; dis Dec 22, 1865
Hays, Austin P., Co. H 21st, e. April 23, 1861; re-e. Co. II 49th, Aug. 20, 1861; died on the
march near Huntsville, Ala., July 6, 1862.
Hufifsey, John, Co. B 49th. e. Aug., 1861; dis. 1865.
Haines. E. M., Co. C 21st Penn. V. C, dis. July, 1865.
Harter. Joseph, 55th e. Oct. 2, 1861; dis. Aug. 26, 1862. ,. ^ , , ,o^„ ,.,,,
Hale. Robert W., 5th, O. V.'C, asst. surgeon, e. Apr. 16, 1862;dis. Sept. 1, 1862;re-e.l64th,
May 2, 1864, surgeon; dis. Aug.27, 1864.
Halty, Charles, Co. H 55th, e. Oct. 22, 1861; dis. Oct. 1864.
Hart, Francis M., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 30, 1865.
Hathaway, Philo W., Co. K 144th, e. May 11, 1864; dis. Sept. 1864.
Hemming, Albert, Co. K 101st, e. April 20, 1861; dis. June 15, 1865.
Hospelhaun, Henry, Co. D 49th, e. Aug. 8, 1861; killed at Kenesaw Mountain.
Holmes, Edwin, Co. H. 55th, e. Sept. 16, 1861; dis. Oct. 8, 1862.
Haef ale, Nicholas, Co. A 31st, mus. Sept. 20, 1864; dis. July 1, 1865.
Harley, J. D., Co. F 55th, e. Sept. 1861; dis. Oct. 15, 1864.
Harris, Vachel H., U. S. gunboat "Benton," e. Sept. 8, 1864; dis. Aug. 4, 1865.
Heifer William, Co. 1 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864. ^, r. -.cui
Huffman J. W., Co. C 65th, e. Nov., 1861; re-e. Co. D 85th, July, 1862; re-e. Co. C lb4th.
May 11, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Hiteshaw, Alfred, Co. D 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; dis. Aug. 16, 1864
Hollinger, John N., Co. K 2d P. V. I., e. April 27, 1861; re-e. Co. K 60th N. Y. Chasseurs,
March 15, 1862; dis. March 15, 1865.
Halter, John, Co. A 111th, e. Aug., 1862; dis. July 16, 1865.
Henry, J. M., 8th, served full term.
Hemminger. Lewis, Co. A 111th, e. Aug. 5, 1862; dis. June 27, 1865.
Hawkins. Simon, Co. G 36th. e. Aug. 11, 1862; dis. July 5. 1865.
Hossler, Samuel B.. 164th. e. Mav 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Hoatz, Moses H., Co. K 107th, e. Aug. 26, 1862; dis. July 26, 1865.
Hicks, Abraham, Co. B 49th, e. Jan. 29, 1864; died Feb. 27, 18b4, at Chattanooga, lenn.
Holtz, Jacob S., Co. H 164th, e. May 2, 1864; died July 1, 1864, at Fort Strong Hosp., Va.
Horton, John W., Co. F 101st, e. Aug. 9, 1862; dis. May, 1865.
Huffman, Andrew W., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 17, 1862; dis. June 12, I860.
Heabler, David, Co. C 164th, e. June, 1862; dis. Sept., 1864.
Hunt, Edward M., Co. I 55th, 1862; killed at Resaca, Ga., May lo, 1864.
Hill. Jerry, Co. H 101st. e. Aug. 9, 1862; dis. April, 1863.
Huffman, Joseph, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Isler, Isaac, Co. B 55th, e. 1861; re-e. close of 1863; dis. August, I860.
Jones E.. 8th, wounded at Gettysburg and discharged.
Jewett, John K., Co. M 1st, O. V. H. A., e. June 22, 1863; dis. Aug. 2, 1865.
Johnson, Philip, Co. I 101st. e. Feb. 15, 1864; dis. Nov. 2, 1865.
Jackson, Joseph, Co. A 111th, e. Aug 14, 1862; dis. July 14, 1865. ^ ^ , „ ,^ ^ . ^^
Jones. AVilliam W., Co. G 2d P. V. I., e. April 26, 1861; re-e. Co. C 6th P. V. C, Aug. 22,
1861; re-e. Co. C 17th P. V. C Sept. 10, 1862; final dis. Aug. 22, 1865.
Jones, William, Co. E 1st Del. V. I., Sept., 1862; transferred May, 1864, to New Hamp-
shire" battle ship; transferred to sloop-of-war "John Adams"; dis. Sept. 14, 18bo.
•Johnston, John, Co. H 49th e. Aug. 15, 1861; dis. for wound, June 2, 1865.
Johnson, Isaac, Co. D 49th, e. Dec. 24, 1863; served one year. -r.- t^ 01 iQ«o
.Jones, William I., Co. C 88th I.V. I., e. Sept. ,1861, serg.; killed at Stone River, Dec. 31, 1863.
358 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Jones, James M., Co. F 103d, e. Sept. 8, 1863; dis. June 22, 1865.
Jones, Decatur, e. May 11, 1862; dis. April 28, 1863.
Keiffer, A. R. 8th, dis.
Kelley Francis M.. Co. C 23d, e. May 20, 1861; re-e. Nov. 15, 1863; dis. July 26, 1865.
Keller, Levi, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 20, 1862; dis. June 19, 1865.
Kaup, A. T., 55th, e. Oct. 4, 1861; dis. Aug. 18, 1862; wounded mortally at Gettysburg;
died July 24, 1863.
Kuapp, Russell L., Co. B 132d. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Sept. 14, 1864.
King, W. H., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Kintz, William J., Co. B 49th, e. Aug. 19, 1861; re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; mus. in at Grafton, May
17, 1861; dis., Co. C loth, Aug. 19, 1861; final mus. June 24, 1865.
Kuder, Benjamin F., Co. F 5th P. V. I., e. Jan. 13, 1862; dis. Jan. 12. 1865.
Keffer. Peter D., Co. D 86th, e. May 28, 1862; re-e. Co. F. lOth O. V. C, Oct. 25, 1882: dis.
June 25, 1864.
Kisinger, J. A., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 15, 1862; dis. at Clinton, Iowa.
Kisinger, William H., Co. K 65th N. Y. V. I., e. July 15, 1861; dis. Sept. 12, 1864.
Kaufman, Adam, Co. B 57th, e. Sept. 16. 1861; dis. July 28, 1864.
Knepple, John C, Co. C 49th, e. March 10, 1862; dis. June 30, 1863.
Krieger, Jacob, Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 14. 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Kooken, Jefferson, Co. K 55th, e. Nov. 7, 1861; re-e. Co. 1 123d, Dec. 25, 1863; shot blind
at Winchester, Va., Sept. 19, 1864; dis. May 26, 1865.
Kesling, George, Co. H 72d, e. Oct. 3, 1862; dis. Aug. 1, 1863.
Kimball, John, Co. C 164th, e. May 29, 1862; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Kipka, J. C, 8th, was killed at Gettysburg, July 3, 1863.
Kiessling, Julius, Co. H 4th U. S. I., e. June 11, 1863; dis. Nov. 28, 1870.
Keller, A. O., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Kaup, Thomas A., Co. 1 1st brigade, 1st division, 4th Army Corps, e. 1862; dis. June 11,
1863; died in Tiffin, Oct. 13, 1876.
Kishler, George W., Co I 101st, e. 1862; re-e. Co. A 164th, May 3, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Keesy, William Allen, Co. I 55th, e. Oct. 24, 1861; drafted Co. D 64th, Sept. 23, 1864; dis.
June 16, 1865.
Klair, George, Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864: re-e. Co. B 195th, Feb. 23, 1865; dis. Dec. 15, 1865.
Keller, W. H., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Kuder, James S. Co. G 180th, e. Aug., 1864; drs. July 20, 1865.
Koch. Samuel M., Co. C 129th P. V. I., e. Aug. 5, 1862; re-e. battery G, 2d P. H. A.,
at Philadelphia, Dec, 1863.
Koch, Wilson J.. Co. A 89th P. V. I., e. Sept., 1862; re-e. battery G 2d P. H. A.;
transferred, 1st U. S. Flying Art., Nov., 1864; sent back to battery G, April, 1865;
wounded at Petersburg, Va., Sept., 1864.
Kaskey. John, Co. B 195th, e. Feb. 15, 1865; dis. Dec. 18, 1865.
Kline. C. M.,Co. H55th,e. Nov. 25,1861; dis. July 20, 1865; died at Liberty Center, Jan. ,1870.
Kersliner, J. K.. 8th O. I., full term.
Kershner, Levi, Co. K 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Kistner, Christian, Co. K 107th, e. Aug. 18, 1862; dis. June 2, 1865.
Kiser, L. D., Co. G 178th, e. April 18, 1861; dis. June 28, 1865.
Kershner, J. A , Co. K 199th P. V. I., e. Sept. 6, 1864; dis. June 28.
Klair, Jacob, Co. F 197th, e. March 22, 1865; dis. Aug., 1865.
Koch, Hubert, Co. D 133d, e. Sept. 22, 1862; dis. June 29, 1865.
Kuder, W. J., Co. C 180th, e. Aug., 1864; dis. July 20, 1865.
Linn, M. B., 8th, died Sept., 1861, at Grafton, Va.
Lee, Wilbur, Co. I 101st, e. July, 1863; re-e. in the 100 days' service; dis. Aug. 18, 1865.
Libensparger, Louis, Co. G 25th, e. Feb. 20, 1864; dis. June 18, 1866.
Leeper, Edward, Co. 1 101st, e. Aug., 1862; re-e. Co. A 164th, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Leitner, Julius, Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 1, 1861; transferred; dis. Nov. 18, 1865.
Lysle, Robert, Co. I 101st, e. June 27, 1862; re-e. Co. 1 86th, June 16, 1863; dis. Feb. 10, 1864.
Lewis, J. R., Co. A 8th, e. June 11, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864.
Langdon, H. L., C. Lampsin, J. B. Lightcap, R. Lowe and J. W. Long, served full term
with 8th
Lutz, Harrison S., Co. 128th P. V. I., e. Aug. 9, 1862; dis. June, 1864.
Leonard, W. L., Co. K 38th. e. Jan. 23, 1864; dis. July, 1866.
Lamberson, Virgil D., do. H 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; Co. I Marine Regiment, re-e. March
11, 1863; dis. Jan. 34, 1865.
Lauizenhizer, John. Co. A 164lh, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Leightner, A. J., Co. D 123d. e. Aug. 22, 1863; dis. June 15, 1865.
Limbaugh, Christian, Co. I Kentucky Independents, e. June 29, 1862; dis. July 10, 1865.
Lewis, John B., Co. K 10th Ind. V. I., e. April 33, 1861; Aug. 6, 1861, e. in Rabb's Bat-
tery; Co. B 64th, drafted Sept. 34, 1864; dis. June 22, 1865.
Lutz, M, T.,Co. B49th, e. Aug. 16, 1861; sunslruck in Texas, July 10, 1865; dis. Jan. 1, 1866.
Lane, Joseph W., Co. F 55th, e. Sept. 20, 1861; dis. at Louisville, Ky., July 11, 1865; died.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 359
Lutz, Scott M., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 30, 1862; died of typhoid fever at Nashville, Tenn.,
Dec. 30, 1862.
Leedes, Isaac B., Co. A 21st. e. Aug. 28. 1861; dis. Jan. 7, 1863.
Lowe. George W., Co. I 101st, e. ; deceased.
Leeward, Charles, Co. A 8th, e. April 13, 1861; reg. reorganized June 22, 1861, for 3 years.
Livers, T. G., 194th, app. asst. surgeon, March 20, 1865; promoted surgeon June 26,' 1865.
Lackens, L W., Co. I 99th Penn. V. L, e. Feb. 22, 1865; dis. July 11, 1865.
Linhart, John McCron. Co. H 7th Va. V. I., e. Sept. 2, 1861; dis. Dec. 12, 1862.
Leech, W. H. H., Co. E 49th; e. Aug. 12, 1861; dis. Oct. 25, 1865.
Leech, Oliver G., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. at Cleveland Aug. 27, 1864; died Sept.
15, 1864, at Fostoria.
Luallen, Joseph R., 65th U. S. Chasseurs, e. 1861; sergeant, 67th N. Y^ Yet. V. I. or U. S.
Chasseurs, re-e. Sept. 1, 1864; dis. July, 1866.
Lemp, George. Co. I 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Lambright, Isaac, Co. B55th,e. Sept. 22, 1861; diedof measles at Frederick, Md., Sept., 1862.
Lepard, Isaac, Co. M 1st O. H. A., e. Dec. 30, 1863; dis. Aug., 1865.
Lebold, John, Co. A 25th, e. June 19. 1861, dis. June 19, 1864.
Lockhart, Samuel, Co. D 49th. e. Feb. 24, 1864; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Lumbar, Francis A., Co. G 25th, e. June 18, 1861; dis. June 18, 1866.
Longley, S. J., Co. E 186th, e. Feb. 1865; dis. Oct. 1866.
Lang, David A., Co. E 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 20, 1864.
Lewis. John W.. Co. K 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Latham. James, Co. B 164th, e. at Tiffin, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Littler, A., Co. D 8d O. V. C. e. Sept. 10, 1861; dis. Aug., 1865.
Lawrence, James L., Co. G3dO.V. C, e.Aug. 29. 1861; wounded near Franklin. Tenn., 1862.
Leidy, L. C, Co. B 195tli, e. Feb. 20, 1865; dis. Dec. 24. 1865.
Ludwig. Jacob J.. Co. D 72d. killed at Meridian, Miss., June 13, 1865.
Loomis. W.. Co. B 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Lutzenberger. T.. Co. B 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Lehman. N. S., Co. G 164th, e. Mav 4,1864; re-e. Feb. 14.18ff5, Co. B195th; dis. Dec. 24. 1865.
Luman. David. Co. A 64th, e. Oct" 7, 1864; dis. June 6, 1865.
Layman. H. T., Co. E 101st, e. x\ug. 5. 1862; dis, Aug. 1865.
Lytle. William. Co. D 10th O. V. C. e. spring. 1864; dis. May 27. 1866.
Lehman, S. S., Co. D 86th, e. May 27, 1862; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Lanning, William, Co. C 122d, e. June 29, 1864; dis. July 15, 1865.
Lyberger, N. B., Co. K 49th, e. Oct. 1861; dis. in Tennessee, 1865.
Luman, Anson, Co. C 180th, e. Aug. 3, 1864: dis. July 25, 1865.
Lutz, Matthew T., Co.' B 49th, e. Aug. 16, 1861; dis. Dec. 31, 1865.
Lockhart, James, Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Loughlin, John M., Co. F 101st, e. July 29, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Libe, Henry A., Co. I 3d O. V. C, e. Sept. 10, 1861 : dis. 1865.
Lombard, William, e. Mav 22, 1863; re-e. in Co. C 164th, May 11, 1864; dis. Oct. 5, 1865.
. Musgrave, W. H., of Co. K 49th, died at Nashville, Tenn., Feb. 5, 1863.
Metcalf, George, Co. H 14th. e. Sept. 5. 1861; dis. July 21, 1865.
Moore, James C, Co. A, 55th, e.'Jan. 1, 1862; dis. Jan. 1, 1865.
McHener. A. D., Co, C 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 16, 1864.
McHener, Eli, Co. I 123d. e. Oct. 1861; killed at Winchester, Va., Aug. 13, 1863.
McHener. Martin W., Co. L 123d, e. Oct. 1861; killed at Bearville. Va., 1863. '
Martin, John E., Co, F 30th O. V. C, e. Dec. 16, 1863; dis. Aug. 5, 1865.
Martin, James H. F., Co. A 72d, e. March, 1864; dis. July 24, 1864.
McMartin, John, Co. A 72d. e. July, 1864; dis. Sept. 1864.
McCormack, J. E., Co. B 49th, e. Aug. 13, 1861; re-e. in Nov., 1864, Co. B, 135th:
brevetted major Sept., 1865; dis. Dec. 24, 1865.
Miller. William M.. Co. K 49th, e. Sept. 5, 1861; e. again May 2, 1864, Co. C, 164th;
dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
McBride, F., 8th; served full term.
Miller, William H.. Co. D 164th, e. May 2, 1864: dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Miller, Daniel F., Co. I, 164th, e. May 2, 1863; died at Washington Aug. 19, 1864.
Miller, W. W., Co. 1 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Miller, A. K., 8th.
Maule, Charles L., Co. D 43d, e. Nov. 16, 1864; died at Goldsboro, N. C- March, 1865.
Martin, Dr. F. B., asst. surg. 192d, e. March 15, 1865; dis. Aug. 18, 1865.
Martin, S. H., 8th.
Montague. L., Co. G, 12th O. V. C, e. 1863; dis. at Camp Chase.
Myers. William L.. Co. A 8th. e. April, 1861; re-e. Co. D, 86th, 1862; re-e. Co. I 86th. June.
1863; 1st lieutenant, dis. 1863.
Myers, William, 8th, was wounded at Gettysburg July 3, 1863.
Myers. D. K., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; assigned to med. dep.; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Myers, A. J., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
360 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Mitchell, Joseph, Co. E 25th, e. June 12, 1861; dis. July 26, 1864.
Mvers, Joseph P., Co. I, 101st, e. Aug. 8, 1862; dis. 1865.
Martin Gideon, Co. D, 123d, e. Dec. 23, 1863; dis. June 28, 1865.
Mvers William H., Co. I 47th Penn. V. I., e. Aug. 5, 1861; e. April 24, 1861; dis. July 27,
■" 1861; third enlistment in Fhx., Oct. 8, 1863; dis. Jan. 16, 1866.
Mizen, J. A., Co. A 83d Penn. V. I., Sept. 16, 1861; dis. Sept. 15, 1864.
Myers, Jacob, Co. H 55th; dis. July 11. 1865.
Mays John P., Co. A 88th, e. Aug. 28, 1862; dis. July 3, 1865.
Myers H C Co. B 49th; dis. Nov. 30, 1865; died April 15, 1883, at Tiffin.
Murray, A. C., Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 20, 1861; dis. Nov. 4, 1864.
Mvers W. H., Co. F 8th, e. May 14, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864.
Mbser, Martin, Co. K 133d P. V. I., e. Aug. 12, 1862; Co. K 208th P. V. I., re-e. Aug. 19,
1864; dis. June 8, 1865.
Miller, Anselm, 6th Ind. Bat. Art., e. Sept. 8, 1861; dis. Sept. 19, 1864.
Martin Paul, Co. D 25th N. Y. Militia, e. April 16, 1861; Co. D 18th P. V. C, re-e. Sept.
1862; dis. May 23, 1865.
Maring, J. S., Co. E 15th, e. Aug. 30. 1861; dis. Sept. 20, 1864.
Miller Aden Walter, Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; killed at Chickamauga, Sept. 19, 1863.
Mason, James P., Co. C 102d, e. Aug. 4, 1862; dis. July 8, 1865.
Mowen, David C, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. March 11, 1865.
Miller, W. L., Co D 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Myers J H Co I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; killed at Milroy, Va., June 13, 1863.
Morgan, G., Co. K 21st, e. Aug. 28, 1861; dis. May 5, 1863.
Myers George, Co. B 57th, e. Sept. 30, 1861; dis. Aug. 16, 1862; died at New Riegel, July
27, 1869.
Miller, Henry, Co. B. 57th, e. Sept. 22, 1861; dis. Sept. 26, 1864.
Mowry, David, Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 11, 1862; and in 1st U. S. Eng.; dis. June 30, 1864.
Myers, J. L., Co. C 193d, e. March 14, 1865; dis. Aug. 12, 1865.
Mohler, John H.,Co. K 101st, e.Aug.14,1862; re-e.Co. K 21st, Feb.lO,1864,dis.June 18,1865.
McCormack, O., 8th, died in hospital at Culpepper Court House, in Oct., 1863.
Musser, Charles, 9th Ind. Bat. L. A., e. 1863; dis. Aug. 27, 1863.
McDole, Joseph, 7th O. Ind. Bat., e. Feb. 28, 1864; dis. Aug. 11. 1865.
McCracken, John L., Co. H. 21st, e. Feb. 25, 1864; dis. Jan. 11, 1865.
Mason, J. P.. Co. C 102d, e. Aug. 2, 1862; dis. July 8, 1865. ^^ . ^ ^ ,„,o.,
Millhime, Edward, Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 13, 1861; died at Camp Nevins, Ky., Dec. 12, 1861.
McDonel, George H.. Co. D 72d, e. Dec. 29, 1863; dis. Oct. 10, 1864.
McLaughlin. Michael, Co. E 11th 111. V. I., e. March 1, 1865; dis. Sept. 30, 1865.
Maclntyre, Peter W., Co. G 128th, e. Nov. 12, 1863; dis. July 5, 1865.
Maloney, Thomas H., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis^ June 13. 1865 ^^ , ^. ^ ^ ^^^
Marshman, Robert, Co. K 32d, e. Aug. 12, 1861; re-e. Feb. 1864, Co. K 32d; dis. Aug. 1865.
Moses John, Co. I 72d, e. Oct. 16, 1861; re-e. Jan., 1864; final dis. Sept. 11, 1865.
McEw'en. George W., Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; re-e.; final dis. Dec. 31, 1865.
Martin, Jacob W., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Mitchell, Joseph, Co. E 25th, e. June 12, 1861; trans, to 75lh; dis. July 26, 1864.
Michaels, Leroy, Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 2i. 1864.
Miller Jacob C, Co. E 49th, e. Sept., 1861 ; killed at Mission Ridge, Tenn., Nov. 25,1868.
Martin, John K., Co. D 56th, e. Sept. 20, 1861; died in Bloom, April 10, 1862.
Munger, Charles F., Co. B 55th, e. Oct., 1861; dis. July 11, 1865
McAllister, James, Co. B 2d Iowa V. C, e. Aug. 22, 1861; dis. Sept.. 1864.
McClelland. T. A., Co. A. 12th O. V C, e. Oct. 1, 1863; dis. Dec, 1865.
Martin, George M., Co. K 164th, e. May 2, 1864; re-e. Feb. 14, 1865, Co. B 195th; dis. Dec
10, 1865.
Martin, John A., Co. A 5th, O. V. C, e. Feb., 1863; dis. Nov. 25, 1865.
McDowell. Andrew S., Co. D 123d, e. Aug., 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Mclntire, Valentine, Co. B 49th, e. Feb. 22, 1864; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Mirer, John, e. Co. F 55th; dis.
Miller, George S., e. Sept. 20, 1864; dis. Jan.. 1865.
McKcen, John K., Co. B 1st Iowa V. C, e. May 8, 1861, and re-e. Dec. 16, 1863; dis. Feb.
15, 1866.
Merchant, W. J., Co. K 49th, e. Sept. 5, 1861; dis. Sept. 10, 1863.
Miller, John R., Co. H 169th, e. May 4, 1864; dis. Sept 4, 1864.
McMeen Robert.Co. I 101st, e.Aug.12,1862; wounded; died Jan.l9,1863,at Nashville,Tenn
McKev George S., Co. E 101st, e. May 14, 1862; dis. June 19, 1865.
May, Emory W., Co. H 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Miller, W. H. H., Co. H 14th, e. Sept. 5, 1861; dis. July 20, 1865.
McDaniel, J. H.. Co. D 72d, e. March 28, 1864; dis. Aug. 7, 1865.
Mills, W. A., Co. G 55th, e. Aug. 11, 1862; dis. June 17, 1865.
Moore Theodord; R.. Co. C 164ih. o. May 11. 1864; dis. 1864: now lives in Indiana.
Moorei D. B., Co. C 123d, e. Aug. 20, 1862; dis. June 14, 1865.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 361
Minich.Elias, e. April 4. 1864; dis. Oct., 1866.
Milrov, Oliver, Co. H o5th, e. Sept. 16, 1861; dis. Sept.. 1865.
Miller S.. Co. F 2d Midi. V. C, e. Sept. 16, 1885; dis. Aug. 18, 1865.
Mohr, James F., Co. K 176th Penn. V. I., e. Nov. 7, 1863; dis. Aug. 19, 1863.
McCarter, James, Co. C 126th, e. 1863; dis. 1865.
Meao-her, W. T., a member of Capt. Way's company, was killed near Cheat Mt. Dec., 1861.
Norton, R. M., Co. A 8th, e. April, 1861; served three years.
JSTorton, James A., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 16, 1862: commissioned first lieutenant in 133d U.
S. I., Oct. 7, 1864; made prisoner at Chickamauga Sept. 21, 1863, and released same
day.
Norton, Rufus H., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Neff, Heurv. Co. G 8th, e. April, 1861; re-e. Sept. 26, 1864, Co. I 33d; dis. June 5, 1865.
Naylor C T Co. A 8th, e. April 16, 1861; wounded; twice captured bv Mosby's com-
mand; dis. July 14, 1864.
Negele William, Co. A 55th, e. Sept. 22, 1861; dis. Feb. 27, 1862.
Niebel, John, Co. B 195th, e. Feb. 22, 1865; dis. Dec. 18, 1865.
Norris, Omar P., 25th, e. April, 1861; re-e. July, 1862. Co. B 111th; dis. July, 1865.
Norris, Chas. P., 101st; died at Louisville, Ky., Nov. 35, 1863.
Norris, James, Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; re-e. Co. H 49th, Feb.. 1864.
Neiderhouser, J. J.. Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 4, 1863; dis. June 25, 1865.
Norton, C. G. Co. K 101st, e, Aug. 2, 1862; dis. July 9, 4866.
Noble, John, Co. D 86th, e. Aug. 1, 1863; dis. Dec 1863; re-e. Co. I 164th, May 2, 1864;
dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Nedvy, John F., Co. K 49th, e. in 1862; dis. at Columbus.
Niebel, J. H. Co. A 123d, e. Aug. 20, 1863; dis. at Columbus, Ohio.
Nolan, John. Co. D 86th, e. ]\Iay 27, 1862; dis. Sept. 25, 1862.
Norris, Thomas C Co. B 111th, e. July, 1862; dis. Aug. 1. 1865.
Needham, Samuel A., Co. I, 9th, e. Dec. 1862; dis. July 30, 1865.
Nighswander, David, Co. G 8th, e. April 35, 1861; dis. July 16, 1864; re-e. July 16, 1864;
final dis. Oct. 17, 1865.
Niebel, Elijah, Co. D 73d, e. Oct. 29, 1861; dis. and re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; dis. June 19, 1865.
Needham, Amos K., Co. I. O. V, C, e. November, 1863; dis. July 20, 1865.
Neelv F., 8th; served full term.
NighWauder, B., Co. B 195th, e. June 15, 1865; dis. Aug., 1865.
Nighswander, Dr. Martin, Co. B r5th, e. Sept. 15, 1861; dis. and re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; final
dis. June 10, 1865.
Nesbitt, Samuel, Co. H 49th, e. Sept. 9, 1861; dis. Sept. 13, 1864.
Neikirk, D. J., Co. G, 164th; mus. May 8, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Neikirk, Samuel Co. K 101st, Aug. 15, 1862; Co. K 164th, re-e. May 2, 1864; final dis. Aug.
27, 1864.
Noble. Montgomery, Co. K. 101st, e. July 30, 1862; dis. May 30, 1863.
Nuson, William, and Joseph served in 8th.
Nichols, J. H., 8th; served full term.
Ogle, B. F., e. in 8lh, Dec. 1861; resigned Dec.1862.
Osterholt, Derick D., Co. K 138d. e. Aug. 30, 1862; dis. Feb. 26, 1863.
Osmund, W. H., Co. B 57th. e. Oct. 1, 1861; dis. Oct. 1. 1864.
Olmstead. C, Co. I. 164th, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Ohmler. Jacob, Co. I 164th, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
O'Connell, Michael, Co. I 101st.
Olds, H. B., Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 25, 1861; dis. and re-e. Dec. 31; dis. July 25, 1865.
Ogden, H. G., Co. G 25th e. May 18, 1861; dis. March 1863; re-e. May 3, 1864, Co. H 164th;
final dis. Aug. 37, 1864.
Owens, J. F., Co. D 164th, May 3, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Owens, Allen D., Co. B 166th; dis. in 1864.
Olds, Gilbert O.. Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 35, 1861; dis. Dec. 1, 1864.
Ogden George S. Co. G 35th, e. June 18, 1861; sent to Washington and died.
Orwig, J. S., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 30, 1863; dis. Mav, 1863.
Orme, A. J., 8th, and 6th U. S. Cav.
Orwig, J. B., Co. I. 101st; died April 18. 1865
Pittenger, R. M., Co. D 164th; dis. Aug. 37. 1864.
Powers, Robert S., Co. B 38th P. V. I., e. Feb. 1, 1864; dis. June, I860.
Powell. Andrew. Co. D 133d, e. Aug. 32, 1862; dis. June 28, 1865.
Post, William, Co. G 3d, e. Nov., 1861; dis. April 4, 1863.
Palmer. A., 8th, dis.
Parks, David, Co. G 55th, e. Sept., 1861; killed May 1, 1863.
Pitticord, John G., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 2, 1862; dis. Oct., 1865.
Park, C. C, Co. D 86th, e. May 27, 1862: dis. Dec. 25, 1862.
Park. John. Co. D 86th. e. May 27, 1863; dis. Sept. 25, 1863; Co. A 164th; re-e. May 3,
1864; dis. Aug. 37, 1864.
362 HisTor.Y OF senega county.
Parks, Peter, Co. B 49th. e. 1864; dis. 1865.
Park, T. L.. Co. H 164tli, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Pew, Samuel, Co. A 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Page, W. J. Co. C 1st, e. Sept. 9, 1861; dis. Sept. 9, 1864.
Preble, Edward, Co. B 4th, U. S. I., e. in the Mexican War in 1847; Co. B 55th, e. in the
Civil War, Sept. 20, 1861; dis. Sept. 20, 1864.
Peters, Joseph D., Co. E 197th, e. March 6, 1865; dis. Aug. 8, 1865.
Poorraan, George S., Co. A 164th. e. May 2 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Phillips, John W.. Co. D 144th. e. Mar 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 8, 1864.
Pancoast, William, Co. G 25th, e. June 18. 1861; dis. June 25, 1864.
Pancoast, George W., Co. G 49th, e. at Mission Ridge, Nov. 25, 1863.
Pockmyer, W. H., wounded Sept. 13. 1862; and dis.
Quinn David, Co, I 101st, e. Jan., 1864; dis. Oct. 19, 1865.
Ranch J. J., 8th. was killed July 3, 1863.
Rouch, Chas., 8th, died in hospital Sept., 1861.
Ray, H. H., served full term with 8th.
Redd. J., dis. for disability from 8th.
Richardson, W. P., killed Sept. 17, 1862. while with 8th Inf.
Reiflf, J. W.. Co. K 144th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 31, 1864.
Richards, William, Co. I 71st. e. Dec. 9, 1864; di». Nov. 30. 1865.
Reid, W. L., Co. K 164th, e. Mav 2,* 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Ruddick, C. E., Co. A 71st, e. July 5, 1861; dis. May 5, 1862.
Reese, J. D., Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 16, 1862; dis. July 1, 1865.
Robinson. W. H., Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 25. 1861; dis. July 31, 1865.
Robinson, Horace, Co. G 55th, c. Aug.. 1861; wounded Mav 2, 1863.
Ringle, Andrew. Co. G 149th; dis. Aug. 23, 1864.
Rogers, James P., Co. D 68th; e. Nov.. 1862; dis. andre-e. March, 1864; dis. Julv 10, 1865.
Rule, Isaac P., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862; mortally wounded Sept. 19, 1863.
Robinson, Charles F., Co. G 25th, e. June 18. 1861; dis. Julv, 1864.
Robertson, John, 65th, e. Oct. 11, 1861; dis. Oct. 11, 1864.
Richardson. C. F., Co. G 55th, e. Nov. 25, 1861; dis. Aug. 27, 1865.
Rossiter, William, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22. 1862; dis. June 12. 1865.
Ross, William. Co. A 72d, e. March 1, 1864; dis. June 13, 1865.
Reisz, Daniel, Co. B 64th, mus. Sept. 28, 1864; dis. June 16, 1865.
Rover, L. B., Co. D 34th. e. Aug.. 1862; dis. Aug., 1865.
Robenalt. William. Co. G 49th, e. March 10, 1862; dis. March 10, 1865.
Robertson, John, Co. K 80th, e. Jan. 7, 1862; dis. Jan. 6, 1865.
Runneals, James C. e. Aug. 14, 1861; dis. Sept. 10, 1864; died at Fostoria in May, 1884.
Romig. John, e. May 2, 1864; and served 100 days with 164th.
Ruch, David T., e. May 2, 1864, in 164th.
Richardson, Charles, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. Feb. 6, 1863; died near Tiffin. Ohio, in 1874.
Richardson, Joseph, e. in 1861; wounded at Antietam, and dis. in 1864.
Ritchart, W. H., e. Dec. 28, 1861; dis. March 30, 1863.
Rhodes, Daniel, e. Aug. 22. 1862; wounded at Winchester, Sept. 19, 1864; dis. April 11, 1865.
Rogers. L. B., e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Reed, G. W., e. Aug. 16, 1862; died iii Cumberland Hospital in Jan., 1863.
Raymond, Jacob, e. May 2, 1864; dis. after 100 days' service.
Reinbolt. Henrv, e. Mav 2, 1864; re-e. Nov. 5, 1864, in 18th U. S. Inf. ; dis. May 18, 1866.
Reinlx>lt, Joseph, e. in 1863, 101st Regt.
Reinbolt, Michael, e. Aug. 11, 1862; served three years in 101st.
Reinbolt, Adam, e. in 1864, 15th U. S. Inf.; was dis. in 1867.
Rienbolt. Frank, e. in the 17th U. S. Inf.. June. 1866.
Rodegel, Jacob, e. in 55th; died at Frederick City. Md., Sept. 20, 1862.
Rodegel, Isaac, died at Murfreesboro, Teun., while serving with 49th, April 14, 1863.
Rodegel. Daniel, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864. Served three years in the State Militia.
Reynolds, Lysander, e. May 2, 1864; served 100 days.
Ruess, Anthony, 164th, e. May2, 1864; served 100 days.
Ryan, Nathan, e. May. 1863; was in the hands of the rebels for 8 months; dis. Julj' 1864.
Robbins, T. H., e. Apr. 20. 1861; dis. July, 1865.
Ridgley, J. H., e. June, 1863, re-e. Apr., 1865; dis. July, 1865.
Rhorbacker. G. W., e. Feb. 1. 1862; dis. Feb. 28. 1865.
Reeme, D. E.. e. Aug. 22, 1862, wounded Sept. 19, 1864, captured; dis. June 22, 1865.
Reitcr, Chas., e. Mar. 14, 1865; dis. Sept. of that year.
Rollins, W. B., e. Apr. 14. 1861, re-e. 49th. was wounded, held prisoner; dis. Mar. 21, 1865.
Seewald, Chas., e. 8th, wounded at Gettysburg; died at Washington. July, 3, 1863.
Sanford, Benjamin F., Co. G3dO. V. C, e. Sept. 9, 1861; dis. Mar. 22, 1862.
Shoalts. Jacob, Co. B 72d. e. Nov. 9, 1861; dis. Sept. 13. 1862.
Saliers, H. A.. Co. E 123d, e. Aug. 16, 1862; dis. 1865.
Spencer, Samuel, Co. H 186th, e. Sept., 1861 ; dis. Oct. 16, 1864.
/i /^, U^^^-^^-^.^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 365
Suter, David, Co. K 8tli, e. Dec. 21, 1861 ;dis. Aug. 29, 1865.
Sisdale, Charles C.,Co. E 123d, e. 1862; dis. Nov. 4, 1864.
ShauU, Samuel R., e. 1862; served 3 years.
Spayth. HenryA., 49th; dis. June, 1863; died at Tiffin, July, 1878.
Schaefer, Joe, Co. K57th, e. June 20, 1862; re-e. Co. G 2d"N. Y. Mounted Rifles, Jan. 20,
1864; dis. Aus;. 17, 1865.
Strausbaugh, William C, Co. K 101st, e. Aug. 14, 1862; dis. Dec. 13, 1863.
Straw, David, Co. M Md. State Guards, e. Mar. 1862; dis. May, 1865.
Seaman, John, Co. D 3d O. V. C, e. Apr. 1861;dis. Aug., 1865.
Smothers, Henry E., Co. I 95th, e. Aug. 1862; dis. June, 1865.
Shiley, Andrew, Co. E 21st, e. Sept. 1861; died at Murfreesboro, Tenn., Apr. 27, 1862.
Swallow, Abel, Shertzberg. Schriener, Slart, Sloat, Smith, J. Snover, Snyder, J. W.
Sopher, Sener, C. and Stoner, P., served with 8th.
Smith, George, Co. E 32d, e. Feb. 15. 1865; dis. July, 1865.
Seney, George E., 101st, e. July 28,1862; dis. Dec. 1864; now congressman for 9th district.
Scannell. M., Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; re-e. Co. C 130th, Nov. 3,1864; dis. July 20, 1865,
at Charlotte, N. C.
Sheibley, W. W., Co. E 1st battalion Penu. V. I., e. July 16, 1864; dis. Nov. 14 1864
Stanley, W. B., band 55th, e. Oct. 4, 1861; dis. Aug. 18, 1862.
Schuler, William H., Co. B 115th. e. July 12, 1862; dis. July 5, 1865.
Snyder, W. A., Co. B 49th; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Speier, Wm., Co. K 107th, e. Aug. 20, 1862; dis. Oct. 6, 1864.
Shuler, A. J., Co. M. 1st N. J. V. C, e. Oct., 1861; re-e. Co. I 9th N. J. V. I., June, 1863;
dis. May 26, 1865.
Snyder. Merret, Co. D 208th Penn. V. I., e. Aug. 25, 1864; dis. June 1, 1865.
Sheets, Frank. Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 28, 1865
Stone, M. C, Co. D, 65th, e. Nov. 15, 1864; dis. June 20, 1865.
Schreiner, Andrew, Co. A 8th, e. Apr. 17, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864.
Shaull, Jacob S., Co. D. 64th, e. Sept., 1864; dis. at Nashville, Tenn. in 1865.
Shaull, David N., e. at Tiffin, service two j'ears.
Strayer, Thomas H., Co. B 144th, e. Aug. 8, 1862; dis. July 31, 1865.
Stoner, J. C, Co. H 101st, e. Aug., 1862; dis. June 20, 1865.
Schneider, Clement, Co. K 123d, e. Oct. 16, 1862; dis. March 4 1864
Seeholtz, Daniel. Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Stolzeubach, H. J., Co. G 2d Penn. H. A., e. Penn., Jan. 13, 1864; dis. Jan. 29, 1866.
Schnor, Leonard, musician 55th, e. Oct. 12, 1861; dis. Sept. 2, 1862.
Shaull, George J., served three moiTths.
Stockman, Martin, Co. B 123d, e. June, 1862; service three years.
Schwartz, Augustus, e. in Mexican -war from Md., Sept. 4, 1848; dis. Texas, Sept. 4, 1856.
Smith, Henry, Captain in 2d. 111. Cav., was made prisoner at the battle of Lexington, Ky.
Schneider, Michael, Co. K 123d. e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Stem, Leander, 101st, e. Sept., 1862; colonel, mortally wounded at Stone River, Dec. 31,
1862; died at Murfreesboro, Tenn., Jan. 5, 1868; the G. A. R. Post at Tiffin, is named
in his honor.
Snyder, Simon, Co. I 101st. e. Aug. 14. 1862; dis. June 24, 1864.
Stofer, B. F., Co. F 10th, O. V. C. e. Sept. 5. 1862; dis. July 24, 1865.
Stone, U., Co. A 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Sherpan, Eldridge, Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 25, 1861; dis. Jan. 22, 1864.
Stover, W. H., 49th, e. at Tiffin, Aug. 15, 1861; 19th batterv O. L. A., re-e. Aug. 11, 1862;
dis. June 28, 1865.
Schmidt, Bruno, Co. K123d, e. Sept. 10, 1862; dis. June 5, 1865; died at Tiffin, May 26, 1876.
Snyder, H. D., Co. H 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864; Co. B 195th, re-e. Feb. 1865;
dis. Dec. IS, 1865.
Strawman, J. G. , Co. H 14th, e. Sept. 1 1861; dis. July 5, 1865.
Stewart, F. R. Co. H 49th, e. Aug. 15, 1861; captain, Dec. 21, 1864; dis. Dec. 31, 1865.
Schuyler, Josephus S., Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865; died at Fostoria,
April 29, 1881.
Snook, James H., Co. 1 101st. e. in 1864; died at Wilmington. S. C, March, 1865.
SipleB., Co. B 164th e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Stearns, Sylvester, Co. K 49th, e. Sept. 5, 1861; dis. Nov. 30, 1864.
Simons, Silas W., Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 4, 1861; Co. E 49th, re-e. Feb. 10, 1864, captain.
Snyder, Eli, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 12, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Snyder, David W., Co. D 88th Ind. V. I., e. Aug. 4, 1862; dis. Aug. 28, 1865.
Shoe, J. W., Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; dis. Dec. 30, 1865.
Sprout, D. A., Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; dis. Nov. 23, 1865.
Sabin, William, Co. B 55th, e. Sept. 20, 1861; dis. July, 1865; died Fostoria, Dec. 21, 1865.
Sabins. James, Co. K49th, e. Sept. 3, 1861; dis. Jan. 7, 1864.
Schneider, Anselm, deceased.
Sheller, John J., Co. 1 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; service 2 years and 10 months.
20
366 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Shroades, Samuel A.. Co. A. 1st 111. V. L, e. July 3, 1861; re-e. Nov. 25, 1861, Co. K. 57th;
(lis Dec 22 1864.
Smith Henry Co. E 49th, e. Feb. 29, 1864; dis. Dec. 30, 1865.
S^va 'e JohZco B IstU. S. Fusiliers, e. Sept. 25, 1861; Jan. 28, 1862, re.e. Co. I 1st III.
V. 'l. a. ; dis. Feb. 1865.
Stoliper, Jacob, died at Nashville, Tenn.
Saur Uriah Co F 55th, e. Sept. 15, 1861; dis. Aug., 18bo.
Stewart wilUamH., Co.' K 101st. e.' Aug. 1862; re-e. May 2, 1864, 144th; dis. Aug. 1861.
Sparks, James P., Co. H 101st, e. Aug. 11 1862; dis. July 5 1865. _
Shetterly, James K., Co. G 55th, e. Aug. 6, 1862; dis. June 16, I860.
Saum, Solomon, Co. K 101st, e. Sept., 1862; dis. June, I860.
Snencer R B 2d Ky. V. I., e. May 13, 1861; re-e. June 4, 1861, Co. D 24th; re-e. Oct. 25,
1862, Battery M 4th U. S. Art.; re-e. Sept. 7. 1864, Miss. Squadron on "Black Hawk;
StonlT Frfnk M,° e.^Co^ G^ 27th N. Y. V. I. ; re-e. March 24, 1864, 1st N. Y. Vet. Cav. ; dis.
Stone" Capt. C. M., Co. G 55th; was killed near Goldsborough, N.^C, March 16, 1865. He
was interred on Smith's farm, N. C. _ , „ ,. . ^ 1
Spooner, Henry K., 55th. e. Sept. 15, 1861, surgeon, with rank of lieutenant of cavalry;
promoted surgeon of 61st, ranking as major; promoted surgeon in charge ot 1st divis-
ion, 20th army corps, June 25, 1864; dis. April 1, 1865.
Stahl, Israel, Co. C 86th, e. June 15, 1863; dis. Feb. 10,1864.
Stalev Eli Co F 8th e. May 5, 1861; dis. May 5, 1863.
K'Baker Co B 55th. e.^Sepl. 15. 1861;r£.e. Co. K 49th; dis^ March 25. 1863.
Spooner, Jesse M., Co. G55th, e. Sept. 25, 1861; dis. Dec. 2o. 1864.
Sage Edwin R., Co. K 144th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. after six months service.
Six, H. S., Co. A 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864 ^^ t ., . n n
Shaw, Patrick J., Co. H 12th Mass. V.I., Nov.1863; Co. G 29th Mass. V. I., then to Co. C,
Seitz,1saarCo.'G'l64th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug- 27, 1864.
Rinnlp Richard Co E 21st e. Aug. 20 1863; dis. Aug. 1864.
laum Wm Co. H 21st e April 23, 18(51; re-e. May 2° 1864. Co. E 164th; dis. Aug. 27,1864.
Smith, A. J. C, Miss. Squadron; e. Nov 1863; dis. Aug 1864.
Sprineer John C. 5th, e. the Mexican War, Sept. 1, 1846; dis Aug 25. 1848. ,
sS Samuel, Co. B 55th. e. Sept. 20. 1861; dis. July 13, 1862 died July 30,1864, Fostoria.
Schatzel. Jacob, Co. E 192d. e. Feb. 17, 1865; dis. Aug. 18, 1865_
Shinness, Benjamin, Co. A 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis Aug. 2*. _ 1864.
Simonis, Peter. Co. B 43d, e. Nov. 29, 1864; dis. July 13, I860. _
Shaull. James M., Co. I 65th, e. 1861; died Feb., 1864 at Alexandria, Va.
Sirouse. John, Co. K 164th, e. May 2^ 1864; dis^ Aug. 27. 1864
Saltsman, Norman. Co. G 189th. e. Feb. 23. 1865; dis. Sept. 28 1865.
Shawman, Jacob. Co. G 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 2 < 1864.
Shireman. John. Co. D 144th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug., 1864^
Shirkey. William. Co. E 164. e. May 4, 1864; dis.Aug. 27 1864
Shaull. Dennis H., Co. A 164th, e. May 2 1864; dis. Aug 2, 1864.
Snyder, John W., Co. A 8th, e. June 10, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864.
Shaw, WilUam F.. Co. K 49th, e.; dis. May, 1863.
Swigart. W. H., Co. G 25th, e. June 22 1861; dis. Aug. 1862
Schuster, Joseph. Co. F 55th, e. Sept. 21, 1861; dis. Sept 30 1864.
Spindler. H. C. Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug 2^- 1864.
Stiger. David. Co. A 64th, e. Oct., 1864; dis. Sept. lo, 1865.
Stull. R. Solomon, Co. C 180th, e. Sept. 19, 1864; dis. May 29 1865
Shaull, George N., Co. K 101st, e. Aug 30, 1862; dis. Dec. 24, 1862.
Sullivan, Michael, 164th, e. May 2, 1864; major; dis. Aug. 27, 1864. t. , on iftfiQ
Sechraan. Jesse D.. Co. K 101st. e. Aug. 30, 1862, died Murfreesboro Tenn.. Feb. 20, 1863.
Shuman, William F.. Co. K. lOlst. e. Aug. 30. 1862; dis. June 25 1865_
Sheidler. Abraham D.. Co. B. 195th. e. Feb. 13 I860; dis. Dec 19 1865^
Shedeuhelm James AV.. Co. K 65th, e. July 15, 1861; dis. Sept. 1<, 1864^ ^^ ^, 0.=
SeHers Da^id, (?o G I64th, e. May 2, 1864? re-e. Feb. 25, 1865, Co. B 195th; dis. Feb. 25,
Smith, Jacob W.. Co. G 178th, e. Sept. 1 1864 ;_ dis June 29, 1865.
Smith John B Co A 21st, e. Aug. 23. 1862; dis. June 15, 1865. ^ „ , ,. »
Smkh: Samuel.'Co F 131stP. V. L^ e. March 2, 1862; re-e .in Co. D 74th, P. V. I.; dis. Aug.
Sopher, ^Joseph. Co. A 8th. e. March. 1861; reg. reorganized for three years at Camp Den-
nison. June 25, 1861; dis. Jan. 20, 1864. o.. • ^ r. -r:., r t 1 .
Smeltz, Conrad, Co. C Ifkth, e. May. 2. 1864; re-e. Oct. 28, 1864, in Co. G o5th; dis. July
Swing,' Lebold, Co. A 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. S67
Sloat, B. A., Co. D 123d; e. Feb. 27, 1864; dis. Jan. 28, 1865.
Skinner, William, Co. F 13th U. S. C, e. Feb. 17, 1865; dis. March, 1866.
Sheelv, William, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 23, 1862: dis. June 12, 1865.
Sheele^^ Christian, Co. C 164th, e. May 11, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Spencer, John, Co. 1123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Spencer, James, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Smith, Martin, Co. C 65th, e. Oct. 31, 1861; dis. Dec. 14, 1864.
Seiple, H. H., Co. B 164, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Stewart, James R., Co. H 101st, e. Aug., 1862; service three years.
Start. John W., 192d, e. Feb. 9, 1865; dis. May 15. 1865.
Spencer, William, Co. C 164th, e. May 11, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Spencer, Ichabod A., Co. C 164th. e. May 11, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Stephenson, AVilliara H., Co. F 62d, drafted Sept. 14, 1864; dis. June 15, 1865.
Shumaker, I. J., Co. M 12th O. V. C, e. Oct. 20, 1862; dis. May 20, 1865.
Shumaker,Wm. H., Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 2, 1862; died at Bowling Green, Ky., Feb., 1863.
Sparks, John G., Co. G 25th, e. June 18, 1861; re-e. Jan. 1, 1864; dis. June 18, 1866.
Smith, CalWn, Co. K 110th, e. April, 1863; dis. June, 1864.
Starkey, Levi, Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Seiple, E. W., Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Saylor, John, Co. K 47th, e. Feb. 24, 1864; dis. Dec. 25. 1865.
Shadle, William H., Co. D 34th. e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 20, 1865.
Setchell, William, Co. F 3d O. V. C, e. Sept. 5, 1861; dis. June 24, 1862.
Travis, J. N., lieut. 8th.
Tench, J., and Thurwaechter, H. G., served in the 8th.
Troester, Christian, Co. 1 3d, e. April 25, 1861 ; re-e. Co. C 180th, Sept.. 1864; dis. July 10, 1865.
Truesdall, T. J., Co. D 112th, N. Y. V. I., e. Aug. 6, 1862; dis. May 13, 1864.
Trumbo, Pliny, Co. E 49th, e. Sept. 13, 1862; dis. June 14. 1865.
Tuttle, George K., Co. F 2d Ind. V. C. e. Oct. 28, 1862; dis. July 22, 1865.
Troxel, David, Co. A 8th, e. April 21, 1861; dis. July 13, 1864.
Tomb, Beuj. F., Co. D 86th, e. May 27, 1862; re-e. Co. A 164th, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27,
1864.
Town, Charies, Co. D 12th N. Y. V. C, e. Nov. 19, 1862; dis. after two years and nine
months; had previou.slv served three months iu 7th Co. 79lh N. Y. Militia.
Turner, James, Co. K 164th, e. Mayi2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Trumbo. Marquis D., Co. E 164th, e. May 2; 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Taber, W. H., Co. G 164th. e. May 7, 1864; dis. Aug. 16, 1864.
Teel, William A., Co. G 55th, e. Sept. 25, 1861; transferred to Co. G 4th O. Art. in 1862;
dis. Nov. 11. 1864.
Turner, E. J., Co. K 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864
Thomas, Jacob, Co. F 55th, e. Sept. 15, 1861; 1st lieut., Oct. 1, 1861; resigned, July, 1862.
Thorn. John, Co. K 123d.
Tindall, Elijah, Co. F 55th, e. 1864; dis. at Louisville, Ky.
Taylor, Henry L., Co. G 101st, e. Aug. 11, 1862; dis. Mav 17, 1864.
Tittle, William 6., Co. H 55th. e. Dec. 1862; dis. Dec. 29. 1864.
Thomas, C. J., Co. A, 2d div., 3d brig., 4th army corps; e. Oct. 13, 1864, dis. Oct. 13, 1865.
Thatcher, W. P.. Co. G, 55th; e. in 1864. service 10 months.
Tittle, Ralph W., Co. B, 164th; e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Toll. Edward R., Co. G, 3d O. V. C, lieutenant; e. Aug. 29, 1861, dis. April, 1864; died in
Tiffin, 3Iay, 1864.
Terwilliger, John M., Co. D, 34th; e. July 21, 1861, dis. June 21, 1865.
Tubbs, George, Co. I, 141st N. Y. V.I. ; e. Sept. 10, 1862, promoted captiiin; dis. Aug. 5, 1865.
Trott, Jacob. Co. M, 3d 0. V. C; e. Nov. 11, 1861, dis. Dec. 30, 1864.
Tittle, S. W., Co. B, 164th; e. May 2, 1864. dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Tittle, J. Allen, Co. B, 164th; e. May 2, 1864, dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Troxler, A. J., Co. I, 101st; e. Aug., 1862, mustered out with regiment; died at Tiffin.
Updegraff. William. Co. B. 195th; e. Nov. 15, 1863, dis. Feb. 1865.
Uuser, Phil.. Co. D, 195th; e. Feb. 1865, dis. Jan.. 1866.
Valentine, T. G., 55th; e. Sept. 21. 1861. dis. fall of 1864.
Valentine, James, Co. K., 164th; e. May 2, 1864, dis. Aug. 27, 1864; died in Bloom Town-
ship, Aug. 16, 1872.
VanHorn, Wilson S.. Co. I, 3d O. V. C; e. Oct. 7, 1861, re-e. Jan. 4, 1864, Co. I., 3d O. V.
C. ; dis. Aug. 4, 1865.
Virden, James, Co. H, 12th U. S. I.; e. April 3, 1862, dis. at San Francisco, Cal., April
13, 1871.
Vedder, Oriando H., 164th; e. May 2, 1864. dis. Aug. 27. 1864.
Vannatta, James H., Co. B, 49th;. e. Aug 16. 1861, died of wound in hospital at Murfrees-
boro. Tenn.
Vanfossen, J., Co. E, 17th Penn. V. C; e. Sept. 10. 1864, dis. June 20, 1865.
Valentine, Lvin, Co. E, 31.-t; e. Aug. 26, 1862, dis. June 10, 1865.
30, 1865.
368 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Voi^lesong, Jacob, Co. I, 164th; e. May 2, 1864, dis. Sept. 27, 1864.
VaSNest, John, Co. B, 15th Ind. V. I.; e. April 15, 1861, dis. June 24, 1864.
VanXest, Joseph, Co. I, 101st; e. Aug. 11, 1863, dis. July 20, 1865.
VanNest, W. H., Co. C, 130th; e. May 2, 1864, dis. Sept. 28, 1864.
Woessner, Geoi^e, Co. K. 123d; e. Aug. 22, 1862, dis. June 12, 1865.
Walter, Stephen, Co. A, 1st Va. L. Art.; e. Sept. 1, 1881, dis. Sept. 5. 1864.
Werner, Charles H., Co. H, 49th e. Aug. 6, 1861, ; re-e. April 13, 1865, Co. H, 8th V. V.
U. S. I.; dis. at Washington.
Wentz, James H., Co. D, 123d; e. Aug. 24, 1862, dis. June 12, 1865.
Watcher N., served with 8th.
Watcher, Lewis, Co. A, 8th; e. April 22, 1861, dis. July 13, 1864. He served in 81 battles
and skirmishes.
Walker, C. K., Co. B, 4th; e. April 16, 1861, re-e. Sept. 4, 1861, Co. E, 20th; dis. Sept. 12,1864.
Warring Silas H., Co. E, 1st Bat. O. L. Art., e. June 9, 1861, veterinary surgeon, re-e.
Dec. 1, 1864, 6th O. V. C; final dis. Sept. 1, 1865.
Wilkison, John E., Co. C, 21st; e. April, 1861, dis. August, 1861.
Winslow, A. H., major 8th.
Washnick, J., 8th; was killed at Petersburg.
Wolfe, O J. D., Co. G 22d, e. May 11, 1861; re-e. Co. F 56th. Sept. 11, 1861; 2d lieuten-
ant, June 2, 1862; 1st lieutenant, Aug., 1864; dis. Nov. 4, 1864.
Werner, Frederick, Co. H 21st, e. April 19, 1861; re-e. Co. H 49th, Aug. 14, 1861; dis. Aug.
12, 1863.
Wilcox Abner L., Co. G 178th, e. Sept. 15, 1863; re-e. Co. B 2d U. S. I., Oct. 6, 1864; re-e.
Oct. 6, 1867; re-e. Co. A 16th U. S. I.. Oct. 6, 1870; dis. Sept 1, 1874.
Watson, D. G., served full term with 8th.
Weaver A., Co. H 49th. e. Sept. 9, 1861; re-e. same com., Feb. 1863; dis. Nov. 21, 1865.
Wagner, Daniel, Co. D 21st. e. June 5, 1861; dis. July 18, 1865.
Wolf, John, Co. F 91st N. Y. V. I., e. Sept. 8, 1864; dis. June 10, 1865.
Wood, John, Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 12, 1861; re-e. Dec. 31, 1863; dis. Dec.
Whiteman, Herman, Co. H 101st, Aug. 12, 1862; dis. July 15, 1865.
White, G. W., 8th, dis. for disabilitv.
Wallace, R., Co. D 83d, e. Aug. 17, 1863; re-e. Co. A 182d, Aug. 1, 1864; dis. July 4, 1865.
Weaver, M., Co. I 164th. e. May 2, 1864; dis. xVug. 27, 1864.
Wesley, Julius, Co. E 189th, e. Jan. 23, 1865; dis. Sept. 19, 1865.
Worman, John J., Co. E6th U. S. C, e. Aug. 27. 1861; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Weaver, Daniel, Co. B 195th, e. March 2, 1865; dis. June 21, 1865.
Wise, Levi, Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 11, 1862; dis. June 25. 1865.
Wall, Philip, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 20, 1862; killed at New Market, Va., May 15, 1864.
Woods, Alexander, Co. D 86th,"e. Aug. 1, 1863; re-e. Co. A, 1st Bat., 16th U. S. I., March
26. 1864; dis. March 26, 1867.
Wheeler, H. H., 4th Vt. V. I., e. Aug., 1861; dis. Aug., 1862.
Williams, Richard R., Co. K 49th, e. Dec, 1863; dis. Dec. 30, 1865.
Williams, Vi. H. H., Co. D 144th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Sept. 4, 1864.
Worman, C. W., Co. H 21st, e. April 16, 1861; re-e. Co. B55th. Oct. 16, 1861; dis. Nov., 1865.
Watson, T. A., Co. D 96th. e. Aug. 6, 1862; transferred to Vet. Res. corps, Co. C, at
Chicago, Oct. 26, 1864; dis. June 12, 1865.
Walters, Michael, Co. I 72d, e. March 29, 1863; dis. Aug. 7, 1865.
Williams, Daniel. Co E 49th, e. Sept. 8. 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Wickersham, Peter, Co. C 49th O. V. M., e. May 26, 1862 (164th); :dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Walters, John W., Co. G 65th, e. Oct., 1864; dis. July, 1865.
Wolf, Frederick, Co. K 49th, e. Sept. 21, 1861; dis. Sept. 19, 1864.
Wymer, John F., Co. B 57th, e. Oct. 1, 1861; dis. March 23, 1863.
Watson, Avery R., Co. A 6th Ohio Battery, e. Feb. 14, 1864; died at Chattanooga, Tenn.,
April 7, 1864.
Wood, Lewis, Co. E 49th, e. Aug. 20. 1861; killed at Pittsburg Lauding April 7, 1862.
Weiker, Isaac, Co. F 32d, e. Sept., 1864; dis. Aug.. 1865.
West, A. D., Co. B 195th, e. Feb. 22. 1865; dis. fall of 1865.
Wood, Lewis, Jr., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864; died Jan. 12, 1883, at
Mound Citv, Mo.
Wagner, FredeVick, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 29, 1865.
Woessner, Jacob, Co. G 74th, 111. V. I., e. 1862; died in Andensonville prison, July 24, 1864.
AValker, J. C, Co. C 16th U. S. I., May 17, 1862; dis. May 17, 1865.
Wise, Daniel, Co. B 57th, e. Sept., 1861; dis. 1864.
Whealan, P. S., Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Wiseman. A. T., Co. H 168th, e. May 2, 1864; dis. Sept. 8, 1864.
Werthmiller, J. H., Co. I 164th, e. May 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Witter, Jonathan, Co. H 101st, e. Aug. 26, 1862; dis. May 7, 1863, after 9 months' service.
Wing, Edward, Co. B 164th, e. May 2, 1864 ; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Whealan, John, Co. D 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; wounded 1863; dis. 1864.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. B69
Wright. M. W., Co. D 32d, e. Aug., 1861; dis. Aug., 1865.
Weller, Luke, Co. K 164th, e. May 3, 1864: dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Weaver, Washington C, Co. D 64th, drafted; dis. 3Iay 29, 1865.
Way, Asa, e. Co. G 25th, captain; dis. after two years' service.
Wagoner, Sylvester, Co.. I 86th, e. June 13, 1862; re-e. Co. B 49th, e. May 21, 1863; dis.
Nov. 30. 1865. ^ . ,an4 ^■
Willsams, James O., Co. G 25th, e. June 18, 1861; re-e. same company, Jan. 1, 1864; dis.
June 18, 1866.
Wolf. Daniel W., Co. C 180th. e. Sept., 1864; dis. 1865.
Woodruff J. G., Co. I 72d, e. Oct., 1861; re-e. Co. K 9th O. V. C, Nov. 16, 1863; dis.
Dec. 22, 1865.
Williams, William J., Co. E 123d, e. Aug. 16, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Wolf, Daniel, Co. C 180th, e. Sept. 17, 1864; dis. May 29. 1865.
Watson, Elijah R., Co. E 10th O. V. C, e. March, 1863; Ivilled at White Store, N. C,
Marcli 4, 1865.
Yunker, D., 8th. killed at Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862.
Tingling, Geo. S., 1st asst. surgeon, 101st, e. Aug. 15, 1862; appointed 1st asst. surgeon.
164th, May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
-Young, John, Co. I 123d, e. Aug. 22, 1862; dis. June 12, 1865.
Yeager, Jacob F., e. April. 1861; Co. H 101st, re-e. Aug. 11, 1862; dis. June 29, I860.
Yengpetie, John D., Co. E 49th, e. Feb. 16, 1862; dis. Dec. 31, 1865.
Yeager, H. W., Co. C 180th, e. Sept. 17, 1864; dis. July 12, 1865.
Youngblood, Philip, Co. H 42d. e. Nov. 22, 1861; dis. Jan. 15, 1863.
-Young. John, Co. D 123d, e. Aug., 1862; dis. March 27, 1863.
'Young. George, Co. D 164th, e. Mav 2. 1864; dis. Aug. 27, 1864.
Yerk, Charles M..C0. K2d, e. for the Mexican war at Columbus, Maj', 1846; dis. June, 1847.
Young, G. W., Co. I 164th, e. May 2, 1864: dis. Aug, 27, 1864.
Y''oung. Abraham H., Co. I 49th, e. Aug. 13, 1861; dis. July 16, 1862.
Yant, J. T., Co. A 104th. e. Oct. 3, 1864; transferred to Co. I, 183d; dis. July 17, 186o.
A^oung, I. M., Co. D 49th, e. Jan. 2, 1862; dis. May, 1866. „ ^ ou-
Zeander. Leopold, a physician of Seneca County, served as 1st surgeon in the Ked Shirt
Regiment, near Washington, Oct., 1861.
Zuern, Geo.. Co. K 107th. e. Aug. 21, 1862: dis. Feb. 24, 1864.
Zabriski, George, Co. D 65th, e. Oct. 20, 1864; dis. Nov. 30, 1865.
Zeller, J. F., Co. K 76th, e. Nov. 12. 1861: dis. as paroled prisoner.
Zahm, V. J., 3d O. V. C, e. Sept., 1861; Co. A 164th, re-e. May 2, 1864; dis. Aug. 2/, 1864.
Zimmer. John, Co. F 2d U. S. Art., e. Jan. 14, 1861; dis. at Vicksburg, Miss., Jan. 14, 1864.
Zimmerman, Soloman, Co. I 49th, e. Aug. 10, 1862; dis. June 13, 1865.
Zimmerman, J. B., Co. B 49th, e. Sept. 18. 1861: dis. 1863.
Zeiber, Henry, Co. D 34th, e. Sept. 5, 1862; dis. May 26, 1865.
Zeiter. Philip", Co. H 123d. e.: dis. June 12, 1865. ^ .. t ,
Zint. John Burgert. Co. I 101st, e. Aug. 12, 1862, afterward the Vet. Res. Corps; dis. July
5, 1865.
Zerby, Willoughby, Co. E 180th, e. Oct. 8, 1864; dis. June 25, 1865.
Zimmerman, Joseph, Co. H 21st, e. April 23, 1861; discharged; Co. B 5/th; re-e. 1862;
killed at Shiloh, Tenu.. April 6, 1862.
Zimmerman, William, Co. E 186th,e. Feb. 6, 1865; dis. Sept. 18, 1865. ,, ,^,,
Zimmerman, ThoVnas, 26th, e. 1861; died at Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., May 11, 1862.
Soldiers' Monument. — The question of erecting a soldiers' monument was
first discussed in the spring of 1800, but the proposition slept for eighteen
years. A reference to the political chapter will point out the vote for and against
the erection of a monument to the soldiers of Seneca County. In accordance
with this vote the commissioners purchased fi'om Michael Scannell, himself one
of the soldiers of 1801-05. the gore, or angular piece of land, situate exactly on
the site of old Fort Ball, within the original village of Oakley or Spencerstown,
and there, on May 8, 1885, laid the base stone of the Soldiers' and Sailors'
Monument. This is of Westerfield granite, weighing 10 tons and 300
pounds. Henry Cromwell, who was present at the completion of this beauti-
ful memorial, early on the morning of May 13. 1885, says: "The citizens of
Seneca County may well feel proud of having erected the grandest memorial of
respect to her loyal soldiers of any county in the State of Ohio. "
The monument bears the following inscriptions:
870 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
On the east front, commencing at the top, "Shiloh.Vicksburg, Gettysburg (Die), Seneca
Count}^ to her Loyal Soldiers." On the north front " Atlanta, Antietam. Appomattox
(Die), Fort Ball 1812." On the west front '■ Nashville, Cedar Creek, Wilderness." On the
south front "Resaca, Stone River, Mission Ridge."
The question of placing this monument in the Court House Square was
seriously considered by many of the people, but the better sense of the majority
prevailed, and now one of the historic spots of the continent is marked by an
artistic pile of granite and marble, which groups, as it were, the recollections of
1812 and of 18(35.
The unveiling and dedication of the monument took place July 3, 1885.
Ex-Gov. Foster was president of the day ; Gen. W. H. Gibson, dedicator ;
Josej^h P. Myers, marshal, and J. A. Thrapp, chaplain. At the close of the
president's address, H. W. Yeager, the contractor, unveiled the monument,
and the ceremony of dedication commenced. Addi-essing Gen. Gibson, the
president said:
"Commander of the G. A. R., I am authorized to ask you at this time to accept from
the citizens of Seneca County, at the hands of its official representatives, this memorial,
and to request that it may be dedicated by you to the noble purpose for which it has been
erected."
Gen. Gibson then responded in one of his happiest speeches, and called on
the adjutant to detail a guard.
Adj. Edward Lepper then read the following names, and each one reported
present :
Schriner, of Leauder Stem Post.
Blackwell, of Isaac P. Rule Post.
Carson, of W. T. Brown Post.
Turner, of W. T. Brown Post.
Callihan. of Xorris Post.
Day, of Powell Post.
Grove, of Rice and Creglow Post.
Eckelberry, of Robinson Post.
He then responded:
"Commander, the guard is present."
Com. Gibson— "Officer of the Day, you will direct the Officer of the Guard to station
this detail about the memorial shaft."
After they had been placed about the monument he proceeded:
"Holy Scripture saith: 'The Lord gave the word; great was the compauj' of those that
published it.' Ps. Ixviii, 11.
" 'Declare ye among the nations, and publish and set up a standard.' Jer. l, 2.
" 'In the name of our God we will set up our banners.' Ps. xx, 5.
"Officer of the Day, you will order the guard of honor to raise the flag."
Officer of the Day — ''Officer of the Guard, let the flag be raised."
The flag was then drawn up the pole, and as it unfolded itself to the breeze
the chorus of forty or fifty male voices broke forth in the inspiring strains of
the "Star Spangled Banner. " ,
Commander — "The forces of the nation are divided into two great arms: that of the
navy and that of the army. Senior Vice-Commander what words of Holy Scripture may
apply to the navy?"
James Crawford, S. V. C. , then responded as follows:
"They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters, "these see
the works of the Lord and His wonders in the deep. For He commandetli and raiseth the
stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.. .Then they cry unto the Lord in their
trouble, and He bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm so that
the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because theybe quiet, so He bringeth
them into their desired haven. Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and
for His wonderful works to the children of men!" Ps. cvii, 23, 24, 25, 28-32.
Commander— "Officer of the Day. let the Guard of Honor set up the symbol of the
navy and let a sailor be detailed to guard it."
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 371
A large anchor was then set up against the south side of the monument,
and Capt. C. P. Bragg, di-essed as a United States sailor, with drawn cutlass,
mounted the base and stood guard.
The Commander then asked —
"Junior Vice-Commander, what Scripture may apply to the army?"
Oscar Chamberlain, J. V. C. , responded —
" ' To your tents, O Israel. . .So all Israel went to their tents.'— 2. Chron. x. 16. 'The
children of Israel shall pitch their tents, every man by his own camp, and every man by
his own standard, throughout their hosts.'— Num. i. 52. 'Thou hast given a banner to them
that fear Thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth.'— Ps. Ix. 4. 'The Lord shall
utter His voice before His army; for JHis camp is very great; for He is strong that executeth
His word; for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible;and who can abide it?'— Joel ii.
IL 'Some trust in chariots and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the
Lord our God.' "—Ps. XX. 7. , , ^ .,
Commander— "Officer of the Day, let the Guard of Honor set up the symbol of the
army, and let a soldier be detailed to guard it."
A musket with bayonet, canteen, haversack and knapsack were then placed
against the north side of the shaft, and W. J. Daywalt, in full soldier uniform,
armed with a musket with fixed bayonet, was placed on guard.
Gen. Gibson then asked —
"Officer of the Day, if the work of the navy and army be well done, what proclama-
tion from Holy Scripture can you make?"
Frank Frederici, Officer of the Day, then responded:
"A proclamation of peace. 'Lord thou wilt ordain peace for us; for Thou also hast
wrouo-ht all our works in us.'— Isaiah xxvi, 12. 'How beautiful upon the mountams are the
feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings
of good, that publisheth salvation; that sayeth unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!. ihe
Lord hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the
earth shall see the salvation of our God.'"— Isaiah lii. 7. 10.
Commander— "The chaplain will now offer the prayer of dedication.
Eev. J. A. Thrapp, the chaplain, offered prayer.
Gen. Gibson then said:
"Attention! G. A. R! In the name of the Grand Army of the Republic, I now dedicate
this memorial shaft. I dedicate it to the memory of those who in the navy guarded our in-
land seas and ocean coasts, and fell in defence of the flag. I dedicate it to the memory of those
who in the army fought for our hillsides and valleys and plains, and fell in defence of the
flag I dedicate it to the memory of those who on land and on sea fought for the Union,
and fell in defence of the flag; who on laud and sea fought for the authority of the Consti-
tution.and fell in defence of the flag; who on land and on sea fought for their country.and
fell in defence of the flag. Comrades, salute the dead!"
After a brief pause the Commander called "Attention! At ease! " and then
said:
"Mr. President, our service of dedication is ended. In the name of my comrades I
thank you and those you represent for your courtesy in permitting us, who are bound by
special ties to them, to honor our dead." .
"Attention! G. A. R! As we close these services the guard of honor is withdrawn, the
symbols of army and navy are removed, thg flag is lowered, but the memorial we have
dedicated remains guarded by our dead. So long as it shall endure it shall speak to us
and to all the loyalty and heroism in the army and the navy, and of that siguifieant na-
tional authority of which our flag is the symbol to every true American heart. "^^
"Officer of the Day.remove the symbols." (After a pause)."Lower the flag. (Another
pause). "Dismiss the guard. Chaplain, pronounce the benediction."
The benediction was then pronounced, and one of the most beautiful cere-
monies ever witnessed in the county concluded a fitting close to the military
history of Seneca.
372 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY
CHAPTER X.
SOCIETIES OF THE COUNTY.
IN the chapter on pioneers, the history of the Seneca County Pioneer
Association finds a place ; the law circle is mentioned in the chapter on the
Courts and Bar, while to the physicians of the county a whole chapter is de-
voted. Here a record is made of the Agricultural Society and a few kindred
organizations, and here, also, the history of the Teachers' Institute is given.
Such organizations as the Agricultu.ral Society and the Teachers' Institute are
comjilete in the elements of usefulness; both are educators, great formers of
opinions and workers in the fields of agricultiiral and mental development. In
noticing such associations, their organization and membership only are pub-
lished, because the annual fair of the first is an established fact, as are the
meetings and good works of the latter recognized and known.
Seneca County Agricnlfural Society. — This society maybe said to have orig-
inated in a call issued by David E. Owen, under authority of the county commis-
sioners, and in compliance with the legislative act of February 25, 1833. This
meeting was held June 28, of that year, but failed to effect an organization.
The legislative act of March 12, 1839, to promote agricultiu'al associations,
met with much greater success in Seneca. Gabriel J. Keen advertised a meet-
ing to be held January 1, 1842. The convention to form an agricultiu'al so-
ciety was held at Tiifin. January 1, 1842, with Sam Waggoner, temporary
chairman, and R. G. Pennington, secretary, who were elected permanently,
with Agreen Ingraham, vice-president; Evan Dorsey, recording secretary; E.
G. Pennington, corresponding secretary; Lloyd Nori'is, treasurer; Andrew
Moore, George Stoner and John Terry, executive committee.
The first fair of the Seneca County Agricultural Society was held in Octo-
ber, 1842. This organization was successful fi'om its beginning. In 1843
the executive committee ' ' crew, " so to speak, over the success of the society,
and advertised as follows :
BANK OF TERRA FIRMA.
SENECA COUNTY AGEICULTUEAL SOCIETY.
Agreen Ingraham, president; Levi Davis, vice-president; R. G. Pennington,
recording secretary ; Sam Waggoner, corresponding secretary; Lloyd
Norris, treasurer; George Stoner, John Terry and
Joseph McClelland, executive committee.
The capital of this institution in March, 1843, consisted of 345,000
acres of land in Seneca County, and the membership at that time was 200.
The present constitution, under which the society works, was adopted in 1870.
The reports to the annual meeting held in December, 1884, showed that
the society was in good condition as compared with the previous year, the in-
debtedness having been reduced over $2,000. E. T. Stickney was re-elected
president and C. Y. Brundage, vice-president. The nine managers elected for
the ensuing two years are as follows: Big Spring, Peter Brayton; Clinton,
Edward H. Swander; Eden, Samuel Koch; Reed, David F. Jordan; Scipio,
James Van Fleet; Seneca, Peter Haefling; Thompson, John "Weller; Tiffin, J.
Q/tyn^yi^r /o< .U^^Uc/?^^
a
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
375
A. Norton; at large, Joseph T. Robinson. The members hokling over are
Adams, John Wales; Bloom, John Rice; Hopewell, Henry Downey; Jackson,
Montgomery Noble; Loudon, George D. Acker; Liberty, John B. AVeaver;
Pleasant, Jacob Zimmerman; Venice, D. J. Neikirk; Tiffin, T. J. Livers. The
following committee was appointed to arrange for the Farmers' Institute to be
held at National Hall, Tiffin, January 23 and 24, 1885: Charles Flumer-
felt, Old Fort; W. S. Cramer, Tiffin; Bert Rice, Attica; G. D. Acker, Fosto-
ria; Charles Spencer, Mexico.
Immediately after the adjournment the board met and re-elected W. S.
Cramer, secretary and H. J. Weller, treasurer, after which the following exec-
utive committee was appointed: E. T. Stickney, W. S. Cramer, T. J. Livers,
Edward H. Swander and Joseph T. Robinson.
The roll of life members of this society comprises the following names :
Altenbaucrh, J.'L.*
Adams. Heury
Allen, Gideoii*
Anway, J. L.
Anderson, Anson
Buskirk, Albert
Barnes, A. T.*
Brewer, N. L.
Bagby, T. H.
Baker. A. C*
Baltzell, Thomas
Boyer. H. A.
Brown, G. K.
Byers, A. H.
Buskirk, G. W.
Buskirk, H. A.
Behm, Jacob
Bruudage, C. Y.
Bachman, G. W.*
Bloom, Frederick
Burkhardl, W.
Burpee, Joseph
Burger, Frantz
Bray ton, Peter
Baldwin. A. C.
Baker. F. A., Sr.
Barbour, A. C.
Boyer, R. M.
Baker, Samuel
Brown, Abraham
Brinkerhoflf, J. H.
Byers, Philip
Baker, AVilliam
Bork, Louis P.
Cunningham, G. W.
Crawford. W. J.
Chamberlain. S.
Cramer, D. F.
Chamberlain, J.
Crooks, Henry
Crissel, W. J.*
Conaghau, Joseph
Corthell, George*
Cramer, U. F.
Childs, Edward
Cromer, Thomas*
Cramer, Daniel
Dildine, William M.*
Dorsey, Stephen*
Dult, John
*Deceasecl.
Dunn, W. N.*
Dow. Alvin
Diehl, Lewis
Derr, Ezra
Dutrow, T. H.
Dutrow, E. W.
Downej', Heury
Downs, J. L.
Ernest, George
Emich, Philip*
Egbert, J. W.
Einsel, Lewis
Eyler, Henry
Engler, William
Fisher, John L.
Fiege, John*
Fleet, W. D.*
Flumcrfelt, Charles
Free, John*
Foncannon, M.
Finch, S. L.
Fry, F. J.
Giilbraith, William
Grelle, Samuel
Gibson, W. H.
Grummel, Fred
Grummel, Philip
Gross, John G'.*
Good, Reuben
Gilbert, Samuel*
Goodsell, D J.
Gwynn. John*
Geyer, Charles
Huss, John T.*
Huss, George R.
Huber, Horace*
Hartsock, Dorsey
Hartuian, J. G.
Holtz, Dennis
Hall, L. A.*
Huddle, Lewis
Helderbrake, J.
Hamilton, E. L.
Herold. William
Kulh, Adam
Holtz. Jacob P.
Heilman. John
Horton, L. S.*
Hall, Horace*
Heilman, John F.
Heiter. William
Harter, Joseph
Huddle, D. B.
Holtz, George
Hedges, W. C*
Hensinger, M. A.
Herrin, Samuel
Haetlinar, Peter
Herr. Peter
Ink, Theodore M.*
Johnston, W. M.*
Jones, Erastus*
Kirchner, M. J.
Keilholtz, W. H.*
Kline, William
Keller, Reuben*
Kagy, Isaac
Kirchner, M.
Keating, G. L.
Kaull, J. M.
Keen. G. J.
Keifer, Moses
Keubler, B.
Kisecker. A.
Kern. Isaac
Koch, Samuel
Keller, Levi, Jr.
Keller, John W.
Knapp, J. H.
Leiner, Charles
Loomis, J. D.
Lutz, G. W.
Loose, John H.
Lee, John C.
Landon, Alfred*
Lease, L. N.
Lantz, John W.
Lamkin, Charles*
Letterhos, Joseph*
Loesser, John*
Lamberson, Williai
Livers, Thomas J.
Myers, D. C*
Martin, John W.
Myers. Michael
MVers, P. P.*
McClelland, H.
Mueller, Christ
Marquardt, J. F.
Martin, Melkiah*
Maloy, Dennis
Myers, John
McCauley, John
McCollum, E. J.
McClelland, R.
McClelland, W. H.
Mull, Samuel
Murra3^ Jerome
Myei's, Joseph P.
Myers, E. S.
Naylor. J. M.
Noble, H.
Noble, W. P.
Nyman, P.
Noel, Nicholas
Neikirk, John
Neikirk, William
Neikirk, Jeremiah
Naylor, E. T.
Ourand, T. W.
Ogden, G. M.
Owen, C. G.
Ogle, Thomas
Park. C. C.
Pennington, R. G.
Pennington, I.
Patterson, James
Pittenger, John
Poorman, John
Pillars, James
Paine, W. J.
Pittenger, J. H.*
Pecher, S. J.
Paine, W. J.
Ryan, P. H.
Rice, John
Rickenbaugh, J.
Rickenbaugh, S.
Rawson, Abel*
Rogers, R. H.
1* Ruess, A. J.
Rust. H.
Robinson, J. T.
Rein bolt, Charles
Randall, Edward
Reeme, Benjamin C.
Sullivan, M.*
Sneath, A. G.*
Skinner, M. P.*
Shawhan, R. W.
876
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Sullivan, E.*
Seney, George E.
Smith, D. S.
Steinau, A.
St. John, I. L.
Stoner, S. H.
Snyder, Justin*
Schneider, Clem
Sneath, S. B.
Slaymaker, F.
Souder, John W.
Swander, D. J.
Smith, v.*
Stoner, John A.
Sexton, M.
Swigert, John
Spindler, H. C*
Shaull, John M.
Schultz, Peter
Smoyer, William
Shavvhan, F. K.
Seitz, Christian
Scheib, Philip
Strong, Jesse*
Searles, H.
Seigley, Benjamin
Six, Levi
Schrickel, Fred
Snook, C*
Souder, H. H.
Staub, Joseph G.
Sheteuhelm, G.*
Sager, Jackson
Smith, Henry
Swander, Edward H.
Stickney, E. T.
Spencer, Charles J. Weirick, Levi
Tomb, Benjamin* Wenner, H. S.
Tomb, Thomas B. Weirick, Jesse*
Tunison, D. C. Wisler, Lewis
Tokayer, P. Wales, John 2d
Titus, R. R. White, John D.
Troxel, Charles W' hite, John S.
Utz, Samuel Weaver, John B.
Umsted, N. Wade, Washington
Vorndran, John Weller, John
Vollmer, Joseph* Yerk, J. S.
VanNest, Peter* • Young, Jacoh
VauNette, B. N. Zahm, J. M.*
Virts, William H. Zeigler, John
White. L. Zeller, O. C.
AYeller, Henry J.
Wagner, Frank
Watson, J. L.
The Grange Organization. — In the fall of 1873 the Grange movement was
introduced into the county by J. W. Barrack, organizing deputy, and others.
The Melmore Grange was the first organized, September 16, 1873, with E.
Shoemaker, M. , and R. McMartin, secretary. The Grange at Tiffin followed,
November 29, 1873, with C. C. Park, M.*, and William Miller, secretary.
Grand Rapids Grange and Seneca Grange, were organized December '20.18*3.
Mayflower Grange No. 290. was organized December 22, 18/3. with John
Greer, M. , and J. R. Higgins, secretary. Palo Alto Grange was organized
December 20, with Jeremiah Rex, M. Republic Grange, Green Spring
Grange and Fostoria Grange were organized in January, 1874, with "William
Baker, R. H. Slaymaker and Montgomery Noble, Masters, respectively.
Bloom Grange No. 510, Harmony Grange (Reed Township), Thompson Cen-
tre Grange, Loudon Grange and Venice Grange were all organized in the
spring of 1874. and, with the farmers' circles mentioned above, must be consid-
ered the pioneers of a movement which occupied a great deal of public atten-
tion, if it did not actually become a problem of political economy. Seneca
County Council, Patrons of Husbandry, was organized at Tiffin. November 27,
1874, with the following members : C. C. Park, James Patterson, A. L. Shafer.
S. B. Resh, ^\. Hyter, O. S. Watson, J. W.. Barrack, J. W. Souder, D. M.
Neikirk, William Derr, W. H. Miller and F. Baker.
Stock Breeders' Association. — The Northwestern Ohio Association, for the im-
provement of stock, was organized at Clyde, March 22. 1865, with J. L. Greene,
of Sandusky, president; T. H. Bagby, of Seneca, secretary; Michael Sullivan,
of Seneca, treasurer, and Samuel Herrin, of Seneca, a member of the directors'
board.
Short-horn Breeders' Association Meeting. — A meeting was held at the
court house, February 26, 1881, pursuant to call, for the purpose of organiz-
ing a Short-horn Breeders' Association. The following named persons became
members: E. T. Stickney, George Holtz, D. W. Brown, Jeremiah Neikirk, J.
W. Keller, Peter Haefling, E. B. Ferree, George Weed, Joseph Shaw and
John Wales. A temporary organization was effected by electing George Holtz.
president; J. W. Keller, vice-president, and H. J. Weller, secretary.
Bee Keepers' Association. — About 1861. the movable comb bee-hive was in-
troduced in the county by J. T. Martin, who, in 1868, with others interested
in bee culture, made an effoi't to organize a society. This effort failed.
March 16, 1884, a society was formed with eighteen members, representing
260 colonies of bees. The election of officers followed, resulting in the elec-
tion of E. J. C. Troxel as president. J. L.* Fisher, vice-president, J. T. Mar-
*Deceased.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
377
tin. secretary, William C. Hamilton, treasurer, and M. Holtz, J. L. Fisher
and J. T. 'Maiiin, executive committee. In 1867 the Bolin apiary was
established in Reed Township. From one swarm, in 1867, the industry
increased to 125 separate swarms.
The Clinton Protect ires Society was organized at Tiffin, January 2, 1 845. Lewis
Baltzell, D. F. Cramer and William Lang formed the committee. Thomas
Lloyd w'as president in 1857, Benjamin Tomb, treasurer, and R. W. Shawhan,
captain. This society has changed merely in name since that early date. In
its advertisement calling the attention of horse thieves, it says: " The 'Seneca
Horse Guards ' were organized years ago; have never permitted a thief to get
away with a horse stolen from the society, but one; has a sufficient fund on
hand for all practical purposes, and is in every way ready at all times for any
emergency. We would suggest that it might be well for horse thieves to
make'^a note of these facts, and file it away for fixture reference." The officers
are C. C. Park, president, A. J. Davidson, secretary, Samuel Koch, treasui'er.
The members of this association in 1884-85 were:
Arbogast, Michael Boes, Frank Fry, Frank J.
Abbott, Frank Bigger, D. D. Fry, O. J.
Arnold, J. L. Bacon, W. S. Fry. P. H.
Anderson, Anson Blasius, Martin Fruth, John ]N.
Arnold, J. W. Brewer, N. L. Fruth, F. M.
Abbott, A. L. Bogart, Jesse Falkner, Benjamin
Adams, Jacob A. Bercaw, Silas Fraver, John
Acker, George D. Conaghan, Joseph Flumerfelt, Charles
Bowersox, Jacob Conaghan, H. D. Fritz, William C.
Baker, ^V. H. Cahill, John Fanning, J. F. E.
Baker, F. A. Clark, John L. Feabels, George
Baker, John W. Conrad, Reuben Fox, Philip _
Baker, Silas W. Cupp, E. B. Guernsey, Lucius
Baker, Rufus M. Creeger, Henry W. Gillig, Joseph _
Baker, Frank Crum, Elias W. Grummell, Fredrick
Baker, Samuel Cook, A. P. Gillis, Michael
Bender. L. F. Cobly, Frank A. George, Stephen
Britt, John Corbet, Martin Gehris, Peter
Beard, John F. Crum, Oliver Galbreath, William
Bowser, Thomas B. Cramer, Claridon Glenn, F. J.
Byrne, Edward Doran, C. W. Goetschins, Evan
Best, Henry L. Davidson, Henry
Burnside, Joseph W. Davidson, H. C. Holtz, Jacob P.
Barrack, William
Barrack, John ^Y. Davidson, G. W.
Barrack, George W. Davidson. A. J.
Barrack, Simon F. De^Vitt, H. S.
Barrack, Lutiier C. Derr, David H.
Balliet, Joseph Derr, John T.
Bare, James M. Deily, Allison
Buchman, John Dunn, Alington
Bridenbaugh, John A. Downs, Lemuel
Brendle, Jacob
Bihm, Frank
Bernard, Aaron
Bernard, G. P.
Bernard, C. C.
Haugh, T. F.
Huth, Nicholas
Heilman, John
Hunter, John
Haines, Erastus M.
Hile, John
Helfrick, Albert
Hershy, Luther C.
Heating, Lafayette
Her, Conrad
Ink, Charles W.
Kesecker, Andrew W.
Koch, Samuel
Knight, Thomas
Kaull, William
KauU, J. M.
Keller, John W.
Kinzer, Gottlieb
Kiser, Samuel
Koerper, Michael
Keef, John
Goetschins', George R.Kepple, Henry D.
Davidson, William H.Holtz, Dennis
Holtz, John
Holtz, Charles D.
Holtz, George
Huss, Jacob S.
Hyter, William
Haefling, Peter
Huber, Eugene
Huber, John
Houck, Henry
Houck, Ezra
Houck, Isaac, Jr.
Bloom, W. H.
Bloom, Jacob
Bloom, A. J.
Bagbv, T. H.
Brown, A. G.
Beard, Charles S.
Burger, David
Bowersox, Daniel
Benneholf, Henry
Brown, J. S.
Derr, Dennis F.
Doran, James
Detterman, George
Dippelhofer, Andrew Houck, Peter
Dilliplain, Brown Holt, William
Engler, W\ M.
Egbert, J. W.
Egbert, N. D.
Einscl, Lewis
Eakin, Samuel
Eakin, Perry
Eastman, William S.
Emerine, Lawrence
Einsel, William
Funk, J. H.
Heck, John
Haines, A.
Horn, Samuel
Hepler, George
Hoffbauer, Joseph
Heninger, H. H.
Harley, Daniel
Hunker, Jacob J.
Hoover, Jacob
Hunker, Mathias
Kishler, George W.
Kemp, Philip
Krupp, John
Kiser, Daniel
Kinney, Bartholomew
Kieffer, Adam
Kagy, Isaac
Kramer, Franklin
Loose, E. J.
Loose, Daniel
Loose, John H.
Loose, William H.
Lonzway, Joseph
Lonzway, Lewis
Lonzway, Joseph A.
Lonzw^ay, Sylvester
Lonzway, Julius J.
Lang, William
Lano-, Walter O.
Lutz^, F. K.
Lutz, B. F.
Leidy, J. C.
Lawiiead, J. W^.
Livers, T. J.
Litzenberger, T.
378
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Littler, Austin C.
Lytic, Cbas W.
Lumberjack, John
Latham, J. S.
McClellan, Robert
McClellan, Walter
McClellan, S. C.
McClellan, W. B.
Magers, J. E.
Marscha. Andrew
Miller, Daniel
Miller, Peter
Miller, Adam
Miller, N. A.
Miller, John K.
Miller, W. W.
Michaels, Leroy
Mutschler, Charles
Mangus, Charles P.
McEwen, Jesse
Martin. Chas.
Martin, Absalom
Martin, George M.
Moore, John W.
McNamee, John
Neely, Jesse
Noble, Warren P.
Noble, Harrison
Norris, William
Norris, John T.
Nighswander, Martii
Nepper, Charles
Newcomb, V. D.
Owen. Charles G.
Ogle, Joseph
O'Connor, Timothy
Oiler, J. W.
Park, C. C.
Park, T. L.
Price, Daniel
Price, 'J. H.
Pittenger, John
Pittenger, D. C.
Peters, David
Powel, Andrew
Patterson, James
Potteiger, James C.
Pennington, T. J.
Rumslaugh. Barnhart
Reynolds, L.
Reohrer, Benoni
Rickenbaugh, Samuel
Rickenbaugh, B. P.
Remele, John A.
Rex, William
Rex, Jeremiah
Reidelpach. Donard
Rickets, Milton D.
Rumslaugh, Henry
Ridgely. John H.
Rohrer. Elias W.
Reed, William L.
Ruse, Solomon K.
Reiff, J.
Reininger, Gustavus
Rhoades, Joseph
Rice, John
Rice, Henry, Jr.
Rhuly, Christian
Rhuly, D. E.
Reenie, B. C.
Rosenberger, Jacob
Reinhart, Martin
Seifert, Philip
Shannon, George
Swander, Edward
Swander, E. H.
Swander, E. T.
Swander, D. J.
Staib, Jacob
Staib. Jacob
Staib, Christian
Staib, Eugene
Staib, Herman
Sexton, Myron
Stinchcomb, James
Strausbaugh, Henry
Strausbaugh, Joseph
Strausbaugh, A. B.
Strause, Stephen
Schubert, Herman
Schubert. John
Shultz, Peter
Souder, John AV.
Shumaker, George
Shock, Henry M.
Sherman, Eldridge
Seney, George E.
Swigert, Aaron
ShafEner, William
Staufer, David
Scott, George D.
Swabley, Gustus
Strausbaugh, George
Smith, Henry
Smith, Martin
Smith. John
Saul, Jesse
Starky, Alexander
Searls, C. F.
Swartzmiller, John
Seigley, W. W.
Stultz, James
Theis, Michael
Tintsman, Morris
Unser, Jolin
VanNette, Brognard
VauNette, Kate
VauNette, Westley
White, John D.
Wank, John
Wank, Joseph
Watson, Oliver S.
Werline, Simon
Wickerham, Peter
Welly, Joseph
Wall, Nicholas
Welly, Michael
Welly, Thomas
Welly, Henry
W^eirick, E. B.
Weirick, John B.
Warnament, J. B.
Warnament, Nicholas
Wannemacher, S. G.
Wolf, Solomon
Wilson, E. W.
Watson, Robert H.
Whalen, T. F.
Walter, Joseph
Warner, J. W.
Wood, J. J.
Williams, Adams
•Young, George
Yeager, J. C.
Zook, Abram
Shumaker, Abraham Zeiser, Andrew
Sheidler, B. F. Zimmerman, Jacob
Spitler, John K. Zimmerman, Hiram
Stackhouse, BenjaminZimmerman, J. B.
Thom, John
Titus, R. R.
Trout, S. D.
Seneca County Teachers' Institute. — The last meeting of the institute, and,
as it is stated, its most important meeting, was held at Republic, August 17,
1885, in response to the call of the following named officers:
H. C. Osiien, president; J. M. Collier, secretary; Grant S. Lott, Ella
Rhoades, Ethel Stewart, executive committee.
Following is a list of those in attendance, and members of the institute:
J. W. Knott, Tiffin; B. B. Hall, Milan; J. D. Luse. Mentor; C. H. Shock,
Bloomville; Z. E. Rutan. Republic; W. H. Patterson, Bloomville; B. R. Mil-
led, Tiffin; B. W. Knepple, Morris: A. Weinandy, Adrian; L. T. Montgomery,
Fort Seneca; Albert Shuman, Tiffin; S. H. Gettinger, Green Spring; S. H.
Kimmel, W. H. Egbert, Tiffin; E. C. Palmer, Republic; J. S.Good, Fostoria;
R. B. Harris, Green Spring; Mrs. Z. E. Rutan, Republic; Dora Berry, Re-
public; J. D. Groesbeck, Bloomville; John L. Cole. Republic: W. Robenalt,
Republic; Delia Waterman, Bellevue; Cora Shadle, Bellevue : Ressie Robinson,
Rejniblic; Laura Laughrey, Republic; Addie Lapham, Republic; Clara Nei-
kirk, Republic; Kittie Anwa^', Republic; Douglas Brown, Republic; John A.
Colwell, Republic; Nora Shaw, Republic; Mary Stroh, Republic; Marietta
Brown, Republic; Eva Stewart, Republic; Clara Roop, Attica; Flora Lepard,
Attica; May Rogers, Reedtown; T. E. Wyant, WestLodi: Hat Cutler. Repub-
lic; May Seiple, Bloomville; E. A. Kelly, Siam; L. J. Todd. Attica: Amelia
Sauer, Tiffin; Eva Bacher, Tiffin; Mrs. M. E. Zartman, Tiffin; J. R. Sherman,
Milan; Mrs. J. Sherman, Milan; R. B. Drake, Attica; O. A. Lake, Attica; J.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 379
M. Collier, Bellevne; W. H. Stephenson, Attica; S. J. Beeghly, Attica: Belle
Michner, Attica; Icedore Huffman, Attica; Alice Sanford, Attica: William
Kassing, Jr., Fostoria; David Hilsinger, Republic; E. C. Hardman, Clyde;
Minnie Nve, Bloomville; L. D. Bevington, Bloomville: C. D. Fisher, Bloom-
ville; I. L. Stinebaugh, Rockaway; F. L. Bowser, Tiffin; J. J. DeWitt, Tiffin;
Mattie Cnmmings, Republic; Cora Cummings, Republic; I. J. Hoffman,
Republic; M. J. Feasel, Bettsville; Grant Lott, Bettsyille; Burton Ramsburg,
Republic; Delia Wilcox, Republic; G. A. Allen, Melmore; Lizzie Shooff'ner,
Bloomville; Vesta Geiger, Bloomville; Minnie Stewart, Bloomville; Irena Olds,
Bloomville; Alice Bowman, Bloomville: Luella Bare. Tiffin: Lallie Hoke, Fort
Seneca: Florence Moore, Plymouth; Ida Sidel, Fostoria: Nellie Henry, Fos-
toria; F. J. Stinchcomb, Tiffin; L. Anwav, Republic: Fannie Pettys, Rejjublic;
D. P. McCarty, New Riegel; F. M. Worley, New Riegel; S. M. Khne. Tiffin;
F. R. Mann, Tiffin; E. D. Klose, West Lodi; S. F. Lebold, Attica; Ella King,
Morris; Katie Lynch, Tiffin; Addie Bloom, Tiffin; Emma Kuhn, Tiffin: Mollie
McCarty, New Riegel: Amelia Dreitzler, Fostoria; J. B. Smith, Repviblic: J.
Hill, Tiffin; G. M. Hoke, Fort Seneca; Charles Lewis, Bloomville; Charles
Lee, Clyde; Nellie Green, Fostoria; Nettie Green, Attica; Nellie Chittenden,
Attica; Hannah Kemp, Attica; Leora Moore, Republic; Becca Boling, Republic;
Hattie Jordan, Republic; Lula Boling, Republic; Mary Good, Tiffin; Theresa
Pittenger, Tiffin; H. C. Ostein, Republic; L. A. Ostein, Republic; Libbie
Eastman, Republic: Ollie England, Republic; Mvrta Ellitt, Republic; Joseph-
ine Meier, Republic; T. T. Beaver, Clyde; E. H. Good, Bellevue; E. E.
Meff'ord, Clyde; Aggie Breneman, Fort Seneca; Jennie Littler, Fort Seneca;
Laui-a Hodge, West Lodi; Mrs. George W. Kimmel, Fostoria; Ella S. Emmick,
Tiffin; Katie Kime, Tiffin; Alta Keating, Tiffin; M. L. McKibben, Republic;
A. B. Stewart, Bloomville; Ella Rhoades, Fostoria; Mary Armstrong, Republic;
Lillie Suiter, Attica; J. W. Michener, Attica; Hettie Young, Tiffin: Ella
Young, Tiffin; Velora Huddle, Tiffin: Mattie McHenry, West Lodi: Lillian
Armstrong, Republic; J. P. Vickeiy, Clyde; Elnora Collier, Bellevue: D. W.
Fisher, Bloomville; A. A. Krush, Bellevue; Mary Swope, Fostoria; J. K.
Wolf, Bloomville; Katie Dormer, Fostoria; Nora Sloman, Tiffin; Sophia Fink,
Berwick; Esther Allen, Melmore; Dora Downs, Melmore; Nettie Downs, Mel-
more; Mrs. C. A. Non-is, Republic; C. A. Non'is, Republic; W^. M. Baker,
Republic; Callie Rickenbaugh, Tiffin: Cora Stinchcomb, Tiffin; Ethel Stewart,
Bloomville; Mell Griffin, Republic; Nellie Griffin; Bloomville; A. Engl chart,
Attica: Clara Cooper, Attica; Millie Brant, Attica; J. J. Benninger, Morris: C.
Cummings, Republic; C. C. Down, Watson; P. A. Tompkins, West Lodi; Ida
Searing, Rockaway; Nelson Smeltz, Attica; M. F. Hosier, Attica; Homer Ste-
phenson, Attica; Avilla Albi'ight, Bloomville; C. M. Link, Attica; Lida Cunning-
ham, Fostoria; Mrs. E. J. Lowery, Republic; Delia Collins, Morris: Maud
Knepple, Morris: B. F. Myers, Tiffin; R. J. Dunn, Republic; N. R. Heaton,
Tiffin; Homer Metzgar, Republic; C. E. Gulick, Tiffin; J. L. Newcomer,
Bloomville; David Hull, Carrothers; D. M. Hull, CaiTothers; James Carpenter,
Republic; Sylvia Terwilliger, Flat Rock; Clara Decker, Bellevue.
The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted in the choice of the
following:
President, E. C. Palmer, Republic; vice-president, R. B. Hams, Green
Spring; secretary, Miss Lida Cunningham, Fostoria; assistant secretary. Miss
Alta Keating, Tiffin; treasui'er, B. F. Myers, Tiffin.
380 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XI.
EAILEOADS.
SCARCELY ten years had elapsed from the time the Granite Quarry Raihoad
was built out from Quincy, Mass. , in 1826, when the idea of railroad construc-
tion crept across the Alleghenies and settled in Ohio. The Sandusky & Mans-
field Railroad was begun prior to 1835. In 1832 there was held a railroad
meeting at Tifiin, and in September, 1835, work was begun on the Mad River
& Lake Erie Railroad. Early in 1839 the whistle of the locomotive was heard
within the boundaries of Seneca County, while above the noise of the train the
song of the passengers cordd be heard:
"The mothers ran out with their children about.
From every lo.^-cabin they hail;
The wood-chopper, he stood, delighted to see,
The law makers ride on a rail !
The horses and cattle, as onward we rattle,
Were never so frightened before;
We are bound for the city that grows in the woods,
The city by Honey Creek's shore."
Mad River & Lake Erie Railroad. — The question of constructing a railroad
was brought before the people of this county in September, 1832. when Henry
Cronise and Josiah Hedges, railroad commissioners, advertised in the Patriot
that stock-books would be opened at Eli Norris' tavern October 4, that
year. The work of construction was already in progress, the first sod being
turned September 7, 1835, at Sandusky, by Gen. Harrison. The road was
opened to Bellevue in September, 1838, to Republic in 1839 and to Tifiin in
1811, when a passenger train was run into the village by engineers Poppen-
burg and Kerrian. The trains on the Mad River & Lake Erie Railroad were
running April 1, 1839, on regular. time table. R. M. Shoemaker was engineer
and superintendent.
From among the published reminiscences of this road the following sketch
is selected: The line having been completed as far as Belle\aie in the fall of
1838, the first train by locomotive power was chartered. Thomas Hogg was
engineer; John Paull, since deceased, was fireman, and Charles Higgins, also
deceased, was conductor. The train consisted of the "Sandusky" locomotive,
a small passenger car, and a still smaller fi-eight car, not exceeding twenty feet
in length, which latter car remained for some time the only accomodation for
conveying merchandise. This primitive combination started from the foot of
Water Street, Sandusky, and, with "flying colors," made a single trip up
and down daily. We are informed that the "Sandusky" was the first locomo-
tive in America to which a regular steam whistle was applied. At this time,
as above stated, the track was known as the " Mad River & Lake Erie Rail-
road" and ran through Belle\'ue to Tiffin, via Republic. Another route was
opened through Clyde, the old track taken up. and over 191 miles of rails
operated under the title of the " CincinDati, Sanduskj^ At Cleveland Railroad,"
including the branch road from Carey to Findlay.
This company issued the fii'st report in June. 1849. It shows that the road
fi-om Sandusky to Springfield, 134| miles, was built at a cost of SI, 754,263. 69.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 381
For the eleven months ending June 1, 1849, the receipts from passenger traffic
amounted to $147,162. in and fi-om_ freight to $151,003.45, total $298,165.61.
The expenditures amounted to $13 /,264.02|^. leaving net earnings for eleven
months of $160,901. 58|. The rolling stock consisted of 17 old-time locomotives,
15 passenger cars, 8 eight -wheeled baggage cars and 310 fe-eight cars, all cost-
ing $264,522.87^. The number of passengers transported diu'ing the eleven
months was 77,194.
Indiana, Bloomington d^ Western Railroad. — The Mad River & Lake
Erie Railroad Company, chartered January 5, 1832, located its road from
Tiffin to Sandusky via Beilevue, as shown in the history of that road. In 1851
the Sandusky City & Indiana Railroad Company commenced to build a parallel
road via Clyde, which was completed in 1S54, and leased to the Mad River &
Lake Erie Railroad Company in December of that year. In June, previous, the
Mad River & Lake Erie Railroad Company leased for fifteen years the Springfield
& Columbus Railroad, agreeing to pay operating expenses, interest on $150,000
out-bonds, the balance of earnings to go to lessor. February 23,1858, the Erie
County Common Pleas Court decreed that the name of the company should be
the Sandusky, Dayton & Cincinnati Railroad Company. In October, 1865,
mortgages were foreclosed and O. Follet appointed receiver. In January, 1866,
the road was sold to trustees representing the stockholders, and in July that
year the company was reorganized as the Sandusky & Cincinnati Railroad
Company. In October the road was leased to the C. D. & E. R. R. Company,
but in January, 1868, the lease was surrendered to the Sandusky & Cincinnati
Railroad Company. A few days later the title was changed to the Cincin-
nati, Sandusky & Cleveland Railroad Company, who, in June, 1870, leased the
road for 99 years to the Columbus, Springfield & Cincinnati Railroad Company.
In March, 1881, the road was leased to the Indiana, Bloomington & "Western
Railroad Company for 99 years, and they now operate it. The road enters the
county southwest of Adrian Village and leaves at Green Spring.
Melmore c& Republic Railroad. — The books for this road were opened at
Jacob Buskirk's house, in Melmore, Calvin Bradley's, in Tiffin, and Miller's,
in Republic, July 4, 1836, but the road was never built.
Ohio, Miami & Wabash Railroad. — Subscription books for this proposed
road were opened at John Park's house, Tiffin, May 30, 1836.
Fort Ball and Lower Sandusky Railroad. — A meeting of the stockholders
was called at Lower Sandusky, April 15, 1846. The call was signed by
Rufris W. Reid, H. C. Brish, Lorenzo Abbott, Ezra Baker, James Justice,
Sardis Birchard, John R. Pease, R. P. Buckland and James Moore.
Tiffin d- Fort Wayne Railroad. — This company was organized in November,
1853, with Josiah Hedges. W. H. Gibson, W. D. Scott, John D. Loomis, J.
W. Wilson, George Knupp. "William C. Hedges and A. C. Baldwin, corpora-
tors. The capital stock was placed at $1,000,000. In the advertisement the
names of R. G. Pennington and Joseph "Walker appear. The chart of the road
was prepared by Peter Ferguson, of Tiffin. The length of the proposed road
was 102 miles, showing a total elevation of 239 feet and a total declination of
114 feet, thus leaving Fort "Wayne twenty-five feet above the level of Tiffin.
Cleveland, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad (middle division — Tiffin & Fort
"Wayne). — This road commenced before the war, and, dormant for some years,
was revived in the fall of 1865.
Columbus, Tiffin & Toledo Railroad. — A company was organized in 1869'
for the purpose of constructing a railroad fr-om Crestline to Toledo via Tiffin.
In May, 1869, J. R. Straughan, chief engineer, presented his report on this
project to the Tiffin & Toledo Railroad Committees (R. G. Pennington repre-
senting Tiffinj, as follows:
382 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
' ' Their road is located to extend from the city of Toledo via Woodville and
Tiffin to Crestline, a distance of seventy-five miles — having no obstacles to
divert the line, and no costly spots to overcome.
The bridging, besides the river at Toledo, consi.sts of three, each of about
260 feet in length, with rock foundations and convenient quarries of good
building stone.
No grades greater than at the rate of forty feet per mile, and these only
for short distances.
Preliminary lines have been run, profiles prepared and estimates made upon
the whole line, except for the bridge and depots at Toledo. The estimated
cost is $1,438,000.
The means relied upon consist of a cash local subscription of $500,000,
and the issue of $1,200,000 of first mortgage bonds.
We have assurances from substantial capitalists in New York that these
bonds can be sold at the usual favorable rates upon the amount of basis above
mentioned.
As a necessary preliminary step, the people of Tiffin subscribed $100,000
to the capital stock, and organized the company by electing a board of direc-
tors, with L. A. Hall for president and myself chief engineer.
They have allotted to each town and neighborhood along the line an amount
of stock to be taken by each in order to aggregate $500, 000, and most of the
points have now made up, or nearly made up, their quota.
The amount so assessed Toledo is $200,000, and as no further progress can
be safely made until it shall be secured, we come to you in the confident
expectation that you will cordially and promptly join in the enterprise. ' '
Pittsburgh, Canton & Chicago Railroad. — This company was organized
August 9, 1870, with the following incorporators: James A. Saxton, C. Ault-
man. Jacob Miller, Isaac Harter, George Cook, Louis Schaef er, Charles Foster,
John T. Huss, John D. Loomis, J. M. Naylor and Warren P. Noble.
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. — This road enters the county at Fostoria, runs
east through Bascom, Tiffin and Eepublic, and leaves the county just northeast
of Attica Village. It may be said to date its history back to March 13, 1872,
when the Baltimore, Pittsburgh & Chicago Railroad Company filed articles of
incorporation, and received authority to build a road from the west line of
Pennsylvania to the west line of Ohio. The work of construction was begun
at Chicago Junction, and pushed forward by moneys advanced by the old Bal-
timore & Ohio Railroad Company. June 10, 1874, the road was built over a
line of 878 miles (Defiance, Ohio), and in December, 1874, the entire road to
Chicago was opened for traffic.
Colanibus, Hocking Valley and Toledo Railroad. — A company, named the
Columbus & Toledo Railway Company, was chartered May 28, 1872, to build
124 miles of railroad fi-om Columbus to Toledo. October 15, 1873, the
road was located via Fostoria; in November, 1876, trains were run between
Marion and Columbus; in November following, the use of the Pennsylvania
Company's road fi'om Walbridge to Toledo, was acquired; in January, 1877,
through business was opened, and, in July of that year, the road was completed
and eqiiipped at a cost of $3,338,507.54. In July, 1881, this road was sold
to the Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo Company, under whom it is now
operated. This road enters the county about a mile south of Springville in
Big Spring Township, and after passing through Fostoria leaves the covmty at
the northwest corner of Section 18, Jackson Township.
As everything connected with it is new, even its history, we cannot do bet-
ter than take a synopsis of its history fi-om the first annual report of Presi-
X
m"^ '%
^^^'
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 385
dent Greene. The company was incorporated May 28, 1872, under the general
act of May 1, 1852, the corporators being M. M. Greene, P. W. Huntington,
B. E. Smith, W. G. Deshler, James A. Wilcox and JohnL. Gill, of Columbus,
for the construction of a railroad from the city of Columbus to the city of Toledo,
through the counties of Franklin, Delaware, Marion, Wyandot, Seneca, Wood
and Lvicas, a distance of J.23 miles. The capital stock was fixed in the certi-
ficate of incorporation at $2,500,000, and on the 1st of July, 1872, subscription
books were opened in Columbus and Toledo. October 15, 1873, the line of the
road was permanently located through the towns of Delaware, Marion, Upper
Sandusky, Carey and Fostoria. It was originally designed to run the road due
north from Delaware, but an extra $10,000 of stock had the effect of producing
a slight ciirve in it, so as to carry it through Delhi and Middletown. Bids for
the construction of the road were opened on the 4:th of August, and on the 16th
of the same month a contract was concluded with Miller, Smith & Co. They
commenced work on the 17th, and in November, 1876, the portion between
Columbus and Marion, a distance of forty- six miles, was sufficiently finished to
justify the company in complying with the urgent solicitation of stockholders
and business men along the line, to operate the same. On the 10th of Janu-
ary, 1877, the entire line was so far completed that through business was com-
menced and regular trains run between Columbus and Toledo under an
arrangement with the contractors, who were, however, occupied for some time
after that in finishing up the road, so that it was not fully completed and
accepted by the company until July following.
Ohio Central Railroad. — This road was originally designed to run from
Toledo on the Maumee, to Pomeroy, on the Ohio, was chartered as the ' 'Lake
Erie & Atlantic," and for the first nine years struggled onward under the
presidency of Thomas Ewing. The road became so involved in debt that the
company resorted to very questionable measures for its relief, sued the stock-
holders for moneys they never owed, but were beaten at their own game. When
the road was sold its named was changed, and the work of completion pushed
forward, so that by the close of 1880, cars were run over the road i-ia Fostoria.
It enters the county in Jackson Township, about a mile north of Fostoria, and
after passing through that city takes a southeastern route and leaves the
county at McCutchenville in Seneca Township.
Mansfield, Coldivater cfe Lake Michigan Railroad. — This line was graded and
had ties laid in Dec. , 1872, along the greater length of track. In Hopewell Town-
ship the rail was placed, but when the enterprise collapsed the rails were taken up
and sold. In 1884 John M. Lemmon, of Clyde, was appointed master com-
missioner for the old Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad stock-
holders. The claims and cost of rent amounted to $231,941.60, — 20 per cent
of $1, 288, 650, amount of stock owned by the Pennsylvania Company, was realized
in 1885.
Northivestern Ohio Railroad. — This was formerly known as the Tiffin,
Toledo & Eastern Railroad, and was completed May 1, 1873, and, consolidated
with the Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad, forms the North-
western Ohio Railroad. J. S. Morris, of Tiffin, is the superintendent of this
important line of road, and the Pennsylvania Company the owners and
operators. This road enters the county at Carrothers in Venice Township,
passes through Bloomville, Tiffin and Bettsville, leaving the county imme-
mediately northwest of last named village in Liberty Township.
New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad, or ^'■Nickel Plate.^^ — The con-
struction work on the New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railway was virtually
completed September 1, 1882. The "Nickel Plate" extends from Buffalo
386 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
to Chicago via Dunkirk, Erie, Ashtabula, Cleveland, Fostoria and Fort
Wayne. The first survey was begun in the last week of February, 1881, and
actual construction commenced in the early part of June of the same year. A
magnificent equipment for passenger and freight service was delivered in
October, 1881, and a year later was open for trafiic. This road crosses the
Baltimore & Ohio, Lake Erie & Western, Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo
and Ohio Central at Fostoria; crosses the Northwestern Ohio Railroad at
Linden, passes by Fort Seneca and Green Spring, and leaves the county in
Adams Township. The opening of this road has given new life to the north-
eastern townships of Seneca County. In the foreclosure suit of September,
1885, tried at Cleveland, a judgment for nearly $3,000,000 was recorded
against this road.
Lake Erie & Western Railroad. — This road enters the county in Section 5,
Liberty Township, penetrates Jackson Township in Section 12, and, running
through Fostoria, leaves the county at its western boundary within the limits
of that city. This road was known as the ' ' Lake Erie & Louisville Railroad. ' '
Akron & Fort Wayne Railroad. — The certificate of incorporation of the
Akron and Fort Wayne Railroad, with principal oifice at Tiffin, was filed with
the Secretary of State in February, 1885. The capital stock is $100,000, and
the company, which is to operate in Ohio, is also, it is understood, to con-
nect with new lines built in Pennsylvania and Indiana, and eventually form a
trunk line. The Ohio Company is the Aki'on & Fort W^ayne Railroad Com-
pany, and is organized with a capital stock of $100,000, and the following
incorporators: William Thorpe, New York; James F. Cone, New York; W^ar-
ren P. Noble, John M. Naylor and Samuel B. Sneath, Tiffin. One branch of
the road is to commence at the east line of Mahoning County and extend to
Fort W^ayne, Ind. Another branch is to extent fi'om Akron to Ashtabula and
thence to Buffalo. W' arren P. Noble is one of the directors and the legal
adviser of the board in Ohio.
CHAPTER XIL
BANKS AND INSURANCE.
FOR years after the settlement of Seneca the banking house, as we know it
to-day, did not exist in the county. Private enterprise, however, supplied
the wants of the period, and moneys were loaned at any rate of interest which
might be agreed upon, with ironclad security. In many cases financial aid was
given by one neighbor to another, with simply a ' ' promise to pay ' ' when con-
venient. A reference to the organic chapter points out the fact that loans of a
few thousand dollars — a large sum for that period — were negotiated in Virginia,
and later in the more important cities in Ohio; then followed the "wild-cat"
banks and counterfeiters' dens, which, on being wiped out, gave place to le-
gitimate banking houses. The first bank may be said to have been established
in July, 1847, when William H. Gibson, Benjamin Tomb, Samuel Waggoner,
R. G. Pennington, Alfred Johnson, Rufus W. Reid, Daniel Smith, William
Fleet, William M. Buel and Daniel Brown subscribed $15,000, and applied
for power to open a banking house. Less than a month later the application
was amended, the capital stock raised to $100,000, other members added to.
the original company, and a charter granted l>y the county commissioners^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 387
August 9. 1847. The bank was opened November 13, 1847. This was fol-
lowed by the Bank of Tiffin, organized in 1858 ; the National Exchange Bank,
organized in 1865; the Tiffin Savings bank, organized in the spring of 1873,
and incorporated March 3, 1873, and the Commercial Bank, opened in June,
1876. one of the leading houses of northwestern Ohio. Foster & Co. and
Emerine & Co. , of Fostoria, are among the leading bankers of the State, while
in the principal villages throughout the county regularly organized banks are
found, all of which are noticed in the township and city histories.
Insurance Companies. — The first local insiu'ance corporation was known as
the ' 'Seneca County Mutual Fire Insurance Company' ' , chartered by the State,
and organized March 19. 1850, with Andrew Lugenbeel, president, and J.
W. Wilson, secretary and general agent. The first policy was issued October
29. 1850. The secretary died at the beginning of the winter of 1856. when Will-
iam Lang, who was president in 1851, was elected secretaiy. He found the
company's affairs in bad condition, was unable to extricate the concern, and
finally John McCauley was called in as directors' attorney, to collect assess-
ments, pay off debts and wind up its afPairs.
The Farmers' Mutual Relief Insurance Company was established in 1858,
and reorganized under State law, April 12, 1878. Among its leading members
are grouped some of the best citizens of the county.
The Tiffin Mutual Aid Association was organized January 23, 1879, with the
following named members: Albert L. Flack, John Houck, Edward Jones, W.
P. Noble, A. J. Brickner and E. J. McCollum, M. D. This is one of the
flourishing local insiu'ance companies of the State.
The Golden Rule Aid Company, of Tiffin, was organized October 19, 1880,
with J. W. Ridgely, J. W. Chamberlin, S. Chamberlin, Charles Martin and
L. Montague, members.
The Mechanics' Mutual Protection Society No. 25, was organized under State
law, January 20, 1849, on motion of D. Cunningham, with H. T. Dewey, S.
P. ; John Poorman, J. P. ; Cyi'us Milhouse, R. S. ; William Kielholls, Jacob
Huss and Cyrus Milhouse, trustees. The first annual election of officers of the
Union Aid Society of Tiffin, was held August 13, 1883, and the following
officers were elected for the ensuing year: President, W. H. Myers; vice-presi-
dent, L. Friedel; secretaiy, Nicholas Smith; treasurer, John Lawrence.
The foreign insurance companies introduced their business into the county
about twenty-nine years ago, when the Home Insurance Company wrote
policies. This was followed by the ^tna, and so on until the capital repre-
sented here now may be said to amount to |1, 000, 000, 000.
Gabriel J. Keen insured at a time when all policies were written at the
home offices of the companies he represented. John T. Huss, whose tragic
ending is refeiTed to in other pages, was also an insurance agent. Bachman
& Keppel transacted a very large business here for some years. A. H. Byers
and A. L. Flack were also extensively engaged. The latter was succeeded by
H. T. Heller, of Ottawa County, who has now one of the leading insurance
agency offices of the county. A. C. Barber's agency was established about
1873, and conducted by him until his interests were purchased by Charles J.
M. Sullivan, ten years later. The companies represented by Mr. Sullivan are
among the best known doing business in the United States.
388
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XILI.
STATISTICS OF SENECA COUNTY.
A REFERENCE to the pioneer organic and political chapters of the general
history will convey a fair idea of the condition of the county in 1824,
when it was organized; while the military and Indian histories, as well as the
chapters devoted to the township and city histories, point out its pre-organic
condition.
This chapter is compiled specially as the concluding one of the general
history, to confirm by figures all that has been related hitherto, and to bring
within easy reach of the inquirer into the progress of the county a set of facts,
authenticated by county. State and national records.
Early Surveys — Schools in 1847. — The survey of lands up to 1832, and con-
dition of schools up to and including the year 1847, are given as follows:
SURVEYOR.
Adams
Adams
Big Spring
Big Spring
Bloom
Clinton
Eden
Hopewell
Jackson
Liberty
Loudon
Pleasant
Pleasant
Reed
Scipio
Scipio
Seneca !J. T. Worthington
Thompson |P. J. Kellogg
Venice P. J. Kellogg
Sylvanus Bourne
C. W. Christmas (Indian grant).
J. Glasgow
C. W. Christmas (Indian grant).
Sylvanus Bourne
J. T. Worthington
J. T. Worthington
J. T. AVorthington
J. Glasgow
J. T. Worthington
J. Glasgow
J. T. Worthington
C. W. Christmas (Indian grant).
Price J. Kellogg
Sylvanus Bourne
C. W. Christmas (Indian grant).
1820
1833
1820
1832
1830
1820
1820
1830
1830
1820
1830
1830
1832
1820
1820
1832
1820
1820
1820
$4,443
3,691
1,254
1,040
J, 943
800
11,090
2,783
677
645
749
1,296
663
520
406
631
650
604
953
718
700
The surveys of 1832 were carried out under the provisions of the treaties
with the Senecas, Wyandots and Delawares, referred to in the Indian history.
Those of 1820 were provided for in the treaty of 1817.
School Statistics. — In the memorandum of early surveys, and of the schools
of the county in 1847, reference is made to the schools of that period. The
condition of the schools of Seneca County at the close of August, 1884. is
shown by the following statistics: Balance on hand September 1, 1883, $52,-
768.16; State tax, $17,961; in-edvicible school fund, $4,()()7.(H; local tax $68,-
007.50; amount realized from sale of bonds, $18,000; from fines, etc., $8,169.-
66; total revenue. $168,913.36. Paid teachers, $60,463.32; management,
$3,449.96; sites and buildings, $16,076.92; interest on bonds $4, 420 ; fuel and
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
389
sundries, 125,688.96; total expenditure, $110,099.16; balance on hand, Sep-
tember 1, 1884, $58,814. '20; number of school districts 156, with 162 houses,
of which 7 were erected in 1883-84, at a cost of $26,752; number of school
rooms, 220; total value of property, $305,600; number of teachers employed,
349; average salaries $29, $36, $57 and $67; number of pupils enrolled, 8,499—
4,493 boys, and 4, 006 girls; average daily attendance, 5,892; number enrolled
for attending high schools, 154 boys, and 215 girls; number of pupils enrolled
between sixteen and twenty-one years of age, 1,214 — 706 boys, and 508 girls
(vide township and city hisiories).
POPULATION 1830-1880.
Name.
1830.
1840.
1850.
1860.
1870.
1880.
830
1,250
1,416
1,661
1,537
1,624
331
Rio- Snrino" Tn in villacps
925
1,932
2,377
2,224
257
2,048
Adrian
211
New Riee-pl
Snrincrvillp . .
35
1,168
13
2,195
728
236
1,492
400
7,174
5,648
3,275
2,373
367
Bloom Tp in villasre
389
1,742
70
4,330
2,718
1,720
"6.041 *
3,992
2,161
689
Clinton Tp. in. city
9,581
Tiffin
600
7,879
Ward 1
1,328
" 2
1,534
"3
1,997
"4
1,378
" 5
1,642
Fort Ball
129
1,471
127
918
34
586
Eden Tp ....
819
1,584
1,721
1,671
1,598
Hopewell Tp
549
1,288
1,488
1,477
1,632
995
1,258
1,131
1,399
158
Liberty To
1,084
23
763
80
39
1,400
1,541
1,668
2,157
1,781
" ' ' 212 '
1,592
1,494
2,465
1,027
3,133
1,733
4,315
3,040
Pleasant Tp
1,522
1,631
1,352
1,334
1,417
Reed Tp
264
1,240
30
1,556
161
1.393
52
1,404
1,222
148
27
80
1,527
Lodi . . . .
2,321
917
1,617
1.835
636
1,823
1,642
481
1,580
1,836
Republic
715
Seneca Tp . . . .
369
1,519
Thompson Tp
362
1,668
1,830
1,702
2,013
2,670
1,781
375
1,901
Venice Tp in villages . . .
2,231
Attica . .
663
Caroline
Fostoria (total)
300
1,027
1,743
3,569
fin. Jackson and Lou 1
" ^ ^°5 Tps. Seneca Co., 1 ^otal.
4,111
) and in. Washington ( "'
[Tp., Hancock Co.... J
Green Spring in. Adams Tp. )
Seneca Co. and in. Green Creek Tp. >
Sandusky Co )
720
Totals
5,159
18,128
27,104
30,868
30,827
36,947*
*These are not the totals of the columns but are the totals of population for each decade.
-390 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
The census enumerators in 1880, were Christian Hoetzel, James V. Magers,
Oscai- M. Holcomb, V. T>. Lamberson, H. C. Pitman, John CoiTigan, H. W.
A. Boyd, J. D. Reese, George D. Acker, J. C. Milhime, J. H. Davidson, James
Ford, William Bogart, R. W. Brown, J. A. Feese and David Stanford. Each
name represents a township in alphabetical order. The enumerators for the
five wards of Tiffin were Henry J. Weller, John B. Schwartz, Albert Beil-
harz, Ephraim Messer and F. H. Lang.
In 1839 there were 3, 134 white male inhabitants of Seneca County, over
twenty-one years of age. In 1843 the number increased to 4,059.
Population of Seneca in 1840, was 18,128, with sixteen postoffices and a
tri-weekly mail.
The number of white male inhabitants in Seneca County, in 1880, above the
age of twenty-one years, was 9,(349. In 1835 there were 2,828.
The number of males of all ages in the county in 1880 was 18,667, and of
females, 18,280.
TAXES, 1826-1884.
During the years 1820-21-22-23-24, a nominal tax was collected in the town-
ships of Thompson, Seneca, Clinton and Eden (all organized while the county
was attached to Sandusky County), but the aggregate amount did not exceed
that now paid by one or two city lot holders for the improvement of a sidewalk.
In 1825, a nominal tax was collected under authority of the commissioners of
this county. In 1826, however, the genius of taxation began to make itself
felt, when the fi-eeholders were asked to contribute over $62. 26. The amount
of tax paid by Seneca County each year, fi-om 1826 to 1836, is shown in the
following statement,
1826 I 62.26x% 1831 $ 720.26r>o
1827 254.49x'o 1832 832.63 «,
1828 326.32 1833 834.79^,
1829 444. 44^35 1834 954. e"
eOO.Ooj^g 1835 814.13v«,
1836 $9,707,261*0
Receipts, $7,784. Expenses, $4,289.
The annual payment of what was known as "the Canal Tax," 1826-35,
drew from the county the following sums:
1826 $14.97/0 1831 $470 . 92 1^,
1827 147.49i% 1832 553.647«o
1828 191.65i% 1833 466.14
1829 310.81^0 1834 282.88/^
1830 400.83^% 1835 167.77i8o
In April, 1837, Seneca County received $31,756.74 from the surplus rev-
enue fund. The county revenue for year ending Jiine 11, 1838, was $15,950.-
55; the expenditure, $13,425. The receipts of the county for the year end-
ing, June 8, 1839, amounted to $19,544.91; the expenditiires to $18,246.85.
The taxes increased to $25,047 by 1842, of which $22,000 were expended. In
1844 they increased to $28,472, while the expenditure was only $12,000. In
1846 the total tax was $31, 187. 31, and the expenditui-e only $11, 989. 69. From
this forward, until 1861, the tax had a natural growth, while the expenditures
were not at all marked by extravagance.
In 1862 the taxes to be collected were placed at $110,874.37; in 1863 the
amoimt was increased to $135,834.13.
The 5 per cent special income tax for 1863 was levied that year also.
Among the hea\T tax payers were Charles Foster, $800; Henry Zahm, $429.65;
R. AY. Shawhan' $373.25; A. G. Sneath, $223.25; M. Sullivan, $165.35;
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY. 391
Benjamin Tomb, $158.15; R. G. Pennington, $100; F. Carpenter, $104.10;
William Rininger, $170; Richard Baker, $133; Harry Grey, $101. Hemy
Ebert was the deputy collector for this county.
In 1864 the county, State and local tax was placed at $210,658; while the
5 per cent income tax collected in 1864 from Seneca County was $13,456.70.
The total tax in 1865, payable in December of that year, was $209, 153. 50.
In June, 1865, there were 168 pianos in Seneca County valued at $22,249.
Liberty and Jackson Townships did not claim even one of those instruments.
The tax levied by the commissioners of Seneca County, due in December,
1866, was $165,122.05. The total income tax, for the eighth subdivision, com-
posed of First Ward — Tiffin, Bloom, Clinton, Eden, Scipio, Thompson, Venice
and Reed — in 1866, was $12,515.68. This was raised on 5 per cent on
incomes over $600 per year. R. W. Shawhan was taxed on a $9,063 income;
Charles Foster, on $10,800; C. W. Foster, on $5,766. In 1867 the expendi-
tures decreased, the taxes paid being $116,313; so that out of a large total
revenue in 1868 there was only the sum of $115,192.64 paid, which almost
covered the entire amount to be collected on assessment that year; the total
revenue being $200,353.04. The sums standing to the credit of the county
from 1869 to the present time, made up. of balances and delinquencies, are as
follows: 1869, $196,480; 1870, $200,208; 1871, $193,593; 1872, $203,277;
1873, $249,978; 1874, $248,318; 1875, $250,923; 1876, $264,941; 1877,
$280,270; 1878, $286,335; 1879, $287,714; 1880, $292,812, dog tax, $3,892;
1881, $290,762, dog tax, $3,896; 1882, $331,717, dog tax, $3,156; 1883,
$319,707, dog tax, $2,914; 1884, $239,887, dog tax, $2,674. The amounts
of wan-ants redeemed by the treasurer for the year ending March 5, 1885, foot
up as follows:
County Fund $18,979 50
Bridge Fund 9,275 72
Poor Fund 5,023 50
Building Fund 3,182 29
Road Fund 2,976 41
Township Fund 9,364 05
School Fund 53,570 63
Corporation Fund 32,554 38
Ditch Fund 13,353 84
Dog Fund 232 00
Court House Fund 46,018 40
Court House Site Fund 1 ,725 00
Soldiers' Monument Fand 1,8S3 10
Special Fund 1,874 69
Tax Redemption Fund 1 00
Total $200,014 51
VALUATION OF REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY.
In 1825 the assessed value of horses in the county was $13, 160, for 322
horses; of cattle, $9,890, for 1,097; of manufacttirers' and merchants' stocks,
$12,500, and of houses, $1,750 — aggregating $37,300. Ten years later the
total assessed value of personal property, including eighteen carriages, was
$166,983, increased in 1847 to $907,141. The recapitulation of footings of
the assessment made in 1841 of the fifteen townships then forming the county,
gives a total value of $1,233,080. The number of acres of land assessed was
318,7363?^, valued at $879,195, including buildings. The total value of town
lots was $81,219. There were 3,543 horses valued at $141,720; 8,237 cattle
valued at $65,896; merchants' capital and moneys at interest amounted to
392 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
$62,610; carriages numbered 40, valued at $2,440. The aggregate tax
levied was $17,677.48. The total delinquent tax from 1840 was $1,593.77.
The valuation and taxation of Seneca County (1884-85) are shown by the
following statistics: Acres of land, 340,314; value, $12,223,360; and town
lots, $3,711,560, with personal property valued at $5,910,600, being the total
valuation up to $21,845,520, or two-fifths of the true value. The total State
tax levied was $61,167.48, and the total county and local tax, $273,176.46.
The State, county and other taxes, with a small amount of delinquent taxes,
brought the amount of the duplicate up to $340,649.99, exclusive of $2,674,
dog tax.
Agricultural Statistics. — The agricultural statistics of Seneca County in
July, 1861, gave the following figures: Acres of wheat, 39,992 — bushels of
wheat, 677,789; acres of corn, 27,869 — bushels of corn, 1,007,461; acres of
oats, 15,323 — bushels of oats, 536,679; acres of potatoes, 1,391 — bushels of
potatoes, 150,633; pounds of butter, 667,326; acres of rye, 514 — bushels of
rye, 7,481; acres of barley, 642 — bushels of barley, 12,247; acres of hay,
26,566, tons of hay, 42,069; pounds of cheese, 32,735; sheep killed by
dogs, 515, valued at $969; sheep injured by dogs, 429; estimated value of in-
juries, $429.
In 1880 there were 3,168 farms; 247,031 acres of improved lands, valued
at $21,513,612; farming implements valued at $563,961; value of livestock,
$1,428,339; cost of bviilding and repairing fences (in 1879), $74,294; estimated
value of all farm productions in 1879, $2,825,399.
The crop and produce statistics of Seneca County, for 1884, are set forth as
follows: Acres of wheat, 65,118 — product of crop of 1883, 520,037 bushels; cost
of commercial fertilizers, $234; acres of rye, 321 (about 3.200 bushels); acres
of buckwheat, 134 — product, 1,088 bushels; oats, 19,551 acres — product, about
700,000 bushels; barley, 558 acres— product, 11,558 bushels; corn, 38,263
acres — product, 911,418 bushels; broomcorn, 15 pounds; meadow, 20,874 acres;
hay, 24,542 tons; clover, 16,397 acres; hay, 17,557 tons; seed, 14,519 bushels;
plowed under for manure, 845 acres; flax, 94 acres — product, 879 bushels of
seed; potatoes, 1,728 acres — product, 208,610 bushels; tobacco, 20 pounds ; milk
sold for family use, 19, 200 gallons; home-made butter, 760,536 pounds; cheese,
80 pounds ; sorghum, 58 acres — 90 pounds sugar and 3, 537 gallons of syrup;
maple sugar, 3,537 poimds and 7,130 gallons of syrup; bee hives, 2,064; pounds
of honey, 26,122; eggs, 401,574 dozens; acres of vineyards, 14 — pounds of
grapes, 21,235; gallons of wine, 367; sweet potatoes, 3 acres — 454 bushels;
orchards, 5,989 acres; bushels of apples, 93,683, of peaches, 161, of pears,
1,183, of cherries, 35, of plums, 16; acres of land owned and cultivated, 199-
698— in pasture, 27,044, in woodland, 60,708, waste, 1,140; total acreage, 288-
590; wool shorn in 1883, 325,907 pounds; milch cows, 8,298; dogs, 2,273;
sheep killed by dogs, 398, injured, 261 ; animals died from disease, hogs,
2,081, sheep, 1,338, cattle, 297, and horses, 170.
The following is an abstract of the personal property, moneys and credits
in Seneca County, as returned by the assessors and equalized by the city and
county boards for the year 1885:
■,r
.^ /f M^^^A£&.^^
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY,
395
No
Townships
AND
I
I Horses.
Cattle, j
Mules.
Sheep.
Hogs.
Carriages.
Other
Pers'n'l
Prop-
Precincts.
No.
Val.
No.
1
Val.
No.
Val.
No. 1 Val.
No. 1 Val.
No. 1 Val.
erty.
1
2
9
Adams
Green Spring
Ricr Snrinp^
407
• 7-
. 596
. 534
60S
.! 624
.i 511
. 64(
822055
3810
32295
22261
30555
30930
25000
33105
37294
28915
1251S
26705
2994c
3525C
3698C
3154C
40255
2352:
iS
1093
1177
1274
1491
1065
1421
1512
1026
1002
1260
\ 1171
i 1285
1195
1437
300
$11450;
1611
14010i
U040
16255
17165
142601
165421
157081
16450,
1960
12335
16015
13840
17252
14620
17285
4808
7
2
9
18
3
6
4
10
10
4
4
11
11
7
7
11
32
$335
100
390
1
475
305
550
160!
180
425
450
320
405
665
1060
5891
1030
1756
7521
4253
6700
$8810, 1703 $4220
1795, 235 554
2765i 2799 5400
11785 1 17141 4240
5885 1 19071 5650
109| $2130 i $14235
13 565 1 1621
1761 4215 I 24025
30 1090 1 26105
I
Clinton
' 296; 6440!l 28185
6
Eden
11530 1 240
2 5995
I 6049
1 3440
J 420
0 4825
S 4055
8 4405
3 6421
9 5257
1 6205
3 857
159i 5815! i 35145
I
922; 147o;
18051 28101
1516 2293
1385! 254o!
71; 165
4281 6540
7226' 11980
115421 18330
20241 3467
1043: 2065
220
223
273
140
13
198
164
167
259
214
I29I 2705|! 22540
167
149
70
137
131
222
210
129
248
191
421
6400! 22980
9
10
n
12
13
14
15
Liberty
Loudon
Fostoria
Pleasant
Reed
Scipio
.Seneca
.; 755
. 524
.i 21C
.i 53
. 63C
. 66t
.! 644
3715
2485
5615
3530
4540
6130
3180
4760
6750
24541
19460
31900
21990
19450
26315
! 29054
1 23268
17
.! 79i
. 51f
8070| 12855: 232
4 5 36
, 23815
18
Tiffin ,...
15365 10,5719
Totals
. 993'
$50293
18700
5232606
163
$7245
67040 $107095 322131 $77871
2987
$85430 $500348
i il
No
Townships
AND
Precincts.
Watches. ^
^ianos and
Organs.
Mer-
chants'
Stock,
Value
Listed
Banker
Etc.
Manu-
factur-
ers'
Stock.
Value
of
Moneys
Value
ot
Credits.
Money
Inv'st'd
in
Bonds,
Etc.
Total
Value,
Except
Dogs.
$120640
32100
175660
265980
221530
199480
142970
162695
187510
148680
296170
165280
165560
210620
166450
197870
328590
52T720
No.
of
No. j Val.
No.
Val.
l>ogs.
1
Aaams
1
$625 1
29
$755
690
555
1500
1225
1215
590
1755
1807
350
6650
965
1365
;*
8579
3365
20140
25
1095
940
300
14050
11540
2500
5750
12620
882
2300
32030
165132
$
$1655
1730
220
3315
$11245
3225
1335
12,30
$.52075
7572
86845
161805
125
14
3!^\?"".V_.'?i'""8-j
195'] 17
7351 62
141
4
5
6
7
8
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
133
1075 10425ol
20910
123
Fdeu
49 1 675 1 40
38 450| 24
73I 9701 50
3130
1400
1875
2780
2050
15438
2550
5125
5305
7295
69145
10550
12420
72125
27225
8890
65935
8680
3980
3730
79120
105
201
59325
65844
167
171
13
96
43
172
Fostoria
147
10
61
115
59
97
132
260
3242 1
170
725
1555
474
770
1865
5572
20
74710
65345
250
74370
63060
10,5,500
1200
8750
173
98
Ogg^
140
152
451 1380
40 1205
77 2620
212 13000
202
seneca
2450
10320
5 25416
178
.
8173 165747
152
Tiffin
357
44109
116109
3450
168
j S384748
$377
5 $85534! $463542
$1177677
$34310
$3724575
2615
1
_
_
1
Following is the assessors' returns of the wheat crop of 1884-85
Townships, Ward and Precincts.
Acres
sown 1884.
Bushels
produced
Acres
gown 1885.
3,605
456
4,482
3,661
3,869
4,220
4,468
3,792
2,933
1,216
3,888
4,379
3,174
3,038
4,673
6,234
3,319i
30
50,184
6,829
59,778
55,029
53,246
78,164
63,888
47,745
37,094
15.247
55,059
59,523
44.926
37,052
68,148
125,405
49,774
525
3,585
Orppn SnrinD- Vil
480
4,349
3,572i
niintnn
4,514
4,466
4,632
3,792
3,132
T.ihprtv "Wnrth T*rppinf»t
1,364
4,042
4,376
Reed
3,225
Scipio
3,133
Seneca
4,703
3,838
Venice
3.831
Tiffin Third Ward
Totals
61.437i
907,616
60,533i
396
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
NEW STRUCTURES.
Below we give tlae number of new buildings returned by the assessors
in 1885, giving the aggregate values as returned. These values are likely to
be changed somewhat by the city and county boards of equalization:
Townships, Wards and Precincts.
NO.
Value.
Adams
6
17
9
8
4
43
5
11
9
3
7
6
3
16
8
8
11
7
9
6
2
14
212
$ 1,485
3,300
3 975
Big Spring
Bloom
Clinton
2,325
2 600
Eden
Fostoria i
19,225
1 935
Green Spring
Hopewell
2,975
2 950
Jackson
Liberty — South Precinct
2,200
Liberty — Bettsville
Loudon
1 375
Pleasant
990
Reed
400
Scipio
4 675
Seneca
1,280
3 440
Thompson
Venice
6 200
Tiffin— First Ward ."
3,625
12,440
" —Second "
" —Third "
1,525
800
" — Fourth "
" —Fifth "
8,175
$87,895
Totals
BIRTHS AND DEATHS.
Report of the births and deaths in Seneca County, for the year ending
March 31, 1885.
Births.
Dkaths.
Township, Wards and Precincts.
.2
1
Is"
3
25
29
14
12
26
12
23
10
17
17
7
18
23
25
15
22
1
13
18
13
368
1
a
4
2
27
23
24
19
29
12
4
6
11
17
8
18
18
18
27
27
5
7
10
10
13
339
22
5
52
52
38
31
55
24
27
16
28
34
15
36
41
43
42
49
6
20
28
23
20
707
1
8
1
12
12
6
23
10
5
6
5
4
14
2
3
11
12
15
11
5
7
15
8
4
199
2
11
11
10
16
5
10
6
4
6
17
3
6
10
9
j
6
5
6
2
160
Adams
10
Greeu Spring
1
Big Spring .-
0£}
Bloom
9S
Clinton
16
Eden .'
39
Hopewell
1R
Jackson
15
Liberty, South Precinct
Liberty, North Precinct
12
9
Loudon
10
SI
Pleasant
5
Reed
q
^1
OJ
Thompson
0^
Venice
17
Tiffin— First Ward
5
IS
" —Third "
''O
" — Fourth "
I'l
" —Fifth "
ff
Totals .".
S59
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY
397
THE ASSESSORS.
Table showing the time occupied by the assessors, the assistance received,
and compensation allowed in 1885.
Townships, Precincts, Wards and Assessors.
Adams, E. B.Williams
Green Spring, D. K. Hill
Big Spring, Peter Goshe
Bloom, S. S. Lehman ' ■
Clinton, M. L. Woodside
Eden, R. A. Cole
Hopewell, Namon C. Knight
Jaclison, Jacob W. Good
Liberty, North Precinct, Amon Frees.
Liberty.South Precinct, George Schuster.
Loudon, John J. Peter
Fostoria, W. H. H. Leech
Pleasant, Lewis Shannon
Reed, James Decker
Scipio, Alva Jones
Seneca, Joseph W. Parks
Thompson, Jacob Greulich
Venice, J. T. Myers
Tiffin— First Ward, P. H.Ryan
" —Second " David Bowersox..
" — Third " JohnSilvers
" —Fourth " Frank Cornely...
" —Fifth " Nicholas Hafley.
Totals 727^152 11759 00
I I I
The uninterrupted prosperity and success which have attended the various
branches of enterprise and industry in the county from its earliest settlement
to the present day, the change fr'om an almost unbroken wilderness to a rich
and populous coimty in a brief space of time, nattu-ally lead the mind to con-
templations of deep interest and inquii-y, with regard to the condition which
the progressive energies of its people will work out in its futiu'e. We have
only to examine the resources of wealth which the county naturally presents
for improvement — the strength, skill and aptitude of the people to lay hold of
natural advantages and convert them to the most in-ofitable form, in order
justly to appreciate the energies which have been put forth by the early set-
tlers and the new, the results of which are so attractive to the traveler. _ It
should be borne in mind that the county was not settled" by capitalists, bringing
large amounts of money to expend in subduing and cultivating new lands, but
almost exclusively by men who were unable to purchase farms in the old
States— whose physical and mental energies constituted their frmded wealth.
This was the capital invested in the settlement and improvement of the county
— a currency not subject to fluctuations. The pioneers were men of independ-
ent minds and efforts, whose activities were controlled by the dictates of their
own judgments. The bosom of the earth, teeming with fertility, was spread
out before them, and it is to their labors that we must look for the beginnings
of nearly all of the wealth of the county. It is universally admitted that the
surest index of the progressive energies of an agricultural community is dis-
398 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
covered in the condition of homes, farms and society; their light of science to
illuminate and invigorate the natural powers, facilities of communication which
tend to develop the social nature of man, and bring into visibility the various
interests by which he is connected with society; as these are appreciated, culti-
vated and brought into constant use, the vital energies, the enduring strength
and substantial wealth of a community are advanced. If we adopt this gen-
eral rule in the county and take the condition of its public institutions as a
criterion of its advancement in intelligence and wealth, we shall find that it
has few rivals. "While acknowledging all the labors, all the intelligent work
of the pioneer settler, the new-comer must not be forgotten. Among the men
and women who settled in Seneca County since the close of her pioneer period
are many who have spread around them the blessings and benefits of well
directed enterprise in all branches, whether manufacturing or commercial,
educational, religious or social. No county in the Union, of an equal number
of inhabitants, can look back to a fairer moral record, or point out a greater
proportion of inhabitants engaged in health and wealth-giving labors.
CHAPTER XIV.
ADAMS TOWNSHIP.
A DAMS TOWNSHIP, or original surveyed Township 3 north. Range 16
-4-JL east, was sm'veyed outside the boundaries of the Indian Reservation, by
Sylvanus Bourne, in 1820, and, after the last treaty of cession by the Indians,
the remainder was surveyed by C. W. Christmas, in 1832.
The outcrop) of the lower corniferous conformation on the southeast corner
of Section 34, and the several exposui'es of this and other rocks made by
quarrymen, together with the numerous brick and tile yards visible throughout
the township, convey at once an idea of the geological value of the township,
viewed from an economical stand-point. The State geologist, writing in 1873,
makes mention of the Sulphiu* Spring. He says : ' ' The greatest natural cu-
riosity in Adams Township is the Sulphiu- Spring. This is nearly in the middle
of Section 7, on land formerly owned by Josiah Hedges, the original proprie-
tor of Tiffin. This spring is a natural rising of water impregnated with all
the ingredients which are contained in the spring of the famous water cure,
situated in the town. Green Spring, of which further mention hereafter. The
spring in question issues fi'om the earth, and is cold and refreshing, and not
unpleasant to the taste. Many petrified substances are found in the bed of this
spring. The current flowing from it is large and steady, no drought having
any apparent effect in diminishing the supply. After a southerly course of
almost thirty rods, it mingles with the waters of Beaver Creek. ' ' Just north
of the county line is the great Sulphur Spring, referred to in the chapter on
geology, as well as in the sketch of Green Spring.
The creeks of the township are known as Sugar Creek, watering the south-
western sections, and Beaver Creek, which may be said to drain the whole town-
ship. This latter stream rises in Section 36, flows west to the Scipio Bend,
thence in a general course northwest to Grove' s Lake, on Section 7, passing south
of the Great Sulphur Springs, in the southeast quarter of that Section, then
through Sections 12 and 1, Pleasant Township, to the north line of the county..
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 399
The eastern fork of Beaver Creek rises in Thompson Township, flows generally
westward, and enters the main creek on the line of Sections 9 and 10, Adams
Township. A small creek courses thi-ough the extreme northeastern part of the
township, while a few rivulets, or small spring creeks, are found almost in every
section. The name, Beaver Creek, is derived from the fact that it was a favorite
camping resort of the beavers, long before the Senecas came to this district.
On this creek, just west of the township line, Josiah Hedges had a grist-mill
erected in 1838.
The township has a rolling svirface, is very fertile, and is inhabited by a good
class of citizens. The population in 1830 was only 830; in 1880 it increased
to 1,624, and is now estimated, including Green Spring Village, at 2,000 in-
habitants.
Railroads are represented in the township by the Indiana, Bloomington &
Western and the "Nickel Plate," the former an old friend of its northwestern
corner, the latter a new friend, equipped after the fashion of modern days.
Organic and Official. — The township, as established December 6, 1826, com-
prised Township 3. Range 16, and the western tier of sections in Township 3,
Range 17; minus the lands of the Seneca Indians, to which the Indian grant
was added in 1832. The first election was held at Samuel Whiteman' s house,
December 25, 1826, when Martin Olds, L. T. Butler and Thomas Longwith
were elected trustees; Charles Shelby and Thomas AVhiteman, overseers of
the poor; Gr. Lee and Samuel Hartsock, fence viewers; Cyrenius Wright,
treasurer; William Myers, William Mead and Francis Evans, supervisors, and
Moses Pyatt, constable.
Twelve years after the organization of Adams Township, on December 6,
1838, a petition was presented to the commissioners, asking for the establish-
ment of a new township, out of Adams and Pleasant, to be named Sulphiu*
Springs. This petition was not granted.
1827. Record partially destroyed; Samuel Whiteman, justice of peace.
1828. Martin Olds, William Mead, Samuel Whiteman, trustees; Abram
Rine, clerk.
1829. Lyman Amsden, Thomas Webb, Samuel Whiteman. trustees;
Abram Rine, clerk.
1830. Samuel Elder. Samuel Whiteman, Lyman Amsden, trustees;
Abram Rine, clerk; Samuel Whiteman and Martin Olds, justices.
1831. Same trustees; W. Mead, John Paine, M. Olds, trustees of school
laws.
1832. Same trustees and clerk.
1833. Samuel Elder. Jacob Rine. Lyman Amsden, trustees; Abram Rine
and Zimri Butler, justices; Samuel Whiteman, clerk.
1834. John Bebe, Samuel Elder. Abram Rine, trustees; Samuel White-
man, clerk.
1835. James C. Hocket, D. H. Dana, Abram Rine, trustees; E. D. Fol-
let. clerk; Ira Phelps, justice.
1836. John Paine, E. Smith, James Crockett, trustees; E. D. Follet,
clerk.
1837. John Petticord, S. Whiteman, John Paine, trustees; A. Crockett,
clerk.
1838. D. H. Dana, John Craig, John Petticord, trustees; S. Whiteman,
clerk; E. D. Bradley, justice.
On May 5. of this vear, the township was laid off into school districts.
1839. D. B. Lee,' John Petticord, John Waters, trustees; I. W. Small,
clerk.
400 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1840. James Crockett, Samuel Whiteman, J. A. Watrous, trustees; I. W.
Small, clerk.
1841. Earl Churcli, Samuel Whiteman, J. A. Wartrous, trustees; I. W.
Small, clerk.
1842. George Kline, John Guisbert, John Petticord, trustees; J. W.
Payne, clerk.
1843. George Kline, Ephraim Porter, John Petticord, trustees; Abram
Kine, clerk.
1844. George Kline, Ephraim Porter, Reuben Drinkwater, trustees; I. W.
Small, clerk.
1845. Jacob Bogart, Isaac Smith, Abram Rine, trustees; James Paine,
clerk.
The persons over eighteen and under twenty-one years of age in the town-
ship, in 1845, numbered twenty-seven, over twenty-one and under forty-five,
sixty-one.
1846. Nicholas Noel and Isaac W. Small were elected justices; Abram
Rine, H. Neikirk and D. B. Lee, trustees; L. C. Stone, clerk.
1847. A. M. Stem, Ezra West, Abram Rine, trustees; L. C. Stone, clerk.
1848. D. B. Lee, Ezra West, Abram Rine, trustees; L. C. Stone, clerk;
John W. Payne, justice.
1849. Same trustees; George Kline, clerk.
1850. R. B. Alexander, A. G. Whiteman, D. Petticord, trustees ; Jamea
Collins, clerk.
1851. D. H. Patterson, D. Petticord, A. G. Whiteman, trustees; Isaac
Stillwell, clerk.
1852. Levi Coup, D. H. Patterson, A. G. Whiteman, trustees; R. B.
Mead, clerk.
1853. Levi Coup, William Jordan, A. G. W^hiteman, trustees; D. H. Pat-
terson, clerk.
1854. AbnerNims, William Jordan, A. G. Whiteman, trustees; Isaac Still-
well, clerk.
1855. Samuel Hunter, Abner Nims, W. Jordan, trustees; J. B. Buck,
justice; A. G. Whiteman, clerk.
1856-57. Samuel Myers, J. W. Payne, James Crockett, trustees; Joel Bar-
ber, clerk.
1858. N. Noel, D. Hartsock, J. Crockett, trustees; Horace Hall, justice;.
George K. Kline, clerk.
1859. N. West, J. T. Kistler, Hemy Metzger, trustees; D. H. Patterson,
clerk.
1860. Isaac Stillwell, J. T. Kistler, Hemy Metzger, trustees; H. White-
man, justice; Isaac Stillwell, clerk.
1861-62. A. G. Whiteman, W. C. Myers, I. Stillwell. trustees; Horace
Hall, D. H. Patterson, justices; J. Goodin, clerk.
1863. D. Petticord, A. G. Whiteman, James Crockett, trustees; J.
Goodin, clerk.
1864. Monroe Kistler, D. Petticord, Thomas Almond, trustees; J. S.
Brown, Isaac Stillwell, justices; P. H. Myers, clerk.
1865. J. S. Myers, Thomas Almond, H. P. Whiteman, trustees; Daniel
Metzger, justice; P. H. Myers, clerk.
1866. Same trustees; Humphrey W^hiteman, justice.
1867. James Paine, John Wales, Jr., J. S. Myers, trustees; P. H. Myers,
clerk.
1868. Peter (Joffman. P. S. Myers, James Paine, trustees; W. P. Myers,
clerk.
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 401
1869. S. H. Smith, Humplirey Whiteman. Thomas Almond, trustees;
Jacob Bonnell, clerk.
1870. J. Mclntire, M. H. Hensinger, H. Hoeltzell, trustees; J. S. Myers,
clerk.
1871. Same trustees; John Summers, justice; J. S. Myers, clerk.
1872. B. F. Pontius. H. Hoeltzell, James Mclntire, trustees; W. J.
Payne, clerk.
1873. F. S. Mohr, M. Kistler, Sol. Keiter, trustees; John S. Myers, clerk.
1874. J. J. Miller, F. S. Mohr, Jesse Paine, trustees; John S. Myei's,
clerk.
1875. John Guisbert, J. J. Miller, W. H. Groves, trustees; Wilson Pon-
tius, clerk.
1876. John Westerhouse, John Guisbert, W. M. Engler, trustees; John
Gibbons, clerk.
1877. J. S. Myers, John Guisbert. H. Detterman, trustees; John Gib-
bons, clerk.
1878. Monroe Lee, John Guisbert, Edward Nims, trustees; James
Drinkwater, clerk.
1879. A. McHasser, M. Kistler, S. Detterman, trustees; Daniel Metzger,
John S. Myers, justices; James Drinkwater, clerk.
1880. W. J. Johnson, S. Detterman, Mom-oe Kistler, trustees; J. C.
Metzger, clerk.
1881. W. J. Payne, M. Kistler, Frank Crockett, trustees; R. K. Will-
iams, justice; J. C. Metzger, clerk.
1882. Frank Crockett, W. J. Payne, E. B. Williams, trustees; W. J.
Merchant, A. Kistler, justices: J. C. Metzger, clerk.
1883. Michael Schriner, J. H. Westerhouse, H. Harrison, trustees;
William Engler, clerk.
1884. C. D. Holtz, J. H. Westerhouse, M. Schriner, trustees; R. K.
Williams, justice; William Engler, clerk.
1885. D. W. Whiteman, George W. Fitz, C. D. Holtz, trustees; William
Engler clerk; D. J. Myers, Walter Merchant, justices.
The township and school boards of Adams, have generally attached great
importance to economical administration. Notwithstanding this feature of the
township's official life the roads are well made, the schoolhouses are numer-
ous and substantial, and all those minute details which mark the progress of
each little commonwealth of the county are observed.
School Lands. — September 30, 1843, a meeting of the citizens of Adams
Township was held to vote on the question of selling school lands — the west half
of Section 12. George Kline, Solomon Drown and L. C. Stewart, judges, and
T. W. Small and James Paine, clerks, conducted the election. The number of
votes polled was eighteen, all in favor of the sale of school lands. On May
14, 1845, John T. Kistler purchased the west half of northwest quarter of
Section 12; Isaac Parker, the east half of the northwest quarter; John Kistler,
the west half of the southwest quarter, and Isaac Parker, the east half of the
southwest quarter. The entire tract brought $2,780, and the sale was con-
ducted under order of chancery on appraisement of Thomas R. Ellis, Jacob
Souder and William Toll, and on the Heming survey. (Record of School
Lands in Auditor's office.) The sale of school lands in Adams Township has
been attended with some peculiar features. For years after the township
was established there was no Section 16 acknowledged, as that sec-
tion was within the Seneca Indian Reservation, and consequently withoitt
the reach of all parties, save the Indians, for whom it was reserved. Under
402 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
the treaty of Washington, negotiated February 28, 1881, the tribe ceded their
40,000 acres, and in November, 1832, the tract was offered for sale — the school
section excepted. Prior to this, however, in 1826, the west half of Section 12
was granted to Adams in lieu of Section 16. Nothing was done toward the
sale of half-Section 12 until May 14, 1845. Eleven years before this, and under
authority of an act approved January 30, 1836, all Section 16 was gi-anted to the
township for school pui'poses, and its sale was soon after effected, thus giving
Adams one section and a half, or 320 acres more than should be apportioned.
In 1846 an effort was made to rectify this eiTor, but the subject was dropped
until recent years, when it was re-opened under the title of ' 'Andi-ew Jackson' s
Mistake. ' '
Pioneers of Adams Toicnship. — The settlement of the township was effected
without the noise and bustle which marked the occupation of the older town-
ships of Seneca. This was due to the fact that it was not a wilderness in the
sense that the country west of the Sandusky was; but a well-trailed land, partly
surveyed, and adjacent to the old settlements. In all other respects the work
of the pioneer did not diff'er in quantity or quality fi'om the earlier settlers of
Venice or Big Spring, Thompson or Liberty, Reed or Loudon Townships. It
is true that the romance of life among the Indians of the great Sulphm- Spring
region, and the pleasures which the neighborhood of natiu-al phenomena or
cui-iosity bring, were present to lighten, as it were, the load of care by with-
drawing attention from ordinary life among the great trees, and lending it to
the wonderful in nature. In the following sketches several prominent pioneers
are named; while the greater number of pioneers and old settlers find mention
in the personal history of Adams To^Tiship, and in the chapters of the general
history.
Samuel and Elizabeth (Kating) Bartlett, natives of Main, gi-andparents of
Robert M. Bartlett, of Adams Township, settled in this county in 1826, where
they died. Oliver L. Bartlett, their son, the father of Robert M. , began farm
life in this county at an early day, and married, in 1844, Hannah E. "Warner,
of Virginia, whose mother, when a widow, came about 1833, with her family,
to this county, where she died George R. Bosworth, a native of Vermont,
born in 1800, came with his family to Adams Township in 1834 Jacob
Bowerman settled in the township in 1830, died in August, 1876 John
Bowerman settled in the township in 1831; served in the war of 1812
Elijah and Catharine Brown, parents of Mrs. Edward Crockett, of Adams
Township, formerly of Scii:)io Township, (former a native of Maryland, latter
of Perry County, Ohio,) came to the county in 1842 Warren Brown, born
in New' Hampshire, in 1814, came, in 1839, fi'om Pennsylvania with his par-
ents. Solomon and Fanny (Dennis) Brown to this county (where the latter both
died), and settled in Adams Township.
James and Mary P. (Haskell) Crockett, former born in Maine, in 1(98,
parents of Edward Crockett, of Adams Township, born in Pleasant Township,
in 1833, came to this county in 1828, settling in Pleasant Township; James
Crockett was a soldier of the war of 1812, and a temporary settler of 1823.
They both died in 1875 Josiah and Harriet (Beymer) Crockett, parents of
Edwin W. Crockett, of Adams Township, came to this county in an early day.
Josiah was accidentally killed in 1879, while engaged in excavating a hole for
a huge boulder. His widow resides in Clyde Earl and Colena (Titus)
Chiu-ch, natives of New York and Connecticut, respectively (parents of Mrs.
Daniel C. Rule, of Adams Township, born here in 1839), came here in 1837.
John H. Detterman, born in Pnissia, in 1810, came to America in 1833,
and to this countv in 1834, in which vear he married Miss Kathrina Steige-
''yyiA^ Qf-^ly^
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 405
meier, also a native of Prussia. After living one year in Scipio Township, and
five years in Honey Creek, Bloom Township, they located in Adams Township.
Mrs. Detterman died in 1866. and Mr. Detterman then married Mrs. Ann
Somers, a native of Pennsylvania, and in 1868 they settled permanently in
Bloom Township Harman H. and Mary E. (Beinedick) Determan, natives
of Germany, came to this county in 1834; Henry A. Determan, of Adams
Township, where he was born in 1851, is their son David W. Du.drow, a
native of Maryland, born in 1825, came to Seneca County in 1845, settling in
Ar^ams Township; his wife, Mary J. (Rule), bom in this township in 1834,
is a daughter of Daniel and Jane (Groscrost) Rule, old settlers.
Francis Evans settled here in 1825 Jeremiah and Lucy (Rule) Eg-
bert, parents of Mi's. ClayHoltz, of Adams Township, were early settlers in the
county .... Uriah and Susanna (^^'illiams) Egbert, parents of Mrs. George R.
Strickling, of Adams Township, formerly of Pleasant Township, came from
Franklin County, Ohio, to this county in 1822, and here died, former in 1876,
and latter in 1875, both at advanced ages.
Solomon and Mary Gambee, parents of Mrs. William J. Payne, of Adams
Township, were early settlers of Reed Township, coming fi-om New York State.
....John and Elizabeth (Whiteman) Guisbert (deceased), parents of Mrs.
John Wales (second), of Adams Township, were natives of Maryland and
Pennsylvania, respectively, and were among the first settlers in the county.
Jacob P. and Susannah (Huss) Holtz, parents of Charles D. Holtz, of Adams
Township, born in Pleasant Township in 1846, were early settlers of and still
reside in that township William and Catherine M. (Cramer) Holtz,
parents of Clay Holtz, of Adams Township, were early settlers in the county,
the former of whom died here in 1862. IVIi's. Holtz still resides in the county.
.... Benjamin and Hannah Huddle, parents of IVIi's. John W. Payne, were
among the first settlers of the township.
Henry and Elizabeth Kestler, parents of Mrs. Enoch Bolin, of Adams
Township, and a native of Pennsylvania, settled in this county in 1833
John T. and Eve (Brish) Kistler, parents of Monroe Kistler, of Adams Town-
ship (the latter born in Pennsylvania in 1830), settled in this township in
1833, and died in 1870 and 1878 respectively Joseph and Catharine (Shaw-
berry) Kistler, parents of Mrs. Heniy A. Determan, of Adams Township,
were early settlers of the county, where they still reside Jacob and Mary
(Reiner) Kanney, parents of J. C. Kanney, of Green Spring, Adams Town-
ship, were early settlers in the county; still living in Reed Township.
David and Mary A. (Miller) Lee, natives of Pennsylvania and New York
State, respectively, parents of John M. Lee, of Adams Township, came with
their parents to this county at a very early day, and here David died in 1883;
his widow resides in Adams Township .... George Lee was one of the pioneers.
William Mead settled here in 1826 Daniel Metzger, Adams Town-
ship, born in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1818, came into the county in 1833,
and bought his first land in this township in 3841 Henry and Catharine
(Wise) Metzger, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Daniel Metzger, of
Adams Township, came to this county in 1833, Henry being one of the first to
enter land in this county An early settler of this name died March 4, 1868.
.... Smith and Catharine (Larkins) Mclntyre (deceased), parents of James
Mclntyre, of Adams Township, and who was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in
1825, came to this county in 1832 Samuel and Rebecca (Heltzel) Metz-
ger, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, came fi-om Pickaway
County, Ohio, to this county in 1836, and purchased land in Adams Township.
They were parents of John C. Metzger, of this township, born here in
22
406 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1888 Simon and Hannah (Mix) Miller, natives of Pennsylvania, parents
of W. W. Miller, of Bascom, were early settlers in Adams Township Dan-
iel and Anna (Bergstresser) Miller, natives of New York State, parents of Mrs.
John C. Metzger, of Adams Township, were among the first to settle in
this county, where Mr. Miller still lives Jacob J. Miller, of Adams Town-
ship, a native of New York State, born in 1829, came, in 1838, with his par-
ents, Daniel and Anna (Bergstresser) Miller, to this county; latter deceased,
former now living in Clinton Township John and Elizabeth (Ryne)
Myers, early settlers of Adams Township (about 1825), were married Novem-
ber 11, 1880. Mrs. Myers died January 24, 1885. William Myers, a
native of Virginia, settled in Adams Township in 1825.
John Noel, who settled in Adams Township in 1880, died October 29, 1868,
in his eio-hty- seventh year. This pioneer was the father of fifteen children,
many of^whom are still residents Nicholas Noel, Sr.. settled in Adams
Township in 1880, died in 1847 Mrs. Catherine (Rinebold) Noel, of
Adams Township, died July 4, 1884. In 1840 she moved with her parents,
George and Sarah Rinebold, to Scipio Township, and was married in 1841 or
1842.*^
John and Sarah (Lawrence) Paine, parents of James Paine (deceased), who
was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1818, moved to this coimty in 1882,
locating in Adams Township; John Paine was a soldier of 1812, and is
credited with settlement here as early as 1830, although 1882 is the only
authentic date James and Maria Ann (Kline) Paine, parents of Mrs.
Nancy M. Pontius, of Adams Township, were among the early settlers of the
county John Petticord settled here in 1880 Moses Pyatt was
also one of the pioneers of the township Samuel Pontius (deceased), born
in 1814, in Pickaway County, came to this county in 1842, and settled
in Adams Township; his widow still resides in this township.
Abram Rine settled in Adams Township in 1824 Solomon and Cathar-
ine (Powell) Robenalt, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Mrs. Jacob J.
Miller, of Adams Township, came to this county about 1883; they both died at
advanced ages Daniel and Jane (Groscrost) Rule were among the first set-
tlers in this township, where their son, Daniel C. Rule, still resides.
Thomas and Elizabeth (Whitestine) Strickling, parents of George R. Strick-
ling, of Adams Township, who was born in 1819, came from Fairfield County,
Ohio, to this county in 1829, locating first in Clinton Township, then in Scipio
Township, and finally settling, in 1837. in Adams Township Jacob Stem,
born in 1792, in Maryland, came to Tiffin about 1830: he bought large tracts of
land, laid out the village of Green Spring; built mills, etc., etc.; he died in
1860, aged sixtv-eight years.
Jacob and Catharine (Russ) Wales, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of
John Wales (second), who was born in Thompson Township, in 1835, came to
Seneca County in 1828, where they died James A. and Hannah F. (Car-
penter) Watrous, parents of Mrs. Dr. D. Proctor Campbell, of Adams Township,
were from Connecticut originally, and came to Ohio in 1831, settling first in Huron
County, then a few years later in Green Spring, where they died William
Webb settled in Adams Township in 1822-28, and was one of the first traders.
Joseph Weiker, of Adams Township, born in Pennsylvania, in 1807, came
to this countv about 1840 Jacob and Mary (Deal) Weiker, parents of
Joseph Weiker, came to this county in 1884. and both died here several years
ago Hugh Welsh, the pioneer of Eden Township, has been a resident of
Adams Daniel and Susan (Coleman) Whiteman (both now deceased), par-
ents of late Mrs. Daniel iletzger. of Adams Tuwuslii]). came from Peunsyl-
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 407
vaiiia to this county in a very early day Col. "Williams, whose sister was
the ^vife of Uriah Egbert, served in the Revolution five years, died in Adams
Township, in 1841, and lies biu'ied here Cyrus Wright settled here
in 1824 Cyrenus and Diana (Cole) Wright, former a native of the State of
New York, latter of Montreal, Canada, parents of Charles Wright, of Adams
Township, settled in this county in 1827; both are now deceased.
Charles and Catharine (Spangler) Young, j^arents of Albert R. and Josiah
Young, of Green Spring, came from Germany to this county in 1845.
Among the first settlers the names of Ezra West, L. T. Butler, Bishop
Adams, Martin Olds, Thomas Longwith, Squire Rider, C. McEwen, the
Culbertsons. Stephensons, Charles Shelby, Solomon Hoppes, Daniel H. Dana,
Adam Spade and Samuel Hartsock must not be forgotten. Together with
Daniel Whiteman, referred to. were his brothers, Samuel, Jacob and Abra-
ham, all pioneers, and gone with the majority.
The red pioneers left their hunting grounds here over a half- century ago.
The savages, who were known to the early settlers, are gone where all good
Indians go, even their children have passed away, and now the grandchildren
of the tribe, few indeed in number, remember the Sandusky country only as
something of which they heard their fathers speak.
Commtvi Schools. — In 1836 "the School Section" was sold as ordinary
school land, although the west half of Section 12 was granted to the township
in 1826 in lieu thereof, as Section 16 was then the propeiiy of the Senecas.
Immediately after the sale of this section the school board was formed, and in
1838 the township was laid off into school districts. In 1845 the west half of
Section 12 was sold, and the common school system was fully established
throughout the township, as shown in the figures for 1847, given in the chap-
ter on statistics.
The present condition of the schools of Adams To\\T.iship is portrayed in the
following statistics (1884): Piipils ern'olled— boys. 169, girls, 126— total 295;
number of houses, 10; value of property, §12,000; number of teachers, 21;
average pay of teachers. $43 and $27; total receipts, $5,242.64; total expenses.
$3. 943. 62;' local tax, $1,862.66.
Statistics. — The assessment roll of Adams Township in 1840-41, shows
22.593 acres, valued at $57,620; value of town lots and buildings, $1,559;
horses, 221, valued at $8,840; cattle, 613, valued at $4,904; mercantile capital
and money at interest, $2,767; total value, $75,690. Total tax, $1,040.73; de-
linquencies. $20.92.
The statistics of assessment and tax lexj of Adams Township and Green
Spring Village, for 1884, are given as follows: acres in township, 22,756; in
village, 165; the former valued at $798,790 and the latter at $53,780. The
personal property in the township is valued at $220,750, and in the village at
$51,790, giving the total valuation of the township, $1,019,540, and of the vil-
lage, $105,570. This valuation equalized per capita would give $693.41 to
each of the 1.624 persons in the township, according to the census of 1880.
Crediting the township with 1,624 and the village with 331, each resident of
township would be worth $627.79, and each one in the village, $318.89,— the
population as taken at present being 1,624 in the township and 331 in the vil-
lage. The State tax levied in 1884-85 amounted to $3,150.31, and the total
tax levied, $15,930.98, together with $131 dog tax. The true value of the
township is estimated at $2,700,000.
The general statistics of Adams Township for 1884 are as follows: acres
under wheat 4,294. product, 26,154 bushels; acres of rye, 31; acres of buck-
wheat 5. product. 67 bu-hols: acres of oats. 1.343: product of 1,239 acres in
408 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
/
1883, 51,972 bushels; barley, 24 acres; corn, 2,254 acres, product about
40,265 bushels; 1,303 acres of meadow, 1,486 tons of hay; 1,113 acres of
clover, 1,201 tons of hay and 1,225 bushels of seed; 182 acres plowed under:
potatoes,' 112 acres, product about 17,000 bushels; home-made butter, 49,050
pounds; 'sorghum, 3 acres, 211 gallons of syrap; maple s^a-up, 1,291 gallons;
91 hives, 730 pounds honey; eggs, 35,450 dozens; apple trees. 410 acres,
7,030 bushels in 1883; pears, 4 bushels; plums, 2 bvishels; cultivated lands,
12,018 acres; pasture, 2,338; w^oods, 3,497; waste, 48; total, 17,901 acres;
wool in 1883, 33,105 pounds; cows in 1883, 488; dogs, 128; sheep killed and
injured by dogs, 153; died of disease. 17 hogs, 121 sheep, 19 cattle and 9
norsGS
Villages. — Sulphur Springs on Section 7, was laid off in 1833 by David
Eisdon for Josiah Hedges and Solomon Krider, near the great sulphur springs.
The enterprise was premature, otherwise through the business genius of Mr.
Hedges the now thriving town of Green Spring would undoubtedly have been
at this j)oint.
Adamsville, on west half of southwest quarter of Section 3b, was surveyed
by Thomas Heming for Daniel Kistler, in i^pril, 1846. The settlement called
Cooperstown is alm.ost on the site of the quondam town of Adamsville.
Lowell, on the northeast quarter of Section 19, was surveyed for Lowell
Robinson by G. H. Heming, April 27, 1849. Lowell shows some signs of life,
and may reach the height for which its originator hoped.
TOWN OF GREEN SPEING.
This settlement may be said to begin shortly after the time when Jacob
Stem arrived at Tiffin (1830). The location was well selected, for it embraced
one of the most beautiful tracts of land in the two coimties of Seneca and
Sandusky. The village was surveyed by David Rees and David Risdon, in
May, 1839, for Jacob Stem, who had a first addition surveyed by G. H. Hem-
ing, in June, 1852, at right angles to the railroad; a third addition. May 2,
1855, and Stem' s f om-th addition to Green Spring, surveyed by G. H. Heming,
in August, 1859, for Elizabeth. Lydia and Clementine Stem. Stephen T.
Finch's first addition was surveyed by Heming; his second addition, June 1 <.
1852. and his southern addition in September, 1860. P. H. Ryan surveyed
Robert Smith's addition in 1872. John Seavolt's addition was made in May.
1873, and S. E. Roy's, in May, 1875.
Organic and Official— The petition to the commissioners, fi'om the people,
of what now constitutes Green Spring Village, asking to be incorporated, was
presented December 6, 1871. The names of the petitioners are as follows:
Gideon Gordon, C. S. Burton, S. H. Rodebaugh, H. Welsh, G. W. Brestell.
E. D. Stein. H. Waterman, H. Goetchius. J. P. Dichel, J. H. Baughton, D.
Stineheard. John Noah, Peter Overmier, C. H. Neff, D. H. Hutchison. J. Q.
A. Bennitt, I. C. Parker, J. W. Stineheard, P. H. Myers, Dr. J. L. Brown,
W. P. Myers, W. J. Merchant, F. J. Wehr, John Fisher, L. Freese, W. B.
Kudler, J. S. Borland, U. Fink, W. Lot, W. Stevenson, L. C. Bair, P. F.
Cardies, J. J. Luman, 0. Dvermann, E. Dick, O. W. Osborn, M. Gray, George
Setzler, Adam Bose, F. M. "Xenard, B. M. Reed, A. N. Dennis, F. Vantassel.
C. Golls, C. Augustus, T. Cavalier, J. S. Vantassel, J. C. Sharer, J. B. Buck,
J. A. Bloomfield, George Kinney, William Frey and B. F. Hottle. Judge H.
Welsh was agent for petitioners. February 5, 1872, authority was granted
to organize; but the first election was not held imtil April, 1873.
1873. John A. Wright, mayor; H. B. Adams, clerk; G. W. Brestel, mar-
shal • F. Davis, H. Goetchius, G. W. Davis, John Netcher, Ezra Stoner, A. N.
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 409
Dennis and D. Gale, councilmen. ^\. P. Myers was clerk vice Adams, who
did not qualify. G. Gordon was appointed mayor in July, 1873, vice Wright
resigned.
1874. G. W. Davis, John Netcher and Charles Gale, councilmen; John
Eisenhart, Joseph Concannon and J. O. Brown, first cemetery trustees; G. Gor-
don, mayor; William Jodon. clerk.
1875. A. N. Dennis. W. J. Merchant and A. McHesser, councilmen; V.
Harry, marshal; James P. Turner, clerk, vice Jodon deceased.
1876. John S. Myers, Fred Hahn and H. W. Chiirch, councilmen.
1877. C. S. Burton, mayor; James P. Turner, clerk; H. Ennis, marshal;
John Robinson, John Howell and M. Shriener, councilmen.
1878. James Jackson, H. Young and O. Mclntire, councilmen.
1879. J. S. Myers, mayor; J. P. Tui-ner, clerk; Fred Hahn, M. Schriener
and H. D. Frank, councilmen.
1880. G. ^\. Earhart, G. Gordon and J. W. Stinchcomb, councilmen.
1881. J. S. Myers, mayor; Orson Mclntyre, clerk; H. Ennis, marshal; C.
S. Burton, solicitor.
1882. H. D. Frank, James Boughton and W. J. Merchant, councilmen.
1888. B. M. Reed, mayor; Dell McConnell, clerk; A. R. Young, W. J.
Merchant and Michael Shriener. councilmen.
1884. B. M. Reed, mayor; Dell IMcConnell. clerk; C. O. Grove, J. A.
Hamilton, M. F. VanBuskirk and O. J. Shutts, councilmen.
1885. B. M. Reed, mayor; W. J. Merchant, clerk; J. C. Kanney, treas-
urer; John C. Tarris, 1883-86 marshal; O. H. P. Strong, George Setzler and
S. P. Sproul, covmcilmen.
W. J. Merchant served as secretary of the board of education for fourteen
years previous to 1885, and was re-elected for three years in April, 1885. The
present board of education comprises J. W. Robinson, John Noah, A. R.
Young, J. C. Kanney, W. J. Merchant and H. H. Grown.
The corporation debt of Green Spring was reduced in the year ending April,
1885, fi-om $2,206.66 to $608.92.
Business Interests. — The advance made by Green Spring within the last few
years has been of a very marked character. The editor of the Times, writing
in February, 1885, says: "Our village is not an exception to the general rule,
and, for the purpose of demonstrating how utterly groundless these misan-
thropic views are, we have compiled the following list of business men and
business places in Green Spring during the year of 1881 and that of 1885. Al-
though that of 1885 may be greatly augmented before it ends, yet the com-
parison is very flattering' indeed, and shows a decided increase in point of busi-
ness. Diiring the year 1881 the following were in business: C. O. Grove,
Mrs. Kinney, J. W. Stinchcomb & Co. , D. S. Caldwell, C. S. Burton, I. G.
Speck. J. C. Sharer, G. Gordon, James Boughton, G. W. Earhart, Porter
Yates, J. B. Schwendt, A. N. Dennis, John S. Myers, Joe Schaefer, A.
McHesser, Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Elevator, Sash, Door and
Blind Factory, J. Netcher, First National Bank, William Schrader, Newacheck
& Julian, A. R. Young, R. M. Seaman, J. A. Watrous, H. G. Ogden, H. W.
Church. John Noah, William Frey and F. Hahn."
The professions, trades, etc., in 1884, were represented as follows: James
Boughton, blacksmith; J. L. Brown, j)hysician; C. S. Burton, lawyer; Dr. D.
Proctor Campbell, successor to Dr. Hillbish; H. F. Case, flour-mill; A. Cohn,
dry goods; A. N. Dennis, Nelson House; J. R. Brown, proprietor health resort;
George W. Earhart, bakery; D. A. Egbert, livery; F.W. Entrikin, physician; F.
W. Entrikin & Co. , Green Spring Sanitarium; E. B. Finch, Green Spring
410 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Hotel; J. Foncannon & Co., planing-mill; William Frey,- furniture; G.Gor-
don, boots and shoes; John Gordon, real estate; Green Spring Academy; the
Green Spring Times; Van Buskirk & Co., printers; Grier & Co., grain dealers;
C. O. Grove, books; F. Hahn & Sons, tanners; J. A. Hamilton, fancy goods;
Levi Hnber, saw-mill; Walter Huber, saw-mill; John Johnson, carriages; J.
C. Kanney, grocer; Mrs. S. Kinney, millinery; J. T. Laird, dentist; A. Mc-
Hesser&Co., grocers; Orson Mclntyi-e, insurance; Arch. R. McKellar, phy-
sician; J. C. McNutt, saloon; M. R. Marks, clothing; Charles Mo wry, saloon;
J. S. Myers, grocer; L. H. Sprague, physician; J. Netcher, hub manufacturer;
A. R. Newhard. jeweler; C.W. Newman, hardware; G.W. Knepper &Co., livery;
— Nighswander, saloon; John Noah, meat market; Henry Parker, drayman; B.
M. Reed, justice of the peace; L. W. Roys & Co., bankers; Jennie Rule,
di-essmaker; L. E. Robinson, j)hysician; William Schrader, Jr., saddlery; J.
Schaefer, saloon; M. Schriener. flour; J. B. Schwendt, boots and shoes; Mrs.
R. M. Seaman, millinery; Setzler, Newacheck & Co., carriages; R. M. Sproul,
di-uggist; Southard & Lutz, livery; I. G. Speck, hardware; J. W. Stinchcomb,
dry-goods; Stoner House; J. T. Sutton, agent Indiana, Bloomington &
Western Railroad Company, and manager Western Union Telegraph Company;
"Nickel Plate" Railroad offices; Lucy Taggart, millinery; ITnited States Express
Company; C. R. Walker, physician; J. A. Watrous, stoves; Willard ^^'entz,
barber; George Whitmore, wood turner; Porter Yates, druggist; A. R. Young
& Co., undertakers, R. M. Bartlett, lumber, and Josiah Young, brick-yard.
Presbyterian, Catholic, Methodist and United Brethren Churches. Masonic,
Odd Fellows and Grand Army lodges, and village council.
The following is a report of the amount of business done at the two railroads
at this place. We give the Indiana, Bloomington & Western first :
Charges on freight received $59,497.29
Tonnage, lbs 44,583,901
Charges on freight forwarded $36,603,43
Tonnage, lbs 17.997,469
Ticltet sales $3,975.25
The above does not include transfer business from August 17, 1884, to
February 1, 1885, which will amount to
Freight received $150,000.00
Freight forwarded 100,000.00
Amount of di-afts paid Indiana, Bloomington & Western for
Freight and charges received $194,504.93
Received of Indiana, Bloomington & Western 72,460.27
Number cars transferred 18,250
At the "Nickle Plate" is the following:
Freight received $40,399.29
Freight forwarded 88,524.24
Ticket Sales 3,100.00
The above is the amount of business done by the railroads here for the year
ending February 1, 1885.
Churches. — St. Jacob's Reformed Church, of Adams Township, was founded
in 1834, by Rev. Conrad, as a Union Reformed and Lutheran Church. Dur-
ing the administration of Rev. J. J. Beilhartz, a house of worship was erected
on land donated by Jacob Gruber. In 1851 Rev. J. H. Good became pastor;
he organized the Reformed Society and remained here.
Salem Reformed Church, of Adams Township, was organized by Rev. F.
Rehauser, and a house of worship was built in 1887 on land donated by John
German. The original members were Eli Dought, Joseph Kunes, Jacob
Britten, Eli Kaishner, John Hensinger and Andi'ew Mitower, who organized
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 411
as a Union Reformed and Lutheran Society. The present house of worship,
erected in 1868, is the foiu'th building raised by the congregation. It and the
Reformed Church, of Thompson Township, are served by the same preachers
{vide History of Thompson Township).
The Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Adams Township, was reorganized
under State law, October 16, 1856, with John Ivistler, chairman, and John
BennehoflP, secretary, Reuben Bennehoff, "William Muhn and John Kistler were
elected trustees.
The English Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Adams Township, was in-
corporated September 14, 1867. On the same day a resolution to build a
church' on a lot of land purchased from Joseph Neikirk was adopted. The
trustees elected were Jacob Neikirk, Samuel Metzger and John Clay. The
building committee comprised H. Whiteman, Joseph Neikirk and D. H. Nei-
kirk. In November, 1868, John Clay, David Wyand and David Smith were
elected trustees to represent other societies, to whom the new church was de-
clared open for service.
The German Baptist Society, of Green Spring District, was incorporated
under State law, in March, 1874. The meeting was held at the Union Chm'ch,
Adams Township, with J. T. Eversoll, chairman, and Jacob Brenneman, secre-
tary. Jacob E. Brenneman, David Wise and Stephen Cocher were elected
trustees.
St. Joseph' s Catholic Chui'ch, founded about twelve years ago, now claims,
among its members here, the following families: F. Welty, A. Folmer, Charles
Durand, Thomas Kenny, Adam Haas, A. Kanney, Patrick Fox, Patrick Gor-
man, John Smith, Thomas Scanlon, INIi-s. Knepper, Mrs. Maracus, Leonard
Muelliard, James Hennessy, and a few others. The chui'ch is a neat fi-ame
building erected about twelve years ago. The mission is attended from Clyde.
The United Brethren, Green Creek Circuit of the United Brethren Church,
was established in 1848, with J. C. Bright, pastor. Prior to that year the
pastor of the Honey Creek Circuit attended to this section. Rev. AV. Herring-
ton was preacher in 1849; R. Wicks, in 1850; J. Newman, in 1851; and M. Long
in 1852. At this time there were 150 members in the circuit. IMr. Long was
preacher until succeeded bv William Jones, in 1855; and he by James Long
andH. Cui-tiss in 1856. S. T. Lane preached in 1858; D. G. Odgen, 1860;
James Long, 1861; Michael Long, 1863; S. Foster, 1864; W^illiam Miller,1865;
Peter Flack, 1866; R. K. Wvant, 1867; J. Matthews, 1868; D. F. Senter,
1869; S. H. Roudebaugh, 1870-71; D. D. Hart, 1872; B. M. Long, 1874; E.
B. Maurer, 1875; A. Powell, 1876; D. S. Caldwell, 1878; Joseph Bever, 1879;
S. T. Lane, 1880; T. D. Ingle, 1881; J. W. Hippie, 1883. The present house
of worship at Green Spring was erected in 1873. The members at the present
time are Lewis Coy, John Tarris, Daniel Baker, James Steele, James H. John-
son, J. D. Rutter, Albertus Steele, Rev. J. W. Hippie, Amelia Evy, Jennie
Tarris, Charlotte Baker, Minnie Baker, Mary Stonebraker, Sarah Arter,
Phoebe Arter, Nellie Evy, Mary A. Rutter, Lucy Steele, Ella Sharpe, Eliza
Titus, Alice Clinger, Calista Hippie. Rev. J. W. Hippie was appointed pastor
in September, 1883.
The ' 'United Bretkren Church, ' ' of HedgestowTi, about two miles southwest
of Green Spring, claims the following named members : D. B. Anders, Geoi-ge
J. Shedenhelm, W. S. Slaymaker, W. H. Miller, A. C. Brown, J. H. Van
Horn, Abbie Anders, Anne'^Jopp, Jerusha Jopp, Hecla Myers, Laura Sheden-
helm, Alice Slaymaker, Mary McKeen, Mary E. Shedenhelm; now attended
from Green Spring.
Brick Chapel, of the United Brethren Society, five miles southeast of Green
412 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Spring, has now thirty -four members, including the Hoffman, Beigh, Decker,
Hoetzel, Metzger, Morfier, Neikirk, Norris. Stigamire. Nace and Minich fami-
lies, with a few other members: now attended fi'om Green Spring.
The Methodist Episcopal Church is one of the oldest and largest societies
in the township. Rev. T. J. Gard, one of the old pastors of the primitive church
of Honey Creek, is preacher in charge. The church building stands on the
corner of Main and Morgan Streets. Joseph Cole is superintendent and
William Norris assistant superintendent of the Sunday-school.
The Presbyterian Church, corner of Main and Sand Streets, is an old or-
ganization.
The corner-stone of the new Lutheran Chiu-ch building, near the Butz
Schoolhouse. Adams Township, was placed in position June 9, 1885.
The new church, known as the Christian Union Chapel, was dedicated No-
vember 9. 1881. G. W. Hagans is preacher in charge.
Green Spring Academy. — The Western Resei-^^e University was chartered
as Western Reserve College. Febiiiary 7, .18'26, and located at Hudson, Ohio.
After many years of successful lal^or it received increased endowment, and in
1882 was removed to Cleveland. Ohio. It now includes two colleges and two
academies: Adelbert College and Cleveland Medical College, both of Cleve-
land, Ohio: Western Reserve Academy, of Hudson, Ohio, and Green Spring
Academy, of Green Spring, Ohio.
The Academy at Green Sj)ring, Seneca Co. , Ohio, was founded by the
Synod of Toledo, in 1881. After two years of such struggles as are incident
to new institutions, it was connected with the Western Reserve University as
a preparatory school for Adelbert College. It remains, however, under its own
board of trustees, and continues to give special attention to preparation for
teaching and general culture, as well as to preparation for college. Normal
work is introduced so far as is practicable, and an attempt is made to cultivate
all departments with that thoroughness which is necessary in a preparation for
higher cultui'e. In the i^ast years good work has been done, and it is the pur-
pose of the trustees and teachers to keep iip with all the improvements and
demands of the times. The trustees are R. B. Hayes, president, Fremont;
D. J. Meese, -secretary, Sandusky-; J. A. P. McGaw, D.D., Toledo: I. G.
Hall, Lima: J. W. Cummings. Toledo; Samuel Smith, Green Spring; Carroll
Cutler, D.D., Cleveland; E. Bushnell. D.D.. Cleveland; C. P. Wickham,
Norwalk.
The faculty is made up as follows : Rev. J. S. Axtell, A. M. , principal, and
instnictor in Greek and Science; Prof. E. O. Loveland, instructor in Com-
mercial Course and Mathematics; Prof. W. J. Alexander, A.M., instructor in
English. German and Latin: Miss Rose Giddings, instnictor in Instrumental
and Vocal Music: Miss Kate Blayney. instructor in Drawing and Painting.
Rev. R. B. Moore, of Tiffin, was the fir.st principal, being in charge fi'om
the establishment of the academy until 1883.
Cemeteries. — Butternut Ridge Cemetery Association, was organized August
17, 1877, with W. E. Lay, F. Crockett, H. F. Niles, Denis Downs, John T.
Pen-in, Alpheus Lee, H. S. Lay, J. D. Lefever, Mrs. S. A. Kistler. Harry Tuck,
H. W. Harris and J. R. Downs, members.
St. Jacob' s Union Cemetery Association, of Adams Township, was organized
at the Reserve Church, November 1, 1884, with the following members: Joseph
Hilsinger, H. Brinkman, George Detterman. P. Happas. D. Shawberiy, H.
Lynn, E. Miller, Jacob Gruver. W. F. Miller, Daniel Gruver. Samuel Deter-
man. H. Miller. H. A. Determan, George Brinney, J. J. Miller, H. H. Det-
erman and F. F. Mever.
/?( m t /Z^y cC . ^ y^"^^^^
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 415
There are other cemeteries in the township : One on the northeast quarter of
Section 2; one on the northwest quarter of Section 20; one on the Albright
farm, in Section 24; two on the south line of Section 32, and one in the north-
west corner of Section 36.
Postoffiee. — The first postmaster at Green Spring was Daniel H. Dana,
appointed about 1840. Robert Smith was appointed subsequently, and was
serving in 1847-48, and up to the time Mrs. Matilda Bartlett was appointed.
In August, 1885, MissM. L. Bartlett, the late postmistress, retired, and Andi-ew
McHarser took charge.
Bayiks, Bankers, etc. — Robert Smith, the old postmaster of Green Spring,
may be said to have founded the first banking house in the village.
The First National Banking Company, of Green Spring, chartered some
years ago, met in February, 1881, and resolved to go into liquidation as a
national bank, and transact business under the laws of Ohio. The same month
this resolution was carried out, when Addison Hills and L. W. Roys purchased
the entire stock, and opened the banking house now known as L. W.. Roys
& Co.
The Green Spring Building and Loan Association was incorporated March
22, 1873, with J. W. Stinchcomb, C. D. Brick, George W. Davis, J. L. Stoner
and John Nash, members. The .capital stock was. $80, 000.
Secret and Benevolent Societies. — Green Spring Lodge No. 318 I. O. O.
F., was chartered June 11, 1857, with the following members: N. C. West,
B. F. Porter, J. B. Buck, Ezra Twombly, George T. Bell, James McGregory
and M. W. Plain. The lodge was incorporated November 2, 1867, E.
Twombly presiding, with H. D. Parmeter. secretary. Hugh Goetchius,
William'Stevenson and Fred Isenhart were elected trustees, and Gideon Gordon,
clerk. All records, prior to July 1, 1870, were destroyed in the fire of June 29,
1870, so that the first record extant is of date July 6, 1870, being a letter from
the Grand Lodge agreeing to issue a new charter instead of the one destroyed.
The Past Grands since that date are named as follows: J. A. Kettle, H. D.
Parmeter, M. Gray, F. J. Wehr, B. F. Boetz, W. Groves, R. H. Slaymaker,
W. P. Myers, C. R. Huss, John Eisenhart, J. C. Sutton, James Boughton,
M. L. Huss, W. C. Gray. F. Hahn. G. E. AVhitmore, O. J. Shutts, John
Gordon, John Young, A. Ferguson, A. Waldi-on, William Ross, James Mcln-
tire, M. Thraves, C. L. Rathbun, F. Clink, N. U. Egbert, W. H. W^aldron,
J. W. Stinchcomb, A. R. McKellar, C. Holtz. G. W. Davis. The secreta-
ries since 1870 have been M. Gray, B. F. Bretz, R. H. Slaymaker, W. P.
Myers. J. C. Sutton, W. C. Gray, 'M. L. Huss, G. W. Davis, A. Ferguson,
G. E. Whitmore, John Gordon, O. J. Shutts, O. J. Shutts, M. L. Huss, A.
Ferguson, A. Ferguson, George W. Davis, John Gordon, O. J. Shutts, G.
Gordon, G. Gordon, G. Gordon, G. Gordon, O. J. Shutts, serving his seventh
term.
Daughters of Rebekah, No. 82, Green Spring, was chartered October 17,
1872.
Green Spring Lodge No. 427 F. & A. M., was chartered October 20,
1869, on petition of S. T. Finch, Horace B. Adams, Truman Grover, E. B.
Finch, Sidney Tuck, Val. Ham, Thomas Almand, C. D. Buck, L. E. Sprague,
D. H. Clark and L. H. Sprague. The records of this lodge, prior to October
1873, were destroyed, so that the names of masters and secretaries from this
date forward can only be given: Past Masters. — Thomas Almand, 1878;
George Raymond, 1874-75; H. B. Adams, 1876; E. T. Gettins, 1877-78;
Walter J. Merchant, 1879-80; George Raymond, 1881-82-83; A. R. McKel-
lar, 1884; W. F. Huber, 1885. Secretaries. —G. W. Brestel, 1873; W.
416 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Jodon, 1874; W. Wilson, 1875; W. J. Merchant, 1876; Truman Grover,
1877; W. J. Merchant, 1878; E. AV. May, 1879-80; W. J. Merchant, 1881;
Ed Walden, 1882; C. O. Grove, 1883; H. (^. Campbell, 1884; J. W. Stinch-
comb, 1885. A. A. Jones is acting secretary. The lodge claims a member-
ship of twenty-six, with hall in Pearson Block, in good financial condition.
Potter Post, 105, Green Spring, was instituted lander charter July 19,
1881, and named in honor of Henry C. Potter, whose record is given in the
military chapter. The charter members were G. W. Brestel, James Martin,
James P. Tiu-ner, A. Grove, Jacob Shultz. P. Unser, A. N. Dennis, J. C.
Tarris, William Ross, W. Fitz, James H. Boughton, J. W. Stinchcomb,
Francis Keenan, M. Alspaugh, H. H. Roselle, D. H. Hutchison, Porter
Yates, John Seaman. Rufus Slaymaker. John Kimsman, G. W. Earhart, W. J.
Merchant, Walter Huber. Harry Crull, M. Clinger, John Noah, Henry
Ennis, Daniel Guisbert and George Raymond. The commanders are named
as follows: J. W. Stinchcomb. 1881; G. W. Earhart, 1882; J. W. Stinch-
comb, 1888; G. W. Brestel, 1884; A. A. Jones, 1885. The post has now
about fifty members. The adjutants were W. J. Merchant, 1881; Henry
Ennis, 1888: George W. Brestel, 1888; J. W. Stinchcomb, 1884; A. G. Per-
rine, 1885.
The Green Spring Temperance Aid Society was organized September 9,
1862, with INIi-s. Dr. Brown, president; Mrs. AY. L. Bartlett, vice-president;
Sam. Stoner, treasirrer, and Miss P. Finch, secretary. This society sent a
great quantity of valuable clothing to the volunteers in the field. Temperance
organizations in one form or another have been carried down since 1862,
always exercising a beneficial influence.
Green Spring Grange. Patrons of Husbandry, was incorporated Septem-
ber 19, 1876, with M. Alspaugh, M. D. Jopp and John Shulls, trustees; B.
F. Britz, secretary, and E. May, master.
Gh^een Spring Cure and Health Resort. — The mineral resources of the
Green Spring District were first developed in 1867, and a home for visitors
and patients opened January 1, 1868. The first patient was IMrs. Hugh Welsh,
who died at the Spring June 6, 1869. When the Cure was erected and the
enterj)rise organized. Charles E. Stockley was manager, and Dr. I. W. Moliere,
physician. Since that time it has had its vicissitudes, but is now one of the
best supported institutions of the kind in the West. The Marshall brothers
succeeded Dr. L. H. Sprague as physicians in charge in 1885, while John
Koller took charge of the hotel, making all the dej)artments during the season
of 1885 a success. The legend of the spring is as follows: "Once, a num-
ber of ' moons ' ago, a fair Indian maiden, the daughter of a great chief of
the Ottawa tribe, was taken dangerously sick with a malady unknown to the
wisest of their medicine men. The poor girl was becoming worse every day.
and many fears were entertained of an early dissolution. A young chief, who
was her lover, and to whom she had promised her hand, felt keenly the illness
of his promised bride. One day he was out hunting, and becoming tired, he
lay down under the shady branches of a large oak and fell asleep. While
sleei)ing he had a di'eam, in which he was advised by the ' Great Spirit ' of
the existence of a wonderful pool of water, the use of which cured many of
the numerous diseases of the body. The dream depicted this modern pool of
Siloam as lying far toward the setting sun, and to reach it a person must
encounter many dangers and untold hardships. The young chief was greatly
impressed with the di-eam, and resolved, at all hazards, to procure some of this
water for the sick maiden. Accordingly, he called his warriors together, and
selecting a few trasty braves, he started on the joiu-ney. After many days he
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. il'^
reached his destination, and found the spring. He procured some of the water
and returned to his nation. The maiden partook of the water, and soon recov-
ered fi'om her sickness.
This beautiful summer resort is situated about 160 rods north of the Indi-
ana, Bloomington & Western Depot at Green Spring. Nature has done her
duty nobly in giving the grounds a picturesque and pleasing site for the loca-
tion. The hotel stands upon a hill a few hundred feet back fi'om the street,
and is surrounded by a heavy foliage of trees that during the warm summer
months shade every walk and avenue about the grounds. At the foot of the
hill is the Sulphur Spring, which discharges about 700 cubic feet of water per
minute through a fissure in the bed rock. The water is as clear as crystal, of
a slightly greenish cast, and possesses remarkable curative properties, and hun-
dreds of invalids avail themselves of its benefits every year. The hotel is in
keeping with the management of the Spring, and has accommodation for 150
guests.
Statistics of Corporation.— The general statistics of Green Spring, for 1884,
are as follows: Acres of wheat, 652; acres of rye, 15; of oats, 78; of corn,
60; of meadow, 182, product, 273 tons; of clover, 94, product. 111 tons,^43
bushels of seed, with 12 acres plowed imder; of potatoes, 4, yielding 1,790
bushels; home-made butter, 3,200 pounds; 1 acre of sorghum yielded 41 gal-
lons of syrup; maple trees yielded 50 pounds of sugar and 120 gallons of
syi-up; 5 bee-hives; 2,240 dozens of eggs; 41 acres of apple trees yielded 8^19
biishels of fruit in 1883; acres of land cultivated, 1,130; of pasture lands, 264;
of woodland, 346 acres; waste land, 15 acres; total acreage, 1,755; wool,
5,233 pounds in 1883; milch cows, 38; dogs, 9; sheep killed and injured by
dogs, 16; 54 sheep, 2 cattle and 1 horse died of disease.
The Green Spring schools presented the following statistics at the close of
scholastic year, 1884: number of pupils, 201—99 boys and 102 girls— of whom
41 are attending the high school; one school building valued at $9,000; 4
teachers; average salaries, $95 and $30; local tax, $1,347.15; revenue,
$4,213.27; expenditm-e, $3,451.62.
CONCLUSION.
There are so many incidents connected with the settlement and progress of
this division of the county, related in the chapters of the general history as
well as in that on the personal history and reminiscences of the township, that
this chapter is confined especially to matters pertaining directly to Adams. It
presents a plain record of pioneer and official, religious and social, commercial
and statistical history, and as such lays claim to so much completeness as
history based on records and authentic statements warrant.
418 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XV.
BIG SPEING TOWNSHIP.
THIS township was sm-veyed in 1820 by J. Glasgow, outside the bounda-
ries of the reservation, and, on the cession of the Indian lands, C. W.
Christmas surveyed the reservation in 1832, all forming Township 1 north,
Range 13 east. The Indian Treaty of September 17. 1818, provided that
16.000 acres should be set apart for the use of the AVyandots of Solomon's
Town and Blanchard' s Fork, with the center of such tract at the Big Spring of
Seneca County. By the treaty of January 19, 1832, all this reservation was
ceded, except 320 acres kejtt for Roenunas. The President's proclamation,
ordering the sale of the lands thus ceded, was made November 13, 1832, and
the work of pioneer settlement was begun.
The spring fi-om which the township takes its name, is near the hamlet of
Springville. It is an ordinary lime spring, showing no traces of sulx)hur,
clear, pure and invigorating.
The creeks of the township are all native, that is, finding a som'ce and an out-
let within the township ; the soil is fertile, and the 4, 000 acres, still classed as
forest-land, are well timbered with valuable hard wood. The drains in the
southern sections have di-ained the great swamp.
Organic and Official — The commissioners established this township March 6,
1833. and April 4, following, the first election was held. * Richard Reynold
and E. Bogart were elected trustees; William Brayton, clerk; Hugh Mullhol-
land, treasurer; Cornelius Bogart, And. Springer and Joshua Watson, fence
viewers: Elijah Brayton and Charles Henderson, overseers of the poor; and
Austin Knowlton, constable. The records for 1834, 1836 and 1837 are gone
where too many good records go, so that there is no certain way of supplying
the names.
1835. — John Ellerton, Jacob Grove, Peter Lantz, trustees; William Bray-
ton, clerk.
1838. — William Benham. Peter Lantz, Ezekiel Bogart, trustees; Israel
Harmas. clerk.
1839. — E. H. Cook, John Jenkins, David Bowersock, trustees; I. Harmas,.
clerk.
1840. — W. Benham, Frederick Waggoner, Peter Lantz, trustees; I. Harmas,
clerk.
1841-42.— X. L. Hulling, Peter Lantz. John Elarton, trustees; David
Byrnes, clerk.
1843. — John Elarton, Peter Lantz. N. L. Hulling, trustees; John Luza-
der, clerk.
1844-45. — William Smith, Theo Frink, Peter Lantz, trustees; Abram
Dow, clerk.
1846. — H. Davis, Theo Frink, Samuel Young, trustees; A. Battenfield,
clerk.
1847. — H. Davis. Theo Frink, Samuel Young, trustees; H. J. Flack, clerk.
♦Originally attached to Seneca Township.
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 419
1848. — William Smith, T. Frink, A. Frederick, trustees: Samuel Lutz,
clerk.
1849. — Hiram Davis, T. Frink and S. Young, trustees; Montgomery
Noble, clerk.
1850. — Hiram Davis, T. Frink, S. Young, trustees; D. Burns, clerk.
1851. — Hiram Davis, T. Frink, Peter Wenner, trustees; J. C. DeWitt,
clerk.
1852. — Hiram Davis, Adam Vetter, Hemy Boucher, trustees; J. C. De-
Witt, clerk.
1853. — John Werley, Adam Vetter, Hiram Davis, trustees; John C. De-
Witt, clerk.
1854.— John Yentzer, John Werley, H. Davis, trustees; J. C. DeWitt,
clerk.
1855. — H. Davis, T. Frink, P. Simons, trustees; J. C. DeWitt, clerk.
1856. — A. J. Sanders, Peter Simons, Jacob Von Blon, trustees; John C.
DeWitt, clerk.
1857. — David Burns, J. Von Blon, James Keesberry, trustees; Daniel Kin-
sel, clerk.
1858. — Joshua Watson, P. Simons, J. Von Blon, trustees; Daniel Binsel,
clerk.
1859. — Joshua Watson, J. Von Blon, A. Vetter, trustees; Daniel Einsel,
clerk.
I860. — Peter Wagner, J. Von Blon. A. Vetter, trustees; Joseph Zint. clerk.
1861. — Peter Wagner, J. Von Blon, A. Vetter, trustees; J. W. Lantz,
clerk.
1862. — Peter Wagner, J. Von Blon, A. Vetter, trustees; George M. Shu-
maker, clerk.
1863-64. — William Smith, J. Von Blon, A. Vetter, trustees; George M.
Shumaker, clerk.
1865. — Thomas Rinehai-t, J. W. Lantz, C. Wagner, trustees; J. F. Frink,
clerk.
1867. — Thomas Rinehai-t, A. J. Sanders, C. Wagner, trustees; J. F. Frink,
clerk.
1868.— John P. Genzler, I. W. Cline, P. Wagner, trustees; W. Bearly,
clerk.
1869-70.— John P. Genzler, I. W. Cline, P. Wagner, trustees; D. Eens-
ley, clerk.
1871. — Ernst Kerrian, I. AV. Cline, P. Wagner, trustees; D. Rensley, clerk.
1872. — Matt Faller, I. W. Cline, J. P. Genzler, trustees; S. Bearly, clerk.
1873. — Matt Faller, A. Vetter, J. P. Genzler, trustees; James V. Magers,
clerk.
1874. — Joseph Lafontaine, J. P. Genzler, A. Vetter, trustees; James V.
Magers, clerk.
1875-76. — Joseph Lafontaine, Thomas Rinehaii, A. Vetter, trustees; James
V. Magers, clerk.
1877. — Nick Marks, A. Vetter, Thomas Rinehart, trustees; James V. Ma-
gers, clerk.
1878. — Nick Marks, Dominick Arndt, Thomas Einehart, trustees; James
V. Magers, clerk.
1879. — Nick Marks, Dominick Arndt, John Mathias, trustees; James V.
Magers, clerk.
1880-81.— Michael Goshe, D. Arndt, N. Marks, trustees; B. J. Murphy,
clerk.
420 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1882. — M. Goshe. D. Arnclt, Joliii Mathias, trustees; B. J. Murphy, clerk.
1883. — John N. Kinn, John. Mathias, D. Arndt, trustees; William Haines,
clerk.
1884. — Paul Huss, N. Kinn, John Mathias, trustees; "William Haines,
clerk.
The officers of Big Spring Township, elected in 1885, are Paul Huss, Nich-
olas Kinn, A. ^\. Simonis, trustees: William Haines, clerk; Charles Shubert,
treasurer; Peter Goshe, assessor, William Haines, T. M. Frink, I. W. Cline,
and Charles Shubert, justices of the peace; J. Vetter, and Joseph Wullen
Schneider, constables.
Schools. — The township of Big Spring was laid off in six school districts,
June 22, 1838. The people of Big Spring Township voted on the question of
selling the school lands of that township, June 22, 1850. Samuel Young.
Theo. M. Frink and Hiram Davis were judges. There were fifteen votes
cast. October 25, 1851. a sale of the west half of east half of Section 16,
Town 1, Kange 13 was sold to John Houck for $270, and of the west half of
west half of Section 1(3. Town 1, Range 13 to Theo. Pierce for $270. These
tracts were sold with Liberty Township lands. The remaining tracts were not
sold owing to want of purchasers at appraised jH-ice. September 3, 1853, the
east half of the east half of Section 16. was sold to M. Zinder for $275, and
the east half of the west half to Jesse Boucher for $264. The following sta-
tistics give the state of the schools in Big Spring Township, outside the vil-
lages, for the year ending August, 1884: Local tax, $2,362.76; total receipts,
$4,513.06; expenditures, $3,373.11; number of schoolhouses, 9; value of prop-
erty, $4,000; number of teachers, 14; average pay, $41 and $29; number of
male pupils, 154; of female, 88.
Statistics. — The assessment in 1841 gave the following figures: 24,721
acres of land and improvements, valued at $38,474; value of town lots, $1,544;
139 horses, valued at $5,560; 483 cattle, valued at $3,864; merchants' capital
and moneys at interest, $2,500; total, $51,942. Total tax, $662.26. Delin-
quencies of 1840, $64.27. The value of 20,885 acres of land in Big Spring
Township in 1884 was placed at $617,150; 1,750 acres in Adrian School Dis-
trict at $73,030, and 64 acres in NewEiegel Village at $22,180. The personal
property in the township was valued at $216,640: in Adrian District at $31,090
and in New Reigel at $58,840, giving a total of $1,018,930. This sum equal-
ized according to population of 1880 would give to each of the 2,048 persons,
then forming the population, $497. 50. The total tax levied in 1884-85 was
$9,625.30 and $150 dog tax. The actual value of the township may be placed
at $2,800,000.
The general statistics of Big Spring Township for 1884 are as follows:
Acres of wheat, 5,154 — product of 1883-84, 27,557 bushels; 15 acres of rye
produced 202 bushels; 16 acres of biickwheat, 87 bushels; 1,315 acres of oats,
42,440 bushels; 2,594 acres of corn, 62.245 bushels; 1.575 acres of meadow
yielded 1,290 tons of hay; 732 acres of clover produced 740 tons of hay and
925 bushels of seed; 116 "acres of potatoes yielded 15,019 bushels; home-made
butter, 36,060 pounds; 8 acres of sorghum, 637 gallons of syrup; maple trees
produced 29 gallons of sjTup; 77 hives yielded 605 pounds of honey; eggs,
11.845 dozens; orchards, 295 acres — 3,77i bushels of fruit; acresof land culti-
vated. 11,412; acres of pasture land, 5,611; acres of woodland. 3,859; total
acreage, 20,882; pounds of wool, in 1883, 4,096; milch cows, 534; dogs, 150;
animals died of disease — hogs. 917: sheep, 108; cattle, 20; horses, 14.
Pioneers and Old Settlers. — When the first permanent settlers arrived in the
township, they literally stepped in the tracks of the original owners, who
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 421
just moved out to give tliem place. The locality subsequently named Spring-
ville, Avas the only garden spot in the township, and around it the first settle-
ments were made, within a year or two of the period when the township was
organized. South of the township line the families of Asa Lake and Nehemiah
Earls settled as early as 1819, Daniel Hodges in 1821, Christopher Baker,
William Brown and John James in ]822. John Carey in 1823, Smith Kentfield
in 1825 and Hiram J. Starr in 1880. Many of those pioneers of the Delaware
and Wyandot country were acquainted with the big spring, coming and going
over the Wyandot trail from the Big Spring Reservation to the Ui^per or
Twelve-Mile Reservation, so that when the pioneers of this township arrived
they were within easy distance of the pioneers of what is now Wyandot County.
William Brown entered his lands, just south of the base line, in 1822, and may
be counted among the pioneers of the township. The Jenkins brothers were
early traders, and, it is l^elieved, the first white residents of Big Spring. The
Bra\i:ons, pioneers of Tymochtee Township, Wyandot County, came in 1882;
the Knowltons, Bogarts, Mullhollands, Hendersons, Youngs, Springers, Peers
and Reynolds were all here prior to organization.
The year 1883 witnessed the true beginnings of settlement, and immigra-
tion then commenced and continued to flow in for years, until the whole town-
ship was peopled with as industrious and good a class of citizens as it is the
fortune of any county to possess.
Stephen Bearld, orBeardly, purchased the west half of northeast quarter. Sec-
tion 12, fi-om Jacob Haser, in 1833, and entered on its improvement. . . .Hiram
Bogart, E. Bogart and Cornelius Bogart were among the very early settlers ....
Elijah and Anna (Holebrook) Brayton, parents of Peter Brayton, natives of
Vermont, where they married and lived for a few years thereafter, moved to
Fremont, Ohio, in 1814, thence about 1816 to Huron County, and later to
Wyandot County, where they remained until 1832, when they settled on what
is known as the Big Spring Indian Reservation; Mrs. Brayton died here in
1851; IVir. Brayton in 1868 William Brayton, son of Elijah Brayton, and
brother of Matthew Brayton, who was lost in the woods in 1825, moved into
Big Sirring Township in 1832; is now in Wyandot County; Matthew was
lost as mentioned when a child of eight years, while searching for cattle
with his brother William, and about 1850 a captive appeared who stated
that he was captui'ed by the Copperheads, a band of Canadian Indians,
who named him Ohwa-owah-kish-me-wah. In 1851 this man married
Tefi-onia or Tame Deer, daughter of 0-wash-kah-ke-naw, and by her had
two ehildi-en: Tefi'onia and Qululee. Thirty-four years after the capture
the Cleveland Herald contained an advertisement of a captive who did
not know his original name. William Brayton, now living, proceeded to
New York State, having with him a descrij)tion of the marks on the boy,
and there, in the house of one Smith, he found his alleged brother, but,
on closer investigation, the stranger proved to be one of the Todd family,
of Michigan, who was known as William Todd. He entered the army in 1861
and died at Nashville. The fate of Matthew Brayton is unknown Lande-
lin and Elizabeth Brosemer, natives of Baden, where they married, came to
America about 1832, and settled on the farm now occupied by their son, who
was born in this township in 1846. Mr. and Mrs. Brosemer afterward lived
in New Riegel until IVIrs. Brosemer' s death, caused by a team of horses running
away. Landelin Brosemer was born in 1803; died in 1885 The Bakeis
family, of whom Nicholas Bakeis is a member, have resided for over forty-three
years on then* homestead.
George and Mary Cline, natives of Maryland, and parents of Mrs. William
422 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Johnson, came from Lancaster Connty, Penn. , to this comity about 1836, and
here the former died in 1<S61. and the latter in 1856.
Frederick and Frederica Dible (both deceased), parents of Mrs. John
Lixzander, born here in 1838, were early settlers of the township Isaac and
Eleanor De ^A'itt, parents of Mrs. Samnel Kiser, of Loudon Township, were
pioneers.
Anderson and Julia Ewing, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of John F.
Ewing, of Adi-ian, came from Pennsylvania, in 1840, to this county, where
Mrs. Ewing died in 1847; Anderson Ewing subsequently married, and removed
into Wyandot County, where he died in 1875.
Theodore M. and Sabrina (Torrey) Frink, natives of Massachusetts,
the former born in 1804, the latter in 1808, came to this township in 1837,
from Tymochtee Creek, where they spent the winter of 1836; Mrs. Frink died
in 1855..
Jacob Gwjer was in the township in 1832, but was not a settler. Many
depredations were credited to this old resident of Stark County while among
the first settlers of Seneca County. About the time of the Michigan con-
spiracy case he was aiTested on a charge of miuxler, escaped from prison, and
completed a bad career by suicide. . . .John and Margaret (Limbauch) Grine,
natives of Belgium, came to Seneca County in 1847, and here Mrs. Grine died
in 1839 .... John and Elizabeth Guilliam (both deceased), parents of Mrs. John
Mathias, were early settlers in this county.
Joseph "W. and Elizabeth (Titler) Harsh, natives of Wayne County, Ohio,
born in 1823 and 1829, respectively, came to the township in 1848 .... Charles
Henderson was an early settler .... John Hile settled in the township at an
early day; died in 1869. . . .Nicholas and Catharine Huss, and their son Paul,
all natives of Germany, the latter born in 1843, came direct from the father
land to this county in 1846, where Mrs. Huss died in 1873. Nicholas Huss
and his son Paul are now residents of New Riegel.
Ben Jenkins, the trader at the Big Spring, was among the first settlers of
the township, and with John Jenkins caused the site of Springville to be suiweyed
into town lots .... Lewis and Margaret Jenny, natives of Eiu'ope, parents of
Mrs. Francis Kalmes, came in an early day to this township, where they died.
.... Archibald Johnson, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in Big Spring Town-
ship about 1820; was killed by lightning in 1845; his widow died in 1879.
Francis Kalmes, a native of Belgium, born in 1822, came to this county in
1846 .... A. J. Kinney, born in New Jersey in 1807, came from Wyandot County,
Ohio, abou^t 1843, and settled here. . . . Austin Knowlton, born in Massachusetts
in 1809, has resided in this county since 1830, and is called the "Father of
Big Spring. ' ' Mrs. Rhoda Knowlton (widow of Timothy Knowlton, who died
in Massachusetts in 1823), mother of Austin Knowlton, after her husband' s
death moved with her family to Wyandot County, Ohio, and after remaining
there a few years settled here, where she died at age of eighty- six.
Josei)h Lafontaine and his parents (Nicholas and Mary Lafontaine), all
natives of Belgium, came to America in 1841, and settled in Big Spring Town-
ship, where the parents died .... Christian and Catharine Lenner, natives of
Bavaria, where they married, came to New York in 1831; to Stark County,
Ohio, in 1832, and in 1837 to this township, where Mrs. Lenner died in 1876;
Christian Lenner lives with his son Daniel .... John Lugader, born in Ross
County, Ohio, in 1814, came from Wyandot County to this county in 1833.
John B. Martz and his parents, Henry and Margaret Martz, all natives of
Belgium, came direct fi'om their native land, in 1846, to Big Spring Township,
where the parents died .... Nicholas and Theresa Marks, natives of Germany.
,?>«fV
'tr~ vf<l>.
BIG SPKING TOAVNSHIP. 425
where they were married, former born in 1809, latter in 1823, came direct
h-om. their native land to this county in 1850, and settled in this township ....
Joseph E. and Mary A. (Sneeringer) Magers, pioneers of Stark County, Ohio,
natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania, respectively, settled in Seneca County
in 1852; the present clerk of Seneca County is their eldest son.... Lewis
and Josephine Mathias, natives of Europe, settled here at an early day, and
here their son Nicholas, of New Riegel, was born in 1849; Lewis Mathias
died in 1878 ; his widow survives him .... Lewis and Clara Mathias (both
deceased), natives of Luxemburg, Germany, came to America in 1840, and set-
tled here .... Mack and Eliza McCullough, parents of Mrs. John F. Ewing, of
Adi'ian, settled in this county in early times, thence moved to Wyandot
Countv, Ohio, where they died .... John and Magdalena Miley, natives of Vir-
ginia, parents of Mrs. Jacob Black, came, about 1828, to Seneca County,
where Mrs. Miley died in 1856, Mr. Miley, in 1874 .... Dr. John Montgomery,
after a long and painful illness, died at Adrian, January 29, 1885; Dr. Mont-
gomery had been a resident for a great many years and was widely known ....
Hugh Mullholland was elected the first treasurer of the township in April,
1833.
John Peer and Philip Peer settled in the township, previous to its organiza-
tion .... Nichols and Elizabeth Plenz, natives of Germany, parents of Mrs.
Paul Huss, of New Riegel, came here about 1848, and have ever since resided
here.
Eichard Reynolds was a settler prior to 1833, in Big Spring Township.
Anthony Schindler, who settled on Section 12, Big Spring, in 1833, may
be considered one of the pioneers of the German colony .... Charles Schindler
settled on his farm in 1835 .... Christian and Elizabeth Schlemmer (both de-
ceased), parents of Mrs. Jacob Herbert, were early settlers in the county. . . .
Adam and Kathrina (EfFert) Simonis, natives of Germany, parents of Peter
Simonis, of Fostoria, were among the pioneers of this township .... Coni'ad and
Elizabeth Smith, natives of Germany, parents of John M. Smith, came to Seneca
County in 1834, where latter died in 1870, former in 1880 .... Timothy and
Catharine Smith, natives of New York, parents of William Smith, of Big Spi'ing
Township, who was born in 1815, in New York State, came to Seneca County
in 1833, and here died, former in 1853, latter in 1883 .... Jacob Spraw, a native
of Bavaria, born in 1809, came to Ohio in 1832, locating in Big Spring Town-
ship .... Andrew Springer was one of the first American pioneers.
Henry TiiU, born in Luxemburg, Germany, in 1819, came to America in
1849, locating in this coiinty.
Dr. A. S. Uberoth, one of the physicians of the township, was mangled to
death by a train on the Indiana, Bloomington & Western Railroad, February
16, 1883. His watch, umbrella and other articles were found scattered along
the track. This showed that he had been dragged by the train for some dis-
tance and met with one of the most horrible deaths which it is possible to depict.
George Wehrle, of New Riegel, who settled in the township in 1833, was
the first president of the village .... Michael Wagner, one of the oldest inhabi-
tants of this county, died at New Riegel, September 9, 1885, aged one hundred
and two years .... John and Elizabeth Wullenschneider, natives of Germany,
married in Licking County, Ohio, and settled here many years ago, where former
died in 1860 Joshua Watson was one of the first settlers; his name is
almost forgotten.
John Young and family settled in Big Spring in 1833, and were among the
first settlers in the wilderness .... Samuel and Isabella Young, natives of Penn-
sylvania, parents of Mrs. Jonathan A. Haines, were married in Wayne County,
426 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Ohio, where they remained until 1833, then came to this township, where Mr.
Young died in 1859; his widow remarried and now resides in Adrian; Mrs.
J. A. Haines was born in Seneca County, in 1835.
Nimrod and Mary Zender. native of Switzerland and Luxemburg, respect-
ively, came here at an early day, where they died. Here their son Joseph was
born in 1835.
ADRIAN VILLA.GE.
Oregon (now Adrian) was sui-veyed by E. M. Shoemaker, in February, 1844,
for Erastus H. Cook and DeAVitt C. Henderzon, on west half of northwest
quarter of Section 36, Big Spring Township. Prior to this time the location
was known as Foster's Mills, under which name it was established a postal town
early in the "thirties." with AVilliam White postmaster. He was succeeded
by John Carr, who had the office in 1847. C. G. Fenn was succeeded in Au-
gust, 1885, by William Haines. The town has since been extended into Sec-
tion 35.
The Business Circle is made tip as follows: D. F. Bascom and Adam Vetter,
blacksmiths; Isaac W. Kline, grocer, business now owned by William Haines;
James Curtiss, dry goods; Lewis Etchin, boots and shoes; Shober Bros., meat
market; J. H. Snyder, stoves and tinware; Miss Anna Haines, milliner; Mrs.
Catherine Krell. hotel; John F. Ewing, carpenter. E. Slack's flouring-mill
was burned in 1884. Dr. W. H. Paul left Adrian in the summer of 1884, and
Dr. John Montgomery died here in February, 1885. C. G. Fenn has been
postmaster for ahnost a quarter of a centuiy, succeeding Lou Anderson and
James Curtiss in that office, James Kline established a steam saw-mill in the
winter of 1883-84.
Schools. — Adrian High School Association was incoi-porated January 13,
1869, with James C. Kunneals, Frederick Hahn, Timothy B. Hawkins, James
T. Ewing, James J. Zint, H. B. Cui'tiss, M. L. Knowlton, William Nease
and Dr. J. A. Lutz, members. The object was to build a house and conduct
a high school at Adi-ian.
The condition of the schools of Adrian, August 31, 1884, was as follows:
Number of male pupils, 26, of female pupils, 34, of whom 26 were in the high
school; one house valued at $2,000; 2 teachers receiving $36 and $30, each, per
month; local tax. $26/. 44; revenue, $800.64; expenditures, 513.07.
Societies. — Adi-ian Protection Horse Company was organized April 20,
1874. with the following members: James J. Zint, B. Copley, L. Walton,
J. R. Higgins, John Baker. John Kimble, D. Wander, Martin Wenner, John
Haines, and the trustees then elected George Wander, Levi Haines, and
David Leuhr.
Adi-ian Lodge No. 494, I. O. O. F. , was organized under State law, Janu-
ary 20, 1877, with Joseph Zint, G. W. Shober, Louis Etchen, Jacob Bloom,
W. H.'siaymaker, A. Johnson, John Greer, T. B. Hawkins, Frederick Sho-
ber, John Snyder and Josiah Haines, original members.
May Flower Grange 290, was organized at Adiian, January 30, 1877, with
W. H.'Coply, J. R. Higgins, Daniel Lemer, John Grier, J. W. Eckleberry,
G. W. Mullholland, H. Vogle, Charles Bier. D. H. Wander and Benjamin
Coply, members.
C/mrc/ies.— Methodist Episcopal Church. The early records of this church
are not to be found; the oldest record is that of the Sunday-school, which
points out that the Oregon Sunday-school was organized May 17, 1845. The
subscribers were Charles Foster, L. C. Anderson, Stephen McKennie, Al
Yancer, William White, Anthony Frederick, Samuel Young, William Blew,
J. W. Frederick, I. C. Waggoner, W. Young, Austin Knowlton, F. Waggon-
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 427
er, Peter Wenner, Levi Hare, Jacob Yancer, Al. Loy, S. H. Foster, Susan An-
derson, R. Taft, Hannah Clark, Mary Whittlesey, Curtis Berry, Thomas Ba-
ker, Ira Taft, Aaron Strouse, Sarean Blew, Andiew Vance, Josiah Flack.
The early preachers at Adrian were Rev. Warner, who was here abont
thirty-eight years ago with IVIr. Dodge and Philij) Cole, 1850; James Milligan
and Philip A. Drownd, 1854; Mr. Close, 1856; Mr. Biggs, R. K. Good, 1860;
Mr. Holmes, 1863, and J. W. Miller, the last preacher from the Carey Circuit.
In 1868 Adrian was detached from Carey, and created a circuit, with Samuel
L. Boggs, preacher. In 1870 R. M. Culver came. He was followed by J. W.
Hill, in 1873; I. N. Kalb, 1875-78; Philip A. Drownd, 1878; John Hoiightley,
1880; Benjamin L. Rowand, 1882; Rev. M. C. Howey. the present pastor.
The society has a membershij^ of thirty- seven. The present brick church was
erected in 1854, but prior to this time, services were held in the old school-
house on the Knowlton farm.
The Catholic Church of St. Nicholas was founded in 1855 for the accom-
modation of the French population ; but, fi-om the beginning, half the member-
ship was made up of Germans. The church, however, is known as the French
Church. The pastors who have had charge of the congregation since 1855
are named as follows: Revs. L. Molon, Bally, Dolweek, Laux, Moes, Magen-
hann, Burkell, and the present j)astor. Rev. Joseph P. Gloden. The house of
worship, located on the highest point of land in the county. Section 23, Big
Spring Township, was erected in 1856. The membershi^D is about 500.
Universalist Church of Adrian was organized in 1870, with the following
named members: John Slaymaker, Sr. , and wife, J. T. Ewing, I. A. Lom-
bard and wife, William Haines and wife, F. Hahn and wife, S. Keenan and
wife, Joseph Zint and wife. The present membership is about twenty. The
church was erected prior to the regular organization in 1869, at a cost of about
$1,600. The first pastor (1870) was Rev. N. A. Saxton. He was preceded
by George R. Brown, of Clyde. The pastors since Rev. Saxton' s time have
been varied. Rev. D. R. Biddlecomb was the last preacher, who left for Akron
several years ago. The organization is observed, but no regular services have
been held.
Evangelical Trinity Church of Adrian was founded in 1869, by B. Popley,
John Wonder, William Brayton, Eli Gear, James Loy, John Scheirman and
Rev. E. B. Crouse. The church was erected the same year at a cost of about
$2,000. Since George Wonder settled here in 1871, he has been connected
officially with the society. The original society was organized years ago, but
never erected a hoiise of worship. Rev. C. M. Rinehold succeeded Rev. Mr.
Wingerd in April, 1885. The congregation numbers about fifty.
NEW RIEGEL VILLAGE.
New Riegel was surveyed by G. H. Heming in January, 1850, for Anthony
Schindler. Walter Myers' addition to New Riegel was surveyed by Heming in
April, 1855, within the angle formed by Tiffin and PeiTy Streets. John Wer-
ley's addition to New Riegel was surveyed in January, 1877.
Organic and Official. — New Riegel Village was incorporated December 2,
1882, on petition of B. J. Murphy and thirty-nine other residents, presented
to the commissioners of the county, December 28, 1881. The local records,
however, acknowledge the order of February 5, 1883, as the act of incoi-pora-
tion, because under this order, the first village elections were held April 2,
1883.
The record of this election is as follows: For trustees, Andrew Werley,
42 votes; B. G. Wullenschneider, 47; Celestine Friedman, 44; N. Plenz, 29;
428 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Peter Clause, 26; John Werley, 28. The first three named were elected.
Andrew Werley was chosen president, which position he now holds; Charles
H. Klein was appointed clerk, which position he still holds in conjunction with
the treasurership. Joseph Zender, elected first marshal in 1883, was succeed-
ed by Joseph Wullenschneider, who is now serving (March, 1885). In Juue,
1884, sidewalks and street crossings were authorized, and a series of public
and private improvements commenced.
Andrew Werley, the first postmaster at New Eiegel, was appointed in 1877,
and served until April, 1878, when he resigned in favor of C. H. Klein, who
has also been notary public since November, 1881.
The Business Circle is made up as follows: Altwise Bros., and George
Klein & Son, furniture; N. Dandlinger, blacksmith; William H. Focht, F.
Walter and F. M. White, physicians (Dr. J. M. Drescher has removed); Peter
Huss, John Wissler, shoe-makers; C. H. Klein and J. & A. Schalk, diy goods,
etc.; C. H. Klein and N. Mathias, groceries; Joseph Zender, butcher; Peiffer&
Clouse, saw-mill; Smith & Clouse, agents for well augers and earth elevators;
Nicholas Petty, wagon-maker; A. & C. Wangler, builders and contractors; Mar-
tin Wetzell, harness -maker; B. G. Wullenschneider, proprietor of the Empire
House; Thomas Marks and John Zimmer, saloons. Joseph Plentz, who was
shoe-maker here, moved to Tiffin in 1885. Andi-ew Werley established his
grain trade here in 1881, and built an elevator the same year.
Churches. — The Catholic Church. — As early as 1825 a few Catholics moved
to the vicinity of New Eiegel, who were visited at intervals by the Eedemptorist
fathers. Ten years later Eev. Father Trehenhens, C. S. S. E., visited the
neighborhood, and has been engaged ever since as a traveling missioner,
jom-neying on foot throughout Seneca and the adjoining counties. In 1845,
the congregation of the Most Precious Blood established a mission at New
Eiegel, with Fathers Sales and M. Brunner and five priests of the congregation in
charge. The property of the church at New Eiegel is valued at $25,000, the
church itself is one of the finest buildings devoted to religion in northwestern
Ohio, while the monastery, convent and schools are buildings equally suited to
the wants of a large religious community and a great congregation. The num-
ber of the congregation is over 600, principally Germans. The Catholic schools
are attended by 160 scholars in charge of two sisters and one lay teacher.
Other religious denominations claim representation here, but are without
>rganization or house of worship.
Schools. — The statistics of the schools of New Eiegel for the year ending
August 31, 1884, are as follows: local tax, 134.32; revenue, $542.74; expendi-
tures, $245.25; one schoolhouse — value of property, $450; two teachers, average
salary, $35; number of pupils enrolled, 23 — 18 boys and 5 girls; average attend-
ance, 1 1 . This was set off as a special district about ten years ago. The schools
of St. Boniface in connection with the church are in charge of two sisters, and
the male school has been in charge of Jacob Schiffer for the last seventeen
years.
SMALL SETTLEMENTS.
Springville, on the southeast half of Section 29, Town 1 north, Eange 13
east, was surveyed in May, 1834, by D. Eisdon for Benjamin and John Jenkins.
Springville does not now contain any business house. Mr. Cooke carried on a
store there for many years, until the building burned down.
Charles Foster, John Ganz, Adam Felter, and Eli Gehr were the first set-
tlers at Springville.
Dr. D. Peters and Dr. George H. Scoles were resident physicians at Spring-
ville, in 1847-48; but Dr. Lang was the pioneer resident physician in 1834.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 429
French Town is the name given to the French settlement, west of New
Riegel, settled by the Lafoiintaines and others between 1840 and 1847. Com-
fortable homes and well cultivated farms characterize that portion of the town-
ship known tinder this name.
Alvadia, or Alvada, a small settlement in Section 18, was surveyed in Jan-
uary, 1876, by A. C. Turner for William Smith and T. J. Anderson. The
business men of Alvada are , Beitler Bros. , general store ; James Beitler, black-
smith; Loitisa Ludwig, grocer; Nicholas Schira, shoe-maker; H. J. Star & Son,
grain dealers; Frank Koplier, hotel; N. Schira, Peter Nye and F. Kopfler,
saloons; Benjamin L. Ludwig, postmaster.
EAILEOADS.
The railroads which cross Big Spring Township are the Indiana, Blooming-
ton & Western and the Ohio Central; the former enters the township in the
northeast quarter of Section 25, takes a southwesterly course, passing through
Adrian Village, and leaves the township at Section 35; the latter penetrates the
township in the northwest quarter of Section 2, runs in a southeasterly direc-
tion, passing close to New Riegel Village, and leaves the township at Sec-
tion 18.
CONCLUSION.
This township, now one of the richest in the county, was originally settled
by native citizens. To-day it is a rare thing to meet an American ,born
resident other than the children of the German and French pioneers, who
now may be called the sole possessors of the southwestern division of Seneca
County.
CHAPTER XVI.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP
BLOOM, or Town 1 north, Range 16 east, is one of the oldest and richest
divisions of the county. The population in 1830 was 389, increased in
1880 to 2,162, including the village of Bloomville, which then contained 689
inhabitants. The township is watered by Honey Creek, Silver Creek and trib-
utary streams. Honey Creek enters the township in the northeast quarter of
Section 1, flows in a general southwestern course, and leaves the township in
the southwest quarter of Section 18. Along its banks are numerous sf)rings,
and here, too, many of the early saw and grist-mills were erected. The pio-
neers selected the neighborhood of the creek for their homes, and opened their
first farms. Silver Creek may be called a native stream, has its source in the
southeastern corner of the township, and, flowing generally northwest, leaves
the township in the northwest quarter of Section 19. The county di-ain enters
this creek, and it is also fed by a number of rivulets.
The geological formation of Bloom has been referred to in Chapter I. The
State Geologist, in Volume V, page 633, says : ' ' For building purposes the
limestone which is quarried fi'om the corniferous formation at Bloomville, Sen-
eca County, has a higher rex)utation than the Helderberg limestones, and in-
deed, it is said, that these quarries produce one of the best limestones in north-
western Ohio. The material has been quite extensively used in Tiffin for many
'430 n [STORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
years for trimmings and stone fronts, and also for general building purposes
in Mansfield and surrounding country. Good material for flagging, bridges
and foundations is quarried, and a slab twenty-five feet square might be ob-
tained. It has already displaced in a measiu'e the sandstones which are quar-
ried in that vicinity.
The specimens of this stone are of an attractive gray color, and are highly
fossiliferous. Some fossils have apparently been entirely removed at some
period, and their places supplied with a clear crystalline calcite, and some of
the fossil forms are therefore strikingly apparent upon polishing the surface of
the stone. Under the microscope the stone is found to be a grand aggregate
of fossil fragments, among which are rhombohedi'al crystals.
In November, 1884, a dynamite explosion took place at the old Francis
Stone quarry, just east of Bloomville. A dynamite blast had failed to dis-
charge, and Alexander West, a brother of Dr. West, and two Germans were
trying to remove the dynamite and prepare a new fuse, when it exploded. Mr.
West's hands and arms were terribly mangled, one of his eyes badly injured
and the side of his face frightfully bruised. The Germans Avere only slightly
hurt.
The soil is fertile, and a glance at any or all the farms will justify the name,
"Bloom," in its literal acceptation.
Organic and Official. — Bloom Township, as established in 1824, comprised
the towns of Bloom, Scipio. Reed and Venice (vide transactions of commission-
ers' board), and was named in honor of the German patriot. Bloom, on the
suggestion of John Seitz. In after years, Scipio, Venice and Reed were organ-
ized, and this township was reorganized within its present boundaries. In De-
cember, 1824, Scipio was detached; in December, 1826, Reed was established,
and in June, 1829, Venice was set off as a separate township. Owing to the
vagrant character of the pioneer clerk' s office, the records of the fii'st decade of
the township are not to be found. The record of elections from 1835 to the
present time has been fortunately preserved, and from these old books the fol-
lowing list of leading town officers is made:
1835. — Heniy Opt, I.tj. AVatson, J. Q. Hammond, trustees; H. Perky,
clerk.
1836. — Isaac G. Watson, John Newman, Abraham Kagy, trustees; H.
Perky, clerk.
1837. — Abraham Hammon, Abraham Kagy, James Dornan, trustaes; W.
B. Smith, clerk.
1838. — Abraham Hammon, James Boyd, Samuel Gross, trustees; Thomas
Treat, clerk.
1839. — James Boyd, Samuel Gross, Lewis Seitz, trustees; Thomas Treat,
clerk.
1840. — Jacob Myers, J. C. Martin, Lewis Seitz, trustees; Joseph Pen-
nington, clerk.
1841. — Joseph McClellan, Samuel Gross, Lewis Seitz, trustees; Joshua
Preble, clerk.
1842. — Benjamin Huddle, Samuel Gross, Joseph McClellan, trustees ; John
A. Morison, clerk.
1843. — Benjamin Huddle, Jacob Hossler, Joseph Swigert, trustees; Julius
A. Treat, clerk.
1844. — Jacob Hossler, Henry Opt, John T. Reid, trustees; Hemy Perky,
clerk.
1845. — Henry F. Hall, Hemy Opt, Jacob Hossler, trustees; Samuel Gross,
clerk.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 431
1846. — Jacob Hossler, James Boyd, Hemy Opt, trustees; Abraham Kagy,
clerk.
1847. — Same trustees and same clerk as in 1846.
1848. — Nathan Martin, Louis Spitler, James Boyd, trustees; Abraham
Kagy, clerk.
1849.— Same trustees; Jacob Hossler, Henry Perkey, justices; Abraham
Kagy, clerk.
1850.— Same as in 1848.
1851. — Ira Gulick, Henry Opt, Nathan Martin, trustees; Lewis Seitz, Jr.,
clerk.
1852. — Same as in 1851.
1853. — w. H. H. Hedden, Henry Opt, Ira Gulick, trustees; H. M. Betz,
clerk.
1854. — W. H. H. Hedden, John T. Reid, Ira Gulick, trustees; H. F. Hoss-
ler, clerk.
1855.— John Wax,' J. T. Reid, H. F. Hossler, trustees; H. F. Hossler,
clerk.
1856. — George A. Blackwell, D. H. Watson, John W^ax, trustees; John
Newman, clerk.
1857.— H. Opt, Ira Gulick, G. A. Blackwell, trustees; John Newman, clerk
1858.— John Einsel, D. H. Watson, G. A. Blackwell, trustees; Jacob Gei-
ger, clerk.
1859. — John F. Heilman, Hemy Geiger, G. A. Blackwell, trustees; Jacob
Geiger, clerk.
I860.— D. H. Watson, I. B. Steinbaugh, L. R. Owen, trustees; W. T.
Brown, clerk.
1861.— D. H. Watson, I. B. Steinbaugh, L. R. Owen, trustees; W. T.
Brown, clerk.
1862.— D. H. Watson, I. B. Steinbaugh, Henry Geiger, trustees; W. T.
Brown, clerk.
1863.— Ed Saul, H. Geiger, Daniel Spitler, trustees; William DeWitt, clerk.
1864.— Jacob Hossler, R. A. Blackwell, D. H. Watson, trustees; Jacob C.
Geiger, clerk.
1865. — R. A. Blackwell, J. Wax, John Newcomer, trustees; Jacob C. Gei-
ger, clerk.
1866.— D. T. See, H. Einsel, John Wax, trustees; W. DeWitt, clerk.
1867.— D. H. Patterson, H. F. Hossler, Henry Einsel, trustees; W. De-
Witt, clerk.
1868.— Edward Saul, Henry Geiger, D. H. Patterson, trustees; W. De-
Witt, clerk.
1869.— John Wax, William Mitchell, M. Finch, trustees; ^Y. DeWitt, clerk.
1870.— Samuel Mull, H. F. Hossler, Hemy Geiger, trustees; W. DeWitt,
1871.— H. Kirgis, L. R. Owen, H. F. Hossler, trustees; W. DeWitt, clerk.
1872.— L B. Steinbaugh, L. R. Owen, H. F. Hossler, trustees; S. S. Leh-'
man, clerk.
1873.— Daniel Seitz, I. B. Steinbaugh (I. G. Watson, deceased), L. R.
Owen, trustees; S. S. Lehman, clerk.
1874.— S. H. Wolf, I. B. Steinbaugh, L. R. Owen, trustees; S. S. Leh-
man, clerk.
1875.— Daniel Seitz, S. H. Wolf, I. B. Steinbaugh, trustees; S. S. Leh-
man, clerk.
1876.— Daniel Seitz, Conrad Klahr, I. B. Steinbaugh, trustees; U. E.
Cory, clerk.
432 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1877. — Daniel Seitz, Conrad Klahr, Abraham Sponseller, trustees; S. S.
Lehman, clerk.
1878. — Michael McNamara, A. Sponseller, C. Klahr, trustees; S. S. Leh-
man, clerk.
1879. — Henry Einsel, Michael McNamara, A. Sponseller, trustees; S. S.
Lehman, clerk.
1880. — John Newcomer, J. P. Echelberry, Eli Spitler, trustees; P. F.
Samsel, clerk.
1881.— S. B. Hossler, George M. Martin, Eli Spitler, trustees; P. F.
Samsel, clerk.
1882.— Same as in 1881.
1883. — Daniel Seitz, Eli Spitler, George M. Martin, trustees; P. F. Sam-
sel, clerk.
1884.— John E. Miley, Hemy Scheerer, W. L. Keid, trustees: P. F. Sam-
sel, clerk.
The officers of Bloom Township in 1885 are "William Reid, Eepublican, S.
B. Hossler, Republican, Henry Kirgis, Democrat, trustees; P. F. Samsel,
Democrat, clerk; H. S. Samsel, Republican, treasurer; S. S. Lehman, Repub-
lican, assessor: B. H. Spitler, Democrat, Fred Bolland, Republican, constables.
Pioneers of Bloom Toimship. — "When Hadley and Hampton beheld this
townshij:) in 1821, it appeared beautiful in its wildness. In 1822 the van-
guard of the pioneers arrived, and then was begun that round of labor
which resulted in giving to the county even before its organization, a garden
spot for all time and a well-organized community. In reviewing the history of
the settlement of the county, the following names are selected to represent the
pioneers of Bloom. The few who may chance to be left unnoticed in this partic-
ular portion of the work, find mention in one or other of the many chapters de-
voted to general, local and personal history.
James Beauchamp, who owned 135 acres on the southwest quarter of Sec-
tion 6, died in 1830, when Thomas McMillan was appointed administrator of
the estate. Sidney Smith was appointed guardian ad litem for his five chil-
dren .... Jacob and Rosa Bessey, natives of Germany, parents of Mrs. Abraham
Sponseller, who was born in this county in 1842, came to Bloom Township in
an early day. ^ir. Bessey died in 1867 ; his widow now resides in Crawford
County .... Joseph Bm-nsides or Birnside, who subsequently settled near the
present City Cemetery of Tiffin, located land near Bloomville in 1822, but found
it to have' been previously pm-chased. . . .The Bixler family must be named
among the pioneers, so also Henry Blackman, a name familiar in all old resi-
dents'^societies .... George Bever, Robert McClellan. Jacob Black, Noah Rhine-
hart were the only supporters in this township of Butterfield's History, in
1848 Thomas and Elizabeth (Hughes) Boyd, located on Honey Creek in
1822. being the first permanent settlers, where they resided until then- death —
Mrs. Boyd'^dying in 1834, IVIi-. Boyd November 27, 1847 James Boyd, born
in 1805 in Pennsylvania, came to Bloom with his parents in April, 1822, maiTied
Miss Eliza Steele and after her death man-ied Miss Mercy Smith, who died in
1865. Mr. Boyd died in 1871 at his home on Honey Creek . . . .James T. Boyd,
son of James Boyd, was born in Bloom Township in 1842 . . . .Adam and Cath-
erine (Fike) Buchman, natives of Bavaria, came in 1833 to Bloom Township,
where the former died in 1881 James and Eliza Boyd (both deceased), par-
ents of IVIrs. George Shumaker, of Pleasant Township, came from Pennsylvania
to Bloom Township in an early day.
Edward Cooley was one of the early settlers, but the exact date of his com-
ing cannot be ascertained. He erected the first house on the site of the present
z:^^^^^^ ^//
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 435
village of Bloomville David Crapo was among the pioneers of the third
decade of this centuiy.
John and Hannah (Kershner) Davis, , former a native of Maryland, born in
1785, latter of Pennsylvania, born in 1790, were married in 181(5, and Novem-
ber 12, 1824, came from Perry County, Ohio, to Section 8, Bloom, where they
permanently settled. John Davis and Russel Munsell built, in 1826, a saw-mill
on that farm, which mill was rebuilt later and sold to John Shoutz. IVIi's.
Davis died in 1840, Mr. Davis in 1849. Their son, William M., of Bloom
Township, was born in 1819, in Perry County, Ohio .... Jacob and Elizabeth
Detwiler, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Jacob Detwiler, who was born in
1828 in Columbiana County, Ohio, settled here in 1844. Jacob Detwiler, Sr. ,
died in 1850, his widow in 1860 Edward Delaney came from Ireland in
1831 or 1832, and selected the beautiful wilderness of Bloom for a home. . . .
Mrs. Maiy Donnell widow of James Donnell and sister of the pioneer, Thomas
Boyd, came in 1822. James Boyd, a brother, arrived at the same time. The
latter moved to Iowa in later years with his sister, and died there .... James
Donald, who was one of the builders of the first saw-mill, arrived prior to
1826 .... Evan Dorsey first settled in Bloom, and afterward became interested
in other townships William DeWitt, father of Mrs. James T. Boyd, of this
township, was a pioneer of Bloomville-
John and Elizabeth Einsel, natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland, respect-
ively, parents of Henry Einsel, who was born in 1834, came fi'om Fairfield
County, Ohio, to this county in 1833, where Mrs. Einsel died in 1865, and
Mr. Einsel in 1872. '
John and Barbara (Myers) Fisher, of Maryland, located here in 1835.
John Fisher died in 1879, his wife in 1859 James Fisher, M. D. , a name
well known in the history of Tiifin, and who is referred to in the chapter on
physicians, first settled in Bloom George Free settled here about 1823,
and was known as " Section 3 ;" he passed to his reward long years ago
George and Elizabeth (Ellenberger) Free, former born in 1785, died in 1848,
latter born in 1796, died in 1867 (parents of John Free, late of Pteed Town-
ship, born in Virginia in 1819, died in 1874), came to Bloom Township in 1822.
Samuel Gross, one of the oldest men living here, was born in 1810 in
Pennsylvania, and in 1831 moved with his parents to Tifiin. He married,
in 1830, Miss Ann Owen, born in Pennsylvania in 1807, and they then located
in Bloom in 1831. The old couple still occupy the log house which they built
on coming here, which is the oldest residence in the township, and Mr. Gross'
workshop still stands, a well-known landmark.
Nehemiah Hadley and J. C. Hampton, who settled in Bloom in 1822, are
referred to in the chapter on pioneers. It is there related that they were tem-
porary settlers as early as 1821, the former accompanying the latter on a com-
mercial incursion. Hadley was a great hunter, and was known to the pioneers
of Iowa, where he settled John Coles Hampton, born in Virginia in 1803,
settled permanently in Bloom Township in 1822, and here mari'ied, in 1832,
Elizabeth Long. He was an auctioneer here for nearly forty years, until his
death in 1885 Rev. Henry F. and Susan (Sellon) Hall, parents of Mrs.
John Rice, of Bloom Township, who was born in New York State in 1826,
settled here in 1835. {vide Pioneer Chapter) .... John George and Cath-
erine Hawblits, natives of Germany, came to Stark County, Ohio, in 1830,
bringing their son, Peter Hawblits, now of Bloom Township, who was born in
1829. After nine years' residence in Stark County, Ohio, they settled in
Bloom Township, but are now residents of Venice Township Jacob Hoss-
ler, born in 1806, in Pennsylvania, father of Samuel B. Hossler (latter born
436 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
there in 1842), moved with his parents (his father, Frederick Hossler, was
born in Pennsylvania in 1782) to Stark County, Ohio, in 1821, and there mar-
ried Anna Funk, a native of the place, and in 1834 came to Bloom* Jonas
Hossler, Benjamin Hottel and Isaac Jeffries are named among the old resi-
dents of the county. . . .Michael and Hannah Hunsicker, parents of Mrs. Con-
rad Briner, of this township, were early settlers here.
Abraham Kagy, born in Virginia in 1803, came with his parents, in
1820, to Fairfield County, Ohio, there married Miss Elizabeth Ruch, of that
county, and in 1823 they settled in Bloom Township. They had a large family,
and at one time owned over 1,000 acres of land. John, their son, has lived all
his life in Bloom Township. Abraham Kagy still lives on the old homestead.
His wife died in 1863. His mother, Hannah Kagy, died in this township when
over ninety years of age .... Truman King, George King and Rufus Kirstmer
were all early settlers here .... John and Eve (Reigle) Koller, former a native of
Pennsylvania, settled on Honey Creek, Bloom Township, fi-om Pennsylvania, in
1834. Mr. Koller built the first brick house in the township. He died
in 1845, and his widow, who subsequently man-ied William Watson, died in
1863. Nathaniel, son of John and Eve Koller, was born here in 1834
Simon Koller was born in 1802, in Pennsylvania, married there Mrs. Mary
Magdalena Bricker, also a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1810. In 1838 they
came to Ohio, and to Bloom Township in 1846. Mrs. Koller died in 1881,
Mr. Koller in 1882.
D. T. Lee settled in the township about 1835 John Lewis, wife, four
sons and one daughter came to Bloom Township in December, 1833, and settled
on the Marion State road near the coimty line. John Lewis died there about
1845, and Mrs. Lewis in 1840. Both are buried in Rock Creek Cemetery in
Eden Township .... In June, 1835, Henry F. Hall settled in the northeast
corner of Bloom Township, having come fi'om Steuben County, N. Y., in
June of that year. His daughter, Mrs. John Rice, refers to the farm as fol-
lows : ' ' There was also a pretty good log-house that the original builder had
intended to be a nice one for those pioneer times. The doors and windows
were cased nicely ; the gable ends were sided up and the roof was covered with
shingles instead of clapboards, but he had sold out before it was all finished,
and a man named John Lowman owned it. He was a rare specimen of the genus
homo, and spent his time in studying out a perpetual motion, and the doors,
both outside and inside, were covered with circles, angles and ciirves and all
sorts of geometrical designs that would almost have driven an inventor crazy.
He was too much of a genius to spend his time on commonplace things. He had
lived there five years without any sash or glass in liis windows. In winter they
hung blankets over them, and in summer he said they put a chair in at
night to keep out the dogs. Unlike most of the houses of that day, the chim-
ney was built inside of the house, but the big fire-place occupied a large place
below the stairs, and the chickens had a nice comfortable roost behind the
chimney on the ends of the sticks of which it was made, and those that did
not come in at the door, foimd their way in through the chinks between the
logs. Father had the true Yankee pluck and went to work, and soon the dogs
and chickens found out that a new family had moved in. ' '
Nathan and Elizabeth (Devins) Martin, former born in Pennsylvania in
1785, came from Canada to Bloom, in 1839, where his two brothers had set-
tled at an earlier date. He died in 1862, his widow in 1870. This old settler
was a soldier of the Revolution .... John Chapman Martin born in 1798, in
Pennsylvania, came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1812, and there man-ied
Miss Maiy Ann McCandlish, a native of Ohio. They came here in 1828.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 437
Mrs. Mai tin died in 1870, INIi-. Martin in 1881 .... George and Magdalena
(Troxel) Muckley, former a native of Germany, latter of Pennsylvania, parents
of Mrs. Jacob Detwiler, of Bloom Townsliii^, who was born here in 1834,
came fi-om Stark County, Ohio, in 1833. Mr. Muckley died in 1843, and his
widow married Isaac Eohrer and now lives in Mahoning County, Ohio ....
Joseph McClelland, born in Mifflin County, Penn., August 25, 1787, moved to
Shelby County, Ky., in 1815, to Bloom Township in 1822, to Hopewell in
1854, where he died aged seventy-two years, foui- months and thirteen days ....
A. B. McClelland, born January 7, 1818, in Centre County, Penn. , settled in
Bloom in November, 1834 .... Jacob Meyer was a settler of the third decade
Butler and Mary (Boyd) Munsell, parents of Mrs. Isaac S. Baldwin, of
Bloom Township, who was born in this township in 1838, were early settlers
here .... Roswell Munsell settled in Bloom in 1822, and the following fall as-
sisted Davis in erecting the first saw-mill Aaron Malony and wife, Mrs.
Edwin Bristol, S. G. Malony and John C. F. Malony left Maryland in October,
1830, and arrived in Bloom Township in January, 1831. Rachel McLelland,
two daughters and one son, James Beecham and wife and childi-en came also
to Bloom in 1831, and the three families settled in this township.
Levi Neibel, John Newman, Samuel and Henry Nisley were all old and
useful residents.
Lewis R. Owen, born in 1815, in New York State, came to Bloom Town-
ship fi-om Scipio Township, in 1835 .... Zeli Owen and William Owen were also
old settlers.
John Pennington and Henry Perkey, are named among the old residents.
.... Philip J. Price one of the early settlers of Eden, moved to Bloom Town-
ship, and is mentioned in the histoiy of Tiffin.
Samuel and Elizabeth (Parks)Ralston, parents of Mrs. Samuel B. McClel-
land of Bloom Township, who was born in Virginia in 1828, settled in this
township in 1834. Mr. Ralston died about 1867 ; his widow still resides here.
John T. Reid, born in Maryland in 1807, came to Fairfield County, Ohio,
in 1813, with his uncle, and to Bloom Township in 1831. It is also stated that
this settler aiTived in 1828 .... Lowell Robinson settled in Bloom in 1823;
died in California. He served the county as associate judge, and for this
reason, a sketch of him appears in the law chapter .... Gain Robinson and Ly-
man Robinson are names identified with the early years of Bloom .... Rev.
James Robinson settled here in 1830, and took a prominent part in the
church work of that period .... Jacob Rodezel settled in Bloom about 1829
Timothy P. Roberts, so well known in the history of Scipio, is said to
have erected the first fi-ame house in this township .... Isaac Rohrer was
another old settler.
John Seitz, a native of Virginia, born in 1790, came to Fairfield County,
Ohio, with his parents, in 1801. There he married, in 1811, Miss Magdalena
Spitler, also a native of Virginia, and in 1823 they located permanently in this
township, the name of which was bestowed by Mr. Seitz the year previous.
Mi-s. Seitz died in 1862, Mr. Seitz in 1874. Their son Daniel, born in 1825,
and the first white male child to see the light of day in Bloom Township, is
now the oldest resident of this part of the county .... Elder Lewis Seitz, a na-
tive of Fairfield County, Ohio, born in 1802, father of Aaron Seitz of Bloom
Township (who was born in the township in 1844), married, in 1823, Miss Bar-
bara Kagy, and in 1824 moved here. IVIrs. Barbara E. (Bretz) Seitz, wife
of Daniel Seitz, of Bloom Township, daughter of David and Frances Bretz,
natives of Virginia, was born here in 1834. . . .Martin Shaffner, father of ^\. H.
ShafFner, of Tiffin, came to Bloom Township from Crawford County (formerly
438 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
from Pennsylvania), in 1843. He was the father of twenty-one children
George Showman was a settler of 1835 Jacob Shock, a native of Stark
County, Ohio, (father of Mrs. Aaron Seitz, born there in 1842.) was an early
settler. Died in 1878 Jacob and Catharine (Seitz) Spitler, natives of Vir-
ginia, parents of Martin J. Spitler, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, born
in 1824, came to that county about 1802, where they were married, and in 1850
they moved to Bloom. They had seventeen children, and at their death left
127 descendants. Jacob Spitler died in 1865, his wife in 1863. Martin J.,
their son, came to this township in 1845 .... Lewis Spitler is also an old settler
Frederick and Elizabeth (Prouse) Sponseller, natives of Stark Coimty,
Ohio, former born in 1815, latter in 1818, parents of Abraham Sponseller of
Bloom Township, who was born in the township in 1845, were married in 1840
and then located here James Steele put up a saw and grist-mill about 1833
or 1834 Adam Stinebaugh. born in 1799, in Pennsylvania, moved when very
young with his widowed mother to Maryland. There he married, in 1829, Miss
Susanna Bowser, sister of the old pioneer of this county, Jacob Bowser, and
same year came with her father, John Bowser, to Seneca County. He bought
a tract of land where Republic now stands, and which he sold in 1835. In
1836 he bought land in Bloom Township, and here made a permanent settle-
ment. Mrs.'' Stinebaugh died in 1856. Their only child, Isaac B., of Bloom
Township, was born in 1829, on the site of Republic Village Mrs. John
Swigei-t-, who died August 18, 1884, and her husband are numbered among
the pioneers .... John Stinchcomb came fi'om Maryland to this county in 1825,
settled in Bloom Township, and there remained until 1851, when he moved
to Clinton Township, where he died. His father, George Stinchcomb, was a
native of Scotland, and died in Maryland. James Stinchcomb, his son, now
of Clinton Township, was born in Bloom in 1831 Bart Stout was one of
the settlers of 1833 John Stroh settled in Bloom in 1823 Edward
Sutherland came in subsequently Joseph and Susana Swigart. natives of
Maryland, parents of George Swigart of Seneca Township (who was born in
Maryland in 1825), came to this county and first settled in Bloom Township,
afterward in Eden Township, where IVIi-s. Swigart died. Mr. Swigart is also
deceased.
The Trail family, Thomas T. Treat and Julius Treat are names well known
in the early history at Bloomville.
George and Mary (Grove) Valentine, former a Revolutionary soldier, a
native of Pennsylvania, latter of Maiyland, came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in
1807, but spent their latter days in Bloom, and IMi". Valentine's grave in
Woodland Cemetery is one of the few Revolutionary soldiers' graves in Sen-
eca County. John Valentine, their eldest son, born in Maryland, for a time
a soldier in the war of 1812, was married to Miss Sarah Talbott, also a native
of Maryland; they settled in 1829 on a quarter section of land in Bloom
Township, obtained from the government in 1822, and Thomas George, of
this township, their son, born in 1826, a soldier three years and three
months in the war of the Rebellion, now occupies that same quarter section of
land.
James R. Wilson, one of the lawyers of the county, settled in Bloom in
1834, and thirty-two years later was admitted to the bar I. G. Watson,
father of Mrs. Frank A. Chatfield, of Bloomville, was one of the pioneers of
Bloom Township, where he died in 1873; his widow, Mrs. Elizabeth J. Wat-
son, an old settler of Eden Township (1845) sui-vives. Mrs. Margaret Wat-
son, born in Centre County, Penn. , Jime 25, 1823, settled in Bloom in 1830.
Jacob Webster is named in the pioneer roster Thomas West, born in
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 439
1800, in New York State, came to Bloom Township in 1823, and here married,
in 1824, Miss Margaret C. Donnell, who was born in 1804, in Pennsylvania,
coming to Bloom Township with her parents, John and Mary (Boyd) Donnell,
in 1822. She died in 1836, and Mr. West then married Miss Nancy B. Boyd,
born in Pennsylvania in 1806. Mr. "West died in 1879; his widow, who
resides on the family homestead, is the second oldest pioneer in the township,
and the only representative^ of her father' s family in the county.
BLOOMVILLE VILLAGE.
Bloomville was surveyed in December, 1837, by James Durbin, for P. J.
Price, Thomas T. and Julius Treat, on Section 16. John C. Hunsicker' s addition
was surveyed June 4, 1852, by G. H. Heming. Huddle's addition was sur-
veyed in April, 1863, by O. H. Heming, for Lewis Huddle, north of New
Haven Street. Henry Schearer' s addition was surveyed April 0. 1871, by Dennis
Maloy. Conrad Klahr's addition was surveyed by P. H._ Eyan, in Februaiy,
1872. Ed P. Bliss made an addition in February, 1872, the survey being
made by P. H. Ryan. E. J. Turner's addition was sui'veyed in July, 1873,
by Samuel Gray. At the same time he sui'veyed the plat of Thomas West's
addition. Heniy Dittenhaf er' s addition was_surveyed by Samuel B. Gray, in
March, 1873, and his out-lots in August, 1873. John Kriley's addition was
surveyed by S. B. Gray, in April, 1873.
The following additions to the town have since been made:
West & Knapp's, surveyed July, 1873; Eli Winter's, sui-veyed September,
1873; Eli Winter's, siu'veyed September, 1874; Com-ad Klahr's, surveyed Octo-
ber, 1873; West's, surveyed August 11, 1873; Melinda Lee's, sui'veyed March,
1875; Benjamin Knapp's, surveyed January, 1877; Melinda Lee's, surveyed
April, 1876; Henry Schafer's, surveyed September, 1880; Northwest, sur-
veyed June, 1880; Kriley's, sm-veyed May, 1882; Martin Koller's surveyed
July, 1883.
Organization and Officers. — A petition, signed by 112 residents of Sections 9,
10, 15 and 16, Town 1 north. Eange 16 east, asking for the incorporation of
Bloomville, was presented to the commissioners by John Andrews and Albert
Gaetz, agents for petitioners, and then August 22, 1874, permission to organ-
ize was given. The tirst elections were held in 1875, when Jacob Hossler was
elected mayor, vice James Turner, declined nomination; S. S. Lehman, clerk;
J. T. Eeid, S. Holt, L. D. Revington, E. J. Turner, Conrad Klahr, and C. B.
Walker, councilmen; John Swigert, treasurer, and E. B. Watson, marshal.
In 1876, Henry Schearer, Jefferson Freese and D. H. Watson were elected
councilmen.
The elections of 1877 resulted in the choice of Jacob Hossler, mayor; S.
S. Lehman, clerk; Dr. J. W. Bell, Jacob Beelman and N. S. Lehman, coun-
cilmen. In 1878 the councilmen elected were Alfi-ed Owen, A. Einsel, D. R.
Whiteman, James Tiu-ner and J. Basore. In 1879 Heniy Einsel was elected
mayor; S. S. Lehman, clerk; John Winters, L. D. Bevington, F. P. Klahr,
councilmen, and in 1880, David Blaney, A. Owen and J. Beelman, councilmen.
The elections of 1881 resulted in the choice of John Andrews, for mayor; S.
S. Lehman, clerk; D. Snyder, H. W. Patterson, John T. Eeid and F. P.
Klahr, councilmen. In 1*882 F. D. Wilsey, was elected clerk; J. S. Ink, J.
F. Wilsey, John Hershberger and Sol. Hilbert, councilmen.
The elections of 1883 resulted in the choice of James Tui-ner, for mayor; A. F.
Walker, clerk; H. Sheer, Jacob Beelman, N. J. Farnsworth and A. F. Spitler,
councilmen. The mayor resigned, when John Swigert was apjDointed. In
1884, O. M. Holcomb was elected mayor; A. F. Walker, clerk; Jefferson
440 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Freese, George Griffin, Ed Turner and H. Kannell, councilmen. The elec-
tions, 1885, resulted as follows: Mayor, O. M. Holcomb. Democrat; clerk, James
Turner, Republican; treasurer, Hemy S. Samsel, Republican; councilmen,
H. Einsel. Democrat; Hemy Kannel, Republican; Paul Miller, Democrat;
marshal. B. H. Spitler, Democrat; street commissioner, John Strouse, Repub-
lican; school board, A. J. Shintz. Democrat; J. W. Snyder, Democrat. Daniel
Hart was the first street commissioner, elected in" 1876. Jacob Leach was
elected marshal in 1876; U. E. Cory, in 1877; L. L. Lehman, 1879; T. S.
Hanna, 1883; W. S. Lowry, 1884-85. E. J. Tiirner was elected treasurer in
1877, and Henry Samsel, in 1881.
Postmasters. — Thomas T. Treat was the first postmaster at Bloomville in
1837-38. On the purchase of Treat & Price's store by the Brown Bros., it is
said that they carried on the postoffice for some time. In February, 1873,
Lorenzo Bevington succeeded Daniel Behm as postmaster. In Se^jtember,
1885, David Blaney was commissioned postmaster at Bloomville.
Churches.-— The Baptist Church of Bloom dates back to May 27, 1827,
when the " Honey Creek Church " was organized. Three years later Elder
Lewis Seitz was appointed pastor, and has held that office down to our own
times.
In 1840 an itinerant preacher, named Rev. George R. Brown, succeeded
in establishing a Universalist society at Bloomville, but it disestablished itself
after a very short time.
The several attempts made to organize new religions, among which was the
Mormon, failed in this township.
Mount Pisgah Reformed Church. Bloomville. was organized August 25,
1850, with H. K. Baines, joastor; George Swigart and Philip Heilman, elders;
Adam Baker and F. Zimmerman, deacons. The church was built on an acre
tract of land donated by Simon Roller. The pastors of the church since Mr.
Baines' time have been J. C. Klahr, D. Kelley, M. KeefPer, J. H. Good. \V. W.
James, J. A. Keller, L. Grosenbaugh, J. A. Steplar, J. D. Gehring. Samuel
Shaw (appointed in 1876), J. W. Shaw, and J. S. Myers, the pastor in 1884-85.
The Methodist Episcopal Church of Bloomville has a history extending
over more than half a century, being almost a contemporary of the old church
at Melmore, and a sharer in its official and ministerial life for many years.
In 1835 the society erected a house of worshij:) on the Stinchcomb farm, and
the old building was carried down the years until a church of native stone was
erected. The membership of this church at Bloomville is about 100, and the
value of the property $3, 500. Rev. E. S. Tompkins is the present pastor.
United Brethren Church of Bloomville was organized May 7, 1882, with
the following named members: Rev. Jacob Gerber, Mrs. Elizabeth Scott,
Mrs. Henry Dittenhafer, Mrs. Maggie Koller, Mrs. J. R. Wilson, John Shook,
Susan Shook, A. J. Si^itler and Mrs. Ellen Spitler. The church house was
dedicated to the worship of God on the 14th of May, 1882, Bishop J. AVeaver
officiating. The house is a neat brick structure, beautifully situated on corner
of High and Marion Streets. On the 28th of May, 1882, a Sabbath-school was
organized with a membership of twenty persons, with A. J. Spitler as super-
intendent. The school has since that time steadily grown to a prosperous con-
dition, numbering at the present time 100 or more members. Only one death
has occurred in the class since its organization. The pastors have been Rev.
M. E. Spahr and Rev. G. P. Macklin, and the present incumbent is J. H.
Arnold.
The Presbyterian Church of Bloom, in its earlier history, belongs to that of
the church at Scipio Centre. In 1834 a frame building was erected by the
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 441
Presbyterians of Bloom, who had been organized by Eev. James Robinson in
1830. John Davis was the leading builder of this church. On its destruction
by fire a small brick house was erected on what is known as the Ravely farm.
This stood the test of time so well that it had to be torn down, and its pio-
neer brick is, in fact, a large factor in the more i^retentious building in Bloom-
ville Village. Rev. W. T. Hart is pastor of this church.
St Stej)hen's Church is referred to under the head of " Small Settle-
ments " in this chapter.
Schools of Bloomville. — The condition of the schools of Bloomville at the
close of August, 1884, is shown by the following statistics: Total number of
pupils, 183 — 83 boys and 100 girls, of whom 18 were attending the high school :
1 school-house, value of property $12,000; 4 teachers, average pay $67, $45
and $33; local tax, $1,787.45; revenue, $2,415.00; expenditures, $1,971.05.
The schools are now presided over by the following named teachers: Prof.
Bowman, superintendent; high school. Prof. Bowman; graminar school, C
H. Shock; intermediate school. Miss Cable; primary school. Miss Snyder.
The school building of the village was completed in 1875, at a cost of $7,500,
and opened by Supt. J. K. Hamilton.
Newspapers. — A reference to the chapter on the press of the county points
out the beginning of newspaper enterprise at Bloomville, in July, 1874, and the
changes which led up to the publication of the Record by the present mayor of
the town.
Societies. — Bloomville Lodge No. 067, I. O. O. F., was chartered May 10.
1877, with the following members: J. W. Bell, J. Swigert, Arthui- Adams,
Hemy M. Patterson, John Winters, A. D. Einsel, J. S. Myers, L. L. Hossler,
S. G. McClelland, Val. Dennis, H. H. Beel, A. B. Stewart and ^\. P. Dove.
The P. Gs. are named as follows: A. Adams, J. W. Bell, H. H. Beelman, Val.
Dennis, William Dove, H. F. Carson, L. L. Hossler, F. P. Klahr, M. D. , S.
C. McClelland, Jacob Myers, Alonzo Prouse, H. M. Patterson, John Swigert,
A. B. Stewart, H. S. Samsel, A. B. Stuky. The present N. G. is J. A.
West. 1885-86. The present secretary is Charles M. L. Mcllvain. A. B.
Stewart is G. R. to G. L.
W. T. Brown Post, G. A. R. No. 191, Bloomville, was established in Decem-
ber, 1881, and named in honor of W. T. Brown, a soldier of the One Hundi-ed
and Sixty-fourth Ohio National Guards. The charter members are D. W. Fisher,
D. L. Fisher, N. S. Lehman, G. M. Martin, W. L. Reid, A. D. West, T. G.
Valentine, J. T. Boyd, James Tm-ner. S. S. Lehman, ^. H. Taylor, Jonathein
Creshner, W. A. Teel, S. Hilbert, William Carson, Jacob Carson. N. Holt,
R. R. Kershner. G. O. Olds, V. Dennis. F. S. Brobst, S. B. Hossler, T. A.
McClellan, H. H. McClellan and J. Beelman. The commander of the post
from 1881 to 1885 was J. T, Boyd.
Procles Lodge No. 192, K. of P. , was organized and the first ofiicers in-
stalled October 30, 1884, viz. : J. C. Miller, P. C. ; D. W. Fisher, C. C. ; A.
F. Walker, V. C. ; J. N. Snyder, prelate; M. E. Bliss, M. of E. ; B. M. West.
M. of F. ; G. F. Swigert, K. of R. and S. ; S. J. Friston, M. of A. ; A. J.
Shoutz, I. G. ; J. C. Gray, O. G. ; H. S. Samsel, P. F. Samsel, G. W. Moore,
and D. L. Fisher, together with the officers, were charter members of this lodge.
It now claims twenty-six members.
Business and Professions. — The business and professional circles of the
village in 1884 are made up) as follows: J. Beeman, Jonathan Cashner and
John Shook, furniture; Bevington & Co.. books and stationery; L. C. Birk,
harness; E. P. Bliss and Ogden & Swigert, dry goods; Bliss House; F. A.
Chatfield, Klahr & Samsel, druggists; Henry Einsel, gi-ain dealer; Earns-
442 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
worth & Moore, A. F. Spitzler & Co., and Zimmerman & Moore, grocers; T.
J. Foster, J. W. Hoy and A. M. Martin, physicians; J. S. Ink, agi-icultiiral
implements: C. Keller, F. P. Lyda, boots and shoes; Paul Miller, sash, door
and blind mannfactm-er; J. Shontz&Son, flour-mill; Charles Patterson, jeweler;
A. B. Stuckey, meat market; John Swigert and D. R. "Whiteman, hardware; J.
A. "West, auctioneer and stock-dealer; W. J. Cook, barber; E. P. Bliss, dry
goods, boots and shoes, etc. ; L. C. Birk, livery ; Frank A. Faltei', general
merchant.
Manufacturing Industries. — The Oar Factory was established in 1874 by J.
D. Wilsey, who operated it for eleven years. This was a great industry, and
its recent removal was a serious loss to the business of the village. The build-
ings remain and offer a good opportunity to an enterprising manufacturer.
The Bloomville Sash, Door and Blind Factory and.Saw-mill were established
several years ago, and are still carried on by Paul Miller.
The Bloomville Mill Company was organized August 29, 1874, withW. Stew-
art, Jacob Hopler, A. B. McClelland, John Swigert, Benjamin Knapp and
James Winters, members. The capital stock was $16,000.
The new tile and di'ain-i:)ipe factory gives employment to a number of men.
This is only the beginning of what will prove one of the largest industries in
the county.
Shoutz & Sons' Steam Flouring-mills were built in 1880 by the present
owners, on the site of the old sash and door factory. The machineiy consists
of six sets of rollers, one buhr, one purifier and one Morris Bolt elevator, giv-
ing a capacity of sixty barrels per day. The value of the mill is placed at
$10,000.
The Honey Creek quarries, known as the Koller QuaiTies, are now worked
by J. D. Wilsey, who gives employment to seventeen men.
The quarries known as Fisher' s and Francis' give employment to large forces
of men and supply a good quality of building stone.
The Bemenderfer and other limekilns are important factors in the manu-
facturing life of the township.
William Richard, the inventor of the pruning shears, in June, 1869, fol-
lowed up this invention by a second, improving the first, and the second by a
third, patented September 20, 1870, the first and last being purchased by
Chester Hunter, of Clyde. In May, 1885, he patented the "Eclipse" sheare,
one of the most perfect in the world. The small shears or scissors is certainly
one of the finest scissors known — the patent is applied for. Mayor Holcomb
is associated with the inventor in the ownership of these patents.
SMALL SETTLEMENTS.
The postal village of St. Stephen is an old settlement, but a new postal
town. Here is the church of St. Stephen, and in the neighborhood a large
number of intelligent and industrious farmers. St. Stephen' s Catholic Chiu'ch,
southeast of Bloomville, was founded in 1842. Among the early members
were Martin Steinmetz, Philip Falter, Matthew Delaney, Joseph Danker, John
Worm, Fred and John Steigmeier, Jacob Maier, Nicholas Lehman, Stephen
Dick, Joseph Juend, Henry Sieger and Nick Duercher. Rev. Salesius Brun-
ner was the first priest. He was succeeded by Revs. Matthias Kreusch, Jacob
Ringely, A. Dambach, M. Baker and Nicholas Gales. February 1, 1874, Rev.
Philip Rist, the present pastor, took charge of St. Stephen's parish. The con-
gregation numbers over 200 souls. The old church has given place to the new
chiirch, erected at a cost of $7,000, the corner-stone of which was placed Oc-
tober 1, 1885.
''. y!,^^4ir-^'e£Ld ^
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 445
Elizabetlitown was surveyed August 29, 1838, by James Dnrbin for James
Fisher, on the southeast corner of the southwest quarter of Section 6, Town
1 north, Range 16 east, and named after Elizabeth Boyer, wife of Dr. Fisher.
The location was on what is known as the ' 'Beachman farm' ' or ' 'Blackman' s
Corners," but every vestige of it has disappeared before the industry of the
agriculturist. The jjopulation of Elizabethtown in 1840 was ninety-six, and
the business and manufacturing interests were represented by one saloon, one
wagon shop, one blacksmith shop and the mere sign of general store, which
did not materialize.
RAILROADS.
The only line of railway which passes through Bloom Township is the
North-western Ohio. This road strikes the township at the extreme northeast
corner of Section 25, and, taking a northwesterly direction, in which it passes
through Bloomville Village, it leaves the township at the northwest quarter of
Section 5.
STATISTICS.
The first assessment roll of Bloom Township which it is possible to obtain is
for 1841. and it gives 22,585 acres valued at $62,848; town lots valued at $568;
horses, 237, valued at $9,480; cattle, 562, valued at $4,496; 1 carriage
valued at $60; total value, $77,452; total tax, $1,026.23; delinquencies from
1840, $69.41.
The statistics of assessment and taxation of Bloom Township for 1884
place the value of 20,009 acres of land at $786,740, and of 292 acres in Bloom-
ville at $128,460. Chattel property in the township is valued at $256,770 and
in the village at $89, 420. Real and personal property in the township and village
show a total value of $1,261,390; which, divided among the 2,161 persons in
the township in 1880, would give the worth of each one at $583.06. The real
worth of the township may be placed at $3,000,000. The total tax for 1884-85
is $16,706.63, together with $118 dog tax.
The predial statistics of the township for 1884 are as follows: acres of
wheat, 3,302; of rye, 5; of buckwheat, 4, yielding 22 bushels; of oats, 1,738,
yielding 02,588 bushels; of barley, 2, yielding 20 bushels; of corn, 2,491,
producing 48, 346 bushels; of meadow, 1,288, yielding 1,618 tons of hay; of
clover, 1,336, producing 1,620 tons of hay, 1,338 bushels of seed and 25 acres
plowed under for maniu'e; potatoes, 108 acres, yielding 10,847 bushels; butter
made for family use, 77, 050 pounds; sorghum syrup, 78 gallons; maple sugar,
1,040 pounds and 1,283 gallons of syi'up; 4 hives produced 50 pounds of
honey; eggs, 30,625 dozens; grapes for 1883, 5,950 pounds; sweet potatoes,
125 bushels; 427 acres of apple trees produced 8, 125 bushels in 1883; 190
bushels of pears, 2 of cherries and 3 of plums; acres of land cultivated,
14,184; of pastui-e, 1,109; of woodland, 3,940; of waste land, 136; total acre-
age, 19,369; wool, 32,218 pounds; milch cows, 492; dogs, 117; sheep killed
and injured by dogs, 42; animals died of disease — 70 hogs, 32 sheep, 9 cattle
and 5 horses.
The schools of Bloom Township, in August, 1884, present the following
statistics: local tax, $2,124.80; total receipts, $4,476; expenditures, $2,590;
number of houses, 9; value of property, 1,200; number of teachers, 23; aver-
age salary, $38 and $21; number of pupils, 405 — 225 males and 180 females.
The statistics of population are given fully in Chapter XIII of the general
history.
446 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XVII.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP AND TIFFIN CITY.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP, as established by the commissioners of Sandusky
County in June, 1820, embraced the territory within the following named
boundaries: Commencing where the line between Townships 2 and 3 strikes
the river on the east bank; thence along such line to the northeast corner of
Township 2, in Ranges 15 and 16 east, to the southeast corner of Township 2;
thence west to the line between Townships 1 and 2 ; thence north, with the
meanders of the river to the place of beginning. The name was suggested by
the Bowes, Butlers, Vances and other settlers, in honor of DeWitt Clinton, then
governor of New York State. In December, 1824, the commissioners of Seneca
County established Clinton Township within the boundaries of the original
surveyed Township 2 north, Range 15 east. Since that time the sections east
of the river have been governed ' 'variously, ' ' sometimes by Hopewell and
sometimes by Clinton; but, as related in the organic history, such mutations
were stopped, and the township is now Clinton throughout its length and
breadth.
The Sandusk)^ River enters the township in Section 30, just at the south-
west corner of what is known as Springdale addition to Tiffin, flows northeast,
and thence northwest to the great bend where it turns east, and thence flows
north by east through the city and township, leaving Clinton in the northwest
quarter of Section 5. The terrace is high above the water level, generally ly-
ing some distance back on each side, giving a large strip of valley or bottom
lands, and presenting a hundi-ed beautiful scenes well worth the labor of a
painter.
Honey Creek, that old stream, sweetened by the name of pioneer memories,
looks into the township in its extreme southwestern corner, while Rock Creek
and its tributaries, the ancient mill-drivers, water the central southern sections,
and, flowing in a tortuous course northwest, enters the Sandusky just east of
Washington Street bridge. The name given to it is well deserved. During a
great part of the year there are more rocks than water visible ; but when water
does appear it comes in torrents, as the history of many an old time bridge can
tell.
There are two other large streams flowing east through the center of the
township, which enter the river in Section 17, just below Tiffin. The north-
eastern sections are watered by a nameless creek, while a number of short
spring creeks are found meandering almost everywhere throughout the thirty-
six sections. In the centre of the northeast quarter of Section 33 is a spring
lake, another near the river on Section 5, and another on Section 8.
In the neighborhood of the river and creeks the land is much broken, and
throughout the township ' 'rolling heavily. " It is as fertile as land may be,
and shows the result of years of labor in the number of fine farms, orchards
and gardens.
The geological features of the township, particularly in the neighborhood
of Tiffin, are interesting, as here the line between the Niagara and Helderberg
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 447
groups of rock occurs. In the Geological Report (Vol. V, p. 628) it is said that
the quarries of the city, although producing only Helderberg rock, show, at
some times at their bases, exposures of the underlying Niagara limestone.
These quarries are located on the eastern side of the ridge known as the Cin-
cinnati axis, and the characteristics of the rocks are much the same as those
in the quarries on the western side of the anticlinal in the Helderberg forma-
tion; but the stones at Tiffin are more massive and are therefore more suitable
for heavy construction. The courses are often twenty-six inches in thickness,
and the stones produced are used largely for foundations and bridge work.
The product of quick- lime from these quarries is also large. The stone is.
light drab in color; it is bituminous and gives forth a strong odor when ham-
mered, but this characteristic is not so marked as in the dark colored varieties.
The principal market for all three of the quarries at Tiffin is furnished by the
immediate neighborhood. Besides the quarries in the table there are several
smaller ones which are worked in the vicinity of the town and which produce
the same kind of material in less amount.
Fire clay is found even within the boundaries of the city, and brick-yards
have been carried on from the close of the third decade of this centmy. Tile
works and the now much prized terra- cotta find a place in the economical ge-
ology of this township.
Settlement by Pioneers and Old Residents. — The first direct reference made
to that part of Ohio known as Clinton Township, Seneca County, was in 1812.
Long yeai-s before that, however, the district was known to the trapi)ers, hunters,
and traders of the Sandusky, who took particular pains to picture the country at ,
once inhosj^itable and dangerous to life and limb. In 1812 Suiweyor Meeker
and some laborers opened a road from Upper to Lower Sandusky, over a route
planned by Gen. Bell, as told in the military chapter; subsequently a stockade
was constructed, and a few log-houses built on the site of the camp of Col.
James V. Ball's Pennsylvania Regiment, which camp was named Camp BalL
prior to the building of the fort in 1813. Here, November 18, 1817, the
first white American came to settle, and with him came two wanderers, who
never hitherto settled in any x^lace, and who may be wandering still — William
Murphy, of Oxford Township, Delaware County, who wandered Westward,
and died of hardships, and Lyman Main, of Troy Township, Delaware County,,
a great hunter. The first place the writer sees the name of Erastus Bowe is in
the " History of Delaware County,"' page 318, where he is entered as a voter in
1809, and an emigrant from Vermont. There also the names of Paul D. But-
ler, who came from Massachusetts in 1808, and Thomas Butler, his son, both
old settlers of Fort Ball, appear as residents of Delaware Township, and whose
great-grand and grandchildren, respectively, are now residents of Delaware.
Erastus Bowe built a log-house just north of Washington Street bridge in 18,17, .
and in June, 1818, brought his family from Delaware, Ohio, making the first;
permanent settlement that year. His son, Erastus G. Bowe, is now in Tiffin,
linking the i^resent with the very beginnings of the township and city. Then
came the Spencers, Butlers, Abner Pike (the old sentry of Oakley), Joseph
Vance. David Risdon, Josiah Hedges and all those pioneers and old settlers who
raised the township fi-om a wilderness to be the fairest part of a whole State.
In the following notice of pioneers a full effort has been made to give the names
of them all and a brief notice to each. In view of the fact that the great num-
ber of them find mention in the general and township histories, as well as in
the chapters of personal history, this review is published, so that no one whom
it is possible to identify with the progress of this division of the county may
escape honorable mention. Doiibtless many names of good men and women do
448 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
not appear here; but siicli names will be found in that chapter of history treat-
ing on the subject with which their lives were linked.
Moses and Sarah P. (Snow) Abbott, natives of Massachusetts, parents of
Francis Abbott, came fi'om Hui'on County, Ohio, in 1822. They are both
deceased .... Andrew Albrecht, father of Philip, came fi'om Baden, Germany,
in 1832, and settled at Tiffin Mary J. Albrecht, born in Tiffin, Ohio, Octo-
ber 2, 1832, died at her home in Bowling Green October 24, 1884. July 12,
1868, she was married to Martin Albrecht .... Gideon W. Allen died July 26,
1883, after many years residence in Seneca County .... John Andes settled at
Tiffin in 1852, moved thence to Fostoria, and has taken a full part in building
xip that city .... John Anway, who entered the west half of southwest quarter
of Section 23, Clinton, was the first person to patent United States lands in the
county. He settled here in 1821 .... John Ardner died at Tiffin, in his sev-
enty-fifth year, August 9, 1885 .... Robert Armstrong (see Indian and pioneer
histories) . . . .AY. AY. Armstrong, son of John Armstrong, of New Lisbon, Ohio,
was born March 18. 1833. He entered the office of the Seneca Advertiser in
1847, and remained there until 1852, when he received an appointment in the
State treasurer's office. In 1854 he pui'chased the Advertiser office; was
postmaster at Tiffin from 1857 to 1861; was elected Secretary of State in 1862,
and was re-elected. In 1865 he sold the Advertiser to the Myers Brothers,
pui-chased the Cleveland Plaindealer, and has since, as before, held a very
high place in the Ohio political world. He married Miss Sarah V. , daughter
of Josiah Hedges, November 10, 1857 .... Anthony H. Arnold, born at Lan-
caster. Ohio, August 11, 1826, came to Tiffin in 1847, married Miss Maiy R.
Fanning in 1855, served as constable of Clinton Township fi'om 1861 to 1879,
and also was deputy sheriff for about seventeen years; he died in July, 1885.
Ezra Baker, who settled in Seneca County in 1833, died in April, 1873, aged
seventy- four years. He built one of the first mills in the county now standing in
Clinton Township. . . .AA'illiam Baker died December 9, 1874. . . .Frederick A.
Baker, born in Frederick County, Md. , May 31, 1818, came to Seneca County in
1845, and in 1847 settled on the Portland Road near Tiffin; died June 5, 1885
.... Col. James V. Ball, (see Military History) .... Lewis Baltzell, who died
September 11, 1874, was born in Frederick County, Md., November 29, 1800,
came to Clinton Township in July, 1829, and made his home here until his death
.... John Baiigher, who built the fii'st court house, was a native of Maryland (see
Martin of Martin & Megley) .... Ferdinand Baumgartner, who died Septem-
ber 24, 1872, was one of the old residents of the township .... John Beard set-
tled in the soiithern part of Clinton, about 1824, where he competed with Levi
Cressy as blacksmith; born in Pennsylvania in 1794, died in 1832. His wife,
Hannah (Doane) Beard is also dead .... George Beck, born in 1800, died
December 5, 1875 .... John Beck, another old resident, died December 18,
1884, aged over eighty-two years .... Rev. J. J. Beilharz, was one of the
early preachers, coming here in 1841 .... John Bell, born in 1811, died
August 2l, 1880, was one of the pioneers, so also was Vincent Bell .... Rev.
R. R. Bement, the first superintendent of the Tiffin Union School in 1850-51,
must be classed among the old residents . . . . F. Don and Charlotte (Piatt)
Benham, natives of Connecticut, parents of Mrs. Benjamin F. Tomb, of
Pleasant Township (who was born in 1845). came to Scipio Township in 1838,
and in 1840 moved to Tiffin, where Mr. Benham was express agent for many
years. He was born in 1804, died in 1882; Mrs. Benham was born in 1808,
died in 1877 .... Jacob and Rosanna (Clink) Bender, natives of the old coun-
try, father and stepmother, respectively, of Lewis F. Bender, of Clinton
To-wnship (who was born near Red River, Canada, in 1823,) arrived in this
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 449
county in 1833 and in 1847, and moved to Williams County, where Jacob
Bender died. His widow resides in Missouri .... Francis Bernard resided at
Tiffin, built the pioneer brick house at Tiffin (Dr. Dresbach' s office) ; died here
.... Andrew Brehler died April 2G, 1876 .... Joseph Biggs settled in Clinton
Township about 1825. .. .Benjamin Biggs died July 5, 1866, in his eighty-
first year .... Mrs. Priscilla Biggs died March 30. 1839 .... Rev. Joseph L.
Bihn, 1856, the chu.rch builder and founder of the Orphan Asylum, is credited
with the name of being one of the most useful old residents .... Sardis Birch-
ard (Ansequago), though connected in early years with McNeal's store as as-
sistant, cannot be claimed as a pioneer of the county .... David Bishop, of
Tiffin, was crier at the sale of lots in Upper Sandus% August 20, 1845, for
which duty he received $43. Chester R. Mott was clerk. Bishop died
December 5, 1850 .... Jacob and Sarah Black were natives of Maryland, mar-
ried and settled in the East, and in 1827 came to Tiffin; moved to Wyandot
County, where jMi-s. Black died in 1863. Mr. Black lived among his children
until his death in 1877. . . .Jacob Black, born in Clinton Township in 1828,
now resides in Big Spring Township .... George W. Black, kept the first suc-
cessful lunch counter at Tiffin .... Frederick Blassius was di'owned in Rock
Creek near the gas factory in February, 1863. He was seventy-seven years
old. . . .Henry G. Blassius died March 31, 1877, aged sixty years. . . .Andi-ew
Blum born in Hesse, Germany, August 28, 1810, immigrated to America in
1832, and two years later located in Tiffin, where he followed the tailor's
trade. His death took place in February, 1885 .... John Bloom, Sr. . an old
resident of the county, died in Februaiy, 1885. . . .Jacob Boner, who settled
at Tiffin in the fall of 1826, was born May 2, 1809 Martin Bollinger, one
of the old German citizens of Tiffin, died September 10, 1882. . . .Peter A. Bcr-
muth was born at Tiffin, January 5, 1854; worked in M. J. Kerchner's store
eight years, and opened a store for himself in March 1884; he died July 20, 1884
. . . .Erastus Bowe, the first American settler of the county in 1817, and his
son, Erastus G. Bowe. Jr., born in Delaware County, Ohio, April 5, 1818, are
referred to in the pioneer chapter. . . .John C. Bowland, died July 18, 1874,
aged fifty-eight and one-half years .... John and Magdalena Bowser, natives of
Maryland, parents of Col. Jacob Bowser, of Clinton Township, came here
in 1829 and here died .... Col. Jacob Bowser, born in Maryland, in 1806,
come to this county in 1827, remaining a few weeks; then returned to Mary-
land, and in 1829 again visited Ohio and bought the farm where he now lives
In 1830 he brought his wife fi-om Maryland. She was Miss Anna Startz-
man, born in Maryland in 1809, and died in 1876 .... Thomas AY. Boyce, now
residing in Sandusky City, was one of the first settlers at Tiffin .... Susannah
Boyer, relict of the late Jacob Boyer. and the mother of H. A. and William
Boyer, died August 31, 1885, aged eighty-seven years. She was one of the
pioneers of Tiffin, having resided here since 1834 .... Col. Bradley, who built
the Central Hotel and opened it as a tavern, was an important figure in
pioneer days. At his house, militia, railroad projectors, politicians and even
preachers assembled to discuss ways and means for caiTving out their various
enterprises. In 1832 the name of his hotel was changed to the Washington
House, and in 1836 he built the Western Exchange .... Henry Brass, died April
14, 1855. He was an unassuming, useful old settler .... John G. Breslin, of
whom reference is made in the political and press chapters, took Tip a large
space in the history of Seneca and indeed in that of Ohio, in earlier days. In
April, 1842, he purchased the office of the defunct Van Burenife; in May issued
the Seneca Advertiser and conducted it until 1854. He was elected member of
the Legislature in 1848 and re-elected. He was also elected State treasurer, and
450 HISTORY OF SENECA COUiNTY.
took part in many, if not all those stirring events, which marked the period of
his residence at Tiffin. He mari-ied a daughter of Widow Creeger, Miss Louisa
Creeger. . . .John Britt settled at Tiffin in 1842, and is still a resident of the
city .... Nelson L. Brunner, born in Maryland, September IS, 1832, settled in
Ohio in 1853, graduated fi'om Heidelberg College in 1855, and was admitted
to the bar in 1858. He was a partner of John C. Lee, at Tiffin, for some
years, and is still a resident lawyer .... Henry C. Brish, born in Frederick
County, Md. , in 1799, married Miss Eleanor S. Carey, of the same county, in
1824, came to Seneca County in 1828, succeeded James Montgomery as Indian
agent, and was the last agent of the Senecas in Ohio. His home near Tiffin
was called Eosewood, and there he died in February, 1866. . . .Mrs. Eleanor
C. Brish, one of the pioneers of the county, died March 14, 1885, aged seventy-
nine years, seven months and fourteen days. When this lady arrived in 1828
she brought a piano with her, which is supposed to be the pioneer piano of
the county .... John Michael Bruennert was born in Behringen, Thuringia, in
1807. At the age of forty-five he immigrated with his family to America, and
lived for many years on a farm a few miles west of Fort Seneca. His last
years he spent with his children in Tiffin, until his death September 11, 1885.
.... Dominick Burkhart, a pioneer, died September 5, 1881, aged eighty-four
years. . . .William W. Burnee, died September 11, 1848. . . .Eobert Biu-ns, an
early settler near Fort Ball, was drowned in 1830 while attempting to cross the
river to Tiffin .... Joseph Burnside located in Bloom Township about 1821;
moved to Clinton Township abput 1824, settled just west of the city cemetery;
died May 3, 1875, aged seventy-one years . . . . Aaron Burtscher, a former resident
of this county, died in April, 1885, at his home in South Toledo, at the age of
eighty-nine years. He was the father of Street Commissioner Bui'tscher, of
Tiffin. He came to Seneca County in 1839 Paul D. Butler, one of the
builders of the Spencer Mill, located in one of the block-houses at Fort Ball;
. . . .Jacob Buskirk, who died December 1, 1837, and was buried at Tiffin, was a
pioneer of the county .... John and Magdalena Buchman, natives of Switzer-
land, came to America, settling in this county in about 1840. Here IVIi's.
Buchman died in 1868. Mr. Buchman resides with his children .... Grafton
and Rebecca Bernard were early settlers .... Jacob Black, of Big Spring Town-
ship, was born in Clinton Township in 1828.
James Cahill, Coiuity Cavan, Ireland, died July 18, 1870, aged ninety-
two .... Rev. Jacob P. Cahill, son of James Cahill, and an old settler, died
September 29, 1862, aged forty seven yeai's .... Alexander Campbell, who died
November 22, 1865, aged fifty nine years, was one of the pioneers of Tiffin.
. . . .Mrs. Margaret Campbell, born in Frederick County, Md., Jrdy 12, 1798,
settled in Tiffin in the fall of 1830 David Campbell, a printer of 1834,
may be considered one of the pioneers of the case in this county .... Hiram
Carney died October, 1861, after several years' residence in Tiffin .... George
Chaney, named as a pioneer of Hopewell Township, was one of the early set-
tlers of Tiffin, and still resides in the city. He has been held \vp as an exam-
ple of those old settlers who have " held their own. " . . . . Sciidder Chamberlain's
name appears in early records, and is referred to in Chapter IV ... . James M.
Chamberlain, born in Columbiana County, Perm. , August 26, 1806, settled at
Tiffin in 1832 Mi's. Ann E. Clark, born in Northumberland County, Penn.,
in 1797, settled at Tiffin in 1830 Sylvester B. Clark, who died in Septem-
ber, 1885, settled at Tiffin in August, 1833. He was born in Monroe County,
Va. , February 2, 1802 .... Thomas Coe, seventy years old, died May 24, 1858.
He was one of the pioneers of Clinton Township .... Michael Collins was one
of the old settlers of Clinton Township .... John, Jerry and Thomas Connor
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. ^ 451
were early settlers at Tiffin .... John Cookerly died November 23, 1839, hav-
ing resided here for some years prior to his death . . . .Uriah P. Coonrad, one
of the pioneers of Tiffin, moved the first old jail to the site of the woolen-mill,
and made his home there for many years. In 1864 he removed to Hopewell
Township, and died there in 1879. This old settler' s name occurs often in the
organic and political chapters, and in the history of Tiffin and Hopewell Town-
ships. S. A. Coom-ad, his son, has served as clerk of Hopewell Township, and
is now a resident of Tiffin .... Frederick and Catharine (BaiTick) Cramer, na-
tives of Maryland, settled on Section 16, Clinton Township, in 1830. . . .D. F.
Cramer, now of Tiffin, their son, was born in Maryland in 1811, and came
here with his parents .... Frederick Cramer died in August, 1842 .... Enos
Cramer, who died August 24, 1879, was born in Frederick County, Md, Feb-
ruary 24, 1804, and settled at Tiffin in 1831 .... Uriah Creeger, aged forty-one
years, died August 17, 1851 John H. Creeger died May 25, 1872. Both
were pioneers of the county .... Levi Cressey, the blacksmith of Fort Ball, re-
sided near Milton McNeal's house, and must be called the first blacksmith of
pioneer times. Many references are made to him in this history .... Benjamin
Crockett was employed to teach the Tiffin district school in October, 1832 ....
Heniy Cronise, one of the early settlers, whose daughters are lawyers of Tiffin,
filled a large place in the history of the city. . . . J. Grouse, D.D., came in 1844,
and has since been closely identified with the church history of the county ....
John and Mary Ann Cromer came from the East to Tiffin in 1826, bringing
with them their son, Thomas H. . now a retired farmer residing in Tiffin, born
in Maryland in 1821. . . .Frederick and Susan Crum, parents of IVIi-s. Deroy
C. Dunn, of Hopewell Township, were early settlers of Clinton Township ....
John Crum settled north of Tiffin in 1824; died in February, 1873. . . .Robert
Crum, formerly a resident of Tiffin, dropped dead on the street in Toledo,
September 27, 1881, of apoplexy. IVIr. Crum was engaged in the grocery
business in this city, in partnership with Henry Brohl, from 1857 to 1864, and
shortly after their dissolution of partnership he moved to Saginaw, Mich. , and
from there to Toledo, where he has resided ever since .... Rev. Isaac Culler,
Lutheran preacher for many years, died March 28, 1882. . . .George W. Cun-
ningham, born in West Virginia in 1823, came, in 1844, to this county, and
became one of the most prominent mill-owners in these parts.
Levi Davis, born in Maryland, August 6, 1796, came to Tiffin in 1830; died
May 26, 1870 .... Thomas Derr, an old settler of Tiffin, died April 8, 1845 ....
re Rudolphus Dickenson (see page 291) Daniel Dildine, Sr. , settled on
Rock Creek, in L824, died September 27, 1872 .... Margaret, wife of Dan.
Dildine, died March 10, 1862 .... Mrs. Jane Dildine, born in Columbia County,
Penn., November 29, 1806, settled at Tiffin with her parents in May, 1829
Mrs. Jane DeWalt, born in Northumberland County, Penn., April 15, 1815,
settled at Tiffin, with family in April, 1824 .... William McEwen Dildine was
a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, came with his parents to this county, in
1823. and settled upon the land now occux)ied as Greenlawn Cemetery;
Christina Ann (Berger) Dildine, his wife, was a native of Maryland, and came
with her uncle, Levi Davis to this county about 1830 .... John W. and Eliza-
beth Ditto, former born in Pennsylvania, in 1785, and the latter on the Atlan-
tic Ocean in 1795, parents of Mrs. Henry Sheats, and of Mrs. James Patterson,
married in 1814, and settled in this county, where Mr. Ditto died April 7,
1853, and Mrs. Ditto in 1885. John Ditto settled in Clinton, early in 1822.
.... Peter and Margaret DeWitt, former a native of New Jersey, latter of
Pennsylvania, parents of Samuel H. De Witt, of Clinton Township, who was
born in 1822, in Pennsylvania, came to this county fi-om Marion County, Ohio,
452 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
in 1831, and here died, IVIr. DeWitt in 1853, and his widow in 1883
Joseph Doerle, born in 1807, came to Seneca County at an early date, and di^d
in 1868 James Dornan, who settled at Tiflfin, May 21, 1828, was born in
Washington County, Penn. , July 4, 1796 .... Stephen Dorsey, an old settler,
died April 5, 1867 IVIrs. Elizabeth Dorsey, born in Fayette County, Penn.,
November 16, 1799, settled at Tiffin in 1856 Eli Downing resided on the
plateau above Fort Ball in 1818-21. He was charged with paiiicipating in
the robbery of Spicer, but escaped from prison at Fremont, leaving one of the
gang to suffer imprisonment. Owing to the action of good citizens of Tiffin and
Fort Seneca, almost all Spicer' s money was recovered and returned to him ....
John Drake, who was married to Mrs. Eliza Goetchius August 16, 1832, by
Squire Keuben Williams, was one of the pioneers .... Urich Drake, mail carrier,
was miu-dered on the Fremont road, by one of the Spicers, a mongrel white
man .... Ely Dresbach (see page 311) Charles and Lucinda (Kussell) Dries-
bach, old settlors of Tiffin, are gone with the majority. jNIi's. Driesbach, so
long a widow, died November 15, 1882. . . .Armstrong Drennon. to whom Mr.
Hedges presented a lot on the site of Tiffin, in 1821, erected a cabin just south
of the woolen-mill, on the west side of Washington Street that year, the first
building erected on the east side of the river in the present city. His three
children, his wife and himself died in this cabin William N. Dunn, who set-
tled in Hopewell Township in 1841, died in November, 1883, aged sixty-eight
years. He was born in Sullivan County, N. Y. , February, 1815 ; settled with his
parents in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1834 James Durbin, smweyor, is noticed
throughout the history m connection with the survey of towns and additions
]\Irs. Mary H. Durham, an old resident of Tiffin, died in October. 1884
Samuel and Elizabeth (Miller) Daly, formerly of Philadelphia, parents of
Mrs. Isaac Stultz, of Loudon Township, came to Tiffin in 1822.
Henry Ebbert, born November 29, 1801, in Fayette County. Penn., died
at Tiffin March 31, 1880. He settled at Tiffin November 15, 1831, and took
an active part in business and politics up to the period of his death. In the
political chapter, page 270, as well as the local history, many references are
made of him. . .. Jacob M. Ebbert, born October 2, 1814, died November 23,
1881, was another old settler, while Oeorge Ebbert settled in 1831 .... Mi's.
Elizabeth Ebbert, born in Bucks County, Penn., January 22, 1802, settled at
Tiffin, November 15, 1831 John Edar was one of the pioneers of Tiffin,
and one of the fii'st to establish a regular meat market in partnership with
Bowe Thomas R. Ellis, a settler in the neighborhood of Tiffin in the^sum-
mer of 1828, was born in Burlington County, N. J., August 8, 1795
Jeremiah AY. and Lucy A. Egbert, parents of Isaac R. Egbert, of Clinton
Township (who was born in 1858 in this township), natives of Ohio, settled in
this county in an early day Hemy Einsel, born in Pennsylvania in 1805,
came to this county in'^1828 and married, in 1835, Sarah Keller, born in Fair-
field Countv, Ohio, in 1813 James D. Ely died February 4, 1848
Philip Emich, born in Bavaria in 1822, son of Louis Emich, at one time a hotel
keeper in Tiffin, came here in 1846, and died in 1870 Francis and Nancy
Ann (Woods) Fanning, parents of Dr. Fanning, of Tiffin, were natives of
Ireland and became pioneers of Seneca County, settling here in 1834.
John Fiege, a native of the Electorate of Hesse, born in 1811, settled in
Tiffin in 1833-34, and his wife Louisa (Yon Blon) born in the Bavarian Pala-
tinate, in 1813. came at the same time. John Fiege was di'owned in his mill
race in Tiffin March 31, 1869; his widow died in 18/4 Philip Faulhaber
(deceased), born in Canton, Ohio, in 1830, came with his widowed mother,
Mrs. Louisa (Mimsioger) Faulhaber, a native of Germany, to Tiffin in 1839,
*'i|''
^^^
cyooJiOT^ < /7/^Z/yn.^<^^&^^
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 455
and in 1851 he moved to Fostoria. He was killed in 1862 at Chickasaw Bayou,
while serving as captain of the Fifty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry Julius
Feldnagel was one of the first tavern-keepers in Tiffin George Flack, of
Maryland, father of Josiah Flack, and Samuel Dailey, father of Sylvia Ann
Dailey (Josiah and Sylvia Ann (Daily) Flack being parents of A. L. Flack, of
Tiffin), were very early settlers Mrs. Flahaff resided at Tiffin for many
years, until the family "moved to Indianapolis. John FlahaflP _is now residing
at Fostoria Jacob H. Fleming died here April 16, 1847 Upton E.
Flenner, born March 12, 1811, died at Tiffin October 10, 1882, aged seventy-
one years and seven months. He settled in Clinton Township in 1835
David Fowler settled at Tiffin in 1821 Jacob, Peter and Jefferson Freese
settled in Clinton in 1828 Mrs. Anna Freese died February 30, 1812, in
her sixty-fourth year Andrew Frutchey was one of the early settlers and
one of the first stricken with cholera in 1834 Mrs. Lydia Fuller died at
Tiffin March 27, 1848. She was the mother-in-law of R. W. Shawhan ....
John Fye, Sr., born in Pennsylvania in 1816, settled in Seneca County in
1845, moved to Oak, Ind., April, 1882, and died there May 31, 1885.^
George Gassman was born in Liberty Township, August 24, 1837, where
his father, John Frederick Gassman, a native of Baden, Germany, settled at
an early date. . . .Michael Gillis, known for years as the "silk merchant," set-
tled at Tiffin almost forty years ago. He is a native of Ireland James T.
Gangiver, born in 1804, died January 4, 1885 Ephraim Gaver located
near Tiffin in 1832 Julia Gear, mother of Philip Gear, came early
Jacob Gedultig, aged sixtv-eight years, died November 27, 1864 Adam
Gemminger died April 9, 1869 Kev. Daniel Gibbons (1833) was one of the
pioneer expounders of the gospel in the county Joseph R. Gibson, form-
erly of Tiffin, died before the war. Mrs. Gibson resides on North Washing-
ton Street. . . .Andrew Glenn, who died September 22, 1858, aged forty-eight
and one-half years, settled at Tiffin at an early day, and was a successful mer-
chant Gen. William H. Gibson, son of John Gibson, of Eden Township,
born May 16, 1822, was brought by his parents to Eden Township that year, and
is one of the oldest four living residents of the county. After receiving a com-
mon school education at Melmore, he studied at Ashland Academy; then
entered Abel Rawson's office, and with that pioneer lawyer and Robert G. Pen-
nington read law until admitted to the bar in 1845. He was the last Whig
candidate for attorney-general of Ohio, in 1853, and shared in the defeat of
the party. In 1855 he was elected State treasm-er by a majority over John
G. Breslin of 434, and resigned in 1857. In 1861 he was one of the lead-
ing citizens in organizing troops for the defense of the Union, and, as
colonel of the Forty -ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and temporary com-
mander of a division, won for himself an enviable place in the hearts
of the people. At the close of the war he was commissioned brigadier-
general for distinguished services, and, returning to Tiffin, resumed the
practice of law. In 1872 he retired from law practice, and, tm-ning his
attention to the development of Tiffin, aided in seciu-ing additional rail-
road facilities. He has been an able and eloquent advocate of Republican
doctrine for a number of years, and as a public speaker is known fi-om the
Atlantic Ocean to the Missouri River. The General is an ordained minister
of the Methodist Episcopal Chm-ch, and often fills the pulpit at Tiffin. Gen.
Gibson married Miss Martha Creeger, daughter of the Widow Creeger, an
early settler. This lady is still a resident of Tiffin Daniel and Jane E.
Gittinger, natives of Maryland, settled in this county about 1845, and here
died John Gilliland, at one time superintendent of the Tiffin Woolen Mills,
456 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
died at Independence, Richland County, June 2, 1883 Nicholas Goetchius,
a native of New York State and a soldier of the war of 1812, settled in Clin-
ton Township, five miles fi'om Tiffin, in April, 1825; he died in 1860 at Green
Spring. James Goetchius came with his father. IMi's. Susan Goetchius died
at Tiffin John H. and Ellen (Stein) Glick, parents of IVIi's. W. O. Dildine,
of Tiffin, came from Pennsylvania and were pioneers here. John Glick died
August 30, 1855, in his seventy-fifth year John Goodin, a pioneer, is
referred to in the history of his \otel Heniy and Jane Gross, parents of
Samuel Gross, a pioneer of Bloom Township, came fi'om Pennsylvania to Tif-
fin in 1831 Hemy Grummel, born in Bavaria in 1838, located at Tiffin in
1854; enlisted for the war, served until June, 1865, and died July 23, 1885. ....
Marcus Y. Groff and Hezekiah Groff are names well and favorably known in
the history of Tiffin. Silas AV. Groff, a member of Capt. F. K. Shawhan's
company of the One Hundi-ed and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, died
March 4, 1885, in his thirty-ninth year. He was a mere boy when he entered
the service of the Union F. W. Greene, an early settler, served as United
States marshal, moved to Cleveland and died there some years ago John
Griffith died April 9, 1863, aged fifty-six years .... John Gwynn, a settler of
1862, died December 20, 1884. Mr. Gwynn was well known among the older
citizens, having lived here for at least a quarter of a century. He with his
brother establfshed the gas works in this city, and it is reported that at one
time the deceased was sole owner of the same. He also studied law, and for
a time practiced in the courts here, with a degree of success. Some years
since he met with a reverse in fortune, which was followed by a disease that
afPected his brain, producing an aberration of the mind, fi'om which he never
fully recovered. His wife died a few years ago.
Hemy Hall, who died about three years ago, was eighty years old; his wife
Hannah died June 12, 1868. Both were pioneers of Clinton Township
L. A. Hall was born in Onondaga County. N. Y'., August 30, 1813; moved West
in 1833, and settled at Tiffin May. 5, that year, and entered John Park's store
as clerk. Here, April 7, 1835, he married Miss Cynthia A. , daughter of Josiah
Hedges. In 1833 he was temporary clerk of court. From 1834 to 1841 he
was clerk of court, and fi'om 1835 to 1837 partner of Mr. Hedges in mercantile
business. In 1841 he was admitted to the bar, and served as prosecutor for
Seneca County in 1856-57 ; was assessor of revenue for Ninth Congressional Dis-
trict from 1862 to 1865, presidential elector on the Republican ticket in 1868,
and a participator in all those political battles refen-ed to in the chapter on
elections. Mr. Hall was one of the projectors of the T., T. & E. R. R., and
was president of the company fi'om its organization until the completion of the
road. He took a leading part in every movement conducive to the welfare of
Seneca County up to his death, June 16,1880 JohnHandly, a pioneer of the
county, died December 20, 1855, aged sixty-six years Balthasar and Margaret
Haefling, natives of Germany, came fi'om Pennsylvania to Tiffin in 1839, and
here died, Mrs. Haefling in 1845, Mr. Haefling in 1864 William and Eliza-
beth (Turner) Harris, parents of Charles ^\. Harris, of Liberty Township,
were early settlers at Fort Ball. Mrs. Harris is a daughter of Benjamin and
Rachel (King) Turner, who came to this county in 1829 ... .Josiah Hedges,
born April 9, 1778, died July 15, 1858, is known as the founder of Tiffin; he is
referred to often in the general history, again in the history of Clinton Township
and Tiffin Citv, and in the pages devoted to personal history and biogi-aphy
Josiah Q. Hedges died February 16, 1849 Mrs. Hannah Heirin, a native of
Maryland, born in Frederick County, December 9, 1813, settled in Clinton Town-
ship, in 1833 Samuel Herrin settled in Clinton in 1828; moved to Eden,
CLINTON TOWNSHir. 457
where lie was justice of the peace for many years, and was elected
county treasurer, as shown in the political chapter. He was born in Pennsyl-
vania, August 21, 1812, and married Miss Bertha Ann Olmsted, in 1835.
His elder brother, Joseph, settled in Clinton Township, in 1828 Peter
Hesseldenz, whose five childi-en died of cholera, near Tiffin, in 1848-50, died
in 1877. He came from Germany in 1847 or 1848 Jacob and Mary (Wick)
Heilman, came to this county from Plessen Darmstadt in 1839 John Heil-
man, a native of Hessen Darmstadt, born in 1821, came to Tiffin in 1843
Henry and Maria Barbara (Kegg) Hershiser, latter of Pennsylvania, parents of
Dr. Hershiser, of Tiffin, came to Tiffin in 1833; Heniydied March 27, 1873, aged
seventy-foul- years '-Sammy" Hoagland, the quaiTyman at Fort Ball, and
previously ferryman, was a famous character in the early years of Fort Ball and
Tiffin Frederick Hoffman, owner of the first German tavern at Tiffin
(1834), died of cholera the same year John Hoke, an old settler, died Sep-
tember 27,1870, aged seventy-nine years William Holt, an ancient settler,
is now residing at Tiffin '.John Hoover died June, 18G*J, aged sixty-eight
and a half years .... Harvey Howard came to Tiffin fi'om Wooster, Ohio, in
1847, and, in partnership with J. M. Naylor, established a hardware house in
which he was interested until 1851 John and Margaret (Miller) Houck,
parents of Isaac M. Houck, of Tiffin, and whose ancestors were pioneers of
Pennsylvania, settled in this county at an early period of its history. . . .Jacob
and Susannah M. Holtz, natives of Maryland, settled in Clinton Township in
1834; Jacob died in December, 1859, and his widow in 1870. George and
Dennis Holtz, their sons, also settled here in 1834 Dr. A. B. Hovey was
born in Orleans County, Vt., February 9, 1829. Coming to Ohio when
fourteen years of age, he entered Oberlin College, where he remained six years,
at the same time studying medicine with Dr. Homer Johnson. In 1850 he
entered the office of Prof. Ackley, in Cleveland, and graduated in March, 1852,
and in the same year came to Tiffin, where he resided up to his death, October
2, 1884. His body was found in his barn with a wound in the top of the head.
Coroner Lepper and Drs. ^^'illiard, Leahy and Benner were summoned; also
Mr. Fiege, the undertaker, and the body was brought into the office for exam-
ination. The decision reached was that the deceased came to his death from
natural causes. . . .Horace Huber,born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in April, 1822,
settled in Clinton Township in April, 1847, about six months after his marriage
with Miss Mary Fieber, of Fairfield County Jacob and Catharine (Smith)
Hunker came to Clinton Township in 1853. Mr. Hunker is now (1885) in his
eighty-first year; Mrs. Catharine Hunker died in 1854 William and Clorinda
Hunter, natives of Virginia, married in Tiffin, Ohio, parents of S. S. Hunter,
of Clinton Township (who was born here in 1832), settled in Clinton Township,
where William Hunter died December 24, 1868. His widow resides at Tiffin.
David and Nancy Huss, former a native of Pennsylvania, latter of Mary-
land, parents of Mrs. Lysander Reynolds of Clinton Township (who was born
in Maryland in 1823), came to this' county in 182(3, and here died. . . .Jacob
Huss, father of George Robinson Huss (latter born at Tiffin in 1828), came
from Maiyland in 1824, and carried on the first saddle and harness making
business in Tiffin. He died December 30, 1849. His wife, Sarah (Robinson)
Huss, came from Berkeley County, Va., to Tiffin, in 1825, and died in 1876. . . .
Jacob and Margaret Hyter, natives of Maryland, came to this county in 1839,
where they died — Mr. Hyter in 1860, and his widow a few years later.
Agreen Ingraham, the first sheriff of the county, is referred to very often
in the organic and political chapters as well as in the local history Moses
Johnson died September 9, 1864, aged eighty-two years .... Rebecca Johnson,
458 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
relict of William Johnson (deceased), was born in Frederick, Md. , April 2,
1808, died August 23, 1879, having attained the advanced age of seventy-one
years, four months and twenty-one days. The family migrated to Ohio in
1835 John Julian died April 12, 1852, aged sixty-six years. For years he
was a useful member of i)ioneer society at Tiffin .... Joseph Juneau, or Jenay,
a colored man, cairied on the cabinet-maker's trade at Fort Ball in olden times.
Jacob Kabb died September 9, 1843, aged sixty-three years . . ._. George
Kaull, who came from Allentown. Penn., died September 27, 18/2, while
visiting jMi's. Stephen Strouss, his daughter .... John and Elizabeth Keller,
natives of Pennsylvania, where they married, parents of Lewis Keller, of Clin-
ton Township, born in 1808 in Fairfield County, Ohio, came to Fairfield
County from Pennsylvania in 1805, visited this county in 1824, and in 1828
settled in this township, where Mr. Keller died in 1857, and ]VIrs. Keller in
1859 Josej)h Keller died January 15, 1853 .... Joel Keller, who died
September 15. 1881. was born in Fairfield Coimty in 1821; settled in Clinton
in 1828. . . .In the fall of 1824 John Keller, known as "Uncle John,** brought a
number of apple trees fi-om Fairfield County, Ohio, and planted a foui'-acre
orchard, near the Keller Mill, in Clinton Township. This was the first orchard
set out (if we except the trail of ' 'Johnny Appleseed' ' ) in this county. Some
vandals came this way later in the fall of 1824, and cairied away the greater
number of the young plants .... Levi and Elizabeth (Cupp) Keller, parents of
Levi Keller, of Keed Townshii^, came here in an early day. Levi Keller,
Sr., who still lives, was a son of John Keller, who built the "old Keller Mill:*'
Mrs. Keller died in this coimty in 1875, aged sixty-nine years The
Keller family, of whom Mrs. Eliza Seever was a member, came to Ohio in
1808, and to "this county in 1835. Peter Seever, of Tiffin, her son, was born
in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1819 .... David B. King, a native of Butler
County. Penn., born Jamiary 2, 1809, settled at Tiffin, in May, 1830, and is
nimibered among the half-century pioneers .... Joseph and " Margaret Kintz,
natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married (parents of Lewis, born in
1818, and M. L., born in 1822, both natives of Pennsylvania, and now of
Clinton Township), came here fi'om Stark County, Ohio, in an early day, and
here died .... Michael Kirchner came to this county fi-om Bavaria in 1840,
when twenty years old, and his parents, John and Mary ( Achtun) Kirchner, in
1844 F.' D. Kishler, of Tiffin, was born here in 1831, his parents, Freder-
ick and Elizabeth (Miller) Kishler, having coiHe here in 1828 fi'om Perry
County, Ohio, formerly of Pennsylvania .... Richard Keating died August 14,
1827, and Rev. John Keating died September 3, 1859; both were old settlers
. . . .Charles Kelly, who, in 1821, assisted in building Drennon's cabin on the
site of Tiffin, was" born in Pennsylvania in 1798. His daughter married Dr.
Samuel W. Bricker, of Tiffin .... Bartholomew Kenny was di-owned in 1830,
while crossing the river to Tiffin .... Samuel and Rebecca (Thompson) Kridler,
natives of Pennsylvania (former born March 28, 1800, in Bedford County),
settled in Tiffin in 1823 .... Dr. Hem'v Kuhn, born in Frederick County, Md. ,
October 28, 1802, settled at Tiffin in "l829; died October 16, 1878. He gi-ad-
uated from the University of Maryland in 1825, and on coming here at once
entered on the duties of his profession. The epidemic of 1834 and the numer-
ous cases of sickness throiighout the county kept him always in physician's
harness; yet he made time to share in all works which promised to advance
his adopted county. His first wife, to whom he was married in Maryland —
Catherine (Baltzell) Kuhn — died in August, 1842. His second wife, nee Miss
Maria Pennington, is still a resident of Tiffin. Dr. Kuhn was the first and
only president of the Seneca County Tioneer Association .... George I. Kuhn
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 459
emigrated fi-om Germany in 1829 and came to Seneca County in 1839.
He died May 13, 185G, aged sixty-four years .... John Kiltsch settled at Tif-
lin about 1830 .... Jacob Korner and John Gr. Kennedy were all old residents.
.... Anthony Kuebler, a native of the Grand Duchy of Baden, settled at
Tiffin about 183-"), where for many years he was a boot and shoe-maker. His
wife, Frances (Schabacher) Kuebler, a native of Bavaria, came with immi-
grants to Tiffin, when a young girl.
William Lambertson (father of Sharon and Virgil Lambertson), an old
resident of the county, died January 15, 1882 .... Daniel and Susanna Lam-
bertson, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Mi-s. Hezekiah Searles, of Clinton
Township (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1817) came to this township
and settled on Section 24, in 1824, where they died, Mrs. Lambertson in
1844, and Mr. Lambertson in December, 1852 .... Henry Lang, father of
Judge Lang, was one of the first German settlers at Tiffin. He died here in
August, 1838, while his widow, Mrs. Catherine (Shuetz) Lang, died in June,
1849 .... William Lang, one of the early settlers, and certainly one of the
county's most j)rominent and useful citizens, is still a resident of the county.
His name is identified with almost every chapter of the county" s history, and to
these several parts the reader is referred Charles Lambkins, who died a few
years ago, was among the old settlers Lewis H. and Sarah Leffler, natives
of Wurtemburg, parents of Lewis Leffier, emigrated fi'om Germany in 1846
and settled in Clinton Township, where the former died in 1885 and the latter
in 1879 John D. Loomis, a native of New York State, settled at Tiffin in
1847, when he bought Wolf s foundiy and established the present industiy.
. . . . L. M. Loomis may be also named among the old residents Andi'ew
and Mary (Swayze) Love, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respectively,
parents of James W. Love, of Tiffin, who was born in Fairfield County in
1828, settled at Tiffin in 1830 Thomas Loyd, born in 1799, died February
3, 1867 Andrew Lugenbeel, born in Frederick County, Md., died Decem-
ber 10, 1863, aged fifty- six years and three months. He came to Tiffin in
1833, a few months after his marriage M'ith Miss Eliza Baltzell, of Maryland.
He was one of the early merchants, and in 1836 built the grist-mill and dam
at the Tiffin AVater- works. This mill is still in good repair, but not running.
Mrs. Lugenbeel died in 1843, and two years later Mr. Lugenbeel married a
daughter of John Souder, who now resides at Tiffin, in what is known as the
Lugenbeel Mansion, nearly opposite the Soldiers' Monument, and where the
Fort Ball spring enters the river.
John Magill, a printer in 1834, and partner of Case Brown, in the Patriot
office, was among the pioneer ' 'typos' ' of the county Manley, one of the old
merchants of Tiffin, settled in the city in 1848 Hugh McCandless Martin,
born August 3, 1834, was killed by a land-slide at Crested Butte, Colo., August
26, 1882. He attended the academy at Eepublic, then entered Heidelberg
College, read law with Gen. W. H. Gibson. His parents, Samuel S. and
Mary C. Martin were old residents of the county .... Nicholas Martin, an aged
old settler of Tiffin, dropped dead of heart disease, in February, 1885. The
deceased was a retired farmer of some wealth, and was about seventy-five years
old John and Barbara (Broadbeck) Martin, former a native of Maryland,
latter of Pennsylvania, came to this county fi'om Maryland, in 1825 Mrs.
J. W. Martin, wife of Dr. Martin, died December 17, 1884 Peter Marsh
settled in Clinton Township, in 1823; died at Kenton, Ohio George and
Elizabeth Marshall, natives of Germany, came direct from the fatherland to
this county in 1834, and here died .... Alex. Mason opened a hotel called ' 'The
Eagle" in 1834. The old Eagle is now a portion of the Shawhan House. . . .
460 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John Maiil, born in 1795, died October 3, 1866 William McCulloch. (See
pages 199. 215 and 221) William McEwen settled in Clinton Township, in
1823 Neal McGaffey, the first clerk of courts, was here in 1823 In
1825 he engaged in the search for the Brayton boy, and, with his party, camped
where Fostoria now stands Hugh McAllister died May 20, 1872, aged sixty-
five years .... John McCalmont died two years ago, aged seventy years ....
Thomas J. McCleary died April 9, 1861, aged- fifty-seven and a half years
Joseph MeClellan died January 7, 1860, aged seventy-two and a half years
Rev. John McLain, Presbyterian, died June 24, 1862. The people of his
Tiffin and McCutchenville congregations erected a monument to him in the
new cemetery .... Lucien D. McAi-dle, died July 18, 1850 Ezekiel McFerren
and Rev. Father McNamee must be numbered among the old settlers .... Aus-
tin McNeal, Tiffin, was born at Fort Ball (now Tiffin) in 1830. His father,
Milton McNeal, a native of New York State, settled here in 1823, died in
1834, and his mother, Maria (Gregory) McNeal, came in the following year
fi-om Athens County. Ohio .... Dr. John Alexander McFarland was born at
Waynesboro, Franklin Co., Penn., June 10, 1811; died June 1, 1843. The
Doctor, after going through the coui-ses taught in the village schools, was sent
to the academy in Chambersbm-g, Penn. After leaving the academy he en-
gaged for several years in teaching school at Waynesboro. He then com-
menced the study of medicine, attending the usual course of lectures at the
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, received the degree of M. D. in 1837,
and in May of that year settled at Tiffin. His life here was a model one, which
endeared him to all classes. His widow, nee Miss Ann E. Staley, of Freder-
ick County. Md.. was buried June 1, 1870 James Mercer was an old resi-
dent Henry Miller settled at Tiffin in 1821 Adam Miller died October
27, 1862, aged eighty-five years Daniel and Anna Miller, parents of Peter
Miller (born in New York State in 1833), Mrs. Lloyd Norris (born in New
York State in 1836) and Mrs. Samuel H. DeWitt (born in 1839 in this county)
and Mrs. Lewis H. Yoirng (born in this county in 1846). all of Clinton Town-
ship, man-ied in New York State and came to Ohio in 183 / , where Mrs. Miller
died in 1849. Mr. Miller siibsequently married Sarah Raber, and they now
reside here .... Aaron Miller, of Clinton Township, born in Pennsylvania in
1811, came in 1835 to Seneca County, where he married, in 1836, Mary Mer-
chant, who was born in Virginia in 1813. They reside in Clinton Township
Eben Mills died at Tiffin in 1835 William Montgomery, eldest son of
the Indian agent, was a merchant at Tiffin J. B. Mossoney died August 16,
1871, ao-ed eighty-four years, one month and twenty-two days.... Rev. M.
Molin settled at Tiffin in 1850, and was among the popular old residents of
the village .... William and Christina (Humes, nee Plank) Montgomery, former
a native of Ireland, latter of Virginia (she was mother of Samuel V. Humes, of
Pleasant Township, by former husband) came to Clinton Township in 1824,
and in 1834 moved to' Pleasant Township, where Mr. Montgomery died shortly
after.- His widow died in 1873 .... John Myers, born in Germany in 1816,
came to this county in 1844 James Myers settled in^Clinton Township in
June, 1833 Peter P. Myers, who died August 13, 1877, in his sixtieth
year,' came to Tiffin in October. 1856, and for years was owner of the hotel
known as the "Shawhan House." IVIi-s. Agnes N. Myers, widow of P. P. Myers,
came with her husband to Tiffin in October, 1856; died March 11, 1884, in
her sixty-fifth year.
John M. Nay lor came to Tiffin in 1847, where in company with Harvey
Howard, he established a general hardware store W. W. Naylor, brother
of J. M. Naylor. became a partner in the latter" s hardware business in 1857,
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 461
succeeding Naylor & Pittinger 'William Negele who died August 7, 1859,
settled at Tiffin in 1854 Michael Neikirk died May 12, 1880, aged eighty-
three years, seven and a half months .... Samuel Nighswander, county sur-
veyor and engineer, Tiffin, born in Pennsylvania in 1834, came here with his
parents, Joseph and Elizabeth (Bair) Nighswander, in 1847 Warren P.
Noble, whose parents, William and Rebecca (Lytle) Noble, settled near Jackson
Township in 1836, located at Tiffin in 1842 (see chapter on courts and bar,
page 301). .. .Nathaniel and Sarah Norris, natives of Maryland, parents of
Lloyd NorrLs, of Clinton Township (who was born in 1830, in this county),
came here about 1828, remaining till their death. Mr. Norris died in 1864; his
widow in 1865. . . .Dr. Kufus and Clarissa (Waters) Norton, parents of Hon.
James A. Norton, of Tiffin, former a native of New York State, son of Isaiah
Norton, settled here in 1835, where the doctor was a practicing physician for
over thirty years.
Dr. Minard Overmiller, one of the old physicians of Tiffin, died at Toledo,
September 28, 1884, aged sixty-five years. He was married to Miss Mary
Burke, of Tiffin, May 13, 1852, who survives him Thomas Ogle was born
February 7, 1815. .. .Joseph and Elizabeth Orner. maternal grandparents of
Henry J. Weller, attorney at law. Tiffin, were early pioneers of the county.
John G. Osteen, a settler of 1839, is still a resident of the city Rev. M.
O' Sullivan came in 1852, and resided here for some years.
Louis Papineau was the constable for this part of Sandusky County in
1820-21. He it was who an-ested the men who were supposed to have robbed
Spicer John Park, father of Christopher C. Park, of Tiffin, was born in
New Jersey, in 1788, and came to Tiffin in 1830, where he was engaged in
mercantile" pursuits for several years, removing, in 1844, to the "Pleasant Hill"
farm, in Clinton Township, where he died August 9, 1868 George Park
and C. C. Park were settlers of 1830, natives of Pennsylvania, where the name
is written Pearke. The late Mrs. C. C. Park, of Tiffin, while engaged in
driving mosquitoes out of the house, mounted a chair, which tii)ped over. In
falling she received such injuries as caused her death within three hours after
the accident, June 13, 1865 Col. J. W. Patterson, now of New York, was
a resident of Tiffin as early as June, 1833 .... James Pelan kept a book store
at Tiffin as early as 1855. It is said that he joined the Confederate Army
Joseph Pennington, who settled at Tiffin in 1834, died August 3, 1866
Barclay Pennington, of Tiffin, born in New York State in 1828, came to this
county in 1831 with his parents, Joseph and Sarah (Denison) Pennington
Robert G. Pennington, whose name appears in the general history, is a mem-
ber of the old bar of Seneca County (see his biography) James P.
Pillars, known as Judge Pillars, is an old-time resident, whose name finds men-
tion both in the political and law chapters Jacob Plane was one of the early
postmasters of Tiffin, and one of the old justices of Clinton Township Mrs.
Theresa Pittinger, wife of Benjamin Pittinger, and daughter of John and Eva
Creeger, of Maryland, was married to Mr. Pittinger, September 10, 1825, died
December 8, 1847 Benjamin Pittinger, a native of Maryland, born January
29, 1798, settled at Tiffin, December 5, 1825, and was elected associate judge
of common pleas. In 1825 he married Miss Creeger. On her death, in 1847,
he married Miss Mary A. Hunter, and in 1861 moved to his farm, where Mrs.
Pittinger died in 1877, and the judge in 1881. Their son, D. C. Pittinger,
was born at Tiffin in 1836 John Pittinger, born in 17/8, died October 20,
1857 J. H. Pittinger, one of the oldest members of the Seneca County
bar, died suddenly, January 14, 1885, aged sixty-one years Allison Phil-
ips was another old settler, whose memory is almost lapsed into the past ....
462 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Michael Price, born in County Carlow, Ireland, October 27, 1795, died August
7, 1850 . . . . D. S. Price, son of Michael Price, died at Pittsburgh Landing,
March 29, 18G1 .... Robert and Ehoda (Hendrickson) Patterson were early
settlers here.
James and Mary (Madigau) Quinn, natives of Ireland, parents of James W.
Quinn, of Fostoria (who was born in Ireland in 1837), came, in 1851, to Tiffin,
where James Quinn, a blacksmith by trade, died in 1859, aged seventy-eight
years. James W. Quinn moved to Fostoria in 1871 Rev. Edmund Quinn
was pastor of St. Mary' s Church, at Tiffin, in 1833, ,as related in the history
of the churches.
Christian and Catharine M. (Sprengle) Ransburg, came to this county in
1831, settling in Clinton Township. In 185G they moved to Indiana, where
Christian Ransbui'g died in 1864, aged seventy-nine, and Mrs. Ransbiu'g in
1870, also aged seventy -nine Rev. Fred. Rahauser came here in 1835. . . .Jo-
seph Ranker was also an old resident .... John Ranch, born in 1800, died Decem-
ber 13, 1874. . . .Abel Rawson, born in Warwick County, Mass., May 11, 1798,
located, February 15, 1826, at Fort Ball (now Tiffin), where he was appointed
prosecuting attorney and postmaster, and to other offices. He died August 24,
1871. His wife, Sarah Ann (Clark) Rawson, died June 6, 1849. His second
wife, to whom he was married September 25, 1856, Mrs. Maria McNeal, widow
of Milton McNeal. was born at Athens, Ohio, May 16, 1808. settled at Fort Ball
with her parents May 4, 1824 .... Francis Reif, a native of Bavaria, settled in
Seneca County in an early day, died November 7, 1877, aged seventy-two years
. . . .Rufus W. Reid (one of the old Tiffin merchants), who fmarried Sylvia Ann
Hunt, of Fort Seneca, after her divorce from Samuel Wright, introduced the era
of grain warehouses by building one at the depot of the Mad River RailrcTad,
Fort Ball. Owing to opposition of other mercantile houses at Tiffin, he ' 'went
under, ' ' and became a financial and social wreck long prior to his death ....
AYilliam Rex, who was born January 11, 1802, died April 4, 1872, was one of
the pioneers of Tiffin .... Michael and Louisa Reinbolt, former a native of
Alsace, France, latter of Byron, came to America about 1829, settling in Clin-
ton Township, were married in Pleasant Township, where they lived two years,
then moved into Clinton Township. Mr. Reinbolt died in 1880; his widow
now lives in Sandusky, Ohio .... Ibrahim and Harriet Reynolds, former a na-
tive of Connecticut, latter of New York State, came to this county in 1836,
afterward moving to Hancock County, then to Wyandot County, where they
died .... David Rickenbaugh settled a few miles easii of Tiffin in 1833, died
April 17, 1859, aged fifty-nine years. Margaret, his wife, died August 15,
1885. .. .Joseph Richards settled at Tiffin in 1827, and cpme fi-om Fayette
County, Penn. , where he was born, April 7, 1792, to Clinton Township in
1823. . . .Balthazar Ries, a barber, opened a shop at Tiffin in 1847. . . .Caleb
Rice, a soldier of 1812, settled at Fort Ball in 1819; died in Illinois in 1849.
.... Philip L. Riehm died February 9, 1872 A Riggs and Lydia G. Riggs
moved fi'om Frederick County, Md., to Seneca County in 1832. Miss Riggs
married Mr. Dildine in 1841; moved to Risdon in 1847, and died July 9, 1885.
.... Solomon and Catharine Robenalt, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Mrs.
Peter Miller, who was born in this county in 1832, came to Seneca County in
1829, and here died, Mr. Robenalt in 1863, and Mrs. Robenalt in 1881
Eliphalet Rogers settled in the woods, a few miles north of Tiffin, about 1823
or 1824. . . .William Rollins, one of P. D. Butler's assistants, was sentenced to
fifteen years in the penitentiary, but was pardoned one year later .... Henry
Rosenberger, a native of Virginia, came to Ohio in 1822, settling in Clinton
Township, and here he lived and toiled for fifty-one years. His first wife was
^\
(^^^, ^. ^
-^
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. _ 465
Miss Jane Shaul. In 1870 he moved to Tiffin, having sold his farm to Jacob,
his son .... Joseph and Catharine (Gilmore) Robinson, natives of Ireland, par-
ents of J. T. Robinson of Scipio Township (who was born, in 1844, in Tiffin),
were early settlers here. Mr. Robinson died in 1860; his widow in 1861. J.
T. Robinson moved to Scipio Township in 1863 .... Mi-s. Jane (Sneath) Rum-
mell died in March, 1839 .... George Rummell, a native of Ohio, settled at
Tiffin in 1834 .... P. H. Ryan, a settler of 1852, and one of the most useful
citizens of Tiffin, has tilled the public position credited to him in the political
chapter, and in the history of Tiffin. He is the author of a work on mathe-
matics and algebra, which awaits publication. Mr. Ryan had for years car-
ried on an extensive business at Tiffin.
Jacob Sager of Hopewell Township, born in 1828, in Maryland, came to Ohio
in 1850 and settled in Clinton Township, where he remained fifteen years, then
moved to Hopewell Township. . . .Loiiis C. A. Schmidt came from Germany to
this township in 1846, when thirty years old John Schneider, Christopher
Schneider, Rev. M. Schoenhenz (1835), and Rev. John L. Sanders (1833),
were all old residents. . . .Robert R. Scott who was born in 1812, died in Sep-
tember, 1857, after many years residence at Tiffin. . . .IVIi-s. Kate (Fitzmaurice)
Scannell, widow of John Scannell (who died in his native county in 1859), and
mother of Michael Scannell, of Tiffin, all natives of County Kerry, Ireland,
came to New York about 1859, where IVIi-s. Scannell lived until the family
moved to Tiffin .... John and Catharine Senn, former a native of Switzerland,
latter of Belgium, parents of Mrs. Peter Buchman,of Clinton Township (who was
born in this county in 1843), were early settlers in Seneca County, now residing
in Pulaski County, Ohio .... John Secrist settled in Clinton Township in Octo-
ber, 1828, died in April, 1848 ]VIi\s. Margaret Secrist died April 6, 1884, aged
eighty-two years .... Mrs. Eliza (Lamberson) Searles, born in Northhampton
County, Penn,, July 14, 1817, settled in Clinton Township in April, 1825. . . .
John Seidel, an old resident, died at Tiffin in September, 1882, in his sixtieth
year .... Joshua Seney was born in New York City, and removed to Ohio in
1832, settling at Tiffin, where he died in 1854. George E. Seney was born in
1832, in Penn. (see page 302 and biog. ) . . . . Mrs. Ann Seney, born in Pennsyl-
vania Sept. 13, 1803, settled at Tiffin November 15, 1831, died May 5, 1879
Rev. Isaac Seitz, born in Bloom Township in 1828, is a son of John and Mag-
dalena (Spitler) Seitz, early settlers of the county .... Philip Seewald, an old set-
tlei", died October 30, 1878, aged seventy-nine yeai's .... Louis Seewald, a native
of Bavaria, born Se^otember 15, 1831, settled at Tiffin in 1833, and has been
among its leading citizens since that time .... Frederick Shawhan, an old Revo-
lutionary soldier, a native of Maryland, came to ,Ohio in 1812, locating first in
Fairfield County, afterward settling in Seneca County in 1831. He died near
Tiffin, August 26, 1840. His son and only surviving child, Rezin W. Shawhan,
born in 1811, in Virginia, located in Tiffin, September 10, 1833, and has identi-
fied himself with many public and private enterprises .... Josiah Shawhan, son
of Frederick Shawhan, and a cotemporary settler, died May 20, 1880 ....
William Spicer, an Indian captive, and a wealthy though filthy resident of
Seneca County for years before 1817, is mentioned in the Indian treaty, as fol-
lows : ' 'To William Spicer, who was taken prisoner by the Indians, and has
ever since lived among them, and has married a Seneca woman, 640 acres,
beginning on the east bank of the Sandusky, forty poles below the lower corner
of said Spicer' s corn field, thence up the river on the east side with the meanders
thereof, one mile, thence and from the beginning east for quantity." This
fellow was robbed by Rollins and others of Fort Ball, in 1821; but owing to the
exertions of the pioneers the robbers were captured and one of them punished.
466 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
. . . .Mrs. John M. (Stoner) Shaul, formerly wife of John Staub, died August
9, 1885, aged sixty-four years. Her former husband and herself conducted
the American Hotel, which stood where the National Hall block now is, at
Tiffin .... George Shaver, who resided on the northwest quarter of Section 21,
Town 2, Range 15, died in 1827, leaving his property to his wife, Mary, and
his son, George J. Shaver. In the fall of 1830 John Kish, Arthur Morrison
and Charles W. Foster were appointed appraisers of the property and valued
the land at $3.37|^ cents per acre. . . .Joseph and Susan (Kain) Shafer, former
a native of Virginia, latter of Pennsylvania, parents of Alfred L. Shafer, of
Pleasant Township (who was born in Clinton TownshijD in 1840), settled in
this township about 1836. Mr. Shafer died in 1849, his widow in 1881.
.... Henry and Nancy Sheats, came to Seneca County, in 1839, and here
Henry Sheats died. His widow afterward moved to Henry County, Ohio,
where she died .... Edmond Shelt, an old settler, died March 25, 1884, in his
sixtieth year. He joined the first volunteer fire organization of Tiffin in
1849, old Hand Engine Company No. 1. Gen. W. H. Gibson, foreman. Since
then he has been an active fireman .... Howland and Huldah Sherman, former
a native of New York State, born in 1814, latter of Connecticut, born in 1823,
parents of Eldridge Sherman, were married in 1842. and then settled in this
county, where Howland Sherman died in 1865. His widow resides with her
son Eldridge .... Mrs. Margaret Schock. born in Frederick Coun,ty, Md. ,
December 10, 1804, settled at Tiffin, in 1833 .... Frederick W. and Catharine
Shriver, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Mrs. Lewis Keller, came, in 1833,
from Columbiana County, Ohio, to Clinton Township, where they died, the
former September 2, 1840 .... Capt. William D. Sherwood resided north of
Tiffin, about a mile from the Crum settlement .... George Shroyer died Febni-
ary 25, 1875, after years of residence here .... Peter Shultz, a native of
Belgium, born in 1821, came direct to Tiffin in 1843. where he worked at his
trade (shoe-maker) until 1846. He made shoes for the Wyandot Indians, who
were here when he came. In 1846 he went to the Mexican war, and in 1849
to California, but in 1859 returned to Seneca County, and settled in Hopewell
Township .... Lewis and Esther Shubert, natives of Pennsylvania, came to
Tiffin in 1847, where they afterward resided .... John Six died March 9, 1873,
aged eighty-three years .... William Alfred Six, father of James V. Six, of
Tiffin, was born in Maryland, and in 1843 came to Tiffin, where he eventually
took important part in the building of the place for many years .... Fred.
Singer, one of the old residents, is a citizen of Tiffin .... Elisha Smith was
one of the early settlers of Fort Ball; was also one of its first tavern keepers;
died about 1836 .... David Smith was the violinist of the Fort Ball settlement,
and the first cabinet-maker there .... John Smith died September 25, 1839.
aged fifty-four years .... Richard and Catharine (Baugher) Sneath, pa,rents of
Samuel B. Sneath, of Tiffin, who was born in that city in 1828, former a native
of Connecticut, latter of Pennsylvania, settled in Tiffin in 1827. It is stated,
however, that the Sneath family, accompanied by Jacob Huss and H. Zimmer-
man, arrived at Tiffin June 10, 1826 .... Albert G. Sneath was one of the old
pioneer business men, who worked hard to build up Tiffin a few years ago.
His death took place at Kansas City, March 25, 1884. in his sixty-ninth year.
. . . .James B. Sneath, an old resident of Tiffin, born in 1804, died November
5, 1878 .... Lewis E. Sneath was murdered at Humboldt, W. T. , October
27, 1861 Mrs. Elizabeth (Barton) Sneath, widow of Robert Sneath (former
born in Pennsylvania in 1780), and mother of William Sneath, of Pleasant
Township (who was born in Maryland in 1817), came with her children to Bel-
mont County, Ohio, in 1828, and to Clinton Township, this county, in 1834.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 467
where she died in 1840. William Sneath operated the home farm several
years, then moved, in 1846, into Pleasant Township .... John W. and Barbara
(Hammon) Snyder, natives of Baden, and parents of Calvin Snyder, of Tiffin,
settled at Tiffin in 1832 .... Christopher Snyder, a native of Germany, settled at
Tiffin in 1832, died March 22, 1857 Michael Snyder died in June, 1879,
aged seventy-nine years .... Philip Snyder, born August 17, 1782, died July
28. 1863 .... Philip Snyder, a native of Lancaster County, Penn. , settled at
Tiffin in 1847; died in September, 1882, aged sixty-five years . . . . David Souder,
born in 1770, in Pennsylvania, died August 29, 1862. . . .Eev. John Souder,
came to Seneca, June 17, 1826, with his family, and is still a resident of
Tiffin. He was born in Lancaster County, Penn., November 26, 1799....
Jacob Souder died December 30, 1854, aged sixty-three years. He settled at
Tiffin in 1848 .... Francis Sanders died in the coujity June 1, 1849 .... John
Sohn. who died in July. 1859, aged eighty-two, came fi'om Pennsylvania about
1834 .... James A. Sohn, born in Pennsylvania, November 19, 1832, was
brought to Tiffin about eighteen months later by his parents .... Rev. Henry 'G.
Spayth, born September 13, 1788, dieA September 9, 1873. . . .Jesse Spencer
(see history of Fort Ball) .... David Spiehnan, father of Mrs. Montgomery
Noble, of Jackson Township, an early settler hei'e, died in January, 1857
.... Heniy C. Spindler, one of the pioneers, died at Tiffin. April 2, 1885,
in his sixty-first year .... Ruth Spun'ier, wife of John H. Clay, was bom in
Frederick County, Md. . January 19, 1798, and died in Seneca County, Ohio,
June 9, 1879. aged eighty-one years, four months and twenty-one days. She
was married in the State of Maryland. August 30, 1828, and moved to' Seneca
County, Ohio, April 27, 1833. " Mother " Clay was a church member for a
period of fifty-three years .... Isaac Startsman died in 1872 in his seventy-
second year .... John J. Steiner was a lawyer and provost-marshal during the war.
Mrs. O. B. Tunison is his daughter .... Joel Stone died June 2, 1846 .... Jesse
Strong died in March, 1876, aged seventy-five years .... John Strong settled
here prior to 1830 .... John Stoner and George Stoner settled on Section 18.
Clinton Township, in 1822. The fonner wounded himself while hunting in
the fall of 1826, and died in Januarj\ 1827 .... Rev. Mr. Stanch was at Tiffin in
1830. . .John Staub and "Brewery-man" Sting were also old residents . . .Henry
St. John, born in Washington County, Vt. , July 16, 1783, served all through
the war of 1812. was at the bui-uing of Buffalo, moved to Wooster, Ohio, in
1815, and there maiTied Miss Jane Elder, December 2, 1817. In 1828 he
removed to Crawford County, and in 1837 settled in Seneca County, seven
miles from Tiffin, on the river, where he had a farm, a mill and a store. He
served in Congress during the twenty-eighth and twenty-ninth sessions, then
moved to Tiffin, where he died suddenly of heart disease, in May, 1869....
William Sullivan, who, with his brothers Edward and Michael, settled at Tiffip
in 1848, died in April, 1873. He was one of the leading hardware merchanfts
of the county .... Mrs. Honor Sullivan, widow of William Sullivan, died April
5. 1885, in her sixty-fifth year. She was born in Ireland in 1825, and, immi-
grating to this country in 1847, settled in Cleveland, where she resided fo?
eight years, and where, in 1848, she was mamed to her late husband, William
Sullivan, and with him came to Tiffin in 1855. Her sons are Charles J. M.^
of Tiffin: Dr. Emmet W., of Cleveland, and Gerald E., who resides in Des
Moines, Iowa. . . .Edward Schwander settled in Clinton Township in 1840. . . .
John Schwander settled in Clinton Township in 1841, died June 15, 1859, aged
eighty-three years .... Thomas Swander died January 4, 1879, aged seventy-
three years. . . .James Swander died in 1849, aged forty-five years. . . .Maiy
(Brobst) Swander, of Swander Station, is a member of the long-lived Brobst
468 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
family, of Easton, Penn. , and is now about eighty years of age . . . . M. G. A.
Swigart died in Jnly, 1850.
Thomas Teare. who settled on land in Adams Township:) about forty years
ago, resided in Tiffin, where he died. His brother Csesar, who came to the
county in 1870, resides in Adams Township .... Lance Todd, who settled at
Fort Ball in August, 1828, and moved to Scipio Township, was born in Frederick
County. Md. , January 7, 1806 Thomas Todd came to Fort Ball in 1828, and
to Scipio Township in 1829 . . . .William Toll, born October 11, 1801, in Augusta
County. Va. , an early official of the county, lieutenant-colonel of militia, jailer,
deputy sheriff and many other things in the early history of Seneca County,
died March 19, 1871, aged seventy years. His son served in the war for the
Union, returned home and died .... Benjamin Tomb, an old resident, died
January 17, 1883, aged ninety years. He was identified in banking, years ago,
in this city, and first went into the business in 1852 with Sylvanus Arnold.
Arnold sold out in about two years to John T. Huss, and the bank was then
known as Tomb, Huss & Co. Under the above name the bank existed until 1865,
when the company organized the " Fii'st National Bank of Tiffin." For eleven
years the institution did a good business, until wi'ecked by the cashier, John
T. Huss. who took his own life rather than face his shame. This closed up the
affairs of the bank, and the depositors were paid 60 cents on the dollar
Francis Trexler died May 15, 1870 ....Valentine Trumpler died April 26,
1876. aged seventy years . . . . L. Trumpler died a few years ago .... Benjamin
Turner settled just west of Foii Ball in 1829, moved to Liberty Township in
1834. In 1829 he paid §100 for nineteen acres of land to Elisha Smith.
Aaron Umsted died September 18, 1844, aged fifty-three and one-fom-th
years, and Eli Umsted died May 25, 1881, aged eighty-one years. Both were
old settlers of Tiffin, locating in Clinton Township in 1828.
Philip VonBlon settled at Tiffin in 1836, and died October 13, 1870, aged
eighty- one years Louis T. Volmer, whose parents were pioneers of Tiffin,
was born here February 29, 1852; died June 7, 1883 Thomas and Isabella
(Beard) Vannette (both deceased), parents of Mrs. William Sneath, of Pleasant
Township), came from New Jersey to Clinton Township in 1825.
Anton Wagner, an old settler of Seneca County, who started the fin'st mar-
ket garden near Tiffin, in 1846, died September 1, 1883. Martin Wagner, of
Tiffin, and F. H. Wagner, residing on the South Greenfield road, are his sons.
.... Joseph Walker, one of the pioneers of Tiffin, died January 15, 1861, in
his fifty -eighth year. For years he held a foremost place in the commercial
circle of Tiffin, and was one of the city' s most estimable old settlers. He mar-
ried ]\Iiss Rebecca Hedges, daughter of Josiah Hedges. This lady died Janu-
ary 16, 1861 Mrs. Elizabeth Walker, a resident of Tiffin for over half a
century, died April 30, 1885, aged eighty-two years. She was a member of
the Methodist Protestant Church for over forty years .... Cooper K. Watson
is referred to in the chapter on the courts and bar (page 302) .... Dominick Wel-
ter, born in Germany, January 27, 1839, settled in Tiffin with his parents in
1850; moved to Chicago in 1853; served with the Foui'th Ohio Cavalry during
the war; returned to Chicago, and in November, 1882, was appointed secretary
and inspector of the Chicago Police Department. .He died July 8, 1885, and
was biu-ied by the Forresters, Catholic Benevolent Association, First Illinois
Cavalry and Police Department .... Jacob and Rebecca (De Laughter) AMlcox
came fi-om Maryland and settled at Tiffin in 1830. Jacob was a soldier of the
war of 1812, and resided in Seneca County until his death, Jime 5, 1875. . . .
Joel W. Wilson, an old settler of Tiffin, died September 8, 1856, aged forty-
two years .... Thadeus Wilson was also an old resident .... John AA'illiams, a
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 469'
pioneer of 1821, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, April 21, 1818; moved
with parents to Fort Ball in 1821 .... Reuben Williams, who built the first bridge
at Tiffin, was a carpenter and worked at his trade until his death some years before
the war. In 1824 he built a saw-mill on the Coe farm, assisted by James Wolf.
Mrs. Hospelhorn, now of Tiffin, is a daughter of his .... Eli Williams was a
preacher who resided in Clinton Township, but was found guilty of an unnatural
crime and sent to prison for life .... Richard Williams, one of the early law-
yers, died September 12, 1852. . . .Christian Witz was a contemporary of Dren-
non in the first settlement of the town of Tiffin in 1821 .... Andi-ew WoofF died
in March, 1872, aged seventy-one years. It is supposed that he came here
prior to 1830. . . .James AVolf was here in 1824. . . .Henry and Susanna (Heis-
tand, nee Bretz) Wolf, former of whom, born in 1787, was suffocated in a well
in 1825, and latter died in 1872, in her seventy-ninth year (they were parents of
Mrs. John Free, born in 1822 (came to this county in 1823, and settled near
Tiffin.
William N. Yerk was drowned, while M. Stem, of Tiffin, and Shoemaker,
of Republic, barely escaped, during the wreck of the "Chesapeake," off Con-
neaut, in June, 1847 .... Tobias Yengst died August 2, 1855, aged fifty-four
years .... John Young came to Tiffin at an early date.
George W. Zook, father of Mrs. Thomas Galen Brosius, was one of the
early pioneers of this township. He died in Henry Coxinty, Ohio, in 18G5. . . .
Victor J. Zahm was born in Tolford, Ohio, March 7, 1887, and came to Tiffin
with his parents in 1840. At the age of fifteen he engaged in the printing
business, remaining at it until 1875, when he entered the auditor's office as
deputy, and in the fall of 1870 was elected auditor, filling that place for two
terms, and retiring in 1882. He died August 28, 1885. . . .Henry Zimmerman
arrived at Tiffin, June 10, 1820. with the Smiths. . . . John Zeigler died January
20, 1883. . . .Jacob Zimmer died January 20, 1801 Gerhart Zimmer, who
entered the lands at Cromer's Station in 1832, was a centenarian.
William Childs settled at Tiffin in 1821 (coming froin Auburn, N. Y., that
year), and erected a cabin on Sandusky Street, in which he died the same year.
His wife died immediately after, leaving a baby, born just before her death.
Official History. — To describe the condition of the records of this old town-
shij) would be a task similar to that of describing something struck by a cy-
clone, of which the slightest traces alone remain. There is nothing left of the
old records; a few of the men who had them in charge reside here to-day, but
their memories cannot take the place of those ordinary-looking old books of the
past, and thus the loss of a few modest, humble old volumes is irrei^arable. *
The township records, which came into possession of Mr. Dore, the present
clerk, date back "only to 1878, and from them the following list of township
officers, elected annually, is taken:
1878. — Edward Swander, Henry L. Best and Jacob Young, trustees; AVill-
iam O. Dildine, clerk; Albert Beilharz, treasurer; Martin Woodside, assessor;
Anthony H. Arnold and John Knott, constables; Daniel Dildine, Jesse H. Leidy,
justices of the i^eace.
1879. — Henry L. Best, Jacob Young and Peter Miller, trustees; William
O. Dildine, clerk; Albert Beilharz, treasurer; Martin Woodside, assessor; Virgil
D. Lamberson and John Knott, constables; Daniel Dildine, P. H. Jayne, jus-
tices of the peace.
1880.— William Kline, Peter Miller and Henry L. Best, trustees; William
O. Dildine, clerk ; Sylvester J. Kintz, treasurer ; John C. Leidy, assessor;
*In l.«43 Jephtha Lamberson was justice of the peace, and David E.Owen, clerlj. Henry Ebbert succeeded
Owen in 1S44.
470 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Virgil D. Lamberson and John Knott, constables; Daniel Dildine, P. H. Jayne,
justices of the i^eace.
1S81. — William Kline, Peter Miller and Hemy L. Best, trustees; Hh-am C.
Keppel, clerk; Sylvester J. Kintz, treasurer; Ezra Bowser, assessor; Anthony
H. Arnold and Virgil D. Lamberson, constables; Daniel Dildine and P. H.
Jayne, justices of the peace.
1SS2. — William Kline, Peter Miller and Samuel Horn, trustees ; H. C.
Keppel, clerk; A. Beilharz, treasurer; James M. BoAvser, assessor; Porter H.
Jayne and Daniel Dildine, justices of the peace; A. H. Arnold and V. D.
Lamberson, constables.
1883. — Jeremiah Rex, John C. Lydey and Peter Miller, trustees; Louis
Wagner, clerk; Albert Beilharz. treasurer; James M. Brown, assessor; John
Silvers and A. Brickford, constables; Porter H. Jayne and Daniel Dildine,
justices of the peace.
1884. — Jeremiah Res, John C. Lydey and Peter Miller, trustees; William
H. Dore, clerk; Albert Beilharz, treasurer ; James Bowser, assessor; JohnGravel-
dinger and John Silvers, constables; Porter H. Jayne and Daniel Dildine, jus-
tices of the peace.
The elections of 1885 for township officers were carried out on party prin-
ciples. The highest number of votes polled in the township was 162, and the
highest number in the township and city was 1,077, so that the vote of the
township is still as small as it was in pioneer days.
TUrSTEES.
Millerf 1066
Rex 986
Lvdey 1077
Egbert 667
Gray 678
Rickenhaugh 671
TREASURER.
Beilharz 1070
Harley 651
CONSTABLES.
Silvers 1077
Dore
CLERK.
1070
Lott 656
Jayne .
JUSTICE.
1038
Rex
951
770
Letchert
ASSESSOR.
1070
Norris
701
Graveldinger .
Biekford
VILLAGES OF THE TOWNSHIP.
Swander, or Morris Postoffice, five miles east of Tiffin, is a station on the North-
western Ohio Railroad; B. J. Bright is railroad agent, grocer and postmaster;
James Harshman, blacksmith, and C. C. Crosby, shoe-maker. Mr. Bright was
re-ai)pointed to charge of the postoffice in September, 1885. The present name
of the village was given in honor of J. S. MoitIs, superintendent of the North-
western Ohio Railroad and owner of the Shawhan House, Tiffin. The only
society organized there up to January, 1885, is the Literaiy and Debating
Club, of which the following named are the officers : President, M. V.
Kaga; vice-president, T. J. Collins; treasuier, H. R. Miley; secretary, B. W.
Knepple.
Viona, on the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 35, was surveyed
for John H. Foulk in October, 1874. It is the center of a rich agricultural
district, and, like all such towns, is one of great expectations. Here also a
Literary and Debating Club has been organized, with the following named
fDemocrats in Roman letters, Republicans in Italics.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 471
officers: President, N. R. Heaton; vice-president, W. F. Wenner; secretary,
B. W. Knepple; treasurer, H. R. Miley; historian, N. W. Miller.
The old villages of Oakley, Fort Ball and Pan Yan are grouped in the his-
toiy of Tiffin.
GENERAL STATISTICS.
The assessment roll of Clinton Township for 1841 shows following statis-
tics: 22,937 acres of land, valued at $104,810; town lots valued at 153,316;
horses, 425, valued at $17,000; cattle, 701, valued at $5,608; mercantile
capital and moneys at interest, $33,450; pleasm-e carriages, 25, valued at
$1,545; total, $215,433. Total tax, $3,069.92; delinquences since 1840,
$331.95.
The valuation and taxation for 1884-85 are shown by the following
statistics: Acres of land, 20,639, value $1,012,420; chattels, $363,780; total,
$1,376,200, or if equally divided among the 1,702 inhabitants, credited bj
census of 1880, would give to each $808.50. The total tax for 1884-85 is
$16,517.14, together with $155 dog tax.
The general statistics for 1884 are given as follows: Acres of wheat, 3,975;
of rye, 16; of buckwheat, 2; of oats, 1,027; of corn, 2,488, producing 73,254
bushels; of meadow, 1,265, yielding 1,483 tons of hay; of clover, 1,214 acres,
giving 1,327 tons of hay, 899 bushels of seed, and 92 acres plowed under;
potatoes, 136 acres, yielding 16,616 bushels; milk sold for family use, 12,195
gallons; home-made butter, 61,035 pounds; 1 acre sorghum, 122 gallons;
gallons of maple syrup, 235; 213 hives, 3,595 pounds of honey; 18,310 dozens
of eggs; 1 acre vines, 1,270 pounds; 1 acre sweet potatoes, 50 bushels; 496
acres of apple trees, 6,482 bushels; 225 bushels of pears and 10 of cherries;
lands cultivated, 14,289 acres; pastui-e lands, 1,227; wood land, 3,431; waste
land, 107; total acreage, 19,054; wool, 20,626 pounds; milch cows, in 1863,
563; dogs, 159; sheep killed and injured by dogs, 9; animals died of disease,
96 hogs, 81 sheep, 25 cattle and 13 horses.
The condition of the schools of Clinton Township in August, 1884, is set
forth as follows: Local tax, $1,706.31; receipts, $4,689; expenditures, $3,644.-
36; schoolhouses, 8; value of property, $1,600; teachers employed, 15; average
salaries, $38 and $24; male pupils, 140; female, 130.
In the foregoing pages the pioneers of Foi-t Ball and Tiffin are grouped with
those of Clinton Township, because for years, in fact up to the close of the
pioneer period, there were no social or geographical lines drawn between the
country sections and the settlements of Fort Ball and Tiffin. In the history of
Tiffin City all names identified with its business, social, religious and municipal
interests, find mention in du-ect connection with the history of the city' s begin-
nings and progress, thus rendering the story of the township and city as re-
plete in detail as it is possible to make it.
TIFFIN CITY.
Tiffin is situate on Sections 18, 19, 20, 29 and 30, Town 2 north, Range
15 east, Clinton Township and Section 24, Hopewell Township, in latitude
north 41° 7', and longitude west fi'om Washington 6° 8'. The Sandusky River
flows through the city in a general northeastern course, coursing almost due
east ftom Washington Street bridge to the railroad bridges, and dividing the
city at this point into the North and South sides. Washington Street, running
north and south, divides the city into the East and West sides. Rock Creek
flows northwest in a tortuous coui-se through the northeastern parts of the city,
and enters the river east of Washington Street bridge. The white population
472 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
in 1817 was 3; in 1822, 30; in 1830, 600; increased to 7,879 in 1880, and to
about 10,000 in 1885.
The distinctive features of the city are its magnificent location, looking over
the Sandusky, its natural terraces, variety of landscape and wildwood drives, all
retained, by some magic power, amid the ruin of old time forests, and change
in everything.
Here, at the beginning of the second decade of this century, the troops of
1812 encamped and revelled in the natural beauty of the place, and here a few
years later the first white settler built his home and dedicated the locality to
civilization for all time. A few years more and the pioneer of progress came,
crossed the river, and, adopting the name of the first governor of Ohio for a
town, bestowed it upon a tract of wildwood where Tiffin now stands. Another
year, and there stood the twin settlements, lovely and romantic, quiet and un-
pretentious. There the pioneer settlers or travelers passed their happy leisure
hours, listening to the murmurs of the rippling waters of the creek, the roar of
the river, or watched the mist as it curtained the groves and cabins. Ah ! then
it claimed but plain imagination to pictui'e the happiness of the warriors and
beauties of the ancient tribes, when they looked upon their villages, and found
plenty in the woods and in the rivers. A little thought, too, encircled the place
with a romance, all its own, when the white man brought forth in fancy what
his predecessors had lost, and what he had won. Then, for a time, admiration
gave place to awe, and over the scene spread a gloom, born of conscience and
natural superstition, which prompted the question: Oh, God! how long shall
we enjoy the home of the red men? In after years, amid the din and toil of
progress, the thought was forgotten, and the mind once more returned to revel
in the beauty and magnificence of the place, to enjoy what the Caucasian had
built up on the ruin of the Indian.
It was not until the land was opened up for entry, or purchased, that
immigration became active, or the country began to fill up. Then the necessity
of established villages became obvious. Notwithstanding the advantages of
locality and accessibility, the east bank of the river was not thought of as the
site of a city for almost four years after the first settlers came in, and for two
years after the first village was platted on the west bank of the Sandusky at this
point. Josiah Hedges first realized the importance of the spot, and decided
to. establish himself east of what even then was considered the fi-ontier — the
Sandusky River. Others came, and all decided to carve for themselves a home
in the beautiful wilderness, and fashion out a city among the trees, that should
one day be regarded as the goal to which enterprising men would direct their
footsteps, where scholars would find a home, and religion 10,000 followers.
Those pioneers of Fort Ball and Tiffin built well indeed. Almost all their
day-dreams have been realized, and a city has sprung up out of the ancient
groves, extending fi-om plateau to plateau on each side of the old, ever running,
boisterous river. Here we find the inventive, enterprising, fearless Yankee,
the Pennsylvanian, a man of iron nerves; th(^ children of Vermont and New
Hampshire, delving low for some new rock; the Marylander, a son of that land,
"the only place in the wide, wide world where religioiis toleration found a
home;" the shrewd Irishman, whose faults almost counter-balance his virtues;
the ruddy, fair-haired German, always singing of his ' ' faderland, ' ' yet working
onward steadily to attain a competence and hold it; the Englishman, ever
English and transatlantic; the"cannie" Scot, jealously watchful of his inter-
ests; the chivalrous Pole, the polite Frenchman, the money making Jew, and
even the Chinaman, all find a home here.
Fort Ball or the Second Ward. — The settlers in that part of Tiffin west and
OUZ/-tycL
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 475
north of the river, in 1817, were Erastus Bowe and Paul D. Butler, both of
whom came to Fort Ball that year fi-om Delaware Township, Delaware Co.,
Ohio, where the former, a Vermonter, settled in 1809, and the latter, fi-om
Massachusetts, in 1808. The following facts relating to the settlement of Fort
Ball are taken from a bill filed, in 1824, in the court of chancery by Lawyers
Pettibone and Parish in the interest of Thomas Butler vs. Josiah B'edges and
Jesse Spencer. September 29, 1817, the treaty of the foot of the Rapids
was made with the Wyandots and other tribes. Among its provisions was one
reserving to Robert Armstrong 640 acres fronting on the river north and south
of Camp Ball 160 poles and 164 poles resj^ectively. September 30 of that
year Armstrong agreed to sell Paul D. Butler one-half of his section on condi-
tion that the latter would lay a part off in town lots, build a saw-mill the fol-
lowing summer, and a year later build a small gi'ist-mill. Armstrong was to
receive half the profits of Butler's enterprise. In November, 1818, this agree-
ment was amended in the presence of Erastus Bowe and Ii-a Carpenter.
Auo-nst 30, 1820, Armstrong deeded to Butler 320 acres in consideration of
improvements and of $1 in cash. September 8, 1820, Ai'mstrong deeded to
him the river fi'ont for some distance above and below the present Soldiers'
Monument, Joseph Tiernan and Leonard H. Cowles witnessing the document,
and Solomon Smith, a justice, acknowledging the same. August 24, 1821,
Armstrong and Butler entered into an agi'eement for the division of profits
ai'ising from sales of lots in the town of Oakley, the northern i^art to belong to
Armstrong and the southern to Butler, and the division to be governed by the
plan of the town as laid out by Joseph Vance. May 29, 1822, Butler con-
veyed to Armstrong almost all his interests in Fort Ball or Oaldey in the pres-
ence of Solomon Smith, Joseph S. Hughes and Leonard H. Cowles; but on
this day also Armstrong deeded back a large part of Oakley to Butler, in the
presence of Horton Howard and the three witnesses just named, in considera-
tion of a payment of $1,000. October 24, 1822, Paul D. Butler and hi&
wife, Sally, conveyed to Thomas Butler a large part of this estate. In Decem-
ber, 1822, Paul D. Butler died. From 1818 to the period of his death he,
with Armstrong, was in possession of the reservation; he cleared 100 acres at
his own expense, had the town of Oakley surveyed and platted, and built mills
and houses. Jesse Spencer was a nephew of Robert Armstrong, and resided
with his uncle for some time; he was Armstrong's agent, and with his uncle
willingly aided Butler in his efforts to have the Presidential sanction for the
conveyance of part of the reservation to Butler until the deed of conveyance
was actually before the President, when Spencer went to Washington and
remonstrated against its approval. This was followed by the deed from Ai'm-
strong to Spencer, dated October 9, 1823, and Ai-mstrong, ignorant as he was,
visited Washington and tu-ged its approval. At this time also the i^atent of
July, 1820, was found to be erroneous, having been based on the treaty of St.
Maiy's instead of that made at the foot of the Rapids. Subsequently, Arm-
strong, his wife and Spencer came to Fort Ball for the purpose of dealing
fairly with Thomas Butler; but on the advice of Spencer the original owner
broke off all negotiations. In 1825, however, Spencer and Ai-mstrong sold to
Josiah Hedges a short time before the death of Armstrong in that year. The
bill was dismissed, and the bona fide intentions and acts of Paul D. Butler and
his son set at naught by this court on a legal technicality, notwithstanding the
apparent fact that Butler made the first improvement, and was faithful to his
contract with Armstrong.
Fort Ball, as platted originally, comprised Adams, Miami and Clay Streets,
running east and west, and Madison, Sandusky, and Monroe Streets running
476 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
north and south on lands patented to Eobert Armstrong, October 13, 1823, by
President James Monroe, west of the Sandusky River. October 23, 1823,
Armstrong transferred to Jesse Spencer (with the approval of the President),
for $3,000, 404 acres of the Armstrong Reservation — an act sustained by the law
in the case, but one which merited, for Armstrong and Spencer, the retribution
which waited on them. The first plat or survey in the county was undoubt-
edly made by Paul D. Butler, for himself and Armstrong, in 1817 or 1818, so
that Spencer, or Vance, or Hedges, cannot claim the honors of the first town
survey in the county. This was followed, in 1819, by the sui'vey of West Oak-
ley or Vance' s Town by Joseph Vance, then Tifiin was surveyed by Gen. James
Hedges, for his brother Josiah, and Oakley replatted under the name of Foi-t
Ball.
The first postoffice in Seneca County was established at Oakley or Vance's
Town, in February, 1820, with David Risdon, postmaster. The mail was car-
ried at that time between Columbus and Lower Sandusky, through Oakley.
The McCulloch or McCullok section was another grant, the history of
which is given in Chapter II. Among the heirs of William McCulloch
were: Noah Z. , Tabitha, Elliott, Samuel, Sidney,and Zane McCulloch, Joseph
L. Tracey and Zilla Tracy. In August, 1824, Josiah Hedges filed a petition
for partition of their lands at Foi-t Ball, and in September of that year, the
coui't granted the petition and appointed James Gordon, Franklin Baker and
Thomas Boyd, to make such partition. These men laid out the tract in seven
parts. Noah McCulloch and wife sold Lots Nos. 2 and 3, to Levi Davis of
Frederick County, Md. : Zane McCulloch sold Lot 5, to Andrew Luzenbeel;
Lot No. 7, was sold by Sidney McCulloch to Josiah Hedges and Rollin
Moller. In 1832 Samuel and Elliott McCulloch were infants, and their lots
still intact. The mo,rking of the lots, by Gordon, Baker and Boyd, was car-
ried out so indifferently from the field book, that Hedges made an efPort, in
1832, to have the marks changed; but the court did not comply with his demand
at that time, nor until 1837 were measures taken to make the marks corre-
spond with the field book.
New Fort Ball extending from the river to the alley in rear of Madison
Street, included all the in-lots in the northern addition to Tiffin, and all on what
was known as Fort Ball was surveyed by James Dirrbin, in November, 1837,
on the east part of the tract of land reserved to Robert Armstrong, for Josiah
Hedges.
Original Survey of Tiffin, and Additions. — Town of Tiffin, fractional Section
19, Town 2 north. Range 15 east, containing 118 lots 60x180 feet each, streets
sixty-six feet wide and alleys sixteen and a half feet wide, with public grounds
equal to three lots at the corner of Market and Washington Streets, extending
to Rose Alley (later Virgin Alley), now Coiui Alley or Court Street, was platted
November 28, 1821, for Josiah Hedges by his brother. Gen. James Hedges.
The northern addition was made May 27, 1831, and the southern addition
May 27, 1831, by Josiah Hedges. At this time the Catholic Church lot was on
East Market Street, adjoining the old cemetery. Norris & Gist's addition, lots
one to twelve, fronting on Jefferson Street, was recorded June 15, 1832, by Eli
Norris and George W. Gist. Keller & Gist's was made January 29, 1834,
for Levi Keller and George W. Gist, on out-lots No. 2 and No. 5, known as
Lots 3 to 12 Jefferson Street, in southern addition.
Rawson' s addition was made by David Risdon for Abel Rawson, May 30,
1833. Sneath & Graff's out-lot No. 3 and part of out-lot No. 4,- known as Lots
1 to 10 on Jefferson Street, in southern addition, was made January 29, 1834.
Jennings', a fi'actional part of out-lot No. 3, and a fraction south of that lot
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 477
extending to the Mansfield road, was sixrveyed by D. Kisdon, November 13,
1834, for Milton Jennings. George W. Gist's plat of lots on the east half of
southeast quarter of Section 20, Township 2 north, Eange 15 east, Nos. 1 to
10, was made in 1835.
Reuben Williams' addition, inlots Nos. 1 to 1 2 and fi-actional in-lots 13 to 18,
on Monroe Street, was platted in April, 1835. Samuel Waggoner's southwest
additon on Monroe, south of Charlotte Street, was recorded in January, 1836.
Sheldon's was siu'veyed September 11, 1838, by James Durbinfor H. O. Shel-
don. Jacob Ronk' s addition to New Fort Ball was surveyed by G. H. Heming
in November, 1849. Josiah Hedges' second addition was surveyed Jime 4,
1851. by G. H. Heming, extending south of Sandusky River and east of Rock
Run to the college grounds. A part of this addition, situate in the Second
Ward, comprised twenty-one in-lots No. 620 to 640, with the extension of certain
streets. Hedges' addition of out- lots 1 to 6, Second Ward, was surveyed April
2, 1849, by G. H. Heming. Davis' addition including parts of Lots 2 and
3 of McCulloch's section in Township 2, Range 15 east, was surveyed in
May, 1854, by Hiram McClelland. Springdale was surveyed by G. H. Hem-
ing in May, 1854. for William H. Gibson. This well-located addition is on
the west half of the sovitheast quarter and north part of southwest quarter of
fractional Section 30, Township 2, Range 15. Hedges" quarry lots, embracing five
and one-half acres of the east part of Lot No. 7, McCulloch's section, were
surveyed by Hiram McClelland, May 6, 1854, for Josiah Hedges. Denzler's
was platted in October, 1855, by N. R. Kuntz, between Portland and Scipio
Streets.
Josiah Hedges' second southern addition to the First Ward was surveyed in
June, 1855. This addition was located south of the Catholic Chiu'ch, east
and west of Washington Street. Albrecht's was sm-veyed by Lewis E. Holtz,
deputy- siu-vey or, in March, 1856. The town of New Oakley, south of Tiflin,
in Sections 29, 30, 31, and 32, was surveyed in June, 1856, by G. H. Heming,
for D. Cunningham, guardian of John Zimmerman. George E. Seney's ad-
dition, north of Portland Street, was surveyed by Lewis E. Holtz. November
28, 1856. The western addition was siu-veyed by G. H. Heming, for H. M.
Avery, T. R. Biitler, -7. R. Cecil and Josiah Hedges, July 13, 1857.
The boundaries of Sheldon's were agreed to April 7, 1858, by the propri-
etors, R. and F. M. Crum. Patrick H. and Mary M. Ryan, John and Eliza
Walker and John Rougher. Jacob Heilman's subdivision of south paii of
Lot 4, together with thirty-two and three- foiu'th links wide south of said lot,
was surveyed January 14* 1858. Hedges' Lots Nos. 1 and 2, in B. D. , were
subdivided in Julv, 1862, for Josiah Hedges. Noble's addition was surveyed
in March, 1863, by G. H. Heming, for Harrison and Minerva Noble. This is
situate in the northeast part of the Armstrong Reservation.
M. P. Skinner's lands, known as in-lots 443, 444, 445, 446 and 447, front-
ing on High Street, were added to the town March 5, 1864. Graham &
Emich's subdivision of Levi Davis' addition, in McCulloch's township,
angle of Plumb Road and Davis Street, Tiffin, was platted in March, 1864.
Franklin's subdivision to Oakley was surveyed June 14, 1864, for Caro-
line M. Franklin and Freeman E. Franklin. Franklin's addition to Oakley
was surveyed by Hiram McClelland, January 16, 1866, for Caroline M. and
Freeman E. Franklin. Frost's addition was surveyed February 15. 1870, by
Denis Maloy, for Josiah B. and Meshach Frost. Noble's second addition to
the Second Ward was surveyed by Heming, in November, 1866, for Harrison
and Minerva Noble.
Jacob Scheiber's, in-lot 8, Block 2 (Hedges' lands), was surveyed in May,
478 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1867. Rebecca A. Walker's, on part of Blocks Q, R and S (Hedges' lands),
was surveyed August 15, 1867, by Heming. Her addition to the Second Ward
in Block Y (Hedges' lands), was surveyed September 7. 1867. Gross' addi-
tion, between Coe and Melmore Streets, in Block O (Hedges' lands), was sur-
veyed by Heming in August, 1867, for John Gr. and Eliza H. Gross. Tomb' s
addition, on the east part of Lots 5, 6 and 7, McCulloch Reservation, was
surveyed in August, 1867. A second addition from Sandusky east to river and
south from Dallas to Douglass Street, was made on P. H. Ryan' s survey in
April, 1871. Schonhart's, fronting on the Mansiield road, was surveyed in
March, 1867. Hunter's was surveyed in April, 1867, for William and Clarinda
Hunter. Toll's subdivision, extending from Franklin Street to the Sandusky
River, was surveyed May 18, 1868, for W. and Sarah A. Toll. John Heilman's,
on Main and Walker Streets, was surveyed October 30, 1868. D. J. Goodsell' s
was siu'veyed in March, 1868. G. F. Hertzer' s subdivision, between Schonhart' s
and Heilman's additions, was surveyed March 15, 1871. Francois C. Noirot's,
out-lot northwest of east half of northwest quarter of Section 28, was surveyed
by D. Maloy in January, 1869. Jacob F. Bunn's subdivision of the west part
of out-lot No. 2 B. S. , on the Greenfield road, was surveyed in Sei^tember,
1870, by Dennis Maloy. G. D. Loomis made an addition to the city in April,
1870. Clarinda Hunter' s allotment, east of Sandusky Street and south of the
old corporation line, was surveyed by P. H. Ryan in February, 1871. The
addition of the Levi Davis estate to Tiffin was made by W. P. Noble, adminis-
trator, in May, 1871. Stoner's, east of Fremont to Henry and south of Doug-
lass to Davis was surveyed by P. H. Ryan in 1871. Lucinda Allen's, north
of Ella Street, east of the river, was surveyed in March, 1872. Mechanics-
burg, extending fi'om Front Street to Washington, Sycamore and Union Streets,
was surveyed by P. H. Ryan in November, 1872, for R. W. Shawhan, A. G.
Sneath and Meshach Frost. C. K. Gilmore' s subdivision of out-lot No. 10,
Block X (Josiah Hedges' lands), was surveyed by J. L. Fisher in July, 1872.
John T. and Eliza Bacher's subdivision of Lot 1, Block Z (Josiah Hedges'
lands), was surveyed by E. C. Cook in September, 1873. J. T. Huss', extend-
ing fi-om the river to Hemy Street, between Tomb and Douglass Streets, was
surveyed in 1873. Souder's subdivision of out-lots 9, 10, 11, in Davis' addi-
tion to Tiffin, was surveyed by J. L. Fisher in April, 1873. J. F. Bunn's
second addition was surveyed by P. H. Ryan in May, 1873. This is bounded
by Douglass, Bunn. Davis and Henry Streets. Gray' s was surveyed in April,
1873, by E. C. Cook, Jr., for R. Gray, P. J. Wilson and E. W. Stephenson.
Lewis McCollum & Snyders' subdivision, opposite the County Fair grounds, was
surveyed in April, 1873, by John L. Fisher. Luther A. Hall's addition
was made in December, 1873.
The additions made to the city since the close of 1873 are named as follows,
with the date of survey:
W. O. andH. A. Spayth's, Jime, 1874; N. G. Hayward's, July, 1874; H.
W. Huber's, June, 1874; Levi Weirick's, November, 1874; J. K. Huddle's,
July, 1874; John A. Remele' s, July, 1874; L. L. Chandler's, August, 1874; W.
H. Gibson's, March, 1874; J. Glynn's, May, 1874; R. W. Shawhan' s, Apnl,
1875; George Fishbaugh & Co's. , January, 1875; John G. Gross', May, 1875;
Nicholas Bartell's, April, 1875; Lewis Schubert's, November, 1875; Kaull &
Glenn's, April, 1875; John Houck's, September, 1875; John Myers', October,
1875; John Bour's, December, 1875; Philip Wentz's, September, 1875; John
Fishbaugh' s, May, 1876; W. C. Hedges', June, 1876; John Zeigler's, October,
1876; Jacob Heilman's, July, 1876; Susan Smith's, December, 1876; Harter
& Slowman's, March, 1876; Maria P. Kuhn's, March, 1877; Charles J. M.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 479
andHonora Sullivan's, May, 1877; H. & M. Noble's, May, 1877; A. C. Bald-
win's, May, 1878.
The annexation of a large tract west and north of the old corporation line
of Tiffin was effected by order of the county commissioners, made March 6,
1877, in response to a petition from the residents. B. F. Myers', May, 1880;
A. Bihm's, May, 1880; George W. Fiege's, June, 1880; Florence Cronise's,
1880; William Negele's, June, 1880; tracts between Scipio Street and Block
30, school lot in First Ward, Rock Creek Mill property, Fleming tannery
lot, April 1880; tract on River Street. Lot 247, east half of the northeast
fractional quarter of Section 19. lots on Market at mill race, in May, 1880;.
Christian Mueller's and Mrs. Hunter's, in July, 1880; Fair grounds and ad-
jacent property in May. 1880.
In April, May and June, 1880, a large area, scattered throughout the city,
was platted for the purposes of taxation. The petition to annex several parcels
of land west and north of Tiffin to the citv, was granted by the commissioners
February 27, 1882.
In July, 1883, J. W. Sheely's subdivision of Lot 10, K. & G. addition,
was surveyed; in June of that year, Myers. Stalter andBunn's addition was
laid out, and in October, Sarah V. Armstrong's addition. In February, 1884,
Quinn's replat of Riordon's subdivision was made, and H. Brohl's subdivision
of the Davis addition was made in June of that year. The work of extension
-is still carried on. with greater prospects in the distance.
Incidents of First Setnement. — The first tavern in the county was opened
in 1817, by the first settler, Erastus Bowe, immediately below Fort Ball, at the
north end of Washington Street bridge. In 1819 his was the nearest house to
the Welch Brothers' settlement at the Mohawk Village, in Eden, and to the
white settlements at old Fort Seneca, made in the fall of that year; if we except
Spicer's cabin and other homes of the white captives, who, in the general his-
tory are classed with, and treated as Indians. In 1818 the members of Eras-
tus Bowe's family and Hannah Jackson arrived, also Paul D. Butler's
family. Almon Rollins, who was convicted of the robbery of Spicer, and
served some years in the penetentiary, was an employe of Butler. William
Rollins came in 1818. Abner Pike came in 1819. Eli Downing also lived
here, prior to his settlement near the Baker Mill; the constable Papineau,
Henry Creesy, Levi Creesy, the blacksmith John Searles and family, and a
few transients, on whom Butler conferred the name of ' ' lazy duffers, ' ' resided
within Fort Ball, even in 1820, and Josiah Hedges visited the post that year.
Then came David Risdon, the old siirveyor, to Fort Ball; Simon B. Howard,
from Delaware County; John Mimm. AJi-mstrong Drennon, Charles Wetz or
AVertz, fi'om Richland County; Henry Welch, a brother of Hugh Welch, fi'om
Eden Township, Seneca County; James Spink, from Wooster; Gen. James
Hedges, fi-om Mansfield; Josiah Hedges, Charles Kelly, Henry Miller, David
Fowler and others, a few of whom made only temporary settlements. When
the commissioners selected the ' " town in the bush ' " on the east side of the
river, as the seat of justice; there were only six cabins, in one of which the
whole Drennon family died, almost together. The first tree was cut on the site
of i\e town in March, 1821. James Spink, of Wooster, opened a store at
Tiffin in March, 1822, the same which was plundered the following winter.
Herford, Miner and Spink located the seat of justice at Tiffin, March 25,
1822, when there were only six cabins there. Dr. Eli Dresbach and Dr. R. C.
J. Carey, who settled at Fort Ball in 1823, were among the first resident phy-
sicians of the county, but not the first who practiced here. Riidolphus Dick-
enson, who located at Fort Ball in 1824, was the first attorney. Abel Rawson
480 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
came in February. 1826, although John J. Spink, of Wooster, Ohio, was here
in 1821. The first jail was completed March 4, 1826. In April, 1828,
the United States land office of the Delaware District was located at Tiffin.
Jacob Plane was appointed first postmaster at Tiffin in the spring of 1829.
The fii-st newspaper, the Seneca ■Patriot, was issued from the press by E. & J.
H. Brown, August 4, 1832. The press used was brought to Pennsylvania in
the last decade of the last centiuy, and is said to have been the first west of the
Alleghenies. ' „ ^ .
Preparatory to leaving for the West, the Senecas assembled at Fort Ball id
the summer of 1880, and camped there for twenty days while settling their
chattels and debts. The first brick yards were established in 1830-31 . St. Mary' s
brick chiu-ch building was begun in 1831. John Goodin's hotel, a brick house
which stood on the site of the National Hall block, was begun late that fall, or
early in the spring of 1832. Dr. Kuhn's residence and Abel Rawson's dimin-
utive law office were built. There were in fact only three brick buildings com-
pleted in the city up to the close of 1833, and perhaps ten times that number
of frame buildings, most of them very small, and a large number of log-houses.
The first bricfge constructed in Seneca County was that over the Sandusky,
at the foot of Washington Street, in 1833-34, built by Eeuben Williams for
Josiah Hedges. In 1834 a second bridge was built lower down, and also one
across Rock Creek, which were all carried away during the high water of
that year. The Hedges' toll bridge was erected in 1834. The first railroad,
the Mad River & Lake Erie, was siu'veyed in 1832 by Stansbury, Morris and
Van Antwerp; work begun September 7, 1835, was finished as far as Repub-
lic, in 1839. and as far as Tiffin in 1841. It was completed in 1847-48 {vide
Chapter XI). .
The 4th of July was celebrated with eclat at Tiffin, with Hem-y 0. Brish,
marshal, in 1832. " The cholera made its first appearance in Seneca County
Auo-ust 19, 1834, when Mrs. John Hubble, of Monroe Street, died. A son of
Mrs. Dalrymple was the last to die from this visitation in 1834. The disease
attacked both native and foreign residents. Fifteen years later, in 1^849, this
plague again visited the coimty; again in 1852, and afterward in 1854. The
first coiul house was completed' in 1836; twelve years prior to this date court
was held in the Hedges' building.
The first bank in the coimty was on West Perry Street, where George
Adams' house now is. It was opened November 13, 1847, with Benjamin
Tomb, president, and R. G. Pennington, cashier. William E. Chittenden was
elected cashier the same year, and in February, 1848, Abel Rawson was elected
president. i on
James W. Hill rented the Tiffin Bridge from Josiah Hedges March 30,
1836. The Tiffin Free Bridge was opened in February, 1837. It cost $2,200.
When Van Nest's carriage factory was burned in 1854, this bridge was also
destroyed by fire. The cars of the Mad River & Lake Erie Railroad crossed
the new bridge to the grain warehouses of Reid, Greene & Co. and R W.
Shawhan, of Tiffin, and ^^\ N. Montgomery, of Fort Ball, in October, 1841.
A military company, known as the "Osceolas," was organized at Tiffin in 1844,
with William Lang, captain. This company had a neat green uniform. It is
said that John Forman was afterward captain of this company.
A large meeting, held February 18, 1847, nominated Josiah Hedges,
F. Singer, U. P. Coonrad, O. Cowdery, F. Bernard, F. W. Green, A. Rawson,
Dr. K Kuhn, R. W. Shawhan, R. G. Pennington, Henry Cronise, Eden
Lease, J. G. Breslin, A. C. Baldwin and Dr. McFarland, a committee to pre-
sent a memorial to the county commissioners for the erection of a substantial
bridge at the foot of AVashington Street.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 481
June 18, 1847, a hurricane swept over Tiffin. Commercial Row suffered
much damage; Baldwin's Building had a chimney blown down and a portion
of the roof crushed in. The business men in the row were A. C. Baldwin &
Pride, diy goods; Eobert Crum's general store, and others.
A fire at Tiffin in September, 1850, destroyed property valued at $2,000,
including six horses. Sands & Co. (circus men) lost horses and harness ; C. Y.
Pearson lost his stable ; Josiah Hedges lost stable and small buildings and had
his dwelling damaged, and Joshua Seney had his house damaged. Sands &
Co. ' s circus men and the audience abandoned the performance to aid the fire-
men under Chief Engineer W. H. Gibson and R. R. Scott, secretary of Engine
Company No. 1. After the fire was put out, the performance continued on
until Sunday morning.
The fire of 1854 swept away Van Nest's carriage factory and the Market
Street Bridge.
The fire of April 13, 18^2. was fu'st discovered in Mrs. Abel Rawson's
house on Miami Street and Milton McNeal's house on Sandusky Street; next,
four barns north of Ogle's store; then Le Baron's stave factoiy, Singer's resi-
dence, Fishbaugh's pump factory, Sneath's warehouse, Kamp's planing-mill,
Bartell's saloon and Benner's house. The total loss was estimated at $95,000.
The value and location of property destroyed is given in the following list:
McNeal's merchandise, $2,000; Mrs. Rawson's buildings, $3,500; A. & F.
Ogle's buildings, $9,000; T. Collin' s merchandise, $1,900; D. C. Baughman's
brick and frame buildings, $2,000; A. Meehan's building, $2,000— all on
Sandusky Street. A. & F. Ogle's, $3,000; A. McNeal's, $3,000, and Mrs.
Glick's buildings, $500— all on Miami Street. D. Arndt. $4,000; D. Bartell,
$4,000; George Benner. $1,000; John Knott, $600; W. Shiigan, $1,500. and
P. Hartner, $200— all on south side of Adams Street. Jacob Kuhn. $1,000,
B. Troxell, .^1,800; railroad company's buildings and whisky, $2,500 — all on
North Adam's Street. Mrs. Bresnin's house, $800; M. Kuhn, $2,500; B.
Quinn, $600; Le Baron, $15,000; T. T. & E. Railroad Company's ties
burned, $500— all on Franklin Street. E. Olmstead, $2,500: F. J. Wagner,
$3,000; H. L. Kendall. $3,500; A. .Brandebury, $3,000; Samuel Shade,
$1,000; Fred Singer, $3,200— all on Washington Street. George Fishbaugh,
$1,500; Paul Miller, $1,500, and L. Bang, $1,000— on Minerva Street.
To the fire department may be credited the escape of all this portion of the
city from destruction. The Sandusky Engine Company arrived on the scene,
but after one-half hour' s work, an accident to their engine rendered their work
ineffective.
Postmasters. — David Risdon, the first postmaster at Fort Ball, was also the
pioneer postmaster of the county. This was the office for Tiffin up to the
spring of 1829, when Jacob Plane was appointed postmaster at Tiffin. Henry
Cronise, who settled at Tiffin in 1826, was postmaster up to November, 1839,
when he was succeeded by George Knupp. Joseph Walker, one of the pio-
neer merchants of the settlement, was appointed successor to George Knupp,
and in October, 1841, removed the office to his house, about where the Empire
Block now stands. H. G. W. Cronise was appointed postmaster in December,
1847, and served until May, 1849, when Dr. James Fisher took charge of the
office. In July, 1854, George L. Knupp was commissioned postmaster, and
served until 1857, when W. W. Armstrong took charge. In April, 1801^
Postmaster Armstrong handed the keys of the office to H. L. McKee,
appointed by the Lincoln administration — the first Republican postmaster here.
Since the appointment of the present postmaster, Locke, the office has grown ta
be one of the most important in the State.
482 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Municipal History. — The act passed March 1, 1835, incorporated the town
of Tiffin. This was amended in 1836-37.
An election of officers for the town of Tiffin took place June 29, 1836, at
Eli Norris' tavern, when Dr. Kiihn was elected Mayor. The meeting was
called by George "VV. Gist, N. Goetschius, M. M. Mason, George Park, Charles
Lewis, John Baugher, M. D. Cadwallader, Joel Stone, J. W. Miller and David
Beck. In May, 1837, two tickets were placed before the citizens of Tiffin, viz. :
WHIG. DEMOCRAT.
Mayor— Ricliard Sneath. Mayor— Henry Cronise.
Recorder — John J. Steiner. Recorder — Calvin Bradley,
Council — John Walker, J. Goodin, Council— W. D. Searles, J. Goodin,
J. Baugher, James Fisher H. Zimmerman, J. Baugher
and Thomas Lloyd. and John Pittinger.
The election, which took place May 6, 1837, resulted in the choice of
the following officers: Mayor, Dr. Henry Kuhn; recorder, Calvin Bradley;
council, Thomas IJoyd, John Baugher, John Goodin, John Pittinger and John
Walker.
In 1838-39 JefPerson Freese was recorder, and Gabriel J. Keen mayor of
Tiffin. John Goodin, Thomas Lloyd and Henry Zimmerman formed the
council.
In 1842 an act amendatory of the act of 1839 amending the original act
of 1835 incoriDorating the town of Tiffin was passed. The Gazette in criticiz-
ing the act, stated that a government of the town under the act of 1842 is
i:)referable to the i^oor government provided for in former acts. A mayor,
recorder and five trustees were to be elected annually. The first election under
the amended act took j)lace March 29, 1842, when Henry Ebbei-t was elected
mayor; Jesse Stem, recorder; AV. D. Searles, George Rummell, U. R. Flen-
ner, Henry Gross and Jacob Fleming, trustees.
An election held at Tiffin in March, 1843, resulted in the choice of Hemy
Ebbert for mayor; Jesse Stem, recorder; Hemy Gross, Levi Keller, Fred Singer,
W.D. Searles and Jacob Boyer, councilmen.
The Tiffin election took place Mar«h 29, 1844. The contestants for office
and vote are given as follows: Mayor — Gabriel J. Keen (D.), 98; Henry Ebbert
(W.), 94. Recorder— Warren P. Noble (D.), 98; Jesse Stem (W.), 92. Coun-
cilmen— Chris. Snyder, Joshua Seney, Samuel Nolan, Jacob Boyer and Fred.
Singer, all Democrats, received fi'om 97 to 101 votes; Charles F. Dresbach
Jacob Huss, Francis Rife, W. J. Lewis and George Black, all Whigs, received
from 88 to 97 votes. Dresbach (W.) being a tie with Snyder (D).
Tiffin election of April, 1845, resulted in the choice of Charles F. Dresbach
for mayor, who received 103 votes against ninety-three received by Joshua
Seney. Warren P. Noble, 101 votes, recorder; William Cami)bell, 100; W.D.
Searles, 100; F. Rife, 97, and Chris Snyder, 97, a tie vote; ahd S. Nolan and
F. Singer, 96, a tie vote; and Joseph Gibson, 99 votes.
Tiffin election, 1846, resulted in the choice of Benjamin Pittinger for mayor,
W. H. Gibson, recorder; Rolla Johnson, A. C. Baldwin, Jacob Fleming,
Jesse Stem and Wilson J. Lewis, councilmen.
The Tiffin elections of March, 1847, resulted in the choice of David E.
Owen, mayor; James P. Pillars, recorder; Jesse Stem, W. H. Keilholtz,
Andrew Albrecht, Joseph Gibson and Charles F. Dresbach, councilmen.
In March, 1848, John W. Patterson was elected mayor; William Lang,
recorder; H. GrofP, Andi-ew Denzer, John Myers, Gabriel J. Keen and Daniel
Dildine, Jr., councilmen.
The March election of 1849, for town officers of Tiffin, resulted as follows:
e/^ ^.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 485
Mayor, W. D. Searles; recorder, William Lang; councilinen, Daniel Cunning-
ham, W. H. Gibson, Andrew Denzer, Hemy W. Owen and W. H. Keilholtz.
There is a second record in existence, which points out very different results
for this election.
Under the act of March, 1850, the towns of Tiffin and New Fort Ball were
reorganized under one government, and an election ordered to be held April
20, 1850, with Messrs. Pittinger, Keilholtz, Groff, Flaugher, mayor of Fort
Ball, Amon Riggs, and Jacob Boyer, judges of election.
The town of New Fort Ball was incorporated under the act of March 19,
1849. The first election was held March 30, 1849, when George C. Small
was elected mayor; James P. Pillars, recorder; Christian Yost, L. A. Hall,
Jacob Boyer, W. P. Noble and Samuel Mitchell, trustees. Under the act of
1850, the two corporations were consolidated, and the first meeting held April
29, 1850; William Lang received 220 votes for mayor, while George L. Whar-
ton received only 103. The votes for treamer were : Robert Crum, 225; George
Knupp, 74; and W. H. Gibson, 20; for marshal, Samuel H. Kissinger, 132;
John Myers, 88; John Knott, 59; and Daniel Creeger, 41. The council
elected the clerk W. M. Johnson over Robert C. Scott, the vote standing 4 to 3.
The councilmen elected were W. H. Gibson, W. H. Keilholtz, Jacob Flaugher,
Jr. and William Johnson, councilmen.
The mayors of the city since 1851 are named as follows: William Lang, 1851;
W. M. Johnson. 1853; R. G. Pennington, 1854; Daniel Cunningham, 1855;
James M. Patterson, 1857; William M. Johnson, 1859; Alfred Landon, 1863;
R. L. Griffith, 1869; George W. Bachman, 1873; J. H. Pittinger, 1877; Har-
rison Noble, 1880; J. C. Royer, 1883-87. The vote recorded for mayor in
April, 1885, was, for Royer, Democratic, 1,070; for Abbott, Republican, 759.
The clerks of the city since 1851 are named in the following list: R. R.
Scott, 1851; J. H. Pittinger, 1859; O. C. Zeller, 1861; Joseph A. Johnson,
1869; S. J. Kintz, 1871; P. H. Ryan, 1877; Charles J. M. Sullivan, 1879; W.
H. Dore, 1885.
Treasurers of the city: Robert Crum, 1851; John Pride, 1852; R. M. C.
Martin, 1853; Jesse H. Leidy, 1854; P. Nynam, 1858; John Houck, 1859;
F. Wagner, 1861; William Lang, 1873; J. W. Barrack, 1878; John Heabler,
1882; and the present treasurer, appointed after the death of Heabler, in
September, 1885.
City SoUcifors.^J . W. Wilson, 1853; W. M. Johnson, 1854; Luther A.
Hall, 1855; Harrison Noble, 1857; Elam Willard, 1859; John McCauley, 1863;
Frank Baker (now of Chicago), 1867; John McCaiiley, 1873; John McCauley,
1875; Alfred Landon, 1877; Perry M. Adams, 1880; Hiram C. Keppel, 1882;
Harvey C. Piatt, 1883; the name of J. H. Piatt appears in 1884 as solicitor.
The elections of April, 1885, gave 1,128 votes to James H. Piatt, Democrat,
against 639 to Pennington, Republican.
Assessoi^s, 1885. — The assessors, elected in 1885, are named in the following
record of election. The first five named are Democrats, the latter five Repub-
licans, one of whom, Bowersox, was elected, beating Schwai-tz, the Democrat,
in the Second Ward: Ryan, 197; Schwartz, 156; Silvers, 265; Cornely, 194;
Hafley, 250; Snyder, 106; Bowersox, 216; Sohn, 152; Young, 105; Yerk, 114.
School Census Enumerator. — Squire Beilharz was appointed enumerator for
taking the school census of the city in August, 1885.
Councilmen. — The city council of 1851 comprised W. H. Gibson, William
Johnson, Andrew Denzer, Jacob Flaugher, William Keilholtz and Amon
Riggs.
1852.— W. D. Searles, Luther A. Hall, William Holtz.
486 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1853. — Hezekiah Groff, P. Speilman, Andrew Denzer.
1854. — Lewis Martin, William Holtz.
1855. — John D. Loomis, Robert G. Pennington.
1856.— Hezekiah Groff, W. M. Johnson.
1857. — John Poortnan, William Holtz.
1858. — George H. Heming, Arial B. Hovey.
1859. — Cooper K. Watson, Frank Wagner.
I860.— J. M. Zahm, Ariel B. Hovey.
1861.— Jonathan Smith, William Holtz.
1862.— William C. Hedges, Hezekiah Groff.
1863.— Harrison Noble, J. L. Fisher.
1864. — G. W. Cunningham, Isaac Kagy,
1865. — John L. Fisher, Harrison Noble. At this time Dr. A. B. Hovey and
Dr. E. J. McCollum were elected members of the board of health, and Augustus
Muetchler, market-master.
1866. — George W. Cunningham, John Fiege.
1867.— Harrison Noble, W. M. Johnson.
1868. — Francis Wagner, J. T. Kaupp. The question of the annexation
of territory to the city was approved by the people this year.
1869.— Philip Emich, John L. Fisher.
1870.— Harrison Noble, J6hn T. Kaupp.
1871.— John G. Gross, H. W. Huber, J. Sidt, D. Seeholts, Obadiah Ham-
ers, Simon Snyder, J. M. Hershberger and Michael Myers.
1872. — Simon Snyder, William Johnson, Alfi-ed Landon, Jacob Schieber
and Andrew J. Brickner.
1873. — John G. Gross, H. W. Huber. John Silvers, Louis Seewald and
Obadiah Hainers.
1874. — Simon Snyder, G. W. Cunningham, Alfred Landon, Jacob
Schieber, A. J. Brickner.
1875.— J. G. Gross, H. W. Huber, S. B. Silvers, Lewis Seewald, B.
Schinness.
1876. — B. F. Myers, John Gilliland, Alfi-ed Landon, George Ernst, A. J.
Brickner.
1877.— Dr. W. J. Crawford, T. J. Kintz, Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, Dr. T. J.
Livers, P. Grammes.
1878.— B. F. Myers, Dr. W. J. Crawford, M. Scannel, John Mossoney,
Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, C. H. Sting, Dr. T. J. Livers, George Ernest, A. J.
Brickner, Peter Grammes.
1879.— B. F. Myers, John Ehrenfried, Josiah Baker, John Mossoney, Dr.
J. F. E. Fanning, C. H. Sting, James W. Love, George Ernest, A. J. Brick-
ner, Peter Grammes.
1880. — J. E. Kinnaman, James Love, Josiah Baker, John Mossoney, Dr.
J. F. E. Fanning, C. H. Sting, John Ehrenfreid, R. A. Gray, Benjamin
Schinness, Peter Grammes.
1882. — Dr. J. P. Kinnaman, James W. Love, John Cox, John F. Zeller,
Jeremiah Rex, George Strausbaugh, John B. Ehrenfried, F. D. Kishler, B.
Schinness, John Horick.
1883. — Charles Martin, Dr. Breidinger, John Dore, John Ernest, John
Cox, J. W. Love, Dr. J. P. Kinnaman, George Strausbaugh, F. D. Kishler,
Benjamin Schinness.
1884. — Simon Snyder, James W. Love, J. A. Norton, John Dore, G.
Strausbaugh, John Ernest, F. D. Kishler, Charles Martin, J. N. Williard, J.
Bridinarer.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 487
The election of conncilmen in 1885, shows the following results : Demo-
crat—Holmes. 198; Dore, 209; Baker, 222; Weller, 169; Brickner, 275.
Republican— Cramer, 104; Zeller, IGl; Strayer, 196; Martin, 131; Stephen-
son, 97.
Corporation Statistics. — The valuation and taxation of Tiffin City, in 1884-
85, are shown by the following statistics: value of 715 acres in city lots,
$2,260,410; value of personal property, $876,200; total value, .$3,136,610;
total State tax, $8,782.51; total county and local tax, $88,463.53; total of
State, county, local and other charges, $99,924.88, together with $196 dog tax.
The population of the city, according to the census of 1880, was 7,879, 6,650
being natives of the United States, and 1,229 foreign born citizens. This
number has been increased between 3,000 and 4,000 the last five years. From
the elaborate report made by the clerk, Charles J. M. Sullivan, in March,
1885, the following review of the revenue of the city is taken:
General purpose fund $7,914 44
Street improvement fund 3,391 61
Police fund 4,214 74
Gas fund 9, 080 22
Fire department fund 5,332 84
Poor fund 454 58
Interest fund 10,728 84
Water supply fund 13,751 49
General sewer fund 1,173 70
Machine shop fund 12,319 23
AVashinglon Street sewer fund 718 47
Main Street improvement fund 796 81
East Market Street improvement fund 487 13
Charlotte Street extensive fund 290 ('3
Circular Street improvement fund 911 02
Greenfield Street improvement fund 1,308 40
Third Ward Alley sewer fund 702 67
Scipio Street improvement fund 672 45
South Washington Street improvement fund 1,270 33
Coe Street improvement fund 720 27
The statement of corporation debt, March 1, 1885, gives the following
figui'es :
Machine shop bonds, outstanding 16, 150 00
Park ref under bonds, outstanding 7,000 (X>
Gas bonds 1.500 OO
South Washington Street improvement bonds 5,100 OQ
Scipio Street improvement bonds 2,800 00
Coe Street improvement bonds 4,500 OO
East Market Street improvement bonds 2,100 00
Circular Street improvement bonds 1,000 00
Greenfield Street improvement bonds 3,800 OO
Charlotte Street improvement bonds 600 00
Stone quarry bonds 3,0(K) 00
Total $47,550 00
The Police Force. — The beginnings of the police force of Tiffin date back
to 1851, when the first marshal was elected. The marshals of the city
since 1851 are named as follows: S. H. Kisinger, 1851; A. Nichols, 1852;
J. C. Mitchell, 1853; F. Harris, 1855; H. Britton, 1857; J. Zimmer, 1859;
L.^A. Beilharz, 1861; H. Britton, 1862; C. Muetchler, 1864; R. Nichols,
1871; James George, 1875; W. H. Kisinger, 1883. who was succeeded by
Marshal Hummer in 1885 — the vote being 974 and 768; Kisinger, the Repub-
lican, polling the last named vote. Some years later (1851) a regular body of
police was organized with the marshal as chief; but the records of the depart-.
488 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
ment gWe veiy little information respecting them. It is known that Amos
Nichols, now in Chicago, Charles Brish, I. J. C. Shoemaker, George Miller
and Isaac Robb were among the members of the old force. From April to
November, 1872, the force did not exist, owing to some tronble within the
council arising out of nominations. In November, 1872, Brish, Robb and
James Hennessy were appointed. Among the number who have served in this
department may be named Patrick W. Sweeney, 1873-86; J. C. Lamberson,
Henry Schlegel, Michael Cahill, William Hollenberg, Andrew Arnold, Xavier
Zints, John W. Stewart, Thomas Falkner, John Hummer and others.
Thomas Falkner was added to the force in April, 1885, and in the same month
John Hummer was elected marshal. The work of the police, since 1877,
shows, in that year, 214 arrests; in 1878, 176 arrests; in 1879, 178; in 1880,
276; in 1881, 236; for the year ending April 1, 1884, 807 arrests, and for
eleven months, ending March 1, 1885, 265 arrests. The nationalities repre-
sented in this number are Americans, 217; Germans, 26; Irish, 14; French,
3; Canadians, 2; English, 1, and Scotch, 2. One arrest for miu'der was made,
71 for drunkenness and 80 for disorderly conduct. There were two arrests for
chicken-stealing, and 26 connected with houses of evil repute. In September,
1885, the ordinance requ,iring all houses to be numbered, entailed a new duty
on the police.
Fire Department. — In the early days of Tiffin, about the time frame and
log-houses began to be overshadowed by the more solid brick structures, the
question of organizing a fire de]f)artment was mooted, but laughed out of all
countenance. In later years (1849) a volunteer fire company was organized,
with W. H. Gibson, foreman. The first record at hand refers to the Independ-
ent Fire Company No. 4, an organization which existed prior to 1859, for on
April 12 of that year it was reorganized under State law, with John E. Mc-
Cormack, president, A. T. Barnes, vice-president, P. Nyman, treasurer, and
F. P. Bloom, clerk. Leonard Adams was clerk of the meeting. The men
named, together with J. S. Yerk, C. M. Yerk, H. A. Spayth and John D. Arndt
were the incorporators. The older companies, too, changed their organic form.
In April, 1867, the Young America Hose Company No. 1 was reorganized.
William Kisinger was elected foreman January 6, 1868, and in September
of that year received a new four-wheeled hose cart. A few days later they car-
ried off the silver trumpet from five competing companies at the Sandusky
tournament. At Clyde, in 1869, they won $50, and in July, 1870, they car-
ried off the honors of the upper Sandusky toiu'nament. In September of that
year they met with a like success at Urbana. AtFindlay, in 1871, they carried
off a $100 gold prize, and at Mansfield in 1873, a $125 prize. Then followed
the Fostoria tournament, which brought additional honors to this company.
The loss of the honors at Kenton, and the defeat at Bucyrus, owing to aii ac-
cident to their carriage, caused a gloom, which was dissipated by their victory
at Defiance in 1874. In the great national tournament held at Chicago, they
held a fifth place among forty-five competitors. So early as 1849 this company
was recognized as one of the best among the pioneer fire organizations. Since
its reorganization, almost twenty years after, it has won many laurels. W. H.
Bloom is now foreman. The late J. H. Pittinger was treasurer from 1 849 to the
time of his sudden death. W. H. Bloom is also foreman of Rescue Hose Com-
pany No. 1, and Charles J. M. Sullivan, secretary. The fire department was
reorganized in April, 1880, into six companies. Very many changes have
taken place in these companies within the last five years. In May, 1885, the
department comprised ninety-eight uniformed men, distributed through the
following named companies and under the foremen named: Rescue Hose Com-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 489
pany No. 1 — 16 men; W. H. Bloom, foreman. Surprise Hose Company No.
2 — 15 men; George Transiie, foreman. Alert Hose Company No. 3 — 20 men,
0 honorary; Louis Schouder, foreman. Protection Hose Company No. 4 — 15
men; F. X. Steur. foreman. Crescent Hose Company No. 5 — 17 men; Con-
rad Smith, foreman. Union Hook & Ladder Company No 1 — 15 men; Frank
Seinsoth. foreman. In the fire department we have the following list of fire
apparatus: Two steam fire engines in excellent working condition, 1 hand
engine, 1 two-horse hose carriage, 6 hose carts. 2 hook and ladder trucks, 14
ladders, 5 axes, 4 j^icks. 4 hooks, 410 feet of rope and chain, 11 rubber buck-
ets, 5 steel bars, 8 lanterns, 10 service pipes, 14 tips or nozzles, 1 spray noz-
zle, 9 hydrant wrenches, 35 spanners, 100 feet of guard rope, 2 Siamese coup-
lings, 1 hydrant gate, 1 leak stop, 1 ring expander, 68 rubber coats, 24 rubber
caps and 3.000 feet of serviceable riibber hose. The cost of maintenance for
the year ending May, 1885, was f778. The alarms attended to were 17,
and the number of actual fires 10.
The dedication of the Firemen's Headquarters took place August 21, 1884.
It was one of those reunions such as firemen alone can give. The welcome to
the giiests on behalf of the "Union Hooks" and the "Rescues" was delivered
by Charles J. M. Sullivan, and responded to by J. A. Norton. A few days
more than a year after, August 24, 1885, the firemen banqueted their late
chief. L. B. Johnson, better known as J. L. Burdette. Their periodical sup-
pers and balls are like their services, esteemed.
In 1874 W. H. Bloom was chief engineer of the city fire department. Jo-
seph P. Myers was elected chief in 1878. In 1879 Fred. Roller was chief;
Fred. Troxel first, and Fred. Keshler second assistant: Roller continued chief in
1880. 1881 and 1882, with Gus Nunaman. first assistant, and Andy Stever
second. In 1883 J. L. Burdette was appointed chief engineer. August 12,
1885, he tendered his resignation to the council, and in September, 1885, the
present chief engineer, John Roller, was aj)j)ointed.
CHURCHES.
The existence of a God or a Supreme Being is doubted by few; even those
who remain for a time plunged in doubt, if not in infidelity, return to His
worship, and, like the bird singing to Him in the foliage, or the ocean pro-
claiming His immensity in the trackless waste of waters and everlasting hymn,
declare His power.
Tiifin is, in fact, a church-going city, and in its public records is found
the proof. There cannot exist a doubt regarding the visits of missionaries to
the Indians of the Sandusky during the French exploratory period and the
IroqiTois invasions, but there are no positive evidences of the residence of such •
missionaries here.
Rev. Joseph Badger, of the Congregational Church of Blandford, Mass. , was
appointed chaplain to the northern army in 1812, by Gov. Meigs, and subse-
qiiently attached to Gen. Harrison's command. He made his residence at Up-
per Sandusky, under orders fi'om the Missionary Society, and preached to the
Indians of this district after the war (Ohio Historical Collections). The early
records of this church are among the unknown quantities.
Methodist Ejriscopal Church. — Mrs. Sally Ingham, who settled with her
father, James Montgomery, in Pleasant Township, in 1819 — herself a lady
of clear intellect and memory — states that the first services of this chiu'ch by
Rev. James Montgomery, were given in the Hedges building, on Virgin or
Rose Alley, now Court Street. Elijah H. Fields was. the first regular preacher
who organized a class at Tifiinin 1824. Rev. John W. Clark, a young preacher,
490 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
came in 3825. Ezra Brown came in 1827. In 1828 Rev. Alvin Billings came
to aid Brown. In 1829 Rev. Ezekiel E. Cooper and Sprague were the preach-
ers until Ezekiel Gavitt replaced Sprague. The lirst church, a small brick
structure, was dedicated when IVIi-s. Sally Ingham was seventeen years old,
in 1828. James McMahon was the fii-st presiding elder. He was succeeded
by Bigelow.
In 1830*, when the Fort Ball Circuit extended to Huron County, the
preacher was Ezra Brown. E. R. Jewett, born in Middletown, Conn., still
living, and Thomas Thompson, deceased, came in 1840. In 1841 William
Runneals was preacher in charge. Rev. Starr came in 1842, Shaeffer in 1843,
and others served until 1848.
When Harry Cromwell arrived, in 1840, tho old Methodist Church stood
on Market Street, nearly opposite Loomis' foundiy. This old building was
pui-chased by Luther A. Hall, who fitted it up as a "theater, and it was used by
traveling companies for several years, Mrs. Drake's and George Powell's com-
panies playing there one whole winter every night, in 1850-51. The company
boarded with Col. Patterson, who then kept the Shawhan House. The build-
ing was purchased by Harter, and used as a marble shop ; was recently used as
headquarters of the torch-light companies, and is still standing. The second
church was erected in 1849-50, at the southeast corner of Market and Monroe
Streets. This building is now used as the postoffice. It was sold to John M.
Kaull, and converted into a business block, but even after the sale the society
continued to worship therein until the interior of the new church was completely
finished.
The Northern Ohio Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church estab-
lished a station at Tiffin, in August, 1848, and appointed Rev. E. S. Grumley
its pastor. The first quarterly meeting was held October 14, 1848, at the
house of W. D. Searles, with Thomas Barkdull, presiding elder, presiding.
The first leader was Jacob Huss; the first stewards, H. Ebbert, Thomas Coe,
W. D. Searles, Levi Keller and Elisha Olmstead: H. Ebbert, recording stew-
ard; J. W. Patterson, secretary of the conference. In December, 1848, Henry
Ebbert was appointed secretary at the second quarterly conference. The third
conference was held March 17, 1849, the same officers being present. In June,
1849, N. Redd, an exhorter, and the members of the former conference were
present. Two members — Keesy and Brewster — were reported to have moved
to California. In November, 1849, Rev. S. L. Yoiu-tree was chosen
preacher. S. Arnold and J. Myers were appointed stewards. July 20, 1850,
the trustees of St. Paul' s Church reported the completion of a house of worship
44x66 feet, with gallery, lectiue-room, prayer-meeting room and the class-rooms,
at a cost of almost $5,000. The memorial stone of this building bears date
1848. In February, 1851, S. L. Yourtree, with A. Laubach, L. P. and N.
Redd, exhorter, formed the ministry. In November, 1851, W. B. Disbro was
presiding elder; Alex Nelson, station preacher; A. Laubach and N. Redd,
local preachers. In November, 1852, L. B. Gurley succeeded Mr. Nelson as
preacher in charge. In August, 1854, J. Carney was appointed local
preacher: in December, 1854, John Quigley was appointed local preacher, and
in March, 1855, the latter was appointed station j)reacher. In December,
1855, William C. Peirce was presiding elder; A. Nelson, station preacher; with
Messrs. Redd and Carney, local preachers. In November, 1856, C. K Foote
succeeded Rev. Nelson. E. R. Jewett was appointed in October, 1857; John
*In 1830 the Northern Ohio Conference of the MethoHst Episcopal Church, erahracing the counties of
Logan, Hardiu, Wyandot, Seneca, Wood, Hancock, Allen, Putnam and others, had a membership of 23,844,
including 91 colored and 213 Indians." At that time there were but few colored men in northern Ohio, and
the majority of these were members of some church or another.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 491
A. Mudge in November, 1858. In 1859 Eev. J. R. Jewett succeeded Mr.
Peii-ce as presiding elder, and in October, 1860, E. H. Bush was appointed.
In June, 1861, the name of Ephraim Porter appears as exhorter for the first
time, while that of N. Redd is continued as local preacher.
In November, 1861, Rev. G. S. Phillips was station preacher. He was
succeeded in the fall of 1863 by Rev. T. F. Hildreth. At this time A. K.
Owen was presiding elder. In October, 1864, Rev. A. J. Lyon was station
preacher. G. W. Breckem-idge was appointed presiding elder in 1865. Dur-
ing the year ending September, 1865, the expenses of the station amounted to
$1,003.54, all of which was collected. The salary of Rev. A. J. Lyon for the
year 1865-66 was placed at $800. In the fall of 1867 Rev. L. Warner was
appointed station preacher. At this time Jacob W. Miller, one of the old
members of the church, died. In October, 1868, the name of W. H. Seeley
appears as pastor.
The officials of the church at Tiffin, in 1868, were as follows: Tnistees of
the Methodist Episcopal Chm-ch — Elisha TJmsted, John Crum, John Park,
W. D. Searles, Henry Ebbert, Thomas Coe, John Pittinger, Jacob Huss and
John W. Patterson. The trustees of the parsonage lot were Henry Ebbert,
John Park, Jacob Huss, Levi Keller and Eli Umsted, and the trustees of the
new Methodist Episcopal Chui-ch were Elisha Umsted, John Park, Jacob Huss,
W. D. Searles, Thomas Coe, John W. Patterson, John Elliott, Jacob W. Mil-
ler and Henry Ebbert, appointed by Rev. H. Humphrey, Februaiy 14, 1848.
In March, 1869, the name of L. B. Gurley appears as presiding elder. John
Park died this year, and C. C. Park was appointed to fill his place on the
board of trustees. In September, 1869, D. P. Dildine was appointed secre-
tary, Rev. A. Lyon, presiding elder, and Rev. W. H. Seeley still continued as
pastor, with E. Porter still exhoi-ter. Rev. L. B. Giu'ley was presiding elder
in December, 1870; Rev. George Collier, pastor, and H. E. Thompson, stew-
ard, vice Hewett, who joined the Methodist Protestant Church. In 1871
Rev. A. J. Lyon was again presiding elder, and in May of that year Rev.
George Collier's salary was increased from $1,000 to $1,200 per annum. The
expenditure of the society for the year ending in 1871 amounted to $1,389.80.
This Mr. Collier was born at Le Roy, Ohio, August 29, 1825; served as chap-
lain in the Thirty-fourth and Thirty-fifth Ohio Regiments during the war; was
a prisoner of Gen. Morgan for four months, accused of being a spy; came to
Tiffin in 1870, agent of the O. W. U. of Delaware; presiding elder of Wooster
District, and lastly chaplain to the garrison at Fort Pembina. In February,
1875, St. Paul's Methodist Church (begun in 1874), on Madison Street, west
of Washington Street, was dedicated by Bishop R. Foster. The estimated cost
of the building was $50,000. This is a massive red brick structure, with
stone facings, the style Gothic throughout. Its beginning was made by Rev.
Collier; some interior improvements made by Rev. J. W. Mendenhall and his
predecessors, and its completion effected during the pastorate of Rev. J. S.
Reager, who came in 1883, and gave place to the present pastor. Rev. W. F.
McDowell in September, 1885.
There is no branch of the church in this country which has been split into
as many separate organizations as the Methodists. Early in its history, those
opposed to the episcopacy, with its arbitrary power of appointing the preach-
ers, formed the Methodist Protestant Church. In 1844 the main body divided
upon differences growing out of the slavery question, and became the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
First Methodist Church, commonly called Methodist Protestant Church,
completed a house of worship at Tiffin, on Monroe Street, July 8, 1837, which
492 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
was dedicated by Rev. E. S. Woodward. The building committee comprised
John Souder, William Campbell, Joseph Walker and D. H. Philips. In 1872
the large church building on East Market Street was completed and opened
for worship. James Montgomery, one of the seceders fi'om the Methodist
Episcopal Church, organized this society in 1829, and a year later passed to
his reward, leaving fifteen brother members to look after the affairs of the
church. Rev. Alvin Coe followed him as visiting pastor, but on John Souder the
class leading devolved, until Tiffin was acknowledged a part of the Methodist
Protestant Circuit, when many preachers visited the place. Rev. O. V. W.
Chandler, the present pastor, entered on his duties here September 20, 1879.
Under his administration, and the watchful care of Mr. Soiider, the church has
grown in membership and usefulness.
The Presbyterian Church may be said to have its origin in the church of
Melmore, for, on November, 1828, letters of dismission were granted to a
number of communicants to organize a church at Tiffin. In the spring or
summer of 1829, the society perfected its organization here. Six years prior
to this organization, in 1823, Rev. James Robinson visited Fort Ball and
preached in one of the cabins there. In the Hedges building, which stood on
or near the Advertiser office, subsequent seiwices were held. This was the
first fi-ame building erected in the county, and is still to be seen at the mouth
of Rock Creek. The first Presbyterian families here were William Hunter,
John Hunter, Samuel Hunter. James W. G. McClure, Milton Jennings, Peter
Marsh, John Yoimg. Ezekiel McPherren and Hugh Welch. James Robinson
then preached at Republic, Melmore and Tiffin, and erected a house on South
Washington Street, which is still standing. Rev. James McCutchen or
McCutchan followed IVIi'. Robinson. While the McCutchen rivival meetings
were taking place at Republic, Rev. ]Mi\ Reed, who was then pastor at Tiffin,
originated a revival here, which continued in 1838-39. Rev. Mr. Campbell
succeeded Mr. Reed in 1842. Gen. Gibson relates a story of the methodical
eloquence of the preacher. ' ' One sultry Sabbath morning, ' ' says the Gen-
eral, ' ' Brother C. was preaching, and in illustration of some thought, remarked
very slowly, ' Now there is a house on fire, ' then paused. Before he could
proceed, a" little gentleman named W. D. Scott, probably drowsy and very
nervous, not discovering the tenor of the remark, sprang to his feet, and
shouted, ' Where, jVIi-. Campbell, where ? ' Then rushing to the street, he
shouted 'Fire! Fire! Fire! ' The chui'ch was empty in a moment, and it is
thought that the figm-e of speech, however misapplied by the audience, was
very exciting.*'
Rev. F. Putnam was stated supply fi'om 1844 to 1849, and held services
in the Methodist Protestant Chm-ch. Rev. A. S. Dunton and Rev. John
Whipple were also preachers here about this time. During Mr. Putnam's
term, Josiah Hedges, in 1845, donated the society a lot, on which they erected
a church.
In 1834 the State granted a charter to the First Presb}i:erian Church of
Tiffin, with Milton Jennings, Peter Marsh, and Allen Campbell named as
trustees.
From 1849 to 1852, Rev. R. Bement and others filled the pulpit. In June,
1852, Rev. James Pelan entered the work as supply, and the last session was
held Jime 24. 1855. On May 16, 1858, Rev. John McLain came and remained
until 1862, when he was appointed commissioner to represent the Western
Reserve Presbytery in the General Assembly of the chiu-ch in the United States.
He, however, visited Tiffin afterward, and <iied in June, 1862. Rev. D. S.
Logan was pastor fi'om July, 1862. to February 13, 1864. He was succeeded
/^^^^ .yf^o^
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 495
in Marcli, 1865, by Rev. J. E. Lapsley, who served until June 7, 1866. Rev.
R. B. Moore came in 1866. At this time he preached in the old church of
1845, and continued to preach there until October 20, 1871, when the new
church was dedicated. On December 6, 1869, Dr. E. J. McCollum presided
over a meeting to consider the question of building a chiu'ch. It was resolved
to secure a site on the Tiffin side of the river. Dr. McCollum, Rev. Moore,
Prof. S. J. Kirkwood, Robert Lysle, E. C Boyd, John McCalmont and Joseph
Burnsides were delegated to solicit subscriptions, and E. G. Bo we, John Mc-
Calmont and Rev. R. B. Moore appointed a building committee. This action
resulted in the dedication of the present church, October 20, 1871; twelve days
after Rev. Moore tendered his resignation. On April 8, 1872, his resignation
was accepted. On August 12, 1872, Rev. J. F. Pollock was invited to preach
as a candidate for the pulpit. On March 10, 1873, a call was extended to Rev.
W. R. Kirkwood, who declined; on May 18, Rev. E. Buckingham, of Canton,
was called, but did not accept, and on July 1, 1873, Rev. J. F. Pollock was
called, who accepted and was installed September 7, 1873. In 1875 union
meetings were held by Rev. H. H. Wells. Between this year and 1878 the
church labored under some financial difficulty, so that the relations of Rev.
Mr. Pollock to the church here were dissolved. On June 10, 1878, Rev. D. D.
Bigger was called, on motion of Rev. E. B. Moore, and on June 29, 1878,
he was installed pastor. At this time a heavj^ debt and appalling skepticism
met the new preacher, but he rose above such difficulties, and led his church
safely to the newer and better era of 1885. The deaths among communicants
from 1878 to July, 1883, were Mrs. Barbara Ellen Angene, 1878; Mrs. Jane
Laird McCalmont, Mrs. Margaret A. Kroh, Miss Imogene Miller, Elder John
McCalmont, in 1879; Marie Gries, Helen Frederici, in 1880; Elder John Kerr,
Nannie Clark, in 1881; Mrs. Jane Elder St. John. Miss Katie Hobbs, IMrs. L.
Russell Dresbach, Mrs. A. A. G. Russell, in 1882, and M. W. Laird, in 1883.
The chui'ch stands on the southwest corner of Market and Monroe Streets, in
the heart of the city. It is a large brick structure, Elizabethan in style.
(Historical sermon by Rev. D. D. Bigger, July 1, 1883: Tiffin Neics.)
St. Mary's Catholic Church may be said to have been founded at Tiffin in
1826, but not for five years later was the district set off as a station. Father
Moynahan and Bishop Fenwick visited Fort Ball and Tiffin in 1826, and there
met John Julian and Jacob Bonar, old members of the church. In 1829
Bishop Fenwick purchased lands in rear of the present Ursuline Convent. On
May 15, 1831, Rev. Edmund Quinn came here, and held services in Julian's
house, near the old St. Mary' s Cemetery, and on the same day solemnized the
marriage of John Nott and Hem-ietta Dickey, and baptized Henrietta Arnold,
daughter of William and Anna (Noel) Arnold, ximong the members in 1831
were Bartholomew and Patrick Kenny, one of whom was drowned; Daniel
Shea, who died in 1859; Michael Volmer, Michael Rinebolt, John B. Massonet,
the Dougherty family, one of whom donated a farm of eighty acres to St.
Mary's; Roberta Montgomery, who was received into the church June 16, 1831.
Among the old members, also, were John Whelan, Michael Martin, Daniel
McLaughlin, Samuel Nolan, Frank Fanning, Henry Kelly, Peter Kintz. all
living; John McCarthy, Elias Hanley, Phil. Staub, James Cahill, C. McNamee,
Balthazar Huffling, Phil, and Patrick Hennessy, John Knott, David Leahy,
James Leahy, Owen Fanning, John Guiot, Michael Strausbaugh. Thomas
Elder, Philip King, Michael Coughlin, John Smith, Timothy Nolan, Lawi'ence
King, William Johnson, Michael Tuomy and Michael Coleman, all numbered
among the dead. There were also John Gipson, 1833. John and Margaret
Montgomery, 1831 (the latter 'now jVIrs. Michael Kellar), William Arnold,
496 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John Noel, Daniel Martin, Gabriel La Point, the Frey family, Joseph, Peter
and Louis Lonquin or Lonsway, the Drui'ons, Roseti Borough, Mathias Pan-
well, Michael Annesser, and others. A brick chui-ch was erected in 1832-33,
by Rev. Edmund Quinn, the same which formed a part of St. Mary's School,
over thirty years ago. The present church, on the western terrace, Sandusky
and Miami Streets, was built in 1856, by Rev. M. Sullivan. Rev. Quinn died
in 1835, when Rev. Schonhenz came, dedicated the first church in 1837, and
was transferred in 1839. Revs. McNamee and Macheboeuf were then
appointed, the former remaining nine years, and the latter three years. On
June 21, 1846, the late Bishop Purcell attended St. Mary's. Rev. Michael
Howard and Rev. M. Molon were priests of the mission from 1847 to 1852,
when Rev. Michael Sullivan took charge of the parish, and Rev. Molon, of St.
Joseph's Parish. In 1859 Rev. Michael Healy, a native of Ireland, was
appointed priest, and has administered the affairs of St. Maiy's since that
time. The bell, purchased in 1858 by P. H. Ryan (one of the trustees) for
$1,000, is still in use. The congregation numbers about 1,200.
St. Joseph's Catholic Church was foimded in 1845, and the first services were
held by the Sanguinists of the church in Thompson Township ; none of whom
resided here permanently. In January, 1852, Rev. M. Molon was appointed
to the charge of this parish; he was also priest of St. Mary's; but in Septem-
ber of that year Rev. J. B. Uhlmann took charge. Rev. Joseph L. Bihn suc-
ceeded him in 1856 and continued until 1873, Rev. Nicholas Sintz assisting
fi-om the fall of 1870 to the fall of 1872, when Rev. A. M. Meile was appointed.
He was succeeded in the summer of 1873 by Rev. J. A. Michenfeldor. No-
vember 13,1873, the late Rev. Charles Everard arrived. He found St. Joseph's
Church closed under an order of the bishop and the affairs of the parish in
very poor condition. He was peculiarly successful as a financier, and his man-
agement has told in each of the chm-ches to which he was assigned. A heavy
debt was resting upon St. Joseph's when Father Everard was installed, but it
was all wiped out and the church saved nearly $11,000. Besides at Toledo
he built St. Mary's Chiu'ch and St. Joseph's Chapel, and many changes and im-
provements have been made under his supervision in this city. The fxmeral of
this truly good man was held May 15, 1885, Bishop Gilmore presiding; minis-
ters of all denominations were present at the sacred ceremonies, while thou-
sands participated in the last honors to departed worth and holiness. A short
time prior to his death he resigned his charge, when Rev. Martin Puetz
of Monroeville was appointed pastor. In June, 1885, a brother of the pastor
was appointed assistant priest.
In the spring of 1839 John Julian agitated the question of erecting a large
church at Tiffin; but owing to the jealousy of a few, who charged him with
collecting such moneys for his own use, he allowed the subject to drop, but
did not deem it worth while to prosecute the libeller. In 1845 the people of
St. Joseph's Parish, under the lead of Michael Kirchner, Dr. Joseph Boehler,
Joseph Kuebler, John Houck, John Bormuth, Joseph Volmer, Mike Theissen,
Frank Gruelich and others, including a few English speaking juembers, built a
brick church on the site of the present stately edifice, which continued in use
until April, 1861, when it was torn down. In that month the building of the
present church was begun, under the superintendence of Father Bihn, and
completed in September, 1862, at a cost of 125,000, and the first purely Gothic
house of worship was added to the buildings of the county. The dedicatory
services were carried out on September 14th, that year. He who conceived
the building, and under whose direction it was carried out, has since established
an institution which is an honor to the age and people, and has also built an-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 49^
other church, known as St. Francis' Chapel. The German Catholics, num-
bering 150 in 1845, now count by thousands.
St. Francis^ Chapel was founded June 4, 1868, and one part of the building-
completed in 1869, another in 1878, the third in 1883. This church is in con-
nection with the Citizens' Hospital and Orphan Asylum, and has been under the
care of Father Bihn since its establishment. The building is 70x40 feet, beau-
tifully finished, and contains an Italian marble altar, said to be one of the finest
pieces of such work in this part of Ohio. The church forms a central fig-
ure in that grand pile of buildings which the energy and zeal of Father Bihn,
aided by the approving support of the people, have given to the city.
The Church of our Lady of Lourdes is within the UrsTiline Convent on Mad-
ison Street. It forms only a small part of the building, but is fully character-
istic of convent life in ornamentation and neatness. The church dates back
to 1863.
First Baptist Church was oi'ganized October 20, 1857, by Rev. Lyman J.
Fisher, with the following named members: Eliza Harriet and William J.
Crawford, William Gallup, F. Brownell and Benjamin Tomb. H. Housel and
J. H. Cole were also early members. The first house of worship was erected on
the south side of Perry Street, just east of Washington Street, in 1860, and
dedicated December 2, that year. This is a nondescript building indeed, and
appears to be built solely for the purpose of shelter without any attempt to
suri:)ass the pan-doric style. In September, 1861, Rev. Addison Jones suc-
ceeded Mr. Fisher, and the chiu'ch made its first advance in numbers and im-
portance. Revs. J. M. Davis, G. G. Harriman and many other preachers
have filled the pulpit here up to January, 1885, when the first pastor, Rev. L. J.
Fisher, received an unanimous call and responded to it. He is now the pastor.
This church was reorganized under State law February 9, 1864, with B. Tomb,
William Jordan and William Gallup, trustees; E. Mills, moderator, and W.
Gallup, clerk.
Trinity Protestant Episcopal Church was reorganized under State law April
7, 1856 — Rev. W^. H. Cooper, presiding, and John G. Kennedy, clerk — when
R. G. Pennington, Dr. F. Franklin, Peter Furgeson, Henry Zahm, Dr. E.
Pennington and William Neobbs were elected trustees. The name " Trinity
Church " was adopted at this meeting. Prior to this time, however, services
were held at Tiffin, by missionary preachers, so that the society may be said
to have continued down to the present time. Under the administration of the
present rector, Rev. J. H. W. Blake, the church here has made great advances.
It is jn'oposed to erect a pretentious brick and stone building instead of the
present old but neat fi-ame church, at the corner of Jefferson and Market
Streets.
German EvafigeUcal St. John^s Church was organized March 5, 1836; as
the United German Evangelical Lutheran and German Evangelical Reformed
St. John's, with ten members and Rev. Adolph Conrad, pastor. The first
members were Andi-ew Albright, Philip Wenz, Valentine Seewald, Francis
Santer, Andi-ew Bloom, Andrew Denzer, John Ditto, Jacob Boyer and William
Lang. The pastors of the church have been Rev. A. Conrad, 1836-41 ; J.
Beilharz, 1842-53; John F. Escher, 1854; H. Riitenick, 1857; J. G. Neu-
schmidt, 1860 ; W. Rein, 1870 ; Ferdinand Weissgerber, 1871 ; G. V.
Luternan, 1875; Christopher Zimmerman, 1875; and Rev. Francis Bolz, the
present pastor, in 1881. The secretaries of the society have been Hartman L.
Braun, J. Florer and Will. Morgenroth. The church society was incorporated
March 15, 1870, with Andi-ew Albrecht, Philip Wentz, Valentine Seewald,
Frank Santer, Andi-ew Bloom, Andrew Deneer, Philip Seewald, John Ditto,
498 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Jacob Boyer and "William Lang, members, with their associates. Louis Braum
was secretary, Henrich Schmidt and Andrew Degen, trustees. The first log-
church was erected in 1836, on the site of the present brick church, which was
built and dedicated in 1857. The parsonage was erected in 1859. The con-
gregation is made up of about 100 families.
North Washington Street Evangelical Society, or Ebenezer Church of the
Evangelical Association, was organized in 1876, with forty members, by Kev. J.
Lerch, the first pastor. The building of a church was projected and com-
menced in 1876, and, according to original plans, was completed, all but the
auditorium. The basement of the church was dedicated by Bishop E. Dubs,
and has since been occupied by the society for chiu'ch and Sunday-school
services. In July, 1883, steps were taken to complete it, and June 15,
1884, the building was finished at a cost of $11,000, and dedicated by Bishop
Thomas Bowman; Rev. J. A. Hensel, a former pastor, preaching the sermon.
The association was incorporated May 4, 1876. with the following members:
A. E., C. M. and Sarah Dresbach. F.,"^ E. and Jennie Nicolai, H. W. andM. A.
Huber, Daniel T. and Sarah Shiibert, William Coupp, Benjamin F. Liitz, Eli
Loose. Gideon Martin, M. S. Paynter, Louisa Albert, S. C. Hankey and Clara
Freadrick. members. The pastors have been Revs. J. Lerch. J. A. Hensel,
A. C. Stull, A. Vandersall, and N. Shupp, the present pastor. The secretaries
have been Fred. Nicolai, B. F. Lutz and J. S. Dryfus. This chui-ch has not
at any time had any great advancement in membership, but has enjoyed a
steady gro-svth and is in a healthy condition. The membership is now 110.
At the organization of the church a Sxmday-school was also established, which
has had a steady gro\\-th, numbering in the last quarter 175 scholars. The
following have served as superintendents in the order in which they appear:
Ezra Nicolai, Winfield Six. G. W. Ellenberger.
Salem German Evangelical Church dates back to the conference of the
association held in 1856, when Tiffin was set off as a station, with Rev. Leon-
hard Scheuerman, pastor. The original members were Jacob Schneider, Louis
Schubert, Jonas Huber, J. G. Zinser, William Negele, Sr., A. E. Dresbach
and Joseph Beidleman. The pastors succeeding Mr. Scheuerman were J. G.
Theuer, J. G. Zinser, C. Tramer, G. Hasenpflug, J. Frankhouser. C. F.
Negele, E. B. Grouse. F. Freeh, C. G. Koch, W. Schupp, G. Schneider. W.
F. Zander, and the present pastor. C. Gahn. The secretaries have been J. G.
Zinser and William Negele. the latter now holding the office. The church
was erected March 28, 1858, at a cost of ^2,400, on Sandusky- Street, near
Perry. The society was incorporated October 11, 1876, with the following
named members: " William Negele, Charles Werner, Got. Meister, L. and
Juliana Schiu-tzes, John Samuelt, Jonas Huber, Peter Schneider, C. G. and
Catharine Koch. L. Shuber, John Lechti, G. Behler. Reuben Han-is. Thomas
Dixon. William Tiansed. Christina Endel, Susan Miller. Rosa Shubert. Ange-
lina Heelman. Caroline Behler, Hannah Fishbaugh, Mary Strauss, Lottie
Endell, Margaret Stahlschmidt, Margaret Samuelt, Sarah Becher, Eliza Mor-
lech and Lena Stahlschmidt. Five trustees were elected at this time.
The First Reformed Church was organized as the German Evangelical Re-
formed Church, July 21, 1833, with the following named members: Freder-
ick Cramer, Thomas DeiT, Joseph Ogle, George Stoner, Christian Stoner,
Jacob Kroh, Joseph Foncannon. John Kime. John Martin, Enos Cramer, Ezra
Derr, Jonathan Foltz, John Lydey, Christian Ramsbxirg, Frederick W. Shri-
ver, William Baugher, John Ditto, Elizabeth Ogle. Catherine Cramer, Cath-
erine Shriver, Susannah Ramsburg, Rosanna Derr. Mary Lydey. The names
of pastors since 1833 are given as follows: Rev. John L. Sanders, Frederick
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 499
Rahauser, Daniel Kroh, Hiram Shaiill, George D. Wolff, William K. Zieber,
E. E. Higbee, L. H. Kefanver. Thirteen secretaries have served the society
down to this time, including William H. Good, the present secretary. The
number of members is 225, and the value of property $18,000. In 1834 the
old society purchased the lot on which the church stands from Josiah Hedges,
and entered at once on building a house of worship, which was completed in
1835. The present church was erected in 1860, during Rev. E. E. Higbee' s
pastorate, and repaired in 1883 at a cost of |4, 500.
The Woman' s Foreign Missionary Society of this church was organized in
May, 1880, with twenty members. At one time the membership was ninety-
eight; now it is thirty-five. The amount expended since organization aggre-
gates $366.64.
Second Reformed Church (German) was organized December 14, 1850, with
the following named members : Henry Trumbor and wife, Ed. Swander and
wife, Isaac Strauss and wife, Philip Von Blou and wife, J. Steinbach and wife,
William Sohn and wife, William Steckel and wife, John Schneider and wife,
Valentine Trumpler, Moses Kramer and wife, John Swander and wife, Lydia
Koch, Philip Souder and wife, Jonas Seiple and wife, Ed. Andre and wife,
Jacob Zimmer and wife, F. Reif and wife, Elis. Reif, J. Bauer and wife, J.
Miller and wife, H. Huntz and wife, P. L. Riem and wife. It was reorgan-
ized as a corporate body April 17, 1854, with twenty-six members. Philip
Von Blon, Sr., was re-elected president, and Rev. E. V. Gerhart, clerk. The
constitution of the society was adopted December 19, 1850, about which time
it was first organized. The pastors of the church were Revs. Fred. Wahl,
1850-54; E. V. Gerhart, 1854, and J. H. Good. Rev. H. Rust is the present
pastor. The secretaries of the society kave been F. Wahl, Franz Reif,
Philip Emich, G. A. Lautermilch, J. Schildknecht, A. Marksthaler, Philip
Hyman, Adam Hade. In 1858 their first house of worship was erected. Now
the chmch property is valued at $2,500. The number of members is 285.
Grace Reformed Church is one of the latest, as it is one of the most import-
ant, additions to the churches of the city. The corner-stone of the building
was placed June 24, 1883, the sermon being delivered by Rev. J. H. Good.
Rev. H. H. W. Hilshman is the first and present minister of this church. The
following officers were elected in May, 1885: Edward Swander and Edward
Andre; deacons, Joseph W. Burnside and Dennis Holtz. The building, which
stands on the northeast corner of Perry and Jefferson Streets, is of red brick,
with heav}^ stone facings, and is of modern English in style of architectiire.
The stained glass windows are very fine pieces of workmanship.
The First English Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in the sum-
ner of 1844, by Rev. J. Livengood, with David Rickenbaugh, Samuel Rule,
Jacob Bowser, John Bowser, John Secrist, George Ritzman, Simon Snyder,
M. Rosenberg, and their wives.
The first house of worship built by this organization was a plain frame
structiire, 30x40, and one story in height. The building was commenced in the
stmimer of 1844, and dedicated by Rev. J. Grouse, D. D., May 25, 1845, un-
der the name of "Luther Chapel.'" After having been occupied for twenty
years, the old frame church was moved away, and the present brick edifice
erected in its place. This was solemnly devoted to the service of God in May,
1866, and given the name: "The First English Evangelical Lutheran Church,
of Tiffin, Ohio. ' ' The dedicatory sermon was preached, and the principal
financial effort for the liquidation of its indebtedness conducted also by Rev. J.
Grouse, D. D. The church was reorganized under the State law, December
25, 1866, with Rev. William W. Criby presiding, and L. Wisler, clerk; John
500 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Zeigler, Abram Horsberger and George Snyder, trustees, and Conrad Yingst,^
clerk. The preachers since organization have been J. Livengood, Thomas
HiU, Isaac Cutler, W. W. Crilley, J. W. Goodlin, J. F. Keinmund, D. D.,
Jacob Stick, D. D. , J. Crouse, D. D. ■, and Eev. Samuel Schwarm, the present
pastor. In March, 1885, Dr. Crouse retired, having served almost forty-three
years in the ministry of his church. He began his labors in Crawford County
in 1842. During that time he has preached in Gallon, Leesville, Plymouth
(seven years), Sulphur Springs, DeKalb, Bucyrus (eight years). Tiffin (eight
years and two months), and many other points. He was also connected with
Wittenberg College for seven years as financial secretary.
The Open Door Sunday -School Society, instituted some years ago, holds
Sunday services in the city hall. H. G. Day is superintendent of this religious
association, and H. J. B. Ford, secretary.
The Universalist Church claims a small membership here, but is without
organization. This form of Chi-istian worship was introduced into Tiffin,
March 15, 1839, by A. A. Davis, who held "Universalian" services at the court
house.
The Mormon Church. — The number of natives or settlers of this county
who became members of the chui'ch of Latter Day Saints is uncertain. Oliver
Cowdery, a lawyer of Tiffin, who settled here over forty years ago with his
family, was one of the better minds in the chui'ch. In 1847 he joined Jesse
Strano-'s monarchical colony of MoiTuons, moved from Wisconsin in 1847, and
died in Missouri in 1848.
Other bodies of Chi-istians, including the Spiritualists, exist here without
organization; while, in connection with the churches, a number of missionary
and aid societies are in being.
The Hebrew Society is well represented at Tiffin, but there is no synagogue
here. The more important holy days of the Jews are, however, observed.
The first schoolhouse erected at Seneca county seat was that old landmark
which stood at the northwest corner of Market and Monroe Streets, on land
donated by Josiah Hedges in 1828. This was a brick structiu*e completed in
1832. Benjamin Crockett was the first teacher in this building. George
Donaldson, Jacob Plane (who was appointed postmaster in 1829) and Richard
Sneath were the school trustees in 1828. The schoolhouse of 1832 continued
in use twelve years. In 1844 the pioneer schoolhouse gave place to a more
pretentious building on the north side of Market Street, near Monroe, in which
four teachers were employed. William Lang, Rev. IVIr. Collins and Mrs. Gibbs
were the principals. In 1847 Harrison Noble was appointed teacher, and dirr-
ing the following three years no less than a dozen difPerent persons presided
over the classes in those four old rooms, which constituted the Tiffin schools.
In October, 1850, the fu-st board of education was elected. The successful
candidates were W. H. Gibson, William Lang. William D. Searles, A. C. Bald-
win, W. H. Keilholtz and George Knupp. The first board of examiners was
appointed in November, 1850, namely: J. H. Pittinger, R. G. Pennington and
R. R. Bement.
The school board elections since 1876 have resulted in the choice of the fol-
lowing named citizens: 1876 — Warren P. Noble. 1877 — Dr. E. B. Hubbard
and O. C. Zeller. 1878— N. L. Brewer. Judge J. F. Bunn, Henry Brohl. E. B.
Hubbard, W. P. Noble, school board; B. B. Hall, superintendent of schools;
B. F. Myers, assistant superintendent. 1879 — William Lang, J. F. Bunn,
W. P. Noble, Henry Brohl, E. B. Hubbard, Charles O. Knepper, school board;
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 501
Prof. B. B. Hall, superintendent of the public schools; Prof. B. F. Myers,
assistant superintendent. In 1880 and 1881 the board remained unchanged,
but Prof. J. W. Knott, superintendent of the public schools, was elected vice
Hall, and Prof. B. F. Myers, assistant superintendent, was continued as assistant.
The 'board of 1882 and 1883 comprised the same members as that of the three
preceding years. In 1884 — Dr. J. A. Norton, W. P. Noble, Sylvester J. Kintz,
Lewis Seewald, J. M. Hershberger and Charles O. Knepper formed the board,
with Prof. Knott and Prof. B. F. Myers holding their positions. The election
of 1885 resulted in the re-election of Kintz and Knepper over the Eepublican
candidates, Gibbon and Baldwin, the vote standing 1,065 and 1,095 against 702
and 670, respectively.
In 1850 the board of education adopted a school system very far above that
in vogue previously, and employed a corps of eight teachers, viz. : William
Fitzgerald, - Thomas J. Cronise, Samuel Nolan, Mrs. Sarah Sands, Miss E.
Augsperger, Miss Eliza Cronise, Miss C. Coffin and Miss Andi-ew. The high-
est salary paid was $24 per month, but the regular salary was $15. Rev. R.
R. Bement was the first superintendent, serving for $2 per month. The
next superintendent, S. S. Rickley, was more fortunate, as he received $33. 33
per month, for the year ending May, 1852. During this year the Union School-
house was erected, near St. Mary's Church, at a cost of $6,000. It was not,
however, until 1859 that the high school building was opened, although a high
school classf graduated the previous year. In 1871 two large school buildings
were added to Tiffin, one in 1878, and one in 1883.
Tiffin High School Alumni Association was organized May 20, 1881. The
graduates from 1863 to 1885 numbered 167, of whom 132 were ladies. In
the following record the address of all graduates, other than residents of Tif-
fin, is given :
Class of 1863. — Mrs. Theo. Whitney, nee Beilharz, Northeast, Penn. ;
Mrs. Nora Tomb, nee Benham ; *Delia Bowe, Anna Gibson, Mrs. Retta Lucas,
nee McLain, Marion, Ohio; Mattio W. Shawhan, 1024 McGee Street, Kansas
City, Mo. ; *Jennie Smith, Mrs. Maggie Dunscome, nee Weirick, Aspin, Col. ;
Dallas P. Dildine, Payne, Ohio; Omar Wilson.
Class of 1864. — Mrs. Maggie Lloyd, nee Gardner, Defiance, Ohio; Mrs.
Emma Yingling, nee Tomb; *AIrs. Emma Hill, nee Vicroy, Elmer White, De-
fiance, Ohio.
Class of 1865.— *Ella Davis, Mrs. Isa B. Frost, nee Dildine; Mi-s. Addie
Jones, nee Gallup; Mrs. Mary Wheeler, nee Kinnaman, Lima, Ohio; *Mrs.
Hattie Kagy, nee Weirick.
Class of 1866.— Mi-s. Elvira Yockey, nee Beilharz, Xenia, Ohio; Frank
Dildine, Fort Wayne, Ind. ; Charles J. M. Sullivan, Louis Ulrich.
Class of 1867.— Mrs. Bertha Pomeroy, nee Bowe; Mrs. Libbie Davies, nee
Bowersox, Clyde, Ohio; *Mrs. Laura Bunn, nee Groff; Mrs. Eva Fowler, nee
Gross, Lafayette, Ind.; Mrs. Anna Shields, nee Lamberson; Mrs. Eva Bald-
win, nee Phillips, Plum Creek, Neb. ; Mrs. Mattie Saui-ber, nee McLain. York,
Penn. ; Mrs. Julia Hays, nee McAllister, Knoxville, Iowa; Mrs. Maiy Zartman,
George W. Tomb, Virginia City, Nev.
Class of 1868.— Mrs. Ella Webb, nee Corbin, St. Louis, Mo.; IVIrs. Leora
Conn, nee Flenner, Virginia City, Nev. ; Mrs. Sarah Meacham, nee Gallup,
Carrington, Dak.; *Mrs. Augusta Fleu, nee Snyder; Dr.W^iUiam H. Baldwin,
Sacramento, Cal.
tClass of 1858.— Anna Augsperger, Toledo, Ohio; Amelia Benham, Mrs. Anna Lawton, nee Cooper, Ashland
Avenue and Batavia Street, Toledo, Ohio; Mary M. Ebhert; , Mrs. Mary Hall, nee Stoner, Tiffin, Ohio; Lizzie
Stoner, Tiffin, Ohio."
♦Deceased.
502 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Class of 1869.— Mary Gallup, Carrington, Dak.; IVli's. Mary E. Groff, nee
Noble; Ella Harriott, *Tirzali McCormack, Mrs. Idella Ranshaw, nee Eeeine,
Chicago, 111.
Class of 1870. — Mrs. Mary Myers, nee Childs; Mrs. Philla Knapp, nee
Snyder; Mrs. Emma Sweadner, nee Travis, Fredonia, Kas. ; Ella ^^"ebb, Carey,
Ohio; ELarry Buskirk; Irvin Graves, Sandusliy, Ohio; William H. Knight.
Class of 1871. — Mrs. Anna Bodenstein, nee Boos, Grand Eapids, Mich.;
IVIrs. Lola Yan Tyne, nee Hovey, Sandusky, Ohio; IVIi's. Mattie Reed, nee Mc-
Allister; jMi's. Allie B. Searles, nee Nyman; Mrs. Emma O. Hale, nee Ogle,
Xenia, Ohio; Mrs. Lam-a Barnhart, nee Schinness; Aurilla Sohn, IMi-s. Medora
J. C. Gaines, nee Sprague, Melmore, Ohio; Dr. E. B. Benham, Brownsville,
Tex. ; Edgar J. Gross, Louisville, Ky. ; Charles W. Hedges, Galveston, Tex.
Class of 1873. — IVL's. Minnie B. Cunningham, nee Holt; IMi-s. Eachel Ne-
lio-h, nee Martin; Flora V. Poorman, Ai-thur A. Cunningham, Edward S. Eb-
bei-t, Covington, Ky. ; George M. Huss, Western Springs, 111.
Class of 1874. — Mrs. Katie Gilkerson, nee Bibb, Sandusky, Ohio; Mi's.
Kate Acre, nee Boyer, Greenville, Penn. ; Mrs. Ida Lynch, nee Nyman; Mrs.
Cora B. Bradley, nee Pew; Minnie Smith, Mrs. Mary E. Leppar, ?;ee Williams,
Attica, Ohio; Mrs. Celia I. Shaw, nee Williams, EJepublic, Ohio; Amos W.
Knight, Attica, Ohio; John A. Spielman.
Class of 1876. — *Lizzie E. Kefauver, Jessie L. Poorman, Amelia D. Sauer,
Eoland M. Barbour, Socorro, N. M. ; Warren E. Biinkerhoflf, Detroit, Mich.
Class of 1878. — Laiu-a V. Freyman, Mattie Gibson, Winfield, Kas.; Maiy
A. Hai-tman, Minnie L. Jones, Emma C. Merkelbach. Laura Strieker.
Class of 1879. — Clara A. Barnes, Mrs. Florence M. Livezey, nee Barnes,
Denver, Col.; Mrs. Belle M. Myers, nee Byrne; Amanda C. Clouser, Mrs. Jen-
nie Horn, nee Fishbaugh, Shenandoah, Iowa; IVIi's. Lettie Wilcoxson, nee
Wilson; Dr. H. L. W^enner.
Class of 1880. —Gertrude H. Adams, Eva E. Bacher, *Lisetta C. Berger,
Julia Brewer, Amelia A. Byrne, Fannie C. McLain, Corinne Spayth, Josie L.
Spiers, Frank W. Wenner, Bellaire, Ohio.
Class of 1881. — 3^Ii-s. Ella E. Kerstetter, wee Frank, Louisville, Ohio; Mrs.
Nora Neligh, iiee Keller; Lillian M. Kreader. Mrs. Eosa P. Kiessling, nee
Lemp; Susie Martin, Mrs. Emma O. Krammes, nee Euess, Denver, Ind. ; Ma-
bel Spavth, G. Edward Boos, Jackson, Mich. ; William H. Dore, Willis E.
White. '
Class of 1882. — Georgia A. Clarke, Jessie D. Keller, Fostoria, Ohio ; Jennie
Martin, Esther Mosier, Carrie A. Myers, Lucy Seinsoth, Carrie V. Steninger,
Pauline Strieker.
Class of 1883. — Jessie Burkhalter, Mrs. Julia Boyer, nee Cain, Chicago,
111. ; Hattie Crooks, Ella S. Emmick, Mary E. Good, Jennie E. Martin, Annie
McCauley, Alberta J. Metz, Mattie I. Newson, Theresa Pittenger, Josie E.
Ward, Addie O. Wiseman, Theodore Brohl, Elmer E. Hershberger, Albert L.
Norton, Annapolis, Md. ; Frederick L. Wenner.
Class of 1884. — Clara L. Dresbach, Mrs. Mary Shedenhelm, nee Frederici,
Watson Station, Ohio; Emma Huss, Cora A. Lemp, Jennie Nighswander,
Clara E. Shawhan, Lottie C. Strieker, Ella Weiss, Henry Adelsperger, Theo-
dore W. Day, James Hershberger, James S. Keppel.
Class of 1885. — Ella Crooks, Lillian M. Grendon, Lizzie M. Keller, Cora
J. Lease, Olive L. Lysle. Emma A. Short, Morristown, Minn. ; Emma M.
Sneckenberger. Maggie M. Spayth, Maud T. Stanley, Mary B. Tomb, Jennie
Weiss, Willis Bacon.
^*^%>^
'^^a-^ccf^a '^Q^^
CLINTON TOAVNSHIP. 505
Prof:-;. lYiioU. and Myers are honorary members of the association. The
present officers are Dr. H. L. Wenner, president; E. E. Hershberger, Amelia
D. Saner and Mabel Spayth, vice-presidents; Mrs. A. A. Cunningham, treas-
urer; Mary L. Hartman, corresponding secretary; F. L. Wenner, recording
secretary.
The teachers of the public schools of Tiffin, in August, 1885, are named as
follows: J. W. Knott, superintendent; B. F. Myers, assistant superintendent
and principal of the Second District Schools; Miss S. E. Piatt, Mrs. M. E.
Zartman, Kate Sughro, Hallie Levitt, Josie Spiers, Eva Bacher, Mollie Good,
Theresa Pittinger, Clara Shawhan, Carrie Myers, Fannie McLain, Lissette
Herbig and Emma Merkelbach, teachers in First District; Leonora Mitchell,
Mary Hartman, Corinne S]3ayth, Josie Ward, Mary F. Van Pelt, Ida R.
Smith and Lucy Seinsoth, teachers in Second District; Celesta Stoner, Clara
Barnes, Mattie Newson and Jessie Poorman, teachers in Third District; Flora
Poorman, Amelia Sauer and Mabel Spayth, teachers in Fourth District, and
Laura Freyman, teacher in Fifth District.
The statistics of the schools of Tiffin for the year ending August 31, 1884,
are as follows: Local tax, $15,91)8.08; State tax, $4,479; irreducible school
fimd, $4,035; balance from 1883, $12,079.48; amount realized from sale of
school bonds, $18,000; from fines, licenses, etc., $3,734.08; total revenue,
$54,330.99; amount paid teachers, $13,319; managing and superintending,
$1, 350 ; cost of grounds and buildings, $12, 270. 92 ; fuel and sundries,. $6, 602. 47;
total expenditure, $33,542; balance to credit of year 1885, $20,788.60. Five
school buildings — value of property, $90,000, including schoolhouse of 1883-84
erected at a cogt of $20,000; number of teachers, 32; average salary, $63 and
$38; nmriber of pupils, 1,347 — 653 boys and 694 girls — of whom 96 are en-
rolled in high school classes; rate of local school tax, 6| mills. The school enu-
meration made by Alber Beilharz in September, 1885, credits the city proper with
1,304 male and 1,357 female children, and the first and fourth sub-districts with
109 male and 83 female children, or a total of 1,413 males and 1,440 females,
with two colored males and four colored females; 2,859 youth between six and
twenty-one years of age, an increase of 47 over the enumeration of 1884.
The number of unmarried youth between the ages of sixteen and twenty-one
years is 819, an increase of 50 over the number recorded in 1884.
The Catholic Schools were established by Rev. Father Molon. P. H. Ryan
succeeded John Crowley in charge of the school. This John Crowley was
truly as great a Latin scholar as he was a whisky drinker. He could speak
Latin the day long, keep fi'om strong drink for a term, but when he would
drink he was a terrible character, sacrificing everything to satisfy this awful
craving. In 1855 or 1856 Warren P. Noble remarked jokingly to Crowley
that he would help him in securing the nomination for mayor. Crowley looked
at him steadily and said; '■^Qidd, quid, id est, timeo Denaos et dona ferentes.^^ He
left Tiffin prior to the war, but of his whereabouts nothing is known. Mr. Ryan
had charge of this school until the winter of 1853-54. At this time school
was held in the vestibule of the old St. Mary' s Church. Cornelius Hennessy
took charge of the school in 1854, and was succeeded in 1855 by a daughter of
John Britt. During her term the old church, in which school continued to
be held, was burned to the ground (1856). That same year, Mr. Ryan, as a
trustee, purchased the old frame Union School building of the Second Ward,
which stood where the present St. Mary's Schood now is, moved it eastward,
and placed it on the north side of Miami Street, two lots south of Franklin
Street, in Fort Ball. There were two male teachers employed in this building
prior to the coming of the sisters, and the sisters continued school in that same
27
506 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
building east of Franklin Street, until 1884. In 1856 the Union Seliool
erected a brick schoolhotise where the old Union School stood, and in this
teaching was carried on until 1884:, when the sisters, who purchased the build-
ing and grounds for $5,000, opened it in 1884 .as St. Mary's School.
The UrsuUne Convent, Schools and College. — The convent was founded at
Tiffin in 1863, by members of the order from Cleveland, Ohio, at the request
of the congregations of the parishes of St. Mary and St. Joseph, who sub-
scribed about $3,000, and purchased the lot on which the present convent now
stands. This society, as now established at Tiffin, was reorganized under State
law, September 7, 1864, with Sister of St. Joseph, Sister of the Sacred Heart
and Sister St. Maxime, trustees, holding the offices of superior, treasui-er and
secretary respectively. From the beginning of the convent the sisters have
conducted the academy and have also attended the common schools of St. Mary's
and St Joseph's Parishes. May 29, 1878, the college of the Ursulines was
incorporated, the articles being signed by the following named sisters: Cath-
erine Leahy, Louisa Brickner, Maiy Hanley, Ella Johnson and Mary Bormuth,
trustees. This act granted i,o the faculty the power of conferring degrees and
all the powers of a collegiate institution. The studies are divided into three
classes, primary, preparatory and senior; the last named being a three years'
coiu-se of elocution, composition, rhetoric, foreign history, botany, higher
arithmetic. Bourdon's algebra, geometry, ancient history, literature, philoso-
phy, Bible history, trigonometry, astronomy, chemistry, geology, logic, essays
and public recitations. The Latin, French and German languages are optional
branches. Classes in book-keeping are formed for such pupils of the higher
grade as wish to make it a study. Besides these studies, music in its various
branches, drawing, art painting (Lustra, China silk and velvet) in oil and
water colors, are taught to great perfection; also waxwork, embroidery, fancy
work, plain sewing, cooking, mending, darning, knitting and all kinds of
domestic accomplishments. The editor of the Fremont Messenger speaking of
the colleo-e, says: ''Not the least commendable feature of this academy is the
attention that is given to those graceful accomplishments which throw a charm
over domestic life and tend toward elevating society. Readings and leetm-es
on etiquette are given weekly. Simplicity of manner and dress is encouraged,
and economy enforced. Particular attention is paid to the necessary parts of
the study of physiology and the laws of health. Perfect uniformity is observed
in retiring, rising, study, proceeding to the different exercises. Difference in
relio"ion is no obstacle to the admission of pupils; those of all denominations
are received and no influence is in any way exerted over the conscientious
opinion of non-Catholics, but in the reception of pupils good reference is
required. Special attention is given to young ladies wishing to qualify
themselves as teachers. A library of choice standard works is free of access
to the pupils. ' '
The plans for the new convent building are made and the groimds pur-
chased. The grounds lie on the face of the terrace of the Sandusky, on the
southwestern limits of the city, one of the most beautiful locations in all
northern Ohio. The buildings are to be in keeping with the location and the
high objects for which they are destined.
The schools of the Franciscan sisters are carried on in connection with the
Citizens' Hospital and the Orphan Asylum, on the south side of the city. There
are no less than 115 orphans cared for and educated in this true home of Chris-
tian charity. The Orphanage dates back to 1868, as told in its history; while
the coming of the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis dates to June 4,
1878. The number of the community is fifty-four. Of them tAventy-fom- sis-
ters are principally occupied in the schools.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 507
Miscellaneous Schools. — In the early days of Tiffin it was the rule to bring
a few children together in one of the houses and impart to them the rudiments
of an education. In 1832 this system gave place to the very common school
education, which was continiied almost to 1850, when the board of education
was established and the school took a first place among city institutions.
A music school was opened at Tiffin by J. A. Schickell November 6, 1840.
Since that year the teaching of music has become a part and parcel of a first-
class education, and the citizens leave nothing undone to foster the music
teachers' enterprise.
Tiffin Select Ladies School was opened by 'Mis. L. M. Lathrop in Febru-
ary, 1844. This was the pioneer of the select schools of Tiffin. The system,
however, has been overshadowed by the advantages which the city schools and
denominational colleges offer.
The Seneca County Academy claimed seventy-five pupils in the winter of
1846, and may be classed as the beginning of ' 'higher education' ' in Seneca
County. The history of this academy is given in that of Scipio Township.
The Gossman classes are presided over by George Gossman, A. M. , whose
experience of over twenty years in the study and teaching of English, French,
•German, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Latin and Hebrew, fit him to preside over
special classes.
The newspaper press of the city is well conducted and supported, and all
literary and scholastic enterprises are fostered with a liberal hand.
HEIDELBERG COLLEGE.
The beginning of the establishment of this college at Tiffin dates back to
November 4, 1850, when Benjamin S. Schneck, D. D., jjresident and professor
of Mental and Moral Philosophy; J. H. Good, A. M., professor of Mathemat-
ics, and Keuben Good, A.M. , rector of the preparatory school, opened a collegiate
session in three rented rooms of the building once biown as Commercial Row^
with seven students present. The actual beginning antedates the beginning
of the college. An address signed by W. P. Noble, H. Shaull and E. B.
Bement asking the co-operation of the people in establishing a grammar school
at Tiffin was issued September 13, 1850. William Lang, William H. Gibson,
A. C. Baldwin, Wilson Yourtee, Barkdull Souder, — St. John, — Lee and
others were among the originators of this movement. The history prepared
in 1884 by the college authorities, gives the following facts:
" Early in the year 1850 a special meeting of the Synod of Ohio was held
at Tarlton, Ohio, to provide for the establishment of a college for the Reformed
Church in the West. Proposals fi'om the citizens of Tarlton were accepted,
and the name of Tarlton College given to the proposed new institution. At
the regular meeting of the synod in Navarre, Ohio, September 26, 1850, it
was decided to change the location of the new college to Tiffin, Ohio, in view
of inducements offered by the citizens of this city (a donation of $11,000).
Here, in rooms rented in Commercial Row, the college was formally opened!
November 18, 1850, with seven students in attendance. The number of stu-
dents increased during the year so that the catalogue for 1850-51 had an
enrollment of 149 names. The smallest number in attendance in any year was
105. This was in 1860. The highest number was 227, in the year 1868.
" The name Heidelberg was given because of its historic significance, when
the synod in Navarre decided upon the location of the college at Tiffin. It
was incorporated by an act of the General Assembly of Ohio, February 13,
1851, under the name of Heidelberg College. * * * * Xj^e
first faculty consisted of Revs. E. V. Gerhart, J. H. Good, S. S. Rickley, R.
608 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Good and Mrs. A. M. Lee. As President Gerhart and Prof. Ricldey were
engaged in other duties, the work of instruction at first mainly devolved upon
Revs. E. and J. H. Good and Mrs. Lee. The advocacy of the principle of
co-education was shown by the appointment of a lady principal at the founda-
tion of the college. The theological seminary has been intimately connected
with the college from the beginning. * * * * h^-^q literary
societies of the college have been impoi-tant factors in promoting intellectual
gi'owth and ability in debate and public speaking. The Excelsior Society was
organized in 1851, and the Heidelberg Society in 1851). On the lists of honor-
ary membership in these societies are the names of nearly 1, 000 of the leading
literary men of the day, and two-thirds of as many active members who have
since proven their efficient training in filling varied important and responsible
positions.
" The presidents of the college have been Rev. E. V. Gerhart, 1850-55;
Rev. Moses KiefFer, 1855-63; Rev. George W. Aiighinbaugh, 1863-64; Rev.
George W. "Williard, from 1866 to the present time.
" Of the present faculty Profs. R. and J. H. Good have been in the insti-
tution since 1850; Dr. Rust since 1861; Dr. Williard, 1866; Prof. Hornung,
1868; Prof. Knepper, 1873; Dr. Zerbe, 1879, and Prof. Lowe, 1883. Miss
Mary E. Andrews is teacher of vocal and instrumental music; IVIrs. M. E. Cal-
houn, matron of the ladies' boarding hall. The resident trustees are Revs. G.
W. Williard, D. D., L. H. Kefauver, D. D., J. H. Good, D. D., W. P.
Noble, B. F. Myers, U. F. Cramer, Dr. G. P. AVilliard, and N. L. Brewer,
trustee and treasurer. The old college building was built in 1852, the presi-
dent's house in 1868, and the boarding hall in 1873."
The resident officers of the board of visitors of the theological seminary
are Rev. R. Good, president; Rev. L. H. Kefauver, secretary and treasurer;
Rev. H. H. W. Hibshman. The faculty comprises Rev. J. H. Good, D. D.,
Professor of Dogmatic and Practical Theology; Rev, Herman Rust, D. D.,
of Exegetic and Historical Theology; Prof. A. S. Zerbe, A. M., librarian.
The annual expense of a male student is stated at $150 to $170; of a female
student about $200, it being understood that reasonable economy be exercised.
College Buildings. — In 1852 what is now known as the old college was opened,
and is still in use, awaiting the completion of the new buildings. In October,
1880, the subject of erecting a 'house becoming the importance of the educa-
tional enterprise was mentioned by Dr. G. W. Williard. In the winter of
1883-84 the college board asked Peters & Burns, of Dayton, Ohio, for jDlans,
and in the summer of 1884 the contract was sold to Chamberlain & King, of
Tiffin, for $46,558, who agreed to complete the building by June 15, 1886.
September 24, 1884, the work on foundations was begun, and April 6, 1885,
the first bi'ick was laid, and sixteen days later the corner-stone was placed with
appropriate ceremonies. On the small front of the corner-stone is cut "Hei-
delberg College, Founded 1850. Rebuilt 1885." On the other front is cut in
two columns (one column at each end of the stone), the names of the class of
1883, and in the center of the stone is cut " Presented by the class of '83."
The corner-stone is a block of the finest Italian marble, 12x16 inches, and two
feet eight inches in length. The building will be large and commodious, and
of architecture:! beauty.
CEMETERIES.
Green Lawn Cemetery. — This silent " City of the Dead " was laid off in
1860, and in March of that year Mrs. N. D. Brewer was interred there. The
first sexton was Fred Bloom, who was succeeded by Enoch Clouser, who was
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 509
succeeded by Aaron Clouser (who settled near the present cemetery in 1847),
ten years ago. The Green Lawn Cemetery was purchased by a company of
Tifiinites, who organized as an association January 25, 1874, with the fol-
lowing members: WaiTen P. Noble, John M. Naylor, K. W. Shawhan,Hemy
Ebbert, T. H. Bagby, H. A. Buskirk, E. G. Pennington, John D. Loomis,
Luther A. Hall, John T. Huss, A. G. Sneath, John M. Kaull and John C.Lee,
and reorganized February 20, 1874. E. ^Y. Shawhan and John T. Huss were
president and secretary, respectively. The former holds his position still,
while J. M. Naylor is the successor of Mr. Huss, with Mr. Hartzer assistant
secretary. The annual average of interments is seventy.
The soldiers of the war of the Eebellion interred here, by record, are H. F.
Arndt, L. D. Arnold, Percey Arnold, T. Bentley, Charles W. Bowe, James T.
Beck, J. A. Bowland, N. M. Barnes. Charles Barnes, Leander Coe, Eli Dep-
pen, John Dentzer, Isaac Davis, L. Dutrow, Samuel H. Dildine, Jacob Debus-
man, James W. Ebbei-t, George W. Gallup, Silas W. Groil, D. Hersing, James
Heffelfinger, Hemy Harbaugh, Thomas A. Kaup, Henry Kuhn, F. S. Kieffer,
J. Keating. James Kuder, George W. Lowe, John D. Latimer, L. W. Ladd,
Charles L. Maule, Austin W. Miller, James ^Mitchell, Joseph Mason. AVilliam
L. Myers, Thomas McBride, Jacob Menzer, Henry C. Myers, H. B. Martin,
Frank McBride, C. M. McAllister, Joshua Newson, J. Offenhouser, ^\. F.
PiefiPer, Charles Eouch, Jacob Eouch, John W. Eeese, Albert Eohn, Enos Sell,
S. K. Slanker, W. E. Smythe, Charles M. Stone, Jay C. Stone, Michael
Sullivan, Oliver Stai-tzman, Henry A. Spayth, Jesse Shriver, John Staub, J.
Snyder, Jacob Seitz, W. Six S. Sawhill, Edmond Shelt, C. M. Sneath, Alfi-ed
Trexler. E. E. Toll, Jacob U. Wilcox, Joseph Walker, W. Whiteman, Jacob
Wolf. Henry Windsor, John Wick, Conrad Yingst, Louis Zimmer.
The soldiers of the Eevolution, war of 1812 and Mexican war interred here
are F. K. Shawhan, 1776; Jacob Adams, 1812; Jacob Bacher, 1812; B. Biggs,
1812; F. Cramer, 1812; Hemy Cronise. 1812; Thomas Derr, 1812; A. pfen-
ner, 1812; H. Hershiser, 1812; John Park, 1812; Ephraim Porter, 1812;
Jacob Wilcox, 1812; C. Millhouse, 1846.
City Cemetei^y. — This dates its establishment back to the early days of the
city. When the bodies were transferred to Green Lawn, the greater number
of graves were left untenanted here; but enough remains to warrant the place
being kept in good order. The soldiers of 1861-66, buried here, are Frank
Bernard, J. W. Emich, W. Fry, G. Kestner, A. E^.unk, Charles Seewald.
Rock Creek Cemetery, another old home of the dead, contains its quota of
old and new soldiers; John Frees, a soldier of the Eevolution, is bm-ied liere;
D. Lambertson, William Mm-ry. Joseph Eichards, Eli Thornburgh. all sol-
diers of 1812; DavidButler and Isaac Wolf, soldiers of 1848, and the following
named soldiers of the Eebellion; David Herrin, Homer Phillips, Charles Eich-
ardson. John D. Williams, Jefferson Wolf.
Stoners Cemetery. — Here are buried the following named soldiers of 1861-
66: A. Dundore, W. Horner, William Moser. M. Eepp. J. W. Wilson.
Fairmount Cemetery Association was organized at Tiffin, August 11, 1877,
with the following members : D. C. Stoner, J. W. Martin, M. E. Kemp, John
Sotider, Jacob Zimmerman, Abe Zook, Joseph Loose, Fred Crum, Charles
Gangmer, J. W. Crum, Joseph Huber, C. W. Doran and Hemy Stoner.
St. Josephs Catholic Cemetery was established in 1854. Dr. J. M. Lecher,
who died of cholera, July 22, that year, was the first interment, and Elizabeth
Harter, who died of this dreadful disease Jiily 31, 1854, was the second person
buried. The soldiers interred here are named as follows: Jacob Bearly, J.
Bessler, J. Gnau, D. Hasenbeler, J. Hasenbeler, M. Herby, Dr. Landcried,
510 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Fred Kentz, C. Sebold, Bruno Smidt, Peter Thorn, J. Weiot; Henry Wolf, all
of 18(31-66, and F. J. Wagner, 1846.
(The Everard Monument was erected in this cemetery inl885, by John B.
Verment, of Massillon. The rock was taken from Bronhelm, Worthington' s
quarry, and the entire sculpture work was completed in the cemeteiy. The
height is twenty-one and one-half feet, including the heavy Koman cross
of the twelfth century. The whole monument is based on the style between
the old Roman and Gothic. On the cross is a fine sculptiu-ed figure, repre-
senting the crucifixion. The cost was about 1800 or 1 1,000. The congrega-
tion paid for it. )
St. Mary^s Old Catholic Cemetery is on the west bank of Rock Creek, in
the rear of the Ursuline Convent. Many of the pioneers are interred here, and
also a number of soldiers of the late war, among whom are the two Coonrads. M.
Price and D. S. Redmond. St. Maiy's New Cemetery is east of the city.
One soldier, M. O'Connell, is interred there. The pioneers, who find a home
in these cemeteries, are mentioned in the pages devoted to a notice of old set-
tlers in the histories of the townships.
HOSPITAL AND ASYLUM.
Tlie Citizens' Hospital and Orphan Asylum Association, referred to else-
where, dates back to 1868, though it was only organized December 2, 1869,
with the following members: Rev. Joseph Bilin, J. B. Greifeldinger, Widow
Elizabeth Schafer, Anna Maria Schafer, Kolmgunda Schmitt and her daughters
and Mary Ann Schafer. The first three named were elected trustees. Decem-
ber 80, 1878, a second record of incorporation was made. June 4, 1878, the
Sisters of St. Francis came to take charge of the asylum, and December 2,
1879, they incorporated with the venerable Sister Mary Frances, superior.
The conception of this remarkable charity is credited to Rev. Joseph L. Bihn,
who is the chief director of the asylum. Gradually he brought into existence
a home for the friendless orphan and aged, which in its extent and conduct
compares with some of the largest State institutions, and in its results exceeds
them. The number of inmates is placed at 205,- who, under the direction of
the suj)erior, make the asylum self-suppoi-ting — cultivating the asylum farm,
while the larger boys engage in teaching parochial schools or in taking care of
the aged, of whom there are thirty-six. The buildings show a fi-ontage of
250 feet, 44 feet deep with commodious wings, containing 150 rooms. The
church of St. Francis, the school rooms and the convent of St. Francis, with the
asylum proper, form one immense monument to Christian charity.
SOCIETIES.
Masonic History. — Sandusky Lodge, No. 77, was organized October 19,
1842, under charter, with the following named members: Rufus W. Reid,
Charles F. Dresbach, Uriah P. Coom-ad, Joseph Walker, Ely Dresbach,
Robert Crum, Agreen Ingraham, Israel Bentley. Samuel Mitchell. John Baugh-
er, Henry Kuhn, Evan Dorsey, Thadeus Wilson and Vincent Bell. This
lodge was organized under State law November 17, 1848, with R. Crum,
R. W. Reid, H. Kuhn, R. AVilliams, trustees, and Hemy W. Owen, clerk.
The Worshipful Masters of this lodge have been: R. W. Reid, fi'om organization
to 1850; R. Crum, 1850; J. E. McCormack, 1858; Henry Kuhn, 1862; C. C.
Park. 1864. The secretaries of the lodge have been Joseph Walker, 1842;
F. W. Green, 1843; G. J. Keen, 1848; H. W. Owen, 1849; J. P. Pillars,
1850; T. C. Tunison, 1851; R. Williams, 1852; George E. Seney, 1853;
James Pelan, 1854; J. G. Kennedy, 1855; George H. Heming, 1856; J. M.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 511
Stevens, 1857; M. H. Chiirch, 1858; J. D. Ai-ndt, 1859; L. M. Loomis, 1860;
J. G. Gross, 1861. Sandusky Lodge was consolidated with Tiffin Lodge
October 16, 1866. The officers named above, up to the elections of 1864, were
officers of Sandusky Lodge after that date of Tiffin Lodge.
Tiffin Lodge, No. 320, was chartered April 5, 1858, with the following
named members: F. D. Benham, William Gallup, James Pelan, John G. Ken-
nedy, E. B. Searles, Robert Crum, H. C. Spindler, W. P. Noble, L. A. Hall,
E. W. Reeme, Leander Stem. Robert Crum was the first Worshipful Master
and F. D. Benham the first secretary. J. G. Kennedy was elected secretary
in 1859 and E. W. Reeme in 1860. In 1861 D. F. DeWolfe was elected W.
M. , and L. Adams, secretary. A. F. Barnes was chosen secretary in 1862,
and W. M. in 1864; Robert Lysle was secretary in 1864; C. Cronise was
elected secretary in 1865, and G. F. Hertzer in 1866. In the latter year
F. E. Franklin was elected W. M. The consolidation of this lodge with the
pioneer Sandusky Lodge took place October 16, 1866.
Seneca Chapter, No. 42, R. A. M., was chartered February 7, 1849, with
the following named members: John J. Steiner, R. W. Reed, Alexander
Smith, Joseph McCutcheon, Agreen Ingraham, Abner Root, Henry Kiihn,
Robert Crum and Peter Van Nest. R. W. Reed was the first H. P. In 1850
the chapter was permanently organized with F. W. Green, H. P., and J. S.
Barber, secretary.
Clinton Council, No. 47, R. & S. M., was chartered April 9, 1867. The
chai-ter members were C. K. Watson, C. C. Park, G. K. Brown, Charles Mar-
tin, J. F. Marquardt, H. H. Byers, J. G. Gross, Jonathan Smith, Peter Van
Nest. E. Dorsey and H. H. Souder. C. K. Watson and G. K. Brown were
president and secretary, respectively.
De Molay Commandeiy, No. 9, K. T. , was organized at Republic, Seneca
County, imder charter, August 10, 1848. The original members were Josiah
Roop,' John P. Worstell, H. Benton, Piatt Benedict. Daniel Watersons, Daniel
Brown, Hiram Humphrey, M. V. Bogart, Edward Winthrop and H. L. Harris.
The eminent commanders at Republic were Edward Winthrop, 1848; Piatt
Benedict, 1853; M. V. Bogart, 1858, and H. Bromley, 1865 to 1870. The
recorders during this time were H. P. Benton, 1848; E. T. Stickney, 1850; J.
S. Smith, 1855; H. Bromley, 1856, and D. M. Neikirk, 1868. By resolution
of the commandery and with the consent of the General Commander, the head-
quarters of No. 9"^ were transferred to Tiffin, H. Bromley and D. M. Neikirk
holding their respective positions. In 18/0 J. W. Chamberlin was elected to
succeed H. Bromley, and in 1872 J. M. Stevens was elected vice D. M. Nei-
kirk. The officers elected in December, 1884, are named as follows: E. C,
T. H. Bobbins; Generalissimo, F. K. Holderman; Captain Geril, Robei-t Lysle;
Prelate, William Gallup; S. W., Charles Martin; J. W., George R. Huss;
treasurer, J. F. Marquardt; Rec, R. L. Knapp; St. B., H. W. Yeager; S.
W. B., Jacob Beigh; War., J. W. Schaufelberger; Sen., John Park.
Independent Order of Odd Fellows. — Seneca Lodge, No. 35, was instituted
February 20, 1845, under charter fi'om the Grand Lodge granted to H. G. W.
Cronise, R. R. McMeens, James Sivels, B. D. Chapman, Thomas H. Sheldon
and James Oyler. At the evening meeting Richard Williams and R. P. Ward
were admitted on cards, and John E. McCormack, Rolla Johnson, Nathaniel
Redd and Warren P. Noble were admitted members. The lodge was incorporated
September 28, 1846. The noble grands since 1844 are named as follows: T.
H. Sheldon, B. D. Chapman, H. G. W. Cronise and Richard Williams, 1845;
Rolla Johnson, John G. Breslin, George Knupp, 1846; F. Don Benham,
Thomas H. Sheldon, 1847; JohnE. McCormack, William Lang, 1848; Jacob M.
512 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Ebbert, L. M. Loomis, 1849; John Poorman, John H. Pittinger. 1850; Will-
iam H. Gibson, Samuel CvuTy 1851: Michael Wall, George Sprague, 1852;
N. N. Spielman, Nathaniel Redd, 1853; George C. Small, J. H. Leidy, 1851;
J. W. Wilson, E. G. Bowe, 1855; W. A. Hershiser, A. Brown, 1856; WiU-
iam M. Patterson, Leonard Adams, 1857; J. H. Merchant, J. W. Bradley,
1858; John Horn, N. O. Spielman. 1859; Simon Snyder, John Young, 1860;
Philip Spielman, J. J. Cronise, 1861; Michael Wall, A. E. Van Dorn, 1862;
William H. Webb, J. H. Nighswander, 1863; W. J. Merchant. James W.
Love, 1864; Levi Weirick. Simon Snyder, 1865; M. Wall, J. S. Han-ison-
1866; S. S. Kisinger, David C. Tunison. 1867: Robert Nichols, H. F. Fiege,
1868; Edward Lej^per, H. Whiteman, 1869; AVilliam Mattison, H. J. Stolzen-
bach, 1870; Robert iNichols, D. Bowersox and George C. Small (to fill vacan-
cy), 1871; John H. Ridgely, A. M. Campbell, 1872; Sam Strieker. S. C.
Lamberson, 1873; B. F. Myers, H. D. Snyder, 1874; J. C. Ogle, Sam Cro-
mer, 18/5; A. L. Flack, Theodore F. Baumgartner, 1876; D. Wineland,
William Benner,'1877; S. C. Lamberson. H. Gugenheim, 1878; L. D. Arnold,
Joseph Secrist, 1879; Hemy J. Weller. P. J. Gries, 1880; Jocob Biegh, H.
S. Root, 1881; Ed Wenner, Fred P. Bloom, 1882; T. S. Falkner, Charles
Sehauss, 1883; Thomas J. Livers, E. J. Seaman. 1884; John F. Rief. Janu-
ary, 1885.
The secretaries of the lodge since 1844 are named as follows: H. G. W.
Cronise, James Sivels, R. R. McMeens, John G. Breslin, George Knupp, F.
D. Benham, J. M. Ebbert, Richard Williams, William Lang, William H. Gib-
son, L. M. Loomis, John Poorman, H. F. Dewey and John E. McCormack;
these served up to the close of 1849. M. Wall, S. CiuTy. George Sprague,
J. H. Pittinger, X. N. Spielman. N. Redd, George C. Small, J. H. Leidy. J.
W. Wilson, E. G. Bowe, W. A. Hershiser, A. Brown, W. M. Patterson, Leon-
ard Adams. J. H. Merchant, J. W. Bradley, John Horn, Philip Spielman. Si-
mon Snyder and John Young were secretaries fi"om 1850 to 1860. Samuel
Sailor, H. J. Crouse, W. J. Merchant, A. R. Van Dorn. ^V. H. Webb. John
H. Nighswander, James W. Love. G. S. Feighner. Levi Weirick. Ed Wenner,
A. R. Van Dorn, J. S. Harrison, S. S. Hisinger, D. C. Tunison, Robert Nich-
ols, H. F. Fiege, Ed Lepper. Harman Whiteman. W. Mattison, H. J. Stolzen-
bach, Peter J. Gries and D. Bowersox served fi'om beginning of 1860 to the close
of 1870. John H. Ridgely, 1871; Ed Lepper, 1871-76; James W. Love,
1876 to July, 1879; S. C. Lamberson has served the lodge as secretary fi-om
July, 1879, to the present time. The number of members January 5, 1885,
was seventy-six. The trustees are Samuel Strieker, Edwin Baker and Charles
Schaviss. John H. BennehofF is recording secretary. No less than 321 mem-
bers have belonged to the lodge since its organization, many of whom (refeiTed
to in Chapter III) have gone to that better land where all good fellows go.
Hobah Encampment, No. 19, was organized under charter November 19,
1846, with the following named membei's: Warren P. Noble, John G. Bres-
lin. H. G. W. Cronise, George Knupp, F. D. Benham, L. M. Loomis, R.
Williams and R. Johnson. With the exception of Messrs. Noble and Loomis,
those original members were elected first oflicers of the encampment.
Oakley Lodge, No. 317, was organized June 10, 1857, with the follow-
ing named charter members: F. D. Benham, Erastus G. Bowe, Benjamin
Pennington, John T. Huss, T. H. Bagby, T. W. Ourand, John Poorman and
L. M. Loomis. The Past Grands are E. G. Bowe, S. Chamberlain, Cook
Frank, John Ernest, B. Falkner, William Fleming, J. L. Fisher, S. W. Fast,
G. F. Hutzer, O. Homer, T. Hall, J. W. Kintz. Aaron KJreader, B. Pennington,
Bergert Zint and Daniel L. Lott, elected in January, 1885. Benjamin Pen-
* ^p
a^^
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 515
nington has served the lodge as secretary for twenty-seven years; T. W. Our-
and" and E. G. Bowe, for one year each. The membership at the beginning
of 1885 was eighty-four.
Progress Lodge, Daughters of Rebecca, No. 169, was organized October 6,
1885, with the following named officers: Noble Grand, Mrs. Rachel Gilbert;
Vice Grand, Mrs. Elizabeth Love; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Mary Emich;
financial secretary, Mrs. Ella Eeif ; treasurer, Mrs. S. Fast; Warden, Mi's. H.
Stoltzenbaugh ; Conductor, Mrs. William Coup.
Knights of Pythias. — Tiffin Lodge, No. 80, was organized January 12,
1875, with seventy-eight charter members, of whom not more than forty-five
now claim membership. The total membership at present is eighty-four.
The past chancellor commanders of this lodge are N. L. Steckel, J. W. Love,
James Smith, J. A. Berger, W. S. Wineland, A. M. Hart, B. F. Kuder, John
Ernest, R. Keilholtz, W. H. Andre, O. P. Snyder, A. Strauss, W. J. Graham.
The keepers of seals and records have been W. H. Bru-khalter, Phil. Emich
and John Ernest. This lodge held the first public installation ever given by
the K, of P. at Tiffin, January 8, 1885. Both the ceremonial and the banquet
which followed leave happy memories of the close of the first decade of Lodge
No. 80.
Pickwick Lodge, No. 175, was organized December 3, 1883, with the
following named charter members: F. E. M. Baldwin, E. W. Stephenson,
O. P. Frees, B. F. Myers, F. W. Grammes, H. W. Holt, L. L. Lang, D.
Jones, C. Weller, F. L. Emich, B. W. Wilson, C. W. Jones, C. A. Gribble,
J. Vansyckle, George Horner, L. J. Martin, H. Brohl, Jr., J. T. Lynch, J. F.
Pteif, G. W. Fiege, J. C. Dressel and E. S. Pultz. The past chancellor com-
manders were E. W. Stephenson, O. P. Frees, B. F. Myers, H. W. Holt, F.
AV. Grammes, C. W. Jones and Henry Brohl, Jr. E. W. Stephenson and F.
E. M. Baldwin have served as secretaries of the lodge. The membership in
January, 1885, was seventy-nine.
Uniform Rank, No. 17. July 21, 1882, marked another red letter day for
the K. of P. , of Tiffin, in the institution of the Uniform Rank of the order
here with thirty-one charter members, called Tiffin Division No. 17, Uniform
Rank, K. of P. The division was instituted by Sir Knight Walter B. Richie,
of Lima, Grand Outer Guard of Ohio, Sir Knight Commander for the occa-
sion, assisted by Sir Knight Shumate, of Urbana, Grand Chancellor, of Ohio;
and Sir Knights Brooks and Cunningham, of Lima, who put the Tiffin
brethren through in true knightly style, after which the following officers were
elected and installed: Commander,' H. L. Steckel: Lieutenant Commander,
Asa M. Hart; Herald, James A. Burger; recorder, E. W. Stephenson; treas-
urer, W. F. Grammes; Sentinel, I. J. C. Shumaker; Guard, David Snyder.
The Uniform Rank now takes a leading place in membership and influence
among the older societies of the city.
Seneca Lodge, elected and installed the following named officers of
Lodge No. 147, K. of P., July 26, 1883: C. C, H. L. Penn; V. C, C.
W. Harris; Prelate, J. Lyberger; M. A., C. E. Smith; K. of R. and S., F.
Wickei-t; M. of E., Marion Lynch. The ceremonies were conducted by Dis-
trict Deputy Flumerfelt.
Rotjal Arcanum. — Tiffin Council No. 62 was organized March 22, 1878,
with the following named members: Charles Martin, F. R. Holderman, J. P.
Kinnaman, H. K. Hershiser, James H. Frost, Frederick Nicolai, J. F. Mar-
quardt, William Negele, C. J. Tingling, J. M. Bate, H. C. Baltzell, John
Gilliland, J. C. Stoner, P. Scheib, Edwin Baker, J. H. Ridgeley, Jonas Romig,
J. H. Ready, F. K. Shawhan, D. Y. Chapman, Ezra Nicolai, John B. Runyan,
516 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
James Smith, W. H. Hall, C. C. Park, James A. Berger, J. W. Martin, John
G. Gross, A. F. Cramer, John A. Hall, J. W. Chamberlin, J. M. Lingen-
felter, Scudder Chamberlain, William Smoyer, B. G. Atkins, Charles D.
Sprague. The Past Regents are Benjamin G. Atkins, Charles Martin, Scudder
Charaberlain and F. Nicolai. The first secretary was J. W. Chamberlin and
the present A. A. Cunningham. The number of members is foiiy-seven.
The Tiffin National Uiiion^as organized January 23, 1884, with the follow-
ing named members: T. F. Baumgardner, O. P. Snyder, H. L. Steckel, Paul
Martin, Adam Hade, J. M. Beck, B. B. Hamilton, F. J. Arbogast, J. J. Hoos,
J. F. Lynch, J. V. Six, Ed. Frev, W. Knight, E. W. Stephenson, R. W.
Keilholtz, O. A. Ohl, D. Egelki-aut', J. F. Zellers, H. Parks, S. W. Van Nest,
H. L. Lutz, G. W. Ellenberger, H. Nobles, N. O. Dildine, J. C. Royer, H. J.
Crouse, L. L. Lang, O. P. Freese, ^\. Zerby, C. F. Benner and H. H. Neligh.
The chief officers of the Union have been E. W. Stephenson, R. W. Keilholtz,
H. H. Neligh, L. L. Lang, O. P. Freese, J. C. Royer, W. Zerbe and C. F.
Benner. The first secretary was H. L. Steckel; the present recorder is S. W.
Van Nest. The Union numbers thirty-one members.
Grand Army Posts. — Leander Stem Post, G. A. R. No. 31, was organized
under charter, May 21, 1880, with the following members: E. W. Cm-rigan, J.
E. McCormack, William Negele, W. A. Snyder, F. A. Amende, S. H. Dildine,
Jacob Wolf, George Brendle, J. W. Neibel, J. H. Cole, J. S. Helm, H. C.
Myers, C. W. Bowe, J. H. Price, W. H. Myers, M. J. Stolzenbach, F. Fred-
erici, L. Hartman, B. Kudor, M. Scannell, M. Cowgill, Ed. Lepper, J. C.
Stoner, M. S. Lutz, P. J. Grise, G. L. Gallup, J. A. Norton, R. L. I^app,
John Van Nest, G. W. Rohrbacker, J. W. Parmenter, A. W. Drake and H.
W. Yeager. J. H. Cole, the first commander, was succeeded in 1883 by E.
W. Currigan. J. F. Zeller was elected commander in 1884. This post was
named in honor of Leander Stem, colonel of the One Hundred and First Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, who was mortally wounded at Stone River December 31,
1862.
(Leander Stem Post Women's Relief Corj^s, No. 61, was formally organized
January 28, 1885, with forty-five members. The following officers were duly
installed by Mrs. Gen. Young, of Toledo: President, Mrs. Charles Harmon;
senior vice-president, Mrs. John Zeller; junior vice-president, IVIi's. Clay Myers;
treasvu-er, Miss Kisinger; secretary, Mrs. James Biu-ger; chaplain, IVIi-s. J. H.
Helm; conductor, Mrs. Hiram Park; guard, Mrs. Hiram Clevidence.)
Isaac P. Rule Post, G. A. R., No. 413, was established under charter
March 7, 1884, with the following named members: James U. Cole. R. H.
Beaver, W. H. Myers, W. H. Schuler, T. R. McManigle, N. D. Egbert, H. J.
Bricker, D. W. Bowersox, C. K. Walker, E. M. Haines, J. C. Shumaker, A.
S. Baker, G. A. Blackwell, W. B. Stanley, J. T. Sterner, William Derr, James
Van Nest, Jerry Fransue, John Johnson, C. A. Matthews, S. O. Chamberlain,
Daniel Seeholtz, R. A. Gray and L. Montague. James H. Cole was the first
commander. The post was named in honor of Isaac P. Rule, of the One Hun-
dred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, who was wounded at Chickamauga,
September 19, 1863, and died on the 20th of that month.
(A Women's Relief Corps, auxiliary to Isaac P. Rule Post, G. A. R., was
organized at the Rule Post headquarters, on the 25th of October, 1884, by
Post Commander J. H. Cole. The following officers were elected: President,
Miss Sallie Van Nest; senior vice-president, IVIi's. Anna Linville; junior vice-
president, Mrs. Sarah A. Seeholtz; secretary, Mrs. Vileriett Miller; treasiirer,
Mrs. Harriet V. Cole; chaplain, Mrs. Lizzie Bowersox; conductor, Miss Mintie
P. Cole; guard, Miss Anna E. Bever.)
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 517
Benevolent own-Secret Societies. — St. Patrick's Total Abstinence and Benevo-
lent Society was organized February 1, 1874, with about seventy-five members.
Charles J. M. Siillivan was the first president of the society. S. A. Cooni-ad,
John Mossony and John E. King have also filled this position. S. A. Coon-
rad was first secretary. The names of the old members of the association are
as follows: James Cavanaugh, John Cahill, Frank Collins, Patrick Cahill,
James Boler, S. A. Coonrad, James Croghan, M. Carroll, J. Edgerton, Hugh
Cavanaugh, J. M. Arndt, John Farrell, T. Fitzmorris, M. P. Geary, Matthew
Geary, M. Gillis, M. Geary, T. Fitzpatrick, William Hays, Isaac Hoffman,
M. Hallinan and son, James and Philij^ Hennessy, John Holland, P. Jordan,
Paul Johnson, William Johnson, John Kennedy, William Kuhn, J. B. King,
Ed. Kenny, Philip B. King, Peter Kintz, J. L. King, Joseph Knott, S. C. King,
F. M. Kintz, John E. King, W. J. Kuder, J. T. King, F. Kessler, P. T. King,
Heniy Kessler, William King, John Knott, Frank Killer, W. Kessler, J. J.
King, J. Lonsway, J. Lankard, James F. Leahy, John B. Lonsway, Vincent
Lonsway, John Leahy, Sylvester Lonsway, Maurice Leahy, Amon Lonsway,
Michael Miller. Jr. , Alexis Magers, Joseph Miller, John McNamee, John Mc-
Cartv, John McCue, N. A. Meyer, Patrick McCarty, P. O' Donnell, J. O' Connor,
T. O'Neil, M. O'Connell, James O'Brien, R. O' Sullivan, T. W. O'Brien, Thomas
O'Connor, Felix O'Neil, Joseph Pecher, John G. Patton, L. P. Peiro, J. J.
Patton, Cleophus Pecher, D. Quinn, A. Reilly, C. J. M. Sullivan, John
Strausbaugh, Patrick Sweeney, Emmett Sullivan, P. Lughroe and son, C.
Lughroe, J. Sweeney, Cornelius Scannell, Patrick G. Scannell. Louis Stone,
Edward Sweeney, John Sandys, M. Scannell, J. Thorpe, T. F. Walsh,
W. H. Wagonhouser.
Knights of St. George, Branch No. 200, C. K. of A., was organized Decem-
ber 23, 1881, by John Mossony, special deputy, with the following named
members: C. J. M. Sullivan, John T. King, Terrence O'Niel, William Steltzer,
Jeremiah L. King, Cornelius O' Conner, Cornelius Sugro, Maurice Leahy, John
E. King and James Hennessy. The presidents of the branch, since organization,
have been John Mossony, Charles J. M. Sullivan, James O'Brien and Joseph
L. Ranker, with William Steltzer, secretary. S. J. Kintz is the present secre-
tary. The Knights numbered thirty-three in January, 1881.
Ancient Order of Hibernians, District No. 1, Tiffin, Ohio, was incorporated
in June, 1876, with the following incorporating officers: J. K. Bresnin, C. D. ;
John Lyons, president; T. T. Collins, V. P.; William Btu-ke, R. S. ; James
Blake, F. S. ; William Colthui'st, treasurer. This organization, owing to the
removal of members and new divisions coming into existence, may be said to
have suspended.
Ohio Council Catholic Benevolent Legion was instituted at Tiffin, October
26, 1884, with the following members : James V. Magers, S. C. King, S. J.
Kintz, King Albert Baumgardner, Patrick N. Cotter, John Hummer, James
Hennessy, E. C. Keyes, John E. Williams, J. Kuder, Anthony Halter,
Nicholas C. Werling. S. J. Kintz has served as president since organization,
and is also Deputy Supreme Chancellor for Ohio. Patrick N. Cotter is secre-
tary.
Tiffin Turn-Verein, Lake Erie Turner District, was organized September
20, 1858, with seventeen members, viz. : Hugo Hasselkus, Leopold Yaeger,
Nicolas Noel, Albert Barthel, Henry Weber, Joseph Baumgardner, William
Hasselkus, J. Ranch, Martin Wagner, Carl Miller, Victor J. Zahm, Joseph
Harter, Charles L. Zahm, Max Miller, Henry Grummel, Lorenz Keiffer, Fred
Amende. The presidents since 1858, are named as follows : Carl Miller,
Jacob Wolf, Louis Selle, F. Burkhardt, M. Becker, Charles Sauers, Sr.,
518 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Charles Leiner, Sr., Julius Kiessling, Joseph IJnser, V. J. Zahm, Chris-
tian Limbach, Joseph Haiier and John Dumont. The following have
served as secretaries : Hugo Hasselkus, Albert Barthel, George Brendle,
M. L. Albrecht, H. Guggenheim, L. ^\ Zimmer, Adam Schauss, H. Weid-
ling and F. Herbig. The society was incorporated October 19, 1864.
%t. John's Benevolent Society was organized March 28, 1868, at a meeting
of German citizens called by Michael Kirchner, John Houck and Paul Vall-
mer. M. Kirchner was elected president ; George Spies, secretary; A. Kuebler,
treasurer, and A. J. Brickner, vice-president.
Druids. — Humboldt Grove No. 15, United Ancient Order of Druids, maybe
said to have its origin in the organization of April 29, 1859, when Jacob Zim-
mer, Leopold Rose, J. C. Spindler, William Wolf, Philip Scheib, G. A. Lau-
termilch, Guenther Herzer and Benjamin Schimmes established a branch of
the order at Tiffin. Its membership is composed almost solely of German
citizens.
Knights of Honor. — Tiffin Lodge, Knights of Honor No. 82, was organized
under charter, February 15, 1875, with the following named officers : J, W.
Chamberlin, P. D. ; Charles Martin, Dictator; Fred K. Halderman, V. D..;
B. G. Atkins, A. D. ; G. K. Brown, Eep. ; P. Scheib, treasurer, D. Y. Chap-
man, G. ; C. C. Parks, S. The fom- first named charter officers were elected
successively to preside over the lodge, previous to the election of W. H. Hall,
as Dictator.
Temperayice Societies. — The Seneca County Union Temperance Society was
formally organized December 28, 1841, and permanently organized January 4,
1842, with W. S. Green, president; R. Sneath, vice-president; J. H. Brown,
secretary; John Andrews, treasiu-er.
Tiffin Division No. 171, Sons of Temperance, was reorganized December
10, 1847, under the law of March 11, 1845, with James K. Owen, Holly
Lightcap and James Sumner, trustees; J. W. Patterson, P. W. P. ; Joel W.
Wilson, W. P. and J. Simmer, R. S. The resolution to incorporate was
offered by W. H. Gibson.
A new lodge of the Independent Order of Good Templars, was organized
April 7, 1885, when the following officers were elected, and are named in
order of seniority, fi'om W. C. T. to W. Lodge Dept. : W. A. Dallas, Cannie
Van Pelt, Emma Huss, E. E. Weller, H. J. B. Ford, G. J. Humbert, H. G.
Day, L. Montague, Miss L. Woodman, E. Stanton Gregg, JVIi's. Hiunphrey,
Miss Mary Morrison, Miss Onie Biller, E. E. Weller.
In 1874 the Woman' s Temperance movement attained the climax. Saloons
were visited, prayers offered up, sermons preached. Great numbers of ladies
were engaged in this crusade. Lewis Bang who kept a saloon at Tiffin since
1848, promised to surrender to the crusaders, while Nicholas Bartell surren-
dered to a corps of 183 ladies. His saloon equipment realized $117.78 at the
crusader's sale in 1874, and his reformation gave great satisfaction.
Musical Associations. — The Bruderbund was formerly organized in 1853,
when a number of German musicians formed a singing class under the leader-
ship of Christian Kxmold. The actual organization of the Bruderbund dates
back to February 24, 1854, when Christian Mueller was elected president,
Philip Emich, secretary, and William Berger, treasurer, and twenty-eight
other members then formed the society. In 1856 it joined the North American
Saengerbund, and participated in the great meetings at Cincinnati, 1856; De-
troit, 1857; Pittsburgh, 1858; Cleveland, 1859; Buffalo, 1860; Columbus, 1865;
Louisville, 1866; Indianapolis, 1867; Chicago, 1868; Cjncinnati, 1870; St.
Louis, 1872; with the N. W. Saengerbimd; Cleveland, 18 <6; Columbus, 1878;
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 519
Toledo, (P. S. A.) 1879; Aki'on, 1880, O. S. ; Dayton, 1882; Buffalo, 1883;
Springfield, 1881. The directors have been C. Knnold, 1853; Charles Boos,
1855; George Spies, 1857-85. The society now comprises eighteen members,
named as follows : Christian Weiney, tfulius Weiney, John B. Meyers and
George Bolender, fii'st tenors; AVilliam Berger, F. W. Berger, Philip Grummel,
Henry Hnbach. second tenors; John Merkelbak, Martin L. Albright, Henry
Gross, Joseph Miller, first bassos; George Homan, Francis Ball, Julius Kies-
sling, Joseph Unser, John Dutt, Peter Pfeiffer, second bassos.
The Philharmonic Society was formally organized at the house of Henry
Gross, May 19, 187C, and completed organization May 25, that year. Louis
Ulrich was elected president. The members were C. H. Miller, Dr. Williard,
Michael Scannell, Mary Ebbert, Homer Bricker, Isabella Wagner, Pauline
"Wagner, Mollie Wagner, Francis Wagner, Hemy Gross, Eobert Fisher, Cora
Pugh, J. M. Bach (director), Peter Pfeiffer, Harry Buskirk, C. Lohr, Mrs.
Barnes and Jennie Ford. This society has presented many of the choicest
musical compositions to the people.
The Choral Union was organized October 13, 1885, with the object of fos-
tering the practice and study of high-class music. The officers then elected
are president, Prof. A. B. Lowe; vice-president. Miss Emma Huss; secre-
tary, Dr. H. L. Wenner; treasurer, Mrs. D. K. Myers; committee on music.
Prof. B. F. Griffith, Col. C. D. Sprague, Prof. Charles Goetz ; committee on
constitution, etc. , Messrs. Miller and Beam and Miss Huss.
The Washington Band was organized at Tiffin in 1839, and gave a concert
at the court house in May of that year. This pioneer band diaimmed up the
militia, and was generally useful. Boos' Band dates back before the war.
MisceUaneous Societies. — The Seneca County Bible Society was organized
in 1831. The thirty-first annual meeting was held at Tiffin, February 9, 1862,
with the late Hemy Ebbert, presiding. This society was reorganized May 11,
1885, when the following officers were elected: Dr. L. H. Kefauver, president;
C. J. Tingling, secretary; J. F. Marquardt, treasurer, and Robert Lysle, aud-
itor. G. R. Huss was re-elected depository.
The objects of the society are the diffusion of Biblical knowledge by the
free distribiition of books of Scriptui-e, and the Seriptm-e as well as religious
tracts.
Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, of Tiffin, was organized
by Dr. Douglass, agent of the State Society, September, 1885. The object
of the organization is to co-operate with the parent society in carrying out its
work in enforcing the laws against cruelty, and in creating a more humane pub-
lic sentiment. The following officers were chosen: Dr. E. J. McCollum, pres-
ident; J. S.- Morris and C. J. Yingling, vice-presidents; Fred L. Wenner,
treasurer; John L. Lott, secretary; Kora F. Briggs, agent. The officers,
with W. P. Noble, Michael Scannell, H. E. Simons, of the Tribime, and
J. M. Naylor, are the original members of the association.
The Tiffin Legislative Club was organized in 1841.
The Union League was organized April 1, 1863, with John K. Hord, presi-
dent; G. J. Keen and William L. Myers, secretaries; John Bobbins, correspond-
ing secretary, and Lewis Baltzell, treasurer.
The Tiffin Prohibition Club was organized August, 1885, with the following
officers: President, Rev. R. B. Moore; vice-president. Rev. N. Shupj>; secre-
tary, Harry Cromwell; treasui'er, William Treenary.
The W. H. Gibson Club, a reorganization of the Young Republican Club,
was effected October 5, 1885, with George B. Stone, president; William H.
Good, J. F. Kerr and E. W. Ciu-rigan, vice-presidents; Fred L. Wenner, sec-
retary; W. J. Day wait, treasru'er.
520 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
The German Keading Club, or Deutsche Leseverein, was the first German non-
religious society organized at Tiffin. The readings, however, began to obtain
a relio-ions character, and the society merged into a controversial club, which
argued it out of existence. It dated back to 1845 or 1846.
'^The German Dramatic Company, or Die Deutsche Theater -gesellschaft, was
organized about 1849, and gave several entertainments in the old Methodist
Episcopal Chiu-ch near Market Street bridge.
The Tiffin Literary Institute was in existence in 1842.
LIBRARIES.
Prescott Library, of Tiffin, was organized February 7, 1848, with ^Yilliam
Toll, chairman, and Leander Stem, clerk. K. G. Pennington, Dr. A. Hep-
burn and Henry Ebbert were chosen trustees. This library was the pioneer
collection of books for the use of the citizens.
Young Mens' Christian and Library Association, of Tiffin, was organized
May 30, 1868, with S.. K. Kirkwood, president; J. G. Gross, vice-president;
N. Jj. Brewer, D. P. Dildine and Robert Lysle, secretaries; George R. Huss,
treasui'er.
The Library Association of Tiffin was organized April 25, 1866, with A. H.
Byers, president; Dr. Kagy, vice-president; Dr. S. T. ATeirick, recording sec-
retary; Dr. G. S. Tingling, corresponding secretary; T. B. Tomb, treasm-er;
A. Kaga, D. K. Myers, John M. Myers, A. E. Iveiffer and H. E. Thompson,
directors. A committee was appointed to collect funds toward founding a
library. The association was incorporated in 1880, with R. W. Shawhan,
president; Mrs. Warren P. Noble and Mrs. John D. Loomis, vice-presidents;
C. H. Cramer, secretary; J. ^\. Chamberlin, treasiu-er; ]\li-s. Laura G. Bunn.
Mrs. Sneath, Miss Florence Cronise, Francis Wagner, G. G. HaiTiman and
W. P. Noble, trustees. The officers elected in December, 1884, are president,
Robert Lysle; first vice-president, Mrs. E. ^\. Sullivan; second vice-president,
^Ii's. R. G. Pennington; secretary, W. S. Cramer; treasurer, J. W. Chamber-
lin; managers, J. H. Ridgely, Florence Cronise, P. J. Wilson, W. S. Cramer.
jVIi-s. a. a. Cunningham and ISIi's. R. W. Shawhan; librarian, Miss Anna M.
Gibson. The librarian' s report showed the number of volumes in cu'culation
since January 19, 2,447; number of persons visiting the library, 3,129. The
amount taken in in dues and fines was more than sufficient to pay the librarian' s
salary. During the year donations of valuable volruues have been received
fi-om'R. G. Sneath, of San Francisco, Cal.
There are many private collections of books in the city, extensive and val-
uable, while the law libraries tell us that the history of bibliolatry should be
added to that of the chui'ch, since such a worship is in existence here.
BANKS, INSURANCE, ETC.
The fii-st notice of a bank at Tiffin appeared in March, 1843, under the head-
ing "Farmer's Bank of Seneca County." This, however, was nothing more
than the "Bank of TeiTa Firma," referred to in Chapter X.
The Labor Insurance Company was partially organized in May, 1847.
John Keller, G. Bernard, Daniel Gettinger, Elisha Mustead, Levi Davis, Sid-
ney Sea, William Stanley, Lloyd Norris and Benjamin Tomb were among the
active members of the Seneca Farmers and Mechanics Society, of that time.
The Seneca County Bank, as told in Chapter XII, was opened No-
vember 13, 1847, with $100,000 capital. Its first advertisement, December 15,
1847, was signed by W. E. Chittenden, cashier. In May, 1857, he was elected
cashier vice Charles L. Johnson,, who resigned to accept the superintendency
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 521
of the Tiffin & Fort Wayne Railroad. The suits against this company were
pending so late as April, 1861. In 1861 Judge Lang's bill, providing for the
redemption of certificates issued by Receiver Claypole, of this concern, was
passed by the Legislature and approved.
James I. Claypole, receiver of Seneca County Bank, received notice Novem-
ber 1, 1861, that Mr. Pittinger, of Tiffin, was appointed receiver. He refused
to recognize the authority of the Aiiditor and Secretary of State in the matter, and
continued issuing certificates. "Under the act of 1861, holders of the Seneca
County Bank, circulating notes and receiver's certificates, were ordered to pre-
, sent such to the State treasurer for redemption before July 1, 1865 ; but great
numbers were never ofPered for redemption.
Ohio Savings Institute was a bank organized at Tiffin September, 1880,
on the "Individual Liability" principle. Josiah Hedges was president, and
Luther A. Hall, cashier.
Arnold & Tomb established their bank in 1852, and in 1854 the banking
firm of Tomb, Huss & Co. was organized.
The Bank of Tiffin was organized in September, 1858, with Evan Dorsey
and A. G. Sneath, proprietors. In 1859 Mr. Dorsey was succeeded by R. W.
Shawhan, who, with Mr. Sneath, conducted the bank until 1865, when it was
consolidated, so to speak, with the National Exchange Bank, in March of
that year.
First National Bank of Tiffin (successor to Tomb, Huss & Co. ) was char-
tered March 16, 1865, with Benjamin Tomb, president; John T. Huss, cashier;
Benjamin Tomb, George E. Seney, John T. Huss, Thomas B. Tomb and
George R. Huss, directors. The other stockholders were L. F. Singer, E. L.
Hamilton, John G. Gross, Robert Nelson, James S. Yerk, Charles M. Yerk,
George W. Cunningham, I. L. St. John, Henry Ebbert, Stephen Dorsey, H.
H. Souder, John L. Osborne, Samuel Herrin, Michael Sullivan, William Gal-
lup and Henry Zahm. This banking house continued in existence until October
16, 1875, when Huss shot himself. On the true condition of the finances
becoming known a receiver was appointed in the person of Warren P. Noble,
who paid the creditors 60 per cent of the amounts claimed by them.
Tiffin National Bank, formerly the National Exchange Bank (successor to
the Tiffin Bank), was chartered March 17, 1865, and the office opened April 1
in the Tiffin Bank office.* J. D. Loomis was president; A. G. Sneath, cashier;
E. B. Searles, assistant cashier. The directors were R. W. Shawhan, J. M.
Naylor, A. B. Hovey, G. M. Ogden, Abel Rawson, Robert Smith, H. A. Bus-
kirk and E. T. Stickney. The other stockholders were J. H. Pittinger, John
Swigert, J. H. Good, S. B. Sneath, W. M. Naylor, Levi Davis, J. A. McFar-
land. This bank ended its corporate existence February 28, 1885, and was
succeeded by the Tiffin National Bank, with the same capital and officers. J.
D. Loomis is president and J. W. Chamberlin, cashier. The directors are A.
Buskirk, J. D. Loomis, J. M. Naylor, George D. Loomis and R. W. Shawhan.
Tiffin Saving and Building Loan Association was incorporated December 18,
1867, with the following named members: John T. Huss, A. H. Byres, Robert
Lysle, William Kline and Luther A. Hall. The capital was $300,000.
Seneca Building Association of Tiffin was incorporated December 22, 1869,
with Samuel J. Kirkwood, O. C. Zeller, John Van Dorn, O. T. Locke and N.
F. Cramer, members. The capital was $200,000.
Mechanics' Building Loan Association was organized January 19, 1871, with
the following members: John H. Ridgely, AVilliam G. Blymeyn, O. T. Locke,
*April 23, 1878, it was discovered that the cashier. Oliver Cromwell Zeller, had left Tiffin, taking with
him 845,782.47 of the bank's money.
522 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John Neligh, Josiah B. Frost, Thomas K. Williams and G. J. Keen, incoi-por-
ators. The capital stock was placed at $150,000.
Tiffin Savings Loan Association. — A building association was organized
February 12, 1873, at Tiffin, with the following members : WaiTen P. Noble, C.
Geyer, John G. Gross, J. Neligh, J. A. Blair, Edward Jones and Jacob
F. Marquardt, incorporators. The capital stock was $200, 000.
Tiffin Savings Bank Association was organized March 1, 1873, with the fol-
lowing members: John G. Gross, John Neligh, Jacob F. Marquardt, Edward
Jones and George W. Bachman. The capital stock was §100,000. This com-
pany organized with John G. Gross, president, and D. D. Dildine, cashier,
who conducted it for four years, when it merged into the Commercial Bank.
Home Building Association of Tiffin was incorporated Januaiy 30, 1874,
with the following members: D. P. Dildine, J. A. McFarland, A. C. Baldwin,
N. G. Hayward and George Gassman.
Clinton Building and Loan Association was organized May 5, 1874, with E.
H. Swander, John H. Foulk, "\Y. T. Knouse, Edward Knouse and Thomas
Swander. members.
Commercial Bank of Tiffin was incorporated May 12, 1876, with Warren
P. Noble, S. B. Sneath, J. M. Kaull, Herman Bust, J. G. Gross, J. A. Blair,
Edward Jones, Charles Geyer. John A. McFarland, A. G. Sneath, I. L. St.
John and Christian Mueller, members. The capital stock was §100,000. The
officers are W. P. Noble, president; S. B. Sneath, cashier; John B. Runyan,
assistant cashier; and the directors: W^. P. Noble, Charles Geyer, R. R. Titus,
I. L. St. John, J. M. Kaull and S. B. Sneath.
PIONEER NOTES.
The first business established within the county was Erastus Bowe' s tavern
in 1817, on the north bank of the river, in the center of what is now Wash-
ington Street. The locality was called Pan Yan.
The first frame house erected at Tiffin was that of 1822 by Josiah
Hedges, which was used as a store the ensuing year. Here courts were held
until 1828, and here was the old Masonic Hall in 1847. This building, which
stood where the Advertiser office now is, was purchased by P. H. Ryan about
1856, and moved to a point near the mouth of Rock Creek, where it was used
as a pork jiacking house for sometime: was then used as a carpenter shop, and
later converted into a box factory. Spink, of Wooster, opened a store at Tiffin
in 1822. Milton McNeal opened a general store at Fort^Ball. and was followed
by Edar & Bowe, butchers. In December, 1825, John and Benjamin Pittin-
ger opened then- store; two years later Heniy Cronise opened a stock of diy
goods opposite the present store of J. M. Naylor; Julius Feldnagel opened his
tavern subsequently. Among the advertisements in the Patriot, in 1832, were
the following business notices : Moses D. Cadwallader carried on tailoring in the
building erected by Richard Sneath, known as the Mechanics' Hall. C. Brad-
ley advertised his meat market at the new market, front of the ice house.
Joseph Biggs, was a hat manuf actm-er ; John Searles and James C. MuiTey, ap-
praisers, and Thomas McMillen, justice of the peace, advertised a stray horse.
Drs. E. Dresbach and R. C. J. Carey established a branch of theii* Fort Ball
office in Mechanics' Hall, August 3, 1832. Dr. James Fisher opened a drug
store; Jacob Shoemaker advertised Jacob Koontz as an absconding debtor:
Mercer & Ebbert advertised their hat store. Keller, Grose and Cronise adver-
tised their patent gumming and cutting machine; Calvin Bradley leased the
Washington Hotel fi'om Richard Sneath, August 9, 1832. George W. Gist,
administrator of Dablah Litt, advertised personal property for sale. Sheriff
-# ^
-$1
^0-4-1^-^^ c^^Tim-aAct
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 525
David Bishop advertised for sale the one-third part of Section 20, Town 3
north, Range 15, in Delaware Land District, formerly owned by Alex Nutt, and
surveyed by David Eisdon.
In March, 1832, one William Brish opened a tavern at Fort Ball without
a license. He was brought to trial in October, 1832, but the indictment was
quashed. In December, 1832, Hezekiah Graff and Eli Stem entered into
partnership for the pui-pose of carrying on a saddle and harness business at
Tiffin. This partnership was dissolved in June, 1834, but in 183f3 ]VIi-. GraflP
sued his fi'iend for one-half the value of working stock. In 1833 a number of
mercantile houses were opened at Tiffin, and many mechanics' shops estab-
lished. In October, 1835, Thomas J. McCleary and Jonathan Whitehead
brought a !S55,000 stock of goods from New York to Tiffin, and carried on busi-
ness as J. Whitehead & Co., in a house adjoining Joel Stone's tavern, and the
back room and cellar of the tavern, the rent of all being $100 per year. In
1837 this partnership was brought into the comis. Abel Rawson was appointed
receiver.
The business circle ©f Tiffin in 18-1:7-48, was made up as follows: R. VV.
Shawhan, noi-thwest corner of Washington and Market; Rufus W. Reid,
where Grummel's store is; Cronise Bros., where Seewald's store is; Rummell &
Snyder, near Seewald' s store ; Robert Crum, Baldwin & Pride, Commercial Row;
Andrew Glenn, near alley; Jesse Shriver, in the Empire Block; Rolla Johnson,
northwest corner of Perry and Washington; W. D. Scott, south of Hubbard's
store, in Seney's building; George Taylor, Einstein & Hobbs, Howard & Nay-
lor, present stand; E. Ayres & Co., where the Gross Block is, and Ebbert &
Seney. Sidney Sea, Jr. , and M. D. Scott are now in business on State Street,
Chicago.
The medical circle, in 1847-48, comprised Drs. Ely Dresbach, Hemy
Kuhn, J. A. McFarland, Andrew Hepburn, James Fisher, B. Raymond, Jacob
Staub and S. W. Bricker.
The bar of Tiffin comprised Abel Rawson, Warren P. Noble, William H.
Gibson, R. G. Pennington, William Lang, William C. Hedges, Sidney Sea, J.
P. Pillars, Luther A. Hall, Jesse Stem. Richard Williams, Joel W. Wilson.
Joseph Walker completed the Fort Ball warehouse in February, 1848.
In 1847 the hotels were Smith's Clinton House, at Fort Ball; the Ameri-
can, the Ohio, the National and the Washington House, at Tiffin. At this
time, Fort Ball boasted of three dry goods stores, two groceries and one harness-
maker.
Pioneer Manufactures. — In this part of the history of Tiffin, the names of
traders, professional men and manufactui-ers, identified with the city dm-ing
its eai-lier years, are given, and where it was found possible to base a sketch of
an industry on something authentic, a history of such industry is given.
Paul D. Butler ei-ected a saw-mill on the Sandusky, between Tiffin and New
Fort Ball in 1819, which was the first manufacturing industry in the county.
Previous to 1821 this very primitive mill was discontinued, and part of its
timbers carried away by the great flood of that year. In January, 1847, a still
greater flood carried away many relics of pioneer settlement.
The Rock Creek Saw-mill was erected in 1822 by Josiah Hedges, about
one-quarter mile east of the original town of Tiffin, twenty-seven rods south-
east of the intersection of East Market and Circular Streets.
The Hedges Grist-mill, on the Sandusk}^ River, was constructed in 1822,
about one-half mile north of the original town. This was conducted by
William Hunter for a number of years. From 1847 to 1852 it was operated by
Georcre W. CuDningham, in connection with the Lugenbeel Mill, south of Tiffin.
526 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
In 1825 Jesse Spencer erected a saw-mill in the old town of Oakley, and
constructed a dam. His entire property was sold to Josiah Hedges, June 16,
1825. A reference to the case of Spencer vs. Hedges will give many particulars
relating to this old mill.
The Rock Creek Saw-mill was erected in 1826 by Josiah Hedges, at the in-
tersection of Circular road and East Market Street, on the site of the old mill.
This was rented shortly after to Joseph Janey, and was subsequently operated
by Uriah P. Coom-ad and Chris. Y. Pierson, fi'om August 3, 1832, until its
destruction by lire in 1833. The mill-dam was subsequently used for supply-
ing the water-power of the city mills. About 1836 Mr. Hedges constructed
another mill opposite William Hunters.
The Reuben Williams Mill, on what is known as the " Coe lands," was
erected in 1824.
The Hoagland Lime-kiln was established and a quarry opened by him about
1828.
The Lugenbeel Flouring-mill, built by Andrew Lugenbeel in 1885, was oper-
ated by Greorge W. Cunningham from 1847 to 1852. This is still standing
near the Tif&n Water-works, and the ancient mill-dam still gives evidences of
its solidity.
The Shoemaker Mill, built in 1845 by R. M. Shoemaker, was operated fi'om
1855 to 1858 by George W. Cunningham. Its location was one mile north of
Washington Street bridge, now operated by Speck & Sons.
The John Keller Mill, built in 1848, was taken charge of in 1858 by George
W. Cunningham. This mill burned down January 4, 1860. Its location was
two miles and a half down the river fi-om Washington Street Mill.
William Campbell and J. S. Robinson condvicted a cabinet and chair
factory separately after the dissolution of their partnership, June 23, 1832.
The first Tannery was established about 182/, on the northeast corner of
Market and Monroe Streets, by Andrew Frintchey, who died of cholera in 1 834.
The Pittinger Tannery was established in 1832, by Benjamin and John
Pittinger.
Fleming & Schock established their tannery on the site of Pittinger' s in
1839.
The Allen Brewery, the pioneer of its kind, was built on the opposite side
of the street fi'om the old Methodist Chru-ch, on the river bank.
Myers founded a small breweiy where Ulrich' s di'ug store now stands.
Sting's Brewery was established on Sandusk^^ Street.
The Kolb Bros'. Brewery was built at the corner of Market and Sandusky
Streets.
In 1848 Christ Mueller and Val. Schmidt established a lager beer brewery
at Tiffin, and in 1854 built a new brewery on River Street. In 1860 Mueller
purchased Schmidt' s interest, and converted the old brewery into a malt house.
Schmidt died in 1865, having, jointly with Mueller, the credit of establishing
the first lager beer brewery in Ohio. This is known as the Clinton Brewery.
H. Hubach's City Brewery is also an important industry.
Guy Stevens and Daniel Dildine established the pioneer foundry at the
north end of Moni-oe Street.
Jesse Wolf s Foundry, which some allege to have taken the place of Allen' s
Brewery, came next, then the Loomis & Nyman Foundry in 1847, and follow-
ing this all the iron works mentioned in the history of the city' s modern man-
ufacturers.
Rolla Johnson' s Ashery was on the south side of Perry Street, near Rock
Creek.
In January, 1863, W. R. Chamberlin established the Tiffin Barrel Factory.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. O'^i
The first brick yards were established in 1830-31 , one by John Strong near
the east end of Tiffin Street, and the other at Fort Ball. At the former yard
the brick for St. Mary's Church were manufactiu-ed in 1831 by Hennessy,
Kenny & Delaney; those for John Goodin's hotel were also made in that yard.
John Hoffman established the pioneer pottery of the county in 1834.
William D. Searles started the first tin utensil. factory.
The first gim shop and lock-making and repairing business was established
by Valentine Seewald about 1834, in Springdale.
Peter Van Nest, said to be the pioneer carriage builder of Ohio, established
a carriage factory near Allen' s brewery, opposite the first Methodist Episcopal
Churchj^'which was destroyed by fire January 26, 1854, when the first free
bridge was destroyed.
MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES, 1885.
The business houses of Tiffin, including hotels, stores, saloons and manu-
facturing establishments, numbered in 1884 412, and to-day there are about
600, a significant comparison. Together with the several business houses,
there are 8 newspaper offices, 24 law offices, 23 justices' and notaries' offices,
19 physicians' offices, and about 15 offices devoted to insurance and abstract of
title business. The leading factories are named in the following lists: Found-
ers and Machinists — Tiffin Agricultural Implement Works, Loomis & Nyman's
Foundry, and the National Machinery Company's Works. Furniture man-
ufacturers and dealers— Enterprise Manufacturing Company, School Furni-
ture Manufacturing Company, Grummel & Son, Fiege Bros., Charles W.
Horn and Henry Lemp. Harrow manufactui-ers— O'Brien Bros. Manufactur-
ing company. Hominy mill of J. P. Baker; potteries of J. Eidt & Son and
Francis X. Schultis; potash factory of Henry Trefflich; repair shops of
Bucher & Leichti; saw-mills of Frank Flumerfelt, David Martin and Martin
Moser; creamery and butter factory of Buskirk & Company; sash, door and
blind factories of the Enterprise Manufacturing Company, the Tiffin Manufac-
turing Company, the Tiffin Union Churn Company, Solomon Kaup and Will-
iam B. Stanley; Ohio Stove Company; water elevator factory of L. Van-
nette; boiler factory of John Canty; marble and granite works of Joseph
Harter, Thom & Co. and H. W. Yeager; bent wood works of Fishbaugh & Co.
and F. Smith; woodenware works of the Tiffin Churn Company, and box fac-
tory of Robert H. Whitlock & Co. ; wagon hound factory of Fishbaugh & Co. ;
boot and shoe factory of William A. Sponsler; brick and tile factories of
Alber Behm and William and Otto Heilman,-late John Heilman; broom factory
of Sedon Straub; breweries of H. Hubach (City Brewery) and C. Mueller (Clin-
ton Brewery) ; distillery of Andi-ew J. Brickner, C. K. Bowman; carriage and
wagon works of Henry Crooks. Lewis Deihl, Glassner & Shock, Blasius Hepp.
Kuder & Fry, O'Brien Bros. Manufacturing Company, P. Van Nest' s Sons, and
H. S. W^enner & Co. ; church furniture factories of the Tiffin Manufacturing-
Company; cigar factories of August Dressell, Benjamin Schinnes, F. J.,
Schneckenburger, Charles Weimer and Bernard Welter; woolen mills of E.
S. Rockwell; cooperages of Wendell Kuhn, A. Miller and Samuel Mundwiler;
gas and electric lights— Tiffin Gas Light and Tiffin Edison Electric Light
Companies; flouring-mills of AV. S. Bacon; Clifton Roller Mills, P. J.
Hyatt, Kimmel & Keller and McAdoo & Co. ; fire brick and fire clay manufac-
turing works of the Tiffin Gas Light Company; tinware works of George.
Ernest. Joseph L. Ranker and Ed. R. Stephenson, the soap works of the Tiffiu
Soap Company; in December, 1883, the Tiffin Stove Polish Company was
organized, of which A. L. Flack is general manager; there is also Jacobs Neck-
yoke manufactory.
528 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Loomis & Nyman's Foimdiy may be said to have been founded by Jesse
Wolf, who sold his buildings and machinery to Philetus Nyman and J. D.
Loomis, in 1847. In 1848 the new proprietors enlarged the works, and sub-
sequently added the manufacture of saw-mill machinery, plows and steam-
engines, to the old-time w^ork of the foundry. After the destruction of the
Yan Nest Carriage Shops, the new firm purchased the site, extended the old
building and erected a new building. During the last ten years special atten-
tion has been given to well-boring machinery, and the firm has the reputation
of being among the most extensive manufactui'ers of this class of machinery
in the United States. The steam engines used in the Tiffin Agricultiu-al Works,
and in the O'Brien CaiTiage Works, were manufactiu-ed here. George D.
Loomis became a member of the firm in 1879. This industry gives constant
employment to twenty-five men, and for a great part of the year to fifty men.
Tiffin Agricultiu'al Works of Smith, Barnes & Co. were established in
1858, south of the German Catholic Church, and the manufactui'e of agricult-
ural implements was carried on there until 1873.
Tiffin Agricultural Works Company was incorporated February 1,1865, with,
Abel T. Barns. N. M. Barns, George Shannon, E. C. Umsted, and Michael
Sullivan, members. The capital stock was placed at $50,000. In February,
1873, the stock was increased $25,000, and in March $15,000, making a total
of $90,000. In 1872-73 the present buildings of the company were erected on
Harrison and Minerva Streets, at a cost of over $90, 500, including machinery.
The presidents of the companv since 1865 have been A. T. Barnes, 1865-70; C.
C. Park, 1870-72; E. C. Umsted, 1872-75; George Shannon, 1875-82; B. G.
Atkins. 1882-85. The secretaries since 1865 have been: E. C. Umsted, 1865-
70; B. G. Atkins. 1870-82: R. Atkins, 1882-85. N. M. Barnes was superin-
tendent fi'om 1858 till his death in 1874. William H. Hall, the present superin-
tendent, was appointed in 1874. The company gives employment to 125 men,
the majority of whom are skilled mechanics. Horse-rakes, corn-shellers, hay-
tedders, brick machines, etc. , are manufactm-ed. The value of annual product
is about $175,000.
SaflFell & Baldwin Chiu-n Manufactimng Company was established in
1864, with building on site of present Union Company's Works. They can-ied
on business until 1876, when they reorganized as the Tiffin Union Chui'n Com-
pany.
Tiffin Union Chui'n Company was incorporated February 9, 1876, with A.
C. Baldwin, president ; Harrison Noble, vice-president, and C. H. Baldwin, sec-
retary, who have been re-elected annually down to the present time. The
buildings were erected in 1875, on the east side of Washington Street, along
the river bank, at a cost of about $18,000. The machineiy now in use is
valued at about $12,000, and the annual product at $50,000. The industry
gives employment to sixty hands.
O'Brien Bros. Manufacturing Company was established at Galva, 111., by
James O'Brien, in 1855, and conducted there until 1859, when he, with Will-
iam S. and Joseph P. O'Brien, established their works at Princeville,
111. From this time until 1865 the manufacture of wagons and carriages
was carried on there. In 1865 the machinery was moved to Kewanee, 111.
when the fii-m was reorganized as a stock company under the name of O'Brien
Bros. Manufactiu'ing Company. This industry, employing fifty-five men, was
moved to Tiffin Jamiaiy 1, 1882, where five acres of ground and 500,000 brick
were donated by a few citizens toward the establishment of such works. In
September, 1881, work on the buildings was begun, and completed in January,
1882, at a cost of $50,000. including machinery, some of which was moved
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. S29-
from Illinois. The business is now under the management of James O'Brien,
William S. and Joseph P. O'Brien, brothers; John E. , Henry E., and George
N., sons of James O'Brien, and Eugene N. O'Brien, son of William O'Brien.
This industry employs 100 men, including the Messrs. O'Brien, not
one of whom is a di'one member, each filling a department in the office or shops.
Such an industry has brought to Tiffin a great number of skilled workmen, and
one of the most enterprising manufacturing firms in the entire West. The
business is owned to-day by J. M. Ivaull, vice-president of the Commercial
Bank, referred to in the history of banking. The main building is 300x54 feet,
three stories, all brick, on stone foundation, with iron and asbestos roof. They
extend from South Greenfield Street to the Baltimore & Ohio and Northwestern
Ohio Eailroads, from which roads side-tracks enter the grounds. Wagons,
caiTiages, and vibrating harrows are the special manufactures. Their wagons
find a ready market all through the West to the Pacific. Their carriages are
favorably known in the East and West. The harrow was patented by W. S.
O'Brien in 1865, i-enewed in 1874, and forms oAe of the most popular farm
implements in use. The engine is a fifty horse-power stationary, manu-
factiu-ed by Loomis & Nyman, of Tiffin, for the works. The first fioor con-
sists of suite of offices, carriage repository, shipping and receiving department,
wood- working department, engine room, blacksmith department; capacity sev-
enty-five hub wagons and fifty carriages per week. On the second-floor are
the diy-house, oiling room, finishing department, carriage ware-room, trim-
ming department. On the third floor is the wagon- painting department, caiTiage
paint shop, etc. This immense establishment is the fourth one erected under
the supervision of Mr. O'Brien. Every department is carried forward to the
finishing point.
Clifton Steam Flouring-mills were built in 1860 by George W. Cunningham,
who conducted this industry until 1878, when the mills became the proj^erty
of the National Exchange Bank. The property was purchased by W. b^.
Bacon (who owned the Bloomville Mills) in 1879. The capacity is about 150
barrels per day. The mill is equipped with thirteen sets of rollers, and a full
line of modern machinery, di'iven by a seventy-five horse-power engine. The
mill, a three-story brick building, stands on the bank of the river, corner of
Water and Washington Streets. The industry gives employment to seven
hands.
McAdoo, Einsel & Shears' Steam Flouring-mill was erected in 1884, and
opened in January, 1885. The full capacity of the mill is 200 barrels every
twenty-foul- hours, in which about 1,000 bushels of wheat are used; at present
the mill is running about seven barrels an hour. The plant was designed by
H. B. Shears, and he and Robert McAdoo and Noah Einsel are the owners of
the mill.
Bowman Distillery, known as "No. 51" in the register, is located on the
south terrace of the river, on the site of the old Wagner-Brickner Distillery.
The product is seventy gallons of whisky per day.
Tiffin Woolen Mills Company was organized in May, 1867, withR.W. Shaw-
han, S. B. Sneath, H. A. Buskirk, W. W. Armstrong, John G. Gross, A. SafPell,
George W. Buskirk, J. M. Naylor. A.G. Sneath and W.C. Hedges, incorporators.
The capital stock was $100, 000— 1, 000 shares of $100 each. In February, 1872,
the capital was increased to $150,000. The names of A. B. Hovey and C. C.
Park appear among the directors. In 1880 the Tiffin Woolen Company leased
the buildings and machinery, and carried on work until 1882. when the mills
became the property of E. W. Shawhan. In October, 1883, the buildings and
machinery were sold to the present owner, E. S. Rockwell, who built uj) a
o30 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
reputation for the mills. The best material only is used in the woolen goods
produced, the best modern machinery has been introduced, and skilled worlonon.
only, are employed in the higher branches of the manufacture. Mr. Rockwell
^ is in partnership with his brother in woolen-mills at Dryden, N, Y. , established
in 1870. The industry at Tiffin gives employment to about 100 hands. The
buildings and machinery are valued at $50,000.
(Constantine Woolen Mills Company was organized May 4, 1871, with J.
Gilliland, James J. Hedges, Michael Scannell, Aaron Kreader, W. C. Hedges,
John G. Gross and H. J. Crouse, members, to conduct the manufactui-e of
woolen goods at Constantine. Mich. )
Whitlock Box Factory was established at Tiffin in 1883, by E. H.Whitlock,
owner of the Richmond & Danville, Ya. , Tobacco Box Factories. The build-
ings were completed in 1884, and since that time this industry has employed
fi-om thirty to. forty men. One million feet of lumber, principally sycamore,
are manufactured annually, but the capacity of the works is much larger. The
material is prepared here, and shipped to his other factories to be put together.
Franklin Harwood is manager at Tiffin, and representative of the owner in
Ohio.
Tiffin Creamery, the latest addition to local manufactimng industry, was
-established in the fall of 1885, by A. Buskirk & Sons, on the Buskirk farm,
south of Tiffin. It has a capacity of 1,500 pounds of butter per day, gnd the
cream will be gathered fi-om all parts of the county.
Thom & Reverts' Marble Works were consolidated with H. W. Yeagers
■works in March, 1885, when the two stocks were combined, and one of the most
extensive marble monument establishments in the State formed.
The first dye-house at Tiffin was established about 1870, at the south end
of Tiffin, by G. J. Rhorbacker. He carried on the business here for a few
years, when he moved to Sanduskj^
Tiffin Steam Dyeing AVorks were established by G. W. Rhorbacker in
1875. After three changes he moved to the present location on Water Street,
in rear of the Noble Building, known as the Riverside Block.
National Machinery Company of Tiffin was organized and incorporated
October 17, 1882, with the following named members: William R. Anderson,
Peny M. Adams, W. P. Noble, James A. Blair, J. M. Naylor and J. W.
Chamberlin. The works of this company fi-ont on South Greenfield Street,
extending back to the railroads. The industry gives employment to a large
number of skilled worlanen.
Tiffin Tool Company was organized and incorporated September 30, 1882,
with J. H. Frost, H. Jacobs, C. H. Muencher, J. J. Butts and John Jacobs,
incorporators, for the purpose of manufacturing farm and garden implements
■and various machinery tools. The capital stock was placed at §50,000. This
institution is more familiarly known as the Combination Tool Factory, or the
Sandusky Hoe Company. They occupied the large building of Adams & Let-
terhos on Market Street, continuing there until their new buildings in the
Second Ward were completed.
Tiffin Manufactiu'ing Company was organized November 27, 1874, with the
following members: Jacob Schoeber, Levi Wen-ick. W. H. Gibson. W. H. Keil-
holtz, Charles Geyer, Martin Wagner, Harrison Noble, George W. Bachman,
C. J. Yingling and Lewis Seewald. The objects of the company were to estab-
lish a sash, door and blind factory, and the manufactui'e of church fiu-niture,
and kindred goods.
Enterprise Manufactiu-ing Company of Tiffin was incorporated May 7, 1881,
with J. W. Love, H. J. Stolzenbach, Charles Ernest, John Ernest, D. K
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 531
Frederici, Frank Frederici, Peter Swope and Joseph Secrist, members. The
object of the company was to carry on the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds,
moldings and furniture. The works have been well established and a large
trade made.
School Furnitui-e Manufacturing Company, organized a few years ago, is in
successful operation.
Ohio Stove Company was incorporated April 28, 1879, with John M.
Myers, Omar Wilson, Jacob Martin, Thomas J. Kintz and A. J. Brickner,
members. The manufacture of stoves, hollow ware and castings was the ob-
ject of organization. The industry to-day is one of the leading ones in this
section of the State, and its location, near the Indiana, Bloomington & West-
ern and the Baltimore & Ohio depots, is always the scene of busy manufac-
turing life.
Excelsior Fork Company was organized January 11, 1867, for the manu-
facture of pitchforks and hay-elevators. The Ohio Stove Works Com-
pany was incorporated July, 1867. A company under the name " Tiffin Paper
Mills, " organized February 27, 1873, and another company — " Tiffin Paper
Mill" — was incorporated the same day. In March, 1873, a company known as
the "Ohio Stove Company" was organized; in May, 1873, the Ohio Shoe Fac-
tory Company was incorporated, and in November, 1873, the Machine Works of
Tiffin; December 1, 1873, the Tiffin Shoe Factory Company was organized; in
May. 1874, the Ohio Ceramic Works Company was organized, and March 14,
1876, the Sovereign Co-operative Trade Company. In earlier years, between
1865 and 1867, the Ohio & West Virginia Petroleum and Mining Company, and
the Tiffin Gold and Mining Company of Colorado were incorporated; and in
November, 1868, the Young America Manufactui'ing Company of Dakota, and
in 1872, the Tiffin Car Works. Again in October, 1883, the Tiffin Soap Com-
pany was organized.
Tiffin Natural Gas Company was organized in July, 1885, with B. W.
Wilson, J. J. Flick, J. W. Brown and M. F. Baldwin, members. In Septem-
ber, 1885, J. E. Brownyar, of Bradford, Penn. , came to Tiffin with a view of
arranging with the company to begin work. From what has been written in
the chapter on the geology of the county, there can exist little doubt regarding
the success of the enterprise at Tiffin.
Tiffin Gas Light Company was organized in 1856, with Edward Gwynn and
others, incorporators, Mr. Gwynn subscribing for 1,150 shares and R. G. Pen-
nington and others for 50 shares of $25 each. An ordinance of the council gave
the new company many privileges, and with the capital and those privileges
they established their works on Rock Creek, near Perry Street bridge. In
1860 John Gwynn, a lawyer of Tiffin, piu-chased his brother' s interests ; ten
years after he sold the works to George E. Seney and the late John T. Huss,
and in 1875 Judge Seney became sole owner. The works are conducted by
John M. Bate, on principles of economy which imu-e to the benefit of the con-
sumer as well as the manufacturer, the former receiving a good light for the
smallest possible consideration.
COAL YARDS.
The first coal yard established at Tiffin was that kept by Jacob Shriver in
1864 or 1865, near the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Depot. W. B. Stanley
opened one near the Indiana, Bloomington & Western Depot. Lawson, Green-
leaf and Buskirk followed in the oAvnership of the Shriver Yard. Stanley's
Yard was purchased in 1882 by Dildine & Glick. A coal yard was established
near the Pennsylvania Railroad Depot by Crooks & Blish, which is now owned
by J. F. Zeller.
532 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
HOTELS.
Erastus Bowe kept the first tavern at Fort Ball. Elisba Smith kept a tav-
ern at Foii Ball for some years prior to 1826, and William Montgomery car-
ried on one in 1826.
George Park erected a log-liouse on the south side of East Perry Street for
purposes of a hotel or tavern, the first in the city. His next building, which
stood on the site of the National Hall Block, was a two-story frame, in which
Eli Norris carried on hotel business. John Staub was also interested for a
time in this building as lessee.
Calvin Bradley' s hotel, what is now Eemele' s meat market, was established
as the Central House and jDurchased by R. Sneath in 1826. In 1832, ]VIi-.
Bradley leased the house fi'om Sneath and changed the name to " Washington
House.'"
The Western Exchange Hotel, south of the original town, was erected in
1836 by Calvin Bradley, and the building is still standing on South Washing-
ton Street. This was also used as Bradley's stage station.
Joel Stone's tavern, as it existed in 1835, was a commodious, well-kept
house.
John Goodin. who settled at Tifiin in 1828, erected the first brick hotel
building on Lot 86 in 1832, and conducted it until the building was
leased to T. J. McCleary. This house stood where Loser' s confectionery store
now is, and John Kriedler, H. Lease, Orrin Hart and others carried on hotel
keeping in it for years. Goodin removed to Hardin County, where he was in-
terested in his brother David's extensive business.
Feldnagel" s Tavern stood near the old Sting Brewery. This was established
about the fall of 1832.
In the fall of 1834, the Hoffman Tavern was opened, the first German
tavern at Tiffin.
John Staub kept a tavern at the northwest corner of Market and Monroe
Streets for some time. This building is still in existence.
Eli Norris' Tavern was a celebrated hostelry of olden times, and the pro-
prietor one of the true pioneer tavern keepers.
Richard Sneath purchased the Central House, in 1826 or 1828, for $400 fi-om
Calvin Bradley, and entered hotel life.
The Shawhan House was erected by R. W. Shawhan in 1850, and opened
by John Staub in December of that year. In 1854 French & Smith were pro-
prietors.
In 1859 there were no less than seven hotels at Tiffin, namely, the American
House, Davis House, Franklin House, Holt House, A. R. VanDorn's and the
Shawhan House. Since that tim6 the Shawhan House has been transformed
.into a modern hotel; the Lang House was erected on East Market Street, op-
posite the court house, in 1874; the Empire House on South Washington Street
was built, the Commercial on Market Street, and a number of smaller houses
were added to the hotels of the city. The Zellers, now of Defiance, have
been connected with the Shawhan House for many years. In May, 1885,
John O. Plank sold the lease and furnitm-e of this popular hotel to J. S. Mor-
ris, superintendent of the Northwestern Ohio Railroad, whose son, Frederick
P. Morris, is manager, with W. T. Zeller and William Eichert, clerks.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Telegraph, Telephone and Express Comjjanies. — The first telegraph line was
constructed in 1849, along the line of the Mad River and Lake Erie Railroad.
Since that time the Western Union and the Biirlington & Ohio Telegraph
Companies have opened offices here.
It
^5z^' <2U<3^-^£^
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 535
Tiffin Telephone Company was organized April 27, 1881, with the follow-
ing named members: Omar Wilson, John M. Myers, A. J. Brickner, E. S.
Myers and C. D. Sprague. Almost all the important business houses and
offices of Tiffin are now connected by telephone, while outside towns and vil-
lages are brought within speaking distance.
The various express companies are represented here.
Railroads. — The railroads entering Tiffin are the Baltimore & Ohio, the
Indiana, Bloomington & Western, and the Northwestern Ohio, latter operated
by the Pennsylvania Company with J. S. Morris, superintendent, all of which
are referred to in Chapter XI.
Tiffin Water-ivorks were established in 1878, under authority of a State
charter and an ordinance of the city, granting the company the right to
lay down water mains, and giving the exclusive right of water supply for
twenty-five years. The system adopted is that known as the ' 'Holly Direct
Pressure System;" the works were constructed by S. L. Wiley & Company and
were transferred to Tiffin Water-works Company, on completion and accept-
ance by the city.
The pumps used are the Holly Quadruplex Pumping Engine, oj)erated by
water-power; capacity, 3,000,000 United States gallons in twenty-four hours.
There is also a Knowles & McGowen pump operated by steam, combined capa-
city of which is 3,000,000 United States gallons in twenty-four houi's. The
power is in duplicate by water and steam. Pumping station is located on the
west bank of the Sandusky River, about one mile and a quarter southwest of
city at the old Lugenbeel Flouring-mill.
The network of piping consists of cast and wrought pipe, about fifteen
miles in length ; there are two water mains separately connected with this net-
work in the city, one sixteen-inch and one twelve-inch, one on the east and one
on the west side of the river; there are 107 hydrants and about 350 water
consumers. The first officers were S. L. Wiley, president and manager, and
M. Scannell, superintendent. The present officers are M. Scannell, president
and manager, and George William Ballon, treasurer and secretary.
Places of Amusement. — Tiffin Opera House Company was organized De-
cember 9, 1878, with the following membership: Scudder Chamberlain, O.
P. Snyder, A. L. Flack, G. Ernest, W. P. Noble, J. M. Kaull, J. A. Blair, J.
F. Bunn, George E. Seney, John McCauley, J. M. Naylor, Edward Jones, M.
Kirchner, S. B. Sneath and C. Mueller.
The National Hall, which took the place of the old Methodist Episcopal
Church as the home of the drama, built by William C. Hedges, in 1862, forms
the leading place for the drama in the city. Where this building stands was
' 'Rat Row, ' ' comprising the American House, Abbot' s, Gallup' s and Gipson' s
stores and Dresbach's and Rawson's offices.
Roller Skating Rinks. — This novel diversion, which has, in many instances,
won the attention of old as well as young away from the biisiness office, school
or home, was established at Tiffin in the fall of 1884, by Messrs. Ross &
Bowers, of Boston. Mass. The amusement was known as "the skating rink
craze. ' ' So great was the support tendered to the new enterj^rise, a competitor
appeared in May, 1885, and a new rink was constructed on the west bank of
Rock Creek, fronting on Market Street. Whether the roller skate is an es-
tablished institution, like base ball, remains for the future to decide. During
the winter of 1884-85 it appeared to have gained many admirers.
The Tiffin Board of Trade was organized in January, 1881, with the follow-
ing named members: G. E. Seney, Harrison Noble, S. B. Sneath, Thomas J.
Kintz, Perry M. Adams, J. A. Blair, S. Chamberlain, A. C. Barbom-, A. J.
536 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Brickner, George D. Loomis, J. Scheiber, Francis Wagner, ^\. P. Noble, O.
T. Locke, G. W. Stephenson, George Ernest. P. Grammes, E. Andre, F.
Grummel, Bloom & Bro. , E. Baker, P. Scheib, C. J. Yingling, J. H. Frost,
G. A. Corthell, S. J. Kintz, Charles Martin, George R. Huss, J. F. Mar-
quardt, John A. Hall, Fred K. Holdei-man, E. B. Hubbard, F. Nicolai, George
Vanderpool.
CONCLUSION.
In the pages just wi-itten every branch of life connected with the city, from
the earliest times, finds a notice without elaboration — a statement of fact
without exaggeration. Many points of interest in the city' s histoiy being so in-
tei-woven with the coimty, it was deemed well to give them a place in the pages
of the general history, and thus many interesting incidents and names cannot
be found in this chapter.
There is no history of failure attached to the city. The men who settled
here knew no such word as fail: consequently it is a story of success, following
industry, perseverance, toleration and intelligence. We could name 300 men
to whose liberal policy and untiring zeal the city is indebted for its growth and
position among the large towns of the Northwest. To the wisdom and policy
of him who selected the location, and fostered early manufacturing and busi-
ness enterprises, a great deal of Tiffin' s success is due, but the great achieve-
ment which placed the city's business and social life on their present substan-
tial footing must be credited to our own times and men, to their enterprise and
virtues.
CHAPTER XVIII,
EDEN TOWNSHIP.
THIS township boasts of being the first agricultural settlement in the
county, and the first in fertility of soil and beauty of landscape. In
1820 it was known as Township 1 north, Eange 15 east, and in this year it was
surveyed in quarter-sections by David Risdon and James T. Wox-thington, the
Van Meter Reservation being the exception. This reservation extended west
fi-om the center of Sections 5 and 8 to the west line of the township, or the
east line of the Walker Reservation in Bloom. The treaty of the foot of the
Rapids of the Miami, negotiated April 29, 1817, provided for the establish-
ment of this reservation in the following words : "To John Van Meter, who
was taken prisoner by the Wyandots, and who has ever since lived among
them and has married a Seneca woman, and to his wife and wife's three broth-
ers, Senecas (Brandts), who now reside on Honey Creek, 1,000 acres, to begin
north. 45° west, 140 poles fi'om the house, in which the said John Van Meter
now lives, and to run thence south 320 poles, thence and from the beginning
east for quantity. ' ' This tract was piu'chased by Lloyd Norris in 1828 fi'om
John Van Meter, Jr., and his uncles, the Brandts, and forty years later
formed the farms of Clementine Kishler, J. W. Miller, S. J. Seed, Thomas
Lahere, M. A. Trexler, H. Lease and Eden Lease. The greater part of the
Van Meter Huckleberry Swamp was in the south center of the northwest quar-
ter of Section 7, and the lake on the northwest quarter of Section 8, within
the reservation.
EDEN TOWNSHir. 537
The Sandusky River courses through Section 31. Hone Creek, an Eden
like stream, enters the township in Section 24, flows southwest by Melmore-
and enters on its northwestern coui'se in the southwest quarter of Section 27,
leaving the township in the northwest quarter of Section 6. Rock Creek
enters the township in Section 1, flows south to Section 12; thence in a general
course west to Section 10, and northwest to Section 4, leaving the township in
the northeast quarter of that section. Brandt Creek, which flows through a
small lake on Section 8, enters Honey Creek above the mill-race. Numerous
streams course through this favored division of the county, and springs, as
well as spring creeks, are found in almost every section. The surface is gen-
erally rolling, broken along the streams, and the soil fertile.
Organic and Official. — Eden Township was set off in 1821, and the first
e'lection held June 4, 1821, at John Searles' house. Henry Craw, James
Mathers and John Welch were elected trustees; David Clarke, clerk; John
Searles, treasurer; Ira Holmes and John Searles, overseers of the poor; Dan-
iel Pratt and John Searles, fence viewers; Hugh Welch and Ira Holmes,
appraisers; Samuel Knapp and John Welch, road supervisors, and Thomas
Welch, constable. The early records were kept so very poorly, the board con-
tracted with John Lamberson in 1834 to have them copied. The board of
trustees fi'om 1824 to 1827 comprised Richard Jaqua, I. J. Halsey and Elisha
Williams. In the following record the names of trustees are given first,
while the name of the clerk holds the last place on each line:
1828. — Elisha Williams, Selden Graves; John Kagy.
1829. — Ira Holmes, John Kensor, Chris. Si)onable; B. Hutchins.
1830. — Ira Holmes, John Kensor, Chris. Sponable; Dan Palmer.
1831.— S. S. Martin, John Welch, D. McClung; John Kinger.
1832.— S. S. Martin, John Welch, D. McClung; M. J. Cornell.
1833. — Thomas Baker, Samuel Saul, Noah Seitz; M. M. Wright.
1834. — John T. Bretz, Samuel Saul, D. McClung; John Lamberson.
1835. — Martin Welch, William Watson, D. McClung; James Gray.
1836. — George Denison, S. S. Martin, John Baker; James Gray.
1837. — Case Brown, S. S. Martin, John Baker; James Gray.
1838. — George A. Blackwell, Abram Hess, John Baker; James Gray.
1839. — Case Brown, Abram Hess, Thomas J. Baker; Chester Brown.
1840. — Noah Seitz, S. Saul, James C. Murry; H. W. Burrows.
1841. — William Randall, Ezra Brown, S. Saul; John Lamberson.
1842. — D. M. Eastman, Jonah Brown, William Randall; John Lamberson.
1843. — Jonas Hershberger, George A. Blackwell, Jonah Brown ; Hiram Flack.
1844. — William Marquis, Jonas Hershberger, G. A. Blackwell; Hiram Flack.
1845. — John Bretz, Jonas Hershberger, Aaron Howell; J. D. Bui'ns.
1846-47. — Sylvanus Arnold, John Bretz. Aaron Howell; John Lamberson.
1848.— Philip Bretz, S. Saul, H. S. Berber; Sylvanus Arnold.
1849. —Martin Welch, H. S. Barber, Philip Bretz-, James M. Stevens.
1850. — John Kagy, Aaron Howell, John T. Bretz; Moses King.
1851. — John Kagy, Levi Chamberlain. Matt Elliott; Moses King.
1852. — John White, Richard Jaqua, Matthew Elliott; John Rosegrat.
1853. — John White, Richard Jaqvia, George Kennedy; James M. Stevens.
1854. — Samuel Herrin, R. Jaqua, George Kennedy; James M. Stevens.
1855. — William Watson, H. H. Shanck, R. Jaqua; Heniy J. Crouse.
1856.— H. H. Shanck, W. Watson, P. Bretz; Henry J. Crouse.
1857. — H. S. Barber, S. Chamberlin, H. H. Shanck; J. J. Crouse.
1858.— H. S. Barber, S. Chamberlin, H. H. Shanck; W. W. Grant.
1859. — G. Cowles, S. Chamberlin, T. J. Baker; J. J. Crouse,
538 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
I860.— M. S. Paynter, T. J. Baker. S. Chamberlin; J. J. Grouse.
1861.— M. S. Paynter. T. J. Baker. S. Chamberlin; J. J. Grouse.
1862. — Abram Brown. S. Gliamberlin. M. S. Paynter; J. J. Grouse.
1863. — David Huss. Kicliard Baker, Abram Brown; A. S. Beryman.
1864.— William Furgeson. David Huss, R. Baker; J. J. Grouse.
1865. — William Furgeson, Ed. Andre, Benjamin M. Gibson; Samuel Snover.
1866. — William Watson. William Fvirgeson. Ed. Andi-e; J. J. Grouse.
1867.— William Barrick. W. Furgeson. William Watson; J. J. Grouse.
1868-69.— Jolin T. Reed. William Fleet. William Barrick; J. J. Grouse.
1870.— W^illiam Snvder. John Tuttle. William Barrick; J. J. Grouse.
1871.— John L. Gross, James Brinkerhoff. William Barrick; J. J. Grouse.
1872.— E. Shumaker. S. Herrin. J. Brinkerhoff; J. D. Stalter.
1873.— Isaiah Kline, William Snyder, J. Brinkerhoff; Hemy G. Pittman.
1874.— Lorenzo Rogers, Isaiah Kline. J. Brinkerhoff: Henry G. Pittman.
1875.— John Loose, Isaiah Kline, J. Brinkerhoff; Henry G. Pittman.
1876.— J. H. Loose, E. Shumaker. I. Kline; Henry G. Pittman.
1877.— David Berger. L. Barrick. I. Kline; Henry G. Pittman.
1878.— John Wax. David Berger, S. D. Brundage; Henry G. Pittman.
1879.— David Berger, G. H. Baker. W. B. Hamlin; Henry G. Pittman.
1880.— W. B. Hamlin. G. H. Baker. J. H. Brinkerhoff; J. W. Warner.
1881.— J. H. Brinkerhoff, A. Swigert. W. P. Steele; J. W. Warner.
1882.— W. P. Steele, A. Swigert, Adam Keifer; J. W. Warner.
1883. — W. P. Steele, Lemuel Downs, Adam Keifer; J. W. Warner.
1884.— David Berger, Adam Keifer, Aaron Swigert; H. G. Pittman.
1885.— G. W. Snyder, Adam Keifer, George Heabler, trustees; H. G. Pitt-
man, clerk; Joseph Rhodes and James Patton, justices of the peace; Isaiah
Kline, treasurer; R. A. Gole, assessor; William Osborne and John Garroll,
constables.
General Statistics. — The assessment roll of Eden Township, made in 1841,
shows 12,935 acres of land, valued at $71,158; town lots valued at $4,863;
horses, 377, valued at $15,080; cattle, 662, valued at $5,296; mercantile capi-
tal and monev at interest, $5,873; pleasure carriages, 6, valued at $255.
Total, $102,525. Total tax, $1,409.71. Delinquencies since 1840, $165.48.
The valuation and taxation of Eden Township for 1884-85 are given as fol-
lows: Acres of land, 22,793, valued at $918,400, with personal property val-
ued at $235,750, making a total of $1,154,150. The population of the town-
ship in 1880 was 1,598, to each of whom (were such a thing as communal
division possible) $722.02 would be given. The total tax for 1884-85 is placed
at $12,719.29, together with $93 dog tax. The State tax forms $3,231.62 of
the total. The true valuation of this township approximates $3,200,000. The
general statistics of Eden Township for 1884 are as follows: 4,342 acres of
wheat; 23 of rye; 3 of buckwheat; 1,342 of oats yielding 52,2 <4 bushels;
2.995 of corn producing 82.850 bushels; 1,011 acres of meadow, 1.310 tons
of hay; 1,516 acres of clovej, 1,916 tons of hay, 1,259 bushels of seed, and
31 acres plowed under; 10 < acres of potatoes, 12,338 bushels; home-made
butter, 55,250 pounds; 1 acre of sorghum, 44 gallons; 788 pounds of maple
sugar, 583 gallons of maple syrup; 92 hives, 1,038 pounds of honey; 34,675
dozens of eggs; 4 acres of vineyard, 700 pounds of grapes in 1883. 10 gal-
lons of wine; 10 bushels of sweet potatoes; 402 acres of apples, 4,83/ bushels;
2 bushels of peaches, 230 of pears, 9 of cherries and 2 of plums; 15,380
acres of land cultivated; 2,304 in pasture; 4, 144 in woodland, 119 acres waste;
total acreage. 21,947; wool, 47,432 pounds; milch cows in 1883, 551; dogs,
94; sheep killed and injured by dogs, 11; domestic animals died of disease,
28 hogs, 89 sheep, 13 cows and 6 horses.
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 539
School statistics. — In June, 1838, the township of Eden was laid oflP into
nine school districts, and the first regular school organization established. The
present condition of the schools of Eden is set forth as follows: Local tax,
$2,086; receipts, $5,497: expenses, $3,435; schoolhouses, 10; value of prop-
erty, $2,700; number of teachers, 16; average pay, $40 and $20; male pupils,
100; female pupils, 110.
Pioneer History. — The first settlers of the township were undoubtedly the
remnant of the Mohawk band of Indians, who came here about the last quar-
ter of the last century, a few Wyandots, and their captives, Catherine Walker
and John Van Meter. Consul Butterfield, the first historian of the county, and
himself a pioneer of this township, writing in 1847, says: " Vanmeter was
captured by the Wyandot Indians, in the month of March, 1778, at the age of
five, at Greenbriar, near West Liberty, in the State of Virginia. The people
in the neighborhood, having been frequently alarmed by Indian aggressions,
had assembled for the purpose of building a fort to protect themselves from
savage cruelty. It was a beautiful day in the spring of the year, and two of
the elder boys of the family were directed to proceed to a 'chopping,' and
arrange some brands. John accomj)anied them, and the father proceeded to
the fort. The boys had but just commenced their work, when they were sud-
denly beset by a party of Indians. The elder boys made good their escape,
but John was easily captured. The Indians then directed their course to the
house of Vanmeter, set it on fire, murdered his wife and daughter, and imme-
diately fled to the wilderness, carrying with them their captive boy. He ever
afterward lived among the Indians, completely forgetting his native tongue,
though he learned it again before he died, so as to converse quite fluently. He
was afterward induced to visit his relatives and friends; but refused to remain
among them, preferring, as he said, ' the innocent and mirestrained indulgences
of the Indian's life to the arbitrary restraints of civilized society.' Vanmeter
was a man of more than ordinary decision of character, of a benevolent dis-
position, and friendly to the whites. Owning a large stock of cattle and sev-
eral horses, early settlers relied much upon his generosity; and it was not in
vain that they sought relief at his hands in times of distress and destitution.
He married a woman of the Seneca nation (a relative of the celebrated Brandt,
whose name is well known in the State of New York), and died some years ago
on the grant made him by the United States. ' ' Johnny married a Mohawk
Indian woman, commonly called Susan Brandt, and liecame an Indian of the
Indians. The marriage ceremony was very simple: Johnny went into the
forest and killed a deer, which he brought to Thomas Brandt's cabin. Susan
gathered some corn, and returning to her brother's cabin received Johnny's
present of the deer, cooked the corn and venison together, of which both ate
in the presence of witnesses, and thus a marriage ceremony was gone through.
Some few years after the death of one of the Welch brothers, about 1826,
John Vanmeter. Sr. , died here. Having learned to speak the English Ian- •
guage between 1819 and the date of his death, he became a favorite with the
first white settlers, all of whom attended his fianeral, and one of whom
exhumed his body in 1829 or 1830 for the purpose of obtainiDg the skeleton.
The families of John Vanmeter, Jr. , old Susan Vanmeter. the three families of
the Brandts, the negro j^reacher, Jonathan Pointer, and twenty other lodges
of Mohawks left their happy hunting-grounds on Honey Creek for that portion
of Kansas now known as Cherokee County, but subsequently moved 100 miles
south to the Lower Neosha Country.
Thomas and Hugh Welch, who settled in Eden Townshij) in February, 1819,
on land which was the property of David Olmstead in 1847, and Martin and
540 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
John Welch, who settled in Eden in June, 1819, were the pioneers of Ameri-
can civilization. Buttertield noticing the settlement says : "In the month of
February, 1819, Thomas and Hugh Welch started from Huron County to seek
a home in the wilds of Seneca. Having reached the limits of the county, as
since defined, they soon stnick a beautiful stream of water, where they encamped
for the night. On awakening in the morning a beautiful sight met their vision.
The sun just peeping over the distant horizon, giving a fantastic glimmer to
the lovely forest trees, whose lofty stems and wide- spread branches, the latter
covered with verdant leaves, and overshadowing them as they lay under the
broad canopy of heaven, shielded by naught biit these ' monarchs of the for-
est,' the grand old oak, the now precious black walnut, and the less pretentious
hickory ! All these trees, in natiu-e' s bounteousness, thickly grouped together,
formed one dense, but valuable forest. Here and there, amid this beauteous
scene, were growing in the infant spring the odoriferous leek, and a few wild
fiowers disseminated their fragrance in the silent woods. The spot was pro-
tected from the severity of winter by the overhanging branches of the suiTound-
ing trees, which assisted nature in the production of this early vernal vegeta-
tion. The stream where they had encamped was Honey Creek. The following
morning they proceeded down the stream until they arrived within the
present limits of Eden Township. In the vicinity of what is now the resi-
dence of William Fleet, they came upon a band of Seneca Indians employed
in making sugar, and with them they again encamped for the night. The next
morning, pursuing their journey down the ci'eek, they arrived at a Mohawk In
dian village, consisting of about twenty log-huts, pleasantly situated upon both
sides of the stream. This village was located on a tract of land of 1,000
acres, granted at the treaty of the Miami of Lake Erie to one John Yanmeter,
a white man, and to his wife' s brothers. "
John Searles, of whom reference is made in the history of Tiffin and Fort
Ball, was one of the first resident citizens within the old fort in 1820. He
moved to Eden Township in the fall, and, in April, 1821, assisted by the Welch
brothers, including Henry, not hitherto mentioned, opened a road from Section
30, Clinton, to Section 4.' Eden. This Searles was a soldier of 1812, and a
useful citizen of the county up to his death in 1844.
Ira Holmes, an old settler of Chenango County, N. Y. , and a native of
that State, came in immediately after the Searles family, and about the same
time the Sponables. Clarks, Browns, Kuapps, Craws and Daniel Pratt came to
the county and decided on making their homes in Eden.
Personal Mention of Pioneers. — A. N. Ai-mstrong came in 1847.
Baker family, four brothers, Franklin, Thomas, John and Richard, and f our
sisters, Mary Baker, Sophia (Baker) Stearns, Lucretia (Baker) Arnold and Ann
(Baker) Knapp, all children of Samuel Baker, and natives of Connecticut, were
represented in the township in 1822 by Franklin and Thomas. John came in
1823; Sophia (Stearns) settled with her husband on Eock Creek in 1828, and
Richard near Melmore in 1835, the latter coming from Steuben County, N. Y.
. . . .John AY. Barrick, born in Maryland in 1817, and his mother, Mrs. George
BaiTick, who died in 1858, settled here in 1846. . . .Rev. Joseph Bever, a native
of Yirginia, after doing considerable pioneer work in other parts of the State,
settled here in 1823. . . .Peter Bever came at the same time. . . .George Bever.
a native of Rockingham County, Ya., in 1800, and one of the old residents of
this county, died in 1869 .... John and Eliza (Lewis) Bigham, natives of
Maryland, parents of John Bigham, of Jackson Township, came to Eden
Township in 1834. . . .Mrs. Sarah Boroff, of Yirginia. widow of Henry Boroff,
came to this county at an early day, bringing four children, of whom Mrs.
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 541
Jolin L.- Cross, of Eden Township (married in 1839), is one.... Jacob and
Phila (Wolf) Bretz, parents of Mrs. Capt. R. H. Bever, of Tiffin, were pio-
neers of Eden Township. . . .The Bnindage family came in 1821. . . . Aaron Bni--
ton, who died in the coimty infirmary in December, 1881, resided in Eden for
over half a century. It is said that he was between one hiindi-ed and thi'ee and
one himdred and fom- years old at the time of his death. He recollected and
could relate many incidents of the Eevolutionary war, and remembered distinctly
having seen the horse rode by Gen. George Washington .... Anson Biirlingame,
of Chinese treaty fame, was an early settler and school teacher of Eden Town-
ship .... Jacob and Adeline (AVilson) Buskirk came from Pennsylvania in 1832,
to Slelmore, bringing their infant son, Albert Buskirk, who was born that year
in Pennsvlvania. Here Jacob Buskirk died in 1837; his widow died in Lima,
Ohio, in 1880....Amroy Butterfield, who was killed July 1(3, 1836, at Mel-
more, was one of the early settlers of Eden. His son, Consul Butterfield, was
the first historian of the county, publishing a small book in 1818, and a history
of Crawford' s campaign and death, subsequently. His daughter, a contributor
to Madame Demorest' s Magazine, New York, and subsequently a correspondent
of the New York Herald at Paris, manled the ex-priest Hyacinthe, at one time
a celebrated preacher. There were six other children, all of whom were pio-
neers of this township. . . .Ezra Brown, who settled in Eden Township in 1821.
with his brother, Case Brown, was a soldier of 1812, and a comrade of Richard
Jaqua, escaping with him from Canada, and participating in many of his ad-
ventures.
Jacob and Elizabeth (Johnson) Chamberlain, parents of Scudder Chamber-
lain, of Tiffin, who was born in New Jersey in 1819, came from New Jersey,
settling in Melmore in 183(3. .. .Matthias Clark and his wife, Maria (Cope-
land) Clark, natives of Pennsylvania, were pioneers of Wayne County, Ohio,
and early residents of Seneca County, Ohio .... Samuel Clark, of Eden Town-
ship, died in 1832 .... James Corbett, father of Martin Corbett, settled in
Eden Township prior to 1830 .... John and Deborah (Comegys) Cross, natives
of Maryland, parents of John L. Cross, of Eden Township (who was born in
Virginia in 1812), came to Eden Township in 1828.
John and Elizabeth (Eckhart) Ditto, married October 11, 1811, settled in
Clinton Township in 1822, and also owned an eighty acre tract in Eden Town-
ship. John died in 1853. He served in the war of 1812, located at Pickaway,
Ohio, after the war, and came to Seneca to share in the hunt with the Mohawks
and Wyandots .... IVIi-s. Eliza Ditto was born on the Atlantic Ocean, while her
parents were emigrating to America fi'om Germany, June 23, 1795. She and
her husband settled in Seneca County at a very early day, and for over sixty years
resided on their farm.- She died August 9, 1885 .... John and Caroline (Hol-
den) Downs, former a native of Virginia, latter of Kentucky, parents of John
L. Downs, of Eden Township (who was born in Ohio in 1812), came to Eden
Township in 1821, Mi-. Downs having previously been here to enter and clear
up land.
William Ferguson, born in Pennsylvania in 1817, came to Seneca County
in 1815, first living on Silver Creek, then purchasing the farm where he now
resides in Eden Township .... William Fleet, a native of New York State,
father of Dr. W. D. Fleet (who was born in 1819 in Eden Township), came to
Ohio in 1830, settling in Eden Township, where he afterward owned about
1,600 acres of land. He died in 1880. . . .Charles C. and Caroline B. (Boyd)
Fox, former a native of New York, latter of Pennsylvania, parents of James B.
Fox of Fostoria (who was born in 1810 in Eden Township), were pioneers here.
Charles C. died in Wyandot County in 1880, aged seventy-six years.
542 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Madison P. Geiger, a native of Baden, Germany, came to Seneca County
in 1835; died in 1861 .... John Gibson, whose parents came from Ireland
about the period of the Revokitionary war, settled in Eden Township late in
the summer of 1822, and there had erected on his farm the fii'st barn ever
raised in Seneca County. He was a most estimable citizen. In early years it
was his custom to call his sons together in the evening, propose a subject for
discussion, and apportion, as it were, to each the affirmative or negative. The
debate was carried on in his own presence, and followed by his criticism and
judgment. Gen. Gibson, his son, who was brought to the township in 1822,
the year of his bix'th, is an example of what such a training is capable of
developing .... Dr. Selden Graves, James Gray and a few others mentioned
in the chapters on lawyers, physicians and general history, were among the
pioneers.
Samuel Herin born in 1812, in Pensylvania, came to Ohio in 1828, with
his parents, James and Mary (Smith) Herin, and settled near Tiffin, where his
father, who died in 1833, had entered eighty acres of land. He afterward bought
and moved to the farm where he now resides. .. .Micajah Heaton settled in
Eden in 1829; died in 1866 Jonas and Martha Hershberger, parents of
Mrs. William L. Reid, of Bloom Township, came fi'om Virginia and settled
in Eden Township in 1833. . . .Dr. Daniel Hough came in 1822.
Richard Jaqua, born in New York in 178/, moved to Leeds County, On-
tario, Canada, in 1790, with his parents; was married to Eliza Ouilsee in 1810.
In 1812 he was drafted, but escaped service in the British army by crossing
the St. Lawrence. He subsequently engaged in the dangerous work of assist-
ing Americans, who, like himself, were di-afted, but wished to serve their own
country. His adventures and escapes in this service were nmnerous and thrill-
nio-: in 1814 he entered the United States regular service and worked ear-
nestlv and well for the young Union. In 1813 he brought his family to the
United State^, moved to' Eden Township in 1822, and died here September
26, 1878. His wife died in May, 1877, in her eighty-seventh year. From
1872 till his death he was a pensioner of the war of 1812, this consideration
being won for him through the exertion of Congressman Charles Foster ....
John C. Jones who erected the first house at Melmore in 1824, died there in
1828.
Abraham and Elizabeth (Wrouff ) Kagy, (parents of the widow Barbara
Martin, late of Eden Township, ) were among the pioneers .... John Kagy, one
of the pioneers of Eden, died at luka, 111. , in March, 1885, while visiting
with his daughter Mrs. Huddle. He was about ninety years old .... Isaac Kagy
was appointed county treasurer in 1885, to succeed John Heabler. He
served as auditor; fi'ora 1862 to 1860; was elected representative in 1865, and
was appointed auditor to fill vacancy in 1872 H. P. Kennedy, a native of
Ohio, settled in Eden Township in 1845; Samuel Koch, a Pennsylvanian, came
in 1853, and George W. Kishler in 1854 Col. James Kilboiu-ne, one of the
pioneer surveyors, laid out the town of Melmore for Case, Jolly and Ezra
Brown in 1824 .... The Knights settled here aboiit 1825 July 23, 1831, one
Olive Knight is alleged to have biu'ned the dwelling house of Joseph Trask, in
Eden Tow'nship. She was brought to trial in March, 1832, when the jvuy
declared her not guilty.
Dr. Henry Ladd, a native of New York State, settled in Eden, in 1839
Otho and Belinda (Street) Lease, parents of Lloyd Norris Lease, of Tiffin,
were natives of Maryland; located in 1832 in Eden Township (where Lloyd
NoiTis was born in 1838), and removed to Sandusky County in 1846. Eden
Lease, born in Maryland in 1813, settled in Eden in 1835, and shortly after
r' "-
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M^r-^ ;^-w
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 545
purchased his present farm .... Esau G. Leidy, born in Columbiana County,
Penn., July 28, 1817, settled in Eden Township in 1834, died June 5, 1885
Peter Lantz located in Wyandot County, in 1829, moved thence to Seneca
County, and died in 1876 .... Clarence Linn, a native of Ohio, settled at Mel-
more in 1841 . . . .Ruel Loomis settled on Section 16, Eden, 1822, with his wife
Anna (Lyon) Loomis and son Wildman Loomis. He died in 1852, and his
widow in 1857.
Mrs. Elizabeth (Boyd) McClelland (widow of Hugh McClelland, who died
in about 1823), mother of Samuel B. McClelland, of Bloom Township (who
was born in 1818, in Pennsylvania), came to Eden Township with her young
family in 1830. Samuel B. McClelland moved into Bloom Township in 1853,
and there settled .... Samuel and Mary Martin, natives of Pennsylvania, par-
ents of Robert M. C. Martin, late of Eden Township (born in 1822, in Perry
County, Ohio, died in April, 1879), came to Seneca County in 1827, locating
on land in Section 19, Eden Township, which land Samuel Martin held until
his death in April, 1864. . . .Hamilton McCollister was a justice of the peace of
Eden Township in 1825, and for many years after was a well-known character
in pioneer times. He it was who had Judge Matthew Clark brought before
liim for driving hogs on the Sabbath, and imposed a tine on Judge Lane's old
associate. Clark appealed the case, and also entered suit for $3,000 against
McCollister. . . . Josiah Meeker, a native of Ohio, settled here in 1831 .... John
Mimm was among the pioneers, but little of him can be learned, and that little
unauthentic. . . .Miles Mitten settled in Seneca in 1838; moved to "^A'yandot in
1843, died in 1865. . . .Joshua D. Munsell, who died in 1833, owned lands in
this township in Town 1 north. Range 1 5 east.
Lloyd Norris, who settled in Eden Township in 1828, is said to have served
in the Mexican war. His death took place Decemljer 6, 1866, aged sixty-one
years and six months.
John O' Cbnnell, one of the early settlers of Eden, came from Stark County,
Ohio .... Mrs. S. M. Ogden, died April 8, 1884, aged sixty-one years .... Jesse
S. Olmsted and David Olmsted were among the pioneers.
Jacob and Esther (Heisbaum) Price (both deceased), natives of Virginia,
parents of Daniel Price, of Eden Township (who was born here in 1835),
settled on Section 20, Eden Township, in 1823, where Jacob Price's father-in-
law had entered land .... Philip J. Price, an early settler, is noticed in the
history of Melmore.
E. Randall settled in Eden in 1831 Mrs. Eliza B. (Watson) Reid, wife
of John T. Reid, of Bloom ville, was born in Pennsylvania in 1810, and came
to Eden Township with her widowed mother, Mrs. Elizabeth McClelland, in
1830. . . .George Robertson, owner of the south part of the west half of the
southeast quarter of Section 12, Town 1 north, Range 15 east, died about
1834. . . .Barnabas Rogers, a native of Vermont, father of Lorenzo Rogers, of
Eden Township (who was born in 1819, in Lake County, Ohio), when a young
man, came to Ohio on foot, making shoes as he journeyed, He entered land
in 1824, in Eden Township, and here died in 1879. His wife died in 1874.
Lewis Seitz (son of John Seitz, German immigrant, of 1767) entered lands
in Bloom Township, in 1821. His son, Lewis Seitz, Jr., now eighty-three
years old, is still living; while his grandson, John Seitz, born in Bloom Town-
ship, in 1825, is a resident of Eden Township since 1865. . . .Magdalene, wife
of John Seitz, who came to this county in 1823^ died' February 26, 1862. . . .
Mrs. Ann Seitz, wife of Abram Seitz, died at San Francisco, Cal. , June 6,
1883, aged sixty-seven years. She moved fi'om Melmore to the Pacific Coast
eighteen years prior to her death .... Samuel Saul, born in Pennsylvania in
29
546 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1801, settled in Eden Township in 1828. . . .John Searles, a soldier of the war
of 1812, located at Fort Ball in 1820; moved to Eden in 1821; settled there in
1825; died in May, 1844, and his widow, Jane (Dunken) Searles, in 1870. . . .
Hezekiah Searles, born in Fairfield County, Ohio, December 4, 1810, came, in
September, 1820, to Fort Ball; moved with parents to Eden Township in 1821
.... David and Nancy (Beery) Stalter were old residents of Eden Township,
former one of the township's most enterprising farmers until 1863 .... James M.
Stevens, of Melmore, died in December, 1829, leaving five children, of whom
Elizabeth Ann Stevens was the only one over foiu-teen years old. A. Coffinberry
was their guardian ad litem. He settled here in 1827, and built the first grist-
mill in the township. . . .Thomas Stripe settled on the Vanatta farm in 1822;
moved to Lower Sandusky in 1825 ... . John Sweinhelm. now of Wyandot
County, came here in 1840. . . . J. W. Stewart settled in 1845, and R. C. Steele
in 1830. . . .Joseph and Susanna Swigart, natives of Maryland, were early set-
tlers of the township.
Jonathan and Susan (Beaty) Tittle, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of
John Tittle, of Eden Township (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1820), came
to this township in 1840 .... The Trasks were also early settlers. Joseph
Trask" s dwelling house was the first destroyed by fire in the township.
Henry Umstead, a native of Maryland, settled at Melmore in 1830.
Philip Von Blon settled in Eden in 1834; moved to Tifiin in later years,
and died there some years ago.
Dr. T. J. West, born in the county in 1836. His father, Thomas West,
settled in the county in 1820, and located lands in Eden in 1822 .... James B.
Watson settled in Eden Township in 1831 . . . .Martin Welch, brother of Thomas
Welch, settled in Eden in June, 1819; moved to Wyandot County ; is deceased.
. . . .John Welch, brother of Martin Welch, settled in Eden in June, 1819 (see
Political History) ; is deceased .... Thomas Welch settled in Eden Township in
February, 1819, and died there in 1821 . . . .Henry Welch settled here with his
family, but moved to Tiffin in 1822, and build one of the first cabins there ....
Hugh Welch settled in Eden Township in February, 1819, and, with his
brother, Thomas, made the first white settlement there. He is the second
senior settler of the county.
There were others who could claim membership with pioneers, of whom little
or nothing of an authentic character can l)e learned. In our researches we
find following names of parties residing in Eden Tow^nship, outside of Mel-
more, in 1847-48, as subscribers to ButterfiekVs History:
George Kennedy, Isaiah Kline, J. L. Downs, L. Chamberlin, J. Lawrence,
Samuel Seitz, William Wing, John Crum, R. Jaqua, E. Trimer, J. Osen-
braugh, Harry Blackman, John Wolf, R. Holmes, N. E. Merrill, John Zin-
ger, M. C. Gibson, P. Springer. Joseph Hall, W. Dilley, Lloyd Morris, M. K.
Kern, Samuel Herrin, Amos Nichols, John Kagy, E. S. Bellamy, Joel Wright,
J. G. Patterson, R. W. Bellamy, George Swigert, Samuel Garber, Seneca C.
Wing, W. B. Matthewson, H. W. Blackman, Ed Tollman, R. L. Speer, R. H.
Squier, Samuel Grelle, Ben. Brundage, G. Cowles, D. W. Graves, Elizabeth
Graves, J. B. Watson, W. Watson, W. Brown, Isaac Bretz and A. K. Bretz.
MELMORE VILLAGE.
The town of Melmore was projected and surveyed by James Kilbourne on
Honey Creek, north of the islands known as Mill, Middle and Duck Islands, in
1826, and the plat accepted February 24, that year. The principal part of
the town was laid out on the west half of southwest quarter of Section 23,
Town 1, Range 15 east, and minor parts on the lands of Case, Jolly and Ezra
EDEN TOWNSIJIP. 547
Brown. Price' s addition to Melmore was surveyed by Setli Kline. April 4, 1S8().
for Philip J. Price.
The tirst dwelling house at Melmore was erected in 1S24 by John C. Jones.
who died there in 1828. Buckley Hutchins opened the first store at Melraore.
September 28, 1824, and carried it on in connection with the postoffice for a
number of years. Joshua D. Munsell kept the tirst tavern at Melmore. Sel-
den Graves, the tirst resident and practicing physician of Seneca, settled in
Eden Township, March 0, 1822. Dr. Daniel M. Bate was the tii'st resident
physician at Melmore. The physicians at Melmore. in 1S47, were Eobei-t McD.
Gibson, Timothy M. Smith and Henry Ladd. Dr. West practiced here for
some time prior to his removal to Tiitin. Dr. R. G. Steele is now one of the
resident physicians.
Among those who Avere in the village in 1848, were following patrons
of Buttertield's work : Adeline and Laura Buskirk. Maria Coleman.
Angelina and Amanda Arnold. Maria Ireland, Emily Butterfield. Eobert
McD. Gibson. John Lamberson. J. F. Newton. P. J. Price. Isaac Arnold. D.
P. Edgar, John C. Kingner. T. :\r. Smith, N. N. Wright. W. Lightcap. Jacob
C. High, W. C. Stevens. E. B. Kingner. F. W. Biittertield. H. J. Roberts. S.
Chamberlain, Jacob Chamberlain. James Gray. Sylvester Arnold. H. Pratt. D. M.
Bate, James M. Stephens. W- Melroy. George W. Chamberlin. H. Smith. H.
Kline, E. Seitz, J. C. R. Eastman. J. "Weeks. Moses King, H. K. Burg. G. A.
Blackwell, J. M. Chanchey, H. Ladd, George R. Weeks. J. Cross. H. Arnold
and E. J. Chamberlin.
Postmasters. — Hugh Welch, the first postmaster appointed in the county,
was the tirst in Eden Township, holding the office fi-om August 4, 1825, and
caiTying it on at his home. Buckley Hutchins was the first postmaster ap-
pointed at Melmore. He was succeeded by Philip J. Price, who held the office
in 1847. In November, 1847, a meeting was held at Melmore, with Richard
Jaqua, presiding, and J. M. Smith, secretary, to consider charges againt Post-
master Philip J. Price, made by fiiends of Dr. D. M. Bate. Resolutions of
confidence in Price were adopted. W. B. Matthewson, Levi Chamberlain and
Isaac Arnold formed the committee on resolutions. Horace Arnold was suc-
ceeded by G. A. Allen in September. 1885.
Mills and Millers. — The first grist-mill erected in this county was built in
1821 by Ezra Brown and Case Brown, above Melmore. Here George Free, of
Bloom ToAvnship. brought the first grist and had it ground by the enterprising
jnillers. John Kinger' s grist-mill was erected on Honey Creek, below Melmore.
in 1827. The Morris grist-mill on Vanmeter Creek, near Honey Creek, received
its power from water drawn fi'om the lake through a race. This mill was
burned down some years ago. The Stonebreaker Mill on Honey Creek, was
operated by George W. Cunningham in 1850. The Warner Flouring-mill at
Melmore. and the Meyer's Saw-mill are thriving industries. The Loomis Mill
on Section 20. the Huddle Mill on Section 9. the mill and race in the bend of
Honey Creek, Section 27. the Grelle Mill. Stewart Mill and other industries
mark the progress of the township.
The Business and Professional Circle in 1884-85, was made up as follows :
H. Arnold. A. Benham, diaiggists ; J. W. Holmes, H. Ladd, E. J. West (now
of Tiffin), R. G. Steele, physicians; H. Beals. Levi Starkey. furniture; Cham-
berlin & Seiple. J. & H. Melroy, died within last year: D. Melroy, wagon-
maker: Joseph Coby. cooper; J. J. Crouse. H. C. Pittman. boots and shoes;
S. Ireland, L. Lee, Samuel Myers, E. E. Cooni'ad. blacksmiths (Ireland moved
to Kansas in 1884), Melroy. meat market: A. H. Myers, slate roofer; I.
Myers (now L. C. Leidy), saloon; Samuel Myers saw-mill: B. F. AV alters. B.
548 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
W. ^^'arne^, Hour-millers; H. H. Seiple, confectionery; L. Bowlus, dry good?*
and groceries; G. A. Allen, postmaster; H. H. Seiple, boarding-house v H.
Beals, undertaker. The churches are the Methodist Episcopal, Presbyterian,
United Brethren and Evangelical.
In 1836, when it was evident that Melmore was to lose the line
of the Mad River & Lake Erie Railroad the citizens joined together in an
enterprise which promised to meet the loss of the pioneer railroad. The
Melmore & Republic Railroad Company was organized, books were opened at
Jacob Buskirk's Temperance Hotel (the pioneer temperance house of Ohio),
Melmore. at the Miller Tavern, at Republic, and Bradley's "Washington House,
Tiffin, in July, 183(), while the following named citizens and directors worked
day and night to obtain a railroad for the village: B. Hutchins, P. J. Price,
Case Brown, M. Heaton, Selden Graves. T. J. Baker, W. Patterson, I. J.
Halsey, William Cornell, T. P. Roberts, Samuel A\'aggoner, H. McCollister
and Calvin Bradley.
Societies. — Eden Lodge No. 310, F. & A. M. was organized in October,
1858, and was chartered October 20, 1859, with the following members :
Richard Jaqua, D. ^\ . Eastman, A. H. Lee, F. D. Rodgers and E. Reynolds.
James H. Stevens was first Master, Amos L. AVestover, S. W., and E. J.
Chamberlin, J. ^\. The Past Masters are J. H. Stevens, 1858; A. H. Lee,
1861. H. B. Martin, 1863, J. M. Stevens, 1864, J. AV. Barrick, 1866; J. A.
Gibson, 1867, Eleazer Shumaker, 1869; J. W. Barrick, 1874, J. F. Gregg,
1875; E. Shnmaker, 1876; J. F. Gregg, 1880, who is now Master. H. C.
Pittman has served as recorder for eight years, succeeding A. B. Stewart and
Dr. T. J. West in 1874, and L. G. Cole iii 1880.
The present officers are J. F. Gregg, W. M. : Cephas Bartleson, S. W. ; J.
W. Warner, J. W. ; H. C. Pittman, R. S. ; Silas Hottle. treasurer; James
Chamberlin, Tyler; L. G. Coe. S. D. The present number of members is
thirty-four. The old Masonic Hall, erected about sixteen years ago, is the
property of the lodge. This lodge was incorporated July 9, 1866.
Melmore Lodge No. 174 I. O. O. F. was chartered July 18, 1850, and
instituted in 1851, with the following members : Scudder Chamberlain, E. J.
Chamberlin. Walter S. Burns. James M. Stevens, J. F. Krauss; and incor-
porated Ajml 2, 1851. The Past Grands of this lodge, E. J. Chamberlin.
W. S. Bm-ns, 1851 ; J. S. Chamberlin. W. C. Stevens, 1852; King, J. M.
Stevens, 1853; ^—Chamberlin. N. G. ; H. Arnold. N. G., 1854; D.Richards.
S. Chamberlin. 1855; Dr. H. B. Martin, E. R. Webb. 1856; E. J. Chamberlin.
Isaac Cole, 1857; E. Reynolds. J. C. Rozegrant. 1858; J. J. Crouse, D.
Driscoll, 1859; Abram Cox, E. Adams. 1860; A. G. Oder, J. H. Freese,
1861; S. Waller, W. C. Stevens, 1862; J. Crum, S. H. Treat, 1863; J. Dela-
mater, Horace Arnold, 1864; L. M. Waller, J. Feighner, 1865; Charles Craw-
ford, S. H. Treat, J. McLaughlin. 1866: Samuel Herrin. 1867; J. J. Crouse,
Julius A. Wolf. 1868; J. C. Holt, 1869; N. Holt. A. B. Saltzer. 18 <0; J. A.
Ransom. E. W. Seiple, 1871; B. F. Hudson. V. Underwood, 1872; S. D.
Thompson, T. J. West. 1873; L. C. Leidy, J. AV. Warner, 1874; R. A. Cole,
S. Wisman. 1875; H. A. Bowlus, S. Brooks, 1876; H. C. Pittman, S._C.
Fauber, 1877; W. P. Noel, L. G. Cole, 1878; A. P. Cooke, John Correll, 18 <9;
W. S. Kline, E. W^ Seiple, 1880; J. W. Warner, J. C. Kemp, 1881; T. J.
West, J. W. Warner, 1882; G. W. Snyder, A. B. Cook, 1883; J. Correll, J-
Orner, 1884; J. W. Warner, 1885. There are twenty-five members. They
own the Hutchins brick building on Main Street.
Melmore Temple No. 103, I. O. G. T., was reorganized understate Law,
December 8, 1868, with Edward Wing, W. C. T., Eliza Johnson, W. V. T.,
and James A. Gibson, P. W. C. T., trustees.
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 549
The Eden Literary Club is an influential society, which has been carried
on for some years most successfully.
Churches. — The Methodist Society of Eden Township was the first organ-
ized in the county, about 1821 or 1822. In 1828, this society erected the first
log-church building on Section 28, in the Shock neighborhood. Among the
early preachers were James Wilson, W. Brock, Martin Welch. G. W. Breck-
inridge, J. E. Jewett. Thomas Thompson and William Eunneels, all of whom
preached in Eden Township, prior to 1848. The first class at Melmore was
organized by Eev. Thomas Thompson, in Levi Cunningham's shop, no church
building being then in existence in the village. The members of this class
were William Brown, Eachel Lucretia Arnold Brown. Nancy Cunningham,
Maria Coleman, Harriet Hoyt, Martin A\'elch. Sarah AVelch; Martin Welch
was the first class leader. Samuel Baker has been recording steward since
1875.
The first Methodist Episcopal Church in Melmore was built and dedicated
in 1830, by L. B. Gurley. Thomas- Thompson and Phili}) Wareham were
circuit i3reachers. The present church (1885), was built in 1850, and dedi-
cated winter of 1850-51. Amroy Butterfield, of Melmore, was killed July 16,
183(), while engaged in raising this Methodist meeting house. The preachers
since 1848 are named as follows : Leonard Hill, 1848: Ealph Wilcox and
C. Baylor, 1849; W. C. Huestis and N. B. Wilson, 1850: Henry Warner and
George W. Collier, 1851; T. J. Monnett, 1852; L. S. Johnson and W. E. Kis-
ler, 1853; W. M. Spafford, 1854; Uri Eichards, 1 855-50; Ealph Wilcox, 1855;
John E. Jewett, 1857; Dennis Dreskell, 1857-58; Jesse Williams and Thomas
Thompson, 1859; Newell J. Close and W. C. Huestis, 1801; George W.
Dunn, 1802; John McKean, 1803; George McKillips and Orlando Pearce,
1805; A. P. Jones, 1807; Thomas Thompson, 1807-08: T. J. Gard, Thomas
Thompson and S. D. Seymour, 1809; Luke S. Johnson, 1871; G. L. Hana-
walt. 1872; W. C. Huestis and E. S. Thompkins. 1873; J. A. Kaull, 1874;
Joshua Crawford, 1875; A. P. Jones. 1877: William Jones, 1878; Joseph
Mattock, 1879; T. J. Gard, 1881; James A. Kellam, 1885-80.
In 1830 the Eev. John Eobinson preached to the Presbyterians of the
county, and about this time the first Presbyterian Church was founded at Mel-
more. On the organization of the Presbyterian Church at Tiffin in July, 1831,
a number of the original members withdrew to join that society, and in Sep-
tember of the same year, the new society at Eepublic claimed another quota of
the old chiirch membership.
The Presbyterian congregation of Melmore, comprising the members of the
first Presbyterian Church of Eden Township, was incorporated August 19,
1848, with Hugh McAllister, Levi Chamberlin and Benjamin M. Gibson, trus-
tees, and E. McD. Gibson, clerk. Eev. A. D. Chapman was chairman of the
meeting.
Throughout its early history the preachers named in the history of the Tiffin
and Eepiiblic churches were identified with this church at Melmore. Eev.Mc-
Cutchen followed Eev. Thompson : Eevs. A. S. Dunton and John Whipple filled
the pulpit fi-om 1837 to 1852.
The United Brethren Church of Melmore, the first established in Seneca
County, was organized at Melmore, May 12, 1834, at the home of Philip
Bretz. There were present Samuel Hiestand. Jacob Bowlus, John Eussell,
John Eckert, Jacob Baer, Israel Herrington, D. Mechlin, Orange Strong,
William Tracy, Nathan Smith, John Crum. John Alsap, Benjamin Moore,
Henry Err ett, John Smith. John Fry, Torence Esterly. Ludwick Cramer, James
Track. H. Vreimberling. Jacob Crum. John Long. Philip Cramer, George
550 HISTORY OF SEXECA COUNTY.
Hiskey, Heray Huber; Israel Herrington was ordained elder. In 1846 the con-
ference met in the stone church, known as Bretz's Meeting House, a mile up
Honey Creek from Melmore. This was the first United Brethren Church in
the county and continued in lise until about 1858, when the present church at
Melmore was erected.
Up to 1848 Honey Creek was a part of Seneca Circuit, but the conference
'held that year at Melmore set off the Honey Creek Circuit as a mission of
Seneca Circuit, with D. Glancy, preacher. In 1865, the missions known as
Seneca Union, Honey Creek Chapel and Liberty were detached from SWneca
Circuit, Base Line fi'om Benton Circuit, Berwick from Van Lue Circuit, and all
formed into the Honey Creek Circuit, with Rev. Isaac Crouse, preacher. T. J.
McKeen came in 1866; H. K. Berry, in 1867; B. Struble, in 1868, with AVilliam
Mathers (Protestant Episcopal); W. Miller (Protestant Episcopal) in 1860; "VV.
A. Keesv in 1870-71: C. Hepler, 1872; E. B. Maurer. 1873-74; H. C. Beving-
ton, 1875; W. W. McCnrdy, 1876-77; N. S. Long, 1878-79; M, E. Spahr,
1880-81; G. P. Macklin, 1882-83, and J. H. Arnold, 1884. The membership
is 204.
The churcli of the Evangelical Association at Melmore, of which Rev. E.
Wengai-d is pastor, is one of the old churches of this society in Seneca County.
Cemeteries. — The Buckeye Cemetery Association of Eden Township, com-
posed of persons interested in the old cemetery on the farm of Solomon Brundage.
was organized June 21), 1861, with Joseph Smith, Gamaliel Cowles and John
Bigham, trustees. There are no less than five burial-grounds in the township.-^
Of the Indian cemeteries not a vestige remains, if we except the mysterious
mound and fortification referred to at page l\)h.
CONCLUSION.
This pastoral and picturesque division of Seneca was formed on founda-
tions which promised teeming wealth and sunny prosperity, by the enterpris-
ing pioneer farmers who came here to stay and develop. Few of the original
builders are here, but they live again, not only in the brighter land beyond the
"swift Borysthenes, " but also here in spirit among the generations for which they
labored late and early. The di'ama, which they fir^t placed upon the stage, goes
on, each year adding an act and each actor widening the scene, i^romising the
play to hold the stage until the firmament is rolled uj), and time here ceases to
be time. The hard hands which prepared the way for these pretentious homes,
these orchards, gardens, fields of golden grain; for filling the cities with the
habitations of men, building schools, chiirches and all substantial evidences of
prosperity, are quietly resting in old mother earth. The historian, conscious
of a duty, dwells among them for a time in study, and brings up a hundred
names of those who commenced the work of civilization here, and blends them
with present naines, thus bringing history down to our own times, and cover-
ing sixty- six years of the township's life under American laws, customs and
manners.
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 551
CHAPTER XIX.
HOPEAVELL TOWNSHIP.
HOPEWELL, in the days of the earliest settlement, .was known as Town-
ship 2 north, Range 14 east. It was surveyed into sections and quarter
sections in 1820 by J. T. Worthington, assisted by David Risdon and others,
and one year later was opened to entry in common with all United States'
lands in the county. In 1822 the first settlers looked in upon the scene, and
staked their homes in the wilderness. Eight years later the population reached
549; eighteen years after settlement it increased to U18; twenty- eight years
after to 1,288, and fifty-eight years after settlement to 1,632. The pop-
ulation in 1885 is estimated at about 1,800, including Bascom Village.
The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad enters the township in the northwest cor-
ner of Section 18, runs southeast across the township, and enters Tiffin in
Section 24. The Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad was actually
built and equipped, paralleling the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, but the ties and
rails were taken up and sold when that entei-prise collapsed. The Indiana,
Bloomington & Western Railroad runs southwest fi'om Tiffin through the south-
east corner, and the Northwestern Ohio Railroad enters the township in the
southeast quarter of Section U and enters Liberty Township at Section 1 of
this townshij).
The Sandusky River flows through the southeastern sections, and Honey
Creek enters the river in Section 36 of this tomiship. Wolf Creek has a fork
of its system in almost every section south of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad,
where it forms into two streams, which flow in a northeastern course to Section
1, and there forms one of the forks of the main stream.
The Niagara system does not show an outcrop, but in the quarries near
Bascom it appears near the surface. Waterlime presents itself in the bed of
Wolf Creek.
The soil of Hopewell is fertile, and the surface just sufficiently rolling to
admit of easy drainage and cultivation.
Organic and 0#c/a?.— The first election was held December 25, 1824, at
Joseph Pool's house, eighteen days after the establishment of the township,
when Nathan Cadwallader, John Stoner and John Rosenberger were elected
.trustees, James Gordon, clerk, and John Stoner, treasurer. The other offices
were distributed among the few settlers then in the wilderness. As related in
Chapter IV, the western part of Clinton Township formed a part of Hope-
well for some years. Following is a list of officers since 1831 :
1832.— Agreen Ingraham, W. Kimes, J. Crum; Ozias Hart, clerk.
1838.— Peter Arbogast, A. Ingraham, John Crum; Ozias Hart, clerk.
1834.— W. L. Ricketts, A. C. Spooner, W. Kimes; Ozias Hart, clerk.
1835.— ^Y. L. Ricketts, A. C. Spooner, John A. Rosenberger; Ozias Hart,
clerk.
1836.— Gideon Curtiss, J. S. Jennings, J. A. Rosenberger; Ozias Hart,
1837.- Gideon Curtiss, J. S. Jennings, Alonson C. Spooner; Ozias Hart,
clerk.
552 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1838. ^A. K. Bachtel, J. A. Rosenberger, A. C. Spooner; L. D. Shawhan,
clerk.
1839-44.— D. McCracken, Andrew AVolf, Erastus Bowe; L. D. Shawhan,
clerk. 1841. — Peter Yonng, clerk.
1845. — C. Mnzsetter, George Shaiill, A. Wolf; Isaac Chenoweth, clerk.
1846. — Levi Keller. C. Muzsetter, Levi Shedenhelm; Isaac Chenoweth. clerk.
1847-48. — Lo'sd Keller, C. Muzsetter, Levi Shedenhelm ; JohnSlosser, clerk.
1849. — W. N. Dunn, C. Muzsetter, Levi Shedenhelm ; A. C. Spooner. clerk.
1850. — Levi Keller, C. Muzsetter, Levi Shedenhelm; A. C. Spooner, clerk.
1851. — Levi Keller, C. Muzsetter, Levi Shedenhelm; A. C. Spooner, clerk.
1852. — Levi Keller, C. Muzsetter, Levi Shedenhelm; A. C. Spooner, clerk.
1853. — "William Dick, Levi Keller. C. Muzsetter; A. C. Spooner, clerk.
1854. — Rezin Ricketts, J. M. Shaull, C. Muzsetter; A. C. Spooner, clerk.
1855. — Rezin Ricketts, J. M. Shaull, C. Mvizsetter; R. S. Baker, clerk.
1856-58.— Benjamin Baker. Rezin Ricketts. J. M. Shaull ;R. S. Baker. clerk.
1859.— A. G. Owen,. J. M. Shaull, M. Coughlin; R. S. Baker, clerk.
I860.— Michael Coughlin, A. G. Owen, Henrv Kepple; R. S. Baker, clerk.
1861.— James Creeger. A. G. Owen, J. M. Shaull; R. S. Baker, clerk.
1862. — Michael Coughlin. H. Strausbaugh. A. G. Owens; S. A. Bopes, clerk.
1863. — Chris Mulewiler, H. Strausbaugh, M. Coughlin; S. A. Bopes, clerk.
1864. — Chris Mulewiler, H. Strausbaugh. M. Coughlin; S. A. Bopes, clerk.
1865-66. — Benoni Rohrer, A. G. Owen.H. Strausbaugh ; Dennis Maloy, clerk.
1867-68. — U. P. Coom-ad, A. G. Owen. H. Strausbaugh; Dennis Maloy,
clerk.
1869. — John Buchman, Benoni Rokrer, F. Rinebolt; Dennis Maloy, clerk.
1870. — John Biichman. Benoni Rohrer, F. Rinebolt; Adam Miller, clerk.
1871. — Francis Rinebolt. Philip Keppel, J. A. Bonner. D. Maloy. clerk.
1872.— Philip Keppel, J. A. Bonner. A. Hoefling; S. J. Pecher,* clerk.
1873.— Milton Ricketts, P. Keppel. A. Hoefling; S. J. Pecher, clerk.
1874-75. — Milton Ricketts. Benoni Rohrer, A. Hoefling; S. J. Pecher, clerk.
1876. — Nicholas DeWalt, B. Rokrer, L. Lonsway; S. J. Pecher. clerk.
1877. — B. Rohrer, L. Lonsway, J. G. Straub; S. A. Coom-ad, clerk.
1878. — L. D. Creeger, S. J. Pecher. A. Hoefling; S. A. Coonrad, clerk.
1879. — J. B. Kuire, John Landis, A. Hoefling; Arlington Dunne, clerk.
1880. — Jacob Kuhn. L. D. Creeger. S. J. Pecher; Arlington Dunne, clerk.
1881. — Martin Green. Benjamin Baker, Jacob Kuhn; L. D. Creeger, clerk.
1882. — John Smith. M. "W. Greene. Benjamin Baker; L. D. Creeger, clerk.
1883.— J. Kuhn. B. Baker, J. Smith; L. D. Creeger. clerk.
1884.— M. W. Hunker, S. W. Rohi-er. J. Kuhn; L. D. Creeger. clerk.
1885. — Jacob Kuhn. M. W. Hunker, Silas AV. Rohrer. trustees; Peter
Shultz, treasurer; L. D. Creeger, clerk; N. C. Knight, assessor; F. D. Coni-
gan, Absalom Shumaker, 'constables. The officers, this year, with the exception
of the assessor, are Democrats.
Pioneers and Incidents of Pioneer Times. — Peter Arbogast, who died in
1833, owned the west half of southwest quarter of Section 16, Township 2
north, Range 14 east. He settled here in 1826. Mrs. Sophia Arbogast died
in 1861. Michael Arbogast, liorn in Virginia, in 1824, came here when two
years old, and is now a resident of Seneca Township .... James Aiken owned
land in Hopewell, in 1824.
Jacob A. Boner, a native of Maryland, born in 1809, came to Ohio in 1 826,
and located near Tiffin, where his stepfather, John Julian, bought forty acres
of land and spent the remainder of his life. In 1844 Mr. Boner and his wife
{nee Elizabeth Slosser) came into the woods of Hopewell Township, settling
^ /^ «fe\ -^
04
C^t
^
b {^-^^(^
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 555
where they now live. There was then but one log-schoolhoiise in the town
ship .... Joseph Beard, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in Hopewell in 1822.
. . . .Thomas Baltzell. a native of Maryland, born in 1815, came with his wid-
owed mother, Mrs. Elizabeth (Creidler) Baltzell. to Ohio, where she died in
1857. In 1881 Mr. Baltzell retired from his farm and moved to Tiffin. . . .
John and Mary (Nolan) Britt. former a native of Ireland, born in 1811, par-
ents of Mrs. Silas W. Rohrer. of Hopewell Township (who was born in this
township, in 185C, died in 1881), came to Hopewell Township in 1848. In
1883 Mr. Britt moved to Tiffin, still retaining his farm.
Nathan Cadwallader settled on Section 34. about 1823. Mrs. Hiram Hart is a
daughter of this pioneer. . . . Peter Chenoweth was the first school teacher and took
part in building the old log-schoolhouses .... John Chaney was one of the first
three settlers in Hopewell .... Charles Chaney was one of the first trio who
located on Section 1(3, Hopewell. . . .Francis Cotter came in about 1830. while
one David Cover, who purchased lands on Section 16, settled here in 1834. . . .
Michael Coughlin came from Ireland at an early date, and purchased lands here.
.... Joseph Culbertson. a native of Pennsylvania, came here in 1839, and
Uriah P. Coonrad, an old settler of Tiffin, also became a resident .... David and
Sophia (Delong) Creeger were early settlers .... John H. Creeger died in 1872,
and his widow, Mary (Young) Creeger in 1881. James Creeger died in his
sixty-seventh year, October 8, 1882. . . .Gideon Creeger, at the age of sixteen
(182(3), when on his way from Montgomeiy County, Ohio, to Lower Sandusky,
passed through Fort Ball when the pickets of the old fort were still standing.
Then only a few log-huts, owned by IVIr. Hedges, comprised Tiffin; now Mr.
Creeger thinks it would take a good day' s di'ive to pass over all the streets of the
city. On his route at that time the Indians were so numerous about here that he
would meet ten or more before one white man. For thirty years he has
been engaged in farming in Henry County. Ohio .... Henry and Catharine
(McDonald) Creeger, natives of Maryland, came with their children in 1826.
and the following spring bought a piece of land on Wolf Creek, on which was
a small cabin, raised by Michael Shaull, and which was located on the site of
an Indian wigwam. There were no roads, only Indian trails, and Mr. Creeger,
with the assistance of his sons, cut the tir,st road to Tiffin, and built the first
bridge across the river. There were Indian mounds on his farm, on which
trees grew that measured three feet through, and oiit of these mounds Mr.
Creeger exhumed a skeleton .... Michael Coughlan. one of the early settlers of
Hopewell Township, died in 1884.
James Dunn, grandfather of Arlington Dunn, of Hopewell Township, came
to this county and township in an early day and bought 400 acres of land, his
sons coming after. William N. Dunn settled here in 1842. On April 13.
1872. his residence and eight other buildings were destroyed by fire. The
family now reside in Tiffin, except a son. D. C. . who occupies the farm ....
John Daugherty. one of the first settlers of Hopewell, came about 1823. . . .
John Dewalt. who settled in Hopewell in 1833. was known as Bear Club. He
killed a bear, which attacked him .... Thomas Derr settled in the county in
June, 183(J . . . . C. W. Doran, a native of Virginia, and James Doran. a native
of Ohio, settled in Hopewell in 1822.
Michael Flynn was one of the pioneers and esteemed citizens of the town-
ship .... Matthew Frederetze and his wife , Barbara, came fi'om Alsace (France)
in 1828, settled in Pennsylvaiiia: moved to Hopewell Township in 1832, where
the former died in 1851. His son Michael has resided on his present farm for
almost fifty-three years.
James Gordon, closely connected with Loudon Township, was an early
resident here.
556 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Ozias and Polly (Pry or) Hart, natives of Connecticut and Vermont, respec-
tively, came in IS'27 to Hopewell, entered land and put nip a cabin .... Hiram
Hart afterward bought land for himself near Tiffin .... Joseph Heltebrake
settled in Seneca County in June, 1830. . . .A. Houseberger came fi'om Penn-
sylvania in 1848 Henry Hostler, Sr., a native of Pennsylvania, brought his
family to Hopewell Township in 1831 . . . .Adam Hoefling came fi'om Germanv
in 1829.
Philip King, born in Ireland in 1806, came to this county in 1840 and
bought land of Samuel Waggoner. He died in 1879 .... Brian King and John
B. King are among the old residents. . . .Jeremiah and Hannah King, natives
of Ireland, parents of Jerry R. King (who was born in 1847 in Hopewell
Township), were early settlers here. Jeremiah King died in 1850 and in
1884 his widow maiTied Charles Bukman . . . . Hemy and Anna C. (Stamatz)
Keppel, natives of Pennsylvania, came from Knox County, Ohio, in 1839.
The former died in 1842 and the latter in 1860 George and Philip Keppel
came in 1839 .... Jeremiah Knepper came fi'om Pennsylvania in 1850 .... Jacob
Kuhn fi-om New York in 1834 ... .Thomas Knight, a native of Ohio, in
1848 Levi Keller, Jr., in 1843. . . .Bartholomew and Margaret (McBride)
Kinney, natives of. Ireland, came in 1830 to the southern part of Hopewell
Township. ]Mi'. Kinney was accidentally drowned July 16, 1831, while cross-
ing the Sandusky River at Tiffin. Mrs. Kinney remained a widow four years,
part of which time she spun flax to maintain herself and family. The house
she lived in was a rude log-cabin, and she had often to pile furniture against
the door to prevent the wolves fi-om entermg. In 1835 she married John
King, and in 1852 she died .... Philip King and brothers, John, Lawrence and
Timothy, old residents of Tiffin, settled in Hopewell Township. Philip King
died some years ago.
Peter Lonsway or Longuin came fi'om Canada in 1841 . . . .Louis Lonsway
in 1844. . . .Amos £iietner in 1835.
Dennis Maloy, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1825, came to this county
with an uncle in 1846 and commenced business in Tiffin, but soon moved to
Hopewell Township .... John Maule came in June, 1830, settled just north of
Tiffin, opened a blacksmith shop and in 1838 moved to Hopewell Township;
died in October, 1866 .... James Mathers was among the pioneers .... Adam
Miller came from Maryland in 1826 James A. Morrison, a native of Ohio,
settled here in 1838 John Miller, founder of Bascom in 1837, came in
1836 .... Joseph McClelland settled in Bloom Township in 1822, moved to
Hopewell in 1854 and died there in 1857 .... Ebenezer Mills was one of the
early settlers.
Joseph Ogle, born in 1781, in Maryland, came to Hopewell Township in
1824. The Indians were numerous and he had to defend himself against wild
beasts. On one occasion his daughter, while milking the cows, was attacked
by waives, and he had to fly to her rescue. He died in January, 1864: his
widow occupied the farm until 1876.
Joseph Pool, at whose home the first election was held, in 1824, passed
away years ago Robert Patterson, a native of Maryland, settled in Hope-
well at an early date, and died near Bascom, July 19, 1885.
Mrs. Mary Redfox, hotel keeper, Bascom. a native of Germany, born in
1833, came to America in 1846, settling in Bascom, where her parents kept
the hotel which she now conducts. . . .William L. Ricketts. a native of Penn-
sylvania, born in 1791. father of Milton D. Ricketts, of Hopewell Township
(who was born in this township in 1836), came with his parents in 1800 to
Fairfield County. Ohio. In 1828 William L. came here, before anv road was
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. Do7
opened to Tiffin, and entered lands located where the Findlay and Tiffin
State road now is, on Section 80 .... Robert and John Ricketts, early settlers,
now reside in Loudon .... Benoni and Rebecca (Loose) Rohrer, parents of Silas
W. Rohrer, of Hopewell Township (who was born in Virginia in 1845), came
to this township in 1848. . . .Benoni Rohrer, born in 181(3, in Virginia, was a
very early settler of Hopewell Township, and his farm is now said to be the
most beautiful in the township .... Aaron Ruse was an old settler .... Joseph
Ruse came in 1880 .... Henry Rosenberger, born in Vii-ginia, in 1798, came
to Seneca County with his wife and three children December 2(^, 1828, and
located on Section 1, Hopewell Township, and Section 6, Clinton Township,
where he erected a round-log house. When he came his earthly possessions
were one horse, one wagon, a small quantity of pork and 25 cents in cash.
For the first year they had but one barrel of floui', part of which was spoiled,
but the family subsisted chiefly on game meat and corn bread. Afterward he
built a hewed-log house, and over thirty years ago a fi-ame house was built by
him (now occu.pied by his son Jacob) on this farm. The Seneca Indians were
his near neighbors, with whom he was always on fi-iendly terms. One of
their "trails" passed through his land. Li 1S7G Mr. Rosenberger moved to
Tiffin, where he has since lived in retirement .... John A. and Joseph Rosen-
berger are early settlers.
Greorge Shedeohelm settled three miles noi*th of Tiffin, in Hopewell, in
1832. . . .Robert and John Shippey. brothers, were located on Section 16, prior
to the organization of the townshij) .... Samuel Smith, born in Delaware in
1806, settled in Hopewell in 1888, moving fi'om Tiffin, where it is said he
located in 1828 .... Jacob Schmidt, who died September 9, 1885, was born in
the Canton of Aargau, Switzerland, and immigi'ated to America in the year
1888, and a short time after that entered the farm on which he lived and died.
.... AVilliard Sprague, who located lands on Section 16 prior to 1824, is named
among the first settlers George and Ann Mary (Panther) Slosser, natives
of Maryland and Germany, respectively, parents of John Slosser, of Hopewell
Township (who was born in Virginia in 1811), came direct, about 1880, by
team to this coimty. locating east of Tiffin for over fifteen months, and in 1882,
settled in Hopewell Township. Geoi'ge Slosser died in 1848 .... Michael Shaul
erected a cabin here prior to 1826. . . .Philip Staub. a native of Pennsylvania,
father of Joseph G. Staub, of Hopewell Township (who was born in 1825, in
Pennsylvania), came to Ohio in 1888 and piu'chased land near old Fort Seneca,
built one of the first cabins in the township, and was a resident here when the
Indians were removed. . . .Com-ad Stigerwalt came in 1841 . . . William Stripe
settled here about 1824.
Michael Twomey died years ago. His widow is the oldest lady, in
years, within the county
Jacob Von Blon came fi-om Germany in 1884.
Abner Wade, a native of Pennsylvania (father of Washington Wade, of
Hopewell Township, who was born in 1829, in Loudon Township),
came to this county in 1826 and entered land. He cut a road from what
is now Tiffin. Being a blacksmith he did a good deal of work for
the Indians after coming here. He died in 1858, his widow in 1876 ....
George Walters came in 1846 .... Samuel Waggoner, who founded a town
named Hopewell in 1886, is named in other pages .... Solomon Wolf came in
1844.
The Handleys, McXamees and Shippeys were early settlers.
BASCOI.
Bascom was platted by George W. Gist, county surveyor, February 1, 1837,
558 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
for Jolia Miller. The original town was on the west half of the northwest
quarter of Section 17. Town 2 north. Range 14 east. Dennis Maloy's addition
to Bascom was surveyed in March. 1876, and D. A. Creeger's addition was
surveyed in May, 1878.
The first three years of the village were disheartening to the owners, as at
the close of those years a population of six persons formed the community.
Every decade after brought with it a small increase of population, but only
within the last five years has actual progress taken notice of the place. It is
true that during the construction of the Coldwater Railroad, and the building
of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, the village assumed some importance, but
after those enterprises ceased to call together great niimbers oi workmen at this
point, biisiness slept, as it were, iintil 1880.
John T. Maloy succeeded W. W. Miller as postmaster, in September, 1885.
and the business circle comprises the following: Simon Miller, general mer-
chant; Henry Eisler, blacksmith; Maloney & Matthews, grain dealers.
Hopewell Lodge No. 176, I. O. O. F., was organized May 11, 1855.
Methodist Episcopal Church. Bascom. is the oldest church in the Old Betts-
ville Circuit, having been formed at the hoirse of Abram Miller in 1831, and a
meeting house was erected shortly after. In 1865 the Old Bettsville Circuit was
divided: Bettsville. Fort Seneca. Jackson. Ebenezer and Bascom forming
Bettsville. with R. Biggs, preacher. Charles Astor succeeded, then D. Bulle;
John H. Wilson came in 1869. and so on down to William Dunlap's time, 1882.
Rev. N. S. Brackuey was appointed in 1884. Revs. Hill. 1875. L. O. Cooke,
1877, H. H. Harper, 1880, preceded Mr. Dunlap. Twenty years after the
church was formed at Bascom, Bettsville Circuit was formed, with Newel J.
Close, preacher, vice S. T. Lane and Thomas Ackerman, the old preachers of
the Port Clinton District. In 1852 J. Brakefield was appointed. In 1854
Leonard Hill and Henry Kerrigan were the preachers. James Milligan. R. Law-
rence, Francis Plumlj. N. B. C. Love. T. W. Crozier. H. L. Nickerson, John
T. Bowers. Josiah Adams. Israel Smith. Josiah Adams, William Deemers, L.
D. Rogers. T. C. Reed and Dave Dicken served fi'om 1855 to 1865. The very
early preachers are named in connection with other churches.
United Brethren Church, of Bascom, may be said to be contemporaiy with
the establishment of Seneca Circuit. A reference to the history of Eden Town-
ship points out the beginning of this chu.rch in the coiinty. In 1841 Jeremiah
Brown was appointed presiding elder, and Alfred Spracklin. preacher, of this
circuit. In 1844 Samuel Hadley siicceeded Rev. Spracklin. In 1845 J.
Giu'ber. W. Herrington and J. C. Bright were preachers. In 1848 the circuit
was reorganized. John Davis being appointed preacher of Seneca Circuit. In
1849 S. Long and J. Martin were appointed: in 1851. John Curtis; in 1852,
G. Schneider, the circuit then containing 300 members. In 1854 M. Long was
appointed preacher: in 1856. D. S. Caldwell; in 1858. James Long; in I860,
S. T. Lane; in 1862. W. Mathers: in 1863. D. Glancev; in 1864. I. Crouse;
in 1865, S. T. Lane; in 1867, S._Essex; in 1868. M." Bulger; in 1869; G.
Bender; in 1870. S. Foster; in 18/1. G. French; in 1873. G. Hoover.
United Brethren Otterbein Chapel, of Bascom. was reorganized under State
law, January 15, 1874. with Adam Miller, presiding. Andrew Powell. S. K.
Ruse and Elias Kline were elected trustees, and John French, preacher. M.
Long was appointed in 1875; G. Bender. 1876; B. Struble. 1878; L. J. Os-
borne, 1879; M. Long, 1880; L.Moore. 1882; A.B.Leonard. 1883-85. There
are four churches in the circuit. Ihree organized societies and 161 members.
Bascom Reformed Chxarch was organized by Rev. J. J. Beilherz. as a Union
Lutheran and Reformed Societv in 1852. and a church erected. On New
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 559
Year's day, 1852, Rev. E. V. Grerhart reorganized the society as a Reformed
Church, with Ben. Fried, elder, and Christian Deubel, deacon.
St. Patrick's Church, of which Father Christophory is pastor, has one of
the largest congregations in the county.
The Sand Ridge Cemetery Association, of Bascom was organized JMay 15,
1878, with Jephtha Lott, Adam Miller, James Creeger, Henry W. Matthews,
Joseph Culbei*tson, D. A. Creeger, Henry S. Haugh, John Landis, Philip
Kisabeth, D. R. King (clerk) and Philip Dewald, members.
Old-time Villages. — Hopewell was laid out for Samiiel Waggoner by
James Durbin, in August, 1886, on the southern part of the northeast quarter
of Section 16. So far Waggoner did well ; but neglecting the enterprise, the
village of Bascom flanked the old tov/n, annihilated it, so to speak, and to-day
gives many tokens of real life, while Hopewell has been subjected fifty times
to the plow -share.
Another town, Steinerville, on Section '25, was platted for Henry H. Steiner
by Ct. H. Heming, in May, 1852. This, like Hopewell, has vanished into the
past, so that few remember the olden enterprise of the owner.
Statistics. — The assessment roll of Hopewell Township, in 184-1, shows
20,694 acres, valued at $59,061; town lots valued at $887; horses, 199, valued
at $7,960; cattle, 446, valued at $8, 568; mercantile capital and moneys at interest,
$2, 365 ; pleasure carriages, 8, valued at $245; total value, $78,586; total tax,
$1,085.89; delinquencies from 1840, $104.50.
The valuation and taxation of Hopewell Township for 1884-85 are as fol-
lows: 22,286 acres, valued at $789,080; and personal property valued at $295,-
040, aggregating $1,084,070, or, according to the census of 1880, $670.08 to
each of the 1,682 inhabitants. The total tax for 1885 is $11,079.52, together
with $216) dog tax. The true value of this township is placed at $3, 100,000.
The general statistics of Hopewell Township for 1884 are: 4,692 acres of
wheat yielded about 43,000 bushels; cost of fertilizers, $225; 135 acres of rye;
14 acres of buckwheat yielded 110 bushels; 1,027 acres of oats, product 30,923
bushels; barley 15 acres, product 842 bushels; corn 8,060 acres, product 93,210
bushels; meadow. 1.412 acres, tons of hay. 1,955; clover, 677 acres, tons of hay,
799, bushels of seed, 546, acres plowed under, 141; flax, 1 acre, 8 bushels of
seed; 131 acres of potatoes, 16,622 bushels; tobacco, 20 lbs.; milk sold for
family use, 1.205 gallons; home-made butter, 42,776 lbs. ; sorgum, 5 acres. 64
gallons of syrup; maple syrup, 57 gallons; 166 hives, 665 lbs. of honey; 22,-
845 dozens of eggs; 5 acres of vineyards, 3,115 lbs. of grapes and 100 gallons
of wine; 1 acre sweet potatoes, 82 bushels; 428 acres of apple trees, 8,289
bushels of apples; 3 aci-es of peaches, 95 of pears and one of cherries; 13,790
acres cultivated lands; 1,385, pasture land; 3,687. woodland; 281, waste land;
total acreage owned, 19,098; wool, 5. 1 60 lbs. ; milch cows, 604; dogs. 217; sheep
killed and injured by dogs, 46; animals died of disease, 115 hogs. 18 sheep, 14
cattle, and 16 horses.
School Statistics. — The electors of Hopewell voted on the question of selling
a part of school lands, October 12, 1852. Levi Keller, C. Muzstetter and L.
Shedenhelm were judges; A. C. Spooner and Josiah Selby, clerks. Ohe hun-
di-ed and three votes were polled of which 89 were for and 1 4 against sale. On
February 19, 1853, the east half of southwest (piarter of Section 16 was sold
to Nicholas Nick, for $1,600, the west half of southeast quarter to N. Nick for
$2,399, and the east half of southeast quarter to same for $1,701.
The condition of the schools of Hopewell, shown in report of August, 1884,
is as follows: local tax, $2,184; receipts, $6,028; expenditures, $2,846; school -
houses, 10; value of proi)ei"ty, $4,500; number of teachers, 19; average salary,
$34 and $25; male pupils, 248; female pupils, 159; total enrollment. 407.
560 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CONCLUSION.
Long prior to the survey of the township a road was laid out along the
face of the terrace on the w^est bank of the Sandusky, by order of Gen. Har-
rison, and under the direction of Gen. Bell ; James Meeker and a few men from
■\Vooster underbrushed this road in 1813. At this time the Indian trail was
well beaten, as if traveled over for centuries, while westward, stretching into
the recesses of the wilderness were numerous paths made by hunters, or the
wild animals in the pursuit of which the wilder hunters passed their years.
This was Hopewell in 1820, and, with the exception of the surveyors lines
made that year, the description applies to 18"22-28, when the first settlers came
in. What advances have been made within the last sixty-three years are shown
in this chapter, while in the general history a broader review is given of this
division of the countv.
CHAPTER XX.
JACKSON TOAVNSHIP.
n^HIS division of the county was known as Township 3 north, Range 13
X east, up to the period of its establishment under the name of Jackson in
1832. In 1820 the surveyor, J. Glasgow, laid off this tract in quarter sec-
tions, and. although the lands were offered for sale shoi-tly after, in 1821, few,
if any, pui'chasers were found. In 1827, however, one Henry Huff'man set-
tled near the present village of Her. and in 1828, was joined by the Rinebolts.
Here in 1848 the last parcel of United States lands in the county was piu--
chased by Andrew Rank. The population in 1840 was 586. increased in 1880
to 1,399,' including the north part of Fostoria City. The population in 1885
is placed at 1,600. The railroad systems represented in the township
are the Lake Erie & AVestern, the Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo, the
" Nickel Plate " and the Ohio Central. The township is watered by Wolf
Creek in its southeastern sections, and hj Harrison Creek, a northern tribu-
tary of Wolf Creek, in its western and northern sections. For years subse-
quent to settlement these creeks gave to the township a marshy character,
which tended to its depreciation. Modern times have confined the waters of
the creeks to proper channels and converted a swampy wilderness into a land
of beautiful farms. The Bigham Spring and Creek are useful natural phe-
nomena.
Organic and Official. — The first meeting was held in Jackson Township.
April 3, 1833 (foiu- months after the commissioners established the town), at
the house of Abram Rinebolt. The trustees there elected were Michael
Stahl, Christian Foster and John Stambaugh; Enoch Trmnbo. clerk: Daniel
Williams, treasurer: Abram Rinebolt and Henry Huff'man, road supervis-
ors; Samuel Rinel^olt. Andrew Ferrier and Daniel Swope, overseers of the
poor; Joseph Hampshire and Jacob Hollinger, fence viewers. The early rec-
ords, like other old books throughout the county, are among the things that
were. The records which are in existence date back to 1843, and fi'om them
the present township clerk, Charles Ash. has been kind enough to make a list
of trustees and clerk, elected annually. The three trustees are named
first, and clerk last, for each vear. as follows:
JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 561
1843. — Gideon Jones, Jonas Hampshire, John M. Hoover; Jacob Stalil.
3844. — Gideon Jones, George Stalil, Jolin Williams: Jacob Stalil.
1845. — Christian Foster, John M. Hoover, Fred Feeble; Jacob Stahl.
1840. — Michaer! Stahl, John Stoner, John Miller; Jacob Stahl.
1847. — John M. Kimmel, John Stoner, John Lambright; Jacob Stahl.
1848. — John M. Kimmel, Fred. Feeble, John Lambright; Jacob Stahl.
1840. — John Shontz, Fred. Feeble, Henry Lambright; Jacob Stahl.
1850. — William Boyd, Jerry Parkhurst, Henry Lambright; Peter Stoner.
1851. — Andrew M. Williams, Jonas Foster, Fred. Plollopeter ; Peter Stoner.
1852. — Adam Hampshire, Henry Swope, Frederick Hollopeter; Jacob Stahl.
1853-54. — Frederick Feeble, Christian Foster, Levi Sour; Eli Welsh.
1855. — Jacob Sprout, Jonas Foster, Peter Eaton; Jacob Stahl.
1856.— J. N. Wyant, J. W. Bratton, David Filer; Noah Stahl.
1857.~Kinsey Cox, J. W. Bratton, David Filer; M. Pen well.,
1858. — David Boyd, J. W. Bratton, Jacob Sprout : Noah Stahl.
1859. — B. L. Long, J. W. Bratton, Henry Lambright; Thomas Penwell.
I860.— Jonas Foster, Elias Stahl, John Lambright; Eli Feeble.
1861.— R. G. Murphy, Elias Stahl, Peter Eaton; William Ash.
1862. — R. G. Murphy, Michael Kimmel, Stephen Dicken ; Joseph Stahl.
1863. — Gideon Jones, John Longley, Noah Stahl; Eli Feeble.
1864. — Sampson Foster, John Longley, Noah Stahl; Lewis Toan.
1865.— Gideon Jones, Eli Feeble, Noah Stahl; James M. Hill.
1866.— William Ash, Eli Feeble, Jonas Foster; James M. Hill.
1867.— AVilliam Ash, John Longley. Paul Kline; Pliny Trumbo.
1868. — William Ash, John Craun, Ste})hen Dicken ; Pliny Trumbo.
1869. — William Ash, John Craun, (vacant); Pliny Trumbo.
1870. — William Ash, John Craun, (vacant); Pliny Trumbo.
1871. — Aaron Cox, Henry Stahl. James H. McCaulay; H. W. A. Boyd.
1872.— Aaron Cox, Pliny Trumbo, Isaiah Hollopeter; H. AV. A. Boyd.
1873. — Sampson Foster, Pliny Trumbo, H. W\ A. Boyd; Isaiah Hollopeter.
1874.— John Craun, Gilbert Haghs, H. W. A. Boyd; Isaiah Hollopeter.
1875. — John Craun, Henry Stahl, H. W. A. Boyd; Isaiah Hollopeter.
1876. — J. R. Dicken. Isaiah Hollopeter, H. AV. A. Boyd; AVilliam Stahl.
1877. — J. R. Dicken, John Craun, Jacob Martin; AVilliam Stahl.
1878. — B. L. Long, AAMlliam Snider, Jacob Martin; AVilliam Stahl.
1879.— J. R. Dicken, B. L. Long. AVilliam Steward; AVilliam Stahl.
1880.— John G. Schupp. Noah Good, V. D. Newcomb; H. AV. A. Boyd.
1881.— AVilliam A. Ash, AVilliam P. Dicken, V. D. Newcomb; Charles Ash.
1882.— AVilliam A. Ash, Levi Boyd, J. R. Swope; AV. A. Stahl.
1883.— J. AV. Good, Levi Boyd, J. R, Swope; Charles Ash.
1884. — Sampson Foster, Levi Boyd, Dillon Ames; Charles Ash.
The township officers of Jackson, elected in April, 1885, are: John Park-
hurst, Dillon Ames and C. H. Steward, trustees; Charles Ash, clerk; Pliny
Trumbo, treasurer; G. S. AVormwood, assessor; Eli Pence and Marion Flack,
constables; H. AV. A. Boyd and John Soule, justices of the peac3.
That portion of the township in Section 31, embraced within the limits of
Fostoria, is administered by the corporation of that city. Rehoboth on Sec-
tion 17, Amsden on the Lake Erie & AA^estern Railroad, Section 14, and Her
on the "Nickel Plate" in the southwestern quarter of Section 25, all the nucleal
points of towns, which the future may bring into existence, are governed by
the township board, and shall continue to be so governed unless a brighter
fortune awaits them than that which fi-owned upon the old scriptural settle-
ment of Rehoboth.
.562 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Pioneer and Pioneer Incidents. — George and Tisliey (Reed) Ash, natives of
Pennsylvania, parents of William Ash, of Jackson Township (who was born in
Pennsylvania in 1830), settled in this county in 1888 .... George Ash, now
eighty-six years old, resides here.
Hugh and Margaret (Rogers) Boyd, parents of David Boyd, of Jackson
Township (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1822), settled in this county in
1844. David Boyd is a pioneer blacksmith Peter and Maria Brumm, both
old settlers of Jackson, are numbered among the dead. The latter moved to
Indiana in 1882, and died there in September, 1884 John and Esther
(Spangler) Betts, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Mrs. Godfrey Biles, of
Fostoria, were pioneers of Jackson Township.
Abraham and Rosana (Miller) Craun, natives of New Jersey, parents of
John Craun. of Jackson Township (who was born in Franklin County, Ohio,
in 1825), came with their family to this county in 1885. Mrs. Craun died in
1878, Mr. Craun in 1883.
David Dissinger, a Pennsylvanian, came here in 1838 .... Jonathan Dicken,
also a Pennsylvanian, came in 1889 J. R. Dicken, a native of Ohio, settled
in the county in 1884.
Peter Eaton, born in New York State in 1812, father of Mrs. Joseph
Schupp and Reuben Eaton, both of Jackson Township, entered land in this
township in 1840.
Andi-ew Ferrier made a settleinent in Jackson about 1832 .... Christian
Foster located in Jackson prior to 1832, settled in the county in 1839....
Fred, and Christiana (Kempher) Febles moved from_ Wood County, Ohio, in
1845. The former died in 18G3, the latter in 1876 George and Jane
(Anderson) Feasel, natives of Pennsylvania, settled in Fairfield County, Ohio,
at an early date and located in Jackson Township, within the pioneer period.
John P. Gordon sold the first whisky at Risdon in 1831-82 John Gib-
bens, a native of Ohio, came in 1832.
HemyHufPman, the first settler in the township, entered the southwest quar-
ter of Section 36, in 1827, and built his cabin early the following year. . . .
Jacob and Savillia (Peters) Heiserman, natives of Germany, parents of Jacob
Heiserman, of Jackson Township (who was born in Seneca County in 1847),
came to this coimty in 1883. . . .Jonas HamT:)shire came into Jackson in 1888
. . . .Isaiah Hollopeter, fo^^nder of the village of Rehoboth in 1844, was one of
the pioneers of Jackson .... Henry Hoffman settled in Jackson Township in
1827 Jacob Hollinger. James Hanna and Jose})h Hagerman w^ere among
the early settlers.
John Her, a native of Pennsylvania, assisted in building the first churches,
and the first log schoolhonse in the township. His son, Isaac (one of fifteen
childi-en) resides in Hopewell township .... Plato Jones, a native of Ohio, set-
tled here in 1832. . . .Henry and Margaret (Sprout) Johnson were early settlers
. . . .Henry F. Johnson came in 1851, and settled on his present farm .... James
and Priscilla (Blagg) Jones, parents of the late Gideon Jones, of Jackson
Township (who was born in Gallia County. Ohio, in 1810). moved with their
family to Wood County. Ohio, when it was a dense wilderness, and settled not
far from the Seneca County line, near the farm where Gideon Wells afterward
lived many years.
Joseph Kinsey is a name classed among the pioneers .... Henry A. Kinsey
came in 1845.
John and Elizabeth (Good) Lambright. John Longley, William C. and
Elizabeth Lybarger are names connected with the early history of the town-
ship Daniel and Margaret (Brill) Long, natives of Pennsylvania, fonuer
ac.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 565
born in 1779, died in 1871, latter born in 1783, died in 1858, came to Jackson
Township in 1884, where B. L. Long now resides.
Florence McCarthy was one of the pioneers of 1832 .... Abraham Miller,
father of Isaac Miller (who came to this county at an early day), and grand-
father of Ezra Miller (who was* born here in 1845), is a son of Isaac Miller,
who settled in the county in 1820. There is an apple tree on the farm of
Abraham Miller, in Jackson Township, which is fifty years old, and measures
seven feet and nine inches in circumference, four inches from the ground. It
is thirty-nine feet high and fifty-nine feet wide at the top .... Conrad Myers, a
native of Mahoning County, settled in Hancock County in 1885, and ten years
later moved to Jackson Township, Seneca County. Prof. B. F. Myers, of
Tiffin, and Rev. S. P. Myers, of Bloomville, are his sons. His death occm-red
August 11, 1885. He had in his possession the old musket which Michael
Musser carried during the war of 1812. It is still in good condition, and is
valued at $100 The McCauley family, of whom Judge McCauley, of Tiffin,
is a prominent member, settled here at an early date.
The Nestlerodes resided on ' ' The Island " in ] 832 Jacob and Elizabeth
Nederhouse were early settlers .... William Noble and his wife, Rebecca (Lytle)
Noble, parents of Warren P. , Harrison, Montgomery and John Noble, settled
in Jackson Township, in 1834, with their family of nine children. Mr. Noble,
a native of Connecticut, died in 1863, aged eighty-one years; Mrs. Noble, a
native of Pennsylvania, died in 1874, aged seventy-four years.
Madison Penwell, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1812, was one of the
early settlers of Jackson Township. . . .Jeremiah Parkhurst came in 1883.
In 1 848 A. Rank, a soldier of the Mexican war, located in this township,
and piu'chased the last parcel of United States lands sold in the county ....
Jacob Rinebold, father of Noah Rinebold, of Jackson Township (who was born
in this township in 1851), was a pioneer. . . .John, Abram, Daniel and Samuel
Rinebolt settled here in 1828 .... James Robinson was also an early settler.
Jacob Schupp, a native of Germany, father of Joseph Schupp, of Jackson
Township (who was born in this township in 1847), was a pioneer of the place.
He died in 1883 Henry and Sarah (Williard) Shontz, natives of Pennsyl-
vania, parents of John Shontz, of Bloomville (who was born in Stark County,
Ohio, in 1823), came from Stark County to Jackson Township in 1884, and
here died, Mrs. Shontz in 1865, and Mr. Shontz in 1871 ... .J. H. Sprout came
from Pennsylvania in 1834 Michael Stahl settled in Jackson in 1832. . . .
George Stalal settled in Jackson in 1884 Hemy Stahl settled in Jackson in
1836. He was born in Perry County, Ohio, in 1821 William and Rebecca
(Foster) Stahl, natives of Ohio, parents of Christian Stahl, of Jackson Town-
ship (and who was born here in 1845), were among the early settlers .... John
Stambaugh was elected trustee in 1833, having been a settler in Jackson for
some time Samutl and Mary (Renner) Steward, natives of Pennsylvania,
are classed among the old residents. In ]882 his son, W. H., lost barn, horses
and 700 bushels of wheat by fire. . . .Daniel Swope located in Jackson in 1833.
. . . .Henry Swope in 1832.
Enoch Trumbo settled in Jackson early in 1831, on lands which he pur-
chased that year. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1804. Pliny Trumbo is
a native of Ohio, dating his settlement here to 1845.
Isaac Wyant, a native of Pennsylvania came to the township in 1838, and
resided here until his death.
Jacob and Elizabeth (Nuser) Yochum, natives of Germany, parents of
Jacob Yochum, of Jackson Township (who was born in Germany in 1836),
came to America in 1845 and settled in Jackson Township, where Mr. Yochum
died in 1855. so
566 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Small Seftlements. — Rehobotli was surveyed by Thomas Heming in Decem-
ber, 18-4:4, for Isaiah Hollopeter on the east half of the southwest quai-ter of
Section 1 7. The name was too pronounced to call forth the admiration of the
people of forty years ago; men were too busy with politics, and Avomen were
too content to live on their farms and grow wealthy as their lands increased in
value to dream of settling down to a life in the village of the Mission Church.
The vicinity of Rehoboth is indeed endowed with many of nattu'e' s charms —
it is a beautiful pastoral district claiming miich, if not all, that is picturesque
in the township.
Amsden, on the southeast quarter of Section 14, a station on the Lake
Erie & Western Railroad, dates back to the construction of that road. Ida
Stockwell is in charge of the postoffice here, and this office, the railroad sta-
tion and comfortable farm houses in the vicinity form the nucleus of the future
town.
Trumbo was the name given to a postoffice in the southern part of the
township.
Her, a new railroad town in the southeastern corner of the township, was
founded in July, 1885. Diu'ing the summer the " Nickel Plate " Railroad
Company erected depot buildings here, and Bigham <fc Walters opened a gen-
eral store. In September, 1885, M. M. Walters was appointed postmaster.
In the history of Loudon Township, full references are made to the old
settlements of Rome and Risdon, and the present city of Fostoria, a part of
which is situate in this township.
Churches. — Olive Chapel Reformed Society, Jackson Township, was organ-
ized in 1852 by Rev. R. Good with F. Febles, C. Myers, George Stahl and
Jacob Stahl, members. The latter donated the land on wiiich a house of wor-
ship was erected inl802. This society w^as reorganized under State law, April
27, 1867. W. J. Shupe presided, with Rev. George Rettig, secretary. H.
Remer and William Boid were elected elders, W. A. Schmid and Z. Acker,
deacoAjS; and F. Falk, J. Shupe and D. Dissinger, trustees. The constitution
of the former German Reformed society was adopted.
The Ark Church (Methodist), was founded by Rev. H. L. Nickerson, and
the present church completed during the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Rodgers, of
Seneca Mission, in 1864.
Mount Zion Church, of the Evangelical Association, adopted articles for
the government of their new church, February 4, 1872, which was signed by
S. E. Rife, pastor in charge.
St. John's Church, of the Evangelical Association of North America, was
organized under State law May 31, 1873. Rev. John Plantz presided. The
trustees elected were William and Jacob Zimmerman, Jacob Nederhouse. J.
H. McCauley and Matthias Lamnes.
The histories of the Methodist, Catholic, United Bretliren and other
churches of the township are given in the church sketches of Bettsville and
Fostoria with which they are closely identified.
Statisfies. — The assessment roll of Jackson Township made in 1841, gives
the following figures: 13,177 acres, valued at $26,105; no town lots; 105 horses
valued at $4,200; 265 cattle valued at $2,120; merchants' capital and moneys at
interest, $200; total value, $32,625; total tax, $481.21; delinquencies fi-om
1840, $59.76.
The valuation and taxation of Jackson Township for 1884-85 are as follows:
22,570 acres vahied at $685, 450, and personal property at $314,590. aggregat-
ing $1,000,040 or $805.08 per capita, (population in 1880 being 1,241 ). The
total tax for 1884-85 is $9,079.72, and the dog tax, $149. The true value of
the township is placed at $2,600,000.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 567
The general statistics of Jackson Township for 1884, are: 3.732 acres of
wheat, against 3,538 in 1883; 35 of rye; 8 of buckwheat, product. 105 bushels:
969 acres of oats, product, 20, 317 bushels; barley, 217 acres; corn,2,y01 acres,
produced 45,700 bushels; 774 acres of meadow, 1.273 tons of hay; 1,397 acres
of clover, 703 tons of hay, 573 bushels of seed, 159 plowed under; 93 acres of
potatoes,product,l 1.368 bushels; butter, 48, 096 pounds; 6 acres of sorghum. 41 7
gallons of syrup; 114 gallons of maple syrup; 146 beehives, 3,732 poimds of
honey; 23,884 dozens of eggs; 1 acre of vines, 5, 900 pounds of grapes; 362 acres
of orchards, 9,319 bushels of apples, 71 bushels of pears, 1 of cherries and 3
of plums; lands owned and cultivated, 10,599 acres; pasture lands, 1.146;
woodlands, 4.641; wasteland, 11, total acreage owned 16,397; pounds of wool
(1883), 14,145; milch cows, 509; dogs, 155; sheep killed and injvrred by dogs,
43 ; domestic animals died of disease — hogs, 129; sheep. 67; cattle, 38: and
horses, 25.
School Statistics. — The election held in Jackson Township, April 1. 1844,
resulted in tifty-live votes for the sale of Section 16, school lands, and fifty
'against such sale. T. M. Hoover. J. Hamshire and G. Jones were judges, and
Samuel Younker and Jacob Stahl, clerks of election. The record of sales made
September 19, 1846, is as follows: Fred. Singer, west half of northwest quarter;
Henry B. Risdon, east half of northwest quarter; Charles Yroman, west half
of northeast quarter; Paul Kline, east half of northeast quarter ; Thomas Shantz
and John Willard, east half of southeast quarter; William Biinn, west half of
southeast quarter; John Rinebolt, south half of southwest quarter; and Henry
Stahl, north half of southwest quarter. The amount realized at sale was 1 5, 229.
The first log school building was erected on the northeast corner of Section 19,
over which Washington Noble presided. The statistics of Jackson Township
schools in August, 1884, are as follows: male pupils, 193; female pupils. 207;
total, 400; number of houses, 8; value of property, $6, 000 ; number of teachers,
12; average salaries, $40 and $30; local tax, $17. 78; receipts, $3, 078. 54; expen-
ditures, $2,769.89.
CONCLUSION. • •
This township, though the last in the county to receive settlers, ranks to-
day among the first in point of agricultural product, number of inhabitants and
general wealth. The pioneers found the district and untrailed marsh, almost
as uninviting as any part of the Black Swamp. Within half a century the
township, throughout all its sections, has been svibjected to drainage and all
the other expedients resorted to by the agriculturist to make the wild land^
fruitful. Success waited on this labor and gave to the county a division rich
in j)redial wealth, and richer still in the sense of industry, which pervades all
classes.
V^
568 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY
CHx\PTER XXL
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.
PRIOR to 1832, and dating back to 1820, this division of the county was
known as Town 8 north, Range 14 east. In the latter year it was siu'-
veyed into quarter sections by J. T. Worthington, who made his headquar-
ters at James Montgomery ' s home in Pleasant Township. In June 1832 the
commissioners granted the prayer of petitioners, residents of what is now
Liberty, asking to be set off from Seneca Township, and organized. In April,
1833, the first meeting was held. The petition was presented by John L.
Flack. In 1830 the whole number of inhabitants in old Seneca Township was
only 369, of which niimber only a dozen or so belonged to this portion of it.
In 1840 the population of this township was 1,084, and forty years later,
2, 157; a reference to the statistics at the close of this chapter will point out
its increase in general wealth.
The Northwestern Ohio Railroad runs north by west through the township
passing through Bettsville, the " Nickel Plate " Railroad runs across the
township fi-om Section 30, leaving at Section 12, and the Lake Erie & AVest-
ern Railroad cuts across its northwestern corner, loassing through Kansas.
The Niagara rock presents many exposures throughout the township. The
boulder formation characterizes a tract in the northeastern sections over a mile
wide and extending through three sections east and west. A writer for D. J.
Stewart in 1874, aptly describes this peculiar formation: "'In some places the
limestone rock literally covers the ground. In other localities in the immedi-
ate neighborhood it is not quite so thickly streAvn with this stone, and tolera-
ble crops of wheat and other cereals are produced. By contraction with the
atmosphere, the limestone loses its original brownish shade, and is transformed
into a white, giving the land a singular appearance when viewed from a dis-
tance. The county, generally, is peculiarly fi-ee from stony land, which renders
the appearance of so much, just in this one sjjot. rather a remarkable geologi-
cal feature. " The soil of the township is in general very fertile, and large
areas show deep and heavy loam. The artificial drains and tributaries of
Wolf Creek, and its eastern fork take off the overflow, and leaves the soil in
the finest condition for cultivation. Wolf Creek enters the township in the
northwest quart.er of Section 19, flows in a tortuous course generally northeast
past Bettsville, and leaves the county in the northwest quarter of Section 2.
The east fork of this wandering creek flows through the southeastern sections.
The county drain runs generally due north from Hopewell and enters Wolf
Creek in Section 8. Two or three other artificial channels as well as tributary
streams complete a perfect drainage system.
Organic and Official. — Liberty Township was established June 5, 1832, and
the first annual election held April 1, 1833. The officers elected were E. W.
Brook, Jacob Kime and John Rosenberger, trustees; John Craun, clerk; Eben.
Conway and Nicholas Rumbaugh, constables; Adam Flack, Isaac Hartsock,
James Judson, Levi Crissy and Joseph H. Conway, supervisors. The records
fi'om 1833 to 1863 are either lost or in such a bad condition as to leave a list
LIBERTY TOW.NSHir. 569
of officers for those years without the authenticity, which reports of elections
alone bestow. In 1851, Dennis Maloy signs other records as township clerk;
James Lott served as clerk fi-om 1852 to 1854; Alex. Feasel, 1855; John
Good, 185G-57; James Lewis, 1858: Jacob Thomas, 1859-60; Jacob Powell,
1861-63; A. J. Feasel, 1868; Jacob Thomas, 1864-65; Edward Pope, 1866;
James Lott. 186 /-69; William Shuman, 1870; Jacob Feasel, 1871-75; Michael
Lynch, 1876; John Edwards. 1877; D. Shuman. 1878; W. Short, 1879; M.
W. Bliss andD. Richards. 1880; H. H. Geyer and J. R. Betts, 1881; J. R.
Betts. 1882: C. J. Thomas, 1883; C. O. Snyder, 1884-85.
The trustees from 1864 to 1885 are named as follows:
1864. — Nicholas Rosenberger, L. Z. Wagner, Sam Bower.
1865. — John Long, Ezra Cromer. Moses Hosier.
1866. — John BaxTghman, G. H. Feasel, Nathan Littler.
1867-68. — William Robertson, John Lynch. W. C. Lybarger.
1869.^R. Littler. R. Williams, William Flack.
1870. — N. H. Remsburg. Aug. Hoke. Ezra Cromer.
1871.— J. W. Powell. William Robertson. N. H. Remsburg.
1872. — Amos Deal. William Robertson, N. H. Remsburg.
1873. — Samuel Leller, William Robertson. N. H. Remsburg.
1874. — Jacob Kimmett. John Weaver. N. H. Remsburg.
1875. — Hiram Cromer, J. B. Weaver. N. H. Remsbiu-g.
1876. — Hiram Cromer. J. B. WeaA^er. N. H. Remsbuig.
1877. — James Fry, John Halters, N. H. Remsburg.
1878. — Anson Anderson. Jacob A. Zeis, J. H. Fry.
1879.— Reuben Heffner. William Flack. J. H. Fry.
1880. — Benjamin Stackhouse, G. W. Hartsock. R. N. Lybarger.
1881. — H. Frankhouser. John A. Jones, John Edwards.
1882. — John W. Angus. W. S. Sheats. John A. Jones.
1883.— AV alter R. Betts. G. W. Hartsock. John B. Weaver.
1884. — Edward Chapman. John Edwards, Fpton Ash, trustees; J. L. Hos-
ier and Bradford Struble, justices.
The otHcers elected in April, 1885, are Edward Chapman, John Edwards,
Upton Ash. trustees: C. O. Snyder, clerk; M. A. Smith, treasurer; Ammon
Freese and George Schuster, assessors; L. T. Ruggles, J. F. Shaull and Alvin
^Luman. constables: Bradford Struble and J. L. Hosier, justices of the peace.
Pioneers and Old Residents. — Henry and Eliza (Lott) Abbott, parents of
IMrs. J. H. Davidson, of Bettsville (who is a native of Seneca County), were
early settlers .... Dr. James A. Andrews, a native of Philadelphia, and who
died in 1860. came, in 1837. to the farm now occupied by his widow, IVIi-s.
Emy (Rozell) Andi-ews, who was born in New Jersey .... Jacob and Sarah
(Willerson) Ash. natives of Maryland, parents of Jacob Ash, of Liberty Town-
ship (who was born in the house he now lives in, in 1836), came to Liberty
Township in 1832, and here died .... Jacob and Sarah (Kountz) Ash, natives
of Maryland, parents of Abraham Ash. of Fostoria (and who was born in 1824
in Pennsylvania), came to Ohio in 1831. and settled in Liberty Township.
Jacob Ash died in 1853 at the age of sixty-three. Abraham Ash laid out and
had surveyed the present village of Kansas in the interest of his brother Jacob,
and was instrimiental in getting postoffice established there, being first post-
master .... George and Tishey (Reed) Ash, parents of Upton Ash, came to
Liberty Township in 1833.
Nathan and Phoebe (Caulkin) Betts, parents of Mrs. Nicholas Rosenberger,
of Liberty Township (who was born in New York State in 1820), located in
Liberty Township in 1834 .... John and Barbara (Boyer) Betts, parents of
-370 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Michael Betts, of Liberty Townsliip (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1809),
came to Wayne County in 1821, and to Liberty Township, this county, in 1832,
locatino- on Section 3, "^where John Betts caused to be laid out the twenty-one
original lots of Bettsville in 1838 John Baity, a German, settled here in
1857 .... Jacob O. Bowlus in 18(U .... John Baughman, father of Mrs. Henry
Hostler, of Hopewell Township, was an old settler of Liberty Township
Moses and Martha (Robinson) Bower, parents of Mrs. Upton Ash, mother of
Edmund E. Ash. of Liberty Township, were among the earliest well-known
settlers here .... George and Julia (Scott) Byron, natives of Maryland,
parents of Mrs. Jacob Ash, of Liberty Township (who was born in this county
in 1838), were early settlers David W. Brown came from Frederick County,
Md.. to Seneca County in 1834, died in Liberty Township, June 20, 1885. He
resided at Tiffin in 1834-30, where he rented the old Lloyd Norris farm, and
in 1840 moved on his lands in Liberty Township George Brown, one of the
pioneer residents of Liberty Township, died in July, 1885. Mr. Brown was
eiphty-three years of age, and had resided in Liberty Township over fifty years.
'^ Ezra and Sarah (Craun) Cromer, natives of Maryland, parents of Squire
Hiram Cromer, of Liberty Township (who was born here in 1844), were among
the early settlers of this county, where Mr. Cromer died in 1881.
David and Diana (Lewman) Dicken, parents of John R. Dicken, of Bloom
Township, settled in Liberty Township, this county, in 1831; David Dicken
died in 1871, his widow in 1873.
George and Latu-a (Hine) Emerine, parents of Andrew Emerine^, of Fos-
toria (who was born in Germany in 1830), came to America in 1835 and set-
tled in Libertv Township.
Adam and'Marv Flack, parents of the late Mrs. Abraham Ash, of Fostoria,
settled in Liberty township in 1826 William Flack came fi-om Maryland in
1828 Michael Fisher fi'om Germany in 1848.
John F. Gassman, a native of Germany, born in 1812, came to America
in 1833, and to Liberty Township in 1834. ' He died in 1863.
Jacob Hosier, grandfather of James L. Hosier, was among the very early
settlers, Moses He ffner came fi'om Pennsylvania in 1848 Joseph M.
Hammer, an old settler of Liberty Township, ended his life by suicide in Novem-
ber, 1885
Henry Kern, an Ohioan, came in 1847.
Nathan Littler, a Virginian, came in 1839; Amandus Lutz.an Ohioan, in 1855.
Daniel Martin and his brother Peter built, in 1838, the first house in Betts-
ville Levi McCollom, who died in 1836, owned the west half of the
northwest quarter and the west half of the southwest quarter of Section
25 Mrs. Daniel Martin {nee Mary Betts) died September 8, 1885, in her
seventy-fifth year David Martin, whose widow now resides at old Fort
Seneca, was an earlv settler William Montgomery, father of William Mont-
gomery (the latter born near Tiffin in 1827 and still living), and grandfather
of J. W. Montgomery, of Liberty Township, was one of the first settlers of
this county .. ."^ J. B. and Sarah (Greene) Murray, parents of :\Ii-s. J. W.
Montgomery, of Liberty Township (who was born here in 1863), may have
been early settlers of the county.
John 'Null, a Virginian, came in 1838 James A. Norton, an Ohioan,
settled here in 1843.
Jacob and Annie (Beck) Omwake, many of whose family died of cholera m
1855, parents of Mrs. Hiram Cromer, of Liberty Township (who was born in
Pennsylvania in 1846), came to this county in 1844.
George and Catharine (Null) PnfFenberger, -parents of John Puffen-
berger, of Liberty Township (who was born in Virginia in 1823). were
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. 5T1
the first settlers in Liberty Township, coming in 1825 and entering land in
Section 28. Mr. Puffenberger died in 1850, liis widow in 1877 ... .In October,
184(3, J. W. Patterson lectured on temperance in Puffenberger' s schoolhouse,
Liberty Township .... Mrs. Mary Powell, who died in January, 1881, in her
seventy-ninth year, was born in Bradford Cotmty, Penn. , came to Liberty Town-
ship in 1832, and now rests in the Null Cemetery.
Frederick and Catharine (Shaul) Rosenberger, parents of Nicholas Rosen-
berger, of Liberty Township, (who was born in Virginia in 1814), came to
Seneca County in 1826, and in 1827 to Liberty Township, where they built
the third house in the township, in which house was assembled the first meet-
ing for divine worship held in this township. Frederick Rosenberger built
in 1829 the first saw-mill in Liberty Township, and in 1881 added the first
grist-mill here, and same year assisted in building on the line between Sections
7 and 8 the first schoolhouse in the township .... Andrew Ringle, born in
Pennsylvania in 1817, settled on his present farm in Liberty Township in 1846.
.... John and Jane (Twigley) Rozell, parents of Mrs. Dr. James A. Andrews,
of Liberty Township, came here in 1836, where they died. . . .Daniel Rinebolt,
referred to in the history of Jackson Township, settled here in 1828 .... John
Robertson settled here in 1847.
. George Saul, a native of Pennsylvania, located near Tifiin, Ohio, in 1823,
and in 1831 moved to the farm in Liberty Township, where his widow, Mrs.
Mary (McCune) Saul, now lives. He died in 1850. . . .Michael and Rosanna
(Seidner) Shaull, maternal grandparents of Nicholas Rosenberger, of Liberty
Township, were early settlers here .... Emanuel Shoemaker, a native of
Virginia, born in 1807, but late of Fairfield County, Ohio, came to this county
n 1845, locating in Liberty Township, afterward moving to Hopewell . . . .Fran-
cis Seagraves, a Pennsylvanian, came in 1854 .... George and Rosina (Dun-
ninger) Smith, natives of Germany, parents of Mrs. Jacob Hunker, of Liberty
Township (who was born in this county in 1850), settled here about 1845.
Benjamin Turner, and his wife Rachel K., located at Tifiin in 1829, and in
1834 settled on the Turner farm in this township.
Gerhart and Catherine E. (Fink) Zimmer, natives of Germany, parents of
Mrs. John F. Gassman, of Liberty Township (also a native of Germany, born
in 1819), came to America in 1832, settling same year in this county, where
they died, former in 1875, latter in 1874, at advanced ages. . . .Barney Zim-
merman, a native of Maryland, born in 1804, father of Jacob Zimmerman of
Pleasant Township (who was born in Maryland in 1829), located on his present
farm in Liberty Township, in 1836, and assisted in the construction of the early
churches, school buildings, roads, bridges, etc ... . William and Eva (Lather-
man) Zeis are also numbered among the old residents of the township .... God-
frey and Margaret (Sager) Zeis, parents of Mrs. William F. Shuman, of Pleas-
ant Township, are old settlers in this township.
BETTSVILLE.
Bettsville, bounded by Wolf Creek, South Street and East Street, was sur-
veyed April 12, 1838, for John Betts, by James Durbin. Daniel Betts' addi-
tion was surveyed April 24, 1858, by L. E. Holtz. Betts' third addition was
platted in September, 1871, for Dr. D. H. and John F. Betts. Mrs.
Andi-ews' addition was surveyed in 1871 by S. Nighswander. An addition to
Bettsville, bounded by Wolf Creek, Union and Main Streets, was made in
1872 by P. H. Ryan for Michael Betts and Catherine Rosenberger. D. W.
and J. A. Betts' addition was surveyed in April, 1873, by S. Nighswander.
Other additions were made in 1874 and 1879, viz. : Daniel Betts', October
572 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
15, 1874; Mrs. Andrews' second addition, September, 1874, and Jacob Schus-
ter & Co.'s, January, 1879.
Incorporation and Organization. — A petition to incorporate Bettsville was
presented to the county board December 11, 1882, by A. Kirchner, M. Heff-
ner, H. M. Snyder, M. Bower and forty-nine others. This petition was
granted February 20, 1883, and a village election held April 21, 1883, with
the following result: M. Heffner, mayor; J. L. Hosier, clerk; D. W. Betts,
treasurer; J. Jackson, marshal; M. A. Smith, sealer of weights and measures;
H. H. Geyer, John Grover, John Robertson, councilmen for one year; J.
Bui-ket, A. Betts, J. Gill, councilmen for two years. The councilmen elected
in 1884 were H. H. Geyer, Jacob Trautman and Isaac Stiger. The elections
of 1885 resulted as follows: mayor, clerk, treasurer and marshal were all
re-elected, with Jacob Schuster, Henry Betts, Samuel Van Meer, members of
council. In May, 1885, Milo Haller succeeded Jacob Traiitman, who moved
to Wood County. John Robertson. H. P. Fry, Ed. Leggett, D. AV. Betts,
Jacob Schuster and Henry Hollinger formed the board of education. James
L. Hostler was re-elected village clerk in April, 1885, and was elected justice
of the peace for Liberty Township same date.
Churches. — The Methodist Episcopal Church of Bettsville may be said to
have been formed in May, 1851, when the quarterly conference of Port Cliiaton
District, held at the Salem Church near AYolf Creek, set off the territory
including Swope's Corners, Bettsville and adjacent places as a mission. In
July, 1851, Newel J. Close was appointed circuit preacher vice S. T. Lane
and Thomas Ackerman the circuit preachers of the old district. In August,
1852, the name of the mission was changed to that of Fort Seneca, and Betts-
ville was attended fi-om Fort Seneca for some years. It appears from the
following resolution adopted April 9, 1853, by the third quarterly conference of
the Port Clinton Circuit, that a church was built at Bettsville ; "on motion of
Brother Brakefield, the church at Bettsville not being used, and it not being
probable that it would be for years to come. the. trustees were ordered to sell
the church and apply proceeds for the benefit of Fort Seneca society." Nego-
tiations for the sale of this church were carried on until November, 1859, when
the ' ' committee on sale ' ' was released.
In 1862 a lot was purchased from J. R. Betts for $500. Josiah Adams was
reappointed preacher with William Deemers assistant, and name of the circuit
changed to Bettsville. In ]8()4 L. D. Rogers and T. C. Reed were appointed
preachers, and work on building the church at Bettsville was commenced.
In 1865 R. Biggs was appointed in charge of Bettsville Circuit, but at the
close of the year the circiiit was divided, with Bettsville, Fort Seneca, Jackson,
Ebenezer and Bascom, forming Bettsville. Charles Astor succeeded R.
Biggs; D. Bulle, next; John H. Wilson, 1869; Hill, 1875; L. O. Cooke, 1877;
H. H. Harper, 1880; W. Dunlap, 1882; Rev. N. S. Brackney came in 1884.
The Methodist Episcopal Church, Bascom, is the oldest church in the Betts-
ville Circuit, having been formed at the hoxise of Abram Miller in 1831, and a
meeting-house was built by G. W. Collier some time after.
The Methodist Episcopal Church of Kansas, was founded by Rev. R.
Biggs with six members, who held meetings in the United Brethren Church.
The Reformed Church, Bettsville, was founded in 1883 by Rev. William
Smith, of Fort Seneca, with the following members: M. A. Smith and wife,
Hem-y Fry and wife, and a few others. A church building was begun in 1882,
which was completed in April, 1883, at a cost of about $2,700. The Sunday-
school, established abotit two years ago, claims an attendance of forty. M. A.
Smith is superintendent; Charles Zeis and Henry Fry are trustees.
J^^ '9^
Ji^Ori ^ S^^
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. 575
The United Brethren met at Helena November 15, 1878, and elected Abram
Ash, Jacob Ash, J. A. Johnson. Jesse Mowry, Sam. Mowiy, trustees in .charge
of the Kansas Union Church property of the United Brethren society.
St. Joseph's Catholic Church was founded many years ago, with John Cook,
Klaus Nick, John Berean, P. Kibler, Hank Shippey, John Shaugh, John Murphy
and, later, A. Kirchner and others. The church was built about eleven years
ago. Rev. Joseph Blazier, of Millersville, is the priest of this district, suc-
ceeding Father Arnoldi, of Fostoria, seven years ago, in charge of this mission.
St. Andrew's Catholic Church is also in this township.
Salem Church at Bettsville was formed previous to 1832, when there were
about ten members belonging to the Evangelical Society. The Baker family
and a few others were the original members. In 1832 the Betts and Lesher
families became members; the Osewalts, and Peter Vaitley and wife came
shortly after and joined the church. This church was reorganized August 25,
1870. The first trustees were John Kisaberth, Jacob Thomas, J. Walters,
John Dundore and Michael Betts. Rev. E. S. Rife was pastor.
Ebenezer Chapel Society, Bettsville, was incorporated May 19, 1865. with
Rev. L. D. Rogers, chairman; Caspar Cover, secretary; A. E. Cover, Henry
Cramer, "William Cramer, David Rosier, Charles Conell, August Elliot and
Caspar Cover, trustees.
Societies. — Bettsville Lodge No. 752, K. of H., was instituted in 1878.
The officers installed in January, 1884, are named as follows:
Diet., George Flumerfelt; Vice Diet., J. D. Briner; Asst. Diet., I. F. Betts;
Rep., F. C. Miller; Financial Rep., Moses Heffner; Treasurer, John F. Hal-
ter; Chap., Daniel Murray; Guide, J. L. Tindall; Guar., Nathaniel Sherrer;
Sent. , D. B. Betts ; Trustees, Jacob Schuster, H. H. Guyer and John Halter.
The K. and L. of H. , Esther Lodge No. 278, recently organized, is pre-
sided over by Moses HefPner, with Clara Martin, secretaiy.
Kansas Lodge No. 405, I. O. O. F. , elected the following named officers in
January, 1885: Noble Grand, Louis Pieter; Vice-Grand, Adam Rinebolt;
treasurer, J. O. Bolus; recording secretary, C. E. Hudson; trustees, R. H.
Powell, Dr. Jiimp and D. J. AYinchell.
Unity Council No. 4, O. of C. F., was organized at Bettsville, Ohio, May
19, 1880, with the following named charter members: John H. Graham,
Alfred Mclntyer, A. H. A. Smith, David H. Betts, Levi Mohler, William A.
Craig. Alex "W. Day, Irving Abbott, James M. Fry, John Mirer, John A. Mar-
tin, XVilliam W. Winch, Francis F. Winch, Moses Heffner, Moses R. Bowers,
Edward Leggett, Lewis A. Solomon, Joseph Jackson, George A. Yeagley,
Lewis T. Ruggles, Reuben Heffner, George Schuster, John F. Betts, Daniel
P. Lynch, Elmer L. Jackson, Jacob Fink, Isaac Stiger, Amos Stiger, Henry
Brockman, Denis D. Blue, George D. Feasel, Winfield S. Sheets, Joseph
Flory, John Gruver, W. P. Buckingham. Reuben Heffner was the first chief
counsellor.
Maple Lodge No. 700, I. O. O. F., was chartered May 13, 1881, and insti-
tuted June 23, 1881, with the following members: A. S. Martin, M. D., Amos
Deal, Daniel McCowen, Franklin Ringle, John ^y. Snyder, Amandus Betts,
R. Heffner, H. H. Gyer, H. S. Raff, H. M. Craig, J. W. Palmer, Henry
Brockman, William Flaven, with Reuben Heffner, N. G. , H. M. Craig, secre-
tary. In January, 1882, A. Betts was elected N. G. , and Jacob Schuster, sec-
retary. In July, 1882, Harry Craig, N. G., and S. F. Moore, secretary. In
Januaiy, 1883, Daniel McCowen, N. G., and H. S. Raff, secretary. In July,
1883, John W. Snyder, N. G.. and W. S. Miller, secretary. In January,
1884, Jacob Schisler was elected N. G. , and George Schneider, secretary. In
576 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
July. 1884, J. L. Tindall was N. G. , and W. S. Miller, secretary. In Janu-
ary* 1885, Isaac Stiger was elected N. G. , and Jacob Schuster, secretary.
S. E. Tan Horn took Isaac Stiger' s place in June, 1885. The lodge now
niimbers about forty members in good standing.
Joseph Powell Post, G. A. Pi., No. 174, Bettsville, was organized under
charter December 27, 1881, with the following members: John ^Y. Snyder, J.
H. Davidson, Irwin Abbott, John Graver, John Fitzgerald, John F. Betts, F.
F. Winch, Jacob Thomas, T. L. Mills, John ^\. Palmer, J. Shii'eman, Elijah
Tindall, John Robertson, Lucian Hall, C. J. Thomas, Charles Eobinson, John
A. Mai-tin, A. Betts, John Robison. L. C. Graves, Anson Lewman, William
Shirkey, George Drayton, Joseph Jackson, Joseph Burket, A. "Whitney and
William Craig. John Snyder served as commander in 1881-82; C. J. Thomas,
in 1883; John W. Gilbert, in 1884; H. M. Craig, in 1885. and C. J. Thomas,
adjutant. This po.st was named in honor of Joseph Powell, of the One Hun-
dred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, who died of wounds received during
the Atlanta campaign. The membership is sixty.
K. of P., Seneca Lodge No. 147, Bettsville, was instituted October 10,
1882, with the following officers: T. A. Flumerfelt, P. C. ; C. E. Smith, C.
C. ; C. O. Snyder, Y. C. ; H. L. Penn. P. ; I. J. Mclntyre, M. A. ; D. P.
Lynch, M. E. ; C. W. Harris. M. T. ; Frank Wickert, K. of E. and S. ; J. C.
Lybarger, O. G. ; George Edwards, I. G. The other members were H. W.
Lease, James Blue, E. Blue, Marion Blue, Marion Lynch, W. S. Sheats.
The chancellor commanders, since instituted, are C. 0. Snyder, 1883; H. L.
Penn, 1884; Dr. Scheib, 1885. C. O. Snyder was elected representative to
Grand Lodge for two years, succeeding T. A. Flumerfelt, the first represent-
ative. C. O. Snyder and H. L. Penn have been recorders of the lodge, suc-
ceeding F. Wickert. The trustees are H. L. Penn, J. L. Hosier and H. H.
Geyer. The membership is about 1,822.
Business Circle. — The business and professional circles of the village in
1884-85, were made up as follows: Bettsville Enterprise, J. L. Hosier; Anna
Bollinger, millinery; Caroline Beery, di-ess-maker; J. R. Betts, imdertaker;
Wilson Betts, flour- mill: E. L. Boucher, di-uggist. burned out; Moses Bower,
carpenter; Henry Brookman, blacksmith; W. P. Buckingham, physician;.
George Burkert," cooper; Bui'kert & Robinson, pumps; J. H. Davidson, gen-
eral store; A. Doherty, limekiln; T. A. Flumerfelt, removed to Mose Heffner's
saw-mill; Albert Flora, cooper; John Fry's saloon, now owned by John Sny-
der; Mrs. M. Gambs, moved to Michigan; Gus Smith, grocery and boarding
house ; Henry H. Geyer, hardware : John Gills, boots and shoes ; John Gruver,
blacksmith: Irving and Abbott Hotel, now barber shop and printing office,
building owned by Perry Lynch; Anthony Kirchner, harness-maker; John
Lutz & Son (removed), meat market; A. S. Martin (deceased), physician;
Miller Bros., flour-mill; Samuel Moore, carriage and wagon-makers; R. E.
Norton, barber; John Shheman, boots and shoes; William Cromer, saloon;
Dr. Scheib. physician; Ed. Smith, hotel; Smith & Fry, general store; Snyder
& Co., general'store; J. G. Snyder & Co., stave factory; John Snyder, tinner;
John Thomas, cooper; Thomas* & Robertson, pump-makers; S. R. Tan Meer,
cooper; George W. Whitney, shoe-maker.
The great fire of August 7, 1880, at Bettsville, destroyed one of its finest
business blocks, owned by John Betts, Schubert, John Cook, C. Norton, Joseph
Massonnette, George Schuster, John Perong and others. This block was never
rebuilt.
The Anchor Mills were built about ten years ago by Betts & IMiller Bros., at
a co.st of about 120,0*);). The Snvdnr Bros, leased a share in the business of
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. 577
the mill, and in connection with the builders were the operators until they dis-
posed of their interests about 1S80. since which time D. W. Betts, AVilliam,
John and Fred. Miller have conducted the business, with H. S. Raff, miller.
The buildings are brick, two and a half stories high. There are five run of
stone, two piu-ifiers, three cleaners, eight reels and a Morris Elevator Bolt,
driven by a sixty-five horse-power engine. The capacity is 125 ban-els per
day. This industry gives employment to six men. The elevator, now leased
by" this company, was built some' twelve years ago, by Betts, King & Rosen-
berger.
Bettsviile Stave AVorks were erected about thirteen years ago, by Jacob
Schuster, as a planing-mill. and converted into a mill for the manufactm-e of
hoops. The buildings were purchased by Fred. Snyder, of Helena, about four
years ago, when stave machinery was added. The capacity is about 30,000
staves and 7.000 hoops per day. The sycamore, elm and bass-wood, used in
the manufacture of hoops and staves, are supplied in the neighborhood. George
Nuernburg is foreman.
Coopers — Merchant & Short established the first cooperage at Bettsviile,
about nine years ago. John Robinson succeeded this firm about six years ago;
operated the shop for about nine months, when he sold to S. R. Van Meer, who
has operated the shops the last five years. This industry gives employment to
six men: has a capacity of seventy barrels per day.
The first brickyard was established by Michael Betts. John Kerchner
operated it subseqiiently. Kerchner, Craig & Legget entered into partnership
and introduced tile machinery. The works now are operated by H. R. Fry 6c
Henry Betts. manufacturers of di-ain tiles.
Bettsviile Limekiln, owned by Dougherty Bros., of Toledo, was estab-
lished about fourteen years ago by citizens of Tiffin. The kiln was piirchased
by the Doughertys about five years ago. The full working force of the
double kiln is about twelve men.
Bettsviile Manufacturing Company was organized March /, 1882, with the
following named members : Jacob Schuster, John F. Halter, Amandus Betts,
H. P. Fry. H. H. Geyer, M. A. Smith, Jacob Troutman, D. W. Betts, Moses
Heffner, Jacob Zeis and F. C. Miller. The object of this company was the
manufacture and repair of agricultural implements, but it never materialized.
KANSAS.
Kansas Village was surveyed by G. H. Heming for Abraham Ash. guardian
of Jacob Ash. March 9. 1855" on the northeast half of the northeast quarter of
the southeast quarter of Section 0. Foster' s addition to the village was platted
by Gideon Jones for Charles AV. Foster in August, 1865. This is north of
the county road to alley north of Ash Street. Jacob Ash's addition, north ^of
31ain Street, and east and west of Chestnut, was suiiwed by D. Maloy in 18()7.
The village is located in one of the finest farming districts of western Seneca,
on the line of the Lake Erie & Western Railroad. Its growth has been of that
steady quality which wins and shows success, and to-day it boasts of being one
of the most business-like of the smaller villages of Ohio.
The business houses of Kansas are named as follows: Bollinger Bros. ,
potash manufacturers: J. O. Bowlus. grocer: D. E. Bowman, physician; C.
Brown, saloon; Solomon Gardner, carriage-maker: David Hartline, shoe-maker;
C. Kinsman, saw-mill: J. S. Jump, di'uggist; Kansas Lime Company; Lease
Bros., g^eneral store; J. D. Reese, insm-ance; Reed & Stout, flouring-mill;
David AVarner. jeweler, and Joseph Whitney, wagon shop. James S. Jump
succeeded J. O. Bowlus as postmaster at this point in August, 1.S85. For al-
578 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
most thirty years Kansas has been the trading point for the numerous lumber
industries carried on along Wolf Creek.
Secret and benevolent societies, as well as religious organizations and their
churches, have sprung up here within the last two decades. The schools are
good, and altogether this village stands a monument to the enterprise of this
northwestern j)art of the township.
Sniall Settlements. — Jacob Kessler, who died in 183G or 1837, was the orig-
inal owner of the town of Middleburg. Among the purchasers of lots in 1837
were Joseph Richards, Daniel Bishop, William McClure, Fred and N. Rosen-
berger. Jacob Lisher, Jacob Neikirk, Sylvester B. Clark. Richard - J. Sneath,
Walter Pryor, Silas Stafford, Christian Poates. John B. Case, Philip J. Price,
George Swairi-ty, Abel Rawson, Jacob Baker, G. E. Pryor, James A\'ells, David
Patton and Levi Davis. The location was the east half of the northeast quarter
of Section 9, Town 3 north, Range 14 east, which was platted by D. Risdon
for Jacob Kessler, and approved September 1 2. 1832, with Findlay and Detroit
Streets forming the central thoroughfares. This town saw its palmy days in
1837-38, but since that time it has lapsed into the past.
Carlin was surveyed by A^\ B. Gaw February 7, 135U, for James Justin.
The location was on west half of north half of southwest quarter of Section 5,
Township 3 north. Range 14.
Angus Postoffice was established in 1883 by J. W. Angus, who also estab-
lished the " Nickel Plate " Station. Jacob Flack was the first resident where
this settlement now is. Angus, after whom the station is named, settled here
in 1862. The postoffice was subsequently transferred to R. Hartsock.
Linden Postofiice, seven miles northwest of Tiffin, was established in July,
1874, with Louis Von Blon, postmaster. This passed out of existence within a
short time. Maple Grove is the new name of this settlement and of the post-
office.
Cromer's Postoffice was established five miles northwest of Tiffin, in
August, 1875.
Omwake's subdivision of southwest quarter of southeast quarter of Section
26 is a new town.
Cemeteries. — Liberty Cemetery Association was formed May 3, 1873, with
the following members: IT. Ash, G. W. Ash, J. R. Bunn, George Sours. N. H.
Remsburg, John McLaughlin, E. R. Ash, William Flack, W. Flack, Jr., George
Hall, E. Dicken and George Woolcott. This cemetery is located three miles
southwest of Bettsville. The Null Cemetery and the denominational cemeteries,
throughout the township, contain the remains of the greater number of pioneers.
General Statistics.— The assessment roll of Liberty Township, in 1841,
gives 19,833 acres, valued at $45,946; value of town lots, 1391; horses, 240,
valued at $9,600; cattle, 487, valued at $3,896; mercantile capital and moneys
at. interest, $800; total value, $60,633; total tax. $803.38; delinquencies,
$103.81.
The valuation and taxation of Liberty Township and Bettsville Village
present the following statistics; acres of land in township. 22.558, valued at
$765,490, and personal property valued at $355,770; acres of land in Betts-
ville, 150, valued at $73,830. and personal property valued at $45,380, aggre-
gating $1,240,470 or $575.08 per capita (population of 1880, 2,157). The
total tax is $15,553.72, and dog tax $190.
The statistics of Liberty Township for 1884 are acres of wheat, 4,454,
product 35,327 bushels; acres of rye, 42; of buckwheat, 9; of _oats, 943,
product 30, 200 bushels ; of barley, 57; of corn, 3,367, prodiict 80.0/0 bushels;
of meadow, 910 acres, product 1.082 tons of hay; clover. 821 acres, producing
LOUDON TOWXSIlir. o<'J
844 tons of hay and 589 bushels of seed; potatoes, 110 acres, ir).2r)6 bushels;
butter, 5W. 130 pounds; sorghum, 11 acres, 420 gallons_ sp'up ; maple syrup,
670 gallons; 188 hives, 4,451 pounds of honey; 27,7<3 dozens of eggs; 4
acres of vineyards, 400 pounds of grapes and 65 gallons of wine; 373 acres of
orchards, 5.886 bushels of apples, 14 of peaches, 34 of pears; 11,822 acres of
cultivated lands, 668 acres of pastiu'e land. 4,359 of woodland, 27 of waste
land, total acreage owned, 16,876; wool shorn in 1883, 7,883 pounds; milch
cows, 645; dogs, 190; sheep killed and injui-ed by dogs, 46; animals died of
disease, 148 hogs, 88 sheep, 22 cattle and 15 horses.
School Sfatistics. — The school land question was brought before the electors
of Liberty Township April 7. 1851. J. Abbott, P. Lewman and John Berkey
were judges, and Dennis Maloy and Joseph Cessna, clerks of election in the case
of the sale of school lands. October 25, 1851, the sale of Section 16, Town-
ship 3, Range 14, and the north part of fractional Section 16, Township 1, Range
1 3, took place. Section 1 6 was disposed of to the following named buyers : Miles
Barber, west half of northwest quarter; Warren P. Noble, east half of north-
west quarter and east half and west half of northeast' quarter; Jacob Feasel,
east half of southeast quarter: James Lott, west half of southeast quarter;
David Martin, east half of southwest quarter: Daniel Lynch, west half of
southwest quarter; all realizing S7. 705, together with $540 realized from 58 ^Vo
acres in Section 16, Township 1. Range 13, being the west half of east half and
west half of west half fi-actional. referred to in Big Spring Township.
The first meeting of the board of education was held at Feasel' s schoolhouse
April 18, 1853, with Jonathan Abbott, presiding, and James Lot, township
clerk: J. Cessna, secretary: Dicken, Feasel and M. Edwards, trustees.
The condition of Libertv Township schools in August, 1884, is as follows:
local tax, $3,198.84; receipts. $4,961.67; expenditures, $3,118.69; school-
houses, 10; number of teachers, 22; average salaries, $52, $38 and $27; male
pupils, 334; female pupils, 258; total number in high school, 73.
CHAPTER XXIL
LOUDON TOWNSHIP AND FOSTORIA CITY.
n^HIS is one of the western tier of townships of Seneca County. Its
X eastern line is within six miles of the county seat, and it comprises within
itself one of the most enterprising and progressive cities in this portion of
Ohio. The township was sui-veyed in 1820; but, for some years after settlers
refiTsed to seek a home in the Wolf Creek wilderness, although the sale of
lands there was begun in 1821. A very small area presents a broken surface;
but rolling lands are common. In general it is a slightly undulating plain,
possessing a soil well adapted to the gi-owth of cereals and esculent roots.
Wolf Creek and its tributaries appear to beg for supply sources through-
out the township. Thes^e streams are found rambling around everywhere
within its bound, if we except the immediate neighborhood of the Fostoria
divide. All the heads of the west fork of this meandering creek may be said
to find a home here in Sections 7, 18 and 29, forming a stream at the northeast
corner of Section 17, and flowing thence northeast, entering Jackson ToAvnship,
o80 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
in Section 35. Harrison Creek heads in two creeks on Sections 33 and 34.
which flow north to Section 14, where they form one stream. This flows north
bv east, leavhig the township just east of the west line of Section 1. One of
the principal tributaries of the main stream of Wolf Creek rises near the south
line of the township in its southeast quarter, flows through Sections 35, 36, 25
and 24, and enters Hopewell in Section 19 of that township.
The railroads which run through the township are the Baltimore & Ohio, the
Ohio Central and the Columbus, Hocking Yalley & Toledo. The Lake Erie
6c Western runs northeasterly through Fostoria. leaving the township in the
northwest quarter of Section 5. The " Nickel Plate " also runs through Fos-
toria in a northeasterly direction, and leaves the township at Section 4.
The population of this township, outside of Rome Village, in 1S35, was 200;
five years later, in 1840, the population of the township, including Rome, was
763;' and forty years later, in 1880, 4.315. exclusive of those parts of Fostoria.
in Jackson Township, and in Hancock County.
Organic and Official. — The first town election for Loudon was held April
1, 1832, when Abner Wade was elected justice; Benjamin Stevens, Peter F.
King and John Ricketts, trustees; John Tennis, clerk; Samuel Carbaugh, con-
stable; Benjamin Hartley, supervisor; Abner Wade and Nathan Shippey, over-
seers of the poor: Benjamin Stevens, treasurer; Nathan Shippey, John Ivase
and John Shellars. fence viewers.
In 1833 the trustees and clerk were re-elected, and Peter Eversole was
chosen treasurer. The township was districted for school purposes this year.
In March, 1834, the township was set off into road districts. Charles W.
Foster was elected clerk and justice of the peace, while the treasurer and trus-
tees wei-e re-elected. School trustees were elected for the first time this year.
The trustees, clerks and justices of the peace, elected since 1 834. are named
as follows:
In 1835, Daniel Shively. W. Bennett and James Anderson, trustees;
David Headley, clerk, and Abner Wade, justice of the peace. Same officers
elected in 183^7'and re-elected in 1837.
In 1837, C. W. Foster, Alonzo Lockwood, and William Peterson were
elected school examiners, and C. W. Foster, justice of the peace.
In 1838, B. Stevens, James Anderson and Daniel Shively were elected
trustees; John Tennis, clerk; Abner Wade, justice of the peace, and re-elected
in 1839.
In 1840, Robert M. Ranney, Henry Ebersole and James Anderson were
elected trustees; Alonzo Lockwood, justice of the peace, and John Tennis,
clerk.
In 1841, Henry Ebersole, Robert McKay and Alonzo Lockwood were trust-
ees; C. W. Foster, treasurer; Thomas Chance, clerk.
The elections of 1842 resulted in the choice of Abner Wade. Henry Eber-
sole and James Anderson, trustees; Thomas Chance, clerk, and Eli Weaver,
justice of the peace.
In 1843 there were elected Abner Wade, David Headley and Thomas E.
Belknap, trustees; Eli Weaver, clerk; C. W. Foster, treasxu-er; Alonzo Lock-
wood, justice of the peace, and re-elected in 1844.
In 1845 Jacob Anton, David Young and Peter I. King, trustees; Eli Wea-
ver, clerk, and C. A^'. Foster, treasurer, were elected.
The election of 1846 resulted in the choice of Joel Hales. Philip Hennessy
and Eli Weaver, ti-ustees; A. K. Needham, clerk, and C. W. Foster, treasurer.
The trustees were re-elected in 1847, with clerk and treasurer; Joel Hales and
and M. P. Skinner, justice of the peace.
LOUDUN TOWNSHIP. 581
In April, 1S47, Abner Wade, Thomas E. Belknap and Thomas Foughty,
trustees of Section 1(3, rented to W. S. Sprales for seven years, and to others,
parts of school section.
The trustees elected in 1848 were Abner "Wade. Phillip Hennessy and Joel
Hales; clerk and treasurer re-elected.
The trustees elected in 1849 were John Fritcher, John Cooper and Joseph
Ames; Junius V. Jones was chosen clerk, and C. "W. Foster, treasurer; Samuel
Dewees. justice of the peace. •
The elections of 1850 resulted as follows: John Fritcher, John Cooper
and Joseph Ames, trustees; clerk and treasiu-er re-elected, and Peter Ebersole,
justice of the peace.
TRUSTEES. CLERKS. TREASURERS. .IISTICES.
1851-G. W.Patterson, P. Hennessy, D.Young. P. J. Kinuaman.C. W.Foster. J. Ames
1852-G. W.Patterson, P.Hennessy, D.Young. .P. J. Kinnaman.C.W.Foster.G. W.Patterson
1853-S. W. Ricketts, J. Fritcher, D. Young. .J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1854-S. Grove, J. Dillon, J. Fritcher J. Y. Jones C.W.Foster. Joel Hales. . . '.
1855-C. Grove, W. Braden, K. A. Kirkwood. .J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. Joel Hale«
1855-J. C. Millhime and R. A.Patterson.,
were appointed vice Braden and Kirk-
wood removed
1856-C. Grove, J.H. Clay, A. R. Brandebery. .J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1857-M. Fruth, J. Cuthbertson, C. Grove J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1858-C. Grove, M. Fruth, J. Andei'son J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1859-G. Dillon-, P. Bj'ers, D. Younsr J. V. Jones C.AV. Foster. J. V. Jones
1860-W.D. Sherwood, P. Byers, J. G. AustienJ. V. Jones CW. Foster. J. W. Arnold
1861-*J. Lewis, J. Cuthbertson, P. Byers ....J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1862-P. Bj^ers, P. Chance, J. Adelsperger J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1863-J. Bick, P. Chance, N. Lower J. V. Jones C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1864-Joel Hales, P. Chance, C. C. jSTestlerode.Ira Allerton C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1865-Joel Hales, P. Chance, C. C. Nestlerode.8. AV. Claj^ C.W.Foster. J. W. Arnold
1866-Joel Hales, P. Chance, C. C. Nestlerode.S. Stearns C.W.Foster. P. Byers.
1867-Joel Hales, P. Chance, C. C. Nestlerode.N. P. Bobbins. .C.W.Foster. J. V. Jones
1868-J. W. Arnold, J. V. Jones, P. Byers... N. P. Bobbins. .C.W.Foster. J.A.Bradner
1869-J. V. Jones, S. Kiser, S. Good N. P. Rolibins. . C.W.Foster. J. A.Bradner
1870-J. V. Jones, L. Niebel. J. W. Arnold. . .N. P. Bobbins J. A.Bradner
1871-J. V. Jones, I. Stultz, Isaac Good N. P. Bobbins J. A.Bradner
1872-J. V. Jones, I. Stultz, Isaac Good N. P. Bobbins J. A.Bradner
1873 -A. Emerine, J. A. Bonnell.H. W. Eyler.G. D. Acker . . . .M.P.SkinnerP. Byers
1874-A. Emerine, G. Dillon, P. Ricketts G. A. Knight. . .M.P.SkinnerJ. A. Hottel. .
1870-A. Emerine, G. Dillon, I. Stultz A. AYeaver M.P.Skinner
1876-P. Duffy, I.Stultz, J. Hoffman G. A. Knight. . . .M.P.Skinner. D.W.Wood
1877-R. Adams, J. Andes, I. Stultz G. A. Knight. . . A. Emerine. J. Heilman
1878-S. Kizer, D. Asire, I. Stultz G. A. Knight . . .I.L Mickey.. J. A.Bradner
1879-G. D. Acker, I. Stultz. D. Asire G. A. Knight . . .I.L.Miekey. .D. H. Everett
1880-D. Asire, G. D. Acker, John Andes G. A. Knight . . .I.L.Mickey.. W. Cramer
1881-D. Asire, J. Andes, I. Stultz G. A. Knight . . .LL.Mickey..G. A. Knight
1882-J. Andes, D. Peters, J. Y. Jones G. A. Knight . . .I.L.Mickey.. J.A.Bradner
1888-J. Andes, D. Peters. G. D. Acker Wm. O. Bulger. I.L. Mickey.. J.A.Bradner
1884-J. Andes, G. D. Acker, D. Peters G. A. Knight . . .I.L.Mickey. .C.W.Hughes
The elections of 1885 resulted in the choice of the following named officers :
Trvistees, David Asire. George W. Young and J. J. Worman; clerk, J. M.
Schatzell; treasurer, James L. Mickey; assessors, W. H. H. Leech and John
J. Peter; constables, Thomas Leedy and Philip Fox.
Pioneers and Pioneer Incidents. — When the pioneers first looked in upon the
township, Indians inhabited the country all around, and made daily calls at
the cabins of their new white neighbors. The bear and wolf were also frequent
visitors, and followirg them came tlie ague — the most tmwelcome, troublesome
and injurious visitor of j^ioneer days. ^Yho the pioneers and old settlers of
this township were is told in the following review of old residents and old
events :
■,T. Lewis aud J. Cuthbertson were appointed.
582 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
George D. Acker, born in Pennsylvania in 1834, moved to Fostoria in 1853.
John and Violetta (Clark) Adams, natives of Ohio, came here at an early
date . . . ; John and Mary A. (Albert) Adelsperger, former of Maryland, latter
of Pennsylvania, parents of Mrs. James V. Magers, of Tiffin, are numbered
among the pioneers of London .... John Q. Albert, born in Pennsylvania in
1827. settled at Fostoria in 1843 Thomas and Nancy Adams are old resi-
dents of this township .... Jacob Alexy settled in Loudon Township about 1833,
near the southeast corner John Anderson died January 24. 1872 Maiy
Anderson, the oldest resident of Fostoria at time of her death, died June 22.
1882, aged over ninety-two years John AV. Arnold, born in Philadelphia in
1818, came to Loudon in 1851 John and Philebema (Keise) Andes, of Fos-
toria, are referred to in other pages among the old settlers .... David Asire. a
native of Ohio, settled here in 1858.
Samuel Baer, of Fostoria; Henry Bucher, of Loudon, and Charles Bohsein
are old residents Dr. Simon Bricker died in 1856, and was the first adult
buried in the city cemetery of Fostoria .... Horace S. Belknap died May 3,
1857 Godfi-ey Biles, a native of Germany, born in 1829, came to Seneca
County in 1843, and after moving about from time to time settled finally in
Loudon in 1865 C. Bonnell and B. W. Bonnell, natives of Ohio, came here
in 1844 John L. Benson in 1848 Philip Byers in 1853 Dr. J. ^\.
Bricker, referred to in the chapter on physicians, settled here in 1846 Ed-
ward Burns, now living in Loiuion. is among the old residents .... The Braden
family settled at Fostoria at an early date. Mathias Hollopeter, a local
preacher, had the bodies of Mrs. Braden and members of his family transfeiTed
to the new cemeteiy in 1856.
Roswell Crocker, a native of New York State, born in 1806, father of
Rawson Crocker, of Fostoria (who was born here in 1841), came to Fostoria in
1832, and built a saw-mill, the first in the place and in the w^estern part of the
county. He now resides in what is said to be the first frame house built in
Fostoria .... The pioneer John Crocker died November 11. 1854 .... James
Cahill was one of the pioneers and Moses Cadwallader one of the oldest resi-
dents Robert F. and Charlotte L. Caples, natives of Maryland and Penn-
sylvania, respectively,- parents of Bartholomew L. and Philip D. Caples (both
of Fostoria. natives of Tuscarawas County. Ohio, former born in 1812, latter in
1816), came to Jackson Township fi-om Wayne County. Ohio, in 1832, where
Mr. Caples died in 1834 .... John Cooper, still a resident of Fostoria, is one of
the pioneers of the county. His daughter. Miss Mary Annie Cooper, married
Roswell Crocker, one of the first settlers and founders of Fostoria ... .A.
Cramer, a native of Pennsylvania, one of the old postmasters of the township,
settled here in 1842 Samuel Carbaugh, maternal grandfather of :Mi-s. John
A. Peters, of Loudon Township, was a pioneer of Loudon Township. . . .Aaron
and Mary (Devilbiss) Cover, parents of Mrs. JohnC. Hartley, were among the
earlv settlers here A. E. Civas resided a half mile south of the McDougal
settlement, and to this place the Methodist class, known as Ebenezer Chiu'ch.
moved its quarters in 1847 John and Catherine (Slote) Cramer, parents of
Daniel (born in Pennsylvania in 1818) and Adam Cramer (born in Pennsylvania
in 1827), settled in Loudon township in 1838. Here Mrs. Cramer died in
1854, aged sixty-two years, and Mr. Cramer in 1855, aged sixty-five years
Jeremiah Crowley settled here at an early date, died at Tifiin Samuel Cur-
ran, another pioneer, died March 10. 1843.
Samuel and Elizabeth (Miller) Daly, formerly of Philadelphia, parents of
Mrs. Isaac Stultz, came to Tiffin in 1822. and it is said erected one of the first
log-houses there, near Drennon's. . . .Dennis Daugherty came to Tiffin in the
'm<ja^
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 585
"thirties, " died prior to the war The Dana family is referred to in the history
of Fostoria Jacob Dillon, a former resident of Loudon, died in April,
1885, at his home in Eaton County, Mich. , aged seventy-five years. Mr. Dil-
lon was an old pioneer of Seneca County, having located in Loudon Township
in 1832 Thomas and Mary (Adams) Dillon, parents of Thomas and
George Dillon, of Loudon Township, both natives of Virginia (former
born in 1818, latter in 1820), came to Loudon Township in 1835 and settled
on the farm now owned by George Dillon, where they died .... John C. and
Artemesia (Mason) DeAVitt," parents of ^Nlrs. Francis R. Stewart, of Fostoria, set-
tled here in 1835. Mrs. DeWittdiedin April, 1885; she was born in Connecticiit
June 28, 1808. She came to Ohio in 1834 and was married February 10, 1835,
and resided in Seneca County over fifty years. Mrs. DeAVitt formerly lived near
McCutchenville .... John AY. Dicken, of Fostoria, was appointed special
United States marshal of Nashville, Tenn. , District Julia M. , wife of Evan
Dorsey, died July 11, 1852, aged forty-three years, three months, eleven days
Patrick Duffy, of Loudon, is one of the old residents.
Andrew and Sarah (Baer) Emerine. have been residents of Fostoria for
over forty years George and Ellen (O'Brien) Emerine, are also old set-
tlers Peter Ebersole, grandfather of A. E. Ebersole, of Fostoria, and a
native of Pennsylvania, settled in Loudon Township in 1831, and died here in
1857, and Peter Ebersole, his son (father of A. E. Ebersole, who was born in
Loudon Township in 1843), resided here from 1831 to 1880.
Jacob and Sarah (Stevens) Fruth, former a native of Gei-many, latter of
Pennsylvania, parents of Frederick M. Fruth (who was born here in 1848),
came to this township about 1832, where Jacob died in 1861 George and
Margaret (Shobach) Fruth. parents of ]Mi-s. John Heilman, settled here in
1833 David Ferrier. one of the pioneers, erected a grist-mill in 1834, on
AYolf Creek. Horse-power was used there for years. In June, 18 < 4, the
buhrs used in this primitive manufacturing concern, were presented to Mr.
DeWolf, of the Review J. S. Farmun, a native of Pennsylvania, settled here
in 1854 E. Fayes, a German, came in 1850 Mrs. M. L. Faux, a Penn-
sylvanian, settled in the county in 1855 Jacob and Elizabeth (Peter) Fruth,
parents of Frederick Fruth (who was born in Germany in 1824), came to Seneca
County about 1833, settling, where they died Jacob and Civilla (Shardon)
Fruth* natives of Germany, parents of Abraham Fruth, of Fostoria (who was
born in Gei-many in 1848)" came to America in 1854, and in 1856 settled in
Loudon Township, where Jacob Fruth died in 1872 Charles W. Foster was
born in Brookfield, Worcester Co., Mass., on the 21st of November, 18(X^, and
had therefore nearly reached his eighty-thii-d year at date of his death, April
26. 1883. His father moved with his family to western New York, then
sparsely settled, and located in Rochester in 1820. In 1826 Mr. Foster came
to Seneca County to visit the family of Mr. Crocker, a New York gentleman,
who settled in Seneca Township. Here he met the romance of his life in the
person of Mr. Crocker's beautiful daughter Laura. The young people had
met in New York previously, and a slight attachment had sprung up between
them. m-. Foster found Miss Laura in bad health and took her to Saratoga
Springs, in New York, where she was restored to good health. On the 7th of
June following, the young people were man-ied and returned to Seneca, and
lived with the Crocker family. Jointly with his father-in-law, John Crocker,
and his brother-in-law. Roswell Crocker, he entered 2,000 acres of unimproved
land in the town and neighborhood. Immediately after the arrival of the
party, Rome was laid out, and in November, 1832, Mr. Foster and his father-
in-law opened a stock of goods in a cabin in Rome on the same spot where the
586 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
mammoth diy goods house of Foster & Co. now stands. The business con-
tinued for ten years, when Mr. Crocker retired and Mr. Foster assumed con-
trol. Simultaneously with the rise of Rome the neighboring town of Risdon
sprang up, planted by John Gorsuch and named after its surveyor, David
Risdon. The two towns began ci'owding each other, and in 1852 they were
consolidated and called Fostoria, in honor of Mr. Foster. Seven years previ-
ous to this Mr. Foster was joined in business by his son, Charles, and the then
embryo country store rapidly developed into more pretentious proportions.
From doing a biisiness of a few thousands per year, the receijDts of late years have
been upward of $1,000,000. The foregoing sketch of one of the most useful
pioneers of northwestern Ohio is taken from the local press of A^ml, 1883.
A reference to the histoiy of Fostoria, points out more minutely the part which
he played in the drama of the settlement and progress of the city which bears
his name .... Owen Fanning, an uncle of Dr. Fanning, of Tiffin, and father of
John Fanning, was an old settler of J^oudon even at the beginning of the fifth
decade of this century. He died in this township some years ago .... James
Fanning, father of Dr. Fanning, died during the winter of 1884-85, at
Tiffin .... John Fanning dates his settlement back to 1839 .... James B. Fox,
of Fostoria. was born in Eden Township in 1840, where his parents were
pioneers.
Henry Grady now residing at Tiffin, was one of the pioneers ....
George Germond, a pioneer resident of Fostoria, was killed by the cars
near Oberlin, Ohio. August 16, 1883. He had been to Kipton, five miles west,
and when within two miles of Oberlin on his return home, sat down on the
track, was struck by the train and instantly killed. Germond was for a num-
ber of years an attorney at Toledo. Previous to his death he removed to Oberlin.
Manuel Green, a native of Ohio, settled here in 1850 Adam Gwinner.
a German, came to the township in 1833 John and Margaret (Lambright)
Good, former a native of Ohio, latter of Maryland, parents of John Good (who
was born in Richland County. Ohio, in 1833), came to Loudon Township in
1834, settling on the farm now owned by Samuel Good, where John Good, Sr. .
died in 1872, at the age of sixty-five years. His widow survives him at the age
of seventy -two.
John Harsh, maternal grandfather of Dr. Frank L. Myers, was a pioneer
of Seneca County, coming here from Carroll County, Ohio .... Benjamin and
Catherine (Rake) Hartley, former a native of Virginia, latter of Pennsvlvania,
parents of John C. Hartley, of Loudon Township (who was born in Pennsyl-
vania in 1828), settled in this township in 1831 . . . .Maurice Hai-tnett, said to
be the oldest person in the county, still resides at Tiffin. He was one of the
early settlers of Loudon .... Marshall and Margaret (Musser) Hays, natives of
Pennsylvania, parents of Frank Hays, of Fostoria (who was born herein 1853).
were among the pioneers of Fostoria .... David Hays, a name so favorably
known in connection with the city, came here in 1834 from Pennsylvania ....
Thomas and Elizabeth (Mickey) Hays, parents of Charles Hays, of Fostoria
(who was born here in 1851), located in Fostoria in an early day. Thomas
Hays died in 1809 .... John F. Heilman. of Fostoria, born in Pennsylvania in
1817, settled in Bloom Township about 1843, and in 1873 moved to Fostoria.
William and Margaret (Fruth) Heilman, natives of Bavaria, parents of
John Heilman (who was born in Bavaria in 1842), came here in 1848 and died
here. . . .William and Margaret (Schreck nee Smith) Heilman, stepfather and
mother of George Schreck. of Fostoria (who was born in Germany in 1830),
came with George Schreck to this coimty in 1848. settling in Loudon Town-
ship, where Mr. and Mrs. Heilman died. George Sckreck located in Fostoria in
1875 Jacob and Catherine (Smith) Helfrick, natives of Germany, parents of
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 5^1
Adam Helfi'ick (who was boi'ii in Germany in 1826), came in 1839 from Car-
roll Connty, wliither they had emigrated in 1885, to Loudon Township, set-
tling on Section 18. Mrs. HelMck died in 1847; Mr. Helfrick in 1868
Melchior Heisserman settled in Loudon in 1833 .... George Heming, a native
of Pennsylvania and a pioneer of the county, died July 16, 1864, in his sev-
enty-sixth year. He was one of the pioneer surveyors of the county .... Thomas
Heming had a nursery at Fostoria as early as 1860 .... The Hennessy family, viz. :
Philix). Patrick, "William, John, David, Thomas, James and Cornelius Hen-
nessy, brothers, and Mary Hennessy, are children of James Hennessy, one of
the pioneer settlers of Loudon, who died October 12, 184V). aged ninety-five
years , . . . William Hickey, a resident of the county for over half a century, is
now a resident of New Riegel . . . .Patrick Hickey came fi-om L-eland in 1847,
and for vears has been one of the leading farmers of this part of the county.
.... Washington and Mary Henry are old settlers of Fostoria, as are also Dan-
iel R. and Anna (Simmons) Henry, of Loudon Township. . . .George and Sarah
(Sawlaw) Histe, parents of William T. Histe (who was born in Columbiana
County, Ohio, in 1826). settled in Fostoria in 1844. Mr. Histe died Novem-
ber 6, 1884, aged eighty-five ; his widow is now eighty -three years of age. He
voted at every presidential election, beginning with the third and ending with
the election of November, 1884 .... Samuel and Laura (Robinson) Howell,
natives of New York, parents of Edward B. Howell, of Fostoria, settled at
Risdon in 1845. Mrs. Howell died in 1852. and Mr. Howell in 1871.
Junius V. Jones, born in Gallia County, Ohio, in 1823, settled in Fostoria
in 1846 .... Thomas Johnson, a pioneer of Loudon Township, was found dead
in a corn-field near Fostoria, July 14, 1884. He was seventy-four years old.
Edward Kenny settled in Loudon Township and died in 1883. . . .Edmund
Kenney settled here in 1841 . . . .Martin Kingseed, who came fi-om Germany in
1834 to this county, has been for years an important factor in the commercial
life of Fostoria. . .'.Jacob and Charlotte Kinnaman have resided here for years
....Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser, parents of Daniel and Samuel
Kiser, natives of Stark County, Ohio (the former born in 1823, and the latter
in 1828), came to Loudon Township in 1834. Mrs. Kiser died in 1857, aged
seventy-one years, and Mr. Kiser in 1859 .... Thomas Kelley, born in April,
1800, has a Scotch granite monument erected in Fostoria Cemetery, but is yet
living.
Joseph Lease, uncle of Lloyd Lease, died November 14, 1884, at the age
of seventy-eight years. He resided at Bowling Green for twenty years ....
Benjamin and Elizabeth (Crum) Leonard are old residents .... Owen Leahy, of
Loudon Township, and one of its pioneers, died about a year ago .... David
Leahy, also deceased, was a pioneer .... James Lewis, a native of New York,
settled here in 1847, since which time he has taken a full part in the social,
religious and official life of the city* Nicholas Lauer, the blacksmith, came
from Germany in 1836.... Dr. Alonzo Lockwood died September 25, 1878.
*About the time the Anderson Church was brought into existence, .Tames Lewis organized the first church
choir in western Seneca, and led the choir for years. It is related by Mr. Lewis himself that during the time he
led this choir, one Miss Sabina Root and the Widow Cory were conversing on the subject of church music, and
the latter placed before the leader some new sheet music just purchased. While he was looking through it the
widow repeatedly leaned over his shoulder to point out some peculiarity in the scale, and he good-naturedly
kissed her. Miss Root was shocked, horror stricken, and informed Rev. Mr. Collier of the fact. This gentle-
man brought the culprit (?i to trial, and prevailed upon the court to expel Lewis. The latter, who took the
matter as a huge joke so far, now defended himself, and wrung from Rev. Mr. Collier an explanation of the
manner in which the trial was conducted bv him, and the evidence procured, also a full apology and a request
that the injured church member should be restored to all his rights. This is not the only story related of this
old settler in connection with the choir. On one occasion, while acting as leader, he called out : ".Stop 1 stop : I
have lost my beat." Next morning a number of posters appeared around the village, bearing the words :
LOST :
One Beat.
ONE LARGE BEET.
ONE LARGE RED BEET.
588 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Gottfried Mergentlialer, a native of Germany, father of Melcher Mergen-
thaler, of Fostoria, latter born in Loudon Township in 1S41, settled here in 1834.
Melcher moved into Fostoria in 1859 .... J. L. Mickey, a name prominent
in the history of Fostoria, came to Fostoria in 1834 . . .Nicholas and Theresa
(Kehl) Marks, natives of Germany, parents of Edward Marks, of Fostoria
(who was born in Big Spring Township, this county, in 1851), settled in this
township in 1849 .... William Malony, who died about five years ago. settled
in Loudon at an early date near the line of Big Spring. Another family of
the same name were among the pioneers of Bloom Township, moving to Loudon
about 1843. . . .Henry and Anna Maraches, parents of Mrs. George E. Yarger.
of Fostoria. came to Big Spring Township in 1832 .... Michael Martin settled
west of John AVhalen's house at an early date, and is still living. . . .Patrick
and John McUarty were among the old settlers of Loudon. Patrick died three
years ago, and John McCarty died May 12, 1875, aged sixty-nine years. He
came to Loudon from Pennsylvania in 1841 ; was in California fi'om 1852 to
1857 .... Matthew McCai-ty also went to California in 1849, but returned
and died in 1883 .... James Mclntire and Johnny Myers are said to have ridden
to the county in 1831, and settled in Adams Township .... James McCauley,
now living in Loudon, is one of the old residents of that division of the county.
. . . . D. W. McMeen, a native of Ohio, and for years engaged in the harness
business, came in 1847 . . . .Henry Miller settled in the township in 1832 ....
The McDougal family settled on \Yolf Creek at an early date, and there, in
1841, Ebenezer Church was founded. . . . Jeremiah and Sarah (Loman) Mickey,
former a native of Pennsylvania, latter of Maiyland, parents of James L.
Mickey, of Fostoria (born in what is now Ashland County, Ohio, in 1831),
settled in what is now Fostoria in 1832, and Jeremiah Mickey kept the first
hotel in what was then known as Risdon, conducting it till 1841, when he was
killed in a ditch by a bank caving in on him .... Jacob J. Myers, a native of
Pennsylvania, father of Dr. Park L. Myers, of Fostoria. settled in Fostoria
about 1848, and died in 1875."
Thaddeus Newcomb, an old settler, who died June 1, 1875, wrote for his
epitaph :
"Earls and monarclis of the dead,
, That so many worms have fed,
I am coming to your chilly bed ;
Edge close and give me room."
.... Myron and Sarah (Lantz ) Newcomb, natives of Ohio, parents of Y. D.
Newcomb, of Jackson Township (who was born in Loudon Township, this
county, in 1849j. were pioneers of Seneca County .... Levi and Elizabeth
(Ritter) Niebel. parents of Elijah Niebel. of Loudon Township (who was born
in Berwick, this coimty, in 1S39), were pioneers. He settled in Loudon in
1854 William and Rebecca (Ly tie) Noble, parents of Mrs. William T.
Histe, of Fostoria. were early settlers of Jackson. William Noble died April
1, 1863, aged eighty -one years.... P. T. Norris, a native of Ohio, settled in
the county in 1832. . . .Elijah Niebel came in 1855.
Patrick O'Brien, who left, Waterford County, Leland. for the United States
in 1849. resided in Pennsylvania for some time; was joined by his family in
the fall of 1849, and in 'May, 1852. purchased lands in Loudon Townshi});
moved to Tiffin in 1876. and died there March 19. 1885. James O'Brien, lum-
berman at Tiffin, is a son of this old settler .... Thomas and Margaret (McCar-
ty) O'Brien, natives of Ireland, parents of John F. O'Brien (who was born
in Loudon Township in 1855), settled here in 1851, and in 1870 moved to Fos-
toria. . . .John G. Ostein, born in Prussia in 1801, came to America in 1833,
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 589
and resided in Wayne County. Ohio, till 1840. when he removed to Tiffin and
the following year to Loudon Township, where he had entered land in 1834.
On this land he lived till 18G7. when he again made Tiffin his home until 1877,
and then moved to Hopewell Township.
E. J. Padgham, a native of England, came to Fostoria in 1854 .... Edward
Preble, a Pennsylvanian. came in 1844 . . . .John Peter, a German, in 1840. . . .
John and Magdalena (Bohna) Portz, natives of Prussia, parents of Nicholas
Portz (who was born in Jackson Township in 1839), came to that township in
1838. and in 1840 moved to Fostoria. where IMi-. Portz, who was a wagon-
maker, died in 1873. . . .John J. and Elizabeth (Hahn) Peter, natives of Oer-
many. parents of David Peter, of Loudon Township, who was born in Loudon
Townshijo in 1842). came to this county in 1833, settling in this township.
John J. died in 1878. aged sixty-eight: his widow is now aged seventy-six
years Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, natives of Bavaria, parents
of John and Abraham Peter, also natives of Bavaria (former born in 1821, latter
in 1830). came to America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township on eighty
acres of land now owned by E. Kinney. Mrs. Peter died eleven weeks after
coming to America, and INIr. Peter died in Big Spring Township in 1871, in
his eighty-first year.
Charles L. and Mary (Dillon) Reynolds, parents of Gen. E. Reynolds, of
Fostoria. who was born in Loudon Township in 1852, were among the early
settlers of this township; in 1878 Charles L. Reynolds removed to Michigan;
in 1880 G. E. Reynolds moved into Fostoria. . . .John and Catherine (Winin-
ger) Rinebold, former (deceased) a native of Pennsylvania, latter (still living)
a native of Germany, parents of Jacob, John and Abraham Rinebold, of Lou-
don Township, came to this county fi-om Richland County, Ohio, in 1834, set-
tling in Loudon Township. John Rinebold died in 1854. His widow is now
eighty-four years old .... John Richards, a native of Ohio, settled here in
1837 . . . .David Risdon, after whom the old town of Risdon was named, came
to the county in 1820, resided for a while in one of the log-houses at Foit
Ball, and aided the United States surveyors in the survey of the townships.
.... Abraham and Ann Elizabeth (Fruth) Rinebold, parents of John Rinebold,
who was born in Jackson Township in 1850, were early settlers .... David and
Mary (Johnson) Ritchai-t. parents of John F. and William H. Ritchai-t.
natives of Pennsylvania, the former born in 1820, the latter in 1827. settled
in Loudon Township in 1847, and here died.
James and Agnes (Bunting) Scott are old residents. . . . Zebina Sellen, who
died in 1836, left a widow and large family in this county, although his prop-
erty was near Waimkonetta . . . . D. Shea, who died about fifteen years ago, was
one of the first settlers, entering his land when there was only a bridle path
fi-om Tiffin westward .... Heniy Sheller. a native of Pennsylvania, paternal
grandfather of Amos Sheller, of Loudon Township, settled in 1832 on the
farm now owned by H. Stuckey, in Loudon Township, and here died. His
son Samuel, father of Amos, came to Loudon Township fi-om Hancock County
in 1868. then in 1876 moved to Michigan Christian Siegchrist, born in
Germany in 1816, came to Tiffin in 1841. where he was a carpenter and after-
ward brewer. About 1860 he took up farming in this township .... William
and Mary Simons, parents of Mrs. John Noble, were early settlers of the
county .... John and Elizabeth (Ecker ) Signs, natives of Wayne County, Ohio,
were born in 1818, came to this county in the spring of 1843 and settled in
Loudon Township. Mrs. Signs died June 19, 1884, aged sixty-six years, four
months and nineteen days .... John Seever, a native of Ohio, came here in
1853 Mrs. Jane M. Skinner, daughter of John and Jane (Duncan) Searles.
590 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY,
who settled in Eden Township in 1821, is the widow of the late Morris P.
Skinner, and is said to have been the first white child to see the light of day
in Eden Township, where she was born in 1821 . . . .MoitIs P. Skinner, a
native of Pennsylvania, born in 1811, came to Seneca County in 1882. settling
in what is now Fostoria. He died in 1876. His son, Orlo D. Skinner died
January 1, 1888. The Morris P. Skinner monument of Scotch granite was
put up" by W. D. Bobbins .... Benjamin Stevens, a native of Pennsylva-
nia, maternal grandfather of Frederick M. Fruth. of Loudon Township,
settled in Loudon Township in 1882 : he was one of the first trust-
ees elected in the township, and was altogether a prominent man ....
The Stoner family, after one of whom a postoffice was named, were old
settlers Thomas D. and Fanny (Biddell) Stewart, parents of Francis B.
Stewart (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1885). settled in Clinton Township
in 1888, then in 1854 moved to Wood County, Ohio, where Thomas D. died in
his seventy first year. Francis B. moved to Fostoria in 1858 .... Isaac and
Martha (Daley) Stultz, the former born in Maryland in 1806. came to Ohio in
1 884 and located at Tiffin, then in 1845 moved into this township .... John C.
Springer, of Fostoria. served in the Mexican war .... Jerry Sidlivan, an early
settler of Tifiin. who opened a quarry on North Washington Street, is said to
be now living at Fremont.
The Thomas family settled here some years prior to the consolidation of
Bome and Bisdon. E. W. Thomas wi'ote the first history of Fostoria.
John and Elizabeth (Smilsmer) Vesper, parents of Mrs. Abraham Peter,
settled in Loudon Township m 1848 John F. Veon. an old settler of Tiffin,
who removed to Fostoria years ago, died in November. 1884 John W.
Yrooman. a native of New"^York State, born in 1 <09, father of Mrs. Coridon
B. Sackett, of Fostoria. came to this county in 1882 and located in Liberty
Township. He was the first merchant at Bettsville, and after some years
moved to Fostoria. He died in 1878.
Abner Wade, paternal grandfather of Mrs. John A. Peters, of Loudon
Township, settled in this township in 1882, was one of its organizers and
one of its first officials. Patrick Walsh settled with his family in Loudon, and
died there July 1. 1847. It appears that on this day he went down to clean
the well on his farm, but was overcome with foul air and died before help
aiTived. His daughter, a girl of eighteen summers, went down to aid her
father, but was. like him, killed by the foul current. John Walsh, a son of
this pioneer, is in the jewelry business at Delphos. Ohio, while Thomas is
engaged as salesman at Tiffin. The family owned land on the southwestern
section of the township John Walding. a native of England and a
tailor, came here in 1854 Nicholas and Margaret Walters are old
residents Eli and Mary (Dillon) Weaver, parents of Alpheus Weaver,
of Fostoria (who was born in Loudon Township in 1848), settled in the
township in 1888, where Eli Weaver died. His widow subsequently mar-
ried C. L. Eevnolds, of Fostoria, and is now residing in Michigan. About
1866-67 Ali)heus Weaver settled in Fostoria Benjamin Wells. l)orn in
1825 in Carroll County. Ohio, came to Fostoria in 1842. Levi Wells, another
old settler, has an elaborate monument erected over the grave, which he has
prepared for himself in the Fostoria Cemetery On Henry Wetzel" s monu-
ment in Fostoria Cemetery are the words, " Died October 6. 1868." and the
verse :
"Behold, my friends, as you pass by,
As you are now so once was I;
As I am so j-ou must be;
Prepare for death and follow me."
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 591
.... John and Mary B. (Swalley) "Wliealan. the former a native of Ireland, the
latter of Pennsylvania, parents of John Whealan (who was born in Loudon
Township in 1840) and of Sheriff Thomas Whealan, settled here in 1833, and
cleared the farm where ISh: Whealan still resides at the age of eighty-foiu-, one
of the oldest resident pioneers of the township. . . .John and Eliza (Bucher)
Wilson, the former a native of New York, the latter of Pennsylvania, parents
of Andi-ew J. Wilson, of Fostoria (who was born in Fostoria in 1851), came
to Seneca County in 1813 and operated a saw-mill until 1882. Both now live
at Fostoria .... James R. and Rachel Williams, of Fostoria, are among the pio-
neers.
David and Hannah (Kiser) Young, parents of Mrs. Elijah Niebel, were
pioneers of this township.
Schools of London. — In April, 1833, school districts were set off. Sections
1, 2, 11 and 12 forming the fii-st district; 3, 4, 9 and 10 the second; 5, 6, 7
and 8 the third; 17, 18, 19 and 20 the fourth; 15, 1(3, 21 and 22 the fifth; 13,
14, 23 and 24 the sixth; 25, 26, 35 and 36 the seventh; 27, 28, 33 and 34 the
eighth, and 23, 30, 31 and 32 the ninth. In June, 1834, the town was redis-
tricted for school purposes. In March, 1834, Wade, Hartley and Ferrier were
elected school trustees, and James Anderson, treasurer of school section. In
October, 1834, Charles W. Foster was elected justice of the peace.
The sale of Section 16, Loudon Township, was decided on by vote, October
10, 1848, when 128 votes were given for and fifty-four against the sale of
school lands. Joel Hales, Abner Wade and Philip Hennessy were judges.
The lands were sold by Auditor F. W. Greene, February 23, 1849, for $7,886
to the persons named as follows: George Adams, east half of the northeast
quarter; Philip Slure, west half of the northeast quarter; William Beems,
east half of the northwest quarter ; Samuel Deveese and G. A. Hudson, west
half of the northwest quarter: Peter Heifer, east half of the southeast quar-
ter; David Young, west half of the southeast quarter; Andrew Lugenbeel, east
half of the southwest quarter; George Englert, west half of the southwest quar-
ter. A few parcels of land were not entirely paid for by oi'iginal pui-chasers,
and were resold by the county. The schools of Loudon Township in August,
1884, presented the following statistics: Number of male pupils, 188; of fe-
male, 113; number of schoolhouses, 10; value of property, $8,000; number
of teachers, 1 /; average pav, $40 and $30; local tax. $2,177.14: total revenue,
14,3(30; expenditui-es, $2,768.54.
General Statistics. — The assessment roll of Loudon Township, in 1841,
gives 18,970 acres valued at 137,508; value of town lots, $2,737; horses, 123,
valued at $4,920; cattle, 290, valued at $2,320; mercantile capital and moneys
at interest, $2,400; total value, $49,885: total tax, $735.80; delinquencies
from 1840, $116.68.
The valuation and taxation of Loudon Township, in 1884, are as follows:
21,518 acres valued at_ $790,490, and personal property valued at $329,980,
aggregating, $1,120,4(0, or $8/8.80 per capita (population 1,275. exclusive of
Fostoria in 1880). The total tax is $12,225.03 with $174 dog tax. A true
estimate of the worth of this township is $2,900,000. The population in 1850
was 1,781; in 1860, 2,465; in 1870, 3,133, and, in 1880, including Fostoria,
7,355. ^
Predial Statistics. — The agricultui-al statistics for 1884, are 4,137 acres of
wheat, product, 45,916 bushels; 31 acres of rye; 17 of buckwheat; 1,088 of
oats, product about 35,000 bushels; barley, 230 acres, 4,529 bushels; corn,
2,504 acres, product 50,000 bushels; acres of meadow, 1,580, tons of hay,
2,075; acres of clover, 524, tons of hay, 597, bushels of seed, 644, acres
592 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
plowed under, 30; potatoes. 8'2 acres, product. 10.962 bushels; milk sold
for family use. 1.100 gallons; home-made butter. 58,595: sorghum. 5 acres,
90 pounds sugar and 286 gallons of syrup: maple syrup, 40 gallons; 136 hives,
product. 620 pounds of honey: eggs. 22.230 dozens; 1 acre vineyard. 1,750
pounds of grapes (1883), 36 gallons of wine: orchards, 353 acres, 7.010 bush-
els of apples, 4 of peaches. 11 of pears and 4 of plums; cultivated lands,
12.882: pastm-e. 1.173; woodland, 4,213; wasteland, 56; total acreage, 18,324;
wool shorn in 1883, 3,653 pounds: milch cows, 585; dogs, 174; killed and in-
jm-ed sheep, 64: animals died of disease, 217 hogs, 26 sheep, 32 cattle and 8
horses.
REVIEW.
The names of the greater number of pioneers given in the foregoing pages
must necessarily recall many, if not all. of the incidents of early settlement,
and bring to mind the varied processes by which the township has been raised to
its present proud position. Looking back about fifty-four years to that day in
April, 1832. when the pioneers assembled to elect officers for their township,
no one can fail to be interested in the story of their settlement. At that time
a few freeholders came fi'om out the wilderness by different bridle paths to
meet as hardworking, hopeful, earnest, honest men may meet. They left
their cabins at early morning to cast an unpurchasable vote, and imder one ex-
cuse or another remained at tbe polls imtil late in the evening, and returned
far into the night. They urged their political lessons in a homely way; spoke
fi-eely of the several candidates; cast their votes, and returned to their clear-
ings * in the wilderness, to battle with pioneer obstacles, until the fall election
called them from their homes again. Going to mill, of course, and marketing
at Kome or Tiffin were delightful holidays to them until David Ferriers' old
horse-mill on Wolf Creek came to dissipate the fond dream of a long milling
visit, and the store of Foster & Crocker, at Rome, destroyed their hopes of a
visit to the county seat. The statistics of the township for 1884, as well as
the general statistics embraced in Chapter XIII, convey at once what the
pioneers and the enterprising spirits who followed them have accomplished.
FOSTORIA CITY.
In the histories of Loudon and Jackson Townships, a large number of names
and a few incidents connected with the founding of the villages once known as
Rome and Risdon. are presented to the reader. In this part of the chapter other
names and incidents connected with the actual settlement of the old villages, up to
the period of their consolidation under the name " Fostoria. " and the story of
the city's progress are related — the information being almost solely based on
public and private records.
The location of the city on the northwest quarter of Loudon Township,
parts of Sections 31 and 32, Jackson Township, and part of Section 1, Washing-
ton Township. Hancock County, extending into the southeastern corner of Wood
Coitnty gives to the city an influence guarded by the principles of localization,
i. e. it claims a large portion of each of three counties as tributary ten-itory.
withoitt creating local jealousies. The eastern fork of Black Swamp Portage
flows through the northwestern corner of the city, while one of the feeders of
Wolf Creek approaches it fi'om the south. The land upon which the city
stands is slightly rolling north and south of the ridge on which Tiffin Street
runs, and broken along Portage Creek.
The early settlers of Fostoria were not backwoodsmen previous to their
coming here. Thev were from a region cleared bv their fathers, and were
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 595
little accustomed to the use of the ax. To them a hea\y growth of timber and
the great fallen trees were formidable. A tree was not then, as now. a little
mine of wealth — it was a nuisance to be rid of and to the task of destroying
the forest and subjugating the wilderness, the pioneers applied themselves
assiduously. However, the original forest has not entirely disappeared; even
where the woodman began his work of destruction, a new race of trees, planted
in regular lines, has sprung up to relieve the face of the country and to ofPer
to it that shelter and beauty of which the old time mania for improvement
robbed it. There are many well-kept gardens, lawns and terraced grounds
throughout the city, which, with the trees ranged regularly along the park-
ways, lend a peculiar beauty to the city.
The geology of the district is referred to in the lirst chaj^ter of the history
of the county. * The lime manufactured at Fostoria fi'om Niagara rock claims
the following constituents: carbonate of lime, 55.40: carbonate of magnesia,
43.28; silica, .20; alumina and iron,' .00. This analysis made about thirteen
years ago, points out the lime produced from the Niagara, in Seneca County,
to be equal to that manufactured at Springfield and Carey.
The climate does not vary from that of any other part of the county.
"What it was when the pioneers first settled in the townships west of the San-
dusky, may be gleaned from the following record, made by the pioneer John
Crocker:
January 26, 1826, 21° belo^v. May 8, 1832, apple-trees in bloom; some had
April lb, 1826, snow five inches deep. to plant corn two or three times.
April 23, 1826. maple buds green. June 1, 1832, very cold summer, corn hardly
January 20, 1827, 31° below. got ripe.
Squirrels destroyed wheat and corn in 1827. January 5, 1833, wild geese went toward
October 30, 1827. snow fell six inches. lake; very forward spring.
March 29, 1828, great flood. April 11. to 26, 1834, heavy frosts.
April 25, 1829, two inches of snow. February — , 1835, hay $10 at Tiffin; coldest
February 2, 1830, snow thirteen inches deep. weather ever known here.
December 22, 1830, 41^- below. February 24, 1836, snow eleven inches deep.
February 7, 1831, 42" below. March 13, 1836, snow fell twelve inches.
April 8, 1831, two inches of snow fell. Mav — , 1836, high water.
May 3, 1831, apple-trees in bloom. February — , 1837, snow fell fifteen inches.
July 25, 1831, river verv high: wet summer. great sugar year.
October 10, 1831, high flood. May 11, 1837. corn rotted in ground.
November 21, 1831, winter commenced. January 2, 1838, weather very warm.
January — , 1832, great thaw. January 6 and 7, 1838, John Morrison
February 14, 1832, high water; corn, 3 shil- plowed two days,
lings; wheat, 6 shillings; rye, 4 shillings.
The valuation and taxation of Fostoria for 1S84 are shown as follows: 838
acres valued at $891,090, and personal property valued at $526,180 (a very low
valuation), aggregating $1,417,270, or $443.10 per capita (population in 1880
within the county being 3,198). The total tax for 1884-85 was $32,087.82,
together with $190 dog tax. The great increase in population since 1880
would point out a marked decrease in individual worth. The amount of actual
moneys expended for year ending March 22. 1884, was $36,730.34. The ex-
penditures for year ending April 1, 1885, amount to about $23,000.
In the last chapter of the general history the statistics of population are
given.
* D. p. Lloyd's and Bradner & Williams' quarries on the county line, between Jackson and Perry Town-
ships, just northwest of the old town of Risdon, produce a good building limestone, and a first-class white stone
for burning.
The record of strata made while boring the Fostoria gas well in July and August, 1885, and that ol the
wells at Findlay and Bowling Green are thus given :
FiNDLAY. Bowling Green. I'Ostoria.
Upper Silurian Limestone 277 305 :i07
Medina .Shale 5.3 80 213
Hudson River Shale 474 410 4h0
Utica Shale 2^2 2,i 2•^3
Trenton Limestone, bored through from 1250 ... 1"5
596 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
The city is well endowed in the matter of railroads. No less than five im-
portant roads run in and out, affording all the advantages which thirty-four
passenger-carrying trains per day may offer. The Baltimore & Ohio, the Lake
Erie & Western and the ' 'Nickef Plate' ' rvm east and west, and the Columbus,
Hocking Valley & Toledo and the Ohio Central north and south. The history
of these roads is given in Chapter XI.
The first notice of the location of Fostoria dates back to 1825. In this year
Neal McGaffey and some companions fi'om Fort Ball, while engaged in the
search for Elijah Bra>i;on's child (September 20, 1825), camped where Rome
Village was subsequentlv platted. His companions named the camp Fort Mc-
Gaffey.
Original Suvveij and Additions. — Eome was platted on the east half of the
southwest quarter of Section 0 (lands patented to Crocker, April 15, 1833),
Town 2 north, Range 13 east, by David Risdon for Roswell Crocker, August
31, 1832. This extended each side of Main Street, extending north fi'om
South Street to North Street, and the name was suggested as an antithesis to
the very unclassical one of Fort McGaffey. Foster's addition was surveyed by
Thomas Heming for Charles W. Foster, in November, 1846.
Foster's second addition to Rome was sui'veyed by Gideon Jones, in No-
vember, 1849, and January, 1850, for Charles AY. Foster. This extended fi'om
High Street, on both sides of Main, to the angle of Perry Street, and along
South Main Street, on west side.
Frank' s addition was surveyed by Gideon Jones for Luther M. Frank, May
11, 1852. This was the southeast corner of the east half of the northwest
quarter of Section 6, Loudon Township.
James Anderson' s addition, west of and adjoining original town, was platted
in November, 1853, by Gideon Jones, surveyor. In the history of the
chui-ches reference is made to this last addition to the old village of Rome.
Risdon was laid off on the northwest corner of Section 6, Township 2 north,
Range 13 east, and approved September 6, 1832, for the owner. John Gorsuch,
by the surveyors David Risdon and AVilliam L. Henderson.
Minears addition was surveyed by Gideon Jones, October 12, 1842, for
Adam Minear. Minear's second addition was made in 1843.
Additions to Fostoria. — In September, 1853, the inhabitants of Risdon
petitioned the county board to be annexed to the incorporated village of Rome.
This petition was granted in January, 1854. In July of that year the name
was changed to Fostoria, and all additions to Rome or Risdon since that date
are known as additions to Fostoria.
C. W. Foster and M. P. Skinner donated lots for public use to Fostoria, in
January and Febrviary, 1855. James and E. M. Fisher's addition to Fos-
toria was surveyed by G. Jones, November 15, 1855. M. P. Skinner's addi-
tion, on west half of^noiihwest quarter of Section 6, Town 2, Range 13 east,
was surveyed by Gideon Jones, May 31, 1856. Foster's first addition to Fos-
toria was*^ surveyed by Gideon Jones, in September, 1859, for Charles W.
Foster on a part' of the east half of northwest quarter of Section 6, Town 2.
Range 13. James Fisher's second addition of out-lots on east end of south
half°of northeast quarter of Section 6, Town 2, Range 13, was surveyed in May,
1860, by Gideon Jones. Andrew Emerine's subdivision of west end of out-
lot 2, Fostoria, was surveyed December 17, 1860, by Gideon Jones. Skinner's
addition, west of his first addition, was surveyed in January, 186)1, by Gideon
Jones. Charles W. Foster's subdivision of out-lot 9, in Fostoria, was sui--
veyed bv Gideon Jones in Februaiy. 1863. Bement's addition was surveyed
in\lugust, 1865, for A. S. Bement. each side of Fnion Street from the Lake
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 597
Erie & "Western Eailroad to Fremont Street. Southern addition was made in
October, 1865, by G. H. Heming, for Roswell Crocker> Joel Hales, J. F.
Eichart, Thomas S. Green, Daniel Dunham and Susannah W. Dunham. James
Anderson's second addition, on northwest corner of west half of southwest half
of Section 6, was surveyed by G. Jones in October, 1866. David Keller's sub-
division of out-lots 28 and 29, between William, Union and Fremont Streets
east to the alley, was siu'veyed by Dennis Maloy in December, 1869. R. C.
Caple's addition, south of Plank Road to Union Street and east to Caple
Street, was laid out by Dennis Maloy in March. 1871. Benjamin Leonard's
addition. Section 31, Jackson Township, was suiweyed by Dennis Maloy in
November. 1871. Foster's subdivision of south half of northwest quarter of
Section 5. Loudon Township, was siuweyed in May, 1872, by Dennis Maloy, for
Charles W. and Laura Foster. Samuel Cadwallader's addition, being the west
part of southeast qiiarter. Section 6. Town 2, Range 13 east, embracing 22.70
acres, bounded by Crocker, Poplar and Union Streets, was sui-veyed by John
L. Fisher in June. 1872. Crocker's addition was siuweyed in June, 1872,
by John L. Fisher, for Roswell Crocker, C. W. Lytle and S. W. Dunham.
This extended fi'om South to a point below Lytle Street, and from AVood to
East Streets. Bradner* s addition was surveyed by Dennis Maloy in 1872, on north
half of Section 6. Town 2 north. Range 18 east, for Thomas Kelly, A. Brown,
I. Xestlerode. J. A. Bradner, W. H. Hambel, A. S. Williams and J. J. Myers.
James Fritcher's addition was siu'veyed by Dennis Maloy in 1872. Anderson's
addition, bounded by South and Hale Streets, extending fi'om county line to
Wood Street, was sui'veyed in 1872, for J. L. Kenower, J. W. Bricker and
Eliza Fritcher. Leonard & Emerine's addition was surveyed by Dennis
Maloy in September, 1872. Emerine's addition was surveyed by James Lewi?,
and John Hielman's by James Lewis, in September. 1878. Williams' addition
to Fostoria was surveyed by J. Lewis in November, 1878. In November, 1874,
the petition of Fostoria comicil. praying for the annexation of contiguous ter-
ritory in Sections 81 and 82, Town 8 north. Range 18 east, Jackson Township,
and in Town 2 north. Range 12 east, was granted by the commissioners. B.
Leonard's subdivision, on Spruce Street, was surveyed by Dennis Maloy in
187-t. J. L. Kenower & Co.'s addition was sui-veyed by Cook in July, 1874.
J. L. Kenower' s addition was surveyed by Cook in November, 1876. R. C.
Caple' s subdivision of part of Lots 598 and 599 was surveyed by James Lewis
in Februaiy. 1877. M. P. Skinner's first partition addition was made in Jime,
1878. Foster. Sheldon & Co.'s addition was surveyed by Cook, in February,
1881. I. Walding's subdivision was siu'veyed by James Lewis in October,
1881. Lewis Street, Fostoria, was surveyed for C. W. Lytle by James Lewis
in December. 1881: and J. L. Kenower' s south division of out-lot No. 78, was
surveyed in September, 1882, by James Lewis.
Ch-ganic and Official History of Borne. — Rome Village was organized in
1851, and the first village meeting held April 2 that year, when Charles W.
Foster was elected mayor, P. J. Kinnaman. clerk, and Charles Foster, treas-
urer. R. C. Caples. Jacob Fritcher. A. R. Brandenburg, Joel Hales and
John Gibbons were elected councilmen; Seth H. Fairchilds, marshal; Charles
Foster, treasurer. Ordinances for the government of Rome were adopted May
12. 1851. R. C. Caples w^as elected mayor in 1852, and P. J. Kinnaman and
Charles Foster re-elected to their respective positions. Jacob Fritcher was
chosen mayor in 1858 and re-elected in 1854. T. Hays was elected clerk in
1858 and Junius Y. Jones in 1854, Charles Foster still holding the otfice of
treasurer.
The coimcil of Rome in 1852 comprised C. W. Foster, L-a Alerton. Joel
598 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Hale, C. Foster and Jacob Fritclier; marshal, David Hays; street commis-
sioner, John Dougherty.
The council in 1853 was made up as follows: C. W. Foster, A. R. Bran-
denbm-g, R. C. Caples, William Sabins and Henry Cove; marshal, Ira Aler-
ton; street commissioner, L. M. Francis.
The council of Rome, 1854, comprised Charles Foster, James Anderson,
Joel Hales, R. C. Caples and P. D. Caples. The marshal was Jasper Taber,
and street commissioner, John H. Dildine.
A petition was presented to the court of common pleas Jiily 11, 1854,
asking that the name "Rome" be changed to "Fostoria. " This petition was grant-
ed. At the close of the fiscal year, 1854, the exhibits of receipts gave $500.26,
including $239.47, carried over from 1853; and that of expenditures gave
.$223.82, leaving a balance in favor of 1855 of $276.44. The expenses of the
village government for 1851 were $96.87.
Organic and Official Hisfory o/ Fostoria. — A petition signed by W. Bra-
den, Thomas Brian, H. I. Vosburgh. ^V. Weaver, A. S. Bement, E. F. Robin-
son, Ch. Bonnell, John O. All^ert, Reuben Brian. I. M. Coe, John Wilson,
George Gear, Lyman Kittell, Daniel Free. Abram Metz, Robert Dake, E. Be-
ment, E. W. Thomas, D. D. Miller, H. AV. Cole, James Lewis, Umphrey
England and John M. Stewart was presented to the commissioners in 1853
{vide Transactions of the Cominissioners" board — Chapter IV), asking the an-
nexation of the west half of the northwest quarter of Section <), Loudon to
Rome Village. This petition was granted January 2, 1854, and Rome and
Risdon became united under one government.
Following named served in their respective offices from 1855 to 1885 in-
clusive.
1855. — Charles Foster, R. C. Caples, E. W. Thomas. William Braden and
Edwin Bement, council; Joseph Taber. marshal; James Lewis, street commis-
sioner.
1856. —Charles Foster, E. W. Thomas, James Lewis, D. Hays and Jacob
Fritcher, council; R. Adams, marshal; J. H. Dildine, street commissioner.
1857.' — Charles W. Foster, D. Dunham. Israel Nestlerode, John Miller,
Sr., and Morris P. Skinner, council: Joseph Taber, marshal; Peter Carney,
street commissioner.
1858.— Charles Foster, J. W. Bricker. Aug. Bement, R. W. Hale and
George Gear, council; Josiah McDaniel, marshal; James Lewis, street com-
missioner.
1859. — Same council, with James Sabins, marshal.
I860. — Same council; James Sabins. marshal, and J. Lewis, street commis-
sioner.
1861. —Charles Foster. R. C. Caples, E. Bement. Martin Kingseed and
Andj.'ew Emerine, council; George W. Bronson, marshal, and J. Lewis, street
commissioner.
1862. — James Leach, Thomas J. Green. Chris. Bonnell, Martin Kingseed
and Andi-ew Emerine, council; F. Huffman, marshal, and Martin Adams, street
commissioner.
1863.— C. Foster, R. C. Caples, John Bick, Levi Moore and E. Miller,
council, and W^. Ritchart, marshal.
1864.— C. Foster, A. S. Bement, Daniel Rhoad. A. Bronson and R. W.
Hale, council.
1865.— Charles Foster, P. D. Caples. J. L. Mickey, J. C. Haines and John
A. Bradner, council.
1866.— P. D. Caples. Charles Foster. G. D. Aker, James L. Mickey and
Joseph C. Haines, council.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 599
1867. — P. D. Caples, Charles Foster, J. J. Myers, James L. Mickey and
J. C. Johnson, conncil.
18(38_69.---John AVilson, L. D. Mussetter, Charles Foster, J. L. Mickey
and J. J. Myers, conncil.
1870. _C. Foster. P. D. Caples, J. J. Myers, J. L. Mickey, J. F. Ritch-
art and John Wilson, conncil. John A. Bradner was elected city attorney, and
Robert Adams, street commissioner and marshal. (City government reor-
ganized. )
1871. M. V. Green, W. H. Grapes, J. F. Ritchart, council.
1872. J. J. Myers, J. L. Mickey and A. Emerine. council. ^\'. S. Eberly
was elected attorney, and B. L. Caples street commissioner and marshal.
1873.— Charles'Foster, Isaac Warner and J. F. Ritchart. council. Alex-
ander Brown was elected attorney.
1874.- C. Bonnell, J. L. Mickey and J. J. Myers, council. The attorney
elected was John A. Bradner: marshal. James B. Fox. and street commis-
sioner, James Lewis.
1875. Rawson Crocker. A. Emerine and Alexander Brown, council. The
assessor elected was B. L. Caples.
1876.--R. W. Hale. C. W. Thomas. John Wilson, council. The attorney
was J. A. Bradner: marshal. J. B. Fox: street commissioner. J. Lewis, and
assessor. B. L. Caples.
1877.— J. J. Warman. Benjamin Nichols and J. L. Mickey, council. The
attorney elected was W. H. England.
1878.— C. W. Thomas. J. Warner and John Wilson, council. J. M. Bever
Avas elected attorney: G. H. McDonnell, marshal, and James Lewis, street
commissioner.
1879.— Charles Foster. J. F. Ritchart, E. J. Cunningham, council.
1880. -John A. Bradner, John Noble. W. H. Konkle. Isaac Warner, coun-
cil: J. M. Beyer, attorney, and James Lewis, street commissioner.
1881.— E. J. Padghain, Isaac Warner, J. F. Ritchart. council.
1882.— E. J. Cunningham, Frederick Werner, C. A. Hemy, M. D., council.
1883.— J. F. Ritchart. E. J. Padgham and P. W. Hathaway, council.
1884. Charles A. Henry. Isaac Warner and John Noble, council: Alexander
Brown, attorney: James B.'Fox. marshal, and Nicholas Biu-tscher. street com-
missioner. The old members of the council elected in 1883 served until April,
1885
James Lewis was elected street commissioner in 1873. nnd held the office
until April. 1884, ., -r t
1885. P. W. Hathaway. J. F. Ritchart and E. J. Padgham. council. L. J.
Eshelman and Dr. F J. Schaufelberger, board of education: J. B. Springer,
James Lewis and W. D. Bobbins, cemetery trustees.
In the following list the first named is the mayor, the last the clerk:
1855.- David Hays, mayor: J. V. Jones, clerk.
1856.— Edwin Bement: J. Y. Jones.
1857. — James Anderson: J. Y. Jones.
1858.— B. L. Caples; J. Y. Jones.
1859-60.— J. F. Ritchart: J. Y. Jones.
1861.— W. D. Sherwood: E. W. Thomas.
1862.— G. A. Hudson: Thomas Hays.
1863.— Jacob Kridler; Thomas Hays.
1864.— James Leach; James Hays.
1865.— James Leach: E. W. Thomas.
1866.— John A. Bradner: E. W. Thomas.
600 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1867.— C. C. Nestlerode; N. P. Robbins.
1868.— John A. Bradner; N. P. Robbins.
1869.— F. R. Stewart; N. P. Robbins.
1870-72.— J. W. Bricker; N. P. Robbins.
1872-74. — John A. Bradner; John Bender.
1874-76.— William J. Rigby; A. M. Dildine.
1876-78.— J. V. Jones; G. A. Knight.
1878-80.— William J. Rigby: S. Stearns.
1879. — George R. Fralick was clerk.
1880-82.— William J. Rigby: George R. Fralick.
1882-84.— David Asire; George R. Fralick and J. M. Bever.
1884-86.— Joseph M. Bever; Jacolj M. Schatzel.
Charles Foster was elected treasurer from 1855 to 1864. when he was suc-
ceeded by C. Olmsted.
Settlement and Progress. — The first settlers at Risdon were Henry Welch.
Jeremiah Mickey and John P. Gordon. John Gorsuch came in 1832. In the
same year the Crockers and Fosters settled at Rome, and the beginnings of two
villages were made. The work of progress, however, must be credited to the
late Charles W. Foster and his brother-in-law, Roswell Crocker; for to them
is credited the beginnings of the commercial and manufacturing interests of
the town of Rome, which they founded. In the following copy of the original
agreement between John and Roswell Crocker and C. W. Foster the history of
founding the village is told:
Articles of Agreement, made by and between Roswell Crocker of the first part and
John Crocker and Charles W. Foster of the second part
Witne^seth, That the said Roswell Crocker of the first part doth agree to release and
pay unto the parties of the second part, severally, oae-fourlh part of the profits arising
from the sale of lots in the town of Rome, Seneca Co., Ohio, on the following conditions,
namel}':
Said Charles W. Foster and the said John Crocker doth severally agree to pay
unto the said Roswell Crocker $5 per acre for one-fourth of what land the said town plat
now contains. Now the said John Crocker. Roswell Crocker and Charles W. Foster, tor
a company, each being bound to pay according to his proportion all the expenses that have
accrued, or may accrue, after the public sale of said town lots, tlie said Roswell Crocker
having one-half, J. Crocker and C. W. Foster each one-fourth. Then, after the public
sale, Charles W. Foster agrees to become their agent, and do all their business, the said
John and Roswell Crocker, concerning said townT For compensation for the same Charles
W. Foster is to have the southwest col-ner block, next to the square, and the said John
Crocker is to reserve one corner lot. and the said Roswell Crocker two. The said John
Crocker furthermore agrees to help Charles W. Foster build a house, and Charles W.
Foster is to pay him back for the same.
RosAVELL Crocker.
John Crocker,
Charles W. Foster.
There is no date to the original document, but that it was signed early in
1882 is admitted by Roswell Crocker, still a resident.
Following the agreement Rome Village was platted, and the first store
opened. Let us look at this early commercial venture in the wilderness.
Foster & Crocker bought of Samuel Waggoner, October 16. 1832, calico,
gingham, shirting, white flannel, buckram, linen, green baize and fi'ieze, aggre-
gating 1166.36, and sundry dry goods amounting to $258.61. aggregating
$424.97, being the first bill of goods bought from Waggoner. A second bill
amounting to $261.81 for silk and notions, and a third bill of $98.31, gives a
total of $785.09 as the value of goods received from Samuel Waggoner before
the close of October, 1832. Aboiit the same time Williams & Co. , of Buffalo.
N. Y. , shipped to this firm 1 00 pounds of nails, $7 ; 1 63 pounds of cofFee at 1 6
cents, $26.08: 92 pounds of tobacco at 11 cents, $10.12; a keg of powder,
$5.50, and a chest of tea, $44.16.
LOUDON TOWNSHir. 601
October 29 they received from Hollister <to Ciirtiss, of Buffalo. N. Y. . a
stock of groceries, glass, notions and paper, valued at §293.37; and from Pool
& Cheesman, of Buffalo, a stock of glassware and crockery valued at $40.43.
November 26, 1832, they received from Josiah Hedges, of Tiflfin, a stock of
cutlery valued at $43. 38. December 1, 1832, they bought of Mercer «& Ebbert.
of Tiffin, a stock of felt and wool hats valued at $35, and fi'om J. & A. Pittino-er
a stock of leather valued at $30. 56. In December, 1833, C. "\V. Foster piu'chased
from Dr. James Fisher, of Tiffin, a stock of medicines valued at $14. 16. and
within the year 1833 sundry drugs valued at about $35. In January. 1833.
the firm began dealing with Grant & Kridler for boots and shoes, the "^first bill
amounting to $132.50. During the years 1832-33 they puix-hased whiskies
from Samuel Waggoner. In June, 1833, they began dealing with Bostwick.
Taylor & Co., dry goods merchants, and Corning & Walker, hardware mer-
chants of New York City, the first bill with Bostwick & Co. being $690. In
February, 1834, they piu'chased a small lot of tinware from Walker & Co.. of
Tiffin, and a keg of tobacco from Milton McNeal. of Tiffin. The inventory
of merchandise in store May 1(5. 1834. places the value of stock at $958.06.
increased to $1,200 in June' 1836. and to $2,616.60 in April, 1837.
The first day-book of Crocker & Foster at hand is dated March 14. 1833,
being the second book opened. The first entry is a pair of boots, $3. 37. for
Elijah Berry's son. March 15 the following entries are made:
John Shel]ar, Dr.
To 1^ bobbinett lace at $1 oO To i comb at 1 6 19
1 yard frills at 1/ 13 1 liandkercliief at 2,6 31
2 yards calico at 14c 28 ^i ixnind tobacco at 1 13
lii yards calico at 2/ 50 2"bov, Is at 7c '. 14
114; yards B. C muslin at 20c 2o 1 yard slieeting at 1/ 13
I sett teacups sausers at 2 25 " '
Cr. by 4:^i sugar at 7c 33 ^ $0 30
Abraham Searles, Dr.
To m and ig' beaverteer at 4 ?2 31 1 tin pan at 3, 38
1 comb at 16 19 15 yards cotton at 10c 1 50
1 knife at 1/2 19 2 yrirds cotton check at 1,6 38
1 sett teacups at 2/ 25 Cr. by 12 lbs. tea short 1 50
2 lbs. coffee at 20c 40 Cr. by 12 coon skins at 2/ 3 oO
AVilliam Fox, Dr.
To 2 lbs. tobacco at 2; 50 1 pair compasses at 1/ . . 13
Frederick Gibbins, Dr.
M lb. tea 31 1 qt. whisky 12
)i lb. tobacco 13 Credit by lO^^^ lbs. sugar at 7 75
Islioe knife 12
Jacob G. Gacar, Dr.
1 pair of boots for Xehemiali Hadley at 28 $3 50
Old Consumers and Producers. — Among the names of customers of Crocker
& Foster, in 1833, were the following : Henry Sapp, Samuel Carbaugh, Abram
Weaver. John Kelly. James Anderson, Michael Thomas, Abram Shell. John
Hooper, James Sweeney. John Allen. Harrison Allen. Andrew Farrier. John
Tennis, George Hampshire. William Bennett, Pinkston Wade. William More,
Uzal Cory, C. Gibbins, Levertor Thomas. John Norris. William Hunter. Eli
Williams. Frederick Given. Levy Johnson. James Caywood, Elijah R. Ander-
son. Michael Stall, Jacob Rample, Richard Reynolds. John Sweeney, Henry
Harsh, Peter Ebersol, T. G. Whillock. Jacob Forman, Elijah Berry.' AVilliam
Eckles, D. Craft, Lawrence Rumple, Isaac Wiseman, John^ Crocker. C. W.
Foster, Benjamin Hartley, William Harter. Bill Smith, James Wiseman,
Peter Fisher, Andrew Bellman. Reuben Briar. Jedediah Hand, Lorenzo Shij^-
pey. John Weesberry. Widow Hampshire. James Akinson. John Shall, Joseph
Anspaugh, Jonathan Fought, Abram Rinebolt, Jacob Kizer. John Stambauo-h.
(302 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Hannah Farrier, Jacob Hendricks. Peter Smith. Henry Hoopman, Abel Harn-
ing. Perry Chance. Joseph English, Samuel McClelland, Henry Hoffman,
Henry Welch, Obadiah Hunt, Emanuel Loman, Andrew Bird, Roswell
Crocker. Benjamin Stevens, George Elliott, Peter Sherritt, John Mackerill,
Gipson McDonald, John Keisburg, Daniel Swope, William Leavitt, Zaehariah
Riinneals. Eisdon Beach, Zaehariah Reynolds, John Adams, Hiram Bigelow,
Thomas Bowen, Isaac Chenick, John Chenery, Willard Sprague, Enoch
Trumbo, John Tremaius. Jacob Crone, Bixler Risdon, Daniel Fairchild, Cath-
erine Stoner, Henry Bacher, Isaac Kelly, Israel Tintsman, AVilliam Lowell.
David Hadley. James Martin, Samuel S. Parmer, Robei-t Hale, Asa England.
Joseph Stackhouse. C. D. Wilaby. Mrs. Young, Henry Herainger, C. Ken-
sino-er, Henry Heaster, William Boucher, Jonathan Emmett, Henry Young,
Joshua Watson, Campbell D. W^elford, Daniel Ai-nold.
Tiffin and Findlay State Road. Mter the house of Crocker & Foster was
established at Rome, it became evident to the founders of the village that a
road from Tiffin to Findlay was necessary, and they had little trouble in con-
vincing themselves that the shorter line for such a road would be via Rome.
A bill 'to establish a road between the two county seats was before the Legisla-
tiu-e. It is related that Mr. Foster visited Columbus and had the words "r/a
Fostoria" inserted, where the original bill read "from Tiffin to Findlay. " This
bill passed and the act was approved. On retui-ning he hired one John Pat-
terson to open a tavern in the wilderness on the line which he desired, and be-
fore the viewers came he had a few men underbrush a road and break it by
running sleighs repeatedly over it, so that the viewers would have as little diffi-
CTilty in being convinced of the importance of running the road via Rome as
he had. On the arrival of the viewers, they were asked up to Patterson's
Tavern, tAVO miles from Rome, and they, -beholding the evidences of progress,
located the Tiffin and Findlay road via Rome. The settlers in the less favored
districts were enraged, l^ut the old highway, between Tiffin and Findlay, con-
tinued in use until the direct line was opened.
The log-cabins of Rome and Risdon in 1836, when the Crocker Saw-mill was
erected, w'ere Crocker & Foster s store, C. W. Foster' slog- cabin, James Ander-
son's, Levi Johnson's. Roswell Crocker's on East Tiffin Street: Elisha Sabin's.
opposite Crocker's cabin; William Cadwallader's. above Charles Fosters' present
residence; Abram Gibbons, on East Tiffin Street; John Cooper' s, just west of the
Ijresent "Earl House;" David FeiTier' s. rear of Harbangh's di'ug store; Baer's
cabin, near the new Union sehoolhouse, between Rome and Risdon; Randal
Hale's tavern, near the corner of the public square; Jacob Kizer and George
Hampshire had their cabins here also. Eli Williams' cabin, on East Tiffin
Street, was sold to William Fox and purchased fi'om him by Roswell Crocker
for $3(1 Alonzo Lockwood's log house stood where John Green's present resi-
dence is; he built the second fi-ame dwelling on the town site, the same
which is now the John Green residence. Samuel Laird kept a tavern in a
log building opposite Foster" s store in 1 836. John Hooper, a carpenter, who
worked on the first frame house erected here, had a log-cabin two miles south-
west of the public square. James Wiseman, who lived in a log-cabin, one
mile southwest, erected a saw- mill, constructed a mill-race, and carried on the
milling business there for years; he built the first brick farmhouse in the
neighborhood of Fostoria in*1837. Marshall Hays, the first tailor, resided on
West Tiffin Street, built the first brick dwelling house in the south paii. of
Fostoria. John Brooks, who built a fi-ame house in 1837. brought a stock of
molds for his counterfeiting establishment here.
Postoffices and Postmasters. — Stoner, after whom the office at Rome was
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 605
named, lived three miles away, and the can-ier was intercepted close by. This
system obtained until Dr. T. J. Bricker was appointed postmaster and estab-
lished his office at Rome. David Hays was commissioned postmaster at Stoner
or Rome in 1S45.
R. C. Caples was the first regularly appointed postmaster at Risdon in
1(S40. He was succeeded by Dr. Cole. E. ^\. Thomas was the incumbent in
1847, at Risdon. William Braden succeeded with Mr. Childs, conducting the
office. Dr. Alonzo Lockwood, C. T. Kelly, T. J. Bricker, with J. W. McDon-
nell, assistant; Philip Faulhaber, C. W. Foster*, J. L. Mickey. Adam Cramer,
with Mai-tin Adams, assistant; and J. B. De Wolfe appointed in 1881, and still
holding the office, have served as postmasters at Rome and Fostoria.
In 1847 the mail was earned by Bill Lowry, from Bucyrus. He would
come every Sunday at 2 P. M. , fi'om Bucyrus, and every Tuesday from Per-
rysbui-g. The rate of postage was 10 cents per letter.
October 1, 1885, Tiffin and Fostoria were created immediate deliver^'
offices. J. R. Owen and Liss Leedy were appointed special messengers at Fos-
toria.
Physicians of Fostoria. — Marcus Dana settled in the northern part of
Loudon in 1834; he died and his body was interred in the old cemetery, but
was removed to the new one in 1856. Alonzo Lockwood came to Rome about
the same time, and resided there until his death, September 25, 1878. Dr.
Kirldiam settled at Rome in 1836 or 1837; Simon Bricker, who died in 1856,
and whose body was the fii'st inteiTed in the new city cemetery settled at Rome
about 1843. George Patterson came about 1840, is now in Texas. Robert C.
Caples opened his office at Risdon in 1843. Drs. Cole, Snyder and Russell
were here prior to 1843. Gr. A. Hudson came in 1850. died in 1869. J. W.
Bricker in 1850; Dr. Metz, in 1854. R. W. Hale came in 1856 and served as
military surgeon during the war. A. M. Blackman came in I860, served with
the Union Army and returned after the war. E. Ranger, of Millgi'ove, practiced
here as early as 1860. W. M. Cake, had his office in Bement' s Block, in 1860.
A. J. Longfellow settled here in 186L In later years came P. E. Ballou,
Charles A. Henry, George L. Hoege, Park L. Myers. J. H. Norris. F. J.
Shaufelberger. W'. H. Squires, A. S.Williams, L. G. Williams, John H. Will-
iams, M. S. Williamson, Alvin Watson, I. M. Young, and others. Several
names not here mentioned will be found recorded in Chapter VII.
Early Marmfacturing Industries. — The first manufacturing industry in
Loudon Township was the horse-power grist-mill, established by David Femer
about 1 834. on the head of Wolf Creek. In June, 1874, one of the stones
used in this mill was presented to the editor of the Fostoria Review, as a me-
mento of the humble beginnings of the township.
The Crocker Saw-mill, on South Street, within eight rods of the present
Roswell Crocker home (the first frame house ever erected at Fostoria), was
established in 1836. by Roswell Crocker. In August, 1836, C. W. Foster
had sawing done valued at $62. 73, to build the warehouse which took the place
of this old log warehouse. The house is now occupied by Mrs. Lunt, and
stands on the south side of South Street, west of Main Street about fifteen
rods. Into this mill machinery was introduced for grist milling, and Mr.
Crocker carried on the saw and giist-mill business for some years, when he
converted the building into a grist-mill. In 1843 he sold to Samuel Carbough.
who after some time converted it into a distillery.
* February 1.5 1861, a call was signed by C. W. Foster, J. V. Jones and Robert Adams, Republican Town-
ship Committee of Fostoria, requesting the Republicans to meet February 20, at W. C. Turner's office to take
action in reference to the selection of a postmaster.
32
606 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
In 1843 Roswell Crocker erected a grist and saw-mill at Springville. which
he operated for two years, when he returned to Fostoria. where John Crocker
and C. W. Foster had erected a building for him, the same as now used for
the manufactm-e of the "Magic Washing Machines."' in which he operated a
gi'ist-mill himself, or leased until 1865. when the building was sold to Ful-
lerton & Ferguson, who ran it for some time. They moved the machinery to
Hudson, Steuben Co., Ind.
Braden & Yunker erected a grist-mill in 1853 or 1854: (near their carding
works), and introduced the best machinery known at that time. The buildings
and machinery were destroyed by an explosion some years ago. and young
Brown and Wilson were killed. ' A brick building Avas erected almost on the
site of the old mill, by Mr. Hammond. He sold the concern to Eversok A:
Noble, when another explosion occm-red. killing a man named Hadley, and
biu-ying one Overmyer in the debris. The latter, however, was dug out, and
recovered from his injuries. Eversole & Noble sold their interest to the Ayles-
woi-th Bros., who sold to Benjamin Leonard, and subsequently repurchased
the concern. There are no records whatever on which to found a history of
this industry. What is given is taken fi'om recitals of facts by old settlers.
A carding-mill was constructed by Braden & Yunker about 1850. The Lees
condiicted a furnitm-e store, and were interested in a grist-mill. This mill was
set on lire in 1847 and destroyed.
John Fritcher established the first harness shop about 1840. Jacob
Fritcher established his saddlery in 1842. James Lewis had his shop, in 184J)
or 1847, at Risdon. Andi-ew Emerine established his harness shop in 1848.
three years after his an-ival here. Thomas J. Pillars, a brother of Judge Pil-
lars, established harness shops previous to 1848. William Weaver and Jere-
miah Coe were harness-makers at Rome in 1849. John W. McDonnell, who
came with his parents in 1 842, is one of the oldest harness-makers in town.
Samuel Gildersleeve was an early harness-maker. Jacob Kridler, sometime
previous to 1801. Isaac Warner opened his harness shop at Fostoria in 1861,
having previously worked for Andrew Emerine fi'om October, 1855, at Rome.
Joel Hale, Colhour and J. B. Way were the first blacksmiths. In 1842
James McDonnell opened a shop at Rome.
Risdon.— In 1847 S. G. Malony moved to Risdon. and thence to Rome
in 1851, voting for the name "Fostoria" subsequently. He states that in
1847 I^Irs. Mickey, Sr. , kept the Mickey House. Braden & Yunker had a card-
ing-mill at Risdon at this time, and AVilliam Braden conducted the postoffice,
with Childs. assistant postmaster, and owned a furniture shop where the Ayles-
woi-th Mill now stands. E. W. Thomas was a gi-ocer; James Lewis, harness-
maker: Daniel Ragan. tailor; John Quincy Albert, shoemaker. This trio
worked in a small frame building, which stood in what is the center of Perry
and Elm Streets. John Becker was also a shoe-maker. On the west side of
Perry, fi-onting on Elm Street, was the Bement Foundry and Plow Shop, mak-
ing, in 1855, about 1,500 plows.
The Lee Grist-mill w^as burned about May 1. 1847 (the owner's wife is al-
leged to have burned it), after the mortgagors had sold the machinery and Lee
moved to Indiana.
Dr. Dana and Dr. Caples were the physicians at Risdon. Henry L. Caples
kept a dv\ goods store until 3853 when he and Luther W. Caples moved to Mis-
souri. P. D. Caples had a farm close by and L. Caples also had a farm
on the southwest corner of Jackson Township. Dr. Dana died at Risdon
aboiit 1853. The Methodist Episcopal society had a church building on the
east bank of Portage River, which was an old hewed log building in 1847.
Rev. ]Mi-. Elliot was resident preacher.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 607
William Braden moved to Illinois and died on the Kankakee Keservation
about 1802. James Eobinson accompanied him to Kankakee in 1857, and is
now a resident of Chebanse, 111. Dan Hammer, and one of the Martins Avere
convicted of crimes such as horse stealing, and served in the penitentiarv.
Thomas B. Jacobs opened a furniture store at Eisdon about 1848.
The Hammer family, notorious in some respects, were here. George Heis
established a brick yard on the Portage River prior to 1847. In 1848 S. G.
and J. T. C. Malony established a brickyard north of Heis'. Heis died
November 5, 1884. Mofifitt established a yard south of Malony' s, in 1854, and
made the brick which are now in the Foster store Ijuilding.
In 1847 Mr. Hobbs taught the Eisdon schools.
John Vroman and the Morgans were old storekee})ers at Eisdon. Jere-
miah Mickey, while making a ditch to convey water to his house, was buried
by the clay caving in. just after he warned his own daughter and Widow
Jacob' s daughter to keep away. Heck Thompson, a negro barber, married to
an Indian half-breed, was the "first colored citizen of Eisdon.
Jefferson B. Way and Germond were blacksmiths, and Cochran and
Weaver & Coe, harness-makers.
About 184U one Smith opened a hotel on Union Street, in the same house
now occupied by Mrs. Schultz. A carriage factory was operated by George
Geer on Jackson and Union Streets. This industry employed sixteen men.
Between 1847 and 1851 Geer lost two wives by death and married the third.
He died penniless, in Oregon, within the last decade.
^S. G. Malony opened a grocery north of the Foster Elevator, in 1852. In
1855 he established his furniture store in partnership with L. S. Wells, who
opened a furniture shop at Eome. about 1846. Joseph Emmett also had a
furniture shop. He moved to Iowa.
Lyman Kettels established a furniture store at Eisdon about 1849. John
Dildine was a cooper there in 1847.
John Portz and Nicholas Portz settled at Eome at an early date among the
first settlers, and established a wagon and carriage shop.
Beginning of the Brick Building £ra.— The first three brick residences at
Fostoria were erected previous to 1845 by Braden, E. C. Caples at Eisdon.
and one, the first, Marshal Hays', at Eonae. the latter occupying the lot south
of Foster's new block. T. B. Jacobs, Andrew Emerine and Edwin Bement
erected the first of the modern brick houses in 1860-62. The first brick
business block was erected by C. W. Foster, now occupied by Foster «fe Co.
Joel Hale built the crockery store during the war. Andrew Emerine built the
brick house now occupied by George Emerine. Leonard Morgan, John Andes.
Martin Kingseed and Liner built each a brick house, filling the lot between
the " Hays House " and Tiffin Street, just after the war. This is a very im-
portant business block. The Andes Opera House Block and the Foster Bank
Block are buildings of which any city might feel proud.
CHURCHES.
Methodist Episcopal Church was organized at Eisdon in 1833 by Eev.
Mr. Chase, who was succeeded immediately by Eev. Elam Day. The first
house of worship was a hewed log-house on the north side of High Street
(now Summit Street), near the creek, built in 1833-34 at Eisdon, on the Han-
cock County side. This was used until 1852, when the late fiame building
was^erected by Eev. Mr. Collier. This fi-ame was sold to Dr. Ballou in March'!
1885, and torn down. It stood on the northeast corner of Fremont and Main
Street, just south of the present Methodist Episcopal Church. There are no
records in existence dealing with the church here in earlv davs. In 1846 Eev.
(308 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Sevmour was preacher. Revs. Jewett and Elliott were here at au early day,
with Kaymond, presiding elder. Revs. Jewett and Crabbs were here m 1848
with Thomas Barkdull, presiding elder. Revs. Leonard Hill and Lee came m
184<.): Rev. Milligan succeeded Rev. Lee in 1850; Revs. Collier and J. P. Pel-
ton were here inl851-52, and the former with Rev. Monett in 1852-53; Rev.
Monett was here alone in 1853; Rev. Nathan Taylor in 1855; Revs. Collier
and Lansing in 1856; Rev. J. A. Shannon in 1858. About 1847 Rev. James
Anderson established what was known as the Methodist Chnrch in Rome. He
erected a frame church building on what is now Wood Street, on the west line
of the town of Rome. This building, which was never plastered, had split
bass-wood seats without backs. In 1851 he wished the Risdonites to come to
his church and complete it. but they took an opposite course and erected the
Fremont Street Church. Anderson's Church was subsequently devoted to
manufacturing industries until destroyed by lire about two years ago. Among
Mr. Anderson's fi-iends were some of the old settlers of Risdon who moved to
Rome. The Collier revival did away with the discord the two churches created.
The records of the church since 1859 present the following facts: J. T.
Caples was presiding elder, and Rev. J. A. Shannon, preacher. His salary
was $200, with incidentals $275. and the presiding elder received $75. A. R.
Brandenburg. J. F. Ritchart, J. J. Myers, James Lewis and F. Ernest were
trustees. William Callahan was local preacher in 1.S59. James Anderson. J.
W. Griffith, B. L. Caples, P. D. Caples and William Callahan, leaders.
Rev. A. B. Poe was pastor in 18G0, and John Graham, elder. Mr. Poe was
appointed chaplain of the Seventy-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry in 1861,
returned home and died. Rev. W. S. Lunt came in the fall of 1861. James
Hayes was local preacher in 1862. In June, 1862, Dr. J. W. Bricker, Junius
V Jones and James Leach were added to the stewards. Rev. William Calla-
han was secretary in 1862-63. In June, 1863, E. J. Padgham was elected
secretary, and holds the office still. In October, 1863, A. B. Poe returned,
and was appointed pastor. Rev. John Farley was appointed pastor m 1864.
In the fall Rev. G. Lease was appointed preacher, and H. S. Bradley, presid-
ing elder.
The Parsonage Building Committee, appointed December 1 1, l»bb, com-
prised Rev. G. Lease, R. C. Caples, J. F. Ritchart, J. J. Myers. I. AV.
Nestlerode and E. J. Padgham. A piece of land was purchased from James
Williams for $600, on what is now the Sandusky road, in March, 186/, and
May 15, 1867, the contract for building the parsonage was awarded to Peter
Buissey for $3,326: work completed in February, 1868.
The preachers who have served here since 1866 are _named as follows:
Charles Reynolds, 1867: W. S. Lunt and S. B. Maltbie, 18(0: John L. Bates.
1871- A Hollington. 1872; Franklin Marriott, 1873; J. A.Ferguson, 18*4;
D. D. Mather, 1876: L. S. Bieler. 1879; T. L. Wiltsie, 1881; R. Wallace.
1881, and Rev. L. N. Albright, the present pastor. The presiding elders for
the same period were L. C. Webster, 1868; W. AV. AVinters, 1872; J. Ayers,
1873; AA'. S. Paul, 1875; G. Lease, 1879, and L. C. AVebster, 1883. A build-
ing committee, appointed January 16, 1882, were J. F. Ritchart, Dr. J. AA.
Bricker and Norman Saltsman. Before the completion of the church, m 188o.
Dr. Hale took Dr. Bricker' s place on the committee. Andi-ew Emerme suc-
ceeded J. L. Kenower as treasurer. The building contract was sold to I. L.
Cramer, of Fostoria, and work on foundation begun in 1883. Green & Hiel
man completed the contract in the summer of 1885 at a cost of about $20,000,
and the building and furnishing was finished in the fall of 1885 at a total cost of
about $30,000. The societv made many personal sacrifices toward the erection
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 609
of this magniiicent house of worshij), and the citizens generally, more partic-
ularly Mr. Foster, contributed very liberally.
The officers of the church in 1884 were Eli Tebles, George Sanders and
James Hayes, local preachers; R. C. Caples, M. D. ; E. J. Padgham, John
Nobles, Thomas Green, Samuel Ernest, John Norris, P. D. Caples. N. P.
Kobbins, stewards; A. S. ATilliams, S. W. Bricker, A. J. Longfellow, E. ^\.
Hale, B. L. Caples, Andrew Emerine, Fletcher Ritchart, N. Saltsman, H. J.
Lockhart and Charles Foster, trustees; A. T. McDonnell, James Hayes, D.
Sprout, Israel Nestlerode, Thomas Billyard, Samuel Stearns, C. H. Stewart,
George Cooper, Noah Stahl. class leaders; C. H. Stewart, superintendent of
Sunday-school. The membership is about 400.
Methodist Trotestcmt Church was organized at Fostoria some years
prior to that now known as the Methodist Chui'ch, and a house of worship was
erected at the corner of Poplar and Centre Streets.
Methodist Church of Foster ict, formerly the Methodist Protestant Church,
was reorganized under State law August 2, 1874, Rev. J. S. Thorp, pre
siding. Levi S. Wells was chosen class leader: C. S. Reynolds, C. Wilkin-
son and Mrs. Ann McDonnell, stewards. During the building of the late
house of worship in 1874-75, James R. Williams took charge of the carpenter
work, and completed the building for $2,000, August 19, 1845.
A new church building was completed on West Centre Street in July, 1885.
The new edifice is a neat structiu-e. 54x5( ) feet in dimensions, and has a seating
capacity of about 400. It was dedicated July 9. 1885. Revs. J. A. Thrapp
and O. V. W. Chandler, of Tiffin, officiating. The pastors of this church have
been J. A. Thrapp, C. W. Wolf, G. W. Bothwell, J. B. Roberts, L. Bowman,
E. Scott, Thomas Orr, F. W. Link and S. S. Fleming; Rev. J. W. King
came in 1884. In December, 1876, Dr. G. E. Reynolds was elected perma-
nent secretary, vice T. N. Lewis.
United Brethren Church of Fostoria dates its regular organization
back to 1864, when Rev. Reuben French was appointed preacher, but long
prior to this the preachers of Seneca Circuit appeared here. Among the
original members were Rev. Reuben French (the second pastor), Jacob Kieser,
Peter Webber, Michael Schesler, Samuel Young, Abram Overholt, W. Fox
and Rev. Levi Moore. Isaac Warner joined the society in 1862 or 1863, and
has been trustee for the last twelve years. Truman Bever, Henry Murlieh,
John Snyder and Solomon Vandersoll are the trustees. This society was
incorporated August 10, 1876. T. D. Ingle presided, with Joseph S. Overholt
secretary of the meeting. The trustees elected were G. Biles. J. S. Overholt
and Isaac Crouse. The membership at present is 208. Rev. J. Beaver, father
of the mayor, has been connected ministerially with the church for over
sixty-nine years.
A reference to the history of Eden Township will show that the first society
of this denomination was organized at Melmore. Since that time, however.
Fostoria has won the headquarters of the church in this county, and for this
reason the following chronological and historical review of the church is given
in this chapter.
In April, 1835, the Conference was held at Crawford City, Ohio. Joseph
Beaver, Jacob Newman and Joseph Logan were licensed to preach, and Jere-
miah Brown was elected presiding elder. The stations of traveling preachers
were Sandusky Circuit, B. Moore and Joseph Beaver; Maumee, S. Lilly-
bridge; Scioto, John Alsap: Richland, John Davis; Peel Creek, B. F. Kauf-
man; Samuel Hiestand. Bishop. John Dorcas was elected presiding elder in
1837. In April, -1838. the conference was held at Stoner's Schoolhouse near
610 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Tiffin. In April. 1839, the conference was held at Union Schoolhouse, Seneca
Countv.
In 'March, 1S40, the Conference assembled at Phillip Betz's house. H. G.
Spavth was elected presiding elder. Alfi-ed Spraylin. Jacob Newman, S. Lil
lybridge, M. Long, B. J. Needles and Jonathan Thomas were the preachers.
In 1841 the conference met at King's Schoolhouse, Richland County, with
Jacob Erb, bishop, presiding. Jeremiah Brown was elected presiding elder,
and Alfred Spracklin preacher of the Seneca Circuit.
The conference of 1842. held at Monclova, Lucas Co., Ohio, was presided
over by Bishop Kumber. John Davis and Jeremiah Brown were elected pre-
siding"^ elders of the western and eastern districts respectively, and Alfred
Spracklin was continued as preacher of the Seneca Circuit.
In 1843 the conference met at Beaver Creek Schoolhouse with Bishop Kum-
ber, Jr., presiding; the same elders were elected, and Spracklin continued in
charge of Seneca Circuit.
In 1844 the conference was held at Jacob Games" house in April.
Samuel Long, still living near Kansas Village, was appointed presiding elder
for the eastern district, and Samuel Hadley, preacher for Seneca Circuit. In
1845 J. Garber and ^\. Harrington were appointed preachers of the Seneca Cir-
cuit, and S. Long, presiding elder. John C. Bright took Mr. Garber' s place
on this circuit. In 1846 the conference was held at Melmore. J. C. Bright and
^Vesley Harrington were appointed preachers. The conference of 1 84 / was
held in AYood County. John Davis Avas appointed presiding elder, and the
same preachers reappointed. The conference of 1848 was held at Melmore.
At this time Honey Creek Circuit was established, and all appointments in Sen-
eca Circuit east of the Sandusky River were attached to Bellevue Mission of
Honey Creek Circuit. John Davis was appointed preacher of Seneca Circuit,
and D. Glancy, of Honey Creek. A second conference was held in October,
1848, in Lucas County.' Green Creek Circuit was established with J. C.
Bright, pastor. This conference was held for the purpose of changing date of
conference.
In 1849 W. Herrington was appointed .preacher of Green Creek, and S.
Long and J. Martin, of Seneca Circuit. In 1850 Green Creek was attached
to the western district, and R. AVicks, appointed preacher. In 1851 J. New-
man was appointed preacher of Green Creek, and John Curts, of Seneca.
In 1852 Seneca. Green Creek and Salem Circuits were grouped as Findlay
District, with A. Berry, presiding elder; G. Schnider, preacher of Seneca, and
M. Long, of Green Creek. At this time there were 300 members in the Seneca
Circuit, '^and 150 in the Green Creek Circuit. In 1854 Seneca and Green
Creek Circuits were added to the Sandusky District, and M. Long appointed
preacher in the first named, and John French in the last named. In 1855
Liberty, Bettsville and Clinger appointments of Seneca Cii'cuit. were attached
to the Sandusky Circuit: Attica to Sandusky District. M. Bulger was
appointed to Attica, and A. Biddle and S. Fostei- to Sandusk>-, and William
Jones to Green Creek.
In September, 1856, the conference was held at Flat Rock. M. Bulger
was continued at Attica, D. S. Caldwell, of Seneca, and James Long and H.
Ciu-tiss, of Green Creek. In 1857 S. Jacoby was appointed to Attica.
In 1858 Flat Rock was detached from *Green Creek, and Attica Mission
named Attica Circuit, with S. Jacoby preacher, and M. Long preacher at Flat
Rock; James Long at Seneca and ^. T. Lane at Green Creek.
(The New England Mission was organized by this conference in 1858,
to carry on the work of their church in Massachn-;etts. J. C. Bright went
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 611
there in 1858, and J. Grouse in 1851); subsequently others went, but within
live years the mission was abandoned. )
In 1859 J. Grouse became a member of Sandusky Gonference ; S. F. Altman
took charge of Attica Gircuit; James Long of the Seneca Gircuit; S. T. Lane
of Green Greek; S. Lindsay of Flat Rock.
In 1860 J. F. Seiler was appointed to Attica; M. Long to Flat Rock; S.
T, Lane to Seneca; D. G. Ogden to Green Greek.
In 1861. D. G. Ogden, Attica; S. T. Lane. Seneca; James Long, Green
Greek; Alvin Rose, Flat Rock.
In 1862. W. Mathers, Seneca; S. T. Lane, Attica; A. Rose, Flat Rock; A.
M. Stemen, Flat Rock.
In 1863. Seneca, D. Glancy and J. Garber; Attica, S. T. Lane; Flat
Rock, A. Rose; Michael Long, Green Greek.
In 1804. Seneca, I. Grouse; Attica, S. Jacoby; Green Greek, S. Foster;
Flat Rock. S. F. Altman; Fostoria. R. French. In 1864, Loudon, Stopes,
Fostoria, Independence and Smith' s missions were detached from Garey, and
Fostoria Gircuit was established.
In 1865 the conference was held at Fostoria. The missions known as Sen-
eca Union, Honey Greek Ghapel and Liberty were detached from Seneca Gir-
cuit; Base Line from Benton Gircuit, and Berwick fi-om Van Lue Gircuit, and
all formed into the Honey Greek Gircuit. G. Bender, of Attica; Isaac Grouse,
of Honey Greek; S. T. Lane, of Seneca; G. Hoover, of Flat Rock; "William
Miller, of Green Greek, and R. French, of Fostoria.
In 1866. T. D. Ingle, Fostoria; S. T. Lane, Seneca; G. Bender, Attica;
J. F. Seiler, Flat Rock; Peter Flack, Green Greek.
In 1867. T. D. Ingle, Fostoria; S. Essex, Seneca; William Neville, Attica;
M. Long, Flat Rock;''R. K. Wyant, Green Greek. I. Grouse was appointed
secretary of the conference in 1867, and has held the position to the present
time.
1868. William Neville, Attica; M. Long, Flat Rock; M. Bulger, Seneca;
J. Matthews, Green Greek, ; T. J. Harbaugh, Fostoria.
1869. Honey Greek District, William Miller, P. E. ; Attica, A. M. Steiner;
Flat Rock, M. Bulger; Fostoria, T. J. Harbaugh, G. Bender, Seneca Gircuit ;
D. F. Senter, Green Greek.
The annual appointments made since 1869 are named as follows:
1870. Attica. G. Hoover; Honey Greek, W. A. Keesy; Flat Rock, Isaac
Grouse; Seneca. S. Foster; Fostoria, S. D. Kemerer; Green Greek, S. H.
Randebaugh.
1871. Attica, William Neville; Fostoria, S. D. Kemerer; Seneca, G.
French; Green Greek, S. H. Randebaugh; Honey Greek, W. A. Keesey; Flat
Rock, W. P. Dicker.
1872. Attica, William Neville; Honey Greek, G. Hepler; Fostoria, D. S.
Galdwell; Seneca, G. French; Green Greek, D. D. Hart; Flat Rock, S. H.
Randebaugh.
1873. Honey Greek, E. B. Maurer; Fostoria, J. Bever; Seneca, G. Hoover,
Green Greek, D. D. Hart; Flat Rock, S. H. Randebaugh; Attica, William
Mathers. Peter Warner missionary in Africa.
1874. Honey Greek, E. B. Maurer; Seneca, John French, Eden, M.
Long; Green Greek, B. M. Long; Flat Rock, S. Essex; Fostoria, Isaac Grouse.
1875. Attica, J. F. Seiler; Honey Greek, H. G. Bevington; Seneca, M.
Long; Eden, G. French; Green Greek, E. B. Maurer; Flat Rock, H. F. Hart-
zell; Fostoria, T. D. Ingle.
1876. Attica, O. H. Ramsey; Honey Greek, W. W. McGurdy; Green
012 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Creek, A. Powell; Flat Rock, H. F. Hartzell; Seneca, G. Bender; Fostoria,
T. D.' Ingle; Eden, G. French.
1877. Attica, John Awmiller; Honey Creek, W. W. McCiu'dy; Flat Rock,
D. S. Caldwell; Seneca, G. Bender; Green Creek, A. Powell; Fostoria, T. J.
Harbaugh; Eden, William Mathers.
1878. Honey Creek, N. S. Long; Seneca, B. Struble; Attica, A. J. Klin-
gle; Eden, William Mathers; Fostoria, T. J. Harbaugh; Green Creek, D. S.
Caldwell. .
1879. Honey Creek, N. S. Long; Seneca, L. J. Osborn; Attica, W. W.
McCurdy; Flat Rock, C. H. Lemon; Green Creek, J. Bever; Eden, O. H.
Ramsey; Fostoria, E. A. Starkey.
1880. Fostoria, G. W. Macklin; Seneca. M. Long; Eden, J. Bever; Attica,
W. W. McCnrdy; Honey Creek, M. E. Spahr; Green Creek, S. T. Lane; Flat
Rock, G. Hoover.
1881. Attica, C. L. Bevington; Honey Creek. M. E. Spahr; Flat Rock,
W. P. Dicken; Green Creek, T. D. Ingle;^Eden, L. Sharp: Seneca, M. Long;
Fostoria, G. P. Macklin.
1882. Honey Creek, G. P. Macklin; Attica, C. L. Bevington; Flat Rock,
Jacob Walker; Seneca, L. Moore; Green Creek, T. D. Ingle: Eden, L. Sharp;
Fostoria, W. A. Keesey.
1883. Flat Rock, Jacob Walker; Fostoria, R. Rock; Seneca, A. B. Leon-
ard; Attica, W. A. Keesey; Honey Creek, G. P. Macklin; Eden, M. Swanky,
Green Creek, J. W. Hippie.
St. Wendelin's Catholic Church dates back to 1849, when the first fi-ame
church building was erected on Wood and Railroad Streets, by Franz Dillery,
John Omlor, Diobold Omlor, John Bick, John Shoen, John Portz, Nicholas
Portz, Michael Lynch, James McDonel and others, which was attended by
priests from New Reigel once a month until Father Roetzer was appointed by
Bishop Rappe and stationed at Findlay. About the year 1859, Father Behrens
succeeded. At the beginning of the war Father Dechaut was appointed, and
during his administration the fi-ame chiu'ch. which had been poorly built, was
repaired at a cost of $1. 100. In 1864 he was succeeded by Father Vattman.
About 1868 Father Puetz came and remained until the appointment of Father
J. B. Jung. About 1875 the latter was succeeded by Rev. M. Arnoldi, who
has been resident pastor for the last ten years, and to whom is credited the
building of the present brick and stone church, begun in 1879 and completed
- in 1880, except the spire. In 1855 Martin Kingseed moved to Fostoria, from
Tiffin. Prior to this date Franz Dillery. Jr. , Martin Schalk. Philip Schalk.
Jacob Bick, Hubert Bettinger, John Bettinger (now near Toledo), Nicholas
and George Emerine, of Hancock County, John Lumberjack. John Persh,
Philip Buj'cher, George Zeigman, Michael Clancey, George»Hutli, Jacob Huth
and others were early members.
Baptist Church, a close communion Baptist society, was established
at Risdon about 1852, and services were held in the Methodist Episcopal
Church building. Mi-. Bement assisted the Methodists in Sunday-school work,
but after some time he and his class withdrew and established a Presbyterian
Sunday-school, which was continued until the founding of the present Presby-
terian Chiu'ch.
Presbyterian Church. — This was founded at Fostoria February 25, 1856, with
the following named members : Rev. W. C. Turner, James Hill and wife, John
Milligan and wife, Caleb Munger and wife, Edwin Bement and Mrs. Jane
Riegel. The society was reorganized under the law of 1852, June 26. 1858,
with Caleb Munger. president, and William M. Cake, clerk. The trustees
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 613
were Edwin Bement, Caleb Munger and AVilliam M. Cake. A building com-
mittee was elected of which the officers were ex-officio members; J. Fritch,
Charles Foster. George Gear and A. S. Bement, members. In 1858, also, the
present house of worship was erected, which is now valued at $10,000, with
parsonage and grounds. The pastors of this church since its organization are
named as follows: W. C. Turner, Smith Curtis, R. H. Hollyday, E. J. Alden,
William McLaren, J. E. Fisher. David Van Dyke, Joseph Hughes and Rev.
William Foulkes. The names of elders who have served the church are Caleb
Munger, James Hill, John Milligan, Edwin Bement, S. M. Miller, Ephraim
Miller, J. E. Wilkison, M. M. Mergenthaler, F. R. Stewart, A. S. Bement
and O. J. DeWolfe. The clerks of session are named as follows: Edwin
Bement, W. M. Cake, E. Miller and J. E. Wilkison.
Ercmgelical Lutheran Church of Foster ia, known as the church of " Good
Hope," was organized in January, 1868, by Rev. M. Buerkle, with the
following named members: John HofFman, William Winkenwerder, J. J.
Eissler. John Raber, G. Martz, George Hoyer, John Lutz, H. Lutz, Louis
Sass. Herman Axt, August Koss, Louis Hoelzer, George Lemp and Henry
Miller. This society erected a house of worship in 1869, which was enlarged
in 1885, and is now valued at $2,500. In 1883 the parsonage was built at a
cost of $1,500. The membership numbers eighty-five, and the membership of
Sundav-school about fifty children. Rev. M. Buerkle was pastor from 1868 to
1875; Rev. William K. Braunwarth, fi-om 1875 to 1876; Rev. C. A. Damen-
den, from 1876 to 1877; Rev. J. A. C. Cramer, fi-om 1877 to 1882, and Rev.
George Dillman, fronj 1882 to the present time. The secretaries of this society
have been J. Jacob Eissler, Peter Mlinch and Fred Woss, George Flechtner
is the present secretary and J. J. Eissler, treasurer.
German Congregation of the Union Church of Fostoria was reorganized
May 12, 1867, under State law. John Wagner presided, with Rev. George
Rettig, secretary; John Raber and Jacob Rower were elected elders; John
Wagner and G. Marz, deacons; George Hoyer. John Huffman and John
Stahly, trustees.
Reformed Church of Fostoria was organized March 23, 18/9, by Rev. A.
Casseilman. with twenty-five members. In May, 1879, the corner-stone of
their church was placed, and September 20, 1879, the building was dedi-
cated. The society was organized under the State law April 20, 1879, when
H. W. Konkle, Martin Mueller, Sam Stewart and Jacob Hofmaster were
elected trustees. The original members are named as follows: Rev. Martin
Mueller. Jacob Hoffmaster, Lydia Hoffmaster, Hannah Hoffmaster, Michael
Moots, Ann Mueller, Mary Millhime, Katy Troutman, Jacob Schaufelberger.
Mary Schaufelberger, Catherine Felkley, Samuel Steward, Catherine Steward,
H. W. Konkle and others— in all twenty-five i)ersons. Rev. J. D. Neff, the
present pastor, succeeded Mr. Casselman. C. Munger and the pastors have
served the society as secretaries. The present membership is seventy-seven,
and value of property $2, 000.
Ebenezer Methodist E^nscojml Church, Loudon, was founded in 1841 at Mc-
DougaFs house on Wolf Creek. In 1847 the class w^as moved to A. E. Civa's
house, a half-mile south of the location of where the old church stood.
St. Patrick's Church was founded in Loudon at an early day. Many names
of original members are given in connection with the history of St. Mary' s
Church, at Tiffin, while others are given among the pioneers of Loudon,
Hopewell and Tiffin. Rev. J. Christophory is pastor of this church.
Reference is made in the history of Fostoria to the United Brethren, Evan-
gelical and Methodist Churches of the township.
<314 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
SCHOOLS.
The beo-innino" of the city schools was made in the winter of 1833-34.
When the present Union School building was dedicated a few years ago,
Charles Foster read a paper on the early system of teaching, and coupled
with it an interesting histoiy of the schoolhouses, teachers and pupils. From
this paper, the following three paragrai)hs are taken:
" The first teacher in the old log house, in the winter of 1833-34, was
Freeman Luce, who contracted to teach three months, of twenty-six days, for
$10 per month, he ' boarding 'round,' as was the custom in those days. One
of the customs of that day was to bar the schoolmaster out of the house, and
keep him out until he yielded to the demands of the scholars to treat them to
apples, candies, raisins, or such luxui'ies as could then be had. Sometimes
their demands included whisky, but that was never the case in Rome, though
at that time we were considered by the Eisdonites as being quite ungodly.
Among the teachers that followed Mr. Luce were Dr. Lockwood. afterward a
distinguished member of Congress from this district, and now one of the lead-
ing lawyers of this county, and James Pillars, who subsequently graced the
bench for ten years as common pleas judge of this judicial district. My friend
Nestlerode informs me he has, among the papers of his father, a wi-itten con-
tract made with Mr. Pillars, to teach the Island School for SIO per month, of
twenty-six days; one-half to be paid in cash, and the other half in provisions."
" In those* days the great feature of our schools was the attention given to
spelling. I seriously doubt whether the schools of the present day can produce
so much excellence in spelling as did those of that day. One-foiu-th of the
time, probably, was devoted to spelling exercises, and in addition, at least one
night of each week, was devoted to what was known as spelling matches.
These were attended by the best spellers from the neighboring schools. Our
highest ambition was to be the best speller in school. I remember one three
months' term, I think the one taught by Mr. Noble, that C. C. Nestlerode was
one of the scholars. IMr. Nestlerode happened to take position in the class, on
the first day. jiist above my sister Emily. They maintained this position,
neither of them missing a word, until the last day, when Nestlerode missed,
and Emily went above him. Of course she was greatly delighted, and Nestle-
rode was correspondingly discomfited. I think I am safe in saying that I
attended spelling school* three nights out of a week, during the tliree months
of school for several years, visiting alternately the old red schoolhoixse in
Perry, the Tom Kelley Schoolhouse on the ridge, and the Kiser Schoolhouse
south of town. The old red schoolhouse, perhaps, had the highest reputa-
tion, yet all the rest were sharp and close competitors for the first honors. I
believe my sister Emily was the best speller of all. and she was imder twelve
years of age. The larger scholars used to cany her on their backs as they
went to the different schools, for be it remembered that in those days we went
on foot. I remember of going one night, to the Kiser Schoolhouse, through
the woods the most of the way, and alone, to attend a spelling match. I broke
through the ice, and was wet up to my knees when I reached the place: yet I
do not think I ever felt better repaid for a day's work than I did over my suc-
cess on that occasion, for I spelled down the entire school. Tom Kerning,
whom oirr older citizens will remember, was the teacher, and had been for three
or four winters. His school, though having in it a number of good spellers,
was not equal to the other three. To save the reputation of his school he
adopted the plan of having one scholar of his school spell at a time. He then
divided the spelling book, assigning to each of his scholars certain tables
Avhich they were to learn perfectly. When, in the course of the exercises, one
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 615
of his scholars had finished his part, he complained of being tired, and some
other one, who had been assigned the next table, would take the place thus
vacated. On this occasion one of th? Newcomb girls (and, by the way, they
were all good spellers) missed a word in her table. No one else knowing the
table, I was enabled to spell down his whole school before that table was fin-
ished. He tried hard to skip, but I knew it so well as to be able to detect him,
and held him to the table."
"What havoc time has made with the list that met so often in friendly rivalry
in those good old days! I say good old days deliberately, for I seriously doubt
whether any one of us has experienced more pleasure in any equal number of
days since. We were few in number, our wants were few, and these were
bountifully supplied. We knew nothing of grades in schools. Oui' seats had
no backs, yet we did not complain, because we knew of nothing better. Ven-
tilation was perfect, and that is something with which our school-rooms of the
present are not plentifully supplied; this, however, can't be said of this mag-
nificent house. "
June 0, 1884, P. L. Myers, in addi-essing the Fostoria Alumni Associa-
tion, organized in 1880, referred to school days at Fostoria, crediting Miss
Cory with being the first graduate of the class of 1878, the first class to grad-
uate fi-om the new school building.
The condition of the schools of Fostoria, shown in report of August 81,
1884, is as follows: Local tax. 19,819.73; total revenue, $20,986; expend-
itures, $14,693.88; 3 school buildings, value of property, $50,000; 17
teachers; average salaries, $57, $45, $33; total number of pupils enrolled, 744
—boys, 367, and girls, 377, of whom 58 attend high school. The report as
made in April, 1885, gives the total expenditure at $12,867.22, and places the
balance on hand August 31, 1884, at $8,118.80. The board of education is
now composed of Andrew Emerine, W. D. Robbins, J. E. Wilkinson, L. J.
Eshelman, F. J. Schaufelberger and Charles Olmstead — five Republicans and
one Democrat. The teachers in September, 1885, were: superintendent, W. T.
Jackson; James Hayes, Frank Boley, Miss C. T. Abbott, Tina Thomas, Ella
Williams, Ida Williams, Hattie Diver, Lou Loudenslager, Allie Heitschew,
Jessie Keller, Hattie Leech, Mrs. Henderschott, Myra Wilson, IMis. Libbie
Hoover, Katie Staul, Mamie Leonard.
Fostoria Academy, which was made a first class school by W. C. Turner,
was in full operation in January, 1861.
Fostoria Acadeniy. — Fostoria Academy may be said to have had its beginning
in a movement to establish a school there under the name, ' 'Northwestern Nor-
mal School of Fostoria." November 6, 1875, an association was formed
at Fostoria for the purpose of establishing a normal school, and the same day
signed articles of incorporation. The members were Michael Beilger, A. J.
Longfellow, Fred Manecke, J. L. Kenower, J. A. Bradner, John E. Wilkison,
Amos S. Williams and Leigh Harbaugh. In July, 1876, the normal schoo
question gave place to the academical one, and in July of that year a petition
was signed by the following named citizens, for presentation to the Findlay
Conference of the United Brethren Church, praying that the academy be
established here, in September, 1876: Isaac Crouse, J. S. Overholt, Joseph
Bever, F. J. Breining, R. French, Abram Overholt, John A. Bradner, Thorn
ton D. Ingle, Josej^h Stouffer, C. Olmsted, W. J. Rigby, Roswell Crocker,
O. J. DeWolfe, Junius V. Jones, Isaac Warner, Jesse Bower, Charles Foster,
L. J. Hissong, C. W. Foster, J. W. Bricker, M. D. In September, 1876,
the Sandusky Conference granted the petition, with one reserve relating to
location, and a board of triistees was appointed, viz. : M. Bulger, D. R. Miller,
616 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
A. Powell. T. J. Harbaugh, A.. Rose. I. Cronse. Charles Foster, Levi Adams,
Jesse Bower. J. Burgner. W. J. Andi-ews and Dr. William Detwiler. Isaac
Grouse was appointed secretary in 1876, and has filled the position down to
the present time. Rev. D. R. Miller was appointed financial agent. From
the organization of the board to the present time Fostoria has co-operated with
the trustees, Mr. Foster alone contributing about $10,000. By March 29,
1879. a sum of $20,000 was subscribed. The executive committee at this
time were F. R. Stewart, R. French, G. Biles, J. Bower and A. J. Long-
fellow. L. Moore was president of the board. Trustees for two years, T. J.
Harbaugh. A. Ash. J. Powell, W. J. Andrews; four years, L. Moore, J. M.
Bever. A. Rose. Charles Foster; six years, D. R. Miller, I. Crouse, L. Adams,
J. Bower. April 16. this year, the scholarship plan was adopted and ex-
tended until $17,000 were secured. In 1883 the plan was suspended.
Prof. W. T. Jackson. Ph. D. was elected principal in the fall of 18 <9,
when academic work was entered upon in the old Union school, which stood
on the site of the new Methodist Episcopal Church. There the academy was
carried on until the fall of 1880, when Prof. Jackson was appointed to a chair
in the Indiana University and A. G. Crouse, A. M., elected principal. In the
fall of 1881 Prof. Jackson was elected principal to succeed 'Mr. Crouse (who
took charge of the department of natui-al sciences and continued until the
close of 1883), when he took charge of the schools at AYauseon, Ohio. Prof.
Jackson was elected principal of the Union schools at Fostoria in the fall of
1884, and Prof. M. DeWittLong was elected ijriucipal of the academy. Prof.
Long was principal of Roanoke Seminaiy . Ind. , for fom- years prior to com-
ing to Fostoria. The secretary takes an active part in the financial and official
life of the college as well as presiding over commercial classes, together with
being presiding elder of several districts of the United Brethren Conference.
Prof. A. W. Kelley came at the opening of the school in 1879. to take charge
of the musical department. In 1 884 he was appointed to the chau- of natiu-al
sciences, having previously held the chair of literature. Prof. Lehman held the
chair of mathematics until he was elected principal of preparatory department
at Otterbein in 1885. The faculty in 1879-80 comprised Rev. AY. T. Jackson,
Ph. D.. languages and higher mathematics; E. L. Shuey, A. B., history
and English, was also librarian: Mrs. L. A. Macklin. B. S., science and math-
ematics: Rev. I. Crouse, i^rincipal commercial department: A. W. Kelley, M.
A. , vocal and instrumental music and di-a wing. The faculty in 1884-85 em-
braced Rev. M. DeAYitt Long, A. M. , Principal, professor of languages, men-
tal and moral science: J. E. Lehman. A. M.. mathematics and physics; A. W.
Kelley, M. A., natural science and belles-lettres: Emma F. Burtner, Precept-
ress, history, assistant in Latin: Rev. George Dillman, A. M., German; Rev.
I. Crouse, commercial science: Librarian, A. W. Kelley, A. M.
The corner-stone of the academy building was placed in position August
14. 1879, Gen. John C. Lee delivering the oration. The ladies' and gentle-
men's halls are two neat frame buildings on Foster Street, just north of the
academy. They are rented fi'om Mr. Foster by the academy. His proposition
to donate these buildings has not yet been acted upon.
The ladies' hall provides boar el and rooms for twenty -foiu- ladies, and board
for gentlemen rooming elsewhere. It is a comfortable home, conveniently ar-
ranged, and is near the academy building. Each room is furnished with
carpet, chairs, table, washstand, bedstead, mattress and sheets ; are heated and
cared for. Students furnish light and additional bedding. The expense dur-
ing the past year, with good board, has been only $2.75 per week. The pre-
ceptress has her home in this building, and young ladies from a distance will
LOUItON TOWNSHIP. 617
be expected to room here unless their parents direct otherwise. Parents are
assured that their daughters will receive proper care and attention at the
ladies' hall. The gentlemen' s hall has accommodations, similar to those of the
ladies' hall, for sixty students, at a cost of $1.50 to 12.50 per month.
Good table board can be had at the ladies' hall for $2.25 per week. Eooms
and board can also be had in private families at prices varying according to
accommodations.
CEMETERIES.
Old Cemetery. — The old cemetery on the knoll, just west of Portage Creek,
in Hancock County, dates back to 1832, when one of the pioneers (Jacobs)
was interred there. The founder of the town of Eisdon owned the land, and
donated it to the Methodist Church of Eisdon for a burying ground, for which
it was used up to 1 850. when the new cemetery was established. In this
year the bodies of Dr. Dana, Mr. Caples, Sr., Louisa Howell, John Kelley,
the Hollopeters, Mrs. Braden and old man Jacobs were exhumed, and removed
to the new cemetery. John Gorsuch. the donator, and the original owner of
Eisdon, shot himself three miles north of where Longley Station now is. His
funeral sermon was preached by Eev. Mr. Brock, of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, who dwelt gently with the life of the suicide, and asked that the
remains should lie in the cemetery that he donrfted. The late ]Morris P.
Skinner held a quit-claim deed from the Gorsuch heirs for this pro})erty. He
also purchased, in 1855. a strip two rods in width along the western side of
the burying ground from old Thomas Kelley, in which his son John Kelley
was interred, and there also a daughter of Jacob Milhime was buried in] 854.
Skinner began taking sand from this property in 1855, the ends of the coflins
were brought into view, and in that year the (question of establishing a new
cemetery was discussed.
The monuments, some much time-worn, still standing in this cemetery, bear
the following m r»emormH?,s: Sarah N. Hatfield, died August G, 1889; Will-
iam Hatfield, died in 1841: John W. ^Velch. died December 20, 1840; daugh-
ter of J. and N. Conlev. died August 20. 1848; Samuel Carr, died August 2,
1842; Catherine, wife of A. AV. Childs, about 1849. date sab terra; Mrs. L.C.Craw-
ford, August 1, 1846; Lyman Kettel. died March 24, 1847; son of E. B. Howell,
died October 6, 1852; Vvilliam Hamor, died December 21, 1851. Mrs. Craw-
ford, named above, was wife of Lewis A. Crawford, a Methodist exhorter.
James Lewis thinks the 6 on the headstone should be 8. South of the acad-
emy was another burial ground. From that were removed, in 1856, the
remains of Emily Foster. John Foster, and four children of C. W. Foster,
John Crocker and Mrs. Crocker and Allen Crocker. Frederick Anderson was
buried in another cemetery (just where Dr. Hale's house now stands), and his
remains were moved in 185().
New Cemetery.— The original tract of this cemetery, containing five acres,
was bought of James Hill, Sr. , and in 1 880, eleven acres were purchased fi-om
Wilson Skinner. Every man who purchased a lot was a stockholder. C. W.
Foster, George ^\ . Collier, Eoswell Crocker, S. Bricker, James Lewis. P. E.
and B. L. Caples, and perhaps some others were among the incorporators.
Lots sold for $10. In the first selection, Dr. Bricker and James LeAvis gave
up their first choice of lots to Col. Foster, then Mr. Lewis surrendered his
second choice to Dr. Bricker, and a short time after the Doctor^was buried in
the same lot, which he battled so hard to obtain, he djing in 1856^
James Lewis was appointed sexton of the new cemetery in 1856, and held
the position until April, 1885, when he was elected trustee, and his son ap-
pointed superintendent.
618 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
By an act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, passed February 19,
A. D. 1885. entitled "An act to authorize the village of Fostoria, Ohio, to pur-
chase the grounds, improvements and property of the Fostoria Cemetery Asso-
ciation, and to levy^ a tax to pay therefor. " the village council of Fostoria, was
aiithorized to pui-chase the grounds, improvements, property and assets of the
Fostoria Cemetery Association, and to issue the village bonds in amount not to
exceed $3,000, in" denominations of JgoOO each, bearing 0 per cent interest.
The first grave dug in the new cemetery was for two children of Rev. G.
AV. Collier, in 1856. when he was pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
at Fostoria. The fii'st adult, other than transfers fi-om the old cemetery, who
was buried in the new cemetery, was Dr. Simon Bricker. The first burial in
the new addition to the cemetery took place in 1879. The total number of
interments is 1.495 in the cemetery i^roper, and fifty in potter's field.
Catholic Cemetery. — The present Catholic cemetery was purchased by Martin
Kingseed in 1856 for the Catholic congregation, from John Bick. This purchase
comprises one acre which forms the cemetery now. The old cemetery was just
south of the Catholic Church on the line of the Lake Erie & Western Railroad.
There were ten persons interred there among whom were Mrs. Telford and her
daughter. The remains of the ten were transferred in 1856 to the new Catholic
cemetery.
Oak Grove Cemetery Association, of Loudon Township, was organized'
June 13, 1857. with John M. Sheller, president: B. E. Stephens, clerk; R. M.
Ranney. Thomas Foughty, Nathan Wade, D. S. Rumple and Peny Chance,
trustees.
Soldiers Buried at Fostoria. — The soldiers of the war of 1861-1865, who
are interred in the city cemetery are named as follows:
C. M. Thomas, William Sabins, Dr. D. Thomas, John C. Locey, Will-
iam Mickey. John Johnson, Charles R. Davis. Lieut. J. J. Fry, Reuben Nel-
son, Hem-y A. Dildine. Nicholas Raney, Valentine Ash, J. J. Myers, John Lew
Allen, Gilbert Smith. Evan Kirkwood. Lieut. J. Miller. Ansel Bement,
Ephraim Cramer, Jacob Aushen. John Fritcher. Lieut. Williams and Dr. D.
Williams, all in the "west center" of the cenietery. Samuel Wiseman, a soldier
of 1812, is also bTiried here.
H. M. Schenck, a colored barber, M. F. Overholt, Oliver C. Leech, Will-
iam Hoyer, Hiram Bowman, John Connor. David Connor. Anderson and
Robei-t Adams are interred in the division, known as the "west outside."
Here also are the remains of Samuel Kime. a soldier of 1812.
In the "east outside" division the following named soldiers rest:
A. Babcock, N. P. Dicken, E. J. Ballinger, Joseph Egan, Mike Heaston,
Albert Hale. Capt. Falhabel, Col. T. C. Norris, George W. Dick, Chris Kist-
ner, also Barney McDougal. a soldier of 1812.
In the "east center" division are Charles Daniel. John Veon, S. Wiseman.
Patton. Capt. Orrin Hays, M. Newcomb, Newman Sheldon. A. C. Dren-
ning, Peter Staub, J. K. Needham, George Portz. L. Dake, Capt. Hollopeter.
F. H. Shimp. Alex Smith. Samuel Shelt, H. Redfern, John Wineland, Levi
Stearns. M. Shesler and A. B. Poe, a chaplain.
The following named soldiers also rest in this cemetery:
J. Dake, Capt. J. F. Schuyler. John Waters, Capt.* S. J. Tracey, John
Christ. William McLaughlin. J. C. Runneals, Fred Brookman, O. R. Kizer,
W. H. Carlysle.
SOCIETIES.
Fostoria Lodge No. 288, F. & A. M. , was organized July 25, 1856, and
chartered October 15, 1856, with the following named members: R. C. Caples,
LOUDON TOAVNSHIP. 610
James Lewis, O. E. Welsh. Andi'ew "Wiseman, O. B. Ferris. A. M. Blackman
J. L. Mickey. Nathan Taylor. J. W. Griffith. J. S. Walding, Wesley Brad-
ford. C. E. Staley. The Past Masters of this lodge are named as follows: J.
W. Bricker, E. C. Caples, C. E. Davis, E. AV. Hale. G. L. Hoege, W. D.
Bobbins, F. J. Schaufelberger, F. E. Stewaii and O. V. \A'ood. The names
of secretaries are as follows: B. L. Caples, A. M. Dildine and W. J. Wagner.
The membership is eighty- six.
Garfield Chapter, No. 150, R. A. M., was chartered Sej3tember 21, 1882.
The original members were Dr. Chris. E. Davis, James Lewis. Dr. G. L.
Hoege, J. L. Mickey, Charles Olmsted. Dr. Jacob Shaufelberger, A. C.
McClean, A. M. Dildine, John Worman. C. W. Thomas; C. Davis, was tirst
H. P., Dr. Hoege. K., and F. J. Shaufelberger, scribe.
The members at present are named as follows: W. H. Bannister, John A.
Bradner, Peter Buessey, E. Crocker, Samuel Dale, C. E. Davis. A. M. Dil-
dine, John Foreman. F. M. Frey, S. G. Fall. George L. Hoege. W. Haver-
stick, James Lewis, Charles F. Long, A. C. McClean, L. McKee. J. L. Mickev.
S. C. Newcomb. C. E. Norris, Charles Olmsted. John A. Parker, David Peter,
William D. Bobbins, William B. Eollins, F. J. Schaufelberger, J. W. Schau-
felberger, John C. Springer, F. E. "Woodi-uff, John J. Worman.
Fosforia Lodge No. 305, I. O. O. F.. was instituted June 6, ISoO, with the
following named charter members: Samuel Gee, P. G. ; D. S. Luce, N. G. ;
Simon Bricker. V. G. : Orbison Welsh, secretary, and Joseph Haines, treasurer.
Luce and AVelsh are the only survivors of the first organization. The members'
names on the calendar at this lodge are as follows: Eobert Adams*, Martin
Adams*, David Allcut*, David Asire, John Andes, J. M. Bever*, J. A. Brad-
ner*, J. Beck*, W. H. Bannister. William Baringer, George Benham, H. V\'.
A. Bovd. S. Bvrns, J. W. Bosler, J. A. Bruner. G. W. Backenstos, A E
Blessing. W. M. Cake*, T. G. Carlisle*. J. Y. Callihan*, J. S. Crawford. E^
Crocker, S. S. Dicken. J. E. Dicken, J. M. Dicken*, I. H. Denny, J. P.
DeWolfe, Samuel Ewing*. J. T. Ewing*. George Enos*, L. J. Eshelman*. D
H. Everett, Charles Foster*, M. Fry, M. L. Fletcher, C. German*, A. Georgia.
D. G. Gilmore* J. P. Gilmore. J.'W. Good*, Noah Good, Joseph Hughes? S.
E. Hale*, J. W. Harsh. WilHam Hollingshead, John Hahn, David Hays, A.
J. HofFman. J. C. F. Hull. Daniel Himsecker, J. C. Hartley, C. E. Hennev.
Simpson Jones*, J. Y. Jones*. Thomas Johnston, William' Jordon, Charles
Johnston, H. W. Konkle*, G. A. Knight*, A. Kaufman*, S. F. Kiser*, D. S.
Luce*, C. AY. Lytle*. F. P. Lindsey, Samuel Lockhart, James Long, J. C.
Milhime*, D. G. E. Masamer, G. Morgan. S. G. Malony*, J. A. Miller. Frank
McCowan. H. Morlock, C. AV, McDade. I. AY. Nestlerode*. J. A. Noble, James
Osborn, E. J. Padgham*, C. Pfeifer, M. L. Poe, J. B. Eibley*. Noah Eine-
bold, W. M. Ealston. H. E. Schloss, Daniel M. Snyder, A. " Stearns, J. C.
Springer, G. AA\ Stout, James Sabins*, David M. Snyder*, J. C. Shuler. A.
Scharf. AVilliam Schaufelberger, ^\. J. Seiple, E. B. Spencer, D. A. Sprout*.
G. A. Strouse, Joseph Schupp. Levi E. Sugerman. J. H. A'osburgh, John
Wagner*. Joseph AViseman, Peter Wickerham, J. J. AA'orman, I. M. AA'atson,
AA'illiam Weaver, C. C. Young.*
London Encampment No. 107, I. O. O. F., was instituted June 16, 1S78,
with the following named members: Jacob Newhouse. J. AAlseman. S. G.
Malonv. S. E. Hale, A. Georgia. Samuel Ewing. J. C. Sprino-er. AA' J Seiiile
G. A. Knight, E. Adams and G. H. Eeece.
Fostoria Lodge No. 86, K. of P., was organized June 22. 1875, with the
following named members : AA'illiam AA'eaver, AA\ H. H. AA'illiams, J. J. AVor-
* Past Grands.
020 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
man David Alcutt, James M. Chamberlin, C. C. Young, William Logan,
George Enos. S. F. Kiser, P. Urchel, Ben Fosty, W. S. Baker, N. P. Bobbins,
H Bayman. D. McMeen, John Ernsberger, J. Basoni, S. Yant, A. E. \\ atson,
William D. Bobbins, M. Adams, A. Kelley, J. Y. Calahan, D. H. Everett. C.
Howell, J. T. Hale, L. H. Hill, A. O. Crone.
Past Chancellor Commanders are named as follows: J. J. A^ orman, D.
Alcutt N. P. Bobbins, M. Adams, A. O. Crone, B. A. Hale, D. W. Snively,
L D. Mussetter, Moses Smith, S. F. Kiser, W. H. H. Williams, Peter Dennis,
D Boos, T. L. Brown, James Pruden, M. Bonnell and C. D. Scott. The fol-
lowing are the names of those who served the lodge as secretaries: D. A\'.
Snivelev, M. Adams, L. D. Mussetter, B. Jones, A. O. Crone, J. A. Noble, A.
M. Dildine, W. H. H. Williams and A. :M. Beck. The membership is sixty-
^^^eneca Council No. 172, A. L. of H., was organized April 17, 1880, with
twenty-two charter members, including the following named officers: A.^^ eaver,
C • W D. Bobbins, V. C. ; J. T. Yant, S. ; B. Alcott, P. C. : T. M. GaiTison,
Collector: G. L. Hoege, O. ; S. L. Beiler, Chaplain; T. S. Green, Treasurer; J.
J Breining, G. ; D. Hunsecker, W. ; Bandall Hale, Sentry; J. F. Bitchart,
John Nobl?', and John F. Heilman, Trustees.
Royal Arcanum Lodge was organized in April, 18/8, with G. L. Hoege,
Becrent- T. M. Garrison, Secretary; A. C. McClean, Treasurer: L. D. Mustetter,
V B • J W Schaufelberger. O. ; A. T. McDonnell, Chaplain; D. Asire, War-
den; Moses Smith S. ; and J. A. ^^olfe and W. H. Bannister, Trustees.
Norris Post No. 27, G. A. R., organized under Charter, May o,
1880 with the following named charter members: B. Alcott, W. J. Page,
A Cramer, H. Axt, A. G. Franklin, C. A. Doe, A. M. Dildine, C.
W Thomas G H. McDonal. C. L. Brooks, F: B. Stewart, A. Kaufman,
H Bordner,'M. Adams, S. A. Needham, O. J. DeWolfe, William M. Cake, E.
C Tino-le Allen Hale, Fred Werner. A. Hiteshew, C. C. Jones, O. B. Biu'dett,
H Newco'mer, M. H. Chance, G. W. Fritcher, S. H. Warring, G. AV. Young,
J B Lewis, Ed Preble. J. D. Harley, W. P. Thatcher, S. Drenning, John
McCracken John M. Linhart. and others joined the post subsequently. The
first Commander was B. Alcott, who also served in 1881; A. M. DHdine served
in 1882; O. J. DeWolfe, in 1883; M. Bonnell, in 1884; and F. B. Stewart is the
present commander. The Adjutants of the Post since organization are named
as follows: E. C. Tingle. T. G. Carlisle, J. L. Cramer and S. Drenning. The
membership is aboiit 107. . ^ , ^ ^ u n iqq-
So7is of Feferaws.— This coii^s was organized here September 14, i88o,
with the following named members: D. A. Gear, Oscar Shutt, Bert Allcot,
Fred Yeon Albert E. Kaufman. Will ^^'. AVerner, Frank C. Bunnels, G. C.
Williams. H. C. Sheller, J. D. Kuhl. C. J. Myers. Frank E. Green, B. J.
Bunnell, Oscar Shelt, C. H. Martin, M. Waltman, Bruce Jones, E. E. Hart-
man, J. B. Metzler, Ernest Marvin.
Ladies' Relief Corjjs, G. A. R., was organized September 14, 188o. with
the following named members: President, Mi's. Sarah Schuyler: senior vice-
president. Mi-s. A. P. Harris; junior vice-president, :\li-s. Cassie Blessing;
treasui-er, Mrs. Isabel Dildine ; chaplain, Mrs.BoxieC. Stewart; secretary. Mrs.
Jennie Chance: conductor, IVIi-s. May Bonnell; guards, Mrs. Sarah Alcott.
Alice H Youncr, Caroline Ash, Laura Dicken, Cornelia T. Myers, Ella Har-
ley, Osie B. Fox, Mary M. Preble, Sylvia Werner, Susan T. Bonnell, Lottie
T. Dicken. -.oio t-> •
Sons of Temperance formed a society at Bisdon about 184b. During
the winter of 1878-74 the temperance crusaders entered on duty at Fostoria.
LOUDON TOWNSHir. 621
The ladies organized and attacked the saloon system all along the line, even
going so far as to post female guards outside each saloon at night. Dui-ing
the day a system of marching and countermarching, resolutions and prayer,
was followed by a visit to each saloon. The protracted law suit against Joseph
Bick and the riot of 1874 grew out of this agitation.
Free Thinkers. — The Free Thinkers were organized at Fostoria as early
as 1856 or 1857. The association was formed for practical jokers by prac-
tical jokers. This was a secret society, indeed, as the member who once
passed through the ordeal ef initiation never wished the outside world to know
of it, but was always on the look-out for some one of whom to make a fellow
victim.
Sons of Malta comprised a number of well-to-do members who were
initiated through magnificent ceremony. In the midst of this ceremony the new
member was blindfolded, and shortly after was asked to sign the constitution.
This was generally done and the work of the initiation continued until
adjournment to the' banquet hall. About the close of the banquet a waiter left
a bill before the new member with his signature attached thereto, agreeing to
pay for the banquet. One of Fostoria" s first citizens was initiated a member
of this quaint organization, and it is said that, in signing the constitution
while blindfolded, he actually signed away $1,000 for a supper.
Inter-County Fair Association of Fostoria, was organized July 2, 1877,
with the following members: Charles W. Foster, David Hays, John A. Brad-
ner, B. Wells, J. W. Bricker, W. H. Grapes, J. V. Jones, Thomas Fennel, L.
J. Hissong, R. Crocker, J. P. Woodruff, L. J. Eshelman and R. Gust. This
organization w^as never completed, but it is proposed now to reorganize.
Fostoria Bible Society was organized August 14, 1858. and is still in exist-
ence.
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and Animals was or-
ganized. August 31, 1885, with the following named members: J. P. De
Wolfe, John A. Bradner, J. G. Calahan, A. J. Stackhouse, John E. Wilkison,
O. J. DeWolfe. John P. Warner, M. DeWitt Long, W. T. Jackson, Junius V.
Jones, R. Alcott, L. J. Eshelman, W. Druitt, A. E. Blessnily, C. Olmsted, W.
D. Bobbins, W. R. Ivnowles, V. S. ; A. E. Ebersole, Charles Foster, C. A.
Schultz, W. H. Bannister, N. Burtcher. Charles Douglass, agent of the State
Society, was the organizer. September 1, 1885, the following named officers
were elected: President, J. V. Jones; vice-presidents, J. P. DeWolfe and L.
J. Eshelman; secretary, A. J. Stackhouse; treasurer, A. E. Ebersole; special
agents, ^X . R. Knowles and John N. Hollinger.
FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Engine Company No. 1 (Pioneer) was organized in 1872. The hand engine
of this company was burned about 1881. In 1877 the company purchased
their first steam fire engine, and in 1884 the second. The present department
comprises 2 Silsby engines. 1 hook and ladder truck, 3 hose carts and 1 tire
team. In March, 1885, the following named officers were elected: President.
W. H. H. Williams; vice-president, S. E. Hale; secretary, T. G. Carlisle; treas-
urer, W. D. Robbins; foreman engine, G. ^\. Campbell; assistant foreman
engine, F. A. Senn; foreman hose, S. E. Hale; assistant foreman hose, George
Bristol.
Relief Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 was organized in 1873, with Mil-
ton Beaver, secretary; John Bowly, president, and George Cramer, foreman.
In April. 1885, J. G. Calahan was ai^pointed president; George Boley, vice-
33
622 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
president; John McLaughlin, foreman; F. P. Lindsey, secretary, and Boley.
Hale and McLaughlin, trustees.
Relief Hook and Ladder Association was organized April 17, 1880,
with D. Snyder, president: O. B. England, secretary; N. Biutcher, treasurer;
Dr. Henry, surgeon, and Frank Hays, Joel Hale, A. Weaver, D. P. Lloyd and
James Beamish, trustees. This was organized as a beneficial society, with
about $1,000 paid up. During the life of this association, until the close of
1882, the officers were re-elected.
The business of banking at Fostoria is almost contemporaneous with
the founding of the village of Rome. At an early date the Fosters made
banking a department of their business, and as their house grew in importance,
so did this department gi'ow, until it was set off, so to speak, as a distinct
business. In later years Foster's Bank became a well-known financial institu-
tion, and in our times has grown to be one of the most important banking
concerns in Ohio. The bank building is certainly the finest business block in
Fostoria, if not in the whole county.
The First National Bank was established January 2, 1883, with an author-
ized capital of §100,000. Andrew Emerine is president; Alonzo Emerine,
cashier, and A. Emerine. Hon. John McCauley, Thomas D. Adams, L. J.
Hissong, L. B. Han-is. William Ash, Alonzo Emerine, directors.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Fostoria Opera House. — This splendid temple of music and the drama is the
product of John Andes' enterprise. He came from Bavaria, Germany to
Tiffin in 1852. worked there for some years, and in 1860 established his wagon
and carriage shop at Fostoria. The building, which is erected in the heart of
the city at a cost of over $30,000 known as the Andes' Opera House, forms in
itself a monument to his industry.
Neirs2:)apers. — The Fostoria Rerietc and Fostoria Democrat now published
here, are noticed in the chapter on the press; so also are the other journals
which were published here.
Modern Manufacturing Industries. — Fostoria Stave & Barrel Company was
established in 1871. by Charles Foster, E. J. Cunningham, John Noble, John
W. Griffith, all of whom are to-day interested in the industry with the exception
of John W. Griffith. The company employ thirty-five men dui'ing the winter
months and seventy-five dui-ing the summer months. The works stand on
eleven and a half acres of land, through which side tracks fi-om the Baltimore
& Ohio and Lake Erie & Western Railroad. There are about 5.0(X) cords of
elm, bass-wood and white ash manufactiu'ed annually. John Noble is man-
ager; N. P. Bobbins is in charge of the office. This company operates another
extensive factory in Wood County.
The Fostoria Spoke and Bending '\^'orks were established in 1882, with
forty men. The building, erected that year, comprises a machinery room 52x
1-1:4, erected at a cost of about $15,000. The machineiy introduced that year
and subsequently is estimated at $15,000. The capacity is about 1,000,000
feet of lumber annually. The product is marketed throughout the United
States. The old works on the county line and Centre, established in 1867 by
Bement & Grapes, were purchased by Cunningham & Co. in 187-4 and con-
ducted by them until 1882. when the buildings were destroyed by fire.
The Thomas B. Jacob Foundry was established by C. W. Bonnell at Fostoria
in 1860, when shops were erected on Peny and High Streets, and opened in
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. b2o
April, 1801. In 1874 Mr. Jacobs piirchased the works. The principal
products of the foundry are scrapers, plows, agricultural implements, vases,
columns, house castings, etc. The indu.stry gives employment to nine hands.
The value of annual product is estimated at about |1 5,000.
In July, 1885, Fostoria secured the removal from Titusville, Penn. . of the
brass works. A consolidation of the works with the Fostoria Foundry and
Machine Company's Works was effected. The Fostoria Brass Foundry was
opened in September, 1885, with AV. L. Adams, of Cleveland, manager. This
industry adds forty to the population of the city.
The Fostoria Foundry and Machine Works, owned by Charles Foster, Nich-
olas Portz and F. Manecke, was the name adopted in 1880 for the old works,
conducted at one time by Bement & Roberts, at another time by Roberts & Co. ,
and still later by C. and B. AV. Bonnell & Co. Of course a great deal of new
machinery was added to the old plant, and a foundry established in keeping
with the progi'essive spirit of the time. In September, 1885, the Fostoria
Brass and Bronze Manufactory took the place of the machine works.
Vogleson's Foundry, in the western part of the city, was a small industry.
Mrs. Schuyler' s Paper-trimmer Factory is a novel industry in its way. The
only article manufactured is a patent trimmer for preparing wall paper, and
this has won a wide reputation.
Livingstone Roller Mills, operated by John P. AVarner, were established in
1861 by E. J. Cunningham and Charles AA\ Foster. At that time there were
three run of stones iTsed, subsequently increased to six run. In 1881 John P.
AA^arner and E. J. Padgham purchased the buildings and machinery for $14,-
000. In 1882 Mr. AN'arner bought out Mr. Padgham' s interest. In 1888 he
introduced eleven sets of rollers, with a capacity of 100 barrels i^er day. The
value of buildings and machinery is $24, 000. Five men are employed.
Green & Heilman's Planing-Mill was established in 1873 by the present
firm. The main building cost about $6,000, and machinery about $10,000.
The mill has full capacity for the largest amount of good work. The number
of hands employed range in number from twelve to fifteen. Martin V. Green
and J. F. Heilman are the proprietors.
Merganthaler & Koss' Planing-Mill, and Sash, Door and Blind Factory,
was established in 1881 by Jacob Mergenthaler and J. S. Bowers. In 1882 F.
Koss purchased Bowers' interest.
Hathaway, Campbell & Co's. Sash, Door and Blind Factory, and Planing-
Mill, were established in 1870 by Germond, Manecke & Co. In 1877 the pres-
ent company purchased the buildings and plant. (In 1882 James H. Campbell
purchased a quarter interest.) The value of buildings and machinery with
stock, is about $23,000. This industry gives employment to fi'om ten to twenty
men. The market is entirely local.
Newhouse, Sprout & Co. , Saw, Planing-Mill and Hoop Factory, was estab-
lished by M. Fry and Amos Mohler; was pm-chased by the present company in
1879. and has been operated by them continuously. The capacity is about
10,000 per day. The machinery is valued at about $3,000. This industry
gives employment to from three to ten men.
A. Georgia established a pump factory here. G. K. Tuttle also manufac-
tures pumps.
Foster' s Elevator, corner of Main Street and Lake Erie Railroad, was erected
many years ago. It is now owned by Bannister & Nichols. The capacity is
about 50,000 bushels.
AA\ D. Bobbins' Marble Shop was established here about 1865. This indus-
try gives employment to five first-class men in this work. Israel Smith. Bush
624 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
and H. AVehr, Tomb and Jacob Shuff, were the pioneers of this business at
Fostoria. '
The carriage and wagon mamifacturing industry is represented by J. J. Eis-
sler, S. H. Waring and M. Mergenthaler. The latter established his wagon
shop in 1865.
The Tile Works of John Soleleather, form an important industry, while the
lime kilns and quanies of D. P. Lloyd and John A. Bradner, compare very
favorably with the great industries of this class in northern Ohio.
The Corn Keaper and Mower, and Agricultural Implement Works were
founded at Fostoria, September 24. 1873, when J. and Samuel Cadwallader, J. F.
Schuyler, J. T. Stewart, J. L. Kenower. R. Crocker, J. Nestlerode, N.
Portz, B. Leonard and Charles Foster, adopted articles of association.
Fostoria Gas Light Company was organized October 23, 1878, with William
Smith, James M. Hawes. Charles Foster, J. A. Bradner and Charles Olmsted,
members. The capital was placed at S25.()00. The Natural Gas Company,
incorporated in 1885, elected the following named officers; William M. Day,
president'; J. E. Wilkison, secretary and treasurer; directors, Charles Foster,
J. E. Wilkison, J. A. Bradner, Joseph Gwynn and W. M. Day. It will be
seen that these gentlemen constitute the present Gas Light Company. The
gas-well, undertaken under the auspices of this company, w^as bored to a depth
of 1,775 feet by August 4. 1885, when the well was abandoned. The total cost
of this venture was $3,000. The record of boring shows twenty-eight feet of
loam resting on three feet of quick-sand, fi-om a point thirty-two feet below
the surface to a point 309 feet below blue, gray and di-ab limestone forms the
conformation; although at 250 feet the boring was made through red rock.
Hotels. — Samuel Laird established the first hotel at Rome in 1834; the house
stood on the northwest corner of the Public Square, where John Bricker's office
now is. He sold to David Ferrier, in 1836, who sold to Peterson, who, with
Brooks and Cadwallader. went into the counterfeiting business where Emer-
ine's Bank now is.
Jeremiah Mickey established the first hotel at Risdon in 1832, which he
carried on until his death. This house was subsequently conducted by Mrs.
Mickey. The Laird House was operated by O. Diver for some time, when it is
supposed he sold to R. Hale, who rebuilt the house.
The second hotel at Rome, kept in 1838, on Tiffin Street, now called the
• 'Dutch House, " was a small log house built in 1835. Wetzell was the proprietor.
The thu-d hotel stood on the site of the present Hays House, was built in
1844 by James Hays, subsequently owned by Thomas Hays; and burned down
about 1849. The second hotel on the site was built by Thomas Hays in 1858;
this was a In-ick house now forming a part of the present Hays House, built by
David Hays in 1872.
The Hays House, erected in 1872, was operated by W. W. Read. He was
succeeded by L. C. Cox and J. Zimmerman. The house was next leased to Jay
Silvernale in 1878. who sold to David Hays and Grapes, who were succeeded
by George Freeman. Wade & Reeves leased the house in 1883. In July,
1 884, Thompson purchased Reeves' interest, and the house is now conducted
by Wade & Thompson, the building being still owned by David Hays.
The Central Hotel, or Centre House, was built by Amos Moeller, on lots
sold by Andrew Emerine.
The Union Hotel, on Perry Street, a frame l)uilding owned by Randel &
Co. . was built by J. L. Mickey and his mother.
The Earl House, completed in August, 1885, for Frank Engstrom, is
located in East Tiffin. Its first lessee is D. B. Hitchcock, of northeast Penn-
.•^vlvania. The hotel contains fiftv-one rooms, well furnished.
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 625
Livery Esiahlishments. — The lirst regiilar livery established at Rome (Fos-
toria) was that by E. AY. Thomas.
In 1856-57 Thompson Boyd opened his stables, and conducted, them until
1859. Veon & Musser established stables in 1858. Mnsser & Fowler pur-
chased Boyd's stock in 1859, and since that time Mr. Musser has conducted a
well equipped livery business here.
In 1861 Benjamin Wells, formerly a partner of Musser, opened livery
stables, and continued in business until 1875. About this time the present
Waring Livery was started. In 1880 the Heilman Stables were opened.
About 1873 or 1874 the Newman Hack Line was inaugurated. This was fol-
lowed by the Vance Line, next Smith' s, and lastly the extensive and well
equii)ped line of Smith & Skinner.
CHAPTER XXIII.
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP.
THIS is the third division of the county which received the American pio-
neer, dating its settlement back to 1819, when the Seneca Indian xigency
was established.
This particular neighborhood was known as the Seneca country prior to
1820, when it was surveyed into quarter sections by J. T. Worthington, and
given the title of Town 3 north. Range 15 east. Under this name and that of
Fort Seneca it was known to land buyers and others until 1831. The inhabit-
ants, in 1820, comprised the families of the pioneers of 1819-20. the officials
at the agency and the white captives of the Indians; ten years later the num-
ber of inhabitants was placed at 700; iu 1840 the population was estimated at
over 1,100; in 1850 it reached 1,592; in 1860 it decreased to 1,522; in 1870 it
decreased to 1,352; in 1880 the census returns give the figures 1,417, and in
1885, a conservative estimate places the entire population at 1,592, the same
as in 1850.
The Sanduskv River enters the township in Section 32, flows northeast to
the center of Section 28, forking in Section 29, and forming a large island in
the southeast quarter of that section. From the center of Section 28 it
flows in a general northwestern course to the village of Fort Seneca, and thence
east to the west line of Section 22, thus forming a great bend. From this
point to the extreme southwestern corner of Section 10, it observes a northerly
course, thence flows generally northwest, and leaves. the township and county
at the noi-theastern quarter of Section 5.
Spicer Creek flows through Sections 33 and 28, entering the river near the
center of the last named section. Sugar Creek flows fi'om Section 25 through
Sections 26, 27 and 22, where it enters the Sandusky. Two or_ three
spring creeks also flow into this river fi-om the west in the township: while the
eastern fork of Wolf Creek runs in a tortuous course north from a point west
of the village of Fort Seneca to the northwestern corner of Section 6, where
it leaves the county. Beaver Creek, which has its source in Thompson Town-
ship, flows into the lake on the northeast quarter of Section 12, thence north-
626 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
west and itorth through Section 1 . This is also called Green Creek, and the
stream, rising in Sections 12 and 11, flowing north, is a fork of this creek.*
Owing to the river passing through the township the sui-face is much broken.
A large area of bottom land is found here, while on the plateau some of the rich-
est farm lands and most beautiful farms in the county are found.
Rail roads.— Two lines traverse Pleasant Township : the "Nickel Plate' ' and
the Indiana, Bloomington & Western. The former enters the township at Sec-
tion 7, and, taking a northeasterly and easterly course, leaves at Section 1. The
latter penetrates the township at Section 34, and running almost due northeast,
leaves in the extreme southeast corner of Section 12.
Organic and Official History. — A petition signed by many inhabitants of
Seneca Township, of which Pleasant Township formed a part, was presented to
the commissioners by Caleb Rice, June 6, 1831. This petition prayed for the
establishment of a new township out of fi-actional Township 3 north. Range
15 east, and all that i)art of the Seneca Indian Reservation within the county.
James Gordon, then a member of the board, proposed the name of "Pleasant,"
and under this name the township was organized. In March, 1833, it was
established within its present boundaries.
The early records of Seneca Township, noticed in the chapter on that
township, give the members of the local government board down to 1832.
From this date forward to 1849, the records of Pleasant Township are defec-
tive or wanting; so that the possibility of making an authentic list of township
officials for those years is too remote to attempt such a list. To the courtesy
of A. L. Abbott, the present township clerk, the writer is indebted for the roll
of officials fi'om 1850 to the present time.
The trustees elected for the several years were as under:
1850.— D. Y. Flumerfelt, Cahdn Clark, Francis Abbott.
1851. _M. B. Fry, Francis Abbott, Calvin Clark. '
1852. — Ephraim Sheets, Francis Abbott, Calvin Clark.
1853.— Ephraim Sheets, Francis Abbott, Calvin Clark.
1854.— William Holtz. S. V. Humes, Calvin Clark.
1855.— S. R. Swope, William Bonnell. Nathan Littler.
1856.— S. V. Humes, E. Sheets. William Bonnell.
1857.— N. E. Fry, S. Y. Humes, P. J. Holtz.
1858.— S. R. Swope, William Smith, E. Sheets.
1859.— D. N. Brinkerhoof, William Smith. S. R. Swope.
I860.— D. Y. Flumerfelt, William Smith. D. N. Brinkerhoof.
1861.— William Norton, D. Y. Flumerfelt, S. Y. Humes.
1862.— T. Watson, S. Y. Humes, D. Y. Flumerfelt.
1863.— D. L. Pence. T. Watson, S. Y. Humes.
1864.— J. J. Dumond, S. Y. Humes, T. W. Watson.
1865.— A. Cunning, S. Y. Humes. T. W. Watson.
1866.— A. Cunning, S. Y. Humes, T. W. Watson.
1867. — George Shannon, Martin Smith, J. R. Dro\vn.
1868.— William Sneath, Martin Smith, J. R. Drown.
1869. — P. King, George Shannon, Josiah Jackman.
1870. — J. R. Drown, George Shannon, P. King.
1871. — James Gangwer, George Joseph, Philip Fry.
1872. — James Gangwer, George Joseph, Philip Fry.
1873.— John G. Bonnell, Lvman Abbott. Michael Borrough.
1874.— John G. Bonnell. Lyman Abbott, George E. Miller.
1875.— A. L. Shafer, J. S. White, Lyman Abbott.
*0u the Andrew Maixlia faim, on Sectiou 8, is a puud tilled with German carp.
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 627
1876. — James Gangwer, O. P. Laine, A. L. Shafer.
1877. — George Shannon, P. King, James Gangwer.
1878. — John Myers, O. P. Laine, James Gangwer.
1879. — John Myers. O. P. Laine, James Gangwer.
1880. — John Myers. O. P. Laine, James Gangwer.
1881. — C. Flumerfelt, O. P. Laine, James Gangwer.
1882. — John Hoover, Jacob Zimmerman, John H. Loose.
1883. — John Shannon. John Young, J. H. Loose.
1884. — LjTiian Abbott, J. H. Loose, James Gangwer.
1885. — Lyman Abbott, George Lehman, Charles Flumerfelt.
In the following list the names of clerks, treasui'ers and justices of the
peace, from 1850 to 1885, are given:
1850. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasurer; Lorenzo Abbott, jus-
tice of the peace.
1851-53. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasurer; Calvin Clark, jus-
tice of the peace.
1854. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasui'er; C. Snook, justice of
the peace.
1855. — C. Pool, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasurer; C. Snook, justice of the
peace.
1856-57. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasurer; "William Holtz,
justice of the peace.
1858. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasui-er; William Holtz, C.
Snook, ju.stices of the peace.
1859-61. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasurer; "William Bonnell,
C. Snook, justices of the peace.
1862. — C. Snook, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasui'er; S. Y. Humes, C.
Snook, justices of the peace.
1863-66. — William Montgomeiy, clerk; C. Snook, treasurer; S. Y. Humes,
C. Snook, justices of the peace.
1867. — "William Montgomery, clerk; D. Y. Flumerfelt, treasurer; S. Y.
Humes, C. Snook, justices of the i^eace.
1868. — Moses Abbott, clerk; Lorenzo Abbott, treasurer; J. B. Wagner,
A. L. Shafer. justices of the peace.
1869. — M. E. Fiy. clerk; William Montgomery, treasui-er; J. B. Wagner,
A. L. Shafer, justices of the peace.
1870. — M. R. Fry, clerk; George Snyder, treasurer; D. Durfee, O. S.
Watson, justices of the peace.
1871. — William Shuman, clerk; George Snyder, treasui-er; D. Durfee, O.
S. Watson, justices of the peace.
1872. — William Shuman, clerk; F. J. Fry, treasurer; J. H. Davidson, O.
S. Watson, justices of the peace.
1873-74.— A. L. Abbott, clerk; J. E. McDonald, treasm-er; G. W. Du-
mond, O. S. Watson, justices of the peace.
1875. — Moses Abbott, clerk; J. R. McDonald, treasurer; G. W. Dumond,
O. S. Watson, justices of the peace.
1876. — William Shuman, clerk; J. E. McDonald, treasiu-er; J. H. David-
son, 0. S. Watson, justices of the peace.
1877-78.— Moses Abbott, clerk; J. E. McDonald, treasm-er; J. H. David-
son, A. L. Shafer, justices of the peace.
1879. — Moses Abbott, clerk; M. E. Fry, treasiu-er; J. H. Davidson, A. L.
Shafer, justices of the peace.
1880.— Moses Abbott, clerk; M. E. Fry, treasm-er; J. H. Davidson, O. S.
Watson, justices of the peace.
^28 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1881. John F. Blue, clerk; W. F. Shuman, treasiu-er; J. H. Davidson,
O. S. Watson, justices of the peace.
1882. — John F. Blue, clerk; ^\. F. Shuman, treasurer; A. L. Abbott, O.
S. "Watson, justices of the peace.
1883-84. — Moses Abbott, clerk; AV. F. Shuman, treasui-er; A. L. Abbott.
E. Parker, justices of the peace.
The elections of April, 1885. resulted in the choice of the following named
officers: Trustees, C. Flumerfelt (Dem.), George Seckman (Dem.), Lyman
Abbott (Rep.); treasiu'er, W. F. Shuman (Dem.); clerk, Moses Abbott (Rep.)*;
assessor. Lewis Shannon (Dem. ) ; constables, P. S. Sheets (Rep. ), J. Novinger
(Rep.); justice, W. W. Jones (Rep.).
Pioneers and Pioneer Ecents. — The first settlers in what now constitutes
Pleasant Township were William Spicer, to whom the Spicer Section in Pleas-
ant Township was granted by the treaty of Miami of Lake Erie (patented January
18, 1822). and he may be termed the' first white settler here. For forty years
previous to 1819 he resided among the Indians of the Sandusky, and grew in
wealth among them Benjamin and West Barney came to the county in 1818,
and settled here in 1819. Benjamin B. Barney, who. in 1824, became a pio-
neer of Pike County, 111. , with his son, Joseph W. Barney, settled here in
1818 or 1819. When ninety-one years old. Benjamin B. Barney crossed the
plains to California, but died on board ship while returning in 1854. He was
a native of Savoy. Berkshire Co. . Mass. , and on coming here settled with his
brother. West Barney, in a cabin which Spicer built in 1818. Benjamin Cul-
ver came about this' time. Anson Gray, also a pioneer, moved to Illinois in
1824. In 1819 a son of Benjamin B. Barney, named Benjamin, his daughter,
Annar, and Friend Orr arrived. Daniel Rice and Caleb Rice, natives of Clar-
endon County, Yt. , came about the same time, so also did the McNutts.
The first"^ Indian sub- agent of the Senecas, James Montgomery, settled at
Camp Seneca, November 20. 1819. at a time when only five families resided be-
tween the camp and Oakley Village.
In the summer of 1820. William Harris, his wife (nee Mary Mead) and
childi-en. Samuel. John. Marshall. Minerva. Tabitha and Jane Han-is, moved
fi'om Harrisburgh. Penn.. and settled in this township; Samuel Han-is and
John Eaton, being the prospectors here late in 1819. Samuel died in Sandusky
County in 1826; Augustus Harris and his family came in 1821, and in that
year his wife died. This William Harris was a Revolutionary soldier, and a
"pensioner from 1825 until 1834, when he died. This pension was founded on
representations made to the Government by Abel Rawson. Eli Downing
named in the histor\^ of Clinton Township and elsewhere, was one of the fii-st set-
tlers, having his cabin in the valley south of what was known as Baker' s Mill.
Annar Baniey was married to David Rice in the fall of 1820, and, in December
of that year,' Minerva Harris married Benjamin Barney; David Smith, the
pioneer justice of the peace of Fort Ball, officiating, with Erastus Bowe, wit-
ness. The first recorded marriage is that of West Barney and Sophronia Wil-
son by Justice David Rice, October 24, 1820. The Dumonds came in 1821,
and built a cabin on the west bank of the Sandusky*, which was in a good state
of preservation a few years ago. The first permanent settlers on the Fort
lands were Jacques Hulbui-t. who came from New York State in 1823, and Shep-
herd Patrick, who also came in 1823. They piu-chased the old Fort lands and
farmed there for some years. Patrick sold'his lands to Hulbm-t and retm-ned
East, while the latter m'oved to Fremont, and opened a store there. The Rum-
*Capt. Moses Abbott, noticed in Chapter IX, died in ISSo, when A. L. Abbott was appointed clerk, and
elected his successor.
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 629
leys built a mill on Green Creek, in 1828, and shortly after, Moore erected
one on the Sandusky. The Hedges Mill, on Beaver Creek, did not come into
existence until 1838. The beginnings of settlement made by those pioneers
attracted to the township a number of equally industrious men; all joined in
the arduous work of olden days, and within the succeeding decade gave to the
county one of its principal divisions, well worthy of the name it bears. In the
following pages many if not all of the old residents are noticed.
Lorenzo Abbott, a native of Massachu.setts, came with his parents to Seneca
County, in 1821; was married here, in 1825, to Miss Jennette Sherwood, who
came with her parents fi'om New Jersey in 1821; the former died in 1876, the
latter in 1877 ... .William H. Anders, an early settler, came fi-om Virginia.
His wife (nee Sarah A. King), a native of Maryland, was also one of the first
settlers. . . .William Astor, a native of Ohio, settled here in 1858.
Felix Beck came to this township in 1847, from Maryland .... William
Bonnell, who died in 1885, settled here in 1838; his widow, Mrs. Anna M.
(Buyter) Bonnell, is still a resident .... Marshall Barney came with his brothers
and sisters in 1819, settled in the vicinity of Fort Seneca, and died there
shortly after .... Annar Barney (who married David Kice), and other members
of this family, were pioneers of 1819.... West Barney, who settled herein
1818, moved to Missouri and died there in 1878 .... Gahart and Sarah (Remby )
Beck, parents of Mrs. Moses Abbott, came fi-om Pennsylvania to this county at an
early date. . . .Vincent Bell, one of the founders of Fort Seneca, in 1836, was
a pioneer of this township. He was one of the early justices of the peace,
serving in 1836 Dr. F. M. Bell was a resident physician at Fort Seneca in
1847 .... Abraham and Sarah (Betts) Borough, natives of Pennsylvania, parents
of Michael Borough (who was born in Sandusky County, Ohio, in 1836), came
in an early day with their i:)arents to this county from Wayne; Mrs. Borough
died in 1883; Mr. Borough now resides at Fo^toria. . . . Michael Borough set-
tled here in 1868. . . .Jacob and Susan (Gittinger) Bowersox, natives of Indi-
ana, parents of Mrs. Joseph R. Drown, came here in 1838, and died in 1877.
.... John and Hannah (Onan) Blue, parents of Mrs. Bartholomew Shaull
(mother of Mrs. John Puffenberger, of Liberty Township), were early settlers
of Pleasant Township .... Jacob E. and Anson (Ulrich) Brenneman, parents
of Mi's. Reuben Sellers, a native of Ashland County, Ohio, came to this county
in an early day, where they still reside.
H. Clark came from New York State in 1839. . . .George Clark, an Ohioan,
in 1842 James B. Clark in 1844,. . .Pinckney and Edatha (Hubbard)
Clark (former born in 1807, latter in 1802 in New York State), parents of Mrs.
David B. Anders, came to this township in 1834. where they now reside with
David B. Hume.... Town and Philothe (Case) Clark, natives of New York
State, parents of Mrs. Rasselus R. Titus, came here in 1835. Mr. Clark died
in 1840, his widow in 1880-. . . . Calvin Clark is named among the old residents.
He served as commissioner .... John Collister, a Manxman, was an early
settler .... Andrew Culright, who died in 1836, owned the south part of the
east half of the northeast quarter of Section () ; settled, however, south of Tiffin
at an early date, and had the only cabin on the river between Fort Ball and
McCutcheonville in 1820. .. .Benjamin Culver died in 1840 .... James and
Mary P. (Haskell) Crockett, former born in Maine in 1798. came to the county
in 1828 and settled in Pleasant Township.
Solomon and Fanny (Dennis) Drown, natives of New Hampshire and Maine,
respectively, parents of Joseph R. Drown (who was born in Pennsylvania),
came to Adams Township in 1837. Mr. Drown died in 1857, Mrs. Drown in
1880. . . .Andrew and John Dukes and Michael Durand were amoner the earlv
630 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
settlers .... Isaac I. and Sophia (Dukes) Dumond, natives of New York State
and Delaware, respectively, parents of Lorenzo A. Dumond (who was born
here in 1834), came with their parents to this county in 1820, and were mar-
ried here in 1823. Mr. Dumond died in 1880, his widow in 1881.
John Eaton settled in the township in 1819; married Mrs. Polly Orr. . . .
Uriah Egbert settled on the North Greenfield road in 1822; moved in 1823 to
Pleasant Township and died there October 1, 187(3; he was a native of New
Jersey, while his wife {nee Susannah Williams) was a native of Maryland; she
died in 1875.... John D. Egbert, born in Franklin County, Ohio, in 1819,
came with his parents to Seneca County in 1822; here he married Miss Aiy A.
Griffin .... Jeremiah W. and Lucy A. Egbert, natives of Ohio, parents of Nor-
man D. Egbei-t. of Clinton Township (who was born in 1843), came to Pleasant
Township after marriage and have since remained here.
James M. Figgins was di'owned near the Pleasant Township bridge in
April, 1848; Joshua Stackhouse was di'owned with him. . . .Cornelius Flumer-
felt settled here in May, 1826; died in August, 1871 D. V. Flumerfelt
came with his parents to Pleasant Township in 1826. . . .Phineas Frary was
among the pioneers .... Milton Frary, who mai-ried Miss Sally Montgomery
March 25, 1832, died in 1852 Philip H. Fry, a native of Prussia, born in
1805, came in 1833 to America and in 1834 to Tiffin, where he helped to hew
out the timbers for the first court house in Seneca County; also built houses.
churches and bridges in the county; he and his wife settled in Pleasant in
1838.
James T. Gangwer, one of the pioneers of Pleasant Township, died Janu-
ary 4, 1885, in his eighty-first year; he resided for years three and a half miles
north of Tiffin .... Tilgman Gangwer came from Pennsylvania in 1851 ....
Daniel and Jane (Dudi-ow) Gittinger (both deceased), parents of Mrs. John G.
Bonnell, came fi'om Maryland to this county in an early day .... Edward D.
Griffin, a native of Virginia, came with his daughter, Ary Ann (now wife of
John D. Egbert), to Adams Township in 1831, and here man-ied his second
wife, Mrs. Colena (Titus) Church: ^h: Griffin died in 1876; his widow died
since that time. . . .Stephen and Christiana (Sheels) Grove, natives of Mary-
land, parents of William H. Grove (who was born in Maryland in 1832), came
to this township in 1835. Mr. Grove died in 1876; his widow in 1877.
William Harris, a soldier of the Revolution and a gunsmith, was pensioned
in 1825, and died in 1834; he settled in the township in 1820 .... Augustus
Harris, son of William Harris, came m 1821, and the same year his wife died.
. . . .Samuel Harris and John Eaton came in 1819, as the pioneers of the fam-
ily ; Samuel died in 1826 .... Tabitha Harris (who married Benjamin Culver,
in 1828), now Mrs. Stanley, is a resident of Tiffin, and one of the four siu-vivors
of first settlement. There are other members of this family referred to else-
where .... Emmanuel Hall, a native of Ohio, settled here in 1824 .... Lewis and
Caroline Hemminger, are named among the old settlers .... John and Mar-
garet (Byers) Hoke, parents of jMi's. William Montgomery, came to this county
about 1848; IVIi-s. Hoke died in 1857, 3Hi-. Hoke in 1874. . . .William and Cath-
arine Holtz, parents of Mrs. Norman D. Egbert, of Clinton Township (who was
liorn in Pleasant Township in 1845), were early settlers here, where former
died in 1862, and latter now resides .... Jacob P. and Susannah (Huss) Holtz,
came here in 1834, and still reside in this township .... Joseph and Catherine
( Gulmire) Hoover, parents of John A. Hoover, who was born in this township
in 1839, were early settlers here .... Jacques Hulburt came in 1823. and,
with Shepard Patrick, purchased the Fort Seneca Reservation. He conducted
the first crrammar school in the countv until his removal to Lower San-
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 631
dusky; died December 25, 1830 .... Sylvia Ann Hunt and Maria Hunt, came
as visitors at an early day, and married Samuel Wright and John Wright re-
spectively. Sylvia Ann was divorced from her husband, and soon after married
Rufus W. Reid, a Tiffin merchant. Mr. Reid died years ago, but his widow
is still a resident of Ohio .... Samuel V. Humes, born in Champaign County,
Ohio, in 1821, settled in Pleasant Township in 1834
Mrs. Sally (Frary 7iee Montgomery) Ingham, born in Champaign County,
Ohio, February 4, 1811, settled at Fort Seneca with her father, Rev. James
Montgomery, in November, 1819. She married Milton Frary, March 25, 1832.
He died in 1852. The same Mrs. Frary moved to Tiffin and resided in that city
until 1869, when she married Alexander Ingham, and moved with him to Cleve-
land, Ohio. Mr. Ingham died in April, 1870, and two years later Mrs. Ingham
returned to Tiffin, where she erected her present residence on Minerva Street,
about thirteen years ago. To this lady the ■^Titer is indebted for solving some
historical conundrums relating to church affairs at Tiffin, and early settlers and
events connected with Pleasant Township. She is one of a quartette of old
residents who settled here between 1818 and 1822, and still resides in the
county.
David H. and Mary (Dumond) Jopp, former born in Conn., in 1791,
latter in New York State in 1793, grandparents of Orson Jopp, came in 1831
to Pleasant Township. Mr. Joj^p died in 1819, his widow in 1876. . . .Luther
S. and Emeline (Madison) Joj)p (both deceased), parents of Orson Jopp, were
also early settlers in the township M. D. Jopp came from New York State
in 1838.
David B. King, a Pennsylvania n, came to this county in 1814, and died in
1877. He was married to Sarah Robertson, now of Pleasant Township .... The
Keeler family were among the old settlers, but, residing on the I'iver bank in
the bottom lands, they were afflicted with ague until they left the coimty.
Martin Lane, Indian interpreter, was an early settler here, but had no part
in the industrial life of the township. Reference to him is made in the chap-
ter on Seneca's Red Pioneers. . . .The horrible death of Newton J. Lamkins,
at Virginia City, occurred April 5, 1861 .... John Loose, a Pennsylvanian, set-
tled here in 1841, and died in 1875; his widow, Sarah (Mise) Loose, resides
here with her son, John H.
David Martin came from Pennsylvania and settled in Liberty Town-
ship at an early date. His death occurred in 1872; Mrs. Rachel Pope
Martin, his widow, is now a resident of old Fort Seneca .... Lester and Emily
(Shattuck) Mclntire, and Smith and Catherine (Larkins) Mclntyre, settled
here at an early date .... John McGee was an early settler, but of him little
else can be learned .... William S. and Sophia (Stewart) McMeen, natives of
Pennsylvania, parents of Mrs. Alfred L. Shafer (who was born in 1842), came
to this coiTuty in 1835. . . .A. McNutt, who settled here in 1819, was married
to Miss Dumond, about 1828. His brother, Daniel McNutt, also came in 1819,
bringing with him his family .... George E. Miller, an Ohioan, came here in
1 826. Tobias Miller, of old Fort Seneca, kept a hotel there for years, and
was known as one of the most genial hosts; he settled here in 1825, and four
years later, his first wife, Mary Young, died here; Tobias died in 1879, aged
ninety-seven years .... John and Elizabeth (Abbott) Michaels were here at an
early date .... John Moore, born in Pennsylvania, in 1803. settled in this town-
ship in 1836; he was married in Pennsylvania, to Eliza Kopp. and both reside
here .... Rev. James Montgomery, first Indian agent for the Seneeas, settled
at Old Fort Seneca in 1819, residing in one of the block-houses; this house,
with a second log house moved near it in 1820, he fixed up, and made of it
632 FllSTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
the best house then in Seneca County. During this year his son died here,
and his remains were placed in a box made by Daniel Rice and J. Chapin, for
interment. With him were Mrs. Kezia (Rouse) Montgomery, and nine chil-
dren. About 1827 the family moved to the Montgomery farm near the fort,
where James Montgomery died June 1, 1830. He was justice of the peace from
1827 to his death. Of the entire family, Mrs. Sally Ingham is the only one
living,. ... William and Christianna (Plank) Montgomery (former a native of
Ireland), parents of William Montgomery, who was born in Clinton Township
in 1826, were early settlers of the county; former died in 1830, latter in 1873.
John and Eunice (Walker) Myers are classed among the old settlers.
The Olmstead family settled in Pleasant Township, down the river from
Tiffin David E. Owen settled on. the Huber farm in 1829. He was the
first Democrat ever elected to an office in Seneca Coimty (1832) ; was connected
with the land office, and from 1832 to the period of his death, September,
1857, held a prominent place among politicians .... Mrs. Polly Orr, who mar-
ried John Eaton in 1818, after the death of her hvisband and child, in 1819 or
1820, came with her brothers — the Barneys. . . .Friend Orr, a friend of the
Barneys, settled in Pleasant in 1819. and died here a few years later; one of
his children died here shortly after settlement; his widow married John Eaton.
Sedate Paddleford was a temporary resident in Pleasant Township, in
1819. .. .Benjamin and Lovina (Walsh) Palmer, parents of Mrs. John A.
Hoover, came from Maryland to Pleasant Township, in an early day .... Bena-
jah Park, saloon keeper at Swope's Corners came with his brothers in June,
1820, was stabbed during a drimken orgie in 1829, and died early in 1830
Henry and Charlotte (Ros) Parker, parents of Ephraim Parker (a native of New
Jersey, born in 1820), settled in Pleasant Township in 1820), and here Mr.
Parker died in 1847; his widow still resides here Shepherd Patrick came in
1823, purchased Fort Seneca Reservation, in company with Jacques Hulburt.
but sold his interest to Hulburt and returned to the Atlantic States .... Jacob
Pultz, a native of Virginia, born in 1811, came to Seneca County in 1830.
finally settling here.
Caleb Rice was a settler of 1819; he moved to Illinois in 1840 and died
there nine years later; his daughter, Uretta, was the first white child born in
the county. . . .Daniel Rice, who settled in Pleasant Township in 1819, was a
soldier of"^ 1812; he died in 1872: he was one of the first justices of the peace,
and solemnized the first marriage of record in Sandusky County, viz. : "Octo-
ber 24, 1820, West Barney to Sophronia Wilson, by Daniel Rice." John G.
Bruennert died September 11, 1885, aged seventy-eight years; when forty-five
years old, he left Thuringia, Germany, for the United States, and f-^r many years
resided on his farm a few miles west of Fort Seneca Eliphalet Rogers
settled on the Wolf Creek farm (subsequently known as the Snook farm), and
married Hannah Jackson, who settled at Tiffin as early as 1818 and worked in
the Rowe Tavern.
Frederick, Jr., and Hannah (Sheidler) Sellers, former born in Germany
in 1817, latter in Stark County, Ohio, in 1810, parents of Reuben Sellers, who
was born in this township in 1850, were early settlers. Frederick Sellers.
Sr., father of Frederick, Jr., still resides in Pleasant Township, where he
came in 1833 George and Mary (Lautzenheiser) Shannon. _parents of
Frank M. and William (Shannon), settled in this county in 184^ and still
reside here Hemy and Mary E. (Myers) Shedenhelm, natives of Maryland
and Virginia, respectively, parents of Charles D. Shedenhelm (who was born
in this township in 1855), came to this county in an early day. Mr. Sheden-
helm died in 1882; his widow resides at Green Spring. . . . Bartholomew Shaull
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 633
is a son of John and Elizabeth (Benner) ShauU, who were amon^; ttie earliest
settlers of Pleasant Township Abram D. Shidler came in 184G Green-
berry and Marsella (Sheets) Sheets, natives of Maryland, parents of Mrs.
Phil'ip King, came to this county in 1881. Mr. Sheets was born in 1811:
died in 1854. Mrs. Sheets was born in 1803; died in 1877 George Shu-
maker, born in Pennsylvania in 1822, settled here in 1838 Simon Shuman,
who settled here in 1844, died in 1880. His widow, Mrs. Mary (Beck) Shu-
man, resides in Liberty Township. . . .William Siberal, a soldier of 1812, set-
tled in Pleasant Township in 1828; died here and was bui-ied in the Ridge
Cemetery .... John Siberal came from Kentucky in 1824 .... William Sneath.
reference to whom is made in the history of Clinton Township, moved here in
1846 .... Mrs. Margaret (Kuhn) Staub, who came with her husband, Philip
Staub, died in 1874 Philip Staub, a Revolutionary soldier, settled in Pleas-
ant Township in 1834; died in January, 1876, and was buried in St. Joseph's
Cemetery, Tiffin. . . .Joshua Stackhouse was drowned near the Pleasant Town-
ship bridge in 1848 Joseph and Anna M. (Walt) Stoner, parents of Henry
Stoner (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1817), came with their family in
1847 Lewis and Julia A. ( Steinbergen ) Switser, natives of Germany and
Pennsylvania, respectively, parents of Mrs. AVilliam Shannon, came to this
county in an early day.
Curtis Titus and" family, natives of Connecticut, settled in the county in
1833, where Mr. Titus, Sr.,"died two years later. R. R. Titus is a son of this
old settler; Mrs. Lucinda (Wilermanf Titus, his widow, died in 1846 Ras-
selus R. Titus, a native of Connecticut, born in 1819, came with his parents
to this county in 1833, and in 1841 settled in Pleasant Township. . . .Benja-
min Tomb, father of Benjamin F. Tomb (who was born here in 1844), came to
Pleasant Township in 1842 and here died in 1885. His widow resides in
Tiffin.
Samuel Waggoner, an old settler of Pleasant Township, is referred to m the
history of Tiffin as well as in the histories of Hopewell and Loudon Town-
ships .'. . . Jesse B. Wagner, born in Pennsylvania in 1829, came to this county
in 1848; his parents, George and Margaret (Carpenter) Wagner, natives of
Pennsylvania came in 1849 Margaret Watchier was born in Lutzenberg,
Germany, December 23, 1843, and when but three years old came to America
with her parents, four brothers and four sisters, and settled near Fort Seneca,
in Pleasant Township. In 1863 she was united in marriage with John S.
Harrison, moved to Tiffin, and was burned to death in that city April 30.
1885 James S. and Mary (Tennis nee Saltsman) Watson, parents of Mrs.
Frank M. Shannon and George W. AVatson, were early settlers of this town-
ship; Mr. Watson died in 18(39, his widow still resides here William and
Jane (McMeenj Watson, natives of Ireland and Pennsylvania respectively, par-
ents of Thomas W. Watson (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1819), came to
Seneca Covinty in 1836; Mr. Watson was born in 1772 and died in 1856, Mrs.
Watson was born in 1784 and died in 1846 Pirmin and Ursula (Housel)
Weltin. parents of Frederick Weltin (who was born in Germany in 1837), set-
tled in Pleasant Township in 1854; Mrs. Weltin died in 1862; Mr. Weltin
lives with his son Frederick John S. White came from New York State in
1849 James T. Worthington, United States surveyor, may be included
among the pioneers of the county. In 1820 he surveyed several townships,
making his headquarters at Fort Seneca .... John Wright of the old firm of
Wright & Bissell. opened the first distillery in the township, and it is thought
in the county.
Nelson Yeaky, is classed among the pioneers, but farther than this nothing
certain has been learned regarding him.
634 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTV.
Spicer, the Indian captive was here forty years before the Barneys or
Rices looked in upon his retreat, and would, under ordinary circumstances,
claim the honor of being the first white settler of the county. ^ A chain of ex-
traordinary circumstances brought him here, and that peculiarity in the nature
of some whites which fits them to be barbarians of barbarians, belonged to
Spicer and kept him here. He was an Indian of the Indians, without their
natural accomplishments or spirit, rich in the acquisitions of forty years, and
withal as ugly and dirty-looking an Indian as it is possible to describe. Much
has been said relating to him in the Indian history, as well as in other chapters
of this work, and from a histoiy published in 1874 we glean the following re-
garding him: "Spicer was captured in Pennsylvania, and to the day of his
death was, as to his habits, manners, and language, a perfect Indian. When
the country was first settled by the whites, he had resided upon the Sandusky
forty years. Of his history biit little is known. He was taken by the Wyandots
to the banks of the Ohio River, and used by them as a decoy to bring boatmen
to the shore that chanced to be passing upon the stream. Tying him to a tree,
near the water* s edge, they would compel him to utter the most plaintive cries to
be relieved from his unfortunate and perishing condition, while the savages lay
in ambush, ready to fall upon the unsuspecting victims of Indian cunning and
duplicity. Many thus fell a prey to savage cruelty, though it is to be pre-
siuned that Spicer was cojnpelled"to act as he did." The true pioneers of this
division of the county find mention in the foregoing pages of this chapter.
With the the exception of Mrs. Ingham and Mrs. Stanley (both residing at Tif-
fin), all who settled here prior to 1821 are resting forever after their pioneer
toils and troubles.
Churches. — The establishment of the Christian Church in this county dates
back to 1819, when James Montgomery came here as sub-agent of the Seneca
Indians. In appointing him the Government had a two-fold object in view —
to provide for the office a man who woiild administer its affairs honestly, and
one who at the same time would teach the savages the Gospel. In the first
case the Government and agent were eminently successful; but in the second,
faihu-e waited on their good Christian intentions, as the old dwellers in the
wilds were willing enough to receive good things from the reverend agent's
larder, but none from his store-house of Christian knowledge. Mr. Moiit-
gomery was ordained a preacher of the Methodist Church at Lebanon, Ohio,
a short time after he received his appointment as sub-agent, and devoted the
greater part of his time and ability to the establishment of Methodist missions
throughout this and adjoining counties up to his death in 1830.
The first Methodist Protestant Church was organized in March, 1829, by
Seneca Agent Montgomery, at Fort Seneca. In July, 1837, the first regular
house of worship was erected at Tifiin. Rev. Alvin Coe preached Mr. Mont-
gomery's funeral sermon in May, 1830.
The Methodist Episcopal Church here was attended by Elijah Fields, Elam
Day and other circuit preachers named in the history of the Tifiin and Betts-
ville Churches; Fort Seneca forming a part of Bettsville until 1852. In
August, 1852, the name of the mission was changed to Fort Seneca, and J.
Braketield appointed preacher. Subsequently the circuit was reorganized by
adding new territory, and thereby increasing the membership to forty. The
fourteenth session of the Northwestern Ohio Conference (1853-54) enlarged
Fort Seneca Mission, established Findlay District, changed Tifiin District to
Sandusky District, added Fort Seneca to' the new district, with Leonard Hill
and Henry Kerigan, preachers. The first quarterly meeting of Fort Seneca
Mission, as now enlarged, was held in Wesley Chajiel; D. B. King, A. Bowlus,
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 635
J. C. Thompson, George Snider, E. O. Cody and A. P. Gassard were the
stewards. In August. 1854, James Milligau was appointed preacher with B.
F. Eoyce. assistant preacher. Treat, a pioneer, died in 1854, and was suc-
ceeded as steward by M. Smith. In September. lS5t). ^^^ C. Pierce was ap-
pointed presiding elder of Sandusky District, and K. Lawi-ence preacher at
Fort Seneca. In May. 1850. the Northwestern Ohio Conference was divided
and Fort Seneca attached to the Delaware Conference. The first session of
the Delaware Conference held in the fall of 1856, at Lima, appointed Francis
Plumb, preacher. In September, 1857. N. B. C. Love was appointed pastor
at Fort Seneca, and in 1858 Bascom was annexed to the mission of Fort
Seneca, Love reappointed preacher, with T. W. Cozier, assistant. At this
time there were only four Sunday-schools organized in the whole of Fort
Seneca Circuit (called a circuit in 1859) up to the beginning of J. T. Caple's
tenn as presiding elder, in 1859, when H. L. Nickerson was appointed preacher
at Fort Seneca. In 1860 the Central Ohio Conference was formed, and the
same year H. L. Nickerson and John T. Bowers were appointed to the Fort
Seneca Mission. In 1801 Josiah Adams and Israel Smith were preachers. In
1802 H. S. Bradley was apj)ointed presiding elder of Findlay District, with
David Dicken local preacher at Fort Seneca.
The members of the second conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
Sandusky Circuit, of the Muskingum District, organized under the act of Jan-
uary 20, 1805. at Pleasant Grove Church June 19, 3873, when John Slosser,
J. B. Rosenbtrger and M. E. Kemp were elected trustees. In June, 1875,
the storm which swept away houses and bridges also demolished the Meth-
odist Church building. A new church now holds the place of the old storm-
struck one.
A Baptist society was established in old Mr. Dumond's log-cabin about 3825.
The Reformed Chm-ch of Fort Seneca was founded in 1857, by Rev. M.
Keiffer, and a building erected on land donated by John Zeigler. In April,
1861, Rev. S. Shaw succeeded the organizing pastor.
The First German Reformed Church of Fort Seneca was reorganized under
State law, with John Zeigler, Barney Zimmerman and Henry Stoner, trustees ;
Rev. Moses KeifFer, president, and August Hoke, clerk.
The Reformed Chui-ch of Fort Seneca was established in 3855.
St. Paul's Evangelical German Reformed Church of Fort Seneca was
organized by Rev. J. H. Good. June 30. 1801. Felix Beck, S. Shumau.
Jacob Omwake and Barney Zimmerman were elected first elders; Jacob Zeis,
John Troxell. Henry Stoner and D. Riechart. deacons. This society formerly
belonged to the English German Reformed Church, but at this time separated,
paying half the cost of church building and using it alternately.
Glade Union Reformed Church was organized December 17, 1871, by Rev.
G. AV. Williard, with "William. Clara and Francesca Steckel, Jacob and Susan
Bowersox, AYilliam. Ann M. and Eliza Shriver, Sophia McMean, Lester M.
Koons, Susan Smith, A. L. and Rachel Shaffer and Oliver "Watson. The
church was erected in 1871, on a lot donated by Jacob Bowersox, at a cost of
$1,000.
Schools and School Statistics. — There are no early records dealing with the
schools of this township. Mrs. Sally Ingham believes that George Van Dorn
was the first school teacher here. In 1825 Miss Narcissa Topping took charge
of the school, and about this time Jacques Hulburt opened a grammar school,
the first in the county. In 1829 Miss Sally Montgomery, after studying under
Hulburt. attended Edson B. Goit' s school at Lower Sandusky, and" returning
in 1829 Oldened her school on the Sandusky road, two and three-quarter miles
north of Tiffin, presiding there until her marriage with Milton Frary in 1832.
<336 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Among Mrs. Ingham's scholars in 1829, while she taught in an Indian cabin
two and three-quarter miles down the river from Washington Street bridge,
were Hamilton, Henry and Rebecca Crum, David, Sophia, Elizabeth and an-
other of the Martin family, two Craun boys and Frank and Henry Abbott.
The condition of the schools of Pleasant Township in August, 1884, is shown
by the following statistics: Local tax. $3,315.29; total revenue, $7,088.83; ex-
penditures, $-1,181; number of schoolhouses, 12; value of property, $4,050;
number of teachers, 22; average pay. $40 and $29; male piipils. 220, female
pui)ils, 15G; total enrollment, 376.
Cemeteries. — Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, in Pleasant Township, was surveyed
in August, 1865, for the cemetery association, east of Portland State road,
northeast of the Ridge Church.
Pleasant Ridge Cemetery Association was organized April 24, 1877, with
the following named members: George Strickling, G. Shumaker, W. Hvter, J.
W. Sonder, E. Sherman, A. S. Bonnell, G. Holtz, C. D. Holtz. G. L. Park
and A. J. Miller. The object was to acquire and hold grounds adjoining the
old Pleasant Ridge Cemetery for cemetery pu.r]DOses.
Ridge Cemetery. Uriah Egbert donated the land known as Ridge Ceme-
tery, and here one soldier of the Revolution and ten of the war of 1812 lie buried.
Mr. Egbert's brother-in-law. Col. Williams (Jeremiah Williams, one of Marion's
men in the Maryland Continental Regulars), is buried, however, in one of the
cemeteries of Adams Township.
There are other cemeteries in the township, each well filled with the remains
of i^ioneers and old settlers. William Harris, a Revolutionary soldier, who
died in 1834, is buried in this township).
Villages of the Township. — Fort Seneca, on the northeast corner of the north-
east quarter of Section 19, was surveyed and recorded January 14, 1836,. for
Erastus Bowe and Vincent Bell. The name as applied to this particular loca-
tion is a solecism, as there never was a fort here; ^the military post of 1813
being down the river. Swope's addition to Fort Seneca was surveyed by David
Risdon, in March, 1847. for Samuel R. Swope. John Zeigler's addition was
surveyed by G.H. Heming in October. 1850, along the continuation of Sandusky
Street in the old town. Vincent Bell's addition was made August 25, 1851,
opposite Zeigler's lands.
Prior to 1836 the location was known as "McNutt's," and subsequently as
"Swope's Corners.'' Prior to 1830 Benajah Park kept a tavern here, the
same in which he was wounded by Peter Pork, and in which he died in January.
1830. The place is now a pretty village, in the midst of a beaiitiful country,
aud commands a good view of the Sandusky Valley.
Town of Sulphur Springs was laid out, but the date of platting the original
town cannot be ascertained. In October, 1834, Solomon Krider filed a petition
for partition against Josiah Hedges, of the west half of the southeast quarter of
Section 12, the northeast fractional quarter of fractional Section 32, the east
half of the southeast quarter of Section 1 2, the west half of the northeast quarter
of Section 12, the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 12. Town 3 north.
Range 15 east, except in Lot 40 in the town of Sulphur Springs. Whatever
prospects existed, in 1834, for the establishment of a village at this point, were
destroyed during the period of depression which followed in 1837. In 1838
the Hedges Flouring-mill was built on Beaver Creek below the Pleasant Town-
ship spring, and must be considered the first of that class of mills in all this
■district, although the township claimed small grist-mills and even a distillery
before the Hedges mill was erected.
Old Fort (or New Fort) Seneca, on the line of the "Nickel Plate" Railroad,
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 637
was platted in Jane, 1882, by County Surveyor Nigliswander for R. R. Titus,
and a record of the plat was made October 1. 1882. The location is at the
crossing of the old Seneca road, upon the farm of E. E. Titus, about two and
a half miles north of Fort Seneca, and upon the site of the old earthworks of
that name. The site is a beautiful one, and but for the inaccessibility by wagon
road might in time become a prosperous hamlet. The location and postoffiee
are known as Old Fori; W. N. Jones is postmaster.
Shedenhelm's Station. Grafton Shedenhelm established a saw-mill here
about thirty-live years ago, which he has carried on up to the present time.
The capacity is about 5,000 feet per day. Fox & Staley's stave factory, at
this point, was established in 1884.
Bridges. — Up to 1854 there was not a bridge across the Sandusky Eiver within
this township. In 1848 the want of a safe means of communication between
the two pai-ts into which the river divides the township became veiy apparent ;
for, on April 8, 1848, two men. Figgins and Stackhouse, were drowned while
crossing the river in a boat, while their companions. Shannon and Watson, had
a very close call, barely saving themselves. Six years after the bridge on
Section 9 was constructed and called • ' Clark" s Bridge. ' ' owing to the fad, that
Calvin Clark, then commissioner, cast his whole influence with his northern
neighbors, against a majoritv who desired the location to b^ at or near Pool's
MiU.
In 18 <0 the •• Watson Bridge" was constructed across the river on Section
21, against the wish of a majority of the persons interested, and was used up
to June, 18v5, when a heavj- storm carried it off and sent it floating down the
river. °
In 1876 the bridge at Pool's Mill, so long desired, was constructed, and as
this was done in opposition to the fi-iends of the Watson Bridge, petition after
petition was presented to the commissioners asking for the erection of a bridge
on the old Watson Bridge abutments. Perseverance conquered, and through
the liberality of D. V. Flumerfelt, a $3,200 bridge was given to the countv for
S2,500. , ^ ^
General Statistics.— The assessm_ent roll of Pleasant Township for 1841
gives 22,108 acres valued at §63,56/; value of town lots, 8483; horses, 224,
valued at $8,960; cattle. 506, valued at $4,048; mercantile capital and moneys
at interest, $2,325; one pleasui-e carriage, valued at $35; total value, $79,418;
total tax, $1,131.70; delinquencies fi-om 1840, $95.14.
The valuation and taxation in 1884-85 are as follows: 22,425 acres of
land, $884,750; personal property, $296,280; total valuation, $1,181,030 or
$833.40 per capita (population of 1880. 1.41 <). Total tax, $13,883, and doo-
tax, $126.
The statistics for 1884 are: 4,592 acre_s of wheat; 745 acres of oats; 2,806
acres of corn; 861 acres of meadow. 1,1/0 tons of hay; 786 acres of clover,
/85 tons of hay, 655 bushels of seed; 120 acres of potatoes, product. 11,640
bushels; 30,414 pounds of butter; 114 hives, 2,635 pounds of honey; 10,062
dozens of eggs; orchards, 323 acres, apples, 6,042 bushels, pears, 4S bushels;
lands owned and _cultivated, 13,652 acres; pasture, 191; woodland, 4,944;
total acreage, 18, /87; wool shorn in 1883, 18,577 pounds; milch cows, 439;
dogs, 130; sheep killed and injured by dogs, 85; dome.stic animals died from
disease, 24 hogs, 13 sheep, 13 cattle and 15 horses.
638 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XXIV.
EEED TOWNSHIP.
n^^HIS division of the county was surveyed into one-fourth sections by Price
X J. Kellogg in 1820, and recorded by him as Town 2 north, Range 17 east,
and 35x17 chains of the gore separating the township from the Western
Reserve. This gore resulted from the fact that when Surveyor Sylvanus
Bourne began his survey of ceded lands in Ohio west of the Western Reserve,
he adopted the system of six square miles for his townships and ranges ; so
that when he staked the east line of Range 17 on the line of latitude north 41°.
he found himself exactly fifty-two chains and seven links distant from the
west line of the reserve. This he called "the Gore." being the given distance
on latitude north 41 and zero, eighteen miles north of that, where the extreme
northeastern corner line of Thompson Township strikes the west line of the
Western Reserve or the " Connecticut Reserve," or the " Fire Lands," as the
tract was varioiisly termed.
The township was known generally under its survey number; but old set-
tlers in Seneca and Huron knew it as " Seneca Town, ' ' as there the chief,
Seneca John, had a cabin and resided at intervals. The historian who wrote
for Stewart's publication in 1874, says:
' ' During the early period of the settlement of the township the Indians
were very numerous, and, as a general thing, lived amicably with the few
whites who were there at an early day. Somewhere about the year when the
first settlement was made an accident of a fatal character happened to an
Indian maiden, a daughter of the renowned chief and warrior Seneca John.
The Indians made frequent visits to the neighborhood of the present village of
Reedtown each winter, for the purposes of hunting and trapping. On one of
these occasions a party was encamped here, and was preparing an evening
meal. A large kettle full of boiling water was hanging, suspended by a pole,
over the fire, and the unfortunate girl was lying in front of it, when the pole
burned through, letting the kettle fall, spilling its heated contents upon the
body of the girl. Some of those present immediately enveloped her in a
blanket and conducted her to a house near by, where she was attended by Dr.
W^illiams, who did everything in his power to alleviate her terrible sufferings.
On removing the blanket, the flesh literally clung to it, leaving her almost a
living skeleton. Soon, however, death put an end to her sufferings. After
her death William Williams made a handsled. and a number of the Indian
boys, followed by a mournful cortege, conveyed the remains to the burying -
ground of the Wyandot nation, located a little above Tiffin. Seneca John,
who was a Wyandot, was subsequently assassinated, on an accusation of witch-
craft. ' ' ( Vide Indian History. )
When Read and Raymond made the first settlements in 1823, the name
"Read Town" came into use; and on the organization of the township in
1826, the name was confirmed in an Americanized form — "Reed Township."
Four years after organization and seven years after the first pioneers arrived,
the population was 264; in 1840 it was 1,214; in 1850, 1,494; in 1860, 1,631,
decreased in 1870 to 1,334, increased in 1880 to 1,527, at which figures the
KEED TOWNSHIP. G3&
population may be said to rest. The exodus to Kansas and the movement
toward the cities tend to keep the number of inhabitants at about 1,500. The
surface of the township presents a large area of rolling land, with occasional
broken patches. The slope is from the south trending east and west.
Kock Creek, which flows into the Sandusky River at Tiffin, has its head
waters in Sections 16, 29, 30 and 33 in the township, the fork on 33 rising
south of the railroad, and receiving its main supply from two small lakes in
Sections 33 and 28 on the Lapham farm. On the southwest quarter of Sec-
tion 18, the stream enters Beeghley Lake and flows through that j^ond to the
west line of the township. Some of the bed-streams of the Huron River
find a supply in the marsh near Attica Station and on Sections 1, 15 and 26,
flowing east and northeast from the base of the ridge or highland in the south
and center of the township. Ponds are common throughout the western sec-
tions, and these ponds are sometimes connected by native streams.
The only line of railway passing through Reed Township is the Baltimore
& Ohio, which enters at the southeast corner of Section 36, takes a west by
north direction through the township, passing en route through Attica Station
Village, and leaves at the southwest quarter of Section 30.
Organic and Official. — A reference to the chapter on the organization of
the counties and transactions of the commissioner' s board will convey veiy fully
the early attachments of this township, prior to its organization within the
limits of the original siu-vey and fi-actional part of the ' 'Gore. " ' On Decem-
ber 5, 1826, the township was set oft", and its organization followed on January
1, 1827. All the first settlers, Seth Read, George Raymond, Samuel, John
and Edward Cassety, Tunis Conkrite, Isaac and Tom Bennett, Samuel Scot-
horn, and, it is thought, John Wise, were the first township ofiicers. Thomas
Bennett and Samuel Scothorn, justices, and Nathan Chapman, clerk.* The
records from 1827 to 1833 are not to be found. The town books, however,
from 1834 to 1885 are in existence, and fi'om them the following list of town-
ship officials is made up, the last named in each case being the clerk, the others
the trustees:
1834 — John Brown, Matthew Clark, Jonathan F. Rogers; JohnB. Case.
1835. — Jacob Cole, John B. Case, Samuel Scothorn; John B. Case.
1836. — James Harrison, J. F. Rogers, Benjamin Ennis: Jacob Cole.
1837. — Solomon Gambee, Joshua Lake, B. C. Kellv: Jacob Cole.f
1838.— John B. Schuyler, John B. Case, Cyrus Cole: John E. Blodgett.
1839. — David Wood, Benjamin Sanford, Samuel Scothorn: John E. Blodgett
1840. — Solomon Gambee, Joshua Lake, J. F. Rogers; Eber Higley.
1841. — Solomon Gambee, Joshua Lake, Andi-ew Boyd; Eber Higley.
1842. — Solomon Gambee, W. H. H. Heddin. Amos Gannon; Peter Fisher.
1843. — Solomon Gambee, W. H. H. Heddin. Samuel Scothorn; Eber Higley.
1844. — John D. Probosco, John Stannard, Eber Higley; W. H. Conkrite,
1845. — John Sowards, Timothy Green, John Stannard; "W. H. Conki'ite.
1846.— W. H. H. Heddin, T. Owen, T. White; W. H. Conki-ite.
1847. — Daniel Gannon, Matthew Clark, Timothy Green; W. H. Bishoj;.
1848.— David Wood, Samuel W. Read, Matthew Clark; William Wheaton.
1849. — Joshiia Lake, S. W. Read, Elijah Boorum; William Wheaton.
1850. — Michael Beard, W. H. Conkrite, Adam Wise; William Wheaton.
1851. — Irvin Rockafellow, A. Ashby, Andrew Sanford; William Wheaton.
1852. — HaronB. Rakestraw, Seth Read, Joshua Lake; George D. Shetterly.
* Leonard Boice and Elijah Read were elected justices in 18.30, Cyrus Cole and Elijah Read in 1833. Joha
W. Buchanan was elected clerk in 1830, and L. M. Knapp, in 1833.
t N. E. Child, F. P. Hall and John Terry were elected school inspectors in 1837.
G40 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1853. — (no record of election to be found); ^\. H. Conki-ite.
1854. — James Sourwine, Thomas AVilliams; W. H. Conki-ite.
1855. --L. Kelly, Timothy \Yeed; Daniel Bunce.
Ig56. — A. M. Creque, James Sourwine, Thomas ^\'illiams: H. B. Dean.
1857. — A. M. Creqiie, Jonathan Owen. John Wilkinson: H. B. Dean.
1858. — J. W. Halet. James Sanford. John Wilkinson; John W. Leonard.
1859, — John Free, Thomas Soward. William Silcox; John W. Leonard.
I860. — Daniel Neikirk, J. Zephernick, William Silcox: Milti)n Dwyer.
1861. — (no record of elections to be found); J. W. Leonard.
1862. —(no record of elections to be found) ; H. B. Dean.
' 1863. — (no record of elections to be found); W. Hatton.
1864. — A. C. Baker, Thomas Williams, Joseph Cole; Wesley Hatton.
1865. — A. C. Baker. D. J, Neikirk, Josejih Cole ; Wesley Hatton.
1866.— J. W. Hall, D. J. Neikirk, Joseph Cole; '\^'esley Hatton.
1867.— J. W. Hall, Henrys Hathaway, Andi-ew Boyd: Wesley Hatton.
1868.— Jacob Baymond. Henry Hathaway, John Free; J. F. Montgomeiy.
1869. — H. C. Lynch. Henry Hathaway, Jacob Eaymond; Wesley Hatton.
1870. — John Free, James Sourwine, Sylvester Coo vert; Wesley Hatton.
1871.— W. H. Free. Jacob Raymond, A. J. Mittower; We.sley Hatton.
1872.— W. H. Free. Jacob Raymond, A. J. Mittower; J. H. Hodge.
1873.— N. Lapham, D. Hubbell, M. Beard: Wesley Hatton.
1874— Solomon Gambee, George Bishop. M. Beard: J. H. Hodge.
1875.— James Decker, George Bishop, M. Beard; J. H. Hodge.
1876.— Isaac Raymond, H. F. Heddin. Nathan Waive; Sanford Niles.
1877.— Isaac Raymond, Levi Keller. H. F. Heddin; Sanford Niles.
1878.— Isaac Raymond. Levi Keller, H. F. Heddin; Sanford Niles.
1879. — James Ford, Levi Keller, Joseph Cole; Sanford Niles.
1880.— John Bogner, H. F. Heddin, Joseph Cole: W. S. Wise.
1881.— H. A. Sallieres, Daniel Beard. William Boyd: W. S. Wise.
1882.— James Ford, Daniel Beard, H. F. Heddin; W. S. AVise.
1883.— H. A. Sallieres, Henry Cook, Levi Keller; J. R. Jewett.
1884.— Jacob Hoke, Henry Cook, Conrad Hensinger: J. R. Jewett.
The elections of 1885 resulted in the choice of the following named officers:
Trustees, Byron Shetterly, Republican; Jacob Hoke and Henry Cook, Demo-
crats; treasurer, John Everingim. Democrat; clerk. John R. Jewett, Demo-
crat; assessor, James Decker, Democrat; constables. Chauncy Decker and
Isaac Houck. Democrats: S. J. Hall, Republican; justice. W. H. Taber. Reinib-
lican. The Prohibitionists polled eighteen votes.
The names of justices of the peace who have served this township, so far as
the records permit the use of such names, are given as follows : Thomas Ben-
nett and Samuel Scothorn. 1827; Leonard Boice and Elijah Read, 1830;
Cyrus Cole and Elijah Read, 1833; John Terry, 1835; Hallet B. Dean and
Reuben I. Cary, 1836; John Terry, 1838; Ananias Ashley and R. I. Cary, 1839;
John Terry, 1841; I. H. Bennett and R. L Cary, 1842; Harrison Morrills, 1844;
John Probosco and Eber Higley, 1845; Andi'ew Boyd, 1847; R. I. Cary and
John Probosco, 1848; Andrew Boyd, 1850; Isaac Dwyer and R. I. Cary,
1851; Robei-t Hatton, 1857; Joshua Lake, 1860; Thomas Weed, 1864; R. I.
Caiy, 1865; Hiram Bovd, 1866; Timothv Weed, 1867; William Silcox, 1868;
H. Boyd and R. I. Caiy, 1869; A. T. Yundt, 1870; Jacob Windnagle, 18 <3;
J. H. Hall, 1876; A. J. Sallieres, Jacob Windnagle and F. M. Kelly, 1877-78;
M. H. Hensinger, 1879: John Rospert and Jacob Hoke, 1881; A. T. Yundt
and J. R. Jewett, 1882; Jacob Hoke, 1883, and H. A. Sallieres, 1884.
REED TOWNSHIP. 641
Pioneers and Pioneer Events. — The names given on the list of township
officials fi-om 1827 to 1845 may be classed among the pioneers of the township.
There were many others who seliled here prior to 1845, who never sought
office, but like one of Goldsmith' s citizens of Auburn pursued the even tenor
of their ways, and leaned more to humble industry than to fame. All the
first actual settlers of Keed Township have passed to their reward; Init of the
number who came here immediately after the township's organization, a few
are still residents. In the following pages mention is made of the pioneers of
the township, the dates of their arrival are given, and, in some instances, his-
torical incidents connected with them are noted.
Seth Bead and George Eaymond settled on Section 24, Reed Township,
in 1823,"* being the first white settlers. Mrs. Solomon (Read) Gambee was the
first white girl in the township, coming with her father, Seth Read, in 1823.
John Ackley, who bought Knapp's store at Reedtown, was killed by a fall-
ing beam, while assisting in raising a barn for Harrison Cole in 1835 George
Armstrong, a native of Ohio, settled in the county in 1834 William Auble
and wife. Mary E. (Fisher) Auble, came from New York State to this township
early in the ' ' thirties. "
Azariah Baker, a son of William Baker, who patented 1,(K)() acres of land
in this township, in 1830 or 1831, settled here in the fall of 1840 and died in
1872 Michael Beard, born in Maryland in 1810, came to this township about
1 833. and died here in 1882 ; his widowed mother and John Terry were the found -
ers of the village of Lodi in 1838 ; Michael Beard iDuilt what is known as the ' 'Lodi
Hotel" at an early day Isaac and Thomas Bennett settled here in 1825;
they owned the land around the Baptist Cemetery. Thomas was buried there a
few years later .... Moses Bishop came from New Jersey in 1836. .. .James
Bolin. born in this township in 1835, is a son of one of the early residents; to
him is credited the first practical effort in bee culture in the county; a notice
of him, published in 1874, refers to his ajjiary as follows: -'In 1867, Mr.
Bolin turned his attention to experimental apiarian pursuits, which, fi'om an
experiment, has since developed into a large and thriving business. Starting
with one swarm, by industrious attention and a scientific knowledge of the pro-
cess of raising hees, his one colony has been increased to 125 distinct and sep-
arate swarms. He has been particularly anxious to procure the best breed of
bees, and has consequently imported several of the genuine Italian queens.
Besides producing an average of two tons of honey per annum, he mails to any
addi-ess one or more of his first-class Italian breeders. Mr. Bolin has quite an
ingenioiis house erected for the purpose of wintering his bees. It consists of
a square structure, the walls of which are built in such a manner as to admit
of a foot or more of sawdust both between the sides and under the floor.
This makes it perfectly impregnable to the winter cold." . . . .Henry Boyd^ a
Pennsylvanian. settled here in 1833 Valentine Brigle, who died in 1875,
settled here prior to 1834; his widow, Mary (Fike) Brigle, resides with her
daughter in Bloom Township.
Squire Reuben I. Gary, born in New York State in 1805, came to a new
farm in the southwest part of Reed Township in 1833, where he lived nineteen
years, then moved to his present farm Samuel and John Cassety, old set-
tlers of Reed Township, coming with their parents in 1825, w-ere robbed of
$12,000, about 1868. John Cassety is deceased Edward and Susanna (Mc-
Farland) Cassety, who were married in 1801, and were parents of Samuel and
Hannah Cassety (their only surviving children, born in 1805 and 1819, respect-
ively), came to this township in the spring of 1825, being the third family to
♦Former works give the d.ate as 1825.
642 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
settle in Reed Townsliip .... Ephraim and Christina Close, parents of Mrs.
Com-ad Hensinger, who was born in 1889, in Pennsylvania, were early settlers
in the county .... Harrison Cole came from New York State in 1833; in raising
his barn John Ackley was killed by falling timber .... Benjamin and Joseph
Cole, natives of Ohio, were here in 1832 . . . . Alvin Cooley, father of Mrs.
Alonzo Thatcher, was among the early settlers John Cook kept a toll-gate
on the Sandusky & Columbus Pike road, about where Reedtown now stands.
Tunis Conki-ite was the first of the pioneers buried in the township ; he
died a short time after settlement, and was interred on his own land, about one-
fourth of a mile east of Omar bm'ial gi'ound .... William Croxton, an Ohioan,
settled here in 1830.
Jacob Decker came from New York in 1817.
John Emery, an early settler, was a man of all work. In 1835 his leg was
broken by the same bent which killed John Ackley in its fall.
Jacob Fi.sher came from Germany in 1833 R. P. Frazer, a native of
New York, came in 1840. He was the first physician in Lodi ^\. H.
Free, an Ohioan, came in 1835.
Solomon Gambee, born in 1802 in Pennsylvania, came from New York
State to Reed Township in 1833, bringing his family. His second wife {nee
Mary A. Read) was the first white girl to move into this township, settling here
in 1823 with Seth Read, her father .... Dr. I. T. Gilbert, an old resident of
Reed Township, moved to Williams County, Ohio, where, diu'ing the small-
pox epidemic, he was placed in charge of all the patients. He died some years
ago at the advanced age of eighty -two years Willard Green, an Ohioan,
came in 1838.
S. J. Hall, a native of Ohio, settled here in 1851 Capt. Hanford;
who died in 1855, was among the early settlers. He was a jovial citizen and
veiy impulsive, and for over a quarter of a century figured among the
pioneers of Reed Township. Apoplexy took him off suddenly .... Edward
Hanford was the tavern-keeper at Catlinville, a merry, luximous, lugubrious
soul, who fell a victim to di'opsy .... James Hanford passed a term of ten
yeai-s within the ■•Tamaracks," at Jackson, Mich., and was otherwise a ''hard
citizen. " . . . . Peter Hawblits, born in Germany in 1829, was an early settler
here. In 1857 he married Mary Ann Briggle, who was born here in 1834; in
1876 he moved to Bloom Township J. M. HaiTisoa, a native of Ohio, was
here in 1835 .... James Harrison died here some years ago .... John and Cath-
arine (Gannan) Hensinger, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Conrad Hen-
singer (who was born in Adams Township in 1837), were early settlers.
Rev. John R. and Julia (Richards) Jewett, parents of John R. Jewett (who
was born at Melmore, this county, in 1844), came fr'om Connecticut to Ohio in
1 835, and to this county in 1 844.
Benjamin Kelly, born in New Jersey in 1793, settled in Reed Township in
1834, and died here in April, 1863. He was a soldier of the war of 1812.
The family, in 1834, consisted of six boys and two girls and his wife (wee
Mehetabel) Travis, a native of Tioga County, Penn. They settled on the east
half of the northwest quarter of Section 1 , on lands patented to one Davis, a
tion-resident Jacob and Mary (Reiner) Kanney were early settlers in the
county, and are still living in this township.
Noah Lapham and H. H. Lai>ham were settlers here in 1826, coming that
year from New York State John Lepard was born in Fairfield County,
Ohio, in 1828, son of Isaac and Nancy (Huffman) Lepard, natives of Virginia,
who came to this county in 1830, settling in this township.
Mary Michener (deceased wife of James Ford), camp with her parents, John
REED TOWNSHIP. 643
and Sarah (Weaver) Michener, natives of Pennsylvania, fi-om Tuscarawas
County, Ohio, in 1835 .... Andi'ew Mittower, father of Samuel Mittovs'er, the
latter born in 1813 in Pennsylvania, came from New York State to Eeed ToAvn-
ship in 1833, and entered land in Section 7. He died in 1843 .... John and
Elizabeth (Spangler) Mittower, parents of A. J. Mittower (who was born near
the east line of Scipio Township), came to this county in 1824. He died in
1874; his widow still resides here. . . . J. C. Moore, a native of Ohio, came in
1840 F. M. Mm-phy, an Ohioan, settled here in 1847 Orrin Mundy
came in 1840, from New York State.
Samuel and Polly (Ford) Nye, the former a native of Vermont, parents of
George W. Nye (who was born in New Y^ork State in 1827), came with their
family to this coimty in 1833.
Lewis L. Patterson, an Ohioan, was here in 1836 .... Anton Philips came
from Germany in 1867.
George and Hannah (Reed) Raymond, former born in 1780, the latter in
1785, parents of Jacob Raymond (who was one of the triplets — Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob — born in 1826), came here in 1823. Their parents and
the Seth Read family were the fii-st two families to settle in Reed Town-
.ship. George Raymond died in 1856; Abraham Raymond died in 1860; Isaac
and Jacob reside here . . . . H. B. Rakestraw, a native of Ohio, settled
here in 1842 ... .Elijah Read, a native of Steuben County, N. Y., born
in 1792, father of Henry Read, also a native of Steuben County, born in
1820, was one of the first settlers of Reed Township. He married, in 1816,
Sally W. Brundige, who was born in 1800, in Steuben County, N. Y Noah
P. Resseqne, who settled in Reed Township in 1843, died in 1855, and was
bvu'ied in the old cemetery at Omar. He was the son of a French officer who
served in the Revolution, and was himself a gallant soldier of the war of 1812.
.... William and Luceba (Blodgett) Rice, parents of John Rice, of Bloom
Township (who was born in New York State in 1823), settled here in 1829.
William Rice died here in 1835; his widow died in 1863 John Rospert
came fi-om Prussia in 1851.
Andrew Sanford came to this county in 1830, and entered his present home
in this towushi^D, receiving his patent £rom Gov. McArthur; John Sanford,
his elder brother, settled in this county in 1827 .... Samuel Scothorn is said
to have settled in Reed Township, between 1821 and 1825, but this is a mis-
take, as Raymond and Read, the two first settlers, came in 1823, and the Cas-
sety family was the third family to settle here, early in 1825, the same year
Scothorn came .... John Schuyler, father of Prof. Schuyler, came to Reed
Township at an early date .... Andi-ew Shetterly, father of M. D. Shetterly
(who was born in 1830 in New York State), came to this county about 1847
and purchased land in the center of Reed Township; then in 1850 he settled
with his family near Lodi, where he died in 1875, his widow in 1878 ....
William Silcox, a native of New Y''ork settled here in 1835 .... Huckens and
Nancy (Bigham) Spencer (former born in Vermont in 1808, died in 1853; latter
born in Ireland, in 1809, died in 1854), parents of Samuel Spencer (who was
born in Venice Township, in 1842), were early settlers in this covmty.
Alonzo Thatcher, born near Toledo, in 1846, came to Seneca County in
<^arly life .... Christina (Scothorn) Tompkins, mother of Ira H. Tompkins, of
Tiffin, and daughter of Samuel Scothorn, of pioneer Virginia stock, came to
Reed Township from Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1823; she and her sister Ann
were the first white children in this township.
Willard Whitney, one of the early store-keepers here, moved to Michigan
within the pioneer j^eriod and died thereat the age of eighty-five years; during
644 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
the last ten years of his life he was completely blind .... John Wilkinsoa
came fi-om Massachusetts in 1880 . . . . B. D. Williams, M. D. . whose father
settled near the eastern line of Reed Township in 1821. came to Reedtown, in
1835, and oj)ened his office there. During the cholera visitation in 1884, a son
of one of the immigrants, en route westward, was stricken with the disease at
Reedsburg and died the same night, notwithstanding the efforts of Dr. Will-
iams to save his life: the Doctor died about three years ago.... Dr. Amos
Witter came with his family to Reed Township at an early date; shortly after-
ward his wife died here, and he left the county for ever .... Jonathan Witter
settled in Reed Township in 1827. . . .John Wise came to this county in 1827,
originally from Germany, and built one mile and a half of the Sanduskj-
and Columbus road, in Reed Township: he died in 1884; Jacob Wise, his
son, now a retired farmer in Venice Township, was born in 1819 in Pennsyl-
vania .... Solomon Wise, father of Mrs. J. A. Raymond, was one of the early
settlers of Reed Township.
S. T. Youngs, a native of New York State, came in 1836.
John Zephernick or Zeppernlick. an early settler, was here up to the period
of the Rebellion, and in later years moved to AVood County.
The greater number of the pioneers who have been just noticed were suc-
cessful in the mission of their lives and left to their followers a rich inheri-
tance. To them a great deal of the present worth of the township is due,
but all progress must not be credited to them. They lived, as it were, in a
past age. years before the present era of progi-ess set in, so that no matter how
continuous, ardxTous and extensive their labors were, they could not bring the
township to its present standard without the aid of modern men and modern
ideas. The new settlers, the men and women who came here since 1854. have
improved on pioneer ways, manners and, in some resi^ects, customs.
VILLAGES.
Lodi was surveyed by James Dui-bin for John Terry and Catherine Beard,
January 4, 1838, on Sections 5 and 6, on the survey of the old railroad, and
called "West Lodi." The first postoffice was established about this time with
Lyman White, postmaster, who served in this office for years. Hii-am Hippler
is the present incumbent. The location proved fortunate, as Lodi was not
content to remain a town on paper, but rose to some importance. The busi-
ness interests of the village are represented as follows: James Bolin, general
store ; A. C. Boy er, R. Frederick, saloons ; John Hensinger, saw-mill ; Timothy
Hippler. blacksmith: Kern cS: Son, mill proprietors ; Jacob Windnagle, miller;
A. Marstellar, harness-maker; Frank Miller, blacksmith: Van Horn & Co.,
general store. There is a hotel also at this point. Dr. Robert P. Frazer was
the first resident physician; Dr. A. D. Orwig is located here. A neat church
building and schoolhouse find a place in this busy little hamlet. T_jodi Lodge
No. 493, 1. O. O. F. was organized August 22, 1871.
Reedtown, a few miles northeast of Omar, was platted as Catlinville by I.
Catlin. biit the plat was never recorded. The location is on the Sandusky and
Columbus road, just south of the old Catholic mission. When the road was
cut through this place a man named Cook was placed in charge of the toll-
gate and the locality was known as ' 'Cook' s Gate. ' ' Kelly, Lorin, Knapp
and Ackley kept store, successively, in this vicinity, and dming the mercantile
careers of each, here, the place was given the name of the storekeeper.
Edward Hanford's hotel was an institution here certainly as early as 1834.
Dr. B. D. Williams opened an office here in 1835. William Knapp was the
first postmaster, vice Thomas Bennett who refused the office. The present
REED TOWNSHIP. 645
postmaster is John G. "Weaver. Like Omar it is a country hamlet. siuTonnded
by a rich agricultural district with a neighborhood inhabited by industrious,
thrifty farmers.
Town of Omar was surveyed in August, 1854, by M. Schuyler, for A. S.
and A. L. Bennett, on the Columbus and Sandusky road. Beyond the store
and postoffice. condiicted by J. K. Jewett, and the Methodist and Baptist
Churches located hei-e. there is nothing about the i)lace to entitle it to the
name of ' ' Town of Omar. ' ' The surrounding country is rich in everything
that contributes to agricultural wealth, and the location is healthy. A society
known as ' ' Reed' s Bangers ' ' was organized in this neighborhood in May,
1885, for the purpose of protection against horse thieves. James Ford was
elected president; J. L. Lake, vice-president; J. H. Hodge, secretary, and
Anson Covert, treasurer.
Detroit, known to the postoffice department as Siam and to railroad men as
Attica Station, was surveyed by E. C. Cook in July, 1875, for the following
resident owners: John Wise, ^^'illiam Boyd. Edwin Bernard (since de.ceased),
W. B. Reynolds (also deceased), Jacob Ringle (in Attica), James Soiu-wine, O.
Sourwine (in Kansas), L. Labounty.H. Cole. B. F. Sanford and S. A. Berdge.
AYhen the postoffice was established here the name was changed to ' * Siam, ' '
and when the railroad company built a depot here, at the solicitation of the
people of Attica, they called it "Attica Station." In June, 1884, an addition
to Siam was surveyed by Dennis Maloy for Harry Gray.
The business at this village is represented as follows: Gambee & Brant
(J. W. Gambee. A. B. Brant), general merchants; J. W. Gambee, hotel,man-
aged by E. Bernard; Raymond & Williams, lumber merchants and pro-
prietors of saw-mill; T. J. James, agent for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad;
William Cassnell, saloon; William L. McMaster. saloon. Dr. Seymoui', the
physician at this point, is a new comer.
This new settlement gives promise of forming a part of the town of Attica
in the near future. Already a number of pleasant homes and many beautiful
residences extend along the main street of Attica, south from the station and
north fi'om the town, leaving about a mile of vacant space. F. M. Kelley was
appointed postmaster here, and held the office until September, 1 885, when J.
W. Gambee was appointed.
CHURCHES.
The First Methodist Episcopal Church was virtually established in 1829
by the subagent of the Senecas, who preached there that year. After his
death, in 1830. other societies took possession of the field and gathered around
them the few scattered inhabitants of the township at that time. The Meth-
odist Chui-ch at Omar was built in 1859, but long prior to this Ezra Brown
preached here, and was succeeded by the later day preachers of the circuit.
He died at Cincinnati in 1807.
The Baptist Cliurch of Omar dates back to pioneer days. (The cemetery
close by is a cotemporary institution, and one of the most venerable places of
interment in the county. )
United Brethren Church, located in Section 31. this township, was organ-
ized in 1856 with the following named members: Charles Ames, Alvira Ames,
Almina Cooly, Elizabeth Free, John Free and Eliza Free. The church build-
ing was dedicated to pul^lic worship on Christmas day, 1860. The first pastor
was Rev. Michael Bulger, and the present pastor is Rev. J. P. Lea. The
names of the officers (1886) are John W. Waller, leader; D. B. Willhelm,
Stewart; J. W. Walter. H. S. Free. W. J. Andrews. D. B. Willhelm and Levi
646 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Keller, trustees. The present membership numbers thirty-one, and the value
of the property is estimated at §600.
Chrisf s Church in Christian Union. — This society was organized in March,
1884, when thirty-two members were enrolled and following elders elected:
Freeman Tompkins, H. Hippler and J. W. Showers. At the birth of the year
1886 this organization had thirty-eight em-olled members, and the officers
were Freeman Tompkins. M. D. Shetterly, S. M. Beard and A. Boyer; first
and present pastor, G. W. Hagans. The congregation meets for worship in
the old chm-ch-house built about forty-six years ago on the union plan — free to
all denominations — but Christ's Church in Christian Union society contem-
plates erecting a new hoiise of worship ere long.
The Catholic Cliurch of Reed Township was founded here in 1867, years
after a congregation existed here. In 1867 there were fifteen or eighteen fam-
ilies here who desired a house of worship, and in answer to their petition the
present chm-ch building in the northeastern part of the township was erected.
Among the original members the following names appear: Jacob Schmidt, Jo-
seph Ball, Sr. , Joseph Ball, Jr. , Anton Sherly, Ferd. Dendinger, Joseph Bog-
ner, Adam Landoll. John Schreiner, Xavier Fischer, Valentine Daniel, Anthony
Halmer, Sebastian Hahl, Alvis Phillips, Jacob Kanney and Peter Brown.
The chiu'ch has been at*-ended by the priests of the Society of the Most Pre-
cious Blood — Revs. Peter A. Capeter, Nicholas Callas, Sebastian Ganter,
Mathias Kenk. Andi-ew Stiefvater. John B. Birnbaiun, and the present pastor,
Rev. Florian Hahn. The number of families belonging to this congregation
is sixty, and the congregation itself comprises about 500 members. The
schools are presided over by the Sisters of the Society of the Most Precious
Blood, and are attended by over sixty pupils.
Prior to 1837 the private school, a desultory institution, was known in
this township. In April, 1837, the people elected the first set of school
inspectors, whose names are given among the officers, and the same year the
common school was established here.
The people of Reed Townshij) met April 4, 1853, to vote on the question of
selling school lands (southeast quarter of Section 16, Reed Township). One
hundred and seventeen votes were recorded in favor of sale, and two against.
This tract of 160 acres was sold in two lots to Eber Higley, June 25, 1853. for
$1,V)92.75.
The condition of the schools at the close of August, 1884, is shown by the
following statistics: Local tax, $1,815.18; total revenue, $5,274. 12; expendi-
tures, $3,083.65; number of schoolhouses, 10; value of property, $10,000;
number of teachers, 19; average salaries, $41 and $26; number of male pupils,
230; number of female pupils. 203; average attendance, 248.
GENERAL STATISTICS.
The assessment of Reed Township in 1841, gives the following figures:
24,840 acres of land, valued at $58,954; town lots, valued at $1,187; 217
horses, valued at 88,680; 664 cattle, valued at $5,312; mercantile capital and
moneys at interest, $300; total value, $74,433; total tax, $1,172.31; delin-
quencies from 1840, $149.46.
The valuation and taxation for 1884-85, was as follows: 24,239 acres,
valued at $734,940, and personal property valued at $219,350, aggi'egating
$954,290, or $624. 90 per cajnta. The total tax for 1885 is $11,230.88, with
$145 dos: tax.
REED TOWNSHIP. 647
The predial statistics for 1884 give the following figm-es : 4, 408 acres of wheat ;
29 of biickwheat, yielding 244 bushels; ],948 acres of oats, product, 52,278
bushels; 1,780 acres of corn, product, 84,752 bushels; meadow, 2,(302 acres,
hay, 2,858 tons; clover, 1,288 acres, 1,165 tons of hay, 1,182 bushels of
seed, and 46 acres plowed under; 4 acres of flax, 23 bushels of seed; 104
acres of potatoes, i),85G bushels; 41,155 pounds of home-made butter; 80
pounds of cheese; 8 acres of sorghum, 480 gallons of syrup; 1,285 pounds of
maple sugar; 484 gallons of maple syrup; 207 hives, 3,910 pounds of honey;
13,305 dozens of eggs; orchards, 385 acres, apples, 4,808 bushels, peaches,
35, pears, 41, plums, 2; acres of land owned and cultivated, 14,375; pasture,
8,628, woodland, 4,201, wasteland, 28, total acres, 22,227; wool shorn in
1883, 37,228 pounds; milch cows, 554; dogs, 144; sheep killed and injured,
15; animals died of disease: hogs, 85; sheep, 78; cattle, 20; horses, 6.
CONCLUSION.
Comparing Reed Township of to-day with the wilderness it was fifty years
ago, one cannot fail to notice what quiet and patient industry has accom-
plished. Then the village tavern with its puncheon floor, good-natured owner,
men-y circle, simple but wholesome meals, and, it is said, unadulterated drinks,
welcomed the "tenderfoot" as well as the settler. This institution has disap-
peared forever, and in its place has sprung up the modern hosteliy, wanting in
all that made the old inn romantic.
The village store is in a modern building, and supplied with modern mer-
chandise, but it comes nearer to olden times than anything else to be found
here. The church buildings are all modern, as are the congregations. It is
true that a few of the pioneers still appear at worship, but the dress, the
church, the preaching, and, in many instances, the doctrine are all remodeled.
The hospitable log-cabin has given place to the frame or brick residence; the
venerable old rail fence is fast disappearing, the grand old wilderness itself
has dwindled down to a few thousand acres of scrubby woodland, and change
marks everything. Above the ruins of all this, rise the evidences of civ-
ilization. Broad fields of grain, six or seven large churches, pretentioiis school
buildings, good roads, numerous postoffioes, the railroad and telegraph — all
have overshadowed the long ago time, and the people, in an effort to keep pace
with progress, have almost forgotten the past of their township.
648 IlISTOKV OF SENECA COUNTY
CHAPTER XXY
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP.
''T^HIS Township, as originally established, December G, 1824, comprised
-L Town 2 in Kange 16. Town 2 in Range 17, together with fractional
Town 2, in Range 18, east, {vide pp. 239-240), Town 2 in Range 16, and
Township 1 in the same range, formerly belonging to Eden Township, were
set off as Bloom Township June 7, 1824. and continued a part of that town-
ship until the organization of Scipio December 25, 1824. At this election
seventeen voters Avere present — all the fi-eeholders in Scipio at that time — of
whom fom-teen were chosen to fill the offices of the new township. Decem-
ber 5, 1826, Townzhip2, in Range 17, and f i-actional Township 2, in Range 18,
were detached from Scipio and set off under the name of Reed Township.
The name of the township was suggested by William Anway, who presented
the petition for establishment, in honor of his old home Scipio, in New York
State.
The population in 1824 was estimated at about 50, increasing in 1840 to
1,556. in 1850 to 2,321; decreasing in 1860 to 1,835; in 1870 to 1.642; in-
creasing in 1880 to 1,886. The population of Republic, included in foregoing
figures, was 161 in 1840, 917 in 1850, 636 in 1860, 481 in 1870 and 715 in
1880. Within the last year or two the village entered on its business revival,
and the estimate of population gives about 800 as the number of inhabitants.
In 1847 there were fourteen school districts, in which 953 pupils were enrolled.
The township was sui'veyed in 1820 by Sylvanus Bourne, and the portion
of the Indian Reservation therein was sui-veyed, in 1832, by C. W. Christma.s.
William Laughrey purchased the first tract of land here in 1820 or 1821, and
came to reside in 1824.
Rock Creek enters the township in the southeast quarter of Section 13,
flows west thi'ough the southern portion of Republic, thence southwest, and
leaves the township in the southwestern quarter of Section 31. Morrison
Creek, in the center of the north half of the township, and a tributary of
Honey Creek, in the southwest quarter of the township, are the leading streams.
Sugar Creek waters a small portion of the northern sections and flows north-
west into Adams Township. Several spring creeks are also found here. At a
depth of sixty-five feet i^ru-e spring water is found. While these creeks aft'ord
a fair supj)ly of good water for ordinary pui'poses, the wells of the township
supply water of the finest quality for drinking and cooking.
The surface is gently rolling, the soil fertile, farms well cultivated and laid
off in large fields, with many Osage hedge-rows already in existence, and oth-
ers fast rising to usurp the place of the old rail fence; farm houses are all
comfortable, and many elegant farm buildings are pretentious.
The roads are good, while two lines of railway, the Baltimore & Ohio and
the Northw^estern Ohio afford all the advantages Avhich railroads alone offer for
the use of the farmer as well as the traveler. The Baltimore & Ohio enters the
township from the east at Section 25, runs about northwest, and, after passing-
through the southwest corner of Repulilic. takes an almost due westerly
course, leaving the township at Section 19. The Northwestern Ohio cuts
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 649
across tte extreme southwest corner of the township, entering at Section '42,
and leaving at Section 81.
Organization and Officers. — December 6, 1824, Scipio Township was set off
and the first election held December 25, 1824. At this date there Avere onh'
seventeen qualified electors, of whom the following named were chosen officers :
Seth F. Foster, John Wright and Jonathan Nichols, trustees; William B.
Matthewson, clerk; Adam Hance and Joseph Osborne, overseers of the poor;
Ezekiel Sampson and AYilliam Stephens, fence viewers; William Anway, treas-
urer; William Anway, Jr., lister; M. McMillan and C. T. Westbrook, consta-
bles; John Anway and E. H. Brown, supervisors. From this date forward
to 1865 there are no township records which would justify the writer in at-
tempting to give the names of officers elected annually.* From 1866 to the
present time the township books are in fair condition, and fi-om them the fol-
lowing list of trustees and clerks is compiled, the clerk's name appearing
last in each year up to 1885.
1866. ~W. Baker, D. M. Neikirk, J. W. Clay; H. Bromley. f
1867.— D. M. Neikirk. Philo Bugbee. J. L. Anway; J. L. 'Cole.
1868.— Henrv Troxell, Philo Biigbee, J. L. Anway; J. L. Cole.
1869. — Henry Troxell, Philo Bugbee, J. L. Anway; J. L. Cole.
1870.— Hiram ChafPee, J. L. Anwav, Philo Bugbee; J. L. Cole.
1871.— B. F. Moore, J. K. Miller, J. L. Anway; J. L. Cole.
1872. — J. L. Anway, J. K. Miller, J. H. Knapp; J. L. Cole.
1873.- J. B. Stearns, J. H. Knapp, J. L. Anway; J. L. Cole.
1874. — J. B. Stearns, J. H. Knapp, J. L. Anway; J. L. Cole.
1875. — J. B. Stearns, J. H. Knapp, J. L. Anway; J. L. Cole.
1876.— D. D. Neikirk, John Albright, J. B. Stearns; J. L. Cole.
1877.— Henry Hoppler, J. B. Stearns, John Albright ; X. F. Charles.
1878.— W. Bogart, John Albright, D. N. Neikirk; C. H. Turner.
1879.— J. B. Stearns, John Albright, D. D. Neikirk; J. L. Cole.
1880.— Israel Lease, John Albright, D. D. Neikirk; Henry Milber.
1881.— E. Grant, Israel Lease, D. D. Neikirk; Henry Milber.
1882.— E. Grant, Israel Lease, D. D. Neikirk; Henry Milber.
1883. — J. L. Anway, Israel Lease. B. F. Hensinger; Henry Milber.
1884. — E. F. Gray, Israel Lease, J. L. Anway; Henry Milber.
1885. — D. B. Crissell (Republican), J. Hilsinger (Democrat), J. L. Anway
(Republican), trustees; Henry Milber (Democrat), clerk; Henry Mansfield
(Democrat), treasurer; Alva T. Jones (Republican), assessor; J. E. Scott
(Republiccin), Thomas Shaw (Democrat), constables; Stephen Lapham, D. B.
Crissell, H. R. Pettys, justices of the peace.
Pioneers and Pioneer Incidents. — Among the pioneers and old residents of
Scipio Township were many of those men of enterprise who shared fully in
raising this proud county out of the wilderness. There are only a few of them
left to relate incidents of olden times, and, with one or two exceptions, the
memories of the few survivors are photographed, so to speak, in this division
of the chapter; for from such memories, only, could many of the following-
names and incidents be obtained:
Charles Ames, a native of Connecticut, settled here in 1847 .... It is of
record that one H. Anway, a native of New York State, came to the county in
1820, but the fact of his becoming an actual resident at that time is not sub-
*E. T. Stickney was justice of the peace from April, 1839, to August, 1851. John P. Smith and N. P. Col well
were justices in 1865, and prior to that date.
■j-N. P. Colwell was elected clerk in 1850 and, it is said, held the office until 1861, and was a justice of the
peace for sixteen years.
650 HISTORY OF SENEGA COUNTY.
stantiated. "William Anway is said to have settled in Scipio Township in 1821,
but beyond the fact that his son John patented a piece of land in Clinton Town-
ship about that time, there is nothing to define such date for his settlement.
It is stated by his children that he settled here with his family in 1823. He
died forty-five or forty-six years ago, and was the first to be interred in the
cemeteiy at Republic, thovigh not the first to be buried in the township.
John Anway, his son, patented the first lands in the county, being the west
half of the southwest quarter of Section 23, Clinton Township. He was
born in New York State in 1799 and died here in 1883. His marriage in 1825
with Mary Foster, who was born in 1805, was the first solemnized in Scipio
Township. Mrs. Anway moved to California in October. 1884, and died there
February 13, 1885. Her remains were interred at Republic, February 20,
1885 .... Charles and Molly (Smith) Albright, former born in Pennsylvania
in 1810, latter born in 1808, died in 1877. . . .John Albright (who was born in
Pennsylvania in 1835), came to Adams Townshiji in 1830, and moved to his
present home in Scii:)io Township in 1802.... J. S. Armstrong, a native of
Ohio, was here in 1835.
Mrs. Mary Baker (a member of the well-known pioneer Baker family of four
brothers and four sisters, children of Judge Samuel Baker) settled Avith her
husband, Joseph Baker, in Scipio Township in 1822 .... Nathan and Matilda
Baldwin, natives of New York State, parents of Isaac S. Baldwin, of Bloom
Township (who was born at Republic in 1838), settled here in 1835, and in
1838 moved into Republic, where Nathan Baldwin carried on a wagon shop
until his death, September 3, 1849. . . . J. C. Barton, a native of Ohio, settled
here in 1850, and in 1805 purchased the hotel property called the "'Barton
House" ... .In the village of Republic there lives one of the most eminent in
good works and faithful ministers in the Methodist Protestant Chm'ch. Rev. A.
H. Bassett, D. D. , who is the recognized historian of his denomination. Mr.
Bassett is one of the best of men, loyal to the cause he espoused in youth, and
he is beloved hy all as a father in Israel. While siiperannuated as an acting
pastor, he is still doing good work as a writer .... John F. Baxter, who died
December 21, 1854, was one of the old residents. . . .Matthew and Hanna (Lap-
ham) Beard, parents of Charles F. Beard. of Tifiin (who was born in Massachu-
setts in 1829), came from the Eastern States with their family in 1833, to Scipio
Township, where they are buried. . . .Samuel Beigh,who died October 20, 1875,
was an early settler. . . .Dr. George W. Beigh died at Plymoiith, Ind., April
14, 1882 .... Irsael Bentley was an early settler .... Daniel and Clarissa (Chitten-
den)Benh am, parents of Norman Benham (who was born in Connecticut in 1818),
came to the frirm in Scipio Township in 1834, where they died, Mr. Benham
in his eighty-fourth, and Mrs. Benham in her eighty-fifth year .... Rufus
Bishop, who died September 19. 1851, was among the early settlers. . . .Daniel
Billman, a native of Ohio, came in 1847 . . . .Mrs. Polly Bliss (widow of Parley
Bliss), mother of Edward P. Bliss, came to Scipio Township in 1835, and here
Edward P. resided until 1 859, when he located at Bloomville .... Emmett
Bogai-t died August 10, 1845 .... William Bogart, a native of Ohio, was here
in 1841 . . . .M. V. Bogart was one of the old settlers of Republic and the first
mayor of the village .... John Bowerman and family settled here in 1830 ....
John Bowser purchased the land on which the village of Republic stands in
1829, sold it in 1835, and in 1830 settled in Bloom. . . .Mrs. James Boyd (nee
Mercy Smith), second wife of James Boyd (deceased), late of Bloom Township,
was born in New York State and came to Scipio Township with her widowed
mother and brothers in 1835; she died in 1805. . . .George Briney, a native of
Ohio, settled here in 1843 .... Jacob Brong. father of the late Mrs. Samuel
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 651
Mittower (latter born in Pennsylvania in 1822. died in 1873). settled in Scipio
Township in 1835, Avhere ^e died. . . .Aaron T. Brong came in 1835. . . .Paul
Brong, born in Seneca County, New York, in 1824, came to this township in
1835 .... Daniel Brown, born in 1799, in New York State, came to Scipio
Township about 1830. locating on a farm now owned by A^'illiam Baker; he
died in 1872 . . . .Elijah Brown, who died January 9. 1885. in his seventy-ninth
year, resided in Scipio after 18-11; his widow. Catherine (Shirrick) Brown, to
whom he was married in 1833, suiwives him . . . . E. H. Brown was elected one
of the first supervisors of the township in 1824 . . . .Philo and Celia (True) Bug-
bee, natives of New York, former born in 181 5, died in 1870. latter born in
1818, still living, parents of Morgan Bugbee (who was born in Scipio Township
in 1840, died in 1884), were early settlers here. . . .Aaron Bugbee, a pioneer,
died May 12, 18G1 .... Consul W. Butterfield. the writer of historical sketches
of Seneca County, published in 1848, and of Crawford's campaign, published
recently, was among the old residents of Scipio Township .... Hosea Wilson
Burrows, whose father was an earlv settler, and himself one of the founders of
Eepublic Lodge No. 40, I. O. O. F., died August 19, 184(3.
The Carter family came to Scipio Township in pioneer times .... Hiram
Chafifee, a native of Ncav York State, settled here before the war .... Daniel
Church, who died November 11, 1858. was one of the early settlers. . . .The
gi-andparents of James D. Clark settled a farm in Scipio Township in an early
day, now occupied by Mr. Clark .... J. AY. Clay came from Pennsylvania in
1831. .. .Nathan Cole, a native of Massachusetts, father of John L. Cole of
Republic (latter born in Clinton Township in 1840), came to Seneca County in
1836, and died in 1875, aged eighty-nine years. . . .N. P. Colwell. who came
to Thompson Township in 1831 from Madison Countv. N. Y.. settled here in
1838; fi-om 1850 to 1870 he filled town offices. . . .Alvin and Elizabeth (Fra-
zier) Cooley, natives of Massachusetts, man'ied in 1796, parents of Orange
Cooley (who was born in Massachusetts in 1811). came to Seneca County in
1828; Mr. Cooley and his wife died years ago. . . .Franklin Cramer, a native
of Ohio, was here in 1847 .... Mathias and Phoebe (Booth) Cummings, natives
of New England, parents of Obediah Cummings (who was born in this town-
ship in 1837). came to this county about 1830.
George and Christine (Briney) Dallman. maternal grandparents of Mrs.
Daniel Shawbem', came from Alsace. France, to America, in 1826. and to this
county in 1833 .... Evan Dorsey, who first settled in Bloom Township, was in
Scipio Township about 1827 : afterward moved West and died .... Robert Dut-
ton, who settled in Scipio Township about 1822, died in 1823. the first white
person to die in the township .... George Duesler came fi-om New York State
in 1847.
John "W. Eastman, born in New York State in 1797, father of W. S. East-
man (who was born on the farm, where he now resides, in 1835), came to Sen-
eca County in 1831, and following year piu'chased land entered by Nathan
Dix (in Scipio Township), removing his family to same in 1833; he died in
1872; his widow (nee Cynthia Spooner), was born in New York State in 1807,
and died in 1855 .... P. O. Eastman came fi'om New York State in 1837.
James Finch, a native of New York, paternal grandfather of Burtis W. Finch,
of Loudon Township (latter born in Scipio Township in 1846), settled here in
1834, afterward removing to Hancock Coiinty. where he died .... Bellana Finch,
a native of New York, father of Bui'tis W. Finch of Loudon Township, resided
here fi'om the 'time he was nineteen years of age till 1858; then moved to Han-
cock County where he died in 1873; his widow (nee Frances Bolte) died in
1879 .... Nathan Foster, one of the first town officers, came from New York
652 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
State in 1S24 Seth ^V. Foster was elected in 1S24 one of the first trustees
.... Enoch Fry came from Maryland ten years after the township was estab-
lished. . . .Joseph Fisher a native of Maryland, settled here in 1841 .. . .Louis
F. Fisher, a native of Ohio, came in 1851.
John C. and Abigail J. (Seeley) Green, parents of M. Y. and John G.
Green, natives of this township, former born in 1834, latter in 1837. were
among the pioneers of Scipio Township, where they died. John G. Green
moved to Fostoria in 1852 .... Samuel B. and Jane (Striker) Gray, natives of
New York State, parents of E. F. Gray (who was born in this township in
1845), settled here in 1834. where they died, Mr. Gray, in 1880, aged sixty-
nine and Mrs. Gray in 1850, aged thirty-five .... Jacob and Margaret (Dallman )
Guver, parents of Mrs. Daniel Shawberry (who was born in 1847 in Pleasant
Township), were early settlers of Seneca County. Mrs. Guver was born in
Alsace. France, in 1815, and died in 1870.
Zephaniah Hathaway, born in Massachusetts in 1802, father of Heni'y
Hathaway of Eeed Township (who was born in 1828, the second child born in
Scipio Township), came to this county from New York State in 1825 and
entered land here. His first wife, Lucina, daughter of Josiah Smith, was born
in New York State in 1802: died in 1850. Mr. Hathaway subsequently entered
land in Eeed Township and settled there in 1855 ... .Henry and Hannah
(S wander) Hall, natives of Penasylvania, former of whom died in 1881, aged
eighty-two. latter in 1808 aged sixty-three, parents of Joel Hall (who was born
on the farm where he now resides in Scipio Township in 1827), came to this
coimty in 1827 and entered the land whereon he died .... William S. Hall, who
died December 7, 1850, was among the old settlers .... Rev. Horace Hall died
Jime 4, 1876.... Morgan H. Hall died February 13, 1837 . . . . ]\Ii-s. C. M.
Hamilton came fi*om Virginia in 1842, and is still a resident of Republic ....
Adam Hance, a justice of the peace, settled on the site of Republic in 1822,
and subsequently moved West with his family .... Anthony Harpster. a Penn-
sylvanian. settled here in 1828 . . . . H. L. Harris was connected with the
early history, but little can be learned regarding him .... Philip A. Harrison,
who died in Jiily 30, 1852. was among the first settlers .... George Harshner,
a Pennsylvanian,came in 1843 .... The Hennessy family settled in Scipio Town-
ship prior to their removal to Loudon Township .... Josej)h Hilsinger, a native
of Germany, born in 1802, father of Joseph Hilsinger (who was born on the
farm where he now resides in 1841), came to this township in 1835 with his
wife, Mary (Rary), a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1800; she died in 1875,
Mr. Hilsinger in 1878 .... John R. Hill, a native of New York, settled here in
1845 .... Sabert and Mariette (Baker) Hoxter, parents of INIi's. Lewis Ransburg
(who was born in New York State in 1831, died in 1884), came to this county
in 1844; Mr. Hoxter died in 1805 and Mrs. Hoxter in 1858 Heniy Hoppler
came from Germany in 1832 .... Benjamin Huntley settled in Scipio Town-
ship in 1823, coming with the Anways and assisting in building the Anway log
house.
Jacob S. Jennings, a native of New Jersey, father of Mrs. Henry Miley
(who was born in Hopewell Townshii?, in 1830), came to this county at an
early date and entered land. He died in 1857. His widow, nee Osee Black-
ford, born in Warren County, Ohio, in 1 700, died in 1870 .... Henrv' Johnson,
who died July 31, 1849, was among the first settlers. . . .Erastus and Grace
(Perry) Jones, natives of New York, parents of Charles Jones (who was born
in New York State in 1827), came in 1828 to Scipio Township. < Charles Jones
died in 1878, aged fifty-one years Thomas Jones was born here in 1835.
Elder Rating (or Keating) is classed among the old settlers .... Eleazar O.
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 653
Kelley died August 6, 184iJ. . . .Obediah and Plaoebe (Booth) King, natives of
Connecticut, parents of Mrs. George Stearns (who was born in this county in
1831), were early settlers .... Patrick Kinney, a native of Ireland, came to
this county in 1829, and owned a farm in Scipio Township. His son, Edward,
Avho resides in Venice Township, was born here in 1833 .... Henry Koch, a
native of Germany, settled here in 1854.
Joseph and Lovina (Howland) Lapham, natives of Massachusetts, parents
of Noah, Henry and W. W. Lapham (born in 1813, 1818, and 1828,
respectively), moved to New York State in 1800, and later to this county,
arriving here in 1826, there being at that time but one house between their farm
and Tiffin. Joseph Lapham' s land jDatents were signed by J. Q. Adams and
Andrew Jackson. He died in 1871, aged eighty-five. His widow died in
1878 aged eighty-four ... .Humphrey and Eliza (Allen) Lapham, both de-
ceased (former a native of Massachusetts, died in 1868), parents of Squire
Stei:)hen Lapham, of Republic (who was born in New York State in 1821), came
to this county in 1835. . . .William and Jane (Postage) Laughery, natives of
Pennsylvania (former born in 1782, died in 1847; latter died in 1857, aged
seventy -eight), parents of James Laughrey, late of this township (who was
born in Miiskingum County, Ohio, in 1813), purchased land in Scipio Town-
ship in 1820, and settled here in 1824. James Laughrey came with his parents
to the township in 1824, and died in 1885 . . . . S. H. Lamkin died July 27,
1 849 .... David Lawton was here at an early day. In January, 1846, a letter
addi-essed as follows, passed through the Rochester postoffice :
" Pray, Mr. Postmaster, I want to go
To David Lawton, in Ohio,
In Seneca Count3^ in Sippiotown,
And village of Republic, please let me down.
If you'll do me this favour, in double-quick time,
You shall have my best wishes and a Yankee dime."
. . . .Moses Lee, who died September 5, 1848, settled here early in the "thirties."
Henry Mansfield came in 1852, and established a dry goods store at Republic.
. . . .Dr. Maynard built the house where Nathan Colwell now resides. The cel-
lar of his house was a station on the ' 'underground railroad, ' ' and the next
station was Jackson' s cellar near Clyde. At one time there were thirteen negroes
stowed away in Dr. Maynard' s cellar, who, when night came on, would husk and
shell the Doctor" s corn, and return to the cellar on the approach of day ....
William B. Matthewson, who settled here in 1824, was elected first clerk of
the township that year .... Thomas, Maurice, Charles and Rev. McNamee were
very early settlers of Tiffin; of these brothers Maurice, who settled afterward in
Scipio Township, is here still. . . .Morrison McMillen was here in 1824, and was
the first constable of the township, being elected that year .... John and Mag-
dalene (Beever) Miley, natives of Virginia, parents of Henry Miley, who was
born in Eden Township in 1831, came to this county in an early day; Henry
Miley moved to Scipio Township in 1858, and died in 1883 .... W. A. Mills
came from New York in 1856, and J. M. Mills in 1857 .... Hiram Millmau
died February 2, 1851 ... .Philip Miller came from Germany in 1852 .... Rob-
ert Montgomery settled here prior to 1830. . . .Elijah Musgrave settled in 1824;
he served as captain in the Toledo war.
D. M. Neikirk, a native, was here in 1831; David Neikirk in 1833; Joseph
Neikirk in 1847, and Jeremiah Neikirk in 1839 . . . .William H. Norris,a native
of Ohio, was here in 1831, and John T. Morris in 1838. . . .Jonathan Nichols
arrived in 1824, and at the first town meeting was elected a trustee.
Joseph Osborne, who came here immediately after the Anways, was chosen
one of the overseers of the poor, in 1824; this was a peculiar position, as there
35
654 HISTORY OF SENECA COUiNTY.
were only fifty j)eople here at the time, and the heads of families claimed to be all
as rich as Osborne himself .... Gilbert M. Ogden, a native of New York State,
father of Herbert G. Ogden, of Bloomville (who was born in Scipio Township
in 1843), came to this county in 1836 and married Miss Sarah Jopp, of Pleas-
ant Township, who died in 1854; Mr. Ogden carried on business in Republic
for a time and mined in Nevada, dying in Toledo, Ohio, in September, 1884.
. . . .D. D. Ogden came from New York State in 1836 . . . .Nathaniel and Eliza-
beth Owen, parents of Lewis R. Owen, of Bloom Township, came to Scipio
Township in 1833 fi'om New York State. Nathaniel Owen died in 1846, his
widow in 1882, aged ninety years.
T. M. Pancost was agent for the B. P. & C. Railroad in 1859 .... Alon-
zo and Lydia (Phillips) Patrick, natives of New York, parents of Mrs. AVilliam
W. Lapham (who was born in New York State in 1831), came to this county
in 1848. Mr. Patrick died in 1863, aged sixty-four: his widow died in 1876,
aged sixty-one. . . .Giles Pearce, who died July 30, 1858, was a pioneer. Will-
iam Pearce, the first blacksmith in the township, was a free negro .... Richard
T. Porter, born in 1811 in Pennsylvania, came here in 1842. . . .John D. Por-
ter, who died May 13, 1854, was buried by the Odd Fellows, of which order
he was a member.
Lewis Ransburg came from Maryland in 1831. Mrs. Ransbiu-g (nee Hox-
ter). was born in Yates County. N. Y. , and with her parents immigrated to
Seneca County, Ohio, in 1844. where she married Lewis Ransburg. Her death
took place October 12, 1885, in her fifty-third year. . . .Abraham Reynolds, a
native of New York State, settled near Republic in 1830; later moved to Tiffin,
and died some years ago at Carey, Ohio .... Squire Joseph Rhoads was one of
the old justices of the peace Jacob and Elizal^eth (Drake) Rine (both de-
ceased), the former a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1796. parents of John
Wesley Rine. of Scipio Township (who was born in Franklin County, Ohio, in
1826). came to this county in 1836. and shortly after lost everything by fire: a
few years later Mr. Rine owned land in Hopewell Township, which he sold, and
moved to Fostoria. He died in 1847 Timothy P. and Rhoda (Chadwick)
Roberts, former, born in Massachusetts in 1784, died in 1868; the latter, born
in 1792, died in 1872 (were married in 1809), came here in 1825. (Mr. Rob-
erts had entered land in 1823). They were parents of Hon. Mrs. Edson T.
Stickney, who was born in New York State in 1819 O. P. Rogers, better
known as ' ' Ped ' ' Rogers, was among the earliest settlers of this county, hav-
ing moved here from New York State, where he was born in 1816, well known in
1839 by many as a jovial and pleasant citizen. He died in January. 1881 ....
Timothy P. Roberts, to whom many references are made both in the county
and township histories, was born at Middletown. Conn., in 1784. died January
28, 1868. His wife, Rhoda Chadwick, to whom he was married in 1809, was
born in 1792, died in 1872. Mr. Roberts purchased lands here in 1823. and
two years later came to reside in the township. . . .Elijah Roberts, who died
August 9, 1852, was among the pioneers .... Dr. J. Roop came in 1843 ....
Albert A. Rule and Samuel Rule, with their families, settled in Scipio Town-
ship in 1824. Daniel Rule made his settlement in the same township in 1825.
Albert A. Rule died in 1846: Mrs. Rule. Sr., in 1848.
Ezekiel Sampson, who settled here in 1 824, was elected a fence viewer that
year. . . .Jacob and Mary (Litzenberger) Samsel. natives of Pennsylvania, latter
born in 1822, j^arents of Mrs. Charles Jones of Scipio Township (who was born
in Pennsylvania in 1845), came to this county in 1856. Mr. Samsel died in
1877 .... John Scott, a native of Virginia, father of J. Elwood Scott, of Repub-
lic (who was born in Scipio Township in 1848). was an early settler of this
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. boo
township. He died in 1881, aged sixty-five years. , His widow, jVIts. Abbic
Jane (Bugbee) Scott, of New York, born in 1822. still lives. . ..William Scoville
settled in Scipio about 1827. . . .Sidney Sea. better known as "Gen. Sea," is
noticed in the chapter on Courts and Bar. while snndi-y references to him
are made in the military and other chapters and in the history of Republic Vil-
lage. In 1834 he had Scipio Centre surveyed and platted under the name
Republic. In September, 1880, the case of John Wright rs. Sidney Smith was
heard. It appears that Smith (Sea) purchased |64 i worth of land from Wright
in Scipio Township, of which sum he did not pay a cent, so that the court gave
judgment against him. He was a peculiar character in everything, yet pos-
sessed a large amount of energy together with another commodity, which
early settlers'' allege to be " solid cheek." . . . .Robert and Sally (Keller) Shaw,
parents of jVIi-s. Sally H. Rogers, of Scipio Township, who was born in New
York State in 1816, came to the farm on which Mrs. Rogers now lives, in 188 <,
and here died. Mr. Shaw in 1804. aged seventy-nine, and his widow in 1808,
aged eighty-two .... Silas W. Shaw, treasurer of the county, died April 28.
1805. ..°.H. H. and Catharine M. (Bocholds) Shawberry, natives of Prussia,
parents of Daniel ShawbeiTy. of Scipio Township, who was born here in ] 842,
immigi-ated in 1882. and settled in this county in 1888. They were both born
in 1709. Mrs. Shawberry died in 1808 Rev. C. B. Sheldon moved West,
and was a member of the Wisconsin Con. Convention. When a member proved
troublesome, the church was reorganized and admittance refused to said mem-
ber George H. Sheldon, father of Mrs. JohnG. Green of Fostoria, was a pio-
neer . . . .Zephaniah and Margaret (Longstreet) Sherman, parents of Mrs. John
Wesley Rine, of Scipio Township, who was born in New York State in 1884.
settled in this county in that year: now in Michigan Daniel W. and Louisa
(Paine) Smith, parents of Mrs. Richard T. Porter, of Scipio Township (who
was born in Reed Township in 1841). came to this county in 1827. Mr. Smith
died in 1858, Mrs. Smith in 1848. . . .David and Susan (Neikirk) Smith, parents
of Mrs. Joseph Hilsinger, of Scipio Township (who was born in this township in
1889), were earlv settlers here. . . .William Smith, Jr., who died November 21,
1827. was the son of William Smith, who died July 10, 1849. They were
among the pioneer settlers . . . .Hiram Smith, who died March 3, 1850, was one
of the pioneers .... Moses Smith was an early settler, and kept a store near the
Anway homestead — it is thought the first store in the township .... Mrs. Ethan
Smith, in whose barn the Presb}i;erian Chiu-ch of Republic was organized, was
a resident of Kansas in 1884. . .'.Abram Smith settled in Scipio Township in
1827, died three or four years ago. . . .Dr. Jabez Spicer, known as the physi-
cian preacher, mixed up orthodox religion with predestination, and spoiled a
good doctor to make a bad preacher. He removed to Hudson, Mich., and there,
in his own house, committed suicide J. S. Sparks is classed with the pio-
neers H. K. Spooner, an Ohioan, was here in 1887 William Stevens
settled here in 1824 George Stearns, a native of Vermont, born in 1794,
father of George Stearns, of Scipio Township, (latter born in New York State
in 1820), came to this county in 1829, where he died in 1881. His widow (nee
Sophia Baker), a native of New York State, born in 1797, afterward married
William Fleet J. B. Stearns came from New York State in 1829 Archi-
bald Steward settled on Section 29, Scipio, in 1824, died in 1884, His son
James was born in this township in 1829. Archibald was born in Pennsylvania
in 1797 Edson T. Stickney, a native of Moira, N. Y., born in 1811, came
to Seneca Coimty July 4, 1880, and to his present farm in 1851. He is mar-
ried to a daughter of' Timothy P. Roberts, one of the pioneers of 1825. A
family reunion was held at the home E. T. Stickney, one mile and a half east
Q56 HISTORV OF SENECA COUNTY.
of Republic. Tuesdav, October 0, 1885, consisting of C. B. Sticknej, of Xorwalk;
Mrs. John Thayer/ Hammond, Wis.; E. T. Stickney, I. S. Stickney, Mrs. S.
W. Shaw and Mrs. G. M. Ogden. of Republic, Ohio. The combined ages of the
brothers and sisters came to four hundred and nine years, the eldest being over
seventy-five and the youngest over sixty: the ages of Mr. John Thayer. Mrs. E.
T. Stickney and Mrs. I. S. Stickney, added, making the party of nine six hun-
di'ed and two years. The family formerly consisted of twelve children, born in
Franklin County, N. Y. , six of whom came West and settled and are all living.
Those who staid East are all dead. Mr. Stickney was postmaster at Repub-
lic for sixteen years and a justice of the peace for a number of years .... George
and Elizabeth (Small) Swigert, parents of John Swigert, of Bloomville. and
Mrs. Martin Y. Green and Mrs. John F. Heilman, both of Fostoria. came from
Pennsylvania to this county in early days settling on their farm in Scipio
Township in 1844-45, where George Swigert died in 1850. His widow died
in Bloom Township in 1878. . . .John Swigert, of Bloomville, born in Pennsyl-
vania in 1817, came to Scipio Township about 1843. when he kept a hotel four
years in Republic, finally, in 1872. moving to Bloom.
Lance Todd and family came to Fort Ball from Maryland, in 1828, and
the same year settled in Scipio Township .... Henry and Eliza ( Walburn)
Troxel, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania respectively (both deceased), parents
of Mrs. James W. Stewart, of Scipio Townshij) (who was born in Bloom Town-
ship, in 1834), came to this county, in 1834. . . . Alfi-ed Tompkins, a native of
Ohio, was here in 1844. . . .William A. Taber in 1852. . . .Thomas Thompson,
a Methodist minister, in 1832.
H. W. Yan Fleet was here in 1830.
Isaac and Allie (Doauj Watson, parents of the late Mrs. J. T. Robinson,
of Scipio Township (who was born in Bloom Township, in 1844), came to this
township in 1830. Mr. Watson died in 1873. Mrs. Watson in 1850. . . .Asa
Way, who came from New York to Republic in 1833. was a member of the old
bar. . . .Cornelius Westbrook settled in the township in 1824. . . . J. B. Wil-
cox, born in New York State in 1822. came to this county in 1833. . . .Charles
Wilkerson came fi-om New York State in 1843. . . .Isaac B. Witter settled in
Scipio in 1839, died a few years ago .... John Wright settled on the site of Re-
public in 1822. He was the first postmaster and justice of the peace here, and
a gi-eat friend of Gen. Sea. until the lawsuit of 1836 was commenced by him
against the General .... John P. Worstell was among the early settlers. Little
information of an authentic character can be had i*elating to him .... Yost and
Elizal^eth (Helt nep Neikirk) Wyant, former of whom died in 1844. latter of
Maryland, who died in ]8f)8, parents of Daniel AN'yant (who was born in Mary-
land in 1830), came here in 1832, and in 1833 iniilt the house in which Daniel
Wyant now lives, which house is now one of the oldest landmarks in the neigh -
V)orhood.
The subscribers to Butterfield's history in 1847. at Rei^ublic, are named as
follows: Josiah Roop, Jonas Roop, S. AV. Shepard. D. C. Myers, G. H.
Shaw, R. Chamberlin, John AVilliamson. A. AV. Littler, AA'. R. Fleming, Gad
Goodspeed, A. E. Sloat, J. Maynard. Calvin P. Ranson. J. P. Maynard, G.
G. Smith, N. P. Caldwell, Jansen Parmenter, AV. C. Cole. J. S. Smith, AV.
A. Parks. G. H. Spangle, H. R. Allison. James Davis, AV. M. Dildine, P. M.
Smith, A. Burrell. T.Kraft, E. S. Stickney, A. G. Sargent, O. E. Page, Daniel
Brown, H. P. Benton, David Lamton, W. A. Barnes, Ezra Brown, R. AA'.
McCartney, N. Church, AVilliam Parker, AA'. AV. Culver, A. H. AA'estbrook,
P. DeAVitt, H. D. A\ilson. F. S. Kendall, G. AV. Haxton, D. Maltby, L. D.
McCardle, R. F. Parks, Nathan Foster, Job Pettys, A. T. Miller, Peter
Rumsev, D. S. Revnolds, John B. Frarv, Jonathan Pettvs.
scipio TOWNSHir. 657
Schools. About 1826 or 1827 the schools of the pioneer period first made
their appearance in the township. Two decades later there were fourteen
school districts and 953 pupils enrolled. The township board of education
was organized April 18, 1853, with Jacob Brong, George Stearns, Daniel
Brown, David Neikirk, William Baker, Henry Troxall, T. P. Roberts, Elijah
Brown, clerks of the several districts. The Legislature passed an act creating
a joint sub-district, known as the Rockaway District, embracing Bloom Town-
ship, Eden Township, Clinton Township and Scipio Township. Owing to the
vigilance of the township school boards the act was declared invalid, and Rock-
away did not obtain the school building sought for.
School Statistics. — The schools of Republic presented the following statistics
for the year ending August 31, 1884: Number of pupils enrolled, 160 — 82 boys
and 78 girls — of whom 41 attended the high school; 1 schoolhouse; value
of property, $3,000; 4 teachers, average salaries, |67 and $32; local tax,
1 1 , 655. 55 ; "'total revenue, $2, 899. 55 ; total expenditures, $2, 042. 58.
The statistics of separate school No. 3, as j^ublished at the close of August,
1884, give the following figures: Local tax, $11.29; total revenues, $578.49;
expenditures, $244.35; 1 schoolhouse; value of property, $500; 1 teacher, sal-
ary, $40; number of pupils, 56 boys; average attendance, 32.
The school statistics of Scipio Township for the year ending August 3],
1884, are as follows: Local tax, $1,918.32; total revenue, $3,159.36; expendi-
tures, $2,342; number of schoolhouses, 8; value of property, $13,000; mmi-
ber of teachers, 11; average salaries, $38 and $30; number of male pui^ils,
144; of female pupils, 135; average daily attendance, 156.
General Statistics. — The assessment of Scipio Township in 1841 gives the
following figures: 22,843 acres, valued at $63,590; value of town lots, $10,-
741; 307 horses, valued at $12,280; 713 cattle, valued at $5,704; moneys
invested in stores and on interest, $7,030; 2 pleasure carriages, valued at
$150; total value, $99,495; total tax, $1,666.54; delinquencies from 1840,
$102.94.
The valuation and taxation of Scipio Township and Republic village are as
follows: 22,658 acres of land in township valued at $810,010. and chattel
property, $243,180; 282 acres in Republic valued at $120,680. and personal
property valued at $56,610, making a total valuation of $1,230,480. The
total tax is $17,074.06, with $112 dog tax. Republic claims only 9 dogs.
The population of Scipio in 1880, was 1,836, including 715 inhabitants in
Republic village.
The predial statistics of Scipio Township for 1884 are as follows: Acres of
wheat, 2,709, product of 1883 crop, 21,990 bushels; rye, 10 acres; oats, 1,559
acres, product. 65,147 bushels; corn, 1,858 acres, jjroduct. 30,915 bushels:
meadow, 2,305 acres, hay, 2,512 tons; clover, 917 acres, hay, 954 tons, 830
bushels of seed; potatoes, 71 acres, 9,055 bushels; 1 acre of sorghum yielded
65 gallons of syrup; maple sugar, 970 pounds; maple syrup, 1,223 gallons;
134 hives. 340 pounds honey; 15,630 dozens of eggs; 384 acres of orchard,
3,515 bushels of apples, 18 bushels of pears; 14,310 acres of land owned and
cultivated. 227 in pastui-e, 4,172 in forest, 125 waste, total acreage 18,834:
wool shorn in 1883, 47,753 pounds; milch cows, 388; dogs. 112; killed, 7
sheep; animals died fi-om disease, 41 hogs, 290 sheep, 9 cattle and 7 horses.
REPUBLIC.
The original name of the location of Republic was ' ' Scipio Centre, ' ' a
name founded on the principle of the Western Reserve, which confers on the
65S HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
actual geographical center, the name of the township with the word ' ' Centre ' '
attached.
John Wright and Adam Hance entered lands here in 1822. In 1832 Sidney
Smith (Gen. Sea) settled at Tiffin, coming from Portage County. Ohio, that
year. A year or two later he pui'chased lands in Scipio, and in July. 1834,
had a town surveyed at the Centre, and recorded under the name ' ' Republic,
which, as the General said, "was for the public good." In September, 1830,
John Wright, from whom he piu'chased a parcel of the town site, sued him for
the agreed price and got a judgment against lawyer Sea, which he is said to
have paid. His enterprise was little appreciated by the people of Scipio. Of
course John Wright's log house, the first on the site of the village, stood
where Gale's store was in 1847, and was, in fact. Gale's store until its destruc-
tion or removal about 1869 or 1871.
In June. 1835. the town consisted of Rannel's tavern. Gale's store, Amos
Hall's shoe-making establishment. William Pearce's blacksmith shop (a colored
blacksmith) and a few log dwelling houses. The situation ui-ged Smith to adver-
tise the town, and this he did through the columns of the Tiffin Gazette. He
advertised all his lands and lots at Republic and Tiffin, but did not succeed in
disposing of all. as when he moved to Cincinnati in 1838 he appointed lawyer
Chapin his agent until his return to Republic in 1840. A year later he had
his name changed to Sidney Sea by the Legislature, and in 1843 put himself
forward for military honors, winning the position of brigadier-general of mili-
tia. Once in uniform he made every effort to ape the manners of Baron Steu-
ben, one of Washington's distinguished German officers, noted for his
soldierly bearing and qualities, and went so far as to address the unmilitary
body, known as the Seneca militia, thus: 'Look bold! Look fierce! Look like
the devil ! Look as I do ! ' He was generally obeyed, but the loyal old militia
of Seneca County looked forward to parade day as they woidd to circus day.
On one occasion he caught one of his men in the act of jumping out of George
W. Black's restaui-ant at Tiffin. Riding furiously up to him, he addressed the
hiingry soldier thus: "Attention! Great Jehovah! Look down on this! A
son of Republic, a free born American soldier, in the service of his country,
eating George Black's gingerbread on parade. Shame! Shame! Shame!"
About this time he removed fi-om Republic to Tiffin and in partnership with
Luther A. Hall, carried on a law office for some time. Again, when such
partnership had not existed, he went to Kentucky' as the legal agent of Jere-
miah Carpenter, an old settler of Venice, to look after his interests there. He
failed to satisfy Carpenter that his accounting was exactly correct, and as a
result Gen. Sea went to jail in 1846. February 5, 1847. Judge Reuben
Wood, of the supreme coui't, whose term of office fortunately ended Febru-
ary- 6. that year, came to Tiffin, heard the arguments of R. G. Pennington
and Oliver Cowdery in behalf of Sea. and ordered his release. A year later
the family moved to Wisconsin. Such is an outline of the history of the be-
ginning of Republic and the man who founded it.
Original Town and Additions. — Republic was laid out on the southeast cor-
ner of Section 16, and northeast corner of Section 21 by D. Risdon in July,
1834, for Sidney Smith, svibsequently known as '"Gen. Sea." The eastern
and southern additions were made in September. 1835, for Sidney Smith by
Surveyor Shoemaker. Waggoner's addition (Lots 155 to 249), was surveyed
l\v George W. Gist for Samuel Waggoner and approved January 20, 1837.
Patrick's addition was surveyed by George W. Gist in July, 1837, for Shepherd
Patrick. Samuel Waggoner's addition of out-lots was made in August, 1841.
Samuel Waggoner's Burying-ground addition (south jiart of east half of north-
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 659
east quarter of Section 21) was surveyed in December, 1844, Weiker & Schoch's
first addition was surveyed in March, 1849, and Roy G. Periy's in April, 1849.
Farewell Retreat Burying-ground addition was made for Timothy P. Roberts
in September, 1848. In 1874 additions were made by Alfi-ed Jenck, H.
Bromley, D. D. Ogden and Conrad Dagons.
Organic and Official. — There are no records whatever of the organization
of the village of Republic, or of the transactions of the town council from
1858 to 1866. It has been ascertained, however, that M. V. Bogart was
mayor in 1853; W. S. Hamilton in 1854-55; A. A. Hall in 1856; N. P. Col-
well in 1857; -Joseph Bover in 1858; A. A. Hall in 1859-60; Daniel Metzgar
in 1861-62; W. S. Hamilton in 1868. The officers and council fi-om 1867 to
1885 are named as follows:
1867-68.— N. P. Colwell, mayor; J. Corbett, recorder; John Scott, D. D.
Ogden, L. L. Berry, P. Bollinger, E. S. Chittenden, council.
1869. ~N. P. Colwell, mayor; I. B. Witter, recorder; Philip Griffin, D. D.
Ogden, S. Lai)ham, J. V\ . Stewart, Jacob Stuky, council.
1870. — C. Osborne, mayor; J. S. Smith, recorder; George Duesler, J. Scott,
Philo Bugbee, George Karsner, S. F. Hall, N. P. Colwell, council.
1871. — C. Osborne, mayor; J. S. Smith, recorder; George Karsner, P.
Griffin, W. V. Bromley, council.
1872. — W. H. Pearce, mayor; J. W. Mills, recorder; S. Lapham, George
Duesler, Robert Chamberlin, council.
1873.— W. H. Pearce, mayor; J. W. Mills, recorder; Thomas Smith, Phili})
Griffin, George Karsner, council.
1874. — J. W. Shaw, mayor; N. E. Chiids, recorder; S. Lapham, G. A.
Hisey, A. Kellogg, council.
1875. — J. W. Shaw, mayor; N. E. Chiids, recorder; Thomas Smith, Will-
iam Pancost, D. Troxell, council.
1876. — Stephen Lapham, mayor; Jesse Spooner, recorder; C. D. Turner,
D. D. Ogden, Elwood Scott, council.
1877. — Stephen Lapham, mayor; Jesse Spooner, recorder; E. Chittenden,
Leroy Rice, Israel Rice, council.
1878. — Stephen Lapham, mayor; John A. Colwell, recorder; A. Tompkins,
S. J. Beigh, A. Palmer, council.
1879. — Stephen Lapham, mayor; John A. Colwell, recorder; W. H. Anway,
S. C. Neikirk, J. B. Wilcox, council.
1880. — Stephen Lapham, mayor; John A. Colwell, recorder; no record of
council.
1881. — Stephen Lapham, mayor; John A. Colwell, recorder; no record of
council.
1882-83.— George Tubbs, mayor; John A. Colwell, recorder; X. F.
Charles, G. W. Hemingway, Charles Lease, A. T. Jones, Eli Beard, D. D.
Ogden, council.
1884. — E. R. Sage, mayor; William Robinalt, recorder; M. Breyman, F.
B. Ogden, Peter CofPman, H. McCartney, X. F. Charles, G. R. Hemingway,
council.
1885. — E. R. Sage, mayor; William Robinalt, recorder; X. F. Charles,
Israel Lease, M. Breyman, council; E. Scott, marshal; E. R. Sage, B. Cris-
sell, F. Moore, P. Griffin, William Pancost, A. T. Jones, board of education.
CHUKCHES.
The Presbyterian Church^ wp,s known at Republic previous to 1831.
*From Rev. D. D. Biggar's History.
660 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY
for prior to its organization Rev. James Eobinson, pastor of Melmore,
preached there. September 17, 1831, a number of citizens of Scipio met at
the house of Ethan Smith, when Abram Tremain, Rufus Bishop and Brainard
Cleveland were elected ruling elders. April 19, 1882, a society was organized
with the following members: Abram Tremain, R. Bishop, B. Cleveland, Will-
iam Smith, of Scipio, N. Y. ; William Van Fleet and wife fi'om Melmore ;
Eliza Church, Sophia Cleveland and Susan Bishop from Homer, N. Y. ; and
Martha Tremain from Genoa, N. Y. At this time a resolution adopting the
Presbyterian confession of faith was carried, and in the barn attached to Ethan
Smith's house the organization was perfected. For some time after services
were held in the barns of T. P. Roberts and Ethan Smith, and in the winters
within Smith' s house. Rev. James Robinson was the first preacher, receiving
$75 j)er annum, and a monthly call to shorten his sermons. At this time there
were only a blacksmith shop and a little store at Republic. In 1834 the vil-
lage was surveyed and platted by one Shoemaker, settlement was retarded and
the progress of this chui'ch slow. Rev. John McCutchen was the first resident
pastor, having preached here April 22, 1832. He remained almost ten years, and
won a membership approximating 100 for the church. December 10, 1837, a
protracted revival was closed by Mr. McCutchen, and twenty-five members
added to the society, of whom one, Orange Cooley, alone remains. Mr. Mc-
Cutchen left August 20. 1841. Rev. John Spicer, a doctor (who committed
suicide in Wisconsin), was called in 1842, and filled the pulpit until 1844,
although Rev. John Whipple came in 1843. Both were succeeded by Rev.
Merrit Harmon May 23, 1844, who remained until 1846. During the cam-
paign of 1844 politics claimed the greater attention of members, and created
serioiis dissensions in the church circle. An ecclesiastical trial, too, w^as car-
ried on from October 3. 1845, to July 2, 1846. Rev. Calvin Ransom came
January 2, 1847, left in October of that year, and after many changes settled
at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he lost his eyesight. Rev. C. B. Sheldon came
August 25, 1850, and had charge until July 7, 1855. He was ordained and
installed pastor October 8. 1851, and was the first regularly installed minister
of the society. June 6. 1856. Rev. F. Putnam arrived, and he remained until
1857. November 10 of that year Rev. Samuel Montgomery came and re-
mained until April 3, 1859. Rev. J. B. Parlin came in September, 1861, and
was pastor until May 29, 1864. From October, 1865, until September, 1866,
Rev. William Newton was pastor. In the latter year he was called to the
chiu*cli at Melmore. In 1868 Rev. R. S. Lockwood was pastor, and about this
time the services of Rev. Henry Rice were recognized. March 14, 1874, Rev.
Alvin Baker took charge and continued pastor until October 10, 1875. Mr.
Baker died in 1884. Rev. Walton Pattinson was pastor of the churches at
Republic and Bloomville from July, 1876, to April, 1878. In 1880 Rev. R.
B. Moore was called. During his pastorate the church building at Republic
was erected. Rev. D. D. Biggar filled the pulpit afterward. The list of rul-
ing elders comprise the names given as elected in 1831: Joseph Curtin and
Ethan Smith, elected April 11, 1838; Gaylord Smith in 1842; Joseph Creque,
Orange Cooley and Henry Chamberlain in 1851; Elroy C. Smith, B. Rush,
Porter Payne, and Lyman F. Payne in October, 1877.
The first log church biTilding completed in the winter of 1831-32, was erected
on the Anway farm, one mile and a quarter southeast of Republic. In 1837
the second church was erected, during the pastorate of Rev. John McCutchen,
and on its opening the revival services of that year were commenced. In 1845
steps were taken by Rev. Harmon and society, to build the new or third church.
This was completed in 1846 at a cost of |3,()i*>0. This l^uilding is now known as
SGIPIO TOWNSHIP. 661
Stickney & Dentler's warehouse. The present church was completed in 1881.
The whole number of communicants from 1831 to 1884, was 256; of baptisms,
140; of pastors, 17, and of ruling elders, 12. Mrs. Emma Stickney is senior
member of the chiu'ch, having united in 1836: Orange Cooley, in 1837; Nathan
Caldwell and A. J. Scott, in _1840; Mrs. Robinson, in 1843; Jane Miller, in
1846; Abram Miller, in 184 <; Lydia Ann Shaw, nee Stickney, in 1852, and
Hannah R. Porter, in 1854.
The Methodist Episcopal Church, of Republic, is almost contemporaiy with
the old church of Melmore, and for years the same circuit preachers, named
in the histoiy of the Melmore society, appeared here, their coming dating away
back to the days when Cunningham's log workshop was the center of the
Christian Church in the young settlement of Republic. In 1845 the Univer-
salists introduced the era of chui'ch building. In 1846 the Methodist society
erected a finer house of worship, and this was eclipsed in 1847 by the Presby-
terians, who expended a greater amount of money on their house than either
the Universalists or Methodists, viz.: $2,400, the limit of a church building
fund in those days. The history of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Eden
Township contains some facts relating to the establishment of a society here.
tScdem Reformed Church of Scipio and Adams Townshipts was founded in
1837, as a union of the Liitheran and Reformed societies, by Rev. F. Ra-
hauser, and a house of worship erected on lands donated by John German. The
old church of 1837 gave place some years later to a better building, and this
also was superseded.
Salem German Reformed Congregation of Adams and Scipio Townships
was reorganized September 29, 1867. out of the older organization of Adam
Township. John Hensinger presided, with Rev. Eli Keller, clerk. J. Hen-
singer, Anthony Harpster and H. Bachman were elected trustees. In 1868 a
brick house of worship was erected on lands purchased fi-om David Wyant.
The Universalist Society was founded here in 1840 under the name " Uni-
versalian Church,"' and in 1845 a house of worship was erected. Forty years
ago this was one of the leading churches of the township, the society expend-
ing over $2,000 on the erection of a house of worshij).
The Baptist Society, of Republic, was organized December 29, 1837, with
the following named members: Giles Pearce. Content Pearce, Israel Green,
wife and two daughters. Nathan Cramer, Aaron Carle, wife and daughter,
Lowell Robinson, Irene Spooner, Margaret Hammond. Sarah Eastman. Lovina
Robinson and Margaret Holt. The secretaries of the society since 1837 were
Joel Platte. R. H. Blodgett. O. F. Colwell and A. Maria Cole, uee Platte, the
present clerk. The roll of pastors of the chiu'ch embraces the names of Revs.
Brown, Goodenough. Mack. Keating. Beebe, Collins, AV all, Clark, Oviatt. Dunn,
Lockhart, Lyon, Hall, Buell and Ramsay. The present membership numbers
twenty-two, and the value of property placed at $800. Mi's. Cole, in speaking
of this church and society says : ' ' The little Baptist Church at Republic has
passed through many trials and conflicts. It was first called the Bloom and
Scipio Church from the two townships in which the meetings were held alter-
nately. In March, 1839, the name was changed to Republic and the
meetings all held at said village. The church was di'iven hither and thither,
like the tempest-tossed bark, sometimes securing a home for a few weeks or
months in some public building : but this frequently was denied them, and they
were obliged to hold meetings within the naiTOw walls of some private dwell-
ing which had been thrown open by some brother or sister. In 1862 they pur-
chased a house and lot of Republic Union School District for $100. which
they remodeled and dedicated to the service of God. and to-dav we have a
662 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
neat little church in good repair of which we feel proud. ' ' This society was
reorganized under the act of May 1, 1852, on February 18, 1854, from the
Scipio Baptist Society. T. R. Wall was chairman, and Asa Way, clerk. Ben-
nett Spooner, Giles Pearce and P. H. Pettys were elected trustees and Joel
Piatt, clerk and treasui-er.
In the history of the Republic churches by Rev. Mr. Biggar, it is related
that three preachers, a Presbyterian, a Methodist and a Baptist, attempted sui-
cide, of whom two succeeded.
CEMETERY.
Republic Cemefery. — Just east of the Bloom ville road, and north of the
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad is the beautifiil little cemetery of the village.
Many of the pioneers are interred here, and many elegant monuments stand
sentry over their remains. The grounds are neatly laid out and shaded by
ornamental trees.
SCHOOLS.
At page 057 the statistics of the schools of Republic are given. The Seneca
County Academy was chartered in 1836. The incorporators organized on Feb-
ruary 8, 1844, and the academy was opened November 10, 1845, with S. W.
Shepard, principal. In December, 1847, the preparatory school was opened
by Miss Amelia E. Root. From 1845. onward. Mrs. Sarah Jane Thayer was a
teacher here, while Mrs. Eliza A. Baxter presided over the school of music.
In 1870 the academy ceased, and in its place was instituted the Northwestern
Normal School.
When the board of trustees organized in 1844, Timothy P. Roberts was
elected president, William C. Cole, secretary, and Edson T. Stickney, treas-
lu-er. There were nine trustees, under whose authority the red brick building,
still called the "academy," was erected on the east side of the village.
The Northwestern Normal School was founded at Republic in 1870, with
Richartl J. Fraise, principal. In 1874 he moved to Fostoria, carrying with
him, to that rising town, the name, principals, and one or two teachers of his
school at Republic.
The Republic Normal School was founded, in 1874, by B. B. Hall, and the
Urst session inaugurated in the building known as the "academy."
FIRE department'
August 20, 1869, a fire swept away thirteen buildings in the village of Re-
public. The entire contents of the Masonic lodge room were destroyed, and
the records of other societies lost or burned. In 1871 another fire swept away
two business blocks. Prior to 1869 a fire company was organized here, which
ranked with the old-time fire-pail companies. After the fire of that year a new
equipment was introduced, and after the fire of 1871 the department was re-
organized.
Republic Star Hook and Ladder Coinpanij was reorganized under the State
law September 17, 1872. H. R. Covert was elected secretary, and H. R. Cov-
ert, J. D. Hopkins, T. M. Green, Daniel Bollinger and Jonathan Witter, trus-
tees.
societies.
The Masonic society was organized at Republic very early in the history of
the village, but, unfortunately, the records were destroyed in the fire of 1869,
together with all the property of the lodge.
Hildreth Lodge No. 165, A. F. & A. M. , was reorganized under State law
Jamiary 28, 1 873, when trustees were elected.
De Molaij Commayidenj, K. T., was organized at Republic August 10
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 663
1848, with Josiah Roop H. L. Harris, M. Y. Bogart, Ed Wintlirop, Hiram
Humjjhrey, Daniel Watersons, H. Benton, Piatt Benedict and John P. Wors-
tell, members. This was essentially a society of Republic until Februar}%
1869, when the charter was transferred to Tiffin. H. Bromley, elected E. C.
in 1865, continued in office until 1870.
Republic Lodge No. 40. I. O. O. F., was reorganized for incorporation
August 2, 1856, with E. T. Stickney, G. M. Ogden and O. T. Robinson, trust-
ees. H. Burton was previously elected N. G. , and N. P. Colwell, secretary.
Horace Robinson Post, G. A. R., was established under charter Septem-
ber 10, 1881, and named in honor of a soldier who fell at Chancellorsville May
2. 1863. The charter members are named as follows: G. R. Hemingway,
George Tubbs, L. C. Hopkins, E. R. Sage, J. T. Dittman, H. K. Spooner, J.
B. Ennis, L. S. Bergstresser. D. D. Neikirk, W. A. Mills, C. A. Wav. L. A.
Cook, D. Troxell, M. F. Sweetland, W. R. Robinalt, J. P. Sparks, E. C.
Sparks, M. Gray. J. Crossley, J. P. Rogers, E. F. Gray, L. R. Barker, H. M,
Reed, P. J. Shaw, A. Way, *H. C. Martindale, F. A. Lumbar, G. W. Singer
and B. A. Sloate. AY. A. Mills was commander to the close of 1882; P. S.
Shaw, in 1883, and E. R. Sage, in 1884. The post has a membership of about
forty.
Republic Lodge No. 192, I. O. G. T., was incorporated August 15, 1870,
when W. H. Pearce, D. M. Neikirk and George Duesler were elected trustees,
Lizzie Hamilton, secretary-, and J. W. Stewart, W. C. T.
Scipio Rangers. — A society known as the "Scipio Rangers" was organ-
ized in 1847 for the apprehension of horse thieves.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Roll of Business Men. — The business circle of Republic in 1884-85 was
made up as follows: A. F. Betts. E. S. Chittenden, J. F. Freeman, B. F.
Hartman and Stickney & Dentler, di'ugs and groceries; T. C. Case, dry goods:
H. Mansfield Bro.. general store; Cooley & McCartney, F. A. Lumbar, hard-
ware; Cole & Estabrook. Miss E. A. Osborne, millinery and dress rooms; Buck-
eye Churn Co.: J. L. Cole, H. Melber. lawyers; C. H. Correll, restaurant;
Daniel AVyant and H. R. Covert, carriage builder; G. R. Hemingway, hotel;
H. Howland and C. F. Ricketson, liveries; D. Jones, books, stationery, to-
bacco; F. B. Ogden, planing-mill and foundry; stave and barrel works, G.
AYoodward, proprietor; Pancost & Co., furniture; George E. Peabody and AV.
B. Thatcher, boots and shoes; J. E. Scott, meat market; Sourwine & Sons,
floiir-mill; L. F. Strausbangh, jeweler; D. T. Strong, saloon; Hemy Melber,
postmaster: M. Breyman. dentist; George Tubbs, C. E. and surveyor. The
resident physicians of Republic in 1847 were "William C. Cole, Dr. Pierce,
AVilliam L. Hamilton. F. S. Kendall, J. S. Sparks and John Ball. Dr. Spooner
is an old physician of the town. Dr. Magviire was also here, and Dr. Stover
was a more recent resident. Stephen Lapham is justice of the peace.
Railroads and Higltways. — The Mad River Railroad, the history of which
is given in the general history, was actually built and in operation between
Sandusky and Tiffin, via Bellevue, Lodi and Republic at one time; but the
track was taken up and both ties and rails used on the new track via Clyde and
Green Spring to Tiffin. The loss of this road was a serious blow to the young
village, for with it disappeared the chances of constructing the Melmore 6c
Republic line, projected in May, 1836. The old railroad entered the village
from the northeast, at the intersection of East and JefFerson Streets, and then
took a due western course.
The Baltimore & Ohio, once known as the B. , P. & C. R. R., runs through
the southwestern corner of the villasre.
664 > HISTORY OF senega county.
The Kilbourue Road, named after Col. James Kilboiu'ne, who in 1827 sur-
veyed the Sandusky & Columbus Turnpike for a toll-road company, was oj^ened
through Republic. AVilliam and John Anway opened the tirst road to Titfin
in 1823 or 1824.
CONCLUSION.
From the very beginning of settlement to the present time, the people of
the township, and particularly of Scipio Centre, made great efforts, and, in
many instances, great sacrifices, to place this division of the county foremo.st
among the townships. So early as 1832 they entered their claims for the Mad
River Railroad, and won the road some years later: again they assisted in
efforts to secure railroad connection with Melmore and other points south, but
when near the goal of success, other and opposing influences took away the
railroad which they possessed, and destroyed all hopes of success for new enter-
prises of this kind. In 1841 or 1S42 a well organized effort was made to secure
the countj^ seat; but like other measures which deserve success, these failed to
win the coveted prize. With all the failures credited to the center of the
township, Scipio, as a whole, has made remarkable progress, and to-day vies
with the best sub-divisions of northwestern Ohio in wealth and all its accom-
paniments. The building of the Baltimore & Ohio gave a new impetus to the
business life of Republic, and this village now may be said to share with the
townshi}) in general prosperity.
CHAPTER XXVI.
SENECA TOWNSHIP.
THIS Township, known in the original survey as Township 1 north. Range
14 east, was surveyed in 1820 by J. T. Worthington, United States
surveyor, and offered for sale in 1821. About the time the survey of the town-
ships now forming Seneca County was completed, the commissioners of San-
dusky County set off the whole of Seneca, except Thompson Township (as
organized in April, 1820), and the Indian Reservations, into one township ''to
be known as Seneca Township." In other w^ords, Seneca Township as estab-
lished May 8, 1820, comprised all the jjresent county, except the Seneca and
other reservations, the townships of Thompson, Reed and Venice and the east-
ern two and one-half mile strip of Adams, Scipio and Bloom Townships. In
June, 1820, Clinton was detached; in June, 1821, Eden was detached; June 7,
1824, Bloom was detached; Scipio and Hopewell in December, 1824, and
the same date Seneca Township was reorganized, comprising the present town
and Big Spring Township. Big Spring was detached in March, 1833.
The Sandusky River enters the township in Section 30, flows northerly
through the eastern sections in a tortuous course and leaves the township in
Section 1 . The head waters of Wolf Creek find a home here in Sections 16 and
20. and unite in one stream in Section 4, which, flowing through this section, .
leaves the township at the " Worling Farm.''
A few small streams flow south fi'om the water-shed or height of land and
unite with Delaware Creek just south of the county line in the old Delaware
Reservation. A number of rivulets flow east from the ridof'^ road into the San
SENECA TOWNSHIP, 665
dusk}^ River, while numerous springs, creeks and wells yield a full supply <.f
good water. In a few instances, as on the old "Coleman Farm," crystal streams
flow throughout the year fi-om never failing, never fi-eezing springs.
The Ohio Central Railroad enters the township from the southeast at Me-
Cutchenville and, pursuing a northwesterly course, passes Berwick and finally
connects with Fostoria. The Indiana. Bloomington & Ohio Railroad enters the
township a short distance southwest of Berwick, which it passes in its north-
easterly course through the to^vnship. connecting with Tiffin.
Owing to the presence of the Sandusky River, there is a large area of rich bot-
tom lands found throughout the eastern tier of sections. The Tiffin and McCutch-
enville road may be said to mark the face of the plateau or terrace, and fi'om
this westward the township forms one happ.y pastoral picture of well cultivated
farms, neat dwellings and j^retentious farm buildings. The old, old forest has
not all disappeared. Enough remains to beautify the landscape. The soil
throughout is fertile, the leading roads are kept in good repair and through-
out the township the spirit of progress manifests itself in everything.
. Organic and Official. — Seneca Township, as established May 8, 18'2(), em-
braced all the district west of a line drawn south to the base line fi'om the
southeast corner of the Seneca Reservation. The first officers were elected
June 1, 1820. David Risdon,'\Vest Barney and John Lay were elected trustees;
John Eaton, clerk: B. Barney, treasurer; Joseph Keller and David Rice, over-
seers of poor; James Montgomery, Erastus Bowe and Joel Chaffin, supervisors;
P, AYilson, lister, Asa Pike, appraiser: T. Nicholson and Abner Pike, viewers;
John Boughton and J. Lee, constables.
The officers elected in 1820. were re-elected in 1821. with David Smith and
Daniel Rice, justices. Benjamin Gregg was appointed trustee in May, 1821,
and John Boughton, collector. The names of trustees and clerks from 1822
to 1885, both inclusive, are given as follows, the last named being the clerk:
1822.— John Lav. David Smith. Alex McNiitt; David Risdon.
1823.— James Gordon. D. Smith. W. D. Sherwood: D. Risdon.
1824'.— J. ^y. G. McCluer, D. Fox. John Crocker; Abram Courtwright.
1825. — David Culver. F. Waggoner. J. AV. G. McCluer: Abram CourtwTight.
1826.— G. Xessell. F. Waggoner. E. Mills. J.W. G. McCluer; JohnTingler.
1827. — George Nessell. Abram Switzer. F. Waggoner: John Tingler.
1828.— Abel Pratt, F. Waggoner, G. Nessell: John Tingler.
1829.— Abel Pratt. F. Waggoner, G. Nessell: John Tingler.
— 1880. — Fred. Waggoner, William Kimberly, George Fleck: Andrew Eby.
1831. — Eli Ragan. James Burke. Thomas Bland: Andi-ew Eby.
1832. — Fred. Waggoner, James Burke. Thomas Bland: George Nessell.
— 1833. — Lewis Crandall. John Larkin. W. McCormick: A. Eh\.
1834. -Peter Wvgart. David Elder. John Larkins: A. Ebv.
1835. David Eider. J. Neswander. W. S. Nafus; Jacob Wolf.
1836.- William Prior. Lyman Furbash, D. Elder; Jacob Wolf.
1837. — William Perrine. John Davidson, D. Elder; Jacob Wolf.
1888. — John Davidson, John Larkin, Alex. Bolin: Jacob Wolf.
1839. — Anthony Sanders, John Larkin. Alex. Bolin; F. Brashers.
1840. — Thomas Bland, John Larkin. Alex. Bolin: F. Brashers.
1841.— Thomas Brundage. William Patterson. T. Bland; G. T. Christlip.
1842.— Jacob Wolf. George Heck. Samuel Sailor: G. T. Christlip.
1843. — Isaac Sloan. Sam. Sailor, Jacob AYolf: G. T. Christlip.
1844. — Stephen I. Pecher. Isaac Sloan, Sam. Sloan; G. T. Christlip.
1845. — Anthony Sanders. A. Bowland. John Larkin; P. P. Bercaw.
666 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
1846. — William Perrine, A. Bowland, A. Sanders; Gr. AV. Hoffman.
1847. — Alex. Bowland, Anthony Sanders, D. Hoffman; G. ^y. Hoffman.
1848. — Daniel Hoffman, Joseph Spitler, William Perrine; Jacob Wolf.
1850. — James Brinkerhoff. Daniel Hoffman, Joseph Spitler; J. Sailor.
1851. — James Brinkerhoff, Daniel Hoffman, William Rex; Joseph Sailor.
1852. — J. S. Jennings, S. Sailor, J. H. Brinkerhoff'; George S. Christlip.
1853. — George Vanness, P. Weikert, John Mangan; George S. Christlij).
1854. — Lewis Staib, P. Weikert, G. A. Kerr; George S. Christlip.
1855. — Thomas Bland, Joseph Sjjitler. Lewis Staib; Robei-t Byrne.
1856. — Thomas Bland, Joseph Spitler, John Wank; Robert Byrne.
1857. — John Wank, G. W. Anlger, R. McClellan; Benjamin Brundage.
1858.— John Wank, G. W. Anlger, R. McClellan; Spencer St. John.
1859. — David Cline, George W. Anlger, R. McClellan; Sam. W. Sailor.
I860.— D. Cramer. D. Cline, Joseph Spitler; G. W. Hoffman.
1861.— M. Hufford, D. Cramer, Joseph Spitler; A. Weikeii.
1862. — Joseph E. Magers, D. Cline, Joseph Spitler; A. Weikert.
1863.— Joseph E. Magers, D. Cline, William Rex; A. Weikert.
• 1864.— Peter Weikert, J. E. Magers, R. J. Vanderbogart ; A. Weikert.
1865. — Peter Weikert, Josej^h Spitler, R. J. Vanderbogart: A. Weikert.
1866.— F. W. Byrne, Lewis Kintz, R. McClellan; J. M. Young.
1867.— R. McClellan, James Starky, D. Cline; J. Zint.
1868.— D. Cline, Joseph Spitler, R. McClellan: J. Zint.
1869. — J. C. Brundage, Joseph Spitler, R. McClellan; James V. Magers.
1870. — James Sanders, Joseph Sailor, Joseph Spitler; James V. Magers.
1871. — John Wank, Joseph Spitler, James Sanders; James V. Magers.
1872. — John Wank, Henry Lease, James Sanders; G. W. Weikert.
1873.— Allen Pontius, P. Htefling, J. Sanders; G. W. Weikert.
1874. — J. Rex, S. G. Long, M. Arbogast; G. W. Weikert.
1875. — J. Rex, S. G. Long, E. P. Byrne, trustees; James Starky, justice:
G. W. W^eikert, clerk.
1876. — D. Culver, S. G. Long, E. P. Byrns, trustees; A. Pontius, P.
Hsefling, justices; G. W. Weikert, clerk.
1877.— Nicholas Wall, J. Sanders, S. G. Long, trustees: J. Heck, G. W.
Weikert, justices; Isaac Ciilp, clerk.
X878.— E. P. Byrne, N. W^all, J. Sanders; Isaac Culp.
1879. — James Sanders, G. W. Aulger, J. F. Smith; Isaac Culp.
1880.— G. W. Aulger, J. F. Smith, J. Wannemacher; M. B. Sailor.
1881. — Louis Kingseed, James Sanders, G. AV. Aulger; Isaac Culp.
1882.— Jacob F. Smith, J. Wannemacher, E. P. Byrne (refused); R. W.
Brown, clerk.
1883. — J. Wannemacher, J. F. Smith, Levi Haines; R. W. Brown.
1884. — Jacob F. Smith, John Dice, J. C. Brundage; R. W. Brown.
The officers elected in 1885 are Edward P. Byrne, John Dice and C. H.
Bartz, trustees; George W. Bushong, clerk; Perry Eakin, treasurer*; John
Spitler and J. M. Twiggs, constables; R. W. Brown and Joseph C. Reiff, jus-
tices of the peace.
Pionoer Tax Payers. — The following list of the taxable property owners of
Seneca Township in 1822 points out unmistakably the territory comprised in
the original organized township:
*Mr. Cunningham filled the position of township treasurer for fifteen years.
SENECA TOWNSHIP.
iWi
Aldrich, Solomon
Butler, Paul D.
Bowe, Erastus
Beardstill, Chris.
Barney, Consider C.
Courtwright, Abram
Cliapnian, Jeremiah
Chandler, Thomas
Chaffer, Joel
Clancy, John
Crissa. Levi
Dumond, Isaac
Dumond, Daniel
Davis, Isaac
Eaton, John
Gregg, Benjamin
Gordon, James
Gordon, John
Garrettson, Daniel
Grey, Anson
Hulburt, Jacques
Harris, William
Harris, Samuel
Harris, August
Hanks, Peter
Ingraham, Agree n
Keeler, Joseph
Lay, John
McXutt, David
McNutt, Ale.\.
McNutt, Daniel
Montgomer}'', James
Nicholson, Thomas
Pike, Abner
Pike, Samuel
Patrick, Sheppard
Powers, Isaac
Rogers, Eliphalet
Rice, Daniel
Rice, Caleb
Sprague, Ezra
Sprague. William
Shippey. Nathan
Shippey, Robert
Sherwood, W. S.
Smith, David
Swittree, Abram
Pioneer History. — In the foregoing pages the names of early officials do not de-
note pioneership of this township generally, as the township embraced the greater
pai-t of the county, and elected officers from Fort Ball, Tiffin and Fort Seneca,
rather than from settlers within the present boundaries.
Seneca Township was not without its Indian Reservation. Among the gifts
of public lands made by the treaty of 1817 was one to Catherine AValker, a
Wyandot woman, and to John R. W^alker. her son, who, as stated in the treaty,
was wounded in the United States service, at Mangiiagon, in 1812. This
grant consisted of 640 acres to each, to begin at the northwestern corner of the
John Van Meter tract, and to run with the line thereof south 320 poles, thence
and from the beginning west for quantity. This grant the Walkers sold, about
1829, to Judge Lugenbeel and others, and moving to upper Sandusky engaged
in mercantile business there. (Vide page 199).
James Aiken settled here in 1822 .... W^illiam Anderson settled in Seneca
Township in 1823 AVilliam Arnold and his wife settled near McCutchen-
ville in 1823. coming from Frederick Coimty, Md., that year. It is related
that when their first child was born, they had to take the little one to Lancas-
ter, Ohio, to lie baptized. A few years later, the family took a leading part in
the establishment of the Catholic Church of McCutchenville .... Andi-ews C.
Arnold moved to Seneca County in 1849 .... Jacob Adelsberger, a settler of
1833, died near Tiffin; his son John died in 1878 at Fostoria .... Michael
Arbogast (see Hopewell Township) .... Samuel Aulger came in 1834.
Frank and Elizabeth Bartz. natives of Bavaria, parents of Mrs. Casper
Ziegler (who was born in Bavaria in 1836), came to this county in 1840. and
here died .... Peter P. and Sarah Bercaw. natives of Pennsylvania, parents of
Sila^ W\ Bercaw and Mrs. James H. Bare (former born in Pennsylvania, in
1837: latter in this county, in 1844): settled in this county in 1840,' where Mr.
Bercaw died in 1882, and Mrs. Bercaw in 1876 W. Blair settled in Seneca
Township about 1834, and died in 1863 .... Thomas Blaii- was here in 1824 ....
Ales. Bowland was an old resident Hezekiah Brinkerhoff, father of James
H. Brinkerhoff, of Eden Township (who was born in 1819, in Pennsylvania),
came here in 1834. and died in 1847 .... Truman Brashares, a native of Mary-
land, settled in Seneca County in 1835: died December 15, 1849 . . . . Loiiis
Bredoon. —A cannon which was cast at Tiffin, to be used in the celebration July
4, 1837, at McCutchenville, while being proven, biu'st, killing Louis Bredoon
and wounding two others .... Philip Brock, aged ninety-two years, who died
April 5. 1885, was a native of Virginia: moved to Ohio over fifty vears
ago, and was a resident of McCutchenville for forty-five years .... Thomas
Brundage, a native of New York, settled in Seneca, Township in 1828. with his
wife (wee Miss Osee Depue): he died August 21, 1879. Mrs. Johnson, of
668 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Wyandot County, their daughter, was born in Seneca County, in 1830. . . .Kob-
ert Byrne entered the west half of the northwest quarter -of Section 9, Town-
ship 1 north, Eange 14 east, in May, 1883; he was justice of the peace for
many years, and served as countj^ commissioner. He died in 1862. A brother
of his settled in Seneca Township in 1830, and was (h'owned below TitHn in
1832 Frederick Byrne died in July, 1831.
Michael Cahill, who settled in Seneca County, in 1849, freight agent for
the Pennsylvania Company at Tiffin, was killed at the depot in 1881 Michael
Coleman, a native of Ire land, entered 160 acres on Section 4, this township,
in 1834, and resided here until his death in 1874. Richard Connor
was one of the pioneers of Seneca Township .... Dennis K. and Mag-
dalene Conaghan, former a native of Ireland, latter of Pennsylvania,
parents of Joseph Conaghan (who was born in Pennsylvania in 1808), came here
at an early date, and here died .... Joseph and Margaret Conaghan, natives of
Pennsylvania, parents of Horatio D. Conaghan and Mrs. James Sanders, came
to this county from Stark County, at an early date Jacob and Elizabeth
Copier, natives of Germany, parents of Mrs. Henry Hepf (who was born in
Germany in 1817), came to this county in early days, and here died. . . .Mrs.
Elizabeth Cromer, who died April 4, 1885, came fi-om Northumberland Coun-
ty. Penn. , fifty-two years ago, and was a resident of Berwick, for a quarter of a
century. . . .David Culver, a native of New York, came in 1825. . . .John and
Lucy (Bartlett) Crocker, parents of Roswell Crocker and Mrs. Charles ^\. Fos-
ter, of Fostoria, came in 1823 to this county, settling in this township, where
Mrs. Crocker died. Mr. Crocker then moved to Fostoria and there died.
.... Roswell Crocker (see history of Loudon Township).
John and Mary A. Davidson, natives of Ireland, where they were married,
parents of Henry and William Davidson, came to this county in 1834, and
here died .... Jacob and Maria (Apley) Dice, natives of Pennsylvania, parents
of Mrs. Adam "Weikert. came into the county in early times; Mrs. Dice died
in 1879 John Dockweiller settled in Seneca Township in 1833; died in
March. 1880 The Dugan family, of Kenton, were early settlers of Seneca.
Thomas Dunn came from New York State in 1853 .... Philip Dutrow,
father of David A. and William M. Dutrow, of Tiffin, was a native of Mary-
land, born in 1819, and came in 1843 to Seneca Township. . . .Philip H. and
Elizabeth Dutrow, natives of Maryland, parents of Robert H. Dutrow, came
here about 1832; Mrs. Dutrow died in 1881, and Mr. Dutrow subsequently
moved to Tiffin, where he now resides.
John and Elizabeth Einsel, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively.
])arents of Mrs. Robert McClellan, came to this county in 1833, and here died.
....Anderson and Julia A. (BrinkerhofF) Ewing. natives of Pennsylvania,
parents of Mrs. John M. Laughlin, came to this county in 1840; Mrs. Ewing
died in 1847; Mr. Ewing died in Wyandot County, Ohio, in 1875.... John
and Mary M. Eyler. parents of Mrs. Joseph Conaghan, were early settlers of
this county, where they died.
George Flack, who died September 3. 1834. owned lands in Section 12,
Town 1 north, Range 14; and also a lot at Tiffin. Henry Cronise was admin-
istrator of the estate, and Messrs. Seney & Coffinberry, solicitors for the ad-
ministrator .... David and Veronica Foght, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of
David M. Foght, came from Fairfield County, Ohio, to this county about
1828, and here Mr. Foght died in 1881, and Mrs. Foght in 1874. ^. John
Freund came fi-om France in 1849. .. .Charles AY. Foster settled in Seneca
Township in 1826, and moved to a point north of Tiffin in 1829, and to Fos-
toria in 1832. . . .Charles Foster, born in Seneca Township in 1828. moved to
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 669
Rome in 1832 .... Daniel and Sarali Funk, former a native of Ohio, latter of
Pennsylvania, parents of J. K. Funk, came in early days to the county; Mr.
Funk died in 1879; his widow resides with her son, J. K.... Charles and
Elizabeth Fry were early settlers.
The Galbraith family settled here in early days, some persons placing the
date of their settlement at 18'2'2 .... Mrs. E. Gangwer settled in the township
with her parents in 1855, and died July 6, 187(3 .... Hassel A. Garrison car-
ried on a tavern without a license in 1832, and was lined $5 and costs; beyond
this there is little or nothing to be learned of this old settler .... Michael and
Eva Gessner, natives of Germany, parents of Mrs. Christian Ruehle, came
here at an early date .... Andi-ew and Catharine Gillig, natives of Germany,
parents of Joseph Gillig, came here from Stark County in 1844; Mrs. Gillig
died several years ago, Mr. Gillig in 1809.
Job and Ann Haines, parents of Jonathan A. Haines, of Big Spring Town-
ship, and Owen and Levi Haines, of Seneca Township, came here about 1840,
and here died, the former in 1845, and the latter in 1857 ... .George and
Elizabeth Harmon, former a native of Virginia, born in 1807, latter born in
Ross County, Ohio, in 1812, parents of George A. Harmon, came to Seneca
Township in 1831, and here Mrs. Harmon died in 1875. . . .George and Sarah
Heck, former born in Ohio in 1797, latter a native of Germany, died in 1839,
parents of John Heck, were pioneers of the county; Mr. Heck is still living on
the farm where he has spent sixty-three years of his life .... Henry Hepf , a
native of Germany, born in 1813, came to this county in 1830. .. .William
Hitt' s name occurs in pioneer documents, but of him little can be learned ....
F. J. Hirt, who stabbed John Feck in 1841, escaped to Canada, subsequently
settled in Johnson County, Iowa, induced his wife and mother to move thither,
and there killed them and hanged himself .... Hemy Houck, born in 1810,
settled in this county in 1832, and after residing near Tiffin a short time,
moved to his present farm in this township.
Jacob S. and Osee Jennings, former a native of New Jersey, latter of War-
ren County, Ohio, parents of Mrs. Benjamin C. Reeme, came here several
years ago and died.
Joseph Keller, born in Pennsylvania in 1797, father of Amos Keller, came
in 1849 to this county where he died in 1855 John King, one of the early
settlers of Tiffin, was killed at Fort Ball in 1855 .... Martin Kingseed came to
Seneca in 1834; bvit sixteen years later moved to Fostoria, where he has taken
a leading part in building up the city .... Anton and Margaret (Rauth) King-
seed, natives of Germany, both l^orn in 1 796, parents of Mai-tin Kingseed,
came by wagon from Pennsylvania to this county, settling in Seneca Township,
where Anton Kingseed still resides at the age of eighty-nine years .... Jacob
Kirgis. a native of Germany, father of Henry Kirgis of Bloom Township,
came to Seneca Township in 1833. . . .Anton Kingsman or Kc^nigsman, came
here in 1834. Two years prior to this date he left Bavaria.
John M. Laughlin. born in New York State in 1839, came to Seneca Town-
ship about 1 840 .... Jacob and Elizabeth Lease, former, a native of Maryland,
latter of Ohio, parents of Mrs. Horatio D. Conaghan, came here in early times
and here Mrs. Lease died; Mr. Lease moved subsequently to Wyandot County.
.... John F. and Elizabeth Long, natives of Switzerland, parents of Mrs.
Joseph AVeisenberger, came here in early days .... James Lockhart, one of tlje
oldest residents of this part of the county, died March 15, 1885, aged seventy-
five years .... Joseph Lonsway, or Longuin, a native of Three Rivers, province
of Quebec, born in 1818, is a pioneer of the county. . . .Col. Peter Lott, born
670 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
March 8, 1795, near Gettysbiu-g, Penn., settled at Eiver Bend in 1829, and
died at Forest, Ohio. December 19, 1872 Lorenz Ley was an early settler.
Alexander and Mary Morrison, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania,
respectively, parents of jVIi's. William Davidson, came to Seneca County in
1825. and here died .... John H. and Charlotte MoiTison, natives of
Pennsylvania, parents of ]\Irs. Henry Davidson, came to this county in 188 <.
where ']Mr. Morrison died in 1857, and his widow in 1883 .... Joseph and Jane
McClellan, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Robert McClellan, came from
Kentucky to Seneca County in 1822, where Mr. McClellan died in 1860, and his
widow in 1866 .... AYilliam McCormack was among the pioneer settlers of the
township Joseph McCutchen settled south of the county line in 1827
Miles Mitten, a native of Maryland, settled in Seneca County in 1838, moved
to Wvandot County in 1843, and died in 1865 Bernard Murphy, a native
of Ii-eland, settled in Seneca Township at an early date, moved to Big Spring
Township about seventeen years ago: he served as clerk of Big Spring Townj
ship for many years Joseph Musgrave settled at McCutchenville in 1845
Joseph and Sarah Martin came in an enrly day .... John and Margaret
Myre were early settlers.
Michael Noel, a pioneer of the county, died in April, 1870.
Timothy O'Connor, a native of Ireland, located in Connecticut, in 1848,
and came to Seneca Township in 1852.
James Pence, a native of Virginia, came here in 1832 Elijah Penning-
ton located in Seneca County in 1826 Peter Pennington was born just south
of the county line in 1835 . ". . .Benjamin Peck was one of the pioneers.
Samuel and Elizabeth Ralston, natives of Yu'ginia, parents of jVIi's. George
Swigai-t, came to this county in 1834. Mr. Ralston died in 1868; his wjdowis
yet living. . . .Sarah Ramsower, a native of Pennsylvania, came in 1852. . . .
Jacob and Joanna Redfox. natives of Germany, parents of Jonathan Redfox.
settled here about 1833; Mrs. Redfox died in 1851. Mr. Redfox. in ]8()().
Michael and Bridget Redmond, natives of Ireland, parents of ]Mi-s. Peter
Haefling, came to Seneca County in 1835, where Mr. Redmond died in 1849,
and his'widow in 1854. . . .Jeremiah Rex. a native of Ohio, was here in 1844.
Gus G. Reininger settled in Seneca Township in 1832 Jacob and Mary
E. Reisz, natives of Germany, parents of Daniel Reisz, came in 1833, to the
farm where Daniel Reisz now resides, and here they died Mrs. Lida Roley.
widow of Jesse Roley, and mother of Inman Roley, came with her family to
this county in 1833. 'and here died in 1843; Inman Roley located here in
1833 Daniel Friedi-ich and Margaret M.» (Ruehle) Ruehle, natives of Ger-
many, came here in 1848 John J. Ruehle, (deceased), a native of Germany.
father of Christian Ruehle. came to the county at an early day; his widow.
Mrs. Catharine Ruehle, a native of this county, is living.
Anthony and Mary A. Sanders, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of James
Sanders, came at an early date to this coimty, where they died . . . . G. N. Scott.
an Ohioan, settled here in 1849 William Shaffner, a Pennsylvanian. came
in 1843 Jacob and Margaret Shoup. former a native of Pennsylvania.
latter of Maryland, parents of Mrs. Henry Funk, came here in 1844 .... Christian
Scheer, a German, came to this county in 1835 Jacob and Elizabeth C.
Staib. natives of Germany, parents of Jacob U. Staib, came to this county in
1835, where Mr. Staib died in 1867, aged eighty-seven, and his widow in
1880, aged ninety-seven years; Jacob U. Staib came in 1833.
Christopher and Elizabeth Terflinger, natives of Virginia, parents of Lew-
is Terflinger, came to this county fi'om Wyandot County, with his parents.
SENECA TOWNSHIP. H71
Jacob and Elizabeth, in 1880, and lived on the farm where Lewis Terflinger
now resides; here Mrs. Terflinger died in 1865, and Mr. Terflinger in 1866.
Theobald and Catharine Wagner, natives of Germany, parents of Theobald
Wagner, came direct to Seneca County in 1833; Mr. Wagner died in 1847 ....
The Wannemachers are classed among the old residents of the township; S.
T. W^annemacher, a native of Ohio, was here in 1849 .... Peter and Susan
Weikert, natives of Ohio, parents of Adam Weikert, came at an early date.:
in 1876 they located near Tiffin, where they now reside .... Matthias and Jo-
sephine Weisenberger, natives of France, parents of Joseph Weisenberger,
came here in 1833, where IVIi*. Weisenberger died in 1846, and Mrs. Weisen-
berger in 1836 .... Andrew Willett, a German, came in 1842 .... Adam Wilhelm
was one of the old settlers .... John Wininger, born in Fairfield County, Ohio,
in 1810, was a son of Adam Wininger and Mary Crow% the latter of whom was
sold for a certain number of years to pay her passage from Ge^rmany ; so early as
1832 he kept a tavern in this county. . . .Andrew J. Wonder, born in Wayne
County, Ohio, settled in Seneca with his parents in 1830; now resides in Wy-
andot County .... George AYorley, a native of Germany, came in 1835 ....
Martin Werling, an Ohioan. was here in 1846. . . .George and Elizabeth (Long)
Wehrle, natives of Germany, former born in 1820, latter in 1827, married in
New Riegel in 1847, parents of Joseph C. Wehrle, were early settlers here.
John H. and Catharine (Cooney) Yambert, natives of Pennsylvania, former
father by a former marriage, of Rev. Aaron Yambert, of Seneca Township,
came with their family to this township in 1831, where Mr. Y''ambert died in 1863
.... William Yambert settled in Seneca County in 1833, died in 1863 .... Dan-
iel Yambert was drowned in the Sandusky, near Mexico, in 1841; three sisters,
whose names have not l^een learned, were drowned together at this point ....
B. Yeutzer. a native of Pennsylvania, came to this township in 1840.
Casper Ziegler, born in Bavaria in 1820, came to Seneca County in 1846 ....
Jacob and Elizabeth M. Zeis, natives of Germany, parents of Mrs. David M.
Foght and Leander Zeis, came to this township about 1828; Mr. Zeis died in
1876, and his widow in 1878. . . .Joseph and Julia Zint, parents of Mrs. Levi
Haines, came to this county at an early date.
There were others who settled here in i^ioneer times, of whom little or noth-
ing authentic can be learned. In the official history of this township, and in
the various sections into which this chapter is divided, many pioneer names
OCCU1-. Thus, although the names are omitted in the pioneer section of the chap-
ter, they find mention in direct connection with the event or institution that
claimed their interest. It will be found, however, that the great majority of
pioneers, who were identified with the actual progress of the township, find
mention here.
VILLAGES.
^1 Berwick was platted in an angle between Railroad Street, Pittsburgh
Street, and Findlay Street, was surveyed by Thomas Heming, in April.
1845, forH. B. Kaestner, W. Brinkerhoff" and John Campbell. De Camp's
addition was surveyed by Thomas Heming, July 27, 1847, for Ralph and
Mary De Camp. Weikert" s addition was made in July, 1848, for Peter Wei-
kert. Christlip's addition was platted February 12, 1857. by L. E. Holtz, for
George S. Christlip. J. Mathias' addition was suiweyed in August, 1881, and
C. Foster & Co. 's in March, 1881. The name was conferred on the village by
John Campbell, who came from Berwick, Penn. , prior to 1845.
The business circle of Berwick, in 1884-85, comprised: S. P. Bemisderfer,
Sailor & Son, general stores; John Kimble, M. Weber, groceries: N. P. Nick
and F. Walton, druggists; "Central House;" "Junction House;" J, Cromer,
(572 HISTORV OF/SENECA COUNTY.
blacksmith; Higbee, Miller & Co., grain elevator; H. Peer, cooper; J. Seren,
shoe-maker; Joseph Sobly, carpenter; J. L. Shafer, railroad agent, and S. W.
Bercaw, express agent.
The village is situated on the slope of the Big Spring Ridge, or height of
land, at the crossing of the Ohio Central and the Indiana, Bloomington &
Western Railroads, thus enjoying direct communication with north and south
and east and west.
McCutchenville. — This village is partly in Seneca Township, and partly in
Wyandot County. It was platted in ]8'29 for Col. Joseph McCutchen, by Dr.
G. W. Sampson, who was a surveyor as well as physician. In that year
Col. McCutchen erected the first dwelling house, and Dr. Sampson the second, in
1830. Aaron Welsh opened the first store about this time. Among the first
settlers in the vicinity was James Wright, an Indian captive, who for years
was silversmith and trinket-repairer to the Delawares of the Tymochtee. Sam-
uel Keenan opened a hotel here in 1880, and conducted it for twenty-one years.
The Noels, Arnolds, Dunns, Braytons, Chamberlins, Brockleys, Smiths,
Schaffers and others, named in the pioneer history of the townships, were here
in pioneer days. Ct. W. Sampson' s addition to McCutchenville was surveyed
October 1. 1874, by John Agaton. That portion of the village in Seneca
County is bounded by the Ohio Central on the northeast, and the street running
parallel with the Tiffin road on the northwest, the base line forming the south-
ern boundary.
CHURCHES.
In 1833, when James M. Chamberlin settled at McCutchenville, there
was a log church one quarter of a mile north in Seneca Township, which
Avas taken down and a new building erected in the village, which was the
Methodist Church up to 1858. Shortly after 1833 the German Reformed
Society and the Lutherans erected a log church, which they sold in after years,
having no necessity for a church at that point. Then the Methodist Protest-
ants (1835) undertook to build a church, which they were unable to complete.
The Congregational society was then formed, and agreed to complete the
church for the privilege of its use half the time for twenty-five years, but in
1860 the Congregationalists and Methodist Protestants agreed to sell the build-
ing, the former having disbanded in 1850. In 1834-35 Mr. Arnold and other
Catholics erected a neat frame church, which continued in use down to a few
years ago, when it was burned by an incendiary. The Albright society erected
a small frame house at McCutchenville, which they used until the brick church,
two and a half miles east in Seneca County, was completed, when the old build-
ing was disposed of.
Methodist Episcopal ChurcJi, McCutchenville. was founded early in the
' 'thirties. " one mile and one-fourth north in Seneca Township. Before 1840 the
old log house was abolished and a church built at McCutchenville, which
continued in use until 1858, when the pi-esent house was erected at a cost of
$2,500. Among the early members were Thomas and Caleb Brundage, John
Tingle, John Nafus, Samuel Sailor, D. Wetzell, Hugh Mulholland, Jacob Sig-
ler, Messrs. Nestle, Pratt, Ellis, Drake, Vanness and their wives, with Mrs.
Samson, Mrs. Porter and Mrs. Dedwitt.
First Presbyterian C/«<rc/<. Immediately after the collapse of the Method-
ist Protestant and Congregational Societies in 1850, the Presbyterians organ-
ized, and in May. 1854, established a society, worshiping in the church of the
Methodist Protestants and Congregationalists until 1860, when a new house
of worship was erected. The early members were J. M. Chamberlin, S. Hill,
J. C. McGoffin. Jacob Johnson, J. Mangus, P. Lott, W. Kerr, John Kerr,
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 673
Matthew Laird. J. H. BrinkerlioflF and their wives, with a number of female
members. This church has been attended by suj^plies since the time Revs.
Charles Thayer. L. Pelan and Matthew Roger, the organizing ministers.
Zion United Brethren Church was founded in 18-4(5 in the cabin of Hiram
Anderson, with George and Sarah Curts and Catherine Anderson, members.
In 185-4 a house of worship was erected on Section 23. T^-mochtee Township.
Ebenezer Evangelical Church was organized in October, 1835, at Jacob
Corf man's house by Rev. Hem-y Downey. In 18-45 a missionary society was
formed, in 1850 and 1860 revivals were held, and in 1867 a Sabbath-school
was founded.
Methodist Ej'iscojxd Church and Evangelical Chapel, at IMexico, border on
the south line of this coimty. The first was built in 1869 at a cost of $5,000,
and the latter in 1876 at a cost of §2, 300.
German Evangelical Lutheran and German Reformed Protestant Congre-
(lation of Seneca Township was organized under State law. July 16, 1848,
with Philip Nubergall. chairman; Casper Buchman, clerk; Lewis Staib, treas-
urer; Konrad Schmit. A. Biu'gdoerfer and Lewis Staib, trustees.
German Reformed Church. — The building, a frame structui'e, w^as erected
in 1860, a few miles northeast of Berwick
Soidh Bend Bethel Church Society was incorporated as a branch of the
Evangelical Association of North America, March 17, 1875. Aaron Yambert
Avas chairman and Z. "W. Roseer. secretary. They, with D. Foght, William
Yambert and Thomas Brundage were elected trustees.
Salem Reformed Church (Seneca Township) was founded November 12,
1853. by Rev. E. N. Gerhart, with Casper Buchman, Isaac Miller, Ludwig
Emich, Lambert Martin, John Houck, Jacob Schaub, A. Bm-gdoerfer, W.
Rex and F. Baker, members. This was a reorganization of the Lutheran and
Reformed Society organized one mile and a half east of New Riegel in 1834,
where a house of worship was built in 1837. Immediately after reorganiza-
tion in 1853 this bvailding was replaced by a frame structiu-e. The pastors
have been E. Y. Gerhart. M. Mueller. J. J. Escher, F. Strassner. Jacob Kuhn,
"W. H. Fenneman. L. Richter. J. H. Good. A chiuch was established at Ber-
wick in 1850, by Rev. F. AVahl, the members and pastors of which are iden-
tified with the Salem Church.
Deutsche Vereinigte EvangeUste Seneca Jerusalem Kirche was erected in
1861, and dedicated December 15, same year. This is a brick church, erected
within the church cemetery.
Seneca United Brethren C/(!?(rc/i was built in 1881, near Isaac Wannemak-
er's house. Rev. Mr. Sargent, of Melmore, was the pastor.
CEMETERIES.
South Bend Cemetery Association was founded by persons interested
in the old burying ground, on the James Starkey farm, April 2, 1864.
John Kerr, J. 'H. Brinkerhoff, P. P. Bercaw, E.' Evler, J. C. Brinker-
hoff, J. Wininger, M. J. Laird, M. Laird, J. McGoffin, C' M. Lott, D. Slusser,
John Mangus, James Starkey, Solomon Wininger, "W. Yambeii, Solomon
Yambert. S. St. John and George F. Brinkerhoff were the incorporators.
Hoffman Cemetery. — The grounds around the old Hoffman graveyard were
sm-veyed February 4. 1864, for John KeiT, J. Mangus and George L. AVin-
inger, trustees. There are a few other biu-ial gi'ounds in the township, all
neatly kept.
SCHOOLS.
The school statistics of Seneca Township for the year ending August
fi74 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
HI. 1884, are as follows: Number of males em-olled, 209; of females. 227;
average attendance, 248 ; schoolhouses, 12; value of property, $17,600;
number of teachers, 24; average salaries, $40 and $86; local tax, $3,571.41;
total revenue. $6,921.12; expenditures, $4,729. In December, 1833, a school
building bee erected the tirst schoolhouse and completed it in one day. May
26. 1838. trustees John Davidson. John Larkins and Andrew Bolin laid out
nine school districts, and from this date the system advanced until the schools
of the township to-day rank among the best in the county.
VALUATION AND TAXATION.
The assessment roll of Seneca Township, for 1841, gives the following fig-
ures: 22,187 acres of land valued at $60,155; no town lots; 264 horses
valued at $10,560: 598 cattle, valued at $4,784: 1 pleasure carriage valued
at $100. Total. $75,599. Total tax. $1.0/7.28. Delinquencies fi-om 1840,
$67.88.
The valuation and taxation of Seneca Township for 1 884-85, are set forth in
the following statistics: Number of acres of land, 22,588, value, $848,440;
value of personal property, $247,190; total valuation, $1,095,630. Total tax-
ation for 1884-85, $12,597.01, with $133 for dogs. The population in 1880
was 1,519.
The predial statistics of Seneca Township for 1884 give the following
ligui-es: Acres of wheat, 4,748, product in 1883. 45,4 <6 bushels; oats.
l!l08 acres; barley, 23 acres; corn, 2,859 acres, produced 78.455
bushels: 766 acres of meadow yielded 1.012 tons of hay; 1,140 acres
of clover yielded 1.303 tons of hay and 1,120 bushels of seed; 136 acres
of potatoes gave 14,640 bushels; home-made butter, 58,420 pounds;
18 gallons sorghum syrup; 20 pounds maple sugar and 446 gallons maple
syrup; 167 hives. 1 , 008 pounds of honey ; 40,870 dozens of eggs; 1 acre of
vines produced 60 gallons of wine; 448 acres of orchards, 6,320 bushels of
apples and 45 bushels of pears. Acres of land owned and cultivated, 14.414;
in pasture. 1.854: in forest, 4,093; waste, 15: total, 20.3/6 acres: wool shorn
in 1883. 8,796 pounds: milch cows, 573: dogs. 133; killed 43 sheep and
injured 37; domestic animals died of disease, 84 hogs. 134 sheep, 30 cattle
and 12 horses.
CONCLUSION.
The history of this old township begins in 1820. while yet an Indian family
were the sole owners of lands within its present limits. ■ A few years later the
stream of immigration crossed the Sandusky River, and formed, as it were,
expansions here. The settlement grew in numbers and influence even before
1830, and di-ew around it all those old settlers who have built up the township
to its present proud position among the divisions of Seneca County.
The population in 1830 was 369. Ten years later it was placed at 1.393;
in 1850 it was 1.617: in 1860. 1823; decreased by 18/0, to 1.(71, and by
1880, to 1,519. New fields of enterprise and the growth of the youth of 1860
to that age when such fields carried them away from home, may account for a
decrease of 3.000 in population within twenty years.
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 675
CHAPTER XXVII.
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP.
THIS division of the county was surveyed into quarter sections in 1820 by
Price J. Kellogg, and a year later the squatter settlers entered their
lands there. In 1820 the population did not exceed twenty inhabitants; ten
years later the number increased to 3<)2; in 1840 the census returns place the
number of inhabitants at 1,404; in 1850 at 1,068; in 1860 at 1,702; in 1870
at 2,070; and in 1880 the population was 1,901. A reference to the statistics
at the close of this chapter will point out the township's value and predial
growth.
The corniferous outcrop in Thompson is of a marked character. On the
northwest quarter of Section 20 it was worked years ago by John W. Paine.
On the southwest quarter of Section 16, George Good and Samuel Royer quar-
ried in fine horrizontal beds of this conformation, and so on throughout the
township. Reuben Hartman's quan-ies on Section 14; John M. Krauss' on
Section 15; Wygart's on Section 11; Isaac Kerns on Section 10; Joseph
Sherck's on Section 21; the Hoover quarry on Section 29; the old Grimes
quarry on Section 2; Benjamin Bunn's on the same section; "William Clem-
en's, George Sheffield's and Charles Smith's old quaiTies in Section 1 were
all good exposiires or so lightly covered by drift material as to rank with
outcrops. In some localities within the township the corniferous rocks
present many evidences of upheaval and convulsion, leaving several crev-
ices or openings, sometimes called fissures, which are said to connect with
the nether world. Sink Creek disappears in one of these fissures and it is
called the "River Styx" of this part of the continent. In the ancient history
of European countries it is a common thing to find related the fact of a river
or lake springing into existence in one night; within this township, in our own
times, the phenomenon has taken place on a small scale. Years ago Samuel
Horner decided to dig a well, and, in proseciating this determination he struck
rock at a depth of six or seven feet, when a sti-eam of water rushed forth, which
has since continued to flow. Samuel is said to have used an iron bar and not
the Scriptural Mosaic rod.
In the Sandusky Clarion of August, 1844, now in possession of Mr. Wag-
goner of Toledo, that gentleman states the following facts : "A man well known
to myself had a team of three yoke of cattle plowing in the spring. AVhen it
commenced raining he stopped his work and turned his cattle loose in the field.
The rain proved to be a strong storm lasting several days. When it held up
and the cattle looked for after, one of them was missing, supposed by the owner
to have jumped the fence and strayed off, until more than three weeks after-
ward when the ox was found in the lot. where it had settled down through the soil
into the crevice of a rock below, and nothing but his head and shoulders out.
He was taken out, and lived, with no other injury than the loss of hair fi'omthe
bru.ised part; another ox was lost three weeks, and found at the bottom of a
sink-hole in the woods, the sides of which he had browsed clean. "
The existence of these holes, the rise and fall of the waters which appear
in them, and their connection with other phenomena in ^lorthwestern Ohio, all
676 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
pertain to the philosophy of history rather than to history, and for this reason
their existence is only referred to here.
The township historian, writing in 1873 for D. J. Stewart's atlas, refers to
another natural curiosity in this vicinity. He says: "This township possesses
a far more remarkable phenomenal cui'iosity than these sink-holes. We refer
to Thompson's Cave, which affords an interesting object to the casual visitor,
or to the scientist and geologist. The entrance to this remarkable subterran-
eous natural structm-e is situated a short distance fi'om the original track of
the Cincinnati, Sandusky & Cleveland Railroad, in Section 1, near the extreme
northeast corner of the county. It is located on land owned by Mrs. Elizabeth
Kinney, which was formerly owned by her husband, Mason Kinney, deceased,
one and one-half mile fi'om Bellevue, and not quite a mile fi-om Lewisville, in
this township. The discovery of this cave is generally attributed to George
and Henry Hassan, and the first exploration of it to Lyman and Asa Strong.
Prior to 1815 we find that it was known to exist by some of the early settlers
upon the fire lands, as mention is made of it in a manuscript now in oiir pos-
session, written in 1814. It was then a sort of general rendezvous for rattle-
snakes, and from this circumstance was yclept 'Rattlesnakes' Den. ' It was a
frequent resort for hunters in those days, who delighted in killing these ven-
omous reptiles. They were ultimately successful in exterminating them, and
none have been seen in the vicinity for many years." In 1844 the water rose
to within thirty feet of the surface, or a height of 170 feet in the cave.
The soil throughout the township is of the most fertile character, the farms
show the care bestowed upon them, while in everything pastoral Thompson
ranks among the first agricultural districts of all Ohio.
The creek named "Sink Creek," already noticed, and the two county drains
are the only water courses in the township, but it is said that many creeks,
such as Cold Creek, diaw their supplies fi'om subterranean streams here of
which the geologist has little or no knowledge.
Since the removal of the old Mad River Railroad track there has not been
a line of railroad running through the township. However the "Nickel Plate,"
running just north of the county line, and the Baltimore & Ohio, coursing
through the township next south, afford reasonable facilities to the people of
Thompson Township.
Organic and Official. — This township was established under authority of
the commissioners of Sandusky County, given April 25, 1820. As set off at
that time it included almost the whole of the present county east of the San-
dusky River, together with the district bounded as follows: Beginning at the
northeast corner of the Seneca Reservation; thence north to the old trail from
Croghansville to Strong's; thence east to intersect the fire lands, south with
that line to the base line; thence west along base to a point whence a line due
north will strike the northeast corner of the Seneca Reservation. A reference
to Chapter IV (Transactions of the Commissioners' Board) and to the history
of Seneca Township, will point out the changes since 1824. The first election,
held at Joseph Parmenter's house May 6, 1820. resulted in the choice of
officers.
There is no record of this election to be found, and, further, there is not
one person in the original organized township (which comprised the present
townships of Thompson. Reed and Venice, and a strip two and one-half miles
in width on the east side of the present townships of Adams, Scipio and
Bloom) who can relate anything respecting the fii-st township board.
Following is a list of names of trustees, clerks and justices from 1838 :
1838. — John Decker. George Weiker. trustees.
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP.
67T
1839.— Jacob Bunn, David Underhill, Samuel Ai-nold, trustees; Horace R.
Dimick. clerk.
1840. —Stephen Fisher, Jacob Bima, William McCauley, tmstees; H. R.
Dimick, clerk.
1841.— AVilliam McCauley, J. WoUenschlegel. Peter Borgner, trustees; J.
G. Horner, clerk.
1842.— Stephen Fisher, Peter Borgner. H. R. Dimick, trustees; Jacob
Bunn. justice of the peace; J. G. Korner, clerk.
1843.— George Billman, Henry Wagner, Jacob Korner, trustees; H. R.
Dimick, clerk; David Underhill and John Terry, justices.
1844.— George Billman, Henry Wagner, Jacob Korner, trustees; J. C.
Wales, clerk; George Billman, justice of the peace.
1845.— George Bolin, Henry Wagner, Jacob Korner, trustees; H. R. Dim-
1846.— Peter Borgner, George Billman, John Royer, trustees; John Grimes,
1847.— H. R. Dimick, John Royer, P. Borgner, tnistees; John Grimes,
1848.— Hemy Wagner, Samuel Arnold, John Royer, trustees: John
Grimes, clerk.
1849.— John Royer, Henry Wagner, Jacob Korner, trustees; John Grimes,
clerk. .
1850._Heniy Hoover, John Royer, Jacob Korner, trustees; John Grimes,
clerk.
1851.— Hemy Hoover, John Royer, Jacob Korner, tnistees; George
Schock, justice of the peace.
1852.— Melchior Reik, William Heater, John Grimes, trustees: S. P. Huit,
1853.— Levi Korner, AVilliam Heater, George Billman, trustees: S. P. HufF.
1854.— George Billman, Levi Korner, Silas McHenry, trustees; Samuel
Horner, clerk; C. L. McCarty, justice of the peace.
1855.— Silas McHemy, Levi Korner, F. Harpster, trustees; Samuel Hor-
iiGr cleric
1856.— George Schock. George Billman, J. C. Horner, trustees; S. Horner,
acting clerk. t ri xr
1857.— George Billman, Isaac Tompkins, John Bimn, trustees; J. 0. Hor-
ner, clerk; C. L. McCarty. Joseph Horner, justices.
1858.— George Billman, John Bunn, Samuel Arnold, trustees; Peter
Ebersole, clerk.
1859.— John Bunn, F. Harpster, George Schock, trustees; J. C. Horner,
I860.— Fred. Harpster, Joseph Sherck, Anthony Krupp, trustees; J. C.
Horner, clerk; Henry Diamond, justice.
1861.— Fred. Harpster. Joseph Sherck, Anthony Krupp, trustees; B. 1.
Schock, clerk.
1862.— John Werely, F. Harpster, Joseph Sherck, trustees: James Bolm,
clerk; C. L. McCarty, J. Hoover, justices of the peace.
1863.— J. W. Paine, John Werely, Jacob Korner, trustees; James Bolin.
1864.— William McCauley, Jacob Korner, J. W. Paine, trustees; E. T.
Conser, Amos Decker, Joseph Sherck, justices.
1865.— Jacob Kuhn, Jacob Korner. John W. Paine, trustees; A. Kern,
678 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
appointed trustee; B. F. Schock, clerk; C. L. McCaiiy, Joseph Sherck, jus-
tices.
1866. — "VV. E. Alexander, John Westrich, A. Kern, trustees; B. F. Schock,
clerk.
1867. — W. R. Alexander, John Westrich, George Good, trustees; James
Feese, clerk.
1868. — Solomon Hartman, George Good. John AVestrich, trustees; J. A.
Feese, clerk.
1869. — William Baker, Solomon Hartman, George Good, trustees; Amos
Decker, clerk; Joseph Sherck, justices.
1870. — Solomon Hartman, William Baker, J. W. Paine, trustees; George
Good, appointed trustee; Amos Decker, clerk.
1871. — J. D. Rubert. D. Albright, W^illiam Baker, trustees; Amos Decker,
clerk.
1872. — William Burger, William Baker, J. D. Rubert, trustees; David
Rubert. clerk.
1873. — J. D. Rubert, William Baker, Levi Kern, trustees; Samuel Decker,
clerk; Amos Decker, justice.
1874. — Henry Billman, William Baker, J. D. Rubert, trustees; Samuel
Decker, clerk.
1875.— Henry Billman, William Baker, J. D. Rubert, trustees; W. F.
BennehoflP, clerk.
1876. —Charles Rinehart, Hemy Billman, J. D. Rubert, trustees; W. F.
Bennehoff, clerk.
1877. — Charles Rinehart, Henry Sanders, William Baker, trustees; W. F.
Bennehoff, clerk.
1878. — John Bolin, H. Sanders, C. Rinehart, trustees; W. F. Bennehoff,
clerk.
1879. — Henry Sanders, John Boiin, Vincent Koby, trustees; W. F. Benne-
hoff, clerk.
1881.— Joseph Dick, L. E. Scothorn, Isaac Weiker, trustees; R. H. Nagle,
clerk.
1882.— Joseph Dick, L. E. Scothorn, C. C. Wollenschlegel, trustees; W.
Wingard, clerk; Samuel Decker, justice; J. A. Feese, L. Horner, assistant
clerks.
1883. — C. C. Wollenschlegel, A. Humm, N. Henney, trustees; Samuel
Horner, clerk.
1884. — Martin Sherck, Lyman Clemens, A. Humm, trustees; L. K. Royer,
clerk; Samuel Decker, Samuel Horner, justices.
Pioneers of Thompson Township. — Although this was one of the first divis-
ions of the county to receive the honors of establishment from the commis-
sioners of Sandusky, it was one of the last to receive a full quota of settlers.
While the squatters of 1819-20 were actually on the ground prior to the land
sales and for years afterward, yet the working pioneers did not come until
1829. In 1832-33 the influx of German pioneers gave a new impetus to agri-
cultural life, and fi-om this dates the phenomenal progress which has marked
this pastoral township for its own. In the following pages an effort is made
to notice all the pioneers:
William Baker came here at an early date .... Francis Ball, a native of
Germany, settled here in 1832 . . . .Reuben Bennehoff, an uncle of the popular
recorder of the county, settled in Thompson Township in 1833, died February
T), 1881, in his seventy-fourth year. Another branch of the Bennehoff family
came about this time .... Philip Bowers, a Pennsylvanian, was here in 1 840 ....
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 679
George and Mary (Pearce) Bolin. natives of Virginia and Maryland, respect-
ively, and parents of Enoch and James Bolin, came to this county in 1831,
George Bolin having entered land in 1830. They both died in Thompson
Township in far advanced life, the father in 1880, when ninety-one years old
.... Harman Bolte, a native of Germany, maternal grandfather of Burtis M.
Finch, was a pioneer .... John and Sarah (Boyer) Borger came in 1833-34 to
Thompson Township; the former died in 1859, latter in 1879. Of their chil-
dren, who came with them to Ohio, William resides here .... John Bunn,
grandfather of Judge Bunn. of Tiffin, a native of Pennsylvania, came to Seneca
County at an early period of its history, settling here .... Jacob and Elizabeth
(Leiter) Bunn. came to Thompson Township in 1833 and settled on an entirely
new farm. He died in 1878, aged seventy-six years. His widow is now in
her seventy- eighth year.... John Burman, born in Ijancaster, Ohio, in 1818,
came to Flat Eock in 18-t3.
Benjamin Clark and William Clark are names connected with the early
history of the township (1820), but farther than this nothing authentic can be
learned of them .... William Clemens, born in Pennsylvania in 1824, came
with his parents to Adams Township, this county, in 1831; then in 1862
moved into Thompson Townshij). He was killed in the railroad accident at
Ashtabula in 1S76....N. P. Colwell came to Thompson Township in 1831,
settled in Republic in 1838, and was. for eleven years, clerk of Scipio Town-
ship, and justice of the peace for sixteen years. . . .William Cornell, referred
to in the general history, was a pioneer.
John and Julia Ann (Royer) Decker, parents of Hon. Jacob Decker, of
Bellevue, came from Wayne County, Ohio, to Thompson Township in 1830;
John Decker died in 1854, his widow in 1875, in the eighty- seventh year of
her age. . . .A. Dewald, a Pennsylvanian, is said to have settled here in 1831.
.... John Dillingham, who died in Porter County September 20, 1861, settled
at Bloomingville in the fire lands in 1813, and moved to Indiana in 1836.
.... Solomon Dimick was among the pioneers, and is said to have been here as
early as 1820.
Michael and Susan (Fisher) Fauble came to Thompson Township in 1833
from Pennsylvania .... George Fender is classed among the old settlers.
John Glassner, a native of Prussia, came to Ohio, locating in Thompson
Township in 1835; he died in 1863; his son John, born in Prussia in 1818,
also came to Thompson Township at the same time .... George Good and
Emanuel Good, natives of Pennsylvania, came in 1831 or 1832 .... Samuel
Grimes, born in Vermont in 1786, married Mary Arnold, also a native of Ver-
mont, born in 1792; they came to Ohio in 1823, residing some months in
Thompson Township; then moved into Sandusky County, and in 1828 returned
to this township; he died in 1868. his wife in 1858.
John Harpster, a native of Pennsylvania, entered eighty acres of land
where Flat Rock Village now stands, in 1828, and is living at Clyde, Ohio. . . .
David Harpster came with his parents to this county in 1828, settling on the
site of Flat Rock .... Frederick Harpster, a native of Pennsylvania, came in
1830 from V^ ayne County, Ohio, to Flat Rock, and at one time owmed all the
land now occiipied by that town. He died in 1874 .... Jefferson Hoover, a
native of Ohio, was here in 1847 .... Joseph and Hannah Horner came to
Thompson Township in 1835, where former earned on first tailor shop in vicin-
ity of Flat Rock. They died in 1853. Squire Samuel Horner, their son, also
came in 1835 .... John Heater and Ira Holmes are names connected with the
*^arly days of Thompson Township.
Jacob and Elizabeth Kern came to Thompson Township fi'om Pennsyl-
680 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
vania in 1833. He died about 1852, bis widow in 1855. Their son,
George, born in 1821, still resides in Thompson Township .... Isaac Kern,
born in Pennsylvania, was brought by bis father, Jacob Kern, to Thompson
Township in 1832. . . .Anthony Kern, born in Pennsylvania in 1813, came to
Thompson Township with iiis parents, Peter and Rachel Kern, in 1831 ....
Charles and Catherine Krupp came from Bavaria with theii' family, in 1833,
direct to Thompson Township, Anthony Krupp being one of their sons.
Hiram Longbrake, a native of Ohio, was here in 1859.
William McCauley was one of the projectors of Thomsontown in 1840 and
one of the old settlers. . . .Benjamin MuiTay was here at an early date. . . .Dr.
Joseph Myers and Dr. Henry L. Harris w^ere physicians at Lewisville (Thomp-
son Township) in 18-47.
Henry Neikirk, born in Ohio, came in 1845.
Joseph Osborne was among the pioneer settlers.
Joseph Parmenter, at whose bouse the first election was held in 1820, was
one of the fii-st actual settlers of the county .... Joseph Pbilo settled in
Thompson Township at an early date. . . .The Pratt family and H. Purdy's
family were also among the first settlers, coming here prior to the organization
of 1820. . . .John W. Paine, born in 1820, came to Adams Township in 1829
with his parents, John and Sarah Paine. He died in 1882. His widow now
resides at the family homestead.
G. AV. Reaham. an Ohioan, was here in 1839. . . .John Royer, a native of
Pennsylvania, grandfather of the present mayor of Tiffin, settled in Thompson
Township in 1829 .... John Royer, Jr. , born in Thompson Township, is a son
of the famous pioneer, John Royer, and is said to have been the first child
born to Pennsylvanian settlers in Thompson Township in 1831 .... Samuel
Royei', a resident of the county for over fifty-seven years, died in his fifty-
ninth year, in August, 1 884 : be was the father of the estimable mayor of Tiffin,
and a jjioneer of this township .... Isaac Royer came in 1829 . . . . Abram Romig,
a Pennsylvanian, came here in 1832.
John and Magdalena Sherck came to Thompson Township in 1834 and
removed to Michigan in 1868. Their son, Hon. Joseph Sherck, mayor of
Bellevue, Ohio, was brought by hi.s parents here in 1834, moving to Bellevue in
1873 .... Abram Sherck, with Samuel Sherck and William McCauley, founded
Tbompsontown in 1840 .... George Scbock.born in 1812 in Pennsylvania, and his
wife, Racbael (Korner), also a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1816, came to
Thompson Township in 1836, accompanied by their parents, George and
Margaret (Siebei-t) Schock (now deceased), and Andrew and Sarah (Hendi-icks)
Korner .... The famous hunter and trapper, Snow, is supposed to have been
the first white resident of the township . . , . The Sponables, referred to in other
pages, were early residents here. . . .Samuel and Sarah (Wilts) Stewart located
on Section 2, Thompson Township, in 1829. In 1867 they moved into Flat
Rock, where the former died in 1870; his widow now resides there. . . .Peter
Stetler, a Pennsylvanian, came to the county in 1837.
A. H. Twiss and family came here at a very early date ; it is said they were
here about 1819 Isaac and Christina (Scothorn) Tompkins, parents of Mrs.
James Bolin were early settlers in this township.
James Underbill, David Underbill, Jasper Underbill and other members
of that family were among the first permanent residents coming in Decem-
ber, 1819.
Levi Waggoner, a Pennsylvanian, came in 1831 . . . .Elias Weiker came
from Pennsylvania to Thompson Township in 1833, with his parents, George
and Siisanna Weiker (both deceased), and now resides in Bellevue .... Isaac
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 681
Weiker settled here in 1842. . . .John Weller settled here in 1844. . . .George
AVetzell, a Pennsylvaniau, came in 1854.... John Welsh, James Whitmore,
Nathan Whitney and William Whitney were all here about or at the time the
township was organized .... The Wollenschlegels settled here at an early day.
.... Daniel and Catharine Wonder, parents of George Wonder, were born in
Pennsylvania and there married and lived until 1828; then moved to Wayne
County, Ohio, and in 1830 to Thompson Townshij); thence to Wyandot
County, where Mrs. Wonder died. Daniel AVonder, now ninety-four years of
age, resides with his son George, in Big Spring Township.
Benevel Yarger, a native of Pennsylvania, father of George E. Yargei", of
Fostoria, located at Flat Rock in 1851, and in 1801 moved to Carey, Ohio.
J. M. Zermillizer, a Pennsylvaniau, came in 1857. . . . J. M. Zahm settled in
or near the township in 1832.
Isaac Lewis, the Bowmans, Kellys, Anthony and George Zahm, Peter
Schoendorf, John Host, the Hein family, the ITmlors, Westrichs, Neises,
Krupps, Kuhns. Knapps, Glassners, McCauleys and others were here prior to
1840, and shared with the pioneers, hitherto noticed, in their toils, their
pleasures and their sorrows. Referring to the early settlement of this division
of the county, the following testimony is taken from Stewart' s work, published
in 1874: "The greater portion of the early settlement of Thompson Township
consisted of people from Pennsylvania, and of immigrants direct from Germany ;
a good substantial class of people, naturally inclined to improve the soil and to
enrich the township and county by persevering industry and toil. In the
southwestern i^ortion of the township, a large number of Germans formed a
settlement. They belonged principally to the Roman Catholic Church, and
established a nunnery, which has greatly i>i'Ospered, and has received many
devout persons, professing the creed of the Church of Rome, within its portals.
Here reside those eminent Christian women known as Sisters of Charity, a
title they richly deserve for the real good which they do among the poor and
needy. ' '
VILLAGES.
Thonijjsontoicn was surveyed November 12, 1840, by Jonas Hershberger for
William McCauley, Abram Sharchand and Samuel Sherck, on the corners of
Sections 14, 15, 22 and 23. The plat of Thompsontown was vacated in 1843
at the request of the original owners.
Leunsville was surveyed by Jonas Hershberger for Fred. Harpster, John
Wingard. Jacob Connor and George Schoch, Jr.. January 21, 1841. George
Schoch's addition to Lewisville was surveyed by G. H. Heming, April 5,
1853, the streets being a continuation of a parallel to streets in the original
town. Homer & McCarty's addition to Lewisville on the east half, northeast
quarter of Section 11, was surveyed April 6. 1856. by G. H. Heming.
A postofflce was established here under the name of Flat Rock Postoffice,
and by this name Lewisville is generally known. The business circle of the
village is made up as follows: R. B. Hickey, hardware; John M. Terwilliger,
grocer; and William Shaffer vice J. M. Terwilliger, postmaster, in charge of
the postoffice. At one time there was a station here on the " underground
railway."
CHUECHES.
Reformed Church, of Thompson Township, was organized in 1830, and in
1832 a house of worship was erected on a lot donated by John Heater. This
building gave place to a larger one in 1843, and this in turn to the present
beautiful brick church of 1873. The original members were John Rover,
G82 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Wollensclilegel, Adam Good, Jacob Buiin, John Bunn. Sr. . John Bunn, Jr. ,
Hemy Biinn, Isaac Lewis, Henry Bowman, Rudolph Bowman and Henry
Stetler. The first pastor was Rev. Stauch. The value of propertv is estimated
at $7,000.
Evangelical Association. — This was founded here years ago, and is now pre-
sided over by Rev. J. A. Burket, of Flat Rock Circuit.
United Brethren Chnrc}i,at Flat Rock, founded some years ago, has a small
membership. The meeting-house cost $1,000 (vide history of Fostoria).
Zion Reformed Church, of Thompson Township, was organized in 1830.
German Reformed Zion's Church was reorganized under State law, December
13, 1860. John Royer, Sr. , jDresided, with D. W. Kelley, secretary. Harrison
Wilt, Levi Korner and Edward Kern were elected trustees.
St. Michael's Church dates its beginning back to 1833, when Rev. F. X.
Tschenhens, C. S. S. R. , came to visit the few Catholic families then in this
neighborhood, and repeated his visits for years until Fathers Alig and Mal-
hebouf were appointed his successors. Very Rev. Sales Brunner came in 1844.
In 1847-48 the first regular chiu'ch building was begun and completed, taking
the place of the first log building. In 1883 the present Gothic building was
commenced. This is one of the largest country churches in Ohio, and is built
on the same plan as St. Joseph's Chm-ch at Tiifin. The congregation num-
bers about 400, the number of families belonging being seventy-one. Among
the first members were the late John Adam Perhard Stein, Ch. Krupp, John
Host, Hein, Leopold Kuhn, John AVestrich, A. Krupp, B. Ramschlag,
William Glassner, John Glassner and Daniel Neis. Many, if not ail, of those
pioneer members donated lands for chiu'ch. school and cemetery. The pres-
ent congregation built the new church and school of their own means, under
the direction of their building committee, Anthony Krupp, Peter Hepp, Ferd.
Schoeffel, Jacob Gerber, Joe Dick, Balzer Layman, Michael and Gerber.
The trustees are Anthony Gerhardstein, Joseph Greulich, Jacob Greulich and
Anthony Ham. The church is in charge of the priests of the Order of the
Most Precious Blood. This society was incorporated July 15, 1848, when
Rev. Francis Maria Sales Brunner, Rev. Maria Anthony Meyer, and Rev.
John Wittmer, were elected trustees. Rev. F. M. S. Brunner, superior, and
Rev. M. A. Meyer, clerk. The locations named in acts of incorporation were
Big Spring and Thompson Townships.
SCHOOLS.
The first school in the township, known as District Xo. 7, was founded
shortly after the arrival of the Bolin family, with Elisha Bolin, first teacher.
He is now a resident of Wabash, Ind.
The election to decide the question of selling school lands. Section 10,
Thompson Township, was held April 0, 1846. John Bunn, Jr. , John Heater
and James Bolin were judges. The vote stood 127 for sale, and seven against.
The record of sale of Section 10, Range 1 7, Township 3, which took place
February 26, 1847, is as follows: Peter Stetler, east half of the southeast
(piarter; Henry Engle, west half of the southeast quarter; John Heater, east
half of the southwest quarter, and west half of the southwest quarter; Hemy
Engle, west half of northwest quarter; John Royer, east half of the northwest
quarter and west half of the northeast quarter; John Heater, Jr., east half of
the northeast quarter. The sum realized from sale was $11,090.
The condition of the schools of Thompson Township on August 31, 1884,
is given in the following statistics: Number of male pupils enrolled, 232; of
females, 226; total, 458. Schoplhouses, 8; value of property, $12,000; uum-
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 683
ber of teachers. 16: average salaries, $44 and §23; local tax, §2,584.83: total
revenue. $5,369.51: expenditures, S2,91().05.
Convent of the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood was founded here in 1844,
when the sisters took charge of the schools that year, and established the
orphanage, which institution was transferred to New Kiegel in 1859. To Rev.
Sales Brunner the credit is given for establishing this convent here. His mother
was the founder of this branch of the order, and the sisters, who came from Switz-
erland in 1844, left the mother house at Father Brunner' s request, to continue
their good works of charity in the then wilds of noi-thwestern Ohio. The
new buildings, commenced in 1883, were completed in 1885. The Convent of
the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood, in Thompson Township, claimed lifty-
nine sisters in 1847. The monastery of the same order in that township con-
tained twenty-four members.
St. Michael's School, dating back to 1844. claims a large number of pupils.
The building is a brick structm-e, containing two commodions school rooms.
ORPHANAGES.
St. Michael's Orphan Asylum was founded, in 1844, by Rev. Sales Brunner,
with the Sisters of Charity, fi-om Switzerland. Europe, in charge. The orphans
were transferred in 1859 to the larger house at New Riegel.
Ebenezer Orphan Asylum, of the Evangelical Association of North America,
was incori^orated March 19. 1868, with George F. Spring, L. Schem-man, D.
Strohman, Al:)ner Niebel and William Negele. trustees. This asylum is de-
nominational and well conducted. Its location is just on the southern liorder
of Flat Rock Village.
GEXEEAL STATISTICS.
The assessment of Thompson Township, in 1841. gives the following iigures:
23.049 acres of land, valued at $70,652: town lots, none; 293 horses, valued at
SI 1.720; 669 catt_le. valued at $5,352; total value, $87,724; total tax, $1,337.79:
delinquencies, $76.70.
The valuation and taxation of Thompson Township for 1884-85 present the
following statistics: 23,391 acres of land, valued at $928,030. and personal
property at $197,980, aggregating $1,126,010. The total taxes in 1885
amount to $11,814. 56, with $201 dog tax. The population in 1880 was 1.901.
The predial statistics of ThomiDson Township for 1884, are 6,610 acres of
wheat; 1 acre of lye, 27 bushels; 24 acres of buckwheat, 145 bushels; 1,748
acres of oats, product about 78.624 bushels: 13 acres of barley: 2,366 acres of,
corn, product (shelled) about 84.000 bushels; 697 acres of meadow, 855 tons of
hay: 1,854 acres of clover. 2.387 tons of hay, 1,888 bushels of seed and 86
acres plowed under ; 1 92 acres of potatoes, yielding 20, 935 bushels ; 62, 600 pounds
home made butter; 5 acres of sorghum joroduced 518 gallons of syrup; maple
syrup, 10 gallons; 155 hives. 953 pounds of honey; 65,460 dozens of eggs; 1
vineyard. 150 pounds of grapes, 96 gallons of wine; 1 acre sweet potatoes,
yielding 187 bushels; 454 acres of orchards, 3,080 bushels of apj)les, 103 of
peaches, 122 of pears, 10 of cherries; acres of land owned and cultivated,
13,140; in pastm-e. 1,706; woodland, 2.539: waste land, 177; total acreage
owned, 17,562; wool shorn in 1883. 3.567; milch cows, 595; dogs, 197: ^heep
killed and injured, 9; animals died of disease. 135 hogs, 95 sheep. 23 cattle
and 15 horses.
684 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
VENICE TOWNSHIP.
THIS township, including the southern part of the ''gore," was sm--
veyed into quarter sections in 1820, by Price J. Kellogg, and the lands
offered for sale in 1821. Venice foiined a part of Thompson Township fi'om
1820 to 1829, when it was established a separate township and organized as
such. The year of its organization the population was confined to families of
the officers elected in 1829, and perhaps a few others named in the pioneer
section of this chapter. In 1840 the census places the number of inhabitants
at 1,222; in 1850, at 1,830; in 1860, at 2,013; in 1870. at 1,781, increased in
1880 to 2,231, and in 1885 to 2,600 (estimated). In 1880 Attica Village
claimed a population of 663, which number has been added to considerably
during the last five years. The name Venice was suggested by Johnson Ford
to memorialize his home in Cayuga County, N. Y.
Honey Creek enters the county in fractional Section I'Q and flowing in a
tortuous course west by north, through the old settlement of Caroline, leaves
the township in Section 6. A few small creeks are found both north and south
of Honey Creek.
The Columbus and Sandusky pike road runs diagonally through the town-
ship fi-om Attica Station, a mile north of the old village of Attica, through
Caroline to Carrothers. The petition of Ezra Gilbert, presented to the county
board in November, 1828, prayed for the establishment of a road beginning at
the town line, two and one -half miles west of Attica, and running south by
east so as to intersect the New Haven road, three and one- half miles east of
Attica, near the line of Hiu'on County. The petition was granted, the line
was at once siuweyed by David Risdon. and cut through or underbrushed by
Ezra Gilbert, Johnson Ford and Samuel Halsted, within six days.
The Northwestern Ohio Railroad runs through the southwestern sections,
while the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad passes across the extreme northeastern
corners of fi-actional Section 6 and Section 1.
The lands are fertile, and the face of the cou.ntry just sufficiently rolling to
confer on it a beauty and utility which could not belong to a level country.
Organic ctwf/ O^ciaZ.^This' township was established in 1829 (r/de Trans-
actions of the Commissioners' Board, Chap. IV.), and the first election held
June 13, that year. Thomas "West, Ezra Gilbert and Moses Smith were chosen
trustees; Philip E. Bronson, clerk; James Halsted, treasurer; Hem-y Speaker.
Elisha Fair, overseers of the poor; Cornelius Gilmore and Ezra Gilbert, fence
viewers; and WaiTen Blakesly, constable.
From this date to 1854 the township shares with many other divisions of
the county in the loss of old record books. Those old books alone could tell
the story of each annual election, and to the fact of their being lost or de-
stroyed, rather than to any carelessness on the part of the present township
clerk, who made out the following list, or the historian, must be attributed the
quarter century break in the official history. Many of the men referred to in
the pioneer section of this chapter will be identified as sharing in the local
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 685
government of the township in early days. The following list contains the
names of township officers from 1854 to 1885:
1854. — Franklin Gray, Henry Meyers, James Hanna, trustees; James Mc-
Manigal, clerk.
1855. — J. W. Carson, William Sourwine, James Hanna, trustees; James
McManigal. clerk.
1856. — H. N. Chase, Hiram Royce, Samuel Weaver, trustees; James Mc-
Manigal, clerk.
1857. --James Hanna, Jehu Lozier, M. E. Crow, trustees; James McMan-
igal, clerk.
1858-59. — William Soiu-wine, Christ Link, Stephen Friedley, trustees; S.
A. Ringle, clerk.
1860. — Charles Guyer, Christ Link, Stephen Friedley, trustees; S. A. Rin-
gle, clerk.
1861.— Henry Smith, E. W. Tink, Stephen Friedley, trustees; S. A. Rin-
gle, clerk.
1862. — Henry Smith, Frederick Steigmeyer, Stephen Friedley, trustees;
S. A. Ringle, clerk.
1863. — Peter Basore, F. Steigmeyer, Stephen Friedley, trustees; S. A. Rin-
gle, clerk.
1864. — Peter Basore, F. Steigmeyer, Mathias Carrothers, trustees; S. A.
Ringle, clerk.
1865-66. — Peter Basore, F. Steigmeyer, Samuel Bemenderfer, trustees; S.
A. Ringle, clerk.
1867. — Peter Basore, Joseph Friedley, Franklin Gray, trustees; F. H.
Steigmeyer, clerk.
1868. — David Ringle, Joseph Friedley, J. D. Sumerlin, trustees; David
McManigal, clerk.
1869. — David Ringle, Jr., Samuel Speaker, J. D. Sumerlin, trustees; S.
A. Ringle, clerk.
1870. — David Ringle, Jr., W^allace Olds, J. ^V. Carson, trustees; W. M.
Miller, clerk.
1871. — Michael Steinmetz, Joseph Huffman, AVilliam Everingim, trustees;
W. M. Miller, clerk.
1872. — Michael Steinmetz, G. W. Lemmon, H. F. Myers, trustees; Ed.
Bemenderfer, clerk.
1873. — Michael Steinmetz, Wallace Olds, Joseph Huffman, trustees; W.
M. Miller, clerk.
1874. — M. Steinmetz, Joseph Friedley, Lewis Bollinger, trustees; W. M.
Miller, clerk.
1875. — William King, Joseph Friedley, I. A. Spencer, trustees; F. H.
Steigmeyer. clerk.
1876. — William King, David Ringle, Jr., I. A. Spencer, trustees; F. H.
Steigmeyer, clerk.
1877.— AVilliam King, David Ringle, Jr., H. J. Smith, trustees; F. H.
Steigmeyer, clerk.
1878. — George Gangheff, J. AV. Steigmeyer, H. J. Smith, trustees; F. H.
Steigmeyer, clerk.
1879. — Michael Steinmetz, Fred. AA^olf ert, George Heabler, trustees ; James
L. Couch, clerk.
1880. — David Holmes, Fred. AA^olfert, George Heabler, trustees; James L.
Couch, clerk.
HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
J. W. Link, George Heabler, trustees; James
J. ^\. Link, John F. Hoke, trustees; James
J. W. Link, John F. Hoke, trustees; James L.
1881.— David Holmes,
Couch, clerk.
1882.— David Holmes.
Couch, clerk.
1883.— David Holmes,
Couch, clerk.
1834. _ David Holmes. J. W. Link, John F. Hoke, trustees; James L.
Couch, clerk.
The officers of Venice for 1885-86 are David Holmes, William Kmg and
John B. Wilhelm, trustees; James L. Couch, clerk; A. B. Brant, treasurer:
J. T. Meyers, assessor; A. F. Lepper and Otto Blust. constables; James L.
Couch and O. J. McPherson, justices of the peace.
Pioneers of Fenice.— Half a century and eight years have elapsed since
the pioneer of American civilization looked into the wilderness of Venice Town-
ship, and called it his home. To Cornelius Gilmore, Johnson Ford, Samuel
Halsted, the first road-makers, the first farmers, the first actual workers in the
township, the special honors pertaining to pioneers are accorded. Although
they first settled on the head waters of Honey Creek a full decade after the
adventurous pioneers of Delaware County visited and settled on the Sandusky
at Fort Ball, and eight vears after the Welchs settled on lower Honey Creek,
the honors are still due^ for then the beautiful district, now called Venice,
was a wilderness, unvisited by the pioneers of other parts of the county and
indeed unheard of by them. In the following pages the writer has made an
effort to group all the pioneers together, and speak of each so far as authentic
accounts permit.
John Armatage settled here in 1829, coming that year from Maryland,
where he was born in 1800).
John Barrick settled in Seneca County in 1834 Joel Billings settled
here in 1829 Lewis Bollinger (deceased), born in Germany in 1825, came
from Stark County, Ohio, to this county in 1844, settling in this township.
Jeremiah Carpenter and Charles D. and Emeline (Michener) Carpen-
ter—former born in 1823, died in 1868, latter born in 1830, died in 18/3.
parents of William A. Carpenter — were early settlers Samuel and Eliza-
beth (Wiloughby) Carson, natives of Pennsylvania, father of J. W. Carson,
came to this county in 1835, and here died at advanced ages Robert Car-
son, grandfather of J. W. Carson, came to the county at an early date and
here died in 1836. His wife died same year H. M. Chandler came from
Connecticut in 1838 Matthew J. Clark, who died Januaiy 4, 1882, in his
fifty-sixth vear. was an old settler of Venice Township. He moved to Tiffin
many years ago Jacob Cook settled here in 1829 H. B. CourtwTight,
in 1832 James Madison Crabbs, father of Cyrus N. Crabbs, came here at
an early date Samuel Croxton settled here in 1829.
Stephen and Magdalena Dick came from Alsace, Germany (then France),
to this country in 1830; lived twenty-two years in this and seventeen in Bloom
18^
Stephen Dick
Township, finally locating in Thompson Township in
died in 1876; his widow resides near Frank's Corners.
Jacob Ebersole, born in Pennsylvania in 1807, has resided here since 1834.
. . . .Gov. Edwards settled here in 1829.
Elisha Fair settled here in December, 1828 Philip and Christina
(Kerner) Falter, natives of Germany, came thence to Seneca County, in 1833:
former died in 1842. J. B. Falter,' their son, also a native of Germany, born
in 1826, lives in Venice Township Philip Falter, born on mid-ocean in 1823
(his parents being on their way from Germany to the United States, and who
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 6><7
died in Venice Township), married Miss Elizabeth Houck, and they then
came to Venice Township, where they both died, in 1872 .... Johnson Ford, born
in Eensselaer Connty. N. Y. , June 9. 1790, came to Seneca County in 1828. fi-om
Cayxiga County. N. Y.. and. purchasing 160 acres of land, where Attica Village
now stands, entered on pioneer work in the wilderness. His neighbor. Corneliiis
Gilmore. settled in the township the year before, and a few others came in
1829. Mr. Ford opened the first farm in Venice Township, clearing, plowing,
and sowing the seed himself. His wife, Esther, died March 19, 1829, and her
remains had to be carried to the Scipio Cemetery. Shortly after he revisited
New York State, and there married a second time; returning with his bride to
the wilderness. In 1833 or 1834 he was appointed superintendent of the Fnion
Sunday-school, succeeding John Martain. and this position he held until 1858
or 1859: when the Presbyterian Church was organized in Octolier, 1833, he was
ordained an elder. He and Ezra Gilbert suggested the name Attica for the
present village in 1829, and the same year he gave the name of Venice to the
township. For over half a century he has made the township his home and
shared in every effort to develop it .... J. J. Friedley and his father, Ludwick
Friedley, a Pennsylvanian, settled here in 1838, latter dying in 1871. Barbara
(Link), wife of J. J. Friedley. born in Germany, came when two years old with
her parents, who were among the first settlers of Seneca County. It is stated
on other authority that this family came in 1833.
Cornelius Gilmore was the first settler and first blacksmith in Venice Town-
ship, having settled here in June, 1827. where O. J. McPherson's house now
stands, on the south bank of Honey Creek. About 1832 Mr. Gilmore removed
the Caroline postoffice, Avhen a new office was established at Attica .... The
first road in the township, from a point two and a half miles west of Attica to
the ;tiuron County line, was cut through in November, 1828. by Ezra Gilbert,
Johnson Ford and Samuel Halsted. and a year later Ezra Gilbert erected his
cabin where the Ford c'c Stranler hardware store of Attica's later days stands.
Ezra Gilbert settled here in April. 1829. and was the first postmaster, and
first settler on the site of Attica.
James Hanna, born in Pennsylvania in 180-1, came to Venice Township in
1834 Samuel Halsted settled here in August, 1828 The Hamiltons were
here in 1845 .... Samuel Harper, a soldier of the Eevolution. an Irishman, was
bvu-ied in Sycamore Township in 1821 ... . Samuel Hawk was here in 1835 ... .
George Heabler, Sr., a native of Pennsylvania, located in Venice Township in
1835, bringing his son George, of Attica and Tiffin .... George Herr came from
Germany in 1852 .... John Hillis, a native of Ireland, came direct from his
native land to Seneca County, settling in Venice Township in 1846, dying in
1875 .... John Holmes, born in Jefferson County. Ohio, in 1807. came here in
an early day, and now resides with his son, David .... Samuel and Charles
Hoyt settled here in 1854. Samuel died in 1872. Charles resides in AVyandot
County. . . . J. AY. Huffman, born in Columbiana County. Ohio, in 183 <. was
brought by his parents, Jacob and Catharine (Weaver) Huffman, to Venice
Township m 1839: Jacob Huffman died in 1855 Michael Hull, a native of
Pennsylvania, born in 1807, came to this county in 1834, settling on 560
acres of land on Section 7 of Venice Township, where he still resides .... Mi-
chael and Barbara (Free) Hull, parents of George F. Hull, were early settlers
of this township, where Michael Hull now resides.
Thomas Kemi?, born in Pennsylvania in 1813, came with his parents,
David and Sarah (^Yard) Kemp, to Venice Townshij) in an early day....
David J. Kelly was here in 1849.
John C. and Christianna (Eichenhofer) Lebold, parents of Jacob F.
683 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
Lebold. all natives of Germany, came from Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1 842,
to Section 16, this township, where John C. still resides Avery Leonard,
born in Pennsylvania in 1798, came here with his family in 1884 John
Lepard was here in 1831 Jacob and Maryann (Gerling) Link, natives of
Germany, came to this county in 1888, the former dying in 1841. Their son,
J. W. Link, born on the ocean, when his parents wei'e on their way to America,
resides in Venice Township John Lozier came in 1858.
J. McCai-ty and Daniel McCarty, natives of Ireland, settled here about
1832 or 1884.'. . .John and Elizabeth (Hannah) McClelland, natives of Penn-
svlvania, settled here in 1836 James McKibben came here in June, 1830.
.'...James B. McKibben, a Penn^lvanian, was here in 1832 William
iicPherson settled in Venice Township in November, 1828. He was born
in Scotland in 1798 Henry and Rebecca (Free) Meyers, former a native of
Switzerland, born in 1808, were early pioneers of the county. Mr. Meyers
came in 1835, a comparatively poor young man, and at his death in 1884 he
owned over 2,000 acres of land. . .'.Nathan Merriman settled in Venice in
1829 The Metcalf family settled here previous to 188() John M. Miller,
a native of Germanv, father of Paul Miller, immigrated to America in 1882;
resided about four years in Medina County. Ohio, and then settled per-
manently in this county. He died in 1884 Maurice and Hannah (Davis)
Moore— former a native of New Jersey, born in 1 79 / ; latter a native of AVales,
born in 1800— came to the county in 'l834, settling in Venice Township. They
died in 1888 Andrew Moore settled here in 1830; died in 1846. His
widow died in 1880 Philip Muck settled in Venice in 1829 Jacob and
Fanny (Werder) Myers (or Meyers), natives of Switzerland, came to Ohio in 1829
and to this county in 1831. ' Their son. Henry F. Myers, also a native of
Switzerland, born 'in 1822. came with them and is a farmer here Henry
Meyers, "Tailor Meyers," as he was known to all, was born in village of Ober-
endengen. Switzerland, April 26, 1807; died at Attica in July, 1884. In
1835 he brought the hrst $5 in gold ever seen in Tiffin, and also purchased
the first mowmg machine and the first grain drill in Venice Township. Five
years after he came to Seneca County, on Jiily 11, 1840, he was married.
After working six years for one man at his trade in Philadelphia, he left there
on the 10th of July, 1835, and came by canal to Sandusky, Ohio, arriving on
the 29th of the same month, and walked to Attica on the old turnpike, where
he had previously ptirchased wild land. For six years after his arrival in
Seneca County he'^ worked at his trade in Tiffin, after which he worked for five
vears in the village of Attica, using his money thus earned for the improvement
of his land.
Jacob Newkirk settled in Venice in 1831 Leonard and Mary (Haehter)
Noble, natives of Germany, former born in 1822, latter in 1829, came the
year they were married (1852) to Venice Township, and some time after moved
to Reed Township, where Mr. Noble died in 1871.
Mrs. Cathrine Olds died at the residence of her son, Wallace Olds, three
and one-half miles west of Attica, July 18, 18/8, aged seventy one years, five
months and thirteen days. Mrs. Olds was one of the old pioneers of Seneca
County, having resided here forty-two years.
William Pollinger, a Pennsylvanian, came in 1855.
Jeremiah Rex {vide Chapter V). . . .S. H. Ringle, an Ohioan, was here in
1882. . . .Stephen Rogers, a native of England, came to America in 1818, and
to this county in 1837. John Rogers, a pioneer farmer of the county, born in
France in 1819, is a son of his David Roop settled here in 1829 Aaron
Riish, an old settler of Venice Township, died in 1887.
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 689
Jacob Schaaf, who came from Germany in 1829. is an old settler liere. . . .
Sebastian Senn, a native of Switzerland, born in 1828, came in 1838 with his
father, who settled on a farm in this county .... Samuel Shade, Sr. , born in
1800, purchased, in 1834. 300 acres of timber land in Venice Township; he
came from Columbiana County. Ohio; died at Tiffin in 1872. Samuel Shade,
his son, resides in Eden Township .... J. L. Shirey came fi-om Pennsylvania in
1844. . . .Christian Shuly. a native of Pennsylvania came in 1856. . . .Ludwig
Shoup came fi-om Germany in 1854. . . .George Sillman. father of Mrs. Michael
Kirchner, of Tiffin, came from Germany and settled in Venice Township about
1833. . . .Martin Smeltz. a native of Germany, was among the early settlers of
this county .... John and Mary (Weaver) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania, par-
ents of Martin Smith, of Venice Township, came to the county in 1838, and
settled in this township, where Johii Smith died in 1882 .... Jacob and Cath-
arine (Myers) Smith, natives of Switzerland, parents of Mrs. Norman Benham,
of Scipio ToAvnship. came to America in 1827. and in course of time were early
settlers of Venice Township .... Jeremiah Smith, born in Bedford County,
Penn., February 18. 1818, came to Seneca Coiinty in 1834, and died here
January 5, 1 885 .... Eli Snow, Cold Creek (see story of the Indian " 'Pumpkin' ' ).
. . . .Henry Speaker, Jr.. settled here in 1829, and erected the first saw-mill in
1831. . . .Samuel and Hannah (Harper) Speaker, parents of Samuel Speaker,
came in 1840; Samuel died in 1808. . . .Huckins Spencer, born in Maine,
father of I. A. Spencer, of Venice Township, settled in this county in 1834. . . .
Frederick Steigmeyer. a native of Switzerland, came from Pennsylvania to
Seneca County in 1836 .... John Steigmeyer. father of Mrs. John B. Blum,
was a native of Switzerland, born in 1811 : he settled, in 1835. two miles west
of Attica, where he still resides .... Mai"tin and Elizabeth (Lang) Steinmetz,
parents of Mrs. J. B. Falter, natives of Alsace, came to Seneca County about
1833.... M. C. Steinmetz, born in France in 1829. came with his parents,
Martin and Elizabeth (Baltz) Steinmetz, fi'om France to America about 1831,
and to Venice Township about 1837 .... James D. Stevenson, a native of Ver-
mont, settled here in 1838, died in Michigan in 1865 .... John A. Stephenson,
father of Prof. William H. Stephenson, of Attica, and a native of Pennsylvania,
settled in Venice Township in 1831. . . .E. P. Sutton, known as "Pomeroy"
Sutton, an old resident of Attica, died December 27, 1879, at New "Washing-
ton. . . .Lester Sutton came from New York State in 1852.
John Tompkins, a native of New York, came in 1835 .... Peter Trumpler,
a native of Bavaria, was among the early settlers of the township .... John
Trumpler was here in 1841.
Samuel Weaver, father of E. Weaver, of Attica, was born in Maryland in
1822, and came among the early settlers to this county; he died in 1863. . . .
Martin S. Weaver, born in Pennsylvania in 1811. came here in 1833 .... Thomas
West settled in Venice in October, 1828. . . . James Willoughby, who owned the
northwest quarter of Section 34 in 1829, died in 1835 .... Jacob Wise, a Penn-
sylvanian. settled here in 1828. . . .Samuel Wise, a native, was here in 1837.
. . . .John and Samuel Woolet settled here in 1829. . . .Christian and Hannah
(Lehman) Worm came into the county from Germany in 1833.
Early Industries. — Henry Speaker's saw-mill was erected between Caroline
and Attica in 1831. The i^ower was supplied by oxen. The first grist-mill
and carding mill was established in 1832. This was simply a conversion of
Speaker's old saw-mill. The Metcalf Steam Saw-Mill was erected in 1836 by
Ebenezer and George Metcalf. close to the spot on which the Heabler Mill was
afterward built. The tire of March, 1840, destroyed this building. The Kin-
naman Steam Saw & Grist-Mills were erected at Caroline by Peter Kinnaman,
690 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
and carried on until destroyed by fire. In 1857 Ephraim Groves' son was
scalded to death, owing to the explosion of the boiler in this concern. The
Steigmeyer Steam Saw-Mill was erected near the site of the Metcalf Mills, and
a grist-mill added subsequently. This industry is now carried on by the
Heablers.
The conspiracy of 1857 to defraud the people reached its zenith at Attica.
Schuyler. Higley and Chandler were among the leaders of those fraudulent
dealers. The counterfeiters were also busy at this time and had a den in this
township.
ATTICA.
The location of this village on Sections 10 and 3, Venice Township, at the
crossing of the Tiffin and Sandusky roads, was selected in 1833 by William and
Samuel Miller, and surveyed for them by David Kisdon. Four- years prior to
this time Ezra Gilbert built a cabin in the center of what is now the village of
Attica, where he kept a tavern and established a postoffice, winning for it
from the department the name of his old home, Attica, N. Y. Thus the Millers
had not to go to the trouble of selecting a name for their new town in the
wilderness. Nathan Merriman's store was also established here, and within
five years from the day of Gilbert's settlement the place grew fi*om out- log-
cabin to be a village of twenty dwellings and of a population bordering on
100. Johnson Ford erected his cabin in 1828. In 1831 the first fi-ame house
in the township was erected by Jacob Newkirk in the business center of the
village.
Attica was platted April 7, 1833, by David Risdon ior AVilliam and Samuel
Miller. Miller A: Schuyler's addition of Hugh M. Ellis' lands was surveyed
in January. 1S48. by H. B. Cain for John Miller and Marcus Schuyler. An
addition to this addition was made at the same time for John L. LaMareaux,
H. Chandler, Joseph Baughman, John Heckman, John Shuriff and D. K. Burg.
The following-named additions were made in 1873-74 and 1875: George
Eingle's, October. 1873; David Ringle's, October, 1873; AYilliam King's,
February, 1875: Finley Eingle's, December, 1874: Boyle & Bemenderf er' s,
March, 1875. The additions to the village in Sections 3 and 10 were authorized
by the commissioners, October 1, 1875. A petition to extend the limits of
Attica corporation was presented to the county board by Lester Sutton, agent,
May 26, 1880. The contest which ensued is of record.
Bemenderfer & Gates' addition was surveyed in March. 1882. and Bingle
& Lemmon's addition in April, 1882.
ORGANIC AND OFFICIAL.
The first officers of Attica Village, elected April 0. 1850, were: John L.
LaMoreaux, mayor; Samuel Miller, clerk; William Eininger, treasurer; S. E.
Mai-tin, marshal; Samuel Crobaugh. D. K. Burg. Benjamin Kelly, John Heck-
man and John Eingle, councilmen; Samuel Miller. M. E. Moltz. John Lay.
Eben. Metcalf. Orlando Miller and James H. Brisco, members of board of
education. The mayors of Attica since that time are named as follows : William
Miller, 1851; William Eininger, 1852-55; P. Kinnaman. 1855; E. H. Blodgett.
1856-57; W. Eininger. 1858; P. Kinnaman, 1859; W. Eininger. 1860; J. E.
Buckingham and E.H. Blodgett. 1861; E. H. Blodgett. 1862 ; W. Eininger, 1865;
W. M. Miller. 1866; H. M. Chandler (vacancy). 1866, and elected l8()7-68;
H. J. Ford. 1S69; J. C. Meyers, 1870-74; J. ■^W._Simpson. 18/4 (died that
year); James L. Couch. 1874-76, re-elected in 18(6; and William Harman,
the present mayor.
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 691
The names of those who have held the position of city clerks are as follows :
Samuel Miller, 1850; Josephiis Chandler, Isaiah Frederick, M. Schuyler, W.
B. Ames, C. V. Fay, J. W. Brown, S. A. Ringle, W. M. Miller, J. W. Simp-
son, W. M. Miller and the present city clerk, James L. Couch.
The names of those who have been elected and served as councilmen since
1852, are as follows: John Miller, H. B. Cain, Samuel Crobaugh, "William
Eininger, I. A. Childs, William Miller, B. Patterson, John Shade, G. W.
Moltz, James Hull, J. D. Harford, John Wolf, William McManigal, Leonard
Buts or Brets, P. Kinnaman, Samuel Ernest, A. P. Philo, S. A. Ringle, Levi
Rice, T. T. Cook, William Smith, George Heablei-, John Engelhart, Henry
Heabler, J. Q. Holmes, J. D. Meyers, John Heabler, J. W. Leonard, John
Foster, J. W. Hall, Hiram Eoyco, George Ringle, Jacob Ebersole, M. R. Moltz.
J. M. Silcox, Thomas Neeley, Samuel Bemenderfer, James L. Couch, William
King, J. R. Strandler, David Sanford, Ed. Bemenderfer, J. F. Lebold, F. H.
Steigmeyer, A. B. Brant, David Hea):)ler, Simeon Decker, J. L. Friedley, T.
K. Crane, H. S. Seavolt, Jacob Engelhai-t and D. T. Heabler.
BUSINESS INTERESTS.
The first postoffice at Attica was opened in 1832, with Ezra Gilbert, post-
master; the owner of the first tavern there. In 1833, Nathan Merriman, of
Bucyrus, opened the first store. W. M. Miller was postmaster at this point
for years. Levi J. Todd is the present postmaster.
The business circle of Attica in 1884-85 comprised the following: Bemen-
derfer & Co. , sash, door and blind factory ; Heabler Bros. , floiu'ing-mills ; Hall
& Meyers, iron founders; George Keller, brick and tile-makers; Libe & Bui'get,
carriage-makers; Armatage & Wurts, J. R. Strandler, hardware; David S.
Jackson, saw-mill; J. W. Walker, furniture and undertaker; ^Y. Smith, fur-
niture; George Sherman, harness; Friedly Bros., Rininger & Silcox, George
H. Hamilton, Leonard Sachs, Myers & Keller, F. H. Steigmeyer, merchants;
T. K. Crane, jeweler; J. M. Teeples, milliner; Engelhart & Kiear, black-
smiths; David Heabler, boots and shoes; R. T. Hearson, J. F. Lebold, di'ug-
gists; J. Reid, C. Schottler, tailors; N. S. VanHorne, baker; J. M. Rice,
painter; Jacob Courtwright, livery; William King, cooper; George Kupp, meat
market; David Ayres, W. Schoff*, hotels; Adolf Hassler, billiards; A. Kappas,
F. Uhle, Joseph Myers, saloons; James L. Couch, O. J. McPherson, justices
of the peace; William Harman, dentist; M. H. Mills, H. G. Blaine, A. W.
Knight, Alfi-ed Force; J. K. Buckingham, C. L. Jones, physicians; Lester
Sutton, attorney, banker, etc. ; Dr. H. G. Blaine, George Stoner, editors Attica
Journal.
The old buildings which occupied the site of the William Rininger build-
ing, were destroyed by fire in 1853. In 1856 another fire swept away the old
William Miller Hotel, northwest corner of Main and Tifiin Streets, then con-
ducted by H. M. Chandler. Subsequently the Chandler Block was erected on
the spot.
CHURCHES.
The first sermon in Venice Township was delivered by the Presbyter-
ian preacher of Melmore about 1830, and a Union Sabbath-school was organ-
ized early in 1833, by Agent Patty, of which Martain was chosen superintend-
ent.
The Presbyterian Society was organized in October, 1833, with thirteen
members, by E. Conger and E. Judson, of Hm-on Presbytery. John Holmes
and Johnson Ford w^ere the first elders.
Attica Baptist Society was organized in 1811, with nine members. Not,
692 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
however, until April 2, 1842, was the first preacher appointed in the person
of Rev. S. M. Mack. In 1852 the Baptist Church was erected.
Baptist Church of Attica was organized July 17, 1841, with the follow-
ing members: Nathan Childs, Adam Philo, Russell AVindruson, Leonard Gip-
son, Thomas Rundell, Eliza Childs, Electa Philo, Hannah Windruson, Huda
Gipson and Nancy Randell, all of whom have gone to join the chiu-ch above.
The pastors of the church have been A. Abbott. E. Goodnow, V. R. Wall,
Elder L. Mack, F. Freeman, A. C. Lockhart, E. W. Clark, J. Hawker, Rea-
son Lockhart, Robert Lockhart. J. L. Wiley, Frank Lyon, A. Buell, T. Dyall,
and E. W. Lyon. The secretaries of the society were R. H. Blodgett, H. P.
Philo, L. L. Gipson and John Riddle. The last named has served twenty
years. The membership is fifty-nine, and the value of church property is
$3,000.
United Brethren Society was organized in 1855 by Rev. M. Bulger, with
the following named members: William Seed, Heniy Hershiser and wife,
]Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Huddlestone. The pastors of the church, since its organi-
zation, are named as follows: Revs. M. Bulger, S. Jacoby, S. Altman, — Og-
den, J. F. Seller, S. Foster, William Nevill, "William Mathers, J. Aumiller,
W. W. McCurdy, Klingle, O. H. Ramsey, C. L. Bevington and W. A. Keesy,
the present incumbent. The society is building a new brick church on the lot
where the old church stands on Eden Street.
UniversaUst Church of Attica was organized December 20, 1860. April
26, 1800, a number of citizens of Attica and vicinity, met to consider the
means for building a Universalist Chui'ch, when a vote in favor of the enter-
prise was carried. William Rininger, Mark E. Crow, and Samuel Crobaugh
were elected trustees; John Childs, secretary. Individual subscriptions were
ordered to be divided into shares of $5 each, and each share was entitled to a
vote. Samuel Crobaugh presented his interest, valued at |60. to the church May
2, 1861. Among the original members, besides those named above, were Par-
thena Crow, Miranda Crow, Maria Crow. Mary Metcalf , Naomi Pruden, Har-
rison Hathaway, Lodency and Louisa Childs. The pastors have been Rev.
E. R. Wood, six months; H. R. Nye, twenty-four months; J. W. Henley,
eighteen months; J. F. Rice, six months; N. A. Saxton, six months; A. J.
Seitz, twenty-four months; G. R. Brown, eighteen months, and J. F. Rice, the
present pastor, twelve years. The secretaries of the society have been H.
Hathaway, J. H. Boyle. Maria and Allie Boyle, Martha Silcox, Anna Meyers,
Arvilla Green, J. N. Lee, W. T. Meyers, F. H. Steigmeyer. Nettie Couch, and
L. J. Todd. The house of worship was erected in 1860. The membershiiJ is
ninety.
The Methodists of Venice organized in 1835.
Methodist Protestant Church was organized at Attica early in 1866. The
names of original members are William McPherson and wife, Maiirice Moore
and wife, Mrs. George Ringle, Mrs. David Ringle. Mary Bennet, Mrs. Lester
Sutton, Mrs. Elizabeth Day, and Mrs. Vahnluah Williams. The names of
pastors are given as follows: Mary Ann Steinbaugh, H. J. Bradford, James
Williams, W. S. Cairns, J. H. Gray, L. Boman, The present pastor is D. C.
Coburn. The number of members is placed at 105, and the value of property
at $4,000.
Attica Mission of the Methodist Church, at Reed, was reorganized in 1872,
and James Williams. Adolph Sallieres and Hiram Boyd were elected trustees
November 30, 1872.
The English Lutherans organized in 1838. and in 1840-41, erected the
Union Church, afterward controlled by the United Brethren. This chiu'ch was
sold for debt, purchased by Johnson Ford and used as a Union Church for years.
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 693
^Evangelical Lutheran Congregation, originally consisted of German Luther-
an and German Reformed members who settled here between 1830 and 1840.
Rev. Conrad, Lutheran minister then residing at Tiffin, held the first services
in 1835-37 in private houses. In 1839 Rev. Kra ise also of Tiffin (Lutheran)
was called and preached every four* weeks for about sis years. In 184'2 diu'ing
his stay here the first church was built, a log structui-e to the east of Caroline.
In 1843 a complete organization was effected and a constitution adopted, and
the church was known as the German Evangelical Lutheran and Reformed
Congregation. Rev. Krause's successor was Rev. Robert Graetz (now of St.
Mary's, Ohio), 1845-5'5. In December, 1855, Rev. W. Schmogrow (deceased),
then of New Washington, was called. In the spring of 1857 dissatisfaction hav-
ing arisen on the part of the Reformed on account of Lutheran practice at the
Lord's Supper, a sej^aration took place, both parties organizing separately.
The Lutheran portion organized in the fall of the same year in accordance with
the laws of the State as the "German Evangelical Lutheran Bethlehem Con-
gregation of Caroline, Ohio, " and adopted its own constitution. Its officers
then were Conrad Lebold and Valentine Roehring, elders; Martin Smeltz
and Jeremiah Smith, deacons; John Springer, Daniel Schaf and Jacob
Faber, trustees. The constitution is still the constitution of the congregation.
The pastors following Rev. Schmogrow were Rev. Paul Mueller (now at
AVichita Kas.); Rev. Carl Schmidt (now at Hubbard, Ohio); Rev. Buech-
enstein, Rev. W. Braunwarth, Rev. A. C. Ulrich (now at Norwalk, Ohio); Rev.
Kramer (now at Castle Garden, New York); Rev. J. Krieger (now at Arling-
ton, Ohio);fi-om May, 1883, to May, 1884, Rev. H. G. Suiter (now at Belle-
vue, Ohio), and since June, 1884, Rev. Carl Ackermann. In 1870 the pres-
ent church was built at a cost of perhaps $2, 500. This spring a new parson-
age was secured, costing $1,200. The German language was always the me-
ilium used in preaching iintil Rev. Suiter was called, since which time German
and English have been used alternately. At present the congregation numbers
about eighty communicant members. Mr. Leonard Sachs is the present secre-
tary of the congregation.
English Reforitied Church, at Carrothers, was founded some years ago. This
chui'ch at Caroline claims a membership of 100 and a large chiu'ch building.
The Sunday-school of the church at Carrothers was organized in April, 1885.
with the following named officers: superintendent, G. S. McKee; assistant
superintendent, P. H. Buchman; secretary, Ida McClelland; treasurer, Katie
Goetize.
SS. Peter and Paul Church, of Attica, is modern in organization, but old in
its membership. Previous to the year 1882, the few Catholics living in and
around Attica, having no house of worshii^ of their own, attended the nearest
Catholic Church for religious services. At a social meeting in the spring of
1882 the first steps toward the organization of the SS. Peter and Paul congre-
gation were taken. The question o'f building a Catholic Church at Attica was
then eagerly discussed by John and Frederick Steigmeyer and Sebastian Senn,
three of the oldest and most respected settlers of Attica: J. B. Blum, F. X.
Snyder and Krupp Bros. The result was a subscription of $1,000 for buying
a suitable place for the intended church. Soon the work commenced and
October 29, 1882, the church was dedicated to divine service. July 17,
1882, Rev. A. Huthmacher was appointed first pastor of the newly organized
congregation but no religious service was held before October 29, 1882, the day
of dedication. The present membership comprises twenty-five families; the
original number was six families. The value of the property is placed at
$4,000.
*By Key. Carl Ackenuaun, preatlier.
694 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
CEMETERIES.
The first death in the township was that of Esther, wife of Jonathan Ford,
who died March 19, 1829. She was biu'ied in the Scipio Cemetery. Samuel
Halsted's child, who died shortly after, was interred in a field near the pike road,
while Philip Muck's child was interred on the "Ford Farm," where Johnson
Ford donated and cleared a small cemetery.
Myers Cemetery Association was organized August 27, 1868, with Dr. J. C.
Meyers, H. F. Myers, George W. Meyers, J. D. Meyers, D. Zimmerman. David
Smith, D. C. Meyers, Abram Meyers and H. A. Meyers.
SOCIETIES.
Venice Lodge No. 197, I. O. O. F. was chartered April 30, 1852, and
elected trustees under the act of May 1, 1852, January 16, 1855. Jacob Wise,
Cyrus King and Michael R. Moltz were chosen trustees, and John L. Lamar-
eaux. clerk. The names of original members are Isaiah Fredrick, M. R. Moltz,
David Bennett, "W. H. Cronkite, William Croxton, George W. Moltz. J. L.
Kinnaman, J. P. Kinnaman, Solomon Gambee. The roll of Past Grands em-
braces the following names: J. L. Kinnaman, David Bennett, Isaiah Fred-
rick, George W. Moltz, W. Sourwine, Leonard Butts. W. V. B. Ames, A. S.
Wickwire, Samuel Wise, C. Link. R. Willoughby, I. Barrick, Samuel Heabler,
Thomas Neelev, Jacob Wise, J. R. Strandler, J. W. Simj^son. A. Stout,
Charles Schottler, W. King, E. W. Fink, M. R. Moltz, J. L. Couch. D. A.
Boyle, CjTus King, J. L. LaMareaux, H. F. Myers, J. C. Meyers, L. A. Ringle,
James Sowerwine, Jacob Decker, George Heabler, J. D. Meyers, H. Royce,
Lester Sutton, J. A. Silencer, D. Y. Fink, Solomon Gambee, Mathias Dough-
ertv, William Harman, W. Olds, W. Green, D. J. Xeikirk, J. T. Meyers, H.
A. Meyers, David Heabler, W. O. Heabler, G. H. Rice, W. T. Meyers, G. F.
Drake^ S. S. Lepard, J. C. Moore, J. Schottler, S. A. Willoughby, Fremont
Wickwire. Howard Price, Charles Weidner and George Engelhart. J. W.
Walker is secretary, and J. T. Meyers, to whom the wi'iter is indebted for this
sketch, is the recording secretary. The number of members is seventy, and
value of lodge i^roperty, $8,000.
Rebecca Lodge No. 11 was organized here some^^ears ago.
Attica Lodge No. 367, F. & A. M. was organized years ago. The greater
number of names given in the history of the Odd Fellows' lodge are identified
with this old Masonic circle. J. R. Strandler was Worshipful Master in
1878, Lester W. Sutton in 1879-85. W. Harman has served as secretary for
some years. G. W. Friedley is the present secretary.
Attica Division No. 239, S. of T. , consisting of twenty members, reorgan-
ized January 21, 1853, and elected Johnson Ford, William McCauley and
George W. Culver, trustees, and John L. LaMareaux, clerk.
Venice Toicnship Farmers'' Club, an old and useful organization, elected
the following named ofiicers in January, 1885: Wesley Hatton, president;
David German, vice-president; Bert Rice, secretary: H. Hathaway, treasurer.
Rice & Creglow Post No. 112, G. A. R., w^as organized under charter July
31, 1881, with the following members: William Harman, Thomas Neelev, P.
M. Hershiser, D. J. Neikirk, W. M. Miller, W. H. H. Miller, George E.
Pruden, John H. Carpenter, F. M. Kelly, John Lebold. S. S. Seiple. James
Pangburn, George H. Rice, J. F. Fink, J. C. Moore. H. A. Libe. John Hodge.
Isaac Lepard, S. T. Groves, C. Sheely, Daniel Hubble, William Luce, S. C.
Gates, Jacob Wise, John Sherwood, Jacob Decker, W. H. Stevenson, Daniel
Carpenter, D. Y. Fink and J. T. Williams. The post was named in honor of
Stephen Rice and Joseph Creglow, who were killed at Winchester. They en-
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 695
listed at Attica on the same day and were killed the same day. The Command-
ers were William Harman, 1881-83; D. J. Neikirk, 1883-85. J. H. Carpen-
ter, Adjutant.
REVIEW.
The village of Attica in itself presents an index to the township. Main
Street is well built up in the business district, and claims some large business-
like mercantile houses, while, north and south, a wide boulevard extends, bor-
dered by the neat cottage homes and substantial residences of the citizens.
This street, in its extent and general appearance, compares very favorably
with the residence streets of large cities. It is fast building up, and will un-
doubtedly continue to spread out until the village of Attica Station and
old Attica are united by one well built up thoroughfare. The churches,
schools, newspaper press, secret and benevolent societies, literary and art so-
cieties, and all the evidences of an advanced state in culture and wealth are
found here, conferring on this southeastern village of the county an impress of
Seneca's growth in all that contributes to i^ublic well being.
SMALL VILLAGES.
Carrothers was laid out on Sections 3'2 and 33, August 21, 1873, by John
Newman, surveyor, for James Carrothers. The business interests are represent-
ed by the following: Gr. S. McKee, Martin Phillips, Jacob Buchman, general
stores; H. Einsel, grain and seed; A. Kerchner, boots and shoes; W. H. Mowery,
produce; A. Snyder, blacksmith; E. Albaugh, lumber; O. Blust, saw-mill;
Carson & Friedly, John Dellinger, stock dealers; Jacob Durr, wagon-maker;
Huser & Knecht, tile factory; J. B. Falter, breeder of fine stock; P. Regula,
hotel; H. A. Brick, saloon; J. J. Deck, physician; G. S. McKee, postmaster;
Henry V. Trumpler, agent Pennsylvania Railroad Company.
The town of Caroline was projected and surveyed by James Kilbourne for
Hector and Byron Kilbourne and Cornelius Gilmore February 28, 1828, on
Sections 10 and 15. There is also on record a survey of the village, alleged
to have been made in June, 1837. and protracted by L. E. Holtz in 1858 for
James Kilbourne, Jr. The name was conferred in honor of Caroline, daugh-
ter of Cornelius Gilmore.
The first settler near Caroline was Cornelius Gilmore in 1827. Before the
close of 1830 he built the first house in the village, and within the following
ten years the population increased to twenty-seven. When Gilmore located at
Caroline there were only fifteen families in Venice Township.
From 1830 to the present time the school system has been a cherished one
in Venice Township. In the year mentioned a school building, a very primitive
concern in material, architectui'e and course of study, was erected at Attica.
Ten years later the ' 'Brick Schoolhouse' ' was erected on the site of the present
schoolhouse, which continued in use until 1857, when Levi Rice completed a
more pretentious house at a cost of $1,328.42.
The Attica Grammar School was instituted under authority, given in the
legislative act of March 4, 1851, which empowered the school board to levy a
tax of 2 mills on the dollar for the support of this school. The vote on the
sale of school land, Section 18, Venice Township, was recorded April 2, 1849,
by Henry Smith, S. WooUett and Samuel Bemenderfer, judges of election,
and November 3, 1849, the sale of Section 18 in fi-actional Township No. 1,
north. Range 18, was effected. William F. Leonard purchased the east half
of the southwest quarter, and Andrew P. Smith the west half of the southwest
696 HISTORY OF SENECA COUNTY.
quarter. The sum realized was $1,490. In 1847 there were twelve school dis-
tricts organized, and 686 pupils enrolled.
The schools of Attica presented the following statistics at the close of the
school year of 1884: Local tax, $1,986. 54; total revenue, .$3,575.82; expendi-
tures, $'2.4'26. 31; one school building valued at $13,000; five teachers, average
salaries, $67, $56 and $33, munber of male pupils. 106, of female pupils, 107.
of whom 16 are pupils in the high school.
The condition of the schools of Venice Township at the close of the school
year of 1884, is shown in the following statistics: Local tax. $4,224.63; total
revenue. $7,917.28; expenditures; $5,234.06; schoolhouses, 13; value of prop-
erty, $13,000; number of teachers, 27; average salary, $37 and $23; number
of male pupils em-olled. 217: of female pupils, 185; total enrollment. 402.
GKXERAL STATISTICS.
The assessment of Venice Township in 1841 was as follows: 25,197 acres,
valued at $58,753; town lots valued at $3,733; 172 horses valued at $6,880;
5(8 cattle valued at $4,624; merchants' capital and moneys at interest, $2,600;
one carriage valued at $50. Total value. $76,640. Total tax, $977.16. De-
linquencies fi-om 1840. $64.80.
The valuation and taxation of Venice Township in 1884-85 are as follows:
Acres of land in township, 24,575. valued at $780,200. and personal property
at $276,910; total. $1,057,110. Acres of land in Attica Village. 168; valued
at $161,130. and personal property, $105,130; total. $266,260; making a grand
total valuation of $1,323,370. The total tax in 1884-85 was $21,999.59; and
$192 dog tax. The population of Venice Township (including Attica. 663). in
1880, was 2,231.
The predial statistics of Venice Township for 1884 are as follows: Wheat,
3.584 acres; lye, 8 acres: buckwheat. 3 acres; oats. 1.573 acres, product,
64.496 bushels; corn 1,880 acres, product, 34.900 bushels; meadow. 2,283
acres, hay, 2,790 tons; clover. 1.038 acres. 1.105 tons and 803 bushels of
seed; flax, 89 acres, 853 bushels of seed; potatoes, 110 acres. 14.004 bushels;
milk sold for family use. 4.700 gallons; home-made butter, 77.805 pounds;
sorghum, 3 acres, 136 gallons of syrup; maple sugar, 357 pounds, and 536
gallons of syrup; bee-hives, 169, pounds of honey, 1,790; eggs, 26,370 doz-
ens; 1 acre of vineyard, 2,000 pounds of grapes; 408 acres of orchards, 8,350
bushels of apples, 52 of pears, and 2 of cherries; 12,301 acres of cultivated
lands; 2,218 in pastm-e; 4.642 in woodland, and 45 waste, total. 19.206: wool
shorn in 1884. 36.440 pounds; milch cows. 740: dogs. 164: sheep killed by
dogs, 24; domestic animals died from disease. 25 hogs. 49 sheep, 8 cattle and
3 horses.
coxcLrsiON.
So much has been wi-itten in the general history relating to men and events
connected with this division of the county, nothing remains for this chapter
save a plain, matter-of-fact statement of its settlement and organization, of its
pioneers and material progress. The professional men. the politicians, the
soldiers of Venice have all been withdi-awn. as it were, from these pages to aid
in making up the fom- chapters of the general history devoted to these sub-
jects. There are other evidences of the princii^le. • "Robbing Peter to pay
Paul," to be found here; but withal, the writer is confident that the transfer
of such names and events to the general history will be found api-)roiiriate, in-
somuch that such transfer is justified by the generality of the subject or its
special adaptation to the chapter wherein it finds mention.
PART IV.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,
ADAMS TOWNSHIP.
ROBERT M. BARTLETT, lumber dealer. P. O. Green Spring. The
paternal grandparents of the subject of this sketch were Samuel and Elizabeth
(Rating) Bartlett, natives of Maine, who came to Ohio during the war of 1812,
and in 18'2G settled in this county, where they died. Their son. Oliver L.
Bartlett (the father of Robert M.). was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, in
1819, and was mamed, in Seneca County, in 1844-, to Hannah E. AVarner,
who was born in 1826, in Berkley County. Va. (Her parents were natives of
Virginia, where her father died, his widow and family coming to Seneca County,
Ohio, about 1833, and here Mrs. Warner died at the age of seventy-eight
years.) Oliver L. Bartlett began farm life in this county, where he improved
many acres of land. In 1844 he removed to Sandusky County, Ohio. There
he continued farming, reading law in leisure hours, and in a few years he com-
menced the practice of law in his neighborhood. In 1860 he was admitted to
the bar, and in 1862 he moved to Green Spring, Ohio, where he opened a law
office. He acquired a large practice in the courts of Lucas. Sandusky and
Seneca Counties, and continued in the practice of law until his death, which
occui-red in 1882. His son. Robert M. Bartlett, subject of this sketch, was
born October 9, 1847, in Sandusky County, Ohio. Early in life he learned the
carpenter's trade, which he followed for several years. In 1882 he entered
into partnership with C. R. Smith, and purchased the sash, door and blind
factory in Green Spring. Ohio, which he still continues to operate in connec-
tion with a large lumber yard, etc. He was married, August 27, 1875, to
Miss Mary Franks, a native of this county, and this union has been blessed
with three children: Harry, Bert and Fred. Mr. Bartlett has three sisters and
two brothers. He is a raan of business ability, and active in public improve-
ments and enterprises; was mayor for one term.
ENOCH BOLIN, farmer, P. O. Clyde, Sandusky County, was born in
Wayne County, Ohio, May 2, 1826, and is a son of George and Mary (Pearce)
Bolin, natives of Virginia and Maryland respectively, and who were married
in Columbiana County, Ohio, moving to Wayne County, and fi-om there to this
county in 1832; they"died in Thompson Township, this county, at the ages of
ninety and eighty-seven years respectively. George Bolin was drafted in 1812,
and served six months in the war of that time. Of their family of ten children
seven are now living. Enoch Bolin purchased his land in Adams Township,
this county, in 1853, and has resided upon it ever since. He was married,
September 14, 1851, to Miss Polly Kestler, of Adams Township, this county,
a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Kestler, who
settled in this county about 1833; they had eleven children, of whom only two
survive. To Mr. and Mrs. Bolin has been born one daughter, Amanda J. , now
700 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the wife of Jacob "Wagner, wlio resides upon and operates the farm owned
by Mr. Bolin. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner have one daughter named Delia Rebecca.
GEORGE R. BOSW'ORTH, retired farmer, P. O. Green Spring, one of
the early and highly respected pioneer citizens of Adams Township, Seneca
Co., Ohio, was born in Chelsea, Orange Co., Vt., April 4, 1800, son of Nathan-
iel and Mary (Ranney) Boswoi-th, the former born in Rhode Island April 12,
1753, the latter in Connecticut, June 24, 1757; they married in Chatham,
Conn., and there remained until after the Revolutionary war. Nathaniel
Bosworth enlisted in the first regiment that was organized under Gen. George
Washington, serving his country eight years, and was in the last regiment
when it was disbanded; four years of his time he served as commissary for
Washington' s family. He was captured by the British three times, and the
last time was placed on board a British prison ship; he and four others deserted
fi-om the ship, and, venturing to swim across the North River, three of the party
reached the shore, but the other two were less fortunate and sank beneath the
waters. After the war Mr. N. Bosworth returned to his wife and children at
Chatham, and remained there some years ; thence he moved to Lebanon. N.
H. , where he and his family resided nine years, then moved to Chelsea. Vt. ,
and in 1800 to Berlin, Vt., where the parents spent their remaining days; the
mother died August 11, 1841, and the father, March 11, 1844; they were the
parents of eleven children, only two of whom survive: Florella Richardson
(aged ninety-five years) and George R. The subject of this sketch, in 1824,
went from, Berlin to Albany, Vt., where he was united in marriage, November
5, 1827, with Lucy Delano, born May 25, 1808, in New Hampshire, daughter
of Moses and Lydia (Baker) Delano. 'both deceased. To oiu- subject and wife
were born seven children: Lillis and William Franklin, living, and Solon. Sid-
ney, Orpha, Mary and Frederick, deceased. August 9, 1834, Mr. Bosworth
and family came to Adams Township, this county, and settled on the farm
where he now resides. Mrs. Bosworth departed this life Avigust 5, 1 849, and
Mr. Bosworth was afterward united in marriage, January 10, 1850, with Adaline
Franklin, born April 20. 1810, in Herkimer County, N. Y.. daughter of Daniel
and Ruth (Rounds) Franldin, both deceased, Mr. and Mrs. Bosworth have
acted the part of parents toward Emma Childs, taking her when eight
years of age, and rearing her to womanhood. Mr. Bosworth is a carpenter by
trade, but has been engaged most of his life in farming.
DR. J. L. BROWN, Green Spring, was born in Onondaga County, N.
Y. , and is a son of Charles and Anna (Phelps) Brown, of New England
birth and descendants of Plymouth colonists. His grandfather. Gen. John
Brown, was a distinguished soldier of the Revolutionary war; his father served
in the war of 1812, and the Doctor himself was in the late war of the Re-
bellion. His father and mother went to New York with their parents when
but children, and were there reared and married. In 1832 they removed
thence to Ashtabula County, Ohio. Both are now deceased. Dr. Brown is
the youngest of a family of six children. The father being a teacher by
pi-ofession, each of his childi-en, under his instruction, received their first
educational training. The Doctor attended school at the Jefferson Academy
until he was eleven years old, then continued his studies at Austinburg
Institute, in Ashtabula County, working for his board with the family of a
dairyman, where, night and morning, he milked seven cows and drove them
to pasture a distance of two and one-half miles, studying at nights by the
light of a bark fire. At the age of twelve, at the request of his mother, he was
taken into the family of Rev. Mr. Austin, a Presbyterian minister, there to be
educated for the ministrv of that denomination, and he remained about one
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 701
year. At the age of thirteen he entered a drng store for a term of five years.
When fifteen years old he taught his first term, thus aiding himself in further-
ing the great object of his life, the practice of medicine. At the age of
eighteen he attended his first course of medical lectm-es. At twenty the Doc-
tor was united in marriage with Miss Mary Mclntyre, and soon after marriage
he came to Fort Seneca, Seneca Co. . Ohio, and there began the practice of
medicine, with a fortune of $1.70 as the sum of his worldly possessions. He
continued practice in Fort Seneca for eight years, and in the fall of 1859 re-
moved to Green Spring. The following winter he graduated from the Cleve-
land Medical College, and pm-sued his profession until the winter of 1862-63,
when he enlisted as a volunteer surgeon in the One Hundred and Sixteenth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry stationed at Winchester, Va. , where he con-
tinued until June 17, 1863, when he was taken prisoner at the battle of
Winchester, Gen. Milroy being in command. The Doctor was then sent
to Richmond with other prisoners, and confined in the historical prison
"Castle Thunder," under grave charges preferred by the rebels. These
charges not being sustained, after nineteen days of dungeon life, he was re-
moved to Libby prison and put on equal footing with other prisoners of war.
Here he was kept seven months and twenty-two days. At the expiration of
this time he was exchanged, and returned to his regiment in Virginia, where
he was appointed post-surgeon, having to report monthly to Washington
the sanitary condition of all hospitals fi'om Martinsburg. Va. , to Hai-per's
Ferry. This arduous duty Dr. Brown performed until the troops were all re-
turned fi-om these points to Richmond and vicinity. He then returned to his
home and family at Green Spring, and soon after recommenced his profes-
sion. Previous to the war he was a pronounced anti-slavery man. With
his father and his brother, the late Hon. O. P. Brown, he made addresses
throughout a large portion of this State, urging the people to vote and work
for the fi'eedom of the slave. As a ' 'boy orator' ' the Doctor gained a wide
reputation, nor did his work consist in talk alone, for while the celebrated "un-
derground railroad' ' was in operation he assisted many a poor negro to gain
his liberty. The Doctor is a firm supporter of the principles of the Repub-
lican party.
DR. i>. PROCTOR CAMPBELL, Green Spring, is a native of Hamp-
ton, N. H., and son of David and Betsey (Godfrey) Campbell. Our subject
remained at home giving considerable time to educational matters under the
direction of the Shaker Society at Canterbury, N. H. , and under the private
instruction of Prof. A. J. Goss, M. A. , of Epsom, N. H. , devoting the latter
part of his home life to teaching. In 1864 he began the study of medicine
under the instructions of many of the most prominent physicians of the East-
ern States, including Dr. Dio Lewis, and others of equal note. He continued
his studies until 187-1, when he began the practice of his profession in Du-
buque, Iowa. He afterward attended the Medical University at New York,
and in 1877 graduated at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, Cin-
cinnati, Ohio. In 1881 he came to Green Spring. Ohio, where he has built up
a large practice which occupies his daily attention. He was married. May 23,
1878, in Bedford, N. H. . to Miss Alice E. Watrous, a native of Green Spring,
Ohio, and daughter of James A. and Hannah F. (Carpenter) Watrous, who
were originally fi'om New London, Conn. , their native place. They came to
Ohio in 1831, settling first in Huron County, and a few years later moved to
Green Spring, where they died, Mrs. Watrous in May. 1882. and Mr. Wat-
rous in December, 1884. To Dr. and Mrs. Campbell has been born one
child, Gracie T.
702 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
EDWIN W. CROCKETT, farmer. P. O. Clyde, Sandusky County, was
born in Adams Township, this coimty. June 7, 1857, and is a son of Josiah and
Harriet (Beymer) Crockett, who came to Ohio with their parents and to this
county in an early day. They were married in this county and were the par-
ents of six children: Estella, Edwin AV., Elbert R., James, Arthur B. and
Walter, all living. Their father was killed September 1, 1879, by the falling
of a large stone which he was undermining, and his widow is now a resident of
Clyde. Edwin W. Crockett, the subject of this sketch, was married, Septem-
ber 25, 1879, to Miss Hattie Niles, a native of Sandusky County, Ohio, born
August 13, 1860, daughter of Claudius and Elizabeth (Jackson) Niles, who
were early settlers in Sandusky County, Ohio, where Mr. Niles died (his widow
is now wife of George Lee, of that county). The union of INIr. and IVIrs Ed-
win W. Crockett has been blessed with two childi'en: Earle, born October 12
1882, and Ethel, born June 16, 1884.
JAMES CROCKETT (deceased) was born in Lincoln County, Me. , in Feb-
ruary, 1798. He served in the war of 1812, also was one of the crew on a
privateer which made several prizes. In 1817 he came to Muskingum County,
Ohio, remaining one year, then returned to his native State and followed the
sea until he was thirty years of age. when he came to Ohio the second time,
locating in Seneca County, where he lived until his death, which occurred
October, 1875. He was married in 1823 to Mary P. Haskell, daughter of
Josiah Haskell, a soldier of the Revolution, at the age of twenty-four years.
and they had a family of eleven children : George, Almira, Josiah, Nathaniel
and Edwin, born in the State of Maine; Knott, Edward, Amanda, Charles.
Celia and Marion E. , born in the State of Ohio. George died in Henry Coun-
ty, this State, leaving a family of four childi-en: Malcolm, Alice, Ernest and
Knott. Almira (Reid) is living in Henry County, this State; has a family of
six children : Mary, Knott, Willie, Charles, Edwin and Agnes. Josiah was
killed by a rock (he was trying to bury) falling upon him: left a family of six
children: Estella, Edwin W., Elbert R.. James. Arthur B. and Walter. Ed-
win was wounded at the battle of Cedar Creek, Shenandoah Valley, survived
and is now living in Saline County, Mo. ; has a family of six children
(Thomas, his eldest son, having recently died): Josiah, Dee, Minie, James.
Edward and Angus. Knott was killed at the Battle of Franklin, Tenn.
Amanda (Reid) is living in Henry County, Ohio, and has a family of four
children: Charles, Angus. Grace and Thomas. Charles was killed at the bat-
tle of the Wilderness. Celia (Pulasky) is living in Henry County, Ohio, and has
a family of five children: Edward. Marion E., George. Mary and Belle.
Marion (Engler) is living in this county, and has a family of five children:
Celia, Bert, Grace, Nettie and one not named. James and 'Mary P. Crockett,
remained in Lincoln County, Me-., until 1828, when they came to Ohio, and
settled in Adams Township, this county. He died in October, 1875, aged
seventy-seven years, his wife having departed this life in May of same year,
aged seventy-two years. In politics the familv are all Republican.
EDWARD CROCKETT, farmer, P. O., Green Spring, was born in Pleas-
ant Township, this county. November 22, 1833, son of James and Mary P.
(Haskell) Crockett. He was married, Septemer 13, 1858, to Miss E. J. Brown,
daughter of Elijah and Catharine Brown, of Scipio Township, this county,
former of whom was a native of Frederick County, Md. , latter of Perry County.
Ohio; they came to this county in 1842, and reared a family of eight children,
of whom six are now living. "Mr. Brown died in 1885; his widow still resides
in Scipio Township. Mr. and Mrs. Crockett are the parents of ten children—
Adell, Henry, Charles (deceased), Nellie. Frank, Theodore (deceased). Mabell,
Catharine, Elijah and Alice.
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. • 703
HENRY A. DETERMAN, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born in
Adams Township, this county, December 25, 1851, son of Herman H. and
Mary E. (Beinedick) Determan, natives of Germany, where they were married
September 24, 1838, near Western Kapplen. They came to this country in
1834, and settled upon the land where the father still resides, and which he
has improved with his own hands. Harman H. Determan reared a family of
eight children, of whom four are now living, and all married: George, Samuel,
Catherine E. and Heniy A. Our subject, w^ho is the youngest, was married.
August 27, 1874, to Miss Mary A. Kistler. of Adams Township, this county,
where she was born August 27, 185f), daughter of Joseph and Catherine
(ShawbeiTy) Kistler, early settlers in this county, where they still reside. Mr.
and Mrs. Determan have one daughter, Dora A. Our subject has purchased
eighty-four acres of good land, which he is improving in many ways. Mr.
Determan is a member of the German Reformed Chiu'ch. and Mrs. Determan
of the Lutheran Chiu'ch. In politics he is a Democrat.
WARREN DROWN, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of New
Hampshire, born in 1814. He w^ent with his parents, Solomon and Fanny
(Dennis) Drown, in 1815 to New York State, in 1832 to Pennsylvania,
and in 183*J came to this county, where his parents both died; they had
a large family of childi'en. Warren Drown has given his attention to gen-
eral agricultiu-e and has made many valuable improvements on his farm
of ninety acres, which was originally nearly covered with forest. He was mar-
ried in 1844 and is the father of two daughters: Elizabeth and Emma, for-
mer the wife of James Reed, of Huron County, Ohio, and the mother of three
children: Jessie, Freddie and Warren. Emma is still with her parents.
DAVID W. DUDROW, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Fred-
erick County, Md. , born October 25, 1825. son of David and Elizabeth (Hines)
Dudrow, also natives of Maryland, of German descent. Of their family only
three survive: Mary, Philip H. and David W. The subject of this sketch
came to this county in 1845, settling in Adams Township, where he purchased
and improved a large farm, upon which he still resides. He was married.
January 8, 1853, to Mary J. Rule, of Adams Township, this county, where
she was born November 3, 1834. Her parents, Daniel and Jane (Groscrost)
Rule, were about the first settlers in this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Dudi'ow
have ])een born eight children, four of whom are yet living: Byron, practicing
law, in partnership with H. R. Finefi'ock, at Fremont, Ohio, has twice been
elected city solicitor of Fremont; William, who owns and cultivates a large
farm, at Green Spring, in Adams Township ; Fred and Mary J. , latter attend-
ing Baldwin University, at Berea, Ohio. The deceased are John, Alice,
Daniel and David, the two latter being twins. Mr. Dudrow has nearly 450
acres of land, which he and his son, Fred, operate, giving considerable attention
to stock-raising, merino sheep, etc.
G. W. EARHART. proi)rietor of the city bakery and fancy grocery,
choice cigars, tobacco and confectionery. Green Spring, was born in Lancaster,
Fairfield Co., Ohio, April 16, 1845, where he obtained a common school
education, and learned the trade of baker and confectioner. In 186(3 he
moved to Toledo, Ohio, where he resided ten years. In 1876 he came to
Green Spring and started in the bakery and confectionery business, and by
close attention to business he was soon enabled to enlarge the same, and in
1881 he erected, as a monument to his industry and enterprise, a two-story
brick block containing two store-rooms, both of which he now occupies: he
is now considered one of the leading business men of the town in which he
resides. He has been elected, and served two terms as treasurer of Adams
704 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Township, this county; served two terms in the village council; served
six years as a member of the school board, two years as the treasui'er, and one
year as the president of the board. He was a charter member of Clyde
Lodge No. 126, K. of P. ; he is a member of Clyde Lodge No. 989. K. of H. ;
he was a charter member of Potter Post No. 105, G. A. R., of Green Spring,
and served as commander of same in 1888. He enlisterd during the Rebellion
in Company C, One Hundred and Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for a
term of one year, and was discharged fi-om the service. May 8, 1865, by rea-
son of close of the war. Politically he is a Republican. He was married, in
1866, to Mary C. Hill, of Lancaster, Ohio. She was born in 1841, and is the
mother of five children: Falenia T., Lulu, Martin D., May E. and George W.
H. J. ERNSBERGER, Green Spring, was born in Richland County, Ohio,
in 1832. He began active life as a school teacher, and afterward went into
business at Mansfield. Subsequently he removed to a farm, where he remained
until 1884, when he went into partnership with M. F. Van Buskirk, of Green
Spring, in the publication of the Times (vide page 327).
CHARLES D. HOLTZ, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born in Pleasant
Township, this county, January 31, 1846, son of Jacob P. and Susannah
(Huss) Holtz, early settlers of and still residing in Pleasant Township, this coun-
ty. Our subject was married, October 9, 1872, to Miss Mary (Lillis) Smith, of
Green Spring, Ohio, where she was born June 20, 1854, daughter of Samuel
H. and Charlotte (Van Syckel) Smith, natives of New Jersey and who now re-
side in Green Spring, Ohio. Mr. Holtz is the father of three children: Grace,
born March 15, 1874; Nellie, born September 11, 1877; Jessie, born August
24, 1883; all living. Mr. Holtz purchased land in Adams Township, this coun-
ty, which he has improved in various ways and where he follows general farm-
ing. In politics he is Republican.
CLAY HOLTZ, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, born December 11, 1841. the second son of William and
Catharine M. (Cramer) Holtz, early settlers in this county, where they resided
until the death of the former in 1862; Mrs. Holtz still resides there. Our sub-
ject enlisted October 9, 1861. in Company H, Fifty-fifty Regiment Ohio Vol-
unteer Infantry, serving three years. He is now a member of Potter Post, 105,
G. A. R., Green Spring, Ohio. Mr. Holtz was married February 28, 1868, to
Miss Dora M. Egbert, of Clinton Township, her native place, a daughter of
Jeremiah and Lucy (Rule) Egbert, early settlers in this coiinty. To the union
of Mr. and Mrs. Holtz have been born seven children: Harry, Alice, William,
Catharine, Susan, Lottie and Lucy, all living. Mr. Holtz is a medium farmer
and operates over 300 acres of land, on which he has made many valuable im-
provements. He has a fine large brick house and large barn. He is a member
of the I. O. O. F. of Green Spring; in politics he is a Republican.
J. C. KANNEY, grocer, Green Spring, was born in Reed Township, Seneca
Co., Ohio, FebriTary 12, 1855, son of Jacob and Mary (Reiner) Kanney, of Seneca
County, Ohio, who were early settlers in the county and are still living in Reed
Township. They are the parents of eleven children: Alford, Charles, Katie,
John, Francis (deceased), Anthony (deceased), Jacob (deceased)^ Elydeth
(deceased), Francis 2d, Anthony 2d and Michael. Until he arrived at the
age of twelve years the life of our subject was passed upon a farm. After
receiving a common school education he commenced clerking in West Lodi, and
in 1871 came to Green Spring. In April, 1881, he embarked in the grocery
business, and by close attention to business and the com-teous manner in which
he attends to the wants of his many customers, he has gained a leading and suc-
cessful trade. He is an active F. & A. M. ; politically a stanch Republican; is
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 705
the present treasurer of the corporation. Mr. Kanney was married, October 21,
1874. to Miss Ella Burton, daughter of C. S. Biu-ton.
MONEOE KISTLER. farmer, P. O. Clyde, Sandusky County, is a native
of Lancaster County, Penn. . born November 7, 1830, and is a son of John T.
and Eve (Brish) Kistler, who came to this county in 1833 and settled in Adams
Township, where they reared a family of three children: Polly, Sarah and
Monroe. John T. Kistler died July 14, 1870, aged sixty-six years, and his
widow. January 8, 1878. at the age of seventy-two. Our subject was mar-
ried, September 11, 1849, to Catharine Setzler. of Adams Township, this
county, a native of Germany, born March 7, 1830, daughter of Heniy and
Elizabeth (Swan) Setzler, who came to America in 1834, settling first in Hiu-on
County, Ohio, where they remained fourteen years, and then moved to this
county, where they died, former in 18G1, aged sixty-six years, latter in 1866,
aged seventy-one years. They were the parents of six children, of whom
John, Lena, "Elizabeth and Catharine are living, and George and Philip are
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kistler are the parents of ten childien; those living
are John M., Hemy. Lena. George, Monroe. Nathan. Franklin and Anna;
Philip and Augustus are deceased. Mr. Kistler has improved many acres of
land in this county, and has served his township in several of its oflices. He
and his wife are prominent members of the Lutheran Chiu-ch, of which
Church his entire family are also members. Mr. Kistler has given all his at-
tention to- general agriculture. He has owned several hundi-ed acres of land,
most of which he has distributed among his childi-en. and still has 220 acres.
In politics, Mr. Kistler is a Democrat.
JOHN M. LEE, farmer. P. O. Green Spring, was born in Fayette
County, Iowa, March 25, 1856, son of David and Mary A. (Miller) Lee, and
natives of Pennsylvania and New York States, respectively. They came with
their parents to this country in a very early day, and were man-ied in this
county, but in 1854 moved to' Iowa, where they remained until 1866, in which
year they returned to Seneca County, where David Lee died August 14, 1883;
his widow resides in Adams Township, this county. They were the parents of
eight childi-en: Lydia A.. Homer. John M., Rosa. Arthur H.. Harkness C.,
Nellie and Stella.' all living. John M. Lee was maiTied, February 24, 1876,
to Miss Emma S. Prentice, of Erie County, Ohio, born April 29. 1 857, daughter
of Nelson E. and Emily (Wadsworth) Prentice, who were among the first set-
tlers in Erie County, Ohio. They had six children: Emma S., Kate C, Nel-
son D., May E.. Maggie W. and' Nettie S. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Lee
has been blessed with one son. Harry H., born April 5. 1877. Mr. Lee began
farming for himself, when married, and now has eighty-eight acres of land,
which he has well improved. He and his wife are members of the Christian
Union Church. In politics, Mr. Lee is a stanch Republican,
JAMES McINTIRE, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born in Wayne
County, Ohio, in 1825, a son of Smith and Catharine (Larkins) Mclntire, both
deceased, who came to this county in 1832, parents of ten childi-en, six of
whom are still living. Oui' subject was married, in 1850, to Miss Catharine
Myers, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Ryne) Myers, early settlers in this
county and Adams Township, and to this union have been born seven children,
four of whom are now living. His wife dying in 1865, Mr. Mclntire then
married, in 1867, Miss Wealthy Scott, of Sandusky County, Ohio, daughter of
William and Susan (Blnbaker) Scott. This marriage has resulted in the birth
of three childi-en, two of whom survive. Mr. Mclntire has served in some of
the township o£(ices in Adams Township; in politics he is a Democrat.
706 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
DR. ARCHIBALD R. McKELLAR, physician and surgeon, Green
Spring, was born in Elgin County, Ontario, in 1850. His father, Malcom
McKellar emigrated from Scotland in 1838, and was one of the pioneer set-
tlers of Elgin County, Ontario. Dr. A. R. McKellar was the youngest of
eight children — six sons and two daughters. After receiving a common school
education, he taught school in the surrounding districts for two or three years.
He then further promoted his education by attending the Provincial Normal
School at Toronto, passing his examinations with honor. He again resumed
the profession of teaching, and taught in several rural districts until he was
appointed assistant high school master of the Smith's Falls High School
(one of the most efficient schools in the Province of Ontario), at a very liberal
salary. He subsequently filled the position of high master in the Hawkes-
bury School, having an average daily attendance of 600 pupils; but in
1873, at the earnest solicitation of the people of Smith's Falls, he again
assumed the position of high master of the high school in that place. Having
turned his attention to the study of medicine, he entered the Ann Arbor
University in the fall of 1875, and at the end of the session he attended the
summer course of lectures in the College of Medicine and Surgery of Cincin-
nati, graduating with honor in the summer. The following fall, to thoroughly
complete his medical education, he attended a session of the College of Physi-
cians and Surgeons, New York, and was one of the six students who passed
the most successful examination. He first settled in Detroit, Mich. , and from
there moved to Green Spring, Ohio, in July, 1877, where he has since
remained, and has met with ample success in his profession. The Doctor is a
member of the Seneca County, State of Ohio, and American Medical Associa-
tions; is a member of the Orange. Masonic and I. O. O. F. societies. He is
nominally a member of the Presbyterian Church. While in Canada he was a
stanch Reformer, and since he became an American he is eqiially as strong a
Republican. In the year 1877 he was married to Catharine Morwood, who was
born near the village of St. John, Province of Quebec. She removed to the
Province of Ontario, in 1 850, with her mother, three brothers and three sisters.
The Doctor and his wife have two boys, both healthy and strong, their names
being Archibald and Neil. Dr. McKellar has a remunerative practice, and is
destined to be a permanent and prominent resident of Green Spring.
DANIEL METZGER, farmer, P. O. Republic, is a native of Pickaway
County, Ohio, liorn August 15, 1818, son of Henry and Catharine (Wise)
Metzger, natives of Union County, Penn. , and who were married in Pickaway
County, Ohio, and moved to this county in October, 1833; they were the
parents of four children: Elizabeth, Mary A., Harriet and Daniel. Henry
Metzger was born February 8, 1797, died March 4, 1868; his widow was born
August 14, 1794, died May 9, 1880. The father of oru- subject was one of
the first to enter land in this county, and he improved many acres with his
own hands and the assistance of his only son, Daniel. He was a noted military
man, having drilled several companies of home guards. He was an ardent
advocate of the principles of the Democratic party, and was a member of the
Lutheran Church. Daniel Metzger, the subject of this sketch, bought his
first land in Adams Township in 1841, to which, by industry and economy, he
has added until he now has 210 acres, most of which he has improved in various
ways. He has been twice married; first to Miss Sarah Whiteman, August 31,
1838, by whom he has had four children: Catharine, Henrietta, Harriet A.
and Henry V, , all living and married. Henry V. has six childi-en : Harriet
A., the widow of John Bowman, has one son; Henrietta, the wife of Otha H.
Hull, has four children, and Catharine, the wife of Samuel Bowers, has three
ADAMS TOAVNSHIP. 707
children. The two latter families live in Henry County, Ohio, and the two
former reside in Adams Townshij), this county. Mr. Metzger's first wife died
April 10, 1850. She was a native of Columbia County, Penn. , born Septem-
ber 18, 1819, a daughter of Daniel and Susan (Coleman) AVhiteman, who came
from Pennsylvania to Seneca CoiTuty, Ohio, in a very early day; both are
now dead. Mr. Metzger's second maniage took place June 22, 1851, with
Miss Catharine Bowerman, of Adams Township, this county, a native of
Seneca County, N. Y., born November 13. 1822, a daughter of Jacob and
Mary (Ritter) Bowerman, natives of Pennsylvania, and who married in Seneca
County, N. Y. , coming to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1829. They had twelve
childi-en, of whom nine are still living. The father died August 16, 1876,
aged eighty-one years; the mother died in February, 1877, aged seventy-eight
vears. Mr. Bowerman was a noted hunter in his day, and for several years
gained a livelihood by hunting. By his second marriage Mr. Metzger is the
father of five children, the sole survivor of whom, Mary J. , is now the wife of
Samuel Weller. and has three children. ]VIr. Metzger is an active Democratic
politician; has served in many of the township offices; has been justice of the
peace for nine years, and is now filling the ofiice of infirmary director of this
coxTuty.
JOHN C. IVIETZGER, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of
Adams Township, this county, born December 4, 1838, son of Samuel and
Rebecca (Heltzel) Metzger, natives of Union County, Penn. , and Hardy County,
Va. (now West Virginia), respectively, and of German descent. They were
maiTied in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1836, and same year came to this
county and purchased land in Adams Township. They reared a family of five
childi-en: Henry H. , John C, Sarah A., Jacob and Lavina E., all living
except Sarah A. , who died in April, 1877. Samuel Metzger remained in this
county until 1880, then removed to Sandusky County, Ohio, where he now
resides. John C. Metzger was married, March 29, 1860, to Miss Sarah Miller,
of Clinton Township, this county, a native of Scipio Township, this county,
born January 2, 1841, daughter of Daniel and Anna (Bergstresser) Miller,
natives of New York State, and among the first to settle in this county, where
Mr. Miller still lives; Mrs. Miller died in 1845. To Mr. and Mrs. Metzger have
been born three childi-en : Alwilda. now the wife of Isaac Dillman, of Adams
Township. Gertrude and Samuel. Mr. Metzger removed to Steuben County,
Ind., in 1862. but returned to his native county in 1869. He has served his
township in several of its offices, and is an advocate of the princij)les of the
Democratic party.
JACOB J. MILLER, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Yates
County, N. Y., born FebriTary 21, 1829, and came with his parents, in 1838, to
this county where he was reared a farmer. His parents Daniel and Anna (Berg-
stresser) Miller, came fi'om New York State to this county in 1838. They have
reared a family of eight children: Jacob J., Mary A., Peter, Barbara, Cath-
arine, Sarah, Angeline and Martin. The mother dying, March 24, 1849, aged
forty-four years, the father then manied, in 1851, Mrs. Sarah Reeber, and
now resides in Clinton Township, this county. At the age of sixteen years our
subject began learning the cooper's trade, which he followed for twenty-six
years, with the exception of two years spent in mining in California, which,
together with his trade, was quite profitable to him, financially; hence he was
prepared to pay for the land he had purchased in Adams Township, this county,
in 1857, and, by industry and economy, he has since added to the same until
he now has 164 acres, which he has improved in various ways. In 1870 he
erected a fine brick residence, at a cost of over $3, 000. Mr. Miller was mar-
708 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ried March 29, 1855, to Miss Sarah Robenalt, a native of Clinton Township,
this county, born September 1, 1837, daughter of Solomon and Catharine
(Powell) Robenalt, natives of Pennsylvania, who married in Fairfield County,
Ohio, and came to this county about 1888; they had a family of thirteen chil-
dren, of whom eleven are now "living : Mary, Elizabeth, Lavina, Catharine, Chris-
tena," Sarah, Barbara J., Andi-ew J., George, Solomon and William. The
deceased are John and Peter. The father of this family died in June, 1860,
aged sixty-five years. The mother died December 25, 1881, aged eighty years.
To Mr. and Mrs. Jacob J. Miller have been born ten children, of whom six are
vet living: Ida J., Daniel L., Almarinda, Mary B., Minda A. and J. P. The
deceased are Warren P., Delia A., Noble A. and an infant twin brother of
Minda A. Ida J. is now the wife of A. R. Young, a furniture dealer in Green
Spring, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Reformed Church.
He has served in several of the township ofiices. In politics he is a Democrat.
OSCAR MYERS, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born October 9, 1856,
in Adams Township, this county, son of John and Elizabeth A. (Ryne) Myers,
natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania respectively, and who were married in this
county; they had two children : Catharine (deceased) and Oscar. The mother
died January 24, 1885; the father is now seventy-seven years old; he was a very
industrious man through life, having accumulated considerable land and other
property, most of which he has already given to his son Oscar, who is a worthy
young man. In politics both father and son are Democratic from principle.
Our subject was married December 5, 1876, to Emma Gibbons, born in
Adams Township, this county. March 28, 1857, daughter of William and Jane
(Stilwell) Gibbons, natives of Pennsylvania and New York, respectively, coming
to this county about 1853, where they still reside; they reared a family of one
son and two daughters: Almerinda, John and Emma. Mr. and Mrs. Oscar
Myers have two children: Frank and Cecil. Mr. Myers was reared a farmer,
an occupation he still follows, devoting his spare time to operating a steam fac-
tory he has on his farm, where he manufactures bee hives and various articles
of wooden ware. He also has a feed-mill, for grinding corn etc.
JAMES PAINE (deceased) was born in Pickaway Coimty, Ohio, June 2,
1818; son of John and Sarah (Lawrence) Paine. He was reared on a farm,
received a common school education and entered upon his course in life as a
teacher in common schools. In 1832 his parents moved to Seneca County,
Ohio, and located in Adams Township, and here our subject turned his atten-
tion to farming and soon became one of the practical and successful farmers of
the township. He was active in public affairs, and took an interest in all
efforts for the advancement and good of the community in which he lived. He
was especially interested in religious and educational affairs, was an ardent
advocate of the principles of the Democratic party, and for many years served
the people in various offices of the township. Mr. Paine was first married, Jan-
uary 25, 1842, to Maria Ann Kline, who died July 25, 1854. She was the mother
of six children: George, John, Sarah, Melvina, Samantha and William. Mr.
Paine' s second marriage was, March 8, 1855, with Mrs. Flora (Ellis) Cramer,
who was born in Vermont, August 13, 1832. She was the widow of James
Cramer, who, in life, was a mechanic in Castalia, Ohio, where he was well and
favorably kno^V7i for many years. By him she had one child, James, who died
in infancy. This second" u'nion was' blessed with three children: Clementine,
James aiid Florence. Mr. Paine died May 4, 1876, and the following year his
widow moved to Clyde, Ohio, where she remained about eighteen months, and
■ then came to Green Spring, this county, where, in 1883, she erected the fine
residence in which she now lives. She has with her a grandchild. May
(daughter of James E. Paine, Jr. ), whose mother is deceased.
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. ^ 709
WILLIAM J. PAYNE, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Adams
Township, Seneca Co. Ohio, born February 8, 1843, son of JohnW. and Susan
(Riile) Payne, who moved fi-om Pickaway County to Seneca County, about 1832,
and to Thompson Township, in 18^)0: they both died in this county. His
grandfather Payne moved here fi'om Pickaway Coiinty, Ohio, about 1832, and his
grandfather Rule moved here fi'om New York State about the same time or
a little later. The subject of this sketch was reared in Thompson Town-
ship, as a farmer, and was married, in 1865, to Sophronia Gambee of Reed
Township, this county, born May 25, 1844, a daughter of Solomon and Mary
Gambee, also of Reed Township, where they were early settlers, having come
fi'om New York State. In 1875 Mr. Payne retui-ned to Adams Township, where
he purchased land on which he now resides and follows general agricultural
pursuits: he also operates a hay and straw press. He served a few months in
the late war; has filled several of the township offices. He is the father of five
children: Lucy E. , John W.. Ai, Jesse O. and Bessie L.
SAMUEL >ONTIUS (deceased) was born December 26, 1814. in Pick-
away County, Ohio, where he was reared as a farmer, and remained until 1842
when he moved to this county, bringing with him his wife and two children.
He was married, October 10. 1839, to Miss Lydia Shellhammer of Pickaway
County. Ohio, a native of Lehigh County, Penn., born March 31, 1817. Her
parents were Jonah and Sarah (Meckel) Shellhammer, natives of Pennsylvania,
who came to Ohio in 1823 and settled in Pickaway County, where they died;
of their family of eleven childi-en nine are still living. Mr. Pontius was a
prominent man in his neighborhood and highly respected by all who knew him ;
he was a member of the United Brethren Church ; a farmer by occupation, he
cleared and improved about 100 acres of land in Adams Townshij), this county.
He was the father of four children: Benjamin, Sarah, "Wilson (deceased) and
Rosa. IVIi-s. Pontius, after her husband's death, purchased the childrens' in-
terest in the home farm, which now consists of nine acres of well-improved
land, at present operated under her supervision by J. E. Paine.
WILSON PONTIUS (deceased) was born in Adams Township. Seneca
Co., Ohio, February 25, 1845, son of Samuel and Lydia (Shellhammer) Pon-
tius, and brother of Benjamin, Sarah and Rosa Pontius. His father died
several years ago, and his mother still lives upon the homestead farm. He was
married, September 23. 1868, to Miss Nancy M. Paine, a native of Adams
Township, this county, born October 9, 1848, daughter of James and Maria
Ann (Kline) Paine who were among the early settlers in this county, where
they were highly respected by all who knew them. Mrs. Paine was the mother
of sis chilch-en; her death occurred July 25, 1854. Mr. Paine married again
in March, 1855, this time to Mrs. Flora (Ellis) Cramer, by whom he had three
children; his death occurred May 4, 1876. Wilson Pontius, the subject of
this sketch, died March 12, 1879, the father of foui' childi-en, of whom only two
are now living: Schviyler R. and Hibbard A. He was possessed of manly
principles and an energetic spirit, and ranked high among his fellow men; and
although comparatively young in the affairs of this life, had served his town-
ship in several of its offices. Mrs. Pontius still resides upon the farm, which
she oversees.
DANIEL C. RULE, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Adams
Township, this county, born December 10, 1838; son of Daniel and Jane
(Groscost) Rule, who were among the first settlers in this county, where Dan-
iel Rule still resides. The mother of our subject died December 2, 1879, aged
seventy-eight years; she was a native of Pennsylvania and came with her par-
ents to Trumbull Countv. Ohio, where she met and mairied Daniel Rule; from
710 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
there, a few years later, they came by overland route with an ox team to this
county. They stopped first in Scipio Township, and thence came to Adams
Township. They reared a family of ten children, of whom five survive. Mrs.
Rule's father was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Daniel C. Rule, the
subject of this sketch, was married March 20, 1862, to Elenor Chiu'ch, of Adams
Township, this county, where she was born June 1, 1837, daughter of Earl and
Colena (Titus) Church, natives of New York and Connecticut respectively, and
who were married in Litchfield, Conn. , June 14, 1827 ; they resided in Genesee
County, N. Y. , a few years, then moved to Huron County, Ohio, and in 1837
came to Adams Township, this county; they had eight children, five of whom
are still living. Mr. Church died in August, 1819, aged fifty-one years; his
widow died January IS. 1881. aged seventy-six years. Islx. and Mrs. Rule
are the parents of one daughter and three sons: Anna C, Ralph, Harvey and
Daniel C, all living except Harvey, who died September 11, 1871. Mr. Rule
gives considerable attention to stock dealing. He is a Republican, and has
taken an active part in the politics of his township. His brother, Isaac P.
Rule, was a member of the One Hundi-ed and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, and was promoted to lieutenant in 1862. He served thirteen months
and was mortally wounded at the battle of Chickamauga. The post of the G.
A. R. , at Tiffin. Ohio, is named in honor of him.
JOHN B. SCHWENDT, dealer in boots and shoes. Green Spring, was
born in Germany, July 21, 1851. He received a common school education in
his native land, where he also learned the shoe-making trade. He immigrated
to America August 23, 1872, locating in Erie, Penn. , where he remained until
1871, and in June of that year he came to Green Spring, but a month later
moved to Toledo and there remained until March. 1875, when he retiu'ned to
Green Sj)ring, and soon after entered into partnership in the boot and shoe
trade, and in 1877 piu-chased his partner's interest in the business. ISIr.
Schwendt is a self-made man, and owes his present success and acquisition of
property to his own natural business qualifications and habits of industry.
Socially he ranks high in the community for his many good qualities. He is
an active member of the German Reformed Church; in politics a stanch Re-
publican. He was married, October 29, 1876, to Miss Louisa E. Bates, of
Fulton County, Ohio, who has borne him three children: Edna. Cydona and
Bernard.
DR. L. H. SPRAGUE, Green Spring, was born in Vermont. Janu-
ary 21, 1821. He obtained a common school and an academic educa-
tion, then commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Henry Ranney, who
at that time was lieutenant-governor of Vermont. He afterward attended
Casselton Medical College, where he graduated in 1811, entering upon the
practice of his profession at Clifton Park, N. Y. , where he continued in prac-
tice seventeen years. He then went to Clifton Springs and engaged in the
water-cure business; from there he proceeded to Cleveland and engaged with
Dr. Seeley for three years in the same line ; he next came to Green Spring and
assisted in organizing a water-cure and sanitarium, holding the office of phy-
sician and general director of that institution. Five years later he disposed of
his interest in the water-cure and sanitarium, but has been medical director of
the institution fully half the time since then. For the last five years the
Doctor has made a specialty of treatment with electricity. He has been P. M.
of the order of F. & A. M. in Green Spring, and was formerly a member of
the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a Republican. Dr. Sprague was married,
March 29, 1813, to Miss Phelene Howe, born February 18, 1821, in Townsend,
Windliam Co. , Vt. , and a direct descendant of Lord John Howe, of England
ADAMS TOWNSHIP. 711
(spoken of in Longfellow's "Tales of a Wayside Inn"). To Dr. and Mrs.
Sprague were born two children: Lorenzo, a physician and druggist in Pember-
ville, Wood Co. , Ohio ; and Adelaide, wife of Henry Thompson, of Syracuse,
N. Y.
JACOB STEM was born in 1702, in Carroll County, Md. ; at the age of four-
teen he lost his father, when much of the care of a large farm fell upon him.
At twenty-one he married and settled upon one of the beautiful farms of Wake-
field Valley, Md. , l)ut the growing attractions of the " far West, " as Ohio was
then called, made him long toktryhis fortune there, and after several horse-back
journeys over the mountains, to see for himself what the country promised, he
decided to leave the old home for a new one in the West. He came to Tiffin,
Ohio, about 1830, where he jnu'chased several large tracts of land, and engaged
in merchandise. At the sale of government lands, which took place not long
after, he purchased about 1,200 acres of land in Seneca and Sandusky Counties,
including the wonderful sulphur spring, from which the village of Green
Spring takes its name. Here he laid out the village of Green Spring, and north
of the village about one mile, put up a large flouring-mill, with saw-mill and
other improvements. This mill was considered an immense structure at that
early day, wonderful for height and capacity. The water-power was obtained
from the never-failing spring above mentioned; and mills were few and far
between, and all subject to be stopped for want of water in time of di'ought. A
dry season was sure to bring to this mill great numbers of teams, heavily laden
with wheat, fi-om all directions; even from Upper Sandusky on the south, and
Toledo on the northwest. Then Toledo was but a village, and the intervening
county but thinly settled. People came from all directions, and the mill ran
all night and all day, week after week, and yet some were obliged to wait for
days (sleeping in their covered wagons), for their turn to have grinding done.
Many of the wagons used were the old Pennsylvania covered wagon, which
could be made comfortable for a number of persons to sleep in. While carry-
ing on this business, with other important interests engaging his attention, Mr.
Stem's health suddenly gave way; and so serious was the malady (asthma
with symptoms of consumption), that his physicians, Drs. Dresbach and Tilden,
assured him that his only hope of recovery was in giving up business, and
spending several years in travel. He was thus obliged to place all his aifairs
in the hands of others. Having done this, he spent months traveling on horse
back through the Southern States. Not finding relief fi'om this, he deter-
mined to try the effect of the climate of Cuba. Accordingly he went there and
spent about a year, returning home, for sake of the sea voyage, by the way of
Boston. This experiment also proved ineffectual as a means of restoring his
health. He came home after having been gone nearly two years, not better,
but rather worse, and giving up all hope of recovery, he quietly put aside all
the hopes he had cherished of great financial success, and with unexampled for-
titude and submission, yielded to the prospect of spending the remainder of
his days a confirmed invalid. In person, Mr. Stem was tall, nearly six feet,
and well formed, having, in youth, raven black hair, swarthy complexion, with
searching yet j)leasant black eyes, and a countenance that, in conversation,
lighted up with unusual animation and intelligence. His bearing was that of a
gentleman of coiirtesy and refinement. He was fond of the acquisition of
knowledge, and for a mere man of business, was, withal, something of a stu-
dent, being familiar with some of the best writers of ancient and modern times.
In politics, he was an old-line Whig, and an ardent admirer of Henry Clay.
He allowed his name at one time to be put by his party in nomination for the
State Legislature, but was defeated. When the Republican party came into
712 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
existence, he entliusiastically placed himself in its ranks and gloried in the
triumphs he saw it attain. Enterprising and public- spirited, he was earnest
and liberal in the endeavor to promote whatever tended to the general welfare
of the commnnity, especially in matters of education. ' 'Sincerity in speech,
and integrity in action, " " were the marked traits of his character. Jacob Stem
was the only son of Mathias and Elizabeth (Englar) Stem, both natives of
Chester County. Penn. , and both of German extraction. He had ten children :
Mathias, Emeline, Jesse, Elizabeth, Catherine. Leander. Sarah. Lydia, Clem-
entina and Ezra, live of whom are living. Mr. Stem died November 25, 1860,
in the sixtv-eighth vear of his age.
GEOKGE R. STRICKLING, P. O. Tififin, was born July 19, 1819, son
of Thomas and Elizabeth ( Whitestine) Strickling, natives of Virginia and Ger-
many, respectively, former of Welsh, and latter of German descent. They
were married in Fairlield County, Ohio, where they remained until October,
1829, then moved to this county, settling in Clinton Township, where they
leased land for a few years. From there they went to Scipio Township, and
in 1837 came to Adams Township, and entered the land upon which our subject
now resides, and which they improved. They were the parents of eleven chil-
dren, those now living being George R. , Catharine G., Daniel H. , John W. and
Michael N. Thomas Strickling died in 184G, aged fifty- six years, and his
widow in 1854, aged sixty-two years. George R. Strickling, the subject of
this sketch, was married, November 17, 18-1:2, to Miss Sarah Egbert, of Pleas-
ant Township, this county, born in Franklin County, Ohio, May 1, 1821,
daughter of "Uriah and Susannah (Williams) Egbert, who were married in
Franklin County, Ohio, in 1815, and who. in 1822, came to this county, where
they spent the remainder of their days. They were the parents of thirteen
childi'en, ten of whom are now living: Mary, Jeremiah, John D. . Sarah, Thomas
W.. Eliza, Jesse S., Andrew J.. Susan and Priscilla. Mr. Egbert died Oc-
tober 9, 1876, aged eighty-four years; Mrs Egbert died May 13, 1875, aged
seventy-nine years. To our subject and wife have been born eight childi'en:
Eliza J., Sarah E., Thomas U., Theodore S., Susie E., John W., Rollin J.
and Minnie. Mr. Strickling served in the 100 days' em-ollment in the late war,
in Comi^any E. One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry. He and his wife have been members for fifty years of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, with which he is officially connected. He was a Democrat
in early life, but for the past twentv years has been a Republican.
CESAR TEARE, farmer, P. 6. Green Spring, is a native of the Isle of
Man, Great Britain, born and baptised February 23, 1809, the son of Caesar
and Esther (Kewin) Teare, who have long since been dead, and of whose fam-
ily our subject is the only survivor. He came to this country and this county
in 1870 to take possession of the farm in Adams Township he now owns and
occupies, and which was left him by the last will and testament of his brother,
Thomas Teare. who came to America and settled in Adams Township, this
county, about forty years ago. but never lived upon his land, he being a boot
and shoe-maker, a trade he followed in the city of Tiffin until his death. He
left no offspring, having never been married. Caesar Teare continues to op-
erate the farm with the assistance of the family who live with him upon the
same. He has never married.
M. F. VAN BUSKIRK was born in Richland County August 22, 1862.
He received his early education in a country school, and afterward completed
his schooling at Vermillion Institute, of Hayesville. Ohio, and Otterbein Uni-
versity, of Westerville, Ohio. Before he had completed his education he was
connected with the Hayesville (Ohio) Journal. In 1881 he purchased the
ADAMS TOAVNSniP. 71 o
Green Spring Times, being then only nineteen years of age. Excellent suc-
cess attended his efforts, and in 1884 his uncle, H. J. Ernsberger, went into
partnership with him under the firm name of Van Buskirk & Co. The office
has gi-adually grown fi'om an army press and small equipment in a garret, to a
steam office, counting room, etc.
JOHN "WALES 2d, farmer, P. O. Clyde, Sandusky County, was born in
Thompson Township, this county, March 7, 1835, son of Jacob and Catharine
(Raus) Wales, natives of Pennsylvania, of Welsh and German descent. On
coming to Ohio they settled first in Wayne County, and in 1828 came to this
county, where they both died. Their family consisted of five children, three
of whom are now living: Elizabeth, in Wood County, Ohio; Jemima Ann D.,
in Huron County. Ohio, and John. The subject of this sketch resided on his
father's farm until he was eighteen years of age and then removed to Mc
Henry County. 111. . and entered the employ of his uncle in an extensive mer-
chandising business. He remained about six years, during which time he
manife.sted more than ordinary business tact and ability. In 1858 he re-
turned to his native county, where he pui'chased land and a Baw-mill, which he
operated for about fotu* years. He then disposed of these interests and pur-
chased a farm in Section 14, Adams Township, this county, which he has im-
proved and upon which he now resides. He now has 190 acres in all. He
was married, March 29, 1860, to Miss Sarah J. Guisbert. a native of Adams
Township, born in July, 1835, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Whiteman)
Guisbert, both of whom are now deceased; they were natives of Maryland and
Pennsylvania, respectively, and of German descent. They were among the
first settlers in this county and were the parents of a large family of children,
of whom six survive: Andrew, Elizabeth, Daniel, John E., Sarah J. and
Lilly. Mr. and Mrs. Wales 2d are the parents of seven children: Marcellus
W., Libbie C. , Leno L. and Lena L., John E., Rosco A. and Waldo Y.
(the two latter are twins). John Wales 2d is a prominent and ardent advo-
cate of the principles of the Republican party. He has filled several of the
township offices. He served under the 100 days' call in the late war in
Company K. One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infan-
try. He is a liberal contributor to all benevolent entei prises, a man of good
moral principles, although not particularly identified with any denomination
or sect. He is a prominent and worthy member of the order of F. & A. M.
His wife is a member of the United Brethren Church.
JOSEPH WEIKER. farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born in Union
County, Penn. . in 1807. and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Deal) Weiker, who
came to this county in 1834. where they both died several years later. Our
subject also came to this county about six years after. He was married in his
native county to Nancy Hawkin, a native of Virginia, daughter of George and
Hannah (Long) Hawkin. To Mi-, and Mrs. Weiker have been born eleven
children: John. Sarah, Jacob, David, Isaac, Emanuel. Levi, George. Jonas,
Hannah and Valentine. All the boys vote the Democratic ticket, which is a
source of great satisfaction to their father. His sons-in-law also vote the
same ticket. Mr. Weiker has more than forty grandchildren and several
great-grandchildren. On coming into this county he pui'chased land of Asa
Crockett, one of the first pioneers of this county, long since gone to his final
resting place. Mr. Weiker suffered many of the hardships of the early days
in this county, and has cleared and improved many acres with his own hands.
He has now 140 acres of land, after having divided liberally with his sons and
daughters, also assisting them in many ways.
714 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
CHARLES WEIGHT, farmer, P. O. Clyde. Sandusky County, is a na-
tive of Adams Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, and son of Cyrenus and Di-
ana (Cole) Wright; the former a native of New York State and the latter of
Montreal, Canada. They settled in this county in 1827 and reared a family
of nine childi'en, of whom seven are now living, our subject alone remaining
in this county. Cp'enus "Wright died in 1872, and his widow in 1880. Charles
Wright was married, in 1868. to Olivia Cooper. Four* childi-en have been born
to this union, three now living: Laura N. . Clara N. and Charles Cyrenus.
JVJJrs. Wright departed this life February 9. 1874. and Mr. Wright then mar-
ried, in 1875. Elvina Kistler. of Adams Township, this county. He is en-
gaged in general farming. In politics he is a Republican.
ALBERT R. YOUNGr, furniture manufacturer and dealer. Green Spring.
is a native of Adams Township, born February 14, 1851; son of Charles and
Catharine (Spangler) Young, who came from Germany in their youth, first
settling in Maryland, and in 1 845 came to this county, where they died not many
years since. Our subject was reared on a farm, and, at the age of eighteen
years, went to Dayton. Ohio, where he learned the trade of carpenter and
joiner, and retiu'ning to Green Spring the following year he continued work-
ing at the same trade for three years. In the spring of 1878 he built a fine
hearse and began the undertaking business, which he followed for several
years in connection with his trade. In 1878 he was employed by the village
council to prepare plans and specifications for the erection of a town hall, the
contract for building the same being given to him. He completed the build-
ing the following year, and in 1880 he rented room in the same for the furni-
tiu-e store which he still carries on. In the same year he, in partnership with
his brother. Daniel W. . also built a fine four-story frame factory for manufactur-
ing fiu'niture: this factory was destroyed by fire in the spring of 1883, entailing
a loss of $14,000. Mr. Young is a prominent citizen of Green Spring, gifted
with a spirit of public enterprise, and. notwithstanding his being an ardent
advocate of the principles of the Democratic party, has filled several of the
village offices, the village being largely Republican. Mr. Y''oung was married,
September 4. 1873. to Miss Ida J. Miller, of Adams Township, where she was
born January 4, 1856, and by her he has three childi-en: Mary B., Charles J.
and Bernard G.
JOSIxiH Y'^OUNG. farmer and brick and tile manufacturer. P. O.
Green Spring, is a native of Adams Township, this county, born December 5,
1852, son of Charles and Mary Catharine (Spangler) Y''oung, and brother of
Henry F.. Charles M., Lewis W., John P.. Albert R., Daniel W., Edward A.
and Minerva Young. He was reared on a farm and has since given some
attention to farming. He became owner of land at the death of his father, in
1877, and now owns land in both Adams and Pleasant Townships, this county.
He also holds property in the village of Green Spring. He followed the
carpenter's trade for a short time, and in 1881, he began the maniifacture of
brick, to which line of business he added, in 1883, that of tile making, all of
which he still operates qi^te extensively. Mr. Young was married, Febriiary
18. 1879. to Miss Caroline Schuster, of Adams Township, this county. She
is a native of Erie County, N. Y., born July 3, 1856, daiTghter of Christian
and Elizabeth (Hauck) Schuster, natives of Germany, and who were married
in Erie County, N. Y. ; they were parents of seven children, five of whom
are still living: Delana, Elizabeth, George H. . Christiana and Caroline.
Those deceased are Dewalt and Jacob E. , the former of whom was killed in
the late war, June 23, 1864: latter died at Wellborn, Fla., September 26. 1883.
Mr. Schuster died October 8, 1880: his widow now resides with her children
BIG SPRI^'G TOWNSHIP. 715 .
in their several localities. To Mr. and Mrs. Josiah Young has been born
one child, Ervin D., born May 27. 18S0. Mrs. Young is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Young is a Democrat.
JOSIAH ZIMMERMAN, farmer, P. O. Clyde, Sandusby^ County, is a
native of Adams Township. Seneca Co. , Ohio, born October 20. 1847 ; son of
John and Rebecca (Fisher) Zimmerman, who emigrated fi-om Pennsylvania to
this State and county more than forty years ago, and here remained until their
death. Our subject was reared on a farm, has followed farming all his life,
and purchased land in Adams Township, this county, in 1880. He was
married, January 1, 1873, to Miss Harriet E. Shellhammer, who is also a
native of Adams Township, born December 14, 1848. To this union have
been born four childi-en: Clara J., Lena M. . Jesse W. and Vinnie E. (de-
ceased). Mrs. Zimmerman is a daughter of Charles and Elizabeth (Whiteman)
Shellhammer, natives of Pennsylvania. They both came to Ohio in an early
day, she in 1835, and he in 1 842. They were married here and have reared a
family of four children: Sarah J., Harriet E., AVilliam C. and Viola, allot
whom are now married. In politics Mr. Zimmerman has identified himself
with the Democratic party.
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP.
REV. RUDOLPH ABBREDERIS. Catholic priest. New Riegel, was born
in the old country, September 18. 1850. His parents, John G. and Mary A.
(Matt) Abbrederis, were natives of Germany, where they were married and re-
mained until death. They were the parents of five children, of whom our subject
is the youngest. After acquiring a classical education in Feldkirch our subject
immigrated to Mercer County. Ohio, in January, 1870, and there pursued a the-
ological course in college at Carthagena. After his ordination, August 15, 1873,
he took charge of a congregation in Mercer County, and then was transferred to
Pulaski County. Ind. , thence to Putnam County, Ohio, and finally, in October.
1883. to New Riegel, this county, where he is pastor of St. Peter's Church.
NICHOLAS AREND. farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Belgium, November
6. 1814. His parents. Nicholas and Mary A. Arend, were also natives of Belgiiim.
where they married and lived and died. Our subject married. May 4, 1857.
Anna Pethe, who was born in Belgium in November, 1832, daughter of Andrew
and Margaret Pethe, of same nativity and who remained in their native land
until death. Our subject and wife immigrated to America, coming direct to
Big Spring Township, this county, in 1857, where they have remained ever
since. They are the parents of eight children, seven now living: Nicholas,
John, Anna (wife of Peter M. Reinhart). Dominic, Peter, Mary and Andrew-
Nicholas is deceased. Our subject now owns eighty acres of fine land, whereon
he and his family reside. They are all faithful members of the Catholic Church
at St. Nicholas.
NICHOLAS BAKEIS. farmer, P. O. Adi-ian, was born in Big Spring
Township, this county, son of Joseph (a farmer) and Jane (Jenning) Bakeis,
natives of Belgium, former born March 7, 1820, latter born May 25, 1825:
they were married February 25, 1845, and were the parents of twelve children,
six of whom are now living: Joseph, John, Nicholas. Frank, Andrew and Lewis.
Joseph Bakeis, the father of this family, died June 5, 1885, aged sixty-five
716 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
years, two months and twenty- nine days. Onr subject, along with his brothers,
is jnanaging the homestead farm, comprising 152 acres of good land, where the
family has resided nearly forty-three years. They are all members of the
Catholic Chiu-ch at St. Nicholas.
JACOB BLACK, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Clinton Township,
this county. May 3, 1828; son of Jacob and Sarah Black, native_s of Mary-
land, who Vere 'married and first settled in the East, thence in 182/ moving to
Tiffin, this coimty, and fi-om there to Wyandot County, Ohio, where Mrs.
Black departed this life in 1803; Mr. Black lived among his childi-en until his
death which occuiTed in 1877. Our subject was united in marriage, Novem-
ber 11, 1852, with Elizabeth Miley, born in this county, March 8, 1838,
daughter of John and Magdalena Miley, natives of Virginia, who settled in
Seneca County, Ohio, about 1828, and here remained until their death, Mr.
Miley dying in 1874 and his wife in 1856. Oiu- subject and wife are the par-
ents of four childi-en, of whom two are now living: John H.. born Septem-
ber 1, 1853, and Albert F.. born September 28. 1862; the deceased are Emma
A., wife of Frank Johnson, and an infant. IMr. Black owns 173 acres well-
improved land. Mrs. Black is a faithful and consistent member of the United
Brethren Church.
PETER BRAYTON, farmer, P. O. Carey, Wyandot County, one of
the first settlers of Big Spring Township, this county, was born in Crawford
(now Wyandot) County, Ohio, Febmary 7, 1825, son of Elijah and Anna
(Holebrook) Brayton, natives of Vermont where they were married and lived
for a few years thereafter; thence they moved to Fremont, Ohio, in 1814, and
fi-om there to Huron County. Ohio, about 1816, and later to Wyandot County
where they remained until about 1831, when they came to Big Spring Town-
ship, this county, settling on what is known as the Indian Reserve, and here
they resided until death, Elijah Brayton dying in 1868, his wife in 1851. Oiu*
subject has been twice married, the first time January 1, 1845, to Mary Ogg,
born in Wyandot County. Ohio, August 17, 1826, daughter of Kinsey and
Eliza Ogg, natives of Ohio (both now deceased), and to this union were born six
children, five now living: Josephine, wife of John Foulk; Jesse; Emily J.,
wife of Joseph Crislip; Lafayette; Tefi'onia, wife of Maj. C. Bright; Newton
is deceased. Jesse has been twice married, first time to Sarah Boucher, by
whom he had one son and one daughter, and second time to Lilla Montgomeiy,
who has born him one son and one daughter. Mrs. Brayton died August 1,
1871, deeply mourned bv her husband, family and a host of friends; she was
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. March 19, 1872. Mr. Brayton
was again maiTied. this time to Hannah Little, born in Hancock County, Ohio,
October 31, 1838, daughter of Solomon and Rachel Little, former of whom, a
native of Virginia, died in July. 1864, latter, born in Harrison County, Ohio,
is still living. One child, now deceased, was the issue of our subject's last
marriage. Mr. Brayton owns 640 acres of good land. He was a member of
the Ohio National Guards during the late civil war, enlisting June 29. 1862, in
Company C, Forty-ninth Regiment; was detailed for guard duty at Johnson's
Island, and received an honorable discharge, August 12, 1862, and returned
home. He subsequently provided two substitutes at a cost of $350. He and
his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically Mr.
Brayton is a stanch Republican.
S. P. BROSEMER. farmer, P. O. New Riegel. was born in Big
Spring Township, this county, October 28. 1846, son of Landelin and Eliza-
beth Brosemer, natives of Baden, where they were married; they immigrated to
America about 1832, and here settled on the farm where our subject now
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 717
resides in Big Spring Township; thence they moved to New Riegel and there
remained nntil IVIi-s. Brosemer's death, May 4, 1881, caused by a team of
horses running away. Landelin Brosemer was born September 8, 1803, died
July 25, 1885. Our sul^ject was united in man-iage, April 9'. 1869, with Mary
Thi'el, born in Seneca County, Ohio, in December, 1851, daughter of Matthias
(deceased) and Anna Thiel, and by this union have been born ten children,
nine now living: Matthias, Stephen, Charles, Henry. Joseph, Leo, Anna, Otto
and Louie A. ; Andrew is deceased. Our subject owns eighty acres of good
land. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
ISAAC AV. CLINE, farmer. P. O. Adi-ian, was born in Fairfield County,
Ohio, June 9, 1837; son of David and Rebecca Cline, the former a native of
Fairfield County, Ohio, born April 8, 1812, the latter a native of Virginia.- born
in February, 1813; after their marriage they first settled in Fairfield County, and
from there came to this county, January 16, 1849, where they remained until
death. David Cline died March 9, 1880, his widow December 10.1881. Our
subject was united in marriage, December 16. 1860, with Elizabeth Johnson,
born in this county May 27, 1837, daughter of Archibald and Catharine John-
son, natives of Pennsylvania, former of whom was killed by lightning in 1845 ;
his widow smwivedhim until 1879. when she passed away from earth. Mr. and
Mrs. Cline have one daughter, Nettie J., born May 15. 1865. Mr. Cline has
been very prosperous since starting out for himself. He learned carpentering
of his father, who followed that vocation, and, after working at his trade eleven
years, jiurchased property in Adrian, opened a general store and since 1870 has
continued in merchandising. He now owns the old homestead, comprising
eighty acres of land in Seneca Township, this county. Mr. Cline has filled the
office of trustee three terms, and is now serving his third term as justice of the
peace of Big Spring Township. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.
FRANK COLLET, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Belgium, Novem-
ber 25, 1826: son of Theodore and Margaret Collet, natives of Belgium, where
they lived and died. Our subject immigrated to America in 1853 and arrived at
Tiffin, this county, in 1854. He was united in marriage, in 1854, with Victoria
Guillam, born in' Belgium in 1830, daughter of Nicholas and Mary A. Guillam,
who died in Seneca County, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Collet were born eight
children: Josephine (wife of John Windaw), Theodore (married), Laura, Frank,
Augusta and John, living, and Josephine and Jacob, deceased. Mrs. Collet de-
parted this life October 30, 1872, leaving her family and a large concourse of
fr-iends to mourn her loss. In 1875 Mr. Collet returned to his native land and
there married Mary Ballom, born in Belgium November 15, 1844, daughter of
Nicholas and Margaret Ballom. the former of whom is still living, the latter
deceased. By this union there are five children: Philemean, Nicholas, Will-
iam. Joseph and Peter. Mr. Collet owns 120 acres mostly improved land,
where he resides. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church at
St. Nicholas, in which he has served as one of the trustees for six years.
JOHN H. EWING, carpenter^, Adrian, was born in Adams County, Penn.,
September 6, 1834; son of Anderson and Julia Ewing, natives of Pennsylvania,
where they remained until 1840, then moved to Seneca County, Ohio, residing
here until" Mrs. Ewing' s death, which occurred in 1847. Anderson Ewing was
subsequently married to Lucretia Crooks, and moved to Wyandot County, Ohio,
where he died in 1875, and where his widow still resides. Our subject was united
in marriage, June 6, 1861, with Lavenia McCullough, born in Seneca County,
Ohio. January 23. 1844, daughter of Mack and Eliza McCnllough, who first
settled in Seneca County, Ohio, thence moved to Wyandot County. Ohio, where
they died. Mr. and Mrs. Ewing are the parents of five children: Alva. Anna,
39
718 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Emmet and Oinar, living, and an infant, deceased. Our subject owns nice town
property ; is a carpenter by trade, an occupation he has followed nearly all his
life. During the late war of the Kebellion he enlisted in Company D, Forty-
ninth Eegiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served from 1862 until August.
1865, participating in several serious engagements. He is a F. & A. M.. and
a member of the I. O. O. F.
AYILLIAM H. FOCHT, M. S., M. D., New Riegel, was born in Lehigh
County, Penn. , January 18, 1858. His parents, James F. and Polly A. Focht.
were also natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married and remained until
November 10, 1870, when they moved to Seneca County, Ohio, where they
have since resided. They are the parents of three children : William H. , James
D. and Charles E. Om- subject, who is the eldest, pui'sued a scientific course
of study at Heidelberg College. Tiffin, Ohio, graduating June 17, 1880. He
then read medicine with Dr. A. B. Hovey (now deceased), and, March 1, 1883.
graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at Baltimore, Md,
and located March 9, same year, at New Eiegel. this county, where he has
since been following his profession, having now the best practice of any physi-
cian in Big Spring Township. On the '21st of June, 1883, the trustees of
Heidelberg College conferred upon him the degi-ee of Master of Science.
THEODORE M. FRINK. retii-ed farmer, P. O. New Riegel, is one of the
pioneers of Seneca County, Ohio, and was born in West Springfield. Hampden
Co. . Mass. , November 2, ^1804, a son of Luther and Phoebe Frink. also natives
of Massachusetts, where they were married and there remained until death.
Our subject was united in marriage in his native State, April 25, 1832, with
Sabrina Torrey, born in Hampshire County. Mass. , July 22, 1808, and to
this union were born four childi-en: Ellen, wife of Henry Pepper; Elvira, wife
of William Ames; James and Hemy. ^L-s. Frink departed this life February
3. 1855. Our subject was married on second occasion, July 3, 1862, with
Frederica Kopp, born in Wui-tembiu'g, Germany, February 28, 1831. daughter
of Jacob and Frederica Kopp. who both died in Wurtemberg, and by this mar-
riage there was born April 3, 1866. one child, Sophia L. jVIr. Frink owns
eighty acres of fine land, whereon he and his family reside. He filled the
office'of trustee eight years, and has been one of the justices of the peace of
Big Spring Township^for thirty-one years. jVIi's. Frink is a member of the
Lutheran Church.
ALBERT FUCHS, farmer, P. O. Adilan, an enterprising young man, was
born in Sandusky City, Ohio, August 3. 1855, his parents being Sebastian and
Agatha Fuchs, natives of Baden, Germany. Sebastian Fuchs is fi-om the vil-
lage of Gindlingen, Baden Co. , Old Breisach. IVIi's. Agatha Fuchs, former name
Agatha Kraus, wife of Sebastian Fuchs, was fi'om the village Eshbach, Baden
Co. , Staufen. They immigrated to Ohio, settling in Big Spring Township.
Seneca County, about 1854. where they remained until the death of Mrs.
Fuchs, April 12,1875; Mr. Fuchs now resides with his son Albert. Our subject
Avas united in marriage, June 12, 1877, with Catherine Kin, born in the village
Hachy, County D'Etalle, Province de Luxemburg, Belgiiun, August 28, 1855,
daughter of John and Mary Kin, former a resident of Kirby, Wyandot Co.,
Ohio; latter deceased. To our subject and wife were born four childi-en: Mary
L., born June 29, 1878, died Aiagust 29, 1878; John S. , born October 11.18<9;
Margarette, born October 30, 1881, and John H., born September 11, 1883.
]Mr. Fuchs has met with good success, and now owns 120 acres of land, mostly
improved, whereon he resides. He and his family are members of the St.
Nicholas Catholic Church. Mr. Fuchs is serving on the school board of Big
Spring Township.
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 719
REY. JOSEPH p. GLODEN, priest, Berwick, was born January 12.
1842, in Lnxembtirg, Germany. His parents, Nicholas and Snsan (Klein)
Gloden. were also natives of Luxemburg, where the former was born in 1817.
and the latter in 1815; they were married in their native land and there Mrs.
Gloden departed this life in 1861. Nicholas Gloden still resides in Luxem-
burg. The subject of this sketch acquired a classical education in Europe,
came to America and took a theological coui'se at Cleveland, Ohio: was or-
dained in 1869, by Bishop Rappe, and in 1871 became pastor of the St.
Nicholas congregation in Big Spring Township, this county, to whose spiritual
wants he has since ministered. His church, now comprising eighty-two fami-
lies, was organized in 1855, and the church edifice was built in 1856. Father
L. Molon was the first pastor, and in the course of time was succeeded by
Fathers Bally, Dolwick, Laux, Moes, Magenhann, Barkel and Rev. Joseph P.
Gloden.
ANTHONY GOEHR, farmer, P. O. New Riegel, was born in Baden,
Germany, January 24, 1835; son of Peter and Maiy Goehr, also natives of
Baden, where they remained imtil their death. Our subject immigrated to
America, coming direct to Seneca County. Ohio. He was united in marriage.
May 24, 1867, with Rosa Bosch, born in Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1850, a daugh-
ter of Frank and Catharine Bosch, the former living, the latter deceased. To
our subject and wife have been born fom- children, three of whom are now
living: Mary, Joseph and Anna; Sophia is deceased. Mr. Goehr is a stone
and brickmason by trade which he worked at in Tiffin and Dayton, Ohio,
about six years ; then went to California and engaged in mining and dealing in
stock; in 1867 he returned to this county and has lived in Big Spring Tow^n-
ship ever since. He owns seventy-eight acres of improved land where he re-
sides. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
JOHN GRINE. farmer, P. O. Adrian, a respected citizen of Seneca
County, was born in Belgium, September 24, 1810; son of Stephen and Eliza-
beth Grine, also natives of Belgium, where they remained until their death.
Oar subject was married in the old country, in August, 1838, to Margaret
Limbauch, and immigrated to America, locating in this county, on his present
farm, in 1847. This union was blessed with five children, four living: Catha-
rine, wife of Peter "Welter; Mary, wife of Charles Nolan; Catharine, wife of
John Pupenburg; Susan, wife of John Christ; Henry is deceased. Mrs.
Grine departed this life in 1849 and our subject then married, in 1851, Mary
Shortchen, born in Belgium in 1828, daughter of John B. and Margaret
Shortchen. who both died in Belgium, and to this union were born ten chil-
dren, nine now living: Katie, wife of Samuel Cariethers; John; Joseph;
Margaret, wife of Peter Wagner: Adam; Annie; Nicholas; Henry and
Thomas; Peter is deceased. Mrs. Grine died January 27, 1884. Our sub-
ject is a weaver by trade, but since coming to America has principally engaged
in farming and now owns 101 1 acres of improved land where he resides. He
and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
JONATHAN A. HAINES, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Mary-
land, January 23, 1828; son of Job and Ann Haines, natives of the East,
who came to Seneca Township, this county, about 1840, and remained the
balance of their lives; the former died in 1845, the latter in 1857. Om- sub-
ject was united in marriage, May 29, 1858, with Rachael Young, born in
Seneca County, Ohio, September 1, 1835; her parents were Samuel and Isa-
bella Young, natives of Pennsylvania, who were married in Wayne County,
Ohio, where they remained until 1833, at which time they moved to Big
Spring Township, this county, and here resided until Mr. Young's death
720 BlUGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
which occurred in September, 1859; his widow subsequently married Samuel
Hoyt (now deceased); she resides in Adrian, Ohio. To our subject and wife
were born six children: Clara E., Anna B. , Stella. Frank W. , Elsie M. and
Alice F. During the war of the Rebellion our subject served 100 days in
Company B, One Hundred and Sixty-foiu'th Regiment Ohio National Guards.
Mr. Haines followed his trade, carpentering, for nine years ; passed two years
in California. Since 1861 he has engaged in farming, and now owns sixty
acres improved land on which he and his family reside.
JOSEPH W. HARSH, farmer, P. O. Alvada. was born in Wayne County, Ohio,
October 12. 1828, son of Benjamin and Margaret Harsh, natives of Pennsylva-
nia, who settled in Wayne County, Ohio, where they remained until their
death. Benjamin Harsh died June 9, 1868; his wife May 6. 1861. Our sub-
ject was united in marriage. May 18, 1847, with Elizabeth Titler, born in
Wayne County, Ohio, February 8. 1829, daughter of Jacob and Margaret Titler
(both deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Harsh came to Big Spring Township, this
county, in 1848. and has lived here ever since. They are the parents of three
childi'en: Margaret A., wife of William Reynolds: Emily, wife of Nicholas
Boley; Eliza J., deceased. Mr. Harsh owns ninety-three acres of good land
where he and his family reside, and 1 60 acres in Iowa. He is a member of
the I. O. O. F. During the late war of the Rebellion he lirst enlisted in
Company F, Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio National Guards, in the spring of
1868, and in the fall of that year the regiment was called out to guard Con-
federate prisoners at Johnson's Island, on Lake Erie; on May 2, 1864, the reg-
iment was called out to do guard duty around Washington City; then was
taken to Cleveland. Ohio, and there mustered into the United States service.
There om- subject was put. May 2. 1864. into Company C. One Hundi-ed and
Sixty -fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and from there left for Washing-
ton City, and thence marched to Arlington Heights. Company C was sta-
tioned at Fort Cochran, and remained there till the 18th of August, 1864;
was then taken back to Cleveland, and there discharged. Mr. and Mi's. Harsh
are members of the Methodist Episco})al Church.
JACOB HERBERT, farmer. P. O. Alvada. was liorn in Bavaria, Ger-
many. August 7), 1828. His parents. Frederick and Margarite Herbert, were
also natives of Germany, where they married and lived until the death of the
mother April 18, 1849; the father, who was born in 1801, immigrated to Amer-
ica, settling in Loudon Township, this county, in 1861, and here died in 1868.
Our subject came to this county in 1854. He was united in marriage, Janu-
ary 15, 1857, with Adaline Schlemmer, born in Seneca Township, this county.
July 17, 1888, daughter of Ckristian and Elizabeth Schlemmer (both
deceased), and to this union were born nine chikh-en, seven of whom are now
living: Matilda C. (wife of Hiram Presler), Margaret E.. Frederick W..
Anna M. . Jacob A. , Adam R. . Lucy A. ; Heniy and Minnie E. are deceased.
Mr. Herbert worked at his trade (carpentering) fourteen years, since when he
has been engaged in farming, and now owns 125 acres of land, mostly
improved, where he resides. He and his family are members of the German
Reformed Church. Mr. Herbert has been a member of the school board for
fourteen years.
CONRAD HERBERT, farmer. P O. Alvada. was born in Germany Feb-
ruary 19, 1880, son of Frederick and Margarite Herbert, natives of Gei-many.
where they lived until Mrs. Herbert's death in 1849. Frederick Herbert re-
sided several years in his native land; then immigrated to America, and to Loudon
Township. Seneca Co., Ohio, in 18()1. where he dej^arted this life May 1. 1868.
Our subject was united in marriage, January 11, 1859, with Civillie Fruith,
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 721
also a native of Germany, born January 9, 1840, a daiTghter of Jacob J. and
Civillie Fruith, who were born in the old country, immigrating to America,
and locating in Cuyahoga County, near Cleveland. Ohio, where they remained
two years; thence came to this county, where Mr. Fruith died April 23, 1873;
his widow i-esides in Loudon Township. Mr. and Mrs. Herbert have had
eleven children, nine now living: Susan M. (wife of Nathan A. Hakes),
Christena. Katharine (wife of Lewis Siegchrist). Anna M. , John J. , Barbara
E., Conrad A.. Augusta C. and Lucy A. Edward and an infant are deceased.
Mr. Herbert is a carpenter by trade, an occupation he followed one year after
coming to America in 1853. In 1854 he went to California, and after engag-
ing in mining nearly four years returned to this county, where he now owns
170 acres of improved land, and has since been farming. Mr. Herbert has
been a member of the school board twelve years. He and his wife are members
of the Keformed Church.
FREDEEICK W. HERBERT, farmer, P. O. Alvada, was born in Bava-
ria, Germany, October 25, 1833, son of Frederick and Margarite Herbert,
natives of Germany, and where the latter died April 13, 1849. After his wife' s
demise, Frederick Herbert came to Ohio about 1861, and died in Loudon Town-
ship, this county. May 1, 1868. Our subject immigrated to Loudon Town-
seip, this county, in 1861, where he met Miss Josephine Schlemmer, who was
born in Seneca County, Ohio, January 21, 1844, a daughter of Christian and
Elizabeth Schlemmer (both deceased). On the 24th of February, 1870, the
ceremony was performed which made our subject and Miss Schlemmer husband
and wife, and to this union have been born two children: Sarah E., born
October 4, 1872; and Amelia V., born January 18, 1876. Mr. Herbert is a
carpenter by trade, but has been engaged in farming since coming to America,
where he has met with good success. He owns fifty- six and a half acres of
good land, whereon he and his family reside. Mr. and Mrs. Herbert are mem-
bers of the German Reformed Church. He served in the regular army in the
mother country from 1854 to 1860.
RANSOM J. HIGGINS, farmer, P. O. Adrian, is a son of John and
Joanna Higgins.and was born August 1, 1852, in Wyandot County, Ohio. His
father, a native of Maryland, and his mother a native of New York, were
united in marriage in Newark, Ohio, where they first settled ; thence moved to
Wyandot County, Ohio, in the spring of 1852, from there to this county in
1864, and in 1884 returned to Wyandot County, where they reside at present.
Our subject was married, March 23, 1875, to Olive R. Slaymaker, born ni
Seneca County, Ohio, July 13, 1851. Her parents, William H. and Mary M.
Slaymaker, natives of Pennsylvania, were united in marriage in Seneca County,
Ohio, where they have remained ever since. To Mr. and Mrs. Higgins were
born two children: Arthur Jay, born November 23, 1877, died August 12,
1878, and Ernest J., born March 9, 1879. Our subject, after marriage, set-
tled on the farm of eighty acres which he still owns, and where he and his
familv reside.
WILLIAM HIGLI, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Wyandot County,
Ohio, June 14, 1837. His parents, Jaronimus and Matilda High, natives of
Pennsylvania, were married in Medina Coimty, Ohio, and settled in Wyandot
County, Ohio, where thev remained until death. Jaronimus High departed
this life in 1873, his wife in 1862. Oxir subject was united in marriage,
September 6, 1869, with Emily Torrey, born in Wyandot County, Ohio, July
31, 1841, a daughter of Joseph T. and Elizabeth Torrey, the former born in
Massachusetts, July 25, 1811, the latter born in New York, April 25, 1810.
They were married in Ravenna, Portage Co. . Ohio, and settled in Wyandot
722 BIOGRAPHICAL SKEICHES:
County, Ohio, where they remained until Mrs. Torrey's death, March 12,
1884. Mr. Torrey is now a resident of Dayton, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Higli
have two childi-enT Bessie M., born February 7, 18 < 5, and Isa M.. born May
10, 1877. Our subject has followed farming all his life. He served his
country during the late war of the Kebellion, in Company A, Fifth M. T. ,
fi-om- August 14, 1861. imtil he was discharged, July 15, 1865. He was in all
the engagements of the Army of the Potomac diu-ing the Peninsular cam-
paign, an'd was wounded in his right arm in the battle of the Wilderness.
PA^L HUSS, farmer, P. O. New Riegel, w^as born in Germany, March
27, 1843, son of Nicholas and Catharine Huss, natives of Germany, where
they were married and first settled. In 1846 they immigrated to America,
coming direct to Ohio and locating in Seneca County, where they remained
until the death of Mrs. Huss, May 5, lS/8. Nicholas Huss is now a resident
of New Eiegel, Ohio. Our subject was united in marriage, January 26, 1869,
with Josephme Plenz. born in New Piegel, this county. July 12, 1850. Her
parents, Nicholas and Elizabeth Plenz, natives of Germany, immigrated to
Big Spring Township, this county, about thirty-sis years ago and have lived
here ever since. Mr. and Mrs. Hiiss are the parents of seven children: Joseph
N.. Philomina C. Loretta M.. Henry A.. Charlie P., Alfi-ida M. and Del-
phina M. Our subject has followed" agricultiu'al pui'suits nearly all his life,
and now owns eighty acres improved land. He is one of the present trustees
of Big Spring Township. He and his family are members of the Catholic
Church.
WILLIAM JOHNSON, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Pennsylvania,
October 10, 1814, a son of Archibald and Catharine Johnson, also natives of
Pennsylvania, where they were married and first settled. They moved to
Medina County, Ohio, and thence to this county in 1820,* where they resided
until death. Archibald Johnson was killed by lightning in 1845 ;^ his widow
died September 1, 1879. Om- subject was married. February 17, 1845, to
Nancy Cline, born in Lancaster County, Penn., May 8, 1827, daughter of
George and Mary Cline, natives of Maryland, who were maiTied in Lancaster
County, first settling there; they came to this county about 1886. and here re-
mainecl the residue of their lives. Mrs. Cline died in 1856, and Mr. Cline in
1861. Oiu- subject and wife are parents of nine children, of whom eight are
now living: Ivebecca, Isaac, William J., George A., Mary, Jennie. Henry E.
and Andrew. Mr. Johnson, who has always been a farmer, owns 113 acres of
land mostly improved, also town property. He is one of the old settlers of
this countv, and has lived an honest, straightforward life.
FPiANCIS KALMES, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Belgium, No-
vember 3, 1822; son of Nicholas and Catharine Kalmes. who departed this
life in the old country- Om- subject immigrated to Ohio and located in this
county in 1846. He was united in mairiage, Jime 27, 1848, with Catharine
Jenny, born in Gei-many in 1828, daughter of Lewis and Margaret Jenny,
natives of Europe, who came to Ohio and died in Big Spring Township, this
countv. Mr. and Mrs. Kalmes are the parents of fourteen children: Joseph,
Jane (wife of Jacob Wernement), Lewis F., Frank W., John, Catharine (wife
of E. J. Curtis), Felix, Nicholas, Mary E.. Anna, Josephine, Lizzie C,
Dominick and one deceased, Theresa. Oiu- subject is a carpenter by trade, an
occupation he followed several years, but of late has engaged in farming, and
now owns ninety acres imju-oved land whereon he and his family reside. Mr.
and Mrs. Kalmes and family are members of the Catholic Church.
A. J. KINNEY, farmer, P. O. Adi-ian, was born in New Jersey. April 24,
L807, son of Frederick and Margaret Kinney, natives of New Jersey, where
BIG SPRIiNG TOWNSHIP. 723
they remained until their death. Our subject came to Perry County, Ohio,
in 1836, and there resided for seven years; thence moved to Wyandot County,
Ohio, and from there to this county where he has since remained. He was
united in marriage, in New Jersey, October 18, 1832, with Harriet Smith, a
native of that State, born October 22, 1810, daughter of Abraham and Mary
Smith, also natives of New Jersey, where they resided until Mrs. Smith's de-
mise, when Mr. Smith moved to Perry County, thence to Wyandot County,
and from there to Newark, Ohio, where he died. To our subject and wife
have been born ten childi-en, all now married but two : Mary M. , Frederick M. .
Abraham S. , Bartley L. , Margaret A. , Robert C. , Philip S. , Alma I. , Emma
and Roxanna. Mr. Kinney is a blacksmith by trade. He was raised on a
farm and now owns 120 acres of very fine land. He is a F. & A. M.
CHARLES H. KLEIN, merchant, New Riegel, was born November 7,
1850, in Mansfield, Richland Co., Ohio; son of George and Anna M. Klein,
residents of New Riegel. the former born in Baden, Germany, December 6,
1825, the latter in Nassau, Prussia, April 30, 1825. They were united in mar-
riage, in Ohio, January 1, 1850, and to them were born five children: Charles
H. , John J. , Anna C. , Jacob A. and Mary. Our subject was married, August
11, 1874, to Rosa T. Werley, born in Columbus, Ohio, September 17, 1855,
daughter of Andrew and Catharine Werley, and by this union there are five
children: Albinus, Mary C, Dora, Stella and Bertha. Mr. Klein was reared
in New Riegel, and after starting out for himself first engaged in teaching at
Rockport and Monroeville, Ohio, for ten years, since which time he has been
merchandising in New Riegel, where he keeps a general stock of dry goods,
groceries, boots, shoes, hardware, etc. He is postmaster of New Riegel, and
has filled the office of ti-easurer and clerk of the corporation since March,
1883. He and his familv are members of the Catholic Church.
AUSTIN KNOWLTON, P. O. Adrian, one of the pioneer farmers of Big
Spring Township, this county, was born in Massachusetts November 15, 1809,
son of Timothy and Rhoda Knowlton, of English descent, natives of Massa-
chusetts, where they were married and remained until the former's death in
1823. The family then came to Wyandot County, Ohio, and after residing
there some years moved to Big Spring Township, this county, where Mrs.
Knowlton died at the age of eighty-six years. Our subject has resided in this
county since 1830. He was united in marriage, December 27, 1839, with
Louisa McKenzie, by whom he had five children, only one now living, Mark
L., born November 1, 1841. Mi-s. Knowlton departed this life in September,
1848, and Mr. Knowlton then married, October 11, 1856, Mrs. Sarah E. Swi-
gart, widow of Josiah Swigart, and born in Newark, Ohio, January 19, 1819,
daughter of Titen and Elizabeth Henderson, the former deceased, the latter
living at the advanced age of eighty-seven years. To our subject and wife
were born four childi'en: Richard J., born April 17, 1858. married to Ida S.
Gladstone May 8, 1884; Frank Y., born May 7, 1860; Lucy S., born January
5. 1862, and Mary L., born September 26, 1863. In early days Mr. Knowl-
ton served as captain in the militia regiment of which ex- Gov. Foster's father
was colonel. He has always engaged in farming, and now owns 160 acres of
good land, most of which he has helped to clear. Mrs. Knowlton is a mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
CATHARINE KRELL, hotel keeper, Adrian, was born in Luxemburg,
Germany, December 28, 1832, daughter of John and Susan Herrig, natives of
Germany, who immigrated to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1851, settling near Bas-
com, where they remained until their death. Our subject was united in mar-
riage, September 15, 1857, with J. N. Krell, born in Belgium in 1826, a son
724 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
of Peter Ki-ell, who departed this life in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Krell
first settled in Tiffin, Ohio, where they remained until 1865, thence moved to
Adrian, this county, where the family have since resided. They were the par-
ents of six childi'en, of whom five are now living: Jennie, Kittie, John P.,
Anna I. and William H. Alphonso is deceased. Mr. Krell clerked in a dry
goods store for several years, then engaged in keej^ing the hotel which he con-
tinued in until his death, which occurred April 3, 1808. The hotel is now
managed by his widow and her children. The family are all members of the
Catholic Church.
P. JOSEPH LAFONTAINE, farmer, P. O. New RiegeJ, was born in
Belgium September 5, 1825, son of Nicholas and Mary Lafontaine, natives of
Belgium, where they married and remained until 1841, when they immigrated
to America, coming direct to Seneca County, Ohio, residing in Big Spring
Township until their death. Our subject was united in marriage, in 1848,
with Elizabeth Wagner, born in Luxemburg, Germany, in 1822, daughter of
Michael and Anna Wagner, the former now ninety-four years of age, the latter
deceased. Oiu* subject and wife are the parents of six children: Nicholas,
married to Theresa Hepp; Mary, wife of John Loescer; Lizzie; Susan, wife of
Bartholomew Kenney; Lena, wife of Peter Mose. and Rose. Mr. Lafontaine
owns 200 acres of first-class land. He settled on his present farm in 1849.
He and his familv are members of the Catholic Church.
JAMES W. LAWHEAD, farmer, P. O Adrian, was born in Franklin
County, Penn., January 10, 1822; son of James and Jane Lawhead, also na-
tives of Pennsylvania, where they remained until the former's death, which
occurred in 1832. The widow and her five childi'en subsequently accompanied
her father to Adams County. Penn. , where they remained until the spring of
1845, when our subject, w^ho was then twenty-three years of age, and the eld-
est of the family, brought his mother, three sisters and one brother to Big-
Spring Township, this county, and settled on the farm where he and his
family now reside. His mother departed this life in 1878. James W. Law-
head was united in marriage, the fii'st time, November 11, 1847, with Maria
Frederick, born in Ohio in 1824, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Frederick
(both now deceased), and to this union was born one child, William H., mar-
ried and now residing in Wood County, Ohio. Mrs. Lawhead dying January
1, 1848, Mr. Lawhead then married, November 22, 1850, Catherine Dievly,
born in Stark County, Ohio, in 1826, daughter of Henry and Barbara Dievly
(both deceased), and by this union are seven children, four of whom are now
living: Mary J., Lewis, Sarah E. and Jacob E. Oiu' subject owns 288 acres
of improved land, and for a number of years was engaged in buying and selling
stock. He served as county coroner one term.
DANIEL LENNER, farmer, P. O. Adi-ian, was born in Stark Coimty,
Ohio, March 27, 1835. His parents. Christian and Catherine Lenner, were
natives of Bavaria, Germany, where they were married; they immigrated to
New York in 1831, and remained there until the spring of 1832. when they
moved to Stark County, Ohio, where they resided luitil 1837, when they moved
to Big Spring Township, this county, and here Mrs. Lenner died November
28, 1876. Christian Lenner has made his home with his son Daniel ever since
his wife's death. Christian and Catherine Lenner were the parents of five
childi-en, of whom two survive: , Daniel and Catherine Miller, the eldest
daughter. Our subject was united in marriage. May 10, 1859, Avith Frances
V. Ribley, born in Virginia September 14, 1840, daughter of John and Mary
Ribley, natives of France, where they were married; thence they immigrated
to America, locating in Baltimore, Md., in 1832; fi'om thence moving to Vir-
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 725
ginia; thence to Sandusky County, Ohio, and fi'om there to Wyandot County,
Ohio, where they remained until ili's. Ribley's death, which occiu-red March
14, 1877. Mr. "Ptibley resides with his daughter. Mr. and IVIrs. Lenner are
the parents of eight childi-en: Alven D., Mary C. Eollin W., Jay, Eoscoe,
Susan E. , Cora B. and Clara A. Mr. Lenner owns 378 acres of land, mostly
improved. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. ; has served as township
appraiser. He is a member of the Reformed Chtu'ch; his wife of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Chui'ch.
JOHN LUZADER, farmer, P. O. Carey, AVyandot County, was born in Ross
County, Ohio, October 17, 1814; son of Thomas and Margaret Luzader,
natives of Virginia, who were born and man'ied near Grafton ; thence they emi-
grated to Ross County, Ohio, remaining there until their death; the former
dying about 1821, the* latter in 1823. Our subject moved to Wyandot (then
Crawford) County, Ohio, in 1827, thence came to Seneca County in 1833.
He was united in marriage, January 10, 1839, with Sarah Latto, born in Penn-
sylvania. July 20, 1819, daughter of Ephraim and Christiana Latto (both
deceased), and to this union were born ten childi-en, of whom seven are now
living. Mrs. Luzader departed this life June 9, 1860, and her loss was deeply
moiu-ned by her family and a host of friends. Mr. Luzader man-ied. for his
second wife* January 1, 1862. Cynthia Dible, born in Big Spring Township,
this county, June 10, 1838, daughter of Frederick and Frederica Dible (both
deceased),* and by her he has one child. Our subject owns 129 acres of land,
mostly improved. He has tilled the offices of constable and clerk of his town-
ship, with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents.
THOMAS MARKS, saloon keeper. New Riegel, was born in Big Spring
Township, this county, April 15, 1856, son of Nicholas and Theresa Marks,
natives of Germany, former born in 1809, latter in 1823; they were married in
Germany and immigrated to America, coming direct to this county, July 7,
1850, and settling in Big Spring Township, where they have remained ever
since. Our subject was united in maiTiage. June 20, 1883, with Kate Wagner,
born in Seneca County, Ohio, Sei)tember 19, 1859, daughter of Jacob and Mary
Wagner, also nativesof Germany, coming to America and direct to this covmty,
settling in Big Spring Township, where they reside at present. Om- subject
and wife are parents of two childi-en: Adeline and Jacob. Mr. Marks was
reared on a farm, and in 1882 moved to New Riegel, where he has since been
engaged in keeping saloon, and where he owns fine town property. He and his
wife belong to the Catholic Church.
JOHN B. MARTZ, farmer, P. O. New Riegel, was born in Belgium, Au-
gust 31, 1826, son of Henry and Margaret Martz,also natives of Belgium, where
they were married and rernained until 1846. at which time they embarked for
Am'erica, coming direct to Big Spring Township, this county, and here resided the
residue of their days. Our subject resided here with his father until February
10, 1852, in which year he went to California, working in the gold mountains
for two years; after that time he returned to Big Spring Township, Seneca
County, and was united in marriage, January 31, 1856, with Elizabeth Martz
born in Belgium, July 22, 1834, daughter of Michael and Kate Martz (both
deceased). To oui- subject and wife were born nine children, five now living:
Margaret, wife of Jacob Fetzer: Susan, wife of John Wagner; Nicholas, Cath-
arine and Mary: and four deceased; Henry, John. Elizabeth and Michael. Mr.
Martz owns eighty acres of fine land where he and his family reside. The
family are members of the Catholic Church of St. Boniface.
JOHN MATHIAS, farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Big Spring
Township, this county, February 3, 1843, a son of Lewis and Clara Mathias,
726 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
natives of Luxemburg, Germany, wlio immigrated to America in 1840, settling
in Big Spring Township, this county, where they remained until their death.
Our subject was united in marriage, August 2, 1865, with Eosie Uiiilliam, born
in Big Spring Township, this county, December 25, 1848, daughter of John
and Elizabeth Guilliam (both deceased). IMr. and Mrs. Mathias were the par-
ents of twelve children, of whom Clara, Andrew, Nicholas, Lizzie, Joseph,
Theresa, Martin, Fronia and Theodore are living, and Adam, Michael and
Lizzie are deceased. Our subject is a blacksmith by trade, but for several
years has engaged in farming and now owns 130 acres of good land in a state
of cultivation. He filled the office of trustee of the township for four years,
and was clerk of the school board nine years. He and his family are members
of the Catholic Church at Saint Nicholas, of which he is trustee.
NICHOLAS MATHIAS, grocer, New Kiegel, was born in Big Spring
Township, this county, July 25, 1849, a son of Lewis and Josephine Mathias,
natives of Europe, who immigrated to Big Spring Township, this county, and
after maiTiage settling in same township, where they remained until the death
of Lewis Mathias, which occurred August 6, 1878; his widow survives him.
Our subject was united in marriage, October 17, 1871, with Margaret Nepper,
born in Big Spring Townshii), this county, June 22, 1854, daughter of Felix
and Josephine Nepper, and to this union were born six childi-en: Lewis N.,
Mary J. , Rosa M. . Elizabeth A. , Edward V. and Eleanor M. Mr. Mathias,
who was reared on a farm, moved to New Riegel in 1876 (where he has nice
proi)erty). and has since been engaged in merchandising. He keeps a full
stock of groceries and provisions and has also a bar attached. He and his
wife are members of the Catholic Church..
FELIX NEPPER, farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Belgiiun,
November 13. 1815, son of Bernard and Mary J. Nepper, also natives of Bel-
gium, where they lived and died. Oiu" subject was married in Belgium, Octo-
ber 30, 1849, to Josephine Defountain, born March 20, 1820, daughter of
Joseph and Margaret Defountain, who departed this life in the old country.
Our subject and wife have four children: Charles, born February 7, 1850;
Margaret, born June 17, 1854; Victor, born November 25, 1857; Augustus,
born October 3, 1859. Mr. Nepper came to this county in 1853. He has been
engaged in farming all his life, and now owns eighty-nine acres of improved
land in Big Spring Township, whereon he resides. He and all his family are
faithful members of the Catholic Church of St. Nicholas.
JOSEPH D. PETERS, farmer, P. O. Alvada, was born in Jefferson County,
Ohio, September 16, 1823, a son of Ephraim and Anna (Thompson) Peters,
natives of Virginia, where they were married and first settled; thence they
moved to Belmont County, Ohio, about 1824, and fi-om there to Jefferson
County, and in 1834 moved to Hancock County, where Ephraim Peters died in
1844 ; his widow was subsequently married to John Mullen, a soldier in the
late civil war, and who died in the hospital at Nashville, Tenn. ; she resides near
the old home farm and was seventy-five years of age August 7, 1884. Our sub-
ject was married, September 17, 1848, to Sarah Benham. born in Wyandot
County, Ohio, November 11, 1829, a daughter of "William and Julia Benham
(both deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Peters were the parents of four children,
two now living: Josephine, wife of Daniel Shentz, and Melvina J., wife of
AVilliam Fm-gerson ; the deceased are William and Sarah J. Mrs. Peters
departed this life March 2, 1855, and ]VIi\ Peters was married, on second occa-
sion, November 6, 1855, to Nancy Roller, born in Hancock County, Ohio, April
4, 1837, daughter of Caleb (deceased) and Sarah Roller. To this union have
been born nine children, seven now living: Ida M. .Charles J.. Alma Iv., Harry
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP
727
O., Anna, Ada D. and Mertie E. Emma and Eose are deceased. Mr. Peters
and his family settled in Big. Spring Township in 1849. He owns 250 acres
improved land. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Dm-ing the late war of the Rebellion Mr. Peters enlisted, March 0,
1865, in Company E. One Huudi-ed and Ninety-seventh Regiment Ohio Volun-
teer Infantry, and was mustered ovit at Camp Bradford, near Baltimore, Md. ,
August 8, 1865. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.
AUGrUSTE PETHE, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born December 28, 1836,
in Belgium, where his parents, John B. and Barbara Pethe, were also born
and where they married and died. Oiu- subject immigrated to America and
settled in Big Spring Township, this county, in 1859. November 13, 1860,
he married Apoline Guillaum of same nativity, born June 3, 1831, daughter
of Frank and Theresa Guillaum, also natives of Belgium, where they were mar-
ried ; thence they came to America, and in 1853, located in Big Spring Town-
ship, this county, where they have since resided. Our subject and wife have
had a family of seven children, six now living: Mary, wife of John Schira;
Philomena, Victoria, Frank, Joseph and Williain; Leopold is deceased.
Mr. Pethe, who was reared on a farm, has followed agricultural piu-suits
all his life. He owns fifty-eight and a half acres improved land where
he resides. He and his family are members of the Catholic Chui'ch at St.
Nicholas.
REV. BONIFACE RUSS, C. PP. S. , Catholic Priest, New Riegel, was
born in Auglaize County, Ohio, November 12, 1855, son of John and Barbara
Russ, natives of Bavaria, Germany, Avhere the former was born in 1812, latter
in 1815; they immigrated to America, coming direct to Auglaize County, Ohio,
where John Russ died in 1872, and his widow still resides. Om- subject ac-
quired his education in Carthagena, Mercer Co., Ohio. After his ordination,
in 1878, he took charge of a congregation at St. Sebastian, Ohio, and August 24.
1880, he became pastor of the large congregation at New Riegel which was one
of the first churches in the county.
ANTHONY SCHALK, farmer, P. O. New Riegel, was born near Fostoria,
Seneca Co., Ohio, February 12, 1852, son of Martin and Amelia Schalk. na-
tives of Bu-on, France, who immigrated to America, and were married and first
settled near Fostoria, this county, there remaining until 1858 ; thence they moved
on the farm where our subject now resides, where they lived ixntil the death of
Martin Schalk, February 2, 1875; his widow is a resident of Tiffin, Ohio.
Our subject was united in marriage, May 11, 1875, with Anna K. Kline, born
in Rome, Richland Co. , Ohio, October 26, 1855, daughter of George and Anna
M. Kline, now living in New Riegel, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Schalk are the par-
ents of four children, two living: Mary P., born May 15, 1880; Lewis A., born
February 7, 1885, and two deceased: Isabella and Florian J. Mr. Schalk owns
ninety-five acres of improved land, where he and his family reside; also has an
interest in the Schalk store in New Riegel, Ohio. He and his wife are con-
sistent members of the Catholic Church.
JACOB SCHIFFER, teacher. New Riegel, was born in Bavaria. Germany.
September 29, 1839, son of Lawrance and Christena Schiffer, also natives of
Bavaria, where they were married, and where Lawrance Schiffer died in 1847.
His widow subsequently married John Brown (who died in 1880), and still re-
sides in her native land. Our subject immigrated to America July 1, 1857,
first settling in Clarion Countv, Penn. ; fi'om there moved to Seneca County,
Ohio, ia 1860, where he remained till 1863; thence went to Dearborn Countv,
Ind,, and from there retui-ned to this county, locating in New Riegel in 186 <,
where, he has remained ever since. He was united in marriage. October 18,
'rib lilOGRAPHlCAL SKETCHES:
ISOO, with Theresa "Werley, bora in Baden. Germany, October 1-4. 1835,
daughter of Francis and Agatha Werley. natives of Baden, where they re-'
mained until their death. Mr. and Mrs. Schiffer are the iDarents of six chil-
dren, fom- now living: Mary, Stephen, Julius and Kudolph. Our subject has
been a teacher for over twenty-five years, and is organist in the New Riegel
church. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church at St. Boni-
face.
A. C. SCHINDLER, farmer. P. O. New Riegel. is one of the industrious
and enterprising young farmers of Big Spring Township, this county, where
he was born July 4, 1860, a son of Charles and Ursula Schindler, natives of
Baden, Germany. Our subject's father was twice married, the first time in
Baden, second time in Seneca County, Ohio, and was the parent of the follow-
ing childi-en: John, by his first wife: and by his second wife, Mary, wife of
Michael Gniss; Agatha, wife of John Klein: Anthony C. ; Frances and Eliza-
beth now living, and Jacob and Frederick deceased. Our subject, with his
brother-in-law is managing his father's farm, comprising 200 acres of land in
a high state of cultivation. The family are all members of the Catholic
Church of St. Boniface.
CHARLES SCHUBERT, farmer, P. O. Alvada, was born in Germany,
November 1, 1883, son of Henry and Elizabeth Schubert, natives of Germany
who immigrated to America and to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1853, settling in Big
Spring Township where they remained about two years; thence moved to San-
dusky County, Ohio, and in 1865 retui-ned to this county where Henry Schubert
died in 1877, and his widow resides with her son. Our subject was united in
marriage, October 27, 1859, with Sarah Krabill, born in Big Spring Township,
this county, January 29, 1839. a daughter of David and Jemima Krabill, now
residing in Hancock County, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Schubert have been born
seven childi-en: Han-iet A. (wife of Jacob M. Wagner). Mary A., Elmer A.,
Lewis C, Jacob W., Sylvester and Jessie A. Our subject followed his trade,
that of a carpenter, eight years; then engaged in farming and now owns 154
acres of land which is improved, and on which is one of the finest residences in
Big Spring Township. He is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Schu-
bert is a justice of the peace, an office he has served in for six years: is also
township treasui'er at present time.
JOHNM. SMITH, farmer, P. O. New Riegel. was born February 14, 1824,
son of Coni'ud and Elizabeth Smith, natives of Germany, where they married
and remained until 1834, then immigrated to America, coming to Seneca County,
Ohio, where they resided the balance of their lives ; Conrad Smith died in 1880,
his wife in 1870. Our subject was man-ied, October 21, 1847, to Catharine
Sauter, born in Bavaria, Germany, June 22, 1830, daughter of Philip A. and
Barbara Sauter, both of whom died in Seneca County, Ohio. To ]Mi-. and Mrs.
Smith were Dorn twelve childivn. nine living: Conrad, Henry C. , John "W..
Frank B., Charles D.. Rosella. William H., Albert F. and Edward F., and
three deceased: George AY., Christena and Anna C. Our subject is a brick
and stone mason by trade, but has been engaged in farming since 1843. He
owns 200 acres, mostly improved land. He and his family are members of
the Lutheran Church. Mrs. Smith departed this life, Janiiary 3, 1872; she
was a loving wife, a kind mother, and her loss was mom-ned by all who knew
her.
WILLIAM SMITH, farmer. P. O. Alvada, was born in the State of New
York, February 18, 1815, son of Timothy and Catharine Smith, also natives of
New York, who came to Seneca County. Ohio, in 1833 and remained until their
death; the former died in 1853. the latter in 1883. Our subject has been
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 729
thrice married; on first occasion to Catharine Boncher. a native of Pennsylva-
nia and daughter of Jacob and Catharine Boucher (both deceased), and by her
he had eight children, five now living: Sarah E., John B. , Maryette, Jacob
W. and Sevilla A. Mrs. Smith died April 7, 1805, and Mr. Smith then
married Mrs. Boucher, a widow and a native of Ohio, who departed this life
in 1807. He was again united in marriage, this time with Annetta McClellan,
a native of Williams County, Ohio, born September 2, 1844, daughter of
William and Sophia McClellan, and to this union was born one child. Nettie
Alvada, after whom was named Alvada, now a thriving village and which was
laid out by Mr. Smith on his farm, January 12, 1870. Our subject owns 140
acres of good land and a saw-mill. He was assessor, also trustee for several
years ; has been owner of four saw-mills, one of which is running at the present
time. Mr. Smith also built a grist-mill which he operated twelve years. He
was ticket, fi'cight and express agent for six years, also postmaster for six
years, and carried on a diy goods and grocery store. He has filled the offices
of justice of the peace and constable with credit to himself, and to the satis-
faction of the people.
JACOB SPRAW, farmer. P. O. Berwick, was born in Bavaria, Germany,
July 25, 1809; son of Adam and Catharine Spraw, natives of Germany who
immigrated to America, where they lived and died. Oui- subject came to Ohio
in 1882, and located in Big Spring Township, this county. He was married,
August 2, 1848, to Salome AVeymer, 1)orn in France, September 2, 1828,
daughter of Jacob and Salome Weymer, the former of whom died in Wayne
County, the latter in Fulton County, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Spraw have
l)een born ten children, seven now living: Jacob; Catharine, wife of Henry
Grander; Elizabeth, wife of Frank Erney; Adam; Eachael, wife of Philip
Chrisman; Mary; Ellie C. and three deceased: Sarah, Hattie and an infant.
Mr. Spraw owns eighty acres of land, whereon he and his family reside. He
and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church, and are among the
leading families of Seneca County.
HENRY TIELL. farmer, P. O. Alvada, was born in Luxemburg,
Germany, November 80, 1819; son of Andrew and Susan Tiell, both natives of
Luxemburg, where they were married and remained until their death. Our
subject immigrated to America in 1849, locating in Seneca County, Ohio,
where he was united in marriage, April 18, 1857, with Catharine Lucius, who
was born in Belgium, January 24, 1887. Her parents were Joseph and
Catharine Lucius, also natives of Belgium, and who immigrated to America,
settling in Seneca County, Ohio, in 1854, and here lived and died. Mr. and
Mrs. Tiell have been blessed with twelve childi-en, eight now living: Joseph,
Peter, Lewis, John, Michael, Nicholas, Henry and Albert; the deceased are
Mary, Catharine, Mary and Martin. Our subject owns 190 acres of land,
mostly improved, where he resides. He and his family are members of the
Catholic Church at St. Nicholas. Mr. Tiell came to Seneca County, remain-
ing three years, thence went to California and worked in a gold mine for
t thirteen months, then returned to Seneca County and engaged in farming, in
which he has continued ever since.
AUGUST AVEINANDY, Adrian, one of the enterprising young teachers of
Seneca County, was born in Big Spring Township, this county, September 80,
1801, son of Michael and Philomena Weinandy, former of whom, born in
Holland, September 14, 1828, immigrated to America in 1857; latter born in
Belgium, September 10, 1889, came to America in 1840. This couple were
united in marriage August 80, 1859, in Seneca County, Ohio, and settled in
Big Spring Township, where they have ever since remained. The;v are the
730 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
l^arents of four chikli-en: August, Frank J.. Jolin P. and Jacob. Our
subject was reared on a farm and acquired his education in the common
school and at Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio; he also took a course in the
commercial schools of Dayton, Ohio. He is now teaching his first term in the
schools of his native township and is meeting with splendid success. He and
the rest of the family are faithful members of the Catholic Church.
J. "WELLY, farmer, P. O. Alvada, was born in Seneca County,' Ohio.
October 80, 1840; son of Michael and Theresa (Rinehart) Welly, natives
of Germany, who immigrated to Seneca County. Ohio, where they were united
in marriage, locating in Big Spring Township and there remained until
their death, Michael AVelly dying in August, 1860, his widow in 1862. Oui-
subject was married, January 19, 1875, to Miss Helena Nye, born in 1852,
daughter of Frederick and Catharine Nye, also natives of Germany, who im-
migrated to this county and settled in Big Spring Township, where they re-
sided till their death, Mr. Nye dying in August, 1868, and IVtfs. Nye in Jime,
1884. To Mr. and Mrs. Welly were born six childi-en, five now living: Frank
S., Frederick J., Catharine, Daniel S. and Susan: Lovina is deceased. Our
subject was reared on a farm and has always followed agricultural piu'suits.
He no"5v owns 284 acres of land, nearly all of which is improved, and whereon
he resides. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
ANDREW WERLEY, retired merchant, mayor of New Riegel. was l)orn
in Baden, Germany, November 22, 1825; son of Francis Joseph and Agatha
Werley, also natives of Baden, where they married, lived and died, former
September 23, 1848, latter October 15, same year. Oiu- subject immigrated
to America, coming direct to Delaware County, Ohio, June 29, 1846, where he
remained for a short time, and then went to Columbus, Ohio. Here he was
united in marriage, August 27. 1851, with Catharine Smith, born in Baden.
Germany, August 26, 1828. daughter of Philip and Anna Smith. Mr. Smith
died in 1853; his wife in 1836. To ]Mr. and Mrs. Werley were born twelve
children, nine living: Rosa, wife of C. H. Klein; Stephen A. ; Philomena M. :
Clotilda T. ; Sophia T. ; Victor M. ; Loretta E. ; Isabella M. ; and Seraphene C. :
and three deceased: Isabella, Matilda and Albinus. In 1856 ovir subject, with
his family, moved to New Riegel, this county, where they have since resided.
Mr. Werley is a clock-maker by trade, and after coming to this country first
engaged in i:)eddling clocks; then was employed by the Ohio Tool Company, at
Columbus, Ohio. After coming to New Riegel he embarked in merchandis-
ing, in which he continued for about twenty years, since when he has engaged
in the grain trade to some extent. H5 filled the office of township treasurer
for nineteen years; was the first postmaster of New Riegel. and after the town
was incorporated was elected to the office of mayor, a position he is filling at
the present time. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
MARTIN WETZEL, harness-maker, New Riegel, was born in Baden, Ger-
many, November 11, 1832; son of Jacob and Anna AVetzel. natives of Baden,
where they married, lived and died. Our subject came to America and to
Huron County, Ohio, in 1855, where he remained a short time: came to Seneca
County in 1859, and in 1860 moved to Kansas, thence retxirned to Seneca
County ; from here he went to Canada, where he remained until 1 862, when he
took a trip to Detroit. Mich. , and on his return came to this county, locating
in New Riegel. where he has since remained. He was united in marriage.
May 21, 1867, with Catharine Gase, born September 29. 1842, daughter of
Geoi'ge and Catharine Gase, who are both living. To our subject and wife
have been born eight childi-en: Joseph, George. Jacob, John, Charles, Eliza-
beth, Edward and Anna. Mr. Wetzel has followed the occupation of saddler about
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. 731
twenty-eight years. He owns nice property in New Riegel, where he resides,
and by industrious habits and economical management has accumulated a com-
petence. He has an enviable reputation for honesty and integrity. He and
his family are consistent members of the Catholic Church.
GEORGE AVONDEIl, farmer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Mifflin County, Penn. ,
J une 19, 1819. His parents, Daniel and Catharine Wonder, were born and married
and lived in Pennsylvania until 1823. when they moved to Wayne County,
Ohio, and in 1830 moved to Thompson Township, this county, and from there
to Wyandot County, where Mrs. Wonder died. Daniel Wonder is now ninety-
four years of age, and resides with his son George. Our subject was united
in marriage, May 22, 1845, with Nancy Henney, born in ^^'ayne County, Ohio,
January 17, 1823, daughter of Adam and Catharine Henney (both deceased).
Mr. and Mrs. Wonder are the parents of twelve children, of whom six are now
living: Cynthia, Agnes. Emma, Henry E., Hattie and Lucy V. Our subject
owns 379 acres of good land. He has filled the office of trustee of Crawford
Township, Wyandot County. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical
Church.
B. G. WULLENSCHNEIDER, hotel keeper. New Riegel, was born in
Big Spring Township, this county, January 25. 1845. His parents were John
and Elizabeth Wullenschneider, natives of Germany, the former of Vv^hom
immigrated to Licking County, the latter to Seneca County, Ohio. They were
married in Licking County, and settled in Big Spring Township, this county,
remaining here until Mr. Wullenschneider' s death, which occurred in 1860.
His widow is still living. Our subject was united in marriage, in 1871, with
Josephine Zender, born in Big Spring Township, this county, and to this union
were born three childi-en: Mary, Anna and Ida. Our subject's wife dying in
1870, he then married, November 24, 1879, Theresa Klaus, born in Big Spring
Township, this county, October 21, 1860, daughter of Peter (deceased) and
Catharine Klaus, and to this marriage were born three childi-en: Joseph, Ellen
and Clara V. Our subject since starting out for himself has engaged in farm-
ing and saw-milling, but is now proprietor of the Empire Hotel in New Riegel.
He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church.
JOSEPH ZENDER, butcher. New Riegel, was born in Big Spring Town-
ship, this county, May 28, 1835, son of Nimrod and Mary Zender, the former a
native of Switzerland, the latter of Luxemburg, who immigrated to America
after they were married, and located in Big Spring Township, where they
remained until their death. Nimrod Zender died January 10, 1866, and his
widow October 31, 1876. Oiu- subject was married, October 15, 1872, to Mar-
garet Erford, born in Big Spring Township, this county, January 28, 1852,
daughter of Peter and Catharine Erford, residents of that township. This
union has been blessed with six children, four living: Peter, Kate M., Lucy
L. and Mary E., and two deceased: Frank W. and Theresa S. Our subject was
reared on a farm and followed agricultural pursuits until December, 1881,
when he moved to New Riegel, where he owns good property, and is engaged in
butchering, enjoying a good patronage. He Jias tilled the offices of constable
and marshal of New Riegel with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of
his constituents. He and his family are consistent members of the Catholic
Church.
'32 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
BLOOM TOWNSHIP.
ISAAC S. BALDWIN, farmer, P. O. Bloomville. was born December 10,
1838, in Republic, this county. His parents, Nathan and Matilda Baldwin,
natives of Cayuga, N. Y., settled in this county in 1835, and after living three
years on their farm in Scipio Township moved to Republic, where Nathan Bald-
win carried on a wagon shop until his death. September 3, 1849. Mrs. Bald-
win kept her family together until they grew to manhood and womanhood; their
names are George H. . now a resident of Ionia Coiinty, Mich. ; Isaac S. ; Rush
P. , who served three years during the late Rebellion as a member of the Twen-
ty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry and Ninth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry,
and Mrs. Addie S. Chittenden, a resident of Republic, this county. Our sub-
ject was married, February 7, 1861, to Miss Ellen Krilley, who bore him the
following childi-en: Eliza, "William and two deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin
moved to Ionia County. Mich. , and there developed a farm. Mrs. Baldwin sub-
sequently returned to Republic for medical treatment, and there died July '2,
1872. Our subject then also returned to this county, and here married, March
5, 1873, Mrs. Emily J. Brown, of Bloom Township, the widow of William
Brown (by whom she had one daughter — Wilhelmina), and who was born in
Bloom Township February 9, 1838. daughter of Butler and Mary (Boyd) Mun-
sell. To this union were born Nettie and Nellie (twins). Freddie and Jesse.
Mr. Baldwin has a farm comi^rising eighty acres of well-improved land, which
he has cleared up and developed within the last ten years. He is a supporter
of the Democratic party ; has served his township as assessor three terms and
is a citizen highly resj^ected by all. Mrs. Baldwin is a consistent member of
the Presbyterian Church.
LEWIS C. BIRK, proprietor of harness shop and livery stable, Bloomville,
was born June 19, 1854. in Bucyrus. Ohio, where his parents. John G. and
Hannah Birk, still reside. At fom-teen years of age our subject began learning
the trade of saddler and harness-maker. He married, Jiine 19, 1876, Miss Car-
rie Kirgis, who was born on the farm in Lykens Township, Crawford Co. , Ohio.
Mr. and Mrs. Birk located in Bloomville, this county, in May, 1878, and he at
once established a shop where he manufactures a general line of harness, sad-
dles, etc. , and keeps a full stock of whips, brushes, robes, blankets and horse
furnishing goods. This is the only place of the kind in Bloomville. and one of
the best and most complete shops in Seneca County. In March, 1 884. Mr. Birk
established a livery stable in Bloomville. building a new barn and furnishing it
throughout, and, as he believes in the old adage that " what is worth doing at
all is worth doing well, ' ' has made it one of the best liveries in the county.
Mr. Birk is a member of the K. of P.
EDWARD P. BLISS, merchant. Bloomville, was born in Ledyard, Cayuga
Co., N. Y., July 1, 1833. His father, Parley Bliss, was drowned in Cayuga
Lake, June 29, 1834; his widowed mother, Mrs. Polly Bliss, came to Scipio
Township, this county, in 1835. Here our subject grew to maturity, receiving
his education in the school of the home district. At eighteen years of age he
began life for himself as clerk in a dry goods store, an occupation he followed
until he embarked in business on his own account in 1 857. He carried on a
store in Republic, Ohio, until 1 859, when he located in Bloomville. and estab-
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 733
lished a store, well known to all of the older inhabitants, in the old Hunsicker
Block. In 1863 he purchased the hotel building opposite, in which he can-ied
on the store in connection with the hotel for about ten years. In 1S73, in part-
nership with John T. Reid, he built the Commercial Block in Bloom ville. This
block was the beginning of the improvements of the town, and is still one of
the best business buildings in the place. Mr. Bliss at once located in the store
which he still occupies in this block, and has here the oldest dry goods estab-
lishment as well as the oldest business house, carried on continuously by the
same proprietor in Bloomville. He has a full line of dry goods, boots, shoes,
hats, caf)s. notions, etc. , and has built up an extensive trade, which he contin-
ues to hold above all competitors. November 16. 1854, Mr. Bliss was united
in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Krilley. who died September 12, 1873, leaving
four children: Melvin O.. Malcolm E., Willie H. and Ginnella. Mr. Bliss
maii-ied, on second occasion, December 2, 1874, Miss Nancy E. Tui-ner, who
died April 1, 1875. He afterward married, June 7, 1877, Miss Eliza A. An-
drews, a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bliss is a life-
long Republican and takes an active interest in public affairs.
JAMES BOYD (deceased) was born January 31, 1805, in Centre County,
Penn. His father. Thomas Boyd, moved to Ross County. Ohio, in 1813, and
thence to Bloom Township, this county, in April, 1822, where he cleared up a
farm and resided until his death in 1847. James Boyd married Miss Eliza
Steele, who died leaving two daughters: Elizabeth, wife of George Shumaker,
of '\^'atson Station, Ohio, and ]Mi's. Emily Everett, who died in San Francisco,
Cal. , in November. 1871. Our subject married, on second occasion. Miss Mercy
Smith, who was born in Cayuga County, N. Y.. reared at Hadley, Mass., and
came to Scipio Township, this county, with her widowed mother and brothers
about 1835. To this union were born three children: James T., Ethan C.
and Ellen E. Mrs. Boyd died July 14, 1865. Mr. Boyd ended a useful life,
November 11. 1871, at his homestead on Honev Creek, this countv.
JAMES T. BOYD, farmer, P. O. Bloomville. was born July"24, 1842, in
Bloom Township, this county. After attending the schools of the district he
completed his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler at Republic. AVhile at
that school he enlisted, September 25 1861, in the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, and took part in many of the historical engagements of Virginia and
the southeast. He received a severe wound in the right shoulder at the battle
of Resaca, Ga. ; re-enlisted with his regiment and served until the close of the
war, being discharged, July 20, 1 865. He bore a distinguished part in the
service and rose to the rank of captain of his company. Retui'ning home after
the struggle he adopted agricultural pursuits. He was man-ied, October 10,
1867, to Miss Virginia E. DeAYitt, eldest daughter of the well known pioneer.
William DeWitt, of Bloomville. Ohio. They have since resided on their
pleasant farm of 1 75 acres. Their ehildi'en are Smith DeWitt, Maiy Alice,
James Everett and Carrie Eoline. Mr. Boyd is a Republican in j^olitics. He
has served his township as assessor and assistant United States marshal, and
took the census in 1870 in Bloom. Venice and Reed Townships, this county.
]Vir. and IMi-s. Boyd are members of the Presbyterian Chui'ch.
CONRAD BRINER. farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born November 8,
1830, in Baden. Germany. His parents, John and Sophia Briner. came to
America and settled in Bloom Township, this county. May 1, 1852. Here they
pui'chased a home where they resided until their death. John Briner died,
August 28, 1878; his widow, December 18, 1882, each aged eighty-two years.
Their eight ehildi'en were IVIi-s. Catherine Sitsler, residing in Germany; Susan
(deceased): Jacob, residing in Logan County, Ohio; Com-ad, Henry and Eliz-
734 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
abeth, living in Bloom Township; John, residing in Pittsburgh, Penn., and
Adam, a resident of Hardin County, Ohio. Oui' subject received an excellent
education in his native language 'in Baden, and coming to America with his
parents he has resided here ever since. He was married, November 15, 1857,
to Miss Anna Hunsicker, born in 1821, daughter of Michael and Hannah Hun-
sicker. Her parents moved from Montgomery County, Penn. , to Columbiana
County, Ohio, in 1837. and thence to Bloom Township, this county, in 1842,
and subsequently to Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Briner's children. Ida (Mrs. Eeif),
Marsin^Adam, Jacob. William. Josephine and Frank are intelligent and indus-
trious, occupying high positions in society. Mr. Briner is a member of the
Reformed Church; Mrs. Briner, of the Mennonite society. They have been
very successful through life; starting with but small means, they have accu-
mulated a comfortable competency, and own a fine farm of 280 acres.
FRANK A. CHATFIELD. di-uggist, Bloomville, was born August 24,
1848. at Painted Post, Steuben Co. , N. Y. His father. Charles J. Chatfield,
a native of Massachusetts, died in 1863; his mother, Mrs. Sarah D. (Foster)
Chatfield, still resides at Painted Post. Our subject, after a short academic
coiirse at Wyoming Seminary, Kingston, Penn., attended Oberlin College,
Oberlin, Ohio^ fi'om 1806 to 1871, holding a position as instructor in Greek
during the last year. He afterward attended Bonn University, Germany, one
year in 1874 and 1875. He received the degree of A. M. from Oberlin Col-
lege in 1876. Mr. Chatfield spent one year (1871 to 1872) in mercantile busi-
ness at Addison, N. Y. , and the following year as principal of the school at
Mamaroneck, N. Y. He was imited in marriage, December 31, 1873, with
Miss Emma J. Watson, of Bloom Township, this county. Her father, I. G.
Watson, was one of the pioneers of Bloom Township, where he died in 1873.
His widow. Mrs. Elizabeth J. Watson, still smvives. To Mr. and Mrs. Chat
field have been born five children: Grier P., Carl Ernst, Merrick M., Merle
Day and Roy W. In April, 1877. Mr. Chatfield established his present busi-
ness house in Bloomville. He keeps a full stock of drugs, medicines, books,
stationery, wall paper, window shades and druggists notions. By strict atten-
tion to business he has built up a large and prosperous trade.
WILLIAM M. DAVIS, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born January
18, 1819, in Perry County, Ohio. His father, John Davis, born in 1785,
in Frederick County, Md.. married, in 1816. Miss Hannah Kershner who was
born in Franklin County. Penn., in 1(90. After keeping the Harper's Ferry
Hotel and ferry for two' years they moved to Perry County, Ohio, where they
lived until November, 1824. when they settled permanently on Section 8,
Bloom Township, this county. They were thirteen days coming 126 miles.
There were not fifty acres cleared in the township and there were more Indians
than white people.* Seneca John with a tribe of Indians camped close to the
farm, and they would trade deer meat and skins for provisions. (John T.
Reed, now a resident of Bloomville. taught the second school in the first school -
house in the township). Mr. Davis went to mill at Tiffin when there were but
seven houses: hauled provisions to Toledo when there were not ten houses on
the road. He saw the first train that ran through the county, Hogge being the
engineer and Jesse Durbin. conductor, who afterward became a Methodist
minister. John Davis and Russel Munsell built on that farm a saw-
mill, in 1826, which was rebuilt later and sold to John Shonts. This mill
was for some time the only one on Honey Creek above Melmore, and was
usually kept running day and night making lumber for the early settlers to
use as flooring, etc. John Davis was a very industrious man and led an active
life. He was a Methodist and helped establish the first church in the township.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 735
He died in 1849. He was a man of generous disposition, always liberal to
the poor. His wife a Presbyterian and an earnest Christian woman died in
1840. The children of this couple are William M. : Jonathan and Dr. Thomas
W.. of AVapella. 111.: Mrs. Elizabeth Taylor, of Bloomington. 111.: Milton K..
of Mendota, Mo. ; and Mrs. Sarah Stinchcomb of Bloom Township, this county.
Milton R. was a soldier, enlisting in Illinois and serving in defence of his
country during the late Rebellion. William M. Davis, rnarried July 81. 1845,
Sarah Lemmert, of Crawford County. Ohio, who died in 1872. The childi-en born
to this union are as follows: Mrs. Sarej^ta Corey, of Bulgoe. Ohio: John C. :
Milton R., of Bairdsburgh, Iowa; ]Mi-s. Virginia Howland (deceased): Bruce
and Charles F. Mr. Davis married, on second occasion, in 1877, Mrs. Louisa
Super, born in Lancaster County. Penn.. daughter of John Myers, a resident
of Wayne County, Ohio. Mr. Davis is one of the oldest pioneers of Bloom
Township. He is an upright man. highly respected by all.
JOHN H. DETTERMAN, farmer. ' P. O. Bloomville, was born May
18.1810, in Prussia. Oermany. He immigrated to America in 1833, and went
with his brother, Harmon, and some fi-iends to Fort Wayne Ind.. where he
worked one year on the Wabash <fe Erie Canal. Then he came to this county
where he was married, in January, 1834, to Miss Kathrina Steigemeier. also a
native of Prussia, Germany. After living one year in Scipio Township and
live years on Honey Creek, this township. Mr. and ]\Ii-s. Detterman located in
Adams Township, where they went to work clearing up a farm. Mrs. Detter-
man died August 2, 1866, leaving three sons: Harris, Amos and Samuel. Mr.
Detterman was married on second occasion, March 5, 186 1 , to Mi-s. Ann
Somers, who was born in Center County. Penn., and came to Sandusky
County, Ohio, at eight years of age, with her father. Frederick Rhinehart. In
1868 Mr. and Mrs. Detterman settled permanently in Bloom Township, this
county, where they pm-chased a fine farm of 200 acres on which there is an
excellent stone quarry. Mr. Detterman has given each of his sons an inde-
pendent stai-t in life. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical
Chiu'ch.
SAMUEL DETTERMAN. farmer. P. O. Bloomville, was born Janu-
aiy 16. 1849, in Adams Township, this county, and is a son of the well known
pioneer John H. Detterman; our subject received his education in the schools
of the home district and in 1869 came with his father to Bloom Township,
this county. Here he was married, December 25, 1870, to Miss Jane Shaw-
man, and by this union were born the following children: Emmet Edson,
John Uri, Jesse Henry (deceased), Samuel Winfield and Jacob Richard. After
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Detterman settled on what is now a fine farm of nine-
ty-nine and a half acres of improved land situated on Honey Creek, where
they have since resided. They are consistent members of the Evangelical
Church. Oiu- subject is an enterprising and successful farmer, highly re-
spected by all who know him.
JACOB DETWILER, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Bloomville. was born
April 9, 1828. in Columbiana County, Ohio. His parents, Jacob and EWzabeth
Detwiler, natives of Lancaster County, Penn. , settled in Bloom Township, this
county, in 1844, locating a new farm which they at once began to clear and
improve. Jacob Detwiler. Sr. , died in 1850, his widow in 1860. They were
parents of the following childi-en: Samuel, Jacob and Mrs. Hannah Geiger.
(Mrs. Jacob Detwiler. Sr.. was also the mother of five childi-en by her previous
marriage with Christ Shetter. ) Oui- subject was united in marriage. Ainil 30,
1857. with Elizabeth Muckley. born in Bloom Township, this county. March 6,
1834. Her father. Georsce Muckley, came fi'om Germany to Stark County,
736 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Oliio. and was there married to Miss Magdalena Troxel, a native of Pennsyl-
vania. They located in Bloom Township, this covmty. in 1833. Mr. Muckley
died March 20, 1843. His widow subsequently married Isaac Kohrer, and now
lives in Mahoning County. Ohio. Mr. and jVIi's. Detwiler located where they
now reside, in 1860. and have one of the best improved farms in the township.
Their childi-en are Emma O., Mary M., George E., Delia J. and Samuel M.
Mr. Detwiler is a member of the Mennonite society, and :Mi-s. Detwiler, of the
Reformed Church.
JOHN R. DICKEN, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born November 2(,
1834, in Liberty, Ohio. His parents, David and Diana (Lewman) Dicken.
natives of Bedford County, Penn. , settled in Liberty Township, this county,
in 1831. and entered land from the Government. He was a local preacher, and
one of the earliest shoe-makers of that township. Of their thirteen children
thi-ee boys and five girls are living. The deceased are Isaac O. and Henry C. ,
who gave their lives in defense of their country in the war of 1861 : Joshua H. .
who died at home, from disabilities received in his country's service: Albert M. ,
who died of consumption, and Martha. _David Dicken ended a useful life April
7, 1871 ; his widow died October 21, 18/3, Om- subject was married. July 15,
1855, to Mary A, Sour, a native of Summit County, Ohio, and who came to Sen-
eca County, in 1852. with her parents. Jacob and Mary A, (Harter ) Sour, and to
this xmion were born Jasper P. (of Hicksville, Ohio). Mrs. Luella S. Ringle
(of Jackson Township, this county). U, S. Grant. Genora E. and Clinton E.
Mr. Dicken spent foiu- months in' 1864 as a soldier in the One Hundred and
Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Yohmteer Infantry. He held position of second
corporal, and left a record of a brave and faithful soldier, always at his post.
After their marriage our subject and wife resided in Jackson Township, this
county, until March, 1883, when they settled in Bloom Township, where they
have a farm of 100 acres. Mr. Dicken is a Republican in politics. He held
the office of trustee of Jackson Township four terms: was also postmaster of
Amsden. this countv. eight vears. He is a member of high standing in the I.
O. O. F. ' ' .
HENRY EINSEL, grain dealer. Bloomville. was born October 6, 1834, in
Bloom Township, this coiinty. His parents, John and Elizabeth Einsel, natives
of Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively, came to this county from Fairfield
County, Ohio, in 1833, and at once entered upon the pioneer work of develop-
ing a farm. Their children were IVIi's. Sarah McClelland, of Seneca Townshji).
this county: Lydia. who died February 20. 1881; Noah, a resident of Tiffin,
Ohio: Henry: Mrs. Mahala Kagy, of Michigan, and Levi, who died October
29. 1870. Mr. Einsel died March 5. 1872. aged seventy-three years, his wife
having preceded him April 1. 1865. aged fifty -seven years. Om- subject was
brought up on his father's farm, attending the schools of the home district.
He was married. December 29. 1854, to Miss Emily Spitler, by whom he had
the following childi'en: Mrs. Ella Wilsey. Charles R., William S.. Locksley B..
John L. and Claude. They resided on their farm until 18/2, when they located
in Bloomville. Here, in 1874, ^NIi-. Einsel purchased the elevator and grain
storage liuilding near the depot, and does an extensive business, buying and
shipping all kinds of grain and seeds. Mr, Einsel is a life-long Democrat.
He take's a deep interest in public afPairs, and has held the positions of town-
ship assessor and mayor of Bloomville, besides other local and township offices.
He is at present a member of the town council of Bloomville.
PHILIP FALTER (deceased) was born on mid-ocean in 1823. while his
parents were making the voyage ft'om Germany to the United States. They
located in Stark County, Ohio (where Philip was reared), and spent their last
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 737
days in Venice Township, this county. Our subject married Miss Elizabeth
Houck, a resident of Stark County at the time. They came to Venice Town-
ship, this county, with their entire earthly possessions, $50, and began making
a home for themselves, and were very successful, acquiring a farm of 120 acres.
The childi-en born to this union are Henry, Mrs. Christina Phillips, Frank A. ,
Joseph, Mrs. Anna Thomma, John, and four deceased. Mr. Falter died April
21, 1872, his wife having preceded him March 12, of that year.
FKANK ALBERT FALTER, merchant, Bloomville, was born March 29,
1855, in Venice Township, this county, son of Philip and Elizabeth (Houck)
Falter. He received his education in the schools of the district and at St.
Stephen's Academy. At his parents' decease he began life for himself, estab-
lishing a Inisiness house at St. Stephen' s in March, 1879, and erecting an entirely
new building, which he stocked completely. In 1881 he was appointed post-
master of that place and held the commission until SejDtember, 1884, when he
sold out his business, moved to Bloomville, and here purchased the grocery and
provision store of Bevington & Farnsworth, which he now carries on. Mr. Fal-
ter married, September 30, 1879, Miss Rosa Phillips, and their children are
Flora, Charles and William. He and his wife are members of St. Stephen's
Catholic Charch. Mr. Falter is an enterprising, successful business man.
DANIEL LEWIS and DAVID W. FISHER, farmers, P. O. Bloom-
ville, are the sons of John and Barbara (Myers) Fisher, of Carroll County, Md.,
who located here in 1835, and who were the parents of seven children, of whom
three are now living: Daniel L., Mrs. Hannah Foncannon and David W. John
Fisher died in 1879, his wife having preceded him in 1859. Daniel L. Fisher
devoted five months, in 1864, to the service of his country, enlisting in the
One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He married Miss
Paulina Munsell November 5, 1864, by whom he had four children: John W.,
FredL., Mary Ninnette and Blanche L. Mrs. Fisher died August 12, 1882.
Daniel L. Fisher owns a farm of 100 acres on Stoner Creek, on which is located
one of the best blue-limestone quarries in the State. He is a F. & A. M., and
a member of the K. of P. and G. A. R. David W. Fisher was born April 16,
1838, in Bloom Township, this coimty. In his youth he spent three years
traveling through California and the West. He then returned home and took
a course at Heidelberg College, Ohio. He was one of the first citizens of Bloom
Township to enlist in April, 1861, but the number desired being already made
up he was honorably discharged after one month's service. He married, June
21, 1861, Miss Elizabeth C. Andi-ews, of Bettsville, Ohio. He re-enlisted in
August, 1861, in the Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, taking the
position of sergeant. He received a wound near Corinth, Miss., June 4, 1862,
necessitating his discharge in September of that year. He carried on a sutler's
store from 1863 until the close of the war. After living some time inMichigan,
and owning and operating the steamer "Lizzie May" on Lake_Michigan three
years, he returned to Bloomville. During 1874, 1875 and 18 (6 he edited the
Bloomville Banner, and also in 1876 conducted a campaign paper in Paulding
County, Ohio, and made Republican speeches. At the election following.^the
county was changed from a Democratic to a Republican majority. In 1877 he
settled on his farm one mile and one-half east of Bloomville. Mr. Fisher does
an extensive business in connection with the pension department. To him and
his wife have been born four children: Charles D., a successful teacher, of this
county; Louis F., Emma E. and Jennie A. Mr. Fisher is a member in high
standing of the I. O. O. F. , the K. of P. and the G. A. R. He has led a varied
and useful life, and is a highly respected citizen of this community.
738 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
T. J. FOSTER, physician and surgeon, Bloomville, was born October 2,
1860, in Attica, this county. His father, John Foster, a native of Huron
County, Ohio, married Miss Sarah Pollinger, a native of Cumberiand
County, Penn. . and soon afterward settled in Attica, where he carried on a
shoe shop until a few years before his death in 1871. The subject of this
sketch received his literary education in the schools of his native township. At
twenty-one years of age he entered upon the study of medicine under Dr. J.
M. Fackler, of Plymouth, Ohio, and February 27, 1884, graduated from the
Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago. 111. April 7, of the same year, the
Doctor opened his office in Bloomville, this county, since which time he has de-
voted himself energetically to the practice of his chosen profession. He is the
only physician of The homoeopathic school in Bloom Township, and has already
built up a large and lucrative practice, being recognized as a skillful and
scientitie phvsician. He is a charter member of Proclts Lodge No. 192. K. of P.
SA^NH^EL GROSS, retired. Bloomville. one of the oldest men living in
Bloom Township, was born January 0, 1810, in Union County, Penn. , and in
July, 1831, moved with his parents, Henry and Jane Gross, to Tiffin. Ohio.
He was married, April 29, 1830, to Miss Ann Owen, who was born in Perry
County, Penn., March 7, 1807. They located in Bloom Township, this county,
in 1831 . Mr. Gross was a practical mechanic and according to the necessities
of the settlers of those early timps, made and repaired guns, pistols, clocks,
watches and many other things. His shop, still standing, is well known to all
the old pioneers, and is one of the landmarks of Bloom Township. _ They still
occupy the log house which they built upon coming here and which is the old-
est residence °in the township.* Mr. and Mrs. Gross have three daughters:
Martha Ann. Mrs. Amelia J. Coon and Mrs. Mary E. GiflPord. Mr. Gross
voted for Gen. Jackson in 1832, and has supported the Democratic party since.
. He has served as township trustee three terms, clerk one term, and has filled
other local and township offices of trust. He and his worthy wife and childi-en
are Presbvterians.
JOHN COLES HAMPTON (deceased) was born in Frederick County, Va. , m
1803, and was brought up principally in Ross County, Ohio. He came to
Bloom Township, this county, in 1822*, and here he married Elizabeth Long in
1832. Mr. Hampton followed the profession of auctioneer in this locality nearly
forty years. He helped to raise the first house, and owned a farm of 120 acres
in Bloom Township at the time of his death, which occurred May 14, 1885.
Politicallv Mr. Hampton was a Democrat.
JOHN HARTSCHUH. farmer. P. O. Bloomville. was born June 19, 1835,
in Stark Countv, Ohio. His father, John Harischuli, a native of Wui-temberg,
Germanv, married Miss Susanna Baer, of Pennsylvania, and about 1843 locat-
ed in Chatfiekl Township, Crawford Co., Ohio, where they lived and died.
Our subject was reared in that county on his father's farm, and attended the
schools of the home district. He was married, April 23, 1864, to Miss Mary
Keller, born in Germany, and brought up in Lykens Township, Crawford Co. ,
Ohio. Our subject and' wife have resided in Bloom Township, this county,
ever since their marriage. Their children are W. Franklin, J. Albert. Eme-
line Louisa. Elizabeth. George L., Ida May, Mary Anna, David H. and Charley
J. Mr. and Mrs. Hartschuh began life depending almost entirely on then-
own resources, and bv industry and economy have acquired a fine farm, com-
prising 280 acres of well-improved land. They are members of the German
Reformed Church. Mr. Hartschuh is a Democrat in politics.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 739
PETER HAWBLITS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born March 18, 1829, in
Wiirtemberg, Germany, and came to America in 1830 with his parents, John
George and Catherine Hawblits, who, after living nine years in Stark Cpunty,
Ohio, settled in Bloom Township, this county, but are now residents of Venice
Township. Our subject, February 2(5, 1857^ married Miss Mary Ann Briggle,
born in 1834, in Reed Township, this county; her parents, Valentine and Mary
Briggle, were natives of Baden, Germany, and among the earliest settlers of
Reed Township. The father died in 1875; the mother is now living with our
subject at the advanced age of eighty years. Mr. and Mrs. Hawblits lived in
Reed Township, this county, nineteen years after their marriage, and then lo-
cated in Bloom Township, where they bought Jonathan Webster's place, and
now have a fine farm of 120 acres of well-improved land, as well as eighty-five
acres in Reed Township. They have one son — David Henry (married to Miss
Jennie Seiple), who is devoting a great deal of attention to raising fine stock
on the home farm. He has lately purchased twenty head of registered Merino
sheep, one of the finest flocks in the whole county, having received distin-
guished premiums at the fairs held at Toledo, Tiffin, Clyde and Attica, Ohio.
Our subject is a prosperous, enterprising farmer, highly respected by the whole
community.
OSCAR M. HOLCOMB, editor and publisher of the Seneca County Record
Bloomville, was born September 8, 1829, in Hamilton County, Ohio. His
father, David H. Holcomb, afterward a merchant of Cincinnati, Ohio, came
with his parents from Vermont to Hamilton County in 1808. Our subject and
his parents resided at Pekin, 111., and in same county fi'om 1831 to 1843, when
they removed to Chicago. There he learned the printer' s trade in the office
of the Gem of the Prairie. In 1846 he set the first type on the Chicago Trib-
une. In 1847 Mr. Holcomb enlisted in Company F, Second Regiment Illinois
Volunteer Infantry, and went to Mexico under Gen. Scott. He was stationed
at Camp Washington, in Vera Cruz, and at Jalapa, receiving an honorable dis-
charge at Alton, 111., in 1848. March 26, 1849, he with his father started
across the plains to California, arriving at Sacramento September 13, same
vear, and there his father died November 18, 1849, his wife having preceded
him in 1832 at Pekin, 111. Our subject returned to Chicago in April, 1852, and
re-engaged on the Tribune. He was a delegate to the National Printers' Union
at Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1853. He was married September 22, 1853, to Miss
Mary A. Leitch, of Warren County, Ohio, and to this union were born Mrs.
Ora A. Rowen, of Washington, Iowa; Mrs. lona E. Longhead, of same place;
Orma M., of California; Mrs. L. L. Hodges, of Waterloo, Ind., and William
H. , of Fort Collins, Col. They spent several years in Iowa, where Mr. Holcomb
published the Hardin County Sentinel at Eldora, Iowa. Subsequently they moved
to Washington County, where Mr. Holcomb held the position of agent for the
Rock Island Railroad Company, at Ainsworth, for nine years. He lost his
wife by death November 18, 1867, and subsequently married, August 6, 1868,
::Miss Mary A. Whiting, by whom he has had five childi-en, all now deceased.
They finally located in Bloomville, this county, April 15, 1878, where Mr. Hol-
comb purchased the printing office and established the Seneca County Record,
which he has built up to a point of success never before attained by any paper
in this locality, with a circulation of upward of 700. It is very popular with
the best citizens of the county. In the spring of 1884 Mr. Holcomb was elected
mayor of Bloomville and justice of the peace, and he fulfils the duties of these
offices to the satisfaction of all.
JACOB HOSSLER, of Bloom Township, was born January 31, 1806, at
Gettysburg, Adams Co., Penn., and moved" with his parents in 1821, to Stark
740 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
County, Ohio. His father, Frederick, and his grandfather, John G. , were born
in Pennsylvania, the former in 1782, the latter in 1758, and his great-grand-
father was born in France, Europe, and immigrated to Philadelphia, Penn. . in
1754. September 23, 1830, the subject of this sketch married Anna
Funk, of Osnaburg, Stark Co., Ohio. May 30, 1834, Mr. Hossler and
wife landed in Bloom Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, on their present farm
homestead, consisting of 320 acres, part of which is in Venice Township, at a
time when this township was comparatively a wilderness. By industry and
economy the twain made this one of the most pleasant and desu-able homes in
that locality, in a short duration of time. Mr. and Mrs. Hossler reared eleven
childi'en — four sons, and seven daughters — all of whom are men and women of
enterprise and usefulness. In 1866 he removed to the village of Bloomville,
went into the mercantile trade, and has very recently retired from the activity
of business, but enjoys his vigorous old age with every indication of living
many years. He was justice of the peace twenty-four years, mayor of Bloom-
ville four years, postmaster under part of Grant's administration, and held
other positions of honor in the township, all of which he has tilled with marked
honesty and ability. Also administered the settlement of many decedents'
estates. One of the most notable events in Bloom Township in 1880, was the
celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the nuptial vows of Mr. and Mrs. Hoss-
ler. Mr. Hossler is a gentleman who enjoys the respect of all who know him,
and is an intelligent and upright citizen, and one who takes pride in the pros-
perity of his township and county. He is honest and straight forward in busi-
ness, his word being equivalent to his bond any day. He is one of the few
remaining stanch pioneer settlers of Bloom Township.
SAMUEL B. HOSSLEE, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born April 12,
1842. in Bloom Township, this county, a son of the well known pioneer, Jacob
Hossler. He completed his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler in the
•Seneca County Academy at Republic, adopting the profession of teacher
before he was nineteen years of age, and teaching seven terms almost in
succession in Bloom Township. During the late war of the Rebellion he
spent four months, in 1864, as a soldier in the One Hundred and Sixty-fourth
Regiment Ohio National Guards. Our subject married, April 1 1, 1865, Miss
Jennie Lomiller, a native of Scipio Township, this county. After living one
year at Bloomville and eleven years at his father's homestead, our subject
and family finally settled where they now reside, owning a well improved
farm of 100 acres. Their children are Nellie, J. Schuyler, Mary A. and
Anna C. Mr. Hossler is an earnest Republican. In 1873 he was called iipon
to serve his township as assessor. In 1880 he was chosen land appraiser, the
difiicult duties of which position he filled to the general satisfaction of the
people. He held the office of township trustee two terms (fi'om 1881 to 1883)
and in addition he has done an extensive business as executor and administra-
tor, settling decedents' estates. He is one of the leading public spirited,
enterprising citizens of Bloom Township.
ABRAHAM KAGY, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born in Shenandoah
County, Va. , December 23, 1803. He came to Fairfield County, Ohio, at seven-
teen years of age with his parents. Christian and Hannah Kagy, former of whom
died in Fairfield County, and latter in Bloom Township, this county, when
over ninety years of age. Abraham Kagy married Miss Elizabeth Ruch, of
Fairfield County, Ohio, and, in 1823, settled in Bloom Township, this county,
where they cleared up and developed a farm. They were indiistrions and
successful, at one time owning over 1,000 acres of land, 640 of which were in
Bloom Township. To them were born the following children: Mrs. Hannah
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 741
Spitler; Christian, who died July 29, 1829, aged three years; John; Mary, who
died June 30, 1829, aged one year; Mrs. Barbara Martin ; Mrs. LavinaSaul; Mrs.
Eliza Hershberger, of Warsaw, Ind. ; George,who died February 28, 1863. aged
twenty-nine years ; Lewis : Cameron ; Martha, who died, aged six years ; Benjamin,
a resident of Putnam Coianty, Ohio; Elijah; Stephen; and Leander in Oregon.
Mrs. Kagy died August 9, 1863. Our subject now resides on the homestead
at the advanced age of eighty-one years. He is a member of the Old School
Baptist Church; is an upright pioneer citizen and is now living in the peace
and quiet of an honored old age. John Kagy, our subject's son, has lived
most of his life in Bloom Township. He takes an active interest in public
affairs, having served the township in several responsible positions. He has
held the office of justice of the peace, fulfilling the important duties of this
office to the entire satisfaction of the people. He now resides on the farm.
south of Bloomville.
HENRY KIRGIS, farmer and stock dealer, P. O. Bloomville, was born
January 16, 1840, in Seneca Township, this county. His father, Jacob
Kirgis, a native of Wiirtemberg. Germany, came to this county in 1833 with
his parents, who died in Seneca Township, this county. He, Jacob, married
Mary Shafer of Reed Township, a native of Baden, Germany. Our subject
was reared in Lykens Township. Crawford Co. , Ohio, where his parents had
located when he was seven years old. His educational opportunities were
limited, biit he improved them to good advantage and has been an extensive
reader. He married, February 6, 1862, Miss Mary Ann Shellhorn, whose
parents were natives of "NVurtemberg, Germany, and lived some years in Stark
County, Ohio, before locating in Lykens Township, Crawford County. Mr.
and Mrs. Kirgis have resided in Bloom Township since their marriage. They
have, by industry and good management, acquired 500 acres of land. They
are members of the Lutheran Charch. Their children are Mrs. Caroline A.
Haines, William, Anna M. and Henry M. Mr. Kirgis is a Democrat, politi-
cally, and a close observer of public affairs. He has for the past eight
years devoted his attention principally to raising and dealing in stock. He is
giving his children good educational advantages. His daughter, Anna, is an
accomplished and efficient teacher, having taiight very successfully six terms
in the schools of the home district.
SIMON KOLLER (deceased) was born February 8, 1802, in York County
Penn. . where he grew to manhood. He was married in his native county
to Mrs. Mary Magdalena Bricker. also a native of York County, Penn. . born
January 6. 1810. In 1838 they turned their faces westward, attracted by
the advantages for new settlers in the climate and soil of Ohio. They re-
mained about two years in Wayne County, Ohio, and in 1846 settled per-
manently on Honey Creek, Bloom Township, this county. Here they bought
160 acres of land which they increased the next year to 320 acres. They
reared an intelligent and influential family, five of their eight childi-en are
now living: Josiah, residing at Napoleon, Ohio; Mrs. Maria Zeigler, residing
at Bucyrus, Ohio; Mi's. Sarah Seigley; Martin; and Mrs. Leah Benenderfer.
Mr. Koller was a man of wonderful industry and energy. Besides *his extensive
farm interests he established a saw-mill on his place and afterward built a grist-
mill, near by, which he operated until 1865. He added to his landed property
until he owned in all about 550 acres in this county. As a citizen Mr. Koller
was known far and wide for his generosity and liberality to the poor. It is
said that even those who had done him great injury received favors fi'om his
hand. Mr. Koller died February 13, 1882, his wife having preceded him
September 6. 1881. They were pious members of the Reformed Church. Mr.
742 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Koller l)eing almost the main support in building the chui'ch here; they were
among the township's best known and most highly respected pioneers and
their memory will long be honored by the citizens.
JOHX KOLLER (deceased) was a native of York County, Penn. , where
he married Eve Reigle. In June, 1834, they settled on Honey Creek, Bloom
Township, this county, where they cleared up a farm and reared their family of
three childi-en. Mr. Koller was an old-time democrat, and took an active part
in public affairs, serving his township as trustee for several terms. He was
devoted to the improvement of his home, and built the first brick house in
Bloom Township, and the first fine residence of any kind on Honey Creek. He
was a very useful and valuable citizen and his early death, February IS, 1845,
when but thirty-six years of age, was deeply lamented by the whole community.
His widow, who subsequently married William Watson, died October 25, 1803.
NATHANIEL KOLLER, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born December
24, 1834. and is the eldest of the three children born to John and Eve (Reigle)
Koller. He was united in marriage, February 29, 1856, with Miss Magdalena
Hossler, daughter of the well known pioneer, Jacob Hossler. Mr. and Mrs.
Koller settled on their present farm in February, 1859, where they have a
comfortable home and sixty-three acres of well improved land. They have one
daughter, Mary Ettie, wife of James G. Potteiger, and they have one^ daughter,
Ella M. Mr. Koller is a Republican in politics. Mrs. Koller is a member of
the United Brethren Church.
SAMUEL A. B. McCLELLAND, farmer, P. O. Bloomville. was born June
7, 1818, in Centre County, Penn. His father, Hugh McClelland, died about 1823,
and his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth (Boyd) McClelland, came to Eden Township,
this county, with her young family, in 1830. They settled on a new farm which
they at once began to clear up and develop. The names of their children are
AVilliam H. ; Mrs. Nancy J. Clark, in Hancock County; Sarah I., (deceased);
S. A. B. ; Mrs. Mary H. Moe; and Mrs. Margaret F.' Watson. Our subject
married, July 26, 1849, Miss Catherine Ralston, born March 31, 1828, in
Brooke County, Va. , daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Parks) Ralston, who
settledjn Bloom To^vnship, this county, in 1834. Mr. Ralston died January
4, 1867, and his widow still lives in Bloom Township. Two of their sons gave
their lives in defense of their country, Joseph M. C. being a member of the One
Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment, and Robei-t of the Fiftv-fifth Regiment
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Mr. and Mrs. McClelland settled i'n Bloom Town-
ship, this county, in 1853. Their children are Salomon Chase, of Michigan;
William H.. in Kosciusko County, Ind. ; Samuel; Ward B. ; Hugh; and Ida E.
Mr. McClelland has been an ardent Republican since the organization of the
party. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.
JOHN McCLELLAND, a native of Fayette County, Penn., was married in
Wayne County, Ohio, in 1832, to Miss Elizabeth Hannah, a native of Cumber-
land County, Penn. They settled in Venice Township, this county, in 1836.
Of their twelve children Thomas A. , the only one residing in Bloom Town-
ship, maiTied, August 23, 1866, Miss Catherine Wilson. Her father, John W.
Wilson, was born in Fayette Coimty, Penn., in 1821, and came to Ohio with his
father, Rev. James Wilson, a native"of England and a minister of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. John W. Wilson married Miss Hannah J. McWilliams, of
Richland County, Ohio, and resided on their farm until 1875, when they located
in Bloomville, where Mr. Wilson died, in November, 1880; his widow now
resides at her home.
NATHAN MARTIN (deceased), son of William and Hannah (Chapman)
Martin, was born in Mifflin County, Penn., November 6, 1785; enlisted in Dear-
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 743
«
horn's command in 1812, and served during that war; was discharged and paid
ofF at Fort Niagara, then went to York (Toronto) to visit his mother's sisters who
resided there, and became a resident of that district. He was maiTied there to
Miss Elizabeth Devins, and engaged in agriculture in Canada until May, 1839,
when he moved to Bloom Township. Seneca Co., Ohio, where his two
brothers had settled at an earlier date. His wife and children — five boys and
three girls — accompanied him hither. On arriving in Bloom, June 1. he nego-
tiated for the piu'chase of a farm, and went to reside on it (Section 19) July 1,
1839. He was trustee of Bloom Township for many years previous to his
death, which occuri'ed Februaiy 11, 18C2, his demise being attributed to worry,
caused bv the war. His widow died in January, 1870.
JOHN CHAPMAN MARTIN (deceased), was born February 26, 1798, in
Mifflin County. Penn. He came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1812, where he
was united in marriage with Miss Mary Ann McCaudlish, a native of Water-
ford, Ohio. They moved to Bloom Township, this county, in 1828, and entered
an eighty-acre tract, noi-th of Honey Creek, which they subsequently increased
to 160 acres. They lived at their home on Honey Creek until their death. Mr.
Martin died January 8, 1881, his wife December 30, 1870. Of their eleven
children foiu- are now living: William, a resident of Des Moines, Iowa; Anthony
M., an M. D. in Bloomville, Ohio: George M., living on the homestead on
Honey Creek; and Albert, in King City, Mo. Oui' subject and his worthy
wife were among the honored pioneers of Bloom Township, where they lived
long and useful lives.
PAUL MILLER, manufactui-er, Bloomville, was born May 5, 1840, in
Venice Township, this county. His father, John M. Miller, a native of Wur-
temberg, Germany, married Miss Rickey Reider, immigrated to America in
1832, and, after living in Medina County, Ohio, about four years, Settled per-
manantly in Seneca County, Ohio. After his wife's demise, which occuiTed
when she was aged forty-two years and twenty-five days, John M. Miller mar-
ried Miss Catherine Kalb, who died February 9, 1878, aged sixty-nine years;
he remained a widower the remainder of his life; he died March 29, 1884,
aged eighty-two years, nine months and twenty-one days; he was an enter-
prising farmer and acquired an estate of 400 acres of land. His children —
nine sons and one daughter — are all now living but Aaron, who was di'owned in
Sandusky River, at Tiffin, Ohio, March 12, 1868. Two of the sons, D. G. and
C. C. , gave their services in defense of the Government in the war of the Re-
bellion, serving four years each. Onr subject was employed three months as
carpenter by the Government during the Rebellion. He was married, March
10, 1864, to Mary E. Marshall, then located at Richville, Crawford County,
Ohio, two years, after which he purchased a saw-mill at Tiffin, Ohio, which he
carried on for eight years. He next resided in the southeast corner of Clinton
Township, this county, for some time, but finally located in Bloomville in
1875. Here he carries on an extensive saw-mill, planing-mill and lumber
business, supplying the home market; has a large railroad trade and is ship-
ping extensively to Toledo and other points. This is the only establishment
of the kind in Bloomville. He is noted as one of the most enterprising and suc-
cessful business men of the day. IMi". and Mrs. Miller's children are John
David, Elizalieth Anna, Mary Emma, Benjamin Franklin, Nelson Hariy and
Iva Pearl. Mrs. Miller is a member of the German Reformed Church.
HERBERT G. OGDEN, merchant, Bloomville, was born August 13. 1843,
in Scipio Township, this county. His father, Gilbert M. Ogden, of Tomp-
kins County, N. Y., came to this county in 1836. where he was married to
Miss Sarah Jopp, of Pleasant Township, who died in 1854. Gilbert M. Ogden
744 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
carried on a mercantile trade in Republic, Ohio, from 1846 to 1803 (when his
son took his place in the establishment); spent from 1867 to 1875 among the
mines in Nevada, and died at Toledo, Ohio, in September, 1884. Our subject
carried on the dry goods store formerly owned by his father in Republic, until
1871, when he located in Green Spring, Ohio. In 1881 he came to Bloom -
ville, this county, where he formed the present partnership with G. F. Swi-
gert. They carry a full line of dry goods, boots, shoes, notions, etc., and
have built up a large and lucrative trade. Mr. Ogden was married, November
19. 1868, to Miss Harriet I. Swigert, by whom he has one son, Fred. Mr.
Ogden is a Royal Arch Mason. He is a representative business man and an
influential citizen in this community. He enlisted during the late war of the
Rebellion, in May, 1861, in Company G, Twenty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volun-
teer Infantry, wa^s transferred in August, 1862. to the One Hundi-ed and First
Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; served in the Army of the Potomac and took part in
many severe engagements fought in West Virginia and Virginia. He was
wounded in the left arm at the battle of Cross Keys, ^\. Va., and resigned on
account of disabilitv, with the rank of first lieutenant, in 1863.
LEWIS R. OWEN, farmer. P. O. Bloomville, was born in Milo, Yates
Co., N. Y., April 30, 1815. His parents, Nathaniel and Elizabeth Owen,
came to Scipio Township, this county, in 1833. and there cleared up a new
farm, enduring the hardships and privations of pioneer life. Of their seven
children five are now living: Alanson. in Bloom Township; Charles, in Eden
Township, this county; Lewis R., in Bloom Township; Mrs. Mary Blackman,
in Wisconsin, and Jonathan in Dakota. Nathaniel Owen died in 1846, his
w^idow in 1882, aged ninety years. Our subject, after helping on his father's
farm, married Miss Sallie Free, and commenced to clear a farm for himself
in Bloom Township, this county, in 1835. Here they acquired a fine property
of 240 acres of well improved land. Mrs. Owen died in 1849, leaving three
childien: John, in Bloom Township ; Mrs. Mary Kagy, in Iowa: and William.
Om- subject was inarried on second occasion to Miss Almeda Rice, and their
childi-en are Ellery, a resident of Iowa; Lasaida (deceased); Sarah Andrews,
in Wyandot County, Ohio; Brill a Worm, in Bloom Township. Mr. and IMi's.
Owen are members of the Baptist Church. He is an earnest Democrat in
politics and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He has been called upon
to serve his township as trustee for six years.
JOHN T. REID. retired farmer, P. 6. Bloomville, was born January 1, 1807,
in Frederick County, Md. His father, Archibald Reid, a native of England,
Avas married to Catherine Talbott, of Maryland, and died in about 1809, the
widow then locating with her family in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1814, where
she resided until her death in 1835. One of their sons, Benjamin, was a
soldier in the war of 1812. Our subject came to Fairfield County with his
uncle in 1813 and to Bloom Township, this county, in 1831, and here he began
clearing up a farm in the western part of the township. He was married,
April 25, 1833, to Miss Eliza B. Watson, who was born March 14, 1810, in
Center County, Penn. . and came to Eden Township, this county, at twenty
years of age with her widowed mother, Mrs. Elizabeth McClelland. Since
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Reid have resided in Bloom Township. Their
children are Benjamin F., of Westport. Cal. ; Mary Elizabeth, who died at
three years of age; William L., in Bloom Township, this county; and Mz's.
Margaret E. Marquis, also in Bloom Township. Mr. and Mrs. Reid have been
leading a retired life in Bloomville since 1873. They are members of the
Presbyterian Church and are devoted to the temperance cause, upright pioneer
people, respected by the entire community.
BLOOM TOAVNSHIP. 745
WILLIAM L. REID, farmer, P. O. Bloomville. was born January 14,
1838, in Bloom Township, this county, and is a son of John T. and Eliza B.
(Watson) Reid. Om- subject received his education in the schools of the home
district, but, as was common among the sons of the settlers of those early times,
his educational advantages were necessarily limited, owing to the demand for
his help on the farm. He was united in marriage, April 25, 1861, with Miss
Martha C. Hershberger, whose parents, Jonas and Martha Hershberger, moved
from Shenandoah County, Ya. , and settled in Eden Township, this county,
in 1833. To IMi-. and Mrs. Eeid have been born three childi-en: Mrs. Ellen
Bliss, Eliza and Wilbert (deceased). During the late war of the Rebellion, our
subject served about tive months, in 1864, as a member of the One Himdred
and Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He has resided on the
old family homestead ever since his marriage. Mr. Reid is a life-long Repub
lican. takes an active interest in public affairs, and is at pi'esent a trustee of
Bloom Township.
JOHN RICE, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born March 22, 1823, in Yates
County, N. Y, , son of William and Lu.ceba (Blodgett) Rice, who settled in Reed
Township, this county, in 1829, and there resided until the death of William
Rice, which occiu-red August 20, 1835. His widow survived him until 1863.
Our subject was married, March 28, 1844, to Susan Henrietta Hall, born in
Steuben County. N. Y., January 21, 1826, daughter of Rev. Henry F. and
Susan (Sellon) Hall, who settled in the corner of Bloom Township in 1835.
Mr. Hall was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, being ordained
in 1832 by Bishop Hedding. He was a man of much eloquence and power,
and preached a great deal in the suiTounding communities. He ended his use-
ful life March 5, 1858, aged sixty-nine years. His widow survived him
until March 23, 1871 . She had been a member of the Methodist Episcoi^al
Chiu-ch for sixty years. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Rice lived in Reed
Township, three years; in Wyandot County, seven years, and finally settled, in
1854, where they now reside, on the old family homestead of Rev. Mr. Hall.
They have a tine place of 2()() acres, which is one of the best improved farms
in the township. Their chiklren are Sidney Herbert, of St. Joseph, Mo. ;
Francis Leroy, of Cleveland, Ohio; Mrs. Nettie Pinger, of Barry, 111. ; Bert
E. and Charles A. reside on the old farm. Mr. and IVIi's. Rice are consistent
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which the former has been
connected since twelve, and the latter since eighteen years of age. He is an
earnest Republican, taking a deep interest in public affairs, and is recognized
as one of the leading citizens of Seneca County. IVIrs. Rice is a literary writer,
contributing many valuable articles to the papers. She has been called upon
to deliver addj-esses before the Temple Grange, Masonic and Odd Fellow lodges,
Seneca County Farmers' Institute and other representative bodies. She is an
effective and popular writer, striking with force at the vices and follies of our
day. She was an active member of the well known woman's crusade against
the whisky traffic. Mr. and Mrs. Rice have three cottages at Lakeside camp
ground, one of them being the best in the place, and Mr. Rice is one of the
leading officers of that institution.
EDWIN J. SEIGLEY, deceased, was born in 1842, in Summit County,
Ohio, where his father, Joseph Seigley, still resides. In his boyhood he
attended Heidelberg College at Tiffin, Ohio, and resided for some time with his
brother, B. F. Seigley, in Bloom Township. Hfe was married, in September,
1862, to IVIiss Sarah Roller, who was born in Bloom Township, this county, in
1843, a daughter of Simon Koller. The children born to this union are Mrs.
Izora Y. Fry, Earl E. and Jessie M. Mr. and Mrs. Seigley resided in this
746 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
township for three years, and then located at Mehnore, Eden Township, this
county, where he d'^ied in Angiist, 1807. His widow now resides at her home
north of Bloomville. She is a member of the Reformed Church, a lady of
exalted Christian character, respected and esteemed by all who know her. and
who has carefully reared her family to become intelligent, influential citizens of
this township.
JOHN SEITZ (deceased) was born in Eockmgham County, Va.. October J.b,
1790, and came to Fairfield County, Ohio, with his parents in 1801 . There he was
united in marriage, in 1811, with Miss Magdalena Spitler, a native of what is
now Page County, Va. They located permanently in Bloom Township, this
county. In 1823, Mr. Seitz having come out the previous year, bought lancl
and built a house, and named Bloom Township. Of the eight children bom
to this union four are now living: Abram (residing in Sacramento, Cal.), Lewis
(a resident of Wyandot County, Ohio), Daniel and Isaac. Foni- died in this
county: Mrs. Mary Perkey, Mrs. Anna Kagy, Josiah and Mrs. Elizabeth Bretz.
John Seitz was serving as county commissioner when the first court house was
built in Tiffin, in 1884, and filled the office of justice of the peace about fifteen
years. He died September 27, 1874, his wife having preceded him in 18()2.
They were upright pioneers and helped develop the resources of Seneca C'ounty,
and"^ their names will long be revered by the citizens of Bloom Township.
They were Primitive Baptists.
DANIEL SEITZ, farmer. P. O. Bloomville, a son of John and Magdalena
(Spitler) Seitz, was born May 5, 1825, the first white male child to seethe light
of day in Bloom Township, and now the oldest resident of the same. He
acquired his education in the old log schoolhouse within a few steps of his
father's home, and took part in the usual work that fell to the lot of the pio-
neers' sons of that early day. He married. February 4, 1862, Miss Barliara
E. Bretz, born in Bloom' Township, this county, September 12, 1834, a daugh-
ter of David and Frances Bretz, natives of Virginia, who also came here from
Fairfield County, Ohio, in early times. To this union were born Cassius M.
and Cora Belle (twins). Wade Hampton and Jesse W. After marriage Mr. and
Mrs. Seitz lived on the family homestead until 1874, when they moved to their
present farm adjoining, and here they have a fine farm of eighty-seven and a
half acres of well improved land. Mr. Seitz is an earnest Republican, having
cast his first vote for Van Buren for President. He has served the township
as trustee several terms. He is a worthy representative of one of the oldest
families in Bloom Township, and is a citizen of much influence.
ELDER LEWIS SEITZ. retired. Bloomville, was born October 21. 1802,
in Fairfield County, Ohio. His parents, Lewis and Anna (Beery) Seitz. natives
of Lancaster County. Penn. , were married in York County, and after living
eleven years in Rockingham County, Va., made a permanent settlement m
Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1801. fen of their fourteen children were born in
Virginia; all were married in Fairfield County, Ohio, and the youngest was
over fifty years of age before their, rank was broken by death, our subject and
his sistei-,'Mrs. Rebecca Friesner, of Shelby County. 111., being now the only
survivors. The others are resting " their life' s jom-ney o' er, " at various places
throughout Ohio and the West. Our subject married, August 24, 1823. Miss
Barbara Kagy, who died September 27. 1848, and of the fourteen children
born to this union, six are deceased. Mr. Lewis was baptized by an "Old
School" or Primitive Baptist the year following his marriage (March. 1824);
he moved to Bloomville Township, this county, October 17, 1825, and here be-
gan life in the wilderness; the Indians, who were quite numerous here at that
time, always found in him a warm friend. Elder Seitz, now in his eighty-third
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 747
year, began preaching at twenty-five years of age. and has labored in the Lord's
vineyard ahnost continiiously ever since, and yet preaches one hour or more at a
stretch. He has traveled many miles through the dangers of a new country .
and asked for no compensation for his time. He was married, on second occa-
sion, January 10, 1849. to Mrs Martha Hershberger. who died September 22.
1883. Elder Seitz has cleared wp and developed a large farm: has led a very
active life, and his name will long be honored by the residents of Bloom Town-
ship.
AAEON SEITZ, farmer, P. O. Bloomville. was born March 12, 1844, in
Bloom Township, this county, and is a son of the pioneer Elder Lewis Seitz.
He was married October 24, 1864, to Miss Eliza Shock, born July 18. 1842, in
Bloom Towniship. this county, daughter of Jacoli Shock, a native of Stark
County, Ohio, and who early settled in Bloom Township, dying in ISTS. Mr.
and Mrs. Seitz settled where they now reside in 18(2, and here have a fine farm
of 186| acres of well- improved land. Their children are Irvin L., Alvin J.,
Mattie May, Myrtie Blanche. Our subject and his worthy wife are members
of the Primitive Baptist Church. Mr. Seitz is an enterprising farmer and a
citizen of strict integrity.
JOHN SHONTZ, proprietor of steam flouring-mill. Bloomville, was 'horn in
1823, in Stark County, Ohio. His father. Henry Shontz, of Bedford County,
Penn., was mai-ried to Sarah Williard, of Armstrong County, Penn. . and
moved to Stark County, Ohio, in 1823, thence to Jackson Township, this
county, in 1834, where they resided the remainder of their lives.
Mr. Shontz died in 1871, aged eighty-two, his wife having preceded
him in 1865, at the age of sixty-six years. Of their nine children our subject
is the foui-th. He married, December 16. 1847, Miss Rebecca Piinebolt. of
Loudon Township, this county, and to this union were born seven children,
now living: Mrs. Melissa Smith, Elias, Alpheus J.. Mrs. Angeline Hartline.Neri,
Arie and Lucinda. Mr. Shontz united with the German Baptist Church Sep-
tember 30, 1849; was elected to the office of deacon May 22, 1859; chosen to the
ministry October 1. 1860, and advanced to the second degree of the ministry
September 22. 1874. Diu'ingthis time he preached in several of the surround-
ing counties, having his home, however, located in the portage district until No-
vember 10, 1861, when he was stationed at the Seneca Church near Bloomville,
and at that time moved on his farm west of Bloomville. In June, 1878, he and
his son purchased the Koller Mill, north of Bloomville, which they operated un-
til the fall of 1879, when they built a large mill in Bloomville, the only grist
and flouring-mill in the toAvnship, and which they are now conducting, en-
joving a very extensive custom.
' MARTIN J. SPITLEE, farmer. P. O. Bloomville, was Ijorn May 10,
1824. in Fairfield County, Ohio. His parents. Jacob and Catharine (Seitz)
Spitler, natives of Shenandoah County, Va. , came to Fairfield County. Ohio,
about 1 802, where they grew up and were married. They located in Bloom
Township, this county, in 1850; were consistent members of the Primitive
Baptist Church. They were parents of seventeen children, fifteen of whom
attained maturity: Lewis; Mrs. Rachel Clevenger. a resident of Allen County.
Ohio; Mrs. Anna Mesnard (deceased); Mrs. Catharine Siple (deceased): Elder
Noah (deceased): Jacob, killed by lightning: Daniel: Benjamin: Mrs. Eliza-
beth Donald, of Iowa; Martin J. ; Mrs. Sophia Crawford, of Hancock County,
Ohio; Eli; Mrs. Lydia Pearsall (deceased): Mahala (deceased); Mrs. Emily
Einsel; and an infant (deceased). Jacob Spitler' s n.iseful life ended July 7,
1865, his wife having preceded him January 21, 1863. At their death they
left 127 descendants. They were an iipright pioneer couple; respected by all.
748 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Martin J. , our subject, located in Bloom Township, this county, in the fall of
1845. Here he married. July 24. 1853, Miss Mary E. Slee, of Crawford
County, Ohio, born in Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1826, coming to Crawford
County in 1837 with her parents, Francis and Mary Slee. who resided there
until death. ]\Ii-. and Mrs. Spitler have resided in Bloom Township, since
marriage, and on their present farm since April 10, 1873. Here they have a
fine property of 246 acres of well improved land. The names of their chil-
di-en are as follows: "Winfield Taylor; Mrs. Frances Ellen Segrist, of Hemy
County, Ohio; Fremont Dayton; Wilmot Hamlin; Brough Anderson; Nettie
Belle (deceased); Sherman Grant; Minnie Alice; and Foster. Mi-, and Mrs.
Spitler are members of the Primitive Baptist Church. They have acquired
their property entirely by their own industiy and good management. Mr.
Spitler is one of the few living original Kepublicans, which party he continues
to support.
FREDERICK SPONSELLER, farmer. P. O. Bloomville. was born Novem-
ber 11, 1815, in Stark County, Ohio. His father, John Sponseller, of Colum-
biana County, Ohio, was one of the earliest settlers of Stark County, Ohio,
going there when there were but two or three houses at Canton, and there he
married Miss Catherine Harpster, a native of Pennsylvania, and of their eight
childi'en seven are living; of these Frederick. John and Mrs. Catherine Sellers
reside in this county. John Sponseller died in 1873 after a useful life of
nearly eighty-five years; his widow still lives at the homestead and is ninety-
two years old. Our subject was married. February 12, 1840, to Elizabeth
Prouse. born September 13, 1818, in Stark County, where her parents, "Will-
iam and Hannah (Dock) Prouse, of Pennsylvania, early settled, and there
lived and died, the former in 1872, aged eighty-three; the latter in 1879, aged
seventy-eight. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Sponseller tui'ned their
faces Westward and located on their present farm in Bloom Township, this
county. Here they began clearing their farm, endm-ing all the struggles and
hardships of pioneer life. They have been industrious and successful, having
acquired a fine farm of 240 acres well-improved land, and have given their chil-
dren a good start in life. Their chlldi-en are William, deceassd; John, died
at thirty-one years of age; Phijrp; Abraham: Elisha. deceased; David; Levi;
and Hannah C. deceased. ]\5-. and Mrs. Sponseller are members of the
Lutheran Church.
ABRAHAM SPONSELLER, farmer. P. O. Bloomville. was born April
20, 1845, in Bloom Township, this county, a son of the well known pioneer,
Fred. Sponseller. After completing a common school coiu'se in the home dis-
trict, he attended the academy at Republic, Ohio. He was successfully
engaged as a teacher one term in Bloom Township, this county, and one term
in Chatfield Township. Crawford Co.. Ohio. He married, March 10, 186 (,
Miss Catherine Bessey. born July 3, 1842, in Seneca County, Ohio, daughter
of Jacob and Rosa Bessey, natives of Germany, who, after living some time in
Bloom Township, this county, moved to Huron County, finally settled in
Bloom Township in 1855, and here Mr. Bessey died, July 31. 186/. His
widow now resides in Crawford County. Ohio. Mr. and IVli-s. Bessey' s chil-
dren are Mrs. Rosa Sweitzer, of Barry County, Mich. : George, of Crawford
County, Ohio: Mrs. Christine Swanders. of Iowa; Jacob, of Ionia County,
Mich.; Jeremiah C, in Harper County. Kas. ; Mrs. INIary A. Brillhart, of
Chatfield Township, Crawford Co., Ohio; and Mrs. Sponseller. After their
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Sponseller resided in Crawford County five years, and
then located in Bloom Township, this county, and have lived in their present
home since 1882. where they have a well-improved farm of 100 acres. Their
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 749
childi'en are Minnie Ellen; Rosa Elizabeth; Mary Florence; Henry Earl, who
died October 31, 1881, aged six years, and one infant (deceased). Mr. and
Mrs. Sponseller are Free-Will Baptists. He is a Democrat in politics, and
takes an active interest in public affairs. He has been called upon to serve his
township three terms in succession as trustee.
ADAM STINEBAUGH, retired, P. O. Rockaway, was born February 20,
1799, in Lancaster County, Penn. He lost his father when he was but a year
and a half old, and his widowed mother moved with him over into Washington
County, Md. , where he was brought up. There he was married, February 5,
18'29, to Miss Susanna Bowser, sister of the well known citizen and pioneer,
Capt. Jacob Bowser. A few weeks after marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Stinebaugh
started, in company with her father, John Bowser, for this county, arriving in
April, 18'29. Here our subject purchased a tract of land, comprising sixty
acres, where Repviblic now stands, and which he sold in 1835 to parties for
the purpose of establishing that town. In 1830 he purchased a farm in Bloom
Township of Henry Valentine, which was then a comparatively new farm, but
well improved for those early days, having about thirty-five acres cleared.
Here they made a permanent settlement, and Mrs. Stinebaugh died August 28,
l§r>^. Their only child, Isaac B. , was born November 14, 1829, on the site of
Republic, Ohio. In 1841 our subject turned over the care of the farm to this
son, who has added 160 acres to the original eighty acres, and has erected fine
buildings, etc. , until it is now one of the best improved places in the township.
July 3, 1856, Isaac B. Stinebaugh married Miss Nancy Long, and to this union
were born six childi-en: Mrs. Susan Cooley, Mrs. Sceva N. Walker, Isaac L.,
Maggie J., Charles E. and Lillie D. Mr. and Mrs. Isaac B. Stinebaugh are
consistent members of the Free-Will Baptist Chiu'ch, in which he takes an act-
ive interest, being also a worker in the Sabbath-school. He was successfully
engaged in teaching in early life, beginning at sixteen years of age, and his
eldest three children have followed in his footsteps, having established a fine
reputation as successful and popular instructors.
JOHN SA\TGERT, hardware dealer. Bloom ville, was born in Franklin
County, Penn., March 6, 1817. His parents, George and Elizabeth (Small)
Swigert, afterward became citizens of this county, settling on their farm in
Scipio Township in 1845. where they resided until George Swigert' s death in
1856. His widow died in Bloom Township in 1873. Our subject was mar-
ried, in 1 839, to Miss Maria I. Smith, of Franklin County, Penn. , and to this
union were born seven children, of whom four are now living: William, Mrs.
Hattie Ogden. Mrs. Florence Moore and Frederick G. The deceased are Mrs.
Blanche Tabor, Ann Rebecca and Mrs. Jennie Roller. Mrs. Swigert departed
this life August 18, 1884, she was a lady of estimable, Christian character, and
her loss was mourned by a large circle of friends. Mr. Swigert followed his
trade as carpenter and joiner until 1843, when he came to Ohio, and after liv-
ing a few months in Ashland, located on a farm in Scipio Township, this coun-
ty; kept hotel at Republic, Ohio, from 1846 to 1850. In 1852 he took a trip
to Califoi-nia, remaining there three years. He then resided on his farm until
1872, when he made a permanent location in Bloomville, where he has carried
on his present business ever since. Mr. Swigert keeps a general line of hard-
ware, stoves, tinware, agricultural implements, watches, clocks, jewelry and
silverware. He has built up an extensive establishment with a large trade in
the surrounding community. Since coming here Mr. Swigert has added very
materially to the improvement of the town. In 1873 he built the Swigert
Block on the southeast corner of Marion and New Haven Streets, and in 1881
750 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
a block on the southwest corner of same streets. These buildings are large,
commodious and fire- proof, and are the finest business blocks in Bloom ville.
THE VALENTINE FAMILY. G-eoege Valentine was a soldier of the
Revolutionary war, enlisting fi'om his native State, Pennsylvania, and serving
three years and six months under Gen. Washington. He afterward married
Miss Mary Grove, of Maryland, whose acqiiaintance he had made while calling
at a farm house for provisions while on the march. They came to Fairfield
County, Ohio, in 1807, where they cleared up a large farm, but lived the latter
years of their lives in Bloom Township, this county. Mr. Valentine' s grave in
Woodland Cemetery is perhaps the only Revolutionary soldier's grave in Sen-
eca County.
John Valentine, the eldest son of this couple, was married to Miss Sarah
Talbott, of Fairfield County, a native of Maryland. He enlisted in the war of
1812, but on account of sickness in his family was compelled to hire a substi-
tute to serve out the latter part of his time. Mr. and Mrs. John Valentine set-
tled in 1827 on a quarter section of land in Bloom Township, this county,
which he had obtained from the Government in 1822. Of their ten childi-en
three are living in Bloom Township: John, Mary E. and George; four are in
Indiana: Samuel R. . Edward Washington. Charles W. and Mrs. SelinaBetts;
one lives in Michigan, Henry, and two are deceased. James Harvey Valen-
tine (deceased) and Charles W. Valentine were both in the One Hundred and
Sixty-fourth Ohio National Guards, and served till the close of the war of the
Rebellion.
Thomas George Valentine, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born February
22, 1826, son of John and Sarah (Talbott) Valentine. He enlisted September
13, 1861, in the Fifty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving in the
Army of the Potomac, and taking part in the fierce engagements in and around
Virginia. After the battle of Gettysburg he was transferred to the Army of
the Cumberland, and served in eastern Tennessee, northern Georgia and vicin-
ity. He received his discharge in the winter of 186-4, having served in alt
three years and three months. He took part in eveiy battle in which his regi-
ment engaged; was always at the front and never sent to hospital. His grand-
father, father and himself served altogether ne'arly eight years in defense of
the Government, and not one applied for a pension. Our subject married Miss
Katie Ann Baum, of Kosciusko County, Ind. . March 16, 1865. and to this
union were born eight childi-en. four of whom are now living: Emmet Irvie.
Jesse Alvin, Charley Baum and Myrta May. Mr. Valentine now owns and oc-
cupies the quarter section of laud originally entered by his father, and which
has never been out of the family name since.
ENOCH B. WATSON, farmer, P. O. Carrothers, was born September 24,
1843, in Bloom Township, this county. He grew up on his father's farm in
Bloom Township and attended the schools of the home district. During the
late war of the Rebellion he enlisted, September, 1861, in the Fifty-fifth
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; served in the Army of the Potomac,
participating in the historic battles of Virginia until his regiment was trans-
ferred to the Army of the Cumberland, in 1863. He was severely wounded
in the head by a piece of shell at the second battle of Bull Run, and in the
right hand at Resaca, Ga. (The last wound resulted in his losing his fore
finger.) He re-enlisted in his regiment, in 1864, and served until the close of
the war. He left an honorable record as a brave and faithful soldier. He
was married, March 13, 1866, to Miss Marilda A. Dellinger, a native of
Lykens Township, Crawford Co. , Ohio, and to this union was born a daughter,
Estella E. Mr. Watson is a Republican in politics, taking a deep interest in
BLOOM TOWNSHIP. 751
public affairs. He resided some years in Bloomville and held the position of
constable two years during that time. He has been a member of the school
board of Bloom Township for several years. Mr. and Mrs. Watson are mem
bers of the Protestant Methodist Church.
THOMAS WEST (deceased) was born April 15, 1800, near Binghampton,
N. Y., and moved to Bloom Township, this county, in 1823. Here he was
married, in 1824. to Miss Margaret C. Donnell. who was born January 10.
1804, in Centre County, Penn. . and came to Bloom Township with her
parents, John and Mary (Boyd) Donnell in 1822. Mr. and Mrs. AVest resided
on their farm, five miles west of Bloomville, for several years and there Mrs.
AVest died September 10, 1830, leaving six childi-en: Hemy and Franklin,
residents of Barry County, Mich. ; Mrs. Martha Turner; Alexander, fatally
injured by a prematm-e blast in the France Stone Quarry, Bloom Township.
this county, November 10, 1884. and died on the 13th of the same month;
John A. ; and Dr. Thomas J. . of Tifiin. Ohio. Mr. West was married, on the
second occasion, June 5, 1837, to Mrs. Eve Schultz. who died about 1841.
He after-ward married, November 21, 1844. Miss Nancy B. Boyd, who was
born in Centre County, Penn., May 15, 180(5, daughter of Thomas and
Elizabeth (Hughes) Boyd, who located on Honey Creek in 1822, being the first
permanent settlers in Bloom Township and resided on their farm until their
death; Mrs. Boyd dying August 30, 1834, Mr. Boyd, November 27, 1847.
Their children were Capt. James Boyd (deceased); Mrs. Nancy B. West;
Jesse, a resident of Clark County, Ohio; Mrs. Mary Munsel (deceased);
Samuel, a soldier of the Mexican war and who died in California; T. Jeffersoi!
(deceased); and Mrs. Ann Eliza Pettit, of Benzonia. Mich. Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas West located in Bloomville in 18(>1, and here Mr. West died. April 2.
1879; his w^idow, who still resides at the family homestead, is the only repre-
sentative of her father's family in this coimty and the second oldest pioneer
in the township.
JOHN A. WEST, auctioneer and stock dealer, Bloomville, son of
Thomas and Margaret C. (Donnell) West, was born April 22, 1834, in Venice
Township, this county, and has resided in Bloom Township since he was six
years of age. He finished his education tinder Prof. Schuyler at Eepublic,
Ohio. He early engaged as an auctioneer, which employment he has followed
continuously till the present time. He also does a good insurance business,
representing a few standard companies, including Cooper and Firemens, of
Dayton, Ohio. John A. West was married, December 4, 1862, to Miss Maria
Smeltz, of Venice Township, this county, and by her has two sons: Martin
Bernard and Frank Turner. Mr. West is an upright. Avorthy citizen, highly
respected by the entire community.
J. D. W'lLSEY, manufacturer. Bloomville, was born November 9, 1828,
in Broome County, N. Y. , son of Tunis and Nancy A. Wilsey, the former
died at Le Roy, Minn., in 1870. The latter is now living with her son, J. D.
Our subject' s boyhood was spent principally in Wayne County, Penn. , and there
he began the manufacture of boat oars, which he has made his life occupation.
At twenty-two years of age he moved to Erie County, Penn. , where he established
and carried on a manufactory of oars at Pageville for eleven years. There he
was married, July 23, 1853, to Miss Calfunia Otis, by whom he has six chil-
dren: Jay F. and F. D. , engaged as partners in the oar business; Ora T. ; John
H. ; Blanche; and Glades. Mr. Wilsey located at Riceville, Penn., in 1862,
thence moved to Ohio, in 1864, and here carried on his manufactory in
Defiance County, until 1874, when he located in Bloomville, this county,
which he has made his home, moving his factory, however, to suit the lumber
752 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
supply, and it is now located in Wood County, Oliio, with headquarters at
office 69 "West Street, New York City, where oui- subject spends a considerable
portion of his time. The firm is known there as the New York Boat Oar Com-
pany, and does a business aggregating from $75,000 to $125,000 per year,
shipping their goods to almost every civilized nation on the globe. The firm
in Ohio is known as J. D. Wilsey & Son. Besides his manufacturing, 'Mx.
'\\'ilsey manages extensive farming interests in this county and in Kansas.
He also operates a stone quarry on his farm in Bloom Township. He is one
of the leading business men of Bloomville, and has done much toward building
it up and securing its prosperity.
FEEDEEICK ZIMMEEMAN, grocer, Bloomville, was born February 27,
1822, in Baden, Germany. After receiving his education in his native land,
he immigrated to America, and located in Canal Dover, Tuscarawas Co. . Ohio,
in 1843, where he followed his trade, that of a painter. There he was mar-
ried August 1, 1844, to Miss Mary A. Oswald. They settled in Bloomville,
this county, in June 1847. Here INIi-. Zimmerman followed his trade for ten
years, and established a grocery and provision store, which he has carried on ever
since, and which is one of the oldest business houses in Bloomville. His several
partners have been as follows: Dr. J. E. Buckingham. Henry Dittenhafer,
Squire James Turner, James Ayres, and lastly, George W. Moore, who, in Feb-
ruary, 1883, entered the firm, which is now known as Zimmerman & Moore.
They carry a full line of groceries, provisions, queensware, etc.. and by strict
attention to business have biiilt up a large trade with the surrounding com-
munity. Mr. Zimmerman is a leading and influential citizen. For twenty-
seven years he and his worthy wife have been members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, in which he is a steward.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP AND TIFFIN CITY.
PEEEY M. ADAMS, attorney at law, Tiffin, and prosecuting attorney
for Seneca County, was l^orn in Wood County, Ohio, December 2, 1850, and is
the eldest son and second child (of a family of three sons and five daughters),
of Harvey and Susannah A. (Phelps) Adams, and is of lineal descent, on his
father's side, fi'om an old New England family. His great-great-grandfather,
Alexander Adams, was of Eevolutionary times and a native of New Jersey. His
great-grandfather, David Adams, settled in Beaver (now Lawrence) County,
Penn. . from New Jersey, where his son David, father of Harvey, was raised and
married Sarah McKibben. and subsequently, in 1835, moved to Wood County.
Ohio, with his family, when Harvey was twelve years of age, and raised a
family of seven sons and seven daughters, who (with the exception of three
members) reareti large families in Wood County. Mrs. Siisannah A. (Phelps)
Adams, a native of Pennsylvania, was a daughter of Ealph D. Phelps, a farmer
of Wood County, Ohio, and a native of Connecticut, and Nancy (Parson)
Phelps, a native of Kentucky. The subject of oiu- sketch received a good edu-
cation in the public schools of his native county and engaged in teaching, in
which professson he excelled. He, however, applied himself to further
his literary accomplishments, and, being self-dependent, taught while he read
law. He attended literary and scientific coui'ses at Fostoria, Ohio, and after-
ward at Eepublic, same State. Feeling an ' 'itching palm' ' for the knowledge
CLINTON TOAVNSHIP. 753
of law. he eventually came to Tiifin. this county, and entered the office of the
Hon. W. P. Noble (his present partner), March 18, 1874, and on April 13,
1876, was admitted to the bar of Ohio. He immediately accepted a partner-
ship with his worthy preceptor, which has continued without interruption since.
In April, 1879, he was chosen solicitor for the city, and re-elected in 1881,
resigning, however, in March, 1882, to accept his present incumbency to which
he had been elected the preceding October, and to which he was honorably re-
elected in October, 1884. Mr. Adams married, in Washington, D. C. , April
2('). 1881, Miss Annie E. Kiskadden. of that city, a lady of excellent literary
and musical attainments, and a graduate of Mrs. Willard's College, New York.
She is the only daughter of "William and Mary E. (Campbell) Kiskadden, the
former a native of Ohio, and prominent contractor, now of Denver, Col. ; the
latter a daughter of Alexander Campbell, a pioneer of Seneca County. Mr.
and jMrs. Adams have two children: Eugenia Iv. and Harvey M. Mr. Adams
has taken a prominent place in his profession here for so young a man, and
bids fair to be heard fi-om in the councils of the nation in the near fiTture. He
is of fine physique, of tall and commanding presence, and eminently fitted, as
becomes his character, to dictate rather than accept. He is a worthy member
of the Masonic fraternity.
MART. L. ALBRECHT. dealer in groceries and provisions, Tiffin, was
born in Tiffin, this county, August 2, 1850. His parents, Philip and Minnie
(Kreeger) Albrecht, were natives of Baden, the former born in Eppingen, and
the latter in Sultzfeldt: they were married here in 1849. Philip Albrecht
came to this country in 1832, and learned the trade of mason and builder fi-om
his father, Andrew Albrecht. who had three sons and one daughter, all of
whom reared families here. Philip Albrecht reared two sons and two
daughters. Mart. L. Albrecht learned the trade of his father, and was actively
connected with it here for several years. In 1879 he embarked in his
present business and is one of the successful yotmg men of the city.
fie is an active member of the Turner's Society, K. of P. and Bruderbund.
He has given considerable attention to his musical training, and has been a
member of Boos' Band and Orchestra since 1875. He is an excellent gentle-
man, of fine physique and noble bearing. He has lived in this city all his life,
and his reputation is second to none.
LOriS ANGENE. harness manufactm-er and proprietor of livery stable,
Tiffin, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1847. His parents, Adam and Bar-
bara (Shearer) Angene, also natives of Bavaria, came to America in 1847 and
settled in Crawford Coimty, Ohio, where the former carried on farming (his
original business was flour-milling), and where they reared four sons and seven
daughters. The subject of our sketch carried on farming in Crawford Coun-
ty, and did considerable in the way of auctioneering. In 1875 he came to
Tiffin, and has been an important factor in the development of many industrial
enterprises; first in buggy and carriage trade; next in harness manufacturing,
and, latterly, in the lively and feed business, all of which he still carries
on. He has in the meantime also done an important part in crying sales in
the county, and his ability in this direction has gained for him the sobri-
quet of "the affable auctioneer of Tiffin." ^h:. Angene was married in Craw-
ford County, Ohio, in 1874, to Barbara E. , daughter of John Feighner, Esq. .
a pioneer there from Pennsylvania, and by this union there is one daughter.
Anna Laura. In November, 1877, Mrs. Angene passed away from this life in
full communion with the First Presbyterian Church, and is laid to rest in
Maple Grove Cemetery. Mr. Angene is an able business man and a worthy
citizen, and, although holding aloof from public office, has served efficiently
in his party (Democratic ) as an active worker.
T54 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
WILLIAM S. BACON, proprietor of the Clifton Mills, Tiffin, was born
in Crawford County, Ohio, December 1, 1829, and comes of a line of pioneers
of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, antedating the • • Revolution. ' ' His
father, Ral]:)h Bacon, a native of Massachusetts, and descended of pioneers in
that State from the Isle of Man. settled in what is now known as Lake County,
Ohio, about 1798, and married Polly Jordan, a native of Pennsylvania, whose
o-randfather settled in that State from Ireland. Ealph Bacon raised a family
of live sons and eight daughters (all of whom except one daughter reared
families). The subject of this sketch was reared in Crawford County (whither
his parents had removed in 1820), and, at fifteen, went West, returning at the
age of nineteen to his native place, where he carried on carpentering (also in
Wyandot County), for several years. He subsequently took up saw-milling,
at 'which he was engaged till the breaking out of the war. when he retired fi'om
that business and carried on a tanneiy, which, in 1801-. he abandoned, coming
to this county and purchasing a half interest in the Bloomville Flouring Mills.
This he subsequently sold out and returned to saw-milling and building in
Crawford County, till 1808. when he, in partnership with Dr. I. B. Squier,
bouo"ht the '' Liberty Mills '' (fiouring-mills), in Crawford County, and carried
on that industry there till 187-3, when he returned to Bloomville and purchased
his former property and operated the Bloomville Mills till 1879, when he pur-
chased his present mills, which he has brought up to a leading prominence in
the milling interests of this county. He is a public spirited and progressive
citizen, and has contributed in no small degree to the development of the
manv excellent social and industrial institutions of Tiffin. He was married in
Bucyrus, December 1. 1859, to Miss Savena Hawk, daughter of the late David
Hawk, an early pioneer fi'om Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have three
sons and two daughters, Frank (a practical miller associated with his father),
Clara, Willis, Herbert and Helen. Mrs. Bacon, a lady of estimable attain-
ments, is a member of the Lutheran Church.
SILAS W. BAKER, P. O. Tiffin, is one of the young and enterprising
farmers of Clinton Township, where he was born February 2, 1856. His
parents, Frederick A. and Ann C. Baker, natives of Maryland, were mamed
in Tiffin, Ohio, and settled on the farm where our subject now resides, and
where they have remained ever since. They are the parents of three children :
Silas W. , Jennie and Rosa. Silas W., oiu- subject, was united in marriage,
November 29, 1881, with Hattie Miller, born in Pleasant Township, this county,
December 9, 1861. daughter of Andrew J. and Ann M. Miller, the former a
native of New York State, and the latter of Seneca County, Ohio. Both are
residing in Pleasant Township. To our subject and wife have been born two
children: Maud, born February 28, 1883, and Ollie, born July 18, 1884. Our
subject manages his father's farm, consisting of 190 acres, all improved land.
He is a member of the Grange.
CHARLES H. BALDWIN, secretary of the Tiffin Union Chm-n Com-
pany, of Tiffin, was born in Tiffin, this county, May 23, 1845, and is a son of
A. C. and Mary Jane Baldwin, of this city. The subject of our sketch com-
pleted a liberal* literary education here, and, at fifteen, entered the office of the
Seneca Advertisei\wh.ere he completed ah apprenticeship at type-setting. The
late civil war breaking out, he enlisted his services in Company H, Eighty-sixth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in 1862, and continued in service till the dismemberment
of the regiment. Upon leaving the army he ' ' went West, ' ' where he was con-
nected with fi-eighting ' ' over the plains ' ' fi'om St. Joe, Mo. , to Denver, Col. ,
for some time. Retui-ning here he assumed his present position. He was
married, in 1874, to Anna, daiighter of Thomas W. and Sarah Jane ^^'atson.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 755
of Pleasant Township, this county, and this union has been blessed with two
sons and one daughter: Anna Watson, Thomas Cbenoweth and Absalom Charles.
He and his worthy wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. He has
been a Mason since he was twenty -four years of age and has attained to the
degree of Knight Templar of De Molay Commandery No. 9; also Scottish Kite
degrees of Masonry incliiding 32'^.
FRANCIS BALL, proprietor of restaiu-ant and saloon, Tiffin, was born in
Biihl, Canton of Seltz, Alsace, October 1, 1835, and came to this county in
1852, son of Joseph and Catharine (Schaub) Ball, who settled in Thompson
Township, this county, about 1853. Francis Ball had preceded his parents to
this countiy, and upon their aiTival came with them here, where he farmed,
and subsequently engaged in merchandising, in what is known as Frank' s Cor-
ners (named after him), where he caiTied on an active business for over fifteen
years, and was the first postmaster of that place, a useful public man and citi-
zen. He afterward located at Tiffin, in his present business. He ^yas maiTied,
in 1859, to Johanna, daughter of Paul Herman, Esq. , of Thompson Township,
this county, and by her has a family of seven sons and four daughters : Francis
X. (a merchant), Mary Anna, Jacob J.. John H. (a printer). Edward L., Ce-
cilia J., Albert G.. William A., Lucy M., Ida A. and Otto P. Mr. Ball and
family are members of the Roman Catholic Chiu'ch. St. Joseph's congregation.
He has been an active member of the Bruderbund, and is its present honored
secretary. Mr. Ball has always been fully alive to the progressive spirit
of the times, and has conti'ibuted liberally toward the support of all measui-es
tending to the public good. He is an ardent Democrat, and a worthy member
of the party in this county.
B. F. BAUM, agent of the Northwestern Ohio Railway Company, Tiffin,
was born in York Coimty, Penn. . December 9, 1845, and is a son of Peter S. and
Elizabeth (Stambaugh) Baum. The Baums were German pioneers in the
State, Peter Baum, grandfather of our subject, being a native of Germany,
one who did recognized service in the Revolutionaiy war. The Stambaugh' s
bore a similar record, Jonathan Stambaugh, subject's maternal gi-andfather,
having also served in the Revolutionaiy war. The subject of this sketch began
telegraphing in Parkton. Md. , and held the office there for two years. He con-
tinued with the Northern Central Railway of Maryland for seven years, after
which he engaged in commission warehousing in Glen Rock, York Co. , Penn.
In 1872 he came to Wooster, Ohio, and after a year's professional work with
the Pennsylvania Company's lines he came to Tiffin, where he has been promi-
nently identified with the Northwestern Ohio Raihvay since, his present incum-
bency having been received by him in 1881. IVIi-. Baum was maiTied at Glen
Rock, Penn. , in 18G8, to Mary Elizabeth, daughter of Emanuel Sheffer, and
by this union there were two sons and three daughters : Ai-thur, Philip, Clara
and Gracie living, Lottie (the eldest) is deceased. Mr. Baum has been a F. &
A. M. since 1869; is also a member of the K. of H. and K. of P.
CHARLES F. BEARD, stock dealer, Tiffin, represents one of the impor-
tant industries in this locality. He was born in Bristol County, Mass. , Octo-
ber 25, 1829, and is descended of pioneer Scotch and English ancestry in the
East. His parents. Matthew and Hanna (Lapham) Beard, settled in Scipio
Township, this county, in 1833, and are there biu'ied along with a son and
daughter. The subject of our sketch has followed his father's business (farm-
ing and stock-raising) with excellent success. He was united in marriage, in
1853, with Mrs. Lucinda Tabor, daughter of Erastus Jones, of Scipio Town-
ship, this county, and by her he has two daughters : Ida. now the wife of J.
Smith, of Scipio, and Janie, wife of Mr. Skransewfky, of Ohio. Mr. Beard
756 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
has avoided publicity in political matters, acting upon the motto that "what
is worth doing is worth doing well." He has accumulated a handsome com-
petency from his business, and has lived to see his children well educated and
taking'upon themselves the importance in life this position requires.
LEWIS F. BENDER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born near Red River,
Canada. June 9, 1823, and is a son of Jacob and Rosanna Bender, natives of
the old country, and who came to Canada where they were married and first
settled about 1822; in the latter part of 1823, being routed by the Indians, they
went down the Missouri River as far as St. Louis, and there Mrs. Bender
departed this life. The rest of the family remained in St. Louis about four
years, during which time Jacob Bender again married, this time to Rosanna
Clink, a native of Wurtemberg. From St. Louis the family moved to Alton,
111., and there remained some years, then moved to Cincinnati, where they
staid a short time, and from there went to Richland County, Ohio, and, in
1833, came to this county, remaining until 1847, then moved to Williams
County, where Jacob Bender died; his widow now resides in Missouri. Lewis
F. Bender, our subject, was united in marriage in this county, September 15,
1850, with Massey Figgens, whose maiden name was Leonard, a daughter of
Ezekiel and Anna (Leonard) Leonard, and who was born in Westchester
County, Penn., July 21, 1819; her parents are both deceased. Our subject
and wife are the parents of four childi-en: Ada V., wife of Isaiah Staley;
Rebecca E. ; Charlie F. ; and Mabel, all living. Mr. Bender is a tanner and
currier by trade, but has been engaged in farming most of his life, and owns
a tine farm where he and his family reside. Our subject, like his father, has
been somewhat of a rover in his time. In 1861 he went prospecting in Cali-
fornia and returned at close of same year. Mrs. Bender and her son, Charles,
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Bender was christened
in the German Lutheran, when an infant, and also in the Catholic faith, at five
years of age, it being the grandj^arents' wish on the mother's side, but being
' ' universally " inclined he has joined no other church.
JOHN H. BENNEHOFF, county recorder, Tiffin, was born in Adams
Township, Seneca Co. , Ohio. His parents, Solomon and Ann (Rader) Ben-
nehofF, settled in that locality in 1840, coming from Lehigh County, Penn. ,
the former descended from pioneer German ancestry of Pennsylvania, and the
latter from English pioneers of same State. John H. Bennehoff is the seventh
child and fifth son of a family of six sons and two daughters (two sons and a
daughter now deceased). His early education was obtained in the schools of
Scipio Township, this county, where he excelled as a student, insomuch that
at the age of eighteen he received a certificate as teacher, in which profession
he was well known here for twelve years; during this time he also attended
school at Heidelberg College, and completed a commercial training at Bryant
& Stratton's College at Cincinnati. He is what is generally known as a self
made man, having to rely upon himself for an education and his advancement
in social life. In 1881 he retired from teaching to fill his present incumbency
(a position to which he was chosen oiit of a list of thirteen competitors), in
which capacity he has been reputably connected ever since, receiving at his
re-election a largely increased majority of the popular vote of the county.
Mr. Bennehoff has served as secretary of the State Recorders' Association and
is now vice-president of said association. He was married, November 9,1882,
at Monroe, Mich. , to Miss Ida A. Hensinger, a lady of excellent attainments,
daughter of John and Catharine (Neikirk) Hensinger, of Adams Township,
this county. They have two sons — Otto John and Orlando G. Our siibject is
a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the encampment. He is a stockholder of
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 757
the Tiffin Edison Electric Illuminating Company, and a cordial supporter of
all measures tending to the development of the industrial life of this locality.
CAPT. RUSSEL HANBY BEVER, contractor and builder, Tiffin, was
born in Crawford County, Ohio, April 19, 1837, son of the Rev. Joseph and
Sarah (Trimble) Bever/ the former of whom, a native of Virginia and of
pioneer German ancestry of that State, was educated to the ministry of the
United Brethren Church, and after doing considerable pioneer work in other
parts of the State settled in Eden Township in the spring of 1823. Rev.
Joseph Bever reared six sons, all of whom are active and useful citizens: Rus-
sel H. ; A. M., a builder of Marion, Ohio; D. M., a builder; L. O., a farmer
in Eden Township, this county; J. T., a builder of Fostoria, Ohio; J. M., a
lawyer and present mayor of Fostoria. Capt. Bever learned the blacksmith's
trade at Melmore and followed it there till the breaking out of the war of the
Rebellion, when he enlisted, September 25, 1861, in Company H, Fifty-sixth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and steadily advanced in promotion to the commis-
sion of second lieutenant. May 2, 1863. April 1, 1864, he was commissioned
first lieutenant, and November 3, same year, to the captaincy of his company,
which he honorably held till the end of the war. He was honorably dis-
charged at Cleveland, Ohio, July 21, 1865, as veteran of Company H. Fifty-
sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After the war he engaged in contracting and
building in Tiffin, and has been prominently identified with that industry here
since. Capt. Bever was married in Melmore, this county, in 1858, to A. E.
Bretz, daughter of Jacob and Phila (Wolf) Bretz, pioneers of Eden Town-
ship. This union has been blessed with three sons and two daughters: Robert
C. , Viola B. , Minnie J. , Ralph V. and Earl J. :Mi-s. Bever and daughters
are worthy members of the Methodist Protestant Chiu-ch, to which the Cap-
tain is a liberal contributor. He is a member of Isaac P. Rule Post G. A. R.
DELANZA MONROE BEVER. contractor and builder. Tiffin, is the
fourth son of the Rev. Joseph Bever, and was born in Eden Township, this
county, March 7, 1844. He learned the carpentering trade in this county and
embarked in the building business, with which he has been prominently con-
nected since. Mr. Bever was united in marriage, February 22, 1883, at Tiffin,
with Jessie, daughter of Squire Gabriel J. and Regetta Keen, the former a
native of Baltimore, Md., the latter of Pennsylvania. ]VIi-. Bever" s building
interest here has been confined to private residences, among which may be
noticed those belonging to C. J. Yingling, Benjamin G. Atkins, and others.
CATHARINE BIEHLER, P. O. Tiffin, widow of Andi-ew Biehler, who
died in 1876, was born in Alsace, France (now Germany). Landing in
Maryland, she remained there four years, then moved to Pennsylvania, where
she resided four years, and in 1854' came to this county. Her six children are
all married: Catharine (Mrs. Schroth, mother of four childi-en); Nicholas,
married to Christena Willie; Heniy, married to Sarah Breidinger (have two
children) ; Louisa, married to J. Schroth (have one child) ; David, married to
A. M. Hoke (have four childi-en); Callie B., married to W. S. Wagner (have
one child). Mrs. Biehler, who is a fine old French lady, resides on the old
homestead.
REV. D. D. BIGGER, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, of Tiffin,
was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., May 18, 1849, and descends from a people
prominent in connection with Presbyterian church work in this country on both
sides of his parentage. His father, the late Rev. Matthew Bigger, D.D., of
Bushnell, 111. , was a son of David Bigger, of New Concord, Ohio, who was
prominent there as a pioneer farmer, tanner, and an active United Presbyterian
chui-chman, was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and of direct lineal descent fi'om
758 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the Biggars, of Biggar, Lanarkshire, Scotland. His family consisted of
four sons and four daughters, of whom Matthew, the eldest, took prominence
in connection with educational institutions, notably in West Virginia and in
Illinois, and another son was the Hon. David Proudfit Bigger, M. D. , of Mis-
souri, and, more professionally, consulting surgeon of the Union Pacific Railway.
The mother of our subject was Mary Jane Cunningham, daughter of John
Cunningham, a native of Cannonsburg. Pennsylvania, of Scotch-Irish extrac-
tion, and who reared a family of foiu' sons and four daughters, of whom are
Thomas Mitchell Cunningham, D. D., prominently known in this country in
connection with the Presbyterian Church, and James Cunningham, M. D. , of
Monmouth, 111. , a physician of repute, and an ardent churchman. It may be
said in this connection that both the Bigger and Cunningham families' love for
the faith was no less marked than their love of their early nationality, of which,
in some of the earlier mention of these families' annals and reminiscences,
their native heather, where they could worship openly, became talismanic.
The subject of our sketch spent his early life in Monmouth (whither his father
had removed in connection with the Presbyterian Theological Seminary there)
and was educated there and at Chicago. He completed his academical educa-
tion at Monmouth, and graduated in a collegiate course there in 1875. He
then entered the Seminary of the Northwest at Chicago in a theological coarse,
and graduated from that institution, under the presidency of F. L. Patton,
D. D., LL.D., in 187S. He had received a license to preach in the preced-
ing year, and had during his stay in Chicago he^n very active in connection
with mission work, with the Presbyterian Church there, so that upon gradu-
ating he felt better able to combat his work, and accepted his present call, in
May, following his graduation, and circumstances have proved his better judg-
ment (see church history). He married in La Porte, InS., May 23, 1878, Miss
Sarah Louisa Breese, daughter of John H. and Harriet (Bowers) Breese,
natives, respectively, of New York and Vermont. They have two sons and one
daughter: Paul Breese, Matthew Leon and Genevieve Marie. Mr. Bigger,
while being an ardent minister, is an excellent citizen; of a suave and affable
disposition, he gathers around him many fi'iends not controlled by his eccle-
siastical teachings, and in this connection may be probably traced an import-
ant incentive to the marked growth of the Presbyterian Church here since his
advent. In stature he is of medium height, of good physique, and, on the
rostrum, he is a deep reasoner, a forcible debater and an eloquent speaker.
COL. JACOB BOWSER, retired farmer, P. O., Tiffin, is one of ^he pio-
neers of Seneca County, born in Washington County, Md., January 7, 1806,
His parents, John and Magdalena Bowser, were natives of Maryland, where
they married and remained until 1829, at which time they moved to Ohio
and settled in Clinton Township, and there resided until their death. They
were the parents of nine children, only two of whom are now living: our sub-
ject and Mrs. Allen. Col. Bowser came to this county in 1827, remaining only
a few weeks, and then returned to Maryland. In 1829 he again visited Ohio
and bought the farm where he now lives, and in 1830 he returned to Maryland
for his wife. They were married March 25, and came direct to the farm he
had purchased in Clinton Township. Mrs. Bowser' s maiden name was Anna
Startzman; she was born in Maryland in 1809, and was a daughter of David
and Margaret Startzman, who remained in Maryland until their deaths. Col.
and Mrs. Bowser were the parents of nine children, five now living: Martin L.,
Thomas B., Ezra J., James M. and Isabella, wife of Frank Chase. The de-
ceased are David H. . Margaret, John H. and an infant. Col. Bowser, who
has been encfas-ed in farmins^ nearly all his life, owns 320 acres of land where
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 759
he resides. He lias filled the offices of justice of the peace, trustee and land
appraiser. Many years ago he was captain (commissioned September 20, 1 S83)
of a company of State militia; eight years afterward he was promoted to the
rank of major, a position he declined, accepting the rank of lieutenant-colonel.
Col. Bowser is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mrs. Bowser departed
this life in January, 1876, leaving her husband and children, besides a large
circle of friends to mourn her loss. She was a member of the Lutheran Church.
NELSON LUTHER BREWER, attorney at law, Tiiiin, was born in Clear
Spring, Washington Co. , Md- , September 17, 1832. the only son and youngest
child of the family of five children of Emmanuel and Catharine (Zacharias)
Brewer. His father was a son of Heniy Brewer or Brua (as it was formerly
spelled), who settled in Washington County about the time of the Revolution,
and comes of German (Huguenot) ancestry, they having left their native
country in consequence of the persecutions of that sect. Our subject's mother,
Catharine (Zacharias) Brewer, was a daughter of George Zacharias, who set-
tled in Washington County, Md. , from Pennsylvania. Our subject at the age
of twelve years went to Frederick City. Md. , where he remained under the
guardianship of his uncle, Rev. Daniel Zacharias, D. D., of the Reformed
Church, a gentleman of i^rominence in his professional work in that State.
There he gained a good literary training, and at nineteen years of age " 'went
West" and taught school near Monroe City, Mich., for a year and a half.
May 11, 1853, he came to Tiffin, this cotmty, for the purpose of furthering his
education and entered Heidelberg College, fi'om which he graduated in IS-ir).
Soon after he entered the office of the Hon. J. C. Lee, where he devoted him-
self to the study of law, and meantime taught in the college. In May, 18-j8,
he was admitted to the practice and accepted a partnership with his honored
|)receptor, which continued till 1809. Sleanwhile the great civil war broke
out, and Mr. Brewer pronounced himself in strong terms for the Union cause,
and assisted with his means in defense of it, and in May, 1804, entered the
field of service, where he remained till the close of the war, when he received
an honorable discharge with a commission as captain. Upon the dissolution
of partnership, in 1 S6d. Gen. Lee went to Toledo, and Mr. Brewer, continuing
the practice here, has since transacted a very important part of the professional
work in this locality. He has often been urgently solicited to become a candi-
date in the political field, but with the exception of serving honorably on the
school board for many years, has declined any further official honoi's. He has
been an ardent member of the Reformed Church many years, has served its
Sabbath- school as superintendent for over twenty years, and has been elder in
the church for several years. Mr. Brewer was married, in Tiffin, September 17,
1857, to Libbie, eldest daughter of Dr. Joseph and Juliette (Hedges) Mason,
and who passed away her yoimg life in 1860, followed by her only child, Lettie,
five years later. In 1861 Mi-. Brewer married Harriet M., daughter of Amaza
and Julia Chidester, of Aurora, N. Y. , and by this union has two sons and two
daughters: Julia. Edward A., Wallace W. and Grace. Mr. Brewer is a close
student of human nature, a gentleman of broad and liberal principles, and,
w^hile in political minority, has done important service here in blending strong
political factions in a common cause for the better furtherance of local interests.
ANDREW J. BRICKNER, secretary and treasurer of the Ohio Stove W orks,
and distiller. Tiffin, was born near Rodenfelss, Kingdom of Bavaria, January
1 2, 1829. His parents, Michael and Margaret (Raedelbach) Brickner. came to
America with their family in 1 .^1-0, and settled on land now known as Cromer' s
Station in Liberty Township, this county, where they reared four sons and five
daughters : Michael, the eldest son (died, leaving a family of four children in
760 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Delphos. Ohio); John, a resident of Washington Township, Van Wert Co.,
Ohio; George, a manufacturer of woolen goods at Sheboygan Falls, Wis.;
Mary, wife of John Houk, of Tiffin; Margaret (single), who manages Andrew
J. ■ s household affairs: Lizzie, wife of L. E. Sexstater, of Tiffin; Louisa, a Sister
in the Lrsuline Convent, and Lucinda, also a Sister in the Ursuline Convent;
and A. J. The subject of our sketch learned merchant tailoring in Tiffin, and
clerked for awhile in a dry goods store at Delphos. At twenty-two, he and his
brother George went to Sheboygan Falls, Wis., and commenced a general
store and milling business. In 1857 he retired from business there and went
to Delphos, where he was connected with distilling for several years, in part-
nership with Bernhard Esch of that place. Withdrawing from that, he came
to Tiffin, and in 18G7 bought an interest in the grocery and distillery, the firm
being known as Wagner & Brickner ; the distillery is still carried on by Mr.
Brickner. In 1879 he became one of the original incorporators of the Ohio
Stove Works, in Tiffin, with which he is still identified. He has been promi-
nent before the people as an enterprising citizen and business man, and
although adverse to holding office, has filled the alderman' s chair for his ward
for eight terms. Socially, he is a very pleasant and affable gentleman.
JACOB BEIDINGER, M. D. , health officer of Tiffin, was born in North-
ampton County, Penn. , March 25, 1843; son of Jacob and Saloma (Snyder)
Bridinger. natives of that county, and of pioneer ancestry in the State. The
subject of this sketch came to this county at the age of fifteen, completed
a good education, and taught school for six years, principally in Crawford Coun-
ty, Ohio. He had meanwhile engaged in the study of medicine, but followed
merchandising in Bucp'us, whence he removed after two years to Mount Blanch-
ard, where he remained in that connection till 1874, when he returned to his
medical studies and graduated in 1876, fi'om the Eclectic Medical Institute of
Cincinnati. After a short practice in Ashland, Ohio, he came to Tiffin, where
he has since been professionally connected. Dr. Bridinger was married in
Columbiana County, Ohio, to Lizzie x-Vlberstadt, a native of that county, of
pioneer Pennsylvanians. To this union have been born three sons, living:
Frank L. . Harry J. and Leon A. The Doctor and his wife are members of the
English Lutheran Church. He is a F. & A. M. , and has passed through the
council. He is a member of the Ohio State and Northwestern Ohio Eclectic
Medical Associations. Since locating here the Doctor has been a very active
worker in professional and public life, and has served the city as a member of
the council for his (Fifth) Ward.
KORA FRANK BRIGGS, son of Knowlton H. and Mary A. (Steele)
Briggs. w^as born in Huron County, Ohio, March 0, 1858: moved with his
parents to Wyandot County, where he grew to manhood; attended school at
Upper Sandusky, and taught his first term in the winter of 1878-79. and five
subsequent terms : attended the Ohio Wesley an University, at Delaware, Ohio,
several years, teaching during vacation to pay his expenses. First newspaper
work, as a solicitor for the Tiffin News, in 1880, and afterward for the Upper
Sandusky Republican. In August, 1883, he engaged to Dumm & Brunner
to take charge of the local department of the Marion Democratic Mirror. Shortly
thereafter Messrs. Dumm & Brunner sold their interest in the Mirror, and Mr.
Briggs came to Tiffin with Mr. Brunner, and assumed a similar place on the
Seneca Advertiser, in April, 1884, which he still holds. Our subject is married
to Emma E. , daughter of John Brobst, of Upper Sandusky, and has one child,
a little girl.
C. D. BRISH, butcher. Tiffin, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, in 1839,
son of William and Delila (Snook) Brish, and nephew of Gen. H. C. Brish;
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 761
both the brothers. William and Gen. H. C. Brish, served with credit in govern-
ment emi^loy in early times: they were natives of Maryland, and of Scotch
ancestry. Charles D. Brish was one of a family of four sons and five daugh-
ters. He married Catharine, daughter of Frederick Barres, Esq. , of Tiffin,
Ohio, who was of Pennsylvania pioneer stock, and by this union there is one
son, Hem-y. Mrs. Brish is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Brish
served for thirteen years as a member of the city constabulary of Tiffin, and
was a memljer of the tire department. He belongs to the I. O. O. F.
HENRY BROHL, notary public, insurance business and steamship pas-
senger agent. Tiffin, was born in Bonn, on the Rhine, kingdom of Prussia,
November 10, 1831. His parents, Henry and Anna Maria (Froendgen) Brohl,
natives of Bonn, reared a family of five sons and five daughters, of whom Heniy
came to this country. The subject of oui' sketch was reared to mercantile pursuits
(his father's business), and was completing a thorough collegiate training in his
native land, when, in consequence of the "revolution." and upon his entering
his majority, he felt compelled to seek an asyhim where he could better cultivate
his political independence, and came to our shores, locating at Sandusky City,
Ohio, where he clerked for a few years in the dry goods and grocery business.
In 1855 he came to Tiffin, and clerked in a wholesale grocery till the following
year, when he joined Robert Crum in the wholesale grocery and liquor trade,
in which he continued till 1865, when he retired from it, and has since been
engaged in mercantile business. He married in Sandusky City, Ohio, in 1856,
Miss Katharine Kranz. a native of AViesbaden, Cxrand Duchy of Nassau, Ger-
many, and daughter of Balthasar and Elizabeth Kranz, who came to this
country in 1848. and settled on a farm near Sandusky City. Mr. and Mrs.
Brohl have four sons and three daughters: Harry, in the Tribune office here;
Edward P. (plumber by trade), now a book-keeper in Sandusky City; Charles,
a civil engineer at New Hanover, 111. : Theodore, a clerk in the Tiffin postoffice ;
Jennie; Bertha; and Katie. In 1880 Mr. Brohl was appointed notary public,
and soon after added an insurance and steamship agency to the business. He
is a gentleman of fine learning and noble qualities, has been a useful citizen
in public as well as social life, and has served with credit on the school board
of Tiffin for six vears.
THOMAS GALEN BROSIFS, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born December
30, 1850, in Wayne County. Ohio; son of Newton and Sarah (Dawson) Brosius,
former of whom was born December 5, 1823, in Chester County, Penn. ; a son
of Benjamin and Phoebe (Booth) Brosius. who settled in Columbiana County,
Ohio, in 1836. removing seven years later to Stark County, where they pur-
chased land near Mt. Union; they reared a family of ten childi-en, all of whom
are yet living; their names are Charles, Barkley, Newton, Josei:)h, Henry,
Benjamin, Septimus, Jacob, Abner and Thomas. Our subject was married,
May 4, 1881, to Mary E. Zook, daughter of George W. Zook, who died in
Henry County, Ohio, in the spring of 1865, formerly a resident of Bedford
County, Penn., and one of the earliest pioneers of Clinton Township. (A
j)art of his family still live in that section of the coimty. ) This union has
been blessed with two children — one deceased at age of ten months and Edward
Galen. In 1876 Mr. Brosius visited Philadelphia, attending the exposition in
that city. He has a fine farm. Avell stocked, and is an enterprising farmer and
stock raiser.
HON. LOUIS A. BRUNNER, of Tiffin, is of German ancestry, and was
born in Frederick City, Frederick Co. , Md. He fully availed himself of the
advantages of an elementary and classical education, and, after a thorough
course of theological study, was licensed to preach, in the summer oi 1 846. at
762 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Columbus, Ohio. Subsequently he entered upon the duties of the ministry,
and served several Presbyterian congregations. In the spring of 1852 he
was elected, by the Presbytery of Marion, Ohio, commissioner to the General
Assembly, and attended the sittings of that body in Philadelphia, Penn. , in
May following. In 1860 his nervous centers gave way, prostrating him to
such an extent as to force him to relinquish his chosen profession. However,
having from a young boy dabbled in printer' s ink, and being compelled to labor
for a livelihood, he purchased a printing office and took charge of the editorial
department, and while not engaged in his duties of the tripod, worke d at the
case, sticking type. He has performed editorial work on the Odd Fellow, pub-
lished at Boonesboro, Washington Co. , Md. , the Pioneer and the Union, of
Upper Sandusky, and the Fort Wayne Daily Sentinel, an interest in which he
owned in 1868 and 1869. He has resided in Wyandot County since 1849,
excepting four years passed in Maryland, from 1856 to 1861. He has served
on the board of school examiners of Wyandot, as a member of the village
council, and was elected a member of the Sixty-first, Sixty-second, Sixty-fifth and
Sixty- sixth Greneral Assemblies of the State of Ohio, occupying during the
session of 1883-84 and 1885 the honored position of Speaker pro tern. In
the Sixty-fourth General Assembly he served as clerk of the house, and his
large expei'ience as a lawmaker and his peciiliar fitness for clerical duties, the
result of early training, made him one of the best clerks the assembly ever
had, and it was acknowledged liy the members of both parties. Hence, as a
mark of recognition, embodying the admiration of members, he w^as presented
at the close of the session with a costly gold watch and chain, which he still
carries with pardonable pride. Mr. Brunner's first year in the General Assem-
bly was marked Avith ability and true statesmanship, and although it is seldom
the lot of a new member to take prominence at the beginning, his experience
was an exception, for, before the close of the session, he was the recognized
leader of his side of the house, and this position he has ably and gracefully
maintained during every term of his legislative career. His superior qualifi-
cations as a presiding officer attraced attention from all parts of the State, and
in the Sixty-sixth Assembly he was the almost unanimous choice of his party for
speaker ; yet his usefulness upon the floor, and his own inclinations for activity
amid conflict, induced him to decline the honor, and to accept at the demands
of his party the position of ejDeaker pro tern. He is perhaps the finest parlia-
mentarian in the State, and we cannot better express this opinion than to give
an extract from a letter wi'itten by a newspaper correspondent during the ses-
sion of 1883-84. "The W'yandot Sachem, Brunner, as speaker pro tern., has
demonstrated himself to be a superior presiding officer, fit to have held the
gavel of the Long Parliament of Cromwell' s days, and whose legislative career
has given his solid little Gibraltar (Wyandot County) a cameo-like prominence
in the State's councils." In 1879 Mr. Brunner, in connection with Robert D.
Dumm, purchased the Wyandot Union of L. J. Stalter, and by their united
efforts again made the old Union one of the best county newspapers in the
State. It now enjoys a large circulation, and an enviable widespread reputa-
tion. As an editor Mr. Brunner has few superiors, He is logical, clear and
very effective, and has gained many admirers for his humorous touches of local
incidents; but his great force and efficiency is as a campaigner, filling his well-
rounded and emphatic periods in that direct and forcible manner, which leaves
no room for effective reply. While a ready, spicy and able writer, he is
equally as ready and effective as a speaker, which his prominence in the house
on all important qxiestions of State policy has fully made clear. His polish, as
a gentleman, and his great tact in winning and retaining the admiration and
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 763
esteem of liis fellow citizens are due, to some extent, to his genial nature,
thorough education and wide range of information, gained through the avenues
of an extensive and careful study of books and men. In September, 18S2, he, with
his old partner, Mr. Dumm. bought a half interest in the Mirror, at Marion, Ohio,
and, although it proved to be a profitable investment and, in connection with
the Democracy of Marion County, highly accej^table and pleasant, after
eighteen months they sold their interest to their partner. Col. J. H. Vaughan.
A part of this time Mr. Brunner was editor of the paper, and in the memora-
ble campaign of 1888 gained a host of admu-ers for his efiicient editorial work.
Since the close of the legislative session of 1883-84 he has assumed a controlling
interest and editorial charge of the Seneca Advertiser, one of the oldest and
best newspapers published in Ohio, ard he has fully made iip his mind to make
Tiffin his future home. He still holds his connection with the Wyandot Uniou
with Mr. Dumm. but undoubtedly in the near future will sever that relation,
and give his whole attention to the Adcertiser, which will advance under his
influence and enterprise, and rapidly become the leading county paper of the
State. Mr. Brunner was married, in 1850, to Miss Jane Sherman, of Dela-
ware, Ohio, and who was a native of Watertown, N. Y. Their three children
are Mary, now the wife of John AV. Geiger, of Tifiin, Ohio: Addie. noAV Mrs.
B. ^^'. Holman, of Washington. D. C, and Grace.
PETER BITCHMAN. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in this county in June.
1842. His parents. John and Magdalena Buchman, were natives of Switzer-
land, where they were married and remained till about 1840, at which time
they came to America, settled in this county, and there remained iintil the
death of the latter, which occurred October 4, 1868. Mr. Buchman now re-
sides with his childi'en. Our subject was united in marriage, April 10, 1867,
with Catharine Senn. born in this county May 23, 1843, a daughter of John
and Catharine Senn, the former of whom was born in Switzerland, the latter in
Belgium ; they were married in Tifiin. Ohio, and first settled in Seneca County.
Ohio, and from there removed to Pulaski County, Ind. , where they now reside.
To our sul^ject and wife have been Ijorn three children: Mary E., Maggie C.
and Rosa A. ]Mi\ Buchman is one of the prosperous farmers of this coimty.
and owns 1 63 acres of improved land. He and his family are members of the
Catholic Church.
JACOB FREDERICK BUNN. attorney at law. Tiffin, and judge of the
Probate Court of Seneca County, was born in Thompson Township, this coiinty,
Jime 6, 1847. He comes of English ancestry on his father's side, and 'is of
pioneer Pennsylvania stock. His grandfather, John Bunn, was a native of
Berks County, Penn. . and thence removed to Perry County, in the same State
(Avhere Jacob Bunn. father of the Judge, was born), and from there to this
cuunty at an early period in its history, settling in Thompson Township. The
siibject of this sketch, when a lad, attended the common schools of this county,
and at nineteen entered Heidelberg College, taking a full classical course of
study, graduating in 1870. He had in the meantime engaged in the study of
law in the office of the Hon. George E. Seney, and upon completing his studies
at Heidelberg entered the Cincinnati Law School, in affiliation with the Uni-
versity of Cincinnati, and the following year was admitted to the practice of
that ])rofession in the State. He formed a partnership with the late Hon. A.
V. Bierce, of Aki-on, Ohio, where he continued in excellent professional work
for two years, when he retired fi'om it there and came to Tiffin, this county,
the associations surrounding his alma mater -proying the magnet. Here he de-
veloped his abilities as a jimst, and, in 1878, received the nomination of his party
and was elected to the incumliency which he now enjoys, and was re-elected to
764 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
succeed himself in 1881. He married in Tiffin, in October, 1873, Miss Lanra
O. , daughter of the late Hezekiah Groff . of Tiffin, a lady of estimable attain-
ments, a graduate of Heidelberg, and who passed away her young life July 12,
1880, and is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery. Judge Bunn is a keen dissecter
of facts, a deep reasoner, and, while busily engaged in adjudicating the more
important portions of a case, does not let a single feature escape him, weighing
well every issue. He is slow of conviction, but positive when convinced, char-
acteristics which eminently fit him for more exalted spheres as a jurist in the
time to come. Socially, he is an excellent citizen and an active supporter of
measures tending to the city's development. He is vice-president of the Tiffin
Edison Electric Illuminating Company, was for several years president of the
Board of Trade of Tiffin, member of the school board, and is a member of the
Library Association.
HENRY A. BUSKIRK, coal merchant, Tiffin, was born in Penn Yan.
Yates Co;. N. Y.. in 1824; son of Jacob Buskirk (originally Van Buskirk), of
pioneer Holland people in that State, and Adeline Wilson, of English an-
cestry of pioneer Vermont people. In 1832 Jacob and Adeline (Wilson) Bus-
kirk settled in Melmore, this county, where they were connected with the hotel
business till the death of the former in 1837. In 1839 Henry A. took charge
of the hotel, and carried it on till 1845. when he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and
engaged in merchandising, in wholesale groceiy business as clerk, fi'om which
he retired in 1849, and in 1851 embarked in business in Tiffin, and carried on
an extensive wholesale and retail grocery trade for over twenty-six years, re-
tiring fi-om it in 1877 and engaging in his present industry. He was man'ied
at Melmore, this county, in 1848, to Angeline Arnold, by whom he has two
sons and two daughters : Clara (wife of T. H. Noonan, general freight agent
of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad: E. K., in the wholesale mercantile trav-
eling trade; Harry W., in the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad fi-eight office here,
and Jennie, wife of Dr. John Robb, of Baltimore, Md. . surgeon for the Balti-
more & Ohio Railroad. In 1868 Mrs. Buskirk passed away fi-om this life in
full communion with the Presbyterian Church, and is biu'ied in Wood Lawn
Cemetery here. In 1871 Mr. Buskirk married Fannie E. Grover, of Silver
Creek, N. Y. . and by this union has one son and two daughters: H. Grover,
Eirene and Florence. Mr. and Mrs. Buskirk attend the Presbyterian Chufch
service, of which church she is a member. Mr. Buskirk has been a very act-
ive, public spirited pioneer citizen of Tiffin, and has contributed liberally
toward the development of its manv social and industrial interests.
ALBERT BrSKIRK, farmer," etc.. Tiffin, a son of Jacob and Adeline
(Wilson) Buskirk. was born in Pittsburg. Penn., August 7, 1832. and was
brought the same year to this county by his parents, who settled in Melmore,
and there his father died in 1837: his mother died in Lima, Ohio, in 1880. (For
the genealogy of the Van Buskirks and Wilsons, see H. A. Buskirk' s sketch. )
Albert Buskirk was reared to merchandising, and was well and favorably known
to the trade here for eighteen years, retiring fi-om it about 1867 to give his
attention to farming, and stock rearing and dealing; in 1876 he went West to
engage in stock rearing and dealing, and in 1880 he took J. M. Naylor in as
partner, and so continued until they sold in 1883. Mr. Buskirk has ever been
enterprising and progressive, and has contributed in no small degree to the
many important interests of Tiffin. He was one of the organizers of the
National Exchange Bank of Tiffin (now the Tiffin National Bank), and is at
present one of its board of directors. During the war he did service in the
One Hundi-ed and Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as quaiier-
master. He was married in Tiffin, in 1856. to Ann C, daughter of Benja-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 765
min and Theresa (Creeger) Pittinger. natives of Maryland, and this union
has been blessed with two sons and two daughters: Ralph J., Kate, Don
and Addie. Mr. Buskirk is liberal in religious and political matters, and
contributes to all worthy enterprises. He has accumulated a goodly amount
of property, the result of steady, persistent industry, and has reared and
educated his family well. He is a worthy citizen, and a kind husband and
father.
FRANKLIN CARPENTER, dry goods merchant, Tiffin, was born in
Bennington, Vt. . February 2, 1832, and comes of a line of merchants. His
father. Richard Carpenter, merchant, of Bennington, was a grandson of Capt.
Oliver Carpenter, a native of England, who was educated for a sea captaincy,
and held a commissiqn on the civil list of Great Britain in the merchant ma-
rine, finally settling in Providence, R. L. where his descendants eventually
espoused the cause of Independence. His mother, Betsy (Austin) Carpenter,
was a daughter of John Austin, of Vermont, and whose genealogy is connected
with the early settlers in this county fi'om the Netherlands. The subject of
ovu' sketch, at thirteen, went to Albany, N. Y. , and subsequently to Bridge-
port, Conn., spending six years of this time in mercantile pursuits. AV'hen
twenty years old he accompanied his father to Oberlin, Ohio, where he after-
ward carried on merchandising for several years. In 1858 he came to Tiffin,
this coiinty, and after six years of successful merchandising here he went to
New York, where he embarked in extensive importing and jobbing biisiness.
After several years of active business life he went to White Plains. N. Y.,
where he remained in business for nine years, retiring then to come here in
1832. Here he represents the firm of F. Carpenter & Co., di-y goods, etc.,
etc., and does a leading business. He was married in his native place, in
1853, to Miss Helen M. Roberts, a lady of estimable attainments, daughter of
James Roberts, merchant of Windsor, Conn., and by this union has one son
and one daughter: Richard, now a merchant, and Louisa. Mr. Carpenter,
a very able master of his business, is public spirited and progressive, and
socially is a very pleasant gentleman. He and his wife attend the worship of
the Episcopal faith. He is a F. & A. M. of many years standing.
SCUDDER CHAMBERLAIN, contractor and builder of wooden and
brick structures. Tiffin, was born in Hunterdon County, N. J. , July 23, 1819.
and comes of Irish and French-English pioneers in that State. His parents
were Jacob and Elizabeth (Johnson) Chamberlain, who settled in Melmore in
1 836, where their family of five sons and two daughters grew up : Ege John-
son died in San Francisco in 1871); James died in Green Spring: Scudder;
George Washington, Jr., in Peru, Ind. : Rebecca (deceased wife of Dr.
Henry Ladd; she died in Melmore); Jacob Gardner, in railway business at
Stevens' Point, Wis. : Sarah (deceased) ; all had children but the last named.
The subject of our sketch was reared to his present industry, with which he
has been prominently identified in this locality since, having erected some of
the finest luiildings in Tiffin and surrounding cities, among which are the
handsome residences of John M. Naylor, John D. Loomis, William Hunters,
Benjamin Tombs, Fred Grummet, and many other residences, chiirches. etc.,
etc.. and he is at present erecting the new Heidelberg College Mr. Chamber-
lain married, in Melmore, this county, in 1844, Martha Ardelia. daughter of
Samuel Wing, a descendant of English pioneers in Massachusetts. They have
three sons: Samuel Oscar, a contractor and builder in Tiffin; Henry Dow, in
same business at San Mateo. Cal.. and Duff Johnson, clerk in postoffice.
Tiffin. Mr. Chamberlain has been a worthy Odd Fellow for thii-ty-six years,
and is })resent Grand High Priest of the State Encampment; is a member of
42
766 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the E. A., and lias been its representative to the Grand Council of Ohio for
the last five years: is also a member of the L. of H. In public life he served
with credit in many local offices.
F. P. COPPER, agent of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, Tiffin,
was born in Chatham, Licking Co., Ohio, May 0,1853; son of J. B. and Nancy
(Albaugh) Copper, the former of pioneer Pennsylvania stock, and latter of
same, but a native of Licking County, Ohio. The subject of our sketch com-
pleted a thorough education in telegraphy at Mount Vernon, Ohio, in connec-
tion with the present railroad, and has continued in creditable professional
work with the corporation ever since. In September, 1884, he received his
present appointment. Our subject was united in marriage at Fostoria, Ohio,
in 1879, with Italia Edwina Ferris, a lady ot estimable attainments, and by her
he has one son— Joseph Smith. Mrs. Copper is a daughter of the late Smith
Ferris, Esq. , of Marion, Ohio. She is a worthy member of the Presbyterian
Chiu-ch, of which Mr. Copper is a liberal supporter.
DENNIS FREDERICK CRAMER, retired farmer, Tiffin, was born in
Frederick Countv, Md.. January 17. 1811; son of Frederick and Catharine
(Barrick) Cramer, natives of Frederick Co., Md.. where they were raised and
resided until they came to Ohio in the fall of 1830. They settled in Clinton
Township, this county (Section 10). where they raised a family of two sons and
three daughters, all of whom reared families (except one son), in this locality.
The original stock of the Cramer family resided in the State of New Jersey,
and our subject's father's family, or rather his ancestors, immigrated to
Maryland, presumably, in a very early day. The subject of our sketch is the
third child and eldest son in the 'family, and was reared to farming, an occupa-
tion he carried on successfully for many years. He was married March 29.
1838, in Clinton Township, this coimty, to Mary E. . daughter of Jacob^ and
Susanna (Fiege) Holz. pioneers from Frederick County, Md., to Seneca Coun-
ty, Ohio. This union was blessed with five sons, who have taken creditable
positions in their different pursuits: John William, the eldest, an attorney, is
now farming in Wyandot County, Ohio: Judge Upton F. is an attorney of
Tiffin: Lewis J. is principal of the schools of Columbus, Neb; Charles H. is
an attorney of Sanduskj' City, Ohio, and Walter Scott, the youngest, is a mem-
ber of the' bar of Tiffin, and' carries on an active insurance and real estate
business. Mr. and Mrs. Cramer are worthy members of the First Reformed
Church of Tiffin.
THOMAS H. CROMER, retired farmer. Tiffin, born in Frederick Coimty,
Md., November 13. 182 Lis son of John and Mary Ann Cromer, who came to Tif-
fin in the fall of 1820, the former of whom died in 1829; the latter subsequently
maiTied Jacob Wagner, and died in 1839. John Cromer left three sons and
three daughters: Rebecca, Ezra. John, Mary Ann, Elizabeth and Thomas H..
the last named being the only survivor. The subject of our sketch was happily
married to Louisa Smith, wlio blessed him with a family of three sons and
three daughters. After a short illness her young life passed away: she was in
full communion with the M. B. Church. Mr. Cromer's family consists of
Susan, wife of George Seckman; John T., a farmer; William H., residing in
Tiffin; Milda Jane, wife of Benjamin Weaver, who is in the railroad business;
Charles Edward, a merchant; and Ella, wife of John W. Loose, a farmer in
Adams Township, this county. Mi". Cromer has been a worthy citizen of
Tiffin for many years, and has always been identified as a liberal contributor to
the interests of 'the city. He has retired from the more active cares of life,
and has the pleasure of seeing his children holding leading positions in their
respective vocations. He is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. (67
GEORGE ^y. CUNNINGHAM was born in Berkeley County, W. Ya.,
Jiine 25, 1828, son of Levi and Alice Cunningham. From 1839 to 1843, our
subject served an apprenticeship at milling, and then worked as journeyman
for one year, at Martinsburg, Va. . July 27, 1844, he came to this county,
and followed his trade for two and a half years with the late Ezra Baker, and
then for seven months was employed by Rummel & McBride in the old
Rock Creek Mill. He then rented the Lugenbeel Mill from the late Judge
Lugenbeel, October 19. 1847, and operated it till 1853. In 1850 he had pur-
chased the lease of the Rock Creek Mill and ran the two mills until 1854.
From 1854 to 1855 he engaged in buying clover seed and pork. In July he
leased the Shoemaker Mill and conducted it, in connection with the produce
business and a feed store, for three years, and then rented the old Keller Mill,
and operated that for about six months, when it burned down. March 6. 1800,
Mr. Cunningham purchased the site of the Clifton Mill, and erected the build-
ing that now stands at the north end of the Washington Street bridge, and
operated this mill till 1878, also conducting at the same time a railroad ware-
house which he had purchased in 1860. In June, 1870, he bought the old Rock
Creek Mill, and in 1872 also purchased the Carey Mill, at Carey, "Wyandot
County, Ohio, and in 1877 added the Reuben Keller Mill to his list, conduct-
ing his business siiccessfully until 1878. During his business career, the
amount of trade done was very large, and he probably purchased more prod-
uce than any single buyer has before or since. He also bought and sold con-
siderable real estate. He served as a member of the city council for eight
years, and as a member of the school board for five years, and in other offices
of trust. Mr. Cunningham was married, in 1851, to Mary E., daughter of
Rev. John Souder. and who died in July, 1853. Our subject was married on
second occasion, April 10, 1856, to Miss Mary A. . daughter of Levi Keller, and
to this union were born four children, all now living : Arthur A. . Ella M. ,
Frank and Courtney. Mr. Cunningham has been a liberal contributor to
Tiffin's best enterprises,
ARTHUR ALLEN CUNNINGHAM, proprietor and operator of the Cun-
ningham Elevator, and dealer in grain and seeds. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin,
this county, in 1857; his parents, George W. and Mary A. (Keller) Cunning-
ham, having settled here in early times; the former a Virginian by birth, and
son of Levi Cunningham (a miller), of Martinsburg, Va. , and a native of Scot-
land; the latter a daughter of Levi Keller, a native of Pennsylvania. Arthur
A. (eldest son of a family of three sons and one daughter), completed a good
training in the schools of Tiffin, graduating from the high schools here at
eighteen. He had meanwhile completed an apprenticeship at milling, arid
after graduating he embarked in the grain and seed trade, purchasing the
elevator business some few years later (1878), and has taken a prominent
position in the mercantile fraternity of this community as a successful
and prosperous tradesman. He has always felt his importance as a citizen,
and has contributed liberally to the support of many of Tiffin's social and
indiistrial institutions. He is a F. & A. M. and a member of the Royal Arca-
num. Mr. Cunningham was married at Tiffin, in 1881, to Miss Minnie B.
Holt, a lady of fine accomplishments, daughter of William Holt, Esq. , grain
dealer of Tiffin. Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham are supporters of the Methodist
Episcopal faith.
SAMUEL H. DeWITT, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Lycoming County,
Penn., April 8, 1822. son of Peter and Margaret DeWitt, who were married
in Pennsylvania in 1811 ; the former was a native of New Jersey, and the lat-
ter was a native of Pennsylvania. They remained in latter State until 1829,
768 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
when they came to Marion County, Ohio, and in 1881 moved to this county
where they remained until their death. Peter DeWitt departed this life in
1853, and his widow in 1883. Our subject was married, March 20, 1856, to
Catharine Miller, who was born in this county, April 17, 1839, daughter of
Daniel and Anna Miller, who were married in the State of New York, and who
moved to this county in 1837, here remaining until the death of ]\Ii-s. Miller,
which occurred March 24, 1849. Mr. Miller afterward married Sarah Kaber,
and they are now living in Clinton Township, this county. Our subject and
wife are the parents of five children; of these four are living: Clarence D.,
Delia O. , John J. , and Allie M. ; Seneca E. is deceased. Mr. DeAVitt is a
blacksmith by trade, but has been engaged in farming and sheep raising. He
owns 310 acres of tine land. In January, 1850, he went to California and en-
gaged in mining until 1853, when he returned home. He and his parents
were among the first settlers of the county.
PETER DIEMER, meat business. Tiffin, was born in Alsace, Germany,
February 8, 1832; a son of the late Gotfried Jacob and Maria (Schweir) Die-
mer, of Niedel Mogen, Alsace. In 1852 he came to this country and eventu-
ally'settled in Massilon, Stark Co., Ohio, where he carried on meat market-
ing and butchering for many years. In 1868 he came to Tiffin, engaging in
business, and has taken an important part in the meat marketing, butchering
and sausage-making trade since. He was married, in 1853, in Massilon, Ohio,
to Magdaiena Schweir, of same nativity, and by this union has six sons and
two daughters: George Philip, in business at Kenton; Samuel, in the factory at
Tiffin; Peter, in the market; Jacob G. . who has the general management of the
buying department; John E. and William A., young lads, but excellent work-
men, in the factory; Sarah Maria, married to William Lick, also engaged in
the factory (have a son. Charles), and Anna, unmarried. Mr. Diemer. with his
sons and son-in-law, does an immense business in his line (upward of $30,000
a year). His slaughter-house and sausage factory are well furnished and
equipped, and he does not only an extensive retail trade here, but a very
creditable wholesale trade in sausages, particularly through the county.
WILLIAM OSCAR DILDINE, coal merchant, Tiffin,was born in Republic,
this county, in 1849; his father, William McEwen Dildine. was a native of Fair-
field County, Ohio, and with his parents came to this county in 1823, settling
upon the land now occupied as Green Lawn Cemetery, and was of English
pioneer ancestry of Pennsylvania. His mother, Christina Ann (Berger ) Dildine.
was a native of Frederick County, Md., and came with her uncle, Levi
Davis, to this county in about 1830, her parents John and Elenor (Davis) Ber-
ger, natives of Maryland, having died when she was but eight years old. Will-
iam Oscar and Wallace Berger Dildine are the only living issue of their par-
ents. The siTbject of this sketch, when but sixteen, entered the county clerk's
office as deputy (his father's office then), and remained in creditable connection
with it for seventeen years. Retiring from this incumbency he engaged in the
coal business here. He married at Tiffin, in 1872, Anna M., daughter of John
H. and Ellen (Stein) Glick, pioneers here fi-ora Lehigh County. Penn. By this
happy union there are three sons and one daughter living: Minnie May.
Charles Glick, William Oscar, Jr., and Phares W. Flora J., the eldest child,
is bm-ied in Green Lawn Cemetery. Mr. Dildine is an active, enterprising
and public spirited citizen, fully awake to the progressiveness of the times, and
is a cordial suppoi-ter of all measures tending to the growth and development
of the social and industrial interests of the county.
AUGUST DISTELHORST (see sketch of Philip Emich).
JOHN DORE, dealer in groceries etc., Tiffin, the worthy member of the
council from the Second Ward, is a son of the Emerald Isle. He was born in
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 769
the parish of Duagh, County Kerry, Ireland, Jime 22, 1828, and is third child
and third son of the family of three sons and two daughters of James and
Ellen (Conners) Dore, of Duagh. Young Dore at twenty-two, left the old home
and came to America, and after making a short stay in Connecticut, came to
Tififin, Ohio, in 1851, where he has remained an enterprising and public spir-
ited citizen since. His first undertaking was farming, but this he abandoned
for railroading, which he subsequently retired from in 1878, for his present
merchandising business. He was maiTied, in 1859, to Catharine Bresnin, of
Castle Island^ County Kerry, Ireland, daughter of John and Ellen (King) Bres-
nin, worthy people of that place. Fom* sons and three daughters blessed this
union: William H., now a rising attorney of Tiffin; Mary; Eichard; Kate;
Francis J. ; Charles and Maggie. The family are all members of St. Mary' s
congregation, Roman Catholic Church. He is a member of the Prudential Order
of America.
DFt. EDWIN W. Dubois (deceased) was born in Orange Cotinty, N. Y.,
in 1831. His parents, John E. and Orpha DuBois, were natives of New York
State, where they were married, remaining there until the death of the mother;
the father is now eighty-one years of age. Our subject came to Tiffin, Ohio,
about 18r50, and was man-ied, June 12, 1862, to Miss Mary M. Ditto, born near
Tiffin, Ohio, February 3, 1837, daughter of John W. and Elizabeth Ditto,
natives of Pennsylvania, and who immigrated to Ohio, and settled in this county
in a very early day, remaining here until the death of Mr. Ditto, which occurred
in 1853; his widow died August 9, 1885, aged ninety years, one month and
twenty-seven days. Our subject and wife were the parents of two childi-en,
John E., born February 2, 1863, and George D., born July 28, 1871. Dr.
DuBois, prior to his coming to Ohio, had been engaged in the practice of
medicine in New York State, and after coming to Ohio, entered into the drug
business; he owned nice property, including land, at the time of his death, which
occurred July 2, 1873. Some years after the death of Dr. DuBois, his
widow married James Patterson, and they reside near Tiffin.
DAVID A. AND WILLIAM M. DUTROW, of the firm of DutrowBros.,
livery, sale and feed stables, Tiffin, are among the enterprising business men
of the place, sons of Philip and Elizabeth (Develbis) Dutrow. Philip Dutrow
was born in Maryland. July 15, 1819, and is a son of David and Elizabeth
(Hines) Dutrow, "of pioneer stock of Maryland. May 11, 1843, he (Philip)
settled in Seneca Township, this county, where he carried on farming success-
fully for many years, retiring, in 1880, to settle in Tiffin. He had married in
1841, and was the parent of thirteen children, nine of whom are living: Cath-
arine. Mary, Lucretia, Robert, David A., William M., Ella, Solomon and
Flora Lewis. The eldest son was in the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry
dui-ing the late civil war, and died in the service, in Cumberland hospital, Md.
The family worship in Grace Reformed Church.
NORMAN D. EGBERT, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Clinton Town-
ship, Seneca Co., Ohio, March 18, 1843, son of Jeremiah W. and Lucy A.
Egbert, natives of Ohio, and who after marriage settled in Pleasant Township,
this county, having remained in the county ever since. The subject of this
sketch was united in marriage, Februaiy 28, 1865, with Susan C. Holtz, liorn
in Pleasant Township, this county, November 30, 1845, daughter of W,illiam
and Catharine Holtz, the former of whom died January 21, 1862; the latter
now resides in Pleasant Township. Our subject and wife are the parents of
four children: William H, Knott C, Norman D. and Frances. Mr. Egbert
is one of the successful farmers of this county, and owns 231 acres of splendid
land. He served his countrv in the late war. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.
770 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ISAxiC R. EGBERT, P. O. Tiffin, the subject of this sketch, an indus-
trious young farmer, was born February 10, 1858, on the farm where he and
his family now reside, in Clinton Township, this county. His parent'^, Jere-
miah W/and Lucy A. Egbert, were born in Ohio and settled in this ^county,
where they still reside. Our subject was united in marriage, April 15, 1880,
with Emma Courtney, who w^as born near Green Spring, Ohio, December 2,
18(31. Her parents,' William and Margaret Courtney, natives of Ireland, were
married in the State of New York, and settled in Seneca County, Ohio, where
they now reside. To Mr. and Mrs. Egbert have been born three childi-en:
Lulu M. , Edith and Barton.
JOHN B. EHRENFRIED, general manager and secretary of the Tiffin
Manufacturing Company, Tiffin, was born in Bleifeld, kingdom of Bavaria,
June 24, 18-l:-"x He is the only son and only surviving child of Zacharias and
Ann Mary (Koeppel) Ehrenfried. natives of Bavaria, who came to America in
1 847, locating in Thompson Township, this county, where they passed the re-
mainder of their lives, the former dying February 25, 1848, and the latter
May 2{), 180!.); they a^e buried in the 'family cemetery in that township along
with their daughter Barbara. (The other child of the family, Mary, who mar-
ried Joseph Slanser, is bimed In Kenton Cemetery, Hardin Co. , Ohio. ) The
subject of our sketch, at eighteen, engaged in lumbering and milling at Havana,
Ohio, with which he was actively connected for several years. He had in the
meantime attended business college and completed a commercial course of
study, graduating in 1870. Shortly after graduating he retired from business
at Havana and located in a similar industry at Larue, Clarion Co. , Ohio, where
he remained about three years when he sold out his interest there and came to
Tiffin and took charge of his present business. He married, in Thompson Town-
ship, this county, October 4, 18/0, Miss Margaret Glassner, eldest daughter
of John and Catharine (Gies) Glassner, of that township, and by her has three
sons and two daughters living: Ottcf Joseph, George Jacob, Charles William,
Anne Matilda and Gertrude Clara, and one daughter, their eldest child, Mary
Louisa (deceased). IVIi-. and Mrs. Ehrenfi-ied are regular communicants of the
Roman Catholic Church. He is an active member of St. John's Benevolent
Society; an energetic businoss man and a popular gentleman. Although
averse to holding public office he has most creditably filled the chair of alderman
of the Fourth AVard of Tilfin for two terms.
HENRY EINSEL. retired farmer, P. O., Tiffin, was born in York County,
Penn., February 1»3, 1805, son of Hemy and Barbara Einsel, who both de
parted this life' near Lancaster, Ohio. Om- subject came to this county ir
1828, and was united in marriage Februaiy 26, 1835, with Sarah Keller, born
in Fairfield Countv. Ohio, April 29, 1813. Her parents. John and Elizabeth
Keller, natives of 'York County, Penn. , moved to Ohio and were among the
first settlers of Clinton Township, where they remained until their death. Our
subject and wife are the parents of six children, of these four are living: Lewis,
William, Sophia (wife of Harrison Detterman) and Shubert. The deceased
are Mary and Margaret. Mr. Einsel, who has been one of the prosperous
farmers of the county, now owns 296 acres of land, all improved. He and his
wife are members of the Evangelical Church.
PHILIP EMICH. Among the many important pioneers of Tiffin and Seneca
County stands Philip Emich (now deceased), who for many years figured as the
tried friend and true of the early settlers, particularly so of the German popu-
lation. He was born in Waldiiiohr. Rhenish Bavaria. July 19, 1822. son of
Louis Emich. a hotel keeper, who died in Tiffin, Ohio, in 1873, and was the
m
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 771
parent of the following children: Hannah (wife of John Doll, in Milwaukee,
Wis.), Louis Philip, Caroline (wife of Jacob Leibrock of Tiffin), Elizabeth (wife
of J. Karschner, of Tiffin), Catherine (wife of Rev. B. Zumbe, of Youngstown,
Ohio), Charlotte (deceased wife of William DeBusnian, of Tiffin), and Ma-
tilda (wife of Theodore Munz, of Toledo. Ohio). The subject of our sketch
received a liberal education in his native land, and at the age of twenty-four
came to America and located in Tiffin, Ohio. He was maiTied to Elizabeth,
daughter of Francis Reif, a pioneer hei-e, native of Neustadt, on the Haii, in
Rhenish Bavaria, and to this union one son and live daughters were born :
Mary (wife of F. Puehringer, of Cleveland, Ohio), Frank L. , who carries on an
extensive book and stationery business here (married in Tiffin, Mary, daughter
of Blasius and Rosa Kuebler, now of Chicago, and by her he has a son, Albion),
Matilda, (wife of Harry AVeidling, a druggist of Tiffin), Anna (wife of Aug.
Distelhorst, with F. L. Emich, bookseller and stationer), Flora and Lela are
unmarried. (August Distelhorst was born in Karlsruhe. Baden, May 28, 1861,
son of Frederick and Sophia (Deimling) Distelhorst, natives of that place;
received a good literary education and subsequently came to America, spent
some three years traveling through the west, and in 1883 came to Tiffin where
he subseqently settled.) The subject of this sketch was reared to linen weaving
in Germany, but on coming to this country turned his attention to merchandis-
ing, with which he was connected here for many years. He had been appointed
notary public, and in this connection it may be said to his credit (so upright a
business life he led here) that he continued till his demise the counsel and busi-
ness man of his countrymen who settled in Tiffin and vicinity. He died in 1870.
mourned by all who knew him, and was buried with the honors of the Druids,
I. O. O. F. and K. of P. societies, of which he had been a worthy member.
He was always energetic in business matters, public spirited, and an active cit-
izen. Though deeply interested in political matters he, however, refused pub-
lic office, although tendered nomination for many worthy positions.
CHARLES ERNST, superintendent and general manager of the Enter-
prise Manufacturing Company, Tiffin, was born in Northampton County, Penn.,
August 81. 1848, son of Samuel and Mary (Biidinger) Ernst, natives of that
locality, and descendants of pioneer German families of the State. They
reared a family of seven sons and two daughters, of whom Charles and John
came West in 1871 and settled in Tiffin, this county. Charles Ernst learned
the hardwood working art in his native county, and after coming here followed
it as journeyman, doing also considerable business in the way of contracting
and building, till, upon the formation of the corporation controlling the present
company, he joined his issues with it, and has remained as its above named
official since. Mr. Ernst was united in marriage in Tiffin, in 1872, with Miss
Mary M. Crist, daughter of Joseph and Mary Crist, natives of Ohio, and of
German parentage. Our subject and wife have two sons: Franklin and Samuel.
Mr. and Mrs. Ernst are members of the Reformed Church. He is an active
member of the K. of P. and I. O. O. F.
JOHN ERNST, secretary and treasurer of the Enterprise Manufacturing-
Company, Tiffin, is a yoimger brother of Charles Ernst, superintendent and gen-
eral manager for this company. He was born in July, 1850, in Northampton
County, Penn., and educated to the hardwood working art. He joined his
brother Charles in his ventures in the West, and was connected here as journey-
man, and also as contractor and builder, joining the Enterprise Manufacturing
Company as member, upon its organization, and which he has creditably served in
his official capacity. Mr. Ernst was married in Tiffin, in 1878. to Miss Libbie
M. Laux. a native of Germany, and by her he has a daughter and son : Mary
772 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Susan and AVilliam John. Mrs. John Ernst is a member of the Reformed
Church. Our subject is a member of the I. O. O. F. and encampment, and of
the K. of P. He has always had an aversion to holding office, but has done
his share in that sphere here, and is at present member of the board of alder-
men, of Tiffin, from the Third AYard. The brothers, Charles and John Ernst
are united in their business as well as society interests, and stand prominent
among the self-made men of industrial notoriety of Tiffin.
J. F. E. FANNING, M. D. , Tiffin, president of the Medical Association of
Seneca County, was born in Tiffin, Ohio, October 1, 1844, and comes of pioneer
people of- Seneca County. His father, Francis Fanning, was a native of
Longford, Ireland, among Avhose people were many prominent "men of let-
ters. ' ' His mother, Nancy Ann (Woods) Fanning, was a native of Tyrone,
Ireland. They were married in New York City and settled here in 1834, where
thi-ee sons and four daughters were born, of whom one son and two daughters
siu'vive: Ann, married to Michael J. Reinbolt, a farmer of Sandusky County,
Ohio; Mary, married to A. H. Arnold, deputy sheriff of this county, and J. F.
E. Our subject received a good common school training in Tiffin and engaged
in literary studies in Cleveland. At twenty he began the study of medicine at
Tiffin, in the late Dr. N. V. Hovey's office, and attended lectures at Belle^n^e
Hospital College, of New York City, completing his studies at the age of
twenty-five, at Miami Medical College, of Cincinnati, from which he graduated
in 1869. The Doctor came to Tiffin, engaged in the practice of his profession,
and has been creditably connected with same since. He is a close student of
his profession and bids fair to rank well in it, in the near future. He is an
excellent citizen, and clever, and, althoixgh unpretentious, is looked upon
with respect as a master mind in his vocation. He has served with credit in
the councils of the city, and is at present one of the board of pension examiners
at Tiffin.
HENRY FIEGE, of the firm Fiege Bros. , furniture dealers. Tiffin, is the
eldest living son of John and Louisa (Von Blon) Fiege, Lutherans and worthy
pioneers of Tiffin, who settled here in 1883-34, the former of whom, a native
of Oedelsheim, electorate of Hesse, born July 3, 1811, lost his life, March 31,
1869, by di-owning in his mill-race in Tiffin. Mrs. Fiege, born in Waldmohr,
Bavarian Palatinate, December 8, 1813, died December 29, 1874. Of their
ten children but three sons survive: Henry, John L. and George W. ; the last
named retired fi'om the firm in 1879, and is married to Alice Stroliper, by whom
he has one son — Charles. Henry Fiege was reared to his present industry in
Tiffin, and has been prominently identified with it. He married, in 1864,
Hannah M. Kaup, daughter of Benjamin Kaup, and niece of Solomon Kaup,
and by her has one son and five daughters: MaryL. , Carrie E., JohnB.,
Maud, Jennie and Cora. Mr. Fiege has always contributed liberally to the
support of Tiffin's social and industrial interests, and has reared and educated
his family well. He is a worthy F. & A. M., and is a member of Clinton
Council No. 47, R. & S. M. ; is also a member of the I. O. O. F. The family
attend the services of the German Reformed Church. John L. Fiege, the
junior member of the firm, is an excellent citizen and clever business man, and
although of prepossessing appearance is still treading the rugged paths of
single blessedness.
A. L. FLACK, manufacturer and merchant. Tiffin, was born at McCutchen-
ville, Ohio, February 8, 1849. His parents, Josiah and Sylvia Ann (Daiiey)
Flack, belong to very early settlers in this county, the former a son of George
Flack, who settled here from Frederick County. Md. , and the latter a daughter
of Samuel Daiiey. The subject of oiir sketch is the eldest of a family of five
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 773
sons: A. L. : W. R. , a merchant salesman; E. G., a blacksmith; G. K.. min-
ister of the Methodist Episcopal faith in Iowa, and George L. A. L. Flack
completed a good literary training in the public schools, and at eighteen taught
school, in which profession he excelled both as a student and teacher. At
twenty-nine he embarked in the insurance business, which he carried on with
vigor and ability, retiring in March, 1885. August 28, 1884, he joined
the Ova] Wood Dish Company, of Delta, Ohio, whose principal factory is at
Mancelona. Mich., who also recently established a factory in Canada, and has
vigorously prosecuted that industry since, his retirement from the insurance
business being in a measure due to the latter investment. He is an able sales-
man, an excellent judge of human nature and an energetic worker, and is char-
acterized, in his different pursuits as a master mind. He is stockholder in the
Tiflfin Union Churn Company, and an active member; general manager of the
Tiffin Stove Polish Company, and carries on an extensive business in jobbing in
the wholesale cigar trade. Mr. Flack married, March 28, 1872, Amelia,
daughter of Jeptha and Sarah (Holmes) Brown, early settlers of Wyandot
County, Ohio, and of New York State ancestry. They have three sons living:
Edgar, Ralph and Clifford, and buried their eldest — Clarence. Mr. and Mrs.
Flack are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is an active Odd
Fellow and member of the encampment, and a member of the K. of P. , Tiffin
Library Association and of Pickwick Division, IJ. R. K. of P. , of Tiffin, and
also member of the Travelers' Protection Association of the United States.
JACOB J. FLECK, druggist and manufacturer and proprietor of pro-
prietary medicines. Tiffin, was born in Findlay, Ohio, May 6, 1853; son of
Joseph and Barbara (Karst) Fleck, natives of Germany, and connected with
grocery merchandising in Findlay. The subject of oiu' sketch completed a
good school training in his native town, and at seventeen entered the drug
business there and studied pharmacy, attending lectiu'es in the Philadelphia
College of Pharmacy in 1873-74. In 1877 he embarked in the di-ug business,
on his own account, at Findlay, and followed that industry there with success
for several years, meanwhile buying other stores at Gilboa, Ohio (in 1880), and
at Diinkirk and McComb. Ohio (in 1881). In 1883 he retired from his inter-
ests in these places, and in June of that year came to Tiffin and bought his
present business, and soon afterward added the manufactiu-e of several im-
portant medicines, among which may be mentioned "Fleck's Vegetable Liver
and Blood Pills," "Fleck's Saponaceous Tooth Powder" and "Positive Corn
Cure. " ' Mr. Fleck is a member of the Ohio and American Pharmaceutical
Associations, and, notwithstanding his active business interests, devotes a great
deal of time to the study of his profession. He is a clever business man, a
devoted student, and an amiable, public spirited citizen.
OLIVER PERRY FREES, photographic artist. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin,
this county, February 4, 1852; son of Wesley Bowman and Catharine (Slos-
ser) Frees, the former a son of Jacob Frees, who settled here in a very early
period in the history of the county. Oliver P. Frees was one of two children ;
his sister married John M. Myers, of this city. Our subject completed a good
common schooling, and at nineteen began an apprenticeship at his present
business, which he completed, and, on April 1, 1874, embarked in business in
his present studio, where he has continued in creditable professional work since.
He was married in Tiffin, December 22, 1875, to Mary Sevilla, daughter of
Uriah Wilcox, and by her he has one son — Orva Melvin. Mr. Frees is a mem-
ber of the K. of P., of the National Union Insurance Company, and of the
American Photographers' Association. He and his wife are worthy members of
the Methodist Protestant Church, in which faith he was reared.
774 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
JOSI.IH B. FROST, merchant tailor, Tiffin, was born near Danville, Knox
Co., Ohio, Jnly 18, 1848. His parents, Enoch C. and Isabella (Hobbs) Frost,
were both of pioneer English ancestry in this country, the former of whom, a
native of Maryland, was prominently identified with contracting and building
interests in that State; the latter was a native of Knox County. Ohio, daugh-
ter of James Hobbs, Esq. The subject of our sketch was reared to merchan-
dising. In 1855 he came to Tiffin, this county, and in 1872 embarked in the
merchant tailoring business, with which he has been successfully connected
since. Mr. Frost was married here in 1868 to Isa B. , daughter of Daniel and
Laura (Perkins) Dildine, pioneers of this county, and by this union have been
born three sons: Percy Beecher, Frank Lincoln and Evart C. Mr. and Mrs.
Frost are esteemed members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which
society she is a very active worker in connection with womens' mission work,
etc. Mr. Frost is a member of the G. A. R.. having done service in Company
H, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from August 10, 1862,
till the close of the war.
WILLIAM GALLUP, jeweller. Tiffin, was born in Norwalk. Ohio, Febru-
aiy 22. 1820, and comes of pioneer English stock, who early came to our
shores, and who in their turn were probably descended fi'om the Kollops, of
Lorraine. France, who followed the fortunes of William the Conqueror to En-
gland in 1066, and whose nomenclature, like many other French and Norman
names, became difFerently spelled. In 1636, or earlier in the seventeenth cen-
tury, John and William G-alhip, brothers, settled in Boston, Mass. , from En-
gland; the former of whom, after doing distinguished service in the earlier
Indian warfare, died without issue in 1652 ; the latter repaired to New Lon-
don, Conn. . where he reared two sons. William and Hallet. Hallet figured
prominently in King Philip's war. in which he lost his life; and William reared
a large family, of whom a son. William, reared two sons and ten daughters,
the sons also being named William and Hallet. This William Gallup in 1774
removed to Kingston, Penn. , where in his family two sons, William and Hal-
let, were reai'ed, and this William (the fifth in descent) married Freelove,
daughter of Capt. Caleb Hathaway, of Philadelphia, by whom he had four
sons: William, Hallet. James Divine and Caleb Hathaway. This William
Gallu]^ came to Norwalk. Ohio, in 1818, and in the following year married
Sally Boalt. daughter of Capt. John Boalt, and to this union were born twelve
childi-en: William, Matilda. Mary (deceased), Francis, Ruth, Ann, George
(deceased). Susan, Samuel C, James H., John and Rose. The eldest of this
family (our subject), received a good literary training in Granville College
(now Denison University), and learned the jeweler's trade. In 1841 he went
to Covington, Ky., where he remained in professional work till 1851, when he
came to Tiffin, Ohio. He was married at Lebanon, Ohio, in 1845, to Cassan-
di-ia, daughter of John and Sally Whaley, of Kenton County, Ky. , by which
union they have reared three sons and five daughters: Adeline, wife of W. C.
Jones, a civil engineer of Jamestown, Dak. ; Sarah, wife of O. G. Meacham,
banker of Carrington, Dak.; Maiy; James William, a civil engineer in rail-
way employ at Spanish Honduras; Julia, widow of the late Granville Jones
(brother of W. C. Jones), a civil engineer with the Mexican National Company
of Mexico, where he lost his life by assassination; Caroline; Francis, a ranch-
man of Garden City, Kas. ; John Caldwell, at home. Mr. Gallup has always
given a cordial support to the development of the social and industrial life of
his adopted city, and stands prominent with Tiffin's public spirited citizens.
He has been an active member of the Bai:)tist Church. He is a member of
De Molay Commandery. F. & A. M. Although averse to holding public office,
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 775
lie has served with efficiency on the school board, and held the postmastershij)
of Tiffin from 1802 to 1866.
JOHN W. GEIGEE, son of George and Margarett (Beerbower) Geiger,
natives of Hancock, Washington Co.. Md. (the former died March 17, 1844, the
latter March 80. 1885, at Gallon), was born January 23, 1842, at Marion,
Ohio, to which place the parents moved about 1882. and there IVIr. Geiger was
educated, and resided until 1861, when he moved to Gallon, Ohio, as book-
keeper for that division of the Cleveland. Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis
Railroad, then known as the "Bee Line. " He Avas elected treasurer of Gallon in
1872. In 1877 he was transferred to Indianapolis as book-keeper of the divis-
ion, and remained until January, 1879, when he entered the Belt Railroad
Company's employ as book-keeper, and was in that service until March. 1880,
when he moved to Upper Sandusky^ and purchased a half interest in Thomas
E. Beeiy' s old established diy goods house. This partnership continued until
March, 1882, when he purchased the entire interest, and conducted the store
until the spring of 1884, when he sold the stock to Beery, Best & Brandt, and,
with Hon. L. A. Brunner, purchased an interest in the Tiffin Advertiser a most
valuable property, of which journal he is the business manager. IVIi*. Geiger
was married September 26, 1872, to Miss Mary J. Brunner, daughter of L. A.
Brunner, at Upper Sandusky. They are the parents of two children: Alice
M., born September 14, 1873, and Benton R., born January 3, 1882. Mr.
Geiger holds a deed made to his father, May 1 3, 1839, by old"^ Eber Baker, of
Marion.
CHARLES GEYER, Se.. capitalist. Tiffin, was born near Leipsic, in the
Kingdom of Saxony, October 1 3, 1 827. His parents. Christian and Catharine
Geyer, came to America, in 1839, and settled in Huron County, Ohio, where they
reared five sons and four daughters, of whom three sons and four daughters
maiTied and became heads of families. The subject of this sketch was brought
up to the tanning business in his father's tannery, and, in 1859, located in
Caroline, this county, where he carried on a tannery, and followed farming for
several years, removing his tannery business here in 1871. and which he
retired from, after several years, to continue the purchase and sale of hides and
pelts. He has l)een an important factor in many of Tiffin's industries, and
owns a very valuable amount of j)roperty in the city. He is one of the board
of directors of the Commercial Bank of Tiffin. Mr. Geyer was married in
Chicago. 111. , in 1854, to Ida Caessmann, of same nativity, and they have five
sons and three daughters living: Louisa, wife of the Hon. J. L. Kaley, of Red
Cloud* Neb.: Charles, Jr., a merchant; Samuel; Emma: Frank; William;
Artie ; and Ida : and have buried one son, Oscar. Mr. and Mrs. Geyer are
members of the English Lutheran Church, of which the former has been a
member for many years. Mr. Geyer has been an active, energetic, public
spirited citizen, and has contributed in no small degree to the support of many
of Tiffin's social and industrial interests.
HAilMON B. GIBBON, M. D., Tiffin, was born. March 12, 1852, in
Wayne County, Ohio, of which locality his parents, Tobias M. and Ursula
(Newkirk) Gibbon, were earh' settlers, coming from Pennsylvania. The sub-
ject of this memoir is the third son aiid sixth child in a family of four sons and
four daughters. Having received, in the common school of his native place,
good preparatory instniction, he, at the age of fifteen, went to Shreve, Ohio,
where, at a select school, he acquii-ed a regular literary education, which he
completed at an academy in Periysville, Ohio. Mr. Gibbon afterward
became principal of the high school at PerrysAdlle, an incumbency he retired
from in 1874. in order to attend to readings in medicine in the office
776 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
of Dr. W. S. Battles, of Shreve. In 1875 he attended a course of
lectures at the College of Medicine and Surgery of St. Louis, and in 1876-
77 the Erie Street Medical College of Cleveland, graduating in June, 1877,
from the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, at Cincinnati, Ohio.
In August, 1877, Dr. Gibbon commenced the practice of his profession at Kan-
sas, this county, continuing afterward in the same for a short time at Betts-
ville, also this county, coming to Tiffin. October 10, 1880. The Doctor is an
active member of the Seneca Medical Society, has served as its \T.ce-president,
is the secretary of the association at present, and is also a member of the
North Central Ohio Medical Society, and of the Northwestern Society of
Ohio. He was united in marriage at Wooster, Ohio, in 1878, with Emma M.
Linn, a lady of estimable attainments, second daughter of William Linn, Esq. ,
of that place, and to this union has been born one daughter — Eva M. Dr. and
Mi's. Gibbon are respected church people.
JAMES GOETSCHIUS, retired, P. O. Tiffin, is one of the old pioneers of
Ohio, and was born on Alum Creek, near Columbus, September 24, 1807. His
parents, Nicholas and Susan Goetschius, natives of Montgomery County, N.
Y.. first settled, after they were married, near Columbus, Ohio, and there
remained until 1825, when they came to this county, and settled on the Green-
field road, five miles fi'om Tiffin, and afterward moved to Tiffin, where Mrs.
Goetschius died. Nicholas Goetschius departed this life near Green Spring,
Ohio. Our subject was united in marriage, November 5, 1821), in Tiffin, with
Parmelia Smith, who was born in Maryland, September 15, 1812, a daughter
of Frederick Smith, who died in Maryland. jVIr. Goetschius is the father of
eleven children: Elizabeth, Nicholas, Dudley, Evaline, John, CTeorge and
Evan, now living; and Raymos, Hugh, James and Henry, deceased. Our sub-
ject is a retired farmer, owning sixtv-nine and one quarter acres of good land.
REV. JEREMIAH H. G00D,'D. D., professor in theological seminary
at Tiffin, has been a resident of Tiffin since the year 1850, and is widely known
throughout the county and city. He was born in a little village that nestles
under the shadows of the Blue Mountains in Pennsylvania, named Rehrers-
burg, Berks County, and comes of Palatinate German stock through both his
parents. He is a son of Philip Augustus and Elizabeth (Haak) Good. His
grandfather. John Adam Good, left the fatherland (now called Rhenish Bava-
ria) as a young man and settled in the province of William Penn, where he
was subsequently united in marriage with Miss Adam. He was a pious, well-
educated young man, and devoted himself to instructing church schools, and as
the church master he usually read a sermon on Sabbaths, when the pastor
could not come. His children were Jacob. Elizabeth. Abraham, Philip,
Augustus, Christina, Joseph and Daniel. Their descendants still live for the
most part in Berks County, Penn. Philip Augustus Good, father of Dr. Good,
and of Prof. R. Good, of Heidelberg College, was well educated, and filled
many public positions, such as representatiA'^e in the Legislature, justice of the
peace, prothonotary of the county, etc. Dr. Good lived in Rehrersbui'g for
about eight years, when the family removed to Reading, the county seat.
Here, at the age of ten years, our subject lost his father, who was then pro-
thonotary of the county, and became the adopted son of his uncle, Joseph
Good, with whom he remained until the latter' s death, receiving a good clas-
sical education at the Reading Academy and in private lessons from Mr. Mid-
dlemass. a somewhat celebrated local instructor fi-om England. He was
intended for the profession of the law, and when, at the age of fourteen, he
resolved to obtain a complete college education, it was with the full intention
of becoming an attorney. In September, 1880, he started for Marshall Col-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 777
lege, in Franklin County, Penn., then under the presidency of Dr. F. A.
Ranch, a celebrated and brilliant scholar from Germany. He spent two years
in the preparatory department and four years in the college, and graduated
Avith the highest honor of the class (the valedictory) on the last Wednesday of
September, 184'2. The class numbered nine, of whom four have been profes-
sors in colleges and seminaries, and one a member of Congress. From 1 842 to
1845 Dr. Good was sub-rector of the preparatory department, and at the same
time a student in the theological seminary iinder Dr. J. W. Nevin. In the
autumn of 1 845 he was licensed to preach by the Mercersburgh Classis, and soon
thereafter followed a call to Lancaster, Ohio. Here he labored as pastor from
October, 1845, until October, 1847, and also founded and conducted a select
school. In the latter year he was elected by the Ohio Synod of the Eoiormed
Church to found and edit a religious paper. In pursuance of this appoint-
ment he removed to Columbus, Ohio, in October, 1847, and started the llV.sf-
eni Missionarij, a semi-monthly (noAV known as the widely circulated CJivistiayi
World., and published in Dayton, Ohio). At the reformed synod in Navarre,
Ohio, in 1840, he was elected (in connection with his brother, Prof. Reuben
Good) to start the i^rojected college (now Heidelberg College at Tifiin), and in
consequence of this call the two brothers removed to Tiffin, Seneca Co. , Ohio,
in October, 1849. They soon opened the new college in the third story of
' ' Commercial Row. ' ' (For the history of this enterprise, and the theological
seminary in connection with it, see page 507, this volume. ) For twenty years
(November, 1849, to September, 1869,) our subject filled the professorship
of mathematics in the college, at the same time continuing to edit the Western
Missionary for a period of three years. Besides this he has been a supply to
various churches in the city and county (Reformed Church in Tiffin, twenty
years; St. Jacobs, in Adams Township, thirty-four years; Salem, in Seneca
Township, seven years; Bascom, nine years, and others for shorter terms). In
the year 1809 he was elected by the synod at Shelby to the chair of dogmatic
and practical theology in Heidelberg Theological Seminary (in connection with
the college), which position he yet occu])ies. Dr. Good has participated in some
public enterprises, such as the woolen- mills, the National Exchange Bank (being
director for twenty years), etc. Dr. Good has published a number of works
of a practical religious character: "The Reformed Church Hymnal," 18(8;
" The Heidelberg Catechism," newly arranged, 1879; '' The Childrens' Cate-
chism," 1881 ; "A Prayer Book," 1881 ; " The Chm-ch Member's Hand Book,"
1882. Dr. Good was married. Deceiuber 23, 1840, at Granville, Licking Co.,
Ohio, to Miss Susan Hubbard Root, with whom he has lived in a happy union for
thirty-nine years to the present date. She was the daughter of Noble and Har-
riet (Bushnell) Root, l:)oth of Granville, the father being originally from ■A^'est-
field,Mass., the mother from Norwich., Conn. Her mother was the daughter of
Ebenezer and Susan (Hubbard) Bushnell, of Norwich, Conn. Her grandfa-
ther, Ebenezer Bushnell, was a graduate of Yale College, classmate of Noah
Webster, assisting in the work of Webster's spelling book, a merchant, editor
of the Weekly Register, of Norwich, a man of genius, who went to sea as pur-
ser in the sloop of war "Warren," in the French war, and died August 8,
1800, ofP Matanzas, of yellow fever. On the Bushnell side Mrs. Good traces
her descent back to Richard Bushnell, of Saybrook, Conn. , who was married,
October 11, 1648, to Mary Manin, of London, England. Through her grand-
mother, Susan Hubbard, she stands connected with the widely- extended Hub-
bard connection. Dr. Good has but one child, a son, John Chrysostom Good,
who was born in Columbus, Ohio, June 20, 1849; he was graduated in Heidel-
berg College, studied medicine and is now i-esiding in Cleveland, Ohio, engaged
778 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
in the drug business; in 1S77 lie was married, in Massillon, Ohio, to Miss Flor-
ence Parsons, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Parsons, formerly of Phila-
delphia, Penn.
JOHN M. GREINER, proprietor of restaurant, Tiffin, was born in Pitts-
burg, Penn., November 22, 1848; son of John David and Magdalena (Rail)
Greiner, natives of Eichelbron and Dettingen, "Wurtemberg, Germany, respect-
ively, and who settled in Tiffin in 1852, rearing a family of four sons and three
daughters. (Thi'ee sons and two daughters are now residents of Hancock Coun-
ty, Ohio, and one son and one daughter live here. ) The subject of this sketch
was reared in Tiffin, and December 81, 18(39, embarked in his jjresent business,
in which he is well and favorably known. He was married, in 1870, to Mary
Louisa, eldest daughter of Henry and Barbara (Schwarter) Heinz, the former
a native of Ludi'ingen, Alsace, France (now Germany), and the latter of Walselda,
Wurtemberg, and who reared six daughters and two sons : Mary Louisa, Regina
Magdalena. John Henry, AVilliam Hartman, Henrietta Lucinda, Anna Matilda,
Cora Ida and Fedena Evalina. To Mr. and Mrs. Greiner were born two sons
and two daughters : Cora Elenora, Albert B. , Mary Magdalena and Louis H. ,
the latter of Avhom died August 15. 1885. aged one year, eight months and nineteen
days. ^Ii's. Greiner is a member of the German Reformed Church, and Mr.
Greiner of the German Lutheran denomination. He is a member of the K. of
P.. quartermaster of Division No. 17. of that society, and is a member of the
Ancient Order of Druids. He has been a member of the Tiffin fire department
for over twenty-two years, and is first assistant engineer of that organization.
Mr. . Greiner is a worthy citizen and an ardent partisan of the Democratic
party.
JOHN A. HALL, United States guager, and store-keeper. Tiffin, was
born in Tiffin. Ohio, February' 12. 1841, son of Lather A. and Cynthia A.
(Hedges) Hall, the former a native of Onondaga County, N. Y. , and the latter
a daughter of Josiah Hedges. Esq. They rearel foar sons: Josiah, now in
the South ; James H. , in Orange. Los Angeles Co. , Cal. ; John A. , and Dr.
Albon Eugene, in Visalia, Tulare Co. , Cal. The subject of our sketch was
reared in Tiffin, Ohio, and in Januaiy, 1863, he was appointed assistant
assessor of internal revenue for this district, which position he held till Janu-
ary 1. 1873. He married in Tiffin, Ohio, in June, 1867, Mary B., daughter of
John A. and Sarah Baltzell Stoner, who were natives of Maiyland. By this
union there are two daiighters. Grace and Mary Edith, and two sons, Lewis
Baltzell and James Hedges. iMi-. Hall and family are attendants of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church. He is a worthy member of the Masonic fraternity, and
has passed all the chairs to the Chapter, and is a member of the Roval Arcanum.
GEORGE HE ABLER, Jr., of Heabler Bros., proprietors of Attica Mills
and dealers in grain, flour, etc.. at Attica and Tiffin, was born in Millville, Co-
lumbia Co.. Penn.. in 1828. His parents, George and Hannah (Klingeman)
Heabler. were natives of that county and of pioneer German ancestry. George
Heabler. Sr. , a practical miller, located in Venice Township, this county, in
1835, and was jjrominently connected with milling in this locality for many
years. Our subject was reared to the business in all its departments and in
1863 united with his lu'others. John and Henry, in forming the present firm.
He married in 1852. in Attica, Catharine, daughter of Peter and Anna Troxel,
natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Heabler died in 1871, leaving two sons and two
daughters: AVilliam Oscar, a harness-maker; David Troxel. a miller; Maria;
and Emma, now the wife of A. L. Stokes, a blacksmith of Mount Vernon. Ohio.
Our subject was married on the second occasion to Hannah, daughter of Joseph
and Marv Hassler. natives of Germany, and to this union were born two sons:
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 779
Sherman and Sheridan. Mr. Heabler is an active business man and a public-
spirited citizen, and has been an efficient official in the school board and in the
councils of the city and township. He is a member of the Methodist Protest-
ant Church. He did honorable service during the late war of the Eebellion,
serving as a member of Company C. One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Na-
tional Guards. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.
KEV. FATHER MICHAEL HEALY. pastor of St. Mary's Roman
Catholic Church. Tiffin, Ohio, was born in the parish of Kilmoyly. County
Keny. Ireland, September 20. J 823, son of Francis and Elizabeth fBrie) Healy
The Healys and the Brics were of the better class of yeomanry of that locality,
and reckoned among their number many clever professional people — clergymen,
attorneys, physicians, etc. Father Healy obtained all the benefits the schools
of his native place aflPorded, and in 1841 he became a scholar at Tralee, in the
classical school of John McCarty. and finished in the school of T. Horan. of
Tralee. At the age of twenty-five years he went to All Hallows College, near
Dublin, and in 184:9 left college to come to America. Avhere he com2)leted his
theological studies in St. Mary's Seminary, at Cleveland. Ohio, in which citv
he was ordained in 1851 by Bishop Rappe, and is now the oldest living priest
ordained by that bishop. Father Healy' s first services were at Wooster. Ohio,
where he at first served as assistant priest, and latterly as pastor. He resigned
this position to return to St. Mary' s Seminary, where' he passed another year,
and in the summer of 1858 he was sent to Elyria, Lorain Co., Ohio, where
he built St. Mary's Church the following summer; he also built St. Patrick's
Church, at Wellington, Lorain Co.. Ohio, in 1857. In 1859 he came to Tiffin,
where besides liquidating a debt of §(5,000 on St. Mary's Chm-ch. he has aided
materially in improving, fiirnishing and beautifying the present handsome St.
Mary's Church edifice, schools, cemetery, etc. (see History of St. Mary's Church
and congregation, page 495).
J. UHLRICK HECHERMAX. M. D.. Tiffin, was born in Chambersburg.
Penn., November 22, 1825. His father. Jacob Heckerman, was a pioneer of
Prussian ancestry in this country, dating back to 1730. The mother, Catharine
(Stuple) Heckerman, was of pioneer Swiss ancestry in Pennsylvania. Dr.
Heckerman was one of five children, all of whom, except himself, reared fam-
ilies in Pennsylvania. He was left an orphan in infancy and was reared by his
guai'dian. Jacob Heck, a merchant of Chambersl)urg. where he studied' and
graduated fi-om the then Columbian School of Medicine, of Washington, D.C.,
in March, 1846. He entered upon the practice of his profession in Cashtown,
Penn., where he continued till in June. 1849, when he was persuaded to come
to Tiffin, this county (through the influence of the late Rev. Hiram Shaull).
and where he has since devoted himself closely to his professional work, his
first recreation being in the centennial year, when he visited the East, and,
secondly, in 1883 (after the loss of his esteemed son). He married, in
Mercersburg, Penn. , in August. 1840, Jane Anderson Dick, and this union was
blessed with two sons and three daughters. Mrs. Heckerman departed this
life in 1801 in full communion with the Presbyterian Church, and is buried in
Maple Grove Cemetery with her two sons : Charles B. , who followed her in
1802. and William H. in 1883, who, after receiving a careful literary and med-
ical training in the schools of this country and Europe, passed away in his
twenty-seventh year. The daughters are Mary E., wife of Dr. F. W*. Swan;
Anna Kate, wife of William S. Giesy, of Douglass, Kas. . and Jane Anderson,
at home. Dr. Heckerman was married, on second occasion, in 1870. to Amanda
McBride. who died in 18 < 9 without issue, and is also interred in Maple Grove
Cemetery. The Doctor is a close student of his profession and a worthy citizen.
780 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
JOSIAH HEDGES, founder of Tiffin, was a lineal descendant of Sir
Charles Hedges, one of the Secretaries of State under Queen Anne, of Eng-
land, and a member of the British Parliament. Joseph Hedges, who was a
son of Charles Hedges, gentleman, and grandson of Sir Charles, came to
America at an early day and settled in Prince George County. Md. He had
nine childi'en, two of whom— Charles and Joseph — moved to Frederick County.
The former of the^e became the father of foiu'teen children, one of whom was
named Charles; the latter had only one child, a daughter, Rebecca, inter-
marrying, left their Maryland home and settled in Virginia. They were
the parents of eleven children, including the subject of this sketch, who was
born in Brooke County, Va., April 9, 1778. Reared amid the incidents of a
long war, inspired by 'contact with heroes of the Revolution, Josiah grew up a
stm-dy, resohite and self-reliant youth. At the age of eighteen he was en-
gaged on his own account in shipping produce from Wheeling to New Orleans,
the then seat of the French Government of Louisiana. About the same time
he moved into the " 'Northwestern Territory. ' ' He was permanently located
there in 1801, and when a year afterward Ohio was admitted as a State into
the Union, the people of Belmont County conferred the honor of making him
their first sheriff. Intelligent, energetic and upright, this executor of the
law, young as he was. discharged the duties of the high trust with promptness
and discretion, and secured the good will of his fellow citizens, for. upon the
expiration of his term he was chosen clerk of the courts. He made a careful
and efficient clerk and continued to hold that office until, turning his attention
to mercantile piu-suits, he devoted his time to the establishing of an extensive
trade at St. Clairsville. There were no commercial agents on the road in those
days, no facilities for exchange, and Philadelphia (800 miles away) was the
nearest point at which to replenish a depleted stock. Thither on horseback,
semi-annually, the enterprising merchant joiu-neyed, with large sums of money
on his person, to make selections and pay for the goods he might purchase.
By prudent investment and judicious management Mr. Hedges made the St.
Clairsville venture a success, and. in 1819. he started a new store in Mansfield,
Ohio, and associated with him as partners, his brothei^. Elza Hedges, a man
of mark in his day, and Gen. James Hedges, a distinguished soldier of the
war of 1812. on Gen. Harrison's staff. The Hedges Brothers, of Mansfield,
were a prosperous firm, and a strong bond of fi-iendship existed between its
members throughout their lives. In 1820 Josiah Hedges visited Foi-t Ball,
bought a tract of land opposite it, on the Sandusky River, laid out a town,
which in honor of his warm personal fi-iend, the first governor of Ohio, he
named Tiffin. In 1822 he had put up a saw-mill, built a mill for making fioiu",
erected a public hall, provided rooms for offices and shops and then by dispos-
ing of building lots at moderate prices, and being lenient and magnanimous with
pm-chasers the infant town of Tiffin grew apace. In 1824, upon the organi-
zation of Seneca County. Mr. Hedges aspired to make Tiffin the county seat.
It was centrally located and had many natural advantages, and its founder pro-
posed donating ample and suitable grounds for county buildings. Across the
river, however, was a troublesome rival. At Fort Ball a town called Oakley
had been started, equally well situated, and which its proprietor, Jesse Spencer,
declared outranked Tiffin in seniority and in its reminiscences of history.
While the respective fi'iends of these two places were studying how best to get
ahead, Mr. Hedges, with his usual quickness of decision and promptness of
action, cut the gordian knot bv buving out Spencer, and becoming the owner
of both Oakley and Tiffin. 'The' county seat secured, the town increased
steadilv. the land office was removed to it 'fi'om Delaware, manufactories sprung
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 781
up, commerce flom-ished, and Mr. Hedges lived to see a wilderness transformed
into a city of cheerful homes and busy industry. Enterprising and p)ublic
si^irited though he was, Mr. Hedges did not seek i)ublic position, but intelli-
gence, integrity and sound judgment were qualities which his fellow citizens
recognized in him, and of which they availed themselves, in 1825, by electing
him to the Legislatiire. He represented in that body the counties of Sandusky,
Crawford. Seneca and Marion, and discharged the duties of legislator with
marked ability. In the good old days of Jackson and Clay, Mr. Hedges was
an ardent Whig. He was frequently nominated by his party for political
preferment. But the Democrats having the ascendancy, he held no political
office until 1830, when he was re-elected to the Legislatm-e by the district
composed of Seneca, Hancock, Sandusky and Wood. His legislative career
was characterized by industry and by an unswerving devotion to the young
counties of the Northwest. Mr. Hedges possessed the attributes of a good
citizen and Chi'istian gentleman. Though a man of great firmness and decis-
ion of character, he was benevolent and just, and was the last man in the
world to di-ive another to the wall. He lent a helping hand to the honest
poor, and was ready, at all times, to assist with his funds any good work need-
ing aid. He gave building sites, and subscribed liberally to the churches.
Itinerant ministers and visiting statesmen made his home a resort, for the
••latch-string was always hanging out." and the cordial and generous hos-
pitality was proverbial. ' In the domestic circle he was kind and indulgent,
and was, as he deserved to be, the idol of the household. He was one of the
original stockholders and directors of the first railroad constructed in Ohio —
tlje Mad River & Lake Erie, now the Indiana. Bloomington & Western— and
it was through his instrumentality that the benefits of that road were secured
to the people of Tiffin. In religious faith the ancestors of Mr. Hedges were
Episcopalians. 'H(^ was thrice wedded. His first wife, Rebecca Russell, was
of Ohio parentage, and died at the early age of thirty, leaving six childi-en
—three bovs and three girls. Two of the boys, Thomas and Albert, died in
early vouth and Josiah at the age of thirty-six. Of the girls, Julia was mar-
ried to Dr. Joseph Mason, and Rebecca to Joseph Walker, one of the earliest
merchants of Tiffin. Clarinda. the only survivor, was the wife of the late
William Hunter. Mr. Hedges' second marriage was with Eliza Hammerley,
who came of a Virginia family: her father was Garrett Hammerley. Of the
three sons and six daughters of this marriage, two of the sons died in infancy,
the other. William C. Hedges, who died in 1876, was a graduate of the Har-
vard Law School and a ripe scholar. He projected the first public library in
Tiffin, and inaugurated a taste for literary and scientific lectures among its
people by laboring for and securing the most talented lecturers. Of the
daughters, Eva died at the age of twenty-one; she was the wife of Dr. Hem-y
Russell, of Columbus. The five remaining daughters are Sarah, wife of W.
C. W. Armstrong. ex-Secretary of State and editor PJaindealer at Cleveland,
where he resides; Mary Jane, wife of A. C. Baldwin, a prominent manu-
facturer of Tiffin: Minerva, wife of H. Noble, exmayor of Tiffin and pres-
ent probate judge; Elizabeth, relict of J. G. Gross (deceased), a leading
manufacturer' of Tiffin, and Cynthia A. . widow of Luther A. Hall, of the
Tiffin bar. The mother of these childi-en died in 1837. Seven years after
Mr. Hedges married again; but without issue, Miss Harriet Snook; she died
February, 1885. Mr. Hedges was a fine looking man. he was well built,
erect, of robust physique and dignified mien. His forehead was high, eyes
black, nose slightly of the Roman cast, and a mouth that indicated firmness
and decision. At' the age of eighty years he continued to give daily attention
782 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
to his business interests, and up to the time of his last illness was in full pos
session of his mental powers. He died at Tiffin, July 15, 1858. When he
departed there passed away a useful and honored life, a life full of activity
consecrated by good deeds and enshrined in the affections of his children
and friends.
JOHN HEILMAN, proprietor of the extensive Brick and Tile Manufactur-
ing "Works, Tiffin, was born in Bermersheim, Hessen Darmstadt, Germany.
September 11, 1821; son of Daniel (a farmer) and Barbara Heilman. In 184^
he came to America and located in Tiffin, Ohio, and in 1850 he established a
manufactory for making brick, to which in 18(58 he added tile making. The
business proved successful, and is now one of the most important industries of
Tiffin. After accumiilating a handsome competency from it, Mr. Heilman has
turned it over to the care of his sons, William and Otto, who do a large busi-
ness. The subject of our sketch was married, in Tiffin, t(5 Mary Schneckeu-
berger, who died without issue. He was afterward married to Elizabeth Zeis,
of Epingen, Baden, who bore him three sons and two daughters: Lizzie, wife
of John La Bar. a hardware merchant; John G. , a tinsmith, of Santa Anna,
Cai. ; Kate, wife of George Diemei', of Carey, Ohio; William, married to Elva
M. , daughter of James M. Bore (have two daughters. Bertha and Edith), and
Otto. Mr. Heilman buried his second wife in Tiffin, and subsequently married
Fredericka Wetzel, of Wurtemberg, Germany, and by her has a son and
daughter: Albert and Anna. The family attend the German Lutheran Chiu'ch.
Mr. Heilman, a worthy citizen of Tiffin, has contributed in no small degi*ee to
the growth of its interests and industries. Though he has ever been averse tt)
holding pu])lic office he has served with credit as member of the council.
JOHN D. HEILMAN, grocer and saloon keeper, Tiffin, born in Tiffin,
Ohio, December 15, 1842, is a son of Jacob and Mary (Wick) Heilman, who
came to this county fi'om Hessen Darmstadt. Germany, in 1889, and whose
children are Susan, John D. , Philip, Jacob, Elizabeth, Mary, Christian and
V^'illiam. Om- subject was reared to brick-making. September 12, 1864. he
enlisted in Company C, One Hundi-ed and Eightieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
and served till the close of the war; he was wounded in the left hand, and
received an honorable discharge. Having contracted rheumatism he was com
pelled to give up brick-making, and then engaged in his present business. He
married, in 1867, Margaret, daughter of Balthasar and Christina Kohe. of
Landau, Rhine Bierne, Germany, and by her has two sons and two daughters :
Jacob N. , Mary. Libbie and John A. The family belong to the German Lu-
theran Brethren Church. ^Ii". Heilman is a member of Leander Stem Post G.
A. R. , and has been a member of the lire department for fourteen years.
WILLIAM HEROLD, saloon keeper. Tiffin, was born in Naumburg, Sax-
ony, December 28, 1823, son of Carl Tielo and Mina (Poosej Herold. In 184 <
he came to America, and after following his trade, rope-making, in the East,
principally in Sackett's Harbor, N. Y.,.he came to Tiffin, Ohio, and carried on
the same industry for several years, retiring from it to enter his present busi-
ness. He married in Tiffin, Elizabeth Mueller, of Harbisheim, Hessen Darm-
stadt, Germany, who bore him two sons and two daughters: F. F. a harness-
maker, who married Laura C. Hubert, and has one daughter Gertie May:
Marietta, wife of Frederick Eckhard, a barber, in Tiffin; Otto, a ba}-ber, in
Cleveland; and Ida. Mr. Herold' s first wife dying, he manled again. By
his second wife he has no children. He is a member of the Reformed Chiu'ch,
and his wife of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church. Mr. and Mrs. Herold
are prominent among the many worthy German families of this city, and are
respected by all.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 783
HENRY KE_G(> HERSHISER. M. D., Tiffin, was born in Bedford Coun-
ty, Penn. , July (, 1831; son of Henry and Maria Barbara (Kegg) Hershiser.
and grandson of Lewis and Polly (Smith) Hershiser Lewis Hershiser, a dis-
tiller by occupation, was a native of Wurtemberg, Germany. Maria B. (Kegg)
Hershiser was a daughter of Peter and Eva (Harchelroad) Kegg. of Bedford
County, Penn. The parents of our subject came to Tiffin in 1833. and here
reared four sons and two daughters: William A., engaged in the wholesale
and retail lumber business at Columbus. Ohio (no children); Peter M., farm-
ing, in Huron County, Ohio (has one son): Ann Elizabeth, deceased wife of
Edward Bradley, also deceased (left two sons) ; Henry K. ; Mary E. , wife of J.
W. Bradley, a contractor and builder of Columbus (have a son and daughter):
David F. , a machinist at Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Hershiser read medicine under
Dr. J. P. Kinnaman, and graduated fi'om the Columbus Medical College at
Columbus, Ohio. He spent considerable time in the late war, in a professional
capacity, retiring at the close of the struggle as assistant surgeon of the One
Hundred and Forty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After the war he was
engaged in the drug business for nine years, retiring fi-om it to take up the
practice of medicine, in which he has attained considerable reputation. The
Doctor married, in Tiffin, Susan D. Myers, of Clear Spring, Md. . who has
blessed him with one daughter : Jessie Day, a lady of estimable literary and
musical abilities. Dr. Hershiser has been a member of the Masonic order for
fourteen years, and has attained to the degree of Knight Templar in De Mo-
lay Commandery; has been a member of the I. O. O. F. for many years, and of
the society of Chosen Friends; is also president of the Soldiers Decorating and
Benevolent Society.
F. K. HEWITT, architect. Tiffin, was born in Owego, Tioga County. N.
Y., December 28, 1839. His father, Horace Wheeler Hewitt (a millwright),
comes of pioneer English stock in the State, cousin of the Hon. Abram S.
Hewitt of New York; subject's mother, Huldah (Kingsbury) Hewitt, was of sim-
ilar lineage. The subject of our sketch was reared in New York City, where he
completed his professional training. In March, 1862, he enlisted his services in
Company C, Fifth New Y''ork Artillery, and remained in service about three
years when he received an honorable discharge at Harper's Ferry, February 13.
1865, as veteran, having re-enlisted. After the war he betook himself to pro-
fessional work and traveled over the greater part of the Northern and Western
States and California, locating in Tiffin. Ohio, in 1882. He was married at
Elmira, N. Y. , to Sarah F., daughter of Zeno Carpenter, and this union was
blessed with two sons and four daughters: John Dudley, Lulu, Daisy. Kate,
Hattie and Fred. Mrs. Hewitt is a member of the Episcopal Church; Mr.
Hewitt is a F. & A. M., and a member of the A. O. U. W.
REV. H. H. W. HIBSHMAN, D. D., pastor of Grace Reformed Church.
Tiffin, was born in ShaefPerstown, Lebanon County. Penn., November 25.
1837, and is of Swiss lineage. His great-great-grandfather, Gerhard Hibsh-
man, emigrated from Switzerland to America, in the year 1731 or 1732, and
located about two miles north of Ephratah. Lancaster Co. Penn. His
great-grandfather, Wendel Hibshman, was a major in the Revohitionary Avar,
and a member of the State Legislature of Pennsylvania for foiu- years. His
grandfather. John Hibshman, a man of intelligence, possessed a knowledge of
both the German and the English languages, as also did his wife, who was of
English descent. John held office in the Reformed Church," of which he was a
devoted member for many years, and was elder and treasurer of his congrega-
tion at the time of his death. He was of mild disposition, a lover of books,
fond of music, and wrote on a leaf of a music book, the artistic work of the
784 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
pen of his mother: •'God give him grace therein to look and to understand,
that learning is better than money and land. December 12, 1798/" He was of
temperate habits, and had a reputation for honesty, integrity of character, for
generosity to the poor, and was esteemed by all who knew him. Our subject's
father, Hon. A. P. Hibshman, was by profession a scrivener and surveyor, a
lover of books and learning, and in early years taught the parochial school of
the congregation of which he was a member. He spoke and wrote both in
English and German. He was a man of strictly . temperate habits, untiring
diligence, energy and perseverance. In civil and political life he wielded great
influence in the community in which he lived. He was a member of the
Reformed Chiu'ch. He left some fine drawings of the counties of Lancaster.
Lebanon. Dauphin. Chester and Berks, in Pennsylvania: also in manuscript
form, written in easy style, ' ' The History of the Hibshman family down to the
year 1870." He was paralyzed at his desk in the first auditor's office, treasury
department, Washington. D. C. after holding his position there for eighteen
years, and died at the age of seventy-five years. His wife, a most amiable
woman, loved and esteemed by all who knew her, for her many excellencies,
died at the age of seventy years.
H. H. W. HiBSHM.\:<, the only surviving son. and })astor of Grace Reformed
Church. Tiffin, graduated with his younger brother. Heniy (who was pro-
fessor of Latin and Greek at Andulisa College, and died at the age of twenty
years), in the class of ISGl of Franklin and Marshall College. Lancaster, Penn.
He studied theology at the theological seminary of the Reformed Church of
the Synod of the United States, and Avas licensed and ordained to discharge
the functions of the office of the ministi-y by the Synod of Ohio. He received
the degree of master of ails fi'om his ahna mater in course; and. at the age of
forty-two. Ursinus College honored him with the degree of Dicinitatis Doctor.
As a minister of his church, his record compares with many of his peers. He
has been highly successful in every field of labor to which he was called. He
founded two congregations, built four houses of worship and two parsonages.
He also ASTote considerably for l^oth secular and religious journals: has several
lectures on the question of temperance in print, and many of his sermons have
been given to the public in published form. Rev. H. H. AV. Hibshman mar-
ried Miss Alice J. Clark, a graduate of the high schools of Lancaster City,
Penn. , and daughter of Edwin C. Clark, a man of great inventive genius. They
have sis sons and one daughter, all partaking of the energy and spirit of their
parents. The work in which he is engaged in Tiffin, has progressed under his
pastorate beyond the anticipations of the most sanguine members. He was
forty-seven years old his last natal day (1884) and will remain permanently in
Seneca County. Ohio, unless overruled by Providence. Of his children Edwin
Clark has chosen medicine for his profession and is student in a classical, lit-
eraiy course of Ursinus College at Freeland. Penn. : Allen Porter is engaged
in merchandising in Tiffin; Albert Helfenstine has chosen the profession of
law, is student at Heidelberg College; Henry Eberly and Walter Strickland
are students at the high school of Tiffin, and have chosen the ministry. Roy
Super and Margaret Murray are too yoimg to attend school. Rev. Hibshman
has been a worthy Mason since 1804, and was knighted in Crusade Command-
ery. No. 1 1 . Bloomsbiu-g. Penn. . in 1860, and is at present a worthy knight of
De Molay Commandery, No. 9, of Tiffin. He is also a member of the Phi Kappa
Psi. The original of the Hibshman name was spelled Huebschman, and is so
recorded by Gerhard Huebschman, one of the first settlers of the family in
Pennsvlvania.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 785
FREDERICK K. HOLDERMAN, dry goods mercliant, Tiffin, was born
near Fremont, Ohio, August 1, 184-3. His parents, Michael and Mary (Smith )
Holderman, natives of Freiburg, Duchy of Baden, came to this country on the
same steamer, in 1.832, and settled near Fremont, where they were married in
the following year, the union being blessed with three sons and three daugh-
ters, of whom only the sons survive. Frederick K. , the youngest son, com-
pleted a liberal common school training, and at fourteen entered the store of
D. Betts & Co. , of Fremont, in dry goods merchandising, where he remained in
creditable connection till the breaking out of Ihe war. He then enlisted in
defense of the Union and was detailed to service in the Mississippi Squadron,
under command of Com. Porter, where he remained in active duty dur-
ing the term of his enlistment (one year). Upon receiving his discharge he
returned to his home, and. after recuperating his health, went to Sandusky
City in the fall of 18()2, where he was connected with merchandising as clerk
and, later, as principal; retiring in 1870, he came here and has been successfully
identified with the dry goods industry of Tiffin since. He was married in
Sandusky City, Ohio, in 1806, to Miss Susan Kogg, daughter of the Rev.
George Kogg, a pioneer minister of the Evangelical Church, by which happy
union he has two little daughters: Alice and Nina. Mr. Holderman is a clear-
headed and far-sighted business man, and while endeavoring to arrange his
very numerous classes of goods to the public taste, he in no small degree edu
cates his customers to his own choice by a very ingenious introduction of his
goods by advertisements, etc. , etc. Socially he is an excellent gentleman and
an honored citizen. He is a Knight Templar and a member of De Molay Com-
mandery No. 9. In politics he is a stanch Republican, voting last election for
James G. Blaine. Mr. and Mrs. Holderman attend the Presbyterian Churcb
service and are active supporters of that denomination.
FRANK H. HOLMES, of the firm of Holmes & Romig. manufacturers
and dealers in boots and shoes, 80 Washington Street. Tiffin, was born in
Huntington, Mass., January 7, 1850, son of Loren Smith and Letitia C.
(Knox) Holmes. The former was a son of Joseph Holmes, Jr. , whose father,
Joseph Holmes, settled in that State (from northern England) at a very early
period in its history. The latter. Letitia C. (Knox) Holmes, was a daughter of
Alanson Knox, who descends from Scotch pioneers in Massachusetts. Frank
H. was one of a family of three sons and a daughter- Eugene L., who died in
Chester, Mass., in October. 1874; Joseph A., a resident of Defiance, Ohio,
and Katie L. , a resident of Deshler, Ohio, all of whom settled in Jackson
Township, Wood Co. , Ohio, with their parents, in ISOf). The subject of our
sketch, at seventeen, left the farm, and took a position as salesman in a general
merchandise store at Deshler. Ohio, and in 1875, at the age of nineteen, a part-
nership was formed, consisting of his father, brother and self, for the purpose
of conducting a general merchandise business under the firm name of L. S.
Holmes & Sons. August 20. 1877, his father died, but the business contim^ed
until the spring of 1881. In 1882 he and his brother came to Tiffin, and
bought out the present business, which was carried on under the name of
Holmes Brothers for one year, Joseph A. then withdiawing and disposing of
his interest to Jonas Romig. Mr. Holmes was married, in Deshler, Ohio.
May 6, 1880, to Elizabeth Williams, who was born in Hancock County, Ohio,.
April 22, 1855. Mrs. Holmes is a lady of estimable attainments, and a highly
respected member of society. Since coming here Mr. Holmes has taken an
active part in the development of all enterprises tending to the social and in-
dustrial life of Tiffin. He is a member of the city council, an officer of Tiffin
L<xlo-e No. 77, F. & A. M., and member of the Royal Arcanum. He is also
786 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
one of the trustees of the First Presbyterian Chiu'ch, of which he and his wife
are reguhar attendants.
GEORGE HOLTZ. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Frederick County.
Md., February 20, 1S19. son of Jacob and Susannah M. Holtz, natives of Maiy-
land, and who came to Seneca County, Ohio, April 28, 1884, settling in Clin-
ton Township, and there remaining until their death ; Jacob Holtz died
December 28, 1850. and his widow May 28, 1870. Our subject was united in
marriage, October 9, 1870, with Phcjebe Moore, whose maiden name was Wise.
She was born in Washington County, Penn., January 25, 1841. Her parents,
David and Charlotta Wise, now reside in Pleasant Township, this county.
Mrs. Holtz is the mother of one son, John W. , by her first husband. Our sub-
ject has always been engaged in farming, and now owns 134 acres of good
land, where he and his family reside. He is a F. & A. M. and a member of
the I. O. O. F. Mrs. Holtz is a member of the German Baptist Chm-ch.
DENXIS HOLTZ. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born March 21, 1827, in
Frederick County, Md. His parents, Jacob and Susannah M. Holtz. na-
tives of Maryland, where they were married, remained in Maryland until
April 28, 1834. and then moved to Seneca County, Ohio, where they remained
until the death of the former, which occiuTed December 28, 1859, on the farm
where our subject now resides. After the death of Jacob Holtz his widow
resided with her son George until her death, which occurred May 28, 1870.
Our subject was united in marriage, November 16, 1851, with Mary J. Schroyer,
born in Frederick County. Md., November 8, 1827, a daughter of George and
Meribah Schroyer (both deceased). To this union were born two children.
Marcus and Meribah R. Mrs. Holtz departed this life September 16, 1870.
She was a memljer of the First Reformed Church of Tiffin. After the death
of his first wife Mr. Holtz was united in marriage. May 20. 1873, with Anna
M. Good, who was born near Reading, Penn., September 19, 1829, daughter
of Philip A. and Elizabeth Good, who remained in Pennsylvania until their
death. Our subject has resided on his present farm since seven years of age.
He owns 160 acres of land. He and his wife are members of Grace Reformed
Church of Tiffin.
BENJAMIN H. HORNE. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born March 24, 1859,
in Lehigh County. Pejin. , where his i)arents and their parents were also born,
raised and educated. In 1869 Samuel Home, father of our subject, together
with his family, came to Ohio and settled at Fort Seneca, in Seneca County,
where they still reside. Samuel Home has a family of six childi-en: Benja-
min H., Samuel. John. Aquilla. Elmina and Rosa. Our subject was engaged
in farming with his father until 1882, when he took the large farm of Noble
& Shawhan. near Tiffin, which he has well stocked. He is a stirring business
man; has 327 acres of land, and is engaged in stock-raising in connection
with his father.
PHIL. A. HOUCK, dealer in boots aud shoes. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin,
this county. September 12, 1853. His parents. John and Ottilia (Fisher)
Houck. natives of Baden, came to this country with their respective families,
who settled in this county. His mother died in December, 1858, his present
mother being his step-mother. Phil. A. is a full brother of the Rev. G. F.
Houck. secretary to Bishop Gilmoure, of Cleveland, Ohio. Our subject's pa-
ternal grandfather and father were shoe-makers and dealers in boots and shoes,
and it well became him (Phil. A.), when arriving at manhood, to follow their
example. He embarked in the boot and shoe trade, and when twenty-eight
years old look entire possession of the business of his father, which he ably
represents. He is the fifth child and fourth son of a family of nine sons and
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 787
six daughters living (two sons are deceased). He married, in Sandusky
City, Ohio, in 1876, Louisa Buyer, and to this union were born two sons:
William and Eugene. Mrs. Houck is the second daughter and foiu-th child
in the family of four sons and five daughters of Nicholas and Barbara (Schei-
del) Buyer, natives of Bavaria and 13aden, respectively. Mr. Houck is an
enterprising business man and citizen. Although averse to holding political
office himself, he is, nevertheless, a pronounced partisan of the Democratic
})arty, and has contributed in no small degree to its maintenance and support.
He and his worthy wife are members of the K. C. Chiu'ch and regular com-
municants of St. Joseph's congregation, of which church he is trustee. He
is an active member of St. John's Benevolent Association, and has served as
its financial secretary for eight years.
HENRY HUBACH, brewer. Tiffin, was born in Diir Kheim, province of
Rheinpfalz, kingdom of Bavaria, January 27, 1848, and comes of a line of
people prominently connected with the brewery business. His parents were
Henry and Catharine (Engel) Hubach. The subject of this sketch came to
this country in 18(35, and worked at the brewing business in Philadelphia for
a time, afterward spending some considerable time in the same occupation in
the West and South, principally in Milwaukee, Wis. ,. and Cincinnati, Ohio.
He eventually embarked in the business at Fort Wayne, Ind. , which he con-
ducted there for four years. Coming here in 1877 he purchased the business
of F. J. Wagner, and has brought it up to an excellent condition, doing the
leading business in his line in this locality. He is thoroughly awake to the
progressive interests of his trade, and is an excellent business man and citizen.
He was married at Cincinnati, in 1871, to Miss Emma Refus, who was born in
the Duchy of Baden, Germany, and by her he has two sons and four daughters :
Emma, Willie, Alma, Charlie, Selma and Alice. Mrs. Hubach is a member
of the Reformed Church. Mr. Hubach is a member of the Bruderbund and
Turnverein.
HON. ELISHA BLAIR HUBBARD, M. D., cbuggist, Tiffin, was born
in Chester, Hampden Co.. Mass., December 28, 1840, and comes of very
worthy pioneer people of English ancestry in that State. His father, Ed-
mund Hubbard, formerly of Chester (now of Pittsfield) Mass., is a son of Ed-
mund Hubbard, of Chester (whom he succeeded in the leather manufacturing
business there), whose father was also named Edmund, and who in turn was a
son of Daniel Hubbard, who located in Hadley, Mass., in 1700, being one of
three brothers who came over from England to Massachusetts between l(i65
and 1685, one brother returning to England, and the others settling in Con-
necticut. Dr. Hubbard's mother, Caroline (Blair) Hubbard, was the eldest
daughter of Luther Blair, of Beckett, Mass. , a prominent merchant of that
place, and also widely known in Congregational Church work. The subject
of this sketch completed a good academical training at Hinsdale, Mass. , pre-
paratory to entering Williams College, but, in consequence of the financial
embarrassments of his father through heavy western land investments, he
joined his brother, Dwight, in coming West, and located at Bellevue, Ohio,
and for three years was favorably known in connection with the teaching pro-
fession in Huron and Erie Counties. In 1860 he returned to Massachusetts to
accept the supervision of the State primaiy schools at Monson, where he re-
mained about three years, meanwhile embracing the opportunities offered there
in the hospital and dispensary of that institution for the study of medicine
and pharmacy. Upon retiring from that incumbency he went to Springfield,
Mass. , where he remained in pharmaceutical study in the office of Dr. Hutch-
ins for about a year, and soon after embarked in the drug Ijusiness in Amherst,
788 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Mass. In 1871 he retired from business there and came West with the view
of locating at Chicago, 111. , but invested in a drug business in Bellevue, Ohio,
where he remained till 1873, when he came to Tiffin, and in January, 187-4,
embarked in the di'ug business, and here has been well and favorable known,
not only j)rofessionally but as a business man and a public spirited citizen.
He is an active member of the Ohio Pharmaceutical Association. He has
been an efficient city official, serving upon the school board for several years
and as president of that body for six years. He was one of the prime movers
in the establishment of the Tiffin Edison Electric Illuminating Comjoany, of
Tiffin, and served as its secretary. He is manager of the National Hall (opera
house) and owner and proprietor of the Daily Herald, and has been ever ready
in his support of all measures tending to the development of the social and
industrial interests of his adopted city and county. Hon. Dr. Hubbard has
been prominently recognized as a master spu'it in his party, who, foreseeing in
his ability excellent substance for a worthy representation of their interests
in the councils of the State or nation, have (1885) chosen him b^- a handsome
majority as their representative in the State Legislatiu-e. He married, August
27, 1878, in Nashua, N. H., Helen M. Sawyer, a graduate of Clinton College,
N, Y. , and eldest daughter of the Hon. George Yeaton Sawj'er, attorney of
Nashua, and judge of the supreme coiirt of the State, and of worthy pioneer
ancestry of that State. By this ixnion were born two childi'en, of whom the
eldest, Clara Sawyer Hubbard, sm-vives. Their son, Sheldon B., is buried in
Greenwood Cemetery. Dr. and Mrs. Hubbard are members of the Episcopal
Church, in which he has been a vestryman for several years. He has been a
member of the Masonic order since attaining his majority, and is now a Knight
Templar in Connecticut Yallev Commandery, of Greenfield, Mass.
JOHN HIJIMMER, city marshal of Tiffin, was born in Dieferdinger,
Luxembm-g, Germany, February 27, 1840; son of Peter and Margaret (Kolbj
Hummer (the former a native of Tyrol), who came to America in 1846, settling
in Seneca Township, where they reared three sons and one daughter: John, An-
thony, Margaret and John B. The subject of our sketch, the eldest, began
life for himself, when but a boy, at saw-milling and lumber dealing, and
worked at stave-making, etc., in this and siUTounding counties for many years.
November 1, 1877, he came to Tiffin and worked at stave-making and in the
lumber business till 1883, when he was appointed to the city police, and April
<), 1885, was honorably elected to his present incumbency, which he ably fills.
He had, while residing in Ansonia, Darke Co. , Ohio, served as its marshal and
commissioner of streets, so that we find the Marshal with a creditable pro-
fessional record before him. He married, in New Riegel in 18G4, Elizabeth,
daughter of John and Mary Wile. This union was blessed with nine children :
Mary, John B. , Katrina, Elizabeth, Margaret, Hattie, Clara, Annie and Willie.
^Ii'. Hummer and his family are of the Roman Catholic faith, and members of
St. Joseph's congregation. He is a worthy member of St. John's Benevolent
Society, Catholic Knights of America, Catholic Benevolent Legion and the
Bruderbund.
S. S. HUNTER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Clinton Township,
Seneca Co., Ohio, December 20. 1832. His parents, William and Clorinda
Hunter, natives of Yirginia. were married in Tiffin, Ohio, and settled in Clin-
ton Township, where they remained until the death of the former, which oc-
curred December 23, 1868. His widow resides in Tiffin. Oui- subject was
imited in marriage, October 31, 1860, with Emma Tunison. She was born in
Rahway, N. J. , June 1 5, 1839. Her parents, David C. and Abigail Tunison.
natives of New Jersey, where they were married, in September. 1838, moved
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 789
to New York City in 1850; thence to Tiffin, Ohio, in 1S54, where they have
since resided. Om- subject and wife have been blessed with three children:
Harvey B.. Alice M. and Willie D. Mr. Hunter is a F. & A. M. Mrs. Hunter
has been a member of the Episcopal Church for nearly thirty years.
GEORGE ROBINSON HUSS, dealer in books and stationery. Tiffin, was
born in Tiffin, this county, January 22, 1828, and comes of pioneer stock of
Seneca County. His father, Jacob Huss, saddler and harness-maker, settled
here fi'om Maryland in 1824, and carried on the first industry in his line in
Tiffin; he died in 1849. Sarah (Robinson) Huss, subject's mother, -was a na-
tive of Berkeley County, Va. , and was descended fi*om prominent pioneer an-
cestry in that State. She passed away fi'om this life in 1876, and is bmied
(beside her husband, one son and two daughters) in Maple Grove Cemetery
(the family burial place); she left one son and two daughters: George R., Han-
nah R. , wife of George Adams, and Sarah, wife of Judge S. T. Sutphen, of
Defiance, Ohio. The subject of our sketch was reared to his father's business
and conducted it for several years after latter' s demise. He was subsequently
prominently identified with the early banking interests of Tiffin, forming one
of the firm of Tomb, Hess & Co., and was afterward a director of the First
National Bank, in which he held important stock interests till its dissolution.
In 1861 he embarked in his present business. He was married, in 1851, to
Mary Ann Tomb, of Lycoming County, Penn., daughter of Benjamin Tomb,
of Tiffin, and by her he has four sons and two daughters: Benjamin J., en-
gaged in the oil business in Pennsylvania; JohnR., physician at Peabody,
kas. ; Harry H. G., merchant in Kansas City; Frank C, in cattle business in
Nebraska; Emma and Nellie. Mrs. Huss is a worthy member of the Baptist
Church, and Mr. Huss of the Methodist Episcopal Chiu'ch, of which he has
been an official for many years. He is a member of De Molay Commandery
No. 9. Mr. Huss has contributed an important share toward the development
of the social and industrial life of his city, and has aided very materially in
railway building and other important outside interests.
WILLIAM HYTER. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Carroll County,
Md., August 26, 1831, son of Jacob and Margaret Hyter, natives of Maryland,
where they were married and remained until 1839, at which time they came to
Ohio, remaining in this county until their death; he died in 1860, and his
widow sm-vived him but a few years. Our subject was united in marriage,
February 18, 1855, with Margaret A. Gittinger, born in Frederick County,
Md. , August 23, 1834, daughter of Daniel and Jane E. Gittinger, natives of
Maryland, and who remained in that State until 1845, when they moved to Ohio
and settled in this county until their death. To our subject and his wife have
been born five children, only two now living: Charles W. and Frank K.
(twins), born January 7. 1866. The deceased are Alice, Emma B. and Will-
iam C. Mr. Hyter owns 181 acres of improved land, situate in Ohio and
Indiana. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HENRY JACOBS, proprietor of the "Jacobs Neck-yoke Manufactory,"
was born in Karlskrohna, Sweden, March 28, 1838, son of Hokenson and
Mary Jacobson (the name ' 'Jacobs' ' being the English abbreviation). In 1854
the parents came to this country and located at Rock Island, 111. , where they
were carried off by the cholera; they left three sons and two daughters: John, a
mechanic, with the firm; Henry, the subject of this sketch; Mary, now Mrs.
Nelson, of Waco, Tex.; Anna, wife of Owen Jones, of Marshall, Kas.; and
Oliver, whose whereabouts is unknown. Henry Jacobs was reared in Knox
County, 111. Being dependent, he set about obtaining a good education, and
after a while taught school. He attended two years at Knox College in Gales-
790 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
burg, and afterward entered Union Park Theological Seminary in Chicago
in 1868. He was then for five years actively identified with mission work in con-
nection with the Congregational Chm-ch; meanwhile he had given considerable
attention to mechanical work, and in 1871 he engaged in manufacturing near
Elgin. 111. In 1877 he moved to Sandusky, Ohio, and in 1883 came to Tiffin,
Ohio, where he built his present factory. Mr. Jacobs married, in 1870, in
Oneida, Knox County. 111.. Cordelia, daughter of IMichael Metcalf, Esq.,
of English descent, who came from New York State to Illinois. Mr. and Mrs.
Jacobs have two sons and two daughters: Alva, Henry, Mary and Helen.
There being no congregation of their faith in Tiffin, our subject and wife
attend St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church.
PORTER HAlVnLTOX JAYNE. attorney at law. Tiffin, was born near
Tunkhannock, Wyoming Co.. Penn., March 7, 1853, and comes of pioneer
ancestry of that State. His parents were William and Nancy (Sumner) Jayne.
The father of all the Jaynes in this country was a Puritan p]-eacher, who was
buried on Long Island, and the inscription on his tombstone was as follows:
• Here lies i/e body
■■ of ' \
: JVILLIAM JAYiNE, \
Born in Bristol , England, Jan. ye '25, 16 IS. Deceased \
\ Mar. ye J 4. 1714. Aged 96 years. '.
The subject of our sketch was the seventh child and fifth son in a family
of six sons and four daughters. He received a good schooling in his native
place, and at nineteen years of age entered Wyoming Seminary and Commer-
cial College at Kingston Penn., from which he graduated at twenty-three.
He engaged in teaching at that institution, but soon came West and located
in Tiffin, this county, in 1870, and here read law in the office of Noble &
Lutes and was honorably admitted to the practice of that profession in 1878.
He then entered practice, and in the following year was elected justice of the
peace. He was married, in 1877. to Lefee Fouke, of Tiffin, a lady of estima-
ble attainments, and by her he has one son and two daughters : Porter H. ,
Jr. , Mary L. and Helen. Mr. Jayne is a member of the P. O. of A. society
and of the Chosen Friends. He has shown himself well fitted for his official
incumbency, and has been honorably continued in it since his induction. He
has applied himself to the practice of law, and, sitting as justice of the peace,
having heard and decided over 1,000 cases since his election. Although not
giving his whole time to his law practice, he has some bright talent employed
in his office in the study of the profession.
ABRAHAM KAGA, born in Seneca County, in November, 1839, entered
the Adrerfiser office at Tiffin, in 1856, to learn the printer's trade; became
editor and publisher of the Shelby County Democrat, in 1860; enlisted in
April, 1861, and was commissioned captain of Company F, Fifteenth Ohio
Volunteer Infantry; transferred to Company E, Benton Cadets, and then to
Company K, Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as captain, in January. 1862.
He was wounded at Raymond. Miss. ; was discharged in January, 1864. He was
chief clerk of the House of Representatives in 1864-65; edited and published
the Tiffin Tribune from April, 1864, to June, 1865, and the same fall was
local for the Daily Advertiser, of Kansas City. From February, 186<), to
Septemlier. 1 868. he held a position in the Treasury Department, at Washing-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP.
791
ton, D. C. ; was a storekeeper for the Northern Ohio District up to May,
ISCA), then engaged in cotton and broom-corn growing in Alabama, in 1870,
moved to Missouri as a journalist, served as clerk in the Missouri Legislature
in 1875, and has since been editorial writer and correspondent.
SOLOMON KAIIP, manufacturer of sash, doors, blinds, etc., Tiffin, was
born in Schuvlkill County, Penn., in 1818. His father. John Kaup, was a
native of that 'county, descended of pion(^ers in that State fi'om Amsterdam,
Holland. His mother, Hannah (Bensinger) Kaup, was of German ances-
tiy. John and Hannah Kaup reared a family of six sons and four daughters.
The subject of oru- sketch in early life embarked in manufacturing, and was
i:)rominently identified in that connection in the East for many years, prmci-
pally at Newark, N. J., where he engaged for a considerable time in lumber
and afterward in flour-milling. Mr. Kaup married in Newark, N. J. , in 188U,
Hannah H. Osborn, a ladv of estimable attainments, daughter of Thomas H.
Osborn, a boot and shoe merchant of that city, and by her had the followmg
children: JohnT., mail agent of the Lake Shore Railway; A. L (carpenter by
trade), manufacturer; Mary Jane, wife of George W. Rugg, of Cleveland;
Sarah Elizabeth, wife of William B. Stanley, of Tiffin, and Benjamm b.. a
builder; their youngest daughter, HannaH., is buried in Green Lawn Cemetery
here. Our subject and his family came to Tiffin, this county, m 18oC). Mr.
and Mrs. Kaup are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
LE WIS HA^HLTON KEFAUYER, pastor of the First Reformed Church,
Tiffin, was born in Frederick County, Md.. January '25, 1827; son of John and
Rebecca (Clumj Kefauver, natives of that county, and grandson of NichoLas
Kefauver, of direct Alsatian pioneer stock in Maryland, and of presumptive
Huo-uenot stock in Alsace. John and Rebecca Kefauver had a family of two
sons and two daughters, all of whom live in Ohio: William, a builder in
Dayton; Lewis H. ; Anna, wife of William Zittle, a merchant of Springfield,
Ohio; and Elizabeth. In early life the subject of this sketch learned cabinet-
making, but upon attaining to manhood he felt a closer tie to the church of his
people and decided to work in its vineyard in the ministerial office. January
81, 1847, he made a public profession of faith in Middletown, Md., and
completed a preparatory training in the parochial school of the Reformed
Church of that village. ' He afterward attended Marshall College, at Mercers-
burg, Penn. , in a literary and theological course of study, taking his college
degree in 1852. and he had in his senior year at college taken the first year s
course of studies in the seminary, so that in the year following his collegiate
graduation he graduated fi-om the seminary. He then took a charge ot the
Reformed Church, in Fairfield, Penn., where he received his ordination and re-
mained three years and a half. He next went to Greensburg, Penn. , and spent
nearly four years in church work there, which he still remembers with a pro-
fessional fondness; the results were flattering, but his youthful ambition en-
couracred him to seek Western work, and accordingly February 8, IbbI, fie
took charo-e of the Reformed Church at Dayton, Ohio, whence (after two and
a half years of successful labor) he came to Tiffin, July 1, 1863, where he has
remained sincg, and is the oldest resident minister of the city. Mr. Ketauver
was united in marriage in Middletown. Md., in 1855, with Amanda E.. youngest
daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Floyd) Routzahn, natives of Maryland; the
ancestry of her father is similar to that of our subject, and the ancestry ot ner
mother is of English stock. This union has been blessed with three sons and
one dauo-hter: Charles Addison, a student of medicine in the medical depart-
ment of "the Western Reserve University, of Cleveland; Elmer Routzahn, with
the American Express Company, at Dunkirk. N. Y. ; and A\ illiam Franklin,
792 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
at home, a student in Heidelberg College, and they have laid to her rest in
Maple Grove Cemetery, their only daughter, Elizabeth R. , a young lady of
nineteen vears, full of future promise.
LEWIS KELLER, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Fairfield County,
Ohio, October 21), 1808, son of John and Elizabeth Keller, natives of York
County, Penn. . where they were married. From there they moved to Fairtield
County, Ohio, in 1805. where they remained until 1828, then moved to Clinton
Township, this county, and here spent the remainder of their days, Mrs. Kel-
ler dying in 1857 and Mr. Keller in 1859. Our subject was united in mar-
riage March 25, 1845, with Mary A. Shriver, who was born in Adams County,
Penn., March 14, 1814. Her parents were Frederick "\V. and Catharine Shriver,
natives of Adams County, Penn.. and who in 1824 moved to Columbiana
County. Ohio, remaining until 1833, in which year they settled in this county,
where they died. Mr. Shriver in 1840 and his widow in 1884. To Mr. and Mrs.
Keller have been born seven childi'en. three now living: Catharine E. (wife of
AV. H. Baker), John W. and Sarah J. Our subject is a blacksmith, a trade he
followed for years. He owns a nice farm where he and family reside. They
are members of Grace Reformed Church.
JOEL KELLER (deceased) was born in Fau'field County, Ohio, February
28. 1821; son of John and Elizabeth Keller, natives of York County. Penn.,
and who moved to Fairlield County. Ohio, in 1805, there remaining until 1828
when they came to Clinton Township, this county, where they remained until
their death. Mrs. Keller dying in 1857 and Mr. Keller in 1859. Our subject
Avas united in marriage January 1. 1860, with Mary A. Cupp. born in Fair-
tield County, Ohio, February 5. 1834, daughter of William and Catharine
Cupp, natives of Virginia, who were married in Fairfield County. Ohio, and
in 1865 moved to Tiffin, this county, where they now reside. Mr. and Mrs. Kel-
ler were the parents of two children: George W. and Carrie E. Mr. Keller
was reared on a farm, and was engaged in farming and milling most of hi.s
life. At the time of his death he owned two mills and over 400 acres of fine
land. He was a faithful member of the Methodist Protestant Church. He de-
parted this life September 15, 1881, leaving a widow and two children, besides
a host of friends, to moiu-n his loss. Mrs. Mary A. C. Keller is a devoted ad-
herent of the Methodist Protestant Chiu'ch.
JOHN E. KING, contractor and builder in stone and brick. Tiffin, was
born in Tiffin, this county, December 6, 1849. His parents, Lawrence and
Bridget (Conners) King, were natives of County Kerry, Ireland, the former of
the parish of Duagh. In 1841 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence King came to this coun-
try with their infant son, Timothy, now in the express business at San Francisco.
Cal. , and settled here, where six sons and five daughters were born (two sons
and two daughters of whom they have buried) : Mary (wife of Lewis Stone, of
Fostoria); William (died in hospital. Georgia, fi'om Company C, Forty-ninth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry): Jeremiah, in quarry business in Tiffin; Bridget,
(wife of Henry C. Cook, of Omaha); John E. ; Margaret (unmarried); Eliz-
abeth, Philip and Ellen all died fi-om diphtheria: and LaA\Tence and David, in
general merchandise business in Republic, Mo. Oiu- subject learned the trade
of mason, and at the age of twenty-five embarked in contracting and building in
that connection, with which he has been successfully identified since. He em-
ploys from thirty to sixty men and has already left records of his workmanship
in many of the fine residences, manufactories, churches, business blocks, etc. ,
etc., in Tiffin and surrounding cities. He has also done considerable bridge
biiilding in railway work, and in county buildings. He is at present on the con-
tract for building the Heidelberg College here: he built the Obrien Manufacttir-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 793
ing Company's Works, the Tiffin Nut and Bolt Works. Grace Kef ormed Chiircli.
etc. Mr. King was married in Fremont, Ohio, in 1870, to Mary, daughter of
Thomas and Mary (Cotler) Keefe, of Duagh, County Kerry. Ireland. This
union was l)lessed with two sons and two daughters; William Cornelius. Lulu
May, David Erwin and Euna M. Our subject and his family are regular com-
municants of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Chm-ch. He is a member of St.
Patrick's T. A. Society, Catholic Knights of America and the Catholic Benev-
olent Legion. Mr. King is a clever and successful business man.
LEWIS KINTZ. retired farmer, P. O. Tiffin, w^as born in Adams County,
Penn.. November 80, ISJ 8, son of Joseph and Margaret Kintz. natives of Penn-
sylvania, where they were married. They moved to Stark County, Ohio, and
from there to this county, and here died. Lewis Kintz. the subject of this
memoir, was married in Pennsylvania June 22, 1840, to Elizabeth Kuhn, born
in Pennsylvania in 1817, a daughter of George and Mary Kuhn, who remained
in Pennsylvania until their deaths. Mr. and IVIi-s. Kintz came to Ohio in 1854,
and have resided in this county ever since. They are the parents of ten chil-
dren, eight now living: Sylvester J., Louisa M., Avife of Simon Hains; Anna
M. , wife of Paul Gase : Henry : Agnes, wife of George Gase ; Edward, George
and Johanna. The deceased are Andrew and Lewis. Mr. Kintz oAvns fifty
acres of fine land where he resides. He and his family are mem])ers of the
Catholic Church.
M. L. KINTZ, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Adams County. Penn. . in Octo-
ber, 1822, son of Joseph and Margaret Kintz, who were married in Pennsyl-
vania and moved to Stark County, Ohio, where they remained for some
years, then moved to this county where they remained until their death.
The subject of this sketch was united in marriage October 10, 184;5,
with Margaret Harkins, born in New Jersey March 19, 1810. daughter of John
and Bridget Harkins. natives of Ireland, who were married in ^^'estmoreland
County. Penn.. thence moved to New Jersey, Avhere they lived for a time, and
then to Philadelphia, returning from there to Westmoreland Coimty, where
they resided until their deaths. Mi", and Mrs. Kintz came to Stark County,
Ohio, in 1840. and to this county in 18r)4, w^here they have resided ever since.
They are the parents of live childi-en: Mary A., John H. , Charles E., William
J. and Peter R. Mr. Kintz is a potter and miller by trade, but for the past
eleven years has been engaged in farming. He owns thirty-six acres of land,
where he and his family reside. He and his family are members of the Cath-
olic Church.
THOMAS J. KINTZ (ex-county recorder of Seneca County) abstracts,
Tiffin, was born in Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, February 14, 1844. His
parents, George and Lueinda (Conaghan) Kintz, were natives of Ohio. His
mother dying w^hen our subject was an infant, he was placed under the guard-
ianship of her brother, Joseph Conaghan, of Seneca Township, this county,
and there he grew to manhood. His early life was unpropitious, being an in
valid, and at fifteen he had little or no education. He, however, had a deter-
mination to excel, and we find him at twenty-one enrolled upon- the list of
teachers of Seneca County. April 17. 1807. he accepted a clerkship in the
recorder's office, and he continued in this capacity for eight years, although it
must be admitted for a fair portion of that time he was the de facfo official.
In 1874 he was appointed de/acfo recorder to succeed Mr. De Witt, and in
the following convention received the nomination and was elected to fill the
office for each consecutive term till 1882, at which time he had nearly com-
pleted a set of abstract books of the county, showing the title to every piece
of land or town lot. Said books w^ere his individual property, and thus opened
794 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
his new work, which has ah-eady become the place to look at and examine
titles. His accuracy and efficiency justly deserves the confidence of the whole
people of Seneca County. Mr. Kintz was married in Tiffin, February 1 5.
1872, to Miss Addie'V. 'Weller. a lady of estimable attainments, daughter of
the late Nelson Weller, formerly a prominent merchant and business man of
Prince Edward County. Ontario. He and his wife are members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church. ^Ix. Kintz is an active business man and an enter-
prising citizen, and has a strong hold upon the good wishes of many of Seneca
County's citizens. He is a member of the corporation of the Ohio Stove
AYorks, of which he has held stock for several years. He has served his
ward (Second) in the councils of the city.
MICHAEL KIRCHNER. merchant tailor, of Tiffin, was born in Ober-
bach, in the kingdom of Bavaria, Unter Franken. July 22, 1820; son of John
and Mary (Achiunm) Kirchner. who came to America in 1844, and settled in
this county. (The father had engaged in farming and floiu-milling in his na-
tive land.) Their two sons. Michael and John, had preceded the parents to
thiscountrv (in 1840), and located at Pittsburgh. Penn., where John remained.
Michael coming to Tiffin the same year, where, after working for a few years at
his trade, he embarked on his own account in business, in which he has since
continued in successful connection. Our subject married, February 21, 1843.
Christina Sillman. a native of Baden. Germany, daughter of George Sillman.
who settled in Venice Township, this county, about 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Kirch-
ner have no childi-en of their own. but have adopted a nephew, Michael Bauer
Kirchner (son of Nicholas and Mary Kirchner Bauei"), who married Elizabeth
Delzeit, who, dying, left three daughters: Emma. Flora and Lydia, who are
also the adopted children of their foster grandparents and bear the name. Mr.
Kirchner is a regular communicant in St. Joseph's congregation of the Roman
Catholic Church, and a member of St. Joseph's Benevolent S'ociety. He is an
excellent gentleman, a public spirited citizen and has contributed liberally to
the suppoi-t of many of Tiffin' s social and industrial interests.
MICHAEL JOSEPH KIRCHNEE. dealer in groceries. Tiffin, was born
in the village of Windshausen. near Neustadt an der Saal, in the kingdom of
Bavaria. December 27. 1826. His parents were Kaspar and Margaret (Stimu)
Kirchner, who came to this country in 1839, and settled in Cleveland the fol-
lowing year, where they passed the remainder of their lives. The father, who
was also born in AVindshausen, where he lived till he came to America, died
here in 1860. and the mother in 1854, leaving a family of four sons and one
daughter: John, buried in the Roman Catholic cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio,
along with his parents; Ferdinand, supposed to have perished in the forest
tires of Michigan: Kaspar, a baker, in Tiffin: Susanna, wife of Mr. Jacobs
of Cleveland, and Michael Joseph. The subject of om- sketch learned the
trade of shoe-making when a youth, but was compelled to- abandon it
eventually in consequence of ill health. In 1855 he came to Tiffin, and in
1860 embarked in business for himself, then in 1863 located at his present
stand where he has since been very successful. Mr. Kirchner married in
Thompson Township, this county, in 1862, Magdalena Martin, daughter of
John and Barbara (Hammerschmidt) Martin, natives of Germany, and by this
union has had six sons and three daughters : Mary B.. John Louis, Joseph Cas-
par, John Michael Joseph, Francis Dominick, Annie Kathrina. Otto Peter,
Margerete Rosa Philomina, and Charles Aloisius. Mr. and Mrs. Kirchner
are rt>gular communicants of the Roman Catholic Church, in which he has
served as an active official since coming here. He is a very worthy representa-
tive of the German people in Tiffin, and has by many noble characteristics en-
CLINTON TOWNSHir. 795
cleared himself to his fellow citizens, among whom he has many close friends
and no enemies. He is a worthy husband, and a kind father to his children,
on whose education he has spared no pains.
FREDERICK DE LAUGHTER KISHLER, undertaker and cabinet
Biaker. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin, Seneca Co., Ohio. February 10, 1881. His
parents, Frederick and Elizabeth (Miller) Kishler came here in 1828, from
Perry County, Ohio (they were formerly of Chambersburg, Penn. . and came
of pioneer stock in that State). They reared four sons and three daughters,
all of whom have families in the State. The subject of our sketch learned
cabinet-making, in Tiffin, with John A. Myers, and has continued creditably
connected with that industry, in connection with undertaking since. He was
united in marriage, in 1854," with Catharine, daughter of Jacob and Rebecca
(De Laughter) AVilcox, who settled here in 188(». from Maryland. To this
union have been born one son and one daughter: Otto Jefferson, a traveling
salesman for machinery, and Flora Kishler, portrait and landscape painter.
Mr. and Mrs. Kishler are worthy members of the Methodist Protestant Church.
He is a member of the K. of P., and of the K. of L. During the
war of the Rebellion Mr. Kishler did honorable service in the National
Guards fi-om which he received an honorable discharge. He has been an active
member of the Tiffin fire department thirty-one years, and served as its chief
for six years. He is a member of the city council, with which he has lieen con-
nected for four years.
PROF. JAMES WILSON KNOTT, superintendent of the city and high
schools of Tiffin, was born in West Bedford, Ohio, August 14, 1850; son of
the late Rev. J. W. Knott, a pioneer minister of the Presbyterian Church in
this State, a native of Westmoreland County, Penn. , .and whose father, Maj.
AVilson Knott, figured conspicuously as an officer in the war of 1812. They
(the Knotts) were of Scotch Presbyterian ancestry. Prof. Knott's mother was
Julia Kerr, daughter of James and Mary (Jewel) Kerr, Pennsylvanians. The
father of James Kerr settled in Pennsylvania from Ireland. On the Jewel
side the genealogy runs a long way back, and connects with the branch of the
Jewel family to which ex-Postmaster-General Jewel belongs. The isstie of the
marriage of Rev. J. W. and Julia (Kerr) Knott was two sons and two daugh-
ters. Of the former, W^ alter M. L. died in his youth; of the latter, Mary
Jewel is the wife of Col. E. Finger, of Ashland, Ohio, and Wallie R. is the
wife of Armer Gregg, of Savannah, Ohio. The subject of our sketch, the
youngest son of the family, received a good common school training near
Shelby, Ohio, and took his preparatory course of study in the academy at
Savannah, Ohio. He graduated in a full classical and scientific coiu-se at the
University of Wooster, at Wooster, Ohio, in 1879. He had meanwhile taught
school as 'a means of supporting himself in his studies, and upon graduating
accepted his present incimibency, with which he has been reputably connected
since. Since coming to Tiffin he has taken an important part in the develop-
ment of the social and literary interests of the city, has served upon the
board of trustees of the Presbyterian Church and of the Library Association,
and is a member of the Beta Theta Phi of his alma mater. September 8,
1864, his father passed away, ending his useful life as a minister of the Pres-
byterian Church and teacher in its institutions in the State, and is buried at
Shelby, Ohio, the place of his marriage. Mrs. Knott survives and resides
with her son here, esteemed by all, a worthy woman and kind mother. Among
the many graduates under Prof. Knott's instruction may be mentioned some
who are (at young men) taking rapid strides forward in iH-ofessional careers :
Frank Wenner, assistant principal of the high school at Bellaire. Ohio: ^Vill-
796 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
iam H. Dore, a worthy member of the Tiffin bar; Albert Norton, cadet in the
naval school at Annapolis; Theodore Brohl, Elmer Hershberger, Fred L. Wen-
ner, William Miller. Edward Boos, Dr. Willis White, and many others, who,
while busy with the furtherance of their other studies, do not forget their old
master. In personal appearance Prof. Knott is tall and commanding, of
studious mien and pleasant, open countenance, bespeaking his Scotch-Irish
lineage. Socially he is very clever, and although possessed of all the requisites
in the make-up of a worthy husband and sire he is still treading the thorny
paths of celibacy.
AARON KREADER. of the firm of Kreader & Zint, plumbers_and gas
fitters, Tiffin, was born in Northampton County, Penn., May KS, 183/; son of
Samuel and Magdalena (Bander) Kreader, the former of Scotch ancestry in
Pennsylvania. Mr. Kreader learned mechanics and worked as machinist in
the woolen-mills in the East. April 1. 1858, he came to Tiffin, Ohio, and en-
gaged in the woolen-mills here, as master mechanic, from 1801 till May. 1881,
when, upon the dissolution of the firm, he left that business and engaged with
Mr. Zint in his present business. Mr. Kreader was married, in Tiffin, to
Elizabeth Schiffert. by whom he has two sons and two daughters: WilliaTu
Marcus, a mechanic; Lillie May, a lady of excellent literary attainments, a
teacher in the city high schools ; Jennie Burt and Charles Washington. The
family worship in the Methodist Protestant Church, of which the mother and
eldest daughter are worthy members. Mr. Kreader is a member of the
I. O. O. F. and of the encampment.
J. H. KUEBLER, wholesale and retail dealer in leather and findings,
boots and shoes, Tiffin, was born in Tiffin, this county, May 24. 1852. son of
Anthony and Frances (Schabacher) Kuebler. early settlers here. Anthony
Kuebler, a native of the Duchy of Baden, came to this country, settling in
Tiffin about 1885, and was prominently identified with the boot and shoe indus-
try here for many years. The mother was a native of Rhine Pfaltz. Bierne
(Bavaria), and came* to this country when a yoimg girl with her people, who
settled here. J. H. Kuebler was the third child and second son in a family of
thirteen children. He received a good common school education and was ap-
prenticed to his present business in his father's store. At the age of twenty-
five he embarked in trade on his own account in Tiffin and has maintained a
ci-editable prominence in connection with the leather industry here since. He
was married, in Tiffin, in 1877, to Catharine Miieller. a lady of estimable
attainments, eldest child of Christian and Margaret (Gross) Mueller, of Tiffin,
and by this union there are three sons and one daughter: Frank, Albert. Carl
and Corinne, of whom they have laid to rest in the Roman Catholic Cemetery,
little Carl and Corinne. Mr. and Mrs. Kuebler are regular communicants of
the Roman Catholic faith. He is an active member and official of the St.
John's Benevolent Society. Mr. Kuebler has avoided the political field and
has never ventured into caucus meetings, although a pronounced party man.
Socially he is an excellent citizen and an affable and jjleasant gentleman.
JOHN LAUER, grocery merchant. Tiffin, was born in Roschberg, Rhine
Prussia, June 0. 1820. son of Francis and Lena (Schaadt) Lauer. the former a
native of Roschberg, the latter of Oldenburg. They reared two sons and two
daughters of whom the sons, only, came to this country. A^'endel (brother of
our sudject) died in Wilkesbarre, Penn. . leaving a son and two daughters.
John Lauer was reared to farming and served twenty-two months in the vol-
unteer militia of his country. In December, 1847. he sailed for America and
came to Buffalo. N. Y.. and in the following year visited Tiffin. Being a
young man he felt a desire to travel, and we subsequently find him in Califor-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 797
Ilia, where lie spent six years in successful work. Returning East in 1850 he
located at Tiffin, where he shortly after engaged in his present business, with
which he has been creditably connected since. 'He was maiTied, at Buffalo,
N. Y., in 1858, to Barbara Demuth, a native of Urweiler, Prussia, by whom he has
three sons and two daughters, and one step-daughter, by Mrs. Lauer' s previous
marriage; their names are as follows: Catharine Schlacter, now the wife of O.
M. Loesser; Mary, Peter, Frank, Charles and Amelia. Of the sons, Peter and
Charles are merchants and Frank is a carriage trimmer. The family are mem-
bers of St. Joseph's congregation of the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Lauer
is a genial gentleman and has won the respect of his fellow citizens by his up-
right character and broadness of principles. He is ever ready to support all
measui-es that tend to the city' s development, and contributes to all worthy
enterprises.
THOMAS LEAHY, farmer and stock-raiser, of Eden Township, P. O.
Tiffin, is a native of County Kerry, Ireland, where he was born in the parish
of Abbeyfeale, son of John and Mary (Kane) Leahy, of that parish, descended
from honorable ancestry, counting among them many of the better class of
yeomanry, as well as literary and professional people (lawyers, physicians, etc. ).
Oiu- subject was reared to farming. He was united in marriage with Ellen,
daughter of Maurice Hartnett. of Abbeyfeale, L'eland, which family reckon
among themselves very clever professional people in Counties Cork and Limer-
ick, Ireland. Upon the encouragement of his father-in-law, Maurice Hartnett,
Thomas Leahy concluded to come to America, and in the fall of 1803 arrived
here. His finances w^ere limited, but being of the "right stuff" for a success-
ful farmer in Ohio, he set about and rented land, and finally bought property,
eventually locating on his present farm, one of the finest in the county, and
has succeeded in accumulating a handsome competency. His business life is
a worthy example of what can be accomplished by a man of strong resolution
coupled with steady persistent industry. Besides his success as a farmer and
stock-raiser he has reared and educated his family well, and has the satisfaction
of seeing his chikli'en occupying prominent positions in the social and indus-
trial life of his adopted country. John AV. , his eldest, and James F. , his
third son, are honored members of the Tiffin bar; Dr. Maurice Leahy, the
second son. is a prominent physician of Tiffin (he is the father of two boys by
his marriage with Enna, daughter of the late Dr. John Alexander McFarland,
of Tiffin): Mary A. and Maggie, the only daughters, are ladies of excellent
literary and social attainments, and assist to cheer the fireside. Thomas J. is
a farmer, Richard P. and Michael are students at Heidelberg College and Jere-
miah, the youngest son, a lad, is at home. The family are regular communi-
cants of St. Mary's Church.
LLOYD NORRIS LEASE, ex-sheriff of Seneca County and proprietor of
hotel and livery, Tiffin, was born in Eden Township, this county, April 2,
1838, and comes of worthy pioneer ancestry. His parents, Otho and Belinda
(Street) Lease, were natives of Maryland; the former, a son of Harry Lease,
descended fi'om English pioneers in that State, and the latter fi'om Scotch pio-
neers. In 1832 Mr. Lease's parents located in Eden Township, this county,
where they remained till 1840, when they removed to Sandusky County, Ohio,
and there reared a family of six sons and three daughters, all of whom married
and reared families. L. N. Lease, the fifth child and fourth son. upon arriv-
ing at manhood returned to this county, subsequently locating in Tiffin, where
he has since remained, prominently identified with many business interests.
He was married in Tiffin, in 1859, to Miss Maria L., daughter of Samuel and
Rebecca (Thompson) Kridler, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled here' in
798 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
1832. To this union was born one son, Eden L., a young man of bright intel-
ligence, an academic student. Mr. Lease has always borne a leading part in
local politics, and has been an almost time-honored delegate to the many con-
ventions of his (the Democratic) party. In 1878 he accepted the nomination to
the sheriffalty of Seneca County, and polled the then large majority vote of
1,275. Accepting a renomination at the end of his official incumbency he car-
ried 1,385 majority, the largest knoAvn in the county. He is a very public
spirited man and has always contributed liberally to the support of the many
social and industrial interests of his locality. He is of fine physique (standing
over six feet and weighing 225 pounds), genial nature, and is socially a very
pleasant gentleman. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.
LEWIS LEFFLER. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Clinton Township,
this county, July 14, 1847. son of Lewis H. and Sarah Leffler. natives of
AVurtemberg, where they married and remained until 184G. at which time they
immigrated to America and settled in Clinton Township, and there remained
until l:heir death ; the former departed this life December 12, 1879, and the
latter February 14, 1885. Our subject was united in marriage May, 24, 1871,
with Barbara Breckel; she was born in Wurtemberg, April 18, 1846. Her par-
ents were Gotleib and Anna Breckel, now residents of Tiffin. Ohio. Mr. and
Mrs. Leffler have six children: Sarah A., Tillie. Thomas, Rosa, Robert and
Clara. Our subject owns eighty-five acres of good land where he and his family
reside. Mr. and Mrs. Leffler are members of the German Lutheran Church.
O. T. LOCKE, editor and proprietor of the Tribune, and postmaster of
Tiffin, was born in Killawog. Cortland Co.. N. Y., February 27, 1842, and is
descended of a line of pioneer New Englanders. from England, his great-
grandfather having served as a British officer in early colonial times. His
father, Nathaniel R. Locke, a tanner and shoe-maker by occupation, a native
of Vermont, served in the war of 1812 and afterward settled in Cortland
County, N. Y. O. T. Locke after receiving a common school education in his
native State, and when eighteen years old. "went AVest" and engaged as "typo"
in the office of the BKcyrus Join-uaL at Bucyrus. Ohio (D. R. Locke, proprietor):
here he completed his apprenticeship and. in 1803, with another brother. C. N.
Locke (now deceased), bought the FincUay Jeffersonian. at Findlay. Ohio, and
conducted it till 18G8,when they with Mr. A¥. G. Blymer (who had joined them
at Findlay) bought out his present paper, the Tribune. Mr. Locke was mar-
ried in Findlay, in 1866, to Miss Maria C. Porch, second daughter of Henry
Porch, Esq., of Findlay, Ohio, and by her he has two daughters and one son:
Carrie, Sallie and John. He is a member of the Masonic order.
JAMES AV. LOVE, president of the city council of Tiffin, was born near
Lancaster, Fairfield Co.. Ohio, November 2. 1828. His parents. Andrew and
Mary (Swayze) Love, the former of Lancaster. Penn. . and the latter of A^ir-
ginia, were married in Pennsylvania and located in Fairfield County, Ohio, in
1812, and in about the year 1830, moved to Seneca County and settled in
Tiffin. They reared a family of six childi-en — two sons and four daughtei's — of
whom one son. James AV. . and two daughters, Mrs. Sarah Reem, of Lancaster.
Ohio, and Mrs. Abigail Rex, of AVells County. Ind. . survive. The subject of
our sketch learned the trades of spinning-wheel and cabinet furniture making
in his father's shop, which was among the first established in Tiffin. Upon
the death of his father, in 1841. he carried on his business for several years.
He afterward was employed by Mr. John Fiege (subsequently Fiege Bros.)
for twenty-four years in the manufacture of furniture. In 1881 he was one
of the incoi-poraters of the Enterprise Manufacturing Company, in whose employ
he is at present. Mr. Love married in Ui^per Sandusky. Ohio, in 1.S53. Miss
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 799
Elizabeth, daughter of John and Catherine (Hugg) Tripp, pioneers of Wvau-
dot County, Ohio, but formerly of Philadelphia, Penn.. and by this union has
one son. Victor J. . a journalist and " typo " connected with the Toledo Bee. of
Toledo. Ohio. Mr. Love is an ardent supporter of all measures tending to the
developement of his city, and has served with credit in its councils, and for the
last four years has been its presiding officer. He is a time-honored Odd Fel-
low, a member of Seneca Lodge No. 35. also a member of Hobah Encamp-
ment No. 10, I. O. O. F. , and has served as its scribe for the last fifteen
years ; is also one of the charter members of the K. of P. , Lodge No. 8(>. of
Tiffin. In matters of religion, although not connected with any_ sects or
creeds, our subject is a liberal supporter of the Reformed Church, of which
Mrs. Love is an active member.
ROBERT LYSLE, notary public, 'general insurance and real estate busi-
ness. Tiffin, was born in Chester Coimty, Penn. , March 20, 1883, son of Rolv
ert and Eliza A. (Walker) Lysle, both of L'ish ancestry. The grandfather,
Lieut. James Lysle, left his native country, Ireland, and arriving in America
settled in Chester County, Penn. He was by occupation a teacher: served
under Gen. Anthony Wayne diiring the Revolutionary war and was with him
at the storming of Stonington: he died of quick consumption in 1800. Our
subject's grandparents left Chester County. Penn., and moved to Sewickley,
Penn., in 1801. Our subject's father was born in Chester County, Penn..
and returning there bought the homestead in 1820. Our subject's mother
comes of pioneer stock in Pennsylvania, among whom are many tanners and
curriers on the maternal, and paper manufacturers on the paternal side. The
subject of oui' sketch, one of a family of thi'ee sons and six daughters (all liv-
ing in Philadelphia and vicinity, except himself and one sister, who died in
1840), was reared to paper-making (the business of his father) and in com-
pany with his brother. James W.. carried on the "old mill." In 1800 he sold
his interest in the business and came West, and in April, 1801, located with
his family in Tiffin. He engaged in book-keeping for a time and subsequently
became a knight of the road in commercial business, in which capacity he was
favorably known for ten years, retiring in 1877 to take up his present vocation.
He received a commission as notary public fi'om Gov. Hayes and has had it
renewed under Govs. Foster and Hoadly. ]VIi\ Lysle was married in Chester
County. Penn. . to Hannah Kimble Brown, daughter of Phineas and Louisa
(Kimble) Brown, by whom he has three sons and three daughters: Florence
May. wife of J. W. Andi-ews. of Toledo: AValter Barnes, stock dealer of Ida
Grove. Iowa: Lillie Brown: Olive Louisa: Robert Walker, a young lad of
excellent attainments; and George Kimble, born July 29, 1885. Mr. Lysle
and family are Avorthy members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he has
served as member of the board of elders and president of the board of trustees.
He is a F. & A. M. and has passed all the chairs to the commandery: is pres-
ent Captain General in De Molay Commandery No. 9, K. T. He is president
of the library association, and has altogether been foremost in the support of
Tiffin's many literary and educational institutions. During the late war of
the Rebellion Mr. Lysle did honorable service, enlisting, June. 1802. in Com-
pany I. One Hundred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry: Avas com-
missioned first lieutenant August 1 1 of that year, and did active service till
Januarys 25, 1803, when he was compelled to resign on accout of ill health.
Regaining his health he set about organizing Company I, Eighty-sixth Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, which he took in the field as captain July 14. 1803. and
was in active sei-vice again till February 10, 1804. when the regiment was
mustered out.
800 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
EPHRAIM J. McCOLLUM, M. D., physician and surgeon, Tiffin, was
born in Richland County, Ohio, in June, 1825. He is the third in the fam-
ily of live children of John and Sarah (Barber) McCollum. and was born on
his father' s farm. When live years of age his father died, and he was taken
by his grandfather McCollum,' who was a farmer in Columbia County, Penn.
There he attended school, and later worked on the farm during the summer
months. In 1842 he taught school, which he continued to do for four years.
In 1846 he began the study of medicine, with Dr. AVilliam Marr, of Washing-
ton, Penn. In 1847-48 he attended lectures at Jefferson College, Philadelphia.
In 1849 he commenced the practice of his chosen profession in McCutchen-
ville, Ohio, where he continued for three years. In 1852-53 he again attended
a course of lectures at Jefferson Medical College, and was graduated therefrom
in March, 1853. The same month he was married to Margaret Marr, a sister
of Dr. Marr. with whom he had studied. He immediately located himself in
Tiffin, Ohio, which has ever since been his residence. In 1854, during the
cholera epidemic in Tiffin, the Doctor became a victim, but fortunately recov-
ered. The time was a trying one, for in the little town of 3,000 population
from ten to fifteen were dying every day. The Doctor is one of the oldest
physicians in Tiffin. His practice has been large, successful, and remunera
tiv'e. On the opening of the Chicago Division of the Baltimore & Ohio
Railroad he received the appointment as surgeon for that road, as well as of
the Northwestern Ohio Railroad (now the Toledo Division of the Pennsylvania
Railroad). These positions he has held for many years; has been health offi-
cer of Tiffin: president of the County Medical Society; and a member of the
Northwestern Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society, and the Amer-
ican Medical Society. He has been a member of the Presbytermn Church
since about twenty-five years of age. His son, Leon, born in 1856, studied
with him, took two courses in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at Keo-
kuk, Iowa, where he graduated, and settled in the practice of medicine at
Lodi, Seneca County. He is now in practice with his father at Tiffin. The
Doctor, by both parents, is of Scotch descent. His grandfather. Ephraim
McColluni, who was born in the United States, was the son of a Sotchman.
On his mother's side he can trace his ancestry in Scotland back to the time of
Queen Elizal^eth. These records, in possession of the Doctor, are of remark-
able interest. His maternal grandmother was a Kennedy, one of the descend-
ants of Roland de Garrick. who was himself a direct descendant of the old
Scottish kings. The authentic record says: "In early part of fourteenth
century the descendants of Roland de Oarrick adopted the name of Kennedy
as a surname." Scotch history is full of mention of members of this family.
James Kennedy, archbishop of St. Andrews, was cousin to James II, of
Scotland, and was one of the most powerful statesmen of Scotland, of his
time. We tind mention of high clmrch dignitaries, great generals, and states-
men. One of the women of the family stands ont conspicuous in history,
from the fact that she was one of the two ladies in waiting who were allowed
to attend the unfortunate Mary, Queen of Scots, at her execution. The Ken-
nedys, though at first somewhat divided, early threw their influence in favor
of the reformed religion. In 1538 Alexander Kennedy, a finely educated
young gentleman, was burned at the stake, in Glasgow, for wi-iting a poetical
satire against the Franciscan friars. Branches of the Kennedy family migrated
to Ireland, and from thence, at a later date, to America. In America, as in
Scotland, they have become stanch Presbyterians in religious faith.
\V. RUSH McFARLAND, proprietor of restaiu-ant and saloon. Tiffin, only
surviving son of the late Dr. John Alexander McFarland.was born in Tiffin, this
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 801
county, Jamiaiy 10, 1846, and after receiving a good education engaged in
merchandising, with which he was connected for several years, establishing his
present business in 1880. February 29, 1870, he was married to Elizabeth,
daughter of John B. and Margaret (Schaeffer) Graveldinger, the former of
Remich, Luxemburg, Germany, and the latter of Dudenbrun. Baden. To this
union were born three sons: Alexander Rush, Henry Arthur (buried in the
Roman Catholic cemetery here) and William Albert. Mr. and Mrs. McFar-
land are members of St. Mary' s congregation of the Roman Catholic Church.
He is a member of the Bruderbund society, and has been a member of the fire
department for eleven years.
AUSTIN McNEAL, merchant. Tiffin, was born at Fort Ball (now Tiffin),
Ohio, June 11, 1880, son of Milton and Maria (Gregory) McNeal, the former
of whom was born in Orange County, N. Y., and settled here in 1823; the lat-
ter, who came here the following year, was a daughter of Nehemiah and
Patience (Brown) Gregory, who settled in Athens County, Ohio, in 1801, from
New York State (they were of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and' came of Presbyterian
Church people, and of Revolutionary stock, the father of Patience Brown
serving with marked distinction as a commissioned officer in the Revolutionary
war). Milton McNeal died in 1831, leaving a son and two daughters; of the
latter, Amanda is the wife of James W. Bayard, of Athens County, Ohio, and
Laura is the wife of Judge Truman H. Bagby, of Tiffin. Austin, the son,
was reared to his father's business (merchandising), and has been prominently
identified with the industry here since. He was united in marriage with Sarah
Ann, daughter of Dr. Secretary Rawson, of Richfield, Ohio (now of Des
Moines, Iowa), and brother of Abel Rawson, this union being blessed with a
son and a daugher: Otis R. (whom they buried) and Lucy Maria, now the wife
of Don R. Gibson, of Payne, Ohio, son of Dr. Robert McDonald Gibson,
brother of Gen. W. H. Gibson, of Tiffin. Mrs. Maria McNeal after living a
widow for years Avas happily married to Abel Rawson, with whom she remained
a kind companion until his demise. She is still hale and vigorous, and re-
tains in her memory many of the very interesting events of her early life. She
is very kindly respected by all who know her as the warm friend 'of the dis-
tressed, the noble woman, kind mother and affectionate wife. While many of
her age have passed the more active sphere of their lives, she still continues' her
domestic duties, milking her cows, making butter as of yore and attending to
her household duties. The wonder is how she has carried her years of care
and labor.
JAMES V. MAGERS, clerk of the courts of Seneca County, was born in
Stark County, Ohio, May 17, 1842. His parents, Joseph E. Magers and Mary
A. Sneeringer, settled in this county in 1852, coming from Stark County. The
former was a native of Maryland, and of pioneer French descent, and the lat-
ter of German pioneer ancestry in Pennsylvania; of their family of eleven
children they reared four sons and two daughters. The subject of this sketch
(their eldest child) enjoyed the benefits of the common schools, and finished
his education at Heidelberg College. He engaged in teaching, with which
profession he was prominently identified in this locality for many years. In
politics he has always been a stanch Democrat. October, 1881, he was elected
to his present incumbency, and upon the expiration of his term of office was
honorably re-elected. He married, January 7, 1868, at New Riegel, this
county, Mary J., daughter of John Adelsperger and Mary A. Albert, pioneers
of Loudon Township, the former of whom was a native of Maryland, and the
latter of Pennsylvania. Mr, and Mrs. Magers have two sons and two daugh-
ters living: Charles F., Olive I., Camilla E. and Victor L. ; and have buried
802 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
two sons: Orville V. and Joseph J. Mr. Magers, while being a very reputa-
ble teacher, is an active and enterprising public man and citizen, and contrib-
utes in no small degree to the support ol: his party, as attested to by his poi^ular
ability as an official.
J.' F. MARQU ARDT, druggist, Tiffin, Ohio, born in Aldingen, AYurtem-
berg, Germany, November 22, 1839, son of the late Christian Marquardt, of
that place. J. F. Marquardt came to America, at the age of fourteen years,
through the influence of the late Dr. Jacob Frederick Jeack, under whose
guardianship he remained in study. On the death of Dr. Jeack two years
later he apprenticed himself to the drug Inisiness, and after spending two
years at this trade in Toledo returned to Tiffin in 1858, opened a drug store,
and has been prominently identified with the drug business ever since. In
1802 he married, in Tiffin, Ardella E. Roller, fourth daughter of Jesse Roller,
and by her he has one son: Jesse C. , a young man of excellent attainments, a
graduate of the Ohio State University, and at present in charge of his father' s
di'ug business at New Washington, Ohio. Mr. Marquardt has accumulated a
handsome competence in his business, the result of steady, persistent industry.
He has always been a liberal contributor to public measures tending to the
growth and development of the social and industrial life of his adopted city.
He is a worthy Mason, and has attained to the degree of Rnight Templar
in De Molay Commandery. He is also a member of the R. of H. , and
of the Royal Arcaoiim. During the late civil war he pronounced himself in
strong accord with the Union, and so extended his services. In 1874 he
erected the handsome building in which he does business, and which bears his
name. He is also interested in many other enterprises.
JACOB MARSHAL, retired farmer and one of the old pioneers of the
eounty, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Biron, Grermany, September 23, 1815, son of
Greorge and Elizabeth Marshal, who immigrated to America direct to Seneca
County, Ohio, in 1834, and here remained until their death. Oirr subject was
maiTied, August 28, 1830, to Sophia Bishop, born in Germany July 23, 1809,
daughter of Nicholas and Eve Bishop, Avho died in Germany. To our subject
and wife have been born eight childi'en, five now living: George, Jacob, Mary
(wife of Paul Miller), Susan (wife of Jonas Hoblits), Elizabeth (wife of Fred-
erick Meyers). The deceased are David, Margaret and an infant. Our
subject, who has been a farmer all his life, owns nearly 100 acres of land. He
and his wife are faithful members of the Reformed Church.
CHARLES MARTIN, dealer in grocei'ies. Tiffin, was born in Hondingen,
Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, in 1837, and was apprenticed to the cabinet-
making U'ade there. In 1853 he came to America and located in the following
year in Melmore, this county, where he was connected with merchandising till
1 802, when he came to Tiffin and followed the same occupation till in 1804,
when, upon the organization of the One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Regiment
Ohio National Guards, he enlisted in Company A, and did duty during its
term of service. In December of 1804 he formed a partnership in the grocery
bxisiness with Mr. Nighswander, which continued until 1808, when Mr. Negele
purchased aa interest (Mr. Nighswander retiring), and the firm has since been
favorably known as Martin & Negele. Besides a regular trade the firm have
introduced an important feature in the enterprise of coffee roasting and grind-
ing, as well as spice grinding, which has proved no small addition to their
business. Mr. Martin was married at Melmore, in 1800, to Miss Sophia Pfau,
a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, daughter of Frederick Pfau, a native of
Wurtemberg. Germany. They have two sons and three daughters: James G.
(in mercantile trale at Havward, Wis.), Emma. Elsie. Flora and Silas.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 803
Mr. and Mrs. Martin are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of
which the former has been an official for several years. He is a member of the
different Masonic bodies in Tiffin, also K. of H. , Eoyal Ai'cannm and A. L. of
H. Mr. Martin has always felt averse to holding public office, but has
served his ward (Fourth) in the councils of the city.
JAMES F. MAETIX. son of Nathan Martin, of Pennsylvania, and Eliza-
beth Devins, of York County. Canada, was born in Canada' May 6, 1830, and
came to Seneca County with his parents in 1839. He was educated in Bloom
Township, and at the Seneca County Academy; worked on the home-
stead farm until August, 1850, when he was severely injured by a threshing
machine ; he then attended the Seneca County Academy, and in 1853 taught
school in Bloom Township, which he followed until 1865, when he was
elected county recorder. He was re-elected in 1868, and served until the close
of 1871. In 1874 he was chosen assistant sergeant -at -arms, at Columbus, for
the Legislatui-e. Mr. Martin was married on Christmas day, 1855, to Miss Julia
Engle, of Thompson Township. This lady died March 20, 1874, leaving foiu-
children. Of these two daughters have died since that time.
DR. JOHN W. MARTIN, dentist. Tiffin, was born in Clinton Township,
Seneca Co. , Ohio, March 3, 1832. His parents, John and Barbara (Broad-
beck) Martin, were early settlers in this county, having moved fi-om Freder-
ick County, Md., in 1826; the former was born in Frederick County,
Md., and the latter near York, Perm. The subject of oui- sketch was
reared on the farm and followed agricultural pursuits till he was twenty-
six years of age. when he commenced the study of dentistry. After a short
practice at Westerville, Ohio, he located in Tiffin, this county, in 1861, and
has been favorably identified with professional work here since. He was united
in mari'iage, in 1853, with Rachael A., daughter of John and Lydia (Reem)
Berkey, of Liberty Township, this county; she passed away her young life,
leaving one daughter, Rachael, now the wife of H. H. Neligh, a dentist. Dr.
Martin was married on second occasion, in 1861, to Elizabeth A., daughter of
Rev. John and Elizabeth (Walker) Souder; she also departed this life Decem-
ber 17, 1884, leaving no issue. Dr. Martin is a worthy citizen, a clever dental
sui-geon and an enterprising public spirited business man. He is a worthy
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
JOHN MERKELBACH, grocer. Tiffin, born in Granzhausen, in the duke-
dom of Nassau. April 5, 1826; is a son of Jacob William and Elizabeth (Remi)
Merkelbach, who had four sons and four daughters, of whom one son and two
daughters came to America: Catharine (wife of Jacob Caesar, of New York
City, have four sons and fom- daughters) ; Wilhemina (wife of Frederick Her-
ner, of Allentown, Penn. , have three sons and two daughters), and John. The
subject of this sketch learned painting in his native land, and upon coming to
Tiffin, Ohio, in 1853, he carried on his trade and acquired a handsome compe-
tence. In 1876 he embarked in the grocery business, which he still carries on.
February 4, 1855, he married Catharine, daughter of Andi-ew Albrecht, and by
her has eleven childi'en — two sons and nine daughters : Louisa, wife of James
George, of Tiffin; Anna, wife of George Dutt, of Tiffin; Mina, who carries on
the store; Emma, a lady of excellent attainments, a teacher in the schools of
Tiffin; Eva: Mary: John Frederick, a painter; Lizzie; Ida; Charlie and Cora.
The family attend the German Reformed Church. Mr. Merkelbach is a mem-
ber of the Bruderbund societv. of which he has served as its honored president.
PETER MILLER, farmer. P. O. Tiffiu, was born in Ontario County. N.
Y., September 16. 1833, son of Daniel W. and Anna Miller, who were united
in marriage in the State of New Y'ork. and who moved to Seneca County, Ohio,
804 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
in 1837. where they remained until the death of the latter. Daniel W. Miller
afterward married Sarah Raber, and they now reside in Clinton Township.
Our subject was married March 2, 1854, to Levina Robenalt, born in this
county September 12. 1832, daughter of Solomon and Catharine Robenalt,
natives of Pennsylvania, and who were married in Fairfield County, Ohio,
moving to Seneca County in 1829, and there remaining until their death; the
father died in 18G3 and the mother in 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are the
parents of seven children, of whom six are now living : Frank P. , born October
1, 1856: Orlando A., born March 12, 1858; Daniel W., born August 1, ]859;
Alice v., JDorn October 25, 1860; Burton R. and Anna M., born November 16,
1864. The deceased, Gideon A., was born January 4, 1855, and died April
22, 1862. Mr. Miller is a cooper, a trade he followed for several years, and
then became engaged in farming. He owns 288 acres of land, nearly all improved.
He is trustee of the township, a position he has filled for six years with
credit to himself and the satisfaction of his constituents. He is a member of
the I. O. O. F.
P. L. MORCHER, proprietor of bakery, confectionery and dining hall,
Tifiin. was born in Fort Seneca, Pleasant Township, this county, May 29, 1854.
His parents were Jacob and Elizabeth (Rehm) Morcher, former of whom came
fi-om Wurtemberg, Germany, when a lad of foui'teen, and here learned shoe-
making, which he carried on at Fort Seneca till his death, which occurred in
January, 1870; the latter was a native of Bierne, Bavaria, daughter of Philip
Lorenzo and Elizabeth (Mechsdesheimer) Rehm, who located at Fort Seneca,
this county, in 1845. Jacob and Elizabeth (Rehm) Morcher had a family of
six sons and one daughter: John William, of Tiffin; Philip Lorenzo; George
Henry, a baker; Frank Albert, a farmer and lumber dealer; Charles Jacob, a
baker; Frances Elizabeth, now Mrs. Charles Purcel, in bakery and restaurant
business at Fostoria. and Jacob Udel, with Philip Lorenzo. The subject of
our sketch learned shoe-making, which he followed till he was twenty-six years
of age, when he engaged in his present business, which he has successfiilly
carried on since. He was married, December 6, 1881, to Matilda, daughter of
Charles and Catharine (Bechle) Wendler. He and his wife are worthy mem-
bers of the First Reformed Church. Mr. Morcher is a member of the K. of P.
and of P. O. of A.
BENJAMIN F. MYERS, Tiffin, is a descendant of the German pioneers
of Ohio from Maryland and Pennsylvania. Conrad Myers, his grandfather,
coming from Maryland, settled in Mahoning County, Ohio, in 1796. His
father, whose name was Conrad, was married to Miss Leah Rauch, of Penn-
sylvania. In 1845 they came to this county and made their home on a farm
in Jackson Township, where a family of five sons and three daughters grew
up around them. The subject of this sketch was born in Mahoning County,
Ohio, May 2, 1833. His early education was acquired in the district schools
in his neighborhood. He made such advancement that at the age of sixteen he
taught his first term of school. Afterward he attended Heidelberg College,
Tiffin, Ohio, where he prosecuted the studies of the scientific course. Leaving
college he engaged in teaching, and has ever since been prominently connected
with the educational interests of his county. After a successful experience of
seventeen years in the district schools, he accepted a position in the ])ublic
schools of the city of Tiffin, where he became principal of the Second Ward,
and assistant superintendent. This position Mr. Myers has held since 1866.
During the last nineteen years he has served as a member of the board of
county school examiners for Seneca County. In 3856 Mr. Myers was married
to Miss Leah A. Faulk, of Columbiana County, Ohio, and they have one son
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 805
— Claude Eugene. The family all belong to the Reformed Chui'ch, in which
for many years they have been consistent members and efficient workers. The
genial, generous disposition of Mr. Myers has made him many friends. Per-
sonally he is of line physique, tall and compactly built, and of commanding
presence. After an active and successful service in his profession, he has the
enviable reputation of being a man of honor and of the strictest integrity.
He is still in the prime of life, and after being nominated by the Democratic
party as their candidate for the office of treasurer of Seneca County, he was
elected, in October, 1885, to that office by a large majority, even running over
300 votes ahead of his ticket.
B. FRANK MYERS, dealer in hardware, stoves and tinware, Tiffin, was
born in Mansfield, Ohio, March 20, 1848. His parents, John A. and Sarah
(Blymer) Myers, natives of Franklin County, Penn., located in Mansfield in
1842, and thence came to Tiffin in 1848, where John A. Myers carried on hard-
ware business, etc., till his death, which occurred in 1877. Since the death of
his father, our subject, who was in a manner reared to it, has carried on the
business with excellent success. He was married, in Tiffin, in 1873, to Alver-
da L. , daughter of the late William Cromwell, Esq. , a native of Frederick
County, Md.. and by this union there are one son and one daughter: Alfred R.
and Aleeta. Mr. and Mrs. Myers are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and K. of P. , and is president of
the Tiffin Building Association.
JOHN MYERS, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, one of the old settlers of this county,
was born in Germany, June 24. 181G, son of Blasius and Elizabeth Myers,
natives of Germany, who immigrated, in 1834, to Huron County, Ohio, and
remained there until their deaths. John Myers, the subject of this sketch,
came to this county in 1844, and was united in marriage the same year with
Catharine Ardner, who was born in Bavaria in 1821. Mr. and Mrs. Myers
raised quite a large family. He is a carpenter by trade, but of late years has
been engaged in farming, owning fifty-five acres of good land. He has filled
several municipal offices with credit. Mrs. Myers departed this life in Novem-
ber, 1873. leaving a family to mourn her loss.
JOSEPH P. ]\IYERS. contractor, builder and street commissioner of
Tiffin, was born in Tiffin, this county, August 16, 1845, the eldest son of John
and Catharine (Ardner) Myers, and was reared to the building business with
which he has remained prominently connected since (his father retiring from
it to the farm in 1863, where he now lives). Many of the prominent buildings
and shops have been constructed under his supervision. In the year 1884,
while acting in the capacity of city civil engineer, which i)rofession he adopted,
by diligent study and hard work he made a complete system of maps of the
city, which have been adopted by the city. On the breaking out of the late
war of the Rebellion Mr. Myers offered his services and was admitted into
Company I, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he did
active service for three years. July 4, 1864, he was shot through the left
lung at the battle of Pilot Knob, Marietta. Ga. , and, after lying in the hospital
for many months, regained his health and was discharged at Columbus, Ohio.
He participated in the battles of Chickamauga and in many others. Return-
ing from the war he continued his professional work and in the following year
(1865) was united in marriage with Mahala Myers, who blesse_d him with five
children: Jennie, Bruce. Frank, Rush and HaiTy. In 18 < 5 Mrs. Myers
passed away from this life and is laid to rest in Maple Grove Cemetery. Mr.
Myers was married on the second occasion, in 1883, to Belle Byrns, and by
this union has two bright little bovs: Clarence and Earl. Mr. Myers has al-
806 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
ways taken an active part in public life, and is a stanch Democrat in politics.
He has always given a cordial support to the social and industrial development
of this city. He is director of the Tiffin Building Association; stockholder and
active operator of the Tiffin Edison Electric Illuminating Company; member
of Leander Stem Post G. A. K. , K. of P. , P. O. of A. and Bruderbund socie-
ties, and served with credit as chief of the Tiffin Fire Department for several
years. He belongs to many musical societies. His brothers as well as himself
are all excellent musicians.
JOHN BLASIUS MYERS, dealer in groceries and provisions, Tiffin, was
born in Tiffin, August 7, 1849; son of John and Catharine (Ardner) Myers, the
former a native of Neuberg, Baden, and the latter of Betzchbach, Bavaria;
they were married in Tiffin in 1844, and reared four sons and four daughters:
Joseph P. ; Mary, wife of Martin Hufferd, a f ai*mer in Mercer County, Ohio ;
Johanna, wife of Peter Weber, of Tiffin; John B. ; Catharine, wife of Andrew
Weigle, a mechanic of Tiffin; Christiana (deceased wife of Charles Sheter, and
who left four childi-en); William H. and Charles L. (latter deceased). The
subject of our sketch learned his father' s trade (carpentering and building), and
was connected with it for several years, during which time he did some import-
ant contracting and building on public and private buildings and on public
highways. January 1, 1875, he retired from that trade and embarked in gro-
cery, provisions and queensware business. April 21, 1874, he married Theresa
R. Myers, a native of Tiffin, Ohio, daughter of Joseph and Catharine (Sinz)
Steur, natives of Tyrol, the former of Herbranz and the latter of Kennelbach,
and who settled here in early times; they were married in May, 1853. To
Mr. and Mrs. Myers were born three daughters and two sons : Paulina K. . Al-
fred J. , Oswald J. , Victoria Annie and Bertha E. Mr. Myers is a regular
communicant of St. Joseph's Chui'ch (Roman Catholic). He is an active mem-
ber of the Bruderbund, and its honored treasurer; is also a member of the
Turnverein, and has been an active member of the Fire Department of Tiffin,
and was engineer of the steam fire engine fi-om 1870 to 1880. In 1880 Mr.
Myers purchased the property where he was born, which he now occupies, and
on which he has a handsome residence, and when he retires fi'om the cares of
the day, he lays his head to rest but a short distance from where he was first
pillowed. He is a worthy citizen, a kind husband and father, and a very
sociable gentleman.
JOHN M. MYERS was born in Clearspring, Washington Co., Md.,
September 13, 1838, son of Michael and Anna E. (Wagner) Myers, descend-
ants of jiioneer Germans, of Franklin County, Penn. , who reared a family of
four sons and two daughters, all of whom removed to this county, in 1856,
with their parents. John M. had served an apprenticeship in type-setting in
his native county and had also been reared to the building business, by his
father, and ui:)on coming here he continued in that vocation until Febniary
20, 1860, when he entered the office of the Seneca Advertiser, as a printer.
In January. 1863. he became its editor and publisher, and in 1867 he pur-
chased a half interest in the paper, associating with himself, as partner, his
brother, E. Shelby Myers; the business was conducted successfully and satis-
factorally till April, 1884, when E. Shelby, and E. Bruce (who had become a
I)artner in 1878) sold their interests to L. A. Brunner and J. W. Geiger, who
now carry it on. The firm of Myers Brothers, under which the paper was
conducted for eighteen years, succeeded in building up a i^rosjoerous business,
and enlarging the sphere and usefulness of the Advertiser, and at the time of
the dissolution of the firm, it was considered one of the best establishments in
Ohio. It would be proper to say here that in the many enterjorises in which
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 807
(nir subject has been associated, his brothers have always shared financially
with him. and although known as the head of the business, in all matters their
united counsels have always marked his line of conduct, and the actions of Mr.
Myers have been better known as that of the Myers Brothers, who have con-
tributed their share in the development of the material industries of Tiffin.
In the spring of 1871), J. M. , in connection with four other gentlemen of
Tiffin, pm-chased the Ohio Stove Works, which was conducted as a parnership
until January, 1882. at Avhich time the business was organized as a stock com-
pany, with John M. as its i^resident. in which position he has continued until
the present time. Our subject was married here in 1871, to Miss Lurena A.
Frees, a lady of excellent attainments, daughter of Wesley B. Frees, of Tiffin.
Mr. Myers has always condemned the scramble for public office, and has never
held an office nor asked for one. He has, however, been active in th^ fi^rther-
ance of the princip»les of his party and has had the i^leasure of seeing the
majority gradually growing in his county, fi'om twenty when he t ok charge
of the i^ajjer in 18fi8, to over 1.200 when he retired from its control in 1884.
Latterly he has become interested with his brothers in the cattle business in
New Mexico, to which industry he is paying much attention. E. Shelby
Myers was born in 1840, and married, in 1870, to Miss Sarah E. Haas,
daughter of John R. Haas, one of the founders of the Tiffin Agricultural
Works. E. Bruce Myers was born in Clearspring, Md. , February 1, 1851.
and man-ied here in 1879, Miss Ella M. Cunningham, daughter of George W.
Cunningham, a prominent miller and grain dealer. To this union has been
born a daughter. Bessie. Leon B. Myers the youngest brother, was boi-n in
1855, and mairied. in 1880. to Rebecca McDonafd, daughter of Maj. McDonald,
of Bucyrus, and has two daughters by the union.
JOHN M. NAYLOR. This well known citizen and business man of Tiffin,
was born at Wooster, Ohio, December 9, 1822. His parents, James and
Eleanor Dill (Musgrave) Nay lor, were natives of Beaver and Dauphin Counties.
Penn. , respectively. James Naylor was a carpenter and house builder, and
carried on that business at Wooster, Wayne Co. , Ohio, for many years. John
M. Naylor, during his earlier years, attended the public schools, where was
laid the foundation for a practical English education. Before he was out of
his ' ■ teens. " however, he taught school for several terms, and thus acquired
means to pay his way at Granville College, where he was a student for some
time. Up to this date his aim had been to obtain a thorough education and
to devote himself to the study and practice of law, but^ at the age of twenty
years he was induced to accept a clerkship in the hardware store of Jacobs &
kouke, at Wooster, Ohio, and thus the channel of his life was diverted and
directed into mercantile pursuits. He remained with the above named firm
for four years, at the expiration of which time, in 1847, he formed a partner-
ship with Harvey Howard and came to Tiffin, where they opened a hardware
store under the firm name of Howard & Naylor. Foxu- years afterward INIr.
Howard sold his interest, and Mr. Naylor assumed the sole proprietorship of
the house, continuing the same up to the present time. Under his manage-
ment the business has steadily prospered and grown, until now it is the most
extensive establishment of its kind in Tiffin, and, indeed, is excelled by few,
if any, in northern Ohio. Notwithstanding the assiduous attention Mr. Naylor
has given to his business, he has always been a student of men and afcairs and
devoted much time to the study of standard works, thus acquiring a valuable
fund of information that is generally only attained by a thorough collegiate
coiu'se. He has now been prominently identified with the commercial, social
and other interests of Tiffin for a period of thirty-eight years, dxu'ing which
808 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
time he has been proved to be a man of excellent executive and financial abili-
ties, with perceptive and reasoning faculties of no ordinary mold. His judg-
ment and prompt decision in business affairs are seldom at fault. These qual-
ities, together with great firmness and a conscientious desire to be just toward
all men, are characteristics of the man. Though never a i)olitician in the general
acceptance of the term, he has always been a Republican, zealously interested
in the welfare of that party, believing it to be the party of progress, as it was
of the Union during the dark days of the civil war; in those days by means
and influence Mr. Naylor was earnest in his aid and support of the Union
cause. He has been a member of the Methodist Church for many years, and
has been a liberal donator and one of its chief supi^orts in Tiftin. "When the
new brick church was built he contributed largely toward its erection and com-
pletion, and in various ways the city of Tiffin has always found him to the
front in support of any pu.blic enterprise calculated to benefit the whole people.
He was one of the founders of the National Exchange, now the Tifiin National
Bank, of which he has always been a director and large stockholder. Mr.
Naylor commenced his business career with little or no means, and is a striking
example of what may be accomplished in the space of a few years when energy
is aided by well directed industry, accompanied by strict integrity. Mr. Nay-
lor was married, December 11, 1849, to Cornelia T. , daughter of Judge Ben-
jamin Pittenger, and although two children were born to this union none now
survive: Cora, born in 1851, died, after a short illness, in 1873, and Frank,
born in 1854, died while on an excursion in Florida in 1883.
WILLIAM NEGELE, of the firm of Martin & Negele, grocers, etc., Tiffin,
was born in Plochingen, "Wm-temberg, Germany, February 6, 1835, son of
William and Rosina (Handel) Negele, who came to America in 1853, locating
at Tiffin the following year. The subject of our sketch learned his father's
business (soap and candle-making) in his native land, but on coming here
learned marble-cutting, which he followed till the breaking out of the late
civil war. He enlisted at Tiffin September 22, 1861, in Company H, Fifty-
fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was wounded at the second battle of Bull Run
and received his discharge at Columbus, February 27, 1863. After the war
Mr. Negele returned to Tiffin and engaged as clerk in the grocery business,
and in 1868 embarked in business along with Mr. Martin, the firm being
favorably known to the people of this locality since. He married, in Sandusky,
Ohio, in 1864, Christina, daughter of the late Christian Kreitzinger, of San-
dusky, the union being blessed with one son and four daughters : Clara, Mattie,
Minnie, Cora and Charles. Mr. Negele and family are members of the Evan-
gelical Church, of the Sabbath-school of which he has been the superintendent
for many years. He is a member of the R. A., K. of H., L. of H. and of
Leander Stem Post, G. A. R. William Negele' s only brother, Charles, is
a minister in the Evangelical Association of Sandusky, Ohio. Of his sisters,
Paulina is the deceased wife of Valentine Stetzer, of Toledo; Louisa is the
wife of George Mautz. a farmer, of Zanesville,*Ohio, and Christiana is the wife
of Louis Smith, a manufacturer, of Zanesville, Ohio.
HARRY L. NIGHSWANDER, agent of the Baltimore & Ohio Telegraph
Company, Tiffin, is among the younger elements of Tiffin' s successful citizens.
His father, John H. Nighswander, was a native of Franklin County, Penn.,
born October 5, 1826, and comes of pioneer stock of Maryland and Pennsyl-
vania. Upon attaining his majority the father of our subject engaged in mer-
chandising and in 184S came to Tiffin and embarked in business on his own ac-
count. Here he married, in 1852, Margaret C, daughter of Eli LTmsted. of
Clinton Township, this coimty, who bore him three sons and two daughters:
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 809
Clara (wife of Jonas Romig), CharJes Fremont (operator witli the Western
Union Telegraph Company, Toledo), Harry Lincoln (the subject of our sketch),
Jennie and John. John H. Nighsw^ander was a member of the constabulary
of the city and county for several years; \fas one of the first members of the
tire department; is Past Grand of the I. O. O. F., of which he has been a
member since 1855.
SAMUEL NIGHSWANDER, county siu-veyor and engineer of Seneca
County, Ohio. P. O. Fort Seueca, was born in Franklin County, Penn. , May
G. 1834, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Bare) Nighswander, who" settled in this
county April 24, 1847, and who had fifteen chikben, twelve of whom are yet liv-
ing. The subject of this sketch was educated in this county, taught ' school
for a while, and afterward studied surveying and civil engineering, with which
he has been identified ever since. He has served in his present office for eio-ht
years. Mi-. Nighswander married Margaret Beck, by whom he has one son and
five daughters: Elizabeth (now Mrs. Charles Bastian), and Savilla (wife of
Dallas Hade), all residing in Fort Seneca, Ohio; William; Avarintha; Catharine
and Louisa. Mr. Nighswander is a member of the K. of H.
HON. WARREN P. NOBLE, a prominent lawyer of Tiffin, and a highly
respected citizen of Seneca County, stands high in this locality as one of the early
and most active business men, and as a promoter of many of its most important
industries. He was born in Luzerne County, Penn., June 14, 1820. His
father, William Noble, was a native of Connecticut, and comes of English ances-
try, in that State; and his mother, Rebecca (Lytle) Noble, comes of Irish pioneer
ancestry, of Pennsylvania. They settled in Jackson Township, this county, in
188(1 where they reared a large family. The subject of our sketch completed
a good common school education, and taught school for several years in Fos-
toria and vicinity. The facilities for obtaining an education in this part of
Ohio, at that time, were very few, and in order to obtain better opportunities.
Mr. Noble was compelled to make the trip on foot, several times, to and from
an academy in Medina County, then under control and management of John
McGregger. He subsequently read law in the office of Rawson & Pennington,
of Tiffin, aad was admitted to the bar in 1844, since which time he has steadily
advanced to and now occupies the front rank of the profession. He has a
strong, vigorous constitution, and probably may be reckoned amongst the
most indefatigable workers in his profession anywhere. In 1840 he was elect-
ed to the Legislature, and was honorably re-elected for a second term. Retir-
ing from this, he was elected prosecuting attorney for Seneca County, to which
last named office he was re-elected, but resigned before the expiration of the
second term, to give his entire attention to his other large law practice. In
1860 he was elected to the Thirty-seventh National Congress, and afterward
again to the Thirty-eighth, in both of which he served as representative of the
war wing of the Democratic party, retiring on the 4th of March, 1865. Upon
the dissolution of the First National Bank, of Tiffin, he was appointed its re-
ceiver, and creditably and promptly closed up and settled the business of that
concern. Upon the organization of the Commercial Bank, in 1876, he was
elected its president, which incumbency he still holds. He served without
portfolio, for ten years, as member of the board of trustees of the Ohio State
University, a part of the time as president of the board, and was among the
first here to introduce and make permanent oui- railroad facilities. He mar-
ried, in 1847, Mary E., eldest daughter of F. Singer. Mrs. Noble died March
9, 1858, leaving two daughters and one'son: Belle, now Mrs. William L. Bates,
of Dayton, Ohio; Mary Ellen, widow of the late Silas W. Groff, Esq., of Tiffin,
and Warren F., a graduate of the Ohio State Universitv. class of 1879. and
810 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
now a worthy member of the bar of this State, at Tiffin. After years of cel-
ibacy, Mr. Noble married, for his second wife. September 27, 1870, Alice M.,
daughter of the late Alexander Cami^bell. of Tiffin, and this union has been
blessed with two daughters: Hattie. born September 25, 1873. and Alice, born
January 12. 1875. Mr. Noble has always given a cordial support to all meas-
ures to promote the growth and development of the social and industrial life of
this locality. Non- sectarian in religous matters, he contributes fi-eely to all
church institutions of this place. He is a worthy Knight Templar and a mem-
ber of De Molav Commanderv of Tiffin.
HARRISON NOBLE, lawyer, Tiffin, and judge of the probate court of
Seneca County, comes of pioneer Ohioans of Connecticut and Pennsylvania stock
— his father, William Noble, being of Connecticut, and his mother. Rebecca ( Lytle)
Noble, of Pennsylvania. They reared ten childi-en. Harrison Noble was born
in Salt Creek Township, Wayne Co., Ohio, and moved here, in 1838, with his
peojile who settled in Jackson Township, where he obtained a good schooling
for the times. He attended Oberlin College and afterward Seneca County
Academy at Republic. He then taught school and attended law study in the
office of his brother the Hon. W. P. Noble. He was admitted to the practice
of law in 184V' and formed a partnership with his brother and i^receptor. In
1874 he retired from this alliance and formed a partnership with N. B. Lutes,
which he retired from in 1880, and subsequently formed one with James H. Latt,
the present city solicitor, which firm Mr. Noble retired from to enter upon his
present incumbency. He has served his city as solicitor two terms ; member of
the council twelve years; mayor of Tiffin two terms; director of the County
infirmary six years: and has filled other important local official positions.
During the late war of the Rebellion he worked actively in the interests of or-
ganization of the different regiments raised in the county and was commis-
sioned colonel of the second regiment raised here. Mr. Noble was married
at Tiffin, in 1858, to Minerva, sixth daughter of the late Josiah Hayes, and by
this union has two sons : Harry H. , now engaged in medical studies, and Bir-
die M. , at home. Mr. Noble while attending a good professional practice has
also been preceptor of some of our leading young attorneys. In the social
and industrial life of Seneca County he has contributed in no small degree to
the advancement of its growth and development.
T. H. NOONAN. division fi-eight agent of the Baltimore & Ohio Rail-
road. Tiffin, is a representative of one of the important commercial interests of
this locality, and is a worthy example of a self-made man in his vocation. He
was born in Loclq:)ort, N. Y. , June 26. 1845: son of John T. and Mary (Arm-
strong) Noonan, natives of Ireland, the former a descendant of merchantmen
of County Clare, and the latter of the Armstrongs, of Sligo. many of whom rank
well in the literary professions; they married in Sligo and came to America,
locating in this county a few years previous to the cholera epidemic, and here
reared three sons and three daughters. The subject of our sketch became an
apprenticed clerk at twelve years of age, and upon completing his apprentice-
ship learned book-keeping and telegraphy, and became clerk and operator in
the Cincinnati. Sandusky & Cleveland Railroad, now the Indiana, Bloomington
& Western Railroad. After a feAv years creditable connection with this corpor-
ation,' he accepted a position on the Ohio & Mississij)j)i Railroad at Vincennes.
Ind. , where he remained in charge of that office for about six years. He next
spent two years as " mine host" of the Shawhan House, at Tiffin, and was also
interested in the Hays House, of Fostoria, at the same time. Retiring fi'om
this business, he accepted a position with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad as
traveling freight agent in June, 1876, and in 1880 was appointed to his pres-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 811
ent incumbency, which he ably fills. Mr. Noonan was married in Tifldn, Octo
ber, 1870, to Clara Arnold, eldest daughter of Henry A. Buskirk, and to this
union were born two sons: Harry and Dorsey Ray. ' Mr. Noonan has always
held aloof from strong political and religious connections, but has liberally con-
tribu.ted to all worthy enterprises.
LLOYD NORRIS, farmer and stock dealer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in this
county October 5, 1830, son of Nathaniel and Sarah Noiris, natives of Mary-
land, where they were married and where they first settled; from there they
came to this county, about IS'28, and here remained until their death: Nathan-
iel Norris departed this life December 3, 1864, and his widow February o. 1865.
Our subject was united in marriage, March 80, 1854, with Barbara A. Miller,
born in the State of New York, October 16, 1836, daughter of Daniel and
Anna Miller, who were married in New York State, and who moved to Ohio in
1837, settling in this county, where they remained imtil the death of Mrs.
Miller, which occurred March 24, 1849. After the death of his first wife Mr.
Miller married Sarah Raber, and they now reside in Clinton Township, this
county. To our subject and wife have been born two children: Sidney C. born
December 10, 1857, and Arthur L., born August 12, 1872. Mr. Norris owns
160 acres of fine land, with good buildings. Mrs. Norris is a member of the
Lutheran Church.
HON. JAMES A. NORTON, Tiffin, a son of Dr. Rufus and Clarissa (AVaters)
Norton, pioneers of Seneca County, was born here November 11, 1843. the
youngest of a family of four sons and one daughter, all but one married and now
heads of families. Dr. Rufus Norton was a native of Utica, N. Y. , and son of
Isaiah Norton, a native of the north of England, fi-om whence probably came
the corruption of the name MacNaughton. 'of Scotch history, to the English
Norton. Dr. Rufus Norton settled here in 1835 and carried on a reputlible
and extensive medical practice for more than thirty years. The subject of this
sketch received a good education in the schools o/ Tiffin. Upon the breaking
out of the late civil war, though but eighteen years of age, he enlisted in de-
fense of the Union, was accepted and did active and honorable service for four
years. He was promoted to a lieutenancy, upon examination by a regular
army board, and was serving as post-adjutant at Louisville, Ky., 'when mus-
tered out. He served in all the important battles of the Department of the
Cumberland, being severely wounded at the battle of Chickamauga. After
the war he completed a thorough medical education and engaged in the prac-
tice of the profession with his father. He, however, began to display abilities
as a political leader, and, although a young man, made his influence felt in
this locality; his broad views of human nature and versatility of make-up. ren-
dered him eminently fitted for this sphere, and his constituents recognized it
l)y electing him to the Sixty-first General Assembly of the State, in 1873. by a
very positive majority, and in re-electing him to the Sixty-second and Sixty-
third General Assemblies, in the latter of which he served as speaker j>ro tern..
and during all his experience in the Legislature made his influence felt ;ts an
able speaker, a fearless defender of the principles of his (the Democratic) party.
Retiring from active legislative duties, he studied law, and was admitted to
the practice in the State in 1879, but has paid but little attention to office
work in that profession, his later interests being in connection with the water
works, and as manager for the Wiley Construction Company of Greenfield,
Mass. Besides his interests here, he is a prominent stockholder in the Adi-ian'
Mich. , Water Works, and president of the Grand Haven. Mich. , A\'ater AVorks'
He was married here. July 19, 1865, to Adeline, daughter of the late Thomas
Hemming, and this union has been blessed with two bright children: Albert
812 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Leland, a graduate of the Tiffin High School and now an eight-years' cadet in
the naval school at Annapolis, and Clara Adele. It may be truthfully said that
Mr. Norton has but few equals as an extemporaneous speaker. He has served
the city and coimty as an official and promoter of most of its important inter-
ests. He is an a^ctive member of the Seneca County Agricultural Society, has
served as president of the school board of the city, president of the council, is
now serving as county auditor of this county, and has been prominently before
the people as congressman; he represented the Seventh Congressional District
as delegate to the late much respected Democratic National Convention; was
appointed, by Secretary of the Treasury Daniel Manning, as inspector of cus-
toms at the Isthmus of Panama, but declined the appointment because of bus-
iness relations that forbade his acceptance.
WINDFIELD S. NOVINGER. carriage and wagon-maker. P. O. Tiffin,
is a son of John and Susan (Killinger) Novinger. natives of Pennsylvania, who
came to Ohio in 1882 and settled in Clinton Township, where they are pleas-
antly located. They have had eight childi-en : "Windheld S. , Jacob, Irvin. George
W., Yirgil. Kate and Thomas, now living; and Hiram, who died when four
years old. Our subject was born September 1, 1863, in Dauphin County.
Penn. , and was educated in the common schools. He came to Ohio with his
parents in 1882, and after remaining one year in Stark County, moved to this
county. He was married, June 14, 1881, to Emma, daiTghter of Levi Snively,
and by this union there are two childi'en: Clidie and Edgar. Mr. Novinger
has purchased a beautifiil corner residence and shop, in which latter he is
doing a fine business, having all the facilities necessary for repairing carriages
and wagons neatly.
JAjNIES O'BRIEN, 2:)resident of the O' Brien Bros. Manufacturing Company,
of Tiffin, represents an important industry, as well as one of the most public
spirited and enterprising corporations in Seneca County. He is a native of
Ireland, born in Dublin July 25, 1826. His parents were John and Eliza
(O" Toole) O'Brien, the former a native of County Carlow, and the latter of
Dublin, Ireland. John O'Brien was a plumber and gas-fitter by trade. In
1838 he came to this countiy and located in New Orleans, where he brought
his family (consisting of his wife, two sons and a daughter) two years later,
but soon afterward removed to Peoria County. 111. , where he carried, on farm-
ing until his death, which occiu-red in 1873, his widow following him some
four years later. They reared a family of five sons and four daughters, all of
whom lived to be active and useful citizens. The subject of this sketch learned
carpentering at eighteen, and was prominently identified with the building in-
terests in Illinois for several years. In 1855 he embarked in wagon and car-
riage-making at Gralva. 111. Retiring from that industry there in 1859. he
located in Princeville. Peoria County, and in 1865 located at Kewanee, 111.,
where he was well and favorably known in the business for many years. In
1882 he opened his business here, in which he was united by his two younger
brothers: "William Smith O'Brien, the present superintendent and treasurer,
and Joseph Peter, secretary and foreman of the machinery department of the
company. Mr. O'Brien married, in 1850, Margaret Francis Seery, daughter
of Lawi-ence and Bridget (Norton) Seery, natives of Ireland, where Mrs.
O'Brien was born. To this union were born three daughters: Mary Caroline,
and two dead; and three sons, John Edward (head book-keeper for the firm),
Henry Eugene (traveling salesman for the firm), and George Norton (book-
keeper and stenographer for the firm). IVIi". O'Brien has ahvays made his
mark as an enterprising and public spirited citizen. He served Kewanee as its
mayor, justice of the peace and councilman, and has been creditably identified
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 813
in other official positions both there and elsewhere. He is a kind hiisband, a
c^ood father, and has educated his children well, his three sons all being grad-
uates of Notre Dame University, Ind. Mr. O'Brien is a worthy member of
the Roman Catholic Church, and a regular communicant of St. Mary's con-
gregation.
CHEJSTOPHER C. PARK, hardware merchant and dealer in grain and
seeds. Tiffin, was born in Northumberland County, Penn. , October 4. 1829,
and comes of a pioneer family of English ancestry of the State of New Jer-
sey. His father, John Park (formerly spelled Pearke) was a native of that
State, and his mother, Elizabeth (Waggoner) Park, was a descendant of German
pioneers of Pennsylvania. In 1830 John Park came to this coimty and located
at Tiffin, but after engaging in merchandising for several years removed (in
1811) to what is now known as ''Pleasant Hill" farm. Section 16, Clinton
Township (C. C. Park's present property), where our subject grew to man-
hood. At the age of twenty he (Christopher C. Park) went to California and
spent two years successfully in mining operations, returning at the end of that
time to continue his farming operations in this coiTuty. In 1868 he took stock
in the Tiffin Agricultural Works, and has continued in successful connection
with it since. In that year (1868) he invested in stock in the Tiffin Woolen
Mills, and continued a supporter of that institution till its dissolution, and in
1871 he invested means in support of the Tiffin Shoe Factory, and was identi-
lied with it till it ceased corporate existence. In 1875 he joined the establish-
ment of the ' ' Grange store, ' ' and continued an active manager of its interests,
latterly (1880) ]:)urchasing the entire business, which he now represents only
in hardware and agricultural machinery. He is also a very ardent supporter
and contributor to many other public enterprises in Tiffin, and has done a
leading share to support its industries. Mr. Park was maiTied in Tiffin, No-
vember 8, 1855, to Malinda, eldest daughter of Ezra Derr, of Clinton Town-
ship, a native of Maryland. She died June 1 6, 1865, and is buried in Green
Lawn Cemetery with her two sons, Ezra Derr and Harry Rockey. leaving two
sons and a daughter living: Hiram G., associated with his father; John C,
with the United States Express Company here, and Anna, wife of Thomas E.
Crank, a druggist of Golden City, Mo. Mr. Park was married on the second
occasion, September 10. 1868, to Elizabeth C. Smith, a native of Virginia, a
lady of estimable attainments, and by this union has two daughters and two
sons living: Alva Marius, Ida May, Lela Gertrude and Charles Howard.
Mr. and Mrs. Park are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with
which he has been connected for over twenty years; is trustee at present, and
has held official positions in it for many years. He has been a member of the
Masonic order for over thirty years, and is Past Eminent Commander of De
Molay Encampment No. \l K. T. He is also a member of the Iv. of H. , and
of the A. L. of H. During the late war of the Rebellion he served in Com-
pany D, Eighty-sixth Ohio Vohinteer Infantry, during the existence of that
regiment. He has served with credit on the School Board of Clinton Township,
and in municipal offices in same township. Mr. Park has been well and favor-
ably known here for over half a century and has by dint of persistent indus-
try and honesty accumulated a handsome competence, and has reared his fam-
ily well, among the older members of which are some of our leading citizens.
ROBERT G. PENNINGTON, a prominent lawyer of Tiffin, was born in
Delaware County, Penn., December 11, 1816, and comes of Pennsylvania
parentage of Quaker antecedents and of English descent. Isaac Pennington,
to whom the ancestry is traced, was an Englishman of large influence and
broad Christian charity. His daughter married William Penn, and. with Penn,
45
814 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
George Fox, Robert Barclay and Thomas Elwood. he founded the Society of
Friends. The first American Pennington was Edward, the son of Isaac, and
who emigrated fi-om England with his brother-in-law, William Penn, in 1682.
Edward married a daughter of Gov. Jennings, of New Jersey, and from that
marriage the Penningtons of New Jersey as well as Pennsylvania claim their
American origin. When the subject of this sketch had reached his eighth
year, his parents, Joseph and Sarah Pennington, moved their family fi'om
Pennsylvania to New York, and in Cayuga County of that State the lad passed
nine years of his early youth. His father, a well-to-do mechanic and farmer,
desirous of procuring more acres for the increasing household, visited Ohio.
and, purchasing land in Seneca County, settled here in 1834. Robert G. was
then seventeen. He had been kept at school during boyhood and was reputed
a fair scholar. On reaching Ohio, however, he commenced a course of studies
in Huron Institute. He went through the curriculum of that popular school,
and having completed the academic course turned his attention to the selecting
of a profession. He chose the law. He read under the supervision of Abel
Rawson, a distinguished jui'ist and scholar, and was admitted to the bar in
1842. The precej^tor thinking well of the pupil took him into partnership.
The firm of Rawson & Pennington continued for many years and until the
senior member, in 1850, retired from practice. It was in the office of that
firm that the Hon. "W. P. Noble and Gen. "W. H. Gibson took their early lessons
in law and became prepared for the bar. Subsequently Mr. Pennington was as-
sociated as law partner with Gen. W. H. Gibson, and later with another of his
law students, J. C. Lee. es-lieutenant-governor of Ohio, and lastly with John
McCauley, with whom he remained as partner to the time Mr. McCauley was
elected judge of the common pleas court. In 1861. when the life of the na-
tion was imperiled, Mr. Pennington rendered his country service by assisting
to organize and prepare for the field the Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry,
and went with that regiment to the front as quartermaster, proving himself
v.orthy of the position. In course of time he became adjutant on Gen. Mc-
Lean's staff, but after two years of soldier life he quitted the army in conse-
quence of impaired health, and retui'ning to Tiffin applied himself to recover-
ing the clients and practice which had strayed away diu'ing his absence. He
was successful. Mr. Pennington has been devoted to his calling. He has
made it the chief business of his life. Early in the practice he acquired the
reputation of a painstaking, accurate, honest lawyer, which he still maintains.
For over forty years he has been an active attorney, and has held out longer
than any who was a member of the Tiffin bar at the time of his admission.
Instinctively and religiously he has been a hater of slavery; was an original
"Free Soiler" and conspicuous as a public speaker in the campaign of 1856.
and the same year was a member of the electoral college and cast his vote for
Fremont. He has upheld the faith and has at all times been in accord with
the Republican party, but he has never held official position. His party, rec-
ognizing his capacity for public life, has frequently placed him in nomination,
but being in the minority in the district it has failed to elect. In 1847 Mr.
Pennington was one of the incorporators of the Seneca County Bank, a bank
of issue and the first established in the county. He was a director of that in-
stitution and for a while its cashier. He was also a director and one of the
largest stockholders of the late First National Bank of Tiffin. He was a pro-
jector of the Tiffin Gas Light Company, and for several years was its president.
He has taken an active and efficient part in the railroad projects that have
seemed likely to benefit his town, securing the rights of way for them, invest-
ing largely in their stock, and facilitating and making possible their construe-
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 815
tion, and in this work he was for several years president of the TitKn & Foil
Wayne and the American & Central Railway Companies. Mr. Pennington has
also encouraged and taken large pecuniary interests in manufacturing and other
useful enterprises, that had for their object the present and prospective welfare of
Tiffin, and though through the commercial disasters which have overtaken some
of them he has suffered severely, yet he is in possession of an ample and hand-
some competence. He is a close observer and thinker; his reading on the
natural sciences and kindred subjects have been extensive, and he talks clearly
on their application to architecture and the common affairs of life. Availing
itself of this the court of common pleas has just (in 1888) appointed him on the
committee of which he is chairman to supervise the initiative acts and to look
after the construction of the contemplated new court house of Seneca County.
In 184!^ Mr. Pennington was married to Caroline A. Kuhn, a native of the
Island of Minorca (a province of Spain), and daughter of Joseph L. Kuhn. of
the United States Navy, and granddaughter of Lewis Chadwick Hargrave. late
British consul-general to the Spanish Balearic Islands. The late Dr. Henry
Kuhn, an eminent physician of Tiffin, was her uncle. The Doctor was also the
husband of Mr. Pennington's eldest sister. Of Mr. Pennington's three
daughters, Eugenia H. is the wife of Almon Hall of the Toledo bar (a lawyer
of character and ability ) ; Caroline C. is the wife of U. E. Steele (ex-meml:ier
of the national Congress, and now a prominent attorney of large practice in the
Territory of Dakota ) ; Louisa A. . the youngest daughter, resides in Tiffin and
is the wife of Samuel Keech (who is engaged in mercantile pursuits). Mr.
Pennington is above the medium height, carries himself erect, and his move-
ments are easy and active. In addi-ess he is affable, frank and kindly. He
is modest and unpretentious, and his general demeanor bears the impress of
his Quaker lineage. He attends with his family the services of the Episcopal
Church, of which his wife is a communicant, and he contributes to its supi^ort.
In 1884 he was appointed by Gov. Hoadly a member of the board of directors
of the State Insane Asvlum at Toledo. Ohio.
• BARCLAY PENNINGTON, photographic artist, Tiffin, a son of Joseph
and Sarah (Denison) Pennington and brother of R. G. Pennington, was born
in Cayuga County, N. Y. , July 2, 1828. His parents removing to this county,
in 1881, he was reared and educated in the high school. Tiffin City. He
learned his profession at Tiffin, and subsequently bought out the interest in
the business of his preceptor, a Mr. Hardsock, and has continued the business
since. He was married here in 1861 to Josephine E. Creeger, the elder and
only surviving sister of Mrs. Gen. W. H. Gibson. She was a native of
Frederick City. Md. Our subject and wife have but one child, Stella Loiiisa,
a young lady of excellent literary and artistic attainments. She and her
mother are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which Mr.
Pennington has always been a liberal contributor. He has been a worthy
member of the I. O. O. F. since his majority, and has been the permanent
secretary of that order here for the past twentv-six years.
D. C. PITTENGER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Seneca County.
Ohio, January 24, 183(3; son of Benjamin and Theresa Pittenger. natives of
Frederick County. Md. , where they were married. They moved to this county
and settled in Tiffin in 1824, and there remained until the death of Mrs. Pit-
tenger, which occurred December 8. 1847. After her death. Benjamin Pitten-
ger married Miss Mary A. Hunter, and in 1861 they moved to the farm where
our subject now resides, and remained there until their death; Mi's. Pittenger
died August 15. 1877, and Mr. Pittenger January 24. 1881. Benjamin Pit-
tenger was the father of twelve children, five now living: Cornelia T. (wife of
816 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
J. M. Naylorj, Ann C. (wife of Albert Buskirk). DeWitt C. ; Eimna L. (wife
of E. T. Naylor) and Millard F. D. C. Pittenger, the subject of this sketch,
was united in marriage, November 11, 1868, with Alma Fleet, born in Steuben
County. N. Y., October 31, 1844. daughter of Abraham Fleet, a native of
New York State, now residing in Jasjier County, Mo. Mr. and Mrs. Pitten-
ger are the parents of three children: Cornelia T.. Benjamin and Ethel. Mr.
Pittenger is the owner of the fine farm where he and his family reside. He
and his wife are members of the Methodist E^jiscopal Church, of Tiffin.
JOHN O. PLANK, "mine host," of the " Sha whan House, ' " Tiffin, rep-
resents the leading hostelry of Tiffin, and stands prominent in hotel circles
throughout not onfy Ohio, but the East, where he is the proprietor of the
'^Columbia Hall."\nt Lebanon Springs. N. Y., and the "Ocean House," at
Point Pleasant, N. J. Mr. Plank is entirely self-made, being left dependent
when a mere lad. and as a successful hotel man he is worthy of more than a
passing notice. He was reared in Planktown. Ohio, and at twelve years of age
engaged as night clerk in the "Coleman House," at Shelby (his native town),
and fi-om here went to Mansfield, Ohio. Avhere he clerked in the Tremont,
Sherman, Kennard and St. James hotels, in which latter he spent two years,
diu-ing which time he also engaged as silent partner with W. W. Reed, in the
"Central House. " at (xalion, Ohio. He afterward had the management of the
"Piowley House. " at Mount Vernon. Ohio, and in the same year leased the
"Lake View House," at Chautauqua Lake. N. Y. After a very successful sea-
son w^ith the latter house, he joined Mr. Reed in the "Haines House" at Mun-
cie. Ind. Coming to Tiffin in 1878, he clerked in the "Shaw4ian House" a year,
and then carried on the "Forest City House," at Forest, Ohio, and formed a
joint stock company which built and opened the "Hotel Bryant, " at Flint,
Mich. , the leading hostelry of that State. After this he returned to Tiffin and
took charge of the "Shawhan House." which he still carries on. During this
year he carried on the "Reesee House" at Kenton. Ohio, and became manager
of the "Green Spring Water Ctire," at Green Spring, this county. Li 1880
he took charge of the "Tenekall House." at Demorest, N. J., which he
operated for one season successfully, and in the same year became the manager
and proprietor of the "Columbia Hall." at Lebanon Springs. N. Y., which he
has successfully carried on since; in 1884. at an immense expense, com-
pletely remodeling that grand hostelry. In 1888 he leased the "Ocean
House." at Point Pleasant, N. J., which he has carried on till the present
time, and in 1 884 leased the "Russell House, " at Defiance, Ohio, which he
ably carries on; and this year, 1885, he has in addition to the hotels jnentioned.
the"^ famous hotels in the Green Mountains; the "Mount Mansfield Hotel,"
Stowe. Vt.. the largest and grandest hotel in the State, having accommoda-
tions for 500 guests; the "Summit House," on the top of Mansfield Mountain,
over 5,000 feet altitude, a very noted place, and the highest mountain peak in
the East; also, in connection," he personally has supervision of the "Half- Way
House" and "Moss Glen House" in the Green Mountains: making in all about
twenty hotels he has been clerk, manager and proprietor of in the last seventeen
years," since he was eleven years old. Mr. Plank's early training in hotel
business was thorough, his first salary was but $0 a month, but by dint of per-
sistent industry and frugality he accumulated sufficient to start him in busi-
ness, and this, "coupled with his excellent managerial ability, has placed him in
the fi-ont rank of hotel men of the country. He is but twenty-nine years of
age, and the wonder is that he has accomplished so much in his business in so
little time. He was happily married, at Tiffin, to Miss Cora Bell, daughter of
Martin and Susan Zeller, of this city, the union being blessed with one son,
John Oliver, Jr.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 817
JAMES H. PLATT, city solicitor of Tiffin, was born in Columbiana
County. Ohio, August 22, 1854-. son of George and Eva M. (Faulk) Piatt, the
latter of whom was a daughter of Solomon and Marie (Ranch) Faulk, pioneers
in Columbiana County, Ohio, coming fi-om Pennsylvania. George Piatt was
a native of England, a millwright by profession, coming from Oldham, Lan-
cashire, to this country, and after spending a useful life died in 1867 at Find-
lay, Ohio, leaving there a family of three sons and five daughters. The sub-
ject of our sketch was reared in Tiffin, where he completed a full classical
course of study at Heidelberg College, graduating in 1875. He had taught a
term previous to his graduation, and after that continued teaching till 1879,
when he commenced law study, and was admitted to practice in 1881. He
then joined Judge Harrison Noble, which partnership continued until recently.
In 1883 Mr. Piatt was elected solicitor for the city, and was honorably re-
elected April 8, 1885. He was married in Tiffin, in 1883, to Rosa M. Warner,
foster -daughter of Prof. B. F. Myers. This union was blessed with one
daughter — Mary Aleta. Mr. and Mrs. Piatt are worthy members of Grace
Reformed Church. He is a member of Seneca County Bar Association, and
of the P. O. of A.
JOSEPH L. RANKER, hardware merchant. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin.
Ohio, October 17, 1848, son of Joseph and Barbara (Shabacher) Ranker,
natives of Bavaria, the former a blacksmith by trade, who settled in Tiffin in the
spring of 1832; the father died April 8, 1858,'tlie mother May O. 1870. Four of
their children survive: Frances A., wife of George Spay th, of McCutchenville;
John Hury, a blacksmith, in Tiffin; Josephine and Joseph L. The subject of
this sketch was reared in Tiffin to the hardware business, and has been favora-
bly identified with that branch of trade in the place for some years. He mar-
ried in Tiffin, in 1870, Rosa K. , daughter of Caspar Kirchner (brother of M.
J. Kirchner), and they have a family of four sons and two daughters: Louis
William. Emma Rosa, Albert Joseph, Flora Josephine, Herman Edward and
Charles Jacob. The family are communicants of St. Joseph's congregation of
the Roman Catholic Church, which church Mr. Rankin has served as trustee.
He is a member of St. John's Benevolent Association, and is the honored
Ijresident of the Catholic Knights of America in Tiffin; is also an honorable
member of the Bruderbund. Mr. Ranker is a thorough and progressive busi-
ness man and citizen, and has always contributed liberally to the support of
the social and industrial interests of his native city. During the year 1884
he made a trip to Europe, and visited with pleasure and interest the homes of
his ancestors.
ABEL RAWSON (deceased) was born at Warwick, Mass., May 11, 1798.
and was the third son of Lemuel and Sarah (Bass) Rawson, who were married
there September 8. 1791. He was of the sixth generation in descent fi-oni
Edward Rawson. who settled in that State from England in 1637, and served
as secretary of the colony of Massachusetts Bay fi'om 1650 to 1685. Our sub-
ject when a child suffered from a disease which crippled his left leg for life,
and, being dependent, he taught school, and educated himself in this way. His
desire was to become a lawyer, and after completing a good literary education
he studied law, and was admitted to ])ractice in Massachusetts in 1823. In
1824 he left his practice in New Salem, Mass.. and came to Ohio, where he
taught school in Dover and later in Norwalk, where in 1825 he was admitted
to the bar of Ohio. The same year he visited Tiffin, and February 15, 182t),
located in Fort Ball with but little means and with a library containing the first
volume of Swift's "Digest of Chitby' s Pleadings. " In May following he was
appointed prosecuting attorn?y. which incumbency he held till 1833, as also
SIS BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
otlier county offices and the i^stmastership of Fort Ball. In 1830 he was
appointed register of the land office here, which position he retained six years,
when he declined the office. In 1846 K. G. Pennington united with him in law
practice, which had now become very extensive, the partnership lasting some
twelve years. In 1844 our subject was delegate from the Ninth Congressional
District to the Whig convention at Baltimore which nominated Clay and Fre-
hnghuysen. September 28, 1828, Mr. Rawson was married to Sarah Ann
Clark, a native of Hancock, Vt., and this union was blessed with two sons:
Allen A. and Homer C. (graduates of Rush Medical College, Chicago, in 1855, and
now phvsicians of standing at Corning, Iowa); and a daughter — Aurina H.—
who died in 1848, followed by her mother June 6, 1849. September 25, 1850,
Mr. Rawson was united in marriage with Mrs. Maria McNeal, iiee Gregory,
widow of Milton McNeal, and daughter of Capt. Nehemiah Gregory, of Ath-
ens, Athens Co., Ohio, and with her_he spent a happy domestic life till his
death, which occurre-i August 24, 1871. Mr. Rawson was a man of sterling
character and strict, unbending integrity, and, although diu'ing a busy life here
in piiblic matters he was often severely criticised, his position on all matters
became always acceptable as the best, and he gathered around him in his de-
clinintr years' a gracious support fi-om all who knew him.
CHARLES REINBOLT, farmer, P.. O. Tiffin, was born October 17, 1843, in
Clinton Township, this county, on the farm where he and his family now reside.
His parents were Michael and Louisa Reinbolt. the former born in Alsace,
France, and the latter in Byron; they immigrated to America about 1829, set-
tling in this county; were nia fried in Pleasant Township, where they remained
two"years, then moved to Clinton Township to the farm which Michael Rein-
bolt ' bought from the government in 1834, and the one on which our .subject
now lives'^ the father of our subject remained in Seneca County until his death,
which occurred May 4, 1880; his widow resides in Sandusky, Ohio. Our sub-
ject was united in marriage, February 22, 1870, with Curtilda Sargner, who
was born in Crawford County, Ohio, October 21, 1840. Her parents are Lewis
and Regina Sargner, who reside in Tiffin, Ohio. To Mr. and Mrs. Sargner
were born nine children, seven now living — Sophia, Marcus, Catharine, Ann,
Curtilda, Francis and Victoria. The deceased are Eve and Benedict. To Mr.
and Mr.s. Reinbolt have been born eight children: Michael, Joseph (deceased),
George, Cathrien (deceased), Louisa, Charles, Daniel and Mary (latter de-
ceased). Our subject owns 100 acres of land. He and wife are members of
the Catholic Church.
ISAAC REVERT, marble manufacturer. Tiffin, was born in Osnabiu'g
Township, Stark Co., Ohio, July 4, 1841. His parents, Daniel and Catharine
(Funk) Revert, were pioneers of that place and descendants of pioneer Penn-
sylvania people, originally from Baden, Germany. In 1849, they moved to
Venice Township, this county, where Isaac (their only child) was reared to
farming, and bought and owns a nice farm adjoining the old homestead. In
1880 the subject of this sketch came to Tiffin and united with Mr. Zeller in the
coal business, with whom he continued till the spring of 1885. when he sold his
interest and united with Mr. Thorn in marble manufacturing. Mr. Revert was
married, in 1805, to Sarah A. Bever of Bloom Township, this county, daughter
of George and Sabina (Bretz) Bever, who settled there fi-om near Martinsbitrg,
W. Va. Mr. Revert is a public spirited and progressive citizen, fully awake
to the times, and will, ere long, take no small share in the developments of many
of Tiffin' s interests. He and his estimable wife attend the services of the M. P.
Church, of which the latter is a worthy member.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 819
LYSANDEE REYNOLDS, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in the
State of New York. February 19, 18"25, a son of Ibrahim and Harriet
Reynolds, the former a native of Connecticut, and the latter of Orange
County, N. Y. ; they were married in the State of New York where
they remained until 1836, at which time they came to this county,
afterward moving to Hancock County, and from there to Carey, Wyan-
dot County, where they remained until their death. Our subject was
united in marriage. September, 1, 1858, with Elizabeth Huss, born in
Frederick County, Md. , December 20, 1823, daughter of David and Nancy
Huss, the former a native of Franklin County. Penn., and the latter of Mary-
land, and who were married in Maryland, from whence they moved to Ohio in
1826, settling in this county, and here remained until their death. To our
subject and wife have been born two childi-en: Clara (wife of Emit Corthell),
and Ida, (wife of William Corthee). Mr. Reynolds owns forty-four acres of
improved land. He seiwed his countrv in the late war, and is a member of the
G. A. R.
JESSE RIFFLE, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Frederick County,
Md. , in 1816, son of Andrew and Magdalena Riffle, who were married in Adams
County, Penn. . where they remained until their death. The subject of this
sketch was iinited in maiTiage, in 1846, with Mary A. Dedi'ick, born in France
in 1824, and a daughter of Anthony Dediick, who died in Ohio. To Mr. and
Mrs. Riffle were born nine children: Cina J.. Maiiin T., Mary A. (wife of
Thomas Bowser), TheaboltT. , Rosa C. (wife of Luther C. Harsha), Theadore
N. . William F. and Jesse, now living; and Edward, deceased. Mr. Riffle is a
miller by trade, which he followed for four years, but has engaged in farming
during his latter days. He owns 100 acres of land in a high state of cultiva-
tion. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church. Mi's. Riffle de-
parted this life December 27. 1880, leaving her family and many friends to
mourn her loss.
LEROY W. RODGERS, contractor and builder. Tiffin, was born in Jeffer-
son County, Ohio, September 25, 1844. son of William and Elizabeth (Walker)
Rodgers, of that county, and grandson of John Rodgers, a native of Wales.
The subject of this sketch, one of a family of five sons, learned his trade (car-
pentering) at Steubeiiville, Ohio. Upon the breaking out of the late civil war
he joined interests with the Union cause, and August 13, 1862, enlisted in Com-
pany D, Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained in service till
the end of the war. when he was honorably discharged. Retiu'ning to Steuben-
ville he carried on professional work there for a w'hile, and afterward spent
three years at it in Canton, Ohio, coming to Tiffin. Ohio, July 4, 1 874. His
work may be seen in many handsome residences, buildings, etc., among which
may be mentioned the residences of George D. Loomis, IMrs. Cromwell, ]\Ir.
Nyman, Albert Buskirk, etc., etc., as well as many stores, warehouses, etc.
He was united in marriage in Brook\dlle, Penn. , June 17, 1875, with Mary,
daughter of William and Fanny Erdice. Mrs. Rodgers is a worthy member
of the Presbyterian Church, to which Mr. Rodgers is a liberal contributor.
JONAS ROMIG. dealer in boots and shoes, Tiffin, was born in Lehigh
County, Penn. . November 1, 1844, son of Peter and Julia (Stephfen) Romig,
natives of that county, the former of whom was a son of Peter Romig, Sr.,
who is of pioneer German people in the State, and the latter a daughter of
Jonathan Stejjhfen. of similar ancestry to the Romigs. The subject of this
sketch left his father' s farm at nineteen and apprenticed himself to shoe-mak-
ing at Emans (Lehigh County). In 1865 he came to Tiffin where he complet-
ed his trade, which he followed till 1873. when he embarked in business on his
820 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
own account. Mr. Romig was married in 1874 to Clara A., daughter of John
and Margaret C. (Umsted) Nighswander, by whom he has one son living. Rus-
sell: their first born they have buried in Maple Grove Cemetery. Mr. Romig
is a member of the English Lutheran and his w^ife of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum.
JACOB ROSENBERGER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born February 19,
1837, in Clinton Township, this county, son of Henry and Jane (Shaul) Rosen-
berger, natives of Virginia. Henry Rosenberger came to Ohio in 1822, set-
tling in Clinton Township, this county, where he entered ninety acres of land
(then all forest), and began toiling in the interests of his family, clearing the
land and educating his children and making a perfect home for them; and
here he lived and labored for fifty-one years. He was a valuable and honored
citizen of his township. In 1876 he moved to Tiffin, Ohio, after selling his
farm to Jacob (fifth son), and here our subject still resides. He was twice mar-
ried, and by his first wife had eleven children, seven now living: James (mar-
ried to Mary Romsburger), George (married twice; his present wife was Delila
Baker), John (married to Ann Baker), Elizabeth (wife of George Kepple),
Martha (wife of David Loose), Eliza (wufe of J. B. Shaul) and Jacob. Our
subject remained with his father on the farm till he was twenty years of age.
He was married, June 5, 1859, to Sophia, daughter of John Loose, and by
this union there were nine children, seven living: Frank (married to Ora
Michaels), Cora (wife of Oliver Crum), William, Henry, Silas, Stullie and Early.
The deceased are J. W. and Eli. Mr. Rosenberger has long been one of the
substantial farmers of Clinton Tow^nship. He and his family are members of
the M. P. Church.
JOHN CALVIN ROYER, mayor of Tiffin, and attorney at law, belongs
to the ' ' second generation ' ' of Seneca County' s eminent men and pioneers.
He was born in Thompson Township May (3, 1856. His i)aternal grandfather.
John Royer, who settled there in 1829, coming from Siimmit County, Ohio,
was a native of Lancaster County, Penn. , and descended of pioneer German
stock of that State. He had a family of six sons and six daughters. Samuel
Royer, the father of Mayor Royer, was the second son of John Royer' s family,
and begat thirteen children, of whom four sons and four daughters are living,
and five daughters are buried in the family cemetery near the old homestead in
Thompson Township. The subject of our sketch completed a good training in
the public schools of his native place, and at nineteen entered Heidelberg Col-
lege in a classical and scientific course of study, fi'om which he graduated in
1879. He then applied himself to the study of law" in the office of N. L.
Brewer, an eminent member of the jjrofession, and in October, 1881, he was
admitted to the bar of the State from the office of Judge J. F. Bunn, where
he had officiated as deputy clerk of probate. He then formed a partnership
with J. C. Rickenbaugh, a rising younger member of the profession and a gen-
tleman ' ' to the manor born ' ' as well as his honor, and the firm has done an
active business since. Mayor Royer married, April 1 1 , 1888, Miss Clara Balt-
zell, seventh child and fifth daughter of Thomas Baltzell, a retired farmer of
Tiffin. She is a lady of fine accomplishments and a fitting helpmeet for him.
They have one little girl, Helen. Mayor Royer' s close application to the
development of all public enterprises and social institutions of Tiffin is a
marked characteristic of his life, and he has (although a young man) been
intrusted with important official positions in the weal of many of its interests.
He has been a member of the board of school examiners for several years, and
for the last three has been president of that body. In April, 1883. he was
elected to the mavoraltv. which incumliencv he has honorablv held since.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 821
entitling him to the respect of his people, and by his strict executive abilit}^ to
the . 'Sobriquet of the "Iron Duke."' He is president of the board of health
and one of the active members of the board for the establishment of the Tiffin
public library. He is a member of the K. of P.
HERMAN RUST. D. D.. professor of church history and exegesis, Heidel-
berg Seminary, Tiffin, is a native of Bremen. Germany, where he received a
good literary training. In 1840 he came to America and completed his English
and classical training in Marshall College, Mercersburg, Penn. In 1850 he
entered the ministry of the Reformed Chirrch and was ordained at Jonestown,
near Lebanon, Penn. , and then served the Millersville charge (near Lancaster,
Penn.), for one year, being afterward sent to Cincinnati, Ohio, by the board of
missions of his chiirch, and there had charge of the First Reformed Church
for twelve years. During his ministrations there he built the present handsome
edifice' of the First Reformed Church, was instrumental in establishing two
others in Cincinnati and one at Covington, Ky. . and helped educate nine young-
men for the ministry, and began other interests in clerical work. In 1862 he
accepted the chair of German professorship) in Heidelberg College and
Seminary, and subsequently filled that chair in the seminary alone. After a
few years the professorship merged into the present chair of church history and
exegesis, which he has since creditably held. He married, in Lancaster, Ohio,
Elizabeth, daughter of John Ulrich'^and Mary (Hensel) Giesy, the former a
native of Switzerland and the latter a descendant of pioneer Ohioans. Dr.
and Mrs. Rust have l:)een blessed with a family of three sons and one
daughter: John Benjamin, a graduate of Heidelberg College, now in charge of
the Reformed Church of Waynesl^urgh, Ohio; Herman Samuel Frederick, a
farmer and stock-raiser of Harlan County, Neb. : Eugene Calvin, a student at
Heidelberg College, and Mary Catharine, a young lady of estimable attain-
ments. In connection with Dr. Rust' s seminary duties he also preaches in the
German congregation of the Reformed Chm-ch here. In industrial matters
Dr. Rust is an active supporter of all measures tending to their advancement.
He is president of the Tiffin Manufacturing Company, and owns stock in other
industries. He has served upon the board of education, and was president of
that honored body for many years. Dr. Rust is of medium stature, of a
strong constitution, and employs his time closely in doing good among his
acquaintances, be they of his own time of life or young men just beginning for
themselves. Though far advanced in years, he still feels young, and delights
in his work.
MICHAEL SCANNELL, president and general manager of the Tiffin
Water Works. Tiffin, Ohio, was born in County Kerry, Ireland. April 22,
1848. His parents, John' and Kate (Fitz Maurice) Scannell, were natives of
that county, where the former died in 1859; the latter died in Tiffin, February
17, 1878; their issue is three sons and one daughter, all living: Michael,
Mary (wife of Thomas V. Kelley, a respected citizen of Mount Vernon, Ohio),
Patrick J. (proprietor of book and stationery business. Tiffin) and Cornelius
(superintendent of the Towanda Water Works, of Towanda, Penn.). The
subject of this sketch, when a lad, conceived the idea of visiting this country,
and in 1802 came over to New York City, where he was encouraged to think
favorably of American citizenship. His mother preceded him to this countiy
three years, and lived in New York until they moved to Tiffin and settled
there, "the balance of the family following soon after. In the early part of the
year following he enlisted in the Union Army, and was mustered into Company
A, One Hundi-ed and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, May 11, 1864; he
followed the fortunes of his regiment till its dissolution in August following.
822 I BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
1
and was mustered out at Cleveland on the 27tli of that month. He imme-
diately re-enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Eightieth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, and did active sei'vice till July, 1865, when he was mustered out at
Charlotte. N. C. Returning to peaceful pursuits he engaged with the Woolen
Manufacturing Company of Tiffin, with which industry he remained connected
for several years; the last eleven years he was in charge of the finishing de-
partment. Retiring from this industry he applied himself more closely to
study, and completed a commercial term at Commercial College. During this
time he served the city (from the Second Ward) as member of the city council
for one term. In August, 1879, he accepted the superintendency of the city
water works, and in August, 1883, was elected president and general manager.
Upon the organization of the present Tiffin Edison Electric Illuminating Com-
pany he took an active interest, and one year later was elected its president.
Mr. Scannell is an enterprising business man and an afPable, pleasant gentle-
man.
J. W. SCHAUFELBERGER. attorney at law, Tiffin, was born near Fos-
toria, in Hancock County, Ohio. January 29, 1858. His father (Jacob), a
native of Baden, came to America in 1837, at the age of twenty-two, and lo-
cated at Freedom, Penn. , where he married Margaret Fritcher, of same nativ-
ity. In 1852 he moved to Ohio and settled in Hancock County, near Fostoria,
where he engaged in farming and stock-raising until 1881, when he retired to
quiet life in Fostoria. The family consists of six sons and three daughters.
Mrs. Jacob Schaufelberger died in 1878, and is buried in the Fostoria Ceme-
tery. John William, the subject of this sketch, was the second son and fom-th
child. He received a liberal training in the public schools, and at seventeen
entered Heidelberg College, from which he graduated, in the classical course,
in 1875. In September, of that year, he entered the law office of Hon. George
E. Seney, his present partner, and was admitted to the bar of the State of
Ohio, in April, 1877. He remained in the ofilce of his preceptor imtil Febru-
ary, 1878, when he located at Fostoria, where he carried on an active jDractice.
In the fall of 1883 he returned to Tiffin and entered into his present partner-
ship (Seney & Schaufelberger). In April, 1884, he was admitted to practice
in the Supreme Court of the United States, at Washington. Since his first
admission he has devoted his entire time to the practice of his profession, and
is now ranked as one of the leading members of the Seneca County bar. Mr.
Schaufelberger is of good physique and pleasant aj^pearance, studious in his
character, a close reasoner and a devoted advocate of principles he considers
just. He is a member of all the bodies of the Masonic fraternitv.
PHILIP SCHEIB, merchant tailor. Tiffin, was born in Odenheim, in the
Rhine Province of the kingdom of Bavaria, November 20, 1829. His parents
were Kasimer and Katharina (Krob) Scheib, the former a farmer and shoe-
maker. They reared four sons and two daughters: Peter, a shoe -maker, died
in Rochester. N. Y. , leaving childrer^ Christian, same trade, xinmarried when
heard from at Houston, Tex., just before the war; Elizabeth, widow of Peter
Durn, of Norwalk. Ohio; Philip and Kasimer (twins), Kasimer being a farmer
in his native land, and Barbara, wife of Carl Krohn, also a resident of
Bavaria. Our subject received a good education at home, and at fourteen be-
gan his present business as an apprentice, and after a few years went to
Munich, where he remained working at his trade for three or four years, and
then returned to his native city. He concluded to come to America, and in
1852 landed at Rochester, N. Y. and in 1855 came to Tiffin, this county, and
here worked at his trade till 1862, when he embarked in business on his own
account. He marritnl in Rochester, N. Y.. November 22. 1853, Margareta
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 823
Emich. born in Siemen, in the Rhine province of Prussia. To this union were
born fom- sons and one- daughter: EHzabeth (deceased): Louis Philippe, a
merchant tailor; Frederick AY illiam, M. D., a physician of standing, at Betts-
ville, this county; Frank Kasimer and John Philip. Mr. Scheib is an excel-
lent citizen and business man. He is a worthy member of the Gernian Re-
formed Church. He has been a member of the Masonic order since I8r>6, and
has attained to the degree of Knight Templar in De Molay Commandery. He
is also a. member of the K. of H. (since its organization), L. of H.. R. A.,
Druids and the I. O. O. F. February 19, 1885, Mr. Scheib sustained a loss
in the death of his wife, who died in full communion with the German Re-
formed Church and is buried in Maple Grove Cemetery.
JACOB SCHEIBER, of the Tiffin Manufacturing Company, -Tiffin, was
born in Schirrheim. Alsace, France, August 5. 1821, son of Jacob and Mag-
dalena(Steinmetz) Scheiber. He came with his father to Baltimore. Md.,
January 11, 1832; and on the 15th of February following to Osnaburgh. Stark
County, where his parents died and are buried. They there reared ten chil-
di-en, live now living: John, Joseph, Barbara, Mary and Jacob. Our subject
spent his early life in Canton. Ohio, where he learned wagon and plow mak-
ing. In 1848 he came to Tiffin and opened a blacksmith, plow and wagon
shop, which he carried on till 1856, when he established a machine shop, which
merged into the "Tiffin Agricultural Works." He retired from this in 1874
and carried on coal business till 1875, in which year he organized the Tiffin
Manufacturing Company, of which he owns the controlling stock. Mr.
Scheiber was married in Canton, Ohio, October 10, 1848. to Mary Saumbarger,
a native of Canton Aran. Switzerland, and to this union were born twelve
children: Louis Peter. Mai-y Louise* (deceased). Mrtcj Elizabeth (deceased).
John B.. August. Louisa, Joseph. Rosa. Clara Matilda. William, Annie and
Caroline Magdalena. The family are members of St. Joseph's congregation of
the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Scheiber has been a member of the council
two terms, street commissioner three terms, a member of the board of health
one term, trustee of St. Joseph's Church two terms, and was one of the build-
ing committee upon the building of that edifice, and one of the directors and
organizers of the Northwestern Ohio Railway, acting as president of the pres-
ent company for the first six years of its organization.
JACOB' SCHEIBLEY, proprietor of restaiu-ant. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin,
Seneca Co., Ohio, November 12, 1847. His parents, Michael and Barbara
(Schneckenberger) Scheiblev. natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, settled m
Tiffin, Ohio, in 1845, where 'they reared one son and six daughters: Christina,
wife of Fred Schauf, of Kansas: Margaret, wife of Mr. Swartzenberger of
Cleveland; Mary, wife of Charles Andrews, of Tiffin; Kate, wife of Frederick
Armbruster of Buffalo. N. Y. ; Jacob; Annie, widow of Charles Bow, of Tiffin;
Lena, wife of Edward Goddard, of Tiffin. In 1859 the father died and was
buried in Maple Grove Cemetery. The subject of our sketch was reared to
his present business and has since been prominently connected with it here.
Mr. Scheibley was married in Tiffin, in 1872, to Caroline Keiffer, daughter of
Daniel Keiffer. of Crawford County, Ohio, and to this union have been born
one son and one daughter living. Ralph D. and Bertha May, and two sons
deceased: Charles F. and Lloyd F. Mr. and Mrs. Scheibley are worthy mem-
bers of the German Lutheran Church. He is a worthy citizen; has been an
a3tive member of the fire department of Tiffia for over eighteen years and has
officiated as foreman of Wilson Hose Company for many years.
LOUIS C. A. SCHMIDT, farmer, P. O. Tiffi.n. was born in Germany,
April 29, 1810, a son of Charles and Louisa Schmidt, natives of Germany,
824 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Avhere they were married and remained until tlieir death. Our subject came to
America in 1840, and after traveling over different parts of the United States
for several years, visiting Baltimore, Washington, New York, Pittsbui-gh and
Harper's Ferry, finally settled in Tiffin, Ohio, where he was united in marriage
July 2. 1846, with Anna M. Eife, born in Germany December 11. 1820. To
this union have been born seven children, of whom five are now living: Charlie;
Mary, wife of Jacob Marquardt; Amelia, wife of George Leisher: Albert and
Emma A. : the deceased are Julia A. and Matilda. Mr. Schmidt is a gun-
smith by trade, which he followed for many years, but of late years has en-
gaged in farming. He owns 120 acres of well-improved land, where he and
hi^ family reside. ^Ixs. Schmidt and family are members of the German
Keformed Church.
JACOB SCHMUCKER, proprietor of the beer bottling works. Tiffin, Ohio,
born in Kirch Bierlingen, Oberamt Ehingen. Wurtemberg, Germany, August
2. 1845. son of Anton Schmucker and Magdalena Seitz. came to America in
1860. He followed his trade (brewer) in Cincinnati, and afterward in San-
dusky, and ill 1872 located in Tiffin, where he has accumulated a competence
and does a thriving business. Mr. Schmucker married Sophia, daughter of
Charles Fleischhauer and Caroline Keiffer, of Sandusky. She was born in
rtweiler, Prussia, the former home of her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Schmucker
have a family of two sons and three daughters: Caroline. Otto. Lena. Charles
and Norma.
PHILIP SCHWEICKHARD. saloon keeper. Tiffin, liorn in Wingen,
Alsace. France. July 7. 1888. is a son of Balthasar and Magdalena (Woerner)
Schweickhard, who 'came to America in 1846, and settled in New York State,
where they passed from this life, the former in 1881, and the latter February
20, 1883. 'leaving a large family. The subject of this sketch learned the
cooper's trade in New York State, and followed it through the West. April
6, 1865, he came to Tiffin, and has been prominently identified with the inter-
ests of the city since that date. He married, in Yates County, N. Y.,
Magdalena, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth (Harmon) Faulstich, of that
State, natives of Alsace. France, and by her has had eight children: Charles
Philip, Emma Elizabeth. Louisa Magdalena. George Benjamin (drowned at
the age of six years). Catharine Caroline. Anna Christina, Samuel Frederick
and Richard Allen. The family belong to the German Lutheran Church.
Mr. Schweickhard is a member of the A. O. U. D. . and has been the honored
treasm-er of the Alert Hose Company for nearly six years. He has been an
active and enterprising citizen of Tiffin since coming here, and has accumu-
lated a competence.
HEZEKIAH SEARLES. retired farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Fair-
field County, Ohio, December 4, 1810. son of John and Jane (Dunken) Searles.
the former "born in Maryland, and the latter in Pennsylvania: they were mar
ried in Fairfield County, Ohio, and in 1820 came to this county, settling at
Fort Ball, and living in 'one of the block-houses during the winter of 1820-21.
They then moved to Eden Township, and there remained iintil the death of
John Searles. which occurred May 14. 1844. His widow died in 18/0. They
were the parents of eleven children, of whom seven are living. Hezekiah
Searles, the subject of this sketch, was united in marriage, October 23, 1838,
Avith Eliza A. Lambertson, born in Northampton County, Penn., June 12.
1817, daughter of Daniel and Susanna Lambertson, natives of Pennsylvania,
where they were married and remained until 1824, at which time they moved
to Huron 'County, Ohio, and after a short time came to this county, where they
remained until their death, Mrs. Lambertson dving Deccmlier 14. 1844. and
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 825
Mr. Lambertson December 5, 3852. They were the parents of four children,
only one of whom survives. To our subject and wife have been born six chil-
dren, two now living: Irving W. and Charles F., the latter of whom married
Allie B. Nyman, and they are the parents of four children. Our subject owns
157 acres of good land. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church.
PETER SEEVER. lumber dealer, Tiffin, was born July 21, LSIV), in Fair-
lield County. Ohio, son of Peter and Elizabeth (Keller) Seever, the former
born in Frederick County, Va., of French parentage, the latter a native of
York County, Penn. They were married in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1810.
Peter Seever. Sr. , came to Ohio in 1804, and settled in Fairfield County, where
he and his family lived for fifty years. The Kellers came to Ohio in 1808,
and to Seneca County in 1835. Peter and Elizabeth (Keller) Seever had a
family of fourteen childi-en, of whom seven survive. The subject of this
sketcii, unmarried, has l)een engaged in the lumber trade for years. He is a
well-read man. delights in arguments, and has taken a prominent part in pub-
lic debates. He "has boarded at the "Myers House" for years.
REV. ISAAC SEITZ. minister of the Free Baptist Church. 1\ O. Tiffin,
was born in Bloom Township, this county, August 2, 1828, son of John and
Magdalena (Spitler) Seitz, the former a son of the Rev. Lewis Seitz, who set-
tlecf in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1802, coming fi-om Rockingham Coimty,
Va., his father having emigrated to this country fi-om Bavaria; the Spitlers
were of Swiss anc(^stry and pioneers in Virginia. Rev. Isaac Seitz was the
youngest of a family of five sons and three daughters, of whom biit four sons
sTirvive: Abraham, residing in Sacramento, Cal. ; Lewis, a minister in the
Regular Baptist Church; Daniel, a farmer in Bloom Township, this county,
and our sul)ject, who obtained a good common school education in Bloom
Township, this county, and attended two courses of lectures at the academy at
Republic, and two terms at Heidelberg. He read law under Judge Pillars, of
Tiffin, and was admitted to the bar in 1854. In 1855 he mari'ied Caroline,
daughter of Jacob and Fanny Abt Sheidley, of Pennsylvania, former of whom
came from Gioppengeu. Germany, when a young man. crossing the ocean in
company with John Jacol> Astor.' of New York. This union has been blessed
with foiir sons: John De Alton, engaged in real estate business in Kansas City,
Mo. ; Benjamin A. . doing business for the C. L. R. R. Company, Kansas City,
Mo. ; Charles Sumner, a stock-raiser of Cowley County, Kas., and Earl William,
a student in commercial school, at Oberlin. Ohio. Our subject had for some
years felt a complete conversion to the cause of Christ, and in 18 < 5 he entered
the ministry and began work on a manuscript relative to his conversion, which
after four years he completed. It is a handsome 400 page octavo, entitled
' ' Christian Experience of Isaac Seitz. with his Views on the Ministry, Justifi-
cation. Sanctification. Future Rewards and Punishments. Ingersol is wrong
in saying that Infidels are the Intellectual Discoverers. " ' It is a volume of
thrilling interest to Christian minds, and a guide in the service of the disciples
of the Christian religion.
GEORGE EBBERT SENEY, Tiffin, was born May 29, 1832, at Inion-
town, Fayette Co., Penn. The late Joshua Seney, of Tiffin, father of our
subject, was born, reared and educated in New York City, where he graduated
at Columbia College and the University Law School. He was a nephew of the
distinguished statesman, Albert Gallatin, and was the private secretary of that
gentleman when he was Secretary of the United States Treasury. Mr. Gallatin
had a country seat at Uniontown, Penn. , and it was there that Joshua Seney
met Ann Ebbert, who afterward became his wife. After his marriage Mr.
826 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Seney established himself at Uuiontown as a lawyer and soon won distinction
at the bar. While still a resident of that city he declined the appointment of
United States Judge for the western district of Pennsylvania, which was
tendered him by President Jackson. Removing to Ohio in 1832, he settled at
Tiffin, and there lived until his death in 1854. Of his four daughters one died
earlv; one, the wife of the late George W. Howell, of Columbus. Ohio, died in
1883; two, Mrs. Frances M. Crum and Mrs. Harvey Redick. reside in Toledo.
Ohio. His three sons are George E., in Tiffin; Joshua R., in Toledo, and
Henry W., in Kenton, Ohio. Joshua R. and Henry W. are lawyers. The
former has served with distinction upon the bench, and the latter is now one of
three judges who compose the circuit coiu-t for the Third Judicial Circuit of
Ohio. Upon his removal to Tiffin, Mr. Seney did not engage in the practice
of law. Judge Lang, of Tiffin, who knew Mr. Seney intimately and well, thus
speaks of him. in his history of Seneca County published in 1880: '' If Mr.
Seney' s industry had been equal to his ca^jacity he would have been very suc-
cessful as a lawyer. He had a natm-al aversion to anything that looked like
labor. He was all politician, however, and a more shrewd, more calculating
and far-seeing politician than Mr. Seney Seneca County never had in any
party. He was not selfish nor sought office for himself. When he liked a
person that aspired to office, he would do all in his power to aid him. Raised
in the laj) of wealth and luxury, he knew nothing about labor, nor the value of
money. He had very little taste for, or appreciation of. the practical i^art of
life. "^ His language was chaste and polished, and his manners peculiarly his
own. He was perfectly at home in an office and discharged every trust with
ability and fidelity. He was treasurer of Seneca County for two terms, and
clerk of the supreme court for many years. He wrote a fine hand and his
records were spotless. Mr. Seney had a large well developed head, an
expressive countenance, a piercing black eye. a pleasant voice, and his hands
were so small as to attract universal attention. ' ' To all of this may be added
that Mr. Seney had a fine education and scholarly tastes. He knew well the
theory of the law. but had no ambition to practice it. He was a great student
and read everything that he could lay his hands on. Few men were better
posted than he in history and general literature, and fev,- understood as well as
he whatever pertained to the affairs of church or State. He was not a good
public speaker, but as a forcible writer and entei-tainiug talker he excelled.
The grandfather of George Ebbert Seney was Joshua Seney, of Maryland.
He was a distinguished citizen of that State, and took a prominent part in the
public affairs of that colony during the Revolutionary struggle. He represented
Maryland in the last session of the Continental Congress, and in the first Con-
gress under the Constitution of the United States. He resigned his seat in
Congress to accept a seat upon the judicial bench of Maryland. He was chosen
one of the presidential electors for the State of Maryland and voted for George
Washington when he was first elected president. No less distinguished were
the other ancestors of George Ebbert Seney. His grandmother, upon his
father's side, was a daughter of James Nicholson, a distinguished commodore
in the United States Navy, in 1775. Com. Nicholson was in command of the
United States Frigate "Trumbull." when she fought the British man-of-war
" Wyatt. " The engagement was one of the most desperate naval battles of the
Revolutionary war. One of the daughters of Com. Nicholson married Albert Gal-
latin, then Secretary of the Treasmy, and afterward United States senator fi'om
Pennsylvania; another became the wife of Col. William Few, who was a mem-
ber, fi'om the State of Geoi-gia. of the convention that fi-amed the Constitution
of the United States, and afterward a senator in Congress from that State: the
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 827
third married John Montgomery, of Maryland, then mayor of the city of Bal-
timore and afterward a member of Congress fi'om that State; the fourth,
Frances, married Joshua Seney. Upon the mother's side the gi-andparents of
the subject of this sketch were George Ebbert and Sarah Wood, born in Phil-
adelphia, where they were married. Removing to Uniontown, Penn. , George
Ebbert there established a mercantile business, which he conducted with
marked success for forty years. The older people of that busy little city speak
of him as a model man. He was, they say, "the soul of honor, a man of fine
business capacity and energetic and successful in whatever he undertook. He
had a sound judgment and expressed his views in a few words, but with great
clearness. He had a kind heart and a generous hand. He was without malice
and with him charity was a great virtue. He was a well informed man and
reading was his favorite pastime. ' ' Sarah Ebbert is said to have been more
than an ordinary woman; domestic in her tastes she lived a quiet life. She
was a pious woman and took an active part in promoting the good of her
church. The fathers of George Ebbert and Sarah Wood were merchants in
Philadelphia. In that city they accumulated wealth and held high social posi-
tions. Their lives were full of good deeds and their memories are greatly
revered by their descendants, and by the descendants of those who knew them
a hundred years ago. To Mr. and Mrs. George Ebbert children were born,
number unknown, five the writer of this sketch knew — three sons and tvv^o
daughters ; two of the sons, Henry and John H. , were men of high character,
both had ability, and their lives were consi:)icuously useful. One of the daugh-
ters, Elizabeth Dorsey, wife of the late Dr. Caleb Dorsey, of Virginia, was a
lady well accomplished in mind. The other daughter, Ann, the mother of
George Ebbert Seney, is said to have been a beautiful girl. She received a
liberal education at Brownsville (Penn. ) Female Seminary. She was a lady of
great practical sense and had strong religious convictions. Before her mar-
riage she was an active Christian worker in her native town. At Tiffin, where
she lived twenty-two years a wife and twenty-six a widow, she was highly es-
teemed. In her the poor had a friend. She was a frequent and welcome
visitor to the bedside of the sick and dying. A leading member in the Method-
ist Episcopal Church, she took an active part in promoting the interests of that
denomination. One of the handsome memorial windows in the Methodist
Episcopal Church, at Tiffin, was placed there Vjy Judge Seney, in honor of the
memory of his mother. Mrs. Ann Seney died May 5. 1879, aged seventy-five
years.
George Ebbert Seney was brought to Tiffin (then a village of 400 inhabi-
tants) an infant in his mother's arms. Judge Seney (for by this name George
E. is universally called) was educated at Norwalk (Ohio) Seminary, then under
the charge of Dr. Edward Thomson, subsequently a bishop in the Methodist
Episcopal Church. After four years spent at that institution Judge Seney
retvirned to Tiffin, and for a year or more was clerk in a dry goods store. In
1848, perhaps, and while a mere boy, he and his uncle. George Ebbert, opened
a book store in Tiffin. The stock with which the firm of Ebbert & Seney com-
menced business was purchased in New York City by the boy partner, who went
thei-e for that purpose. Judge Seney remained in this store for less than a
year. The business being small and unprofitable for two. Judge Seney retired
"and Mr. Ebbert remained. Upon leaving the book store, Judge Seney deter-
mined that St. Louis should be his future home, and through a family relative
in the East had secured a position in a wholesale dry goods store in that city.
This was opposed by his mother and opposed as well by his father, who had
his heart set upon making a lawyer out of his son. Judge Seney' s ambition
828 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
was to be a merchant. To being a lawyer he was stoutly opposed. Simply to
please his father, and to show his filial respect to his wishes he entered the
office of Luther A. Hall. Esq. , in Tiffin, to read law. but with an understand-
ing that, if at the end of three months he preferred the place open for him at
St. Louis, neither father nor mother would further object. Years after, when
Judge Seney was strong in his profession, Mr. Hall said : ' 'the first day Creorge
was in my office he and the law fell in love, and they have been loving each
other ever since. ' ' Neither he, his family, nor his friends have cause to regret
that he became a lawyer instead of a merchant. Two years of close and
attentive study of the law books prepared Judge Seney for admission to the
bar. He was admitted in 1858, and immediately commenced practice in com-
pany with his preceptor, Mr. Hall. This partnership lasted about two years.
The Judge, preferring to be alone, opened an office close by the one he now
occupies, and alone, until his election to Congress, has he practiced his pro-
fession, except when on the bench and in the army. At the time Judge Seney
left the office of jVIi-. Hall there were eighteen practicing lawyers in Seneca
County, several of them being gentlemen of large experience and acknowledged
ability. Judge Seney had clients and cases from the beginning; they grew in
number, and when at the end of four years he left the bar for the bench his
business favorably compared with the best done by either of the older attorneys.
The reputation Judge Seney acquired diiring these six years of practice was
that of a studious, methodical and reliable lawyer, and an able, efPective anJ
eloquent jury advocate. After his election as judge, and before l^term of
office commenced, President Buchanan tendered him the appointment of the
United States district attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, which he de-
clined, preferring the place on the bench to which he had just been elected;
Judge Seney was on the bench five years. He was elected when he was
twenty-six years of age, and is perhaps the youngest man who ever held a com-
mon pleas court in Ohio. That he was not over anxious for the place is to be
inferred fi'om the fact that he refused to take his party" s nomination unless it
was tendered unanimously. At a convention held at Carey, largely composed
of lawyers from Seneca, Crawford, Wyandot, Hancock and Wood Counties, he
was nominated by acclamation as the Democratic candidate for common pleas
judge of the third subdivision of the Third Judicial District. The i)olitics of
the district at that time were doubtful ; Judge Seney carried it by a majority of
1,(K)() over his opponent. Gen. John C. Lee. The first court held by Judge
Seney was at Perrysburg, in AVood Coiinty, and the first law^^er who addressed
him in the argument of a case was Hon. M. R. Waite, then a practicing attor-
ney at Toledo, and now the chief justice of the Supreme Court of the United
States. During his term of five years on the bench Jiidge Seney held three
terms of court each year at Tiffin, Bucyrus, TTp})er Sandusky, Findlay and
Perrysburg, and frequently a term, or a part of a term, in other counties in the
first and second subdivisions of his district. In addition to this he and the
judges of these two siibdivisions, with one of the judges of the supreme court
of the State, held a term of the district coui-t. once a year, in each of the
twenty counties comprising the judicial district. Upon the bench Judge Seney
met the expectations of his friends. Youthful as he was, he presided with
marked dignity, impartiality and courtesy, and by his decisions added to his
reputation as a sound lawyer, a dispassionate reasoner and an honest, discreet
and just judge. It was while Judge Seney was on the bench that he published
what is known to the profession as "Seney' s Ohio Code," and this volume he
republished in 1874. Among lawyers this work is highly vahied, and is in
constant and extensive use in Ohio and several of the "Western States. Judirf
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 829
Seney's term upon the bencli closed during the second year of the war. Om*
subject was an ardent Democrat, a stanch friend of the Union and uncom-
promising in his opposition to secession. Upon the close of the last term of
court he enlisted in the One Hundred- and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, he
and three others being the first to enlist in that regiment. Judge Seney was
commissioned a first lieutenant, and immediately he and his three fellow sol-
diers commenced recruiting for the regiment. In thirty-eight days the regi-
ment, over 1,000 strong, was upon the Covington (Kentucky) Hills, defending
Cincinnati against attack from rebel forces, led by Gen. Kirby Smith. He was
appointed quartermaster of the regiment, ser^dng with it in the field for two years
and a half under Buell. Rosecrans, Thomas and Sherman. He was with the
regiment in its encounters at Perryville, at Lancaster and Nashville. He was
present at the engagement at Knob Gap, and was within sound of the guns at
Stone River. He saw service at Chickamauga and at Liberty Gap, and wit-
nessed the heroic valor of the One Hundi-ed and First in the battles of Chatta-
nooga and Franklin. He was with the One Hundi-ed and First in its five
months' campaign of almost continxTous marching and fighting, under Sher-
man, from Mission Ridge to Atlanta. Resigning his army commission he re-
turned to Tiflin in December, 1804, reopened his law office, and in a short
time was in the enjoyment of a large and lucrative practice. For the next
eighteen years few lawj^ers labored harder in his profession than Judge Seney.
Early and late, day after day, and night after night, he could be found at his
office, or i^4?oiu-t. or if elsewhere, always fiill of legal business. In 1879 a
liiogi-apher speaks of Judge Seney in these words : ' 'As a lawj'er he is highly
esteemed by his brethren of the profession. His papers are thoroughly pre-
pared, the witnesses are sifted to the bottom, and the case is effectively pre-
sented to the court and jmy. While he excels as an advocate, being a fine
speaker, and possessing naturally oratorical gifts and graces, as an attorney
and counsellor he is no less excellent, being well read upon points of law. From
the fact that he is usually assigned the closing of a case, one can judge of the
esteem in which he is held by those who are with him in it. As a man he is
genial, and possessed of the native delicacy and refinement of the educated
gentleman. ' "
With politics he had little to do. unless to attend a convention to help a
friend make a few speeches during a campaign, and regularly, spring and fall,
vote the Democratic ticket. When elected to Congress in 1882 he was fifty-
years of age and yet the only office he had held was that of judge, twenty-
one years before. * He was a candidate for presidential elector on the Buchan-
an ticket in ISof). With these two exceptions his party had never been
troubled with him in a convention or at an election, as a candidate for office.
With the exception of judge and member of Congress he never held an office,
ward, township, city, county, district or State; never was a candidate for one
before a convention or the people. In 1874 he was nominated to make the
race for Congi-ess against ex-Gov. Foster. There were other able Democrats
who sought the place and in the convention were put in nomination. AVith-
out his knowledge his name was presented. Judge Seney declined to be a
candidate, saying that he would not accept the nomination if it was made. In
spite of this refusal he was nominated upon the first ballot, receiving nearly
all the votes. He again arose to decline, but the convention was unwilling to
hear him, and in the noise and confusion that prevailed he was declared the
nominee, and immediately the convention adjoiu-ned. It was thought that
Judge Seney could carry tlae district against Foster, who had twice before been
elected, but Foster beat him by 189 votes. There is no remark respecting that
46
830 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
election more common than that Judge Seney did not want the place and con-
sequently made no effort to be elected. It is the opinion of those supposed to
know that the Judge was pleased at his defeat. That he had no desire to bo
in Congress was satisfactorily demonstrated at Upper Sandustv- four years
later. '^The district had been changed, and was then Democratic by 5,000
majority. An election was certain, he was about to be nominated, and would
have been had he not arisen and appealed to the delegates not to vote for him.
stating that under no circumstances would he accept of the nomination. In
1876 he was made a delegate to the Democratic National Convention at St.
Louis, and assisted in nominating Samuel J. Tilden for President. He was an
active' member of that body, and, in the campaign which followed, he eloquent-
ly and ably advocated before the people the justness of his party's cause. In
1882 he was made the Democratic candidate for Congress in the Fifth District.
Soon after his nomination he made a thorough canvass of the district,
speaking at fifty or more places. He was elected by a majority of 5,613. In
Seneca "County he received many Republican votes. His majority in this
county was 1,472; in Tiffin, 776, and in the First Ward of Tiffin, where he
lived, 173. In 1883 his district was changed by taking off Putnam County
with 1.417 Democratic majority and adding in Wood County with 496 Repub-
lican majority. This change i^educed the Democratic majority in his district,
on the vote of 1882, to 3,644. Judge Seney was nominated in the new district
in 1884. This was a presidential year. He made a thorough canvass, address-
ing over seventy public meetings within his district. He was elected by 4,00r)
majority. The majority for Cleveland and Hendi-icks in the district was 3,216.
The reputation of Judge Seney as a laAvj^er followed him to Congress; he
was appointed a member of the Judiciary Committee upon which were the
ablest lawyers in the House. During the session he was always in his seat in
the committee or in the House, giving faithful attention to every duty; modest
and unassuming, he talked little, but listened much. His speeches in the
Ohio contested election case of Campbell i-.s. Morey, against the repeal of the
tax on tobacco and spirits not used as a beverage, and against allowing Nation-
al banks to increase their circulating notes, are exceedingly able efforts, and
attracted, as they deserved, public attention. Judge Seney is known far and
near as the friend of the soldiers. To their interest before Congress and in the
departments he gives especial attention. All the letters he receives fi'om sol-
diers about their pension claims, and they number thousands, he promptly
answers, and as promptly at'tends to all their requests. In 1884 the Ohio
Legislature was Democratic in both branches ; Judge Seney was prominently
named for United States senator to succeed Senator Pendleton. He refused to
be a candidate, and wrote to those who were urging his candidacy that he would
neither seek nor decline the place. He Avas known to be the first choice of a
few members, and the second choice of several others. Several of his party
newspapers advocated his election, and not a few of the public men, in and
oiit of the State, favored his election. It was thought that neither of the lead-
ing aspirants — Payne or Pendleton — would be chosen, and in that event. Judge
Seney, better than any other Democrat, would be acceptable to the two fac-
tions, Pendleton and anti-Pendleton, into which the Democratic members
appeared to be divided. Mr. Payne, to the surprise of everybody, was chosen
in the caucus upon the first ballot. Among those prominently named as the
Democratic candidate for governor of Ohio, in 1885, is the distinguished con-
gressman from the Tiffin district. He positively refused to be a candidate or
allow his name to be used in connection with the gubernatorial office.
Years of industrious and energetic labor in his profession have not been
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 831
without substantial rewards to Judge Seney in fortune, as he has been suc-
cessful. By his own exertions he has accumulated property estimated to he
worth $150,000 to $200,000. He is the owner of the Tiffin Gas Works, which
thii-ty years ago he assisted in constructing, and was for ihe first three years of
their existence the secretary of the company who built them. He is a progres-
sive, liberal and enterprising man. In whatever is calculated to advance Tifiin
and the good of her people, he takes an active and leading part. If money is
wanted to help the poor, the sick, or the unfortunate, no one gives more cheer-
fully or liberally. If a church is to be built, a minister la'cks support, the cause
of education needs help, or any enterprise for the public good wants assistance,
he is always ready and willing with his purse. He is a member of no church,
yet the friend of religion and of all Christian effort. Judge Seney has no
chikh-en. His estimable wife, Anna (Walker) Seney, is a daughter of the late
Joseph Walker, Esq. . long a merchant of Tiffin, and a granddaughter of the
late Josiah Hedges, Esq. , who was the founder of Tiffin, and is remembered
by older citizens as an active leader in public affairs forty years ago. There
are those who believe that still higher honors are in store for Judge Seney.
We wi-ite not of the future, but of the past and the present.
WILLIAM HALDERMAN SHAFFNER, dealer in agricultural imple-
ments. Tiffin, was born in Daiiphin County, Penn. , September 5, 1824. His
parents, Martin and Sarah (Flescher) ShaflFner, were descended from pioneer
stock of that State, former of whom came to Crawford County in 1829. and to
Bloom Township. Seneca Co-anty, in 1 848. Martin Shaffner had twenty-one
childi-en by three marriages, William H. being the youngest of three sods and
six daughters by the first marriage. Our subject took up farming, and has
been very successfully identified with that industry, buying and selling consid-
erably. He has exchanged nine different farms,* aggregating about"$90.000
or $100,000. He married, in Scipio Township, this county, in 1846, Mary A.,
daughter of Joseph and Frances (Lanaga) CofiFman, natives of Perry County,
Penn., and to this union have been born four sons and five daughters: Joseph
Wesley, residing in Wyandot County, Ohio: Sarah F., wife of Jacob Basore.
of Huron County, Ohio; Emma, wife of Leo Andrews, of Liberty Township,
this county; Charles B.. of Hughes County. Dak.: Mai'tin F.\ of Loudon
Township, this county; Alice, wife of Charles Cramer, of Loudon Township,
this county; Clara (deceased); Elmer L. and Ida. Mr. and Mrs. Shaffner are
woi-thy members of the Methodist Episcoi)al Church, in which he has served as
trustee, steward, class leader and superintendent of the Sabbath-school. He
has been a member of the Masonic order for several years, and has attained to
the degree of K. T. of De Molay Commandery. He is also a member of Isaac Rule
Post G. A. R. , having seen service during the late war of the Rebellion as a
member of the One Hundi-ed and Sixty-fom-th Regiment Ohio , Volunteer
Infantry. Mr. Shaffner' s present farm comprises 240 acres of valuable land
in Loudon Township, this county.
JOHN SHAULL, retired farmer. Tiffin, was born December 13. 1818, in
Berkeley County, Va. ; son of Jacob and Susan (Pulse) Shaull, natives of Vir-
ginia. Jacob Shaull came to Ohio in 1833, and for a few months his familv
stopped in Marion until he could find a suitable location. He finally entered
land in Williams County, where he and a portion of his family settled, and
there he and his wife lived and died, the latter departing this life in 1882.
aged ninety-two years. Jacob Shaull became one of the leading farmers of
Williams County and was one of its respected pioneers. His family consisted
of six sons and three daughters, of whom Milton, Samuel and John, only, sur-
vive. Our stibject came with his father to Ohio, but did not remain with the
832 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
family, coming direct to Seneca County to his grandfather. Michael Shaull, an
old pioneer, and here began life, and by industrious habits and economy soon
accumulated enough to make a start for himself. He was married, in 1887, to
Miss Barbara Shedingham; subsequently purchased a piece of land of his father-
in-law and began life in earnest. To Mr. and Mrs. Shaull were born ten chil
dren, nine of whom are now living: George J., Mary E. (Mrs. F. Fisher),
Samuel R., David, Lydia (Mrs. R. Hill), Sarah (Mrs. Truman Zise). Conrad.
Smiley and Josej^h. The mother of these children dying. Mr. Shaull, October
18, 1868. was married to Mrs. Libby Staub, a widow, a daughter of Henry
Stoner, an old settler of this county. John Shoull, who has been a successful
farmer, still owns his farm in Hopewell Township, this coimty, but is living a
retired life in Tiffin. He has been a leading pioneer; served in the offices of
township trustee for several years and also as school director.
REZIN \V. SHAWHAN stands prominent among Tiffin's people as a suc-
cessful merchant and an active, public spirited citizen. His is an example of
a well spent life, of careful, painstaking industry. His parents were Freder-
ick and Eleanor (Wells) Shawhan. the latter a native of Virginia. His father
was a native of Kent County, Md. , but had settled in Virginia after the Revo-
lutionary War. in which he was an active participant, having enlisted when but
seventeen years of age. He served under Gens. Wayne, Green, Lafayette and
Washington. He was at the capture of Stony Point by Wayne, at the battle
of Monmouth, at the crossing of the Delaware, and at the subsequent
capture of the Hessians at Trenton. In 1812 he moved to Ohio, and first
located in Fairfield County, and afterward settled in Seneca County, and died
near Tiffin August 26, 1840, in the eightieth year of his age. The subject of
this sketch was born October 19. 1811, in Berkeley County. Va.. and
worked on a farm xmtil fifteen years of age. His chances for education were
very limited, comprising only a common district school education of twenty-
eight months. In 1827 he entered the store of William McComb,in Wooster,
Ohio, as clerk, and when eighteen he w^as employed in the store of Zopher T.
Moore, with whom he remained about three years. In 1888 he located in
Tiffin, then a village of less than 500 inhabitants. In company with his
In-other, L. D. Shawhan. he opened a small store, but at the end of two years
L. D. , fearing his health was being injured, withdrew his entire interest, R.
W. , thereafter, driving the business alone. In April. 1 889, INlr. Shawhan was
married to Elvira Tuller. of Worthington, Ohio, who died May 20. 1880. June
29, 1881, he married Delia Watson, of Toledo. Ohio, still living. Having
engaged in many enterprises, many of which were unprofitable, still, by dint of
perseverence and unyielding industry', he has accumulated a handsome foi-tune,
and has assisted in the growth of many imiwrtant industries, among which may
be mentioned the banking and building interests, the • 'Shawhan House' ' built
in 1850), l)eing the only one however bearing his name. His enterprise has not
been confined to Tiffin" only, but he has been connected with merchandising in
other i:>laces. and has been interested in extensive land purchases in Wisconsin,
Nebraska and Kansas, all of which accrued to his profit. Mr. Shawhan is a
man of excej^tionally vigorous constitution, and gives personal attention to all
of his affairs. He has always been a close student of business matters, and hiis
given considerable attention to general reading, having acquired a fine library.
The subject of "X)ur sketch is the only surviving child in his father's family, and
he has an only daiighter, Ella, a lady of excellent attainments.
HENRY SHEATS, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Lancaster County,
Penn., May 28, 1822, son of Henry and Nancy Sheats, who were married in
Pennsylvania, came to Seneca County, Ohio, in October, 1889. and remained
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 833
in Clinton Township until the death of the former. After his death Mr.s.
Sheats went to Henrv County, and there remained until her death. Oiu* sub-
ject was united in marriage, January 16, 1862, with Anna Ditto, born in Seneca
County, Ohio, December 27, 1832, daughter of John W. and Elizabeth Ditto,
the former born in 1785, in Northumberland County, Penn. , and the latter born
on the Atlantic Ocean in 1795; died August 9, 1885. They were married Octo-
ber 14, 1814. and settled in this county, where they remained until the death
of Mr. Ditto, which occurred in 1853. Mr. Sheats is a carpenter and black-
smith by trade, but since his marriage has engaged in farming. He and his
family reside on a farm of 214 acres, owned by the late Mrs. Ditto. IVIi'. and
Mrs. Sheats are members of Grace Reformed Church.
ELDRIDGE SHERMAN, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in this county
Febrary 1, 1844, son of Howland and Huldah Sherman, the former a native of
New York State, born June 3, 1814, and the latter a native of Connecticut.
born March 3. 1823. They were married March 3, 1842, and settled in this
county, where thev remained until the death of Howland Sherman, which
occurred June 13, 1865; his widow resides with our subject, the mother of five
children: Eldridge, Frances, Phrona, Elnora and Lucinda. Our subject was
united in marriage, April 23, 1867, with Catharine Earl, born in this county
May 8, 1845, daughter of Matthew and Susanna Earl, the former deceased, the
latter now living. To our subject and wife have been born four- childi-en,
three now living: William T., Aura I. and Earl J. ; one died in infancy. Mr.
Sherman owns eighty- foui- acres of good land. He served his country in the
late war, and is a member of the G. A. R. He and his wife are consistent
members of the Methodist Episcopal Chiu-ch.
DANIEL SHUBERT, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Lehigh County.
Penn., November 3, 1846; son of Lewis and Esther Shubert, natives of Penn-
sylvania, where they were married and first settled, remaining there until
1847, at which time they moved to Tiffin, Ohio, where they afterward resided.
Our subject was united 'in marriage, December 31, 1868, with Barbara Einsel,
born in Clinton Township, this county, a daughter of Henry and Sarah Einsel.
whose sketch appears elsewhere. To Mr. and Mrs. Shubert. have been born
five children, foui- now living: Cyrus A., Sarah E., Oleva M. and Henry L.
The deceased is an infant. Our subject is a carpenter and joiner by trade,
but has of late years been engaged in farming, owning 107 acres of fine land.
He served his country in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting in Company
B, One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in 1863. He
was in several sharp engagements, and was mustered out at the expiration of
his term of enlistment. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical
Church.
H. E. SIMON, born in Boardman Township, Mahoning Co., Ohio, July 1 <,
1847. In 1851 the family moved to Bloom Township, Wood County, arriving
there September 1, and in the public schools of that township our subject was
educated. He was deputy auditor of Mahoning County in 1865-66, and in
1870-71 he was deputy recorder of that county. In October, 1872, he came to
Tiffin, Seneca County, where he was engaged with the Baltimore & Ohio en-
gineer corps until the line was located, upon which that railway was built in
the spring of 1873. September 15, 1873, he entered the Tribune office (Locke
& Bro.. proprietors) to learn the printer's trade, and remained at the case for
about eighteen months until March 7, 1875, when C. N. Locke, the junior
editor died. At this time Mr. Simon entered the counting room of the Tribune
office and took the position left vacant, and became associate editor with O. T.
Locke, a position which he has held over ten years. Mr. Simon was married.
834 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
May 14, 1879, to Miss Mary L., daughter of Michael and Mary (Einker) Wall,
old settlers of Tiffin, then residing at Toledo, moving to Toledo in 1878, after
about thirty years' residence at Tiffin.
JAMES V. SIX, dealer in groceries and provisions. Tiffin, is a native of
Tiffin, this county. His father, William Alfi-ed Six, was born in Frederick
County, Md., of pioneer German ancestry in that State, and, at the age of
twentv-one (1843). came to Tiffin and learned brick-making, eventually taking
an important part in the building interests of the city for many years. He
married, in his native State, Henrietta A. Filler (whom he buried here), and
the issue of this union was three sons and three daughters: James V., David
H. (a mason and builder); Winfield Scott (deceased); Ida (deceased); Lizzie
(deceased); and Emma. The subject of our sketch was reared to his father' s
business, which he followed, doing considerable building, many of the business
blocks, factories and residences of Tiffin being monuments of his handiwork.
Retiring from that industiy he took up merchandising. Mr. Six married, in
Tiffin, Ohio. Hattie Crawford, a lady of estimable attainments, a graduate of
the academy at Republic, and this union was blessed with three children, of
whom but one daughter, Mabel, survives. Our subject and wife are worthy
members of the Evangelical Church. He is a member of the K. of P. , and of
the American National Union Insurance Company of Mansfield, Ohio.
SAMUEL BAUGHER SNEATH, banker and merchant, one of Tiffin's
prominent conunercial citizens, is a native and to the "manor born;" his
parents, Richard and Catharine (Baugher) Sneath, settling here in 1827, and
his birth occurring December 19 of the following year. His father was a
native of Connecticut, and was a prominent pioneer and business man of Tif-
fin. His mother was a native of Pennsylvania, descended fi'om a pioneer
family of that State. Three sons and one daughter of the family survive:
William O. and Richard G. , residents of San Francisco, Cal. ; Catharine,
wife of James T. Drake, of Missouri; and Samuel B. The subject of our
sketch, in early life, engaged in manufacturing business, and was successfully
identified with that industry here till 1858, when, he turned his attention to
merchandising, and embarked in business with Jesse Shriver, the firm of
Shriver & Sneath continuing with good success for many years. In 18()0 or
1861 Mr. Sneath retired from the fii-m, and established a produce and commis-
sion business, which he still carries on, and in 1862 he bought his former part-
ner (Shi-iver) out and continued in dry goods and merchant tailoring for a
year or so, when he sold to P. Scheib. who still pursues the business. In
1865 he became an incorporator and stockholder of the National ^Exchange
Bank, severing his connection with that institution recently. In 1870 he took
an active part in the organization of the Commercial Bank, and has remained
its cashier since. He is a very cordial supporter of measures tending to the
city's growth and development, and has contributed in no small degree to its
social and industrial institutions. Mr. Sneath married, in 1861, Mary L.
Davis, a native of Tiffin, and daughter of Levi Davis, a native of Maryland,
and pioneer farmer of this county. IVIi's. Sneath passed away from this liie in
1868, and is buried in Green Lawn Cemetery, leaving a daughter and son:
Fannie, now the wife of C. F. M. Niles, an 'attorney at law and banker, a
resident of Garden City, Kas. , and Ralph D. , associated in the bank. In
November, 1879, Mr. Sneath married Laura A. Stephenson, of Findlay, Ohio,
a lady of excellent attainments, daughter of William Stephenson, a pi eminent
farmer near Findlay. To this union has been born one daughter, Marian Lee.
Mrs. Sneath is a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which ]\Ii-. Sneath
has alwavs been a liberal contributor. * In public life he has kept aloof from
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. • 835
holding office, but has nevertheless considered the importance of the ballot,
his motto being ' ' What is worth doing is worth doing well. ' ' Mr. Sneath
has applied his abilities to the furtherance of the commercial interests of this
locality, in which he stands a i:)rominent character.
CALVIN SNYDER, proprietor of saloon and restaurant. Tiffin, was born
in Tiffin, Ohio, August 28, 1847, son of John W. and Barbara (Hammon)
Snyder, natives of Baden, who settled in Tiffin in early times, and who reared
a family of eleven children, of whom five sons and three daughters survive.
Calvin Snyder was reared to the molder's trade, which he followed for many
years. He spent a number of years traveling through the Western and North-
western country, trading and trapping. In 1881 he returned here and
embarked in his present business. In 1882 Mr. Snyder married Mrs. Emma
(Rhu) Smith, who was born in New Riegel, this county, and by this union
there is one daughter, Edith Smith. Mr. Snyder is a member of the Molder's
Union and Veteran Firemen, and of Rescue Hose Comj^any No. 1.
WILLIAM A. SPONSLER, manufactm-er and dealer in boots and
shoes, was born in Boardman, Mahoning Co., Ohio, in 1834, and comes of a
line of pioneer Pennsylvania people of German ancestry. His parents were
pioneers in Ohio. The subject of this sketch was reared in Cuml^erland Coun-
ty, Penn., and, at twenty- one, went to Burbank, Wayne Co., Ohio, where he
eventually engaged in merchandising. In 1874 he removed thence to Tiffin,
this county, where he has since carried on a prominent business in his present
industry. He was united in marriage at Burbank, in 1857, with Miss Sarah
Jane Bowman, daiighter of George and Elizabeth (Smith) Bowman, natives of
Pennsylvania and pioneers of Wayne County, Ohio.
C. D. SPRAGUE. manager of the Western Union Telegraph Company,
Tiffin, was born in Fowler, St. Lawi'ence Co., N. Y., June 28, 1847. His
parents, Seth and Cynthia (Bowen) Sprague, are of Scotch and English ances-
try, respectively; the Spragues of pioneer Scotchmen in Connecticut and
Rhode Island, who settled there in the seventeenth centviry, of the family line-
age of Gov. Sprague of Rhode Island; the Bowens of early English settlers
in New York State. The subject of our sketch was the youngest of a family
of four sons and five daughters, of w^hom three sons and three daughters sur-
vive. His father carried on mercantile business in St. Lawi-ence County, N.
Y. C. D. Sprague took uj) telegraphing at fifteen, at Gouverneur, that coun-
ty; the year following he came to Elyi-ia, Ohio, and clerked for awhile, com-
pleting his education in telegraphy. He was creditably identified with his
profession in Ohio and New York States, alternately, till 1872, when he came
to Tiffin, and has been connected with his present occupation here since, mean-
while taking an active part in other important pursuits. Mr. Sprague was
married in Morristown, Minn. , to Jane, daughter of Joseph Hopkins, of St.
'Lawrence County, N. Y. She is a lady of estimable attainments, and was
reared and educated with Mr. Sprague. This union has been blessed with four-
children: Mildi-ed, Mamie, Charles B. and Sadie. Mr. and Mrs. Sprague are
worthy members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is treasurer, superin-
tendent of the Sabbath-school, and leader of the choir; she is treasurer of
the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. Mr. Sprague has been a Mason,
socially, since he was twenty-one years old, passing all the chairs of the chap-
ter and council, and is a member of the Royal Arcanum. He is a stanch
Republican in politics, and served as private secretary to Gov. Foster during
his canvass in 1877.
HON. DAVID J. STALTER, editor of the Tiffin News, was born in Eden
Township, Seneca County, August 14, 1845. His parents, David and Nancy
836 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
(Beery) Stalter, natives of Fairfield County, Ohio, were old residents of Eden,
and his father, one of the township's most entei-prising farmers until 1863. Mr.
Stalter attended the common schools of the district until 1859, when, owing to
the death of his mother, he was compelled to work as a farm laborer. Early
in 1865 he moved to Indiana, and dui-ing the summer of that year worked on
the Pittsburgh. Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad as a section hand. In the
fall of 1865 he removed to Michigan, and was there employed in brick-making,
and subsequently in the lumber industiy. During the latter part of the year
1867, he retui'ned to Ohio; entered a select school at Adi'ian, in 1868; soon
obtained a teacher's certificate; took charge of a school in Big Spring Town-
ship, and subsequently presided over the school at Melmore for eleven terms.
During this period of school-teaching he saved sufficient money to meet the
expenses of schooling at Heidelberg College several terms. In 1873 he accept-
ed the position of traveling correspondent for a Toledo paper, and eventually
became t)ne of its stocldiolders. His natiu-al tact and industry, aided by the
experiences which this position offered, pointed out to him other fields of labor.
Disposing of his interest in the Toledo newspaper, he purchased a half inter-
est in the Ottawa County Neics, and became editor and manager of that jour-
nal. The columns of this newspaper he stamped with his individuality, and
its business department with marked success until the spring of 1878, when he
purchased the Wyandot Democratic Union, which journal he published at
Upper Sandusky until November, 1879. Like the News of Ottawa County, he
built up the interests of the Democratic Union until the joiu-nal became valu-
able property under his management. Early in 1880 he founded the Tiffin
Netvs, a new journal which has won for itself a large measui-e of suppoi-t from
the people of Seneca County since the day of its establishment. Mr. Stalter' s
marriage, with Miss Lucy M. , daughter of Amos and Penelope (Thompson)
Westover, natives of Ohio, was solemnized at Nevada, Wyandot Co., Ohio,
July 2, 1874. Two children were born to them — David K. and Miss Tonie
Bernice; the former died in 1883, and was interred in Green Lawn Cemetery
beside his mother, who died in February, 1883. Mr. Stalter was nominated
by the Democratic Convention of 1883 to represent his native county in the
Legislatiu'e. The nomination was bitterly opposed by the machine section of
his party; and, in a measure, this opposition was carried to the polls, but the
votes thus lost were largely compensated for by the votes of Republicans, as he
received 4,762, or 966 votes over his Republican opponent, 4,717 votes over his
Greenback opponent (W. H. Patterson), and 4, 655 votes over A. T. McDonald,
the candidate of the Prohibitionists. In 1872 he was elected clerk of Eden
Township, the only Democrat ever chosen for that position by the people of
Eden. His nominations for the major and minor offices were only agreed to
by him on representations made by the best men of the party, and on condi-
tion of retiring after one term of office. Whether in the news})aper office, Leg-
islature or Masonic and Odd Fellows' circle, with which he is connected, in-
dustry and zeal mark his every action.
EDWARD W. STEPHENSON, jobbing and commission house in general
merchandising. Tiffin, was born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1845, son of Cliarles
H. and Emily (Bellchamber) Stei^henson, natives of England, the former born
in Yorkshire and the latter in London. The subject of our sketch served an
apprenticeship at the tinning business, and at the age of twenty came to this
country and after traveling through the States a few years located in Tiffin,
this county, in February, 1870, and united with Mr. Ranaldo A. Gray in the
establishment of the present enterprise. Mr. Gray retiring in 1878. The busi-
ness at first was small, but by dint of steady and persistent industry, Mr.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 837
Stephenson has reared it to an annual accounting of over $20, 000, and it now
employs eighteen well equipped wagons on the road. Mr. Stephenson was
married, in Tiffin in 1872, to Mary Cooper Gray, only surviving child of
llanaldo A. and Elizabeth (Jolly) Gray, the former a native of Connecticut and
the latter of Zanesville, Ohio. They have an adopted child, Daisy May
Stephenson. He and his wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. He is an active member of the K. of P. , is Grand Inner Guard of
the Grand Lodge of the State and recorder of the Uniform Bank of that
society. He is a member of the P. O. of A. , and of the I. O. O. F. ; is ex-
president of the National Union Insurance Company of Mansfield, Ohio. In
industrial matters Mr. Stephenson has always contributed liberally, and was
one of the prime movers in the establishment of the National Machinery Com-
pany of Tiffin. In public life he has done efficient service and has contributed
in no small degree to the advancement of the Republican party.
JAMES STINCHCOMB, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Bloom Town-
ship, this county, March 25, 1831. His grandfather, George Stinchcomb,
emigrated from Scotland, Avith his family, to America, and died in Maryland.
The father of our subject, John Stinchcomb, came from the neighborhood of
Baltimore, Md. , to this county, December 3, 1825, and settled in Bloom Town-
ship, where he purchased land and remained until 1851, when he removed to
Clinton Township, and where he died, his widow, Barbara (Turnflinger)
Stinchcomb, soon following him. They had ten childi-en: Elizabeth A.,
George S. , James, Mary J. , Frances A. , Daniel, Catharine (deceased), Amanda
M. , Hem-y and John. James Stinchcomb, the subject of this sketch, began to
receive his education at the age of twenty-one, in Heidelberg College. He
gradually worked up in his classes, and after the first term taught school, and
continued teaching for twenty years. He is a quick observer, a lover of books,
and a natural scholar. Mr. Stinchcomb was twice married; his first wife being
Matilda, daughter of Ezra and Mary Baker. This wife dying February 15,
1871, our subject mamed, September 17, 1875, Annie S. Baker (a sister of his
first wife), by whom he has one son — Robert Sherman.
FRANCIS EDWIN STONER, late auditor of Seneca County, was born in
this county. April 15, 1842; son of Dennis Caspar and Charlotte (Smith)
Stoner, who settled here from Frederick County, Md., in 1833. The Stoners
were descended from German pioneers of Maryland, the name being originally
' ' Steiner. " ' The Smiths, originally fi'om Holland, were also pioneers of Mary-
land. Of the family of nineteen children (born to the two families) nine now
survive — four sons and five daughters. Francis Edwin Stoner was reared upon
the farm in Clinton Township, this county, and was educated in the schools of
the county. In 1872 he embarked in the grocery business, which he retired
from in 1881, upon accepting his late incumbency, which he creditably filled to
the time of his death. He married, in April, 1872, Juliet, daughter of the late
Hon. J. D. O'Connor, M. D., and to this union were born two sons: Clark and
Francis Edwin, Jr. Mr. Stoner died, after a short illness, at Ridge Farm, near
Paris, 111. , August 9, 1885, and was buried in Green Lawn Cemetery, Tiffin.
He was an obedient, affectionate son, a devoted, loving husband, and a kind,
indulgent father. Mr. Stoner was a member of the Presbyterian Church, a
woi-thy member of the I. O. O. F. He was always a generous supporter of all
public measures, and contributed liberally toward the development of the
social and industrial interests of his city and county. He was a most sociable
gentleman, di-awing around him a very liberal support, fi'om all parties, to his
official position. His widow is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
^38 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES;
CHARLES J. M. SULLIVAN, Tiffin, was born in Cleveland, Ohio.
September G, 1849. His father, the late William Sullivan of Tiffin, was a
native of Cork, Ireland, and son of Michael Sullivan, who died there in 1852.
William Sullivan was reared to mercantile pursuits in his native land, and came
to America in 1846, eventually locating, in hardware merchandising, in Cleve-
land, Ohio, where he married Miss Hanora Leonard, a native of County Leit-
rim, Ireland, who bore him a family of nine children, of whom three sons sur-
vive: Charles J. M., Dr. Emmett W., of Cleveland, and Jerald E., business
manager of the /o?m State Leader, at Des Moines, Iowa. In 1855 William
Sullivan removed his family and business interests to Tiffin, this county, and
was favorably known as an upright and successful business man, and an excel-
lent citizen/till his death, which occurred in April, 1873. The subject of this
sketch received a good literary training in the college at Notre Dame, Ind. , and
in June, 18(37, graduated from that institution in a commercial course of study.
He continued in the hardware business of his father, retiring fi-om it in 1875.
In 1883 he opened his present business, insurance agency, and has operated it
successfully since. He married here, in 1879, Miss Aldee M. Coonrod, a grad-
uate of the Ursuline Academy, and daughter of the late Uriah P. Coonrod, of
Hopewell Township, this county. They have two daughters, Mary and Eliza-
beth. He and his wife are regular communicants of the Roman Catholic
Church. He is a member of St. Patrick's Total Abstinence Society and Catholic
Knights of America. Is a liberal supporter of all measm-es tending to the
development of the interests of his locality. He was clerk of Tiffin from 1879
to 1885.
IRA H. TOMPKINS, dealer in agricultural implements. Tiffin, was born
in Thomson Township, this county, August 20. 1843, and comes of Welsh
ancestry on his father's side. His father, Isaac, was a son of William, whose
father, William Tompkins, Sr. . settled in this country from Wales before the
Revolution, and was a soldier in that war to its close. His mother, Christina
(Scothorn) Tompkins, was a daughter of Samuel Scothorn, of pioneer Vir-
ginia stock, and settled in Reed Township, Seneca County, in 1823, fi-om Fair-
field County, Ohio. She and her one-year old sister, Ann, were the first white
childi-en in Reed Township. Ira H. is the fourth child and eldest son in their
family of five sons and five daughters, and was reared to farming pursuits.
At the age of twenty-three he embarked in the grocery business at West Lodi,
this county, but after three years' successful work his store was destroyed by
fire, and he subsequently engaged in diy goods and general merchandising
there for about five years. In the meantime he dealt in agricultural imple-
ments, and upon retiring fi-om his other interests there he came in 1875 to
Tiffin, where he has since been identified with the implement business,
meanwhile doing considerable in inventions in that industry. Mr. Tompkins
was married in Adams Township, this county, May 8, 1870, to Louisa Jane,
daughter of Henry and Catharine fBeard) Neikirk, of Adams Township. They
have one son and one daughter: Cosie Dale and Vance Vick. Mr. and Mrs.
Tompkins attend St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a worthy
Mason, and has attained to the degree of K. T. of De Molay Commandery.
Mr. Tompkins is a practical business man and an excellent citizen, and has
contributed liberally toward the futherance of many social and industrial inter-
ests of Tiffin.
DAVID C. TUNISON, of the firm of Tunison & Son, photographers. Tif-
fin, is a native of New Jersey, of Scotch ancestry. He learned his profession
in New York City, where he completed a first-class education in the art. In
1854 he came to Tiffin, Ohio, where he has since been favorably known to the
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 839
profession and to the public. He was united in marriage with Abigail Fraser
Dolbier, of New Jersey, of Scotch pioneer ancestry of that State. This union
has been blessed with one son and three daughters: Emma, wife of Samuel S.
Hunter, of Tiffin: Gusta, unmaiTied: Oscar Barnett, and Addie, wife of John
De Witt, a manufacturer and machinist of Richmond, Ind. Mr. Tunison is a
worthy member of the Odd Fellows' Society and of the National Photograph-
ers' Association.
OSCAR BARXETT TUNISON was born in New Jersey, November 11,
1842, but was reared and educated in Tiffin, where he learned the profession of
his worthy sire, and joined him in the business. He was married, in Tiffin, to
Mary E., daughter of John J. and Frances Hanna (Boyer) Steiner. worthy
pioneers of Clinton Township, and this union was blessed with two bright
sons: Hal and Berton. Mr. Tunison is a member of the National Photo-
graphers' Association. ]\Irs. Tunison is a member of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church.
DR. JOHN FRANKLIN AVAGNER, dentist. Tiffin, was born in Liberty
Township, this coiinty. August 1, 1857. His father, Edmimd Carpenter AVag-
ner, was a native of Franklin County, Penn. , and settled in Liberty Township
in 1843. His mother, Catherine Berkey, was born in this county. They were
married April 18, 1850. and resided in Liberty Township, where they reared a
family of eight sons and one daughter: Levi J., Byi-on A., Edmund Berkey
(deceased), John F.. George W., W. Scott, Rose B., AVilliam B. and Elmer E.,
all except John F. and W. Scott residing in Ai'kansas City. Kas. W. Scott
resides in this coimty. The subject of our sketch completed a good common
school ediication, and at twenty-one entered the Cincinnati Dental College, and
after two years passed a very' creditable examination before the Ohio State
Board of Dentistry. He then located here, and has been very favorably con-
nected with his professional work here since. He is a member of the K. of
P.. and P. O. of A. Societies.
AFRELIFS C. WARNER, di-uggist. Tiffin, was born at Congress, AVayne
Co. , Ohio, February 28, 18(30, and comes of honorable pioneer stock there.
His father. Dr. C. J. Warner, stands among the most prominent men of the
medical profession of that locality as well as' of the State, being present mem-
ber of the board of censors of the medical department of the University of
Wooster, at Cleveland, Ohio; his mother was Mary Ellen (Pancoast) Warner,
and both were of Pennsylvanian ancestry. Aurelius C. W^arner, the eldest in
a family of two sons, was reared to medical studies, and completed a regular
pharmaceutical study at the College of Pharmacy in Cincinnati, Ohio. In
1883 he came to Tiffin, and, in company with Mr. Winkler, purchased his
present extensive drug business, which he has successfully conducted since.
He is an active and progressive business man and citizen, a clever gentleman,
and altogether eminently fitted to till no small position in the growth of the
lively, commercial interests of Tiffin. He is a member of the K. of P.
HENRY J. WELLER. attorney at law. Tiffin, was born in Thompson
Township, this county, January 21, 1856. His parents, John and Christina
(Orner) Weller. were natives of Pennsylvania, the former of whom settled here
in 1843. from Snyder County, Penn. ; the latter is a daughter of Joseph and
Elizabeth Orner. pioneers in this county. The subject of our sketch (the eld-
est of a family of five sons and three daughters) obtained a good common
school education in his native township, and developed such ability that at the
age of fourteen he received a teacher' s certificate. He, however, com])leted a
normal education at Republic, this county, and at seventeen engaged in teach-
ing, continuing in very reputable connection with the profession for five sue-
840 ' BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
cessive terras. In April, 1878, he commenced to read law in the office of
Messrs. Noble & Adams, and June 2, 1880, was admitted to the bar of the
State, at Columbus, being the first fi'om the county to receive his license fi'om
the Supreme Court of Ohio under the new law. He continued in the office of
his worthy i^receptors, till in INIarch of the following year, he opened an office
for himself, and may be found in professional dignity over the Commercial
Bank. Mr. Weller has always been an ardent aspirant for the highest honors
in his different professions, and while attaining them in teaching he is (since
leaving that profession) rapidly gaining the golden promises of his present
calling. June 10, 1885. Mx.^ Weller associated himself with Hon. John
McCauley, ex-judge of the Ohio Supreme Court, and now composes the law
firm of McCauley & Weller, with office over Commercial Bank, Tiffin, Ohio.
Our subject married, in Tiffin. December 30, 1884, Miss Julia M. Paynter, u
lady of estimable attainments, daughter of Martin S. and Sarah L. (Koller)
Paynter, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania respectively. Mr. "Weller has
taken an active part in the development of the social and industrial life of his
native county. He has been a member of the Seneca County Agricultural
Society for several years: has been its secretary for the past five years, and is
its present treasurer; is now a member of the city council of Tiffin, having
been elected from the Fourth Ward of said city (a Republican ward) by the
Democrats, by a majority of thirty-eight votes. He is a F. & A. M. . and is
Past Grand of the I. O. "O. F. He speaks German fluently, and is a popular
man with the German element in this county. A peculiar characteristic of
Mr. Weller is that while busy in his different professional pursuits he has
never missed an entry in his diary, which he has continued since his eighteenth
year, and which contains not only the events of his locality but his personal
monetary receipts and disbiu'sements.
H. C. AND T. E. AVELLS, physicians and surgeons of the New School of
Medicine, Tiffin, come of pioneer Ohioans and are the only sm-viving sons of
Job and Deborah (Butler) Wells, of English and Welsh descent, respectively.
They reckon amongst their ancestry, on the father's side, some physicians of re-
pute. Richard Wells, father of Job Yv' ells, was of Quaker lineage from English
stock in Virginia; he was a veterinary surgeon by profession, and came to Ohio
from Virginia in early days and settled in Morrow County. His people were
planters and owned slaves, and some of them figured in the Confederate service-
diu-ing the late civil war, a brother's son serving with j^rominence as surgeon
in that army. The family of Richard, however> with the exception of Job,
settled in the West, principally in Iowa and Missoim, and he returned from
Iowa to be buried near the old home in Morrow County. Deborah (Butler)
Wells, was a daughter of Barrick Butler, a native of Pennsylvania and of
Welsh descent in that State. They were a literary people and developed some
prominent teachers. The immediate family of Job and Deborah (Butler)
Wells was three sons and three daughters; of the latter two are married and
have families in Morrow County. Richard, the third son, died at Tiffin
October 10, 188!2, a student at Heidelberg College. Henry Clay Wells, senior
member of the firm of Wells Bros., at seventeen entered the Union Army
August 8, 1862, as a member of Company C, Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, and continued in field service till after the fall of Vicksburg and
Jackson, Miss., when he received an injury to his back, was taken sick and sent
to hospital at New Orleans, where, after recuperating, being unfit for field
duty, he was appointed ward master in the United States Marine and later to-
St. Louis hospitals. Receiving an honorable discharge at the end of the war
he returned home and completed a coiirse of study at Cardington Academy.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 841
from which he and his brother graduated. He then taught school and studied
medicine, graduating fi-om the Homosopathic Hospital College ot Cleveland in
1872. He then located in Tiftin and has been very successful in his profe^;-
sional practice since. He married, in Bellevue, Ohio, Amanda J., eldest
daughter of John and Angeline (Close) Hilbish, pioneers there from Pennsyl-
vania. This union has been blessed with one son and one daughter: John
Hilbish and Mabel Grace. Thomas Elwood Wells (junior partner of the firm
of AV ells Bros.) after graduating from Cardington, taught school and subse-
(|uently embarked in the drug business with Dr. L. L. Benson, an eclectic
school physician, with whom he read medicine for nearly two years. He,
however, became convinced of the greater advantages of the practice of the
homoeopathic, and sold his interest in the drug business, and after a thorough
course of study (of three years) graduated from Pulti College of Medicine and
Surgery at Cincinnati in January. 1877. He located in the practice at Mount
Vernon, Ohio, where he remained until 1884, when he joined his brother at
Tiffin, this county. Dr. T. E. Wells is a prominent member of the I. O. O.
F. . a very genial gentleman and of prepossessing appearance.
BERNARD WELTER, cigar manufacturer, Tiffin, born in Echternach, in
the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg, March 10, 1828, is a son of Henry and Eliza-
beth Schomer Welter. In 1851 he came to America and located where his
brother Valentine had preceded him in 1841». Here he carried on the cigar
manufacturing and tobacconist business. He married, in 1861, Agnes Riley,
who bore him two daughters : Annie (deceased), and Elizabeth. Mrs. Welter
died in September, 1864, and in 1868 Mr. Welter married Mary Kerch, daugh-
ter of Nicholas Kerch, a native of Greivelding, Luxemburg, and to this union
were born nine children : Mary. Henry. Lucinda, Bernard, Florence, Blanche,
Elsie and Pearl living: and Henry the eldest son (deceased). Mr. Welter and
family are communicants of St. Joseph's congregation of the Roman Catholic
Church. He is a member of the Bruderl)und.
FRED L. WENNER was born in Tiffin, Ohio, January 8, 18()4, second son
of Henry S. and Sarah A.Wenner. both of whom were natives of eastern Penn-
sylvania, and of German descent. At the age of seven he entered the public
schools of the city, and. with the exception of three intervals, he remained in
them for twelve years, graduating from the high school on the 1 7th of June,
1888. Early in life he evinced an aptness for rapid composition, and during
his first year in the High School he edited a small amateur paper called the
High School Reporter, and the rest of the four years acted as correspondent
for several papers. June 21 , four days after graduating, he accepted a place as
reporter on the Tiffin Daily HeraUL and in the following October became local
editor of the same. In November he resigned his position, owing to failing
eyesight, and began teaching school in sub -district No. 1, Seneca Township,
teaching a successful term of five months, and boarding at Eden Lease' s. At
the age of thirteen he had met with an accident, which destroyed the sight of
his left eye, and caused him considerable trouble. He now entered the homeo-
pathic hospital at Ann Arbor, Mich. , where several operations were performed,
which partially restored the sight and greatly relieved him. April 28, 1884,
he again became local editor of the Daily Herald, and remained in that posi-
tion until October 25, of the same year, when he resigned to accept a similar
one on the Tiffin Tribune, which he holds at the present time. He was united in
marriage, January 18. 1 885, with Ammy D. Myers, a teacher in the Bloomville
public schools, and the eldest daughter of Rev. S. P. and Ursilla Myers, of
that place, her father being a minister of the Reformed Church.
842 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
THOMAS JEFFERSON WEST, M. D., Tiffin, comes of hardy pioneer
descent in this" county and State. His i^arents, Thomas and Margaret (Donnell)
West (the former of English jjioneer ancestry in New York State, and the
latter of Scotch Irish ancestry, of Pennsylvania), were married here, and reared
five sons and one daughter. Thomas West came to this county in 1820, and
located land in Edea Township in 1822. The subject of oui- sketch received
a liberal literary training in the Academy at Republic, and taught school.
On the breaking out of the late war of the Rebellion, he enlisted in Company
C. Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and did active and honorable service for over
three years, and upon the expiration of term of service of his regiment, he was hon
orably discharged. He was wounded in the battles of Antietam and Gettys-
burg.' After the war, Mr. "West taught school and engaged in the study of
medicine. In 1866-67 he attended Charity Hospital Medical College of Cleve-
land, from which he graduated. He located in the practice of his profession at
Melmore, this county, where he remained in creditable professional work till the
spring of 1884, when he came to Tiffin. The Doctor is a member of the State.
Northwestern and County Medical Societies, and has contributed in no small
degree to the advancement of his profession in this locality. He was married in
1871, to Mary Horner, a native of Darlington, England, who bore him two sons
and one daughter : Nettie May, and Freddie and Eddie (twins). Mrs. West passed
from life in 1881, in full communion with the Presbyterian Chm-ch,and is buried
in Rock Creek Cemetery. Our subject was married on second occasion to Mrs. E.
Steele, daughter of R. C. Steele, of Eden Township, this county, and by her he
has one son — Robert Karl. Mrs. West is a worthy member of the Presbyte-
rian Church, to which the Doctor is a liberal contributor and respectful attend-
ant of. He is a worthy member of the Masonic order, in which he has attained
the degree of K. T. in De Molay Commaudery. He is also a member of the
I. O. O. F. and of Isaac Rule Post, G. A. R., and of the Pioneers' Society of
Eden Township.
R. H. WHITLOCK {See Mannfacfuring Interests in History of Tiffin,
page 530).
GEORGE W. WILLIARD, D. D., president of Heidelberg College, Tiffin.
Ohio, was born in Burkettsville, Frederick Co., Md.. June 10, 1818, and is the
fourth son and fifth child in the family of five sons and two daughters of John
and Mary (Shaffer) Williard. natives of Frederick County, Md. Elias Williard,
father of John Williard and a native of Germany, reared a large family in
Maryland. John Shaffer, father of the mother of om- subject, also a native of
Germany, reared his family in Maryland. The subject of our sketch received
a good rudimentary education in the common schools, and at sixteen went
to the high school at York, Penn. , and after its removal to Mercersburg (where
it was merged in Marshall College) he pursued and completed a thorough liter-
ary and classical training in that institution, graduating at the age of twenty -
one. He then pursued a theological course of study with his alma mater, and
after about a year entered the ministry of the Reformed Church, and was ordained
at Jefferson (in his native county) at twenty-two years of age. He continued
in charge there for over four years, when he removed to Huntingdon, Penn. .
where he had charge of an academy in connection with his pastoral work. He
afterward removed to Winchester. Ya., and after laboring there three years he
came to Columbus, Ohio, iu the spring of 1850, where he carried 9n church
work for about five years, during which time he took charge of the Western
Missionary (1853), which paper he conducted for thirteen years thereafter.
During his stay in Columbus, he translated fi'om the original Latin and pub-
lished the Commentary of Dr. Zacharias l^rsinus on the Heidelberg Catechism
OLINTON TOWNSHIP. 843
(the confessional book of the Reformed Church) into the English language.
In 1855 he removed to Dayton, Ohio, where he edited and published the West-
ern Missionary, in connection with his pastoral work, till his call to the i^resi-
dency of Heidelberg College, Ti£fin, Ohio, in 1866. During the first four
years of his residence in Dayton he had charge of the First Reformed Church
there, and subsequently served congregations in the vicinity of Dayton. In
1866 he accepted his present incumbency from the Board of Trustees of Heidel-
berg College, and has also performed ministerial work in a variety of forms.
Dr. Williard married, in Mercersburg, Penn. , in 1842, Louisa Catharine Lit-
tle, fourth daughter in the family of two sons and five daughters of Dr. P. V*.
Little, a prominent physician of that place, a native of Maryland and of Ger-
man ancestry. To this union four sons and one daughter were born, of whom
three sons survive: John Newton and Dr. George P., of Tifiin, and the Rev.
E. R. Williard, of Germantown, Ohio. In September, 1868, Mrs. AVilliard
departed this life, and is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, at Dayton, beside her
son and daughter, Cephas L., who died at the age of twenty-six, and Mary
Louisa, who died at the age of six months. In 1866 our subject was married
ao-ain; on this occasion in Xenia, Ohio, to Emma Jane Hivling, a lady of esti-
mable attainments, and a daughter of Col. John Hivling, banker, of Xenia,
and a prominent pioneer of Greene County. Dr. Williard while busy with his
professional work has always taken a prominent part in the various benevolent
enterprises of the day, and has contribixted liberally thereto. He is the author
of several books and a regular contributor to the periodicals of the Reformed
Church. He is apparently as active as ever in his professional work and has the
o-ratification of seeing many of his students occupying important positions in the
various professions of life.
GEORGE PARKER WILLIARD, M. D. , was born in Huntington, Penn. ,
July 1, 1845, son of Rev. G. W. Williard, D.D. (president of Heidelberg
College) and Louisa C. Williard, daughter of Dr. P. AV. Little, of Mercers-
burg, Franklin Co., Penn. The subject of this sketch received a liberal liter-
ary training in the schools of Dayton, Ohio, and at the age of eighteen years
began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. John Davis, of Dayton. He
attended his first and second collegiate courses, at the Ohio Medical College in
Cincinnati, and completed his professional studies at the Jefferson Medical
College of Philadelphia, Penn., graduating from this honored institution
March 9, 1867. In the following Jvme he came to Seneca County, Ohio,
locating at Fort Seneca, and carried on an active practice till 1874, when he
went to California and located at San Buena Ventura, Ventura County, enter-
ing into partnership with Dr. Cephas L. Bard, a prominent physician of that place.
He returned to Tiffin, this county, in 1876, and soon afterward entered into i>art-
nership with the late Dr. A. B. Hovey, with whom he remained two years.
Retiring from that partnership, he established himself independently, and has
carried on an active practice ever since. He has been prominently nominated,
and has served as examining surgeon for many life insurance corporations ; is a
member of the Ohio State Medical Society, and of the Seneca County Medical
Society. He has always given a cordial support to all measures calculated to
elevate the character and standing of his chosen profession, and is ever ready
and willing to lend his assistance in matters pertaining to the social and indus-
trial development of Tiffin. During the war, and upon the organization of the
One Hundred and Thirty-first Ohio National Guards, he enlisted as a private
in Company A, of that regiment, and was shortly afterward promoted to the
position of hospital steward. During its term of service, and while the regi-
ment was stationed at Baltimore, Md. , garrisoning Forts Marshall and Fed(>ral
8'44 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
Hill, lie was appointed post-steward of Fort Federal Hill Hospital. Althougli
broken in health from close confinement at the hospital, and the arduous duties
of his position, he remained in the service until the term of his enlistment had
expired, and he was honorably discharged with his regiment. In February.
1881, he was married to Miss Electa A. Stout, of Dayton, Ohio, a lady of esti-
mable attainments, cultured and refined and of high Christian character. She
is a daughter of Elias Stout. Esq, , of Dayton, a merchant and native Ohioan.
FEEDERICK WOLF, dealer in boots and shoes. Tiffin, was born in Ep-
pingen, Baden, April 14, 1834. son of Ludwig and Catharine (Heiser) Wolf.
the former of whom died in that country in 1845, and the latter in Tiffin, in Oc-
tober. 1856; the names of their children are as follows: Frederick; Elizabeth,
widow of Christian Bloom, of Mexico; Christina, widow of Joseph Schoert-
schinger. and Jacob (deceased). The subject of our sketch learned shoe-mak-
ing in his native city, and at nineteen came to this country, locating in Tiffin
June 8, 1853, and in 1862 embarked in business with which he has been suc-
cessfully connected since. He was married in Tiffin, in 1857. to Catharine
Baker, born in Detwiler. Rhenish Bavaria, November 18, 1835, and who
came to this country in 1853. To this union four sons and one daughter, were
born: Henry, a merchant; Frederick, a harness-maker; Caroline; Louis Lud-
wig, a grocer, and William Dietrich. Mr. Wolf is a member of the Sanger-
bund and Briiderlmnd societies. He and his family are members of the Ger-
man Lutheran Church. Jacob Wolf learned his trade here and iinited with
Frederick in business, continuing with him until his death, August 8, 1884;
he left five children.
CHARLES J. YINGLING, merchant. Tiffin, was born in Baltimore,
Md.. October 26, 1847, and descends fi'om a line of mercantile people on
both sides of his parentage. He is the fifth child and second son of Joshua
and Margaret (Shi'iver) Tingling. The former a prominent business man and
banker of Westminster, Md. , and son of the late Jacob Yingling. a tanner
and merchant of Westminster; and the latter a daughter of Hon. Isaac
Shriver. banker of Westminster and of pioneer family of the State. The
subject of our sketch completed a liberal education in the high schools of
Westminster, and at seventeen entered the First National Bank of that place
as teller, in which capacity he served with credit for about four years, when he
was compelled by ill health to withdraw from the business and to travel
through the West, principally in Iowa. Returning, he embarked in the diy
goods merchandising with his father, January, 1869, firm being known as J.
Yingling & Son. In September, 1872. he retired from that firm and came to
Tiffin and engaged in manufacturing ladies' shoes, which he abandoned just
two years later and then purchased his present extensive dry goods business.
Mr. Yingling was mari*ied, in Taneytown, Md. , in October, 1875. to Miss
Mary E. Rudisel. only surviving child of the late Tobias Rudisel, merchant of
that place. To our subject and wife have been born two sons: Tobias Rudisel
and Charles Shriver. Mr. Yingling has, since locating here, established an
excellent reputation as a business man and citizen. He has cordially sup-
ported all measiu'es tending to the progressive development of this locality.
He and his wife are estimable members of the Methodist Protestant Church,
of which he has been for many years a member, and of which he has served as
superintendent of the Sabbath- school, and secretary of the board of stewards.
He is a K. T. and a member of the R. A. and K. of P. societies. Mr. Yingling
comes from a line of slaveholders, but upon the event of the late war, his peo-
ple renounced their principles and remained steadfast with the Union tenets
for which they had always maintained strong preference.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP. 845
JOHN FKEDERICK ZELLER, coal merchant, Tiffin, was born at Canal
Fulton. Stark Co.. Ohio, May 4, 1842. His parents, John and Doretha
(Jacobs) Zeller, Avere natives of Germany, the former born in Weiden, in the
kingdom of "Wiirtemberg, and the latter in Kaiser Lantern, in the kingdom of
Bavaria. They came to America in 1834 and settled in Stark County where
John Zeller carried on contracting and building for many years, rearing a
family of one son (John Frederick) and two daughters. The subject of this
sketch was reared to building with his father. November 12, 1801 , when nineteen
years of ao-e. he enlisted his services in defense of the Union, in Company K,
Seventy- sixth Ohio Voltmteer Infantry, and veteranized in Jackson County, Ala. ,
in 1864, serving in all three years and eight months, receiving an honorable dis-
charge at Camp Chase. Ohio, July 2. 1805. He served in the battles of Fort Donel-
son, Shiloh. Siege of Corinth, Chickasaw Bayou. Arkansas Post. Jackson, Miss. ,
Vicksburg, Lookout Mountain, Taylor' s Ridge and Missionary Ridge, and was
in the engagements at Lovejoy, Atlanta, Marietta, Kenesaw Mountain, Pumpkin
Vine Creek and Sugar Creek Gap; was with Sherman in his march to the sea.
February 26, 1805, he was captured by Gen. Hampton's cavalry at Cheraw, S.
C. , and spent four days in Libby prison, after which he was paroled. Om-
subject marched and traveled by rail and water over 11. 000 miles, and after his
capture, as just related, he was marched over 500 miles barefooted and half
naked over rough and often frozen ground. Aftei- the war he spent several
years in the drug business in his native place and in 1873 embarked in the coal
business, in Norwalk, Ohio, which he retired fi'om there, and opened up in
Tiffin, in 1878. Mr. Zeller was married in Canal Fulton, Ohio, in 1867, to
Margaret Jane Porter, a lady of estimable attainments, daughter of Alexander
and Nancy (Stotler) Porter, the former a native of Beaver County, Penn. , the
latter of Wayne County. Ohio, and by this union there are three sons living:
Clarence Porter. William Ne\vton and John Logan; two deceased, Carl
Frederick and James Garfield. JNIr. Zeller is an active member of the F. &
A. M. and I. O. O. F. , has served his ward in the city councils. Politically
he is a stanch Repul)lican and has been an active worker for his party.
L. W. ZIMMER. bookseller and stationer. Tiffin, was born in Tiffin, this
county, November 25. 1850; son of Jacob and Caroline (Von Blon) Zimmer,
the former a native of Windesheim, Prussia, and the latter of Waldmohr, in
Rhenish Bavaria. They were married in Tiffin, and reared two sons and a daugh-
ter: L. W., Caroline Louisa and Jacob, latter a clerk with L. W. Mr. Zim-
mer was reared to bookliinding, and followed the di-ug business for a few years.
In 1880 he joined Mr. Emich in the book and stationery business, fi-om which
he retired in 1883, and established his present business. He was imited in
marriage, in 1881. with Emma, daughter of John and Susan (Gross) Laux,
natives of Bavaria. He and his wife are members of the Second Reformed
Church. Mr. Zimmer is a member of the U. A. O. D. and Turnverein Societies.
JOHN BURGERT ZINT, of the firm of Zint & Kreader, plumbers and
gas-fitters, Tiffin, was born in Paris, Stark Co.. Ohio, July 31. 1842; son of
Joseph and Jiilia Ann (Burgert) Zint, the former a native of Germany and the
latter of Pennsylvanian German ancestry. The subject of our sketch was
reared in Adrian, Ohio, and in 1861 came to Tiffin and began the trade of
harness-making. August 12, 1802, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred
and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and did honorable • service till the end of
the war; was honoral^ly discharged as drummer from the Eighth Veteran Re-
serve Corps, to which he had been transferred. Returning to Tiffin. Ohio, he
engaged in the woolen-mills, where he spent fifteen years, the last eight of
which he was engineer. Upon the dissolution of that company, in 1881. he
47
846 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
embarked in his present industry. iVIr. Zint was married in Tiffin. Ohio, to
Ellen Lowe, by whom he has two daughters : Laura Bell and Myrtie May. He
and his wife are members of the M. P. Chui-ch. He is a member of the I. O.
O. F.. and of Leander Stem Post No. 31., G. A. K.
EDEN TOWNSHIP.
BAKER FAMILY. Among the well known pioneer families of Seneca
County, and of Eden Township, was the Baker family of four brothers : Frank-
lin, Thomas. John and Richard, and four sisters : Mary Baker. Sophia Stearns.
Lucretia Arnold, and Ann Knapp. They were the children of Judge Samuel
Baker, a native of Branford, Conn. , and a descendant in the fourth generation
of Thomas Baker, who settled at Milford. Conn. . in 1639, whence in 1650 he
removed to East Hampton, L. I. . which town he represented in the Colonial
Assemblies of New York and Connecticut. Dui'ing the invasion of New York
by Bm-goyne, Samuel Baker, then a boy of thirteen, was captm-ed by Indians,
taken to Burgoyne's camp and sold to a British officer. He was released by
the surrender of Bui-goyne's army, and afterward enlisted in Col. Marinus
Willett's regiment and served until the close of the war. He was one of the
first settlers in Steuben County: was for many years first judge, and one of
the most prominent citizeixs of that county. Franklin and Thomas Baker came
to Eden Township in 1822. Franklin entered the farm known as the Umsted
farm on the Kilboui-ne road, where he resided until his death in 1831. Th(imas
entered the farm adjoining, and there lived until his death in 1863. Samuel
Baker and ISIi-s. C. Y. Brundage. of Eden Township, and INIrs. Albert Ewer
of Tiffin are children of Thomas Baker. His widow, Sarah B. Baker came to
Seneca County with her father. Col. Boyd, in 1821. and since 1863 has resided
in Tiffin. John Baker came soon after his brothers and settled upon the farm
on Rock Creek upon which he died in 1876. Mary Baker, with her husband.
Joseph Baker, settled in Scipio Township in 1822. Mi-, and Mrs. Stearns set-
tled on Rock Creek in 1828. Ten years afterward Mi-. Stearns died, and his
widow married the late William Fleet, and soon afterward died. John B. and
George W. Stearns, two of the largest farmers of Scipio Township, are the
sons of Mr. and Mrs. Stearns. Mrs. Knapp and Mrs. Arnold removed to Gar-
den Grove, Iowa, where they now live. Richard Baker, the youngest of the
foui- brothers, came to Seneca County in 1835. and piu'chasing several small
farms made the fine farm of 400 acres upon which he resided until 1871. and
which is now owned by his son. Grattan H. Baker. In 1836 he was married to
Fanny "Wheeler, daughter of Grattan H. Wheeler, who was a member of Con-
gi-ess, and for many years a State Senator fi-om Steuben County. N. Y. , and
granddaughter of Captain Silas Wheeler, who. in April, 1775, enlisted in Capt.
Thayer's company of Rhode Island Volunteers; was at Bunker Hill: with
Arnold in his terrible march through the forests of Maine and Canada, to
attack Quebec: was captured in the unsuccessful attack on Quebec, in which
Montgomery was killed and Arnold woimded. and kept a prisoner and in irons
until August, 1776. when he was exchanged. He again entered the army:
was again captui-ed and taken to Ireland, whence he escaped to France through
the aid of Henry Grattan, the Irish orator and patriot, after whom he named
his onlv son. In 1871 Richard Baker removed to the farm adjoining Melmore,
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 847
on whicli lie now resides with his wife, whom he brought to what was then
little more than a wilderness almost fifty years ago. Time and fortune have
dealt kindly w4th them both. "With six sons and twenty grandchildi-en, intc
their family, death has never come. Notwithstanding the weight of seventy-
seven years, Mr. Baker is still erect, vigorous, strong, self-reliant, but kind and
tender-hearted. For years his class in the Methodist Sunday-school (of which
church he and his wife have been members for more than forty years) has been
the infant class into which no child was too small to enter, and fi'om which nci
child was ever willing to go. Of the six sons of Eichard and Fanny
Baker, Silas is a farmer in Dickinson County, Kas. ; Frank, a lawyer in
Chicago; Job, a farmer in Wyandot County; Grattan H.. a farmer, and
the owne]- of the old homstead; Ralph, a farmer at Garden Grove. Iowa,
and Richard W., still at home. Richard Baker brought to his farm, in
1 837, thirty pure Spanish merino sheep, the first brought into Seneca County,
and probably the first in northern Ohio, and has been one of the most success-
ful wool growers, as well as one of the best grain farmers in the county.
JOHN W. BARRICK, farmer, P. O. Morris, was born January, 1817, in
Frederick County, Md. . son of George and Margaret (Cramet) Barrick, also
natives of Maryland. George Barrick died in Maryland, and in 1840 his
widow came to Ohio and settled in Eden Township, this county, where she
died in 1858. Their children were six in number: William, Catharine (Mrs.
Dean), Margaret (deceased), John W., Mary C. (widow of Mr. Shriner) and
Albert. Our subject was united in marriage, in 1839, with Catharine S. Dev-
ilbiss, by whom he has seven children: George W., married to Elizal^etb
O^T-den: Simon F., married the first time to Martha Burnside (by whom he
had one child, Howard; and' the second time to Ella Kemp, by whom he has
one daughter. Bertha); Margaret, wife of A. Cox; Virginia R. ; Alice A. ; Mary
C. : and Walter, married to Sarah Kemp. Mrs. Barrick died in 1881. Our
subject, in 184(5, moved on the farm where he has since lived, and which was
partly improved. He has been very successful; has served as assessor, assist-
tant assessor, and as school director. He is a member of the Reformed Church
of Tiffin.
JAMES H. BRINKERHOFF, farmer, P. O. Melmore, was born March 1 7.
1819. in Gettysbtirg, Adams Co., Penn. ; son of Hezekiah and Jane (Kerr) Brin-
kerhoff, natives of Pennsylvania. Hezekiah Brinkerhoff came to Ohio in 1834,
and settled in Seneca Township, this county, where he purchased land, made
a home for his family, and there remained until his death in 1847. Of his ten
children six are now living: Alexander W., Sarah J.. Margaret M., John N.,
George F. and James H. Our subject, who received his education in his na-
tive State, taught school after coming to Ohio. He was reared on a farm, and
has followed agricultural pursuits as an occupation. Mr. Brinkerhoff was
twice married; first, in 1843, to Esther McGeehan, who bore him one child;
Robert A. , married to Flora Stewart (have two children). Our subject was
married on second occasion, October 23, 1852, to Sarah A. Marquis, and t(j
this union were l^orn two children : Nelson M. , married to Mary F. Burns,
and Elizabeth, wife of G. A. Bassett. Mr. Brinkerhoff is one of Eden Town-
ship's thorough-going farmers and good business men. Politically, he is a
Republican.
JOHN L. CROSS, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born July 17, 1812, in Berke-
ley County, Va. ; son of John (a farmer) and Deborah (Comegys) Cross, na
lives of Maryland, and who came to Ohio in 1828, settling in Eden Township,
this coimty;' their family, Maria, Benjamin C, John L., Deborah A. and
Cornelius, accompanying them. Of this family only John L. and Deborah A.
848 BIOGRArmCAL SKETCHES:
(Mrs. Boroff) survive. Here John Cross entered a piece of unimproved land,
and began the life of a pioneer. Our subject has lived in this county since he
was sixteen years old. He was married, in 1839, to Eliza, daughter of Henry
and Sarah Boroff. of Virginia, and who was one of four children to come with
their widow^ed mother to this county, their father having died in Virginia. To
Mr. and Mrs. Cross have been born seven children: Mary E. (wife of A.
Woolpert), Henry C. (married to Mary K. Geary), Hamilton J. (married to
Susan Kinser). Newton (married to Ida Geary), Lewis C. , Benjamin F. and
Eliza J. (The three last named are deceased.) Our subject owns a farm of
102 acres in this county, and eighty acres in Wyandot County, Ohio.
WILLIAM R. DE' tray, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born June IG, 1811,
in the village of Johnson, R. I., a son of Anthony and Am}' (Mathewson)
De Tray, the latter a native of Rhode Lsland. Anthony De Tray, born in
Connecticut, emigrated to New York State in 1821. where he remained iintil
1822, when he came to Ohio and settled in Crawford County, near Melmore.
and there spent the remainder of his days. His family consisted of two sons
and two daughters: Amy. widow of Philip Perdew; Jackson, who died in
Michigan; Naficy, formerly the wife of R. Weeks, now Mrs. Barijett. and
William R. Our subject was married, December 28. 1886, to Mary S., daugh-
ter of Robert Weeks, and by this union were born six children: Mary E., now
Mrs. Ebersole (the only one surviving, has one child named Minnie), and
Annie, Anthony W. . Charles,. Alice and Willie, all deceased. Anthony W. had
two children: William W. and Josephine. ]VIr. De Tray came to this county
and settled in Eden Township, where he still resides, having a farm of 160 acres
of land, with fine improvements, located on the Melmore Road. He is a
thorough- going and successful farmer, and a highly respected citizen. The
familv are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Tiffin and Rock
Creek.
JOHN L. DOWNS, farmer. P. O. Melmore, was born August 22, 1812, in
Ross County, Ohio; son of John and Caroline (Holden) Downs, the former a
native of Virginia, the latter of Kentiicky. John Downs, Sr. , came to Senecfi
County in 1821, and with his brother entered 480 acres of land, which he after-
ward took himself. In 1828 became again, and let the job of clearing ten
acres and putting up a cabin. The following year he brought his family and
began pioneer life. There were fourteen children in his fainily. four of whom
are living: Catharine (Mrs. P. Minich), Eliza M. (Mi-s. J. Corbett), Lemuel,
a neighboring farmer, and John L. Our subject was married, in 1845, to
Margaret A. Wheaton. born in Brown Coimty, Ohio, daughter of Jehosaphat
AA'heaton, and who bore him ten children: James (deceased), Frances A., Or-
ville. Caroline (deceased wife of C. H. Funk, had one child — Nettie M. ).
Sarah J., Lehre, Katie, Dora. Ida M. and Mertie (latter died in infancy). Mr.
Downs occupies the land which his father entered, now a well -improved farm
of 200 acres. Having been a successful farmer, he is now enjoying the fruits
of his labor. His first vote was cast for Martin Van Buren for President.
WILLIAM FERGUSON, farmer. P. O. Rockaway, a native of Pennsyl-
vania, was born May 6, 1817; son of Thomas and Jane (Marshall) Ferguson,
also natives of Pennsylvania, .and who were the parents of twelve children (all
of whom grew to maturity and had families), nine surviving. Our subject, the
second born, is the onlj' one of the family now living in Ohio, the others reside
in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Missouri. William Fergiison received
his education in his native State. There he was married, in 1848. to Martha
C. Tittle, by which union there were six children (two now living): an infant
(deceased, not named); Marshall Beatty, educated at Heidelberg College and
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 849
graduated from Wooster University, and was one year at Princeton Theological
Seminaiy of New Jersey, and died soon after, March 8, 1877; J. T., died July
20, 1850; and J. A., died June 7, 1862; Thomas Calvin received his education
in Heidelberg College, and was married to Gusta Philips (have four childi'en:
Nellie May, Martha Louise, Grace and Kate); and William Wilson, who received
his education at Heidelberg College, and graduated at Iron City College, Pitts-
burgh, Penn. . and maiTied Tilly Outhwait. William Ferguson came to Seneca
County in 1845, and first lived on Silver Creek, afterward purchasing the farm
of forty acres on which he now resides, and to which he has added thirty
acres from the old Clark farm and sixty acres from Mr. Breininger's farm.
Mr. Ferguson has been fully alive to the advantages of his children, giving
them good education. His grandfather, William Marshall, was held prisoner
bv the Indians in this count v at an earlv dav.
DR. W. D. FLEET, farmer, P. O., Tiffin, was born January 8, 1849, in
Eden Township, this county, son of William and Eliza Ann (Ogden) Fleet,
natives of New York State. William Fleet, who began in the world a poor
boy, came to Ohio in 1880 and settled in Eden Township, where he worked by
the month for a time; afterward he went to Indiana, where he entered land
near Waterloo: while there, on one occasion, he was lost in the woods a,nd re-
mained with a tribe of friendly Indians until morning when they put him on
the right track for Fort Wayne; he was twice married, on first occasion to
Sophia Sterns, by whom there is one child lisdng, Mrs. Sophia Nolan; he was
again married, this time to Eliza Ann, daughter of Amos Ogden, and she bore
him five children: Dr. William D. : Frank, married to G. H. Baker; Abram K. ,
married to Hattie Wood; Lucy M. , married to Newton Ward; and Grettie L.
William Fleet, Sr., had about 1,000 acres of land in Eden Township, this
county, which was divided among his family at his death, which occuired June
20, 1880. He extensively engaged in stock-raising, was a successful farmer,
and gave his children the advantage of a good education. Our subject was
married, February 15, 1870), to Laura, daughter of James Dunlap, of Wyan-
dot County. Ohio, by whom he has three children living: William, Nellie M.
and Eliza. Dr. W. D. Fleet and his brother Abraham occupy the old home
farm in Eden Township.
SAMUEL HERIN, farmer. P. O., Melmore, was born August 21, 1812, in
Columbia County, Penn., son of James and Mary (Smith) Herin. He is a.
grandson of Richard Smith, a native of England (who was sold to pay his
passage to America) and John Herin, who came from Ireland, and both of
whom were early settlers in the United States. James Herin (father of subject)
was united in man-iage in Bucks County, Penn. , and had a family of ten chil-
dren, of whom foiir are now living: Joseph, Hannah. David and Samuel. The
subject of this sketch came to Ohio in 1828, with his parents, and settled near
Tiffin, this county, where his father entered eighty acres of land, making some
improvements. He bought 100 acres of land on which he lived and where he
died in 1833. His widow, who survived him five years, resided in Risdon (now
Fostoria). Our subject was married, in 1835, to Tabitha A., daughter of
Aaron Umsted. and they wei*e blessed with four childi'en: Mary E. (deceased);
Ann C. (deceased); Caroline D. , wife of Philip Garrick (have seven childi-en);
Jennie L. , wife of Alfi'ed P. Cook (have one child). Mr. Herin was elected
justice of the peace in 1845. which position he retained nine years; he served
three terms as coroner in the early history of the county ; was county treasurer
from 1859 to 1803. Previously he had bought the farm on which he now lives,
and on which he settled at the expiration of his term as county treasurer. Mr.
Herin. who is a genial, kindlv old gentlemen, lost his wife in 1881 and has
goO BIOGRAPfflCAL SKETCHES:
since made lii? home with his son-in-law Mr. Cook. He sold the land on which
the county infii-maiy was erected. His family were members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church; he himself is not a member of any sect. Politically he is a
Democrat.
EDEN LEASE, farmer, P. O., Melmore, was born October 29, 1S13, m
Frederick Connty, Md. , son of Henry and Barbara (Jacobs) Lease, also natives of
Maryland, where they lived and died. Of their seven children, six came to
Ohio: Otho (deceased), Joseph (deceased), Jacob, Eden, Henry and Mary
(latter now Mrs. AValsh). The svibject of oui- sketch early came to Ohio, ar-
riving in this county May 17, 1835, where he went to work at his trade (car-
pentei-ing), which he carried on in connection with running a saw-mill for some
years. ^He was elected sheriff of the county in the fall of 184(3, and v,'as re-
elected, serving in all four years. After this he commenced agriculture, pur-
chasing a farm' of Dr. Coon, which he afterward sold, then bought the property
on which he now resides. IVIr. Lease was united in marriage, October 12, 1843,
with Mary, daughter of John Keller, of Clinton Township, this county, and by
this union there'were born eight children : John D. ; Jesse (deceased in infancy);
Lewis C. ; Ami (deceased in infancy); Clinton D. ; Almeda E., wife of James B.
Gibbs, of Eden Township, this county; Mary A., wife of Milton McComic; and
Clementine B. Mr. Lease is now occupying a pleasant farm which is well-im-
proved. He has filled the office of justice of the peace three years, and also
served as intirmai-\- director for six years.
WILDMAN LOOMIS, farmer. *P. O. Tiffin, a descendant of one of the
I)ioneers of this county, was born March 24, 1819. in Fremont, Sandusky Co.,
Ohio, son of Reuel and Anna (Lyon) Loomis. who had three sons: Samuel C,
Rudolphos L. and Wildman (the latter being the only survivor). Reuel
Loomis. a native of Massachusetts, came thence to Michigan, arriving in De-
troit in 1811, where he was taken prisoner by the British and kept in confine-
ment for six months after Hull's surrender; he then settled in Fremont, San-
dusky Co.. Ohio, in 1814, where he remained until 1822, when he came to
Eden Township, this county, and_here lived on Section 16, until his death in
1852, his widow following in 1857. He was a tanner and currier by trade, and
also made shoes for his neighbors in an early day. Oui- subject was educated
in Seneca County. He was married, in October, 1839, to Miss Catharine, next
to the youngest in the family of nine children of George Myers. This union
was blessed with five children: George, married to Susan Beery; Elizabeth
(deceased): Lacy, wife of Matthias Wagely (died leaving fom- children) ; 'Mary
(deceased while" young), and Omar, married to Alice Woolf (have one child).
All the family reside in this county. Mr. Loomis enlisted during the late war
of the Rel)eliion. iii 18(34, serving" 100 days as a member of Company B. One
Hundred and Sixty-fourth Regiment, under Col. Lee and Capt. Benj. M. Gip-
son. Mrs. Loomis took charge of the farm during his absence. Our subject
lives on his father" s old farm, and on which the first schoolhouse (a log cabin,
with slab desks and benches) in the township was built. He is one of the lead-
ing farmers and has served many years, at different times as constable.
° ROBERT M. C. MARTIN ^(deceased) was born September 18, 1822. in
Perry County. Ohio; son of Samuel and Mary Martin, natives of Pennsylvania,
and who came to Seneca County in 1827. Samuel Martin first bought a tract of
land in Seipio Township, which he traded for land on Section 19. Eden Town-
ship, holding the same until his death, though he piu'chased other property at
different times. Of his children, eight in number, five now smwive; Absalom,
Samuel, Nathan, Nancy and Hannah. Hugh, one of the sons, and who be-
came a noted lawyer, read law under Gen. Gibson, opened practice in Iowa,
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 851
and was killed by a rolling boulder at Colorado. Our subject, the eldest son,
received a fair education, and was reared a farmer. He was married, October
12, 1848, to Miss Barbara, daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth (WroufF)
Kagy, and by this union there were thirteen children, ten now living: Mary
E.. Samuel S., Hannah J. (Mrs. Clinton Lease), Eliza E., Isaac R. (married
to Hattie Hoverstock), John V., Hugh Mc, Charles E., Francis A. and Anna C.
Robert M. C. Martin was a successful farmer, having acquired several large
farms, together with everything that denotes prosperity. He was appointed
county recorder to fill an unexpired term, and then was elected and subsequent-
ly re-elected to this ofi&ce. He was present at the last reunion of the Kagj'
family, where there were over 100 members of the family gathered. He died
April 4, 1879, leaving his property to his widow during her life time, and at
her demise, to his childi'en. IVIrs. Martin and some of her childi-en occupy the
homestead. She is a pleasant lady, striving to make home comfortable for her
family.
DANIEL PRICE, farmer, P. O. Melmore,was born March 24, 1885, in Eden
Township ■ this county; son of Jacob and Esther (Heisbaum) Price, natives of
Virginia, who came to Ohio in 1823, and settled on Section 20, in Eden
Township, where Jacob Price's father-in-law entered land the same year, and
where he began as a pioneer, having to cut the bushes to enable him to turn
his team. Jacob Price" s children were eleven in number, four living : Isaac,
Daniel, Josej)h and Esther, wife of Abraham Saul, residing in Indiana; all
educated in Eden Township, this county. Our subject was married, in 1859,
to Delila. daughter of Thornton Cross, and to this union was born one child,
G. C. Price. The mother of this child died April 4, 1864, and Mr. Price then
married, in 1867, Martha, daughter of Henry Berry, by which union there
were four children: Pearl (deceased), Harvy, Robert M. and Dallas J. (latter
deceased). Daniel Price's parents are deceased, and he now occupies the old
home farm, comprising 160 acres, well -improved and watered by streams. Mr.
Price' s f amilv are members of the United Brethren Church.
LORENZO ROGERS, farmer. P. O. Melmore. was born April 29, 1819,
in Lake County. Ohio, son of Barnabas and Polly (Rider) Rogers, natives of
Vermont and Connecticut respectively, and who were parents of three children :
Lorenzo, Orange and Martha, latter now widow of A. Lee, residing in Michigan.
Barnabas Rogers, a tanner and cm-rier by trade, when a young man came to
Ohio on foot, carrying a kit of tools, making shoes as he journeyed. He
entered land December 24, 1824, and erected the first cabin on his place, in the
township, where he engaged in cutting timber, farming, and part of the time
working at his trade, establishing also a tannery, which he carried on for sev-
eral years. He was a member of the Baptist Chiu'ch. He died in 1879; his
wife died in 1874. Our subject received his early education in Eden Town-
ship. He was twice married, the first time to Susan Babcock, by whom he had
two childi-en, both now living: Luther, married to Mary Sailor, and Eliza,
married to John Nichols. His second maiTiage was with Mrs. Lucinda Sho-
maker, and by this union there is one child living, Mattie M. Our subject,
who has lieen one of the prominent farmers of the township, and is a well-to-
do citizen, not being in the best of health, has rented his farm and now occu-
pies a pleasant home of twenty acres on Section 27. He has served his town-
ship as trustee. Politically he is a Republican.
SAMUEL SAUL, farmer, P. O. tiffin, was born September 25, 1801, in
Northampton County, Penn., son of Leonard and Eve (Rubrecht) Saul, who
were the parents of ten children. Leonard Saul, a native of Germany, came to
America and to Mahoning County, Penn., when but six years old, with his
852 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
parents, who liad a family of five sons and two daughters, four living — three
of whom are residents of Ohio: John. Mary (Mrs. Raider, a widow in Frank-
lin County), and Samuel. Leonard Saul came to Ohio in 1815 and settled in
Franldin County, purchasing land, where he lived the remainder of his days.
Our subject has been twice married, first in Fairfield County, Ohio, to Miss
Ann Spitler, and by this union had seven children: Edward (deceased), was
married to Lovina Kagy; Rachael, wife of David Fowley; Abraham, maiTied
to Hester Price; Eliza (deceased wife of William Martin); Regina, wife of
Michael Bair: Ann, wife of Thomas Singer; Elizabeth, wife of W. Souther-
land. This wife dying, Mr. Saul was subsequently married to Mrs. Catharine
(Slimmer) Coleman, a widow, by whom he had three children: Jesse, man-ied
to Sarah Kirshner (have one sou, L. H.), and occupies the farm north of the
homestead; Martha, wife of Davied Geis; Mary, a maiden lady keeping house
for her father (who is partially blind), her mother having died in 1877. Four
of Mr. Saul's childi-en reside in this county. Oui- subject came to this county
in 1828, began pioneer life, entering eighty acres of land, and built a house
where he still resides. He was a leading farmer in his earlier days. Was
elected county commissioner, serving six years.
JOHN SEITZ, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born March 12, 1829, in Bloom
Township, this county; son of Lewis and Barbara . (Kagy) Seitz, natives of
Fairfield County, Ohio, and Virginia, respectively, and grandson of Lewis
Seitz, Sr. , and great-grandson of John Seitz, who wjth his young wife came
to York County, Penn., fi'om Prussian Germany in 1/67. He reared a family
of nine children — three sons, Lewis, John and Andrew, and six daughters:
Catherine, Anna Mary (married Zeller, and Stabler), and the four youngest
girls came to Fairfield County, Ohio, and were married to Keller, to Einsel,
to Leib and to Swartz, respectively. John lived and died in York County,
Penn., after rearing a family of fourteen childi-en; Andrew moved to Mary-
land. Lewis Seitz, Sr., left York County, Penn.. in 1789, and moved to Rock-
ingham County, Va. , where he remained twelve years, and there had ten chil-
dren. In 1801 he moved to Fairfield Coiinty (one of its first settlers). Here
fom- more children were born; fom-teen of the family grew to manhood and
womanhood and reared families, seven sons and seven daughters, all of whom
lived to be over sixty years of age. and of whom two now survive: Lewis
(father of our subject) and Rebecca (Mrs. Friesner, of Illinois). Lewis Seitz,
Jr,, came to Seneca County in 1825, locating on lands his father had entered,
and here began as his father had done before him as a pioneer, and like his
father he was a minister of the Old School Baptist Church, and labored among
the peoi^le for many years. Lewis Seitz, now eighty-three years old, was
twice married, his children by his first wife numbering fourteen: Catharine,
Lydia, Elizabeth, John, Mary, Anna, Daniel, Barbara. Hannah, Abraham, Lewis,
Aaron, Lavina and Jonas, eight of whom are li^dng (Daniel and Jonas died in
infancy). Our subject was reared on a farm, educated at the common schools
and Seneca County Academy, then under Prof. T. W. Harvey. He was mar-
ried, April 9, 1851, to Miss Celia, daughter of David Hite, a pioneer of Marion
County, Ohio, and by her he has had seven children, five now living: Milford K.,
Omar B. (married to Susie Richardson), Marshal, May (wife of R. W. Thorn-
bui-g), Nettie, Orin and Jay. The three oldest sons are in Texas, engaged in
sheep rearing. Oirr subject was elected justice of the peace of Bloom Township
in 1862, which office he held till 1865, when he removed to Eden Township,
where he piirchased a farm which is now finely cultivated and improved. He was
elected a member of the State Legislature of Ohio in 1869, where he served foui-
years, after which, in the fall of 1878. he was elected to the Senate from the
EDEN TOWNSHIP. 853
Thirty-flrst District of Ohio, which position he held two years; was re-elected
in 1877, and after serving four years returned to his farm. Mr. Seitz, during
his second term in the Ohio Senate introduced a bill which became and is now
law: to make it a felony to bribe or intimidate a voter at any general election.
or during the canvass 'of any candidate for "'nomination" or election, and
makes a"guilty candidate ineligible to hold the office, though elected. ^ This
statute is now known throughout the State as ' "the Seitz election law. ' ' Of
the legislative record of Mr. Seitz it is said of him in the biographical sketches
of the General Assembly of Ohio ((SM) and other State officials: "He has
made a brave member of the Senate; brave because it requires courage of the
highest order for a representative of the people to fearlessly fight the schemes
of ''a powerful and active lobby, which is doing more legislation than the Legis-
lature. Mr. Seitz has been severe in his advocacy of retrenchment in public
expenditures, and has justly earned the title of 'the watch dog of the treas-
ury. ' " In 1880 he was a "candidate for Congress on the Greenback labor
ticket, and in 1881 candidate for governor, on same ticket. He is a leading
politician, and in 1882 was before the people as candidate for Congress, mak-
ing no canvass. In 1888 he was candidate for State Treasurer, and in 1884
was candidate (Greenback labor ticket) as elector at large.
JOHN TITTLE, farmer, P. O. Melmore, was born November 20, 1820, in
Westmoreland County. Penn. . son of Jonathan and Susan (Beaty) Tittle, also
natives of Pennsylvania. Jonathan Tittle came to Ohio in 1840, and sottled
on Honey Creek, Eden Township, this county, where he bought a farm of
Thomas West, of which a few acres were cleared, now one of the most valua-
ble farms in Eden Township, with fine improvements. Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan
Tittle had six sons and three daughters when they came to this county, and
were parents in all of eleven children: Martha C. (wife of William Ferguson),
John, Sarah, two infants (deceased), Ealph AV. (married to Agnes Spittle),
Benjamin B. (married to Kachael Finch), Jonathan, Allen (married to Amanda
Johnson), William W. (married to Emily Johnson), Samuel W.^ (married to
Hattie Beals). Our subject was united in marriage, in Jime, 1857, with Lina.
daughter of John and Nancy (Weidner) Chamberland. Mr. and Mrs. Tittle
have no children of their own, but have an adopted daughter, Lottie. Our
subject now owns the old home farm on which his parents lived, and is a
thrifty, neat farmer living at his ease, enjoying the fruits of his labor. He has
served as township trustee.
JOSEPH WALTER, P. O. Tiffin, a well-to-do farmer of Eden Township,
was born September 4, 1832. in Northumberland County, Penn. . only child of
David and Nancy (Huntsicker) Walter, who came to Ohio in the fall of 1851.
purchasing a farm and settling in Richland County. David Walter died in
Mansfield.'' Ohio, in 1864; his widow now makes her home with her son._ Our
subject received his education in his native State. He was a farmer in his
earlier days, but later entered the drug business at Mansfield, in which he con-
tinued for ten years. He was married, in 1855, to Susan, daughter of Joel
Keller, of Pennsylvania, and who came to Ohio in an early day, settling near
Mansfield. Of their children, eight in number, four are now living: Anna E. ;
David K. ; Amos J., married to Sophia Kerschner (have one child, Grace), and
Albei-t C. Mr. Walter came to this county in the spring of 1880, and pur-
chased, of Samuel J. Seed, the farm of 157 acres, with fine improvements,
located on the Mohawk road, where he now resides. He is jiroprietor of the
hack lines of Tiffin.
854 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP.
THOMAS BALTZELL, farmer, Tiffin, was born July 22, 1815, in Fred-
erick County, Md. , son of Charles and Elizabeth (Creidler) Baltzell, natives
of Maryland and of German descent. Charles Baltzell died in Maryland, and
in 1837 his widow came to Ohio, bringing her only sou. Thomas, with her;
she (^led in 1857. Thomas Baltzell was a successful farmer, but in 1881 he
retired fi-om his farm, moved to Tiffin and bought a house on Clay Street,
where he now resides. He was married, in June, 1844, to Caroline Souders,
the fifth born in the family of six children of David Souders, natives of Fred-
erick County, Md. To Mr. and Mrs. Baltzell were born ten children: Charles
I>., married to Mallie Butler; Henry C, married to Kate Pennington (have
four children: Carrie. Heni-y, Willie T. and Bessie); Malinda E., wife of C.
Shuemaker (have following children: Viola. Leora, Carroll, Calvin); Emma,
widow of T. A. Kaup (has one child, Hallie D.); Nettie; John T. ; Flora C. ;
Ciqja B., married to J. C. Royer (have one child, Helen); Ida B., and Jesse
M. ^Qae son enlisted in the late war of the Rebellion when but twenty years
of age aiid.served until the close of that struggle. They are all members of
the Presbyterian Church.
JACOB A. BOXER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born May 2, 1809, in
Frederick County, Md. He has no remembrance of his father, who died when
our subject was very young. His mother subsequently married John Julian.
Our subject came to Ohio in 1820 and located near Tiffin, where his step-father
bought forty acres of land and spent the remainder of his life. The Indians,
who were then quite numerous, would often ^'isit the family in those early days.
To Mr. and Mrs. Julian were born seven childi-en: Samuel, Margaret, John,
Sarah A., William, Joseph and Victoria, All of this family are now deceased
but Victoria and John. The subject of this sketch was mai-ried, in September,
1831, to Elizabeth, daughter of George Slosser, one of the pioneers. In 1844
Mr. Boner and wife came into the woods of Hopewell Township, settling where
they now live, and when there was but one log schoolhouse in the township.
They have six childi-en living: Agnes, wife of Joseph Staub; William, married
to Rachael Cook; Ann, wife of Mathias L'lman; Joseph, married to Mary
Kuhn; Catherine A. ; Jacob A. ; all residing in this township but Ann, who
lives in Indiana. Mr. Boner has been an eye witness to the growth and
improvement of Seneca County. He was justice of the peace for three years
in Hopewell Township, and has been a leading farmer. His wife, who is now
seventy-seven years old and who has been married fifty-four years, is a lively
. old lady, with a retentive memory, and remarkably quick in her actions con-
sidering her age. The family, one of the oldest in the county, are members of
the Catholic Church.
JOHN BRITT, retired farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born June 24, 1811, in
County Longford. Ireland, son of Patrick and Alice (McCormic) Britt, who
with their six children came to America in 1830, and settled in Pennsylvania,
Avhere they remained twenty years. The names of the childi-en are John, Mary
J., Annie (deceased), Timothy. William (deceased), Catharine (deceased). Oui*
subject was married, in Huntingdon County, Penn, to Miss- Mary Nolen, by
whom he had the following children: Frank P. (he was a soldier in the late war
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 8^5
of the Rebellion, a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volun-
teer Infantry, remaining until the war closed), Ann (Mrs. Leonard Beacox),
Elizabeth, Alice, John, Ella (Mrs. F. Flack), Clara, Esther A. (deceased wife
of S. W. Rohrer) and Maggie. In 1848 the subject of oiu- sketch came to
Ohio and settled in Hopewell Townshi^D, this county, where he lived and reared
his family, and became a very successful farmer. He removed to Tiffin in
1883. but still retains his farm. He lost his wife by death May 19, 1884.
Ml-. Britt was elected justice of the peace of Hopewell Township, but resigned
in favor of TJ. .P. Coonrod. He filled the office of treasurer of the school
funds and volunteer funds, of Hopewell Township, for eight years; was director
of the infirmarv six years. He is a member of the Roman Catholic Church.
CHARLES 'M. COMER, physician. Bascom, was born June 13, 1849, in
New Albany, Franklin Co., Ohio^ son of the late John Comer, one of the lead-
ing farmers of Franklin County. He was educated in his native county, and
there spent the early part of his life. In 1879, and while engaged in the drug
business, he began the study of medicine under Dr. Smith, of Franklin County.
He afterward took two terms (six months each) of lectiu'es at Columbus Medi-
cal College under Dr. Hamilton, and graduated in the class of 1882. His
father died at New Albany, April 14, 1878, and Charles M.. being the only
child, inherited his lands and personal efFeets. The Doctor was married, in
September, 1872. to Sarah J., the fifth born in the family of seven childi-en of
Aden Mullen, of Delaware County. Ohio. This union has been blessed with
three childi-en: Melissa, John and 'Charles N. December 9, 1882, the Doctor
came to this county and began the practice of medicine at Bascom, where he
still follows his profession.
HENRY M. CREEGrER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, is a son of Hemy and Cath-
arine (McDonald) Creeger, natives of Frederick County, Md. , and who, with
their three children, came to Tiffin, Ohio, in 1826, and the following spring
bought a piece of land on Fulton Creek, in Hopewell Township, on Avhich
there was a small cabin raised by Michael ShauU, and which was located on the
site of an Indian wigwam; but" the timber was yet uncut, and there were no
roads, and Mr. Creeger, with the assistance of his sons, cut the fii'st road to
Tiffin. This pioneer couple had ten childi-en, seven born after then- arrival in
Ohio: JohnH., Catharine, James, Laurence, Mary, David, Margaret, Sabina,
Delila and Heni-v M. Our subject was educated in Hopewell Township, this
county, attending the log schoolhouse with its puncheon floors and paper
windows; helped to cut the first road, and also assisted in building the first
bridge across the river, and operated the first saw-mill in the township. There
Avere^ Indian mounds on his farm, on which trees grew that measui-ed three feet
through, and out of these mounds Mr. Creeger excavated a skeleton. Mr.
Creeger now occupies the old homestead on which he has built a fine, large,
brick residence, and opened a large stone quarry and a limekiln on the creek
where thousands of bushels of lime are made, and thousands of perches of
stone are taken yearly. The first church he attended was the German Reformed
at Tiffin, Rev. Daniel Cron officiating. Our subject was twice married, the
first time to Ruth A. Culbertson, who bore him four childi-en, three now living:
Melissa, Orrow J. and Chipeway L. Daniel is deceased. Mr. Creeger was
married, on second occasion, March 21, 1864, to Christena Biddle. by whom
he has the following children: Josephena, James, Catharine, Oliver, Bertha.
Minnie, Ross and Ida. Mr. Creeger is one of the leading farmers in the
county, and has the finest residence in the township. He has served as school
director for years.
8o6 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
LAURENCE CREEGEE. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born July 22. 1820,
in Frederick County, Md.. and came to Tiffin, Ohio, with his parents. Henry
and Catharine (McDonald) Creeger, July 6, 1826. and there remained until the
following spring, when his father bought a piece of land on Wolf Creek, Hope
well Township, and began life in real pioneer style with a family of small
childi-en around him. Our subject, the fifth born, soon began to labor. His
parents had ten children in all: John (deceased), James (deceased), Catharine
(deceased), Mary L., Laurence, David (deceased), Henry M., Margaret, Sabina,
and Delila (latter deceased). Our subject early became interested in educa-
tional matters and fitted himself to be a teacher: then taught school for twenty
years. He was twice maiTied. the first time. October 8. 1842. to Susan Mus-
setter. who bore him three childi'en: Samuel Levi (deceased). Catharine, wife
of F. Kipke. and Mary E. , wife of Calvin Smith. The mother of these chil-
di'en died August 4, 1848. Mr. Creeger was married on second occasion, Sep-
tember 20, 1849, to Belinda Chenoworth, by whom he had the following
childi'en: Christopher (married to Minnie Osborn), Minerva A. (deceased), Heniy
M.. Alice (deceased). Adelia, Laui-ence (deceased). Emma A. (deceased), Min-
nie I. (deceased), Hiram D. and Adam, twins (both deceased), Mintie B.
(married to J. M. Ruse) and John Henry. Mr. Creeger is one of the elder
childi'en of the county, having seen the rise and progress of Hopewell Town-
ship, and remembers well the first deer killed by his father on the Wentz farm,
now in the corporation of Tiffin, and many another afterward. He has been a
peaceful, law-abiding citizen, and is now reaping the reward of his labor, having
been a successful farmer. Mr. Creeger has been a follower of Christ for over
fifty years and intends to hold out to the end of his life.
'L. D. creeger, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born August 22. 1848, in
Hopewell Township, this county, son of John H. and Mary (Young) Creeger,
of Stark County, Ohio, and grandson of Hemy and Catharine (McDonald)
Creeger, who came to Tiffin. Ohio, in 1826, settling in the following spring in
Hopewell Township, near Wolf Creek, where they entered land, being among
the first permanent settlers, and here they lived, overcoming all the difficulties
of a pioneer* s life, and reared their family. At that time there were no roads,
only Indian trails. Our subject's parents were married, December 11, 1834.
and had a family of four childi'en, three now living: Ann Elizabeth, Ann
Rebecca and Lorenzo D. Ann Lucinda is deceased. Soon after marriage
John H. Creeger moved on a farm bought of his father, and there lived and
labored the balance of his years. He died May 26, 1872, and his widow
August 28, 1881. Our subject lived in Hopewell Township on a part of his
father's land, to which he has added by subsequent purchase, and has made
fine improvements. He obtained the timber from the woods, and built his
barn, 40x80 feet, in six weeks: has also erected a fine large brick residence.
He was married, June 6, 1871, to Elizabeth Shaferley. by whom he has three
children: Charles R., William F. and Russel E. Mrs. Creeger died September
17, 1881. Mr. Creeger is an enterprising man, engaged in farming and sell-
ing agricultural implements.
ELL^S W. CRUM, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Dauphin County, Penn..
April 28. 1846, second son in the family of eight children of Frederick and Sus-
anna (Reeme) Crum, natives of Dauphin County. Penn. , and who moved to this
county in 1857, settling on the farm Elias W. now occupies. Oru' subject was
reared to manhood on the farm and educated in the common schools. In 1871
he took charge of the homestead, containing 160 acres, which he purchased in
1880. January 31, 1871, he was married to Miss Frances A. C. Lambright,
born in Frederick Countv. Md.. November 23. 1841. dausfhter of Henrv and
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 857
Catharine Lambright, also natives of that county; the former born December
13, 1801, the latter June 30, 1804, and who came to this county in the fall of
1856, settling near Fort Seneca, where they resided till the following year,
when they moved to Clinton Township, this county, and purchased 120 acres
of land, eighty acres being in Hopewell Township. Since the death of Mrs.
Lambright. May 1 , 1 876, Mr. Lambright has lived with his children, who in
all numbered nine: Susan E., Philip G. J., Mary J., Henry V., Elijah D.,
Catharine M., Hamilton K., Frances A. C. and Charles C. To our subject
and wife have been born the following childi-en: Minnie Idella, Mary Oleta
and Herbert L. Mr. Crum has always successfully followed farming. He is
a member of the Bethel Methodist Church, and Mrs. Crum of the first
Refonned Church, of Tiffin. The farm now OAvned by Mr. Crum was entered
by John Rosenberger. who sold it to Andi'ew Dorcas, who four years later sold
it to Frederick Crum.
WILLIAM CUPP. retired farmer. Tiffin, was born May 7. 1808, in
Augusta County, Va. , son of Valentine and Mary (Fall) Cupp. of German
descent. Valentine Cupp was twice married, and had nine children, of whom
six sm-vive. two — David and William — being residents of Ohio. Our subject
was brought to Faii'field County, Ohio, by his parents in 1 808, his father cany-
ing him in fi'ont of him on his horse most of the way. They settled in Walnut
Townshii), Fairfield Co. , Ohio, where the father pui'chased a farm, on which
he passed the remainder of his life. Our subject was educated in Fairfield
County and was there united in marriage Avith Miss Catharine Fall (a second
cousin), by whom he had three childi'en: Mary A., now the widow of Joel Kel-
ler (has two children); Elizabeth C, wife of William Orme (have four chil-
dren), and George W., married to Lucy Fisher; they reside in Tiffin and have
one child living. Mr. Cupp bouglit a fine farm in this county, and moved here
in 186-5. Retiring fi'om same in 1877, he came to Tiffin, where he now lives,
having bought a fine property on Market Street. He has been a successful
farmer, and is a fine gentleman. He is a member of the first Reformed
Chm-ch, of Tiffin. Col. Valentine Cupp, of the First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry,
a brother of our subject, was killed at the battle of Chickamauga in Septem-
ber, 1863.
WILLIAM N. DUNN, of Hopewell Township, was born in Sullivan
Coimty, N. Y., February 1, 1815. In 1834 he, in company with his parents,
removed to Wayne County, remaining thereuntil the year 1841, at which time
he removed to Hopewell Township and cleared oft' the site of his present home-
stead, containing 120 acres. In 1842. after having cleared a small space and
erected a log-cabin, 18x20 feet, he married Sophia W. Clark, of New York.
They resided here eight years, when Mr. Dunn erected a large building and
moved his family into it. where they resided until it was destroyed by fire,
together with eight other buildings, which calamity occurred April 13, 18 r2.
The family consists of six children — all sons — an only daughter dying in
infancy. Of these sons Arlington married Mary L. Oster; Devolson married
Mahala E. Miller, and William G. married Alice M. Smoyer, all residents of
the township. The farm contains 200 acres of land, a fine residence (which is
occupied by D. C. Dunn, a son of Mr. Dunn) and a barn, 40x82 feet. The
family now reside in a fine brick house in Tiffin, No. 23 Water Street, over-
looking the Sandusky River. Mr. Dunn has been a hard worker, and is now
enjoying the fruit of his industry.
■ ARLINGTON DUNN, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born Febmary 6, 1845.
in Hopewell Township, this county, son of William N. and Sophia ^^ . Dunn,
natives of New York State, and who came to Ohio in 1842, settling on the old
858 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
homestead. Our subject' s grandf ather, James Dunn, came to the county in an
early day, and bought 400 acres of land. His sons came here afterward. To
William N. Dunn and wife were born seven children: Elnora (died in infan-
cy), Arlington. Devolson, William G., Deroy C, Norman and John A. They
were all educated in the county schools. Our subject was married. August 1 2,
1873, to Mary L. Oster, the second in the family of seven chiidi-en of Jacob
and Catharine (Seewald) Oster, the former a native of . Nassau, the latter of
Sipperfelt, Germany, and who came to America in 1844. To Mr. and Mrs.
Dunn were born three children: Cora Sophia, Clara May and William Arling-
ton. Mr. Dunn enlisted in the army during the civil war, and served in the
Twenty-fourth Corps in the Ai-my of Western Virginia two years, ten months and
six days to the close of the war. being then twenty years old. He is now erect-
ing a fine brick residence in the most modern style, having a fine location on
Wolf Creek. He is a member of the G. A. R.
DEROY C. DUNN, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born October 16, 1852. in
Hopewell Township, this covmty, son of William N. and Sophia W. (Clark) Dunn,
natives of New York State. Our subject was united in marriage, January 16,
1877, with Savilla, daughter of Frederick and Susan Crum, of Clinton Town-
ship, this county, and to this union has been born one child. Mr. Dunn and
family occupy the old home farm belonging to his father, and which is finely
improved.
MICHAEL FREDERETZE, farmer, P. O. Bascom, was born in October,
1814, in Alsace, France, son of Matthew and Barbara Frederetze, parents of four
children, and who came to America in 1828. and, after residing five years in
Pennsylvania, settled in Seneca County. Ohio, in 1882, and here purchased a
farm on which Mr. Frederetze lived for many years. He died, in 1851, at the
home of his son, Michael. Our subject was married, in 1851, to Christine Ruse,
and to this union were born six children: Frederick, married to Sarah Hoot:
Joseph; Andy; Henry: Theresa and Ann. Michael Frederetze has lived fifty-
two years on his present farm which he has improved: he has been an eye-wit-
ness to the growth and improvement of this county. Some of his children
live with him and help to manage the farm which is located near Bascom.
SOLOMON CLICK, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born October 2. 18 11, in Lehigh
County, Penn., son of Daniel and Sally A. (Stininger) Glick, who lived and
died in that State ; they were the parents of nine children, of whom three are
now living: Charles. Liicy A. (Mrs. Hartman). Euphemia (Mrs. Leitchenwalter).
In 1847 oiu- subject moved from Pennsylvania to Illinois, where he remained
until 1855, when he came to Ohio and settled in Eden Township, this county,
and there lived until 1858 when he removed to Hopewell Township, where he
still resides, owning a farm of 150 acres with fine improvements. He was mar-
ried, in 1835, to Salome Litzenburger, by whom he had nine children, six now
living: Lucy A. ; Willoughby H.. married to Henrietta Miller: Adam S.. mar-
ried to Ellen C. Ish; Levi^T., married to Nora Lichtner: Benjamin F., an
enterprising young farmer, married to Emma Conrad (have two children — Ger-
tie E. and Frankie Blaine): and Lewis N., married to Nancy B. Feasel. Henry,
Theron and an infant are deceased.
HIRAM HART, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in 1804. in Oneida County,
N. Y. , son of Ozias and Polly (Pryar ) Hart, natives of Connecticut and Ver-
mont respectively. Ozias Hart went to New York when young, and there
married, and in 1827 he moved to Ohio, and entered land in Hopewell Town-
ship, this county. His children were Martha (deceased wife of Mr. A. Mal-
let); Orrin: Orlow and Hiram. Om- subject helped his father jmt ripthe cabin
which they afterward lived in. and to clear the farm (comprising 145 acres)
HOPEWELL TOWxXSHIP. 859
which is now among the best in the township. Hiram Hart afterward bought
a piece of land for himself near Tiffin, for which he paid $0 per acre (the
Government lands were §1.25 per acre), and which is now one of the finest
farms here. He was a good workman, an expei-t ax-man. and a hnnter who
killed many a deer and other wild game. He was married. January 28, 1841,
to Rebecca, daughter of Nathan Cadwallader, an old settler of this county,
and who reared a large family. To Mr. and Mrs. Hart were born five children :
Francis M. ; Mary E. . wife of J. Roop. died, leaving one child; Orrin, married
to Emma Hedge (have four children); Emma, wife of N. Cadwallader (have
three chilren); and Delia, wife of Philip Snyder (have one child living). Oiu-
subject and family were among the pioneers of the county, as well as his wife' s
father. Mr. and Mrs. Hart are now enjoying the fruits of their labor, having
lived to see the growth and improvements of the county. They are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HENRY HOSTLER, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born July i), 181 G, in Lan-
caster County. Penn. . son of Henry and Catharine (Dinger) Hostler, also
natives of Pennsylvania. Hemy Hostler. Sr., came with his family to Ohio in
1831, and entered a farm in Hopewell Township, this county, when there were
but few inhabitants in the township or county. They came here with one
horse, and a wagon in which they slept at night most of the way, and had but
little save health and willing hands. They made a clearing, built a cabin, and be-
gan to work in earnest on the site Avhere the beautiful dwelling of our subject
now stands. On their way to this township they stopped at the then village of
Sandusky, except the father, who came ahead and entered his land, then
returned' for his family. His childi-en all attained maturity, and now the liv-
ing occupy good positions in life, while their parents sleep, free from care and
toil. Of their children (four sons and two daughters) the following survive:
Henry; Sarah, widow of J. Martiri: Catharine (wife of Rev. J. Powell, of San-
dusky County) and Henry. Our sul)ject. the only one who resides in this
county, was educated here. He married. January 20. 184(). Miss Fannie, the
eldest in the family of twelve children of John Baughman. of Liberty Township,
this county, and who still occupies the old home farm, the property never hav-
ing changed hands. Mr. and Mrs. Hostler have been blessed with nine chil-
dren: George AV.. married to Mary Propps; Rebecca E.. wife of Isaac Mer-
chant; Moses L., married to Margaret Shaull; Silas J. : Dennis S. and David
M. (twins); Stephen; A. D. : and Ira J., married to Harriet Bencoff. Mr.
Hostler is one of the leading farmers of his township, and among its veiy suc-
cessful men. He is a memi3er of the United Brethren Church.
JACOB HUNDERLACH. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in September. 18 25
in Rhenish Bavaria, son of Adam and Anna (Mott) Hunderlach. who were the
parents of three children: xindy, a resident of Germany: Mary (Mrs. Miller),
who died in Tiffin, Ohio, and Jacob. Mary and Jacob were the only members
of the family who ever came to America. The mother died while Jacob was
young, and his father married again. Our subject received his education in
Germany and came to America in 1850, first locating in Indiana, but later in
Ohio, where he followed the trade of a butcher, at Tiffin, Ohio, for twenty-five
years. He was married. March 8. 1854. to Frederica. daughter of Frederick
Sander, and to this union were born ten children, nine now living: Ida.
widow of George Hammon; Ann; Flora A., wife of John Pennington, and who
removed to Douglas County, Kas. ; Rosa (deceased) ; Rosa (second), wife of
Charles Miller, of Tiffin; Neddie J. : Minnie: Charles H. ; Albert and Ralph.
In 1 878 Mr. Hunderlach moved on his highly improved farm located near the
railroad. He and his familv are members of the German Lutheran Church.
860 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
^^nCHAEL KELLER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was boru in County Kerry,
Ireland. September 29. 1818; son of Thomas and Margaret (Keeffe) Keller,
natives of Counties Kerry and Limerick, respectively. The father died early
in 1820, and the mother the following year, leaving six children, of whom
Michael is the youngest, and was reared by his aunt, Mrs. Ellen Carter. In
May, 1843, the subject of this sketch landed in New York City after a voyage
of thirty-eight days, and i^roceeded to Fayette County, Ky. ; in 1846 he spent
eight rnonths in Seneca County, Ohio, then revisited Kentucky, and January
1,^1850, returned to this county and purchased seventy-five acres of land near
Bascom, where he resided until 1858. November 4. 1850, Mr. Keller was
married to Margaret Kinney, born in Hopewell Township, this county, June
8, 1831, daughter of Bartholomew and Mary (McBride) Kinney. In 1852 he
went to California and spent three and a half years in pursuit of gold, dimng
which time Mrs. Keller had charge of the farm. He made the round trip by
water. In 1 858 Mr. Keller sold his property near Bascom and bought a farm
of 198| acres near Tiffin, where he now resides. In 1875 he erected a large
two-storv^ brick house at a cost of $7,000. He owns one of the best farms in
the county, finely improved, and has constructed over six miles of under drain-
age on the land. Of the ten children born to Mr. and Mrs. Keller, eight
are living: Frank F.. John E., Joseph P.. James M.. Eugene A., Lewis A.,
Irvine B. and Ellen C. Mary E., the eldest, and Leo F. are deceased. Mr.
Keller and family are members of the English Catholic Church, of Tiffin. He
is one of the substantial farmers of the township; starting with but small
means he has acquired, through industry, a comfortable competence.
GEORGE KEPPEL. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Westmoreland
County. Penn., March 4. 1810. His parents. Henry and Anna C. (Stamatz)
Keppel, were natives of Northampton and "Westmoreland Coimties, Penn. , re-
spectively. They removed to Knox County. Ohio, in 1822, and resided there
until 1839, in which year they came to this county. Henry Keppel died in
1842 at the age of seventy-fom* years. He served one year in the war with
the Indians in Pennsylvania. Mrs. Keppel died in 1860, aged seventy-four.
Our subject is the eldest son and third child in a family of whom six are now
living. He was reared on the farm, and educated in the common schools, and,
being the eldest son. the management of the farm fell largely upon him. In
the fall of 1838 he bought the homestead, containing 160 acres, all of which
was woodland. He moved upon it the next year, and has since lived here.
He has cleared most of it. made fine improvements, and has laid four miles of
tile for draining. In 1875 he erected a brick residence, two stories high, at
an expense of $3,000. He is now engaged with his son in agriculture and in
rearing good grades of stock He also owns a farm of 100 acres, two and a
half miles west of the homestead. November 10, 1843, Mr. Keppel was unit-
ed in maiTiage with Mary E. Rosenberger. born in Jefferson County, W. Ya.,
March 19, 1822. daughter of Henry and Jane Rosenberger, early settlers in
this county. Five children were born to this union, four of whom are living:
Anna C, wife of Daniel L. Crum: Jane E.. wife of John Lautzenliiser; Henry
D.. married to Mary M. Miller; and Haniet L., wife of Nelson A. Miller. An
infant is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Keppel are members of the First English
Lutheran Church of Tiffin. Mr. Keppel is an enterprising, public -spirited
citizen, and has done much in advancing the ])ublic improvements of his town-
ship and county. He gave $500 toward the erection of the church in Tiffin,
of which he is a member and an earnest supporter.
JERRY R. KING, farmer, P. O. Tffin. was born March 15, 1S4(, in
Hopewell Townsliip, this county; son of Jeremiah and Hannah King, natives
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 861
of Ireland, the former of whom came to America in an early day: the latter
accompanied her sister and two brothers to this country and settled in Buffalo,
but after a time came to Ohio, vrhere she was in the course of time married to
Jeremiah King, and to this union were born eight children, all now living:
John, Philip, Jeremiah E., Elizabeth, Stephen, James, Mary and Lawi-ence.
Jeremiah King died October 19. 1856, and in May, 1884, his widow was mar-
ried to Charles Bukman. They occupy a large brick residence on a part of
the original farm, which is well imjn-oved. Our subject was married June 28,
188'2, to Mary A., one of the six childi-en born to Richard Johnson, of Chica-
go, 111. Mr. King is living beside his mother.
PHILIP KINO (deceased) was Ijorn in County Kerry, Ireland, A. D. 180(3,
and was a son of Timothy King, of the same county. ' Our subject came to
America in 1 836, and for a few years was engaged on the public works of Penn-
sylvania, constructing pikes, etc. He subsequently came to Ohio and was
employed about three years superintending work in the constiiiction of the
Miami Canal, and in 1840 he came to this county, where he piu'chased 120
acres of land of Samuel Waggoner, began a farmer's life and here remained the
balance of his days. He was married soon after coming to this country to Miss
Ellen Sullivan, and by this union there were three children: a son, Timothy,
who died in his infancy; Mary L. (a bright intelligent lady, a student at the
convent of Cleveland, where she was taken ill, returned home and died in b856,
aged eighteen years), and J. F. King, the present sole survivor. They also
adopted a child, Philip B.. who was highly educated, studied law, was
admitted to the bar and subsequently became one of the able lawA^ersof Califor-
nia, where he died. Philip King was a man of influence and highly esteemed
l\v all who knew him. He was a hearty, robust man, but after an illness of
biit Ave weeks duration died February 10, 1879. His widow followed him to
her rest the same year, leaving her only surviving son to occupy the old home
farm where he now resides. This son, J. F. , was educated in the common
schools of Hopewell Township, and afterward attended St. Mary's Seminary,
near Cincinnati. He was man-ied, in September. 1S78. to Mary, daughter of
John Keane, and to this union were born five children: Philip, Mamie L.. John
F. , Eleanor and Catharine L. J. F. King is a large, well-proportioned man,
a good farmer, and member of the Catholic Church.
BARTHOLOMEW KINNEY (deceased), one of the early settlers of Hope-
well Township, this coimty, was l)orn in County Cork, Ireland, a son of
Bartholomew and Margaret Kinney. He came to America when a young man,
and settled in Chester Coxinty, Penn. , where he married, in 1827 or 1828, Mary
McBride, born in Ireland in 1809, daughter of Bernard and Nancy McBride,
who immigrated to the United States about 1824. settling in Chester County,
Penu. In 1830 Mr. Kinney moved with his family, and located in the southern
part of Hopewell Township, this county, where he bought eighty acres of wood-
land, on which he resided until his death, which occurred July 1 6, 1881 . He was
crossing the Sandusky River at Tiffin, where, by some accident, he was drowned.
He left a widow and two childivn : Edward, born in Chester County, Penn. ,
October 29, 1829, and died Sei)tember 17, 1852. and Margaret, born June 8,
1831, now the wife of M. Keller. Mrs. Kinney remained a widow for four
years, a part of which time she spun flax to maintain herself and family. The
house she lived in was a iiide log-cabin, and often she had to support the door
with the furnitiire to prevent the wolves entering. In 1835 she married John
King, with whom she lived until her death, March 27, 1852.
BENJAMIM F. KNEPPER, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was liorn December 4,
1838, in Franklin County, Penn., son of Peter' and Eliza (AVagoman) Knepper
8(52 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
natives of Pennsylvania, former of wliom was twice married, having by his
first wife (Elizabeth Geeseman) three children, two now living: Sarah and
Levi; by his second wife fom- childi-en: Cyrus, Benjamin F., Elizabeth and
Amanda Peter Knepper lived and died in Pennsylvania, where his widow
still resides. Our subject received his early education in his native State. He
was man-ied. February C), 1862, to Mary Ellen, daughter of ^Villiam and Cath-
arine Pteeme, by whom he has ten children: Minnie V., Cyrus D.. Eva G..
Arietta S.. Emma S.. Benjamin D.. "William I., Kussell M. Clara C. and
Katie E. The daughters are now engaged in school. IVIr. Knepper came to
Ohio in 1856. and bought the farm of Aaron Ruse, on which he has since made
many improvements and erected a fine, large brick residence.
DENNIS MALOY. farmer. Bascom, w^as born August 2 r). 1825, in Huut-
ingdon County, Penn.. son of Patrick, a contractor, and Esther (Kagen) Maloy.
natives of Ireland, and who immigrated to Canada in 1825, thence went direct
to Philadeli^hia. Penn., where they remained but a short time, however, moving
to Lancaster. Penn., and thence to Huntingdon County, Penn., where they
remained the balance of their days. Their children, five in number, are all
living; Mary, wife of F. McCormic, residing at Hollidaysburg. Penn. ; Thomas,
residing at same jilace (was a soldier in the late civil war ) : Bedelia. wife of D.
D. Wood, in Tyrone. Penn.: Catharine (deceased wife of O. Manning, of
Hollidaysburg. Penn.): and Dennis. Our subject was educated in his native
State, and came with an uncle to Ohio in 1846 and commenced business in
Tiffin. He soon came to Hopewell Township, where he began farming. He
was married, in 1848, to Margaret E., daughter of John Anderson, and by
this union there are six childi-en: Esther, wife of Andrew Hoover; John T..
married to Mary J. Kuhn; Anson A., married to Kate AVade; Loretta C. Avife
of David Have'rstick ; Margaret A., wife of J. W. Wilson; and Timothy A.
Mr. Maloy has been township clerk, and has held the office of justice of the
peace for' eight years : he was also county sui'veyor for several years. He
resides in Basco'm and is one of the leading citizens of the township. He is
a member of the Eoman Catholic Church.
JOHN MAULE (deceased), one of the old pioneers of this county, was born
in Pennsylvania. October 21, 1793. and was next to the eldest of four children
born to Lewis and Edith (Thomas) Maule. also Pennsylvanians. He grew up
on the farm till sixteen years of age, when he commenced learning the black-
smith trade, an occupation he followed for twenty-five years. In 1820 he
went to Frederick County.- Md. . where he pursued his trade till the spring of
1830, at which time he came West and purchased 212 acres of land in the east
line of Hopewell Township, this coimty. The following year he built a shop
on the State road, one mile and a half north of Tiffin, where he continued at
his trade till 1838. Returning that year to his farm he resumed agriculture,
which he followed till his death. May 24, 1827. Mr. Maule was united in
marriage with Miss Elizabeth Derr. born in Frederick County, Md. . Septem-
ber 14, 1804, daughter of Thomas and Ann Barbara (Stoner) Derr. This
union was blessed with six childi-en, of whom L. T. , born in Frederick County,
Md.. February 19. 1829: William W., born in this county, December 11,1831;
and Lydia M.', also born in this county, March 18, 1833. are living; the de-
ceased being Anna E.. born in Frederick County. Md., March 23. 1830, mar-
ried to Adam Repp; Charles L., born January 9. 1835 (died near Goldsboro.
N. C. diu-ing the late civil war): John E., born May 18, 1839, died August 25.
of same year. :Mr. Maule was one of the pioneers of this section and cleared
up a part of a large farm. He was an enterprising citizen, aiding in advanc-
ing every improvement within his power. He departed this life October 31,
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 863
1866, at the age of seventy-three. He was reared a Quaker, but at his death
was a member of the Methodist Protestant Chui-ch. In his political views he
was a stanch Eepublican. ^Lrs. Maule. now in her eighty-first year, has for
more than forty years been a member of the Methodist Protestant Church.
Since the death of Mr. Maule the farm, comprising lt)2 acres well-improved
land, has been conducted by L. T., the eldest son, who is engaged in farming
and rearing live-stock.
W. W. MILLER, merchant, Bascom, was born November 8. 1841, in
Adams Township, this coimty. son of Simon and Hannah (Wax) Miller.
the former a native of Dauphin County, the latter of Perry County, Peun.
Of their four children, our subject is the only one surviving. He received his
education in Seneca County, and has followed farming most of his time. He
was twice married, the first time to Sophia Jamison, who died in July, 1870,
leaving one child, Simon J. Mr. Miller was married on second occasion,
in Aj)ril, 1871, to Mary L. . daughter of David and Sophia (Delong) Creeger,
early settlers of the county, and who were parents of two children. To Mr.
and Mrs. Miller were born two children: Martha J. and Bertha M. Our sub-
ject embarked in merchandizing, has a general stock of groceries and dr\^
goods at Bascom, where he does a lucrative trade; he is postmaster at Bascom
and a memljer of the United Brethren Church. During the late civil war Mr.
Miller enlisted (in 1861) in Company I. One Hundi-ed and Sixty-foui-th Regi-
ment Ohio A^olunteer Infantry, and served 100 days.
JOSEPH OGLE (deceased) was born, in 1781, in Fredericktown. Md., son
of Thomas Ogle and grandson of Joseph Ogle, of English parentage, and
who was one of the old ship-masters, spending most of his time on the waters-,
his son, Joseph, became enamored of a Scotch girl, and the father, being
determined he should not marry her, enticed him on board his vessel and started
on a voyage to England, but Joseph jumped from the ship and swam ashore.
He subsequently came to Maryland where he lived, reared his family and died.
Our subject had but little means when he started on his career in life. He
was married to Miss Elizabeth Valentine. He came to Ohio in 1824 and set-
tled in Hopewell Township, where he made a small clearing and began pio-
neer life. The Indians were numerous at that time, and he had also to defend
himself against wild beasts. On one occasion his daughter, while milking the
cows, was attacked by wolves, and he had to fly to her rescue. To Mr. and
Mrs. Ogle were born ten children: Maria (Mrs. L. D. Shawn), Margaret.
Elizabeth (deceased). Thomas, George (deceased), John (deceased). Joshua
(deceased), Aaron (deceased), Benjamin F. (a soldier in the late war. a mem-
ber of Company A. Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was appointed first lieu-
tenant and afterward captain of the company, participated in the battle of
Antietam and then came home; he now resides at Great Bend, Kas. ), and
Joseph, the youngest. Margaret and Joseph are occupying the old homestead,
having a grand farm of the best bottom land in the county. Mr. Ogle, the
subject of our sketch, died Janviaiy 4, 1864, and his widow occupied the farm
June 15, 1876. There were but three families in Tiffin when our subject came
to this county. He had served as school director.
JOHN G. OSTIEN, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Prussia, February
17, 1801, son of Jacob and Catharine (Moltre) Ostien, also natives of that
country, and who were the parents of seven children, all of Avhom, except
John G. , died in Germany. Frank, one of the sons, served two years in the
army of Napoleon I. Oiu* subject was brought up on a farm and educated in
the common schools of the Roman Catholic Church. He followed the trade
of blacksmith in his native land until 1838, when he immigrated to America.
864 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
ayne
arriviug in New York after a voyage of nine weeks. He located in V^'a
County. Ohio, pursuing his trade there till 1840, when he removed to Tiffin
and the following year to a farm of eighty acres in Loijdon Township, this
county, which he had entered in 1834. He cleared this land and resided on it
till 1 8(37, when he returned to Tiffin and lived in the city till 1877. at which
time he purchased his present farm of 160 acres. In March, 1826, Mr. Ostien
was married to Agnes, daughter of Francis Stein, and by her he had ten chil-
dren, seven of whom lived to maturity: Catharine, Mary (deceased). George
(deceased). AVilliam, John (killed at second battle of Bull Run), Jacob (a sol-
dier for three years in the late war of the Rebellioii). and Elizabeth. IVIrs.
Ostien departed this life June H, 1854, and in September, 1854, Mr. Ostien
was married to Mrs. Rebecca GrofP. widow of Jacob Groff (by whom she had
tliree sons and five daughters), and who died September 17, 1879. Mr. Ostien
is now living retired, on his farm. In religious views he is a Roman Catholic.
In politics he is a Rej^ublican. formerlv a Democrat.
MRS. MARY REDFOX. hotel keeper. Bascom. was born in 1833 in Ger-
many, and in 184() came to America, settling in Bascom. this county, where
her parents kept the hotel now conducted by herself. She was twice married,
her last husband. S})eltz Redfox. dying at Bascom. Mrs. Redfox has seven
childi-en: Elizal^eth. wife of George Wilson (have five children: Flora. Eddie,
Ralph. Mary E. and Lena, latter married to John Kepkins); Rosa (wife of
Frank Bettinger). Mary. Catharine, Frederick. Louisa and Cora. This family
are among the early settlers of Hopewell Township, where they all reside at
])resent.
MILTON D. RICKETTS. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born November 10,
1836. in Hopewell Townshij), this county, son of AVilliam L. and Elizabeth
(Docherty) Ricketts, natives of Pennsylvania. AVilliam L. Ricketts. a son of
Rezin Ricketts. was born in 1791. and in 1800 came with his parents to Fair-
field County. Ohio, where they began as pioneers. Rezin Ricketts was among
the early settlers of Ohio, and William Ricketts was one of the first settlers of
Hopewell Township, moving in 1828: the latter began life in the woods, where
there was no road o})en between him and Tiffin. He was twice married, and
had the following children: Rezin Ricketts. AVashington (deceased). Turza
(Mrs. Jacob Einoc). Cinderella (deceased wife of J. Adelsberger). Matilda
I wife of Joseph Culbertson). Catharine (deceased). Mary (wife of James A^an-
vleet) and Milton D. Our subject was educated in the schools of this county.
He was united in marriage, in 187(X with Annie, the second born in the family
of eight childi'en of John Shaferly. He is now occupying the well -improved
lands entered Vjy his father, and which ai-e located on the Findlay and Tiffin
•State road on Section 30, Hopewell Township.
BENONI ROHRER. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born January 10, 1816, in
Berkeley County. A^a. . son of Henry and Margaret (Hadrick) Rohrer, natives
of Bedford and Lancaster Counties. Penn.. respectively. Henry Rohrer
removed to A'irginia in an early day and there died. Of his eight children
seven are now living: Elizabeth, Benoni, Daniel. Margaret. John H. . Maria
and Martin. Isaac died in Maryland. Benoni Rohrer. the subject of this
sketch, was educated in A'^irginia. He was united in marriage with Rebecca,
daughter of Joseph and Esther (Seeman) Loose, and this union was blessed
with two children. both living: Silas AV.. married to Esther A. Britt. daughter of
one of the early pioneers of this county, and who died, leaving one son — AV al-
ter; and Amanda A., married to Solomon Britt (have four childi-en: Silas,
Earl. Mary R. and an infant). IVIr. Rohrer has been one of the leading
citizens of the township, having filled most of its offices of trust. He has been
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 865
successful as a citizen and as a farmer. From time to time he has made
improvements on his farm, until *now it is one of the most beautiful in the
township. He l^uilt a brick residence in 1879 (from the upper part of which a
grand view of the siuTounding country is to be had), and here he and his ven-
erable wife enjov the fruits of their successful labors.
SILAS W. 'ROHREE, former, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Berkeley County.
Va., April 8. 1S45. eldest son of Benoni and Rebecca (Loose) Rohrer. Our
subject came to this county with his parents when very young, and was reared
to manhood on the homestead farm. He obtained such an education as the
common schools of the neighborhood afforded, and has always followed agri-
cultural pursuits. Febniary 18, 1879, he was married to Miss Esther A.
Britt, daughter of John and Mary Britt, early settlers here. ]\Ii-s. Rohrer wa^
born in Hopewell Township, this county, in 1856, and departed this life
November K). 1881, leaving one son— Walter, born March "27. 1880. Mr.
Rohrer has devoted himself to agricultiire, and has been siiccessful. He gives
considerable attention to rearing stock, and keeps a good grade of all kinds.
He displays an interest in all enterprises of a public character that are intended
to benefit i^r enrich the community or county. He was chosen trustee of the
township, and is now an efficient member of that body. His political affilia-
tions are with the Democratic party.
HENRY ROSENBERCirER. This pioneer and early settler, of Hopewell
Township, was born in Shenandoah County, Va. , June 28, 1 798, and is a son
of Anthony and Barbara Rosenberger. He came to Seneca Covinty with his
wife and three children December 20, 1823, and settled on 170 acres of land
that he had entered the preceding year, located on Section 1, of Hopewell
Township, and Section 0. of Clinton Township. Here he soon erected a
round-log house 18x20 in size, into which he moved. It is related by him that
on his aiTival with his family his possessions amounted to one horse, a
wagon, a small quantity of pork and 25 cents in money. For the first year
and a half they had but one barrel of flour, part of which was spoilt at that.
The family siibsisted principally on game meat, which was abundant (deer
especially,' of which he killed many). Corn bread was the great " stand by."
His 170 acres of land he cleared up, and in course of time a hewed-log house
took the place of the first, and upward of thirty years ago a frame house was
built by him. which is now occupied by his son, Jacob, on this farm. The
Seneca Indians were his near neighbors, with whom he was always on friendly
terms, they sometimes stopping over night with him ; one of their ' ' trails "
passed through his land. Before leaving Virginia Mr. Rosenberger was a
member of the German Reformed Church, and after coming here he joined tlin
United Brethren, but upward of thirty years ago he Ijecame a member of
the Methodist Church, still retaining his connection with that society, of which
he is steward. He largely aided in erecting the Rosenberger Methodist Pro-
testant Church that is located on his old farm. In politics he was formerly a
Whig, later a stanch Republican, and during the Rebellion he was active in
encoiiraging enlistment and assisting the Union cause. He was married twice,
first, April 5, 1818, to Miss Jane Shoul, who bore him the following named
children: James, William, Mary E., Harriett. George N., Anthony D..
Margaret Ann, John B. , Martha J. , Jacob and Eliza. This wife dying, Mr.
Rosenberger married, in 1876, Maria Smith, and by this union there are two
children: Lona May and Henry Ellsworth. In 1876 Mr. Rosenberger sold
830 acres, left his farm and moved to Tiffin, where he has since lived in
retirement, and although eighty-seven years of age, has, until the past year,
been vigorous and healthy. He is one of the very few pioneers still living, and
enjoys the respect of all who know him.
860 BIOGPvAPHlCAL SKETCHES:
JACKSON SAGER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born August 27, 1828, in
"Washington County, Md. , son of Jacob and Mary (Newcomb) Sager, also
natives of Maryland. Oiu' subject came to Ohio in 1850 and settled in Clinton
Township, where he remained for fifteen years; he then moved to Hopewell
Township. His father came to Ohio in 1865 and remained with our subject
until his death; his wife died in Maryland. They were the parents of ten
children, eight now living: Daniel, Benjamin, Jackson, Jacob, Emanuel, Lena
(wife of David Miller), Matilda (wife of J. Wolf), and Catharine; Samuel and
Sarah are deceased. Our subject was married, in April, 1857, to Sarah,
daughter of David Shaw, and by this union there were born six children:
Emma G. (wife of J. Shiley), Flemmon (mamed to Xettie Crayley), Matilda
A. , George, Charles, Minnie V. In 1869 Mr. Jackson Sager moved on the
farm where he now lives, located in the northwestern portion of the township.
Mrs. Sager is fifth born in the family of eleven childi-en of David and Jane
(Blue) Shaw, who with five childi-en came to Ohio in 1829, settling in Clinton
Township, this county, where Mr. Shaw lived the remainder of his days.
GEORGE W. SHOEMAKER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Lib-
erty Township, son of Emanuel and Elizabeth (Starkj^) Shoemaker, natives
of Virginia. Emanuel Shoemaker was born in 180/, his parents being early
settlers of Fairfield County, Ohio, where they moved when he was but a babe.
He, Emanuel, came to this county in 1845 and located in Liberty Township,
afterward moving to Hopewell Township. To him and his wife were born ten
children: Matilda, wife of James Hudsun: George W. ; Absolem. married to
Annis McConne] ; Sarah, wife of J. Grosscup; John; Jacob, married to Ellen
Games; Rebecca, wife of E. Leidey; Ellen; Alice, and Jane. Emanuel Shoe-
maker, now seventy-eight years old, resides with his son, George W. Oui'
subject was married November 30, 18()5, to Sojjhia, daughter of William and
Clarissa ( Wenner) Smoyer. residents of the township, and by this union there
were ten children: Nettie L., Harry W., Herbert ^V., Cora (deceased), John
W., Kate (deceased), Iva A., James R., Olive A. and Homer. :Mrs. Shoe-
maker is one of following named children born to her parents: Emeline,
Caroline, Sophia, Madison and Alice. The mother is still living. Mr. Shoe-
maker, with the assistance of his worthy wife, has acquired a valuable faim on
which he resides, in Hopewell Township.
PETER SHULTZ. farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born March 7, 1821, in Bel-
gium, son of Henry and Mary (Mulliton) Shultz, who had a family of five
children, three of whom are living in America: Hemy, Catherine (Mrs. Peter
Lucius) and Peter. Oiu- subject immigrated to America in 1843, and came
direct to Tiffin, Ohio, where he worked at his trade (shoe-making) until 1846,
when he enlisted and served through the Mexican war. He then returned to
Seneca County, where he remained until 1849, in which year, the gold fever
raging in California. Mr. Shultz crossed the plains, and after enduring much
suffenng reached the land of gold, where he labored until 1859, and then
came back to Seneca County and bought the farm on which he now lives. Mr.
Shultz was man-ied, in 18o9, to Jane, daughter of Martin Mann, and by her
he has the following children: Henry, August, John, Martin, Peter, Nicho-
las, Charles. JacoK Joseph and Jane, and one deceased in infancy. INIr.
Shultz is a pleasant farmer, well fixed in life, and has a jolly set of boys, all
working on the home farm. Mr. Shultz states that he has made shoes for the
Wyandot Indians, who were here when he first came to Ohio.
JOHN SLOSSER. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born October 10, 1811, in
JefPerson County, now in West Virginia, son of George and Ann Mary (Pan-
ther) Slosser. natives of Washington County, Md.. and Germany. r>'spectively.
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP. 867
and who crossed the Ohio Kiver at AVellsbnrg October 10. 1830, coming direct
by team to this coimty, locating east of Tiffin for over fifteen months.
February 2, 1832, they removed to Hopewell Township, this county, where
Mr. Slosser had entered 160 acres of unimproved land, the roads not yet being
cut through, and had built a cabin the previous fall, which he chinked and
daubed in January. Mr. and Mrs. George Slosser were members of the German
Keformed and Tunker Chui'ches; they had nine children when they an-ivr-d
here, two married at that time: Peter and Elizabeth, wife of Mi\ Boner;
John;Susannah, married to Isaac Miller (she died in September, 1884, leaving
six children); Henry; Mary A., maiTied to Robert McCormick (have one child);
George; Catharine, who was twice married, first to Wesley Freeze (by whom
she h*ad two children), and at his decease to Rev. Souder; and Daniel. Our
subject has been twice man-ied, the first time May 15, 1845, to Emeline A.
Woolf, by whom there are no living children. His second marriage May 23,
1867, was with Louisa, foiu'th in the family of six children of Samuel H.
Woolf, a resident of Virginia, and who was an early settler of Muskingum
County, Ohio. By this union there are two childi-en: Vernon W. and Daisy
E. John Slosser received a meager education in his native State. He has
])een a successful farmer; has held the offices of township clerk and was justice
of the peace for twelve years. He now occixpies the old homestead farm. His
father thought much of his family, and at the age of seventy-one said he wanted
to see all his childi-en before he died, saddled his horse and started on the
journey and had visited the second, when he was taken sick at the house of his
daughter, Mary, and died there in 1843. His wife had preceded him three
years before.
SAMUEL SMITH, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born November 8, 1806, in
Kent County, Del. His parents, Benjamin and Rachael (Thistlewood) Smith,
came to Ohio and settled in Fairfield County, where the former rented land
and where they reared a large family of childi'en; the father afterward bought
land in Madison County where he spent the balance of his days; their children
were nine in nixmber, six of them now living. Our subject, one of the pioneers
of this county, came here in June, 183(X and soon after entered land near
Tiffin, where he still lives. He was twice married; on first occasion, November
25, 1832, to Elizabeth Sice, who bore him the following children: Calvin,
Rachael. Christena, Martin. Harriet, Maryann (deceased), Samuel, Sidney
(deceased), Martha. Delila, John W. , Benjamin F. and Elizabeth. Mr. Smith
was married, on second occasion, October 17, 1872, to Mary Stoltz. Our sub-
ject, who has done his share toward clearing and improving this county, has
divided his property among his children. He is a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.
JOSEPH G. STAUB, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born November 18, 1825,
in Adams County, Penn., son of Philip and Margaret (Kuhn) Staub, also
natives of Pennsylvania. Philip Staub came to Ohio in 1833. and purchased
land near the old Fort Seneca, built one of the first cabins in the township,
and was a resident here when the Indians were removed. He hel^^ed establish
schools and churches, and aided in the general improvement of the county.
He was a soldier in the war of 1812 and assisted in sinking three English ships in
Chesapeake Bay. His children, who had but limited school advantages, have
been successful in life and those living are among the leading farmers in the
county. Their names are as follows: Elizabeth (Mrs. Hayes) deceased,
Annie (Mrs. Handley Tracy), Josej^h G., Malinda, Agatha, Mary J. (Mrs.
Senders), John P. aiid James. Our subject was married, in 1853, to Lucy
Strausbaugh, who bore him seven children: Lovina (Mrs. Ulman), Henry,
868 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Clara, William and Emma living; and two deceased, Ella and Nora. iVIi-.
Staub lost this wife August 19. 1870, and subsequentty married, October 30,
1871, Miss Agnes, daughter of Jacob Boner, an old settler and pioneer, and to
this union were born two children : Francis May and Sylvester. Mr. Staub has
iust built a handsome brick residence on his farm in this township.
' WASHINGTON WADE, farmer, P. O. Bascom. was born May 26. 1829,
in Loudon Township, this county, son of Abner and Temperance (Gorden)
Wade, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively. Abner Wade came to
this county in 1820. entered 1()0 acres of land and began pioneer life. He cut
a road from what is now Tiffin, the entire coiuitry being then a wilderness.
He was a blacksmith and worked at his trade previous to coming to Ohio; also
did a good deal of work for the Indians after coming here. His children were
as follows: Benjamin. Nathan (deceased), A\'ashington, Abner, Hannah (Mrs.
D. Coner), Rebecca (IVIi's. Dr. Rosendale). Matilda (Mrs. L. Coner), Emily
(Mrs. H. Chance). James (deceased) and Harriet (deceased). Abner Wade
cleared his land, formed a home and there lived the balance of his days. He
was a prominent man of his township and served as one of the first justices of
the peace. He died December 1, 1858, his widow July 24, 1876. Our subject
was married, in 1852. to Catharine Richards, and by this union there have been
])orn six children: William, married to Elizabeth Hoverstick: Harriet, wife tjf
H. Eissler: Oscar, mairied to Violet Dillen; Catharine, wife of A. Maloy;
Lewis, married to Catharine Hoverstick; and A^'ashington at home. In 1852,
Mr. Wade went across the plains to California in search of gold, and there re-
mained two years; thence returned to Ohio, and three years ago he came to
Hopewell Township, where he now owns 1 70 acres of land.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP.
WILLIAM ASH. farmer, P. O. Amsden, born in Bedford, Penn., April
14, 1830, is a. son of George and Tishey (Reed) Ash, natives of Pennsylvania,
of Pennsylvania-Dutch origin and who settled in this county in 1 833. George
Ash, the father of our subject, who has been a farmer all his life, resides in
Jackson Township, this county, and is now eighty-six years old. William Ash
is the fourth in a family of six children. He received his education in the
pioneer schoolhouse in Seneca County, Ohio, and has followed farming all his
life, being now owner of 600 acres of well-improved land; and for the last
fifteen years has been largely interested in the shipping of live stock east, in
company with his son, who is still engaged in the business. He married, in
1852. Rebecca Trumbo, a daughter of Enoch Trumbo. This union was blessed
with three children, two now living: Ellen (wife of A. Mowery) and Charles.
Mr. Ash has held the office of justice of the peace for twenty-eight years; he is
a stockholder in the National Bank of Fostoria, and is one of its directors.
In politics he is a Repiiblican.
JOHN BIGHAM, farmer. P. O. Fostoria. born in Knox County. Ohio.
March 5, 1833, is a son of John and Eliza (Lewis) Bigham, natives of
Maryland, the former of Scotch and the latter of German descent. He came
with his parents to Eden Township, this coimty, in July, 1834, and remained
imtil 1855. then went to Washtenaw County, Mich. He married, September 4,
1855, in Jackson, Mich.. Miss Jane Clark, a native of New York, but for
JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 869
many years a resident of Michigan. After theii- man-iage the young couple
remained in Michigan about one year, and moving to Ohio in 1856 they settled
on a farm in Crawford County, where they remained until 1864, and then came
to this county, remaining only a short time, when they purchased another farm
in Crawford County, and after staying there about six years, finally located
permanently, in the fall of 1870, on the farm where they now reside, in Jack-
son Township, this county. They are the parents of three children, all born
in Crawford County, Ohio: Mary Eliza, born July 25, 1857; Eobert, born
October 29, 1858; and Martha Jane, born June 28, 1869. Mr. Bigham is the
owner of 180 acres of well-improved land, with fine orchard, good buildings,
and other improvements, making it one of the most comfortable residences in
Jackson Township. He is a practical farmer, has been successful in life, and
])y industry and economy has acqiiired a competence.
DAVID BOYD, farmer, P. O. Longley. AVood County, born in Pennsylva-
nia February 22, 1822, is a son of Hugh and Margaret (Rogers) Boyd, of Ger-
man descent, and who settled in this comity in 1844. Our subject married, in
1844, Rosana AVeiser, which union has been blessed with two childi'en: Jacob
H. C. and Hugh AV. A., both farmers. David Boyd was a pioneer black-
smith, and has worked at that trade for over fifty years. He has been success-
ful in life, owning at one time 360 acres of land in Jackson Township, this
coimty. This land he has divided among his children.
HUGH ^Y. A. BOYD, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, born February 27, 1845,
in Jackson Township, this county, is a son of David Boyd, a pioneer black-
smith of Jackson Township. Our subject received his education in the com-
mon schools of Jackson Township, was reared on a farm, and has been
engaged in agricultm-e all his life. He married, in 1869, Margaret Longley, a
daughter of John Longley. and to this union were born Cora A., Ella R., Kit-
tie M., Anna M. and Perry O. IVIf. and Mrs. Boyd are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. He has held
the office of school director, and for fifteen years has held continiiously one of
the following ofiices: trustee, township clerk, assessor and justice of the
peace. He enlisted in 1868 in Company C, Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry, served six months, then re-enlisted in Company E, One Hundi-ed and
Sixty- fourth Ohio Volimteer Infantry (100 days men), then re-enlisted in Com-
pany G, One Humli-ed and Eighty-third Ohio Vohmteer Infantry, and served
till the close of the war; he was a non-commissioned officer. IVIr. Boyd is a
member of the G. A. R. As a farmer he has been successful, and is the
owner of a good farm on which he has a fine residence.
DANIEL COCHARD, farmer, P. O. Longley, Wood County, was born in
Dolphin County. Penn., February 26, 1882, and is a son of Jacob and Rebecca
(Heller) Cochard, natives of Pennsylvania, being Pennsylvania-Dutch. Jacob
Cochard, who was a carpenter, reared two children, Daniel being the eldest.
Our subject received a common school education in Pennsylvania and learned
farming, which he has made the main occupation of his life. He has a fine
farm of 415 acres of land where he now resides. He married, in 1857, Mary
Ann Shaffer, daughter of Philip Shaffer, a Pennsylvania-Dutch farmer. This
union has been blessed with thirteen childi-en, ten of whom are now living.
Mr. and Mrs. Cochard are members of the Evangelical Church, of which Mr.
Cochard has been treasurer and trustee. In politics he is a Democrat. He
has been school director for sixteen years in the school district where he now
lives.
JOHN CRAUN. farmer. P. O. Kansas, born in Franklin County, Ohio,
May 12, 1825. is third in the family of eleven children of Abraham and
870 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Rosana (Miller) Craun, natives of New Jersey, of German descent. Abraham
Craun was a farmer, and came with his family to Seneca County, Ohio, in
1835. He entered land, and passed the remaining portion of his life here.
His wife died in 1878, aged seventy-six years, and he died in 1883, at the
advanced age of eighty-seven years. Abraham's father was in the Revolu-
tionary war. He died in Franklin County, Ohio. Mrs. Craun" s father lived
to the age of one hundred and fifteen years, and died in Franklin County,
Ohio. . John Craun was reared on a farm, received a common school edu-
cation, and chose agriculture as an occupation. He has resided in Seneca
County since 1835. He began working by the month, to get a start in life,
arid, unaided, has made his own way in the world. He maiTied, in 1836.
Nancy Kinsey. a daughter of Joseph and Maria (Kiser) Kinsey, of Pennsyl-
vania-Dutch extraction, and this union has been blessed with eight childi'en:
Samuel, a farmer and married; Jeremiah; Andrew, deceased, was a farmer, he
left a family; Cornelius, a carpenter, in Kansas, Ohio, and mairied; Abraham,
dealer in farming implements; Mai-tha J., wife of Peter Stainbrook; Joseph,
still residing with his parents; and Peter, a farmer and married. Mr. and
Mrs. Craun are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has
been a class leader for many years: has also been Sabbath-school superintend-
ent. Mr. Craun enlisted in 1864, in Company C, One Hundi-ed and Twenty-
second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for three years, and was mustered out at the
close of the war. In politics he is a Republican.
PETER EATON, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, born in Chenango County, N.
Y. , November 15, 1812, is a son of William and Ann (Strieker) Eaton, the
former a farmer, of Scotch descent, and the latter of German. William
Eaton reared a family of twelve childi'en, Peter and his twin brother who
resides in Cuyahoga. Ohio, being the sixth birth in the family; both gi-ew to
manhood and followed farming in Jackson Township, this coiinty. The sub-
ject of our sketch received a limited education in the old log schoolhouse, and
has been engaged in farming all his life. In 1840 he entered land in Jackson
Township, this county. He has been twice married, first in 1834, to Miss
Louisa Torry, who died without issue in 1835. In 1839 Mi*. Eaton married
for his second wife, Rebecca, daiighter of Reuben and Elanore (Benschotter)
Brooks, of German descent, and by her he has five children; Flavilla.
wife of J. W. Deacon, and Reuben E. , a farmer in Jackson Township, are in
this county. In politics Mr. Eaton is a Democrat.
REUBEN E. EATON, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, is a native of Jackson
Township, Seneca Co. , Ohio. Peter Eaton, the father of our subject, had five
children, Reuben E. being the only son. Our subject was reared on a farm,
attended the common school, and has been engaged in agriculture all his life.
He is the owner of a fine farm of seventy-five acres, where he now resides,
near Fostoria. He married, in 1873, Martha Johnson, daughter of Hemy F.
Johnson, and by this union there are two children: Leona E. and Margaret A.
Politically Mr. Eaton is a Democrat.
JOHN FEASEL, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, born in Fairfield County, Ohio,
February 12, 1828, is a son of George and Jane (Anderson) Feasel, natives of
Pennsylvania, the former of Dutch, and the latter of Irish descent. George
Feasel was a farmer all his life, and an early settler in Seneca County, Ohio.
He reared a family of eleven children, John being third. Our subject received
his education in the common schools, has been engaged in farming all his life,
and is now the owner of a well- improved farm. He was married, in 1860, to
Rebecca Stahl. daughter of Henry Stahl, and their children are Clara Alize,
Charlie Elsworth. Willie Franklin. Ester Ann. John Lerov and Irvin Larue.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 871
Mr. Feasel has served twelve years as justice of the peace, three years as school
director, and eleven years as township treasm-er; was land appraiser in Jack-
son Township in 1880, the last time the land was appraised in the State: was
also supervisor of roads.
JONAS FOSTEE, farmer and breeder of fine stock, P. O. Fostoria, was
born in PeiTy Countv, Ohio, November 4. 1826. son of Christian and Mary
(Groves) Foster, the former of German, and the latter of English extraction.
Christian Foster followed farming all his life. He reared ten childi-en. Jonas
being fourth. Our subject was reared on a farm, receiving a common school
education in Jackson Township, this county, and at the age of fifteen years
he began learning the carpenter's trade, which he followed for sixteen years,
but farming ha" been his main business. He has been a resident of this
county since he was thi-ee years old. His father gave him forty acres of wild
land, and he is now the owner of 200 acres of well-improved land. He mar-
ried, September 4. 1849, Elizabeth Stahl. daughter of Michael Stahl, and to
this union ten childi-en have been born, six of whom are now living: W. H. S.
(an attornev in Fostoria, Ohio), O. L.. Louisa E., Maria E., Ida I. and
Charles W. " The family are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Foster
enlisted, in 1861, in the Twentv-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving his
time; then enlisted in the Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was a
lieutenant, and afterward was promoted captain. He was wounded at Mission
Ridge, and in 1864 he resigned. In politics he is a Republican.
JACOB HEISERMAN, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, born in Seneca County.
Ohio, July 15. 1847. is a son of Jacob and Savillia (Peters) Heiserman, natives
of Germany, who came to America in 1833, settling in Seneca County, Ohio,
on a farm in the woods. Our subject is the second child in a family of six
children. He was reared on a farm, received a common school education and
has followed farming all his hfe; he now owns 192 acres of well improved
land. Mr. Heiserman married, in 1870, Esther, a daughter of Hemy Stahi.
a wealthv and influential fai-mer in Jackson Township, this county. The chil
dren born of this union are Henry M., Jacob F., Esther E.. Laiu-a E., Ida
A., Charles M.. George W. and Emma Amanda. The family are all members
of the Lutheran Church. ^Ix. Heiserman is a Democrat in politics: has filled
the office of school director.
GEORGE F. HULL, farmer and dealer in agricultural implements, P. O.
Fostoria, was born in Venice Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, November 19,
1840. fourth child in the family of ten childi-en of Michael and Barbara
(Free) Hull, former a wealthv farmer, now residing in Venice Township, this
county. The subject of oui'* sketch was reared on a farm, received his school-
ing in this county, and was engaged exclusively in farming until 1876, since
which date he has been dealing in agricultm-al implements in connection with
farming. He married, in 1863, Martha E., daughter of James Hanna, and
to this union have been born the following childi-en: Ella, wife of J. ^^ . Yost:
Euo-ena D., deceased; Jena J. ; Mollie C. ; Zilpha A. : Myrtle I. ; Maud Hanna;
Cleora M. and Ada B. IVIi-. and Mrs. Hull are members of the German Bap-
tist (or Dunkard) Church. In politics he is a Republican.
IRA M. JAMESON, farmer, P. O. Longley, Wood County, was born m
Hancock County, Ohio, August 9, 1843, and is the son of Ira and Rebecca
(Poison) Jameson, who were of Irish and Scotch extraction. Ira Jameson,
the father of our subject, and who was a farmer, moved to Hancock County,
Ohio, over fifty years ago; his family consisted of ten childi-en, seven of whom
^ew to maturity, Ira M. being the youngest. The subject of this sketch was
reared on a farm, and his education was obtained in the common schools
872 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
in Hancock County, and in the high school at Findlay.- He followed farming
till he was tw^enty-six years old. when he received a license to preach. He has
been a member of the^Methodist Episcopal Church since he was thirteen years
old; joined the conference when twenty-eight years old, and was ordained
deacon when thirty years of age, and elder when thirty -two. He accepted a
regular appointment and was moved from place to place in regular Methodist
itinerancy, remaining fi'om one to two years in a place as suited the order of
the church authorities. In 1870 he retired to farm life on account of ill health.
He is the owner of forty acres of land where he now resides. In 1 870 Mr.
Jameson married Cirena Miller, and two children, both now deceased, were
born to them.
HENRY F. JOHNSON, farmer, born in New York March II, 1810, is a
son of Archibald (a farmer) and Amy Johnson, both of Scotch descent. Archi-
bald Johnson was the father of live children, Heniy F. being the eldest. Our
subject was reared on a farm, received a common school education, and fol-
lowed agriculture all his life, till 1875, when he retired from active farm life,
though still residing on his farm; his wife is still living. They were married
in 18'28, and came to this county in 18-")1. settling where they now reside, and
reared a large and respectable family. They have deeded their farm to their
voungest daughter. Avith whom thev now reside.
HON. GIDEON JONES (deceased), was born March 10. 1810, in Gallia
County, Ohio; son of James and Perscilla (Blagg) Jones, of Welsh descent,
former a farmer and an early settler in Gallia County. Ohio, a prominent citi-
zen; he held the office of sheriff of that county. Hon. Gideon Jones was the
eldest of a large family of children. His father moved, with his family, to
Wood County, Ohio, when that county was a dense wilderness, settling not far
from the line between Seneca and Wood Counties, near the farm where Gideon
afterward lived for many years. The subject of our sketch married, in 1841 ,
Eliza H. daughter of Phineus and Sarah (Way) Davidson, of Welsh and Ger-
man descent, natives of Pennsylvania, and the children born of this union, now
living, are Laura F.. wife of M. F. Stockwell: Mary A., wife of E. R. Lew-
man; Orleno, wife of Uriah Sours; Olive, wife of Sylvester Henderson ; Emma,
wife of Henry Strouse: Plato, at home, f aiming; Pliny, a farmer; Ella, wife
of P. Hatlield; Hattie. wife of W. W. Kinniman, and Jessie. Hon. Gideon
Jones was a member of the Ohio State Legislature during the years 1860 and
1861. He departed this life in 1888. and this sketch of his life was obtained
from his widow, who siirvives him: she is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church.
WILLIAM KASSING. farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Prussia, June
15, 1836; a son of John F. and Mary (Sekman) Kassing. who came to America
in 1855. and settled in New York, where they remained three years, then
moved to Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest in a family of five
children, was reared on a farm, received a common school education, and has
made farming his occupation. He is owner of a farm of seventy-seven and a
half acres of land, and his wife owns a farm of seventy-three and a balf acres.
He married, in 1858. in Jackson Township, this county. Elizabeth Brumm.
born in 1833, a daughter of Peter and Maria M. (Briimm) Brumm. former of
whom was a successful farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Kassing have been bora
eleven children : Margaret Elizabeth. Louisa Ellen, William Charles (deceased),
Augusta Amelia (deceased). William, John Peter, Mary Anna, Clara Ellen.
Emma Laura, Charles Henry (deceased) and Ada, now (1885) aged six years.
The family are all members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Kassing is a Demo
era! in politics. He has been school director.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 873
B. L. LONG, farmer, P. O. Kansas, is a native of Ohio, boru September
12, 1823; son of Daniel and Margaret (Brill) Long, natives of Pennsylvania.
of German descent. Daniel Long worked forty years of his life at blacksmith-
ing; he was a soldier in the war of 1812, and came to this county in 1884; he
entered land where his son B. L. now resides, and was a prominent man; he
was born in 177it. and died in 1871. Mrs. Margaret Long was born in 1783.
and died in 1 Sr)3. They reared a large family of children, of whom B. L. , our
subject, is tenth. Samuel, the eldest, who was born in 1801, is a minister of
the United Brethren Church. The subject of this sketch is the owner of a fine
farm of 172 acres of land.- He married, in 1850, Mary Johnson, daughter of
Henry F. Johnson, and this union has been blessed with three children: Ma
lissa, wife of Levi Boyd; Margaret C, wife of Ary Stahl. and Daniel F., a
farmer, and married. Mr. and Mrs. Long are members of the United Brethren
Chiu-ch, of which he has been a class leader, steward and trustee.
EZRA MILLEK, farmer, P. O. Longley, Wood County, was born in
Jackson Townshij), this county, October 15, 18-15; a son of Isaac and Susannah
(Slosser) Miller, the former a native of Fairfield County. Ohio, and the latter
a native of Virginia; they were of Irish and German extraction. Isaac Mil-
ler, who was a farmer, came to this coimty in an early day. (His father. Abra-
ham Milh^r. Avas a pioneer farmer of Jackson Township, this county. ) Ezra
Miller, the subject of this sketch, the sixth in a family of twelve childi-en, ten
of whom grew to maturity, was reared on a farm, and received his education
in the common schools in Jackson Township, this coiinty. He has followed
farming all his life with the exception of the time he spent in the army during
the late war: he enlisted, in 18f)3. in Company C, Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, for six months: then enlisted for 100 days in the One Hundred
and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and then re-enlisted for one year in
Company D. Fifty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving till the close of the
war in 18(55. In 1868 Mr. Miller married Ann Riley, a lady of English ex-
traction, daughter of Thomas Riley, and this union has been blessed with one
child — Wallace. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. He is a Re])ublican in politics.
CONRAD MYERS was born in Mahoning County, Ohio. . He was a son of
Com-ad and Barbara (Robb) Myers, who, emigi-ating from Maryland, settled in
eastern Ohio, in 1 ~i\HS. Here the subject of this sketch grew to manhood. He
received l)ut nineteen days" schooling in a subscription school. In 1828 he was
married to Miss Leah Ranch, of Columbiana County, Ohio. In the fall of
1835 he brought his family to Hancock County and settled in the woods on a
tract of land near Fostoria. This land he had piirchased fi"om the government
five years previous. In the fall of 1845 the family removed to Jackson Town-
ship, in Seneca County, on a farm where he remained the rest of his life.
Mr. Myers was the father of nine childi'en- five sons and four daughters. The
sons and two of the daughters are still living (1885). Three of the sons are
engaged in agricultural ])ursuits; one is a minister in the Reformed Chitrch.
and one is a professional teacher. The mother of these children dying, the
father was in time married to Miss Keziah Fear, of Shelbyville, 111. Mr.
Myers was of German parentage. He followed farming all his life. He was
much devoted to the interests of .the Reformed Church, of which he was an
active member for nearly sixty years. He was one of the prominent men in
all public affairs and enterprises in his neigborhood. He always took a deep
interest in tlie welfare of the young people, especially those who were left
without parental guidance. He was one of the pioneers of this county, and
died August 11. 1885, aged nearly seventy-eight years.
874 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Y. D. NEAVCOMB, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, born in Loudon Township.
Seneca Co., Ohio. May 11. 1840, is a son of Myron and Sarah (Lantz) New-
comb, natives of Ohio, of English extraction. Myron Newcomb was a wealthy
farmer and pioneer of Seneca County; he reared a family of seven children.
Our subject, who is third in the family, was reared on a farm, and received a
common school education. He has been engaged in farming all his life, and
is now owner of eighty-two acres of well-imj^roved land on which he resides.
He married, in 1873. Laura E., daughter of David Coe, a native of Wood
County, Ohio, of English descent. They have two children: Elsworth M. and
Schuyler D. Mr. and Mrs. Newcomb are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, in which he has held the offices of trustee and clerk. Mr. Newcomb
is a member, in good standing, of the Masonic fraternity. He has filled the
offices of consta])le and trustee of Jackson Township, this county. Politically
he is a Republican.
MONTGOMERY NOBLE, farmer, P. O. . Fostoria, was born in Luzerne
County, Penn. , February 4, 1 823. son of William and Rebecca (Little) Noble.
His father, William Noble, born in Connecticut, was early left an orphan and
thrown upon his own resources. In early life he was a millwright but
later on became a farmer. He came with his wife and nine children to Jack-
son Township, this county, in 1835, settled on a farm of eighty acres, cleared
sixty acres, and died here in 1803, aged eighty-one years. He and his wife
were members and liberal supporters of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In
politics he was first a Democrat, afterward became a Republican- and cast his
vote for Lincoln. His wife, the mother of our subject, was a native of Penn-
sylvania, and of Irish descent, she died in this county in 1874, aged seventy-
foTir or seventy-live years; she was the mother of nine children, six of whom
are now living: Warren P. ; Montgomery; Mary, wife of Thornton Histe. of
Loudon Township, this coimty: William; Harrison and John. Montgomery
Noble passed his early days on his father" s farm, and received such education
as could be obtained in the common schools of that neighborhood; at the age
of twenty-two years he left home to begin farming on his own account; in 1847
he located in Adi'ian, and in 1852 he bought his first piece of land, fifteen
acres in Big Sining To^vmship, this county. In the spring of 185() he removed
to Tiffin, and served as deputy clerk. In 1860 he bought 100 acres of his
present farm (which now consists of 180 acres of Avell-improved land) in Jack-
son Township, this coimty; here he has resided and can-ied on farming anpl
stock-raising. In 1850 he married Margaret Spielman, of Big Spring Town-
ship:), this coimty, born in Maryland, daughter of David Spielman. an early
settler of Clinton Township, this county. This union has been blessed with
two children, one of whom is now living — Homer. Mrs. Noble dying in 1853,
Mr. Noble afterward man-ied, February 15, 1855, Ann M. Mills, and this
union was blessed with four children, of which three are now living: Ella, wife
of Wesley Bankhust; Belle, wife of Allen Delmeil. an editor in Wheeling. Ya..
and Charles. In 1862 Mr. Noble entered the army; he was commissioned
captain of Company K. One Hundred and First Regiment, Ohio Yolunteer
Infantry; he participated in the battles of Perry ville and Stone River, and in
1863 resigned and relui-ned home. Politically Mr. Noble is a Democrat; he
has filled the office of justice of the peace three years; township assessor, one
year; school director, twelve years; township clerk and townshiji triTstee.
MADISON PENNELL, farmer, P. O. , Longley, Wood County, was born
near Bridgewater, in Beaver County. Penn., July 12. 1812, son of James and
Elenore (Innman) Pennell. natives of Pennsylvania, of French. Dutch and
Welsh extraction. In earlv life James Pennell was a chair and cabinet-maker.
JACKSO>- TOWNSHIP. 8(5
in later life he followed farming. His family consisted of thirteen children,
seven of whom were boys, Madison being the eldest. Both of Madison's
grandfathers were in the Revolutionary war. Oui- subject received his school-
ing in the log schoolhoiise in his native county; he studied hard, improving
his leisure hours, and taught school for several years. He married, December
28, 1834, Elizabeth Porter, daughter of Richard Porter, and of Irish descent.
Their children now living are Thomas, a merchant in Kansas; Nancy, wife of
Sampson Switzer. a lieutenant in the late war; James G. B. , now a farmer, was
orderly sergeant in the late war. Mr. and ]VIrs. Pennell are members of the
United Brethren Church: he was a class leader for eight years. Politically
Mr. Pennell is a Republican and has held the offices of justice of the peace for
nine years, township clerk, and assessor of Jackson Township, and is highly
respected bv his fellow townsmen.
NOAH RINEBOLD. farmer. P. O. . Longley, Wood County, was born on
Section 10, Jackson Township, Seneca Co. .Ohio. May 15. 1851, the eldest son
of Jacob Rinebold. a wealthy farmer. Noah Rinebold received a common
school education, and was engaged exchisively in farming until 1882, since
which time he has also been dealing in farm implements. He married, March
7, 1872.. Anna Craun. a daiighter of Isaac Craun, and of German extraction.
To this union have l)een born the following children: A. A., Daisy A.. Bertha
L. and Martha Mav. In politics Mr. Rinebold is a Democrat.
JOSEPH SCHtPP. farmer. P. 0._Fostoria. was born in Jackson Township.
Seneca Co., Ohio, September 19. 184/. son of Jacob and Catharine (Yenney)
Schupp, the former a native of Germany, the latter of Carroll County, Ohio.
Mrs. Schupp' s parents were born in Germany. Jacob Schupp was a farmer,
and entered land when he came to this county, where he died in 1883. He was
the father of six childi-en. five of whom grew to maturity, Joseph being the
third. Our subject was reared on a farm, and has followed agriculture all
his life; is the owner of a fine farm in Jackson Township, this county. He
married, in 1S71. AV. G. Eaton, daughter of Peter Eaton, an early settler of
Jackson Township, this county. Two children were born of this union: Vin-
cent Peter and Lillian G. Mr. Sch^^pp is a Democrat in politics. He holds
the office of school director. His father's family are members of the German
Reformed Church.
CHRISTIAN STAHL. farmer. P. O. Fostoria. born in Jackson Township,
Seneca Co., Ohio, March 10, 1845, is son of AVilliam and Rebecca (Foster) Stahl,
natives of Ohio and of German descent. "William Stahl followed farming all
his life, and was among the early settlers of Seneca County, Ohio. Christian
Stahl is the third in a family of twelve children. He was reared on a
farm, educated in Seneca County, attended the Heidelberg College, and has
taught school for twenty winters: has also taught several other terms. He is
unmarried, and is the owner of a farm of eighty acres of land on which he has
lately built a new brick house. He has tilled the office of assessor.
HENRY STAHL. farmer. P. O. Fostoria. born in Perry County, Ohio,
January 2, 1821, is a son of William and Elizabeth (Boyer) Stahl, natives of
Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Henry was the youngest in a large
family of children. He was reared on a farm, and has resided in this county
since 1836, and is the owner of 700 acres of land. He married, in 1831).
Elizabeth Rinebold. a daughter of John and Catharine (Wininger) Rinebold,
of German descent. Mr. Stahl is the father of five children: Rebecca,
Lucinda. Lydia. Ephraim and Esther.
JACOB' STAINBROOK. farmer and stock-raiser. P. O. Fostoria, is a na-
tive of Ohio, born August 27. 183'>. son of Abraham and Sarah (AVeller)
876 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Stainbrook, natives of Pennsylvania and Kentucky, and of German descent,
former of whom, a farmer, was twice married, Jacob being fifth child by the
first wife, who had eleven children. The subject of this sketch was reared on
a farm, and was educated in the district schools. He worked at farming for a
time, and in 1853 crossed the plains in a company of forty people; they
crossed north of the foot range. Eight years later he returned to Seneca
County, Ohio, and bought a farm. He married, in 1864. Miss Fanny Swingle,
daughter of George Swingle, and a native of Ohio, of German descent. The
childi-en born to this union are Eli Grant. William Oscar and Emma I. Mr.
and Mrs. Stainbrook are members of the Lutheran Church, of which he is an
elder. In politics he is a Republican.
WILLIAM H. STEWARD, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, born in Crawford
County, Penn.. Jime 2, 1844. is son of Samuel and Mary (Renner) Steward,
natives of Pennsylvania, who were the parents of seven children, William H.
being their second child. Samuel Steward is a wealthy retired farmer. Will-
iam H. was reared on a farm, and has been engaged in agricultm-e all his life.
He is owner of 1 16 acres of well-improved land, where he now resides. In
1882 he met with a misfortune, having his large barn and all of its contents,
together with foiu" valuable horses and TOO bushels of wheat, destroyed by fire.
He married, in 1866, Sarah S.. daughter of Joseph and Catharine (Seizeloft)
Haggerman. natives of Pennsylvania, and the children by this union are Glen-
dure. Nora. Hattie. Alice, Ida, Alverti and Charles. The familv are members
of the Reformed Church. Mr. Steward enlisted, in 1862. in the' One Hundred
and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and received injuries at the battle of Perry-
ville. from which he has never fully recovered. In politics Mr. Steward is' a
Republican. He has held the olfice of trustee.
ENOCH TRUMBO, retired farmer. P. O. Fostoria. was born in Pennsvl-
vania, November 23. 1804. a son of John and Rebecca (Dye) Trumbo, who
were Pennsylvania-Dutch. The male members of the Trimibo family are gen-
erally large men. John Trumbo. who was a farmer, came to Ohio in 1810.
and settled in Tuscarawas County. He raised a family of ten childi-en, Enoch
being his second child. The subject of this sketch received his education in
the common schools, and learned the stone cutter' s trade when young, a trade
he worked at for seven years, then entered land in Seneca County in 1831.
He was a pioneer of Jackson Township, this county, where he still resides.
Mr. Trumbo has filled most of the offices in his township, and has served Sen-
eca County as one of its county commissioners. As a farmer he was success-
ful, owning at one time 400 acres of valuable land, and still owning a good
farm. He married, in 1834. Eleanore Robertson, a daughter of Robert Rob-
ertson ; her parents were natives of Ireland. To Mr. and Mrs. Trumbo were
born six children: Rebecca. Daniel Webster (deceased). Maria (deceased). Mar-
cus. Pliny and Etty. all married. "Sh: Trumbo attended the first election held
in Jackson Township), this countv.
PLINY TRUMBO. farmer, 'P. O. Fostoria. born in Jackson Townshii..
Seneca Co.. Ohio, May 17, 1845, is a son of Enoch Trumbo, a pioneer of
Jackson Township, this county, and who is still living here. Pliny Trumbo
was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education. He has followed
farming all his life, and is now the owner of a well-improved farm, where he
resides. He enlisted in 1862 in Company E. Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry; was in several engagements, was wounded "at the battle of Stone
River, taken prisoner and confined in Libby Prison a short time. He received
his discharge fi-om the service in 1865. and in 18()7 married Lvdia Neder-
honser, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Kinsley) Nederhouser, the former of
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. 877
German and the latter of English descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Trumbo were
l)orn thi'ee children. The family are all members of the Methodist Chitrch.
Mr. Trumbo is a member of the G. A. E. He has filled the offices of trustee,
assessor and clerk of Jackson Township, this county.
BENJAMIN W YANT, farmer, P. O. , Amsden, born in Jackson Township,
Seneca Co. , Ohio. November 6, 1853, is a son of Isaac and J. C. (McDugle)
Wyant; the former a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent, and the latter
a native of Virginia, of Scotch descent. Isaac Wyant was a pioneer farmer of
Jackson Township, this county, coming to the township in 1833, where he
spent the remaining portion of his life. The siibject of this sketch, the eldest
in a family of three children, was reared on a farm, received a common school
education, and has followed agricultui-e all his life, being now owner of a fine
farm. He married, in 1879, Sarah Lybarger. daughter of William C. and
Elizabeth (Ash) Lybarger, natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent. The
children of our subject and wife are William, Charles and Elizabeth. Mr.
AVyant and family are members of the Methodist Church. In politics he is a
Republican.
JACOB YOCHUM, farmer, P. ()., Fostoria. born in Germany. December
13. 1836. is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Nuser) Yochum, who came from
(Germany to America in 1845, and settled in Jackson Township, this county.
Jacob Yochum, Sr. , was a cabinet-maker, but followed farming most of the
time after coming to America; he died in 1855. The subject of our sketch, the
eldest in a family of fovir children, was reared on a farm, educated in the com-
mon schools, and has followed farming all his life. He is the owner of 240
acres of land in Jackson Township, this county, where he now resides. In
1860 he maiTied Sarah Sowders, a native of Germany, and their childi'en are
Henry, Jacob, Edward. Walter. Peter, Mary, George, William and Laura Anna.
The family are memljers of the Lutheran Church, in which Mr. Yochum has been
deacon and trustee for many years, also superintendent of the Sabbath-school.
He has held the office of school director. Politicallv he is a Democrat.
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.
DE. JAMES A. ANDEEWS (deceased), was born in Philadelphia. Penn.,
son of John and Elizabeth (Abercrombie) Andi-ews, of English descent, the
former of whom was cashier of the old United States Bank, in Philadelphia,
for many years. Dr. Andrews came to the farm now occui)ied by his widow in
1837, having married, April 12, of the same year. Miss Emy Rozell, who was
oorn near Trenton. N. J. , daughter of John and Jane (Twigley) Eozell, who
came, in 1836, to Liberty Township, this county, where they died. Mr. Twig-
ley was a gallant Revolutionary soldier. Dr. Andrews served under Gen.
Morgan (who was his cousin) diu'ing the Mexican war. He was the father of
the following named childi-en: John H., in Mackinaw City, Mich.; Margaret,
wife of Henry Park, in Pelltown, Mich. ; Calander, wife of David D. Fisher,
near Bloomville. Ohio, and George W. . in Liberty Township, this county. Dr.
Andrews was a Master Mason; a man of rare talent and al^ilitv. He died in
1860.
EDMUND E. ASH, farmer. P. O. Kansas, was born in Liberty Townshi}).
Seneca Co. , Ohio, November 9, 1844; son of Upton and Barbara A. (Bower)
878 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Ash, both of whom are still living, the latter born April 22, 1828, son of Moses
and Martha (Robinson ) Bower, who were among the earliest settlers of Liberty
Township, this connty. Upton Ash was born June 8, 1822, in Bedford Coun-
ty, Peun., son of George and Tishey (Reed) Ash, who came to Liberty Town-
ship, this county, in 1833. The subject of this sketch married, in 1867,
Emeline Elder, who was born in Bedford County, Penn., November 13, 1843.
daughter of Achor and Eliza (Cessna) Elder, the former of whom died in Ma-
honing County, Ohio, in 1855: Mrs. Elder, who is a daughter of William and
Nancy (Barnes) Cessna, is still living, in her sixty-seventh year. To Mr. and
Mrs. Ash were born the following childi-en: Cui'tis A., Lewis, Harvey J..
Willoughby R. and Elsie J. In August, 1862, Mr. Ash enlisted in Company
K. One Hundred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and after ten
months' service was discharged on account of disability. He subsequently
served in the 100 days' service, as corporal, in Company E, One Hundred and
Sixty-foui'th Regiment Ohio National Guards, and in January. 1865, he en-
listed in Company E. One Hundred and Eighty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, and was discharged September 18, 1865. jVIr. Ash is engaged in
general farming and stock-raising, and is one of the most enterprising young
men of Libertv Township.
JACOB ASH. farmer. P. O. Kansas, was born. October 13, 1836, in the
house in which he no\y lives. His parents. Jacob and Sarah (Willerson) Ash.
natives of Bedford County. Md. , former of whom was a son of Abraham Ash,
came to Liberty Township, this county, in 1832. and here died. They were
parents of six children: John (deceased, leaving a family in Liberty Town-
ship): Edmund (deceased, leaving a family in Liberty Township ) ; Abraham, iti
Fostoria; Harriett, wife of Benjamin Lewman, in Liberty: Wesley (deceased)
and Jacob. Om- subject was a member of Company E. One Hundred and
Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and w^as a fifer, serving at
Washington, D. C. August 3, 1856, he married Lettia A. Brown, born in
Seneca County, Ohio. March 11, 1838, daughter of George and Julia (Scott)
Brown, natives of Maryland, and among the early settlers of Seneca County.
Ohio. To this 'union were born the following children: Julia A. (deceased wife
of Thomas Ferrell: she left two childi-en); Sarah, wife of Lewis Peifer, in San-
dusky County, Ohio; Lilly, wife of Jacob Schubert, in Big Spring Townshii):
Clarissa (deceased); Charlev; John; Beda (deceased): Daisy and Lola L.
AMANDrS BETTS. railroad contractor. P. O. Bettsville, was born July
U, 1843, son of Daniel Betts. He received such an education as could be
secured in the common schools, and August 22, 1862, enlisted in Company D.
One Hundi-ed and Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving in
the Eastern army and discharging his duties faithfully until June 19, 1865,
when he was discharged with the rank of sergeant. February 13, 1870, he
was married to Mrs. Phcebe (Rosenberger) Halter, who was born in Liberty
Township, this county, January 1 5, 1 844, daughter of Nicholas Rosenberger.
By her first husband Mrs. Betts has one son — Milo — now residing in Liberty
Township, this county; by her second marriage she has one daughter — Lottie
— born July 14, 187L Mr. Betts for several years was engaged in farming,
and dealt largely in grain. He is the owner of one of the most beautiful
farms and picnic groimds in Branch County. Mich. In 1876 he commenced
contracting with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company for supplying all kinds
of lumber and ties, since when he has done a very large business: has also
large contracts with the Lake Shore, O. C. and Pittsburgh. Fort Wayne i
Chicago Railroads. Mr. Betts is a member of the K. of H. and of the chapter,
a member of the G. A. R. and the I. O. O. F.. of Bettsville; also a member
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. 879
of the K. of P.. Lodge Xo. 147, and the F. & A. M., Lodge No. SHC. at
Fremont, Ohio. He is prominent in lodge matters, having filled the highest
positions in the subordinate lodges, and been representative to the Grand Lodge.
MICHAEL BETTS. farmer. P. O. Bettsville, was born in Center County.
Penn. , -January 8. 1809: son of John and Bai'bara (Boyer) Betts, who moved
to Wayne County. Ohio, in 1821. and to Liberty Township, this county,
in 1882. locating on Section 8. where the father of our subject caused to be
laid out the twenty-one original lots of Bettsville in 1888. John Betts was
the father of six children: John (deceased), Michael. Mary (Mrs. Daniel Mar-
tin), Sarah (deceased wife of Abraham Borough), Daniel, in Bettsville, Ohio, and
David, in Fremont. Ohio. Michael Betts was married, April 20, 1850. to
Cathariiie Bish. who was born in Fairiield County. Ohio. April 18. 1821. and
is the daughter of Henry and Mary (Zirkle) Bish. natives of Virginia, but
early and prominent settlers in Fairtield County, Ohio. To our subject and
wife have been born five chihh'en: Irena D., Henry A., Isaiah F., Salome E.
(deceased), and Mary C. Mr. Betts followed the mill-wright trade for about
thirty years in various States. He was active in township affairs, and took a
leading interest in securing the Pennsylvania Railroad through Bettsville. and
in the various enterprises for the good of the people he has always been among
the foremost. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical Church.
JACOB O. BOWLUS, merchant and postmaster, Kansas, was born in San-
dusky County, Ohio. December 22, 1887. son of David and Nancy (Holloway)
Bowlus, natives of Frederick County. Md.. who settled near Fremont. Ohio,
in 1822, where they died at an advanced age. They were the parents of six
children: Rohanna (wife of Daniel Shook, residing near Fremont. Ohio);
Margaret (deceased wife of Greenbury Burdette; she left a family near Fort
Clinton, Ohio), Rebecca (deceased). H. A. (a merchant in Melrose. Ohio),
Louisa (wife of James Hiett, a merchant in Fremont, Ohio), and Jacob O.
Oiir subject was engaged in farming until 18G5, when he embarked in mer-
chandising in Kansas. Ohio, where he has since remained. For a time he was
in partnership with his brother, but has been sole proprietor of the large and
commodious store now occupied by him since 1879. Mr. Bowlus was married,
in 18()1, to Miss Sarah E. Deemer. No children have been born to this union,
but Mr. and Mrs. Bowlus have an adopted daughter — Mamie E. Mr. Bowlus
is a member of the encampment, Kansas Lodge I. O. O. F. , also of the K. of
P. of Kansas, No. 188. He was appointed postmaster of Kansas, Ohio, in
1872. He is a man of prominence, and is held in the highest esteem by the
people of the community in which he lives.
PETER CRAUN. farmer. P. O. Kansas, was born December 29, 1828. ia
Franklin County. Ohio, son of Abraham and Rosanna (Miller) Craun: the
former, born March 24, 1796, died May 25, 1888, was a son of John Craun, a
native of Holland; the latter, born December 25, 1799, and died February 12,
1876. was a daughter of Jacob Miller, a native of Virginia. Their childi-en
were Jacob; Rachael, wife of Henry Murphy, in Indiana; John, in Jackson
Township, this county: Abigail; Peter; Catyan (deceased); Elizabeth, wife of
John Finkenbinder: Rebecca, wife of William Flack; Adaline: Martha: Sarah
A. ; James A. and Isaac. The Crauns came to Jackson Township, this
county, about 1884. Peter Craun enlisted in November, 1862, in Company F,
Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until July 28. 1868,
when he was discharged on account of expiration of his term of enlistment.
Mr. Craun is one of the energetic and enterprising farmers of Liberty Township,
HIRAM CROMER, Esq., farmer and justice of the peace, P. 6. Cromer's,
was born in Liberty Township, this county. April 29, 1844, son of Ezra and
8b0 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Sai-;ih (Crauii) Cromer, natives of Maryland, bnt who were among the early
settlers of this county. Avhere the former died in 1881 in his sixty-eighth year;
the latter, a daughter of John and Deborah (Lee) Craun. is still living. Mr.
Cromer was married. April 4, 18()7, to Rebecca Omwake, who was born in
Franldin County, Penn., March 81. 184(), daughter of eJacob and Annie (Beck)
Omwake, w^ho came to this county in 1848, many of whose family died
of cholera in 1855. To Mr. and Mrs. Cromer were born four childi-eu: Alton
E., Annie E.. Mary B. and Hiram F. In the spring of 1883 Mr. Cromer
was elected justice of the peace. He is doing a large business, and his de-
cisions are universally respected. He served two terms as trustee and twelve
consecutive years as a member of the school board, securing by his untiring
energy, an extension of the school year. He is a member of the K. of H., at
Fort Seneca. He is very active in the cause of temperance; is a member of
the Methodist Protestant Cliurch, and has been a re] )resentative to the annual
conference. Mr. Cromer served in Company H, One Hundred and Sixty-
fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, doing duty at A\'ashington. D. C. In politics
he is a Republican.
J. H. DAVIDSON, merchant and notary, Bettsville. was born in Ottawa
C^nuity. Ohio. September 1. 1843, son of Hugh and Salina (Poole) Davidson
(Ixrth now deceased), early settlers in Ohio, and who had seven children, two
of whom died without issue: Laura, married tt) Stephen Cowell (l)y whom she had
one child. Alice), her second marriage was with James McNutt (by whom she
had a family), she died in Lucas County, Ohio; INIary. married to John Fish
(she died in ^^"isconsin leaving a family); those now living are Sarah, wife of
Charles Lutz. in Tiftin, Ohio; J. H. and William, in Rice County, Kas. The
subject of this sketch started out in life with but a meager education, and with
nothing but a willingness to do and a strong determination to succeed. He
lem-ned the trade of milling, which he followed several years, then engaged in
farming and merchandising at Fort Seneca, where he held the office of justice
of the peace for six years. In September. 1881. he came to Bettsville. en-
gaged in merchandising, and the following March received his notarial com-
mission. He enlisted. August 22, 1802. in Comj^any D. One Hundred and
Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until June 2U. 18()r).
At the battle of Rude's Hill he was severely wounded in the thigh, and with
eight others was taken prisoner upon the field and confined in Libby prison,
only he and one comrade escaping death at that place. He was married, Feb-
niary 3. 1867, to Emma Abbott, a native of Seneca County. Ohio, and daugh-
ter of Henry and Eliza (Lott) Abbott, who were among the early and prominent
settlers of this count}'. By this union there have been born three children-
Maud and Mabel, twins, who died early in life, and Henry. Avho is still living.
Mr. Davidson was a good soldier, and is an energetic and enterprising business
man.
SOLOMON GARDNER, caiTiage manufacturer. P. O. Kansas, was born
in Sandusky County, Ohio, December 31, 1857. son of Horace and Elizabeth
(Cary) Gardner. Horace Gardner was born in Connecticut, October (), 179*. I,
and came to Sandusky, County, Ohio, in 1832, where he entered a large tract of
land and became prominent among the people of the time; he died Novemljer
25. 1878. Elizabeth Gardner was born August 3. 1833, in Richland County,
Ohio, died September 9, 1877. she was a daughter of William and Margaret
(Baker) Cary. Both parents of our subject were twice married and had chil-
dren by each union. Of their eight childi'en four died young. Those living
are Solomon; Reuben, in Freeport, Ohio; Rosetta, wife of John Bovey. and
Emma E., Avife of John D. Fiandt. both residing near Rising Sun. Ohio.
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.
881
Solomon Gardner came to Kansas. Ohio, in 1882. and engaged ni the manu-
facture of wagons and buggies, and in general repairmg. He recently began
the manufacture of knives. April 19. 1879. he married Sarah Graves, who
was born June 18. 1804. daughter of ^Villiam and Rebecca (Littles) Graves,
and bv this union there are two childi-en: Horace and Albert.
JOHN F. GASSMAN (deceased), son of Philip and Elizabeth (Hummel)
Gassman, was born in Eppingen. province of Baden. Germany, December 24.
1S12 and came to America in 1833 and to Liberty Township, this county, m
IS34' He married, in 183(). Margaret A. Zimmer.who was born m Bemheim.
Hessen Darmstadt. Germany, December 2. 1819, daughter of Gerhaii and
Catharine E (Fink) Zimmer. who came to America m 1832, and the same
^•ear settled in this countv. where they died— the former in 1875, aged nmety-
six vears. and the latter in 1874. aged eighty-two years. Mrs. Gassman is
the mother of fourteen children, five of whom are deceased. Those living are
Georo-e in Sa.i Francisco. Cal. : Mary, widow of Jacob Bender, m Hancock
County Ohio; Elizabeth, wife of John Beck: Amanda, wife of George Beck
and John are in Pleasant Township, this county: Sophia. Tillie, Franklin and
Emma are living at home. Mr. Gassman was a carpenter and worked at that
trade for several years. He was a F. & A. M. . a member of the lodge at Tiffin
and of the Reformed Church, a highly esteemed citizen. His death occun-ed
Unil '^3 1 863 His widow and her family are living on their farm of L)o acres
engaged in agricultui'e. and they rank high among the enterprising farmers of
Liberty Township. tt. „ .i
JAMES L HOSLER. grandson of Henrv Hosier and son of Moses 1 . and
Amanda (Lvnch) Hosier, was born in Liberty Township October 10, l8o7: edu-
cated in the schools of the district and at Heidelberg College, he taught school
for two terms (1875-76): was appointed agent of the Lake Erie & ^^ estern and
Northwestern Ohio at Burgoon. Ohio, which position he held about five^years
when he was transferred to the Bettsville office, where he was employed until
July 1883. when he with others, mentioned at page 32-, purchased the office
of the OjyHc and founded the Enterprise, m-. Hosier was married December
''4 1878 to Miss EmmaC. daughter of Solomon AN arner, of Sandusky County.
Our subject was elected village clerk in April, 1883. and re-elected m April
1885. Was also elected a justice of the peace m April. 188o. for Liberty
"^"jACOB HUNKER, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born near Sulz, in the king-
dom of Wurtemburg, December 16, 1842, son of Jacob and Catharine (Smith)
Hunker, who came to America in 1853, landing in New York and the same
year locating in Clinton Township. Seneca Co.. Ohio. The father of our sub-
ject, now (1885) in his eighty-first year, a son.of Martin Hunker, lost his wife
in 1854; she was a daughter of Martin Smith, and the mother of the follow-
intr children: Martin, in Clinton Township; Mathias, in Hopewell Townshi]);
Jacob, our subject; Marv. wife of Christian Snyder, of Liberty Township, all
i^^ithi; countv; and Frederick, in Buffalo County. Neb. The father s second
marriage was with Mary Schantz,who is still living, and by her he has had one
child Amiie. now the wife of Frederick Flaxenhair. of Liberty Township, this
county. Owing to the limited means of his parents our subject received but
meager advantages in early life. He was married, October 5 869, to Rosa
Smith who was born in Seneca County, Ohio, September 21, 18aO, daughter of
Georo-e and Rosina (Dunninger) Smith, natives of AVurtemburg, and who set^
tied tn this countv about 1845; they are still living and are the parents of
John in Bloom Township: Rosa, Mrs. Hunker, in Liberty Township; Mel-
choir in Pleasant Township, and Andy, in Clinton Township, all in thi-
882 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
county. To IVIr. and Mrs. Hunker have been born the following children:
John F. , William F. , David M. , Oliver E. and Ollie M. (twins), and George I.
Mr. Hunker is farming 220 acres of land, and is one of the most industrious
iind enterprising men in Liberty Township. He and his family are members
of the Liitheran Church.
GEORGE KING (formerly Koenig), farmer, P. O. Bascom, was born on
the _;i-iver Rhine, in the province of Baden, Germany, July 14, 1808, son of
Michael and Julia A. (Haas) King, who with a family of four children came to
America in 1817, settling in Frederick County, Md. The children were all
sold to service to pay for their passage across the ocean. George, being the
youngest, was sold for twelve years. The other members of the family were
Barbara, widow of Christly Schwoverland, in Ashland County, Ohio; Christian,
deceased, leaving a family in Richland County. Ohio; and Michael, deceased,
leaving a family in Noble County, Ind. In 1859 our subject removed to
his present farm, coming from Richland County, Ohio. He was married, Jan-
uary 10, 1888, to Catharine Lambright, who was born in Lancaster, Ohio,
January 4, 1814, daughter of John and Annie C. (Smith) Lambright, natives
of Frederick County, Md., who settled in Richland County, Ohio, in 1812,
the former a son of Henry Lambright, and the latter a daughter of John and
Ann M. Smith, natives of" Germany. To this union were born eleven children :
six died young; John died, leaving a family in Jackson Township, this county;
Hem-y, in Jackson Township, this county; Ijouisa, married to William Ander-
son, by whom she had one son (her second marriage was with John Corigan,
of Bascom, this county); Susan, wife of Milton M. Grove, in Hillsdale
County, Mich. ; and Rachael, wife of Joseph Babcock, by whom she has three
children: Charles B., Gertrude and James. iSIr. King, who is one of the lead-
ing farmers in the county, has accumulated a fortune by his own energies. He
undhis wife are members of the Lutheran Church.
DANIEL MARTIN, retired farmer, P. O. Bettsville, was born in Freder-
ick County, Md.. October 19, 1814, son of Jacob and Elizabeth Martin, natives
of Maryland, of German descent, who removed early in 1810 to New York
State, where our subject learned the miller's trade, which he followed in New
York State and Pennsylvania until 1887. In 1838 he and his brother, Peter,
built the hrst house in Bettsville. The same year he embarked in general
merchandise, in which he continued several years, and then engaged in agri-
cidture; for several years, however, he has led a retired life. Mr. Martin was
married, in May, 1846, to Mary Betts, daughter of John Betts, and by this
union he has one son, Jolin A., who served in the late war of the Rebellion,
and is now engaged in bixying and shipping horses. Mr. Martin at one time
owned all that part of Bettsville west of Emma Street. He has been active
in the various enterprises of the village, and is a most afFable and pleasant
gentleman.
J. W. MONTGOMERY, teacher, P. O. Cromer's, was born near Fort Sen-
eca, Ohio. October 28, 1850, son of William and Marian A. E. (Hoke) Mont-
gomery, both of whom are still living, the former born near Tiffin in 1827, a
son of William Montgomery, one of the first settlers of this county. The
mother of our subject was born in 1886, in Franklin County, Penn., daughter
of John Hoke. J. W. Montgomery received a college education. He began
life as a teacher before reaching his sixteenth year. He is now devoting
liis leisure hours to the study of medicine, which profession he expects to enter
in the future. He was married, April 8, 1881, to Kate Murray, who was born
ill Liberty Tt)wiiship, this county, July 12, 1868, daughter of J. B. and Sarah
(Greene) Murrcn-. ])oth living, the former born near Massillon, Ohio, to Jacob
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. ^6?y
and Catharine Murray (the latter still living, and nearly one hundred years
old); the latter was born in Virginia, to Valentine and Helah (Robertson)
Greene. 'Mi: Montgomery has one child — Fay — born May 8. 1884.
JOHN PUFFENBERGER. farmei-^ and stock-breeder, P. O. Tiffin, was
born in Frederick County, Va. , May 27, 1823, son of George and Catharine
(Null) Puffenberger, who were the first settlers in Liberty Township, this
county, coming in 1825. They entered land in Section 28, enduring the trials
and hardships of pioneer life, and wei'e always ready to render assistance to
other new settlers. George Puffenberger died in 1850, aged about sixty-thi'ee
years; he was a son of Christian Puffenberger, who was a servant to some of
the nobility of Holland. Mrs. Catharine Puffenberger, a daughter of Jacol)
and Lucy (Ohler) Nidi, natives of Virginia, died in 1877, aged eighty-three
years; she was the mother of nine children: Joseph, in Liberty Township, this
county; Adam, in Jackson Township, this county; Lucy, in Eaton County.
Mich. ; Henry, in Johnson County, Mo. ; Catharine, wife of David Shaull, in
Eaton County. Mich. ; George and Jacob, in Eaton County, Mich. ; Rosanna,
wife of Jacob Shomaker, in Johnson County, Mo., and John. Our subject,
at the age of thirteen, began teaming, and was away fi'om home most of his
time. At the age of eighteen he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he assisted
in boat building for a time. He then went to Kentucky and Tennessee. He
worked at the carpenter trade in nine different States, and for two years worked
at bridge building on the Lake Shore Railroad. He was married, November
2, 1854, to Margaret J. Shaull, who was born in Virginia March 8, 1828,
daughter of Bartholomew and Rebecca (Blue) Shaull, of Frederick County.
Va., the latter born Aug ast 8, 1799, died in her sixty-sixth year; she was a
daughter of John and Hannah (O'nan) Blue, who were among the early set-
tlers of Pleasant Township, this county. Bai'tholomew Shaull. born August
16, 1797, died in his seventy- eighth year; was a son of John and Elizabeth
(Benner) Shaull, who were among the earliest settlers of Pleasant Township,
this county. The children of our subject were Heniy B. , Rebecca C. (wife of
Solomon Srodes. in Pleasant Township, this county), Alice (wife of John
Anderson), H. V. J. and S. A. D. (twins, H. V. J. died September 4, 1885, at
the age of twenty-five years), J. S. and Jessie B. Mr. Puffenberger is engaged
in general farming and stock-raising. He is proprietor of the Percheron horse
■ 'Young Silver Mane. ' ' The members of Mr. Puffenberger' s family are well
educated, and are rapidly rising to a degree of prominence as artists and
inventors. The family is highly esteemed by the community in which they
live.
ANDREW RINGLE, farmer, P. O. Bettsville, was born in Westmoreland
County, Penn.. October 11, 1817, son of Abram and Elizabeth (Cole) Ringle,
who settled in Stark County, Ohio, about 1832. Abram Ringle died about
1836, aged sixty-five years; his widow died in Gratiot County, Mich., in 1870.
aged seventy-eight years. They were the parents of nine children, only two
of whom are now living : Abram, who resides in Gratiot County, Mich. , and
Andrew. The subject of this sketch settled on his present farm in 1846. He
was married, in September, 1844, to Hannah Reeder, a native of Stark County,
Ohio, who died April 16, 1884, aged sixty-five years. She was a daughter of
Thomas and Elizabeth (Hewett) Reeder, and the mother of ten childi-en, eight
of whom died young. Those now living are William and Mi"s. Eliza Sech-
man, both living at home. William was married, December 15, 1864, to
Lucinda Cook, a native of Liberty Township, this county, and a daughter of
William and Sarah (Fit) Cook, of Wood County. By this marriage there were
nine children, seven of whom are now living: Mahala, Irvin, Andrew, Jessie,
884 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Ida E. , Dayton and Hannah. Mr. Ringle started ont in life with bnt a few
dollars, but by faithful effort he has accnmulated a property of 280 acres of
choice land, after having endvired all the trials and hardships of pioneer life,
elearino- over 200 acres of the wilderness and swamp of Liberty Township.
NICHOLAS ROSENBERGER, P. O. Bettsville, was born near Charles-
town, Va.. January 12, 1814, son of Frederick and Catharine (Shaull) Ros-
enberger, former a son of Frederick and (Hopewell) Rosenberger, latter a
daughter of Michael and Rosanna (Seidner) Shaull, early settlers of Liberty
Township. The parents of our subject came to this county in 1820, and in
the spring of 1827 to Liberty Township, where they built the third house in
the township. In this house was assembled the first meeting for divine wor-
ship held in the township. They entered 240 acres of land in Section 4,
where in 1829 our subject's father built the first saw-mill in Liberty Township,
and in 1881 added the first grist-mill in the township, and the same year he
assisted in building, on the line between Sections 7 and 8, the first schoolhouse
iu the township. Our subject's educational advantages were poor, and he was
unable to write until after his twenty-first year, but by close application he
soon afterward acquired the rudiments of a common school education, and
became one of the most i^rominent of the early officials of Liberty Township.
He held the office of constable eleven years, also the offices of assessor and
land appraiser, and was first lieutenant of the early militia company of the
township. He was married, in 1886, to Jane A. Betts, who was born in Cha-
tauqua County, N. Y., November 22, 1820. daughter of Nathan and Phoebe
(Caulkin) Betts, who located in Liberty Township, this county, in 1884. Mr.
and Mrs. Rosenberger have five children: Mariette (deceased wife of N.
Lyberger, leaving family), Clarissa (deceased). Phoebe E. (wife of A. Betts).
Avilda and Edgar (deceased).
GEORGE SAITL (deceased), was born in Lancaster County, Penn.. and
settled near Tiffin, Ohio, in 1828. In 1820 he married Mary McCune, born
in Northampton County, Penn., September 19. 1807, daughter of William and
Sarah (Johnson) McCune, the former a son of John and Sarah McCune, the
latter a daughter of John and Jerusha (Kitchen) Johnson. In 1881 Mr. Saul
moved to the farm in Liberty Township. Seneca Co. , Ohio, where his widow
now resides. He died April 6, 1850. aged fifty-six years. He was the father
of nine children, five of whom died without issue ; James died leaving a family
in Hem-y County, Ohio; and there are now living: William, Phoebe, wife of
Jacob Beard, iii Henry County. Ohio, and George, born March 7, 1845, and
w-ho enlisted in Company E. Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
March 2, 1864, and served fifteen months. May 27. 1864, he was severely
wounded at Dallas, Ga. . which disabled him from fuiiher duty. He was mar-
ried December 28, 1878, to Mary E. Zies, a native of Pleasant Township,
this county, born April 8, 1858, daughter of William and Eva (Latherman)
Zies, (the former a son of Martin and Christina (Stroub) Zies, and the latter a
daughter of John and Eva (Gough) Latherman. George has two children:
Viola B. and Milo E. He is a member of the G. A. R. , at Tiffin, Ohio.
SILAS J. STACKHOUSE, a retired farmer residing near Bettsville, was
born in Columbia County. Penn., October 6, 1806, son of Benjamin and Sarah
(Jackson) Stackhouse. His paternal ancestors settled in Pennsylvania at or
near the present site of Philadelphia about the year 1682. His maternal
ancestors in the Jackson line. viz. : Robert Jackson with his wife. Agnes, were
among the first settlers at North Hempstead, L. I., in 1648. Our subject's
great-grandfather. Joseph Jackson, was born on Long Island February 9.
1710, and with his wife. Annie, removed to Rockaway, N. J., about 1781. To
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. 885
them were bom eleven children, one of whom, Daniel, was the grandfather of
onr subject. This Daniel removed with his family to Columbia County, Penn. .
and raised a family of eight childi'en, of whom Sarah was one. She married
Benjamin Stackhouse about the year 1803, and died in 1865, at the age of
eighty-three years.
Genealogy of Jackson family: I. Robert Jackson and wife, Agues, settled on Long
Island, at North Hempstead, in 1643; died about 1684. II. C(d. John Jackson (son of
Robert), birth not known; died in 1725. III. James Jackson (son of John) and wife,
Rebecca (Hallett) Jackson, his birth not given; died in 1735. IV. Joseph Jackson (son
of James), born on Long Island February 9, 1710; removed to Rockaway, N. J., in 1731 or
1733; died in 1769. V. Daniel Jackson (son of Joseph), married Jemimah Benjamin,
born about 1754. VI. Sarah (Jackson) Stackhouse (daughter of Daniel), married Benja-
min Stackhouse; she was born about 1782; died 1865. VII. Silas J. Stackhouse (son of
Sarah Jackson) married Sarah Lockhart; he was born October 6, 1806.
To Benjamin and Sarah (Jackson) Stackhouse were born eleven children,
our subject, Silas J. , being the second, and besides whom there are still living
Mrs. Hannah Kearney, of Morrow County, Ohio, and Sarah, now Mrs. William
Blair, of Knox County, Ohio. December 20, 1829, Mr. Stackhouse married
Sarah B., daughter of Robert and Flora (Leigh) Lockhart. She was born in
Northumberland County, Penn., February 1, 1809, and died January 28. 1859.
Of this union ten children were born, four of whom died in infancy in Pennsyl
vania. In 1851 Silas J., with his wife and six childi-en, removed to Seneca
County, Ohio, and in 1857 settled on the farm in Liberty Township, where he
now resides with his son, in the seventy-ninth year of his age. He had two
sons in the late war: Joseph G. M. , who served three months in the Fourteenth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry and again enlisted in the fall of 1861, in the Third
Ohio Volunteer Cavalry* and was transferred to Gen. Nelson's staff. He died
near Corinth, Miss. , June 20, 1 862. William L. enlisted at the same time in
the Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and served until the close of the war. He
now resides in Jackson County, Kans. His other children, still living, are Benja-
min, on the homestead; Ann B., wife of W. C. Boor, of Wood County, Ohio:
Lockhart, of Sandusky County, Ohio, and A. Judson, in Fostoria. Ohio. Mr.
Stackhouse is a member of the Baptist Church, in politics a Re])ublican and is
a highly esteemed citizen.
BRADFORD STRUBLE, farmer and justice of the peace, P. O. Kansas,
was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, June 26, 1832, son of John and Lydia
(Bradford) Struble; the former a native of New Jersey, was a son of George
Struble, who served in the war of 1812. John Struble came to Trumbull
County, Ohio, in 1812; removed to Stark County in 1837, and to Hancock
County in 1846. He was a local preacher in the United Brethren Church:
also agent for the American Sabbath-school Union and was _mos^ highly
respected by the people who knew him. He died November /. 1872, aged
seventy-two" years. His widow is still living. She was born in what is now
the city of Cleveland, June 10, 1811, daughter of James Bradford, who was a
native 'of Massachusetts ami a member of the first surveying party to the
"Western Reserve."' He was a son of Joshua, he of William, of Canterbury.
Conn., he of Lieut. James, he of Thomas, of Norwich, Conn., he of Maj.
William Bradford, a native of Austerfield, England, who was a passenger on
the -'Mayflower," and in 1621 became governor of the Plymouth colony,
succeeding John Carver, filling the office for twelve successive years. He
man-ied, for his second wife, Mrs. Alice Soiithworth, of the nobility of his
native country, and from this union the family in this country sprang. The
grandmother of Mr. Struble was Elizabeth Frazee. wife of James Bradford.
She was born in Pennsylvania in 1788, came to Trimibull County. Ohio, in
886 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
1800. She was a daugliter of Jonathan Frazee, a native of New Jersey, who
at the ace of nineteen years enlisted in the '•Dnnmoro war." He was a son
of Stephen, he of Gen. Frazee, of France. Mr. Struble married, June 29,
1858, Susan Kemble, who died January 9, 1804. leaving three children:
Flora M., wife of Arthur Hudson, near Dishler, Ohio; Susan I., wife of
Thomas Leedy, in Fostoria, Ohio, and Emma (now deceased). His second
marriage was May 10, 1864, with Mary J. Clifford, who was born in Lancaster,
Ohio, March 1, 1844, daughter of Thomas and Keziah (Darst) Clifford, and
the children born of this union were Charles B. (deceased); Nellie and Lillie
(twins, the former the wife of J. C. Long; the latter the wife of J. W. Kies,
of Sandusky County, Ohio); Z. D. ; Arthur; I. J.; Minnie; Bertha (deceased);
Dor and Duff (twins, deceased), and Clifford. In the spring of 1876. Mr.
Struble removed to Seneca County, and in the spring of 1882 was elected jus-
tice of the peace, and re-elected in 1885. He is a member of Sandusky
Annual Conference, and for more than twenty years traveled as an itinerant
United Brethren minister.
BARNEY ZIMMERMAN, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, was born in Wash-
ington County, Md. , November 15, 1804, son of David and Sarah (Swope)
Zimmerman, the latter of whom died in Martinsburg, Va., in 1812. She was
the mother of three childi-en: Elizabeth, deceased wife of William Baugher
(she left a family in Seneca County, Ohio); Sarah, deceased wife of George
AV. Sager (she left a family near Olney. 111. ), and Barney, the subject of this
sketch. David Zimmerman had four children by his second marriage: Jane
E., wife of John Knipe, of Hainesville, W. Va. ; Susan, deceased wife of
William Wegley (she left a family in Berkeley County, W. Va.); John W.
(deceased, leaving a family in Berkeley County, W. Va.); and Mary, wife of
Joseph F. Poole, living near Harper's Feny, Va. Barney Zimmerman located
on his present farm in May, 1886, and endured all the hardships and trials of
pioneer life, assisting in the construction of the early chiu'ches, school build-
ings, roads, bridges, etc. He served six years ?is county commissioner, also
six years as county infirmary director, and has filled various township offices;
has always taken an active part in public affairs and in the advancement and
welfare of the people of the county. He has been a member of the Pteformed
Church nearly sixty years, and is one of its pillars. He was married, Decem
ber 2, 1827, to Miss Sarah Sager, who was born in Washington County, Md. ,
March 7, 1810, daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Fifogle) Sager. and by her
he has had six children: Jacob, in Pleasant Township, this county; David
(deceased, leaving a family in Williams County, Ohio), Solomon, in De Kalb
County, Mich. ; Margaret, whose first marriage was with David B. Rosenberger
(deceased), her second marriage being with David Sherrick, residing in
Pleasant Township, this county; John B., residing on the homestead; and
Sophia, wife of Levi Repp, in Allen County, Ind. Mr. Zimmerman is a public
spirited, enterprising man, and much esteemed by the citizens of his county.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP.
GEORGE D. ICKER, farmer, P.O., Fostoria,was born in Clarion County,
Penn. , February 0, 1834, son of George and Catherine (Delp) Acker, of Ger-
man descent, and who settled in Washington Township, Hancock Co., Ohio,
in April, 1853. They were parents of ten children, of whom nine grew to
maturity: Mary, wife of Enoch Farmer: Susan, wife of Audridge Cathon;
George D. ; Christian K. ; Andrew I. ; AVilliam J. ; Warren A. ; Thomas G. ,
Sevilla E. , wife of Jacob Eckeii. and Ellen J. , wife of Robert Hooton. Our
subject remained in his native county until eleven years of age, th^n moved
with his parents to Mahoning County, Ohio, where they resided eight years.
Geox-ge D. Acker received a common school education, and in 1853 located in
Fostoria, serving a three years' apprenticeship at the shoe - maker' s trade with
J. Q. Albert, after which he worked as journeyman up to 1862. During the
late war of the Rebellion he enlisted, August 18, 1862, in Company I, One
Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantiy, serving as a private up to
April 6, 1863, when he was promoted to second lieutenant, and January 6,
1865, was promoted to first lieutenant. June 15, 1863, he was wounded, taken
prisoner at Winchester, Va. , and confined in Libby Prison eleven months ; from
there he was transferred successively to Danville, Ya. , Macon and Savannah.
Ga., Charleston and Columbia. S. C.. escaping from the last named point
November 3, 1864. He reported to the Union Army at Dalton, Ga., whence he
was sent to Gen. Steedman, at Chattanooga, Tenn. , and ordered to the officers'
hospital on Lookout Mountain. Januaiy 20, 1865, he reported in person to
Secretary Stanton, at Washington, D. C, by whom he was given thirty days
to report to his regiment. After rejoining his regiment he was sent before a
board of medical examiners, who ordered his discharge on account of disability
March 16, 1865. He immediately returned to Fostoria, this county, and was
appointed street commissioner for one year. After this he engaged as clerk
till 1874, when he was elected sheriff of *Seneca County and re-elected in 1876,
serving two terms; in 1879 Mr. Acker located on the farm he now occupies in
Loudon Township. He was married. May 3, 1857, to Julia A., daughter of
Washington and Mary Henry, of Fostoria, Ohio, and by her he has had three
children: Elmer W.,' Frank (deceased) and Ada (deceased). 1VL-. Acker is a
F. & A. M., and a member of the G. A. R. He was a member of Fostoria
city council in 1866. Politically he is a Democrat.
THOMAS D. ADAMS, merchant, Fostoria, was born in AVashingion Town-
ship, Hancock Co., Ohio, February 27, 1848, son of Jonathan and Margery
(Dillon) Adams, the former a native of Jefferson County, Ohio, and the latter
of Virginia. Jonathan Adams was a pioneer of Washington Township, Han-
cock County, first entering and clearing a tract of eighty acres of land, and he
afterward purchased the farm he now occupies, most of which he also improved.
He had a family of five children, of whom two siirvive: Emma (Mrs. W. W.
Earnest) and Thomas D. Our subject was reared and educated in his native
county and lived on the home farm until 1874. In 1875 he located in Fos-
toria and embarked in dry goods business in partnership with Alpheus Weaver,
which existed up to March, 1885, when the firm dissolved and Mr. Adams
entered the boot and shoe trade, having one of the finest stores in northern
888 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Ohio, where he carries a stock of goods unequaled in the State. Mr. Adams
was married. November *.). 1 878, to Miuuie. daughter of Andrew Bucher. of
Fostoria. and by her he has one child — Verda L. Mrs. Adams is a member of
the Presbyterian Church. ilr. Adams is a stockholder in the First National
Bank of Fostoria. and was elected one of its directors in January. 1884. Polit-
ically he is a Democrat.
JOHN Q. ALBERT, shoe-maker. Fostoria, was born in Lancaster County,
Penu.. March 6. 1827. son of Daniel B. and Ann M. (Free) Albert, natives of
Pennsylvania and of German descent, who settled in Perry Township, Wood
Co. , Ohio, in 1837. where his father, who was Ji farmer by occupation, entered
eighty acres of land in the then imbroken wilderness, which he cleared and im-
proved, and where he resided up to 1878, when he moved to Fostoria and here
died the following spring in his eighty-fom-th year. The family of Daniel
B. Albert consisted of live children: John Q.. Mary A. (Mrs. John Addlespar-
gerj, Elizabeth (Mrs. Ephraim Hughes), Sophia (Mrs. Philip Kepple) and
Henry F. . w^ho resides on the old homestead. Our subject came to Fostoria
when sixteen years of age, and served an apprenticeship of two years at the
shoe-maker" s trade, and at the age of nineteen embarked in business for himself,
which he has caii'ied on to the present time (thirty -nine years). He was mar-
ried, in April, 1841». to Catherine, daughter of George and Sarah Histe, of Fos-
toria. by whom he has nine children living: Florence (Mrs. C. Stockwell), Ida
(Mrs. George Boly), Fatama (Mrs. J. Starns), Alice, Stephen D., John. How-
ard, James and Morris P. ]\Ii'. Albert served three years in the late war of the
Rebellion, enlisting in Company I. One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Vol-
unteer Infantry in 1861. and was honorably discharged at the close of the war
in 1865. He was in the battles of Winchester. Berryville, Hunter's Raid, also
New Market and Piedmont. W. Ya.. in all twenty-two battles and skirmishes:
was taken prisoner at Winchester and sent to Belle Isle, remaining thirty
days, when he was paroled and e.^changed: was again taken prisoner at Berry-
ville and sent to Salisbury. N. C. where he remained six months and was pa-
roled at the close of the war. Mr. All^ert is a Y. & A. M. In politics he is a
Democrat.
JOHN ANDES, carnage manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria.
Germany. August 14, 1836, son of Peter W. and Margaret (Henry) Andes.
He was reared in his native land until sixteen years of age, when he came t^)
America and located in Tiffin. Ohio, where he learned the general blacksmith
trade and remained four years. He then took a trip through the West, return-
ing to this county in 186(^ and locating in Fostoria, where he worked as
journeyman for five years and in b865 he embarked in business for himself,
which he has conducted successfully to the present time. He w^as maiTied,
May 6. 1862, to Philibema, daughter of John and Philibema (Game) Rice, of
Loudon Township, this county, and by her he has four children: Matilda
(Mrs. Willis Howell), Charles. Nettie and John W. Mr. and IVIrs. Andes are
members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Andes is one of the leading
and public spu'ited citizens of Fostoria. and has done much to aid the improve-
ment of the city. In 1878 he built the '• Andes Block." three stories high,
dimensions 66x100, the ground floor containing three large stores w^ith base-
ments, and the upper part four large commodious offices, while in the rear is a
large opera house, one of the finest in this section of the State, having a seat-
ing capacity for 800 people, with opera folding chairs, stage 24x64 feet, and
full sets of scenery. Mr. Andes is a member of the I. O. O. F. He has held
the office of township trustees seven years in succession; in politics he is a
Democrat.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 889
JOHN W. AR:?fOLD, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was boru in Pliiladelpbia,
Penn., March 21), 1818, son of Levi and Hannah (Wright) Arnold, natives of
New Jersey. Levi Arnold, a carpenter by trade (an occupation he followed
for many years in Philadelphia and New York), moved, in 1831, with his fami-
ly to Goshen Township, Columbiana (now Mahoning) Co. . Ohio, and engaged
in farming there until his death. Our subject w^as reared in Philadelphia, and
there received a limited education in the schools of his day. September 1 ,
1842, he was united in marriage with Hannah S. . daughter of Daniel and
Elizabeth (Stratton) Dole, of Goshen, Ohio, and by this union there were sex-en
childi-en, of whom five survive: Lewis D. , Martha (Mrs. James M. Elwell),
Charlotte (Mrs. Volney Doe), Elizabeth (Mrs. Emery Finch) and John L.
After his marriage Mr. Arnold engaged in farming in Mahoning County until
1851, when he moved to this county and settled in Loudon Township on the
farm he now occupies, about half of which was already cleared and about half
he cleared himself, erecting thereon his present buildings. He has served his
township as trustee two terms and as justice of the peace twenty-one consecu-
tive years. Politically he has becni a Repul^Hcan since the organization of the
party.
ABRAHAM ASH, retired, Fostoria. was born in Bedford County, Penn. ,
June 14, 18'24, son of Jacob and Sarah (Kountz) Ash. natives of Maryland and
who came to Ohio in 1881. settling in Liberty Township, this county, entering
820 acres, of land from the Government, a part of which they cleared and
improved and ther(» resided until their death. They were four weeks making
the journey with a three-horse team fi'om Bedford County. Their family con-
sisted of six chikh-en: John, deceased; Edmund, deceased; Wesley, deceased;
Abraham ; Harriet. Mrs. Benjamin Lewman, and Jacob, the latter residing oit.
the old homestead. Jacob Ash, Sr. , died in 1 858 at the age of sixty-three
years. He left each of his four sons, then living, eighty acres of land and his
daughter money in proportion. Our subject was reared in Liberty Township
from seven years of age and received a limited education in the district schools.
He was principally engaged in farming u]) to 1854, at which tim(> he embarked
in mercantile trade in Kansas, in which he was interested for ten years, when
he retired from lousiness. He laid out and had surveyecl the present village of
Kansas, in the interest of his brother Jacob. Mr. Ash was instrumental in
getting a postoffice established at Kansas, and was the first postmaster of the
place, holding that position for eight years. He served as justice of the peace
of Liberty Township three years. During the late war of the Rebellion he
served as captain of Company E. One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio National
Guards, four months, and received an honorable discharge. He was twice
married, first to Miss Barbara Flack, daughter of Adam and Mary Flack, who
settled in Liberty Township in 182(). His second marriage was with Mrs.
Caroline Young, widow of Samuel Young and daughter of John Stumbaugh,
formerly of Hancock County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Ash are members of the
United Brethren Church. In politics he is a Republican.
GODFREY BILES, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in W'urtemberg,
Germany, March 24, 1829, son of Frederick and Dora (Heckel) Biles, who
immigrated to America in 1881 and located in Columbiana County, Ohio. His
father died in Stark County, Ohio, and his mother in this county. Our sub-
ject lived in Stark County until fourteen years of age, when he went to Tiffin,
Ohio, Avhere he worked by the day and month for fifteen months. From 1844
to 1847 he served an apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade, after which he
worked as a journeyman in difPerent sections of the county up to 18(30. Felt
ruary 18, 1858, he was married to MaryE., daughter of John and Esther
890 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
(Spanglerj Betts, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of Jackson Township,
Sandusky Co. , Ohio, and by this union there were seven children, of whom
five survive: John F., George E. , Charles W., Frederick A. and Lula G. In
1861 Mr. Biles engaged in farming in Green Creek Township, Sandusky Co.,
Ohio, where he remained until 1865, Avhen he moved to Loudon Township,
this county, to the farm he now occiipies. He cleared a portion of his farm
and made many improvements, erecting his present fine brick residence in
1875. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. Politi-
cally he is a Kepulilican.
AUGUST E. BLESSING, dealer in fm-nitiire, Fostoria. was born in the
province of Wurtem])erg. Germany. August 17, 1854: son of Michael and
Mai-garet (Frosch) Blessing. He was educated in his native land, .and at the
age of fourteen, immigi-ated to America, locating in Cleveland. Ohio, where
he served an apprenticeship of three years at cabinet- making, finishing in the
establishment of Hardt & Malone. In 1873 he went to Medina, Ohio, where
he worked at his trade wp to 1 880, when he located in Fostoria in the f ui-niture
business, and has occupied his present elegant quarters, in the "Foster Block,"
since March, 1883. He occupies two floors and basement, which are filled
with the largest stock and latest designs in furniture to be found in the city.
Mr. Blessing married. October 8, 1870, Sarah C. . daiighter of James H. and
Jane (Hervey) Green, of Medina, Ohio, and by her he has one child, Jennie
M. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Chiu'ch. He is a mem-
ber of the I. O. O. F. , K. of P. . and R. A. Mr. Blessing is one of the live
enterpi-ising young business men of the city. Politically he is a Republican.
JOHN A. BliADNER. attorney and justice of the peace, Fostoria. Avas
born at Niagara Falls, N. Y.. August 13, 1833, son of William and Laixra
(Everingham) Bradner, natives of New York, and who settled in PeiTy Toavu-
ship. Wood Co.. Ohio, in 1849. Om- subject was reared at Niagara Falls,
where he was educated in the common schools and Lewiston Academv. AA'hen
sixteen years of age he came with his parents to Ohio, and was manager of his
father's store at Mill Grove. Wood County, for six years, when he purchased
the business, which he can-ied on for two years. In 1850 he went to Fremont.
Ohio, and acted as manager of a warehouse for about four years. In March.
1863, he located in Fostoria where he has since resided, and the same year
embarked in the hardware and stove trade in which he was interested up to
1872, when he was burned out. He has been also largely engaged as a con-
tractor, having improved most of the principal streets of Fostoria. doing
$16,000 worth of work in that line in 1883. He also built nineteen miles of
the "Nickel Plate" Railroad; thirty-five miles of the Toledo, Cincinnati & St.
LoTiis Railroad and several miles of the Lake Erie & Western Railroad. He
is also extensively interested in the limekiln and quarr}" business. ^Lr. Bradner
was married, January 8, 1854, to Catharine, daiighter of Samuel and Sarah
Phillips, of JeiTy City. Ohio, by whom he has following childi-en: Catherine
(wife of Samuel Lynn). Rosa (wife of Brice M. Stout). Martin. Mary, Frank,
Harry and John R. Mr. Bradner is now serving his sixth successive term as
justice of the peace of Fostoria. and was once defeated by a small majority
for county commissioner. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the I. O.
O. F. In politics he is a Reirablican.
ALEXANDER BROWN, attorney, Fostoria, was born in Perry County,
Ohio, May 27, 1832, son of Matthew and Mary (Queen) Brown, natives of
Virginia and pioneers of Perry County, Ohio, and who removed to Plain
Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1863, there residing until their death: the
mother dying in 1865. aged seventv-six, and the father in fall of 1 884 in his
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 891
ninety- ninth year. Our subject, who was reared and educated in Perry Coanty.
studied law with William Spencer. Esq.. of Somerset. Ohio, was admitted to
the bar at Perrysburg. Wood County. August 19. 1804. and began to practice
his profession the sapae year. He was elected prosecuting attorney of Wood
County, two terms. In 1872 he located in Fostoria. this county, where he has
had a successful pract'ce to the present time, and since. 1879 has been associ-
ated with Charles L. Guernsey. Mr. Brown Avas married, in June, 1 853. to
Mary A., daughter of David AV. and Jane (Higgins) Pugh. of Somerset. Perry
Co., Ohio, and by this union he has had ten children: Minnie (wife of
Charles L. Guernsey), Ida (wife of J. C. Hagrel). Anna (wife of Lyman Fox),
John (deceased), Jennie. Mabel, May, Chloe. Jessie and Carl. Mr. and Mrs.
Brown are members of the Presbyterian Church. He has served Fostoria as
member of the council one term, and as city solicitor three years and six
months. Politically he is a Republican.
WILLIAM T. BROWN, contractor, plasterer and stone mason. Fostoria,
was Dorn in Belmont County. Ohio. November 28, 1829; son of William and
Octavia (Kendle) Brown, natives of Culpeper County. Va., and who settled in
Big Lick Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, in 1834. William Brown, who was
a blacksmith by trade, worked at that occupation in Hancock County until his
death; he died*^ in 1878, at the age of seventy-seven years. Our subject was
reared and educated and learned his trade in Hancock County, and there lived
(with the exception of three years when he resided in Allegan. Mich. 1. till
1867, when he located in Fostoria. this county, where he has since resided.
He was the contractor in building the Andes Opera House and the Central Hotel,
and- has erected manv other buildings in Fostoria. He was married. Septem-
ber 4, 1852, to Ruth A., daughter of John and Elizabeth (Albert) Hallowell,
of Big Lick Township. Hancock Co. . Ohio, and by her he has five children
living": Wealtha J., Irene, Theodosia. J. S. and Orlo E. Octavia K. and
Elizabeth A. (twins), eldest daughters of our subject and Avife, were born May
15, 1854. and both died of diphtheria: Elizabeth A., died February 3. 1868;
Octavia K., died April 20. 1868. ^Mrs. Brown and daughters are members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically. Mr. Brown is a Republican.
BARTHOLOMEW L. CABLES, retired. Fostoria, was born in Tuscara-
was County, Ohio, November 21, 1812: son of Robert F. and Charlotte L.
Cai:>les, Avho settled in Jackson Township, this county, in 1832. They were
the parents of eleven children, of whom eight are now living: Bartholomew
L., Robert C, Philip D.. Charlotte L.. Hemy L., Luther W.. Elizabeth S.
and John F. Our subject, who received a liberal education in the schools of
his day. when five years of age moved with his parents to Wayne County,
Ohio, where he resided till they removed to Seneca County, Ohio. Shortly
after his people came to this county Bartholomew L. went to what is now Ash-
land County, where he engaged as a clerk in the mercantile business, and in
1835 located at Findlay, Ohio, where he embarked in mercantile trade on his
own account. Thence he moved to Fremont, Ohio, where he carried on mer-
chandising with his brother, R. C. Caples, with whom he remained until 1847,
when they dissolved partnership. He then retui-ned to Jackson Township, this
county. In 1847, as brigadier- general of the militia district, with headquar-
ters at Fremont, he raised a company which subsequently did service in the
Mexican war. Mr. Caples was married, at Fremont, Ohio, March 4. 1841, to
Catherine A., daughter of Isaac and Martha Norton, of Sandusky County,
Ohio, and by this union had three children: Martha A.. Charlotte E. and Har-
riet A. Mr. Caples has served on the board of school directors for twelve
years, was marshal two years, street commissioner two years, justice of the
892 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
peace three years, and as mayor of Fostoria two years. He is a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. Is a Mas-
ter Mason, and has served his lodge as secretaiy for about a quarter of a cen-
tury.
ROBERT C. CAPLES, physician. Fostoria, was born in New Philadel-
phia, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, July 81. 1815; son of Robert F. and Char-
lotte L. (Laffer) Caples. w^ho settled in Seneca County. Ohio, in 1832. locat-
ing in the southwest corner of Jackson Township; the former a native of Bal-
timore County, Md. , the latter of Greensburg, Westmoreland Co. , Penn. Our
subject was reared in Wayne County, Ohio, until seventeen years of age, when
he came with his parents to this county, his early education being received in
the schools of his day. In 1838 he began the study of medicine at Risdon,
in the office of Dr. Marcus Dana, with whom he remained three years. In
1842-43 he attended a course of lectures at Geneva Medical College, of Gen-
eva, N. Y. , graduating tlierefi'om in 1843. and in the summer of the same
year began the practice of medicine in Risdon (now Fostoria), where he has
been in active practice to the present time. He practiced alone up to 185(),
when Dr. R. W. Hale became associated with him, forming the partnership
that exists at the present time. Drs. A. M. Blackman. A. L. Longfellow
and George L. Hoege have been associated with him at periods between
1860 and 1864, since which time the firm has been Hale & Caples. Dr.
Caples has been twice married, first in 1837 to Ann. daughter of Adam
and Elizabeth Wilson, of Geneva, N. Y., who bore him two childi-en:
Francis (deceased) and Emma, Mrs. Dr. G. L. Hoege (deceased). His present
wife was Mary E. Barber, a native of Medina County, Ohio, to whom he was
married April 4, 1871. By this union there are two childi-en: Ralph C.
and Bp-on E. Dr. Caples is now the oldest practising physician residing
in Fostoria. He and his Avife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
with which he has been identified upward of fifty years, and of which he
has been steward about the same length of time. He has served in many
of the city offices, one term as mayor, several terms as councilman, and has
been a member of the board of education for twenty-three consecutive years,
and for fifteen years was its president. He was postmaster of Risdon under
the administration of President Van Buren. The Doctor is a member of the
Northwestern Medical Society. He is a F. & A. M. : politically a stanch Re-
]mblican.
PHILIP D. CAPLES. retired, Fostoria. was born in Tuscarawas County,
Ohio. March -">, 1816, son of Robert F. and Charlotte L. Caples, natives of Mary-
land and Pennsylvania, respectively, and who about 1819 moved to Wayne
County, Ohio, and there lived till 1832, when they settled in Jackson Town-
ship, this county. Robert F. Caples died in 1834 and Philip D. was left with
his father's farnily to provide for. Our subject received but a limited educa-
tion, and was engaged in farming for several years. He was married, in De-
cember. 1839. to Sarah, daughter of Major Case and Mary Brown, and by this
union were six children of whom four are now living: Mary A., Lucy E.. Frank
and Fred. This wife dying September 23. 1877. Mr. Caples married. Septem-
ber 18, 1878. Mrs. Harriet J. Lewis, widow of George Lewis and daughter of
David and Mary Ritchart, of Seneca County, Ohio. In 1 858 Mr. Caples came
to Fostoria and engaged as clerk with Foster & Son. with whom he continued
about twelve years, at which time the old firm merged in Foster. Olmsted &
Co. , Mr. Caples becoming one of the partners ; this partnership existing iip
to 1868. Mr. Caples then embarked in the queensware and grocery business,
which he continued up to 1880, when he retired fi'om })usiness. He has been
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 893
a successful business man and has accumulated a fine property. He served as
a member of the town council for six years. He and bis wife are members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church.
FKANK CAPLES, book-keeper, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria, this coun-
ty, October 17, 1(S54 ; son of Philip D., and Sarah (Brown) Caples. Frank
Caples was reared in Fostoria and educated in the Ohio Wesleyan University
at Delaware, Ohio, and at the Eastman Business College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. *
In 1873 he engaged as a clerk in the store of Foster & Co. , which position he re-
tained for five years. In 1878 Mr. Caples embarked in the grocery trade, with
Rawson Crocker as partner, and with him he was associated in business uj) to
1880, when they sold their stock of merchandise to P. D. Caples. In 1881
Frank Caples entered the dry goods store of Col. L. J. Hissong as book-keeper
and clerk, which positions he now occupies.'' He was united in marriage, May
20, 1875, with Josie, daughter of Benjamin and Eliza (Crum) Leonard, of
Fostoria, Ohio, and by her he has one child — Harry L. Mr. Caples is a F.
& A. M., a member of the K. of P. and K. of H. Politically he is a Repub-
lican.
JAMES CHRISTOPHORY, pastor of St. Patrick's Church, P. O. Bascom,
was born in Luxemburg, Germany, in 18-18, son of Michael and Mary (Bonefas)
Christophory. He was reared and educated in Luxemburg, and studied theol-
ogy and philosophy at Cleveland, Ohio, where he was ordained to the priest-
hood. His first charge was St. Michael's Church, at North Ridge, Defiance
Co., Ohio, where he remained from 1878 to 1881, when he was transferred to
his present charge of St. Patrick's Church, in Loiidon Township, which was
established in 1861.
AMBROSE CORY, farmer, Fostoria, was born in Susquehanna County,
Penn. , May 2U. 1825; son of Samuel P. and Serviah (Foster) Cory, former of
whom died in 1840, and the latter in 1882. In 1832 our subject came to Perry
Township, Wood Co., Ohio, with his parents, was reared on a farm and
received a common scliool education. February 14, 1854, he was united in
marriage with Amanda, daughter of Thomas and Catherine Kelly, of Wash-
ington Township, Hancock County, by whom he has three childi-en : Howard,
Katie S. and Thomas H. After his marriage Mr. Cory continued to live in
Perry Township till the fall of 1861, when he moved to Fostoria, where he
now resides. He is owner of a fine farm of eighty acres in Wood County, Ohio,
as well as eighteen acres of land in Fostoria on which he resides, and which is
one of the best improved places in the city. He is a worthy citizen, universally
respected. His maternal grandfather, Asa Foster, was a soldier in the Revo-
lutionary war,
DANIEL CRAMER, retired farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in York
County, Penn., Augixst 22, 1818; son of John and Catherine (Slote) Cramer,
who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1838, and purchased 160
acres of land, most of which they cleared and improved and where they lived;
here the father died, in 1855, in his sixty-fifth year; and the mother in 1854,
in her sixty- second year. The family of John and Catherine Cramer, consisted
of ten children: Daniel, Henry, John, Mary (deceased), Manuel, Adam, Will-
iam, Sophia (Mrs. Peter Wickerham), Sarah (Mrs. Augustus Elliott) and Levi
(deceased). Our subject was reared in his native county, and there received a
limited common school education. He came with his parents to this county
in 1838, and was actively engaged in farming up to 1867, when he retired, and
now resides with his brother William on the old homestead. He is the only
member of the family who has adhered to the German Lutheran Church, of
894 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
which his parents were life-long members. Politically he has ever been a
Democrat.
ADAM CKAMEE. sexton of the Methodist _Episcopal Chiu'ch, Fostoria,
was born in York Comity, Penn.. April 30. 182/. son of John and Catherine
(Slote) Cramer, who settled in London Township, this county, in 1838. Oui-
subject was reared in Loudon Township from eleven years of age, and received
a limited education in the schools of his times. On reaching maturity, he
began to work as a joiirneyman carpenter, which trade he followed up to the
breaking out of the late war of the Eebellion. In July, 1861. he enlisted in
Company B, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into the
service in August following. He veteranized in same company and regiment
Jamiary 1, 1864: was in the battles^ of Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Missionary
Ridge, siege of Atlanta, siege of Savannah, and in many other engagements,
and lost a leg at Averysboro, N. C March 16. 1865, and received an honora-
ble discharge at Columbus, Ohio. August 13, 1865. In August, 1870, he was
appointed postmaster of Fostoria. which position he held ten years. Since the
spring of 1883 he has been sexton of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Fos-
toria. October 23. 1853, Mr. Cramer was married to Christiana Klinger, of
Clyde, and by her he has had five children, of whom three survive: Ida (Mrs.
H. J. Cochran), Jasper and George M. Mr. and Mrs. Cramer are active mem-
bers of the Methodist Ej^iscopal Church. He is a member of the G. A. R.
Politically he is a Republican.
KOSWELL CROCKER, retired. Fostoria. was born in Washington
County, N. Y.-. May 25. 1806. son of John and LxTcy (Bartlett) Crocker, who
came to this coiinty in L823, settling in Seneca Township, where they cleared
and improved a farm of 180 acres, on which the mother died. Our subject's
father afterward came to Fostoria, where he resided until his death. John
and Lucy Crocker had two childi-en: Laura, wife of C. W. Foster, and Ros-
well. The subject of our sketch settled in what is now Fostoria in 1832; built
a saw-mill, the first in the place and in the western part of the county. After
conducting this mill for seven years he went to Big Spring Township, this
county, where he remained for two years, and built a saw-mill and a grist-mill.
He then returned here, bringing his mill machinery with him. and conducted a
grist-mill for several years. He has been largely interested in real estate, has
l^latted several additions to the town of Fostoria. and is now residing in what
is said to be the first fi-ame house built in Fostoria. Mr. Crocker was married,
in the fall of 3836. to Sarah A., daughter of AVilliam and Anna (Giles)
Cooper, of Pickaway County, Ohio, by whom he had two children: Allen
(deceased), and Rawson. a merchant of Fostoria. Mr. Crocker is a repre-
sentative and leading citizen of Fostoria, and has always contributed liberally
of his means toward the growth and development of the place. Politically he
is a Republican.
RAWSON CROCKER, merchant. Fostoria. was born in Fostoria. this
county, August 30, 1841, son of Roswell and Sarah A. (Cooper) Crocker. He
was reared in Fostoria, where he received his early education. In 1861 he
attended the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio. In 1865 he
attended the Eastman Biisiness College, at Poughkeepsie, N. Y.. graduating
therefrom the same year. In 1857 he entered the store of Foster, Olmsted &
Co.. where (with the exception of the time he was at school) he served in the
capacity of clerk up to 1867, when he was admitted as a partner of the firm, which
partnership existed for six years. Mr. Crocker then served them as book-
keeper for two years, and in 1875 embarked in the real estate business, in
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 89o
which he engaged till August -27, 1877. when with Frank Caples he purchased
the grocery and queensware stock of P. D. Caples, which enterprise existed
under the firm name of Crocker & Caples till May 3, 1879, when the stock was
sold to P. D. Caples, who conducted the business up to 1880, in which year
he sold the building and stock of merchandise to our subject, who has contin-
ued the concern successfully to the present time. Mr. Crocker was married,
April 2, 1867, to Lucy E., daughter of Philip D. and Sarah (Brown) Caples,
of Fostoria. By this union there were seven children : John R. , Charles P. .
Harry (deceased), Ross E., Emma (deceased), Nellie (deceased) and Fred.
Mr. Crocker is a leading merchant of Fostoria. He is a F. & A. M. , and a
member of the I. O. O. F. He has served one term as a member of th(^
council. In politics he is a Republican.
EDWARD J. CUNNINGHAM, manufacturer, Fostoria. was born in
Berkeley County, Va. , November 4, 1831. son of Levi and Alcinda Cunningham.
At the age of fifteen he entered a grist-mill to serve an apprenticeship at the mill-
er* s trade, remaining until twenty-one years of age. In 1852 he came to Tiffin,
Ohio, where he worked at his trade for his brother, J. W. Cunningham, until
July, 1854, when he went to Cambridge, Ind. , and followed his trade there
(me year. He then returned to Tiffin. Ohio, and with his brother, J. W..
built what is now known as the Shoemaker Grist-mill, which they conducted
three years. In 1859 our subject, for the benefit of his health, took a three
months' trip through the South and West. On his return to Tiffin he and his
brother leased the Keller Mills, which they conducted but a short time when
they were burned out. our subject losing nearly all he had. In 18r50 he w^as
identified with his brother in building the Clifton Mill, at Tiffin, which the\
operated three years. Avhen Edward J. sold out to his brother, came to Fosto-
ria. and built the Union Mill (now known as the Livingston Roller-mill) which
he carried on for several years, and then sold to William Grapes. In 1800.
with the Hon. Charles Foster, Mr. Cunningham repurchased the mill, which
they conducted for four yeai's. In 1871 Mr. Cunningham became, and is still,
identified with the Fostoria Stave and Barrel AVorks. In 1874, with Mr. Fos-
ter as a partner, he purchased the Fostoria Spoke Works, which they operated
until March 5, 1882. when they were burned out. They immediately rebuilt
their factory, which is now operated under the name of the Fostoria Spoke and
Bending Works. Mr. Cunningham was married. April 10, 1800, to Ann E.,
daughter of Levi and Elizabeth Keller, of this county, by whom he has five
children: Clara, Minnie, Cora, Ralph and Earl. Our subject is a Rei3ub-
lican in politics ; has served two years as a member of the Fostoria council.
JOEL P. DeWOLFE, publisher Fostoria Review, Fostoria, was born in
Biitler County, Penn., July 8, 1853; son of Erasmus and Catharine (Christley)
DeWolfe. When thirteen years of age he entered the office of the Ohio State
Journal, at Columbus, Ohio, with which he was connected up to 1870, when
he located in Fostoria, this county, and with O. J. DeWolfe, Esq. . purchased
the B^ostoria Review, which was established in 1801, and this partnership
existed up to January, 1883, when our subject became sole proprietor, and he
has conducted it with marked success up to the present time. Mr. DeWolfe
was married, in 1872. to Clara, daughter of William and Marietta (Bowman)
Mungen, of Findlay, Ohio, by whom he had two children: William and Kittie.
Mr. DeWolfe is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican ])ai-ty.
He is a F. & A. M. and a member of the I. O. O. F.
THOMAS DILLON, farmer. P. O. Fostoria. was born near Wheeling,
Va. , July 7, 1818: son of Thomas and Polly (Adams) Dillon, who came t(»
896 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
this county in 1835 and settled in Loudon Township on the farm (now owned
by George Dillon), on which they lived and died. Their childi'en were nine
in number. Oiu* subject, who was seventeen years of age when he came to
Ohio, married. December 6, 1842. Rhoda, daughter of John and Violetta
(Clark) Adams, natives of Ohio and pioneers of Loudon Township, this county,
and by this union there were ten childi-en: George W. ; Mary, deceased;
Josephine. Mrs. William Beach; Ellen; Yioletta, Mrs. Oscar Wade; John Q. ;
Thomas, deceased; Alpheus; Tempy, and Earl E. After his marriage Mr.
Dillon lived on a rented farm for three years. He then purchased the farm
he now occupies, most of which he has cleared, and on which he has made all
the improvements in building, etc. His farm comprises 198 acres of land,
over 100 of which are under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Dillon is a prom-
inent farmer and citizen of Loudon. Politically he is a stanch Democrat.
GEORGE DILLON, farmer, P. O. Fostoria. was born near Wheeling,
Va. . June 0. 1820; son of Thomas and Mary (Adams) Dillon, who settled in
Loudon Township, this county, in 1835, purchasing 200 acres of land, which
is now owned and occupied by om- siabject. They had a family of nine chil-
ilren: Margery, widow of Jonathan Adams (deceased); Jacob (deceased);
John (deceased); Martha, wife of Martin Adams; Jane, wife of James Carrel;
Thomas: George; Mary, wife of Charles Ru.nnels; and Robert (deceased).
Thomas Dillon (the father) died in 183(5. The old homestead came into the
possession Of our subject in 1860. He has since added to this property until
now his farm comjn'ises 325 acres, of which 1V)(» are improved, well di'ained
and under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Dillon has been twice married, his
tirst wife. Margery, was a daughter of Thomas and Nancy Adams, of Loudon
Township, and by her he had sis children: Thomas: George W. ; Jane, wife
of Alonzo Marietta: Annetta. wife of George Woleder; Eli; Robert (de-
ceased). His present wife. Melinda, daughter of Abraham and Sophia Shoup,
of Hancock County, has borne to hiiu live children: Edwin A.. Alpheus,
Agnes, Rosa and Cora. Mr. Dillon, one of the leading and pushing farmers
of the township, has held the office of trustee two terms, and has served in
minor offices.- Politically he is a Democrat.
A. E. EBERSOLE. veterinary surgeon, Fostoria, was born in Loudon
Township, this county, June 13, 1843; son of Peter and Elizabeth (Fisher)
Ebersole. His paternal gi-andfather, Peter El^ersole. a native of Lancaster
County, Penn., settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1831, clearing
and improving a farm on which he lived until death; he died in 1857, at the
age of seventy-one years. Foiu- of his childi-en siu'vive him: John P., Eliza-
beth (Mrs. William Green), Peter and Manassa. Peter, the father of oui- sub-
ject, a farmer and stock-dealer by occupation, resided in Loudon Township,
this county, from 1831 to 1880. when he moved to Sedalia. Mo., where he
now resides. His children were eight in number: Isaiah, Milton (killed at
Kenesaw Mountain in 1804), Austin, Alvin E. . Amanda (Mrs. Marion D. Ham-
mond), Neri, John (deceased) and Marilla (deceased). Our subject was
reared in Loudon Township, this county, and educated in its common schools
and at Rei)itblic Academy. In 1865 he entered the drug store of Hershiser k,
Myers, in Fostoria, as clerk, in which capacity he served until 1868, when he
embarked in the business for himself at Bowling Green, Ohio, where he
remained up to 1874. He then opened the first stone quarry in Fostoria, con-
tinuing in the stone business two years, when he engaged in milling, which he
followed up to 1880. He then took a course of instruction at the Ontario
Veterinary College at Toronto, Canada, and in 1881 began the practice of his
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 897
profession in Fostoria. where he has since done a successful business. Mr.
Ebersole was married. October 26, 1869, to Clara J. , daughter of Morris P.
and Jane M. (Searles) Skinner, of Fostoria. By this union there are four
children: Frank, Mary, Myra and Earl. Mr. and Mrs. Ebersole are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is assistant chief of the Fostoria Fire
Department and president of the Hook and Ladder Company. In politics he
is a Democrat.
JOHN P. EBERSOLE, boot and shoe merchant, Fostoria, was born in
Hancock County, Ohio, March 9, 1860, son of Neri and Sisson (HemmingI
Ebersole. His paternal grandfather, John P. Ebersole, a native of Pennsyl-
vania, settled in Big Lick Township in 1831, and his paternal great grand-
father, Peter Ebersole, settled here at the same time. His maternal grand-
fath(>r, George W. Hemming, a native of Pennsylvania, was among the pio-
neers of Loudon Township. Our subject was reared in Hancock County, Ohio,
and was educated in the common and select schools. He moved with his par-
ents to Fostoria in 1876, and in 1878 entered the store of Foster, Snyder &
Co., serving as clerk up to the winter of 1883. February 15, 1883, he em-
barked in the boot and shoe business. He carries a large stock of the finest
goods, and by strict attention to the wants of his patrons has built up an ex-
tensive trade. He is one of the prominent and enterprising young business
men of the city. Politically he is a Republican.
J. JACOB EISSLER, carriage manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Wur-
temberg, Germany, October 3, 1838, son of John and Rosina (Ganger) Eiss-
ler. He was reared and educated in his native land, and there served an
apprenticeship of four years with his father at the general blacksmithing trade.
In 1865 he immigrated to America, and located in St. Louis, Mo., where he
worked at his trade one year. In 1866 he settled in Fostoria, Ohio, and em-
barked in business in company with John G. Rothackcr. This partnership
existed twelve years, and then Mr. Eissler pm-chased Mr. Rothacker' s interest
in the business, which he has since successfully conducted alone. Our subject was
married, September 19, 1867, to Caroline L. , daughter of Charles and Eliza
(Griehban) Bobsien, of Fostoria, Ohio, and by her he has the following named
children : Charles H. , Minnie F. , Louise M. , Mary R. , Frederick G. , Frank
J. and John L. Mr. and Mrs. Eissler are members of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church. He is a representative citizen of Fo.storia. Politically he
is a Democrat.
ANDREW EMERINE, banker, Fostoria, was born near Wurtemburg.
Germany, December 3, 1830, son of George and Laura (Hine) Emerine, who
immigrated to America in 1835, and settled in Liberty Township, this county.
Here his father cleared and improved a farm, on which he resided fifteen years;
then went to Sandusky. Ohio, where he cleared another farm, and in 1861
located in Washington Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, where he lived until his
death; he died at the age of ninety-three years. George Emerine was twice
married. By his first wife there were three children: Michael, Joseph and
Andrew; and by his second union were seven children, six of whom are now
living: George, John, Nicholas, Catherine, Lawrence and Thony. Our sub-
ject was reared in Seneca County, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship at
the saddler's trade. He embarked in the saddle and harness business for him-
self in Fostoria in 1849, which he followed np to 1877, after which he en-
gaged in farming and brokerage till 1883, when he was elected president of
the First National Bank of Fostoria, which position he now holds. He has
been twice mairied; first, October 3, 1850, to Sarah, daughter of Samuel
898 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Bare, of Fostoria, by whom be had two childi-en : Alonzo, cashier of the First
National Bank; and Amanda, wife of Levi Wooster. Mr. Emerine was mar-
ried, on second occasion, November 25, 1863, to Amy, daughter of Frank
Noble, of Ontario, by whom he has five 'children: Sarah. Liicy. Cora, Andrew
and Amy. Mr. and Mrs. Emerine are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Chnrch. Politically he is a Democrat.
FRANK ENGSTROM, contractor, Fostoria, was born in Sweden xlugust
24, 1848, son of John and Helena (Freburg) Engstrom. He was_ reared and
educated in his native land, and came to America in 1870. In 18 <1 he located
in Fostoria and engaged as a contractor, building and grading twenty miles of
the Mansfield. Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad. He then built fomieen
miles of the Baltimore & Ohio line in company with Samuel Good, after
which he took a contract for building a portion of the " Nickel Plate " Road in
company with J. A. Brander. with whom he was also associated in grading and
improving the streets of Fostoria. In 1882 he purchased the property known
as the Fostoria. House, which he is rebuilding and improving for the pui-pose
of opening a 'first-class hotel, one promising to be a valuable addition to the
business interests of Fostoria. Mr. Engstrom was married. May 4, 18(0, to
Mary, daughter of Dr. G. A. and Mary (Angeny) Hudson, of Bucyrus. Ohio,
by whom he has one child, Earl. IVIr. and ^Ii-s. Engstrom are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. He is an enterprising and woi-thy citizen of
Fostoria. and is investing his means toward the improvement and development
of the place. Politically he is a Republican.
PHILIP FAFLHABER (deceased) was born in Canton, Ohio, July 5,
IS80. son of Louis and Louisa (Munsinger) Faulhaber, natives of Germany,
and who came to Seneca County. Ohio, in 1838. Louis Faulhaber died
ill 1839, and Philip moved with his mother to Tiffin, Ohio, and was there
reared and educated. About 1851 he located in Fostoria and embarked in the
clothing business. October 21, 1855, he was united in marriage with Sydua
J. , daughter of Thomas and Catherine (Loroh) Kelley, pioneers of Washing-
ton Township. Hancock Co. , Ohio, and later of Fostoria. The issue of this
union was three children: Alice (deceased). John L. and Kittie M. At the
breaking out of the late war of the Rebellion in 1861, Mr. Faulhaber sold his
lousiness, and in October of that year he raised Company B. Fifty-seventh Regi-
ment Ohio Volunteer Infantiy, with Avhich he went out as captain, and was
killed at Chickasaw Bayou, near Yicksbm-g, Miss. , December 28. 1862. Mr.
Faulhaber was a member of the German Reformed Church, a worthy citizen,
esteemed by all who knew him. He was a member of the I. O. O. F.
Politically he was a Democrat.
ELI FEBLES. clergyman and teacher, Fostoria, was born in Pennsyl-
vania September 9. 1831, son of Frederick and Christiana (Kempher) Febles,
who settled in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1839. where they resided six
years and then removed to Jackson Township, this county, where they remained
until their death, the mother dying in 1863 and the father in 1876. They
endured many of the hardships and trials of pioneer life, and had a family of
twelve children, seven of whom survive: Eli, George, Sophia, Frances, Ann,
Sarah and Louisa. Frederick Febles had served as township trustee of Jack-
son Township for several terms, and was respected by all who knew him. Eli
Febles was reared on a farm, received a good English education, and was for a
time a student of Heidelberg College and of the Delaware University. He
was a teacher in the common schools of Seneca Coimty for many years, and
taught one term in Texas, and for seven or eight vears in Kansas. In 1856
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 899
Mr. Feble.;v5^as licensed to preach by Presiding Elder "Wesley J. Wells, of the
Findlay Distj^hfc Central Ohio Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
ixnd was ordained a deacon by Bishop Morris at the conference held at Findlay.
Ohio, in 1869. He has served as clerk and trustee of Jackson Township, this
county, and in 1800 was one of the land appraisers. Mr. Febles was married,
December 30, 1862, to Sarah J. , daughter of Peter Singer, of Near Lockport,
N. Y. The issue of this union was two children: Libbie E., born July 2,
1864, and Cora B., born October 17, 1866. Mr. Febles removed to Garnett,
Kas., in 1872, where he resided until 1883, when he returned to his old home in
Ohio, and now resides in Fostoria.
BUETIS W. FINCH, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Scipio Town-
ship, this county, March 16, 1846, son of Bellana and Frances (Bolte) Finch,
the former a native of New York, and the latter of Germany. His paternal
grandfather, James Finch, a native of New York, settled in Scipio Township
in 1834, and afterward removed to Hancock County, where he died; his family
consisted of six children: Albert (deceased), Bellana (deceased), Jonathan,
Sarah A., Arad and Jason (deceased). The maternal grandfather of our sub-
ject was Harman Bolte, a native of Germany, and a pioneer of Thompson
Township, this county. Bellana Finch, father of our subject, was nineteen
years of age when he came to this county, and June 9, 1844, he married Fran-
ces Bolte, by whom he had three children: Bernard T. (deceased), Burtis ^\.
and Emory T. Bellana Finch lived until 1858 in Scipio Township, thence
removed to Washington Township, Hancock County, where he resided until his
death; he died August 31, 1873, in his lifty-ninth year. His widow
died May 27, 1879, at the age of fifty-four. The subject of this sketch received
a limited education in the schools of Republic and A\ ashington Township.
March 15, 1870, he married Mary C, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Dip-
pelhoffer) Coleman, and by this union there are three children: Annie C. , Net-
tie M. and Mollie C. After his marriage Mr. Finch engaged in farming in
Hancock County. In 1873 he located eighty acres in Washington Township
(a part of the old homestead left him hj his father), where he resided until the
spring of 1880. He then moved to Loudon Township, this county, on the
farm he now owns and occupies, comprising 120 acres of land, 100 of which
are under a high state of cultivation. Since coming into possession of this
property Mr. Finch has made many improvements in his buildings, and has
now one of the finest farms in the township. During his residence in Wash-
ington Township he served two terms as trustee. Politically he is a stanch
Democrat.
GEORGE FLECHTNER, butcher, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Ger-
many, August 1, 1856, son of John P. and Hannah (Knopf) Flechtner, who
came to America in 1873, and located in Fostoria, Ohio. Their childi'en were
five in number: August, George, Jacob, Pauline and Emma (Mrs. Fred Miller).
Our subject was reared and educated in Germany, where he learned the trade
he now follows. He came to America in 1872, and located in Fostoria, this
county, where he worked in the market of George Hoyar and others for two
and one-half years. In 1875 he embarked in business for himself, and has
carried on same successfully to the present time. His brother Jacob has been
associated with him since August 1, 1879. The subject of this sketch was
united in marriage, November 28, 1879, with Margaret, daughter of John and
Rosina (Eissler) Reber, of Fostoria. The issue of this union is two childi-en:
Edward and Frederick. Mr. and Mrs. Flechtner are members of the German
Lutheran Chr^ch. Politically he is a stanch Democrat.
900 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
CHARLES W. FOSTER, deceased, was born in North Brain^•^e, Worces-
ter Co.. Mass., November 21. 1800, and at the age of e«giiteen years
removed with his parents. William and Elizabeth (Nichols) Foster, to Monroe
County, N. Y. In 1826 our subject came to Seneca County, Ohio, where he
remained a short time. June 7, 1827, he married Laura, daughter of John
and Lucy (Bartlett) Crocker, who settled in Seneca Township, this county, in
1823. After his marriage Mr. Foster was engaged in business in Seneca Town-
ship for two years. He then removed to Hopewell Township, where he had
IBO acres of land, which he sold in a few years, and, with the proceeds, in
1882, he and his father-in-law (who had more means) embarked in mercantile
business in a cabin where the "Foster Block" now stands (then known as
Rome), under the firm name of Crocker & Foster. This partnership existed
for ten years, when Mr. Foster became sole proprietor, and continued alone up
to 1848, when his son Charles became associated with him, under the firm name
of Charles W. Foster & Son, and in 1856 Mr. Olmsted was admitted, and the
style changed to the present one of Foster. Olmsted & Co. When the firm
of Crocker & Foster started in business, their combined capital did not exceed
$2,000, but at the time of Mr. Foster's death the business of the house in
their various lines of trade exceeded $1,000,000 annually. Mr. Foster had six
children, of whom three grew to maturity: Charles, John W. (deceased) and
Emily (deceased). Mr. Foster was a man of character, and his method of
doing business won him thousands of friends. The house of Foster & Co.
contributed largely to every enterprise that tended to build up the town and
county. Mr. Foster served his township as justice of the peace for several
years. He was postmaster under the administration of President Polk. In
politics he was a stanch Republican. He died April 26, 1883, in his eighty-
third year.
EX-GO V. CHARLES FOSTER. Fostoria, son of Charles W. and Lam-a
(Crocker) Foster, was born at his grandfather' s house, on the old Crocker place,
in Seneca Township, this county, April 12, 1828. After a course of educational
training at the common schools and the academy at Norwalk, Ohio, he early in
life engaged in mercantile pursuits, becoming associated with his father in
business at Fostoria, in 1848. As a member of the firm of Foster & Co.,
who made banking a special department of their business, he became promi-
nently identified with the financial interests of Fostoria and surrounding coun-
try; and the banking house of Foster & Co. has since enjoyed a widespread and
enviable reputation. Mr. Foster never held any public office until he was elect-
ed in 1870 a representative from Ohio in the Forty-second Congress, receiv-
ing 13,274 votes, against 12,498 votes for Edward F. Dickinson, Democrat;
was re-elected to the Forty-third Congress in 1872, receiving 14,997 votes,
against 14,271 votes for R. R. Sloane, Liberal Republican; was re-elected in
1874 to the Forty -fourth Congress, receiving 13,778 votes, against 13,619
votes for George E. Seney, Democrat, and 289 votes for Mead, Temperance
candidate; and was re-elected in 1876 to the Forty-fifth Congress, receiving
17.324 votes, against 17,053 votes for Hudson, Democrat. He was again nom-
inated in 1878, but, the district having been changed and made so overwhelm-
ingly Democratic, he sustained a defeat. In 1879 Mr. Foster was nominated
by the Republicans and elected governor of the State, being re-elected in 1881.
He served both terms with such marked ability and discretion as to win the esteem
of all political parties. In 1854 the subject of our sketch was married to An-
nie, daughter of Judge Olmstead, of Fremont, Ohio, and to this union were
born two daughters: Jessie and Annie.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 901
ANTHONY FOX, deceased, late of the firm of Fox & Co. , coal and wood
dealers, Fostoria. was born in Columbiana Connty. Ohio. October 19, 1826,
son of Tobias and Mary (Henry) Fox, pioneers oi Columbiana County, and
later of Richland County, Ohio. Our subject was reared in Columbiana and
Beaver Counties. Penn. , until twelve years of age, when he removed, with his
parents, to Richland County, Ohio. His ediacational advantages were limited,
comprising but three months' attendance at the schools of his day. ^Vhen
twenty-four years of age he settled in Washington Township, Hancock Co. ,
Ohio, on eighty acres of land, which he cleared and improved, afterward add-
ing 160 acres, "thereby enlarging his farm to '240 acres. Here he resided until
1880, when he removed to Fostoria, and embarked in his late business. Mr.
Fox was married, in March, 1S50. to Elizabeth J., daughter of Paul and Cath-
arine (Ickis) Shreffler, of Ashland County, Ohio, by whom he had seven chil-
dren, five now living: Eveline (wife of Alonzo Emerine), Ida, Alvin E. , Eliza-
beth A. and Mary E. Mr. Fox was a member of the German Reformed Church.
During his residence in Washington Township, Hancock County, Mr. Fox
served as justice of the peace twenty-seven years in succession. In politics he
was always a stanch Democrat. He died August 29, 1885, aged fifty-eight
years, ten months and ten days. His widow is a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Chiirch.
JAMES B. FOX, marshal, Fostoria, was born in Eden Township, this
county, January 27, 1840; son of Charles C. and Caroline B. (Boyd) Fox, the
former a native of New York and the latter of Pennsylvania. Charles 0. Fox
was a farmer by occupation, and a pioneer of Edeo Township. He afterward
resided in Bloom and Scipio Townships, this county, and, in 1865, removed to
Wyandot County, where he resided until his death; he died in 1880, at the
age of seventy-eight years. His children were Almira (Mrs. Charles Gould),
Jane (Mrs. Warren Green), Mary (Mrs. R. M. Reynolds), Henrietta (Mrs.
William Blair), James D. and Thomas. Our subject was reared and educated
in Republic, this county. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting
August 11, 1862, in Company H, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry, participating in the battles of Perryville and Stone River; was wounded
in the leg January 1. 1863, and was in hospital one year thereafter. He was
next transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, and was honorably discharged
at Trenton, N. J., July 6, 1865. He then located in Fostoria. this county,
and engaged as salesman for the Fostoria Foundry, a position he held eight
years. In 1874 he was elected marshal, holding the office four years_; was
again elected in 1884, being the present incumbent. December 28, 1872, he
married Osee, daughter of Clark and Elizabeth (Leonard) Bradford, of Loudon
Township, this county, and by her he has two children: Clark and James B.
Mr. Fox is a F. & A. M. , and a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a
Republican.
ABRAHAM FRUTH, clothier, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany,
November 8, 1848; son of Jacob and Civilla (Shardon) Fruth, who came to
America in 1854, and in 1856 settled in Loudon Township, this county, where
Jacob Fruth cleared a farm of 1 24 acres, on which he resided until his death ;
he died, in 1872, in his sixty- second year. Their childt-en, five in number,
were Civilla, wife of Conrad' Herbert ; Susannah, wife of David Peter; Abra-
ham; John and Augustus, all born in Germany, except Augustus. Our sub-
ject was reared in Loudon Township, this county, from eight years of age, was
educated in the common schools, and remained on the old homestead until
twenty-three years of age. He was married, August 22, 1871, to Charlotte,
daughter of Abraham and Marv (Vesper) Peter, of Fostoria. After his marriage
902 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
he purchased eighty acres of land of his father, and engaged in farming till
1876, when he came to Fostoria. Here he served as clerk in a grocery store
for four years. In the fall of 1880, in company with Abraham Peter, he em-
barked in the business in which he is now engaged; this fii'm existed up to
February, 1885, when Mr. Fruth purchased Mr. Peter's interest, and is now
conducting the business alone, carrying a full line of clothing, hats, caps and
gents' furnishing goods, and has a large and growing trade. Mr. and Mrs.
Fruth are members of the United Lutheran Church. He is a F. & A. M. ;
politically he is a Democrat.
FREDEEICK FRUTH, liquor dealer, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria,
Germany, in 1824; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Peter) Fruth. who came to
Seneca County, Ohio, in 1833, and settled in Loudon Township, where they
cleared and improved a farm of 100 acres, on which they lived and died. They
1-eared a family of six chikh-en: Margaret (Mrs. E. Vischer). Jacob, Elizabeth
(Mi-s. A. Reinbold), Frederick, Abraham and Matthias. Oui- subject was
reared and educated in Loudon Township, this county, from nine years of age.
He followed farming up to 1852, in which year he went to California, where
he engaged in mining for a time. He then embarked in business for himself,
as a manufacturer of and dealer in wines, in El Dorado County, Cal. , where he
resided till 1874. when he returned to Fostoria, Ohio, and established his
present business. Mr. Fruth married, January 14, 1879, Martha, daughter of
Philip Heck, by whom he has three children: William F., George W. and
Nellie J. Mr. Fruth is one of the substantial citizens of Fostoria. In politics
he is a Democrat.
FREDERICK M. FRUTH, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Loudon
Township, this county, July 17, 1848; son of Jacob and Sarah (Stevens) Fruth,
the former a native of Germany, the latter of Pennsylvania. His paternal
grandfather, Jacob Fruth, a native of Germany, and his maternal grandfather,
Benjamin Stevens, a native of "Washington County, Penn. , both settled in
Loudon Township, this county, in 1832. Benjamin Stevens, a prominent man in
the township, was one of the first trustees elected, and held the office of justice
of the peace, and many other official positions. Jacob Fruth, father of our
. subject, was a resident of Loudon Township fi-om 1832 until his death; he died
December 15, 1861, at the age of forty-six. He, Jacob Fruth, had a family
of six childi-en: Frederick M., Herchel, Mary (Mrs. David Price), David, Al-
bert and Elmer. Our subject, who has always resided in Loudon Township,
was educated in the common schools. December 12, 1872, he married Ange-
line, daughter of Nathan and Angeline (McMann) Hatfield, of Cincinnati, Ohio,
and by her he has one child — Gracie. Mr. Fruth now owns and occupies the
old homestead piu'chased by his father in 1852. He is a pushing and enter-
prising young farmer. In politics he is a Republican.
JOHN GOOD, farmer, P. O. Bascom. was born in Richland County, Ohio,
October 22, 1833; son of John and Margaret (Lambright) Good (former a
native of Ohio, the latter of Maryland) who came to this county in 1834, and
settled in Loudon Township on the farm now owned by Samuel Good, and
there our subject's father died, in 1872, at the age of sixty-five years; his
widow survives him at the age of seventy-two. Their family consisted of
eleven children: Isaac (deceased), Catherine (Mrs. Joshua Dewey), John,
Michael, an infant daughter (deceased), Solomon, Noah. Eli, Samuel, Andrew,
Peggy A. (Mrs. Peter Pauker). Our subject, who was reared on the old home-
stead, when twenty-three years of age purchased eighty acres of the farm he
now occupies. November 14, 1857, he married Ellen, daughter of Henry and
Margaret (Sprout) Johnson, pioneers of Jackson Township, this county, and
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 903
by her he has four childi-en: Hemy, Eli, Melissa A. (Mrs. Charles Kritzler)
and Alice E. Mr. Good is the owner of a fine farm of ISO acres, 160 of which
are improved (140 cleared by himself). He and his wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican.
MARTIN V. GREEN, door, sash and blind manufacturer, Fostoria, was
born in Scipio Township, this county, February 21, 1834, son of John C. and
Abigail (Seely) Green, natives of New York State, and who were among the
pioneers of this county. Their childi-en were six in number, f o ir of whom
are now living: AVarren, Thomas S., John G. and Martin V. Our subject was
reared on a farm, and educated in the schools of his day. He was married,
July 5, 1857, to Margaret E., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Small) Swi-
gart, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled in Scipio Township, this county, in
1844. In November, 1861, Mr. Green settled in Fostoria, where he has since
resided. In 1869 he embarked in his present business with Thomas J. Livers,
who afterward sold his interest to John A. Bunnell, who in turn sold out to
Lewis Gearhert and Thomas S. Green. In 18/3 John F. Heilman, Mr.
Green's brother-in-law, became associated with him under the firm name of
Green & Heilman, which partnership has existed to the present time. They
are manufacturers of doors, sash and blinds, moldings, plain and Gothic
window frames, etc. Their factory and office are located on South Street.
Mr. Green is one of the live and enterprising business men of Fostoria. He
has served one term as a member of the town council. Politically he is a
Democrat.
JOHN G. GREEN, stock-dealer, Fostoria, was born in Scipio Township,
this covinty, April 27, 1837, son of John C. and Abigail J. (Seely) Green, who
were among the pioneers of Scipio Township, where they lived and died. Our
.subject remained at home with his parents until nineteen years of age. He
was educated at Republic Academy, taking a four years' course of instructions..
In the fall of 1852 he came to Fostoria. and engaged in teaming, which he fol-
lowed several years. During the late w^ar of the Rebellion he enlisted in Sep-
tember, 1861, in Company B, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participat-
ing in the battles of Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Shiloh and in many other
engagements, and was honorably discharged in the fall of 1863. He immedi-
ateiy'veteranized, and re-enlisted in same company and regiment; was trans-
ferred fi-om Virginia to theAVestern army under Gen. Hooker, and was in the en-
gagements at Bridgeport, Mission Ridge^uzzard's Roost and Big Shanty, where
the regiment was reduced to fifty-five men. He was in the Atlanta campaign
under 'Sherman, and was honorably discharged at close of the war in July,
1865. He then retiu-ned to Fostoria, and in 1866 engaged in the stock busi-
ness, which he has followed ever since. He was married, November 25, 1861,
to Ellen M., daughter of George H. Sheldon, a pioneer of Scipio Township,
and a clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. and IVIrs. Green
have five children: Frank E., Nellie, Ollie. Josie and Francis. Mr. Green is
a public spirited citizen. In politics he is a Republican.
CHARLES A. GRIBBLE, photographer, Fostoria, was born in Stark
County, Ohio. April 6, 1861, son of Hemy Gribble, a native of Germany, a
shoe-maker by trade, and whose parents were among^the pioneers of Tuscara-
Avas Coimty, Ohio. Our subject was reared and educated in Massillon, Ohio.
In 1878 he entered the photograph gallery of F. B. Zay, of Findlay, Ohio,
where he served an apprenticeship of two and a half years. He afterward
was employed in the galleries of George Donaldson and O. P. Frees, of Tiffin,
and June 1, 1884, came to Fostoria and embarked in business for himself, and
has had a successful trade. Though Mr. Gribble has had but seven years'
904 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
experience in his business, he is a photographer and artist not only in naine but
in education, and thoroughly understands the rules of art and chiaro-oscuro and
the application of art principles in lighting and posing his subjects, wherein
lie the true merits of a photogra^jhic portrait. Mr. Gribble is an active mem-
ber of the K. of P. Politically he is a Republican.
JOSEPH GWYNN, superintendent of the Fostoria Gas Light Company,
was born in Rahway, N. J. , September 30, 1 854, son of John and Jane (Fer-
ris) Gwynn, natives of London, England, and who came to Seneca County.
Ohio, in 1862, locating at TiiJin, where they resided until their death. John
Gwynn, an attorney by profession, reared a family of nine children. Our
subject was reared in Tiffin, from eight years of age, and educated in the high
schools and commercial college; in the year 1878 he located in Fostoria and
took charge of the Fostoria Gas Works for A. L. McKaig & Co. , of Pitts-
bui-gh, Penn., acting as superintendent of same until June 1, 1881, at which
time he made an engagement with the Ohio Central Railroad to take charge of
the water works of their road, in which capacity he acted as superintendent
until January 1, 1884, at which date he purchased an interest in the Fostoria
Gas Light Company, and again located in Fostoria, taking his former position
as superintendent and director. Mr. Gwynn married, January 21, 1885, Lou,
daughter of I. N. and Harriet Mickey, of Fostoria.
ROBERT "VY. HALE, physician, Fostoria, was born in Jefferson County,
Ohio, September 26, 1836, son of James and Mary (Hale) Hale (the former a
native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Baltimore, Md. ), who settled in Wash-
ington Township, Hancock County, in 1836. Our subject was reared in Han-
cock County, and educated in the common schools; began the study of
medicine with Dr. R.C.Caples, in Fostoria, in 1852; attended one course of lec-
tures (1855-56) at the Western Reserve Medical College in Cleveland, Ohio;
and graduated from the National Medical College, AVashington, D. C, in 1858.
He began the practice of medicine in Fostoria with Dr. R. C. Caples in 1856,
with whom he has been connected to the present time. He was acting assist-
ant siu-geon in the United States Army from April, 1862, up to September of
the same year; from May to September, 1864, he was surgeon of the One
Hundred and Sixty- fourth Ohio National Guards. He also served in the capac
ity of brigade surgeon of Gen. John C. Lee' s brigade. Dr. Hale was married,
September 15, 1858, to Louisa Conoway, daughter of John and Charlotte (Ca-
ples) Conoway, of Fostoria, and by her has had four children : Cora (deceased),
John C. , Mabel and Robert AY. , Jr. The Doctor and his wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the G.
A. R. Politically he is a Republican.
JOHN C. HARTLEY, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Washington
County, Penn., April 25, 1828, son of Benjamin and Catherine (Rake) Hart-
ley, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Washington County,
Penn., and who settled in this county in 1831, where the father of our siibject
entered 160 acres of land, which he cleared and improved, and here resided
until his death; he died August 8, 1882, in his eighty-eighth year. Benjamin
Hartley was married three times, first to Sarah Middleton, and by this union
he had one daughter, Harriet (deceased). By his second wife (nee Cather-
ine Rake) he had the following children: Eliza, Mrs. David Rosier; Simon
I.; Sarah A., Mrs. Robert Mullert (deceased); SiTsannah, Mrs. Eli Huff; John
C. ; Mary; Elizabeth, Mrs. John W. Griffith; Catherine, Mrs. John Rainey:
and Benjamin (deceased). By his third wife (nee Eliza Fox) he had eleven chil-
dren, of whom foiar survive: Rebecca (Mrs. John Greenbrier), Hannah, Elias
and Sylvester. Our subject, who was reared in Loudon Township fi-om three
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 905
years of age, was educated in the common schools and Heidelberg College, of
Tifi&n. He has always engaged in farming. He was married, September 1 1 .
1856, to Susannah D.. daughter of Aaron and Mary (Devilbiss) Cover, who
were among the early settlers of Loudon Township. By this union there were
ten children: Aaron B. (deceased), James Casper, Thomas B., Charles W.,
Ada C, Eliza J., Mary Elizabeth, John "W., Martha Emily and Arvie D.
Mrs. Hartley died September 8, 1884, at the age of forty-five years, four
months and four days. Mr. Hartley has filled several of the minor offices of
his township. Politically he is a Democrat.
P. W. HATHAWAY^ of the firm of Hathaway. Campbell & Co. . proprie-
tors of planiiig-mill, and sash, door and blind manufacturers. Fostoria, was born
in Bristol County, Mass. , May 9, 1822, son of Philip and Didamia Hathaway, who
settled in Sandusky County; Ohio, in 1834, clearing and improving a farm on
which they lived and died. In 1852 our subject settled in Montgomery Town-
ship, Wood Co. , Ohio, where he cleared and improved a farm, on which he
resided up to 1 873, when he located in Fostoria, and embarked in mercantile
business, which he conducted for several years, one year of this time in Jerry
City, Wood Co., Ohio. In 1877 he formed a partnership with George W.
Campl^ell, Jerry Nestlerode and W. H. H.Williams in his present business, the
firm name being Hathaway. Campbell & Co. Nestlerode and Williams after-
ward sold their interests, and in 1882 James H. Campbell was admitted to the
firm, the firm name continuing the same, and they are doing an extensive busi-
ness. Ml-. Hathaway was twice married, first, in 1844, to Rhoda J. , daughter
of Ebenezer and Margaret Gould, of Sandusky County, Ohio, by whom he
had seven children: Josephine, Philip, Morrice. Fanny (deceased), Margaret.
Ella and Clara. He was married, on second occasion, in 1 877, to Catherine
Bernard, of Fostoria. MJr. Hathaway is a member of the Disciple and his wife
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Hathaway, during the late war of the
Rebellion, enlisted, in 1 8(54, in the 1 00 days" service, and was commissioned captain
of Company K, One Hundi-ed and Forty-fomih Ohio National Guards, and after
serving his time received an honorable discharge. He is a member of the G.
A. R. He is now serving his seccmd term as councilman of Fostoria. Polit-
ically he is a Republican.
CHARLES HAYS, druggist. Fostoria. was born in Fostoria. this county.
March 20, 1851, son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Mickey) Hays. His paternal
grandfather, Henry Hays, a native of Pennsylvania, was a pioneer of Perry
Township. Wood Co., Ohio, where he settled in 1834 and died April 10. 183*.
His maternal grandfather. Jeremiah Mickey, a native of Pennsylvania, came to
what is now Fostoria in 1832. The father of our subject located in Fostoria
in an early day and engaged in farming; he taught school for many years and
was also engaged in the hotel business; he was married, November 29, 1849,
and died February 27, 1869, in his forty-seventh year, his children were five
in number, of whom two are now living: Charles and Frederick. Our subject,
who was reared and educated in Fostoria. at the age of nineteen went to Cleve-
land and entered the drug establishment of Strong, Cobb & Co. . with whom
he remained up to 1874. He then retiu'ned to Fostoria and served as book-
keeper for W. H. Grapes & Co. for three years. In 1878 he and his uncle,
David Hays, purchased the drug business of Charles Park, which they con-
ducted up' to 1884, when om* subject became sole proprietor, and has since done
a successful business. Mr. Hays, by his uniform courtesy, has made hosts of
friends and customers. In politics he is a Republican.
FRANK HAYS, publisher of the Democrat, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria.
this county. April 24. 1853, son of Marshall and Margaret (Musser) Hays,
906 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
natives of Pennsylvania and among the pioneers of Fostoria. Oiu* subject was
reared in his native town and educated in its common schools and at the Nor-
mal school at Republic. In 1873, 1874 and 1875 he was engaged in the lumber
interests: during the year 1875 he embarked in the newspaper business, and iu
the fall of that year began the publication of the Fostoria Democrat with R. C.
Meyer, with whom he was associated fom- years, then purchased his partner's
interest and has since conducted the entei-prise himself, his paper being one of
the liveliest and newsiest sheets published in this section of the State. Mr.
Hays was foreman for several years in the fire department of Fostoria, with
which he was connected ten years.
JOHN F. HEILMAN, sash and blind manufacturer, Fostoria, was born
in York County, Penn. , November 1. 1817: son of Philip and Catherine (Klat-
felter) Heilman. He was reared on a farm in his native State, where he re-
ceived a common school education. He was married, February 16, 1843, to
Cynthia E., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Small) Swigart, natives of
Pennsylvania, who settled in Scipio Township, this county, in 1844. The issue
of this union was five children: George E., Thomas C, Nellie B.. John W.
(deceased) and Lola M. (deceased). Shortly after his man-iage Mr. Heilman
came to this county and settled in Bloom Township, where he farmed up to
1865, when he was elected auditor of this county, an office he held two successive
terms. In 1873 he located in Fostoria and formed a partnership with M. V.
Green in the door, sash and blind business, in which he has been engaged to
the present time. ]\Ii'. Heilman is one of the representative citizens and biTsi-
ness men of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat. IVIi's. Heilman is a mem-
ber of the Presbyterian Church.
JOHN HEILMAN, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O.. Fostoria, was born in
Bavaria, Germany, in June, 1842. son of William and Margaret (Fruth) Heil-
man, who immigrated to America in 1848. settling in Loudon Township, this
county, where they resided until their death. Our subject was reared in Lou-
don Township fi'om five years of age, and received a limited education in the
common schools. At twenty years of age he piu-chased the farm where he now
resides, and on which he has made many improvements, erecting all his pres-
ent buildings. He was united in marriage, March 23, 1862, with Margaret,
daughter of George and Margaret (Shobach) Fruth, who settled in Loudon
Township, this coimty, in 1833. By this union there are six children living:
\Villiam. Lillie. Mary, Sarah. George and Curtis. IVIr. and Mrs. Heilman are
attendants of the Lutheran Church. He has served his township thi-ee years
as justice of the peace. He is a F. & A. M. : politicallv a Republican.
ADAM HELFRICK. farmer, P. O. Fostoria, "was born in Hessen-
Darmstadt, Germany. January 22. 1826. son of Jacob and Catherine
(Smith) Helfi'ick, who immigrated to America in 1835, and located in Carroll
County, Ohio, where they resided three years. In 1839 they came to this
county and settled on Section 18. in Loudon Township, clearing and improv-
ing the farm now owned by our subject. The father died in Fostoria in 1868.
at the age of seventy-two, and the mother in 1847, aged forty -four years.
They reared a family of four childi-en: Adam. Margaret (IMi-s. John Peter),
Catherine (Mrs. "William H. Hample) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Michael Miller, de-
ceased). Our subject was reared in Loudon Township fi'om thirteen years of
age. He remained with his parents until his marriage. Sej^tember 21, 1852,
with Charlotte, daughter of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, early
settlers of Loudon Township. After his marriage, Mr. Helfrick settled on the
farm on which he has since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Helfi'ick have two chil-
dren: Catherine (wife of George Mertel) and Albert. Our subject and wife are
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 907
members of the Lutheran Church. He is a respected farmer and citizen of
Loudon Township. Politically he is a Democrat.
C. A. HENRY, physician. Fostoria, was born in^ Perry Township, ^^'ood
Co., Ohio, January 5, 1844, son of Hosea and Nancy (Smith) Henry. His
paternal grandfather, Benai Henry, a native of New Hampshire, a farmer by
occupation, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where he
lived and died. His maternal grandfather, Charles Smith, was a native of
Pennsylvania, a veteran in the war of 1812, and one of the first settlers of
Montgomery Township, "Wood County, where he cleared and improved a farm
on which he lived and died; his widow died in February. 1885, in her ninety-
seventh year. Hosea Henry, the father of our subject, was a pioneer of Perry
Township, where he cleared and improved a farm of 195 acres, on which he
lived until he died, in 1888, at the age of seventy-six years. Hosea and
Nancy Henry had six children: Orrin; Charles A. ; Thomas, who resides on the
old homestead; Lorinda, wife of James Lusk (deceased); Perry; and Alice,
wife of Dr. David Fruith. Three of the sons were in the army diiring the
civil war: Orrin, Thomas and C. A. Our subject was reared oh the old home-
stead and received his early education in the common schools. He enlisted in
1864, in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-fonrth Ohio Volunteer Infantry;
served six months when he was honorably discharged. In 1 865 he began read-
ing medicine in the office of Dr. C. R. Rosendale, of Mill Grove, Ohio. Avith
whom he remained three years. He attended a course of lectures in Cincin-
nati, in the winter of 1866-67, and gi-aduated there in 18/0. In 1871 he
located in Fostoria, this county, and began the practice of medicine with Dr.
A. C. Williams, with whom he was associated ten years. He then formed a
partnershif) with Dr. Park L. Myers, with whom he is still associated. Dr.
Henry, one of the leading physicians of Fostoria, is thoroughly wedded to his
profession, and, by strict attention to business and uniform courtesy to all, he
has made many friends and has built up an extensive practice. He was mar-
ried. January 6, 1870, to Harriet M.. daughter of Benjamin and Hannah
(Kinneman) Crone, of Ashland, Ohio, by whom he has one child, Charles A.
The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fi'aternity. Politically he is a stanch
Republican, and is now serving his second term as member of the Fostoria
council.
COL. LYMAN J. HISSONG, dry goods merchant, Fostoria, was born in
Richland County, Ohio, April 1, 1839, son of John and Rachael (Spade) His-
song, natives of" Pennsylvania and pioneers of Richland County. Our subject,
who was reared and educated in his native county, at the age of twenty, lo-
cated in Hancock County, Ohio, and engaged in farming and as clerk in a store
for two years. He next moved to Napoleon, Henry Co., Ohio, where he
clerked in a dry goods store until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion.
Then, October 21, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, was appointed orderly sergeant, serving with the regiment two
years, participating in the battles of Fort Donelson, Corinth, luka and others.
In the spring of 1868 he was commissioned captain of the Fifth Heavy Artil-
lery, in Gen. T. H. J. Wood's Division. After the surrender of Vicksburg
and Jackson, Miss., he was taken on the staff of Maj. Gen. Osterhaus. as
provost-marshal for the noi-thern district of Mississippi, with headquarters at
Jackson. In the massacre at Milliken's Bend, La., June 7, 1863, Col. His-
song was severely wounded by a bullet shot in the thigh, a trophy which he
still carries. For meritorious service in this battle his friends in Richland
County presented him with a silk banner which went with him through the
war and is still in his possession. After this he was promoted to major and
908 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
soon to lieutenant-coloneL by Secretary Stanton, and commanded the post at
Vicksburg, Miss. , for over a year. After the troops were mustered out he was
retained on general court-marshal duty at Vicksburg about four months.
About the close of the war he was commissioned full colonel, by brevet, by
Andrew Johnson for meritorious services rendered at the battle of Milliken' s
Bend. He left the service in June, 1860. Col. Hissong was engaged in mer-
cantile business in Hancock County, and at Napoleon, Ohio, for eight years
thereafter. In 1875 he located in Fostoria, this county, and embarked in the
dry goods business, -here, which he has continued successfully to the present
time. He owns a fine store at North Baltimore, and also at Ottawa, Ohio,
where he is doing an extensive business. He was married, in March, 1868, to
Jennie, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Heller) Carr, of Hancock County,
Ohio, and by her he has one child, Harry. Mr. Hissong is a member of the
I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R. He is a charter member of the First National
Bank of Fostoria. Politically he is a Repu])lican.
WILLIAM T. HISTE, ex-county commissioner, Fostoria, was born in
Columbiana County, Ohio, September 26, 1826. and came here with his parents,
George and Sarah (Sawlaw) Histe, who settled in Fostoria, Ohio, in 1844.
His father, a brick-maker and wheelwright by trade, for several years after
coming here worked at cabinet-making, after which he manufactured brick for
upward of twenty-five years; he died November 5, 1884, in his eighty-fifth
year; his widow survives him at the age of eighty-three. They had a family
of eight children: Maria, wife of George Miller; William T. ; Matilda, wife of
Joseph England; Cordelia, wife of Daniel Weaver; Catharine, wife of J. Q.
Albert; F. Marion; Sarah A., wife of Theodore Brown, and Benjamin F.
Oui- subject was reared and educated in his native county. He was married.
May 1."), 1851, to Mary, daughter of William and Rebecca (Lytle) Noble, of
Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has two children: Isabel, wife of
Jeremiah Blosser, and Cecelia, wife of Cassius C. Beedle. In 1851 Mr. Histe
embarked in the manufacture of brick which he carried on at intervals, up t(^
1865, when he engaged in farming in Jackson Township, living there until the
spring of 1871, when he returned to Fostoria and resumed the manufacture of
})riek which he continued for three years. Then for a year (1874), he was in
the furniture business. In the fall of 1878 he was elected to the office of
county commissioner, re-elected in 1881, his term expiring December 1, 1884.
In politics he is a stanch Democrat.
EDWARD B. HOWELL, proprietor of Central Hotel, Fostoria, was
V)orn in Susquehanna County, Penn., November 24, 1828; son of Samuel and
Laiu-a (Robinson) Howell, natives of New York and who settled in Fostoria,
Ohio, in 1845. Samuel Howell, a tanner by trade, conducted a tannery in
that part of Fostoria known as Risdon, for five years, when he retired from
business. He was succeeded by his sons Edward B. and Royal R. , who car-
ried on the business for several years. Samuel Howell died in 1871 at the age
of seventy-eight years, and his wife in 1852 at the age of fifty-six. Their
children, eight in number, were as follows: Caroline (deceased), Charles
(deceased), Mary (Mrs. John T. Ford, of Chillicothe, Mo.), Edward B., Mar-
cus W. (a resident of California), William (also residing in California), Royal
R. and Eliza (deceased). Our subject located in Fostoria in 1847, and with
his brother Royal R. conducted a tannery for t\<'o years. In 1853 he pur-
chased a saw-mill in Caroline, this county, which he operated for a year and a
half, when he moved to Findlay, Ohio, where he resided for eighteen years
(nine years of this time he was in the employ of what is now known as the
Indiana, Bloomington & Western Railroad Company). In 18 <4 he returned to
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 909
Fostoria. where he has lived (with the exception of two years spent in Tiffin)
ever since. In 1882 he embarked in the hotel business.' in which he has been
siiccessfnlly engaged to the present time: his hotel, known as the "Central."
having the reputation of being the best $1.50 per dav house in this section of
the State. Mi-. Howell was married. November 25. 1 849. to Charitv. dauo-hter
of Jacob and Charlotte Kinnaman. of Fostoria. this countv. and bv her he has
three children: Corwin B., Willis P. and Nellie M. Mr. and Mrs.' Howell are
members of the Congregational Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F
Politically he is a Republican.
WILLIS P. HOWELL, dentist. Fostoria, was born in Caroline, this
county, May 18. 1855, son of Edward and Charity (Kinnaman) Howell. He
was reared and educated in Findlay, Ohio. In 1874 he began the studv of
dentistry- in the office of J. A. Stockton, of Lima, and in 1875 went to Tiffin
and entered the dental office of Dr. P. J. Kinnaman. He received a certificate
from the Ohio State Board of Dental Examiners in 1878. In 1877 he beo-an
the practice of his profession, and in 1 870 formed a copartnership with J."f.
O'Brien, with whom he was associated up to Februarv. 1885. Dr. Howell
was united in man-iage. May 25, 1882. with Matilda C," daughter of John and
Philibena (Reise) Andes, of Fostoria, Ohio. Dr. Howell has built up a o-ood
practice. Politically he is a Republican. ^
JUNIUS Y. JONES, attorney, Fostoria, was born in Gallia County. Ohio,
January 28, 1823, son of James and Priscella (Blagg) Jones, natives 'of Vir-
ginia and pioneers of Perry Township, Wood Co. . Ohio, where they settled in
1882, clearing and improving a farm on which they lived and died. Thev
reared a family of nine childi-en: Gideon (deceased). Elizabeth (deceased)'.
Emily (deceased). Hiildah (deceased). Simpson, Virginia (wife of Joseph
Eckels), Junius V.. William H. and Seneca (deceased). Oiu- subject was
reared in Periy Township fi'om ten years of age, and was educated in the
select school of Fostoria under the instruction of Warren P. Noble. In 1846
he settled in Fostoria. this county, where he has since resided. In 1858 he
was elected justice of the peace, which office he held for five consecutive terms
of three years each, and during this time he began the study of law. was
admitted to the bar in 1868. and to practice in the United States Courts April
12. 187/. He was man-ied. in 184/, to Maria, daughter of Michael Musser.
of Wood County. Ohio, and the issue of this union was seven childi-en: Edwin.
Charles. Will. Harry. Parley, Clara and Bert. He and his wife are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Chirrch. jVIi-. Jones was elected mayor of Fostoria
in 1878. serving one term of two years, and has filled various other offices of
trust. Politically he is a Republican.
THOMAS KELLEY. retired farmer. Fostoria. was born in Huntingdon
Coimty. Penn.. April 6. 1800, son of Charles and Jemima (Crownover) Kelley.
who settled on a farm four miles from Wooster, Ohio, in 1811. Oiu- subject,
fi-om eleven years of age was reared in Wooster. and was there educated. In
1881 he located in A^'ashington Township, Hancock County (had the honor of
naming the township), and entered 160 acres of land, which he cleare'd and
improved, and where he lived up to 1856. when he sold his fai-m and moved to
Fremont, Ohio, residing there until 1866, when he came to Fostoria. He was
twice married, first in July. 1828. to Catherine, daughter of John Lora. of
Wayne County. Ohio, by whom he had seven childi-en: John (deceased).
Amanda (wife of Ambrose Corey). Sydna I. (wife of Philip Faulhaber).
Sarah (wife of Thaddeus Ball), Minerva (wife of Christian German). Charles
and Albert. Mr. Kelley was maiTied on second occasion in Fremont, Ohio, in
1862, to Mrs. Emily G. Boren. widow of Levi E. Boren and daughter of
51
910 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
James and Hettie (Ciilbertson) Prebles. Mr. Kelley is a prominent citizen of
Fostoria. In polities he lias always been a stanch Democrat, casting his first
vote for Andi-ew Jackson.
MARTIN KIXGSEED. retired merchant, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria,
Germany, November 19, 1817; son of Anton and Margaret (Rauth) Kingseed,
the former born in Dreyson, palatinate of Bavaria. June 26, 1796; the latter
in Boerstadt, July 28. 1796; they were married, January 26, 1816, and settled
in Boerstadt, w^here Anton Kingseed followed the trade of cabinet-maker. In
1832 they immigrated to America, locating in Hambiu-g, Berks Co. , Penn. .
and in 1832 they moved to Pine Grove, Schuylkill Co., Penn., and engaged in
farming. In 1834 they sold out and came by wagon to Ohio, locating in
Seneca Township, this county, where Anton Kingseed jDurchased ninety-six
acres of land, which he cleared and improved, and which he still resides on at
the age of eighty- nine years. Anton and Margaret Kingseed were the parents
of ten childi-en, seven of whom survive: Martin. Peter, Christian, Margaret,
Elizabeth, Sophia and Anthony. Anton Kingseed was twice man-ied; on sec-
ond occasion, in. 18-17, to Catherine Bauer, of Seneca Township, this county,
and by her he had three childi'en: Joseph. Emilia and Catherine. Emilia is
matron of the homestead and Anthony has charge of the farm. Martin, the
subject of this sketch, was seventeen years of age when he came to this county.
Being endowed by nature with a strong healthy body and iron will he made
himself useful at home until twenty-five years of age. After the death of his
mother he worked six j-ears in a saw-mill on the river, and January 2. 1847.
he was nearly killed by a log rolling on him, and May 6 following he was
found under another log. which accident laid him up for some time, and the
effects of which he feels to this day. He then assisted in siu-veying the railroad
fi-om Belief on taine to Union City for nine months. He was married, Septem-
ber 17, 1850, to Elmira E., daughter of Michael and Anastatia (Arnold) Noel.
of Wyandot County, Ohio, and to this union were born eight childi'en: Lewis
A. (deceased), Charles E.. Frank D., ZenobiaM.. Mary C. William A.. Ella
N. and Anna M. After his marriage Mr. Kingseed located in Tiffin. Ohio,
and clerked in the hardware store of John G. Gross six years; then traded his
i:)ropei*ty in Tiffin to Mr. Gross for a stock of hardware in Fostoria, this county,
and removed there in October, 1855, where he was actively engaged in busi-
ness up to August 1, 1884, when he retired, his son, Frank D., being his suc-
cessor. Mr. Kingseed is universally esteemed by all who know him. Polit-
ically he is a Democrat.
FRED KINNAMAN, of the firm of A^■. M. Kinnaman, art and fancy
goods store, Fostoria, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, September :>.
1833; son of Jacob and Mary (Whitmore) Kinnaman (the former a native of
Connecticut, the latter of New Jersey), who settled in Wood County, Ohio, in
the fall of 1833, locating in Perry Township, where they pui-chased a tract of
1,800 acres of land and cleared and improved a farm on which Jacob Kinna-
man resided until 1859, in which year he moved to Mill Grove, and there died
in 1863. at the age of eighty- nine years. He reared a family of twelve chil-
dren, of whom five survive: Jackson P. and PeiTy I., physicians of Tiffin,
Ohio; Fred; Charity, Mrs. E. B. Howell; and Mary. Mrs. Christian Myers, of
California. Our subject was reared and educated in Ashland County. Ohio,
and lived there up to 1861. He then moved to Mill Grove, and in 1863 located
in Findlay, Ohio, where he lived until 1879; since 1871 he has been engaged
in his present business. He was married, October 14, 1852, to Kate Hettinger,
of Bellville, Richland Co., Ohio., by whom he has three children: C. Frank.
Wilber M. and Harry R. Mr. Kinnaman is a member of the I. O. O. F. In
politics he is a Republican.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. giX
DANIEL KISER. retired farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Stark
County, Ohio, April 20, 1822; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser
who came to Seneca County in 1884 and settled in Loudon Township, where
the father entered 100 acres of land from the Government, which, with the
assistance of his sons, he cleared and improved. The country at 'that time
was a wilderness, and they had to hew a road through the woods for thirteen
miles to get on their land. Jacob Kiser died in 1859, at the age of seventv-
two years, and his wife in 185 i, at the age of seventy-one. They had a family
of eleven children. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, this countv
from ten years of age, and received a limited education in the schools of his
day. He remained at home with his parents until twenty years of ao-e
when he started out for himself. April 20, 1843, he married Nancy A '
daughter of James and Agnes (Bunting) Scott, of Loudon Township, this
county, and by her he had nine children: Andrew J., Lorenzo, Loquiner
Leander, Alfred, Ira, Sarah J. (Mrs. Joseph Vai^ Fossen), Libbie and Elmer."
Of these Andrew J. and Lorenzo served in the late war, the former in the One
Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantrv for eighteen months and
the latter in the One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio"' Volunteer Infantry, 'serv-
ing eleven months, both being honorably discharged at close of the war.
After his marriage Mr. Kiser rented a farm for three years, and in 1846 pur-
chased eighty acres of land on Sections 18 and 19, which he cleared and
improved, and on which he resided up to 1873, when he removed to Fostoria.
where he lived two years. In 1875 he purchased the farm of seventeen acres
he now occupies, and where he has resided ever since. He was a member of
the United Brethren Church for forty-two years, but in the spring of 188:^
united with the Protestant Methodist Church, of which he is now olie of the
trustees. Politically he has lieen a member of the Republican partv since its
organization.
SAMUEL KISER. farmer. P. O. Fostoria. was born in Stark County
Ohio, June 29, 1828; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser, natives of
Pennsylvania, parents of eleven children, and who came to this county in
1834, settling in Loudon Township on the farm now occupied by our subject,
which they cleared and improved, and on which they resided until their death.
Samuel Kiser, the subject of this sketch, has resided on the old home-
stead since six years of age. June 20, 1850, he married Julia A., daugh-
ter of Isaac and Eleanor DeWitt, pioneers of Big S])ring Township, and%y
this union there were four children: Emily (deceased), Alvin, Lou E. and
Charles. Mr. Kiser has made many improvements on the old homestead since
it came into his possession; has cleared forty acres of the 178 acres which
comprises his farm (140 uf which are under a" high state of cultivation); in
1879 he built a fine l:)rick residence on the property, and has also erected commo-
dious outbuildings. He has held the office of township trustee for several
terms, besides other minor offices. Politically he is a Republican.
HENRY W. KONKLE, contractor, Fostoria, was born in Lehigh County,
Penn. December 7, 1834, son of Henry and Hannah (S wander) Konkle. In
1838 his parents settled in Fairfield County, Ohio^ where they remained up to
1871, when they located in Lucas Comity, Ohio. Our subject came to Seneca
County in 1845, and lived with his grandfather. John Swander, near Tiffin,
Ohio, until twenty-three years of age. March 14, 1807, he married Emily!
daughter of Baker and Ann Hale, of Hancock Countv. Ohio, and the issue of
this union was one child— Nettie. Mr. Konkle learned the trade of bricklayer
when a young man. which he has followed up to the present time. He located
in Fostoria in 1859, and since 1860 has been actively engaged as a building
912 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
contractor, many of the prominent biiikiings of Fostoria having been erected
by .him, the plans for the same being also his work. From 187G to ISSO Mr.
Konkle was interested in the furnitvu-e business. He is an active member of
the Reformed Chnrch. He is a member of Fostoria Lodge Xo. 305. I. O. O.
F. Mr. Konkle has served as member of the city conncil two years. He was
in the late war of the Rebellion, having enlisted in April. 1801, in Company
H. Twenty-first Ohio Yolnnteer Infantiy, and was honorably discharged.
FRED IvOSS. manufacturer. Fostoria, was born in Grubenhagen,
Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg, Germany ^ November 4. 1846, son of John and
Mary (Hennig) Koss. Our subject was reared and educated in his native land,
where he served an apprenticeship of three years at the carpenter's trade. In
1869 he immigrated to America, settling in Fostoria. Ohio, where he worked at
his trade uj) to 1880. when he became associated with Jacob Mergenthaler in
the planing-mill, and manufacturing of sash, doors, blinds, etc.. in which he
is engaged at the present time.^ Mr. Koss was united in marriage, October 18,
1871, with Mary, daughter of Louis and Mary (Goodyear) Karg, of Findlay,
Ohio, and by her he has three childi-en: Charles. John and Augusta. Mr. and
JMrs. Koss are members of the German Lutheran Church. He is a member of
the Royal Arcaniim: politicallv a Democrat.
CHARLES ^V. LYTLE. farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Chili, Mon-
roe Co., X. Y., November 8. 1827, son of Daniel and Betsey (Foster) Lytle,
the former a native of Rhode Island, and the latter of Massachusetts. He was
reared and educated in his native county, and in 1854 located in Fostoria,
Ohio, and entered the store of C. Foster & Co. , where he served in the capac-
ity of clerk up to 1868, since which time he has been engaged in farming and
various other business enterprises. He was united in marriage in April, 1857,
with Frances M. . daughter of Frederick and Christina' (Kempher) Febles, of
Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has tlu-ee chiklren: Jennie M. ,
Frederick D. and Emina A. Mr. Lytle. one of the substantial farmers and
citizens of Loiidon Township, is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he
is a Republican.
EDWARD MARKS, ice dealer and proprietor of bottling works. Fostoria,
was born in Big Spring Township, this county, in February, 1851: son of
Nicholas and Theresa (Kehl) Marks, natives of Germany, who settled in Big
Spring Township in 1849, where Nicholas Marks, a farmer by occupation,
cleared and improved the farm on which he still resides. Their childi'en were
seven in number: Nicholas. Edward. Elizabeth (Mrs. John Walker), Anna
(Mi-s. Joseph Hackenrader). Thomas, Michael and Aggie. Our subject was
reared on the old homestead, ediicated in the common schools, and remained
with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He learned the plasterer's
trade in Tiffin. Ohio, which he followed three years and a half. In 1872 he
came to Fostoria and entered the store of Nye & Cooper as clerk. The same
year he bought Mr. Cooper' s interest in the business, which was then conducted
under the firm name of Nye & Marks for several years, after which he engaged
in the liquor business. In 1881 Mr. Marks became interested in a large
bottling establishment of this city, of which he is now sole proprietor, and he
lias also for several years been engaged in the ice trade, having put up over
4,000 tons this season. Mr. Marks was married, in 1874. to Josephine, daugh-
ter of Peter Dumond, of Adi'ian, Ohio, and by her he has one child — Rossie.
Mr. Marks is one of the entei-prising and public spirited citizens of Fostoria.
He is a Democrat in politics. He and his wife are members of the Catholic
Church.
JACOB MERGENTHALER, manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in London
Township, this county, November 30, 1838; son of Gottfried Mergenthaler, a
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 913
native of Germany, a farmer by occnpation, and who was a pioneer of Loudon
Township, this connty. where he cleared and improved a farm, on which he
lived and died. Onr subject, who was reared in his native township, when
nineteen years of age, left home and served an apprenticeship of four years at
the carpenter's trade, which occupation he followed up to 1881, when, with J.
S. Bowers, he engaged in the planing, door, sash and blind manufacturing
business. In 1882 Fred Koss bought the interest of Mr. Bowers, and since
that time the business has been conducted under firm name of Mergenthaler &
Koss, who by strict attention to business have built up a large and extensive
trade. Mr. Mergenthaler was married, in the fall of 1801, to Mary Karl, of
Fostoria, by whom he has four children : Ada, William, Rollin and Ola. Mr.
and Mrs. Mergenthaler are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He
is one of the representative business men of Fostoria. In politics he is a
Democrat.
MELCHER MERGENTHALER. carriage manufacturer, Fostoria, wa.s
born in Lotidon Township, this connty, July 19, 1841. His father, Gottfried
Mergenthaler. a native of Germany, settled in Loudon Township, this county,
in 1834, and here Melcher was reared and educated. Our subject, at the age
of eighteen, came to Fostoria. where he served an apprenticeship at wagon-
making for three years with George Gehr. Esq. He then worked as journeymau.
till 1865, when he embarked in biisiness for himself, in which he has success-
fully engaged to the present time. Our subject was united in marriage, July
19, 1863, with Catherine, daughter of Henry Bucher, of Loudon Township,
this county, and by her he has three children: Andrew, assistant cashier in
the First National Bank; Charles and Rella. Mr. and Mrs. Mergenthaler are
members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
JAMES L. MICKEY, farmer and stock-dealer, Fostoria, was born in what
is now Ashland County, Ohio, November 10, 1831; son of Jeremiah and Sarah
(Loman) Mickey, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Maryland.
His paternal grandfather. Daniel Mickey, was a native of Pennsylvania and a
pioneer of Ashland (bounty. Ohio, and his maternal grandfather. Richard Lo-
man, formerly of Maryland, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio,
where he lived and died. The parents of our subject settled in what is now
Fostoria. Ohio, in 1832. His father who engaged in mercantile business, dur-
ing the cholera excitement of 1834, went with his family to Richland Coimty,
but soon returned, and in 1835 embarked in the hotel business, his hotel being
the first in what was then known as Risdon. He conducted the hotel until
1841, when he was killed in a ditch by a bank caving on him. His family con-
sisted of sis children: Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Hays), James L., Sarah (de-
ceased), Isaac N., William (deceased) and Richard (deceased). Our subject
was reared and received a common school education in Fostoria. He succeeded
to the hotel business of his father, which he conducted up to 1856, when he
engaged in the lightning rod industry, following it four years. In April, 186 b
he was appointed postmaster of Fostoria, which position he held up to October,
1870. He then purchased a farm in Loudon Township, this county, and en-
gaged in stock business. In 1873 he erected one-third of the brick building
known as the Mickey Block, his division comprising two. stores, three stories
high, each 22x75 feet. Mr. Mickey was married, in 1862. to Mary, daughter
of David H. Edgar, of Dunkirk. Ohio. The issue of this luiion was five chil-
dren: Harry, Claude, Newion, Charles and Don. Mr. Mickey is now holding
the office of township treasurer, which he has filled for several terms. He is a
F. & A. M. Politically he is a Republican.
JAMES C. MILLHIME, retired, Fostoria, was born in York County.
Penn., June 30, 1823; son of John J. and Mary (Steyer) Millhime. He w;i>
914 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
reared and educated in his native county, and served an apprenticeship of two
years at the miller's trade in Adams County, Penn. ; in the winter of 1847-48
he located in Fostoria, Ohio, and in 1848 purchased a farm of eighty acres in
•Jackson Township, this county. He was a miller in Carbaugh's mill, at Fos-
toria, in 1848. and later in the mill of Roswell Crocker; was afterward em-
ployed for several years as collector for Foster & Son. He then embarked in
mercantile business on his own account, in which he continued up to 1863. In
iS69 he was elected to the office of clerk of Seneca County, a position he held
for two consecutive terms. In 1876 he erected the Keystone Block, the build-
ing being 22x90 feet, and two stories high. In 1842 Mr. Millhime was married
to Mary, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Bair ) Throne, of Hanover, Penn. , by
whom he had five children: Edwin (died of fever at Camp Xevins during the late
war of the Rebellion); Lucinda (deceased); Emma, wife of Christian Kistner;
Mary, wife of Samuel Drenuing, and James B. Mr. Millhime has been assessor
of Fostoria for several terms. He is one of the public spirited citizens of the
place, always alive to its interests. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and
of the K. of H. Politically he is a Democrat.
JOHN P. MUENCH, grocer, Fostoria, born in Baden, Germany, Novem-
ber 6, 1853, sou of Jacob and Rosa (Muench) Muench, was reared and
educated in his native land. His father died in 1867, and in the summer of
the same year our subject, with his mother, three sisters and a brother, immi-
grated to America and located in Fremont, Ohio, where he served an ap-
prenticeship of three years at the painter's trade. He then moved to Toledo,
where he worked at his trade one year, after which he went to Coldwater, Mich.,
and there worked at his trade three months. In the fall of 1874 he located in
Fostoria, this county, and followed his trade ten years. April 1, 1884, Mr.
Muench embarked in the grocery business in which he has been successfully
engaged to the present time. He has been twice married. His first wife, to
whom he was married August 29, 1876, was Catherine, daughter of Nicholas and
Margaret Walters, of Fostoria, and who bore him one child — William. Our sub-
ject was married on second occasion, November 25, 1880, to Rosa, daughter of
John and Theresa (Mainzer) Onieser, of Sandusky County, Ohio. Mr. and
Mrs. Muench are members of the German Lutheran Church. Politically he is
a Democrat.
DANIEL AV. MUSSER, liveryman, Fostoria, was born in Ravenna, Port-
age Co., Ohio, April 13, 1831, son of Jacob and Syndonia (Garrison) Musser.
Jacob Musser. a pioneer blacksmith of Ravenna, settled in West Millgrove,
Wood Co., Ohio, in 1855. and died there in 1870. Our subject settled in Fos-
toria in 1858, and embarked in the livery business in which he has continued
up to the present time and is the oldest established liveryman in the place. In
1861 he was united in marriage with Savannah, daughter of George and Mary
Buchtel, of Fostoria, this county, and by her he has three childi'en: Ida M. ,
James W. and Hattie D. Mr. Musser is one of the prominent citizens of Fos-
toria and is widely known. He pays strict attention to his business interests,
and is courteous and obliging to all who may favor him with their patronage.
Politically he is a Republican.
PARK L. MYERS, physician, Fostoria. was born in Fostoria, this county.
May 28, 18<)0. son of Jacob J. and Rachel A. (Harsh) Myers, the former a
native of Allegheny County, Penn., and the latter of Carroll County, Ohio.
His paternal grandfather, John Myers, was a native of Germany and a pio-
neer farmer of Allegheny County, Penn. His maternal grandfather, John
Harsh, was a pioneer of Carroll County. Ohio, and later of Seneca County,
Ohio. Th:^ father of our subject, who was a wagon maker by trade, settled in
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 915
Fostoria about 1848, where he worked as a journeyman for several years: then
embarked in business for himself, continiiing in the same till his death in 1875.
His family consisted of five childien: Eva (Mrs. Dr. F. J. Schaufelberger),
Bruce M., Ralph (deceased). Park L. and Lulu. Our subject was reared in
Fostoria, this county, where he received his early education. He began the
study of medicine in the office of Williams & Hemy, in Fostoria, in 1875,
and m 1876 entered the medical de]3ai-tment of the Wooster University, of
Cleveland, Ohio, where he took one course of lectures. In 1878 he entered
the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati, graduating therefi-om in 1879. He
afterward took a course in 1879-80, and in July, 1880, began the practice of
medicine in Fostoxla. In 1881 he formed a partnership with Dr. C. A. Hem-y,
with whom he is associated at present. Dr. Myers is a member of the K. of
P. In politics he is a Republican.
CHRISTOPHER C. NESTLERODE. teacher and farmer, Fostoria, was
born in Bald Eagle Yalley, Centre Co..Penn., March 1/, 1824, son of Israel and
Susannah (Forrey) Nestlerode, who were natives of Lancaster County, Penn.
The Nestlerode family originally came from Poland, and were Polish-Russian
aristocrats, but in the famous Polish insun-ection a part of the family joined the
insurgents under Kosciu-ko, a few of whom afterward fled to America to escape a
rebel's death. Those who remained loyal to the Russian government were re-
warded with official positions. Count Nestlerode, a cousin of the grandfather of
our subject, rei^resented Russia at Washington during Jackson' s administration,
and was prime minister of that country until he was nearly ninety years old. John
and Christian, great-grandfather and grandfather of our subject, were in the
Federal service during the Revolutionary war, and served with distinction.
Israel Nestlerode, father of our subject, was the tenth of twenty-six children,
and was born December 2, 1795. His youth was spent in lumbering, rafting,
fishing and farming. May 22. 1823. he married Susannah Forrey, born Febru-
ary 15, 1801, daughter of Jacob and Susan (Lightner) Forrey, and granddaugh-
ter of John Forrey, a native of France. Israel Nestlerode and wife came to PeiTy
Township, Wood Co.. Ohio, in 1832, purchased eighty acres of land there, and
entered 170 acres in Jackson Township, Seneca County, comprising a farm of
250 acres, which, with about 390 acres more, was surrounded by a swale run.
This tract of land the Indians named "the Island, " and which after Mr. Nestlerode
settled on it, they called " Nestlerode' s Island, " which name it bears to this day.
Mr. Nestlerode. the first actual settler of Perry Township, lived there until 1856,
when he removed to Fostoria, where he died September 5. 1 879. in his eighty-
fourth year; his widow died December 10. 1883, in her eighty-third year.
Their children were Christopher C. Margaret (deceased), Sarah (wife of Dan-
iel Rhoad), Israel W., Jeremiah and Lafayette Marion (deceased). Oui- sub-
ject was reared in Perry Township fi'om seven years of age, and was educated
for the most part in the backwoods. He attended Norwalk Seminaiy one term
and Republic Academy seven terms. When seventeen years of age he began
teaching in the common schools of Ohio. He taught five winters, working for his
father each year during the farming season. He taught three years in the
Tiflin Union Schools, and two years in the State of Arkansas. He organized
the first union school west of the Mississippi, at Tipton, Iowa. He superin-
tended the Tipton Union School five years; held the first teacher's institute
ever held in Iowa. He held teachers' institutes in all the leading cities and
towns of eastern and southern Iowa. He was chosen by the Iowa State
Teachers' Association to represent that body at the State Board of Education,
which held it first session in Des Moines, Iowa, during the winter of 1858-59.
At that session the present world-renowned fi-ee school laws of Iowa were passed.
916 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Mr. Nestlerode was invited to a seat in that body, and was made an honorary
member. He rendered much valuable service to the board, and no act was
passed that was not first closely examined and carefully revised by him. He
for three years edited the loica Instructor, the first free school journal pub-
lished in the State. He sent a copy to each school board and prominent edu-
cator in the State. He waged a merciless warfare against the " school-kill-
ers," both in the Instructor and in the school rooms, and other places where
he had the time and opportunity to address the hardy and intelligent pioneers
of Iowa. He spared neither effort nor money in enforcing the school laws he
had so anxiously assisted in making, and which provides the means for every
child, rich or poor, colored or white, to receive an education free as the air he
breathes. In 1862 Mr. Nestlerode was called from his labors in Iowa (the
greatest sacrifice of his life) to the home of his boyhood to minister unto his
parents in their afflictions and fast-failing health, and to bear the burdens that
had become too hea^y for them, which resulted in prolonging their lives nearly
twenty years. The school board of Fostoria. Ohio, in the same year of his
return, elected jVIr. Nestlerode to take charge of their school. He undertook
the work in connection with his home duties. He found the school merely a
district school, and while in that shape incapable of successful development,
but nothing daunted he set about educating the people of Fostoria for a change
in their school system, and never ceased his effort until the Union School Law of
Ohio for cities and towns was adopted, under which he organized a union
school that has grown to be one of the foremost in the State. He was married,
January 5, 1871, to Mary A., daughter of Hon. Morris P. and Mary (Gor-
such) Skinner, of Fostoria, by whom he has one child — Mary Elizabeth. Mr.
Nestlerode has held the office of mayor of Fostoria, secretary of the board of
education, and numerous other offices. In politics he is a stanch advocate of
prohibition.
JEREMIAH NESTLERODE, diaiggist and dealer in real estate, Fosto-
ria, was born in Perry Township, Wood Co. , Ohio, June 26, 1834, son of
Israel and Susannah (Forrey) Nestlerode. who settled there in 1832. Our sub-
ject was reared in his native township, and there received a common school
education. He remained at home until his twenty-first year, when he engaged
in farming for himself in Wood County, Ohio, which he continued up to
twenty-eight years of age. In 1862 he located in Fostoria, this county, and
entered general mercantile business, in which he remained fourteen years. In
1866 he opened a branch store, which he conducted for eight years in Jerry
City (which was named in his honor). Wood County, Ohio. In 1874 he
embarked for second time in the diy goods business in Fostoria, this county,
which he followed for one year, and in 1875 was a contractor for cou.nty and
railroad work. In 1877-78 Mr. Nestlerode was connected with the sash and
blind manufacturing business under the firm name first of Bower & Co. , then
Hathaway. Campbell & Co. In 1879 he engaged in the clothing business, and
the same year bought a stock of dry goods and carried on that business for two
years. He was engaged in the livery business from 1880 to 1884. In 1881
Mr. Nestlerode embarked in the drug business, in which he is still interested,
and has for many years also been engaged in the real estate business, being
the first in Fostoria to make that line a specialty. He was married, January
23, 1857, to Ann E. , daughter of Grafton and Rebecca Bernard, of Tiffin,
Ohio. In politics Mr. Nestlerode has been a stanch Republican since the
organization of the party.
LEVI NIEBEL. retired farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Union
County. Penn. . October 8. 1816, son of Henry and Mary (Irely) Niebel, who
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 917
setted in what is now Wyandot County in 1 S84. Our subject remained with
his parents until twenty-one years of age. January 1, 1838, he was united in
marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of John Ritter, of Pickaway County, Ohio,
and by her he had two children, Elijah and John, the latter deceased. Janu-
ary 1,' 1842, Mr. Niebel married his second wife, Hannah, daughter of Henry
Bish. of Fairfield County, Ohio, and by her had one child, Henry B. Our
subject located in Bloom Township, this county, in an early day, and cleared
a farm of 100 acres, on which he resided up to 1854, when he settled in Lou-
don Township, and cleared a part of the farm now occupied by his son Elijah;
he also cleared another farm in the northern part of this township. He and
his wife are members of the Evangelical Association. He has served as trus-
tee of Loudon Township one term. Politically he is a Republican.
ELIJAH NIEBEL, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Berwick, this
county, January 10, 1839. son of Levi and Elizabeth (Ritter) Niebel, pioneers
of Seneca County. Our subject was reared in Bloom and Loudon Townships
and received a limited education in the common schools. He removed fi'om
Bloom to Loudon Township with his father in 1855, where, with the exception
of six years, during which he resided in Fostoria, he has lived on the farm he
now owns and occupies. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting Octo-
ber 29, 1801. in Company D, Seventy- second Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; was in the
battle of Shiloh, siege of Vicksburg,' two engagements at Jackson, Miss., and was
taken prisoner near Ripley, Miss., January 11, 1864, and sent to Anderson-
ville, where he remained until the middle of September of that year, when he
was transferred to Florence, S. C. ; was paroled at Goldsboro, N. C. , in March,
1805, and honorably discharged June 19, 1805, after nearly four years' ser-
vice. October 3, 1805, Mr. Niebel was married to Emily, daughter of David
and Hannah (Kiser) Young, pioneers of Loudon Township, this county. They
had six children, fom- of whom survive: Minnie, Clara, Delia and Arthur C.
Mr. Niebel, wife and daughter are members of the United Bretlii-en Chiirch.
He is a member of the G. A. R. He takes great interest in education. Polit-
ically he is a Repxiblican. He is a prominent farmer and enterprising citizen;
owner of a fine farm of 155 acres, 115 of which are under cultivation and
thoroughly drained.
JOHN NOBLE, stave manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Nottingham-
shire, England, May 28, 1833, son of Francis and Pethia Noble. He was
reared on a farm in Canada, whither his people had emigrated in 1830, settling
in Brant County. When eighteen years of age, John Noble went to Paris,
Canada, to learn the cooper" s trade, and in 1857 come to Sandusky County.
Ohio, locating in Clyde, where he remained until 1858, when he came to Fos-
toria. In 1804 he formed a partnership with John W. Grifiith in the cooper
business, which existed eight years. In 1871, together with his former
partner, E. J. Cunningham, and"^ Charles Foster, a company was established,
known as the Fostoria Stave and Ban-el Company (of which he is the pres-
ent manager), which has conducted a successfid business. Mr. Noble has been
twice maiTied, on the first occasion, in November, 1858, to Miss Ann Leech,
who died April 3, 1801. His second maiTiage, July 13, 1803, was with Mrs.
Mary E. Warner, widow of George W. Warner, and daughter of William and
Mary Simons, early settlers of Seneca County, Ohio. The issue of this union
was 'five children: Nellie M., Ada M., Sarah A., John W. and Lelia B. (the
latter two deceased). Mr. Noble served in the late war of the Rebellion, en-
listing in May, 1802, in the Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served
three months in West Virginia. In 1802 he joined the independent company
of the Ohio National Guards, of which he was suljsequently elected lieutenant.
918 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
and to wliich he belonged until 18G4. when he entered the 100 days' service.
He is now serving his sixth year as member of the town covmcil. He and his
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
JOHN H. NORRIS. physician. Fostoria, was born in Perry Township,
Wood Co., Ohio, May 13, 1855, son of Hon. John and Rebecca C. (Cuthbei-t-
son) Norris, who were among the pioneers of that township. Our subject's
father, who was a prominent citizen of Wood County, and served once from
there as representative to the State Legislature, has been a resident of Fos-
toria since 1880. Our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the nor-
mal school at Republic. In 1874 he began the study of medicine in the oiHce
of Dr. J. C. Lincoln, of Bowling Green, Ohio, with whom he remained three
years; graduated fi'om the medical department of the Wooster University,
Cleveland. Ohio, February 27. 1877, and began the practice of medicine at
Bowling Green, in March of the same year, and there remained two and a half
years. March 1, 1880, he received a post-graduate degree from Bellevue
Hospital Medical College. New York, and in 1881 he located at Fostoria, where
he has been in active practice ever since. Dr. Norris was married, September
20, 1882. to Anna B.. daughter of Robert Middaugh. of Canton, Ohio.^ Polit-
ically the Doctor is a Republican. He is an active member of the Masonic
fraternity.
JOHN F. O'BRIEN, dentist, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township,
this county, July 4, 1855, son of Thomas and Margaret (McCarty) O'Brien,
natives of Ireland, who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in May, 1851,
clearing and improving a farm on which they resided up to 1870, when they
removed to Fostoria. Here Thomas O'Brien engaged in railroad contracting,
and built and graded a part of the Ohio Central, Baltimore & Ohio, and New
York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroads; he died in May, 1878, at the age of
sixty-nine years. Of his twelve children, nine attained maturity: James, Ellen
(Mrs. George Emerine, deceased), Mary (Mrs. Alvin Starns), Patrick W., Mar-
garet (wife of Rev. Thomas Parker), Kate (Mrs. O. Y. Wood), Thomas and Ter-
rence (twins), and John F. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, and
educated in the Union Schools of Fostoria. In 187G he began the study of
dentistry in the office of Dr. T. K. Williams, of Fostoria, with whom he re-
mained fifteen months, when Dr. Williams died and he then conducted the busi-
ness thereafter for one year. In 1878 he entered the Ohio Dental College, at
Cincinnati, and in 1879 received a diploma from the State Board of Dental Ex-
aminers, and in April of the same year, began the practice of dentistry with
W. P. Howell, with whom he has been associated to the present time. From
a careful and thorough study of dentistry Dr. O'Brien has attained a thorough
knowledge of his profession and bears the reputation of being a skillful and
superior operator.
EPHRAIM J. PADGHAM. book-keeper, Fostoria, was born in Tenterden,
county of Kent, England. June 10, 1828, son of John and Mary A. Padgham.
He was reared and educated in his native land and there married, December
25, 1850, Susannah, daughter of William and Sophia Boorman, by whom he
had four children, one of whom survives, Elizabeth Jane. This wife died in
1850 and our subject was again married in 1857. this time to Mrs. Eliza John-
son, widow of Samuel Johnson and daughter of Michael and Caroline Louger-
necker. of this county ,• by whom he has two children: Silas S. and Zoa D.
Mr. Padgham came to America in 1853 and located in Fostoria, Ohio, wTiere
he clerked in the grain warehouse of Foster & Co. and was associated with the
firm for several years. He was the first agent for the United States Express
Company at this place, and also the first ticket and freight agent for the Fremont
LOUDON TOWNSHIP.
919
& Indiana Kailroad. which position he filled for nearly twenty years. This rail-
road changed its name four times while he was agent. Mr. Padgham was
then appointed agent for the Columbus & Toledo Kailroad and served two
years. He then formed a partnership with John P. Warner and conducted a
grist-mill for two years. He then engaged as book-keeper for the Fostoria
spoke and bending factory, a position he now occupies. He is a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Reimblican in politics, and at pres-
ent is serving his third term as member of the city council.
ABRAHAM PETER (deceased) was born in Bindersheim. Palatinate
Frankenthal, Kingdom of Bavaria. Germany, February 5, 1821 , son of Abra-
ham and Barbara IShobach) Peter, who came to America in 1840 and settled
in Loudon Township, this county. Our subject was reared and educated in
Germany and came with his parents to this country when nineteen years of
age. December 24, 1843, he married Mary A., daughter of John and Eliza-
beth (Smilsmer) Vesper, who settled in Loudon Township in 1840, and by this
union there were thirteen childi-en, of whom nine suiwive: Elizabeth (Mrs.
John Romig). Margaret (I^Ii-s. Heniy Reis), Mary (Mxs. Andrew Herbert).
Louisa (Mrs. Ephraim Stahl), Charlotte (Mrs. Abraham Truth), John A.,
Jacob, Philip and Sarah. After his manlage Mr. Peter engaged in agricult-
ure on a rented farm for five years. In 1848 he purchased a fine farm of 1 < 5
acres on Sections 16 and 21, on which he made many improvements, residing
there most of the time until 1883, when he retired from farming and moved to
Fostoria. In 1852 he went to California and again in 1854, and while there
engaged in stock buying and mining. He made these trips there overland,
retui-ning by water. " He died in Fostoria May 7, 1883, at the age of sixty-two
years. Though he started in life a poor boy, by industry, frugality and
economy he accumulated a fine property. IVIr. Peter was widely known in
Fostoria and siuTounding country as an upright, honest citizen. He was a
respected and worthy member of the Masonic fi-aternity. In politics he was a
Democrat.
JOHN PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Bi.varia, Germany.
May 13, 1830. son of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, who came to
America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township, this county, on eighty acres
of land now owned by E. Kinney, former of whom died in Big Spring Town-
ship in 1871, in his eighty-first year, latter in 1840, eleven weeks after her
arrival in this country. They had a family of nine children: Philip; Abraham,
deceased: Catherine.' Mrs. Nicholas Findel; Margaret, deceased; Maria, Mrs.
Jacob Heiserman; Civilla, deceased: Barbara, Mrs. Abraham Rinebold; John;
Charlotte, Mrs. Adam Helfi'ick. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township,
this county, and lived at home with his father until he was twenty-three years
old. He then rented the old homestead for seven years; in 1860 he moved to
Henry County. Ohio, where he remained four years; retm-ned to Loudon
Township in 1865 and purchased the old homestead, living here four years,
and in 1869 purchased the farm of 150 acres he now occupies, fifty-five acres
of which he has cleared himself, making all the improvements in buildings.
April 7. 1854, Mr. Peter married Margaret, daughter of Jacob Helfilck, of
Loudon Township, and by this union has four children: John J., Mary I.
(Mrs. Warren Seever), Emma C. (Mrs. Adam Weasner) and Philip W. Mr.
Peter and family are members of the Lutheran Church. Politically he is a
Democrat.
JOHN J. PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township,
this county, July 13, 1855, son of John and Margaret (Helfrick) Peter. He
was reared and educated in Loudon Township. June 9, 1881, he was married
920 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
to Ella E.. daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Alsbaugh) Ruse, of Hopewell
Township, this county, and by her he has two childi'en: Otto M. and Charles
A. Since his marriage Mr. Peter has been engaged in agriculture on the farm
he now occupies. He is a member of the Lutheran Chiu'ch, and his wife of
the Methodist Episcopal denomination. Mr. Peter, who is one of the promi-
nent yoimg farmers of the township, is now serving his second term as town-
ship assessor. Politically he is a Democrat.
JOHN A. PETER, clerk, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this
county, February 15, 1854. son of Abraham and Mary A. (Vesper) Peter.
His paternal grandfather. Abraham Peter, a native of Germany and a soldier
under Napoleon I. came to America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township,
this county, where he resided until his death. His maternal grandfather,
John Vesper, also a native of Germany, was among the pioneers of Loudon
Township. Oiu' subject was reared and educated in his native township. In
1877 he located in Fostoria and engaged as clerk in the clothing store of John
Wagner, with whom he remained three years. In 1880 he entered the employ
of Peter & Fruth in the same capacity, remaining with the firm and its suc-
cessor, A. Fruth. to the present time. He was married. August '12, 1878, to
Lucy, daiighter of Nathan and Lavina (Carbaugh) Wade, of Loudon Township,
and by her he has one child, Mary Luema. The paternal grandfather of Mrs.
Peter was Abner Wade, who settled in Loudon Township in 1882, and was one
of the organizers of the township and one of its first officials. Her maternal
grandfather was Samuel Carbaugh, also a pioneer of Loudon Township. Mr.
Peter is a member of the German Reformed Chiu'ch. In politics he is a Dem-
ocrat.
PHILIP PETER, clerk. Fostoria. was born in Loudon Township, this
county, April 16. 1863, son of Abraham and Mary A. (Vesper) Peter. Our
subject, who was reared and educated in his native township, located in Fos-
toria in 1879, and entered the employ of Foster, Snyder & Co.. serving in the
capacity of clerk for two years. In 1881 he engaged with Weaver & Adams
as clerk, with whom he remained until the spring of 1885. when he engaged
in the same capacity with A. Weaver, successor to Weaver & Adams, with
whom he is at present. December 1, 1882, Mr. Peter was united in man-iage
with Anna, daughter of George and Ellen (O'Brien) Emerine. of Fostoria.
this county, and to this union has been l)orn one child — Lulu M. Mr. Peter
is one of the worthy and representative citizens of Fostoria. Politically he is a
Democrat.
DAVID PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria. was born in Loudon Township, this
county, March 27, 1842, son of John J. and Elizabeth (Hahn) Peter, natives
of Rhinebiern, Germany, and who came to this county in 1838, settling in
Loudon Township, and entering eighty acres of land from the Government,
which they cleared and improved. The father died in 1878, at the age of
sixty-eight years. The mother survives him at the age of seventy-six. They
had a family of nine children, of whom five survive: Henry, David. Elizabeth,
Philebena (Mrs. Melcher Fruth) and Mary (Mrs. John Fruth). Our subject
was reared in Loudon Township, receiving a limiteil education in the common
school. May 25, 1863, he married Susannah, daughter of Jacob and Civilla
(Schraden) Fruth. of Loudon Township, this covmty, by whom he has four
childi-en living: John W., Louisa J., Margaret E. and David A. In August,
1866, Mr. Peter settled in Henry County. Ohio, where he engaged in farming,
lumbering and teaming up to the fall of 1872, when he returned to Loiidon
Township, purchasing the farm he now occupies, a pai-t of which he has cleared
and whereon he has made many improvements in buildings, etc. He is one of
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 921
the prominent f tinners of Loudon Township; has held the office of townshi})
trustee three terms. In politics he is a Kepublican.
NICHOLAS PORTZ, hardware merchant, Fostoria, was born in Jackson
Township, this county. March 1, 1839, son of John and Magdalena (Bohna)
Portz, natives of Prussia, who located in Jackson Township, in 1838, where
they engaged in farming. In 1 810 they settled in Fostoria, where John Portz,
a wagon-maker, followed his trade until his death; he died in June, 1873, at
the age of sixty- six years; he had a family of seven children, who grew to
maturity: Magdalena (deceased), Catherine (Mrs. George Bridgeford), Ann M.
(Mrs. Joseph Haines), Nicholas, Eva (Mrs. George Huth), George (died in the
army during the late war of the Rebellion) and John. Our subject was reared
and received a common school education in Fostoria. At the age of twelve
years he entered the store of Foster & Son, clerking for them up to 1863, when
he was admitted as a partner in the general store under the firm name of Foster,
Olmsted & Co. . which partnership existed up to 1807, when he retired from
the firm and embarked in the hardware business with Hon. Charles Foster,
with whom he has been associated to the present time, under firm name of
Portz & Co. The names of Foster i.^^ Portz have also been connected in the
more extensive business known as the Fostoria Foundi-y and Machine Works.
These works have recently been reorganized, adding another partner ( Walter
S. Payne) with extensive lines of machinery and fixtures for manufacturing
brass "goods and water works" supplies, all under the name of Walter S. Payne
& Co. In this enterprise Mr. Portz will be recognized as the financial man-
ager. Mr. Portz was married. January 10, 1807, to Hannah, daughter of
Lewis and Mary (Youngker) Adams, of Findlay, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Portz
are members of the Catholic (Jhurch. Politically he is a Republican.
JAMES W. QUINN. baker and grocer, Fostoria, was born in Ireland,
May 8, 1837, son of 'James and Mary (Madigan) Quinn, natives of County
Limerick, Ireland, and who came to this county in 1851, settling in Tiffin,
where the father, a blacksmith by trade, which he followed sixty-two years,
engaged in business until his death: he died in 1859, at the age of seventy-
eight years. Of their family of eleven children, four attained maturity:
John (now deceased): James W. ; David, a resident of Tiffin, and Eugene, re-
siding in Michigan. Our subject was reared in Tiffin, Ohio, from twelve years
of age and there received a common school education. At the age of sixteen,
he entered a. bakery at Tiffin, serving an apprenticeship of three years, after
which he engaged in bridge-building for two seasons. He then clerked for
several years in different branches of business and conducted a bakery_in
Tiffin for several years more. He located in Fostoria, this county, in 18/1,
and embarked in the grocery and bakery business on his own account. In
1884 he greeted the fine Ijrick building he now occupies (known as the "Quinn
Block"), one of the handsomest business edifices in the city. Mr. Quinn was
married, in November. 1857, to Mary, daughter of Benjamin Quinlaw, of Ire-
land, and by her he has had eight childi-en, six now living: James, Anna,
Clara, Jessie, John and Julia. Mr. Quinn and family are members of the
Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
GENERAL E. REYNOLDS, druggist, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Town-
ship, this county. December 19, 1852, son of Charles L. and Mary (Dillonj
Reynolds, who were among the early settlers of Loudon Township, the former
of whom, who was a resident of this county for many years, removed in 18 < 8,
to Eaton County. Mich., where he now resides. Mr. and Mi's. Charles L.
Reynolds had five children, of whom three are now living: General E., Jacob
and McClellan. (Mrs. Charles L. Reynolds, previous to her marriage with the
922 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
father of om- subject, was the wife of Eli Weaver, one of the pioneers of
Loudon Township, this county, and by him had five childi-en, three now liv-
ing: George, Rachel (wife of Allen Stevens) and Alpheus. ) Oiu- subject was
reared on his father's farm in Loudon Township, this county, and received a
common school education. At the age of eighteen he began teaching school,
which occupation he followed for seven years. He then commenced the study of
medicine with Dr. C. L. Cass and took one course of lectiu'es at the Physio
Medical College of Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1880 he embarked in the drug busi-
ness in Fostoria, this county, in company with Jerry Nestlerode. the partner-
ship existing at the present time. He was married, July 4. 1877, to Emma
E. , daughter of James R. and Rachel Williams, of Fostoria, and by her he
has two children living: Nellie and Grace. Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds are mem-
bers of the Methodist Protestant Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
JACOB RINEBOLD, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Perry County,
Ohio, October 28. 1821, son of John and Catherine (Wininger) Rinebold. the
former, a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter (still living), a native of Ger-
many. They came from Richland County to Seneca County. Ohio, in 1834,
and settled in Loudon Township, entering 100 acres of land (now occupied by
Abraham Rinebold), which they cleared and improved, and where the father
died; mother still living. They reared a family of four children: Elizabeth,
wife of Henry Stahl; Jacob; Abraham; and Rebecca, wife of John Shontz.
Our subject's great-grandfather had two sons, Heniy and Matthias, who came
from Germany to America and fought in the Revolutionary war, in 1776,
under Gen. Washington. Our suliject was reai'ed in Loudon Township, from
thirteen years of age and received a limited education in the schools of his
day. He was married, in December. 18^0. to Mary A. , daughter of John and
Elizabeth (Good) Lambright, of Jackson Township, this county, by whom he
has had nine children, seven now living: Noah; Elizabeth, wife of Newton
Stearns; Susannah, wife of Cyris Yost: Hem-y: Mahala. wife of David Smith:
Rachel, wife of Philip Wiraugh, and Jacob. Mr. Rinebold is one of the sub-
stantial citizens and farmers of Seneca County, where he has cleared and im-
proved a part of a farm on Section 16, Jackson Township. He is a member
of the Lutheran Church, his wife of the German Reformed Church. Politi-
callv IMi'. Rinebold is a Democrat.
ABRAHAM RINEBOLD, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Perry
County. Ohio. October 13.1822. son of John and Catherine (Wininger) Rinebold,
the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Germany. His paternal
o-randfather. Matthias Rinebold, a native of Pennsylvania, and his maternal
o-randfather, Adam Wininger, a native of Germany, were pioneer citizens of
Perry County, Ohio, where they lived and died. The parents of our subject
came to Seneca County. Ohio, in March, 1834, settling in Loudon Township,
on the farm now owned by him. The father died in 1854, at the age of fifty-
six years, the mother, who still survives, is eighty-four years old. They were
parents of foui- children: Elizabeth, wife of Heniy Stahl: Jacob: Abraham:
Rebecca, wife of John Shonts. Oiir subject received a limited education in the
district schools. AMth the excejition of ten years, during which he was a resident
of Jackson Township, he has lived on the homestead since 1834, and with his
brother, Jacob, assisted his father in clearing 100 acres of the old homestead,
which he came in possession of in 1859; he has since purchased land adjoining,
and his farm now comprises 434 acres of land, 250 of which is under cultiva-
tion. He has made many improvements on his property, erecting his present
brick residence in 1871, and in 1875 erected a new frame dwelling, and. also,
in 1883, another frame dwelling. Mr. Rinebold has been twice married. By
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 923
his first wife, Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and Anna E. (Peter) Frnth. of this
township, he had two childi'en: Rebecca and John. By his present wife, Bar-
bara, daughter of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, of Loudon Township),
this county, he has eight children : Catherine, wife of George Yochum : Levi, Sy villia
E., wife of Frederick Rosen: Abraham: Mary L. : AnnaE. ; Ephraim and Henry
(latter deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Rinebold and all the family are inembers of
the Lutheran Church. He is a prominent farmer and public spirited citizen.
In politics he and all the sons and sons-in-law are Democrats.
JOHN RINEBOLD. farmer. P. O. . Fostoria. was born in Jackson Town-
ship, this county, October 16, 1850, son of Abraham and Ann Elizabeth
(Fruth) Rineboid. His paternal grandfather. John Rinebold, settled
in Loudon Township, this county, in 1S>}4. and his maternal grandfather,
a native of Germany, settled in same township in 1832. Om- subject
was reared in Jackson and Loudon Townships and was educated in the
common schools. March 21. 1872. he married Anna M., daughter of George
and Margaret (Niner) Kisling, of Jackson Township, this county, and by her
he had one child — George A. After his marriage Mr. Rinebold engaged in
farming on the Rinebold homestead, in Loudon Township, living there until
1881, when he purchased the farm whereon he now resides. He and his wife
are members of the Lutheran Church. He is one of the representative young
farmers of the township. Politically he is a Democrat.
JOHN F. RITCHART. ]iainter. Fostoria. was born in Westmoreland
County, Penn.. July 7, 1820, son of David and Mary (Johnson) Ritchart. who
settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1847. and here lived and died.
They had six children who grew to manhood and womanhood: John F., James
(deceased). William H., Han-iet (Mrs. P. D. Caples). Catherine (INIrs. Wash-
ington Wade) and David (latter deceased). Our subject remained in Pennsyl-
vania until foui-teen years of age, when he removed to Wayne County. Ohio,
with his parents. He*^ is a natm-al born mechanic, and during his minority
learned cabinet-making, which hs followed for several years. He settled in
Fostoria. this county, in 1854, since which time he has been engaged exten-
sively in caiTiage and house painting. December 23, 1847, he married Eliza,
daughter of Kinzie and Catherine (Kimmel) Cox, of Wayne County. Ohio, and
by her he has had three childi-en: Emma (deceased), Ella (Mrs.W. D. Robbing)
and Minnie. Mr. and Mrs. Ritchart are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, with which they have been connected upward of thirty years and of
which he is one of the trustees. He has served as mayor of Fostoria two terms.
eighteen years as a member of the council, member of the school board eight-
een years in succession, and as cemetery trustee for twenty-five years. Politi-
cally he is a Republican.
WILLIAM H. RITCHART. farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born iu Somer-
set County, Penn.. March 20, 1827. son of David and Mary (Johnson) Ritch-
art, who settled in Wayne County. Ohio, about 1833. and came to this county
in 1847, locating in Loudon Township, where they resided until their death.
Their childi'en were seven in number: JohnF., James F. (deceased), Han-iet
(Mrs. P. D. Caples). William H., Eliza (deceased). Catherine (Mrs. Washing-
ton Wade) and David (deceased). Our subject was reared in Wayne County
from six years of age. and from the age of fifteen to twenty- one drove stage on
the route from Wooster to Cleveland. He spent the summer of 1848 in this
county, when he returned to Wayne County, continuing the occupation of
driving stage till 1850, when he went overland to California, engaged in min-
ing and in various other lines of business up to 1854. when he took passage on
the steamer ''Winfield Scott" for home: was wrecked when two days out from
924 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
San Francisco, and was on the island of Anacape for seven days. He arrived
home safely, however; again went to California overland, returning by water the
same year. In the spring of 1855 he settled in Loudon Township, this county,
where he remained for four years on the farm now owned and occupied by
Patrick Duffy. He then moved to Fostoria and engaged in teaming; was also
interested in the lightning-rod business with J. L. Mickey. During the late
war of the Rebellion Mr. Ritchart enlisted, December 1. 1861, in Company
D. Seventy-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was on detached duty, and had
charge of the horses of the regiment. He was honorably discharged on
account of disability at Memphis, Tenn. , March 26, 1863. He then returned
to Fostoria and was appointed street commissioner by the city council, a posi-
tion he held for two years. In 1867 he purchased the farm he now occupies.
He was married, July 4, 1858 to Martha A., eldest daughter of John and
Nancy (Musser) Fritcher, of Wood County, Ohio, and by this union has two
children, John and Eugene R. Mr. Ritchart is a leading farmer and citizen
of Loudon Township. In politics he is a Democrat.
AARON K. RUSE, retired farmer. Fostoria. was born in Franklin County,
Ohio, July Id 1884. son of Jonathan and Margaret (Kalb) Ruse, natives of
Virginia and Maryland, respectively, and pioneers of Franklin County. Our
subject was reared in his native county, where he received a limited education
in the schools of his day. He came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1860, settling
in Loudon Township, where he cleared 240 acres of land, on which he resided
up to the fall of 1884, when he removed to Fostoria. Mr. Ruse has been
twice married, first, on July 17, 1860, to Lavarna, daughter of John and
Rebecca (Pyles) Halbert. of Franklin County, Ohio, and by her he had three
children: Albert W. , Laura E. and an infant son deceased. November 2. 1 872, he
married his present wife Mary Matilda, daughter of Daniel R. and Anna M.
(Simmons) Hem-v, of Loudon Township, this county, and by this union there
are three childi-en: Charles W.. William K. and Aaron E. Mr. and Mrs.
Ruse are members of the Protestant Methodist Church. In j^olitics he is a
Republican.
CORIDON R. SACKETT, farmer, Fostoria, was born in Massachusetts
Aiigust 19, 1824, son of Ezra and Laura Sackett, former of Scotch origin.
The subject of our sketch was reared on a farm and received a limited education
in the schools of his day. He was married, April 21,1 859, to Camelia M. , daugh-
ter of John W. and Maria Vrooman, of Oswego, N. Y., by whom he had three
children, two of them now living : Emerson R. and Bertha E. In 1 866 theyjo-
cated in Jackson Township, this county, and there remained until the fall of 1875.
when they removed to Fostoria, where they now reside. Mr. and Mrs. Sackett are
active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Sackett is owner of a fine
farm of 110 acres in Jackson Township, and is a worthy citizen. Mrs. Sackett' s
o-randfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war; her father, John W. Vroo-
man, was born in New York State, in 1799, came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1882,
and located in Liberty Township, where he settled on 160 acres of land. He
was the first merchant at Bettsville. where he was in business for several years.
He afterward moved to Fostoria, where he kept a general store. He died Jan-
uary 28, 1878.
FREDERICK J. SCHAUFELBERGER, physician, Fostoria, was born
in Freedom, Beaver Co., Penn.. April 28. 1850; son of Jacob and Margaretha
(Fritcher) Schaufelberger, natives of Weingarten, Grand Duchy of Baden,
Germany, and who settled in Hancock County, Ohi(\ in 1852, where the for-
mer engaged at his trade (wagon-making) and farming in Washington Town-
ship, up to 1882. when he retired from business and located in Fostoria, where
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 925
lie now resides. Jacob Schauf elberger' s cliildi-en were as follows: Louisa,
Mary, Cathei-ine (deceased), Frederick J., John W. (an attorney in Tiffin),
Amelia, Charles, Henry. Curtis and Frank. Our subject was reared in Han-
cock County, Ohio, and was educated in the common schools and Heidelberg
College. In 1881 he began the study of medicine in the office of Henry &
Myers, of Fostoria, and graduated fi'om the Jefferson Medical College of Phil-
adelphia in 1 884. He immediately commenced practice in Fostoria, where he
has been engaged in the pursuit of his profession up to the present time.
Prior to his commencing the study of medicine he was a prominent druggist
in Fostoria, having been associated in biisiness with James Fritcher from 1878
to 1882. He was married, October V), 1877, to Eva J., daughter of Jacob J.
and Rachel A. (Harsh) Myers, of Fostoria. They have one child, Frederick J.
Dr. Schaufelberger is a member of the lodge of F. & A. M. at Fostoria, of
which he was Master in 1879 and 1880. He was elected a member of the
lioard of education of Fostoria, Ohio. April 6, 1885, of which body he is clerk.
Politically he is a Republican.
GEORGE SCHRECK, liquor dealer. Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Ger-
many, February 20, 1830; only child of Henry and Margai-et (Smith) Schreck.
During his infancy his father died, and his mother subseqiiently married Will-
iam Heilman, and with our subject came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1848, and
settled in Loiidon Township, clearing a farm on which they lived till the death
of Mr. and Mrs. Heilman. They had three children: Jacob, Philebene (Mrs.
Matthias Fruith), and John. Our subject lived in Loudon Township from
1848 to 1854, when he went to California and there engaged in mining until
1 858, when he returned to Loudon Township, locating on sixty acres of land
which he cleared and improved, and where he resided up to 1875, when he
located in Fostoria, and has carried on his present business since that time.
He was twice married, first, September 21, 1852, to Catherine, daughter of
John Herrick, of Defiance County, Ohio, and by her he has six children, all
now living: John, Andrew. Curtis, Mary, Charles and Henry, He was mar-
ried, on second occasion, February 4, 1875, to Mary, daughter of Nicholas
Leekner, of Tiffin, Ohio, and by her he has four children: Lu] a, George, Ross
and Michael. Mr. Schreck is a member of the United Lutheran Church, Mrs.
Schreck of the Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
AMOS SHELLER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Washington
Township, Hancock Co.. Ohio, December 29, 1850; sou of Samuel and Eliza-
beth (Hartman) Sheller. His paternal grandfather, Henry Sheller, a native
of Pennsylvania, settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1832, on
the farm now owned by H. Stuckey, which he cleared and improved, and
where he resided until his death. He (Henry Sheller) had seven children:
John (deceased), Eliza, Samuel, Sarah, Angeline, Fanny and Henry. Of
these Samuel, father of our subject, after matm-ity, settled on an eighty acre
tract of land in Washington Township (where his father had entered land from
the Government) and lived ' there until 1868. when he removed to Loudon
Township, this comity; in 1876 he settled in Gratiot County, Mich., where he
now resides. His children were eleven in number, and of them eight survive:
William H. , Amos, Mary. Jacob, Fanny, Noble, Chauncey and Imo. Our
subject was married. April 2, 1877, to Emma J., daughter of Nathan and
Lovina (Carbaugh) Wade, of Loudon Township, and by her he has one child,
Harry E. Mr. Sheller settled in Gratiot County, Mich., in 1877, and there
remained four years. In 1881 he returned to this township, and has since
Politically he is a Republican.
926 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
CHRISTIAN SIEGCHEIST, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Wur
temberg. Germany. February 21. 1816; son of Ludwig and Christiana (Ger-
lach) Siegchrist. His father died in Germany, and his mother afterward mar-
ried Christian Seheong and immigrated to America in 1847, locating in Tiffin.
Ohio, but afterward moved to Loudon Township, where she died in 1851, at
the age of fifty-eight years. Our subject came to America and located at
Marion, Ohio, where he remained for a year and a half. In the autumn of
1841 he moved to Tiffin, where he worked at the carpenter's trade up to 1846;
then he embarked in the brewery business, in which he continued up to 1860,
when he was burned out. He then engaged in farming in Loudon Township,
this county, on the farm where he has since resided, and on which he has
made many improvements, erecting his present elegant brick residence in 187r).
Mr. Siegchrist was twice married, on first occasion. March lU. 1842. to Chris-
tiana Souder. who bore him four children : Christiana E. . wife of Louis Sou-
der; Hpnry C. ; Daniel: Maria A., wife of Fred Raber. Our subject was
married, on second occasion. November 1 1. 1855, to Agnes Boiler, also a native
of Wurtemberg, Germany, and by this union there are two children : Chi'istian
M. and Louis. Mr. and Mrs. Siegchrist are members of the Lutheran Church.
In politics he is a Democrat.
JOHN SIGNS, farmer. P. O. Bascom. was born in Wayne County, Ohio,
September 10. 1818, son of George and Catherine (Worst) Signs, natives of
Pennsylvania and pioneers of Wayne County. Our subject was reared and
educated in his native county. He was united in marriage, November 18,
1842, with Elizabeth, daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth (Barnhart ) Ecker,
of Wayne County. Ohio, and by her he had two children: Abraham and
Almira. (Almira married Eli Good, and at her death left twin sons: John E.
and Eli E.. the former of whom, reared by our subject, now resides with him.)
Mr. Signs came to this county in the spring of 1848 and settled in Loudon
Township, on the farm he now occujiies. comprising 120 acres of land, ninety
of which he has cleared, and on which he has made all improvements. Mrs.
Signs died June 19. 1884, at the age of sixty-six years, four months and
nineteen days. Her death was a sad blow to Mr. Signs, who feels her loss
keenly, as they had lived together for almost forty-two years. IVIr. Signs is a
prominent citizen and farmer: in i:)olitics he is a Republican.
PETER SIMONIS. proprietor of " Cherry Hotel." Fostoria. was born in
Big Spring Township, this county, in 1846: son of Adam and Kathrina (EfFert)
Simonis, natives of Germany, and who were among the pioneers of Big Spring
Township. Our subject was reared on a farm. November 29. 1864. when in
his eighteenth year, he enlisted in the late war of the Rebellion, in Company B.
Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and received an honorable discharge July
13, 1865. He then retiu-ned to Seneca County and embarked in the brewery
business at New Riegel. in which he was interested a year and a half. He after-
ward engaged in farming and in various other enterprises at New Riegel. In
1872 Mr. Simonis removed to Tiffin. Ohio, and embarked in the liquor busi-
ness, which he followed there up to 1878, when he located in Fostoria and
became proprietor of the ' 'American House " ' for two and a half years. He
then retired from business for six months, after which he became proprietor of
the ' ' Lake Erie Depot Restaurant, ' ' which he conducted five months, then
took charge of the " Fostoria House," which he kept for a year and a half.
In November. 1884, he removed to the corner of Main and Centre Streets,
where he has since conducted the " Cherry Hotel." He was married. July 26,
1866, to Elizabeth, daughter of Henry Marche, of New Riegel, by whom he
has had eight childi-en. seven now living: Emma, Mollie, Joseph, Ida. Jennie,
LOUDON TOWXS!iIP. ^^i
Bella and Tillie. Mr. and Mrs. Simonis are members of the Catlnilic Cbnroh.
Politically lie is a Democrat.
MOREIS P. SKINNER (deceased) \Yas born in Franklin County. Penn..
July 11, 1811: son of Enoch and Elizabeth ("Wilson) Skinner. When he was
but five years of age his father died, and when he was eleven years old he was.
thrown on his own resources. He learned the tanner's trade at Loudon ville.
Pemi., and came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1882, settling in what is now the
limits of Fostoria, and embarked in the tanner's business, which he conducted
for several years. He then engaged in farming and teaming, and cleared and
improved attract of forty acres (the homestead, which is a part of the lot, is now
occupied by his widow). Mr. Skinner was twice married: by his first wife,
Mary, daughter of John and Margaret Gorsuch. he had three children: Wil-
son. "Elizabeth (Mrs. Charles Olmsted) and Mary A. (Mrs. C. C. Nestlerode).
His second marriage was with Jane M. Searlos. who was born March 20, 1821,
and is said to have been the first white child born in Eden Township, this
county; her parents. John and Jane (Duncan) Searles, settling there in 182(1
To this union were born five childi-en: Clara J. (Mrs. A. E. Ebersolej, Louesa
M. (Mrs. A. C. McClean), William M., Frank J. (deceased) and Orlo D. (de-
ceased). Mr. Skinner was a self-made man, and by industry and frugality
amassed a fine property. He was representative of this county to the Legis-
lature in 1859: held the office of county commissioner tAVo terms, and was
Justice of the peace for several years. In politics he was always a stanch
Democrat. He died April 17, 1876, in his sixty-fifth year. Mrs. Skinner has
been a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Chui'ch for forty-seveja
years.
A. JUDSON STACKHOrSE. attorney in Fostoria, was Iwrn 'm Colum-
bia County, Penn.. September 28. 185(); son of Silas J. and Sarah B.
(Lockhart)' Stackhouse, natives of Pemisylvania. His father, a farmer by oc-
cupation, located in Pleasant Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1851. and re-
moved to Liberty ToAvnship in 1857, where he now resides in his seventy-ninth
year. He had six children who grew to maturity, viz.: A^■illiam L., who
served in the Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry from the fall of 18(31 to the close
of the war, and now resides in Jackson County, Kans. : Benjamin, on the
homestead: Ann B.. wife of AVilliam C. Boor, of Wood County, Ohio; Joseph
G. M. , who served three months at the commencement of the late war in the
Fourteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and again in the Third Ohio Volunteer
Cavalry fi-om the fall of 18(31 until his death, near Corinth. Miss.. June 20,
1862; Lockhart, of Sanduskj' County, Ohio, and A. Judson. The paternal
grandparents of our subject were Benjamin and Sarah (Jackson) Stackhouse.
The former was a lineal descendant of Stackhouse, who settled on or
near the present site of Philadelphia about 1682. The latter was a descendant of
Robert Jackson, who settled on Long Island in 1648. His maternal grand-
parents, Robert and Flora (Leigh) Lockliart, were natives of the county
Armagh, Ireland, and of Scotch parentage. They immigrated to America in
1801, and settled in Northumberland County, Penn. Our subject was reared
in Seneca County, Ohio, receiving his early education in the common schools.
He remained at home on the farm until twenty-one years of age, then entered
Heidelberg College, at Tiffin, attending four terms; in the intervals between
terms he taught school, teaching dimng the winters of 1872-78 to 1876-77,
inclusive. In 1875 he took a short course at the normal school, then located
at Fostoria, and in February, 1877, entered the University of Wooster, Ohio,
where he gi'aduated in 1 88 1 ' In August of that year he commenced reading
law in the office of N. L. Brewer, of Tiffin, taught school in Melmore the foJ-
92« BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
lowing winter of 1881-82, and was admitted to the bar November (), 1888;
and in January, 1884. located in Fostoria, where he has since been engaged
in the practice of his profession. He is a member of the PresbVterian Church.
In i^olitics he is a Republican.
SAMUEL STEAVARD, retired farmer, Fostoria, was born April 10, 1815,
in Noi-thampton County, Penn. ; son of AVilliam and Catherine Steward, former
of Scotch lineage. Our subject was reared on a farm in his native State, and
educated in the common schools. He was married, in April. 1889, to Mary
M. . daughter of Henry and Rachel Renner, of Crawford County, Penn. , and
the issue of this union was eight childi-en: Catherine A., Mary E.. AVilliam
H. , Sarah, Amanda, Luther M., Samuel O. and Charles O. (latter deceased).
Mr. Steward settled in Crawford County, Penn.. in 1837, remaining there un-
til 1848, Avhen he moved to Perry Township, AVood Co., Ohio, and there re-
sided until the fall of 1878, when he came to Fostoria, Ohio, where he now
lives. He is an active member of the Reformed Church. Mr. Steward is
owner of 240 acres of land in Wood CoiTuty, Ohio, all of which he has acquired
himself, and he is among the representative citizens of Fostoria.
FRANCIS R. STEWART, hardware merchant, Fostoria, was born in
Lycoming County, Penn.. December 19, 1885; son of Thomas D. and Fanny
(Riddell) Stewart, who settled in Clinton Township, this county, in 1838. His
father entered eighty acres of land, and purchased eighty acres additional at
14 per acre, which he cleared and improved, and where he resided till the
spring of 1854, when he removed to Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, and
there remained until his death, which occurred in March, 1875, in his seventy-
first year. He had nine chilth'en who grew to maturity : Mary, wife of Abra-
ham Hyter, residing atBradner; Rose, wife of G. W. Caldwell, of Perry sburg;
Francis R. : Andrew D., a resident of Toledo: James M. . a physician at Oak
Harbor: JohnT.. of Jackson, Mich.: Charles H. : William D., a physician of
Pemberville, and Claren E. Our subject was reared in Clinton Township, this
county, until eighteen years of age, and was educated at Republic Academy
and Heidelberg College. In 1858 he located in Fostoria, where he taught
school until the In-eaking out of* the late war of the Rebellion. He enlisted in
Company H. Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, August 1 5, 1861 , and Sep-
tember i. same year, he was promoted to sergeant, and in May, 1863, to first
sergeant; February 28, 1864, he veteranized in same company and regiment,
and March 10. 1864, was promoted to second lieutenant; August 17, 1864, he
was promoted to first lieutenant for meritorious service at the l:>attle of Picket's
Mill ; at the battle of Nashville he had charge of Companies K and E ; in De-
cember. 1864, he was promoted to captain. He participated in all the engage-
ments in which his regiment took part, was wounded at the battle of Stone
River, and twice during the Atlanta campaign. He was honorably discharged
fi-om the service, December 81, 1865, at Columbiis, Ohio. In 1866 he em-
barked in the hardware business, in Fostoria, with John A. Bradner, Math
wliom he was connected about a year. He then became associated with his
bi-oth(^r John T. for five years, after which he conducted the business alone up
to the fall of 1888. when C. L. Powell became associated in business with him
under the firm name of Powell & Stewart. Mr. Stewart was married, October
8, 1866, to Roxana. daughter of John C. and Artemesia (Mason) DeWitt, who
were among the pioneers of this county, where they settled in 1835. The issue
of this union was five children: Frank D., Lee R., Homer Y., Jesse C. and
Victor W. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart and their eldest son are members of the
Presbyterian Church, in which he has been an elder for many years. He is a
F. & A. M., and a member of the G. A. R. Post at Fostoria, serving as com-
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 929
raander of the latter at the present time. Mr. Stewart has been mayor of
Fostoria one term, and trustee and member of the executive committee of Fos-
toria Academy since its organization. Politically he is a Republican.
ISAAC STrLTZ. fanner, P. O. Fostoria. was Ijorn in Frederick County.
Md., August 29, 1806; son of James and Polly (Wilson) Stultz. He was
reared and educated in his native county, and there served a four years' ap-
prenticeship to the tanner's trade. In 1834 he came to Ohio and located in
Tiffin, where he followed his trade and farming up to 1845, when he moved to
Loudon Township, and in 1868 to the farm he now owns and occupies. He
was man-ied, April 12, 1837, to Mai-tha, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth
(Miller) Daly, of Tiffin, formerly of Pennsylvania, and who came to Tiffin,
this county, in 1822. By this vinion there were nine children, six of whom
are now living: Mary, Sylvia (INIi-s. Fred Werner). Ella (Mrs. John Dillon),
James, Emma (Mrs. Calvin Frederick) and Isaac. Mr. Stultz has held the
office of township trustee eight terms. In politics he has always been a Re-
publican till last presidential election.
GEORGE H. THOIMPSON, of the firm of Wade & Thompson, proprietors
of the "Hays House," Fostoria, was born in Laona, Chautauqua Co., N. Y.,
April 14, 1856; son of William and Mary A. (Lawton) Thompson. He was
reared and educated in his native county, and is a graduate of Bryant & Strat-
ton's Commercial College, of Buffalo, N. Y. December 30, 1878, he located
in Toledo, Ohio, where he served in the caj^acity of clerk and book-keeper of
the "Island House" for five years. February 25, 1884, he located at Fostoria,
this county, where he served as clerk of the "Hays House" for Wade i*t
Reeves until September 12 of the same year, when he purchased iVIi-. Reeves'
interest in the hotel, which has since been conducted in the name of Wade &
Thompson. Mr. Thompson was manied, Septeml^er 24. 1884. to Emma S.
Malkson, of Topsfield, Maine, while visiting her sister, Mrs. B. O. Hall, of
Toledo, Ohio. The ' ' Hays House ' ' is the only first-class hotel in Fostoria,
and is one of the most popular in noi-thwestern Ohio. Mr. Thompson, who is
the resident partner, thoroughly understands his business, is widely known
among the traveling fi-aternity, and spares no expense to make his guests
feel at home.
JOHN P. WARNER, proprietor of the Livingston Roller-mills, Fostoria,
was born in AVayne County, Ohio, June 19, 1854; son of Ezra B. and Cath-
erine (Ewing) Warner. He was reared and educated in Arcadia, Hancock
Co. , Ohio, where he learned the miller' s trade in his father' s mill. At the
age of eighteen years he came to Fostoria, this county, where he engaged as
head miller with E. J. Cunningham & Co., with whom he remained seven
years. He then leased the mill for three years, and in 1881 bought the mill
with E. J. Padgham, which partnership lasted, twenty months, when he
bought Padgham'^s interest, since which time (1882) he has been sole proprie-
tor.'' This mill was built in 1862, and in July, 1863, Mr. Warner put in all
the latest improvements in machinery, eleven set of rollers, Livingston process,
etc. The mill is run by eighty-horse power engines, and has a capacity of 100
barrels per day. Our subject was married. May 18, 1876, to Ella A. Johnson,
of Fostoria, by whom he has one child — Lida E. Mr. Warner is one of the
enterprising business men of Fostoria. He and his wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, in the Sabbath-school of Avhich he has always
taken an active interest, and has been teacher of the Bible class for several
years. He is a member of the K. of H. Politically he is a Republican.
ALPHEUS weaver, dry goods merchant, Fostoria, was born in Loudon
Township, this county. July 22. 1843, son of Eli and Mary (Dillon) Weaver,
030 BIOGRArHICAL SKETCHES:
who settled in Loudon Township in 1838, where Eli Weaver bought a farm of
120 aca-es, a i:>art of which he cleared and improved, and on which he resided
until his death (his widow afterward married C. L. Reynolds, of Fostoria, and
is now residing in, Eaton County, Mich.). They had five children, of whom
three survive: George, Rachel, wife of Allen Stevens, and Alpheus. Om- sub-
ject was reared in Loudon Township, where he received a common school edu-
cation. At the age of eighteen years, in August. 1801, he enlisted in Com-
pany H, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; veteranized in 1863, in same
company and regiment; was in the battles of Shiloh, Liberty Gap, Chicka-
mau^o-a, Rocky Face, Resaca and Dallas. At the latter place he was wounded
in the right hand, which disabled him fi'om service, and he was transferred to
hospital duty, in which capacity he served one year. He was honorably dis-
charged in November, 1865. In 1866 he embarked in mercantile business at
McComb, Hancock Co. , Ohio, in which he continued about seven months. He
then clerked in a dry goods store, in Fostoria. for seven years, and in the
spring of 1875, with T. D. Adams, Esq., embarked in the drf goods business
at Fostoria, which pai-tnership existed up to March, 1885, when Mr. Adams
sold his intere.st to our subject, who is now sole proprietor and doing a success-
ful business. Mr. Weaver was married, in November, 186 / , to Rachel D. ,
daughter of Robert and Rhoda (Hendrickson) Patterson, of Tiffin, Ohio, and
by her he has f our childi-en : DurantD., Wylie W., Alpheus J. and Ollin T.
INIi-. and Mrs. Weaver are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He
is a member of the K. of H. Politically he is a Democrat.
BENJAMIN WELLS, retired, Fostoria, was born in CaiToll County, Ohio.
November 28, 1825, son^of David and Sarah (White) Wells, who settled in
Peny Township, Wood'Co., Ohio, in 1836, where they lived and died. In
1842 onr subject located in Fostoria, this county, and served an apprentice-
ship of three and a half years at the blacksmith's trade with Joel Hale, Jr.
He then opened a shop for himself, which he carried on for eighteen years,
when he embarked in the livery business, which he followed for twenty years,
when he retired. Mr. Wells was united in marriage, in July. 185(X with Eliza
A. , daughter of Samuel E. and Mary (Fry) Van Dyke, of Hancock County,
Ohio, and by this union had two childi-en: Albert and Samuel E. Mr. Wells
is one of the prominent citizens of Fostoria. Politically he is a Republican.
FREDERICK WERNER, tailor, Fostoria, was born in Kcenigslutter,
Dukedom of Brunswick, Germany, June 23, 1836, son of Henry and Caroline
(Miller) Werner. He was reared and educated in his native country, and there
seiwed a four yeai's' apprenticeship at his trade. When fourteen years of age,
Ms father died, and at the age of eighteen he, with his mother, immigrated to
Axnerica and located at Norwalk. Ohio, where he remained two years; he then
removed to Washington, Mo. (During this time he Vv'orked two years at his
trade as a journeyman, and the balance of the time was in business for him-
self). In 18')0 he located in Fostoria, this county, where he worked at his trade
up to April 19, 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Twenty -first Ohio VohmT
teer Infantry, being the first man enrolled from this place. After serving three
months, he was honorably discharged. August 12, then re-enlisted, August
15, same year, in Company H, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for three
years; was in the battles of Green River, Shiloh, Corinth, Perry ville and
Stone River, was wounded in right thigh and knee at Stone River, and was
honorably discharged on account of disability, August 12, 1863. He then re-
turned to Fostoria, where he worked at tailoring as a journeyman till the
spring of 1879, when he embarked in business on his own account, in which
ho has continued to the present time. Mr. Werner married, September 4,
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 931
1860, Sylvia, daughter of Isaac and Martha (Daley) Stiiltz, of Loudon Town-
f^hip, this county, and by her has five children: William W., Frederick, Elsie,
Charles and Maud. Mr. Werner is a F. & A. M., and a member of the
G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican.
JOHN AVHEALAN, Tiffin, was born in Loudon Township, this county,
x4.pril 26, 1S40, son of John and Miary B. (Swalley) Whealan, the former a
native of Ireland and the latter of Pennsylvania, and who settled in Loudon
Township in 1833, clearing and improving a farm on which John Whealan,
Sr., still resides at the age of eighty-four, being one of the oldest resident
pioneers of the township, and one of the most respected and piiblic spirited
citizens. He gave the land for the site of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, and
liberally of his means toward the erection of the edifice, and also donated the
land for the Catholic Cemetery. To John and Mary B. W^healan were born
six childi'eu: Margaret (wife of Levi Hook), Patrick, W^illiam, John, Sarah
(wife of John Keefe) and Thomas F. (present sheriff of this county). Our sub-
ject was reared in Loudon Township, and was educated in the common schools
and Heidelberg College. He served in the late war of the Rebellion, enlist-
ing August 22, 1SG2, in Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio
Volunteer Infantry; was in the battle of AVinchester, Va., under Gen. Mil-
roy, June 18, 1803. In December, 18G3,. he was accidentally shot in the knee
by a member of his own company; amputation became necessary, and he was
honorably discharged on accoimt of disability in May, 1864. He is a member
of the Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
JOHN E. WILKISON, banker, Fostoria, was born in Perrysburg, Ohio,
Septem})er 12, 1842, son of David and Caroline M. (Forbes) Wilkison, natives
of New York. David Wilkison was a mariner, sailing the lakes fi-om 1812 to
1852, and was a popular steamboat captain of his day. In 1817 he was in
command of the " Black Snake "; in 1818 he was in command of the schooner
" Pilot, " and later commanded the schooners " Mary Jane, " " President, "
"Superior," "Genevieve" and "Eagle." From 1835 to 1845 he was com-
mander of the steamer "Commodore Perry," after which he took command
of the steamer " Superior," which he ran until the close of navigation in 1852,
when he retired to his farm near Perrysburg. David Wilkison was born in
Warre^ County, N. Y. , February 23, 1800, and settled in the Maumee Valley in
1815; married, November 27, 1827, Caroline M., daughter of John Forbes, of
Poi-t Lawrence, Ohio, and settled in Perrysbm-g in 1828. He reared a family
of five children: William D., a resident of Toledo; Emeline H., wife of
Isaac P. Thompson, residing in Periysburg ; Sarah H., wife of H. H. Dodge,
of Perrysburg; John E. ; Caroline 'M., wife of E. W. Miirray, of Bowling
Green. Capt. Wilkison died in Perrysburg September 8, 1873. Our subject
was reared and educated in his native town. In 1857 he went on the lake as
clerk and wheelman of the propeller "Ogonto " for one year. In 1858-59 he
sailed the propeller " Orontes " as wheelman and watchman, and in 1860
held the same position on the propeller " Eclipse." In April, 1861, at
the first call of President Lincoln for troops, he enlisted in the three months'
service, and was honorably discharged in August, 1861, after which he served
as clerk in the auditor' s and treasurer' s office of Wood County, Ohio, up to
1863. March 1, 1863, Mr. Wilkison located in Fostoria, this county, where
he took the position of book-keeper in the store of Foster, Olmsted & Co.,
acting in that cai^acity up to 1871. In 1867 the banking house of Foster &
Co. was formed, and Mr. Wilkison has had charge of the same up to the pres-
ent time, being admitted as partner in 1871. He was married, October 29,
1863, to Caroline A. , daughter of George A. and Augusta (Peck) Powers,
932 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
of Perrysburg. Ohio, former formerly from New York State, latter formerly
from Coanectacut. Eight childi-en blessed this union, of whom fonr survive:
Mary A.. Lucy P.. John E., Jr. and Fred F. Mr. and Mrs. Wilkison are
members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he has been a ruling elder since
1870, and superintendent of the Sabbath -school since 1864:. He is a i^romi-
nent member of the G. A. R. ; has been a member of the board of education
and treasmer of the same for live years. Politically he is a stanch Republican.
AMOS S. WILLIAMS, physician, Fostoria, was born in Fairfield County,
Ohio, December 19. 1823, son of George and Elsie (Swaysie) Williams, pio-
neers of that county. His maternal grandfather, David Swaysie, a native of
Maryland, was a pioneer of Elm Flats, Fan-field County, and one of the first
judo-es of the circuit court of that county. Our subject was reared in Fairfield
and^'Perry Counties, and received his early education in the common schools.
In 1844 he began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. William Swaysie,
of New SalemrOhio. He entered the Western Reserve College, Cleveland, Ohio,
in 1849, graduating therefrom in 1851, and in the spring of that year located in
West Independence, Hancock Co. . Ohio, where he was in active practice up to
the fall of 1867, when he located in Fostoria, where he has practiced his pro-
fession to the present time. The Doctor was married, in June, 1853, to Sarah
R. McGowan. of Somerset, Perry Co. , Ohio, and by this union has had nine
children, of whom but two survive: Linnaeus G. and John H. (the former is a
graduate of the medical department of Wooster University, Cleveland, Ohio, of
the class of 1874-75, and has been engaged in the practice of medicine with
our subject since 1877). Dr. Williams is a member of the State, County,
Northwestern and American Medical Associations. Politically he is a Repub-
lican. He and his wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Chui-ch.
LINN^US G. WILLIAMS, physician, Fostoria, was born in West In-
dependence, Hancock Co., Ohio, October 23, 1855, son of Amos S. and Sarah
R. (McGowan) Williams. He received his early education in West Indepen-
dence and Fostoria high schools; entered the medical department of Wooster
University. Cleveland, Ohio, in 1873, graduating therefrom in the class of
1874-75. He afterward attended a special course of three years at the Miami
Medical College, of Cincinnati, under the tutelage of Prof. E. Williams, ocu-
list and aurist, receiving his diploma in 1880, and immediately began the
practice of his profession in Fostoria, where he is now located. Dr. Linnseus
G. Williams makes a specialty of eye and ear diseases. He was united in mar-
riage, December 16, 1880, with Nellie B., daughter of John F. and Elizabeth
(Swigart) Heilman, of Fostoria. He is a member of the State, County and
Northwestern Societies. Politically he is a Republican.
ANDREW J. WILSON, grocer, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria, this
county, August 27, 1851, son of John and Eliza (Bucher) Wilson, the former a
native of New York, and the latter of Pennsylvania; they came to^ Seneca
County, Ohio, in 1843, and Mr. Wilson operated a saw-mill up to 1882 : both
are residents of Fostoria at the present time. They reared a family of nine
children: Charles W. (deceased), Robert C. (deceased), Andrew J., Sylvester
(deceased), Horace G. (deceased), William H., Lora, Myra and Mollie. Our
subject, who was reared and educated in Fostoria, at the age of eighteen began
to work at the plasterer's trade, which occupation he followed for six years,
prior to which he had worked in a grocery and bakery six years. In 1877 he
embarked in the grocery business in company with his brother, Robert C. , the
partnership existing three years. In 1880 he purchased his brother's interest
and has since conducted the business successfully being now one of the leading
grocers in Fostoria. He moved into his present quarters in April, 1885, and
LOUDON TOWNSHIP. 933
has one of the neatest and most complete stores of the kind in the city. Mr.
Wilson was married, January 11, 1880, to Belle, daughter of Isaac Stumbaugh.
of Wood County. Ohio, by whom he has two children: HariyL. and Lou. Polit-
ically he is a Republican.
LEVI WOOSTER, clerk, Fostoria, was born in West Independence.
Hancock Co.. Ohio, October 12, 1855, son of Matthias and Catherine (Bower)
Wooster. His father, who was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, April 1/,
1809, immigrated to America in 1833, and located in Allegheny County,
Penn.. where he worked at the shoe-maker s trade up to 1838, when he removed
to Stark County, Ohio, and there remained for seven years; in 1S45 he located
in Big Lick Township, Hancock Co. , Ohio, and in 1855 settled in West Inde-
pendence, where he resided until his death ; he died May 24, 1884, in his sev-
enty-sixth year. His wife, also a native of Wui-temberg. Germany, died July
8, 1875, in her sixty-second year. They had ten children, of whom six svir-
vive: Catherine, wife of Henry Ernest; Mary, wife of Peny AVeaks; Eliza,
wife of W^illiam Lawhead; George; Margaret, wife of August Ruch; and Levi.
Our subject was reared and educated in AVest Independence, Ohio, and at the
age of sixteen came to Fostoria and entered tjie employ of A. Scharf, with
whom he remained for several years. In the spring of 1875 he entered the
employ of AA'eaver & Adams, with whom he remained until the firm dissolved
in the spring of 1885, when he engaged as clerk in the boot and shoe store of
T. D. Adams, which position he still occupies. ]VIi\ Wooster was married,
October 28, 1879, to Amanda, daughter of Andrew and Sarah (Bare) Emerine,
of Fostoria, this county, and by this union there is one child. Laila. Mr. and
Mrs. Wooster are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he
is a Democrat.
GEORGE E. YARGER, sample and billiard parlor. Fostoria, was born in
Thompson Township, this county, November 3, 1851, son of Benevel and Het-
tie (Campbell) Yarger, natives of Pennsylvania, theformerof German descent,
the latter of Scotch parentage. Benevel Yarger, a tailor by occupation, located
at Flat Rock, this county, in 1851, and there worked at his trade until 1861,
when he removed to Carey, Ohio, and in 1866 to Wanatah, Laporte Co. , Ind. ,
where he now resides. Of a family of twelve children om- subject is the only
one residing in this county. He was educated in the common schools, and
Bryant & Stratton's Business College at Chicago. He left home when seven-
teen years of age, and after a varied life, in which he engaged in several busi-
ness ventui-es in different sections of the county, he located in Fostoria in June,
1881. Mr. Yarger was married, July 17, 1881, to Ellen, daughter of Henry
and Anna Maraches, of Big Spring Township, this county. Her parents,
natives of Germany, settled in Big Spring Township in 1832. Mrs. Yarger is
a member of the Catholic Chm-ch. In October, 1882, Mr. Yarger embarked in
his present business. He is an affable, agreeable gentleman, and his genial,
pleasant manner has won him hosts of friends. Politically he is a Democrat.
934 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP.
FRANCIS ABBOTT, farmer, P. O. Old Fort, is a native of Oneida Co. ,
N. Y., born in 1816, son of Moses and Sarah P. (Snow) Abbott (both de-
ceased), natives of Massachusetts, of English descent, and who moved fost to
New York State and thence to Ohio, in 1818, settling in Huron County: four
years later they came to Clinton Township, this county, purchased land at the
Government sales and cleared and improved same; they reared a family of six
children: Theodocia, Lorenzo, Jonathan, Eliza. Henry and Francis. Our
subject was married in Clinton Township, this county, to Miss Lydia M. In-
graham, a native of that township, daughter of Agreen and Lydia Ingraham
(both now deceased), early settlers in this county, and who had a family of
six children of whom only two now survive. ^Ir. and IVIi-s. Abbott are the
parents of six children, four living: Abram L., Aurenia M., Francis E. and
Ida A. ; Florence A. and Emma E. are deceased. Mr. Abbott began at the
bottom round of the ladder of wealth, having but small means. He has im-
proved many broad acres of land, and by industry and economy has .accumu-
lated, and now owns nearly 600 acres of the best lands the State affords. He
was an old time Whig; is now a stanch Republican.
A. L. ABBOTT, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, was born in Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, February 11, 1847, son of Francis and Lydia M. (Ingra-
ham) Abbott. He was reared a farmer and still follows agricultural pursuits.
He was married. May 31, 1870, to Miss Calena Titus, of Pleasant Township,
this county, where she was born in January, 1847, daughter of R. R. and
Elvira S. (Clark) Titus. To the union of our subject and wife were born foui-
childi-en: Harvey F. (deceased), Clark L., Fli)ra (deceased) and Elvira. Mr.
Abbott has served his township in some of its offices, filling the position of
clerk three years and justice of the peace three years. He gives his influence
with the Republican party.
MOSES ABBOTT (deceased) was born in Pleasant Township, this county,
December 1, 1837, and reared in the village of Fort Seneca. He enlisted in
the late civil war, August 12, 1861, and, at the organization of Company D,
Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, wqs commissioned second
lieutenant, in which capacity he served until he was honorably discharged, in
October, 1863. He re-enlisted, August 29, 1864, and was appointed captain
of Company C, One Hundred and Eightieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infan-
try, in which he served until the close of the war. He then returned home
and opened up a diy goods and general variety store in Fort Seneca, Ohio,
which lie conducted until 1869, after which time he gave his attention to gen-
eral farming, occupying the old home farm. Mr. Abbott served eight years in
the capacity of township clerk. He served as land appraiser in 1880. He
was married, December 8, 1870, to Miss Emma J. Beck, a resident of
Pleasant Township, where she was born, August 29, 1850, daughter of Gahort
and Sarah (Remby) Beck, who came from Pennsylvania to this county in an
early day. Mr. and Mrs. Abbott were the parents of one son and one daugh-
ter: Charles M. and Pearl E. Our subject's j)arents, Lorenzo and Jennette
(Sherwood) Abbott, were natives of Massachusetts and New Jersey, respect-
ively, and came with their parents to this county about 1821 or 1822. where
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 935
they were married in 1825; they had a family of nine chikiren. Lorenzo
Abbott, Sr., followed farming in early life; from 1S3G to 1871 he engaged in
merchandising at Foit Seneca. He served six years as county commissioner,
twenty-five years as township treasurer, eighteen years as justice of the peace.
Politically he was a Whig and a Republican. He died September 19, 1876,
aged seventy-four years, and his widow March 15, 1877, aged sixty-seven
years. Moses Abbott, the subject of this sketch, died, May 15, 1885, aged
forty- seven years five months and fourteen days.
DAVID B. ANDERS, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born September
20, 1839, in Bloom Township, this county, son of William H. and Sarah A.
(King) Anders, natives of Virginia and Maryland, respectively, and who were
among the first settlers in this county, where Mrs. Anders died in 1853. The
father now resides in La Crosse County, Wis. They were the parents of three
sons: Thomas J., an attorney in Washington Territory; David B., and Igna-'
tus, who was wounded and died in the late war. David B. also served ai-out
three years in Company H, One Hundi-ed and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer
Infantry; was struck by a minie ball in the hip in the battle at Murfreesboro
in 1802. He returned home June 20, 1805. Our subject was married, xVugust
20, 1802, to Miss Phoebe A. Clark, a native resident of this township, and
daughter of Pinckney and Edatha (Hubbard) Clark, former born in Tompkins
County, N. Y., Ajiril 22, 1807, and the latter born November 18, 1802, in
Windham County, same State, of English descent; they were married in
Lehigh County, N. Y. , Seijtember 25, 1832, and were the parents of three chil dren :
Mary E. , David H. and Phoebe A. INIi'. and Mrs. Clark came to Pleasant
Township, this county, in 1834, where they still reside with the subject of this
sketch. To Mr. and' Mrs. Anders were born two sons: Charles I. and Thomas
O. Mr. and Mrs. Anders have now over 200 acres of land, which they have
improved in various ways. They are both faithful members of the U. B.
Chiu'ch. Politically Mr. Anders is a Republican.
JOHN G. BONNELL, farmer, P. O. Watson, is a native of Lycoming
County, Penn., born April 10, 1834, son of William and Anna M. (Buyter)
Bonnell, with whom he came to this county in 1838. He was married in March,
1857, to Miss Catharine E. Gittinger, a resident of Adams Township, this
county, born in Frederick County, Md. , daughter of Daniel and Jane (Dud-
row) Gittinger, who came from Maryland to the State of Ohio in an early day
and settled in this county. Both are now deceased. To our subject and wife
were born four children": Anna A., Margaret J., George R. and Frederick
(latter deceased). Mr. Bonnell followed the carpenter's trade for several
years, but since 1859 has been engaged in general agriculture. He purchased
and improved 110 acres of good land in Pleasant Township, on which he now
resides. For about three years during the late war of the Rebellion he was a
member of Company I, One Hundi-ed and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry. He has served his township in office of trustee for two years. In pol-
itics he is a stanch Republican.
JAMES P. BONNELL, farmer, P. O. Watson, a son of William and
Anna M. (Buyter) Bonnell, was born in Pleasant Township, this county,
November 19, 1844. He was reared on the farm, and has always followed
agricultural pursuits. He was married, November 20, 1808, to Elnora Egbert,
a resident of Pleasant Township, born in Adams Township August 30, 1840, a
daughter of John D. and Ary A. (Griffin) Egbert, early settlers of this county,
and' who still reside in Pleasant Township. .To our subject and wife have been
born five children: William E., Arnetta M., John A., James G. and Richard
L. , all livino- but James G. In 1882 Mr. Bonnell purchased land in Pleasant
936 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Township, this county, on which he now resides. He served during- the late-
war of the Rebellion as a member of Company C, One Hundred and Sixty-
foui-th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, putting in full term of service with
the regiment. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Chixrch. Politically he is a solid Republican.
ALFRED S. BONNELL, farmer, P. O. Watson, a son of William and
Anna M. (Buyter) Bonnell, was born in Pleasant Township, this county, Jan-
uary 13, 1847. He was reared a farmer, an occupation he still follows. He^
was\mited in marriage, May (), 1809, w^ith Miss EmmaNorris, of Scipio Town-
ship, this county, where she was born December 11, 1852, daughter of Lott
and Lurana (Todd) Norris, who, in a very early day, emigrated from Maryland
to this county, where they reared a large family, of whom Mrs. Bonnell is the
youngest. To Mr. and Mrs. Bonnell were born four children: Estella E. (de-
ceased), Nellie M.. Charles A and Bertha B. (latter deceased). Mrs. Bonnell
is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Bonnell is a stanch Rex)ublican in
politics. His parents, natives of Lycoming County and Philadelphia, Penn. .
respectively, were married in Lycoming County, Penn. , thence came to Ohio
and settled in Pleasant Township, this county,' in May, 1838. and here reared
their family of eight childi-en: Catherine A., John G., Mary E., Jacob T., Mar-
garet J., Richard W., James P. and Alfred S., all living but Mary E. and
Richard W. The father died April 15, 1885, the mother still resides on the
homestead farm with her daughter and son-in-law, Margaret J. and Daniel
Collow, who were married December 27, 1863, and are the parents of two
daughters: Maggie E. and Minnie A.
MICHAEL BOROUGH, farmer. P. O. Fort Seneca, was born in Sandusky
Coxmty, Ohio, in 1836. son of Abraham and Sarah (Betts) Borough, natives of
Pennsylvania, and who immigrated to Ohio in a very early day with their par-
ents, who settled first in Wayne County, Ohio, whence the two families came to
Sandusky County and later to this county. Our subject's parents were mar-
ried in Wayne County, Ohio, and in 1830 came to Sandusky County, where
they reared a family of ten children: John. Samuel, Michael. Levi, Henry,
Sarah, Mary, Amanda, Tillie and Daniel, all living but Levi and Sarah. The
mother died in 1883, the father now resides in Fostoria, this county. Om- sub-
ject has followed farming all through life. He was married. December 5, 186J ,
to Miss Mary A. Oswald, of Sandusky County. Ohio, where she was born in
1840, daughter of Henry and Christena (Workley) Oswald (both now deceased),
natives of Germany, and who came to America while quite young, settling in
New York State, where they grew up and were married, and about 1830 came
to Sandusky County. Ohio, via overland route, and camping out and living in
their wagons until they erected a log-cabin. Here their family of five childi-en
were born: Catharine" (deceased), Christena (deceased), Hemy. Mary A. and
Caroline. Mr. Borough moved to this county and settled in Pleasant Town-
ship in 1868. To our subject and wife were born three children: William H.,
Jennie M. and Lola B. The family were formerly members of the United
"Brethren Church but are now Methodists. Mr. Borough being officially con-
nected with same. He has served in some of the township offices of trust.
JOSEPH R. DROWN, farmer, P. O. Watson, was born in Erie County,
Penn. , son of Solomon and Fannie (Dennis) Drown, natives of New Hampshire
and Maine, respectively, and who were married in New York State, whence
they emigrated to Adams Township, this county, in January. 1837; here they
reared their family of ten children: Dennis, Charlotta. Dewit C. James B..
Rebecca, Mary A.', Lucy J.. Joseph R., Henry H. and Elvira, all living but
Marv A. and Charlotta. ' The father died in October, 1857, the mother August
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 937
22. 1880. Our subject was married, February 9, 1864, to Mary J. Bowersox.
of Pleasant Township, this county, daughter of Jacob and Siisan (Gittinger;
Bowersox, natives of and married in Frederick County, Md. . and who moved
to Pleasant Towns'iin in 1838; they were the parents of six children: Margaret,
John C, Mary J.. AVilliam H.. Clara and Edith. The fii'st wife of Mr. Bow-
ersox. Susan, died February 13, 1877: he and his second wife reside in Pleasant
Township : he has been an active politician (Republican) ; is an elder and deacon
in the Reformed Church, and his first wife Avas also a j^rominent member of
same. To our subject and wife have been born one son and two daughters:
Charles C, born May 19, 1806; Zua B., born June 23, 1868; and Mary Al-
berta, born May 16, 1879. Mr. Drown taught school in his earlier life. He
served a short time in the late war of the Rebellion as a member of Company
H, One Himdred and Sixty-foiu'th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He
inherited sixty-three acres of land from his father's estate, to which he has
added until now he has 216 acres. He has served in some of the township
offices. Politicallv he is a Republican.
LORENZO A.DUMOND, farmer, P.O. Old Fort, was born in Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, in 1834: son of Isaac I. and Sophia (Dukes) Dumond, na-
tives of New York and Delaware States, respectively, and who came with their
parents to this coimty in 1820, were married in Pleasant Township in 1823,
and reared a family of five children: Catharine. Anna, Washington, Andrew
and Lorenzo A. All reside in Iowa but Catharine (deceased) and Lorenzo A.
Isaac I. Dumond and wife were prominent members of the Baptist Church for
nearly fifty years; were very friendly to the Indians, and often favored by
them: he was a strong abolitionist and leading citizen; they assisted to clear up
many acres of land in this county, and now rest in the churchyard in sight of
the old home; he died in 1880, his widow in 1881. Oui- subject was married,
December 2, 185o, to Miss Clemenzey Mclntire, a resident of Pleasant Town-
ship, born in Wayne County, Ohio, September 17, 1832, daughter of Smith
and Catharine (Larkins) Mclntire, early settlers in this county. To the union
of our subject and wife have been born two daughters and one son: Anna
J., wife of James Bastian (have two children: Emmet and Earl); Catharine
S., wife of Jacob Hade (have two childi-en: Charles and Blanche), and Andrew
Y. L. A. Dumond owns the old homestead. He has taken to raise a little
girl by the name of Bertha Valandingham, daughter of Clement L. Valanding-
ham, nephew of Hon. Clement L. and Jane (Heminger) Valandingham, born
in Green Spring, Seneca Co. . Ohio. Mrs. Dumond is a member of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church.
JOHN D. EGBERT, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Franklin Comity,
Ohio, October 1, 1819; son of Uriah and Susannah (Williams) Egbert, natives
of New Jersey and Maryland, respectively, married in Fairfield County, Ohio,
July 6, 1815, and who removed to Franklin County. Ohio, where they remained
a few years, coming in 1822 to Pleasant Township, this covmty. They had
thirteen children: Mary. Jeremiah W., JohnD., Sarah, Thomas W., Eliza,
Nancy (deceased), Jacob (deceased), Jesse S., Susan, Andrew J., Persilla and
"Uriah (latter deceased). The mother died May 13, 1875, the father October
11, 1876. Our subject was man-ied. October 26, 1840, to Miss Ary Ann
Griffin, of Adams Township, this county, born in Berkeley County, Va., Oc-
tober 13, 1824. daughter of Edward D. and Mary (Blue) Griffin, natives of
Virginia, and who were married in Berkeley Coimty, that State, where Mrs.
Griffin died, July 3, 1826. Mr. Griffin then came with his daughter (Ary Ann)
to this coimty in 1831, settling in Adams Township, where he was married, in
1851, to Mrs. Colena (Titus) Church, and to this union was born one child —
93S BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Mary E., now the wife of William Drinkwater. of Adams Township, this coun-
ty. Mr.' Griffin died September 27, 1876. and his widow some time later. To
our subject and wife were born nine children, of Avhom Edward CI. . Mary E. ,
Susannah M., Clara M., Frances A., Duglas A. and HatiL I., are living, and
Uriah and Jesse are deceased. Mrs. Egbert is a member of the Methodist
Church. Mr. Egbert is a Democrat in politics. He has improved many acres
of land. His brother, Jeremiah W.. was married, April 80, 1840. to Miss
Lucy A. Rule, and they had eight childi-en: Norman D.. Newton T.. Sarah
J.. Andorah, Mary E., John A.. Isaac R. and Lillie: all living but Sarah.
CHARLES FLUMERFELT. farmer, P. O. Old Fort, son of Daniel V.
and Melinda (Littler) Flumerfelt. was born in Pleasant Township, this coimty,
January 28, 1850, and has always resided upon the home farm, of which he is
now the owner. He has never married. Mr. Flumerfelt has made many
valuable improvements upon his farm, which consists of 147 acres. He has
served his township in some of its offices : is an ardent and prominent advocate
of the principles of the Democratic party. He was a candidate in 188H for the
nomination of representative from this county. Although he resides in a Re-
publican township he has several times carried quite a majority of all the votes
cast. He attended lectures in 1880 and 1882 in the Ohio State rniversity at
Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Flumerfelt takes great interest in the general improve-
ment of agricultiire in all its branches.
PHILIP H. FRY, retired farmer. P. O. Bettsville. is a native of Westfall,
Prussia, born August 29, 1805, a son of Henry and Anna (Haar) Fry. natives
of same place, where they remained until their death, latter dying in 1813,
former in 1840. Our subjek is the third in a family of five children- four boys
and one girl — of whom only two sm-vive: Philip H. and George, who resides
in Sandusky County. Ohio!^ At the age of fourteen our subject was bound
out as an apprentice to learn the carpenter trade, and during the four years he
was thus engaged he attended night school each winter, by which means he
acquired most of his education. He completed his course of study during his
service in the regular army, which he joined at the age of twenty-three years
serving four years. In 1838 he emigrated to America, arriving in Baltimore
June 3, remaining a few months, and from there he pressed forward and
an-ived in Tiffin. Ohio. April (> of the following year, and during his stay
there he helped hcAV oiit the timbers for the first court house in Seneca County.
He built the first house he ever erected in America himself in Fostoria,
Ohio; was engaged in building churches, houses, bridges, etc., in Seneca and
Sandusk}^ Counties up to the time of his marriage, which event was solemnized
April 15, 1838, the bride being Miss Elizabeth King. She was born in Peny
County, Ohio, January 20, 1817, a daughter of Jacob and Catharine (Moyer)
King. *the former a native of Virginia, the latter of Pennsylvania, and who
were married in Perry County, Ohio, in 1810, whence they moved to Sandusky
County, remaining there until the death of Mr. King, which occurred April 7,
1848; "his widow remained on the old home some years, but for several^ years
previous to her death lived with her childi-en. She departed this life in Seneca
County, Ohio, at our subject's residence. January 22, 1881. Mr. and Mrs.
King were the parents of eight children, six living: Elizabeth (our subject" s
wife), Philip, John, George C, Lusindy( wife of Thomas Durban), and Cath-
arine (wife of R. S. Leese). The year Mr. and IVIi's. Fry were married they
settled on the farm they now live on, and there reared a family of four chil-
dren: Orvin J., born April 11. 188V): Francis J., born October 14, 1840;
Sarah J., born Mav 17, 1848. wife of Michel Smith, and Hemy P.. born
March 27. 1846. Mr. Frv followed his trade until 1854. when he engaged in
PLEASANT TOAVNSHir. • 93!;^
farming and cheese- making until abont 1870. since when he has been living a
retired life. He owns 520 acres of well-improved land. He and his wife are
consistent members of the Reformed Church, he joining while in the old coun-
try in 1822, and his wife in 1834. He has held out for the Democratic party
all his life.
WILLIAM H. GROA'E, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, a native of Frederick
County, Md, was born June 23, 1832, and came to Pleasant Township, this
county, in 1835. with his parents. Stephen and Christiana (Sheels) Grove, of
German and Scotch descent respectively, and who were born and married in
Fi-ederick County, Md. After their removal to Ohio they gave their time to clear-
ing and improving land and to agricultural pursuits. They were the' parents of
ten children, of whom five siirvive : William H. . James M. , Stephen H. .
Amanda A. and Martha J. Stephen Grove died in 1876, and his widow in 1877.
Oui- subject was reared on a farm, and in 1859 jnirchased land in Adams Town-
ship, this county, where he lived for a few years, but finally returned to Pleas-
sant Township, where he still resides, and now owns 160 acres of well-improved
land, the result of his own industry and economy. He was married. January
10, 1864, to Miss Martha Cunningham, of Sandusky County. Ohio, born in
that county, daughter of Hugh and Sarah (Stephenson) 'Cunningham, natives
of Ireland and early settlers of Sandusky County, where they still reside. To
Mr. and Mrs. Grove were born eight children: Emma, Sarah. Minnie, Mary
and Hugh living, and Laura. Edwin and Martha deceased. Mr. Grove has
served in some of the public offices of Adams and Pleasant Townships.
STEPHEN GROVE, farmer. P. O. Green Spring, a son of Stephen and
Christiana (Sheels) Grove, was born in Pleasant Township, this county. March
7. 1841. He was united in marriage, in October, 1879, with Miss Martha
Hemminger. a resident of Pleasant Township and a native of the county. Her
parents, Lewis and Caroline Hemminger still reside in Pleasant Township,
this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Grove was born. November 17, 1880, one son.
Frederick H. Our subject has now 1()0 acres of land, mostly well -improved,
and under a good state of cultivation. He is an industrious and enterprising
citizen. Politically he is a stanch Republican.
JOHN A. HOOVER, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, was born in Pleasant
Township, this county, September 16, 1839; son of Joseph and Catherine
(Gulmire) Hoover. He learned and for a few years followed the carpenter's
trade. He enlisted in defense of his country, in the late war of the Rebellion,
in Company K, One Hundred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
serving about three years; was wounded in the breast by a shell at the Battle
of Stone River; was at one time a prisoner of war. but was soon after recap-
ttu-ed. After his discharge he returned home and worked at his trade for a
short time, and after operating a sash and door factory in Kosciusko County.
Ind.. for a year and a half, returned to this county and purchased, and. for
about twelve years, operated a saw-mill near Bettsville. He subsequently
sold this mill and, in 1882, purchased the farm in Pleasant Township, this
county, which he now occupies. Our subject was married. May 12, 1870,
to Miss Fanny Palmer, of Liberty Townshij). this county, where she was born
February 22, 1851, daughter of Benjamin and Lovina (Walsh) Palmer, who
came from Maryland and settled in Pleasant Township, this county, in an early
day. To Mr. and Mrs. Hoover were born five childi-en: Laura E., Ella L.,
Frank W.. John A. and Fannie E. Mr. and Mrs. Hoover are members of the
United Brethren Church. Politically he is a Republican.
SAlVnJEL V. HUMES, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, a native of Cham-
paign County, Ohio, was born February 22. 1821; son of William and Chris-
940 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
tina (Plaiik) Humes, natives of Virginia, who came to Ohio about 1812 and
settled in Champaign Coimty. where William Humes died. They were parents
of two sons: William and Samuel Y. The widow of William Humes subse-
quently moved to Pickaway County, Ohio, and there married William Montgom-
ery, a native of Ireland, and the same year (1824) the entire family removed
to* Clinton Township, this county, where Mr. Montgomery kept hotel for about
ten years, and in 1834 came to Pleasant Township, where Mr. Montgomery
died shortly after. He was the father of three children: William. Isabelle
and Meltin M His widow died in 1873. Our subject had but limited educa-
tional advantages, giving most of his time to clearing land and working the
home farm. He was married, January 5, 1843, to Miss Catharine Dumond, a
native resident of Pleasant Township, this county, born May 26, 1 824, daugh-
ter of Isaac I. and Sophia (Dukes) Dumond, natives of New York and Dela-
ware, respectively, and who came to Pleasant Township, this county, about
1821; their five childi-en. all born in Pleasant Township, are Catharine, Anna.
Washington, Andrew and Lorenzo. The father and mother passed to their
final resting place several years since. To the union of our subject and wife
were born four sons and two daughters: Isaac W., Augusta A.. Andrew Y.,
Clara S.. Amos L. and Orphus G., all married except Orphus G., and there
are ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Humes died March 17,
1873. She was a member of the Ba^^tist Church. About 1848 Mr. Humes
purchased his farm which he cleared, and added to until now he has 117 acres.
He is a member of the Baptist Church. He has served in many of the town-
ship offices, such as trustee, justice of the peace, etc. He was a Eepublican
in politics prior to the late war, since when he has been a Democrat.
ORSON JOPP, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born March 20, 1855,
in Pleasant Township, this county; son of Luther S. and Emeline (Maddison)
Jopp (both now deceased), who were the parents of two childi-en: Orson and
Lellie. Our subject's grandfather, Daniel H. Jopp, a native of Winsted,
Conn., born in 1791, immigrated to Ohio at the early age of thirteen years,
remained in Cleveland for a few years, and then removed to Tompkins County,
N. Y., where he was married, in December, 1811, to Maiy Dumond, who was
born in that coxmty, September 11, 1793, where also nine of their children
were born. In 1831 they immigrated to Ohio and settled in Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, whei-e two other childi-en were born; the children are all now
living but three. Daniel H. Jopp was a furrier in early life, for a number of
years followed blacksmithing, and after coming here built a saw-mill and a
carding-mill, which he operated for several years, and also assisted in the gov-
ernment survey of the Western Reserve; he died in 1849 and his widow in
1870. Om- subject, who now occupies his father's old homestead, was mar-
ried, September 14. 1870, to Miss Florence* Myers, a native of Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, born March 18, 1857, daughter of John and Eunice (Walker)
Myers, residents of Pleasant Township. To our subject and wife have been
l>orn two children: Blanche and Mabel. In politics he is a Republican.
PHILIP KING, farmer. P. O. Old Fort, was born in Jackson Township,
Perry Co., Ohio. March 20, 1819, son of Jacob and Catharine (Moyer)
King, the former born in 1792 in Yirginia, the latter in 1797 in Pennsylvania;
they were married in Perry County, Ohio, in 1810, and settled in Sandusky
County in 1832, where Jacob King died in 1848; his widow died in Pleasant
Township, this county. They had a family of eight children, six of whom
are now living: Elizabeth, Philip, John, George, Lucinda and Catharine;
Ylargaret and Sarah are deceased. Our subject's father had nine brotherfi
and sisters, of whom none survive: their father. John King, came fi'om Ger-
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 941
many in 1789, and settled in Virginia, but died in Perry County. Ohio, in
1825. Om- subject was married, September '24, 1848, to IMi'ss Angeline Sheets,
a resident of Pleasant Township, this county, born in Frederick County, Md. ,
July 3. 1826. daughter of Greenberry and Marsella (Sheets) Sheets, natives of
Maryland, who came to this county in 1881, and who had five childi-en: An-
geline, Edwin (deceased), Charles, Elizabeth (deceased) and Thomas. Mr.
Sheets was born January 22, 1811. and died April 1, 1854; Mrs. Sheets was
born in 1803, and died June 4, 1877. Mrs. King's grandfather was Charles
Sheets. The subject of this sketch is the father of four children: Marsella,
born April 23, 1848; George K.. born September 10, 1851; AlmiraK., born
November 16. 1856; and Jacob G., born April 29, 1858; all in this county ex-
cept Marsella, who resides in Henry County. Mrs. King died July 5. 1885;
she was a member of the Reformed Church. Mr. King is a Greenbacker in
politics, and has served in several of the township offices of trust. He is a
member of the Reformed Church.
GEORGE P. KING, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, a native of Sandusky
County, Ohio, born September 10. 1851, is a son of Philip and Ano-eline
(Sheets) King, who now reside in Pleasant Township, this county, where om-
subject was reared, and in 1880 purchased the land upon which he now resides,
and is improving in various ways. He was man-ied, in December. 1864, to
Flora Keenan. of Sandusky County, Ohio, born April 24, 1854, in Lucas
County, Ohio, daughter of Peter and Nancy (McCullough) Keenan, natives of
Fairfield County, Ohio, and who removed with their parents, in an early day,
to Sandusky Comity, where they were married in 1846, moving same year lo
Carey. "Wyandot Co., Ohio, and thence, in 1851, to Lucas County, Ohio,
where Mr. Keenan died in 1859 and his widow in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Keenan
were parents of six children, of Avhom Thomas M., Flora and James are liv-
ing, and Millie, Mary and William are deceased. To IVIi-. and Mrs. King were
l)orn three children: Ralph P., Dollie, and an infant son (deceased). Mr.
King is a live, energetic citizen, and an ardent advocate of the principles of the
Democratic party.
SARAH KING, P. O. Fort Seneca, is a native of Loudon County, Va. ,
born February 18, 1809, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Sands) Robertson,
who were married in Virginia and were the parents of seven childi'en. Mr.
Robertson was a native of Scotland, but immigrated to America with his par-
ents in a very early day, and settled in Virginia, where he died; his widow
was a native of Virginia, but removed after the death of her husband to this
county in about 1840, bringing her children, of whom only three now survive:
Tamar. Helah and Sarah. Mrs. Robertson departed this life several years
since. Our subject has been twice married, first in 1841, to Nelson Yeakey, of
Pleasant Township, this county, formerly a resident of Virginia, and who
died in 1848, leaving no offspring. His widow was then married on second
occasion, in 1851. to David B. King, a Pennsylvanian, who had come to this
county in 1814, and who died in 1877: had no children by this marriage, but
was the father of two children by a previous marriage. Mrs. King is still in
possession of a lai'ge farm in Liberty Township, this county, her share of her
))arent's homestead, which is now oj^erated by Edwin Chopan, who was reared
in the King family, having been bound to Mr. King while his first wife still
lived. Mr. Chopan was married in 1867 to Anna Burket, and has three chil-
dren : Charles H. . Edwin C. and Myrtle. He served some time in the late
war of the Rebellion, and was held a prisoner of war for some time. Mr.
King was a Methodist: Mrs. King is a faithful member of the Reformed Church.
942 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
JOHN H. LOOSE, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, a native of Lancaster County,
Penn., was born April 16, 1837; son of John and Sarah (Mise) Loose, also
natives of Lancaster County, where they were married; thence they came to
Ohio in 1839; first settling in Fairfield County, and fi'om there moved to this
coimty in 1841; they had seven childi'en: Israel, Sarah (deceased), John H.,
Daniel; Sophia, Eli and William (the latter deceased). The father died Octo-
ber 6, 1875, aged sixty-eight years; the mother, now seventy-four years old,
resides with John H. John Loose, the father of oiu- subject, was the or-
ganizer of the first Evangelical Church in Tiffin, he was a local preacher in the
same, and a pillar in that society until death. Our subject was married Feb-
ruary 12, 1860, to Miss Julia A. Biu-y, of Fairfield County, Ohio, a native of
same, born May 1, 1842, a daughter of John and Hannah (Zirels) Bury, na-
tives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, and who were married in
Fairfield County. Ohio, where Mr. Bmy still resides, and where Mrs. Bury
died; they were parents of eight children: Sarah A. (deceased), Catharine
(deceased), Benjamin, Julia A., Elizabeth, Caroline, John H. (deceased) and
Joseph. To our subject and wife were born thirteen children: William H.,
Amanda A. , Alma C. . Emma S. , Eli E. , John W. , Nathaniel E. , Lina A. .
Charles B., Ida V., Clinton G. and Clayton H. (twins), and Jennie D., all
now living but Alma C. IVIr. Loose and his family are members of the Evan-
gelical Church, of which he is an official member. He was township trustee
for a number of years : is an active worker in the Kepublican ranks.
JOHN K. McKEEN, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Nova
Scotia, born in 1832, son of David and Jane (McKinsey) McKeen, who moved
with their family to Clinton County, Iowa, in 1845, and there died in 1853.
They were the parents of thirteen children, of whom nine survive. John K.
McKeen enlisted in the late war at the first call and served four years, nine
months and seven days in Company B, First Regiment Iowa Cavalry. After
his retm-n home he resumed his trade (blacksmithing) which he continued
in Iowa until 1871, then came to Ohio and settled in Pleasant Township,
this county, where he purchased and improved land; has given some attention
to f armingi and also worked at his trade until within the last year or two. Mr.
McKeen was married in Clinton County, Iowa, in 1867, to Miss Mary E.
Shutts. of Sandusky County, Ohio, a native of what was then Tompkins County.
N. Y. , born in 1832, and who came to Ohio in 1847. Her parents were Samuel
S. and Hannah (Letts) Shutts. natives of New Jersey, born in 179 1 and 1800,
respectively, married in Tompkins County, N. Y.. in 1825, and were the par-
ents of seven childi-en. Mr. Shutts died November 20, 1881, aged eighty -
four. Hannah Shutts. his wife, died August 29. 1856, aged fifty- six. Our
subject and wife have two children: Emma F.. born January 6, 1869. and
William S., born December 31, 1870.
GEOPiGE E. MILLER, farmer, P. O. Old Fort, was born in Pickaway
County, Ohio, September 17, 1822, son of Tobias and Mary (Young) Miller,
natives of Pennsylvania, and who were married in Lycoming County, Penn.^
thence came to Ohio in 1817. settling first in Pickaway County, and in 1825
removed to Pleasant Township, this county. They were the parents of eleven
children, of whom four survive, only one, George E., living in this county:
the mother dying in 1829, Tobias Miller married again, and in 1864 his
second wife died, and at the age of ninety-seven, in the year 1879, he departed
this life. Our subject was married, January 13, 1852, to Maria E.' Mclntire.
of Pleasant Township, this county, a native of Massachusetts, born September
1, 1832, daughter of Lester and Emily (Shattuck) Mclntire, who came to this
county in a very early day, and who were the parents of nine children, of
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. ^43
whom five survive. To the union of George E. Miller and wife have been
born two children: Emma, now the wife of Edward Jaclcman, of Pleasant
Township, this county, and IMinnie L. Mr. Miller (with the exception of six
years spent at carpentering) has been a farmer all his life. His brother.
J. Y. Miller, now deceased, was the only white man who saw Parker stabbed
by Peter Pork, at Swope's Corners, now called Fort Seneca.
WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, was born in
Clinton Township, this county, January 0, 1820, eldest son of "William and
Christianna (Plank) Montgomery. William Montgomery, father of our sub-
ject, was a native of Ireland, where he was first married and had a family of
five children, with whom he came to America and settled in Circleville, Ohiu.
where his wife died. After his second marriage, in 1S23, he came to this
county, where three childi'en were born to him: William, Isabelle and Milton.
William Montgomery, Sr. , died here January 27, 1830. His widow subse-
quently married George Hollinger, by whom she had one son — Napoleon B. ,
now residing in Lucas County, Iowa. Mrs. Hollinger died at the residence of
her son William, in Pleasant Township, this county, December 24, 1873. Our
subject has had to work for himself since quite a small boy. When old enough
he operated the home farm which he conducted for several years and now owns.
He was married, January 6, 1856, to Marian Hoke, a resident of Liberty
Township, this county, and a native of Franldin County, Penn. , daughter of
John and Margaret (Byers) Hoke, who immigrated to this country about 1848,
and who had a famih of five sons and three daughters. Mrs. Hoke died Feb-
ruary 8, 1857, and Mr. Hoke September 26, 1874. To the union of our sub-
ject and wife have been born four sons and one daughter: John W., James M.,
George H. , Leroy N. and Anna E. Mr. Montgomery is a Democrat in politics
and has served in some of the township offices.
JOHN MOORE, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born October 1, 1803,
in Lehigh County, Penn., son of Henry and Susanna (Reser) Moore, who
were born and married in that county. They had five sons and one daughter,
only four of whom are now living: David and Benjamin, residing in Bellevue,
Ohio; Jacob, in Erie County, Ohio, and John. The mother died in her native
county, aged fifty-eight. Henry Moore was a hatter by trade, but followed
farming the latter part of his life. He died here, aged eighty-three years.
Our subject came to Ohio in 1836, settling on Section 1, Pleasant Township,
this county, where he still resides. He has improved a large farm, and has
now over 300 acres of land. Mr. Moore was married, October 20, 1828. to
Miss Eliza Kopp, of Union County, Penn., born May 20, 1810, in Lehigh
County, Penn., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Shoemaker) Kopp,
also natives of Lehigh County, where they were married. They had ten
children. Mr. Kopp died in this township, aged eighty-five, and his wife
in Erie County, aged seventy. To our subject and wife were born ten chil-
dren: Susanna, married to James W^ Rhineberger, in 1855, resides in Huron
County, Ohio; Henry went to Colusa County, Cal. , in 1854, where he still
lives (was married, in 1866, to Adaline Anders); Elizabeth, married to R. H.
Bliss, in 1875, lives in Yuba County, Cal. ; Sarah, married to Ephraim Parker,
in 1864, lives in Pleasant Township, this county; George, married to Lizzie
Myers, in 1859, went to Faribault County, Minn., in 18()r), where he still is:
Jacob (died in infancy); Maria, married to J. A. Kittle in 1866, lives in Vi^o
County, Ind. ; Julia A. , married to B. F. Bretz, in 1868, lives in Sandusky
County, Ohio; Amanda, married to E. B. Norris, in 1874, lost her husband in
1880, and now lives with her parents in this county; Frank, married to Nettie
Myers, in 1875, lives on the home farm in this county. Mr. Moore is a mem-
944 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ber of the German Reformed and his wife of the Lutheran Church. In politics
he is a Republican.
JOHN MYERS, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born in Lancaster
County, Penn. , in 1821. His parents, Hemy and Margaret (Bostick) Myers,
were natives of and married in Lancaster County, Penn. . whence they removed
to Cayuga County, N. Y. , then to Erie County, same State, and in 1830 came
to Sandusky County, Ohio, where Henry Myers died in 184U, and his widow still
resides. They were parents of nine children: Jacob, Henry (deceased), Emanuel,
Mary, John. Elizabeth. Benjamin, Adaline (deceased) and David. Our subject
was married, in 1842, to Miss Eunice A.Walker, of Sandusky, Ohio, and whose
parents (now deceased) came with her fi-om Vermont to Sandusky County, Ohio,
in an early day. They had a family of nine children: Mary A. (deceased). Wel-
come, Fanny, Eunice. William (deceased). Washington. Eliza. Harriet and Maria.
Mr. and Mrs. Myers have reared a family of seven children: Amanda, Lydia
(deceased), Almyra. Jane. Winlield. Emma and Florence, all of whom are
married, and there are thirteen living grandchildren. Mr. Myers came to
Pleasant Township, this county, in 1851). piu'chased land, which he has im-
proved, and has devoted his time to general agriculture. He has always
been identified with the Republican party, and has served his share in the
township offices of Sandusky and Seneca Counties.
EPHRAIM PARKER, ^farmer. P. O. Green Spring, is a native of Sussex
County. N. J. . born January 8. 1 826. son of Hemy and Charlotte ( Ros ) Parker,
who came to this county in 182(). and settled iii Pleasant I'o^vnship where Mrs.
Parker still resides, her husband having departed this life in 1847. They were
the parents of ten children: Thomas. Ei:)hraim. Mary B. (deceased), Elizabeth.
John, Lucy E. (deceased), Nancy J.. Melissa. Henry. and Maiy (deceased). Our
siTbject has been thrice married: on first occasion in 184(i, to Caroline Ellis, of
Pleasant Township, this county, by whom he had one child — Granvil — who
died in infancy, the mother dying soon after. Mr. Parker's second marriage
was with Jane Cunningham, by whom he had six childi-en: Sarah A.. Vira and
Mira (twins). Lucy. Mary and Lizzie, all living but Mary. The mother of this
family died in 1858. and our subject then married, in 1804. Sarah Moore, a
native of Pleasant Township, this county, and daughter of John and Eliza
(Kopp) Moore, early settlers of this township, where they still reside. To this
union five childi'en were born : Addie. Elmer. Flora. Laui'a, and Rose S. ( deceased ).
Mr. and Mrs. Parker are members of the Baptist Church. Our subject, who
was reared a farmer, has always followed agricultural pursuits. He has
improved many acres of land and is now the owner of over 1 50 acres. He has
sei-ved in most of the township offices: constable, assessor, and is at present
jiistice of the peace. He has always been an ardent advocate of the principles
of the Republican party.
JACOB PITLTZ. farmer. P. O. Foi*t Seneca, is a native of Jefferson Coun-
ty, Va., born February 7. 1811. eldest son of George and Mary (Shoull) Pultz.
natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland, respectively, and who went with their
parents to Jefferson County. Va. , in a very early day, and were there reared
and finally married; their six children, of whom only Jacob and one brother-
David (who resides in AYood County. Ohio) — now survive, were born there.
The father and mother died in their native county. Jacob Pultz came to Sen-
eca County, Ohio, in about 1830. but did not purchase land here until 1842.
He has since cleared and improved many acres, and had at one time accumu-
lated as much as 500 acres of land, the most of which has been distributed
among his children. He has. however, 17(^ acres in Pleasant Township. He
has served in several of the -township offices. Mr. Pultz was married, in 1833,
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 945
to Miss Ehoda Koberts, of Berkeley County, Ya. , where she was born October
14, 1814, daughter of Boyd and Lydia (Cunnmgham) Roberts, natives of Ire-
land and parents of live children, all now deceased. Our subject is the father
of six children: William, Mary, Francis, Elizabeth, Margaret (deceased) and
Virginia. His daughter Virginia, with whom he now resides, is the wife of
George Shoull. of Pleasant Township, by whom she has one son — Chester.
Mrs. Pultz died September BO, 1878; she was reared a Quaker, but after her
marriage became a member of the Methodist Ej)iscopal Church, of which she
was a faithful member until death. IVIi'. Pultz was reared in the faith of the
Lutheran Church, but became a stanch Methodist after he came to this county.
He was a Democrat in i^olitics iwior to the late war of the Rebellion, but is
now a stanch Republican and Abolitionist.
REUBEN SELLERS, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born in Pleasant
Township, this county, November 20, 1856. He was married, October 5, 1877,
to Miss Adaline Brenneman, a resident of Pleasant Township, but a native of
Ashland County. Ohio, born November 14, 1858, daughter of Jacob E. and
Anson (XTlrich) Brenneman, who removed from Ashland County to Pleasant
Townshii), this county, in an early day and still reside here. To the union of
our sul)ject and wife have been born three childi-en: Esla May, Bertha and
Orvil. Reuben Sellers, our subject, is the son of Frederick, Jr. , and Hannah
(Sheidler) Sellers, both now living; the former born in Germany, December
26, 1817, and the latter in Stark County, Ohio, May 11, 1816; they were mar-
ried in Stark Coimty December 22, 1843, and have reared a family of nine
children: Jacob H., David F., Elizabeth C, Frederick A., Reuben, George
W, , Anna R. , Jessie N. and Andrew M. , all now living but Jacob H. Fred-
erick Sellers. , Jr. (subject' s father) is a son of Frederick, Sr. , and Charlotte
Sellers (latter deceased) who were the parents of a large family of children,
five of whom are still living; two were born in Germany and came with their
parents to America in 1819, and seven were born here. Frederick Sellers,
Sr., still resides in Pleasant Township. He first located in Maryland, thence
moved to Stark County, Ohio, and from there to Pleasant Township, this
county, in 1833. The siibject of this sketch, who has followed farming all
through life, purchased his farm in Pleasant Township in 1883, and is now
operating in all 240 acres. He and his wife are members of the German Bap-
tist Church.
ALFRED L. SHAFER, farmer, P. O. Watson, was born in Clinton Town-
ship, this county, October 30, 1840; son of Joseph and Susan (Kain) vShafer.
the former of whom, of German descent, was born in Virginia, the latter ii\
Pennsylvania, of Irish lineage. They were married in Greene County, Penn.,
and came to this county about 1836, settling in Clinton Township, where they
reared their family of two sons and two daughters : Mary J. , Eliza A. , Alfred
L. and John A., all residing in this county but John A., who lives in Pulaski
County, Ind. The father of this family died in January, 1849, the mother
in March, 1881. Our subject attended Heidelberg College for several terms,
and until quite recently has given considerable of his time to school teaching.
In 1869 he purchased land in Pleasant Township, this county, to which he has
since added, and has now 143 acres. Mr. Shafer has served his township in
several of its offices ; was trustee for two years and justice of the peace for six
years. He was married, April 11, 1865, to Miss Rachael A. McMeen, a native
of Pleasant Township, this county, born July 7, 1842, daughter of William S.
and Sophia (Stewart) McMeen, natives of Pennsylvania, and who were married
in Lycoming County, that State, coming to this county in 1835. They reared
a large family of children, of whom Mrs. Shafer is the youngest but one.
946 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
Mr. McMeen died March. 7, 1808, and his widow now resides with our subject.
Mr. and Mrs. Shafer are the parents of four childi'en: Alice L. , Nora W.,
Nellie S. and Glenn McMeen.
FRANK M. SHANNON, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Stark County,
Ohio, October 20, 1840; son of George and Mary (Lautzenheiser) Shannon,
who settled in this county in 1847, and still reside in Pleasant Township. Our
subject worked with his father on the home farm until of age, and for a few
years thereafter. He then rented his father's farm for several years, and in
1870 he purchased forty-one acres of the same, in Pleasant Township, on
which he now resides. He was mari'ied, January 27, 1875, to Miss Libbie
AVatson, of Pleasant Township, this county, born March 9, 1848, daughter of
James S. and Mary (Saltsman Tennis) Watson, who were early settlers in
Pleasant Township. Her mother, Mary (Saltsman) was the former wife of
Stephen Tennis, by whom she had one daughter, and by Mr. Watson she had
six childi'en. Mr. Watson is deceased; his widow still resides in Pleasant
Township. To Mr. and IMrs. Shannon were born three children: Bertha,
Ettie and Zelma. Our subject and wife are members of the Reformed Church,
in which he was deacon in 1878. He is an active man in the ranks of the
Democratic partv.
GEORGE SHANNON, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Franklin County,
Penn. , October 12, 1810, son of George and Barbara (Longenecker) Shannon.
The father of our subject, a native of Ireland, when quite a lad came to
America with his parents, who settled in Franklin County, Penn., where he
Avas reared. There he was married to Mrs. Keiser, also a native of the county
and of German descent, her parents having emigrated fi'om Germany not
many years prior to her birth. (Mrs. George Shannon, Sr., was formerly the
wife of John Keiser, by whom she had three children: John, AVilliam and
Eliza, of whom only the latter survives; Mr. Keiser died in the war of 1812.)
The parents of our subject had four children: George, Joseph, Catharine and
Suffrona, all deceased but George. The Shannon family immigrated to Ohi,o
in 1882, settling in Stark Coimty, where the mother died in July, 1855; the
father afterward came to this county and died at the residence of his son,
George, in May? 1804. The subject of this sketch was married in Stark
County, Ohio, January 2, 1840, to Miss Anna M. Lautzenheiser, a native of
that county, born October 11, 1821, daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth
(Bucher) Lautzenheiser, formerly of Beaver County, Penn., w^ho moved to
Stark County. Ohio, in a very early day, and there iDoth died. They had a
family of eight children, five now living and three deceased. Our siibject
removed fi'om Stark County to Pleasant Township, this county, in 1847, pm--
chasing and improving land, much of which he has given to his children. Mr.
Shannon has been a farmer all his life. He has tilled some of the township
offices. In politics he is a Democrat.
WILLIAM SHANNON, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, son of George and Anna M.
(Lautzenheiser) Shannon, was born in Stark County, Ohio, August 8, 1843,
and came with his parents to this county in 1847. George and Anna M. Shan-
non reared a family of eight children: John, William. Mary E., Frank M.,
Melissa, Samuel L. , Lewis E. and Nelson — all living but John and Melissa.
Our subject worked on the home farm until twenty- six years of age. He then
rented a farm for nine years, and in 1878 purchased the land on which he now
resides, and which he has improved in various ways, erecting good buildings,
etc. He operated a saw-mill in the spring and winter of 1870 and 1871. He
was married, April 0, 1809, to Miss Ann R. Switser, a resident of Tiffin, this
county, a native of Stark County, Ohio. l)orn in 1S4(V daughter of Lewis and
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 947
Jiilia A. (Steinbergen) Switser, natives of Germany and Pennsylvania, re-
spectively, and who were married in the latter State, thence removing to Stark
County, Ohio, and in an early day to this county, where they reared their fam-
ily. Our subject is the father of six childi-en: Wilson E., Nora M., Sarah E.,
George A., Idella and Anna B., all living biit Idella. Mr. Shannon is in
favor of all worthy enterprises, and is benevolent, industrious and economical.
Politically he is a Democrat.
CHARLES D. SHEDENHELM, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born,
June 22, 1855, in Pleasant Township, this county, son of Henry and Mary E.
(Myers) Shedenhelm, natives of Maiyland and Virginia, respectively, and who
were married in this county where they reared their family of nine childi-en:
Catharine E. , Margaret J. , Martha E."^, Ann R. , George J. , Mary F. , Charles
D.. William H. and Rufus E; all living but William H. The father died
March 22, 1882; the mother now resides in Green Spring, Ohio. Charles T>.
Shedenlielm was married. November 30, 1880, to Miss Ida A. May, of Adams
Township, this county, where she was born in 18G0, daughter of Emory and
Martha (Tonner) May, now residents of Pleasant Township, this county. Our
subject and wife are parents of two sons: Richard C. and Lester T. Mr.
Shedenhelm, who has 200 acres of land, has followed farming all through life.
Politicallv he is a Republican.
GEORGE SHUMAKER, farmer, P. O. Watson, is a native of Westmore-
land County. Penn., born in 1822. son of Simon and Mary Shumaker, who
were born, reared and married in the above named county and State, and who
immigrated to Ohio, in 1824, settling in Wayne County. They reared a
family of eight children: Catharine, John (deceased), William. George, David
(deceased), Hannah (deceased). Maiy and Elizabeth (latter deceased). Mrs.
Simon Shumaker died in Wayne County, in 1836, and Mr. Shumaker again
married, but had no other children; he was killed by some falling timber
while raising a new frame shed, in 1841 ; his widow is also deceased. Our
subject was maiTied in Wayne County, Ohio, December 15, 1842, to Miss
Sarah A. Farrah, a native of that county, born October 13, 1824, and who
died December 12, 1875, the mother of six children: William H., Julia A.,
Olive M., George W., Edward W. and John C, of whom only two now sur-
vive: Olive M. and Edward W. Mr. Shumaker afterward married, September
4, 1878, Miss Mary E. Boyd, of Bloom Township, this county, her native
place, a daughter of James and Eliza Boyd (both now deceased), who came
from Pennsylvania to this county in an early day. Our subject came to this
county in 1838, purchasing property, where he has improved many_acres of
land and educated his family. He 'built a fine brick residence in 1870. IVIr.
Shumaker has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for over
forty-two years; his first wife was also a Methodist; his present wife is a
Presbyterian. Politically he is a Republican.
WILLIAM F. SHUMAN, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, was born in Frank-
lin County, Penn., in 1839, son of Simon and Mary (Beck) Shuman, who
came to this county in 1844. and who were the parents of fourteen children.
Simon Shuman died in 1880; his widow is now a resident of Liberty Town-
ship, this county. Our subject followed farming for several years. He
served three years in the late civil war, a member of Company K, One Hun-
dred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Since his return home he
has given his attention to farm work and the manufacture of apple butter and
jellies. He was married, in 1867, to Miss Sarah A. Zeis, of Liberty Town-
ship, this coimty, a native of same, and daughter of Godfrey and Margaret
( Sager) Zeis, who still reside in Liberty Township, this county. To the iinion
948 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
of our subject and wife have been born three childi'en: Jasper, Louis and
Bertha. Mr. Shuman has served his township in the offices of assessor, clerk
and treasui-er; he is associated with the Democratic party.
AVILLIAM SNEATH. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, is a native of Frederick
County. Md., born in April. 1817: son of Robert and Elizabeth (Barton)
Sneath, natives of Pennsylvania, the former born May 20, 1778, the latter No-
vember 3, 1780, and who immigrated to Maryland, where the father died Oc-
tober 8, 1827 ; his widow and children removed to Belmont County, Ohio, in
1828, thence to this county in 1834. Here Mrs. Sneath died, February 14,
1840 Robert and Elizabeth Sneath were parents of six children: James B..
Mary, Isaac, Eliza, William and Alfred G. : all now deceased but William.
Our 'subject was seventeen years of age when he came to Clinton Township,
this county. After operatiing the home farm for several years he pm-chased
land in Pleasant Township ia 1846, on which he still resides, and was an act-
ive farmer until late years. He was twice married, the tirst time, in 1845, to
Miss Martha Vannette. of Clinton Township, this county, who died May 15,
1848; he then married her sister, Margaret. The sisters were natives of New
Jersey, and daughters of Thomas and Isabella (Beard) Vannette (both now
deceased), who came from New Jersey to this county in 1825. Mr. Sneath
was the father of two childi-en by his"^ fii'st wife: Martha E., now the wife of
Amos Keller, of this county, and Robert, married to Miss Snyder, of Pleasant
Township, this county (have one child — Nettie L.), and who now resides on
and operates the home farm.
HENRY STONER, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, is a native of Franklin
County. Penn., born February 3, 1817; son of Joseph and Anna M. (Walt)
Stoner, the parents of three sons and four daughters, and who came with theii-
family to this county in 1847, settling in Pleasant Township. Our subject
was united in marriage, in 1854, with Susan R. Young, by whom he had three
sons and three daughters : Catharine, Celestia, Anna, Lee, Ira and Ora ; all
living but Ora and Lee. The mother departed this life in June, 1883. She
was a life-long member of the Reformed Church. ]\Ii-. Stoner has been sue
cessful in life, and by industry and economy is now owner of 200 acres of land,
the greater part of which he has improved. He is a faithful advocate of the
principles of the Republican party: has been a life-long member of the Re-
formed Church.
RASSELLS R. TITUS, farmer, P. O. Old Fort, a native of Litchfield
County, Conn., was born Jidy 21, 1819, the youngest son of Curtis and Lu-
cinda *( Wilerman) Titus, natives of Connecticut, and who immigrated with
their family, in 1820, to Genesee County, N. Y., and in 1833 came to Adams
Township, this county, where Cm-tis Titus died in 1835, and his widow in 1846.
They were the parents of three sons and two daughters: Calena, Wileman,
Miles M. , Rasselus R. and Huldah, of whom only RasseJus R. and Huldah siu--
vive. Cm-tis Titus was a sea -faring man, but retiring fi-om that vocation went
to New York State, and there began farming. He was a Democrat in politics.
He occupied a high position in the order of F. & A. M. ; was generally given
the title of ' 'captain, ' ' having bestowed considerable time to drilling the regular
militia in New York. Om- subject gave his time in early life to general job
work in this county; thence moved to Michigan, and in 1838 to Chicago, 111.,
where he entered Government employ, and assisted in moving the Indians to
Council Bluffs, Iowa. He returned to this county the following year ( 1839),
and here he worked by the day and month for several months. In 1840 he pui--
chased land in Indiana, which he sold one year later, and purchased a farm
in Pleasant Township, this county, where he still resides. He has accumulated
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 949
property, and now lias nearly 1.000 acres of the best land the State affords. He
was elected in 1850 upon State equalization board, a member of Legislature
(fi'om 1861 to 1805), and has always taken an active part in politics with the
Democratic party. Mr. Titus was married, April 21, 1844, to Miss Elvira S.
Clark, a resident of Pleasant Township, this county, and a native of Huron
County. Ohio, where she was born May 31, 1820, daughter of Town and
Philothe (Case) Clark, natives of New York State, and who were married in
1816 in Hui'on County, Ohio, whither their parents had emigrated in about
1812; from there they came, in 1835, to Pleasant Township, this county, where
they died, Mr. Clark in 1840, aged fifty-five, and his widow in 1880, aged
eighty years. They were the parents of two sons and three daughters, of
whom thi'ee sui'vive: Elvira S., Emeline E. and Lucinda S. The deceased are
Calvin and Elisha P. Mr. Clark was once nominated for the office of legis-
lator. He was energetic and industrious and considered for that early day a
very wealthy man, owning something over 300 acres of land. To Mr. and Mrs.
Titus have been born four daughters: Augusta P.. wife of J. F. Fry, of Pleas-
ant Township (have two childi'en: Rasselus R. and Delene); Calena M. , wife
of Lora A. Abbott, of Pleasant Township (have two children : Clark and Elvira) ;
Flora A., wife of Oliver S. Watson, of Pleasant Township (have one son — Paul
T.), and Lettie L., wife of Robert H. Watson, also of Pleasant Township
(have three childi-en: Ralph T., Helen L. and Hortense).
BENJAMIN F. TOMB, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Pleasant Town-
shii^, this county, April 21, 1844. His father, Benjamin Tomb, was twice
married, first to Ann Blackwell, by whom he had three children: Sarah J.,
Jacob and Mary. His second marriage was with xinn Leonard, by whom he
had seven children: Massey, Rebecca, Thomas B., Benjamin F., Emma C,
George W. and Harry, all living but Massey. Both wives were natives of and
married in Lycoming County, Penn. , where the first died. Oiu* subject's
parents immigrated to Pleasant Townshij) in 1842, and here the father died
February 17, 1885. at the age of eighty-nine years, nine months and sixteen
days. His widow resides in Tiffin, Ohio. Our subject was married, April 19,
1865, to Miss Florinda L. Benham, of Tiffin, Ohio, where she was born August
5, 1845, daughter of F. Don and Charlotte (Piatt) Benham, natives of Con-
necticut, and who were married at Prospect, Conn., April 6, 1828; immi-
grated to Ohio in 1838, and located first in Scipio Township, this county, and
two years later came to Tiffin where Mr. Benham filled the office of express
agent in connection with the C. S. &, C. R. R. for many years. Tliey were
the parents of eight childi'en: Edward F. , Ovander J., George C, Daniel W.,
Amelia C. , Florinda L. , William W. and Robert B. , all living but Amelia C.
The mother was born January 9, 1808, and died January 25, 1877; the father
was born December 1, 1804, and died February 10, 1882. He was a carpen-
ter in his early life, prior to coming to this covmty. Mr. and Mrs. Tomb have
had five childi'en: Fred (deceased), Mary, Frank (deceased), Leonai'd B.
and Harry W. Our subject served sixteen months during the late civil war as
a member of Company I, Eighty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry,
and Company H, One Hundred and Sixty- foui'th Regiment Ohio Volunteer
Infantry. Politically he is a Rejxiblican.
ELISHA T. UMSTED, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, November 21, 1846, son of Ephraim C, and Isabel (Van-
uette) Umsted, former born January 14, 1817, in Frederick County, Md.. lat-
ter born Februaiy 14, 1816, in Warren County, N. J., and who were married,
January 1, 1846. in Clinton Township, this county, where their parents had
settled in a very early day, the Vannettes in 1825 and the Umsteds in 1828.
950 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Ephraim C. and Isabel Umsted were the parents of five cliildi'en: Elisha T. ;
Samantha E., deceased; Emma A., wife of Rev. George Dillman, of Fostoria
(have one child, Theodore) ; Lafayette C. ; Tabitha E. Our subject was mar-
ried, September 22, 1874, to Anna E. Michaels, a resident of Clinton Town-
ship, this county, born in Liberty Township, same county, August 6, 1847.
daughter of John and Eliza (Abbott) Michaels (both now deceased), natives of
Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, respectively, and who were married in this
county; they were the parents of ten children, of whom only four survive. To
Mr. and IVL's. Umsted has been born one daughter, Gertriide M. Our subject
and wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church of Tiffin. Mr.
Umsted taught school for several years during his single life ; has also followed
farming for some years. He began in the saw-milling business in 1875, in
which he still continues. He and his wife own 200 acres of land. Mr.
Umsted is an active and ardent advocate of the principles of the Republican
party.
JESSE B. AVAGNER, farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, a native of Franklin
County, Penn. , was born March 29, 1829, son of George and Margaret (Car-
penter) Wagner, natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent, and who were mar-
ried in Franldin County, Penn. . where they remained until 1849 ; then came to this
county. George Wagner formerly followed the plastering trade and also
engaged in farming, but lived a retired life after coming to this county, where
he died in May, 1850, aged seventy-four; his widow died in April, 1877, aged
eighty-eight years. They were the parents of nine children: Eliza (deceased),
Joannah, Josephine (deceased). Alfred, Edmund, Levi (deceased), Malvina,
Jesse B. and Almira. Edmund and Levi came to this county in 1843, where
the former still resides. Our subject came to this county in the spring of 1 848
and followed the plastering trade for several years. In 1852 he emigrated to
California, and was three months and a half crossing the plains. He returned
to this county in 185(x purchased the farm upon which he still resides, and to
which he has added from time to time, till now he has 820 acres, which he has
improved in many ways. He was married in Tiffin, this county, by the Rev.
Reuben Good, November 14, 1858. to Miss Nancy J. Gillmor, a resident of San-
dusky Co. , Ohio, born September 22, 1888, a daughter of Thomas and Margaret
(Frary) Gillmor, the former a native of New York, the latter of Sandiisky
County, Ohio, and who were married in the latter county in 1887, and were the
parents of five children: Nancy J., Phineas, James, Dolorus and Lilly. Mrs.
Gillmor died May 5, 1871, and Mr. Gillmor August 15, 1876. He was an elder
in the Presbyterian Church. To our subject and wife were born one son and
one daughter, Orton D. and Pet (Retta). the former a graduate of the Ohio
Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio; Pet also attended the same for four
years. The family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of
which Mr. Wagner is an official.
OLIVER S. WATSON, farmer, P. O. Watson, son of James S. and Mary
Watson, was born in Pleasant Township, this county, November 11, 1843,
and remained upon the home farm principally until about 1875. During this
time, however, he attended the Western Reserve Normal School at Milan,
Ohio, about two years (fi'om 1865 to 1867), also was a few terms at Heidelberg
College. He taught school (in winter seasons) for nine years. Our subject
was married, December 22, 1875, to Flora A. Titus, of Pleasant Township,
where she was born September 80, 1852, daughter of R. R. and Elvira S. Titus.
To this union was born, November 8. 1888, one child-Paul Titus. Mr. Wat-
son purchased the heirs' interest in the home farm in 1875, added to the same
in 1877, and again in 1879. having now 168| acres. He follows general agri-
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. ' 951
culture, and is making quite a specialty of graded stock — horses, cattle and
hogs. He is an active man in the ranks of the Democratic party, and has
served his township in the office of justice of the peace for nine years. He is
a member of the Reformed Church.
GEORGE W. WATSON, farmer, P. O. Watson, was born in Pleasant
Township, this county. October 17. 1850, son of James S. and Mary (Salts-
man) Watson, who early settled in Pleasant Township, and who were the parents
of six children: Robert, Oliver S., Rosannah, Mary, George W. and Marietta,
all now living but Robert. The father of this family died September 9, 1869.
(IVIrs. James S. Watson was the former wife of Stephen Tennis, by whom she
was the mother of one daughter — Margaret — whose father died September 4,
1834.) Mrs. Watson resides with her son. George W\, who now occupies the
homestead farm. He, George W. , was maii-ied, November 23, 1880, to Melissa
Mai-tin, of Pleasant Township, this county, a native of Liberty Township, this
county, born May 19, 1848, the daughter of David and Rachel (Pope) INIartin,
natives of Pennsylvania, and early settlers in this county, and who were mar-
ried in Liberty Township, and reared a family of ten children: Ann S.,
Melissa, Benjamin W.. William F., Rufus M., Jacob H.. Lidora, Melkiah E.,
Hester E. and Marsella A. Mr. Martin died February 21), 1872; the widow
now resides in Old Fort, this county. To our subject and wife has been born
one daughter — Grace, born August 1. 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Watson are mem-
bers of the Reformed Church. Politically he is a Democrat.
THOMAS W. WATSON, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, is a native of Lycoming
County, Penn., born August 11, 1819, son of William and Jane fMcMeen)
Watson, natives of Ireland and Pennsylvania respectively, of Scotch-Irish
descent, and who were married in Lycoming County. Penn., March 17, 1803.
William Watson, who followed distilling as a business in his earlier life, lived
in Lycoming County. Penn., until 1836, when he moved to Seneca County,
Ohio, purchased a farm, and fi'om that time gave his attention to clearing and
improving land and to general agricultural pursuits. He was a prominent F.
& A. M. ; a Presbvterian in religious belief. Of his family of ten children
John, William. James, Oliver, Sharon, Mary, Thomas W., David. Stephen
and Elizabeth, only Thomas W. survives. The father, who was born in
Ireland June 12. 1772, died February 17, 1856, and the mother born in Penn-
sylvania, October 8, 1784. died February 23, 1846. Our subject had good
school privileges in his native county, and taught school in Pleasant Township,
this county, for several years in the old log-cabin schoolhouses, with greased
paper for windows, slabs for seats and puncheon floors. He was thrown on
his own resources at the age of eighteen, completed his education in Milan
Seminary, in Erie County, Ohio, where he graduated in 1841. He then spent
one year engaged in merchandising in Republic, this county, and about two
years in Tiffin, reading law with Richard Williams, and, in 1845 he embarked
in farming (on rented property), which he continued until 1852, when he pur-
chased the farm on which he'^now resides; beginning with 160 acres, he has
now over 400 acres. He was married. January 13, 1847, to Miss Sarah J.
Tomb, of Pleasant Township, this county, a native of Lycoming County,
Penn., born August 9, 1825, daughter of Benjamin and Ann (Blackwell)
Tomb, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent, the latter born
and educated in England, and who were married in Lycoming County, Penn.
They were the parents of three children : Sarah J. . Jacob (deceased) and Mary
A. Mrs. Tomb died in 1835, and Mr. Tomb subsequently married Ann Leon-
ard, of Chester County. Penn. , and in 1842 immigrated to Ohio and settled_ in
this county. By this second marriage he had seven children. To the union
952 * BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
of our subject aud wife have been born five cbildi-en, three of whom are now
living: Robert, who resides on and oj^erates the home farm, married to Lettie
L., daughter of R. R. Titus, (by whom he has three children: Ralph Titus.
Helene and Hortense); Anna, wife of C. H. Baldwin, of Tiffin; Bessie, wife of
William Skinner, of Fostoria, Ohio. Our subject served this county six years
as commissioner and has filled some of the township offices. He and his wife
and childi-en are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Watson has
always taken an active part in politics, and is an ardent advocate of Democratic
principles.
FREDERICK WELTIN, farmer, P. O. Green Spring, was born near Con-
stanz, Baden, Germany, in 1837, son of Pirmin and Ursula (Honsel) Weltin,
who were parents of two children: Frederick and Oliva, latter now the wife of
Matthias Grieser, residing in Defiance County. Ohio. Pirmin Weltin came to
America in 1854, settling in Seneca County, Ohio, where our subject (then
almost eighteen years of age) purchased land, to which he has since added,
now owning 140* acres, which he has improved and where he has erected barns
and other out-buildings, and is about to build a fine residence. Our subject's
mother died in 1862, and his father makes his home with him. Frederick
Weltin was married, in 18(31, to Miss Mary Spies, of Sandusky County, Ohio,
by whom he had four children: John, Anna, Caroline and Ehzabeth. Mrs.
Weltin died in 1872, and Mr. Weltin was again married in 18/8, this time to
Susanna Miller, also of Sandiisky County, Ohio, by whom he has five children:
Mary, George, Siisanna, Charles and Ottila. Mr. and Mrs. Weltin have been
life-long members of the Catholic Church. He is an active member of the
Democratic party, and has given considerable attention to township affairs.
JOHN P. YOUNG, farmer. P. O. Green Spring, son of Charles and
Mary C. (Spangler) Young (deceased), is a native of Frederick County. Md.,
born December 81, 1846. He was married, April 7. 1874. to Catherine Lease,
of Scipio Township, this county, who died September 26, same year. Mr.
Young married, on second occasion, April 11. 1875. Ellen P. Huffman, of
Green Spring, Ohio, a native of Ashland County, Ohio, by whom he has three
children: Loretta M., born May 6, 1876; Gracie E., born September 28, 1880,
and Nora A. , born April 14, 1884. Mr. Young has been a farmer all through
life, and has a farm nearly all improved. He is an active, energetic and in-
dustrious citizen. Politically he is a Democrat.
JACOB ZIMMERMAN, 'farmer, P. O. Fort Seneca, a native of Frederick
County. Md. , was born in 1829, son of Barney and Sarah (Sager) Zimmerman,
who came from Maryland to this county in 1836, and who still reside in Lib-
erty Township, this county. They are the parents of six childi-en: Jacob.
David, Solomon, Margaret, John and Sophia, all living but David. Our sub
ject was maiTied, March 20, 1851, to Miss Catharine Repp, of Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, who bore him three children: Hiram, Sarah and Jennie.
Mrs. Zimmerman dying in October, 1866, our subject married, June 20, 1868.
Mrs. Mary A. Cookerly, of Tiffin, this county. Mr. Zimmerman began busi-
ness with $100; followed farming for seven years, and saw-milling for seven
years. He made his first purchase of land in 1854, and has now over 200
acres. He has served his township as trustee, and is at present a member of
the county board of directors of the agricultural society. He is an active
Democrat.
REED TOWNSHIP. 953
KEED TOWNSHIP.
AZARIAH BAKER (deceased) was born in Steiiben Coiuity, X. Y., April
12. 1819; son of William and Ennice (Conger) Baker, the ancestry of the
latter coming from the north of Ireland. They were parents of seven chil-
dren: Eliza, wife of Rev. John G. Giilick, of Elmira, N. Y. ; Fanny, widow
of Don A. Turncliff. in Herkimer County, N. Y. ; Azariah; Frank, a banker
in San Francisco. Cal. : Thomas (deceased); Aaron (deceased, leaving family
in ]Missom-i). and Mary. Avife of Hon. Angus Cameron, United States senator
from Wisconsin. AVi'lliam Baker, father of our subject, was of English
descent, his ancestors lieing among the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth
Rock: he was a son of Judge Samuel and Elizabeth (Daniels) Baker, and
entered 1.(^00 acres of the canal lands in Reed Township, this county, receiv-
ing the patents fi-om Gov. Mc Arthur in ]831. which he gave to his three sons.
and of these Azariah Baker located on his portion in the fall of 1840. coming
via canal from Mount MoitIs to Buffalo, thence by lake to Sandusky, Ohio.
He was married, October 9, 1840. to Harriet Kennedy, born June 25. 1820.
daughter of John and Flora (Gaylord) Kennedy, the latter a daughter of
Capt. Enos and Love (Blakesley) Gaylord, Connecticut people and of Puritjui
stock. John Kennedy became a captain in the war of 1812 at an early age;
he was a son of Henry and Annie (Blair) Kennedy, of Scotch origin, the for-
mer an early member of Congress and a colonel in the Revolutionary war.
John Kennedy was the father of four children: IMi's. Baker: Edward, in
Mitchell County, Kas. : Louisa, wife of Oscar Eaton, residing near Oswego,
Oreg., and Sarah, Mrs. (Newcomb) Dobbins, of Bradbury, Oreg. To Mr. and
Mrs. Azariah Baker were born eight children: Gertrude, wife of Oliver Will-
iam, of Norwalk. Oliio; Sarah, wife of Charles P. Webber, of Sacramento.
Cal.: Eliza, wife of Alexander Hodge, of Fulton County, Ohio: William
(deceased): John K. : Hugh and Annie L. residing on the old homestead.
These children were educated in various colleges of the country. The subject
of this sketch was a prominent agriculturist and stock-breeder: during the late
civil war he served as quartermaster. One Hundi-ed and Sixty-fourth Regiment
Ohio National Guards. He died April 8. 1872. His widow is an intelligent
and refined lady, and since her husband' s demise has managed the large estate
with tact, skill and energy. The family are members of the Episcopal Church.
JAMES BEARD, farmer. P. O. West Lodi, was born June 18, l.S4(5. in
Reed Township, this county: son of Michael and Mary B. (Bowerman) Beard,
the former a native of Maryland, born March 24, b8K); died March 81, 1882.
The mother of Michael Beard located in this county very early in its histor\',
being then a widow with a large family dependent upon her, but with wonder-
ful business tact and endurance she made a home for her family and caused to
be laid out on her farm the town of Lodi. Michael Beard, at an early day.
was one of the most prominent men in the county, both in business and public
afPairs. He held the office of county commissioner two terms. The subject of
this sketch was mairied to Amanda Allen, a native of Pennsylvania, daughter
of Irvin and Maria (Martz) Allen (both deceased), and by her has four chil-
dren: Samuel. Macey, Harry and Lottie. Mr. Beard moved to his present
home in 1875. where he has since been engaged in general farming and stock-
954 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
JAMES BOLIN, merchant, apiarist and farmer, AY est Lodi, is a native of
Thompson Township, this county, whither his father had moved in 1831, hav-
ing entered 160 acres of land in the fall of 1830. and which is, in part, still
in the family. George Bolin, the father, was born in Culpeper County, Va. ,
and after living in Pennsylvania, Columbiana and Wayne Counties, Ohio, and
residing long in this county, died in 1880, aged nearly ninety-one years. He
was married to Mary, a daughter of John Pierce, of Pennsylvania, and of
English descent; by her he had ten childi-en. three of whom died in infancy.
Those living are Elisha, now a resident of AV abash County, Ind,. who taught
the first school in old District No. 7, Thompson Township, this county; Elijah,
residing in Wabash County, Ind. ; Mary, wife of George Everhart, residing
in Thompson Township, this county. Enoch, residing in Adams Township,
this county; Elizabeth, wife of Daniel AVare. of St. Joseph County, Mich.;
James, residing at AA'est Lodi, Eeed Township, this county, and John, resid-
ing on' the old homestead. Om- subject received the advantages of the coni-
mon schools and a three years' course at the Academy of Republic, this
county; subsequently he worked at the carpenter's trade, taught school and
farmed' until he engaged in general merchandising in 18fi3. which he con-
tinued successfully in connection with his extensive apiary. He was married,
June 2, 1867, toLucinda Tompkins, a native of Thompson Township, this
county, where she was born July 4. 1840, daughter of Isaac and Christina
(Scothorn) Tompkins, and by this union has had three childi-en: one,
died in infancy, Adell and AVren. :Mr. Bolin is actively interested in educa-
tional and religious matters and also in the affairs of the county, being for
several years Thompson Township's clerk. In political views he is in favor of
prohibitory laws.
VALENTINE BRIGLE, farmer. P. O. Attica, was born in Seneca County,
November 11, 1836, son of Valentine and Mary (Fike) Brigle. natives of Ba-
varia, who came early in life to America, and were among the first settlers of
this county; they had^two children: Mrs. Mary Hawblits. of Bloom Township,
this countV, and Valentine. The father died May 23. 18.5. in his seventy-
sixth year; the mother, who is still living, is in her eighty-first year. Our sub-
ject was married, April 14, 1876, to Modest Albaugh, born in Crawford Coun-
ty, Ohio. March 18. 1846. daughter of David and Rebecca (Keeran) Albaugh.
David Albaugh. who is still living, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio. June
2, 1812: son of George and Catharine (Springer) Albaugh. natives of Mary-
land. Rebecca, wife of David Albaugh. was born in Fairfield County. Ohio,
in January, 1813. daughter of Reuben and Nancy (McMullen) Keeran. the
former a native of Ireland, the latter of Scotland. Mr. and Mrs. Albaugh
were parents of seven childi-en: Catharine, wife of AVilliam Smith, of Reed
Township, this county: Nancy, wife of Lewis Messnerd. of Eden Township,
this county: Mrs. Hannah Sviiter, of Reed ToAvnship, this county; Amos, in
Crawford Countv, Ohio; Modest; Sarah, wife of John Miller, of Crawford
County, Ohio, and Eli, in Venice Township. To Mr. and ]\Ii-s. Brigle were
born three childi-en: Elnora and Nettie died in infancy, and Isabelle. Our
subject is an enterprising, energetic, thorough-going man. He is engaged in
general farming.
ANTHONY BURNICK. farmer. P. O. Frank, was born in Reed Town-
ship, this county, February 24. 1856; son of Clemens and Feronia (Binder)
Burnick, who were parents" of six children: Catharine, residing in Thompson
Township, this county; Feronia. wife of Richard Goodman, of Toledo, Ohio:
Ursula (deceased) ; Mary, wife of Alexander Featherly. in Lima. Ohio; Jojm
(deceased); and Anthony. Clemens Biu-nick. a native of France, died in 1857.
REED TOWNSHIP. 955
His widow, a native of Switzerland, subsequently married, in 1S()(). Adam
Landall, who was born in Bavaria. Germany, in 1828, and came to America in
1851, settling in New York, and to this union were born three children: John.
Annie and Frank. Mrs. Landall departed this life in ISOU, aged forty-two
years. Anthony B\irnick. since obtaining his education in the district schools,
has spent the most of his time on the farm, and operating a saw-mill. The
family are members of the Catholic Church.
WILLIAM A. CAEPENTER, farmer. P. O. Attica, was born in Venice
Township, this county, November 15, 1854: son of Charles D. and Emeline
(Michener) Carpenter; the former, a son of Daniel Car})enter, was born in
1828. and died in 1868; the latter died in June, 1873, aged forty-three years.
Their children were Jonathan A., residing in Venice Township, this county;
William A., Mary J., wife of Joseph King, in Cincinnati. Ohio. In early
life onr subject worked upon a farm and attended the coiTutry schools. In
1872 he engaged in mercantile business in New Washington, Ohio, where he
continued until 1877. when he came to his present home, where he is engaged
in general farming and in raising improved stock. He is a member of No.
441, Cranberry Lodge, I. O. O. F., at New Washington. Mr. Carpenter was
married, December 27, 1876. to Mary M. Cory, born in Crawford County. Ohio,
December 14, 1856, daughter of A. F. A. and Hannah (Carson) Cory, natives
of Crawford County; the former died in March. 1866, aged forty-five, the lat-
ter in May, 1864, aged thirty-three years. Their children were Elizabeth A. ;
Eliza A., wife of Lewis Livensparger. residing in this township; Sarah A.,
wife of V. A. Michener. residing in Venice Township, this county: Maria,
wife of E. M. Kauffman, in Attica, this coiinty, and Cant, who died aged four-
teen years. To Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter were born Ray C. and Frank L.
Mr. Carpenter is one of the most enterprising, intelligent and pleasant young
farmers in Reed Township.
SQUIRE REUBEN I. CARY. farmer. P. O. Omar, born May 4, 1S05.
in Albany Coimty, N. Y. . came to Reed Township, this county, in 1888. He
lived in Cayuga County. N. Y. , four years, then came to Ohi(j, settling on a new
farm in the southwest part of Reed Township, where he lived nineteen years,
then moved to his present farm. He is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Vincent )
Caiy, natives of New York, where they died; the former, a son of Jose})h
Cary, was born in 1761, and died, aged sixty-five years; the latter, a daughter
of Levi and Sarah (Hoxey) Vincent, was born in 1773, and died in 1854.
Joseph Cary, by a previous marriage, had the following children: Elizabeth.
John and Joseph, and by his second union were born Sarah. Hannah. Levi.
Samuel. Reuben I. . Martin, Jonas P. , Leonard and Sally A. Our subject was
married, July 4. 182U, to Susan, daughter of Samuel Cary, and who died
December 20, 1852. in her forty-ninth year. She bore him six children:
Charles, in Labette County. Kas. : Sally A. , wife of George W. Gardner, in
Hillsdale County, Mich.; Mary J., deceased; Hannah, wife of William Mc-
Pherson, in Macoupin County, 111. : John, in Kent Coiinty, Mi'ch. , and jin
infant deceased. Squire Cary' s second marriage, November 19, 1854, was with
Agnes McKibbin. born February 27, 1828, daughter of James and Rachael
(McCord) McKibbin. By this marriage there are five children: James M. .
Joseph v.. Jessie B. (wife of Charles Hatton. in Barry County, Mich. ), Jennie
and Minnie. Our subject was elected justice of the jDeace in 1837, and served
twenty-one consecutive years, and has served altogether in that office either
thirty or thirty-one years, and during this long period has never had a decision
reversed or a new trial granted. He is a man of superior judgment and nat-
ural ability. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he
holds the offices of steward, class leader and trustee.
956 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES;
SAMUEL AND HANNAH CASSETY, farmers, P. O. Omar, were born
June 20, 1805, and April 0, 1819, respectively, in Stenben County. N. Y., and
are the only surviving children of Edward and Susanna (McFarland) Cassety,
who wer? rnarried October 6, 1801, and had the following children: Sally (wife
of I. H. Bennett), Mary, Samuel and John (twins), Edward, Eliza, Electa
(wife of John M. Sanford), Nancy (wife of Joshua Calvin), Harriet, Jane (wife
of Jonathan Crockett). Hannah and Franklin. The sons of Franklin are the
only ones bearing the family name. Susanna (McFarland) Cassety was born
February 17, 1783, died November 21. 1869. The Cassety family was the
third to settle in Reed Township, coming here in the spring of 1825, and enter-
ing eighty acres of land, which is now a part of the present farm of 355 acres.
JAMES FORD, farmer, P. O. Omar, was born in Tuscarawas County.
Ohio, September 18, 1829, and removed to Huron County, Ohio, in 1841 with
his parents, Uriah and Elizabeth (Dulin) Ford, the latter of whom, a native of
Virginia, born in 1805 died in 1855, was a daughter of Collin Dulin, who was
a son of Collin Dulin, Sr. , both of whom were in the Revolutionary war.
Uriah Ford was born in 1800 in Delaware, and died in 1876, a son of Alexander
and Martha (Robinson) Ford, the former of whom a native of Germany, came
to the United States at ten years of age and was sold to pay his passage across
the Atlantic (he was in the Revolutionary war); the latter came fi'om Scotland
and died in 1842, aged eighty-seven years. Uriah Ford's childi-en were Collin,
residing in Cincinnati. Ohio", manager of the ^tna Life Insurance Company;
James; Zachariah, deceased; William, residing in xAlabama; Harrison,
deceased; Isaac, deceased, was a member of Third Ohio Cavalry diu-ing the late
war of the Rebellion; Mary J., wife of a Mr. Craven, residing near Bismarck,
Dak. ; John, in northern Kansas, and Loantha, deceased. Om- subject received
his education in the country school, worked at the carpenter' s trade and taught
school until 1870, when he turned his attention to farming. He was married,
February 8, 1855, to Mary, a twin daughter of John and Sarah (Weaver)
Michener, of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, but natives of Washington County.
Penn.. and who came to this county in 1835. To this union were born the
following childi-en: Sarah, wife of Edson Bishop, of Reed Township, this
county, and J. W., in Williams County. Ohio. Mrs. Ford died June 6, 1862.
in her thirty-first year; her sister then became Mr. Ford's wife, October 4.
1863, her birth occurring January 9, 183(). and to this union was born one
child, Frank. Dm-ing the late war of the Rebellion "Six. Ford enlisted in
Company C, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infan-
try, and'did dutv at Washington. D." C. He is a member of Harmony Grange.
also of Attica Lodge No. 367, F. & A. M.
JOHN FREE (deceased) was born near Bath, in what is now West Vir-
ginia, September 1, 1819, and came to Bloom Township, this county, in the
spring of 1822, with his parents, George and Elizabeth (Ellenberger) Free,
the foi-mer born September 26, 1785, died May 28, 1848; the latter, who was
born August 31, 1796, and died December 23, 1867, was a daughter of John
Ellenberger, who came from Germany and served in the war of the Revolution.
The subject of this sketch was married, April 18, 1844, to Eliza Wolf, who was
l)orn November 20, 1822, in Fairfield County. Ohio, and in the spring of 1823
came to this county with her parents who settled near Tifiin. Her father.
Henry Wolf, a son of Jacob Wolf, was born in 1787 and was suffocated in a
well m the year 1825; her mother Susannah (Heistand nee Bretz) Wolf, a
daughter of Philip and Elizabeth (Boetner) Bretz, died in 1872 in her seventy-
ninth year. Henry and Susannah Wolf had but two children: Eliza (INIi-s. Free),
and Samuel, who died in Bloom Township, this county. To the union of Mr. and
REED TOWNSHIP. 957
Mrs. Free were born the following childi-en: Amy, died in childhood; Martha,
wife of B. F. Moore, of Scipio Township, this county; Mrs. Levi Keller;
Octavia, wife of Henry Cook, of Eeed Township, this county; Howard S. and
Oresta E. at home. Mr. Free w^ho was a highly esteemed citizen, prominent
as an agriculturist and stock-raiser, died in 1874.
HOWARD S. FREE, farmer and sheep-breeder, P. O. Attica, was born
July 21, 1S60, in Reed Township, this county, son of John and Eliza (Wolf)
Free. He was married, December 11, 1884. to Cora Neikirk, born in Venice
Township, this county, August 24. 1863, daughter of D. J. Neikirk. Mr.
Free takes great interest in breeding and selling fine sheep. His flock is com-
posed of seventy -five head of thorough -bred merinos of the most popular
strains, and from some of the best blooded sheep in the State. His breeding
points are: size, constitution, length of staple, a compact and fine fleece.
Mr. Free, though a young man, is very successful in his line, and aims to be-
come one of the most extensive sheep-breeders in this county.
SOLOMON GAMBEE, farmer. P. O. Omar, was born June 18, 1802. in
Berks County, Penn. , and came from Seneca County, N. Y. , to his present
home in 1838. Here he bought 100 acres of land at $10 per acre, assisted in
opening roads of the vicinity, also in the construction of the early bridges,
churches and schools. He has held various township offices; was elected
county commissioner in the fall of 1873, serving six years. He is engaged iu
general farming and raising improved stock. Mr. Gambee is a son of John
(who died in 1835, aged about seventy-six years) and Elizabeth (Leibroch)
Gambee (the latter came from Germany and died about 1828, aged sixty-one
years). His parents had a family of twelve childi-en: Jacob, John and \Vill-
iam died leaving families in New York; Elizabeth (deceased) was unmarried;
Daniel, Benjamin, Gideon and Samuel died, leaving families; Catharine (de-
ceased wife of Jesse Abbott) left family in New York; Solomon; Joseph died,
leaving family in New York; and Molly, widow of Jacob Seibold, is still living
in New York State. Our subject was married, in 1825, to Ann Newkirk (de-
ceased), daughter of John Newkirk, and by her he had five children: Samuel,
Jacob, James A. , Franldin and Benjamin (last named being the only one now
living). Mr. Gambee' s second marriage was with Mary A., daughter of Seth
Read, of Steuben County, N. Y. , and the first white girl that moved into Reed
Township, this county. By this union were born eleven children: an infant
(deceased); Seth R. ; S. F., residing near Adrian, Mich. ; J. W., at Attica Sta-
tion, Ohio; Safronia, wife of William Payne, residing in Green Spring, this coun-
ty; Vanrensaler W. ; George W. (deceased); Ellen L., wife of John R. Jewett;
Jesse A. (deceased); Harry L. in Attica, Ohio; AlvinO. , married December 25,
187Gt to Caroline Williams, born in Reed Township, this county, August 14,
1858, daughter of Anthony and Frederica Elizabeth (Walters) Williams, have
three childi-en: Etta A., l^orn June 30, 1878; Cora E., born March 22, 1880.
and Bertha M. . born January 8. 1883. The following sons served in the late
war of the Rebellion: James A., in the Second Indiana Cavalry; Benjamin,
in the Fifth Missouri Cavalry ; Solomon F., in the Third Ohio Cavalry, and
Seth R. , who was a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-third Regiment
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was wounded at Winchester, Va. , and taken prisoner
and died February 2, 1865, of starvation in Salisbury prison. Mrs. Gambee
died June 29, 1878, aged sixty-one years. Alvin O. Gambee is a member of
the Lutheran Church. Solomon Gambee was a charter member of Venice
Lodge, I. O. O. F.
J. W. GAMBEE, merchant, P. O. Siam, was born in Reed January 5,
1843, son of Solomon and Marv A. Gambee. He remained at. home until he
958 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
was thirty-one years of age. He was married, March 3, 1874, to Patience A.
Bernard, who was born in Moni-oe County. Iowa. October 31, 1857, daughter
of Edwin and Clara H. (Eockwell) Bernard, the former born in Frederick
County, Md. , October 9, 1818. the latter in Yates County, N. Y. , January 4,
1830. Their children were Francis, Edgar, Ella A. . Patience A. and Addie
B. Mr. Bernard was twice married, on second occasion to Margaret McKibben.
who bore him one son, Edwin S. To Mr. and Mrs. Gambee were born the
following named children: Ella A.. Edwin S.. Clinton W., Jesse H. and Bes-
sie B. Mr. Gambee is engaged in general merchandising. He served as
township assessor four terms.
HENRY HATHAWAY, farmer, P. O. Omar, was the second child
born in Scipio Township, this county, his birth occurring April 29,
1828, and is a son of Zephaniah and Lucina (Smith) Hathaway. Zeph-
aniah Hathaway was born in Freetown. Mass.. March 24, 1802. His
mother's maiden name was Chase. His father, Zephaniah Hathaway, died
when he was six weeks old. When he was a young man he came to Cayuga
County, N. Y. ; there he learned the blacksmith trade with his eldest
brother. He came to Ohio in company with Josiah Smith's family in May,
1825, with his blacksmith tools and 8300 in money, with which he entered 240
acres of land in Scipio Township, Seneca County. He built a log shop on his
land and worked at his trade, keeping "bachelor's hall," about two years.
July 4. 1827, he was married to Lucina, who was the daughter of Josiah
Smith, and was born in Seneca County. N. Y.. September 12, 1802. To this
union were born seven children viz. : Hemy, John (deceased), Isaac (in Ber-
rien County, Mich. ). Mary (in Toledo) Jane (wife of William Williams, in
Berrien Co\inty, Mich.). Harrison (an M. D., in Toledo) and George AV. (in
Pocahontas County. Iowa). In a year or two he entered 240 acres in Reed
Township, and bought eighty acres. In 1853 he sold his land in Scipio and
moved on his farm in Reed. October 2, 1855. his wife died, and August 17.
1850, he was married to Caroline E. Wheeler, a native of the State of New
York. By this marriage he had live children : Emma (wife of Wilber Lee. at
Attica Station, Ohio). Mai-tha (deceased). Florence (at Attica Station, Ohio).
John W. (at Attica, Ohio), and Linna (deceased). Soon after his last
marriage Zephaniah Hathaway invested in land in Michigan, and at the
time of his death he owned about 1.800 acres in Berrien County, that
State. May 6. 1881, he was again bereft of his Avife, and September 10 of
the same year he died. Our subject was reared on the farm, and re-
ceived his "education in the district school. In 1852 he went to Califor-
nia, and in 1854 he purchased his present home. He was married, De-
cember 8, 1859, to Mrs. Eliza (Weed) Blodgett. who died December 15,
1873. His second marriage. June 22, 1875, was with Arvilla Dwire, born
September 16, 1845, daughter of Isaac Dwire, one of the early settlers of
Reed Township, this county, and to this union were born Henry D. , Mary and
Ralph. Mr. Hathaway has held the offices of treasurer and trustee of Reed
Township each several terms. He is an enterprising, successful farmer and
stock-breeder. He has a small herd of short-horn cattle, the head of the herd
being ' ' Pedi-o ' ' and ' ' Kitty Phyllis D. " ' registered in Vol. XXVII, American
Herd Book. He is a member of ' Attica Lodge, F. & A. M. , also of Harmony
Grange. IMi-. Hathaway is a member of the Universalist Church, Mrs. Hath-
away of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Omar.
A\^ESLEY HATTON, farmer, P. O. West Lodi. was born in Stark County,
Ohio, September 27, 1827, son of Wesley and Mary (Forsyth) Hatton. The
former, a native of Maryland, a son of Aquilla HaLton, a native of Eng-
REED TO^Yi^•SIIlP. 959
land, came to Slsrk County, Ohio, in IMl. and died December 25, 185;>,
in his sixty-fifth year; the la^^-, a native of Ireland, died in 1849 in her fifty
eighth year. They were parents of seven children; two died in infancy, and
Mary J., wife of Levi Kanagy, died in AVill Coxinty. 111., leaving a family.
Those living are Ann (wife of David Myers, of Iowa), Kobert (a merchant of
Delta, Ohio), John (in Cass County, Mo. ), and AVesley. Our subject resided
on the old homestead until 1859, when he came to his present beautiful home.
October 26, 1852, he was married to Miss Margaret Brice, who was born March
5, 1835, in AVashington County. Penn. , and came to Ohio in 1839, locating
in Wayne County with her parents, Samuel and Harriet (Irvin)' Brice, who had
a family of five children: William (in Barry County. Mich. ), Rev. John (died
at Van Wert County, leaving a family). Elizabeth (wife of David Irvin, resid-
ing in Holden. Mo.), David H. (residing in Barry County, Mich.), and Mrs.
Margaret Hatton. To our subject and wife were born the following children:
Malvin (living near Delta. Ohio), Charles L. (residing in Barry County, Mich. )i>
Harry A. (residing in Adams Township, this county). Lilly (wife of George A.
AVeed). Cora B. (wife of Harry E. Rising, of Barry County, Mich.), and Ross
C. Mr. Hatton served as township clerk eight consecutive years, and also
held the office of treasurer. He is a member of the Lodge of F. & A. M. at
Attica: is also a charter member of Harmony Grange. During the late war of
the Rebellion he was sergeant of Company G, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth
Ohio Voluntper Infantry, doing duty at Washington, D. C. The family are
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are highly esteemed citizens.
DAVID HENDEL. farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Siam, was born in Ascii,
Austria, May 2(3, 1838, son of John C. and Eva C. (Geier) Hendel, former of
whom died in Austria in 1873. aged seventy-eight, the latter died in 1878 aged
seventy- eight. Mr. Hendel learned the weaver' s trade in his native land and
came to America in 1854, and to this county in 1855. He began life a poor
man and worked at daily labor for a number of years. He was married, in
Attica, this county, September 30, 1858, to Elizabeth Hauptli, who was born
in the Canton of Aargau, Switzerland. Axigust 24, 1839, davighter of Jacob and
Annie (Vogelsang) Hauptli; her father died in his native land when she was aged
four years, and her mother, who is living in Mansfield, Ohio, aged sixty-seven
years, came with her family to America in 1848, settling in Ri,chland County,
Ohio, then moved to Attica, this county, in 1854. living there for some years,
then moved to Wyandot County, and from there to Mansfield; her parents
were John and Verena (Myers) Vogelsang, the former drowned in the river
Reus, Switzerland, in 1851; the latter came to America and died in Attica. this
county, in 1870, aged seventy-nine years. To Mr. and Mrs. Hendel were born
eleven children, three of whom died yotmg: Eva C, born September 9. 1804,
died March 20, 1866; David, born May 11, 1868, died April 1, 1878, and Ver-
ena, born February 18, 1872, died March 7, 1872. The living children are
Christian E., born May 25, 1859; Anna M., born April 22, 1862, wife of John
Jacob Schwab, of Venice Township; John R., born June 25, 1866; Leonore
Adella. born April 8. 1870; George W., born April 5. 1874; Johannette A..
born July 15, 1876; Gustaf A., born April 1. 1879. and Laura J., born Jan-
uary 14, 1881. After marriage Mr. Hendel lived twelve years in Richmond
Township, Huron Co. , Ohio, then came to his present home, where he has a
nicely improved farm of 100 acres. He is a member of the Lutheran Church,
in which he has held the offices of deacon and trtistee.
CONRAD HENSINGER. farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born in Adams
Township, this county. June 19, 1837; son of John and Catharine (Garmani
Hensinger, natives of Lehigh County, Penn. , but early settlers of this county.
960 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the former a son of John Hensinger, the latter a daughter of Conrad and
Mao-delene (Weaver) Garman. They were parents of ten children: Harris,
residing in Allen Coxinty, Ind. ; Mary A. , wife of xibraham Garman, in Taze-
well County, 111. ; Flora, wife of Solomon Neikirk. of Mason County, 111. ;
John, in Adams Township, this county; Owen, near Auburn Junction, Ind..
Conrad, in Reed Township, this county; Moses, near Sedalia. Mo.; Benjamin;
Kosalfo (deceased) and Catharine, wife of Eichard Cooley, residing in Scipio
Townshij), this county. Our subject, when a young man. learned the carpen-
ter's trade, at which he worked several years; then engaged in farming. removing,
in 1 888, to his present model farm, all of which he has acquired principally by
his own exertions. He was married, November 24, 1859, to Christina Close,
born August 14. 1889, in Union County. Penn. , daughter of Ephraim and
Christina Close, early settlers of this county, and by this union has had ten
children: Alice F., wife of Adam Breidweisser, of Scipio Township, this coun-
ty; Milton J. (deceased at three years of age); Elizabeth C. ; William A.;
John E. ; Daniel F. ; Clara J. ; George and Samuel (deceased) and Edward G.
Mr. Hensinger is one of the township trustees; a Re})iTblican in politics; a
member of the Reformed Church, in which he is an elder, and from which he
has l)een sent as a delegate to the meetings of the classes and synod."
HIRAM HIPPLER, farmer and postmaster at West Lodi. a native of
K(jenigheim, Baden. Germany, was born June 15, 1849; a son of Francis J. and
Mary A. (Blesch) Hippler, the former of whom, a son of Anthony and Magdalene
(Bei-thold) Hi})pler. died in Germany; the latter, a daughter of Jacob and Mary
(Zimmerman) Blesch, is still living. They were parents of five children:
Timothy, in Lodi, Ohio; Rosina, wife of Oswold Dispisch, residing in Ger-
many; Jacobin, residing in Huron County. Ohio; Hiram; and Charles, who was
killed in the Lodi Mills. Our subject was educated in the common and gov-
ernment schools of his native land. He embarked for America, January 1 ,
1867, landing same month, then came West and located near Lodi, Ohio, where
he worked at daily labor for several years. He was married, December 10,
1871. to Malinda Fender, born in Thompson Township, this county, December
25, 1849. daughter of George Fender, a native of Wurtemberg, Germany.
Mr. and Mrs. Hippler have two children living: Victor E. and Olin E. In
1872 our subject purchased a farm of eighty acres in Reed Township, this
county, to which he added by subsequent piu'chase, but later retired fi-oni act
ive agricultural piirsuits. He is P. G. of the I. O. O. F.
T. J. JAMES, operator and fi-eight agent for the Baltimore & Ohio Rail-
road. P. O. Siam. was born in Licking County. Ohio. January 27, 1851, son of J.
S. and Margaret (Evans) James, natives of South AN'ales, who came to America
about 1840. Their children are John, residing near Marengo, Iowa; Mary, wife
of David Bean, in Granville. Ohio; T. J. ; Ellen; Lizzie, wife of Knox Wright,
residing near Utica, Ohio; Virgin, in Bairdstown; Frank, in Newark, Ohio;
Sarah, and Elmer, a })rominent agriculturist of Licking County, Ohio. The
subject of this sketch in early life taught school in Ohio and Illinois. He re-
mained with his father until 1874. when he began learning his present busi-
ness, since which time he has been located at various points in Indiana and
Ohio. He was united in marriage, December 28, 1882, with Russia Fryer,
liorn Augtist 20, 1 860, in Noble County, Ind. , daughter of Dr. Frank Fryer,
a native of Pennsvlvania, and bv this union there is one child — Frank — born
August 80. 1 884. '
JOHN R. JEWETT, merchant. Omar, was born at Melmore, this county,
November 19. 1844, son of Rev. John R. and Julia (Richards) Jewett, who
came from Connecticut to Ohio in 1835, and to this coimtv in 1844. Rev.
REED TOWNSHIP. 961
John E. Jewett was a son of John R. Jewett, who was born in Boston. Lin-
colnshire, England. May 21. 1783. and whose father, Edward Jewett, was a
gunsmith. All the crew of the vessel " Boston " were barbarously murdered
by the Indians at Nootka Sound March 22, 1803, except John R. Jewett and
John Thompson. John R. was compelled, by the chief of the tribe by whom
he was captiu-ed, to maiTy a squaw, by whom he had one son, and from whom
he escajDed after ihree years. Oui- subject enlisted at Sandusky City. June 22,
18G3, in the First Regiment. Company M, Ohio Volunteer Heavy Artillery,
under Col. C. J. Hawley. in the Western anny; served valiantly, and was dis-
charged July 25. 1805. He completed a commercial course at Berea, Ohio,
and was subsequently engaged in farming, but was compelled to give it up on
account of his health, which had been undermined whilst serving his country.
In 1 883 he engaged in merchandising at Omar, since which time he had been
acting as postmaster (now appointed), and was elected for three successive
years township clerk of Reed Township. He was elected justice of the peace
in 1881, but after serving one year resigned. Mr. Jewett was married, April
3, 1870, to Ellen L. Gambee, by whom he has one child, Nellie, born April
2, 1871. He is a member of Rice A. Cregelow Post G. A. R. , at Attica; also
of Attica Lodge No. 367. F. & A. M.
LEYI KELLER, farmer and stock-breeder. P. O. Attica, was born in
Tiffin, Ohio, October 3, 1843. son of Levi and Elizabeth (Cupp) Keller; the
former, who is still living, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, September 26,
1806, son of John Keller, who built the "old Keller Mill " near Tiffin, said to
be the first in the county; the latter, a native of Virginia, moved with her par-
ents to Fairfield County, Ohio, at a very early date, and died in Seneca County,
Ohio, in 1875. aged sixty-nine years. Levi Keller, the father of our subject,
was a noted blacksmith in early times, accumulated a moderate fortune at his
trade, and subsequently engaged in farming. He served as sheriff two tenns;
was justice of the peace, and held various township offices. His children were
seven in number: Mahala and Valentine, who died young; Mary, wife of
George W. Cunningham, of Tiffin, Ohio; Catharine, wife of George W. Scott,
residing near Tiffin, Ohio; John, in Tiffin. Ohio; Ann E.. wife of E. J. Cun-
ningham, of Fostoria. Ohio; and Levi. Our subject enlisted August 20, 1862,
in Company D, One Hundi-ed and Twenty- third Regiment Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry, and during the fii'st year of his service he sujffered from typhoid fever
and measles. He was with his regiment at the time of the rebel raid into
Pennsylvania, where nearly all of the One Hundred and Twenty-third were
captui'ed. In the battle of the Opequan he was wounded in the thigh. He
subsequently rejoined his command in the James River country; was discharged
June 27, 1865, and has since engaged in farming. He came to his present
beautiful home of 190 acres in 1875, where he has successfully engaged in
Merino sheep breeding, having one of the largest and most desirable flocks in
northern Ohio, composed of some of the finest animals, descendants from the
famous Clark & Burwell flocks of Vermont. His flock is registered in Vermont
Sheep Register. Volume III. Mr. Keller is an independent, intelligent stock-
breeder and a scientific farmer. He was married, January 23, 1873, to Eu-
phrasia Free, born in Scipio Township, this county. May 9, 1849, daughter of
John Free (deceased). The family are members of the U. B. Church. Mr.
Keller is a member of the G. A. R. at Attica, Ohio.
HENRY H. LAPHAM, farmer, P.O. Attica, was born near Moravia. Seneca
Co., N. Y. , June 4, 1818; son of Josej^h and Lovinia (Howland) Lapham, natives
of Bristol County, Mass., and who moved to New York State early in 1800, and
later to Seneca County, Ohio, arriving in Scipio Township, May 26, 1826.
062 BIOGRAPEUCAL SKETCHES:
Joseph Lapliam, grandfather of our subject, came fi-om England. Henry H.
Lapham, who at nine years of age began life as a woodsman, has cleared about
175 acres of land, and' has assisted in ciatting out the first roads in the county.
January 1. 1840, he was married to Mary Hall, who was born at Tyrone, Sen-
eca Co., N. Y., May 1, 1821, daughter of Rev. Henry F. and Susan (Sellon)
Hall, the former of whom, a native of New Jersey, died March 5, 1858, aged
sixty-nine years; the latter, who died March 8. 1871, aged seventy-eight years,
was a native of Vermont, a daughter of Samuel Sellon. a native of England and
cousin to Queen Anne. Mr. and Mrs. Lapham' s children are Ruth H.. wife
of Isaac Sutton, residing in Williamson County. Tex.; Emma R.. wife of
Alfred Mattison. of Vermilion, Ohio; and AccaE. H.. wife of Levi W. Horton.
of Reimblic, Ohio. Mr. Lapham is active in all public enterprises conducive
to the welfare of the people, and is a most accomodating and affable gentleman.
A. J. MITTOWER, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was bom September 28,
1830, near the east line of Scipio Township, this coimty; son of John and
Elizabeth (Spangler) Mittower; the former, born near Fredericktown, Md. ,
January 81, 1708. was a son of Andrew and Susan Mittower, who moved to
Cumberland County. Penn., thence to Yates County, N. Y.. where John (the
father of our subject) was married, July 4, 1828. John and Elizabeth Mit-
tower had five children: Rachael, deceased wife of Lenader Ransburg. left
family in Scipio Township, this county: Catharine died, aged seventeen years;
Susan, wife of J. Dunn, residing in Scipio Township, this county; A. J., and
Sarah, wife of J. D. Neikirk, residing near Attica, Ohio. The father of our
subject came to this county in June, 1824, entered 160 acres of land, to
which he added by subsequent purchases and here endured all the trials and
hardships of j^ioneer life, clearing up nearly 200 acres. He was in early life
captain of a militia company, and after coming here became a leading man in
the county; he died April 7. 1874; his widow is still living and makes her
home with her son A. J. Our subject received a meager common school edu-
cation, remaining with his father on the farm. He was married. December
27, 1860, to Malinda Clay, born in Scipio Township, this county, May 24, 1844,
daughter of John and Ellen (Hetter) Clay, who came from Pennsylvania to
eastern Ohio at an early date, and quite early to this county; the result of this
marriage was seven children: Clara (deceased at twelve years); Edward A. ; an
infant (deceased); A. O. ; Delia; Elmer; and Blanche. Mr. Mittower came
to his present home in 1857, subsequently piu-chased the other heirs" interest
in the property and now has a fine and highly cultivated farm of 120 acres.
He is highly respected by the people of his neighborhood; has held some of
the principal offices of his township, although against his wishes, being a man
of a retiring disposition; the family are members of the Lutheran Chiu'ch, in
which he is one of the deacons.
SAMUEL MITT(3WER, retired farmer, P. O. West Lodi. was born in
Northumberland County, Penn., September 18. 1818. son of Andrew and Sarah
(Anderson) Mittower. parents of following: Elizabeth, wife of Henry Palmer,
residing in Hm-on. Dak.: Samuel: Annie, wife of William Bishop; Margaret,
wife of Moses Bisho]) (both residijig in this township); Levi and George,
deceased in early life. Andrew Mittower moved from Yates County, N. Y.,
to Reed Township, this county, September, 1883; entered 160 acres of land in
Section 7, to which he added, and there endured the hardships and trials of
pioneer life; he was a prominent man, assisting in building the early schools
and chiu-ch buildings and was zealous in the promotion of the welfare of the
people. Our subject remained with his father until the latter' s death, April
5. 1843. and was married, Februarv 17, 1845. to Sarah Brong, born in Penn-
REED TOWNSHIP. 963
sylvania August 13, 1822, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Fairver) Brong,
whose childi'en were Catharine and EHzabeth, died young; Mary, married
to Henry Histler (both deceased, leaving a son Hemy in Michigan); Jacob, in
Steuben County, Ind. ; Sarah; Paul, in Scipio Township, this county; Barbara,
wife of N. Wair, residing in Reed Township, this county; Aaron, residing
near Lincoln, Neb. ; Annie, wife of Mr. Ackernian, residing in ReiDublic, Ohio;
Susan, deceased wife of Edward Staler (left family near Adrian, Mich.);
Rosa, wife of George Whiteman, and Lydia, wife of Tillman Hausneck, resid-
ing near Topeka, Kans. Mr. Brong settled in Scipio in 1835, where he died.
To Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Mittower were born Andrew, a railroad engineer at
Reading, Penn. ; Reuben, living in Republic, Ohio, and Jacob and Elizabeth,
who died early in life. Reuben was born November 25, 1847; was married
September 25, 1873, to Emma Breyman, born in Pennsylvania September 19,
1854, daughter of Zachariah and Sarah (Kline) Breyman. and by this union is
one child, Nellie, born March 1, 1878. Mrs. Samuel Mittower died Decem-
ber 10^ 1873. Our subject is a member of Hildi-eth Lodge, F. & A. M. . also
of Lodi Lodge, I. O. O. F. He is a Republican in politics.
MRS. MARY NOGLE, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Michelback,
Oberamt Gerbron, Germany, May 1, 1829^ daughter of George and Christine
(Plotner) Hachter, who were parents of five children : John, who died in South
Bend, Ind. , leaving a family ; George, who served in the late civil war and is
now a resident of Missouri; Mary; Leonard, killed by a falling tree, when
twenty-one years of age, while at work in the woods in Venice Township, this
county, and Catharine, wife of Jacob Sherman, in Attica Township, this
county. Oui- subject was married June 15, 1852, to Leonard Nogle, born
November 26, 1822, in Oberamt Merckenheim, Germany, and the same year
(1822) they came to America and settled in Venice Township, this county.
The first twelve years Mr. Nogle worked in the Attica Ashery; he then pur-
chased a quarter section of land where his family now reside, but was stricken
down by death March 3. 1871, before the farm was unencumbered. He was a
liberal, kind-hearted man, highly respected by his neighbors. Mrs. Nogle, who
is a lady of more than ordinary energy and tact, assimied the responsibilities
of her husband after his death, and now has her home free fi'om debt and is a
prosperous farmer. Her childi-en were fourteen in number, four of whom died
young. The living are John, in Crawford County, Ohio; Mary, wife of Emil
Pfau, in Cleveland, Ohio; Elizabeth, wife of Emery Vogel, in Crawford
County. Ohio; George, at home; Com-ad and Leonard, in Crawford County,
Ohio; Ellen, wife of John Easterborn. residing near South Bend, Ind. ; Rosa;
William, and Joseph. Her grandson, Charles Nogle, lives with her and assists
in the farming and stock-raising.
GEORGE W. NYE, farmer, P. O. Omar, was born in Genesee County,
N. Y. , April 19, 1827, son of Samuel and Polly (Ford) Nye, the former of
whom, a son of Jonathan and (nee Curtis) Nye, was born in Vermont.
The family moved to this county in June, 1833. The childi-en of Samuel and
Polly Nye were Orlantha, deceased; Aurilla, widow of "William J. Hall, of
Reed Township, this county; George W. ; Levi, who died leaving a family in
Clyde, Ohio, and Byron, residing in Bloom Township, this county. In early
life om- subject remained on the farm and attended the common schools. In
1852 he crossed the plains with ox teams to California, where he remained
seven years, meeting with considerable success. He then turned his attention
to farming, and by his own effoi-ts acquired a farm of 300 acres. He was
married, November 6, 1859, to Phoebe Tabor, who was born in Cayuga County,
N. Y., January 9, 1841, daughter of Record and Nancy (Alvord) Tabor, the
964 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
former a native of Genesee County. N. Y., son of Lodowick and Esther (Crip-
pin) Tabor, the latter born in Cortland County, N. Y. , daughter of Lyman and
Esther (Seeley) Alvord. The children of Kecord and Nancy TalDor were
Esther, deceased; George, deceased; Phoebe; William; Frederick; Jenett, in
Reed Township, this county; Susan, wife of Wilber Dieter, residing in Dun-
dee, Monroe Co., Mich. ; Ada; and Eliza, deceased. Record Tabor was twice
married, his first wife being Phebe Robison, by whom he had one child, a son,
Alanson. To Mr. and Mrs. Nye have been born the following children:
George A.. G. G., Myiia (wife of John K. Baker, of Reed Township, this
county), Carrie, Jay (who died in his fourth year), Lizzie (who died in in-
fancy), Philip, Jesse and Morton. Mr. Nye is a member of Harmony Grange.
ISAAC RAYMOND, farmer and stock-breeder, P. O. Attica, was born July
6, 1826, in Reed Township, Seneca County, Ohio, and is a son of George and
Hannah (Reed) Raymond. He was married, July 4, 1855, to Frances Couch,
born October 17, 1836, in Niles, Cayuga Co., N. Y. , daughter of J. L. and
Celestia (Wood) Couch; the former a son of Joel and Phebe (LaDow) Couch;
the latter a daughter of Asel and Alathea (Pool) Wood. To our subject and
wife were born James A. , Eva C. and Jesse William. The family are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episco2:>al Church. Our subject is engaged in farming
and breeding blooded stock. He has held offices of trust in the township; is
a member of Venice Lodge, I. O. O. F., in which he has passed all the chairs.
J. A. RAYMOND, proprietor of saw-mill, P. O. Siam. was born in Reed
Township, February 4, 1857, son of Isaac and Frances Raymond, and was
educated in the common schools. In 1880 he took an interest in the lumber
mills of A. L. Soui'wine & Co. , where he has since been engaged and is also
the head of the firm of Raymond & Williams. The firm do a large business,
having a capacity of about 6,000 feet per day, with the most improved machin-
ery. Mr. Raymond was married, November 9, 1881, to Ella Wise, daughter
of Solomon Wise, one of the early settlers of Reed Township, this county, and
to this union has been born one child — Roily R., born April 2, 1884. ]\Ii-.
Raymond is a member of Venice Lodge, I. O. O. F. . at Attica, Ohio. He is
one of the most influential and enterprising young men of Reed Township.
JACOB RAYMOND, farmer, P. O. Omar, is a son of George Raymond,
who, with Seth Read, were the first two families to settle in Reed Township,
this county, arriving in the fall of 1823, instead of 1825 as stated in other his-
tories. George Raymond was born March 9, '1780, son of Daniel Raymond,
who was a descendant of William Raymond, one of three brothers, Richard,
William and John, who came fi-om England and settled in Brooklyn, N. Y., in
1630. The mother of our subject was Hannah, sister of Seth Read, born Sep-
tember 19, 1785, died February 22, 1856. To George and Hannah Raymond
were born the following childi'en: Mahala, born December 17, 1804, died in
infancy; William, born April 27, 1807, died April 28, 1883. leaving family in
Adams Township, this county; Harriet, born December 19, 1809, died October
2, 1831 (she was the wife of John Wilkinson, and left a family in Reed Town-
ship, this county); Sally, born August 4, 1811, died April 5, 1874 (she mar-
ried William W^itler, who died in Iowa, when she became the third wife of Sol-
omon Cogswell, of Cleveland, Ohio); Lydia, born October 29, 1813, now the
widow of Isaac German, and residing in Fostoria, Ohio; Hannah, born March
19, 1816, died January 20, 1850 (she was the second wife of Solomon Cogswell);
Jefferson, born Aj^ril 15, 1819, died January 20, 1876, leaving family in Knox
County, 111. ; Lucy, born August 31, 1821, widow of Milton LaSelle. now the
wife of IVIi-. Timothy Colby (resides near Alma City, Minn.); Richmond, born
September 18. 1823, died May 1, 1831; Abram, Isaac and Jacob, triplets, born
EEED TOWNSHIP. P65
July 6. 1826. the former of whom died February 16, 1876. leaving family in
Keed Township. The subject of this sketch was married, February 20, 18e56,
to Mary E. Bennitt, born in Steuben County, N. Y., June 28, 1828, daughter
of Abram S. and Prudence (Miller) Bennitt, the former a son of Daniel and
Sally (Sayre) Bennitt, the latter a daughter of Amos and Mary (Jaynes) Miller.
Their children are three in number: Abram B., born February 1, 1857, mar-
ried to Emma Post; Lucy A., born April 8, 1860, married to L. Covert, and
George C. , born December 19, 1866, all residents of Reed Township, this
county. Jacob Raymond was a soldier in defense of his country, doing mili-
tary duty in the defenses around Washington, D. C. He owns and resides
upon the farm his father entered when first coming into the country.
HENRY READ, farmer, P. O. Omar, was born in Steuben County, N. Y. ,
May 31, 1820; son of Elijah Read, born December 10, 1792, and who was a
sergeant under Capt. Clelland in Gen. Wadsworth's command. Elijah Read
was one of the first settlers of Reed Township, and served as justice of the
peace nine years; he received his patent for land from John Q. Adams, and
was prominent among the early people of the township ; he was married, March
20, 1816, to Sally W. Brundige, who was born August 19, 1800; both were
from Steuben County, N. Y. ; their childi'en were James B. , born February 5,
1818, died April 17,' 1863; William and Henry (twins), born May 31, 1820,
W^illiam died Febriiary 19, 1856; Susan M., born September 27, 1827, died
Jan. 12, 1856, and George B., born October 20, 1830, died July 22, 1842. Our
subject was married, August 12, 1847, to Nancy Murray, of Fairfield County,
Ohio, daughter of John and Mary (Conwell) Murray. By her he had three
children: Mary, born January 2. 1849, wife of William Ricker, of Huron
County, Ohio; Clara, born February 13, 1851; and William H., born November
1, 1857, married to Alice Fifer. Mr. Read is a member of Harmony Grange
No. 481.
JOHN ROSPERT, farmer and notary public, P. 0. Frank, was born Oc-
tober 21, 1841, in Berus, Rhenish Prussia; son of George and Catharine
(Haas) Rospert. His father, who is still living, was born April 1, 1815. in
the same place, a son of Nicholas and Susanna (Seles) Rospert, the former of
whom was a son of Peter Rospert. Ovu- subject's mother, a daughter of Peter
and Catharine (Glassner) Haas, died in her thirty-fourth year. The family
came to America, landing in New Orleans in 1851, and thence made their way
via river to Cincinnati, Ohio. Within thirty days after their arrival in this
country, in which they were entire strangers, our subject lost by death his
mother, two brothers and his only sister. His father subsequently married
Mrs. Elizabeth Fisher (^lee Heitz) by whom he had seven children, six of whom
are deceased; Catharine, who is married to Jacob Kuhn, is still alive. Our
subject came with his father to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1852. He was edu-
cated in the parochial schools, at St. Mary' s Institute, near Dayton, and at the
seminary in Thompson Township, this county. At sixteen years of age he be-
gan teaching, in which profession he continued in the district and parochial
schools until 1871, when he turned his attention to farming and the business
of notary; has held the office of justice of the peace. He was married. May 2,
1865. to Catharine Wagner, born in Lorain County, Ohio, September 23, 1843,
daughter of Matthias and Mary A. (Webber) Wagner, early settlers of Lorain
County, Ohio, parents of twelve childi-en. seven of whom are now living: Nich-
olas, in Elyria, Ohio; Peter and John, at Avon, Ohio; Joseph, in San Fran-
cisco, Cal. ; J. P., in this township; Catharine; and Emma, widow of Matthias
Hendges, a soldier who died in the late war. The father of this family died
in 1857, in his fifty-fourth year. To Mr. and Mrs. Rospert wore born Mary
966 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Louisa, Pius, Oranna M. , Cornelius C. , Adelhaid, Mary J. , Leo A. and Coletta.
Mr. Kospert is a farmer of influence and prominence. He and his family are
members of the Catholic Church.
ANDREW S ANFORD, farmer, P. O. Omar, was born in Bergen County, N.
J. , December 11. 1810. The Sanfords' ancestry in this country sprang from one
of seven brothers who came fi'om England. Our subject's father, John Sanford,
a son of John Sanford, who was in the Revolution, was a soldier in the war
of 1812, and his mothfjr was Sarah Miller, daughter of Capt. Andrew Miller,
whose company, while he was commanding it. in the Revolutionary war, was
attacked by the Indians, and all killed except himself. The Sanford family
moved to New York State in 1815, where the parents died. In the fall of
1830 our subject came to this county, entering what is now his present home,
receiving his patent from Gov. McArthur. His elder brother, John, settled in
Seneca County in 1827. Andi-ew Sanford was married, January 14, 1836, to
Eliza A. Shriner, who was born in Fayette, Seneca Co., N. Y., September 23,
1815, daughter of John and Eliza (Hicks) Shriner, who moved to Seneca Coun-
ty in July, 1834, former a son of John and Johannah (Low) Shriner. To Mr.
and Mrs. Sanford were born John and Benjamin F., residents of Reed Town-
ship, this county; Eliza, wife of Robert R. Wilkinson, in Antrim Co., Mich.,
Andrew (deceased); David, who Avas a lawyer, and died in 1883, leaving his
family in Attica ; Hannah J. (deceased) ; Sarah, wife of Silas Anway, in Antrim
County, Mich., and xlnson, a telegraph operator at Corning, Ohio. The sons,
John, Benjamin F. and David, served in the civil war. The family are mem-
bers of the Baptist Church. Mr. Sanford has held various township offices; in
politics he is a Republican.
SAMUEL SHADE, farmer, P. O. Omar, was boi-n March 3, 1837, in Ven-
ice Township, this county, where his father, Samuel Shade, had purchased
300 acres of timber land in 1834, coming from Columbiana County, Ohio,
where his father, Christian Shacle, settled in 1812 fi'om Berks Couuty, Penn.
The father of our subject was born May 14, 1800, and died at Tiffin, this
county, in 1872. He held important township offices, and was a man of prom-
inence at an eai'ly time. His widow, Catharine Shade, who survives him, was
l^orn in Pennsylvania November 25, 1798, daughter of Frederick Carrick, a
Revolutionary soldier under Gen. Washington, and who died in his one hun-
dredth year. Their children were fourteen in number: an infant, Daniel,
George, Margaret, and Mary died early in life; Fi-ederick, in Venice Town-
ship; Sarah, wife of John Bordner, in Williams County, Ohio; Parmelia, wife
of John Hains, in Crawford County, Ohio; Catharine, wife of George Deis-
ler, of Venice Township; Simon, in Crawford County. Ohio; Emeline, wife
of Conrad Deisler, of Venice Township; Samuel; William, in Venice, and
Amanda, wife of Daniel Bordner, of Crawford County. Ohio. In 1868 the
subject of our sketch moved to Tiffin, where he became a member of the mill-
ing firm of Hayward & Shade, and in 1 883 he came to his present beautiful
home. He was married, March 3, 1864, to Eliza, born in Venice Township,
this county, March 3, 1840, daughter of Samuel and Catharine (Frederick)
Woollet, early settlers. To this union have been born two children : Albert and
Oliver S. Thev are members of the Reformed Church.
M. D. SHETTERLY, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born December 23,
1830, in Varick, Seneca Co., N. Y., son of Andrew and Annie (Steltz) Shet-
terly. The father of our subject, a son of Michael Shetterly, served in the
war of 1812, and was a prominent official in his native county. He came to
this county about 1847, pui'chased 300 acres of land near the center of Reed
Township, and in the spring of 1850 moved his family and settled near Lodi,
REED TOWNSHIP. 967
Avhere he died in the spring of 1875, aged eighty years, one month and six-
teen days; his widow, a daiTghter of John Steltz, followed him in the fall of
1878, in her seventy-seventh year. Their children were ten in number: George,
who died, leaving a family in Lodi, Ohio; John, who died, leaving a family in
South Bend, Ind. ; Jane, deceased wife of Benjamin Redner (left two children :
Mrs. Nancy Markham. of New Salem. Ohio, and Mrs. Elizabeth Wilkins, of
Denver, Colo.); Letitia, deceased wife of David Dunn, family reside near
Wichita, Kans. : Andrew E., deceased, unmarried; M. D. . our subject;
Adelia, widow of Horace Robinson, in Republic, Ohio; Harriet, unmarried,
in Republic, Ohio; William H., in Republic, Ohio; and J. K., an engineer,
also in Republic, Ohio. Our subject remained with his father until twenty-
three years of age, when he settled on his present farm. He was mar-
ried. April 5, 1855. to Elizabeth Auble, also a native of Seneca County,
N. Y., born December 11, 1835. daughter of AVilliam and Mary E. (Fish-
er) Auble, who were among the early settlers of Seneca County, and by
this union were born seven children: Florence N. (wife of Isaac Bilger,
of Reed Township, this county), Lyman L. (died, aged four years), Ellen
A., Horace R., Pattie J., Andi-ew N. and Bertha Hayes. Mr. Shetterly takes
an active interest in the improvement of stock and farm products. He has
held various offices of trust in the township, although not seeking the honoi-s.
He is a member of Hildreth Lodge. F. & A. M., at Republic, this coimty;
Avas a member of the I. O. O. F. , at Lodi, Ohio. He is active in the advance-
ment of educational and religious matters. He and his family are members
of the Christian Union Chiu'ch, in which he is an elder. In politics he is a
Republican.
SAMUEL SPENCER, farmer, P. O. Omar, was born in Venice Township,
this county. December 24, 1842. son of Huckens and Nancy (Bigham) Spencer,
early settlers of this county; former of whom was born in Vermont in 18(^8,
and'^died in 1853; latter, a native of Cork, Ireland, when nine years of age
came to America in 1818 with her parents, John and Elizabeth Bigham, and
died in 1854. On account of his parents' early demise our mbject lived and
worked on the farm with an elder brother until the war of the Rebellion, when
he enlisted, September 15, 1861, in Company H, Fourteenth Regiment Ohio
Volunteer Infantry. He received his discharge September 15, 1864, but
served three years and three months. He fought at the battles of Shiloh, Per-
ryville and C'hickamauga, where he was severely wounded by a six-pound can-
non ball, but forgetting himself, and with his life-blood fast flowing and with
failing breath he cheered his comrades on to victory. By pluck and medical
skill his life was saved, and he afterward did duty in the hospital at Nashville,
Tenn. After his return home he worked at daily labor and upon a rented farm
until 1872, when he piu'chased his present beautiful and well-kept farm of 110
acres, where he lives in the enjoyment of looking after his fine stock. Mr.
Spencer was married, March 17, 1870, to Elvira Reed, born April 29, 1848,
near Steubenville. Ohio, daughter of James Reed. Their children were
Charles S., Frank W., Dessa (deceased when about two years of age),_Jennie
R. and Harley. Mr. Spencer is a member of Attica Lodge, No. '567, F. &
A. M. , a Republican in politics, and a meml)er of the Baptist Chiu'ch.
DANIEL SUITER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born near Leavittsville,
Carroll Co., Ohio. January 18, 1836, son of Jacob and Sarah (Myers) Suiter,
natives of Pennsylvania; the former, born in 1803. moved wdth his father,
Philip Suiter, to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1809 (this Philip Suiter laid out
the town of New Cumberland, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio), and died Janu-
arv 20, 1876; latter born in 1809, moved to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in
968 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ISIO vvitli lier grandparents (John and Yant), and died in 1872.
Jacol) and Sarah (Myers) Suiter had nine chiklren: John, in Montgomery-
County, 111.; Henry, in Kansas; Matilda, wife of Benjamin Perch, in Chris-
tian County, 111.; Daniel; Elizabeth, deceased; Martha, wife of James Ben-
nett, in Montgomery County, 111. ; Amanda, wife of Conrad Perch, in Carroll
County, Ohio; David, in Carroll County, Ohio; Margaret, wife of James
McAfee, in Montgomery County. 111. Our subject followed farming and
teaching until the war of the Rebellion, when he enlisted December 20, 1861,
in Company K, Eightieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; was promoted to
be quartermaster- sergeant; was with his command through all their hard
fought battles, discharging his duties as a soldier and an officer with credit to
himself and honor to his country. After nearly four years of service he , was
discharged at Little Rock, Ark. , and returned to agricultural i^ursuits. He
was mai-ried, April 24, 1864, to Hannah Albaugh, born in Crawford County,
January 20, 1841, daughter of David and Rebecca (Keran) Albaugh, both of
whom are still living. By this marriage there were seven childi-en: Nanev
M.. Sarah L., William A., Rollin J., John H.. Emma M. and Lloyd W. Mi".
Suiter moved to Crawford County in 186(), and to Seneca County in March,
1872. Here, in December, 1880, he sustained a heavy loss in the destruction
of his home by fire, but by energy and perseverance he has overcome all obsta-
cles, and is now enjoying the comforts of pleasant surroundings.
ALONZO THATCHER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born near Toledo,
Ohio, January 14, 1846; son of Thomas and Tracy (Stephenson) Thatcher,
both of whom died of cholera, the former in 1852, the latter in 1854. They
had two childi'en: Thomas, now residing in Toledo, Ohio, and Alonzo. Mr.
Thatcher came to Seneca County early in life, being taken charge of by
fi'iends, on account of the early demise of his parents. He received a district
school education, and worked at farm labor. He was married, October 31.
1871, to Martha Cooley, who was born in Reed Township, Seneca Co., Ohio,
September 13, 1850. Her father, Alvin Cooley, born December 21, 1805, was
twice married, first, February 3, 1832, to Rebecca Bugbee, who was born Oc-
tober 20, 1815, and died April 25. 1841, the mother of four childi-en: Eliza
beth (deceased wife of Tallerand Martin, of Nebraska), Amanda, wife of Frank
Kelley, residing in Missouri; Elmira; and Rebecca (deceased). Mr. Cooley
married on second occasion, December 29, 1841, Sarah Warren, born Novem-
ber 11, 1821, who bore him the following children: Mary J., wife of HenrA
Myers, of Scipio Township, this county; Amarett, wife of J. N. Elliott, of
Reed Township, this county; Hosea and Everett, who reside in Republic,
Ohio ; and Martha, Mrs. Thatcher. Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher have two children :
Emily O. and Vern A.
JACOB WINDNAGLE, miller, P. O. West Lodi, is a native of Erie
County, N. Y. ; born May 25, 1839; son of John and Annie (Ritter) Windna-
gle, the former of whom died January 4, 1884, aged eighty-seven years; the
latter, who is still living, is a daughter of Simeon and Annie Ritter, also
natives of Pennsylvania. John and Annie Windnagle had eleven children:
Eliza, wife of Jacob Fatty, a farmer in Erie County, N. Y^ ; Susan, wife of
Levi Zook, foreman in a large warehouse in Buffalo, N. Y'^. ; Frederick, a me-
chanic in Niagara County, N. Y^ ; Simeon (deceased, leaving family in Erie
County, where he had engaged in farming); John, farming near Detroit,
Mich. ; Henry, in same neighborhood; Sarah (deceased wife of Jacob Shettler,
of Erie County, N. Y. ) ; Catharine, widow of David Blocker, in Erie County,
N. Y. ; Jacob ; Franklin, a carriage manufacturer at Bockport. N. Y''. ; and
Fannie, married and living in Buffalo. N. Y. Our subject received a limited
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 969
education, remaining with bis father until eighteen years of age, when h(» Ix^-
gan learning the blacksmith trade, at which he worked about ten j^ear.s in New
York, thence came to this county, where he was engaged in saw-milling for a
time, then for three years v/as in mercantile business. In 1877 he owned the
Lodi Mills, which he disposed of to Kern & Son in 1879, since which time he
has been the miller, a trade he learned here. Mr. Windnagle was commis-
sioned justice of the peace by Gov. Noyes April 14. 1873, and by Gov. Hayes
May 25, 187G. He was married May 22, 1804, to Catharine Breyman, a na-
tive of Weaverstown, Berks Co.. Penn., and a daughter of John C. and Cath-
arine (Auman) Breyman; and by her has had two childi-en: Frank A. and
Clara S. (latter died aged eleven months). Mr. Windnagle is a member of
Hildreth Lodge F. & A. M., at Republic, Ohio.
T. A. YUNDT. justice of the peace and farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was
born March 7, 1840, in Lancaster County, Penn. ; son of Chambers and Eliza
(Horting) Yundt. also natives of Lancaster County, where the former, who
was a son of George Yundt. and a farmer and hotel keeper by occupation, died
April 10, 1880, aged fifty-live years, four months and twelve days; Mrs. Eliza
Yundt, who is sixty-two years of age (living with her son, T. A.) is a daugh-
ter of George and* Molly (Albright) Horting. the latter of whom was born in
1 799. and is still living. To Chambers and Eliza Yundt were born ten chil-
dren: William, who died leaving a family in Lodi, Ohio; Archibald (deceased);
T. A. ; Louisa (deceased Avife of George Sprecher. left eight children living in
Lancaster County. Penn.); Bently (deceased); Maria (deceased); Maggie (de-
ceased); Wellington, residing in Tiffin, Ohio; Martha (deceased) and Mary
(deceased). Our siibject. who received the advantages of a common school
education, remained upon the farm and taught school until eighteen years of
ao-e, when he came to this county, settling in Lodi, where he clerked for three
years for M. Beard, then purchased the business of his employer, which he
continued for fifteen years, when he retired from mercantile life. In the
spring of 1 870 Mr. Yundt was elected to the office of justice of the peace, in
which he served three years; in the spring of 1882 he was re elected to this
office, of which he is the present incumbent. He held a notary commission
three years; was appointed postmaster in June. 1882. He takes an active
part in the advancement of farming and educational interests. Mr. Yundt
was married June 0, 1809, to Jemima, daughter of M. Beard, and who was
born August 11.1 848, in the hotel where they now reside, and which was
built at an early date by her father, who was an important man in the history
of the village. ' They have had fom- children : Maud, who died aged eight
years; Perry; Mark;" and Harry Blain. Mr. Yundt is a member of No. 498,
ijodi Lodge, I. O. O. F. , of which he has been secretary, and is at present
N. G. He is an active politician and prohibitionist.
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP.
JOHN ALBRIGHT, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Lancaster
County, Penn.. October 20, 1885, and the following spring his parents removed
to Seneca County. Ohio, locating in Adams Township, where our subject grew
to maturity and received the benefits of a common school ediication. Charles
Albright, father of our subject, a carpenter by trade, was born in Pennsyl-
vania? in 1810, and Molly (Smith) Albright, our subject's mother, was born in
970 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
1808, died in 1877; they were parents of four childi-en: John, Jacob, David
(deceased) and Isaac. ' John Albright removed to his present farm in 1862.
and in 1875 erected his line residence. He is a self-made man; considered one
of the substantial as well as practical farmers of Scipio Township. He has
always dealt more or less extensively in stock; is also a prominent apiarist.
He has served the people of his township as trustee, and is an active member
of the Democratic party. He is a F. & A. M. Om- subject married, Decem-
ber 1, 1863, Miss Mary Huddle, born in Lykens Township, Crawford Co. ,
Ohio,' July 22, 1836, daughter of Benjamin and Annie (Seitz) Huddle, the
former of Shenandoah County, Ya., and the latter, of Fairfield County, Ohio;
were parents of ten sons and eight daughters: Eebecca, Noah (deceased),
Lydia, Daniel, Benjamin, Samuel (deceased), Lewis, Abraham (deceased),
Rachael (deceased), Mary, Ann, Catharine, John, Peter, Elizabeth, an infant
(deceased), Jacob and Lovina (latter deceased). Fourteen of these childi'en
grew to matiu-ity and married. The union of our subject and wife has been
blessed with four children: Freeman, Orsina (deceased), Upton and Orren.
NORMAN BENHAM, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Prospect,
Conn., September 7, 1818, son of Daniel and Clarissa (Chittenden) Benham.
who came to the farm now occupied by our subject, in 1834, where they died.
Daniel Benham. a son of Shadrach and Elizabeth* Benham, died in his eighty-
fourth year. Clarissa Benham, a daughter of Asel C. and Annie (Lewis)
Chittenden, died in her eighty-fifth year; they were parents of five children:
Franklin B. (deceased, leaving a family); James (deceased, leaving a family in
Clyde, Ohio) ; Edwin (deceased, leaving one daughter) ; Norman and Marsha
A.' (latter deceased). At twenty years of age, oar subject began the carpen-
ter's trade, at which he worked fifteen years, then turned his attention to gen-
eral farming and now has 110 acres. He was married, in 1842, to Ann Smith,
born near Berne, Switzerland, September 5. 1823, daughter of Jacob and
Catharine (Myers) Smith, who came to America in 1827, locating following
year in Sandusky, where former carried on shoe-making, subsequently settling
in Venice Township, this county, where he carried on farming, and where he
died. To om- subject and wife have been born foui- children: George (de-
ceased); Catharine, wife of Jacob Crosley in Republic, this county: Frances,
wife of V. A. Rohn, also in Republic, and Daniel J.
M. BREYMAN, dentist, Republic, was born in Berks County, Penn. , De-
cember 15, 1821 ; son of John C. Breyman, at onetime a merchant and recorder
of Union County, Penn., who died in 1861, aged sixty-seven years; his widow.
Catharine (Oman) Breyman. of Pennsylvania, died in 1879, aged eighty-four
years; they had ten children: Sarah Ann. Zacharius. Sabrina, Malon, Heury.
Catharine,' John, Allen, Annetta and an infant (latter deceased). At the age of
eighteen years our subject commenced working at the wagon-making trade, an
occupation he followed about ten years, working part of the time in a machine
shop and at ship-building. He commenced the study of dentistiy in 185(x
and is a graduate of the Wisconsin Dental College. He has been engaged hi
business in Repviblic. Ohio, since November, 1864, and is the only dentist in
that town. In August, 1862, Mr. Breyman enlisted in Company D, One Hun-
dred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Yolunteer Infantry. Under Capt. Crotzer. he
was transf eiTed to Company A, Thirty-fifth Regiment and detailed to assist the
surgeon, and April 27, 1863, he received his discharge on account of chronic
bronchitis. Mr. Breyman is an active member of the O. A. R. post, at Re-
public, Ohio. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of the Pres-
liyterian Church. Mr. Breyman entered upon life a poor boy, and is a self-
niade man. He married, June 17, 1845. Elizabeth C. Tate, of Pennsylvania.
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 971
born October 20, 1820, and eight childi-en have been born ol this nnion: Jane
E., wife of F. Warner: Annie C. (deceased); Elizabeth A., wife of J. K.
Wireman; "William C, married to Duskie Smith; John A., married to Ettie
Carrell; Alice A. and Alford A. (twins), (former wife of E. Sourwine). and
Malin E. (deceased).
PAUL BRONG, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Republic, was born in Sen-
eca County. N. Y., November ], 1824; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Farwer)
Brong, Penn., who were the parents of twelve children: Catherina (deceased).
Maiy (deceased). Jacob. Sarah (deceased), Paul. Aaron, Barbara, Annie, Rosa,
Susan (deceased), Lydia and Elizabeth (latter deceased). Our subject remained
with his parents on the home farm and received the advantages of a common
school education, entering his career in life as a farmer, an occupation he has
since followed. He came to this county in 1835. and located in Scipio Town-
ship, where he has since resided. In connection with his farming interests,
Mr. Brong has been extensively engaged in growing stock. His first farm con-
sisted of forty-five acres for which he ran in debt, and he now owns 218 acres of
choice farm land. "\\'hen twenty years of age, he became a member of the
German Reformed Church. Politically he is a Republican. Mr. Brong was
married, June 27, 1850. to Miss Mary Ann Stahler, who was born in Lehigh
County, Penn. . May 22, 1826. daughter of Henry and Susan (Hover) Stahler.
natives of Pennsylvania. To our subject and wife have been born six children:
Abbie R. (deceased), Henry J. (deceased). Sarah Elizabeth (deceased), Siisan
(deceased), Daniel Edgar, and Samuel Charles, residing at home on the old
homestead of 218 acres, as a farmer and stock-raiser.
DANIEL EDGAR BRONG, who is assistant district attorney at Lockport,
N. Y., was born June 9, 1857, in Scipio Township, Seneca Co., Ohio. He left
common school March 4, 1878; was a student in Republic Normal School from
October 1, 1878, two years; was a student and teacher at same school fi'om
October 1, 1875, two years more; delivered centennial oration at Republic,
Ohio, July 4, 1876; began i-eading law at home May 1, 1877, and taught
school ih Adams Township, this county, winter of 1877-78. He read law sum-
mer of 1878, at Lockport, Niagara County. N. Y.. and entered the law dei:)art-
ment of the university of Michigan at Ann Arbor. October 1. 1878, continuing
two years; was office law student at Lockport, April 1, 1880, to January 1,
1881, and was then admitted to the bar in New York; graduated at Ann Arbor.
March 28, 1880, and was admitted to the bar in Michigan. He practiced laAv at
Lockport. from January 1, 1880, to date; was appointed assistant district
attorney of Niagara County, Januaiy 1. 1884, for the term of three year§.
Daniel Edgar Bi'ong was married September 27. 1882, to Mary Eunice Parker,
of Lockport. and to this union was born. September 23. 1884. one son — Parker
Paul.
DANIEL BROWN (deceased) was born in Westchester County, N. Y.,
December 28, 1799, and died March 26, 1872. He was reared on a farm and
entered upon his career in life as a farmer, coming to Scipio Township, this
;county, in about 1886. locating on the farm now owned by William Baker. He
became a prominent politician and was elected by the Democratic paiiy to a
seat in the Legislature. Certain measures being agitated which did not meet
his views, he eventually became a Republican. He held the office of coroner
in the county, and numerous township offices, such as justice of the peace, etc.
He was a Knight Templar. Mr. Brown was a self-educated man and although
of firm convictions, was easily influenced for right. He was married, June 8.1883.
to Mrs. Sally (Chace) Smith, who survives him. She was born in Tompkins
County, N. Y., October 19, 1818, and was first married, in 1882, to Joseph N.
972 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Smith, who died within the year. She was the mothei" of one daughter, Josie.
born September 18,1884. who was married June 4, 1850, to W. J. Crissel, who
died in 1 869, leaving to her care two childi-en : Dan B. and Fred B. , both farmers
in Scipio Township, this county. Mrs. Crissell subsequently married, October
' 12, 1870, James H. Knapp, who was born in Putnam County, N. Y. , July 12.
1842. Mr. Knapp has always followed the occupation of a farmer, except two
years, diuing which time he was engaged in mercantile business in Iowa.
During the war he was in the 100 days' service in Company I, One Hundred
and Forty-fifth Ohio National Guards. He came to Seneca County in 1869.
and has held numerous township offices of trust; is the present secretary of the
Farmers' Mutual Relief Association of Seneca County, which was oi'ganized in
1860, incorporated in 1878. Mr. Knapp is an extensive breeder of high grade
stock. Politically he is a Republican.
MORGAN BIJGBEE (deceased) was born in Scipio Township, this comity,
January 16, 1840, son of Philo and Celia (True) Bugbee, natives of New York,
former born in Auburn. May 14. 1815, died December 27. 1870; latter born in
Bath, March 8, 1818, is still living and is the mother of five childi-en: Morgan
Eliza, born March 4, 1841, wife of J. Dittman; Mariah, born April 11, 1842.
died August 13, 1867; Elva. born January 1, 1851, wife of G. M. Panco.st. of
Washington, D. C. ; Merritt, born October 16, 1855, and Morgan. Morgan
Bugbee entered upon his career in life as a farmer, and eventually became one
of the best farmers of Scipio Township, this county. He made a specialty of
breeding Merino sheep and Poland-China hogs. He resided two years in
Indiana, and while there became an Odd Fellow. Mr. Bugbee was highly
esteemed by the community in which he lived; he was a consistent member, of
the Universalist Chiu'ch for some years previous to his death: he died. August
10, 1884. He was married, April 9, 1868. to Miss Mary Woodruff, who was
born in Aim Arbor, Mich.. June 12, 1842: she was a daughter of John and
Sally (Clark) Woodruff, who were natives of New York, former born October
19, "1798, died June 25, 1852; latter born March 8, 1798, died April 17,
1880; they were early settlers in Michigan: the former was a school teacher,
and a prominent politician of the Whig party ; they were the parents of thirteen
children: Emma, John B. (deceased), Matilda (deceased). Peter, Caroline,
Charles H. , Timothy (deceased), Thomas, James C, Samuel. Martha, Jane
and Mary; Jane married Orlando Green, of Attica, Ohio, May 11, 1862: he
died September 17, 1878: one child blessed this union. Donna W., born April
6, 1875.
JAMES E. CARPENTER, farmer. P. O. Republic, was born in Clinton
Township, this county, July 19, 1853. son of Adam and Phcebe (Strow) Car-
penter, former a native of Harrison County, Ohio, latter of Bloom Township,
this county; they were the parents of two children: William and James E. Our
subject received a common and normal school education and entered upon his ♦
career in life as a school teacher. He has, however, made farming the princi-
pal occupation of his life and has been a resident of Scipio Township since
1880. He' makes no specialties, other than growing the usual crops and rais-
ing stock. Politically he is a stanch Republican. 'Mr. Carpenter was mar-
ried, February 19, 1878, to Miss Sarah Myers, who was born in Venice Town-
ship, this county, June 4, 1849, and by this union there are two children:
one died in infancy, and Roxie Rebecca, born December 26, 1883. Mrs. Car-
penter is a daughter of Henry and Rebecca (Free) Myers, early settlers of this
county, former deceased; they were the parents of seven children: Maiy J.
(deceased wife of A. B. Brant), George W. (deceased). Andrew J., Sarah,
Thomas J., Martha E. and William T.
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 973
HIEAM CHAFFEE, farmer, P. O. Bloomville. was born in Courtland
County, N. Y., October 30, 1812; son of Nathan and Polly (Eaton) Chaffee,
of Massachusetts, former a miller by trade ; they are the parents of five chil-
di-en: Polly, Wealthy, Abigail, Axie and Hiram. Our subject, who has always
been a farmer, came to this county in March, 1800, and located on the farm
on which he still resides. He has been township trustee ; was formerl}^ a mem-
ber of the I. O. O. F. and was a Granger. Politically he is a Republican.
]Mi-. Chaffee married, April 20, 1833, Miss Maria Wilkerson, who was born in
Cayuga County, N. Y., March l-l, 1810. To this union have been born two
children: Cornelius and George. Cornelius contracted disease in the army,
from which he died, and George died at Danville, Ky. Cornelius married
Sarah Saiisbmy, who died November 8, 1874, aged thii-ty years and eleven
months ; their son, Lewis, married Ella Smith, born in Cayuga County. N. Y. ,
November 10, 1 800 (they have one son. Harry, born March 21, 1883). Mrs.
Chaffee, wife of our subject, is a daughter of Cornelius and Elizabeth (Leigh-
land) Wilkerson, of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, respectively, of whose
children three are now living: Charles, Eliza Cunningham and Mrs. Chaffee.
Our subject and wife celebrated their golden wedding in 1883.
JAMES B. CLAPtK, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Pleasant Town-
ship, this county, in 1853; son of William Clark, of Pleasant Township, this
county. Our subject received a common school education and taught school
several terms. He entered upon his career in life as a farmer, and as such
bids fair to become one of the representative agriculturists of the township.
He was united in marriage, March 15, 1883, with Miss Ida Rhoads, who was
born in 1859, in Scipio Township, this county, daughter of Squire Joseph
Rhoads, now of Eden Township, this county. Mr. Clark cajne to Scipio
Township in 1883 and located on the farm settled by his grandparents in an
eai'ly da}.
JOHN L. COLE, attorney, Republic, was born in Clinton Township, Sen-
eca County, Ohio, February 14, 1840, a son of Nathan Cole, of Bristol County,
Mass. , a carpenter and farmer who came to this county in 1 836, and died in
1875, aged eighty-nine years. Nathan Cole's first wife, Polly French, left two
daughters: Fanny (deceased) and Polly (wife of Benjamin Dean, of Massachu-
setts). Nathan Cole's second wife, Abigal S. Sawj'er. a daughter of Rev.
Sawyer, was mother of six children: Nathan, Hiram, Henry. Simon, Sally and
Abigal (the two latter are deceased); and his third wife. Maria (Walker) Long-
coy, had two daughters by Mr. Longcoy: Charlotte, deceased wife of D.
Decker, and Polly, deceased. By Mr. Cole she has two children: Elsie, wife
of Charles C. Fox, and John L. , the subject of this sketch; she is still living.
The Cole family are of English descent, and their ancestors were among the
early settlers of Massachusetts. The subject of this sketch entered upon his
course in life as a teacher in the common schools, and later became principal of
the public school of Republic. Ohio, a position he held for five years, spend-
ing a portion of the time in the study of law. and af tei-ward reading with Hon.
George E. Seney. He was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1862, and entered
upon the practice of his profession at Republic, and has since engaged in gen-
eral law and real estate business. He owns a farm near Republic, which is
operated under his management. Mr. Cole has served as township clerk eleven
years, member of the school board eighteen years, and has held other minor
township offices. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Cole married, October
9, 1876, Maria Platte, of Scipio Township, this county, a graduate of Seneca
County Academy, and for three years principal of Republic schools, a daugh-
ter of Joel and Amanda (Norton) Platte, earlv settlers of this c(mntv and res-
974 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
idents of Republic: she was born December 8, 1841, and is mother of two
children: Ettie L., born January 5. 1879, and Heath K., born September 16,
1880.
ORANGE COOLEY. farmer, P. O. Republic, was born near Northampton.
Mass., July 19, 1811, son of Alvin and Elizabeth (Frazier) Cooley, natives of
Massachusetts, who were married October 16. 1796. and were the parents of
the following named children: Betsey, Polly, Emily. Alvin and Orange. Alvin
Cooley. Sr., died January 29, 1827, and his widow a few years later. Our
subject, the only survivor of the family, was nearly nineteen years of age
when he came with his parents to Seneca County, Ohio. He had but a few dol-
lars at that time, but by habits of industry and economy has accumulated a
large property. In 1 830 he piu'chased eighty acres of land from Joseph Cha-
zey, who had entered it in 1826, and has made all the improvements, having
also placed it under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Cooley was married.
November 20. 1834. to _Mary Petty s. born in New York, April 30, 1819, and
who died January 15, 18 <9, the mother of nine children: Hannah M. (deceased).
Cyntha J., Sereno S., Edward, Elizabeth, Richard. Eliza. Viola and Charles.
jNIr. Cooley, who has always led an honorable life, enjoys the respect of the
entire community. He joined the Presbyterian Church December 10, 1837,
and has since served as ti'ustee or elder in same most of the time. He assisted
in buildincr the first church in the township, and all those since erected but
one. Politically he was originally a Whig, but in later years has been a Repub-
lican.
OBEDIAH CUMMINGS. farmer. P. O. Republic, was born in Scipio
Township, this county, June 20, 1837. son of Mathias and Phoebe (Booth)
Cummings, natives of New England, who came to this county in about 1830:
they were parents of two childi-en: Obediah and ]VIary (wife of J. A. Smith).
Mathias and Phcebe Ciimmings had both been previously married. Our suli-
ject received the advantages of a common school education, and in early life
learned the carpenter's trade, but has made farming the i^rincipal occupation of
his life. He is an active member of the Masonic fi-aternity. In politics he is
a stanch Republican. He was married. December 29. 1859. to Sarah Garhart,
who was born in Crawford County, Ohio, August 23, 1841, and by this union
are four children: Clinton, Cora. Mattie and Myrtie. latter deceased.
SYLVESTER CUNNINGHAM (deceased)' was born in Cortland County.
N. Y. , January 10, 1815, and came to this coimty in 1857. where he followed
the occupation of a farmer, although a mason by trade. He was married.
September 3, 1836, to Eliza Wilkerson. who siu-vives him. She was born in
Cayuga County, N. Y.. March 29, 1813. and is the mother of three children:
Charles M. , in Osborne County, Kans. . married to Jean Vernon. March 15, 1 866.
(have one son, Vernon E., born Jamiary 27, 1868); Helen J., wife of E. F.
Beard, of Monroe Coimty. Mich. ; Elizabeth, born April 7, 1844, married
December 23, 1869, to Sidney J. Anway (sou of John Anway). who was born
February 15, 1841 (they have one son. Frank L., born March 11. 1875).
The subject of this sketch was a man highly respected in the community. His
death occurred May 30. 1883, and his loss was much felt by all who knew him.
He was very active in public affairs, serving his township at one time as trustee.
He w^as a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chiu'ch. Politically a Whig,
afterward a Republican. He belonged to Hildreth Lodge No. 1 65, F. & A.
M., Republic. Ohio.
S. S. DENTLER, farmer and merchant. P. O. Republic, was born near
Gettysburg, Adams Co., Penn., March 23. 1834. son of George and Lena
(Stover) Dentler, residents of Franklin County. Penn. . and who are the par-
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 975
eats of twelve children: Samuel S.. Lvicinda. John. Andrew J., Joseph, Cath-
arine, Louisa, Melinda, George. James, Ann and Rebecca. Coming to this
county in 1854. our subject left it in 1856, biit returned in 1860 and engaged
in farming, in connection with which occupation he has been a member of the
di-ug firm of Stickney & Dentler since 1869. Mr. Dentler is an active member
of the I. O. O. F., in which order he is treasurer. Politically he may be
termed independent, voting for men and principles, rather than party. Our
subject was married. June 5. 1861, to Mrs. Jane Porter (a widow Avith two
children), daughter of T. P. Roberts.
J. K. DUFFY, farmer and minister. P. O. Republic, was born in Alexan
di-ia, D. C, July 20, 1816, son of John and Mary (Kinsell) Duffy, former
superintendent of the United States Arsenal, at Pittsburgh, to which place he
was sent in 1817 with a division of men for the protection of the fi'ontier. and
where he and his wife died of yellow fever in 1818. He was a native of Ire-
land, his wife of Germany. Being left an orphan at a very early acre our
subject was provided for by charitable people, and in 1820 was brought to
Wayne County. Ohio, by John Ewaldt, where he remained until 1832. In
1836 he purchased 300 acres of land near Cardington, Ohio, of which he was
deprived, with all the improvements, after much litigation, by an alien's claim.
In 1855 he settled near Attica, Ohio, and in 1867 came to his present location,
where he purchased 182 acres of land. At eighteen years of age he began
preaching in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in 1844 became a member
of the Protestant Methodist Church. He did regular itinerant work for more
than thirty years and Ijecame a most successful and plain minister. He is
active in educational and religious matters and in all the various enterprises
for the promotion of the welfare of the people of the county. He se/ved one
term as justice of the peace and was a just judge, and highly respected citizen.
Mr. Duffy was twice married, on first occasion. September 24, 1839. in Lima.
Ohio, to Mary Wamsley. a Virginian, and daughter of Thomas Wamsley. By
this union were two children: Sarah E. (deceased wife of Philip Prouse: she
left a family in Bloomville. this county), and Silas A. (died at seven years of
age). Mrs. Duffy died March 3. 1842, and Mr. Duffy then married. Novem-
ber 15, 1842. Sarah A. Tilton, born in Monmouth County. N. J.. November
12, 1822, daughter of John and Sarah (Letts) Tilton, who settled in Licking
County, Ohio, in 1832, where they died. By this union there were five chil-
di-en: Leonidas, in Scipio Township, this county; John H.. in Logan County,
Ohio; Jennie. wife of William Scott, in Madison County. Ohio; Willie (deceased)
and Sylvester on the homestead.
W. S. EASTMAN, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born on the farm where
he now resides, in Scipio Township. November 11, 1835, son of John W. East-
man, who was born in Middletown, Orange Co. , N. Y. , November 26. ] 797 ;
he served as a substitute for his father in the British service during the war of
1812, while residing in Canada, but eventually escaped into New York and
later became first lieutenant in the ' ' Yates Rifle Battalion : " ' he came to
Seneca County. Ohio, in 1831, and, in January, of the year following, pur-
chased eighty acres of land entered by Nathan Dix (in Scipio Township),
removing his family to the same November 12, 1833: in early days his politi-
cal views were Democratic, but later Republican: he took an active pait in all
public affairs and accumulated a large property, owning over 400 acres of land
at the time of his death, which occurred May 30. 1872; his wife. Cvnthia
Spooner, was born in Greene County. N. Y. , March 6. 1807, and died Decem-
ber 6, 1855; they Avere ]mrents of three children: Daniel W.. deceased: Mary
E. . wife of Samuel B. Ink. of Tiffin: and A\'illiam S. Our subject graduated
976 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
from Hillsdale College, Michicran, in the class of 1864, and assisted in the
elocutionary department while at college. In connection with his farming
interests he makes wool-growing a si:»ecialty, being a member of the ' • Wool
Grower" s Association" of Seneca County. Politically he is a Republican;
religiously, a Free Baptist. November 30, 1864, Mr. Eastman was _married
to Miss Mary A. Eussell, of Sandusky County, Ohio, born April 7, 1848,
daughter of Judge William S. Russell, of Fremont. Ohio. To this union were
born Libbie and J. Russell.
P. J. EBERSOLE, farmer, P. O. Bloomville, was born June 28, 1886, in
Big Lick Township, Hancock County, Ohio, where he received a common
school education: a son of John P. and Susanna (Green) Ebersole, of Pennsyl-
vania, who came to Hancock County, Ohio, about 1885: both are living, each
at the age of eighty years. John P. Ebersole was a farmer and carpenter in
early days, also for many years a preacher in the German Baptist Church. He
was father of seven children: Neri, Oscar. Sarah, Simpson. Peter J.. Susan
and Harriet, all now living. The s^ubject of this sketch came to this county in
18r)S. and to his present residence in 1880. He is a member of the German
Baptist Church: in politics he is a Republican. Mr. Ebersole married,
March 4, 1858, Miss Susan Roop, who was born in Richland (now Ashland)
County, Ohio, December 8, 188V), and to this union were born three children:
John D., deceased; Laura, deceased; and Adella, now the wife of Clarence
Sankey. Mrs. Ebersole is a daughter of David and Elizabeth (Hoffman)
Roop." natives of Carroll County, Md.. and who came to this county about
1840. David Roop was a farmer and a minister of the German Baptist
Church, having preached in this county about forty years: at the time of his
death, which o'ccurred May 4. 1880, he was about sixty-two years of age: he
was quite a prominent man and took an active part in all public matters. Mrs.
Elizabeth Roop died in August, 1880, at the age of sixty-five years: she was
the mother of five childi'en: Susan; Elizabeth, wife of William Coler; Josiah,
a physician of Blue Springs, Neb. : William H.. deceased: and Ezra D.
E. F. GRAY, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. Republic, was born in Scipio
Township, this county, September 25, 1845, son of Samuel B. and Jane
(Striker) Gray, of Steuben County, N. Y., and who settled in Scipio Township,
this county, in 1884, where they "died, former January 21, 1S80, in the sixty-
ninth year of his age (he was' a son of Levi and Triphenia (Baker) Gray),
latter in 1850. aged about thii-ty-five years (she was a daughter of Jeremiah
Baker, a sailor). Samuel B. and Jane Gray were parents of seven children:
Elizabeth and Mary, were deceased in infancy; Marcus L., who died in Lex-
ington, Ky., was ameniberof Company K, Forty- fifth Regiment O. L. G. C. ;
Charles, a member of the same regiment, was wounded in a skirmish and died
in the Richmond Hospital prison; E. F. : Jennie, wife of James Merchant,
residing near Tiffin, Ohio; Mary, wife of Daniel Smith, in Adams Townshij).
this county. Oiu- subject was married. December 25, 1879, to Hattie L.
Smith, a native of Scipio Township, this county, and daughter of David Smith.
and to this union were born following children: Gertrude, born December 12,
1880, and Frank, born May 22, 1882. Mr. Gray is W. M. of Hildi-eth Lodge
F. & A. M., at Republic. " He has 21 5i acres of finely improved land, being a
part of nearly 1,000 acres which were entered by his grandfather, then inherited
by his father, Avho was one of the greatest surveyors of his time. Mr. Gray
was a member of Company K. One Hundred and Sixty-foiu-th Regiment Ohio
National Guards, and is a'charter member of the G. A. E. at Rei)ublic.
JOEL HALL, farmer, P. O. Rockaway, was born on the farm where he
still resides, November 10, 1827, son of Henry Hall, a native of Pennsylvania,
sciPio Tow^'SHIP. 977
Avilo came to this coiinty in the spring of 1827. and entered the land where he
passed the remainder of his life, dying September 8, 1881, aged eighty-two
years, ten months and nineteen days; he was a blacksmith, gunsmith and
sickle-maker by trade, a very energetic man (there still remains on the home-
stead a portion of a wheel worked by ox-power, which he used in turning a
grindstone and for boring gun barrels). Henry Hall made guns out of bars
of iron; he made guns for the Indians and they camped on the farm and
hunted; and he once walked to Pittsbui-gh, Penn., for a single tool used in
making sickles; he was a consistent member of the English Lutheran Chiu'ch;
in politics was a Democrat; his wife, Hannah (Swander), also a native of Penn-
sylvania, died June 12. 1868. aged sixty-three years and five months: she was
a member of a church. Mr. and Mrs. Hem-y Hall vrere the parents of three
children: Christine. Joel and Absalom. Having been reared a farmer, the
suljject of this memoir has always followed that occupation. He was married.
March 10, 1864, to Miss Catharine Beck, who was born in Fairfield County,
Ohio. December 1, 1881. and by this union are six children, five of whom are
now living: Hannah. Daniel, William, Maryan and Andrew. '
JOSEPH HILSINGER, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born upon the farm
where he now resides. January 20, 1841, son of Joseph and Mary (Eary) Hil-
siiiger, the former of whom, a native of Baden. Germany, and who came to
America alone in 1825, was born in 1802. died September o. 1878: latter was
born in 1800, died in 1875, the mother of three children: Harrison, in Barry
County, Mich. ; Sarah, wife of David Critz. in Wayne County, Ind. . and Jo-
seph ; she was a native of Lehigh Coiuity, Penn. . but came with her husband,
a jeweler by trade, to Scipio Township, this county, in 1835: here they toiled
hard for the clearing up and improvement of the township. Our subject was
married, March 2, 1865, to Catharine Smith, born in Scipio Township, this
county, November 22, 1839. daughter of David and Susan (Neikirk) Smith, of
Scipio Township. The children born to this union are David, Nora. Calvin.
Lottie A. (deceased) and Clara. Mr. Hilsinger has 182 acres of choice land, to
which he devotes his attention. He was elected to fill the ofiice of township
trustee in the sirring of 1885. Our subject and wife are members of the Re-
formed Chiu'ch.
FRANK A. HORTON, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Tompkins
County, N. Y. , October 22, 1844, son of James and Elizabeth (Smith) Horton.
natives of New York, now residing in Hedgestown, this county, and who have
'oeen in the county since 1854; they are the parents of eight childi-en: Sarah,
Fanny, Clara. Elizabeth. Matilda, Levi. "William and Frank A. Our subject
entered upon his career in life as a farmer, purchasing the farm where he now
lives, in 1869. He was married, October 22, 1870, to Miss Marion Chitten-
den, who was born in Scipio Township, this county, in June, 1849. She died
June 12, 1883, leaving four children: Eddie, Annie, Dewey and Nettie. Mi'.
Horton was formerly a member of the Grange and G. T. He is a consistent
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican.
CHARLES JONES (deceased), a son of Erastus and Grace (Perry) Jones,
natives of New York, was born in Cajaiga County. N. Y., in April, 1827, and
was less than one year old when his parents came to Scipio Township, this
county. Here he grew to maturity, received a common school education, and
followed the occupation of farmer, being also a prominent stock-dealer. He
was united in marriage, April 6, 1869, with Sarah Samsel, born in Lehigh
County, Penn., February 23, 1845, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Litzen-
berger) Samsel, the former of whom, a native of Pennsylvania, came to this
county in 1856, was a shoe-maker by trade, but iu later life followed farming;
078 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the latter was born in Lehioii Coiinty. Penn. , February 10, 1822; they were
the parents of fourteen children: Willoughby, William and Mary (are
deceased), Sarah and Kate (living), Jacob (deceased). Peter F., Henry S. and
Alford (are living), Eliza. Lydia. Emma, Elwood U. and an infant are
deceased. Mr. Samsel died November (). 1877. To Mr. and Mrs. Jones were
born five children: Frederick C, Erastus P.. Chauncy A., Warren P. and
Grrace M. Politically Mr. Jones was a Democrat. He died August ID, 1878,
at the age of fifty years, three months and twenty -eight days. Since the
death of our subject the management of the farm has been successfully con-
ducted by his widow, who possesses rare business qualities.
STEPHEN LAPHAM, justice of the peace, Republic, was born in Cayuga
County, N. Y., October 20, 1821. His early life was passed upon a farm,
and his educational advantages were limited. In 1835 his parents came to
this county, locating in Scipio Township. Stephen remained upon the home-
stead farm until he arrived at maturity, and entered upon his career in life as
a farmer, an occupation he followed till 1 860, when he disposed of his farm
and has since engaged in different enterprises. He served as mayor of Repub-
lic for six years, and has held other minor offices. He was commissioned jus-
tice of the peace in 1870 and has filled that office with great satisfaction.
Politically he is a Republican. Mr. Laphfim served 100 days in Company K,
Sixty -fourth Ohio Yolunteer Infantry, during the Rebellion. He has been an
active member of the I. O. O. F. since 18r)r). . He married, March 28, 1848,
Lucinda M. Hall, of Tyi-one County. N. Y.. born August 7, 1828; she is
mother of seven children: Ernest L., in New Mexico; Ella, now Mrs. J. B.
Dickey, of Kansas; Emma, now Mrs. Charles Day, of Kansas: Eva, now IVIrs.
H. B.' Miller, of Kansas; Ida and Elmer Elsworth (deceased), and Irving F.,
in Minnesota. Humphrey Lapham, the father of oiu' subject, a native of
Massachassetts, died in 1808; he was active in the development of Scipio
Township, this county; he was three times married: his first wife. Eliza Allen,
bore him four children: Stephen, Robert A.. John P. and Elizabeth, all now
living; his second wife, Esther Allen, bore him six children: Humphrey,
George, Jonathan, Amisa, Ann and Thomas H., all deceased (three died in
the army) ; his third wife, Emily White, is still living, the mother of four chil-
Lh-en: Egbert (deceased in the army). Elwood, Glenn and Frank. Six of
Humphrey Lapham' s children were in the army during the civil war — one was
killed, and thi-ee died while in the service.
WILLIAM W. LAPHAM, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born February
11, 1828, on the farm which is still his home. His father, Joseph Lapham, a
native of Massachusetts, was for many years a sailor, and it is stated that, on
one occasion, he was a member of a crew of thirteen that cast lots to see who
should be sacrificed to provide food for the balance ; he came to Seneca County.
Ohio, in 1820, there being at that time but one house between his farm and
Tiffin, and his land grants were signed by J. Q. Adams and Andrew Jackson;
he was married to Lovina Howland. and by her had ten children: Eliza
(deceased), Ruth (deceased). Noah. Phoebe (deceased), Henry, Slocomb, Mary
Ann, Humphrey (deceased), William W. and Joseph (latter deceased). The
father died in 1871, aged eighty-five years, and the mother in 1878, aged
eighty-four. The subject of this sketch, who is considered one of the represen-
tative farmers of the township, was reared to agriculture. April 9, 1851, he
was married to Miss Jane Patrick, born in Dutchess County, N. Y. , January
18, 1881, daughter of Alonzo and Lydia (Phillips) Patrick, also natives of
New York. Alonzo Patrick, a shoe-maker and harness manufacturer by trade,
came to this couuty in July, 1843, and subsequently followed farming; his
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 979
death occurred in December, 1863, when he was sixty-foiu- years of age, his
widow died in 1870. aged sixty-one years. They were the parents of five
children: Jane A., Samuel L., Gi-retta (deceased wife of H. Kent), Job S. ,
Lura A. (wife of A. Sillcox). To Mr. and Mrs. William W. Lapham have been
born three children: lola and Samuel (both deceased), and Phoeba, born Feb-
ruary 3, 1854, married March 11, 1875, to Erwin A. Ogden. formerly clerk in
Toledo, now a farmer.
JAJkfES LAXJGHREY (deceased) was born in Muskingum County, Ohio,
February 8, 1813; son of William and Jane (Postage) Laughrey, of Pennsyl-
vania, the former born August 9, 1782, died December 1(3, 1847; the latter
died September 18. 1857, aged seventy-eight years; they had six children:
John, Charles, Andi-ew, James, Nancy and Ellen. Our subject came to this
county with his parents, who had purchased land in Scipio Township in 1820,
but did not remove to the same till 1824. Here he grew to matui'ity and
engaged with more or less activity in the growth and development of the town-
ship. Mr. Laughrey was mamed, April 17, 1859, to IVIi-s. Laiu-a (Dantz)
McChesney. who was born in Vermont, May 24, 1814, daughter of John and
Esther (Hubbard) Dantz. Her first marriage was in about 1833 with Arden
Weller, who died in about 1845. leaving to her care two children: Columbus
and Julia, the latter of whom, married to Isaac Fuller, at her death left three
children: Mina, Lollie and Julia, who have since been adopted by our subject.
Mrs. Laughrey' s second husband, Thomas McChesney, lived but a few years.
Mr. Laughrey, the subject of this sketch, died July 2, 1885. He was for
twenty years a F. & A. M. In politics he was a Democrat.
HENRY MANSFIELD, merchant, Republic, was born in Beilevue, Ohio,
September 6, 1850, son of Christian and Frances (Baiiman) Mansfield, former
of whom, a native of Bavaria, Germany, born January 19, 1808, and a tan-
ner by trade, came to America and located first at Beile\^ie. Ohio, moving to
this county about 1852, where he followed his trade till 18 r2, when he retii-ed
from active life. Mrs. Frances Mansfield, a native of Switzerland, came to
America when a child; she is the mother of six childi-en: Hemy, Louise,
Chi-istian, Francis, Manda (deceased) and an infant (deceased). At the age
of fifteen our subject became a clerk in a store, and in April, 1872, entered
into business at Republic, Ohio, and six years later he met with a loss by fire.
His goods, however, being insured for two-thirds their value, he reopened
soon after, his stock consisting chiefly of diy goods, clothing, boots, shoes, etc.
The firm now stands as H. Mansfield & Bro. ]Mi\ Mansfield is also engaged
quite extensively in the grain business with E. S. Chittenden. He is the pres-
ent treasurer of' Republic; also of his township. Mr. Mansfield married, Jan-
uary 12, 1876, Miss Isabell Kimmel, who was born at Sandusky, Ohio, June
19, 1857, a daughter of Hemy and Eva (Rocena) Kimmel, of Beilevue, Ohio.
In politics our subject is a Democrat.
HENRY illLEY (deceased) was born in Eden Township, Seneca Co. ,
Ohio, August 30, 1831, son of John and Magdalene (Beever) Miley, natives of
Virginia, and early settlers of this county. The subject of this sketch re-
ceived a o-ood education, and taught school several terms, but eventually
turned his attention to farming. He came to Scipio Township, this county,
Mai-ch 29, 1858, and became a prominent farmer. For several years prior to
his death Mr. Miley was a consistent member of the Free-Will Baptist Chui-ch.
He married, October 22, 1857, Laura A. Jennings, who was born in Hopewell
Township, this county. May 7, 1830. She bore him foxu- children: Alice
Idell, wife of J. Burgdefer; Jennie Bell, wife of H. McCartney; Joett,
(deceased), and Nettie Pearl. Mr. Miley died June 12, 1883. Mrs. Miley' s
980 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
father, Jacob S. Jennings, was a native of New Jersey, coming to Ohio while
a child, and gi-ew to maturity in Warren County, Ohio. He came to this
county at an early date and entered land; also entered a farm of 160 acres in
Henry County, Ohio, for each of his sons. He died February 21, 1857, aged
sixty-four years. His wife, Osee Blackford, was born in Warren County, Ohio,
in 1799. and died August 3. 1876. Their union was blessed with thirteen chil-
cii'en: John M. . George N. , Milton. Ethen A. (deceased), Jackson, Justin.
Barkley. Martha and Marv (twins), Sarah, Laura A., Cvnthia and Susan.
RICHARD T. PORTER, farmer and mason, P. O. Republic, was born
January 22, 1811, in Schuylkill County, Penn., son of James and Elizabeth
(Rooks) Porter, natives of Ireland and Pennsylvania, respectively, and who
were the parents of fourteen children: Ann, Sally, Samuel, Lewis, Richard,
Rachel, Owen, Elizabeth. John, Martha, James, Margaret. Rebecca and Ben-
jamin R. When three years of age oui- subject was taken by his parents to
Cajmga • County. N. Y. . where he grew to maturity and resided until 1842,
in which year he came to this county, and, having previously learned the trade
of mason, followed that occupation until 1888 in connection with farming, to
which latter he is now giving his entii'e attention. ili\ Porter was married.
September 1, 1842, to Miss Eliza A. Andi-ews, who was born in Ireland in
1800. She dying January 7, 1868, our subject then married, December 26. ,
1872, Miss Miranda Smith, born in Reed Township, this county, January 8,
1841, and by her he has had two children: Rachel E. and Emma J. (latter
deceased). IVIi's. Porter is a daughter of Daniel W. and Louisa (Paine)
Smith, former of whom, a farmer by occupation, came to this county in 1827.
remaining here until his death, which occurred in 1853 ; latter, a native of
Vermont, was brought to Sherman Township. Huron Co., Ohio, in 1813, and
died in 1848. They were the parents of six children: Ira, Caroline, Miranda.
Mary, Daniel and David. By INIi-. Smith's first wife. Sally Thayer, he had
one son — William. The subject of this sketch has satisfactorily filled the office
of township trustee. He has for many vears been an active F. & A. M.
LEWIS RANSBURG. farmer, P. *0. Republic, was born in Frederick
County, Md.. June 5, 1826; son of Christian and Catharine M. (Sprengle)
Ransburg. who came to this county in the fall of 1831, settling in Clinton
Township: they afterward moved to Indiana in about 1856. where Christian
Ransbiu-g died in 1864 in his seventy-ninth year (he was a son of Jacob Rans-
btu-g. a native of Maryland, of German descent), and Catharine M. Ransburg
died in 1870, in her seventy-ninth year (she was a daughter of Jacob and Mar-
garet (Keifer) Sprengle, natives of Maryland, of German descent). Christian
and Catharine M. Ransburg were parents of ten childi-en: George (died leav-
ing family in Steuben County. Ind. ), Susanna H. (deceased wife of Cornelius
Shank; she left a family in Pleasant Township). Rebecca B. (wife of Daniel
Warner, in Henry County. Ohio), David (died leaving family in Branch Coun-
ty, Mich.), Catharine (deceased wife of Franklin Spangle; she loft a family in
Steuben County, Ind. ), Leander and Ann E. (wife of George AVarner), both in
Steuben County. Ind. , Caroline M. (deceased wife of Simon Beck, in Steuben
County. Ohio), Lewis (our subject), Rachel M. (wife of Jacob Shuman, in De
Kalb County, Ind.). Our subject was manied October 21, 1850, to Catharine
M. Hoxter, born in Yates County. N. Y.. August 1, 1831. died October 12.
1884, daughter of Sabert and Mariette (Baker) Hoxter, who came to this
county in 1844, where they died, the former March 10, 1865. in his fifty-sev-
enth year, son of A\'illiam and Catharine (Basom) Hoxter; latter in 1858, in
her forty-ninth year, daughter of William Baker. Sabert and Mariette Hox-
ter were parents of two children, the younger being AVilliam D. . a very prom-
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 981
inent citizen and ex-legislator of Forest Grove, Washington Co., Oreg. To
onr subject and wife have been born the following children: Olive E.. born
January 13, 1855. and Burton D. , born January '23, 1800. Our subject has a
finely improved farm of 248 acres.
JOHN WESLEY RINE, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Franklin
County. Ohio, July 23, 1820, and was brought to Seneca County in 1830. The
father of our subject, Jacob Rine, was born in Franklin County, Penn. , April
17. 1790; died in April, 1817. Soon after coming to Seneca County, he (Ja-
cob Rine) lost his buildings and household goods by fire; a few years later he
owned 240 acres in Hopewell Township, this county, a part of which he sold,
and then engaged in mercantile business in Fostoria, and, after making several
changes in his place of residence, he returned to this county and gave his at-
tention to his trade (cai-pentering) ; he was an active man in pulilic affairs,
serving several years as justice of the peace and constable. Jacob Rine was
thrice married, only his first wife, Elizabeth (Drake) bearing him children as
follows: Margaret (deceased), John Wesley, Elizabeth (deceased), Mary,
Fletcher, Nathan and Alvin, all of whom attained maturity and married. Our
subject received a limited education, and at the age of eighteen years entered
on his career in life as a day laborer, but eventually learned the cooper' s trade.
In 1801 he purchased a farm in Reed Township, this county, which he sold
eleven years later and bought the farm where he now lives, and has since
erected a substantial residence, and made other improvements. He was mar-
ried, Mai'ch 4, 1852, to Rachael Sherman, born in Cayuga County, N. Y. , April
15, 1834, daughter of Zephaniah and Margaret (Longstreet) Sherman, also
natives of New York and who settled in this county in 1 834, but are now resid-
ing in Clinton County, Mich. ; their children are Isaac, Sam, Cyntha, Edwin
and Rachael. JNIr. and Mrs. Rine have had two children: Mary Jane (de-
ceased) and Alvin J. , married to Marv Feighner (have two children, Pearlie
M. and Bertha C. )
J. T. ROBINSON, farDier, P. O. Rockaway, was born at Tiffin. Ohio, De-
cember 11, 1844; son of Joseph and Catharine (Gilmore) Robinson, natives of
Ireland. Joseph Robinson came to America when a child, and became an
early settler of this county; was a wagon-maker by trade; his death occurred
in 1800, that of his widow in 1801; they had two children: John and J, T.
Our subject received a common school education, and entered upon his career
in life as a laborer. He came to Scipio Township, this county, in 1803; pur-
chased a farm in 1872, and has since engaged in general agriciilture and deal-
ing in stock. During the war he was in the 100 days' service in Company K,
One Hundi-ed and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Mr. Robinson was
married, October 4, 1871, to Mary H. Watson, of Bloom Township, this coun-
ty, born September 4, 1844, and by this union are four children: Harry W.,
born July 29, 1872; Charles G., born September 21, 1875; Riish, born August
19, 1877; and Alice M., born April 25, 1881. Mrs. Robinson is a daughter of
Isaac and Allie (Doan) W^atson, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Bloom
Township in 1830, former of whom died April 8, 1873; latter died June 0, 1850;
they were the parents of four children: Hugh D., Mary H., Orphia and Will-
iam (latter two deceased). Mr. Watson's second wife (Elizabeth McCandish)
is still living; she bore him three children: Emma, wife of F. A. Chatfield;
Allie A. (deceased), Charles S. (deceased). Our subject is an energetic, enter-
prising man. Politically he is a stanch Republican.
MRS. SALLY H. ROGERS, P. O. Republic, was born in Cayuga County,
N. Y., September 11, 1810, daughter of Robei-t and Sally (Keller) Shaw, who
came to the farm on which our subject now lives, in 1837, and here died.
982 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the former August 4, 1864, in his seventy-ninth year (he was the son of Eich-
ard, a Revolutionary soldier, and Mary (McDoll) Shaw, latter a daughter of
Robert McDoll). Sally (Keller) Shaw, a native of Pennsylvania, of German
descent, died April 28, 1868, in her eighty-second year; she was a daughter of
Joseph and Mary (Andi-e) Keller (the former of whom was captured by the
Indians at eight years of age, and with whom he lived until his vseventeenth
year). O. P. Rogers, husband of our subject, was born in Cayuga County.
N. Y., August 25, 1816, and died January 26, 1881; he was a son of Andi-ew
and Phoebe Rogers. Mr. Rogers became a resident of this county in 1839,
where he was an active, enterprising and highly esteemed citizen. To Mr.
and Mrs. O. P. Rogers were born James P., residing in Republic, this county;
Hulbert S. ; Olden W., in Republic, and Nathan B., in Albion, Ind.
Z. E. RUTAN, teacher, Reiniblic, was born in Champaign County, Ohio,
March 4, 1851, son of Abner and Emily (Gray) Rutan, the former born March
6, 1817. died March 6, 1865. Abner Rutaii's first wife, Irena Little, born
March 20, 1814, bore him two children: Milton H. and Enos K. ; his second
wife, also born March 20, 1814, died July 31, 1883, and was the mother of
two children: Zerora E. and Arnaldus, the latter born October 14, 1852. Our
subject remained upon a farm until he arrived at the age of maturity; then for
a year attended the Belief ontaine schools, and entered upon his career in life
as a teacher. He became principal of the Huntsville schools in 1875, and two
years later he removed to Shreve, where he was jDrincipal of schools for two
years; he then became principal of the Greenwich schools for one year; thence
moved to Republic, where he has held a like position for thi-ee years. Mr.
Rutan is an active member of Republic Lodge, I. O. O. F. , No. 40, N. V. No.
22, of Greenwich, and K. of li. No. 125, at Shreve. He is a consistent mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Chiu-ch; in politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Ru-
tan married, August 12, 1877. Laura Cheever, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, daughter
of Rev. ^\. M. Cheever, and born August 17, 1852; she is a graduate of the
Bellefontaine schools. It is believed there is but one family of Rutans in
America, and they trace their ancestry back to 1640. and are of French descent.
J. ELWOOD SCOTT, constable", city marshal and butcher. Republic,
Ohio, was born in Scipio Township, this county. May 2, 1848, a son of John
Scott, a native of Virginia, who came to this county at an early day and was
prominent among the early settlers of Scipio Township, this county ; he died De-
cember 2. 1881, aged sixty-five years; his widow, Mrs. Abbie Jane(Bugbee) Scott,
of New York, was born 'in 1822 and is still living, the mother of five chil-
dren: Helen M., Adelbert, Marion, J. Elwood and Bell; the latter two are
the only ones now living. At the age of fourteen years the subject of this
sketch entered the employ of Erastus Jones, and for two years was on the road
with him buying and selling stock. The following five years he was engaged
in farming, then went to Clyde to learn the butcher trade, which has been his
principal occupation since. Mr. Scott is the present city marshal of Republic,
Ohio, and has been constable about twelve years; has also been a member of
the town council. He is an active member of the I. O. O. F. . of which order
he is at present N. G. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Scott married,
December 22, 1874, Louise Mansfield, who was born in June, 1854, in Scipio
Township, this county a daughter of Christian and Frances (Bauman) Mans-
field.
DANIEL SHAWBERRY', farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Scipio
Township, this county, September 28, 1842, son of H. H. and Catharine M.
(Bocholds) Shawberry,, who came fi'om Munster, Prussia, in 1832, settling in
this coimtv in 1833; latter born December 22. 1799. still living, daughter of
scino TOWNSHIP. 983
Herman H. . and Ann C. (Holtzgreffe) Boeliolds. latter of whom was a daughter of
Stephen and Margaret (Holtzgreffe) Holtzgreffe. Mrs. C. M. Shawberry is the
eldest, and the only one living, of nine children; her father, born in 1769, died
in 1857: her mother, born in 1774, died in 1885; H. H. Shawberry, born in
February, 1799. died November '2, 1868, son of Stephen and Ann M. (Schrer)
ShawbeiTv. He was the father of nine children, three of whom died young:
Herman died leaving family in Wood County. Ohio; Catharine, wife of Joseph
Kistler, in Adams Township; Eliza; Louisa, wife of Edwin Everett, in
Adams Township; Henry, died, leaving a daughter, Adelia A., in Vandalia,
111.; and Daniel. Our subject was married. December 13, 1866, to Anna C.
Guver, born August 10, 1847, in Pleasant Township, this county, daughter of
Jacob and Margaret (Dallman) Guver, latter of whom was born in Alsace.
France. July 7. 1815. died June 10, 1876. daughter of George and Christine
(Briney) Dallman. who came to America in 1826, and to this county in 1833.
Jacob and Margaret Guver were parents of five childi'en: Caroline, wife of
Henry H. Miller, in Scipio Township, Ohio; Susan, wife of Francis S. Moore,
in Crawford County, Ohio; Daniel, in Scipio Township, this county; Jacob, in
Adams Township, this county, and Anna C. To our subject and wife were
born following children: William F., born August 24, 1868; Delia A., born
July 10. 1870: Nora M.. born June 28. 1873; Charles H.. born October /,
1S76, and Eolly B. . born March 25, 1881. Mr. Shawbeiiy is one of the enter-
Ijrising and energetic farmers of Scij)io Township, having 257 acres of well-
improved land, the greater part of which he has acquired by his own efforts.
GEORGE STEARNS, retired farmer, P. O. Republic was born in Steuben
County, N. Y., Jidy 12. 1826, son of George and Sophia (Baker) Stearns.
former of whom, born in Vermont, April 21, 1794, settled in New York in
1816, where he married January 9, 1822; he came to this county in the fall of
1829, and here became possessor of 560 acres of land; died here August 28,
1831. Sophia (Baker) Stearns was a native of Steuben County, N. Y.. born
May 26, 1797. daughter of Samuel and (nee Daniels) Baker, natives of
Connecticut. George and Sophia (Baker) Stearns were parents of four
children: John B.. born May 9, 1824 (now in Dakota); George: Daniel, born
April 12. 1828, and Alfi-ed* born September 6, 1830, both merchants and
bankers in Decatm- County, Iowa. The mother subsequently married William
Fleet, by whom she had one daughter — Sophia, now Airs. Charles Nolan, in
Le Loup, Kans. At twenty years of age our subject came to his present home,
then heavily timbered, which by diligence he has made one of the finest
farms in the county, and to which he has added until he now has 365 acres of
choice land, upon which he is living a retired life. Mr. Stearns was married,
August 12, 1849, to Arvilla King, born in this county, February 9, 1831,
daughter of Obediah and Phoebe (Booth) King, natives of Connecticut, but
<^arly settlers in this county ; their children were Mercy (deceased — by her first
husband, Lucius Pierce (deceased), she had one child, and by her second hus-
band, Lewis Munday, she had a family now in Steuben County, Ind. ): Ursula
(deceased); Arvilla and Julia A., Mrs. Frank Horton. in Scipio Township, this
county. Mrs. Stearns" mother's second marriage was with Matthias Cum-
mings. by whom she had two children: Obediah and Maiy E., wife of John
Smith, both of Scipio Township. To our subject and wife were born two
sons: Frank E.. born May 13, 1851, and C. S., born June 15, 1853, both en-
gaged in banking and merchandising at Garden Grove, Iowa.
ARCHIBALD STEWART (deceased) was born in Lycoming County,
Penn.. June 2. 1707. He located in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1823, and
■September 3. of the year following, came to this county, entering a farm in
984 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Scipio Township, wliere he resided till the time of his death, which oc-
curred November 30, 1884. He was a man of strong social habits, a
stanch Whig and Eepublican. and for many years was class-leader in the
Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he was a member for nearly fifty-five
years. He was twice married; first, in 1820, to Miss Martha Johnson, who was
born August 6, 1796, died December 80, 1854. and by her had ten children:
Mary S., Nancy, Sophia A.. Martha (deceased), James W.. William (deceased),
Margaret (deceased), Eachael A. (deceased), Charles J. and Robert M. His
second marriage occurred in 1855, with Wealthy Farr, who ilied twenty years
later without issue.
JAMES W. STEWART, son of Archibald Stewart, was born August 21.
1829, in Scipio Township. Seneca Co., Ohio. He taught school in his
younger days, but farming and stock-growing has been his principal occupa-
tion. He served 100 days in Company K. One Hundred and Sixty-fourth
Ohio National Guards, dm-ing the war of the Rebellion. He is a Republican
in polities: a member of the I. O. O. F. He was married. May 30, 1854,
to Miss Nancy Troxel, of Bloom Township, this comity, born March 8, 1834,
and by this union is one child: Cora, born December 18, 1858, man'ied Octo
ber 13. 1878, to C. A. Dimm, by whom she has one child, James Stewart,
born ill October, 1883. Mrs. James W. Stewart is a daughter of Henry and
Eliza (W album) Troxel, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania, respectively, (both
deceased). They came to this county in 1834, and were the parents of thir-
teen children: Nancy. David. Mary, Isaac (deceased), Peter (deceased), Eliza,
Susan, Elizabeth, William (deceased). Rebecca, Charles, Andrew (deceased)
and George (deceased).
HON. EDSON T. STICKNEY, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in
Moira, Franklin Co., N. Y.. August 31, 1811. He entered upon his career in
life as a school teacher: came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1836, and clerked in
a store for four years. In 1839 he was elected justice of the peace, and served
as such for twelve years, was also appointed postmaster in 1839, and filled
that office sixteen years. In 1849 he was elected to the constitutional conven-
tion which framed the present constitution of the State, served foui' years as
State house commissioner. He removed to his present farm in 1851, and in
1867 he was elected to the House of Representatives, serving four years. He
has also served two years in the.Senate. He filled the office of county treas-
urer for two years, and was director of the Ohio penitentiary four years, under
appointment of Gov. Charles Foster. Mr. Stickney is a charter member of
Republic Lodge, I. O. O. F.. and is also an active member of the order of F.
& A. M. He married. October 17. 1838, Miss Emma Roberts, who was born
in Scipio Township. Cayuga Co. , N. Y. , December 4, 1819. She is a daugh,
ter of Timothy P. and Rhoda (Chadwick) Roberts, the former born in Berk-
shire County. Mass. . June 11. 1784, died January 28, 1868; the latter born
February 12. 1792, died March 31. 1872; they were man-ied, January 18,
1809, and became the parents of seven children: Ansel C, Nelson, Nelson
(second), Charles, Eli. Emma and Jane (only the two latter survive). Mr.
Roberts was a wheelwright by trade. He came to this county in 1823, and
entered land and removed here with his family in 1825. Mi's. Stickney is the
mother of four children: Hubert Edson (deceased); EmmaCelira; Antoine E.
(deceased), and an infant (deceased),' Emma Celira married W. A. Mills and bore
him a son. Burt S. ; by her second husband, Alexander Stewart, she has one
son, Thayer. . The subjectof our sketch is a son of Charles Stickney, a farmer,
a native of Yermont. Charles Stickney' s wife, Betsy (Pierce) Stickney.
was a native of Salem.' Mass. She Avas the mother of twelve children:
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP. 985
Charles B., EdsonT. . Sarepta, Maryette (deceased), Henry (deceased), Ira S.,
Hannali (deceased). Lydia and Laura Ann (twins), Orrin M. (deceased), Israel
(deceased), and Royal S. (deceased). The Stickney family are of Eno-lish
descent and trace their ancestry to William Stickney, of England.
L. F. STRAUSBATjGH, jeweler, Republic, was born in Adams County,
Peun. , April 25, 1855, son of Solomon and Mary (AVerley) Strausbaugh, of
Maryland (former a blacksmith by trade), now residents of Adams County,
Penn.. parents of nine childi-en: Susan, David, John, Annie, James, Lizzie
and Katie (twins), Henry and Lee F. Our subject learned his trade at Balti-
more, Md. , came to this county in 1880, and four- years later engaged in busi-
ness at Republic, where by close attention he has been very successful. Mr.
Strausbaugh married. May 15, 1883, Miss Frances Bessler, of Tiffin, Ohio,
born May 20, bSP):}. and this union has been blessed with one son, Paul, born
November 14. 1884. Our subject is a well-laiown bird fancier, and has a
choice collection of seventeen varieties, numbering aliout forty-live birds,
mostly imported. -
GEORGE TFBBS, siirveyor and civil engineer. Republic, was born at
Elmira. N. Y., Mav 10, 1833. The father of our subject. Kelsev Tubbs,
born in Ehuira, X.'Y., November 11, 1804, died October 23. 18«U"(he held
some of the civil offices at an early day, was a son of John Tublis who died
January 12, 1842, aged sixty -eight years, and whose father was killed in the
Indian massacre at Wyoming, Penn. ). The mother of our sul)ject. Sarah (Dean)
Tubbs, was born in Westchester County, N. Y. , December 11, 1811, and is
still living; she is a daughter of Gilbert and Martha (Gedney; Dean, of New
York, former born April 30, 1708, died March 11, 1840; latter born April 15,
1768, died September K). 1841>. a daughter of Absalom Gedney, whose death
occurred in 1814. and who held a commission under the king until the declara-
tion of Independence, when he took sides with the colonists. Mary Kelsey,
the paternal grandmother of George Tubbs, died in 1855, aged seventy years.
Our subject joined, in 1 8()2. Company I, One Hundred and Forty-first New
York Volunteer Infantry, as second lieutenant; was promoted to first lieutenant;
was wounded at the battle of Resaca. and on his return to the regiment was
appointed engineer of the brigade, and after Sherman's march to the sea, re-
ceived a captain's commission; was appointed chief engineer of the Fourteenth
xlrmy Corps, serving till the general muster out in that capacity. Mr. Tubbs
is a charter member of G. A. R. Post No. 135, of Republic. He came to
Seneca County in 1873. and to Republic in 1879. Since the war he has given
his attention to farming and surveying. He has served as mayor two years; is
one of the leaders of the Democratic party, and was a delegate to the conven-
tion that nominated Hon. George E. Seney. Mr. Tubbs married. May 20, 1808,
in Candor, N. Y''., Miss Jane E. Shaw, born in Scipio Township, this county,
November 27, 1843. and by this union are three sons: Joseph Kelsey, Robert
and Charles E.
J. B. WILCOX, farmer, P. O. Republic, was born in Tomj^kins County,
N. Y. , June 14, 1822. By the death of his parents he was thrown on his own
resoiu'ces before reaching the age of nine years, receiving, however, the influ-
ence of Christian peoj)le. Our subject came to this county in 1833 and piu--
chased his first real estate in 1847. He was a resident of Republic for sixteen
years, retm-ning to his farm in 1882. He is a Republican in politics and has
been a )iiember of the Methodist Episcopal Church, nearly forty years. He
was married. May 27, 1847. to Mary Anway, born August 17, 1820, fir.st white
child born in Scipio Township, and by this union are three children: Eliza A.,
John R. and E. Ross. Mrs. Wilcox is a daughter of John Anway, who was
born in Scipio Township, Cayuga Co., N. Y., December 2, 1799, died Novem-
986 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ber 26, 1888, the eldest son of William Anway, Sr. . who came to Scipio Town-
ship, this county, January 19, 1823, wdth his family. John Anway was mar-
ried, March 29, 1825, by Squire McCollister, to Mary Foster, who was born
in the town of Ledyard, Cayuga Co. , N. Y. . this being the first marriage in
the township. She was born February 19. 1805. and died in California,
February 13, 1885. her remains being interred in the family cemetery, Feb-
ruary 26. following. She was the mother of seven childi-en: Mary (wife of our
subject), Loren B., Alfred, Martin (deceased), John E., Sidney J. and Wesley.
April 14, 1824, a deed was signed by James Monroe to John Anway for eighty
acres of land, on which the latter resided till his death. Among the first tax
receipts is one for 28 cents on personal propei'ty. John Anway was a captain
of a militia company in early days: he was a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church nearly sixty years: a man highly respected and universally
mourned.
G. WOODWAED, proprietor of Stave and Barrel Works, Republic, was
born in Belle^^^e, Ohio, July 31, 1848, son of Abishai and Mary (Amsden)
Woodward. Our subject is an active business man. and his enterprise is the most
extensive in Republic, Ohio. He entered upon his career in life in the lumber
luisiness, and later engaged in a machine shop and agricultiu-al works. In 1880 he
purchased the stave works of McKim Bros., of BelleN-iie, Ohio, and in 1884 he
removed the machiner}^ and business to Republic, Ohio, where the full running
force is sixty men. The works have a capacity for turning out about 1,500
barrels per week. Although the factory is in its infancy, the stock and fixtiu-es
are valued at $13,000. Mr. Woodward is a leading Democrat, a F. & A. M.
and a meml^er of the National Union. He married, in 1873. Miss Julia Baily,
of Ionia. Mich. Their union has been blessed with three childi'en: Gurdon,
Abishai and Mary.
DANIEL WYANT, can-iage -maker and farmer, P. O. Republic, was born
in Fjederick County, Md. , October 3, 1830. In 1832 his parents moved to
Seneca County, Ohio, locating in Scipio Township, and in 1833 built the
house in which our subject now lives, and it is now one of the oldest land-
marks left in the neighborhood. Mr. Wyant married. May 1, 1853, Catharine
A. Gooding, who was born in this county August 27, 1833, and is the mother
of six children: Melissa (wife of Freeman Tompkins, of West Lodi). Edson
(who died at the age of two years), Sarah (who died when five years of age).
Thomas E. (residing at home and teaching school). Dora (who died when six-
teen years of age) and Byron(who is also at home). In 1855 Mr. Wyant com-
menced the manufacture of guns. He employed two men to assist him for
several years before the war. This business was carried on in connection with
his farming interests, but he finally gave up the manufacture of guns and
turned his attention to carriage-making, building his fii'st carriage in 1857. and
fi'om a small beginning his factory has steadily increased to its present propor-
tions, when in full running order working four sets of hands. His reputation
is widespread, and his goods find market in nearly all parts of the United States.
He is quite an extensive farmer, dealing largely in cattle and horses. He is a
member of the West Lodi Lodge No. 4:93. I. O. O. F. , and has been a mem-
ber of the Lutheran Church about thirty-two years. The subject of this
sketch is a son of Yost Wyant, who died in 1844, and Elizabeth (Helt nee
Neikirk) Wyant, of Maryland, who died about 1868. They were the parents
of five childi'en: David. Daniel (our subject). Michael R. (of Nebraska). Sam-
\\e\ (of Flat Rock. Ohio.) and Elizabeth '(now IVIi's. P. Stetler. of Flat Rock.
Ohio). Mrs. Elizabeth Wyant, our subject's mother, by her first husband.
David Helt, had two children: Mary (deceased, wife of J. Morris) and Catha-
rine (wife of George Dill, living in Lucas County).
SENECA TOAVNSHIP. 987
SENECA TOWNSHIP.
JOHN ADELSBERCtER (deceased) was born in Maryland January 17.
1815, son of Jacob and Barbara (Adelsberger), natives of the East. Onr sub-
ject when eighteen years of age came to this county with his parents, who sub-
sequently died near Tiffin, Ohio. He was united in marriage, August 81.
1841, with Josephine C. Rickets, who departed this life November 25. 1846,
and of the four children born to this union only one is now living. Mr.
Adelsberger married for his second wife Mary A. Albert, born in Pennsylvania.
October 5, 1828. daughter of Daniel and Mary Albert, also natives of Penn,
sylvania, and who came to Ohio in 1834, first settling in Stark County; thence
moving to Wood County, where Mrs. Albert died. Mr. Albert subsequently
went to Fostoria and lived with his son until his death, which occurred March
2, 1878. Our subject was engaged in farming, and owned 180 acres of im-
proved land (wher(^ his family now reside) at the time of his death, Septem-
per 16, 1878, an affliction which deprived his wife of a kind husband, his chil-
di-en of a loving father and the township of a good citizen.
MICHAEL ARBOGAST, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Virginia, Au
gust 1, 1824, a son of Peter and Sophia Arbogast, natives of Virginia, where
they first settled; thence came to this county in 1826. locating in Hopewell
Township, where they lived and died, the former in 1888, and the latter in
1861. Our siibject was united in marriage. December 19, 1847, Avith Jane
Gedulting, born in Frederick County, Md. . a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth
Gedulting. Mrs. Arbogast departed this life January 6, 1849. and our subject
then married. March 11. 1852, for his second wife. Jane R. Stoner, born in
Frederick County, Md., January 18, 1825. a daughter of Henry and Sarah
Stoner. Mr. Arbogast is the father of nine children, six now living: Alice M.
(wife of Jacob Staib), John F. , Anettie A. (wife of Robert Lutz), Lewis H. .
Charles S. and Rush R. ; and three deceased: Henry W., an infant and War-
ren D. June 28, 3882, Mr. Arbogast had the misfortune to lose his second
wife by death; she was a faithful helpmeet and a loving mother. Our subject,
who was reared on a farm, has met with fair success through life, and now
owns 800 acres of land.
JAMES M. BARE, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Wyandot County,
Ohio, June 29, 1832, a son of Abraham and Maiy Bare, the former a native
of Virginia, the latter of Pennsylvania. They were married in Fairfield
County, Ohio, located in Wyandot County in a very early day. and entered the
land on which they remained until death. Abraham Bare died in 186',), his
wife in 1866. Oui* subject was twice man-ied; on first occasion, January!.
1855, to Eliza J. Pennington, born in Seneca County, Ohio, January 18, 188^
daughter of Adam and Ann Pennington, and to this union were born six chil-
dren, five now living: Seymour O., John E., Elva M. (wife of William
Heilman), Alma A. (wife of John Miller) and James L. Ada C. is deceased.
Mrs. Bare dying March 28, 1876, Mr. Bare, February 21, 1878, was married
to Ellen Bercaw, who was born in Seneca County. Ohio, April 9, 1844. a
daughter of Peter P. and Sarah Bercaw. natives of Pennsylvania, and Avho
settled in this county, where they remained until death. Mr. Bercaw died
August 3, 1882. his wife June l,'l876. Our subject owns 102 acres of im-
988 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
proved land, where lie and liis family reside. Mrs. Bare is a member of the
United Brethren Church. _
SIMON P. BEjVIISDERFEE, merchant, Berwick, was born m Jbrankhn
County, Penn., Jime 12, 1841. His parents. John and Christian Bemisderfer,
were nc4ives of Franklin County, Penn. , where they were married and remained
until 1876. at which time they came to Wyandot County, Ohio, and in
1882 moved to Ivansas. where they reside at present. Our subject was
married, March 7, 1807, to Emma L^ Zigler. born in Wyandot County, Ohio,
December 25. 1847, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Zigler, natives of Adams
County, Penn. , and who in a very early day came to AVyandot County, Ohio,
where they still reside. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Bemisderfer has been
blessed with seven chilth-en: Annie M., John J.. Estella C, Loring L..
Bertha E. , Harvey O. and Lula M. Our subject, who is a miller by trade,
came to Ohio in 1802. and on August 12. same year, he enlisted in Company
I, One Hundred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participated in
several battles, and was mustered out of service June 12, 1805. After return-
incr home he served as clerk in a store at McCutchenville. Ohio, for a short
time: then engaged at farming until 1880, when he sold his farm and moved
to Berwick, where he has since engaged in mercantile business. July 1, 1881,
he was commissioned postmaster, w^hich office he still holds. Mr. Bemisderfer
has met with a fair degree of success in all his business enterprises.
SILAS W. BEBCAW, express agent, Berwick, was born in Pennsylvania,
May 22, 1837. a son of Peter P. and Sarah Bercaw, who were born and married
in Pennsylvania, and moved to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1840, where they
remained. Peter P. Bercaw died August 8, 1882, his wife havmg preceded
him June 1, 1870. Our subject was united in marriage. April 1/, 1800, with
Nancv J. Mullholand, born in AVyandot County, Ohio, September 28, 1842.
Her parents. Richard and Margaret Mullholand. former a native of the old
countrv, latter of Virginia, first settled in Crawford County (now Wyandot
County). Ohio; Mr. Mullholand died October 12. 1848, and his widow April
1 1870 Mr. and Mrs. Bercaw are the parents of six chikh-en: Harry P.,
born January 20. 1807: George AV.. born July 24,_1808: Arthur AV.. born
October 22, 1871: Edward H.. born September 5. 18/5; Ora T., born Febru-
ary 20, 1879; and Emma J., born April 21. 1882. IVIi*. Bercaw was reared on
a farm In 1807 he was emploved as a ticket and freight agent by the Cin-
cinnati, Sanduskv & Cleveland Railway Company. The same year he was ap-
pointed postmaster by the United States Government, and these two positions
he held for fifteen y'ears. He is now agent for the United States Express Com-
pany. Mr. Bercaw owns nice town property, where he and his family reside.
JOSEPH CONAGHAN. farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Adams Coun-
tY. Penn., June 8. 1808; son of Dennis K. and Magdalene Conaghan, the
former a native of Ireland, the latter of Pennsylvania; they were united in
marriage in Adams Countv. Penn.. where they remained until 1832; then moved
to Stall: County. Ohio, from there coming to this county, where they spent the
remainder of then- lives. Our subject was united in marriage, m Adams
County, Penn. , October 8. 1835, with Margaret Eyler, born in Adams County,
Penn., February 12, 1811, a daughter of John and Mary M. Eyler. who came
to Ohio and located in Seneca County, where they remained until their death.
To Mr. and Mrs. Conaghan have been born five children: Ellen M.. Horatio
D. , Lucy M. , Clara L. and Ida A. Mr. Conaghan was reared on a farm, and
now owns 473 acres of good land. . He Is a member of the Catholic Church,
and Mrs. Conaghan of the German Lutheran denomination. They are a very
pleasant couple, highly respected by the community in which they live.
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 989
HORATIO D. CONAGHAN, farmer. P. O. Berwick, was liorii in Stark
County. Ohio. February 22. 1S89: son of Josei^li and Margaret Conaglian,
natives of Pennsylvania (w^here they were married), whence they moved to
Stark County, Ohio, and from there to this county, where they *^ still reside.
Our subject was united in marriage, September 14, 1872. with Bertie E. Lease,
born near Tiffin, this county, July 8, 1842, a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth
Lease, former a native of Maryland, latter of Ohio, and who located in Seneca
County, Ohio, where they remained until the death of Mrs. Lease. Mr. Lease
was afterward united in marriage with Mary L. McCormic, and moved to
AVyandot County. where this wife died and he still resides. Mr. and Mrs. Con-
aghan were blessed with two children: Gertie A., born July 'S, 1878. and Or-
land J., l)orn March 15, 1875. Mr. Conaghan was raised on a farm and he
now owns KM) acres of land. He had the misfortune to lose his wife May 25,
]876, while his children were quite young.
_ TIMOTHY CONNOR, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Ireland, January
1 7, 1818, son of Lawrence and Mary Connor, who remained in the old countiy
until their death. Our subject immigrated to America. July 16, 1848, goino-
lirst to Connecticut, where he remained five years engaged in the rolling-mills,
thence came to this county, where he has since resided. He was united in
marriage, February 16, 1857, with Mary Coleman, born in Ireland in 1834,
daughter of Daniel and Mary Coleman, also natives of the Emerald Isle, where
the family remained until Mr. Coleman's death. Subsequently his widow and
children immigrated to America about 1845. and here Mrs. Coleman was again
married, this time to Michael Tw^omey, who died March 14. 1875; she still
survives. To Mi-, and Mrs. Connor were born ten childi-en, six now living:
Mary F. , Honora E. . Daniel F. , Lawrence J. , Katie A. and Julia A. Our
subject, a farmer by occupation, owns 160 acres of land with good buildings
thereon. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
HENRY DAVIDSON, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Pickaway County,
Ohio. October 18. b818. a son of John and Mary A. Davidson, of " Irish de-
scent. The ceremony which made our subject's parents husband and wife was
performed in Ireland, and in 1812 they immigrated to America, and to Penn-
sylvania, where they remained but a short time, however, then moved to Pick-
away County, Ohio, and from there to this county, in March, 1884, and here they
lived and died. Our subject was iinited in marriage. December 7, 1848. with
Rachel A. Morrison, born in Pennsylvania, October 10. 3823. a daughter of
John H. and Charlotte Morrison, also natives of Pennsylvania, where they
were married, thence moved to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1887, and here re-
mained the balance of their lives. Mr. Morrison died November 17. 1857, and
his widow August 16, 1888. To Mr. and Mrs. Davidson were born six chil-
dren, of whom five are now living: Mary A., wife of Thomas Hedges; Sarah
C. , Arthur J. , Henry C. and George W. ; an infant is deceased. Our sul)ject
came to Ohio with his parents in March, 1884. and in 1848 settled on his pres-
ent farm comprising 1 06 acres improved land. Mr. Davidson was real estate
appraiser in 1870. He is a member of the United Brethren Church.
WILLIAM DAVIDSON, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in Pickaway
County. Ohio. September 15. 1821, son of John and Mary A. Davidson, of
Scotch descent, and who were married in Ireland. They immigrated to
America in 1812, bringing one child with them. They first lived a short time
in Pennsylvania, then moved to Pickaway County, Ohio, and from there, in
1834, to this county, where they remained until death. Oiu- subject was
united in marriage, in December. 1 848. with Maria Morrison, who was born in
Pennsylvania November 1, 1810, daughter of Alexander and Mary Morrison,
990 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
natives of Maryland, and wlio moved to Pennsylvania, and from there to
Seneca County. Ohio, about IS'25. and here lived and died. To our subject
and wife have been born nine children, six now living: Mary J., wife of Kev.
Hiram Shumaker; John A; James; William H. ; Margaret A., wife of Austen
C. Littler: and Ira L. Robert M. C. . born January 2, 1851, died August 10,
1862; Thomas M., born May 20, 1859, died March 4. 1860; and Walter S.,
born October 14, 1853, died July 14, 1883. Our subject, who owns 180 acres
of land, mostly improved, settled on his present farm in 1843. He and his
wife are members of the First Presbvterian Chiirch at Tiffin. Ohio.
JACOB DICE, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, one of the first settlers of the county,
Avas born in Franklin County, Penn. , February 18, 1809, son of John and
Esther Dice, natives of the East, who moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, in
1811, thence to Stark County, where they remained until death. Our subject
was united in marriage, in Stark County. Ohio, March 14, 1833, with Maria
Apley, a native of Pennsylvania, and to this union were born thirteen children,
eight of whom are now living: Caroline (wife of John Benson), Ephraim,
Amanda (wife of Charles Baker), John. Sarah (wife of Adam Weikert), Mary
(wife of C. H. Sting). Frank and Sibylla, and five deceased: Lucinda, Matilda
and three infants. Our subject after marriage first lived in Stark County, and
from there moved to Seneca Township, this county, settling on the farm, now
comprising eighty acres of good land, where he has since resided and where his
wife died March 16. 1879. She was a member of the German Reformed
Chin-eh. to which our subject also belongs.
THOMAS DUNN, farmer. P. O. Tiffin, was born in the State of New
York May 12, 1825, a son of James and Mehitable Dunn, natives of New
York, where they remained until death. Our subject was united in marriage.
May 30, 1854. "with Ann Lake, born in New York, a daughter of Elijah
and Dorcas Lake, natives of New York, and who came to Wyandot County.
Ohio, where the former died: the latter is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Dunn
aro the parents of eight children, seven of whom are now living: Irena A.
(wife of Joseph Atteln). Lafayette N.. Elmer E.. Flora E. (wife of David W.
Slone), James E.. Elmira L. and Alfred D. Mehitable A. is deceased. Our
subject owns 1 20 acres of land, mostly improved, where he and his family live.
He is becoming quite an old resident of Seneca Township, having settled here
in 1854 on his present farm, which has undergone many changes since then.
ROBERT H. DUTROW. P. O. Tiffin, an enterprising young farmer and
descendant of one of the pioneers of Seneca County, was born January 28,
1851, in Seneca Township, on the farm where he and his family now
reside. His parents, Philip H. and Elizabeth Dutrow, were natives of Mary-
land, where they first settled after their marriage, and resided one year; thence
moved to Ohio, locating in Seneca Township, this county, about 1832, and here
they remained until Mrs. Dutrow' s death in 1881. Mr. Dutrow subsequently came
to Tiffin, Ohio, where he now resides. Our subject was united in marriage.
November 9, 1882, with Florence Holtz, born in Frederick County, Md.,
November 14, 1859. daughter of Oliver and Louisa Holtz. now residents of
Maiyland. Mr. and Mrs. Dutrow are the parents of one son — Oliver P. . born
May 11. 1884. Our subject resides on the old homestead, all of which his
father cleared except one small field. He and his wife are members of the
Second Reformed Church of Tiffin. Ohio.
DAVID M. FOOHT. farmer. P. O. McCutchenville. Wyandot County, was
born on his present farm in Seneca Township, Seneca Coimty. March 6, 1842. a
son of David and Varonica Foght, who were born in Pennsylvania, married and
located in Fairfield County. Ohio, moving from there to this county, about 1828.
SENECA TOWNSllir. 991
being am(jng its early settlers, and here lived and died. Mr. Foght died in
1881, his wife in 1874. They were the parents of twelve chikli-e!i. of whom
only five are now living. Our subject was united in marriage. January 20,
1870, with Rebecca Zeis, born in Seneca County, Ohio, July 20. 1844, a daugh-
ter of Jacob and Elizabeth Zeis, natives of Germany. Mr. Zeis, who was only
four years of age when he came to this county, died in August, 1870: his widow,
who was seventeen years old when she came here, died in 1878. Mr. and Mj^'s.
Foght have one child, LibbieF. . born April 1. 1871. Our subject owns 124A^
acres of laud, mostly improved, where he and his family reside. He enlisted
during the late civil war. in 1804, in Company B, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the battles of Spring Hill. Franklin atnl
Nashville, serving in all about sixteen months.
HENRY FUNK. P. O. Berwick, an entei-jDrising farmc^r. was born on the
farm where he and his family now reside in Seneca Township, this county, March
19. 1887; son of Daniel and Sarah Funk, former born in Fairfield County, Ohio,
latter in Pennsylvania; they first settled in Fairfield County, afterward moved to
Seneca County, and here remained until Mr. Funk's death. August lU, 1879; his
widow is still living. Our subject was united in marriage, March 1 2, 1 807, with
Elmira Shoup, a native of Seneca County. Ohio, born August 1 4, 1 840, daugh-
ter of Jacob and Margaret Shoup, the former a native of Franklin County.
Perin. , the latter of Frederick County. Md. . and who came to this county in
1 844, where they have since remained. To Mr. and Mrs. Funk were born five
children, of whom Clara. Daniel G. and John L. are now living, the others
having died in infancy. Our subject enlisted in the army during the late civil
war, October 20. 180)1. in Company K, Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, and was discharged December 31, 1805. He is a F. & A. M.
J. K. FUNK, farmer. P. O. Berwick, was born on the old home farm
where he and his family reside, in Seneca Township, this county. July 29.
1841, eon of Daniel and Sarah Funk, the former born in Fairfield County,
Ohio, the latter in Pennsylvania; after their marriage they settled in Fairfield
County; thence moved to Seneca Township, this county, where they remained.
Daniel Funk died August 19, 1879; his widow resides with her son J. K. Our
subject was united in marriage, October 25, 1877, with Silva A. Stoner, born
in Seneca County, Ohio. July 21, 1854, a daughter of George and Louisa
Stoner, the former a native of Maryland, the latter of Knoxville. Pemi.
After Mr. and Mrs. Stoner were married they settled in this county, where
they remained till 1800. at which time they moved to Henry County, Ohio,
where they have since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Funk are the i)arents of four
children: Oliver M.. Hattie E., Arthiu- and Bertha. During the late war of
the Rebellion Mr. Funk enlisted. October 20, 1801, in Company K, Forty-
ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participated in several serious engagements,
was always found at his post, and was mustered out at Texas after serving
foiu' years, foui" months and ten days. Tie is a F. & A. M. He and his family
are highlv respected in the communitv in which they live.
JOSEPH GILLIG, farmer. P. O". Tiffin was born in Stark County. Ohio,
in August. 1825. a son of Andrew and Catharine Gillig. natives of Germany,
and who immigrated to Lancaster County, Penn. , in 1815, where they lived
seven years ; thence moved to Stark County, where they remained until 1844,
and from there to this county, residing here until death. Mrs. Gillig died sev-
eral years ago. and Mr. Gillig in 18r)9. Our subject was twice united in mar-
riage; the first time, in 1850. with Caroline Sanders, who was born in Seneca
CoTinty. Ohio, and departed this life in 1870. Mr. Gillig was married on sec-
ond occasion, Febriiarv 1. 1871. to Marv Mvre, born in Seneca Countv. Ohio,
992 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
July U, 1N42. a daughter of John and Margaret Myre, the former now living,
the'lattej- deceased. Mr. G-illig has had seventeen children, nine by his first
wife and eight by the last, and of these twelve are still living. Our subject is
a tanner by trade, birt has engaged in farming and bee culture most of his
life. He owns 1 (58 acres of land, mostly improved, where he and his family
reside. He has served as a member of the school board of his township. He
and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
PETER HAEFLING, farmer. P. O. Titfin, was born in Germany. October
8. 1821, son of Balthasar and Margaret Haefliog, also natives of Germany,
where they were married, and whQ immigrated to America and to Pennsyl-
vania in 1838. where they lived until 1839, then came to Ohio and located in
Tiffin, Seneca County, and here remained until death; Mrs. Haefling died in
1845,' Mr. Haefling in 1864. Elizabeth, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth
Straiisbaugh. was born in Pennsylvania, November 10. 1829, and on February
19, 1852, was united in marriage with the subject of this sketch, and to this
union were born five childi-en. Mrs. Haefling departed this life. June 3(\
1864, a communicant of the Catholic Church. Our subject married, Novem-
ber 29, 1 806,- for his second wife, Joanna Redmond, who was born in San-
dxisky.' Ohio. July 30. 1834. a daughter of Michael and Bridget Redmond, na-
tives* of Ireland, and who were married in Halifax, N. Y.. where they
settled until about 1832, when they came to Sandusky County, Ohio, thence
moved to Seneca County, in 1835, 'where they remained during life. Mr. Red-
mond died in 1849. his widow in 1854. Our subject is the father of ten chil-
dren: JohnM.. Joseph P.. William F.. Charles E.. Margaret E., Louisa E.
and James M. (living) and Henry A., George B. and Anna E. (deceased). Mr.
Haefling. a miller by trade, is now engaged in farming, and owns 136 acres
improved land whereon he and his family reside. Mr. and Mrs. Haefling and
family are members of the Catholic Church. He has filled the office of jus-
tice of the peace about nineteen years, and served two terms as infirmary di-
rector. He is a self-made man and has met with fair success through life.
OWEN HAINES, P. O. Berwick, was born in Carroll County. Md.. Sep-
tember 15, 1830: son of Job and Ann Haines, born in Carroll County, Md.,
and Schuylkill County, Penn. . respectively, and who moved to Seneca^ County,
Ohio, in 1840, where "they died, the former in 1845. the latter in 1857. Our
subject was married. November 10, 1859, to Nancy Terflinger. who was born in
Seneca County, Ohio, November 18, 1835. Her parents were Jacob and Eliz-
abeth Terflinger. former born in Ohio, latter in Switzerland, and who settled
in this county, where they remained until death. Mr. and Mrs. Owen Haines
have had six'children: Levi C. Esther, Ida M., Charles, Leroy and Bertha E.
Our subject was raised on a farm, which he left' when eighteen years old to
learn the trade of stone-mason: when twenty-one years of age he drove cattle
across the plains to California, where he engaged in mining until 1854, when
he retiu-ned home, and has since been farming, excei^t for four months when
he was in the army ; he was a member of Company B. One Hundred and Six-
ty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He and his brt)ther Levi C. are
euterprising '^farmers of this county. Mr. Haines owns a nice farm where he
and his family reside. He has been a F. & A. M. since 1854.
LEVI HAINES, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. Adrian, was born in Car-
roll County, Md., August 31, 1838; son of Job and Ann Haines, the former
born in Carroll County, Md. . the latter in Schuylkill County. Penn. ; they
came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1840, and here lived and died Mr. Haines
September 13, 1845, and his widow May 1, 1857. Our subject was united in
marriao-e October 29. 1868. with Mary Zint. born in Stark County. Ohio. July
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 993
23, 1848. daughter of Joseph and Julia Zint, the former a native of France,
the latter of Pennsylvania, and who moved fi'om Stark County, Ohio, to this
county, where they have remained ever since. Mr. Zint emigrated to Amer-
ica in 1828. arriving in New York May 4, same year. Oiu' subject and wife
are the parents of three childi-en: Harry G. , born July 9, 1809; Idella M.,
born Octolier 24. 1873; and James A., born October 14, 1880. Mr. Haines
was reared on a farm, then worked at stone cutting at Tiffin, Ohio; from there
he went to California, where he engaged in mining until 1801, when he made
a prospecting tour through Washington and Idaho Teii'itories, returning home
in 1804, and has since remained in Seneca Township. He owns 240 acres of
land, and is engaged in farming and stock-dealing. He is a F. & A. M.
GEOKGE A. HARMON, farmer, P. O. McCutchenviUe, Wyandot County,
Avas born October 13, 1849, and reared on the homestead farm, where he still
resides, and which comprises sixty acres of land in vSeneca Township, this
county. His parents were George and Elizabeth Harmon, the former a native
of Virginia, born May 9, 1807; the latter born in Ross County, Ohio, January
0. 1812; they were manied in Seneca Townshi^D, this county, December 23,
1831, where they remained until IVIrs. Harmon's death, July 25, 1875. They
were parents of fourteen children, thirteen growing to be men and women, and,
of these, ten are now living in different parts of the "United States. George
Harmon, Sr. . still resides on the home farm, and it is quite interesting to hear
him narrate the adventures of his boyhood, when Seneca Township was cov-
ered with woods which abounded with wild turkeys, deer and hogs, and where
were yet some Indians. Our subject was united in marriage, September 30,
1879, with Alice Cooper, born in Wyandot County, Ohio, December 30, 1850,
daughter of John and Mary E. Cooper, the former a native of New Jersey,
the latter of Ohio, and who settled in Wyandot County, where they still re-
main. To our subject and wife have been born two childi'en: Alva G., born
December 22, 1880, died January 8, 1881, and Goldie F.. ])orn January 5,
1884.
JOHN HECK, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, is a descendant of one of the old pio-
neers of Seneca Township, this county. He was born on the farm where he and
his family now reside, November 1 2, 1837 ; son of George and Sarah Heck, the
former born in Perry County, Ohio, October 5, 1797; the latter, a native of
Germany, departed this life in 1839. George Heck was subseqviently united
in marriage with Sarah Karr, who was born near Gettysbui'g, Penn. , and died
in 1874; he is still living, and resides on the farm where he has spent sixty-
three years of his life. Oiu- subject was maiiied, January 4, 1801, the object
of his choice being Phoebe Ralston, who was born in Bloom Township, this
county, April 3, 1842. Her parents, Samuel and Elizabeth Ralston, natives
of Virginia, came to this county in 1824. Mr. Ralston died January- 4, 1808;
his widow resides in Bloom Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Heck have
been blessed with five children: Sarah E., Georgiana, Joseph H. , Maud M.
and Alma C. Mr. Heck is one of the enterprising farmers of Seneca County.
He and his wife are consistent members of the United Brethren Church.
HENRY HEPF, farmer, P. O. New Riegel, was born, July 13, 1813. in
Bavaria, Germany, where his parents, Michael and Frances Hepf, lived and
died. Oiu- subject immigrated to America and came to this county in 1830.
where he has since lived. He has been engaged in farming nearly all his life
and now owns 135 aci'es of fine land, where he and his family reside. He wa--
married, July 15, 1839, to Elizabeth Copier, also a native of Germany, born
February 27, 1817, daxighter of Jacob and Elizabeth Copier, who immigrated
to America and to Seneca County and here remained until death. To Mr,
094 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
and Mrs. Hepf have been born twelve children, eleven of whom are now living:
Henry, Peter. Magdalena, Joseph, Christena, Margaret, Catharine, Jacob,
Frank, Helena and Veronica. Elizabeth is deceased. The family are faithful
members of the Catholic Church, and are among the first citizens of the town-
ship.
HENRY HOUCK. farmer, P. O. McCutchenville, A\'yandot County, one
of the early settlers of Seneca County, Ohio, was born December 29, 1810, a
son of Michael and Margaret Houck. He was brought up on a farm and
received a common school education. In 1832 he settled in Seneca County,
Ohio, and after residing near Tiffin a short time, moved on his present farm.
He was married, May. 9, 1841, to Piachel J., daughter of Frederick "W. and
Catharine Shriver. Mr. and Mrs. Houck are the parents of four children:
William, Lewis F., Ezra M. and Hiram S. Our subject was reared on a farm
and has been engaged in agriculture all his life. He owns forty acres of well-
improved land, where he and his family reside. He and his wife are consistent
members of the Reformed Church at Tiffin, and are a very highly respected
couple.
AMOS KELLER, miller, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Fairfield County. Ohio,
December 20, 1839, son of Joseph and Elizabeth Keller, the former born in
Pennsylvania in 1797, and the latter in Ohio in 1807. They were married in
Fairfield County. Ohio, in 1829, where they remained until Mrs. Keller's
death in June, I84(i: in 1848 Joseph Keller then married Nancy Good, anativ(i
of Fairfield County, Ohio, and in November, 1849, they moved to this county,
and here lived until his death, which occurred January lo, 1855. His widow
subsequently returned to her native county. Our subject was married, Octo-
ber 10. 1867. to 'Martha E. Sneaihe. born in Seneca County, Ohio, September
1 . 1846, daughter of William and Martha Sneathe, the latter deceased. Mr.
and Mrs. Keller are the parents of two children: Rufus E., born July 7,
1868, and Addie F., born March 30, 1871. Mr. Keller acquired a college
education at Tiffin, and at Delaware, Ohio. He then engaged in teaching for
eight years, but afterward embai'ked in milling business, and now owns a flour-
ing, saw and planing-mill, and a small tract of good land on which he has
erected one of the finest residences in northern Ohio. He and his wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Chiarch. Mr. Keller has taken an active part
in every educational, moral and religious enterprise, which has a tendency to
elevate his fellow, and especially is he prominent in Sabbath-school and tem-
perance work. He is one of those self-made men who have risen from com-
parative povertv and obscurity to position and wealth. ■^
JOHN M. LAUGHLIN, farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Urbana. Steu-
ben Co., N. Y., October 10. 1839, son of John and Mary W. Laugh! in, who
were parents of twelve children, four of whom are now living. His father was
born in L'eland in 1808, immigrated to New York in 1826, and was married in
Urbana, about 1836, to Mary \V. Hill, who was born in Middlesex. Ontario
Co., N. Y., in 1818; they then settled in New York, where they remained until
his death, which occurred September 4, 1857; his widow subsequently moved
to Wyandot County, Ohio, where she now resides. Oiu' subject was united in
marriage, January 4, 1866, with Helen J. Ewing, born in Seneca Township,
this county. October 8, 1840, daiighter of Anderson and Julia A. (Brinkerhoff)
Ewing, natives of Gettysbiu'g, Penn. . where they were married and first set-
tled; but ill 1840 they came to this county, and remained until Mrs. Ewing' s
death, which occurred in 1817. Mr. Ewing was married, on second occasion,
to Lucretia Crooks; removed to Wyandot County. Ohio, where he died in
1875; hi-; wido.v still resides there on the old home farm. Our subject and
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 995
wife are the parents of live children, two now living: Mary A., born January
13, 1869, and Edna E. , born July 7. 1873, and three deceased: Albertus E.,
Hattie M. and Emma E. Mr. Laughlin, who in early life engaged in farraing
and teaming, came to Ohio in 1859, and located in Wyandot County, where
he was married, and afterward moved to this county, where he has since been
engaged in farming. During the late civil war he enlisted. July 29, 1862, in
Company F, One Hundi'ed and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, par-
ticipated in a number of hard- fought battles, and was mustered out June 12,
1865. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. Mr. and Mrs. Laughlin are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Chiu'ch.
LORENZ LEY, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was .born in France November 19,
1835, a son of Anthony and Mary Ley, also natives of France, where they
lived and died, the former July 29, 1869, the latter in 1 864. Our subject
immigrated to America, coming direct to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1847, and
after residing here foiu* years went to Australia, where he engaged in mining
for six years; fi'om there he went to New Zealand, and staid two years; after
which he returned to his native land, and remained eleven months ; then set sail
for America again, finally settling in this county. He was married, February
12, 1866, to Catharine Fry, born in Seneca County, Ohio, April 1, 1836, a
daughter of Charles and Elizabeth Fry, natives of France, who immigrated to
Ohio about 1830, where they remained until death. Mr. Fry departed this
life in 1866, and his widow in 1879. Mr. and Mrs. Ley are the parents of
seven children: Charles V., Joseph A., Clara E., Mary L., Annie R., The-
resa H. and Frank L. Our subject, who is one of the well-to-do farmers of
Seneca County, owns 210 acres of improved land, with sjDlendid buildings
thereon. He and his family are members of the Catholic Chui'ch.
JOSEPH LONSWAY, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, an old pioneer of this county,
was born in Three Rivers, Lower Canada. February 8, 181§, a son of Baptist
and Theresa Lonsway, also natives of Lower Canada, where they "I'emained
until their death. Our subject came to the United States in 1836, first to Buf-
falo, N. Y. , then to Michigan, where he remained until 1839 ; then he moved
to Sandusky City, Erie Co., Ohio, and while at that place he and his
brother took a contract to build and keep in repair the railroad from Sandusky
to Kenton, then called the Mad River & Lake Erie Railroad. They followed
their contract for eight years, and on the fulfillment of his contract our subject
took up his abode in Tiffin, this county, and fi-om there went to farming in
Wyandot County, remaining there two years, and then returned to Seneca
County, where he has since resided. ]Mr. Lonsway was united in marriage the
first time, in 1842, with Sarah A. Julian, born in Maryland, and who departed
this life in Wyandot County, Ohio, November 29, 1849. Subsequently Mi-.
Lonsway was married. May 25, 1852, to Rebecca Johnson, who was born in
Maryland in 1821, and died in Seneca County, Ohio, in Decembei-, 1857. June
18, 1860, our subject was married to his third wife, Mary R. Allwines, born
in Pennsylvania October 6, 1840, daughter of John and Mary T. Allwines,
who, about 1856, came to Ohio, where Mr. Allwines died in 1877; his widow
still sui'vives. To our subject have been born seventeen children, of whom
thirteen are now living. He was reared on a farm, and now owns 120 acres of
good land where he and his family reside. They are members of the Catholic
Church at Tiffin, Ohio. * .
ROBERT McCLELLAN, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Kentucky
April 17, 1818, a son of Joseph and Jane McClellan. natives of Pennsylvania,
Avho were married in Kentucky', where they remained about six years, thence
moved to Seneca County, Ohio, in the fall of 1822, and here lived and died.
996 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
the former in 1860. the latter in 1866. Our subject was united in marriage,
January "28. 1847, with Sarah Einsel. born in Fairfield County, Ohio. De-
cember 11. 1826, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Einsel, natives of Pennsyl-
vania and Ohio respectively, and who first located in Fairfield County, thence
moved to this county about 1883, where they remained until their death. Mr.
Einsel died in 1872: his wife in 1866. Mr. and Mrs. McClellan have been
blessed with seven children, of whom six are now living: Walter E., Caroline,
Alice, Flora. Cora and Elizabeth: an infant is deceased. Mr. McClellan, who
was reared on a farm, has been very successful, and now owns 177 acres of
land mostly improved. He has filled the office of county commissioner six
years, and was trustee of his township for several years.
JONATHAN REDFOX, farmer, P. O. Berwick.' was born in Seneca Town-
ship, this county, December 3. 1843, on the farm where he now resides; a son
of Jacob and Joanna Eedfox, natives of Germany, who settled in Seneca
Township, this county, about 1833. They were parents of eight children:
Jacob. William. Hemy. Jonathan, John, Rosana. Elizabeth and Christena.
Mrs. Redfox departed this life in 1851. Jacob Redfox survived her until
1866, when he, too, passed away from earth. Our subject was reared on a
farm, and has been engaged in agricultural pursuits nearly all his life, now
owning seventy-eight acres of land in a splendid state of cultivation. He was
maiTied, February 15. 1870. to Eliza, daughter of Jacob and Nancy Von Blon,
natives of Germany. To Mr. and Mrs. Redfox were born five children, three
of whom are living: Emanuel, born June 9, 1874; Charles E. , born April 15,
1876, and Audi-ew W., born October 26, 1880. Mi-s. Redfox departed this life
November 6, 1880. leaving her husband, childi-en and a large circle of fi'iends
to mourn their loss. Oiu- subject served in the late war of the Rebellion six-
teen months. He is one of the school board of Seneca Township; a member
of the German Reformed Church.
BENJAMIN C.'REEME, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Dauphin County,
Penn. , September 12, 1835 ; son of Benjamin and Eliza Reeme, natives of Pennsyl-
vania, who immigrated to Ohio and settled in this county in 1857, where they
remained until ]\Ii-. Reeme" s death November 20, 1880. His widow survives
him. Our subject was united in marriage, November 5, 1863, with Cynthia B.
Jennings, born in Seneca County, Ohio, August 26. 1838, daughter of Jacob S.
and Osee Jennings, the former a native of New Jersey, the latter of Warren
County. Ohio, and who located in this county several years ago. where they
lived and died. To our subject and wife were born three children: Harry E.,
born August 27, 1864; Oliver G., born November 13, 1866, and Charlie C,
born June 8, 1869. Mr. Reeme who was reared on a farm, now owns sixty-
foui' acres of land mostly improved, whereon he and his family now reside. He
and his wife are meinbers of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr. Reeme
has met with fair success through life, and his family is highly respected by the
community in which they live.
DANIEL REISZ, farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Bavaria. Germany,
November 9, 1829 ; son of Jacob and Mary E. Reisz, who immigrated to America in
1 833, coming by way of New York to Seneca Township, this county, settling on the
farm of eighty acres (where our subject and family now reside), where they
erected a cabin in the woods and here lived the residue of their lives. Our siib-
ject, who was reared on a farm, still follows agricultiual pursuits. He was mar-
ried November 15, 1860, to Mary A., daughter of Daniel and Sarah Funk, and
who departed this life June 30, 1872. Mr. Reisz remained a widower until
June 5. 1873. when he married Susan, daughter of John and Susan Heni-y,
and who was born July 30. 1850. To this union have been born fonr children:
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 997
Lucy I., bora April 3,_18T4: Laura U., born February 1, 3 876; Lainantha J.,
born December 22, IHtl, and Charles T., born August 28, 1879. During the
late war of the Rebellion oiu- subject was drafted September 28, 1804,'^ into
Company G, 8ixty-fom-th Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; he participated in a number
of hard fought battles and was honorably discharged June 10, 1865.
INMAN EOLEY, farmer, P. O. McCutchenyille, Wyandot County, was
born in Virginia, December 1, 1810, son of Jesse and Lida Roley, natives of
Virginia, where they remained until the death of the former, in 1812. Mrs.
Jesse Holey and family subsequently moved to Perry County, Ohio, thence to
this county in 1833, and here she died July 31. 1843. 'Oui- subject was united in
marriage. May 15, 1841, with Maiy, daughter of Shepherd Cowdiy, and who
was born March 7, 1817, and died February 10. 1875. She was a consistent
member of the United Brethren Church. jNIi-. Roley was married on second
occasion, August 24, 1879, to Millie Twiggs, who was born in Maryland, June
14, 1829, a daughter of Nathaniel Twiggs. Oiu- subject has been engaged in
farming through life, and now owns 120 acres of good land, where he and his
family reside. Mr. and Mrs. Roley are members of the United Brethren
Church. He has l^een a member of the school board. He located on his pres-
ent farm in 1833. and has seen Seneca Township changed fi-om a wilderness to
what it is at present.
CHRISTIAN RUEHLE, farmer, P. O. Adi-ian,was born in Seneca County,
Ohio, February 29, 1 848 ; son of John J. and Catharine Ruehle, the former
born in Wm-temberg, Germany, and the latter in Seneca County, Ohio. John
J. Ruehle settled in this county where he died; his widow survives him. Our
subject was united in marriage. February 12, 1872, with Mary Gessner, born
in Seneca County, Ohio, April 22. 1851 ; her parents, Michael and Eva Gess-
ner, natives of Germany, immigrated to America, coming to Ohio several
years ago, where they remained the Imlance of their days. Our subject and
wife have been blessed with three children: A. J. David, Hattie L. and
Arthur G. Mr. Ruehle is a blacksmith by trade, but has followed farming
nearly all his life; he owns forty acres of good land in Wyandot County, Ohio,
also his undivided interest in the home farm, Avhere he and his family reside.
Mr. Ruehle is one of the enterprising and respected farmers of the township.
DANIEL FRIEDERICH RUEHLE, farmer, P. O. Berwick, an enterpris-
ing old gentleman, was born in Germany, March 31, 1814; sou of Tobias and
Barbara Ruehle, who remained in the old country until theii' death. Our sub-
ject was united in marriage, November 10, 1839, in his native land with Mar-
garet M. Ruehle, of same nativity, born May 29, 1815, daughter of Daniel E.
and Anna M. Ruehle, who lived and died in Gei-many. Our subject and fam-
ily came to Ohio in 1848 and located in this county, where they reside at pres-
ent. Mr. and Mi-s. Ruehle have been blessed with- twelve childi-en — six boys
and six girls — of whom six survive: Barbara M. , Frederica C. , Jacob F..
Louisa C, Daniel E. and Jonas; the deceased are Margaret B., Christian F..
Catharine E. , Rosanna R., David and an infant. Our subject worked in a
vineyard in Germany; has been engaged in farming since he came to this
country and now owns 120 acres of land, whereon he and his family reside.
IVIr. and Mrs. Ruehle and their childi-en are members of the German Lutheran
Church.
JAMES SANDERS, farmer, P. O. Berwick, was born in Stark County,
Ohio, April 5, 1829; son of Anthony and Mary A. Sanders, natives of Penn-
sylvania, where they were married and first settled ; thence they came to Ohio,
locating in Stark County: and from there moved to Seneca County, where
they remained until their death. Our subject was united in marriage. May
998 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
24, 1855, witli Ellen M. M. Conaghan, born in Stark County, Ohio, August 28,
1836, daughter of Joseph and Margaret Conaghan (whose sketch appears else-
where). Mr. and Mrs. Sanders are the parents of eight children, of whom
six survive: Julius J., Cora M., Arthur A., Ethel L., Eunice C. and Raymond
D. ; the deceased are Jessie M., born September 28, 1861, and Nellie I., born
July 4, 1863. Our subject is serving his second term as infirmary director of
the county and has filled the office of trustee of his township. He and his
wife are consistent members of the Catholic Church.
WILLIAM SHELDON, farmer, P. O. McCutchenville, Wyandot County,
was born in England May 9, 1835, a son of John and Elizabeth Sheldon,
natives of England, where they remained until their death. Our subject was
united in marriage, March 25, 1858. with Ellen King, also a native of
England, born November 25, 1840; her parents died when she was but a child.
Our subject and wife were married in their native land, and immigrated to
America and to this county in 1861, where they have since resided. This un-
ion has been blessed with six children: Henry, born June 21, 1859; Anna M.,
born December 2, I860; Hettie E., born September 13. 1862; JohnN., born
April 11, 1865; George W. P., born October 29, 1872, died March 19, 1885;
and Edith M., born October 3, 1877. Mr. Sheldon was engaged in farming
in England, and has followed agricultural pui'suits since coming to Seneca
County.
JACOB TLRICH STAIB, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Wurtemberg,
Germany, February 13, 1815: a son of Jacob and Elizabeth C. Staib, also
natives of Germany, who immigrated to America and to Ohio in 1835, locat-
ing in this county, where they remained until death, the former dying March
12, 1867, aged eighty seven, and the latter October 16, 1880, aged ninety-
seven years. Our subject came to Ohio in 1833, and was married in this
county, July 2, 1846, to Sarah C. Houck, born in Germany January 11, 1815,
a daughter of Christian and Magdalene Houck. To Mr. and Mrs. Staib were
born six childi'en, of whom five are now living: Caroline, Jacob, Thusmelda
(wife of Valentine Huffman), Catharine (wife of Carl Wittig) and Elizabeth;
Magdalena is deceased. Our subject owns 117 acres of good land, mostly im-
proved, all acquired by his own industry. He and his family are members of
the Evangelical Church. Mr. Staib had the misfortune to lose his wife
November 10, 1883. She was kind and faithful to him, and was a loving mother
to her childi-en.
GEORGE SWIG ART, farmer. P.O. Tiffin, was born in Maryland December
20, 1825. His parents, Joseph and Susanna Swigart, natives of Maiyland, came
to Seneca County, Ohio, in June, 1837. iu'st settling in Bloom Township, but
afterward moving to Eden Township, where Mrs. Swigart died. Joseph Swi-
gart married a second time, and is now deceased; his widow still survives him.
Our subject was united in marriage, in August, 1850, with Sarah A. Ralston,
born in Virginia June 25, 1825, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Ralston,
natives of Virginia, and who came to this county in March, 1834. Mr. Ralston
died January 4, 1868; his widow is still living. To our subject and wife was
born one child, George M. , now deceased. IVIi*. Swigart is a miller by trade,
an occupation he followed until four years ago, since when he has been
engaged in farming. He owns 124 acres of improved land, where he and his
wife reside. He is a F. & A. M. Mrs. Swigart is a consistent member of the
Ignited Brethren Church.
CHRISTOPHER TERFLINGER, farmer, P. O. McCutchenville, Wyandot
County, was born October 5, 1836, on the farm where he and his family now
reside, in Seneca Township, this county. His parents were Jacob and Eliza-
SENECA TOWNSHIP. 999
beth Terflinger, the former a native of Perry County, Ohio, the latter of the
town of Bretzerville, Canton of Basel, Switzerland. They were married in
Lancaster, Fairfield Connty, Ohio, and settled in this county, where they re-
mained until death. Our subject was united in marriage, March 17, 1880,
with Julia Shober. born in Maryland, July 3, 1851, daughter of Frederick and
Malinda Shober, natives of the old country, who immigrated to Maryland and
from there to Wyandot County, Ohio, where they lived until about 1860, when
they moved to Adrian, this county, and there remained until IVIr. Shober' s
death. His widow still survives him. Our subject was reared on a farm and
now owns 109 acres of land mostly improved, where he and his wife reside.
They are consistent members of the' Methodist Church. INIr. Terflinger is a
member of the I. O. O. F.
LEWIS TERFLINGER, farmer, P. O. Berwick, was l)orn in Fairfield
County, Ohio, June 1-4, 1824; a son of Christopher and Elizabeth Terflinger,
natives of Virginia, where they were married and where they settled for a
number of years ; then moved to Fairfield County, Ohio, and resided twenty
years on the same farm ; fi-om there moved to Wyandot County and dwelt two
years with their son, Daniel; from Wyandot County they came to this county
in 1830, and lived on the farm where our subject and wife now reside, and here
the mother died in April, 1865, and the father in March, 1 866. Our subject
was united in marriage, April 16, 1872, with Margaret Kenner, born in Wur-
temberg, Germany, Aj)ril 12, 1826. Mr. Terflinger, who was raised on a farm,
has engaged in agricultural pursuits nearly all his life, and has lived fifty-four
vears on his present farm which comprises 120 acres of fine land. He and his
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
THEOBALD WAGNER (deceased) was born in Germany, March 19,
1821. His parents, Theobald and Catharine Wagner, immigrated to America,
coming direct to Seneca County, Ohio, about 1833, and here remained until
the death of Theobald Wagner, Sr., which occurred in 1847; his widow siir-
vives him. The subject of this sketch w^as united in marriage, December 3,
1848, with Margaret Diehl, born in Germany, December 20, 1829, a daughter
of Abraham and Catharine Diehl, also natives of Germany, and wdio immi
grated to Hancock County, Ohio, about 1833, where they remained until
death, the former dying in 1871, the latter in 1878. To Mr. and Mrs. Wagner
were born nine children, of whom six are now living: Alpheus, Josephine,
George F. , John A. , Charles T. and Franklin D. The deceased are Mary,
Catharine and an infant. Our subject and wife, after they were married, first
settled in Hancock County, Ohio, and there remained until 1860, when they
came to Seneca Township, this county, and here resided until his death which
occurred July 17, 1884. At the time of his death he owned 193 acres
of good land where his widow and family now reside. He was a consistent
member of the Reformed Church, to which his widow also belongs.
JOSEPH C. \\'EHRLE, P. O. Berwick, one of the industrious young
farmers of Seneca County, Ohio, was born in Big Spring Township, this
county, July 5, 1861 ; a son of George an^ Elizabeth (Long) Wehrle, former
born in Riegel, Germany, March 4, 1820, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth
Wehrle, both natives of Germany; latter born in Bairou, Germany, Juno 6,
1827, daughter of David and Margaret Long, also natives of Germany, the
former of whom was born in 1791, died in 1857, the latter born May 1. 1801,
died November 22, 1866. George Wehrle and Elizabeth Long were united in
marriage in New Riegel, Seneca Co., Ohio, June 14, 1847, and were the
parents of foxirteen children, of whom seven are now living: Mary, wife of
Georcre Emerine, born February 1, 1849; Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Feck, born
1000 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
September S, 1851; Agatha, wife of William Beilliartz, born February 0,
1858; John J., born April 0, 1851); Joseph C. ; Frank E., born November 9.
1863, and George E.. born March 8. 18/0. Om- subject was reared on a farm
and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. He has been a resident of
Seneca Township for five years. He is a member of the Catholic Church.
ADAM WEIKERT, farmer, P. O. Berwick, is a native of Seneca Town-
ship, this county, born April 3, 1836, son of Peter and Susan Weikert, natives
of Ohio: they were married in Wyandot County, that State, subsequently, in
1876, locating near Tiffin, Ohio, where_ they reside at present. Our subject
was united in marriage, December 1, 1870, with Sarah A. Dice, born in Stark
County, Ohio, July 1 6, 1843, where her parents Jacob and Maria Dice, natives
of Pennsylvania, were united in marriage, and where they first settled; they
afterward moved to this county, where Mrs. Dice died March 10, 1879; her
husband survives her. To Mr. and Mrs. AVeikert has been born one child.
Charles O. Our subject was reared on a farm and has followed agricultural
pursuits the greater portion of his life; he owns eighty acres of land, on which
there is a beautiful residence where he and his family reside. Mr. Weikert,
during his yoxmger days, engaged in teaching school for a few years. He has
filled the offices of assessor and trustee of this township. He and his family
are ineml^ers of the Presbyterian Church.
JOSEPH WEISENBERGER. farmer. P. O. New Biegel, was born in
France, March 17, 1826, son of Matthias and Josephine Weisenberger, who
immigrated to Seneca Township, this county, in 1833, and here lived and died,
the former in 1846, the latter in 1836. Our subject was united in marriage.
August 16. 1848, with Elizabeth Young, also a' native of France, and who
carne with her people to this county in 1846, where they lived the residue of
their lives; Mrs. Weisenberger died July 12, 1878. She was a member of the
Catholic Chui'ch. Mr. Weisenberger on second occasion, November 28, 1882,
was married to Mary Long, a native of this county, born September 21, 1837,
a daughter of John F. and Elizabeth Long, natives of Switzerland, who im-
migrated to this county, in a very early day, and have here remained ever since.
Our subject was the father of seven childi-en, of whom four are now living:
Margaret, wife of Frederick Hoffer; Joseph P. ; Mary, wife of Joseph Plance;
and Magdalene. Mr. Weisenberger owns 242 acres of improved land where
he resides. He and his wife and family are faithful members of the Catholic
Church.
WILLIAM WENNER. farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Lehigh County,
Penn., September 5, 1824, son of W^illiam and Elizal)eth Wenner, natives
of Pemisylvania. where they remained until their death. Our subject
Avas united in marriage, in Pennsylvania, February 7, 1865, with Mary Stopp,
born in Lehigh County. Penn.. March 22. 1840. In 1867 they moved to Sen-
eca County. Ohio, settling on the farm where they now reside and which con-
sists of 120 acres of tine land. To this union were born six childi-en, of whom
only two survive: Ellen S., born July 27, 1871, and Mary A., born September
16, 1880. Our subject has been a farmer all his life. He and his wife are
members of the German Reformed Church, and are considered among the best
people of the county. i
MARTIN WERLING, farmer, P. O. Tiffin, was born in Stark County,
Ohio, September 28. 1832, son of Nicholas and Susan Werling, natives of
Belgium, where they were married; thence they emigrated to America and to
Stark County, Ohio" in 1831, and after remaining there five years they moved
to Seneca County and then to Indiana in 1867, where Mr. Werling lost his
wife by death in 1873. he remaining until 1880, when he came to this county
SENECA TOWNSIITP. 1001
and made liis home with his son until 1881, when he. too. died. Our subject
was united in marriage. September 10, 1861. with Mary Lonsway. born in Sen-
eca County. Ohio. May 14,1843, a daughter of Joseph and Sarah A. LonswaA-.
the former living, latter now deceased. To our subject and wife have been
born eleven children, ten of whom are now living: Joseph A., Sarah A.. Emma
E. , Rosa A. , Susan K. , Lewis S. , Leander M. , George E. . Leo A. and Mary
M. Emily is deceased. Our subject acquired the means to mate a start iii
life in the mines of California, and now owns 173 acres of land, mostly im-
proved, where he and his family reside. They are members of the Catholic
Church.
AARON YAMBERT. minister, postoffice McCutchenville, Wyandot Count}-,
a native of Berks County, Penn. . was born February 1 4. 18(M), son'of JohnH. and
Sibylla (Glick) Yambert. natives of Pennsylvania, where they married and set-
tled, and where Mrs. Yambert died. John H. Y'ambert subsequently married
Catharine (Cooney ) Yambert, also a native of Pennsylvania, and Avith his family
moved to Seneca Township. Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1831. where be resided
until his death, which occurred May '24, 1863. He had four children by his
first wife: JohnH.. Aaron. Sarah and Mary; and seven by his second wife:
John. Daniel, Samuel. Solomon. Lydia, AVilliam and Susannah. His father
was a native of Saxony, a i)hysician of prominence, who emigrated to this
country in the colonial period, and served as an officer in the Revolutionary
war. Our subject was reared on a farm until eighteen years old. after which
he worked several years at the cai-p enter' s trade. At the age of twenty years
he was converted, and at about twenty-one became a member of the Evangelical
Association under Conrad Kring's administration. In 1832 Mr. Y'ambert was
licensed by the conference as an itinerant minister, and commenced his minis-
terial labors in Lancaster and Pickaway Counties. Ohio, and continued in this
calling for twenty- seven successive years, during much of which time he experi-
enced the hardships and privations incident to ministerial pioneer life. After
traveling a few years in this State, he retiu-ned to Pennsylvania and traveled
one year on a circuit, called Som(>rset. which was located partly in Pennsyl-
vania, Virginia and Maryland: then Erie Circuit. Penn. (in what is now Erie,
Crawford and Warren Counties), and here, on one occasion, rode sixty miles
through a bold, rough country in one day, and preached at his regular appoint-
ment that night. In 1837 he assisted Rev. Jacob Bose in conducting the first
protracted meeting ever held by the Evangelical Association. The man, at
whose house the meetings were held, was not a believer, and talked of not let-
ting the meetings go on there much longer, when one night Mr. Yambert. in a ser
mon, so graphically described the temptation of Adam and Eve in the Garden
of Eden by the serpent, that it made a deep impression on his mind. This
man kej^t a still-house, and the next morning the first thing that met
his eyes on opening the still-house door was a large serpent coiled in a
beer hogshead. He was so confounded by the coincidence that he re-
turned to the house, told what had occurred to those present, ate nothing
that day. and the following morning ascended to the meeting room iipstairs
and began praying, finally became fully converted, and did not return to the
still-house during the meeting. Thence Mr. Yambert was sent to Miami Cir-
cuit, and while there was married. He remained on that circuit two years in
all. and then returned to Wayne Circuit, thence to Pickaway County. While
on a circuit in Marion County, he went to the Whetstone Settlement and set-
tled a dispute, concerning lightning rods, between the class leader and ex-
horter rs. some of the members, who. in their superstition regarded any pi'e-
oaiitionary measures as defying the power of God. He traveled for many
1002 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
years afterward in the western portion of the State, on different circuits. On
one occasion, after preaching in Bettsville in the forenoon, he attempted to
cross to Mud Creek Prairie, which was in sight, to meet an appointment there.
He could see the hoiise, and on horseback started to cross direct, but the
ground was wet and the grass as high as his head. His horse got stuck in the
mud, slipi:)ed and fell, throwing Mr. Yambert off and completely covering him
with mud; in that condition he arrived at his destination and preached just as
he was. At another time, after starting to go through a dense forest in search
of a new preaching place, he lost his way. He started Monday morning be-
fore breakfast, although requested to take refi-eshment, saying ' ' no. old Adam
might fast," expecting to get through by noon: wandered around in the woods
and did not find his way until the next moz'ning, when he broke his fast for the
first time, and his text afterAvard was for ' ' more light. " " He subsequently
preached on Michigan Circuit, in Michigan, Ohio, etc. He now owns 1(>1
acres of good land in this township and 170 in Illinois, and is a local minister
of the Evangelical Association of which his family are also members. Mr.
Yambert was married. February 10. 1839. to Sarah Huffer. of Pickaway
County, Ohio, also a native of Permsylvania, where she was born December 28.
1813, daughter of Isaac and Julia Huffer, who were born in Pennsylvania, but
in the course of time moved to Pickaway County. Ohio, and there lived and
died. To the imion of our sxxbject and wife were l3orn thirteen children —
nine of whom are now living: Caroline (wife of George W. Rosier), Maiy
(Avife of Chancey Boucher). Lavina. Joshua J.. Aaron H. , Sarah C. (wife of
George Ingman). Susanna (wife of J. W. Boucher). Sibylla J.. Julia M.
(wife of Rev. Daniel Elenburger).
LEANDER ZEIS, farmer and stock-dealer. P. O. Tiffin, one of the well-
to-do farmers and stock-dealers of Seneca Township, was born in this county.
December 25. 184-5. son of Jacob and Elizabeth M. Zeis. who. in 1828. settled in
this county, Avhen it was mostly a wilderness, and hero remained until their
death. Jacob Zeis was born in Baden, Germany, died August 17, 187r); and
Elizabeth M. Zeis was born in Bavaria, Germany, died October 0, 1878.
Leander Zeis was reared on a farm, and has followed agricultural pursuits since
the death of his father. He acquired a good common school education and
taught ten terms of school. He was married, February 1, 1872. to Sarah C.
daughter of Jacob and Sarah Martin, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled in
Seneca County. Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Zeis have had two children: Benjamin
H. , born February 7. 1875. and lea. born December 15. 1883. Our siibject
has a nice farm, consisting of 103 acres, where he and his family reside. He
filled the office of justice of the peace two terms in Seneca Township with
credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents.
CASPER ZIEGLER. farmer. P. O. Berwick, was born in Bavaria. Ger-
many, September 13. 1829, son of Paul and Margaret Ziegler. who were
married in Germany. Our subject came to this country and to Seneca County
fi'om Bavaria in 1840, and was united in marriage, September 24, 1855, with
Emma Bartz, also a native of Bavaria, born August 31, 183G. daughter of
Frank and Elizabeth Bartz. of same nativity, ;ind who immigrated to Seneca
County, Ohio, in 1840. and here lived and died. Of the ten children born to
Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler eight are now living: Christian. Frank, Daniel, Xancy.
Margaret, Henry. Emma and Grover E. The deceased are John and Eliza-
beth. Our subject, who was raised on a farm, now owns 300 acres of fine land
with good buildings thereon. He started for himself v/ith nothing, but by in-
dustry and perseverance has accumulated a comfortable competency. He and
his wife are members of the (German Lutheran Church.
THOMPSON TOWNSlIir. 1003
TH03IPS0N TOWNSHIP.
WILLIAM F. BENXEHOFF, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Hnrou County, was
born August 20. 1842, in Lehigh County, Penn. His father. Solomon Benne-
hofP. a native of Lehigh County, Penn. , married Ann Rader. and they came to
Adams Townshii), this county, in 1843, where Mrs. Bennehoff died in 1855.
In 1858 Solomon Bennehoff located in Scipio Township, this county, where he
remained until his death, which occurred June 17, 1884, in his seventy- eighth
year. The subject of this sketch, the third in a family of eight children,
received his education in the schools of the home district. December 25, 1871.
he married Miss Barbara Ellen Royer, a native of Thompson Township, this
county, and a daughter of Samuel Royer. Mr. and Mrs. Bennehoff have re-
sided in Thompson Township ever since their marriage. Tbeir children are
Calvin Arthur, who died at three years of age ; Anna M. ; Jennie T. and Jessie
Irena. Mr. Bennehoff held the position of clerk of Thompson Township from
1875 to 1880, discharging his duties faithfully and to the satisfaction of the
people. He and his wife are members of the Reformed Church. In politics
he is a Democrat.
JOHN BOLIN, farmer, P. O. West Lodi. was born August 5, 1838, in
Thompson Township, this county; a son of George and Mary Bolin. He now
owns the old family homestead, where he was born and brought up. He mar-
ried Miss Mary Suavely, November 30, 18G5, and they have two daughters
Emma Jane and Elmira. and one son — Enoch. Mrs. Bolin is a member of the
German Baptist Church. Mr. Bolin is a life-long Democrat, and a leading
and highly respected citizen of Thompson Township.
^^'ILLIAM BORGER. farmer. P. O. Bellevue. Hviron County, was born
October 18. 1823. in Union County. Penn. His father, John Borger, served
his country faithfully in the war of 1812, after which he married Sarah Boyer.
They came to Flat Rock, this county, in 1833, and after spending six months
in Sandusky County, settled permanently in Thompson Township, this county ;
the father died in 1851), and the mother August 18, 1879. aged eighty-one
years. Their children are Mrs. Maria Eberhard, Henry, William. Betsey.
George, Mrs. Susan Eberhard and Mrs. Lovina Wright, now living, and three
now deceased. Our subject, who passed most of his life in Thompson Town-
ship, this county, married, Ajml 25. 1847. Miss Catherine Dewald. who was
born in Union County. Penn.. March 12. 181U. Mr. and Mrs. Borger have
lived in Thompson Township ever since their marriage. Their children are
Mrs. Catherine Jane Buck, William H.. James L., and Reuben Isaac (deceased).
They own a farm of 125 acres of well-improved land. They are members of
the Lutheran Church. IVIr. Borger is a worthy representative of one of the
most highly respected pioneer families.
BENJAMIN F. BUNN, farmer, P. O. Flat Rock, was born November 5,1837.
in Thompson Township, this county. After taking the common school course
in the home district, he completed his education at Heidelberg College. Tiffin,
Ohio. He married Miss Mary Matilda Hachenberg December 24. 1 808, and they
have been living ever since their marriage on their present farm, a fine place
of 1(55 acres of well-improved land, the old homestead of his parents. To Mr.
and Mrs. Bunn have been born three childi-en : Cora Elmina. who departed
1004 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
this life July 24, 18S;}. aged thirteen years, eight months and seven days;
Jacob Elmer, a bright and promising lad. still at home; and Samuel Warren,
who died July 9, 1888, aged two years, six months and five days. Mr. and
Mrs. Bunn are members of the Reformed Church. He is a citizen of public
spirit, and has rendered valuable service in advancing the educational interests
of the community.
JOHN BURMAN. farmer. P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born
December 6. 1818, in New Lancaster, Fairfield Co.. Ohio. His father. John
Burman, of Pennsylvania, came with his parents to Ohio in a very early
day; and during the' war of 1812 worked at his trade as gunsmith for the Gov-
ernment at Franldinton, where Columbus now stands; he married Miss
Catharine Fisher, of Fairfield County, also a native of Pennsylvania, and set-
tled seven miles north of Findlay, Hancock County, in 1830, and there remained
until their death. They were iipright pioneers and left an honored name to
posterity. Our subject is the third in their family of eleven children. He
came to Flat Rock, this county, in 1843. He worked several years at his
trade as carpenter, after which he established a steam saw-mill, and operated
it for seven years on the place which he now occupies. He then settled down
to farming, "which has been his occupation ever since, He has acquired a fine
farm of 110 acres of well-improved land. He has an excellent water supply
on his place, which has never been known to fail. April 21. 1844. Mr. Burman
married Miss Catharine Korner. daughter of Jacob Korner. and to this union
were born following named children: Mrs. Melissa Buljer, Alonzo, Mrs.
Fidelia Smith, Mrs. Adeline Reeves and Mrs. Olive Swindler. Mr. Burman
is a life -long Democrat. He leads a life of useful industry, and is highly
respected bv the entire community.
WILLIAM CLEMENS (deceased) was born July 12. 1824. in Union
County, Pennsylvania. His father, John Clemens, a soldier of the war of
1812, .settled in Huron Coimty. Ohio, near the Seneca County line, in 1831, and
he and his wife finally moved to Adams Township, this county, where they
remained until their death. William Clemens married, November 11.1 849. Miss
Mary Ann Alexander, born March 31, 1829, in Coshocton County. Ohio. They
lived in Huron County until 1862 when they settled on the present homestead
in Thompson Township, this county. Here they acquired a fine farm of 340
acres of well-improved land in this and Huron Counties. This they obtained
entirely by their owm efforts. Their children are Lyman, Mi's. Clara Lofland.
Mi-s. Lucinda Thompson. Mrs. Rose A. Haywood. Charles, Mrs. Julia Higgins
and Alice. Mr. Clemens was killed in the railroad disaster at Ashtabula, Ohio,
December 29. 187(). He was an extensive dealer in stock during the last few
years of his life. He took an active interest in the educational affairs of the
country, and held the position of school director in both counties for many
years. \ Seneca County lost one of its most usefiil and influential citizens when
lie came to his untimely death. His widow now resides on the family home-
stead. She is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HON. JACOB DECKER, P. O. Bellevue. Huron County, was born Jan-
nary 15, 1809, in Union County, Penn. His parents. John and Julia Ann
(Rover) Decker moved to Wayne County. Ohio, in the spring of 1816, remaining
there fouiieen years, and finally settled in Thompson Township, this_county, in
1830. John Decker died January 3, 1854, and his widow June 2/, 1875, in
the eighty -seventh year of her age. Their children were Jacob, John.
Samuel Adam (deceased), David (deceased), Mrs. Elizabeth Heater. Mrs.
Sarah Bargner (deceased) and Mrs. Catherine Harpster. The subject of this
sketch man-ied. November 15, 1832, Miss Susannah Billman. a native of Wash-
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 1005
ington County, Penn. , and tc this union were born John, David, Amos, Mil-
ton and Mrs. Barbara Sherck. He retired from his former active life in
1871, and removed to his present residence in Bellevue, Sandusky Co., Ohio.
He was successful in acquiring an estate of over 900 acres of land. Mrs.
Decker died March 27, 1872, and Mi-. Decker afterward married. May 28,
187 <. Mrs. Sarah Gardner, born in 1829 in Berks County, Penn., daughter
of David and Lydia Slanker, who settled in Wayne County," Ohio, about 1882.
She married JosejDh Gardner, who died February 15, 1856'. She has two sons:
Charles D., in Boylestown, Ohio, and William H., near Bellevue, Ohio. Hon.
Jacob Decker is an earnest Democrat, and has taken an active part in public
affairs. He was called to serve his township in nearly all of the township
offices, including justice of the peace. He also takes a deep interest in the
educational affairs of the community. He held the position of county com-
missioner two terms, and was twice called upon to represent Seneca Coiuity in
the Ohio Legislatui-e in 1849, and the session following, being the last session
under the old constitution and the first under the new. He has led an active
and useful life, and the citizens of Seneca County will long bear in honored
remembrance the names of Jacob Decker and his father, the pioneer. John
Decker.
HON. AMOS DECKER, farmer and ex-legislator, P. O. Bellevue, Hiu-on
County. Avas born November 11, 1889, in Thompson Township, this county.
His father, the Hon. Jacob Decker, one of the old pioneers of Ohio, now
resides in Bellevue, Ohio. Amos was brought up on his father's farm and
completed his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. He twice
offered his services in defence of his country in the war of the Rebellion, but
on account of physical disability was not accepted. October 20. 1864, he was
married to Miss Lucy Paine, daughter of J. W. Paine, and the children by
this marriage are Emma, Clara E., Susie, Mary A., Charles A., Mattie V.,
Nelson J., Myra B. and Bp'on W. Mr. Decker has taken a deep interest in
the public affairs of the township and county in which he lives. He was
elected on the Democratic ticket in 1879 as representative of Seneca County
to the Ohio Legislature, and was re-elected in 1881. Diu'ing both terms he
served as member and secretary of the committee on agricultm-e and on claims.
He faithfully represented his constituency, and left an honorable record as an
iipright legislator. IVIi-. Decker has been successful in his chosen avocation,
and has' acquired an estate of 800 acres of land in Thompson Township, besides
other real estate in Sandusky County. He has led an active and useful life,
and is one of the enterprising and influential citizens of Seneca Countv.
MILTON DECKER, farmer, P. O. Bellevue. Hui'on County, was born
August 29, 1846, in Thompson Township, this county, a son of Jacob Decker.
After finishing a common school coiu'se he completed his education under
Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. In November, 1867, he married Miss
Elvina Good, and in the spring of the following year they settled where they
now reside. They have a fine farm of 120 acres of well-improved land. Mi-.
and Mrs. Decker are the parents of the following childi-en : Dora, Irvin J. ,
Rollin B. . Mary A. and Ada. Mr. Decker is a Democrat. He is an enter-
prising farmer and a highly respected citizen of Thompson Township.
SAIVn^EL DECKER, farmer and justice of the peace, P. O. Flat Rock,
was born August 20. 1 846, in Thompson Township, this county, a son of Adam
and Sarah (Romig) Decker, latter of whom died when oui- subject was but nine
days old. He then lived with his grandparents, Jesse and Susannah Romig, until
their death, and with his uncle and aunt, Joshua and Julia A. Romig, until the
death of his uncle in 1872. He now oA^ais the farm on which he has resided
1006 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
all his life. He married. Noveml)er o. L'SOT, Miss Loviua Noel, a daughter of
Nicholas and Catharine Noel, and a granddaughter of the pioneer, John Noel.
The children born to this union are Hattie C Mary Lovina, Ida Lillian.
Seney Allen and Samuel Roscoe. Mr. and Mrs. Decker have been successful
in life, and have acquired a tine farm of 180 acres of fertile and well improved
land. ]VIi-. Decker is a Democrat, and takes a deep interest in piiblic affairs.
He has served the township as clerk two terms and as justice of the peace,
which latter office he holds at present. He discharges his duties faithfully
and to the satisfaction of the best people of the township.
JOSEPH DICK, farmer and dealer in agricultiu-al implements, P. O.
Frank, was born in Venice Township, this county. May 81. 1S8S. His parents,
Stephen and Magdalena Dick, came fi'om Alsace. Germany (then France), to this
country in 1830. After living twenty-tAvo years in Venice Township, this county,
and seventeen years in Bloom Township, they finally located in Thompson
Township in 1872. Stephen Dick died June 1, 1876; his widow still lives
near Frank's Corners. In early manhood Joseph Dick went to Reed Town-
ship, where he married, February 10, 1863, Miss Mary Gerhardtstiue. of
Sherman Township, Hiu'on Co. , Ohio. He worked in the hub factory in Reed-
town three years; then went on a rented farm for three years, and in 1868
he purchased his present farm of eighty acres in Thompson Township, this
county. To Mr. and Mrs. Dick have been born ten childi-en : Joseph H. .
Annie. Katie. Frances. John S. , Louisa. Rosa, Cornelius, Martha, and Cecelia
(deceased). Mr. Dick has for the past eight years been engaged in selling
farm machinery; first for Dick Bros.. Canton, Ohio, and now for the Johnson
Harvester Manufacturing Company. Batavia, N. Y. He has good success
among the people, and handles a first-class line of goods. Mr. Dick and fam-
ily are members of the Catholic Chm'ch. He has served the township as trus-
tee three years. He is an enterprising and successful business man, highly
respected by the entire community. In politics he is a Democrat.
MICHAEL FAUBLE. fai-mer. P. O. West Lodi. was born February
10, 1810. in Westmoreland County. Penn. His parents. Michael and Nancy
Fauble. came to Stark County. Ohio, in 1812. and, six years thereafter, located
in Wayne County, where they made their permanent home; they both now lie
bm-ied" in that county. Our subject was the eighth in their family of eleven
children. He married Miss Susan Fisher October 24. 1831, and they came to
Thompson Township, this county, October 24, 1833. when the county was almost
an unbroken wilderness. Here they began developing a home, and by their own
efforts acquiring a farm property of about 095 acres of well-improved land.
When they came into the county they had neither farming implements nor stock,
and only S41 in money. They camped five days under a tree, imtil they could
get their house raised'. To Mr. and Mrs. Fauble have been born twelve chil-
dren, of whom eight are now living : ]Mi-s. Nancy Wyant. Mrs. Jane Bills. Mrs.
Susan Hall. Mrs. Martha Hoeltzeh :Mi-s. Caroline Weiker. Edward, Mrs. Lo-
vina Neikirk and Michael. Mr. Fauble is a member of the Evangelical Associ-
ation. Personally he is of robust appearance, wonderfully well preserved for
his years. He is of a genial, social disposition and has a large number of
friends wherever he is known. He is one of the oldest and most highly
respected citizens of Thompson Township : in politics he is a Democrat.
JOHN GLASSNER. farmer, P. O. Frank, was born February 3, 1818, in
Prussia, twenty- seven miles east of Metz. His parents, John and Margaret
Glassner, immigrated to America in 1834 ; latter died in Schenectady, N. Y. ,
of cholera, as did her daughter and two children, and the next spring the
father of our subject came to Ohio, locating, in November, in Thompson Town-
THOMPSON TOWKSHIP. 1007
ship, this county, and here began clearing uj) his farm. He died in iSCu^, aged
eighty-fom- years; he was a devont Catholic and one of the foremost in organ-
izing St. Michael's Church. Three of his children are yet living: WilKam,
Mrs. Margaret Huller and John. The subject of this sketch was'' married to
Cathrina Gis, in 1849, and their children are Mrs. Margaret Eherenfried, John,
Agathe, Mrs. Theresa Hepp, Anna and Mrs. Rosa Ruffing now living, and four
deceased. Mrs. Glassner dying in 1880, Mr. Glassner married, January 20,
1882, Miss Sophia Siebe,a resident of Ludlow, Ky. Mr. Glassner purchased the
place where he now resides in 1859. Here he has 400 acres of land in one body,
one of the finest tracts in Seneca County, all acquired by his own industry and
good management. He and his entire family are members of the Catholic
Church. He has been very liberal in Ms donations to the church, and ha-^
helped to build up the society here. He is one of the leading and influential
citizens of Seneca County.
SAMUEL grimes' (deceased) was ])orn in 178G, in Newfane, AN'indham
County, Vt. In 1810 he married Miss Mary Arnold, who was born in
1 792 in Dummei^stou, Vt. They came to Ohio in May, 1828. making
the entire tri]) of <00 miles in a wagon, bringing three children with them.
After residing several months in Thompson Township, this county, they went to
Green Creek Township. Sandusky Co. . Ohio, where they remained until J 828, w hen
they settled in Thompson Township, this county, on a tract of eighty-two acres,
on the Sandusky County line ; this tract of land Air. Grimes entered fi-om the Gov-
ernment. They led the lives of upright pioneers and left an honored name to
posterity. Mrs. Grimes died in December, 1858, and Mr. Grimes in Juiu',
18()8, aged eighty-two years. Of their children. John (deceased) was a well-known
public citizen of Thompson Township and Bellevue, holding civil and church
offices in each place, respectively (was married. December 81, 1851. to Miss
Mary E. Victor, of Thompson, and died at his residence in Bellevue. February
21, 1882, leaving a widow and two sons); Mrs. Elizabeth Hardenburgh died in
Ionia County, Mich., in January, 1842, aged twenty-two years; Catharine and
Mary reside in Thompson Township, and three died in childhood. Mr. and
jVIi-s. Grimes gave their children excellent educational advantages. Misses
Catharine and Mary Grimes took tender care of their aged parents until their
death, and now occupy the family homestead. They are consistent members
of the Episcopal Church, as were their parents. They completed their educa-
tion at the Granville Female Seminary, from which Mary graduated.
FREDERICK HARPSTER (deceased) was a native of Mifflin CoiTuty.
Penn. He was married, in 1826. to Miss Cynthia Barben. and they came at
once to Ohio, residing in Wayne County until February, 1880, when" they set-
tled at Flat Rock. Thompson Township, this county. He owned all the laud
now occupied by the town, and cleared up the most of it. Of their children
two died in childhood, Thomas died at the age of twenty- four years. Joseph
died at thirty years of age, and Lewis lives in Thompson Township, this
county. Mrs. Harpster died in 1848, and Mr. Harpster afterward married
Sarah Holenshead.who died five years after their marriage, leaving one daugh-
ter, Susan, wife of Amos Armagast. Mr. Harpster afterward married Mrs.
Amanda Orwig, who still survives him. She has one daughter, Mrs. Dillie
Vandersall. Mr. Harpster died October 8. 1874. He was a usefid and
upright pioneer citizen, leaving an honored name to posterity. He was suc-
cessful in accpiiring a fine farm of about 250 acres. He was a member of th(>
Evangelical Church, and helped establish the church here. He was very lib-
eral in supporting schools and churches and was a man active in public affairs.
1008 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
LEAVIS HARPSTE'R, son of Frederick Harpster, wliose sketch appears
above, was born April 30, 18'27, in "Wayne Coniitv, Ohio, and obtained his
education in the pioneer schools of those early days. He married. June Hi,
1S50. Miss Elizabeth Beck, born in Centre County, Penn. , October '25. 1829,
and came to Flat Rock, this county, in 1S49. Her ]:»arents, Daniel and
Juliann Beck, resided here until their death, the former dying in ]S();l the
latter in bS74. Mr. and Mrs. Harpster have two sons living: George Frank-
lin, born February 12, 1855, a promising employe of the TV. & L. E. Rail-
road, and Ervin Lewis, born April 12, 1861, now farming for his father. Mr.
and Mrs. Harpster are members of the Evangelical Church.
HENRY HOOVER, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born January 22, 18bS,
in Lancaster County, Penn. His parents, Martin and Elizabeth Hoover,
resided in Thomi)son Township, this county, the last few years of their lives,
having come here in 1850. Henry Hoover came to Thompson Township in
the spring of 1841 . and here he l)Ought a farm and began clearing it. He mar-
ried, in September, 18-1-8, Sarah Fox. daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Fox,
and their children are Henry (deceased), Mrs. Martha Myers, Margaret. Nancy
and two who died in infancy, Mary and Lidy. Mrs. Hoover died April 20,
1 8()0. She was a model wife and mother, and her loss was deeply felt by her
family and friends. Our subject owns a farm of 140 acres, part of which
belonged to the old homestead of the Fox family, and he resides on the homestead
with his two daughters. He belongs to the German Baptist Church; he is
one of the old pioneers and a respected citizen of Thompson Township.
SAMUEL HORNER, justice of the peace. P. O. Flat Rock, was born
September 14. 1828. in Rebersburg, Centre Co., Penn., and came to Thomp-
son Township, this county, in 1835, with his parents, Joseph and Hannah
Horner, former of whom, a tailor by trade, carried on the first tailor sho})
in this vicinity. Joseph and Hannah Horner both died in the«ummer of 1853;
they were among the best known and most highly respected citizens of Flat
Rock: they were the parents of twelve children, six sons — Samuel, Jeremiah,
Obadiah. Hezekiah. Zachariah and Josiah: and six daughters — Mary. Eliza-
beth. Rebecca. Sarah. Eliza Ann and Susan. Samuel Horner began learning
the tailoi-"s trade under his father's instniction. at the age of twelve years, and
worked with his father until 1848. He then carried on the business with his
brother. Jeremiah, until 1803. Afterward was engaged for several years in
selling agricultiiral implements, and fi'om 1808 to 1878 he carried on a gen-
eral grocery in Flat Rock. Ohio. October 10. 1848. he married Miss Eliza-
beth Harpster, by whom he has one daughter, Mrs. Susan Reahm, and one
son, George, both children now living in Tiffin. Ohio. Mr. Horner is a life-
long Democrat, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He has served his
toAvnship as assessor, clerk and treasurer, about five years in each office. Ht^
has held an appointment as notary public about twenty-five years; was elected
justice of the peace in 1884, which office he still holds.
ANTHONY KERN, farmer, P. O. West Lodi, was born April 1. 1813,
in Union County. Penn. He came to Thompson Township, this county, in
1831. with his parents, Peter and Rachel Kern, and they settled in the wilder-
ness, where they developed a farm. The subject of this sketch married,
August 24. 1834. Miss Sophia Eberhard. and in 1837 they settled on the present
family homestead. The farm was entirely in the woods, and they began clear-
ing and improving it. Of their twelve children nine are now living: Henry,
Eli. Barbara. Ann. IVIi-s. Catherine Fender. Jacob, Mrs. Rachel Yeager. Mrs.
Sophia Bowers and Phillip. Mrs. Kern died June 20, 1872. She was a
model wife and mother, and her loss was deeply felt by her family and friends.
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 1009
Mr. Kern now lives on the homestead. He has been industrious and successful,
and owns a line farm of 200 acres of well-improved land, besides an intere.st
in the "West Lodi Floui-ing-mills. He and his family are members of the
Lutheran Chiu'ch. He has tilled the position of trustee three years. Mr.
Kern is one of the oldest pioneers of Thompson Township, Seneca County,
and is highly respected by the entire community. In politics he is a Demo-
crat.
GEORGE KERN. P. O. Bellevue. Huron County, was born January
1. 1821. in Beaver Township. Union (now Snyder) County, Penn. Hi.s
parents. Jacol) and Elizabeth Kern, came to Thompson Township, this
county, in '[HH'i]. making the trip with wagons. Of their ten childi-en, seven
are still living: Yost (in Michigan). Mrs. Hannah Heater, George, Mrs. Rachel
Zeiber. Edward. Isaac, and Bemiwell (in New Bedford, Mich. ). Jacob Kern
died aboiit 1852: his widow in 1855. They were upright pioneers, highly
respected by a large circle of acquaintances. The subject of this sketch mar-
ried. June 11. 1848. Miss Harriet Lewis, born October 23, 1822, in Cocotoquo
Township, Berks Co.. Penn.. and who came with her parents to "Wayne
County. Ohio, in 1821). and to Thompson Township, this county, in 1882.
Her parents. Isaac and Susanna (Honberger) Lewis, had the following chil-
dren: Harriet, Richard (deceased). Mrs. Rebecca Stettler (deceased), Mrs.
Matilda Stettler. Solomon. Mrs. Caroline Clemour and ]Mrs. Mahala Hamkam-
mer. They moved to Bellevue about 1872, where they passed the remainder of
then- lives. ^Irs. Lewis dying January 20. 1878, aged seventy -seven years, and Mr.
Levds May 1 2, 1883. aged eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Kern resided in
York Township. Sandusky Co. . Ohio, after their marriage, and for the last
twelve years they have resided in Bellevue. They have acquired 320 acres of
land, also town property in Bellevue. Their childi-en are "William H. (had
three children, one living). Mrs. Phebe Jane Heater (has six childi-en, all living),
and Mrs. Hattie Alice Gardner (wife of William H. Gardner, has one daughter,
Edith Gertrude. Mr. Kern is one of the oldest and most respected pioneers
of this locality. jVIi's. Kern is a member of the Baptist Chui-ch.
ISAAC KERN, farmer. P. O. Belle\Tie, Hm-on County, was born January
2. 1828, in Union Coiinty. Penn.. and at the age of fom- years came to Thomp-
son Township, this county, with his father, Jacob Kern. He led the life of n
pioneer's son, working on his father's farm in the summer and attending the
district school in the winter. March 20, 1849, he married Miss Tina Sterner,
who died August 8, 1859. leaving three daughters: Mrs. Amanda Scott (living
in Republic). Mi's. Sai'ah Ann Huntsberger (deceased) and Mrs. Ida Jane
Raub (in Sandusky County). November 22, 1860, our subject jnarried. for his
second wife. Miss Leah Stetler, by whom he had nine sons: John W. . Allen D. .
Ezra A. . Mason H. . Rufus M. (deceased), Willis A. , Emmon G. . Eddie A. and
Wai'ren S. Iftlx. Kern has been successful in his chosen avocation, and has
acquired a line farm of 202 acres of well-improved land, including the family
homestead in Thompson Township. He also owns a farm of 100 acres
near Peabody, Kans.,and a valuable brick block and other property in Belle\aie,
Ohio. He is one of the stockholders in the Bellevue Bank. He and his
worthy wife are members of the German Reformed Chru'ch. In politics he is
a Republican. He has given his childi-en excellent educational advantages,
and they aie taking a high position in business and social circles.
ANTHONY KRUPP. farmer. P. O. Frank, was born in Bavaria, Germany,
April 17. 1827: son of Charles and Catherine Krupp, who came to America
in 1833, and proceeded at once to Thompson Township, this county, moving
into the woods, where they began clearing up a farm, which they bought of
1010 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
George Sams. Their children were Mrs. Catherine Korb, in Sherman. Huron
Co., Ohio; Henry, who died in Michigan ; Joseph, living in St. Joseph Connty,
Ind. ; Mrs. Elizabeth Shandorf, in Ionia County, Mich. ; John, in Sandusky
City, Ohio; Charles, in Ionia County, Mich. ; Mrs. Margaret Albert, in Alpine
County, Mich. ; Anthony; and Jacob, who died while attending college in Day-
ton, Ohio, the eldest being seventy-eight years of age, and the youngest fifty-
eight years. The mother died in 1858, aged sixty-three years, and the
father in 1868, aged seventy-nine years. The subject of this sketch has re-
mained on the homestead farm since coming to this country. Starting with
seventy acres of land he now has 887 acres, after having given 219 acres to his
children; and they have added all the buildings and improvements which now
stand on their farm. May 15, 1849, Mr. Krupp married Miss Helena Eisan-
bise, and their childi'en are Mrs. Josephine Kiefer, Joseph, John, Edward and
Albert, now living, and six deceased. Mr. Krupp and family are members of
the Catholic Church, in the building of which in this community he was fore-
most, and has been very liberal in its suppoi-t. Being a strong Union man, he
donated largely for the suppression of the Rebellion. He is one of the leading
and influential citizens of Thompson Township.
DANIEL LININGER. farmer, P. O. Flat Rock, was born August 11,
1 889, in Berks County, Penn. His parents, John and Anna (Deckert) Lininger,
resided there until their death, the father dying Juno 7, 1873, and the mother
April 8, 1885, aged seventy-one years and two days. Daniel Lininger came
to Thompson Township, this county, in 1800, and after living here six months
located in York Township, Sandusky Co. , Ohio, two years and a half. He
married, February 18, 1864, Miss Mary Gilbert, born in Sandusky County, Ohio,
January 21, 184-i. When she was eleven years of age her parents. Perry and
Barbara Gilbert, died, and after their death she resided in Seneca County. Mr.
. and Mrs. Lininger are the parents of the following children : Creighton, Gertie,
George R., AYeston D. , Lillie B. and Amos Wallace, now living, and John M.
and James deceased. Our subject and family resided in Thompson Township,
this county, until 1868, when they moved to St. Joseph County, Mich. , coming
to Sandusky County, Ohio, the following year, and in 1870 located permanently
in Thompson Township, this county. Here they have acquired a farm of
eighty acres of well-improved land. Mr. and Mrs. Lininger are members of
the Evangelical Chiarch. He is an enterprising farmer, an upright and re-
spected citizen of Thompson Township; in politics a Democrat.
HON. JOHN W. PAINE (deceased) was one of the most distinguished of
Seneca County! s citizens. He was born August 19, 1820, and came to Adams
Townshij), this county, about 1880, with his parents, John and Sarah Paine.
In his early life he followed the profession of teaching, in which he was very
successful.' He married, September 12, 1841, Miss Susan Rule, who died
September 5, 1858, leaving foiu- children: Mrs. Sarah Hensinger, now in Se-
dalia. Mo. : William J. ;Mrs. Lucy Decker; and Mrs. Elvira S. Klose, who died
in Peabody, Kans., April 14, 1885. Mr. Paine afterward married, August 11,
1859, Mrs'. Mary Collins, born March 4, 1824, in Pickaway County, Ohio; she
died November 24, 1805, leaving one son — Charles E. March 19, 1868, Mr.
Paine married Mrs. Ann McHenry, born in Bloom Township, this county, No-
vember 9, 1887, daughter of Benjamin and Anna Huddle, who were among the
pioneers of that township (she married John McHenry April 24. 1858; they
resided in Thompson Township, this county, until his death, December 20,
1864; by him she had five children: Franklin (deceased), Mattie V., Emma
Kate (deceased), Hardie E. (deceased) and Mrs. Anna D. Rule). Mr. and
Mrs. Paine have one daughter — Marv K. Paine. Mr. Paine died of pneumonia.
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 1011
October 12, 1882, after a short illness. He was very active in public affairs;
served as justice of the peace fifteen years in Thompson Township; was chosen
to the Ohio Legislature in 1854, and re-elected in 1856, serving with ability
and distinction. He was admitted to the bar, and practiced law about twenty-
five years. Personally Mr. Paine was a man of powerful physique, being six
feet five inches in height, and well proportioned. He was successful in his
enterprises, and acquired a large estate. His memory will long be honored by
the citizens of Seneca County. Mrs. Paine now resides at the family home-
stead. She is a consistent member of the Christian Union.
SAMUEL EOYER (deceased) was born February 23, 1825, in Stark
County, Ohio, and was a son of John Royer. He married, November 9, 1848,
Miss Mary Ann Bunn, who was born in Perry County, Penn. , November 2,
1830; her parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Leiter) Bunn, of Pennsylvania, came to
Thompson Township, this county, in April. 1833. and here they settled upon an
entirely new farm, which they cleared uj) and improved; their childi-enare IMi's.
Mary A. Royer. Mrs. Catherine Good. Mrs. Barbara Royer, Benjamin F. and Judge
J. F.Bunn. Mr. Bunn died March 30, 1878, aged'seventy-six years and one day;
he was an upright pioneer, and lived an active and useful life; he resided the
last years of his life in Bellevue, Sandusky Co., Ohio; he was a carpenter by
trade but spent his life in this county on the farm. Active in public affairs, he
held the position of justice of the peace ten years, andAvas successful in acquir-
ing a large and valuable property. He was a member of the Reformed Church.
Mrs. Bunn resides in Thompson Township, this county, and is now in her
seventy- eighth year. She is a member of the Reformed Chui'ch. Mr. and
Mrs. Royer settled on the present family homestead after their marriage.
They acquired a fine estate of 400 acres of well-improved land, all in Thomp-
son Township, this county. Their childi-en are Mrs. Barbara Ellen Bennehoff,
J. C. Royer, Mrs. Ida L. Wollenslegel. J. B. Royer, Mrs. Mary S. Friedley,
Samuel F., Benjamin B. and Nora T. Mr. Royer died August 22, 1884. He
was an industrious and successful farmer, highly respected by all. He and
his worthy wife were active members of the Reformed Church, and assisted
liberally in building the chtxrch in Thompson Township. IMi-s. Royer now
resides at the family homestead. She is a lady of estimable Christian charac-
ter, esteemed by a large circle of friends.
JOHN ROYER. Jr. . farmer, P. O. Flat Rock, was born March 20, 1831 ,
in Thom^oson Township, this county, a son of the famous pioneer John Royer.
He is said to be the first child born to a Pennsylvanian settler in Thompson
Township. He endured the usual lot of a pioneer' s son, and attended the
primitive schools of those early days. He married Miss Barbara Bunn December
4, 1852, and in 1855 they moved to Erie County, Ohio, there remaining seven
years, then proceeded to Sandusky County, Ohio, where they I'esidedfour years,
and in March, 1866, they finally located where they now reside, in Thompson
Township, this county; here they have acquired a fine farm of 140 acres of
well-improved land; their residence stands within ten rods from where was lo-
cated the house in which Joseph Parmenter, in 1820, held the first township
election of Thompson Township. IVIi-. and Mrs. Royer are parents of Leander
K., Mrs. Salome A. Rubert, Mrs. Lydia A. Wollenslegel (now in Kansas),
Cerena E. , Jared (deceased), Mary N., John Douglas, Jacob McClellan (in
Kansas), Samuel Vallandigham, Emma M., Isaac Williard, Benjamin Franklin
S., Solomon I., Clement L. , Elda E. and Lulu Y. Mr. and Mrs. Royer are
members of the Reformed Church. He is a life-long Democrat, and takes a
deep interest in public affairs. He is one of the enterprising and influential
farmers of Thompson Township, highly respected by all who know him.
1012 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
GEOEGE RUBARD, physician and surgeon. Flat Rock, Avas born De-
cember 2. 1847, in Thompson Township, this county. His parents Edward
and Eva (Harpster) Rubard, of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, respectively,
Avere married in Thompson Township, this county, and reared a family of six
sons and one daughter. Our subject, who is their fourth son, took his pre-
paratory medical course under Dr. Sandmeister, of Bellevue, and afterward
attended lectures in the Cincinnati Eclectic College, graduating in February,
1871. He at once commenced the practice of his chosen profession in Flat
Rock, and by faithful application to his work has built up a large practice.
Dr. Rubard married for his first Avife Miss Mollie O. Mull, in 18(0: she died
June "24, 1881, leaving three children: John Irvin. Blanchie E. and Bertha
Caroline. February 10. 1883, Dr. Rubard was again married, this time to
Miss Mary A. Biu-gner. by whom he has one son — Harry E.
CHARLES SANDMEISTER. physician and surgeon, P. O. Bellevue,
Hui-on County, was born February 22, 1831, in Hessen Cassel, Germany.
His father, John George Sandmeister, was a merchant in the town of Hersfeld,
where he died in 1853. Our subject immigrated to America and to Bellevue,
Ohio, in 1851; here he studied medicine under Dr. Overmiller, of Tiffin, fi-om
1853 to October, 1855. He then moved to Thompson Township. Avhere he be-
gan the practice of his profession, locating on or near the Kilbourne road.
He afterward attended lectures and graduated at the Eclectic Medical Institute
of Cincinnati in 1864. The Doctor married. October 22, 1860, Miss Helena
Wygant, of Sandusky City, Ohio: her parents died of cholera, in 1852. The
Doctor and wife remained in Thompson Township until 1873, when he located
permanently in Bellevue. Dr. Sandmeister still takes a deep interest in
Seneca Coiinty as his 'former home. He has 227 acres of land in Thompson
Township, and also owns a fine residence and several valuable pieces of prop-
erty in Bellevue. He has foiu- children: William. Charles, Katie and Emma.
They are intelligent and enterprising young people and have taken a high
position in society. In 1877 the Doctor visited Germany and brought his
mother to America; she died in April, 1882. aged seventy-seven years. Doc-
tor Sandmeister is of portly build and of a genial, social disposition. He is
recognized as one of the most skillful and scientific physicians in this part of
the State. He has built up a large practice both in the city and country, and
enjoys the closest confidence of the people with whom he associates.
GEORGE SCHOCK. P. O. Flat Rock, was born March 2, 1812, in Union
County, Penn. He was manied, February 17, 1835, to Miss Rachael Korner,
who was born in the same county, December 25, 1816. Our subject and wife
started April 13, following their mamage. for Thompson Township, this
county, reaching here on the 28th. Mr. Schock had previously been out here
in 1833 and 1834. His parents, George and Margaret (Seibert) Schock, and
her pai-ents, Andi-ew and Sarah (Hendricks) Korner. all came to Thompson
Township in 1836, and resided here until their death. Our subject located on
the land now owned by Peter Stetler. He and his brother-in-law. Jacob Kor-
ner, laid out the most of the toAvn of Flat Rock (formerly called Lewisville) in
1840. He carried on a dry goods and general store in this place from 1850 to
1854. To Mr. and Mrs. Schock haA-e been born twelve children, of whom eight
are noAV liA'ing: Mrs. Elvina Crouse, in Findlay, Ohio: Jacob, in Leona,
Kans. : Benjamin Franklin, in Norwalk. Ohio; Mrs. Sarah Kendall, in Flat
Rock. Ohio; Mrs. Caroline Leiter; Mrs. Margaret Shadel, in Bellevue, Ohio;
Mrs. Elizabeth Harpster, in Blue Springs. Neb. , and Prof. Charles H. Schock,
in Bloomville, Ohio. Their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren,
livin^T, noAV numlier thirtv-six in all. Mr. and Mrs. Schock are Avorthy mem
THOxMPSON TOWNSHIP. 1013
bers of the Evangelical association. In early life they were Lutherans. They
are now living a retired life, honored by their descendants and respected by
all who know them.
FERDINAND SCHOEFFEL, merchant, and postmaster at Frank, was
born July 24, 1844, in Alsace, France (now Germany). He received his edu-
cation in the French and German languages in his native country. In Octo-
ber, 1805, he entered the French Army to sei-ve his regular term or seven
years. He served through the war in Italy against Garibaldi, in 18(37, and in
the Franco -Prussian war in 1870 and 1871. He was in seven battles, includ-
ing St. Barbe, St. Briva, Gravelotte, Mars-la-Tour and others. His term of serv-
ice ended December 31, 1871. October 22, of the same year, he married
Miss Magdalena ReiflF. They came to America and to Fremont, Ohio, May 18,
1873. Mr. and JVli-s. Schoeffel have four- children: Magdalena, Mary, Joseph
and Anna. After carrying on a barber shop in Fremont for seven years Mr.
Schoeffel piu-chased the store in Frank, Thompson Township, this county,
January 6, 1880, where he now carries on business and has a large and pros-
perous trade with the surrounding country, being a siTccessful business man,
highly respected by the community in which he lives. He is also postmaster
at Frank. He is a member of the Catholic Church.
HON. JOSEPH SHERCK, mayor of Bellevue, Ohio, was born November
10, 1828, in Mifflin County, Penn. His parents, John and Magdalena Sherck,
came to Thompson Township, Seneca Co. , Ohio, October 1 , 1834, and re-
moved to St. Joseph County, Mich. , in 1868, where Mrs. Sherck died in Feb-
ruary, 1882. John Sherck, now eighty-five years old, still resides in St. Jo-
seph County, Mich. The subject of this memoir received his education in
Thompson Township. He married, August 19, 1851, Miss Barbara A. Decker,
daughter of Hon. Jacob Decker, and they have two children: Mrs. Mary A.
Miller and Charles M. Sherck (a clothing merchant in Bellevue, Ohio). In
1 860 Ml'. Sherck purchased his father' s homestead at the center of the town-
ship— a farm of 160 acres of well-improved land, which he still owns. In
1873 he moved to Bellevue and established a large saddle and harness busi-
ness, from which he retired in 1884. Mr. Sherck is a Democrat, and takes a
deep interest in public affairs. While in Thompson Township, this county,
he served as justice of the peace nine years. He was elected mayor of Belle-
vue in April, 1882, and re-elected in 1884. He has led an active and use-
ful life, and is honored and respected by all who know him.
SAjMTJEL STEWART (deceased) was born in Lancaster County. Penn. , No-
vember 1, 1800. His mother died in Lancaster County, and his father. James
Stewart, moved to Buffalo Valley, Union County. There our subject became
acquainted with and married, in November, 1826, Miss Sarah Wilt, who was
born in that county February 15, 1800. They came to Seneca County, Ohio,
in 1829, locating in Thompson Township in October of that year, where they
pm-chased a farm, which they cleared and developed. In 1867 they retired
from the farm and located in Flat Rock. Here Mr. Stewart died November 2,
1870. He was a successful farmer, and acquired a handsome property. He
was a Democrat in his early life, but during the war he became an earnest
Republican and remained so until his death. He and his wife were members,
fi'om early life, of the Congregational Church. Mr. Stewart was an u.pright
pioneer of the strictest integrity, highly respected by all who knew him. He
was the father of eleven children, and those who lived to maturity were Mrs.
Amanda Weiker. Mary. Martha, David, James (now in Williamson County,
Tenn. ), Sarah, George. Newton (now in Falls City, Neb. ). all deceased except
David. James and Newfcon. Mary went to Vicksljursc Miss. , as a teacher in
1014 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
February. 1865. and died there in -Tune of the same year. Mrs. Stewart now
resides in Flat Eock, Ohio.
DAYID STEWART, railway postal clerk. P. O. Flat Eock, was born
April 8, 183/, in Flat Rock, Seneca Co., Ohio, His parents, Samuel and
Sarah (Wilt) Stewai*t, natives of Pennsylvania, located on Section 2, Thomp-
son Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, in 1829. The country was then new, and
they began the pioneer work of clearing up their farm. They remained on
this farm until April, 1S67. when they moved into Flat Rock, adjoining their
farm. Of their eleven childi-en three are living: David. James H. (now in
Davidson County. Tenn.) and Isaac Newton (now in Falls City, Neb.).
Samuel Stewart departed this life Ndvember 1. 1870, exactly seventy-two
years of age. His widow survives him: she is now seventj^-nine years of age,
and is living in Flat Rock. The subject of this sketch attended the schools of
the home district, and completed his education with a short course under
Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. He maiTied, May 13, 1858, Miss Fannie
Bunn, born in Thompson Township, this county, April 29, 1841. Her par-
ents, John and Susanna (Peten) Bunn, were married in that township, where
they resided until 1867. when they moved to Three Rivers, Mich., where Mrs.
Bunn died September 2. 1880: Mr. Bunn still resides there. To this union
were born the following children: Ella May, Mrs. Carrie Belle Schock, Wal-
ter D. , Arthur J. , Mary Matilda. John Rolland and Susanna B. ]\Ir. and
Mrs. Stewart have resided in Flat Rock since their marriage. He established
a general mercantile store in 1859, which he carried on until February. 1870.
In February, 1874, he was tendered a position in the United States Mail Serv-
ice as railway po.stal clerk, which he accepted, and has steadily risen in the
service until he now holds the position of head clerk. Oui* subject and wife
are consistent members of the Evangelical Church. He is a Royal Arch Mason
and a member of the K. of H.
JOHN M. TERWILLIOER, merchant, and postmaster at Flat Rock, Ohio,
was born November 3. 1839, in Bloomsburg, Columbia Co., Penn., where his
parents, Abraham and Hannah Terwilliger. resided until their death. He
came to Thompson Township, this county, December 25, 1857, and commenced
learning the wire-maker's trade. In July, 1861. he enlisted in the Thirty-
fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served in the campaigns of
Western Virginia, taking part in the active operations in that i3art of the field.
He was captured by the enemy June 10, 1864. at Buchanan, Va. , and was
held prisoner ten months in Andersonville, Ga. He received an honorable
discharge fi'om the service in June, 1865, leaving a fine record as a brave and
faithful soldier, always ready for the discharge of duty. Returning to this
county he again devoted himself to his trade. March 22, 1866, he married
Miss Sarah Mohn, of Thompson Township, this county, and by this union
were born Sylvia C. , Katie E. , Etna M. , Calvin C. and William M. Mr. and
Mrs. Terwilliger are worthy members of the Evangelical Church. He is an
earnest Republican, and takes a deep interest in public affairs. He is a mem-
ber in high standing of the I. O. O. F. In September, 1881. ]\Ii-. Terwilliger
was appointed postmaster at Flat Rock, and in August. 1882, he established
a grocery and provision store, moving the postoffice into the store.
ALEXANDER TITTLE, farmer, P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born
March 3. 1840, in Snyder County, Penn. His parents, Henry and Rebecca
Tittle, passed their entire lives in that county. Alexander Tittle came to
Thompson Township, this county, when he was eighteen years of age. He
enlisted in the Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, September 10, 1861.
and served in the Army of the Cumberland, taking part in the campaigns
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP. 1015
throughout the West and Southwest. He was taken prisoner near McMinn-
ville, Tenn. , but was exchanged in about fifteen days. He re-enlisted with his
regiment, serving in all four years, and was discharged August 10, 1865. He
left an honorable record as a brave and faithful soldier, always ready for the
discharge of duty. Eeturning home he married Miss Almira Zeiber, daughter
of Jacob and Eachel (Kern) Zeiber, former of whom came from Snyder Coun-
ty. Penn. , to Thompson Township, this county, about 1845, and owned a farm
of 520 acres: he died January 27, 1876, aged fifty-seven years; his widow now
resides in Bellevue, Ohio; they wei-e the parents of the following childi-en:
Almira, Daniel, Wilson, Mrs. Mary Kageris, and two deceased. Mr. and Mrs.
Tittle have three sons: Samuel Richard, Arthur and Ervin. Mr. Tittle has
two fine farms of 120 and 280 acres, each, of fertile land. Politically he is a
Republican. He and his wife are members of the Reformed Church.
ISAAC WEIKEE. farmer. P. O. Bellevue, Huron County, was born No-
vember 17, 1842, in Thompson Township, this county. His father, Elias
Weiker. of Snyder County, Penn., came to Ohio when he was sixteen years of
age, and finally settled in Thompson Township, this county, in 1883, with his
parents, George and Susanna Weiker, who passed the last few years of their
lives in Bellevue. Elias Weiker married Miss Maria Heater, daughter of John
Heater. She had eight children, five of whom are living; she died about
1 860. and Mr. Weiker has since married a second time, and now resides in
Belle-suie. Isaac Weiker was reared on the farm on which he now resides. He
married, December 31. 1868, Miss Caroline Fauble, daughter of Michael Fau-
ble, and born in Thompson Township, this county. Of their nine childi-en seven
are living: Mrs. Cora Bell Garmen, Mrs. Sarah Jane Garmen, William W.,
Amanda Estella. John P., James Franklin and Jessie Ann. Mr. and Mrs.
Weiker have a fine farm of 1(50 acres of well-improved land. They are mem-
bers of the Christian Union. Mr. Weiker has been trustee two terms. He is
one of the most enterprising citizens of Thompson Township, highly respected
liv the entire communitv. In politics he is a Democrat.
SAMUEL WYANT, teacher. P. O. Flat Rock, was born March 21, 1887,
in Scipio Townshij). this county. After attending the district school he com-
pleted his education under Prof. Aaron Schuyler, at Republic. At the age of
twenty years he commenced teaching in this county, a profession he has fol-
lowed during the winters ever since. About the same time he became engaged
in selling lightning rods throughout this and adjoining counties; he has con-
tinued this ever since, and in 1877 added the business of selling rubber biicket
})umps, manufacturing the pumps himself at Flat Rock, this county. Mr.
Wyant married Miss Susie Korner May 30, 1865. She died February 9, 1871,
leaving one son (Claudie) and one daughter ( Addie, now the wife of Alton
Heter). June 21. 1876, Mr. Wyant married for his second wife Miss Jennie
Brown, of Clark County, Ohio, a native of Miami County. Ohio. They have
one daughter. Gracie. Mr. Wyant is a member of the United Brethren
Church, Mrs.Wvant of the Evanofelical Church.
1016 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES
VENICE TOWNSHIP.
JOHN ARMATAGE, farmer and stock -raiser, P. O. Carrothers, was born
ia Baltimore. McL. December 15, 1806, son of Roger and Margaret (Hayes)
Armatage, also natives of Maryland, of English descent, and who were parents
of fom- child.ren, John being next to the eldest. Roger Armatage was sexton for
the Society of Friends in Baltimore for many years. Our -subject received a
limited education and first engaged in di'iving a milk Avagon and working in a
dauy, an occupation he followed for eleven years. He was an economical lad,
and in 1820 he started for the new county, settling in the woods of Venice
Township. Previous to leaving Baltimore he had the method of tapping-
trees for sugar explained to him. and on arriving here, in the sugar season,
immediately commenced operations and had tapped quite a number of oak
instead of maple trees before he discovered his mistake, but before the season
of 18H() closed he was a good hand at the biisiness. He fir.st entered eighty
acres ^hich he sold, then bought three eighties, and he has now 200 acres where
he resides, located in Seneca and Crawford Counties. He has luade farming
the principal business of his life, and has been remarkably successful. Mi\
Armatage was married, in 183(), to Mary Parlett. of English and Welsh descent,
and this imion was blessed with five children: Mary E., married to H. Royce
and had three childi-en (the family are all deceased) ; Rebecca, wife of Elisha
Roberts, a farmer of Venice Township, this county; John AV., now a promi-
nent farmer, born in Venice Township, this county, in 1834, married in 1858
to Elizabeth McClelan (had nine children: "Wesley, George, Etta J. (wife of
John B. McCibben), Thomas (deceased). Charles. Alvin. Louis. Erwin and
Bertie); Margaret, wife of John X. Whitmire; George W. (deceased) was a
farmer in early life, but later a merchant (he was twice married and by first
wife had two children : Robert, now a hardware merchant in Attica, and Bell,
and by his second wife, two children: William and Jay). Our subject is a
Republican in politics. He and his family are members of the Protestant
Methodist Chui'ch.
ROBERT ARMATAGE, of the firm of Armatage & Wiu-ts, dealers in
hardware, stoves, tinware, farming implements, spouting, paints, oils. etc..
Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county. April 8. 1864, son of George
W. and Mary J. (Walker) Anuatage, natives of this cou.nty, and of German
descent. His grandfather, John Armatage, now a prominent farmer of Venice
Township, this county, settled here in 1827. George W. Armatage (subject's
father) born in 1829, was reared on the farm, received a common school edu-
cation and made farming the business of his life. He died in 1884. Robert,
the eldest in a family of foiTr children, grew up on the farm, attending the
Attica school. When eighteen years of age he embarked in business on his
own account, dealing in agricultural implements. His father bought a hard-
ware store in 1883, and after his death the stock was pui*chased by the firm of
Armatage & Wurts. who are now carrying on the business.
E. D. BEMENDERFER, senior' member of the firm of Bemeuderfer c^-
Co. , manufactui-ers of sash,, doors and blinds, manufactory located on High
and West Main Streets. Attica, was born in Stark County, Ohio, May 18, 1842,
son of Samuel and Christine (Funk) Bemeuderfer, natives of Virginia and
VENICE TOAVNSHIP. 1017
Ohio, respectively, and of German descent. The father of onr subject, who
settled in Venice Township, this county, in 184'2, and who was a successful
farmer, died in 1884; of his eight childi-en, seven are now living-, all residents
of Seneca County except Jacob, who is now in New Mexico. The family ai-e
members of the Lutheran Church. Our subject was reared on the farm' and
after receiving a common school education attended the academy at Republic,
and in early life taught school. In 1866 he embarked in the manufacture of
handles and rakes, which in 1 874 was merged into his i:)resent business. The
building is two stories high, nearly seventy feet square, and the firm employ
tifteen men. and manufactiTre about 1,000, 000 feet of lumber annually. Mr.
Bemenderfer was married, in 1 867, to Mary Jane, daughter of John Koller and
of German descent, by whom he has two children : Esther and Harry. Mrs.
Bemenderfer is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Bemenderf er ls a Pro-
hibitionist in ]>olitics, and a member of the I. O. O. F. He is now in the town
council.
W. K. BEMENDERFER. farmer, P. O. Attica, was born on the farm
where he now resides, in Venice Township, this county, April 2, 18-51; son of
Samuel Bemenderfer, who served in most of the township offices, moved to
Attica in 1872, and for ten years previous to his death led a retired life; his
widow now resides in Attica. Ohio. Our subject, the seventh in a family of
eight children, was educated in the district schools of his native countv and has
followed farming all his life. He is now owner of eighty acres" of well-
improved land. He was Tinited in marriage, in 187:-}, with Siisan, daughter of
Jacob and Mary (Murray) Hoke, former of whom, of German descent, was a
miller, farmer, and an early settler of Venice ToAvnship. this county. To our
subject and wife has been born one child, Effie May. Mr. Bemenderfer has
acted as school director of Venice Township.
HARRY G. BLAINE, physician, Attica, was born in Wheeling, W. Va.,
November 25, 1858; son of William I. and Nancy (Voshall) Blaine, the former
a native of Pennsylvania, of English descent, the latter of Ohio, of Welsh
lineage. William I. Blaine, who has been a printer and editor nearly all
his life, is now editing the Attica Joiinial. Our sujjject, the third in a family
of six children, received his education in the schools of Fostoria, Republic and
Attica, this coimty. and at the age of sixteen commenced to teach school.
When nineteen years old he entered the office of Dr. J. M. Parker, of Attica;
in 1880 he attended the Medical College at Columbus, Ohio, and afterward
the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis, from which he graduated in 1882.
He is now a memlier of the lx)ard of regents of that institution. The Doctor
commenced the publication at Attica, in 1884, of the Medical Compend, a
monthly journal of practical medicine, having a large circulation. He also
owns the office of the Attica Journal, of which his father is editor. The
Doctor commenced the practice of medicine at Reedtown, this county, in 1882,
and in 1888 came to Attica. He is an honorary member of the Toledo Medi-
cal College Association, of the Northwestern Ohio Association and the Ohio
State Association. In May. 1885. he was elected demonstrator of practical
anatomy in the Toledo Medical College, and later he was chosen as professor
of diseases of wcjmen and children in the same institution, which position he
now holds. He is a F. & A. M. The Doctor was married, in 1877. to Lucy
E. . daughter of James Shanks, a farmer of Huron County, Ohio, and of Ger-
man descent. Tlie chikh-en born to this union are Eriiest G. and Earl H.
(twins), Harry S. and William G. G.
JOHN B.' BLFM. farmer and stock-raiser. P. O. Attica, was born in
France. ,]*uly 1. 182S: son of Joseph and Magdalena Blum, also French oeo-
1018 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
pie, former of wliom was a farmer all through life. They reared a family of
four chikli-en, John B. being the third born. Our subject was educated in
France and Germany, and came to America April 4,1850, first settling in Stark
County, Ohio, but a year later came to this county where he has since followed
ao-ricultural pursuits. He now owns two well-improved farms in Venice Town-
ship. Mr. Blum was married, in 1857, to MaryM. , daughter of John and
Catherine (Seen) Steigmeyer. Her father, a farmer and stock-raiser, was born
in Switzerland in 1811, there received his education, and in 1835 came to
America, settling two miles west of Attica, this county, on the farm where he
still resides. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Blum are Susan, wife of William
Hahl (have four childi-en: Mary M. , Rosa D.. John S. and Edward), and
Frank J., who is still at home. Mr. and Mrs. Blum are members of the
Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat.
LEWIS BOLLINGER (deceased) a pioneer farmer of Seneca County,
Ohio, was born in Germany, September 14, 1825. He was reai'ed and edu-
cated in his native land and came thence to Stark County, Ohio, in 1842, set-
tling on a farm where he remained two years. He then came to this county
and bought thirty acres of land in Venice Township. He was a prudent, indus-
trious man, and at the time of his death, which occurred June 28, 1880, owned
250 acres of well-improved land. He was married in this county, in 1850, to
Margaret, daughter of Conrad Plouch, a farmer. Her parents were of Ger-
man orio'in. To Mr. and Mrs. Bollinger were born the following childi'en:
Margaret, wife of George Duerr, a resident of Michigan; Philip; Catherine,
wife of Samuel Kemrick; Lewis W., married and farming; Louisa, wife of
David Zellars; Mary E.,wife of Charles Deisler ; and Henry, Daniel, Alexander
F. and John F. at home. They are members of the German Reformed
Church. Philip, who is a farmer and stock-raiser, was born February 20,
1853, on a farm in Venice Township, where he was reared and received a com-
mon school education, and here he still resides. He was married, in 1878, to
Anna Mary Fink, born in Pennsylvania, of Dutch origin, and by her he has
three children: Ida, George F. and John F. Lewis Bollinger, the subject of
this sketch, was a prominent Democrat, and during his life held most of the
public offices of Venice Township; he was fi-equently chosen by his party as a
delegate to political conventions, and was often a member of the grand jury at
Tiffin.
A. B. BRANT, dealer in grain, seed, salt and baled hay. came to Attica at
the time of the building of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and began dealing in
lumber and grain, abandoning the former in 1882. He is a native of Cumber-
land County, Penn. , born July 11. 1843; son of Michael and Elizabeth (Bower-
master) Brant. He received his education in the country schools, and began
business for himself at seventeen years of age, following farming and stock-
dealing until embarking in his present business. He came to Ohio in 184<),
and to this county in 1860. He was married, in May, 1860, to Mary J. Myers,
who died in 1871, and by her he had one child — Millie. His second mar-
riage, in March, 1875, was with Loa M. Couch. Mr. Brant is an energetic
business man, and has held important positions in Reed and Venice Townships.
He is a member of Attica Lodge No. 367. F. & A. M. . also of the chapter at
Repu-blic. Ohio.
P. A. BUCHMAN, retired merchant and farmer, CaiTothers, was born in
Bloom Township, this county, June 18, 1843; son of Adam and Catherine
(Fike) Bachman, natives of Bavaria, Germany, who immigrated to America, and
located in Pennsylvania, where they resided three years; came then, in 1833.
to this county, and settled on a farm in Bloom Township, where Adam Buch-
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1010
man died in 1881. Their family consisted of eight children, three sons and
three daughters attaining maturity, live of Avhom are now living. Our subject,
the second born, was reared on the farm, and followed agricultural pursuits
until 1874, when he came to Carrothers and opened a general store, subse-
quently admitting his brother, Jacob, as i^artner, to whom he sold his interest
in 1875, and who is now conducting the business. Our subject built the first dwel
lino- house in Carrothers. He has been financially successfiil, and now owns a
farm of 100 acres in Bloom Township, and property in Carrothers. where he
resides. He was married, in 1866, to Rosa, daughter of Jacob and Annie
(Neice) Brillhart, of German descent, and to this union were born the follow-
ing childi-en: William, Ada, Robert. Dellie, Jacob and Early. Mr. and Mrs.
Buchman are members of the Reformed Church, of which he is deacon, and of
which he served as a member of the building committee. Politically he is a
Democrat.
JOHN H. CARPENTER, deputy United States marshal, Attica, was born
in Richland Township, Huron Co., Ohio, October 27. 1843; son of Amasa A.
and Catherine (Huffman) Carpenter, the former a farmer, born in Steuben
County, N. Y., of Scotch descent, the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of Ger-
man lineage. Amasa A. Carpenter came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1845. and
lived on a farm until his death in 1855. Our subject, the eldest in a family of
four childi-en, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the Attica
schools and academy at Republic. He enlisted during the late Rebellion, in
1862, in Company I, One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Vohmteer Infantry,
and served till the close of the war. He was twice taken j^risoner. on first
occasion managing to effect his escape; the second time was just before the
close of the war, and he received his discharge in j^rison. He participated in
several battles, and was at Winchester when Gen. Sheridan arrived and turned
defeat into victory. After his return Mr. Carpenter farmed for a time. He
was married, in 1867, to Susan, daughter of John Sutton, and a sister of Les-
ter Sutton, of Attica, by whom he has one son — Harry E. Mr. and Mrs. Car-
penter are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr. Carpenter came
to Attica in 1870, and worked at the carpenter's trade here. He served for a
time as constable, and for foui-teen years as marshal of Attica, and in 1880
was appointed deputy United States marshal. In connection with his official
duties he also deals in real estate.
J. W. CARSON, farmer and buyer and shipper of live-stock. P. O. Attica,
was born in Harrison County, Ohio, December 8, 1818; son of Samuel and
Elizabeth (Wiloughby) Carson, natives of Pennsylvania, members of the
Methodist Church; the former, who was a farmer, was born in 1788, of Irish
descent, served in the war of 1812. came to Venice Township, this county,
April 11, 1835. and died here in his seventy-ninth year; the latter, of German
and English lineage, lived to be seventy -one years old. They were parents of
eleven children, eight of whom are now living. Our subject's grandfather,
Robert Carson, served as a soldier all through the Revolutionary war and early
came to this county, where he died in 1836; his wife died in May, 1836, and
was the first one buried in the graveyard, near what is known as the Swamp
Church. Our subject received a common school education, and for nearly a
quarter of a century has dealt extensively in stock. He is owner of a fine farm
of eighty acres on which he resides, and some land in Dakota. He was married,
February 4, 1841. to Mary Ann, daughter of Maurice and Hannah (Davis)
Moore, the former born in 1797. the latter June 27, 1800, and who had a fam-
ily of thirteen children, twelve attaining maturity and nine still living. Mr.
Moore, a farmer by occupation, was one of the pioneers of Seneca County, com-
1020 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ing here in 1884. He died Oc+ober 7. 1883, his wife having preceded him Feb-
ruary 10, same year. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Carson was blessed with
twelve childi-en, nine growing to manhood and womanhood, of whom eight are
now living: Margaret Jane, wife of John H. Gaddis, a farmer of Venice Town-
ship; Hannah Ann, wife of John L. Betting, a farmer in Huron County, Ohio:
Sarah M., wife of John Harter, a farmer in Crawford County, Ohio; S. B., an
extensive land agent in Dakota, and also the owner of over 1,000 acres of land
on which the town of Carson is located: Eliza A., wife of Henry Werder, a
farmer of Van Wert County, Ohio: Mary F., wife of A. M. Friedley, a mer-
chant in Attica; Ida May, wife of Frank C. Myers, a merchant in Attica, and
Louetta, wife of Henrv'S. Hayes. Mrs. Carson is a member of the United
Brethren Church. Mr. Carson is a great reader and usually takes fi'om eight
to ten newspapers. He has served as assessor and township trustee. Politically
he is a Bepublican.
JAMES L. COUCH, justice of the peace, Attica, was born in Niles Town-
ship, Cayuga Co., N. Y.', May 5, 1810; son of Joel B. and Phoebe (Ladow-)
Couch, the°former a native of Connecticut, of English descent, the latter of
Saratoga County. N. Y. , of French lineage. They were the parents of twelve
childreii, eight of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. James L., the
fourth bonCwas reared on the farm, receiving a common school education, and
at the ao-e of eighteen learned the wagon-maker's trade, at which he worked
for many years. He was married, in 1884, to Celestia. daughter of Asahel
Wood, and the children now living that were born to this xuiion are Frances,
wife of Isaac Baymond; Joel B., married, living in Napoleon, Henry County.
Ohio; MaryE., wife of AY illiard Green, and Celestia A. , wife of David A. Boyle.
Mrs. Couch died in 1850, and our subject subsequently married Mary H.
Wheeler, a cousin to his first wife, by whom he had three children: Addie E.,
wife of A. B. Low; Loa M.. wife of A. B. Brant; and Nettie W., wife of Eev.
J. F. Rice, a minister in charge of the Universalist Church, at Attica. Mr.
and Mrs. Couch are members of the Universalist Church here. Mr. Couch
moved to Huron County. Ohio, in 1887. settling in Bronson ToAvnship; in 184S
he located in Norwich TowTiship, Huron County, where he farmed and built a
saw-mill, which he ran successfully several years; then came to Attica, in 1872.
He is a Democrat in politics and' has tilled several of the township offices of
Bronson and Norwich Townships in Huron County, and Venice Township in
this county. He has served as mayor of Attica; three terms as justice of the
peace, and also as township and village clerk of Venice and Attica, respectively.
He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the I. O. O. F.
CYRUS N. CRABBS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Seneca County. Ohio.
October 10, 1857, and is the youngest of the five sons of James Madison and
Mary N. (Houston) Crabbs, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of English
descent, the latter born in Ohio, of Revolutionary parentage. James M. Crabbs
was a carpenter bv trade, also had possession of a large farm situated in
Seneca Countv. Bv hard work and exposure to bad weather, he contracted a
cold which terminated in death; he left five young boys. Oui- subject was
reared on the farm, attended the common schools in Venice Township and
obtained a collegiate education at Valparaiso, Ind. He chose teaching as his
profession, went to Mansfield, Ohio, took a regular teacher's course and grad-
uated in 1879. He has taught in this county every winter, except one, since
he was nineteen years of age. JVIi*. Crabbs is a good scholar, an able debater
qind a fine political speaker. He is a Republican in politics and took an active
part in the campaign of 1884, making several speeches. Our subject has been
twice married; on first occasion in 1881, to Ellen, daughter of John Crothers;
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1021
she dying in 1882, Mr. Crabbs was again married, this time in 1884, to Miss
Jennie, daughter of Peter Keesy, a prominent farmer of Huron County, Ohio,
and of English descent. Mrs. Crabbs is a member of the United Brethren
Church.
D. J. DECK, physician, Carrothers, was born in Lebanon County, Penn. ,
August 22, 1855, and is the only son of Jacob and Maria (Wise) Deck, also
natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Jacob Deck, who was twice
married, has been a farmer all his life. Oiu- subject, who is the youno-est of
six children, obtained his literary education at Palatinate College, Pennsyl-
vania, whence he graduated in 1878. After traveling in the Western States
one year he retui-ned to Harrisbui-g, Penn. , studied medicine and was admitted
to practice in 1877, having graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, Phila-
delphia. He then came to McCutchenville,Ohio, and the same year to Carro-
thers, where he has since remained in active practice. He was married, in
1877, to Almira, daughter of Benjamin and Eliza (Miller) Eeeme, who were
of German origin, and to this union have been born three children: Eeeme,
Dessie and Elabel. Mrs. Deck is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church!
In politics Dr. Deck is a Republican. He is a member of the Patriotic Sons
of America and of the Masonic fraternity, and is a member of the German
Lutheran Church.
PROF. RUSSELL B. DRAKE, superintendent of public schools, Attica,
was born in Wood County, Ohio, January 15, 1850, son of Joseph and Ro-
sanna (Bowers) Drake, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, and
of English descent. His father, a farmer by occupation, was a pioneer of
Wood County, Ohio, and obtained land from the Government, President
Jackson (whom he had previously voted for) signing the deed. Our subject,
the youngest in a family of seven children, lived on the fai-m until seventeen
years of age, when he graduated at Fostoria High School and commenced
teaching school for the purpose of obtaining funds to prosecute a thorough
classical education. He then attended Oberlin College, and while at that in-
stitution, in 1875, received a favorable offer and accepted the superintendency
of the public school at Allouez, Mich. , where he remained for two years. He
then went to Central Mine, Mich. , where he was superintendent of a school for
foiu- years. In 1883 the Professor accepted his present position. He was
married, March 28, 1873, in Hancock County, Ohio, to Miss Ruth, daughter
of J. Redfern, whose parents were natives of England. Her father, a farmer,
was one of the early pioneers of Hancock County, Ohio. Mrs. Drake has also
taught school and was one of Mr. Drake's assistants while in Michigan. Their
children are as follows: Alba A., Lillie A. and William A. Our subject and
wife are members of the Methodist Church, in which he is class leader, and
while in Michigan was licensed to preach. Mr. Drake is also teacher in and
assistant superintendent of the Sabbath-school. He is a member of the
I. O. O.F. and A. O. U. W. societies.
JACOB EBERSOLE, retired farmer, Attica, was born in Cumberland
County, Penn., September 12, 1807, son of John (a farmer) and Elizabeth
(Eberly) Ebersole, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Of their
nine children, Jacob, the second born, was reared on a farm, receiving a com-
mon school education. He has made farming the business of his life, and has
resided in Venice Township, this county, since 1831. He settled in the woods
when he came here, and thinks he has cleared 200 acres of heavily timbered
land with his own hands, the first being 160 acres, which he obtained from
the State, and seventy acres which he purchased and lately sold to Isaac, the
second son that is living. Since 1860 Mr. Ebersole has resided in Attica. He
1022 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
bouo-M eleven acres of land near the village, when he came here, the most of
which he has laid out in town lots. He was married, in 1832, to Mary, daughter
of John Rarisk. and of Pennsylvania-Dutch descent. Their childi-en are as
follows: Henry, Mary, Elizabeth, Isaac, Amanda. Emma and Andi-ew. Mrs.
Ebersole dying in 1853, our subject was married, on second occasion, to Sophia
E. Burns, a native of Kentucky, daughter of Michael and Sarah (Barlow)
Burns, of English descent, the latter born in New York, both of whom lived
and died in Kentucky. This union has been blessed with one child — Eva.
Mrs. Ebersole is a member of the United Brethren Church. Politically Mr.
Ebersole is a Republican.
J. B. FALTER, farmer and breeder of line stock. P. O. Attica, was born
in Germany December '20, 1826, son of Philip and Christina (Kerner) Falter,
also natives of Germany, who came thence to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1833.
Philip Falter, who was a shoe-maker in the old country and a farmer here, was
twice married, and reared eight childi-en. J. B. being the youngest; the father
died in 1842. Our subject was reared on the farm, obtaining his education in
the log schoolhouse. He is a good English scholar, and can read, though he
cannot write, the German language. Mr. Falter has been very successful.
When he started for himself his father gave him $100, and to-day he owns 142
acres of land, well stocked, etc. He was married, in 1853, to Margaret Stein-
metz, born in Alsace, France, in 1832, daughter of Martin and Elizabeth
(Lang) Steinmetz, also natives of Alsace, and who came to Ainerica in 1833,
and settled on a farm in Seneca County, Ohio. To our subject and wife were
born the following children: Philmenia (wife of John C. ^Vorm). Martha (wife
of Nathan Worm). John Joseph. Mary Magdalena, Ida, Annie E., A\'illiam E.
and Cornelius, all members of the Catholic Church. ]Mi-. Falter has been
school director for eleven years. In politics he is a Democrat.
A. H. FINK, junior member of the firm of Bemenderfer & Co., manu-
facturers of sash, doors and blinds, Attica, was born in Wayne County, Ohio,
December 0, 1850, son of John R. and Matilda (Miller) Fink, natives of Penn-
sylvania and of German descent. His father was a carpenter and a farmer.
Oui' subject, the eldest in a family of eight children, wa^ reared on the farm
and attended district school in Huron County, Ohio. In early life he learned
the carpenter' s trade, at which he worked until he entered his present busi-
ness. He came to Attica in 1871). INIi-. Fink was married, in 1874, to Martha
L., daughter of Andrew Sheely, of German descent, by whom he has one
child — Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Fink are members of the Methodist Protestant
Church at Attica. Although Mr. Fink was reared a Democrat, he is a radical
Republican. He has made what he now possesses by his own exertions. He
is a man of temperate habits.
ALFRED FORCE, physician, Attica, was born in the State of New York,
June 8, 1822, son of Benjamin (a farmer) and Sophia (Caswell) Force, natives
of New York and Massachusetts, respectively, and of English descent. Their
family consisted of six children, of whom Alfred is the fourth. Our subject
was reared on the farm, receiving his early education in his native State. He
was united in man-iage. in 1844. with Liicinda. daughter of Lewis Davison,
and of English descent, and their childi'en are Alice, wife of S. Tackbury;
Clarence C. , a physician, and Wintield S. , a medical student in Attica. In
1852 om- subject came to this coiinty and commenced the study of medicine in
the office of Dr. Franklin, at Tiffin,' subsequently attending the Medical Col-
lege, Cincinnati, Ohio. He was in active practice till 1864, when he enlisted
in the One Hundi-ed and Eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was
appointed assistant surgeon of the regiment: most of the time, however, he
VENIL^E TOWNSHIP. 1023
filled the position of surgeon- major. At the close of the war he was mustered
out of service. The Doctor then practiced in the State of New York until
1881, when he came to Attica, Avhere he has since followed his profession.
Dr. Force is a member of the TJniversalist Church.
A. M. FRIEDLE Y, a member of the firm of Friedley Bros. . dealers in diy
goods, groceries and queensware. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this
county, January 1, 1858. son of J. J. and Barbara (Link) Friedley. latter of whom
was born in Germany ; her parents came to America when she was only two years
old, and were among the first settlers of this county : her father. Jacob Link, en-
tered 240 acres of land, part of which is now owned by H. F. Myers, of Attica,
and part by John Link. Our subject' s grandfather. Ludwick Friedley, was born
in Pennsylvania, of German descent, and was a farmer by occupation, settling in
Venice Township, this county, in 1838. dying in 1871. J. J. Friedley (sub-
ject's father) resided hei-e fi-om 1838. He was a farmer, and at his death
owned 230 acres of well- improved land. He died in 1881, aged fifty-three
years. A. M. Friedley, the subject of this sketch, was the eldest in a family
of nine children — seven boys and two girls. He received his education in this
county, and followed agricultui'al pursuits until 1880, when he embarked in
his present business. He was married, in 1875, to Mary F. Carson, of Eng-
lish descent, daughter of J. ^V. Carson, and to this union have been born
Alva J., Ida May, Myrtie Belle and Dessie Edith. ]\Ir. and Mrs. Friedley
are members of the United Brethren Church. Politically he is a Republican.
JOHN L. FRIEDLEY, of the firm of Friedley Bros^ dealers in dry goods,
groceries and queensware. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county,
January 19, 1855, son of J. J. and Barbara (Link) Friedley. He was educated
at the normal school, Valparaiso, Ind. . and resided on the farm with his
parents until twenty-three years of age. He then came to Attica, this county,
and clerked in the store of S. A. Ringle for two years. He and his brother,
A. M. Friedley, then bought the stock and continued doing business in the
same building. John L. Friedley was married, in 1882, to Jennie, daughter
of Rev. Peter Tendrick, a minister of the Reformed Church, and of German
descent. Mi*, and Mrs. Friedley have but one child, Grace B. They are
members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Our subject has served three
years as a member of the town council. In politics he is a Democrat.
S. C. GATES, a member of the firm of Bemenderfer & Co. , manufacturers
of sash, doors and blinds, Attica, was born July 21, 1840, in New London,
Ohio, son of John and Rachel (Earl) Gates, natives of New York, and of Eng-
lish descent. Our subject, the second of three childi*en. received his educa-
tion in the common schools of his native State, and followed droving from
1855 (cattle in summer and horses in winter, selling in portions of Pennsylva-
nia, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland), imtil 18(31. when he enlisted in
Company C, Sixty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served three years
and was mustered out as orderly- sergeant of his company. He participated in the
battles fought at Pittsburgh Landing and Chattanooga, Tenn. , and in several
other engagements. At the close of the war he came to Ohio and settled in
Huron County, where he rejnained until 1808, when he removed to Seneca
County, and in 1869 to Attica, where he manufactured carriages and wagons,
and worked at the carpenter's trade until 1874, since when he has successfully
engaged in his jwesent business. Mr. Gates was married, in 18(37, to Sarali
Carpenter, of English descent, and by her he has one child. Edith. Mr. and
IVIi-s. Gates are members of the Baptist Church at Attica, of which he is trus-
tee and treasurer. In politics he is a Republican; has served as trustee of the
township, and as a member of the school board.
1024 BlOGRArillCAL SKETCHES:
SYLVANUS GRIFFITH, retired, Attica, was Iwrn in Madison County,
N. Y., March IV), 1800, son of Doan and Liicinda (Eaton) Griffith, natives of
New York and of Welsh descent, and whose family consisted of eleven children,
nine of whom attained maturity, Sylvanus being the nest eldest. Doan Grif-
fith was a weaver by trade, and also engaged in farming. Onr subject was
reared on a farm, receiving a common schcwl education in his native State, and
has followed agricultiu-al pursuits all his life. In ]83r) he settled in the woods
of Huron County, Ohio, and improved a farm where he lived until he retired
from active pursuits in 1872, and bought and inoved on his property in Attica,
this county. He has been twice married, first in 1838, to Elizabeth Abell,
born in Vermont, of English descent, and who died in 1880. She was a mem-
ber of the Methodist Chiu'ch. Mr. Griffith was married, on second occasion,
to Mrs. Electa (Beard) Richard, who had three children; Wilson, a farmer of
Wood County, Ohio ; George, a farmer, and Eimna. Mr. Griffith was formerly
a Methodist, but since 1877 has been a member of the United Brethren
Church at Attica, and was a member of the building committee when the new
church was erected. His wife has been an active member of this church for
several j^ears.
J. W. HALL, member of the firm of Hall k Myers, proprietors of foundiy
and machine shops, Attica, was born in Niles Township, Tompkins Co., N.
Y. , July 11, 1828, and is next youngest of the seven children born to William
and Mai^^ (Goodwin) Hall, natives of New Jersey and of English descent.
His father came fi'om New Y'ork and settled in Scipio Township, Seneca Co. .
Ohio, among the early pioneers. Our subject acquired a common school edu-
cation, and attended the academy at Republic. He remained on the farm until
seventeen years of age; then learned blacksmithing, and after serving an ap-
prenticeship as machinist also learned the molder' s trade, serving in all fourteen
years, and is master of his vocation. He came to Attica in 1866, and em-
barked in his present business. He manufactured for a time the iron beam
plow which had an extensive sale, but he is now making a speciality of the
land roller, an invention of his own. Mi-. Hall was united in marriage, in 1851.
with Hannah Ryno.a native of Steuben County, N. Y. , and of English descent,
and their childi'en are William H. , a lumber dealer; Warren R., a molder by
trade; Alcamena, wife of William Smeltz; George, living at Tiffin, Ohio, and
Elera. Mrs. Hall is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Hall has served as
ti'ustee of Reed Township, this county.
GEORGE H. HAMILTON, dealer in groceries, and insurance agent,
Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, January 11, 1852, son of
D. F. and Margaret (Carson) Hamilton, natives of Ohio and of English
descent. Our subject, the fourth in a family of ten children, received
his education in the academy at Republic and Heidelberg College, at Tiffin,
Ohio. At the age of seventeen years he commenced teaching school, a voca-
tion he followed until he was twenty-two years old, and in 1873 embarked in
his present business in Attica. He was united in maiTiage, in 1872, with Clara,
daughter of David S. Jackson, and to this imion were born the following chil-
dren: Ora M., Stewai-t F. and Clara Belva. JMi-. and Mrs. Hamilton are
members of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which he has served as super-
intendent of the Sabbath-school for the past seven years. Mr. Hamilton is
representing the Ohio Mutual Life Insurance Company, and the Washington
Fire and Marine Insurance Company. In connection with his grocery busi-
ness he deals extensively in poultry.
JAMES HANNA, retired farmer, P. O. St. Stephen, prominent among
the early pioneers of Seneca County, Ohio, was born in Cumberland County,
i
VExNlCE TOWNSHIP. 1025
Penn. , January 28, 1804, son of Hugh and Elizajjeth (Orr) Hanna, natives of
Ireland. His father, a weaver by trade, immigrated to America in 1799 and
settled in Cumberland County, Penn. Our subject is the third born and the
only survivor in a family of four childi-en. His early means for obtaining an
education were limited by his location in a newly settled coimtry. In 1834 he
came to this county, entered land, and although the country then abounded
with wild o-ame, never tiu-ned his attention to hunting, but devoted his time
exclusively to farming. He has been very successful and owns 219 acres of
land on which he resides. He was married, in 1829, to Sarah, daughter of
Samuel and Ellen (Crooks) McClelland, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch
descent, and to this union were born Hugh K. , residing at Fostoria ; Samuel
McClelland (deceased); William, married and engaged in farming and teach-
ing school: James, man-ied and farming in Illinois; Sylvanus, married and
farming in Paulding County, Ohio; Thomas S., previously in business at
Bloomville, this coimty, is now taking charge of the home farm; John, farm-
ing in Wood County i^ Ohio; Martha E., wife of George Hull, of Fostoria;
Siu-ah, wife of Frank Free, a farmer, and Elizabeth, wife of Thomas AVeb-
ster. Mr. and Mrs. Hanna have together borne the hardships and privations
of pioneer life, and by industry and prudent management of their resources
have accumulated a handsome competency which will enable them to pass the
residue of their lives in ease and comfort. They are members of the Presby-
terian Church, in which Mr. Hanna has been deacon for many years. He has
served his township as school director and assessor. Politically he is a Demo-
crat.
WILLIAM HARMAN, dentist, and mayor of Attica, was born in Eeading,
Penn.. November 15, 184(3; son of Charles and Barbara Harman, natives of
Pennsylvania, and of German. descent, former of whom, a machinist by trade,
died in 1856 when William, who was the thu-d in a family of five children, all
now living, was not quite ten years old. Oujl- subject then clerked in a store
until 1863, when he enlisted in Company I, Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volun-
teer Infantry. He was shot by a sharpshooter at Cold Harbor, the musket ball
passing through his right shoulder and lodging in the right lung, where it still
remains He received an honorable discharge by order of the war department,
July 25, 1865. Eeturning home he studied dentistry at Selin's Grove, Penn.,
and in 1866 commenced to practice his profession in Indiana, where he resided
for two years; thence moved to Michigan, and here he remained tmtil 1871,
when he' came to Attica, where he still continues to practice. Mr. Harman
was married, in 1868, to Lucy GraveS; a native of Ohio, and of English
descent. She is a member of the Universalist Church at Attica. The Doctor
has supported himself since ten years of age. He obtained his education by
studying at nights and reading the newspapers, having attended school but
six weeks in his life. He was elected mayor of Attica in 1880, which position
he still fills. He has taken seven degrees in the order of F. & A. M. , and has
been through all the chairs, and is Noble Grand of the I. O. O. F. He has
been a member of these societies for fourteen years. Our subject was also
first commander of the G. A. R. He is a member of the State Dental Asso-
ciation. In politics he is a Republican.
LEVI HILLIS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this
county, October 6, 1848, son of John and Sarah (Cummins) Hillis, natives of
Maryland, and of Irish descent. His father, born in Ireland in 1806, came
to America and direct to Seneca County, Ohio, settling on a farm in Venice
Township in 1846, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1875.
He was a successful farmer, and at the time of his death owned 1 20 acres of
1026 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
land. Our subject, the ninth in a family of eleven children, was reared on
the farm, and he now owns a farm in Venice Township, whereon he resides.
He was united in marriage, in 1878, with Sophia, daughter of Martin Smeltz,
of German descent, who has always been a farmer. Politically Mr. Hillis is a
Democrat.
ANDREW HOERN, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Baden, Germany,
February "i'-*. 1828, son of Jacob and Susan (Fry) Hoern. His father, a
■ blacksmith, and who came fi-om Germany in 1849, settling in Venice Township,
this county, had two sons : Andi-ew, and Jacob, now a farmer in Michigan. Our
subject was educated in Germany, and at the age of fourteen learned black-
smithing. He worked at his trade for several years after coming to Venice
TownshTp. but has made farming the principal business of his life, having met
with marked success, and is now the owner of 300 acres of fine land in this
county, lt)(^ being in Reed Township, and the remainder, on which he resides,
in Venice Township. He was married, in 1855. to Maria Zutavern, born in
Bloom Township, this county, in 1837, daughter of Henry and Maria (Geiger)
Zutavern. also natives of Germany. Their children are Jacob and Henry
(married and residing on a farm "in Reed Township), and Margaret, Susan,
Amelia, George, Lucinda, Caroline and Laura (af home). The family are
members of the Reformed Church. Politically Mr. Hoern is a Democrat.
DAVID HOLMES, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in
Venice Township, this county, in 1843, and is the youngest of eight children.
He received his education in his native county, and was reared on the farm.
He learned the blacksmith's trade, but has made agriculture the principal
occupation of his life. He owns 250 acres of land in Huron County, Ohio,
and has the controlling interest in the home farm of 226 acres, which
he manages and on which he resides. Mr. Holmes is a Democrat. He has
served as school director and trustee of Venice Township. He took an active
interest in the Grange movement, and was Master of a lodge in that order.
His father, John Holmes, who resides with him, was born October 30, 1807, in
Jefferson County, Ohio, son of John and Sarah (Norris) Holmes, natives of
Pennsylvania, the former of whom served all through the Revolutionary war.
John Holmes, Jr.. who has been a farmer all his life, was married, in 1829, in
Carroll County, Ohio, to Sabina, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Bunton)
Hillis, and of'L'ish descent, and by her he had the following children: Eliza-
beth, wife of George D. Moore; Sarah, wife of B. F. Slough; Rebecca W.,
wife of L. Palmei-ter; Amos, a resident of Michigan; John Q., a resident of
Putnam County, Ohio; Almeda; Emaline (deceased); and David the svibject of
this sketch.
J. W. HUFFMAN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born m
Columbiana County, Ohio, August 29, 1837, and when two years of age was
brought to Venice Township, this county, by his parents, Jacob and Catherine
(Weaver) Huffman, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. They
had a family of ten children, all of whom attained maturity, J. W. being the
ninth born.' Jacob Huffman, the father of our subject, who was a farmer,
first settled in Ohio in 1825, and died in Venice Township in 1855. Our sub-
ject's brother Adam lost his life in the late war of the Rebellion. J. W., the
subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm and during the winter attended
the log schoolhouse, receiving at the age of twenty-one years a teacher's cer-
tificate. During the late civil war he enlisted, in 1861, in the Sixty-fifth Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged in 1862 on account of disability. In
July, 1863, he re "enlisted in the Eighty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He
now owns a farm of 180 acres, and has made agriculture the business of his
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 102T
life. He was married, in 1867. to Sarah L. Moore, of English and German
descent. Her father, Maurice Moore, obtained land from the Government,
the deed being signed by Gen. Jackson. Mr. and JVirs. HnfFman have five
children: Blanche, a teacher; Icedore; Ernest A. W. , born Aiigust 27, 1871,
died April 28, 1872; Ashley J. and Ross. Mr. and Mrs. Huffman and two
eldest childi-en are members of the Baptist Church, in which he is deacon.
Mr. Huffman takes a deep interest in educational matters.
MICHAEL HULL, reth-ed farmer. P. O. Attica, was born in Bedford
County, Penn.. September 7, 1807, tenth in the family of fourteen children,
of Jacob and Elizabeth (Souder) Hull; the former, a farmer, a native of
Germany, the latter a native of England. Michael Hull was reared on a
farm, receiving a common school od'acation in Pennsylvania, and has made
agriculture the business of his life. He was married, in 1836, to Barbara,
daughter of George and Betsey (Forney) Free, natives of Pennsylvania and of
German descent. This marriage has been blessed with ten children — seven
boys and three girls : Elizabeth (deceased wife of Christian Lebold) ; Joanna,
wife of Jacob Resh, brother of S. B. Resh, of Venice Township; Otha H. ,
married and farming in Henry County, Ohio; George F., a farmer near
Fostoria, Ohio; Jacob B., living on a farm in Fulton County, Ohio; John W. ;
Silas R. ; William H. ; Amanda, wife of Milo D. Benton; and A. W. Three of
the sons served in the late war of the Rebellion: Otha H. enlisted at the com-
mencement of the struggle and served till the close of the war; George F.
and Jacob B. were in the 100 days' service. Mr. Hull came to this county in
1834 and bought 560 acres of land on Section 7, in Venice Township, where he
still resides. He has been remarkably successful as a farmer and has been
able to give each of his daughters $2,000 when they were married, and to each of
his sons eighty acres of land. No stranger has ever been turned fi'om their
door empty. Mr. and Mrs. Hull were members of the Dunkard Society. The
four sons who own farms in Venice Township are as follows:
John W. Hull, who was born June 19. 1846, acquired his education in
this county and has made farming the business of his life. His residence is
one of the best in the neighborhood. He was married in Hancock County,
Ohio, in 1867, to Elizabeth, daughter of Andrew Zimmerman, of German
descent, and had six children: Celestia Ann. Joseph A., Ada L. (deceased),
Altie I. , Alfred H. and Flora Amanda. The family are members of the Eng-
lish Reformed Church.
Silas R. Hull, who resides on his farm, adjoining his father's on the west,
was born May 25, 1847, and reared on the farm in Venice Township, and re-
ceived his education in the common schools of Seneca County. He was mar-
ried, in 1872, to Anne, daughter of John and Almira (Snyder) Rogers,
former of whom, of English descent, was one of the early pioneers of this
county; latter was of German descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Silfis R. Hull were
born five children: Perry G., Edward E., Jennie Belle (deceased), David C.
and Eva Almira. In politics Mr. Hull is a Republican.
William H. Hull, whose farm is located north of his father's, was born
December 15, 1848, in Venice Township, this county, and was reared on the
farm, acquiring his education in his native county and in the academy at Re-
public, and has followed agriculture all his life. He was married, in 1872, to
Lorenia, daughter of Samuel and Lorenia (Green) Finch, of English descent.
W^illiam H. Hull is the only Democrat in his family.
A. W. Hull, the youngest of Michael Hull's childi'en, owns the home farm,
where his parents still reside. He was born October 3, 1853, and was edu-
cated in Seneca County, Ohio. He was married, in 1879, to Miss M. Lepard,
1028 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES;
daughter of Isaac and Sarah (AVoollett) Lepard. of German descent. Mr.
and Mrs. A. W. Hull are parents of kxo. B. , Ida May and Mina Belle. IVIi's.
Hull is a member of the Baptist Chui-ch in Attica. INIi-. Hull is a staunch
Republican in politics.
DAVID S. JACKSON, proprietor of saw-mill, P. O. Attica, was born in
Brooke County, Va., April 7, 1819, son of William and Sarah (Steward) Jack-
son, parents of nine children, David S. being the fourth born. His mother
was a native of Virginia, of English descent; his father, born in Pennsylvania,
of Irish descent, was a farmer and came to Crawford County, Ohio, in 1825.
Our subject received a common school education and wisely chose to follow the
honest occupation of his father. At present he is owner of ninety-two
acres of well-improved land. In 1884 IVIr. Jackson moved to Attica and em-
barked in the saw-mill business in company with his son-in-law E. D. Work,
his present partner. ]Mi\ Jackson was married, in 18-10, to Louise M. ,
daughter of Joseph Kennedy, of English descent, and to this union were
born the following childi'en: Ozro, Sarah E., Margaret J., Mary Ann, Ezi'a
and Charles. Mrs. Jackson dying in 1853, our subject was again married, this
time, in 1853, to Mrs. Margaret Ann (Fansler) Hill, a widow, by whom he
has had five children: Clara, Julia (deceased), Laura, David and Melvin. Of
these Julia was married, October 16, 1878, to E. D. Work, who was born in
Pennsylvania, September 13, 1854, and is the son of John and Mary (Doty)
Work (the issue of this union was one child, Leona). Mrs. Work died Janu-
ary 23, 1883. ISIi-. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the Reformed Church.
In politics he is a Democrat ; he served as township trustee when he resided on
the farm in Huron Countv. Ohio.
REV. W. ALLEN KEESY, minister of the United Brethi-en Church,
Attica, was born in Huron County, Ohio, July 25, 1843; son of John and
Elizabeth (Gouse) Keesy. (The name Keesy was originally spelled Geesy. )
His parents, of German origin, reared a family of ten childi'en in Huron
County, Ohio, where the father, John Keesy, a farmer, resided for many years
and died in 1859. Our subject enlisted, in 1861, in Company I, Fifty-fifth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until 1862, and participated in the follow-
ing battles and skirmishes: Moorfield. Franklin, Culpeper, Cross Keys.
Strasburg and Bull Run, in Virginia, and was discharged on account of disa-
bility; but, in 1864, he again enlisted in his country's defense, serving as a
non-commissioned oflicer in the Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with
which regiment he was present at the battles of Spring Hill, Franklin, and
two days at Nashville. He was reared on the farm, attending the common
schools, and, on his return from the army, the Normal School at Milan, Erie
Co., Ohio; commenced to teach school on his retui-n from Milan, and
taught for five terms. He was admitted as a member of the United Brethren
Church in 1864^ licensed to exhort in 1867, was admitted to the annual con-
ference in 1872, and regularly ordained in 1875. He first took charge of the
Huron Mission, next the Honey Creek Circuit, then the Shelby Station, Rich-
land Circuit, Chicago Junction (where he remained three years), thence going
to Fostoria and Clyde. He has served the conference three years as presiding
elder, two years of that time being spent in Sandusky District. He was sta-
tioned at Attica in 1883. Rev. W. A. Keesy is an able speaker, convincing
orator, a diligent worker and faithful student. He has been twice married,
first, in 1868, to Maggie J., daughter of Rev. S. Ti Lane, a minister of the
United Brethren Church. Of the three children born to this union two are
now living: Minerva and Mary. Mr. Keesy lost this wife by death in 1873,
and in 1875 he was married to Augusta Charles, by whom he has five children:
Flora, Oceola. Leona Sil vesta, and Edith and Ethel (twins).
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1029
THOMAS KEMP, farmer, P. O. New Washington, Crawford Coiinty, was
born in Washington County, Penn., October 2, 1813; son of David and Sarah
(Ward) Kemp, former "h native of Virginia, of German descent, latter born in
Pennsylvania, and of English lineage. His father, David Kemp, who, in an
early day was a cabinet-maker, came to this county in 1880, settling in the
woods of Venice Township. Our subject, the sixth in a family of twelve
children, all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, was reared on the
farm and has always followed agricultural pursuits; at present he is owner of
eighty acres of land on which he resides. He was married, in 1811, to Eliza-
beth, daughter of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore, and of nine children
born to this union seven have been school teachers: William, an attorney in
Indiana; Maurice, a carpenter and teacher, residing in Berea, Ohio; George,
a farmer and school teacher, residing in Wisconsin; David J., a merchant of
Young America, Ind. ; Hannah S., a school teacher; John L., a farmer and
teacher, residing in this county; Finley L. ; Emily J. and Frank Theodore,
a farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Kemp are members of the United Brethren Church.
Politically he is a Republican.
EDWARD KINNEY, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Scipio Township,
this county, April 3, 1833; son of Patrick and Jane (Sweney) Kinney, natives
of Ireland, who had a family of six children, five attaining maturity. His
father came from Ireland to America when a young man, and was married in
the city of Philadelphia, Penn. ; came to this county in 1829 and owned a
farm in Scipio Township where his son, Edward, who was next to the eldest
child, lived until seventeen years of age. In 1852 the subject of this sketch
started across the plains for California, remaining in the mining regions of
the Pacific coast for seven years. During this time his father lost his eye-
sight, and, on receiving the sad news, Edward, who was a dutiful son, immediately
returned and lived with his father until the latter' s death in 1873. In the
fall of the same year Edward Kinney was united in marriage with Mary A. ,
daughter of Matthew Delaney, of Irish origin, and to this union were born
two children: Anna Bertha and John F. They are members of the Catholic
Church. Mr. Kinney is owner of 100 acres of well-improved land whereon
he resides. In politics he is a Democrat.
A. W. KNIGHT, physician and surgeon, Attica, was born near Tiffin, this
county. May 31, 185G; son of Thomas "and Mary (Powell) Knight, also native
Ohioans, of English descent, who were the parents of seven children, of whom
A. W. is third. His father, a farmer, and still a resident of this county, took
great interest in educating his children, giving them the advantages of the
best schools. Our subject graduated from Wooster University in 1879, receiv-
ing the degree of B. S. , and has since had the degree of M. S. conferred upon him
by that institution. He commenced the study of medicine in the office of
Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, but after remaining there only five months entered
Miami College, Cincinnati, where he graduated in 1884. He then commenced
and has since continued practice in Attica, this county. Politically the Doctor
is a Ropu])lican.
NOAH LAPHAM, retired farmer, P.O. Attica, was among the early pioneers
of this county, where he has resided since 1820. He is a native of the State of
New York, born August 4, 1813; third in the family of ten children of Joseph
and Levina (Holland) Laj^ham, natives of Massachusetts, and of English
descent. Joseph Lapham came to Scipio Township, this county, in 1820, ob-
tained land fi-om the Government, the deed being signed by Gen. Jackson, and
here resided on the farm. He and his family traveled via the Erie Canal to
Buffalo. N. Y. , thence to Sandusky, Ohio, on lake, and from there to Venice
1030 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
Township by team, and here lived for a time in a tent. Joseph Lapham was
eighty-iive and Levina Lapham eighty-eight years old when they died. Our
subject acquired his education in his native State. When twenty-three years
old he was married to Sarah Chase, a native of Massachusetts, and of English
descent. Seven childi-en were born to this union, three now living: John M.,
who served as a soldier in the army during the late war of the Eebellion; Ada-
laide and Henry T. This wife died in 1875, and in 1876 Mr. Lapham married
Miss Ai-tie Brown, who lived but three years after. His present wife, Celia,
daughter of Russell True, was a native of New York, of English descent, and
the widow of Philo Bugbee. One of Mr. Lapham' s sons, Joseph C, was a
member of Company H. One Hundred and Fir.st Regiment Ohio Volunteer In-
fantiy, and was killed at the battle of Resaca, Ga. . May 15, 1804. Mr. Lapham
is a member of the Universalist Church. In politics he is a Republican. He
has filled the offices of assessor, trustee, school director, etc. , of this township.
He is the owner at present of 1 10 acres of farm land and some town property.
JACOB FREDERICK LEBOLD, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica,
was born in Germany, April 10, 1820, eldest child of John C. and Christianna
(Eichenhofer) Lebold, natives of Germany, who settled on a farm in Tuscara-
was County, Ohio, in 1830, and there resided until 1842, thence moving to
Section 1(V, Venice Township, this county, where John C. Lebold (the father)
bought 340 acres of land, on a portion of which he still resides: of their family
of ten children six attained maturity. Our subject has made farming the
business of his life, and at present owns a well-improved farm. He was mar-
ried, in 1855, to Rachel McKibben, daughter of James, Sr. , and Rachel (Mc-
Cord) McKibben, former of whom, a farmer, died in 1861 in this county,
where he had resided since 1834 (they were natives of Pennsylvania, of Irish
and Scotch descent). To our subject and wife was born one child — Christianna
Maria, now the wife of Frederick L. Smeltz, who is engaged in farming in
Venice Township, this county. Mrs. Lebold taught school eleven terms before
her marriage. She is a member of the Presbyterian Chui'ch. Mr. Lebold was
formerly a Whig in i)olitics, and is now a Rei^ublican.
CONRAD LEBOLD. farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Lawrence Town-
ship, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, April 2, 1839: son of John C. and Christiana
(Auchenhofer) Lebold. natives of Wiu'temberg, Germany, and a brother of
Jacob F. Lebold. His father, one of the early settlers of' this county, still re-
sides in Venice Township. Our subject was reared on the farm, educated in
the common schools and has followed agricultural pursuits to the present time.
He is the owner of 1 00 acres of land near Attica, on which he resides. He was
married, in 1855, to Lucinda, daughter of Jacob Heniy and Margaret (Geiger)
Zutavern, natives of Germany, and among the early settlers of this county. To
Mr. and Mrs. Lebold were born the following childi-en: Sherman F., Henry C,
Alvin B. and Clara Bertha. The family are members of the Lutheran Church.
In politics Mr. Lebold is a Republican.
JOHN LEBOLD, fanner and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Tus-
carawas County, Ohio, January 30, 1842: son of J. C. Lebold, a pioneer farmer,
who £till resides in Venice Township. Our subject's parents, natives of Ger-
many, moved to Seneca County when he was a child. He was reared on the
farm, acquired a common school education, and chose agriculture as his occu-
pation, at which he has been very successful, being at i3resent the owner of 120
acres of well- improved land. At the commencement of the war, in 1861, Mr.
Lebold promptly enlisted in Company A, Twenty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volun-
teer Infantry. He was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, taken prisoner,
but released on account of his wound. He participated in several engage-
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1031
ments, and after serving for three years was honorably discharged, returned
home and again took up farming. Mr. Lebold was united in marriage, in
1869, Avith Annie, daughter of Jacob Free, by whom he has two children: Earl
and Ideu. Mr. Lebold is a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a
Republican.
AVERY LEONARD, farmer, Attica, one of the early settlers of Venice
Township who still survive, was born in Washington County, Penn. , July 30,
1 798. His parents were natives of Connecticut. The father, Caleb Leonard,
was a descendant from the Puritans that landed on Plymouth Rock, and the
mother, Sarah (Hale) Leonard, was of English descent, being a daughter of
(jrideon Hale, who served under Gen. Wolfe, when he fell at the taking of
Quebec from the French. His father died at the ripe age of eighty-seven, in
Washington County. Penn., and the mother in her eighty-second year, in Seneca
County, Ohio. Our subject received his education in the common schools, and
early learned the blacksmith trade. He was married, in 1820, to Nancy,
daughter of Samuel Smith, also a native of Washington County, Penn. , being
of German and Spanish descent, and who died in 1872. in Seneca County,
( )hio. To this union were born nine children — seven sons and two daughters :
Samuel H. , Sarahann, William F. , Verden W. , Hiram S. , Levi, Avery H. ,
Jonathan and Sarah Angeline. Verden W. was killed by a falling tree in his
eleventh year; Sarahann, died in her seventeenth year, and Sarah Angeline, at
the age of three months. The other six are still living — two in this county
and four in Huron Coiuity — all having been engaged in farming a part of their
lives. Three are still active farmers, and three are ministers of the Gospel.
Avery Leonard came to Venice Township, this county, with his family, in the
year 1 834, and settled in the woods, where his children were educated in the
log-schoolhouse. In politics the father and sons are all Republicans. The sub-
ject of this memoir in religion was raised a Presbyterian, and on Christmas
day, 1823, under a deep conviction of sin, he gave his hand to the Methodist
Episcopal Church as a seeker of the pearl of great price, and in the month of
June, 1821. being in his twenty-sixth year, after seven months of terrible strug-
gle, he realized that he was made a new creature in Christ Jesus. He remained
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church until the Methodist Protestant
broke off from the mother church, when he became a member of the Methodist
Protestant Church. About a year after locating in this township, he and his
companion, with five others, united in forming a Methodist Protestant class in
the community where they lived, since which time he has changed his church
relation to that of the United Brethren, where he now holds his membership.
Mr. Leonard is now in his eighty-eighth year, enjoying a good old age with
his son, W. F., with whom he makes his home.
SAMUEL H. LEONARD, farmer, near Attica, was born in Deersville,
Harrison Co., Ohio. He is a son of Avery and Nancy (Smith) Leonard.
In 1834 he immigrated to this county with his father. Mr. Leonard owns the
farm settled by his father, and upon it he now resides. Being the eldest of
nine children his education was somewhat neglected, his services being required
in the duties of the farm — his instruction in the schoolroom being given
principally before the age of nine. Farming has been the calling of his life,
and he is the owner of 530 acres of land, 1 GO acres being in Dakota. October
26, 1854, records the event of his marriage with Mary M. Baily, who was born
in London. England, and was the daughter of Benjamin and Ann (Powel)
Baily. Mr. Baily was a member of the "Great East India Tea Company."
After the dissolution of the company he came to this country and settled in
this township in 1836, where he spent the greater part of the remainder of his
1032 BIOGP.APHICAL SKETCHES:
life. The childi-en of Mr. and ]VIi-s. Leonard are in the order of their respective
ages: Avery F., who is married and resides near Pierre, Dak. ; Benjamin L. ,
married and farming in Crawford County, Ohio ; Nancy J. , wife of Victor
Neikirk, farmer of this township; Walter Lincoln, killed by the falling of u
hayfork July 22, 1882, and Samuel E. ; also Mary Ida, Minnie E. and Delia
M.", who are with their parents. In politics jVIr. Leonard is a Republican.
In ecclesiastical connection Mrs. Leonard is a member of the United Brethren.
W. r. LEONARD, farmer, Attica, was born in Harrison County, Ohio,
November 16, 1825. His parents, Avery and Nancy (Smith) Leonard, were
natives of Washington County, Penn. Our subject came to Venice Township,
this county, with his parents, when a small boy of nine years, when this coun-
try was a dense wilderness, where was heard the howl of the wolf, growl of
the bear, and the ' ' yowling ' ' of the wild cat, while before them stood the stxu'dy
forest tree that would yield only to persistent toil. His educational facilities
were very limited, and being reared on the farm, he has steadily followed agri-
cultm-al piu-suits, being at present owner of 101 acres of well improved land.
He has also devoted much attention to the handling of imported horses, and
has paid as much as $2,000 for one horse. W. F. Leonard was married, in
1849, to Margaret Jane Moore, daughter of Maurice Moore, a native of Hun-
terdon, N. J., and Hannah (Davis) Moore, of Wales, the former of whom died
in 1883, in his eighty-sixth year, and the latter in 1882. in her eighty-third
year. Mrs. Leonard' s parents came to this county and settled on a farm in
this township in 1834; she is a member of the United Brethren Church, and
has been for more than forty years. W. F. Leonard, during the late war of the
Rebellion, enlisted, in 1863,* in Coinpany C, One Hundi-ed and Sixty-fourth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served for 100 days. In politics he is a Repub-
lican.
JOHN LEPARD, P. 0. Attica, prominent among the representative farm-
ers and pioneers of Venice Township, was born in Fairfield County. Ohio. Feb-
ruary 23, 1828, son of Isaac and Nancy (Huffman) Lepard, natives of Virginia,
of Grerman descent. His father, a farmer, came to this county in 1830, and
settled in the woods of Reed Township, traveling hither by means of a foiu'-horse
team and an old-fashioned Pennsylvania wagon, in which the family lived until
a rough log-cabin was erected; there they cleared a farm and lived for many
years. Isaac and Nancy Lepard reared a family of eight children, of whom
seven are still living. Our subject received his education in Reed Township
and grew lap on the farm. His father dying when he was quite young, the
support of the family largely devolved on him, and being wonderfully
attached to his widowed mother and his sister and brother, he devoted himself
to their support until he was twenty-seven years of age. He then commenced
life on his own account, without a dollar, working first on a farm by the day,
and as a result of indu.stry, he is now the owner of 160 acres of well-improved
land which is well-stocked. He was married, in 1865, to Harriet H., daughter
of Samuel Hoil, and a native of New York, of English descent. To this union
were born Mary (deceased), Eunice, Ira, Emma, Hattie and Flora. Mrs.
Lepard is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Lepard has served as school
director of Venice Township for several years, and has been a resident here for
fifty five years.
J. W. LINK, farmer and stock-raiser and proprietor of the Link Saw-mill,
Attica, a son of Jacob and Mary Ann (Oering) Link, natives of Germany, was
born on the American side of the ocean as his parents were coming across fi'om
Germany. They first settled in Columbiana County. Ohio, in 1833, and in 1838
came to this county and entered 210 acres of land, on which they spent the
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1033
remaining i^ortion of their lives, the father dying in 1841. Our subject, the
youngest of six children born to this couple, was reared on the farm and for
the past thirty-three years has operated the saw-mill in connection with his
farming interests. He is owner of 300 acres of land, 20U being in Indiana.
Mr. Link was married, in 1S60, to Mary Ann, daughter of Ludwick and Rebecca
(Middleworth) rriedley,the former a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch origin, the
latter a native of New Jersey, of English descent. To Mr. and INIi-s. Link have
been born seven childi-en, six of whom are now living: Benjamin F., a carpen-
ter; Joseph Jackson, a school teacher; C. M., who also holds a teacher's cer-
tificate; Sarah Emily. Barbara Ellen and Amanda Rebecca, are attending dis-
trict school fi-om home. Julia is deceased. Mrs. Link is a member of the
German Reformed Church. Mr. Link has been trustee of Venice Township for
four years. Politically he is a Democrat.
REV. AV. E. LYON, A. M., Attica, was born in Napoli, Cattaraugus
County. N. Y., April 2, 1827, and, being the son of a Baptist minister, his
early days were spent on a farm, attending the common schools and teach-
ing in the same. In 1855 he graduated from the collegiate department of
Madison University at Hamilton, N. Y. Li June. 1856. he married Miss
Sabrina A. Chamberlain, of Grafton. Ohio, and in the following December he
was ordained pastor of the Baptist Chui'ch in Seville. Medina Co., Ohio.
Since his ordination he has been constantly employed in the work of the minis-
try with exception of three short intervals between pastorates, having to this
date lost only two Sabbaths on account of his own health. His pastorates
have been in Northern Ohio with the exception of one at Gallipolis. Ohio, and
one at Saginaw, Mich. He has baptized, into the fellowship of the several
churches he has served, 231 persons, of whom four are now actively employed as
Baptist ministers, one is studying with a view to the ministry, and one is
president of a college. Mr. and IVli's. Lyon are the parents of foiir daughters:
Mary E., Amie L., E. Jennie and Grace G. Two of the number are married;
one is teaching; the youngest is a student in Granville College. Rev.
W. E. Lyon's present pastorate commenced November 1, 1881.
GEORGE S. McKEE, merchant and postmaster at Carrothers, was born
in Crawford County. Ohio, July 2, 1841; son of James and Eliza (Moore)
McKee, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish descent. James McKee
was a tanner in early life, but later has been a farmer, and harv resided for
over half a century on a farm in Crawford County, Ohio. Oui- subject, the
eldest of five children, w^as educated in his native county. During the late
war of the Rebellion he enlisted in 1862, at the age of twenty-one, in Company
E, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving as a non-commis-
sioned officer, and was honorably discharged in June, 1865. He participated
in several severely fought battles, and to use his own words ' ' was a very
lucky boy,'" being slightly woxmded three times, but never disabled. His reg-
iment m'issed but one battle (Mission Ridge) in which the Army of the Cum-
berland took part, and by referring to the history of this regiment it will be
seen that oui* subject was in many of the most sanguinary struggles of the
war. The regiment never retreated but once — at Chickamauga. On returning
home Mr. McKee engaged in farming, and teaching school in the winters,
until 1881, when he sold his farm, purchased property at Carrothers and em-
Ijarked in his present business. He was maiTied, in 1872, to Levina, daugh-
ter of Michael (a farmer) and Sarah (Helm) Nigh, of German descent. To
this union six children were born : Luella, Bertha (deceased), Eva (deceased),
Richard (deceased), Sadie and an infant. Mrs. McKee is a member of the
Methodist Church. In politics Mr. McKee is a Republican. He took an
1034 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
active interest in the Grange movement, and served two years as Worthy Mas-
ter in that organization.
WILLIAM McPHERSON, retired merchant and farmer, Attica, was born
in Scotland, February (J, 1798. His father. Donald McPherson, was a mer-
chant in Scotland, and there spent his life. William, however, was ambitious
to see the world, and when eighteen years old left his native land and settled
near Halifax, N. S. , where he followed the occnpation of a peddler, but, being
twice robbed of his money and goods, concluded to leave that place, which he
did in 1815. coming to Baltimore, Md.. where he settled. There he lived with
a merchant, and by industry and economy managed to get a start in the world.
He was united iu marriage with Ann Scarf, of English descent, and they reared
a family of four sons and two daughters. This wife dying in 1814. our sub-
ject married, in 1815, Almeda Thatcher, who is still living. Mr. McPherson
came to Seneca Coiinty, Ohio, in 1828, bought 800 acres of land, conducted
a store at Caroline several years, and w^as very successful in business. Though
he retired fi'om mercantile life in 1852, he has since been loaning money and
attending to his own affairs.
O. J. McPHEESON. justice of the peace. P. O. Attica, was born in Craw-
ford County, Ohio, in 1840. and is a son of William and Ann (Scarf) McPher-
son. He was reared on the farm, receiving his education in tihe common
schools and at Rei)ublic Academy. He learned the trade of tanner and cur-
rier, which he followed for a time, but has been principally engaged in farm-
ing. He was married, in 1862, to Margaret J. . daughter of Peter Swartz.
born in Ohio, and of English descent. To this union were born the following
childi-en: Anna. Allie. Eva. William. Ida, Cora. Nina and Adda. Mr. and
]Mi*s. McPherson are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Our sub-
ject' s father was one of the first movers in organizing a church of this denomi-
nation in Attica, and has always taken a deep interest in all that pertains to
the same. He (the father) has been a Whig and Republican all his life, but
O. J. only voted with his father when he felt the right man was on the ticket.
He has served as justice of the peace of Venice Township for seven years.
A. J. MEYERS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this
County, July 8, 1845, son of Henry and Rebecca (Free) Meyers, who were
parents of seven children, A. J. being the third born. His father, a pioneer
of this coimty, was a successful farmer, and was owner of over 2,000 acres of
land at his death, which occun-ed in 1884. Our subject was I'eared on the
farm, educated in his native county, and wisely chose the occupation of his
father as his own. He now i^ossesses the farm on which he resides, compris-
ing 280 acres, and 250 acres in Nebraska. He was married. November 2.
1880, to Mary R., daughter of Henry H. and Parthena (Cole) Bathrick, the
former of Scotch and English descent, the latter of English lineage. Our sub-
ject's father, Hemy Meyers, "tailor," as he was familiarly known to all, was
born in the village of Oberendengen. Switzerland. April 26, 1808. He was
reared in the faith of the German Reformed Church, and took his first communion
when he was seventeen years old. At the age of twenty-one he left his native
land and came to America, in company with his elder brother, Jacob, who bore
the expense of his passage to Philadelphia, where he resided six years. His
bi'other, soon after arriving in Philadelphia, became sick and was advised by
his physicians to retui'n to his former home, as the only means of recovery.
Henry, poor and penniless, begged in the streets, with uncovered head, of the
people of that city, the required amount to pay his brother's passage back to
Switzerland, promising to each one who contributed that he would return the
sum again as soon as he could earn the monev, which he did to each one with
VENICE TOAVNSHIP. 1035
the exception of one person, who refused to accept of it. AVhile living in Phil-
adelphia he worked at tailoring for a livelihood, receiving as remnneration
for his services the sum of 11.50 per week and his board. After working six
years for one man at the trade in Philadelphia, he left there on the 10th of
July, 1835, and came by canal to Sandusky. Ohio, arriving on the 29th of the
same month, walked to Attica, on the old turnpike, where he had previouslv
purchased wild land. Six years after his arrival in Seneca County he worked
at his trade in Tiffin, after which he worked five years in the village of Attica,
using the money thus earned for improvements on his land. He came to this
country a poor Dutch lad, without a cent in his pocket, a stranger in a strange
land, without a single friend to greet his coming. He set to work with per-
severence and a true pioneer spirit to amass a competency. Out of his small
earnings in Philadelphia he saved a sufficient siim to purchase 160 acres of
land, lying near Attica, where he ever after resided until the time of his death
in 1884. His acres nujnbered 2,160, of which 1,280 acrQg were in Nebraska,
the rest in Ohio, all but 160 acres in this township. In 1835 he brought
the first $5 in gold seen in Tiffin. Five years after he came to Seneca County.
July 11, 1840, he was married to Miss Rebecca Free, sister of the late John
Free. By patient, honest industry and frugality he breasted the waves of life,
and succeeded in accumulating a fortime. Providence seemed to smile on his
every effort, and by honest toil his acres broadened until they became a noble
heritage, and he took rank among the solid men of Seneca County. He was a
strong-minded man, of correct habits, and an inveterate reader. A man of reten-
tive memory, his mind was a store-house of useful knowledge; a lover of his-
tory, he made himself familiar with the events not only of his own, but those
of other nations. In politics he was proud to bear the title of a Democrat,
with the significance of its earlier and original simplicity, and was a believer in
the great universal faith of the positive laws that govern the universe. To Mr.
and Mrs. Henry Meyers were born seven children: Mary J., deceased wife
of A. B. Brant, a grain merchant; George W., a farmer, 'who died April 17.
1860; A. J., our subject; Sarah E., wife of James E. Carpenter; T. J., a farmer
in this township; W. T., a farmer of Hancock County, Ohio; M. Ellen, wife of
A. J. Coofman. a physician of Tiffin, Ohio.
M. H. MILLS, physician, Attica, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in
February, 1846, the eldest of the four children born to Simeon H. (a miller by
trade) and Amanda (Muzzy) Mills, natives of New York and of English de-
scent. Our subject acquired his literary education in the schools of Cleveland.
Ohio, then attended the Homoeopathic College of Cleveland, graduating in
1872. He was married, in 1873, to Sylva Bradford, a descendant of William
Bradford, the first governor of Plymouth Colony and governor of Massachusetts,
and to this union were born two children : Clara and Ethel. The Doctor com-
menced to practice his chosen profession at Salem. Ohio, and in 1877 he came
to Attica, this county, where he has been in active practice since, having won
for himself many warm friends. He is a member of the State Medical Society.
In politics he is a Republican.
MAURICE MOORE (deceased), one of the early settlers of Venice Town-
ship, and a farmer by occupation, was born in Hunterdon County, N. J. ,• July
1 5, 1797. His parents were natives of Switzerland, and lived and died in Hun-
terdon County, N. J. The subject of this memoir was educated in the common
schools, and was brought up a farmer. He was married, in 1819, in Hunterdon
County, N. J., to Hannah Davis, a native of Wales, and to them were born
thirteen children — six girls and seven boys— one of whom died in childhood;
four enlisted and served in the late war for the Union ; two of them served 1 00
1036 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
days each, one tliree years, and one gave his life for his country. Maurice
Moore settled in Venice Townshi}), this county, with his family, in 1S84, when
the country was a wild forest, with only the advantages of a new country to
educate their children in. At the organization of the Methodist Protestant
Chvu'ch in 1835, Mrs. Moore became one of the original seven members, joined
by her husband in a few years. They remained members of the same class and
society until death took them fi'om labor to reward.
DAVID B. MOOKE, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township,
this county, December 4, 1838. son of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore,
the former a native of New Jersey, of German descent, the latter a native of
Wales. His father, Maurice Moore, a farmer by occupation, came to Seneca
County, Ohio, and settled in Venice Township in 1834. Our subject's parents
died in 1883. They were members of the Methodist Church, of which the
father had been class leader; they reared a family of thirteen childi'en, twelve
attaining maturity, of whom our subject is the tenth. Maurice Moore owned
a farm of 160 acres of valuable land, which he sold in 1868. He purchased, in
1866, twenty acres of land adjoining the town of Attica (two acres and house
being inside the corporation), moving there that same year, and this property
he owned till his death. Our subject was reared on the farm, attending the
district school, and engaged in farming until he was twenty-three years old.
when he enlisted in Company C. One Hundred and Twenty-third Regiment
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which company he was a non-commissioned oiBcer.
He participated in most of the battles in which his regiment engaged and with
it was captured in 1863. He was a prisoner at Belle Isle one month, then
was exchanged and served until the close of the war in 1865. Since his return
home he has followed agricultural pursuits and now owns 114 acres of well-
improved land. Mr. Moore was married, in 1866, to Eliza Ann, daughter of
Philip and Hannah (Croninger) Upp, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, re-
spectively, and of German descent. To this union were born the following chil-
dren : Florence. Willard V. , Bertha lone, Frank B. , Hannah M. . Mabel B. ,
Bernice Belle and Edna Grace. IVIi". Moore is much interested in educational
matters, and has served his township as school du-ector for several terms. He
was a member of the township board for several years. He is a member of the
G. A. R. In politics is a Republican.
HENRY F. IVIYERS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Switzerland. April
10, 1822. son of Jacob and Fanny (Werder) Myers, also natives of Switzerland, who
immigrated to Ohio in 1829. and came to this county in 1831 ; they were par-
ents of eight children, of whom Heniy F. is second. Our siibject's father, a
wealthy, influential farmer, helped build the first log schoolhouse in Venice
Township, and there Henry F. received his education. The subject of this
sketch was married, in 1848, to Mary Meyers (no relative however); her father's
name was Jacob Meyers; he was a native of Switzerland. Oui* subject and
wife have two children now living: Frank C. and Alice, wife of Hiram Barnes.
Mr. and jMrs. INIyers are members of the Universalist Church. In politics he
is a Republican; has been school director and trustee of the township.
FRANK C. MYERS, a member of the firm of Myers k Keller, diy goods,
notions and clothing. Attica, was born in Seneca County, Ohio. Januaiy 28,
1860, son of Heni'v F. Myers, an early settler of Venice Townshij), this county,
and prominent farmer and successful business man. Our subject, the third in
a family of five children, three of whom are deceased, received his education in
this county, and lived on the farm with his parents until eighteen years of age,
when he engaged as clerk in a dry goods store for four years at Attica. He
then embarked in his j)resent business. He and his partner speak the GeiTaan
VENICE TOAVNSHIP. 1037
and English languages. Mr. Myers was married, in 1881, to Ida M. Carson,
a native of this county, and daughter of J. W. Carson, of English descent.
Mr. and Mrs. Myers are members of the Universalist Church at Attica. Polit-
ically he is a Republican.
JOHN PHILLIPS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. St. Stephen, was born
in Germany, March U, 1826; son of Michael and Eaf E. (Shebide) Phillips,
who came fi'om Germany to America, and settled on a farm in Huron County,
Ohio, in 1837, and reared a family of eight children, of whom John is the
second. Our subject's education was mostly obtained in Germany, though he
attended school for a few months after coming here to learn the English
language. He remained with his parents on the farm until he attained his
majority, when his father bought him fifty acres of wild land in Huron County.
Mr. Phillips, having made farming the vocation of his life, has met with
marked success, and is now owner of 400 acres of well-improved land. He was
united in marriage, in 1850, with Catherine Gross, whose parents were also
natives of Germany, and they have five sons and five daughters : John, Lewis,
Joseph, Martin, Mary, Jacob, Fanny, Anna, Ella and Matilda. They are all
members of the church. In politics Mr. Phillips is a Democrat.
MARTIN PHILLIPS, merchant, Carrothers, was born in Huron County,
Ohio, November 6, 1857; son of John and Catherine (Gross) Phillips, natives
of Germany. His father, a farmer, came to America when a young man, .and
was married in Huron County, Ohio; his family consisted of five sons and five
daughters. Our subject, the eighth born, received his education in the com-
mon schools of this county, and followed his father's occupation (farming) until
1879, when he came to Carrothers and embarked in the agricultural implement
business, in which he has since continued. He bought a general store in 1884,
and since then has conducted both businesses. Mr. Phillips married, in 1883,
Bertha, daughter of Joseph Meier, and of German descent. Mr. and Mi's.
Phillips are members of the Roman Catholic Church. Politically he is a
Democrat.
S. B. RESH, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Franklin
County, Penn., July 29, 1846; son of Abraham and Julia Ann (Brumbaugh)
Resh, of English descent, natives of Franklin County, Penn. , and Washington
County, Md. , respectively. His father, a farmer by occupation, and for many
years a local minister of the "Church of God," came to this county in 1847,
and settled on the farm where S. B. now resides; his family consisted of three
children: John, who died in Pennsylvania in his fourteenth year; J. H. , who
is tiaarried and farming in Henry County, Ohio (by profession he is a teacher,
and he taught school twenty-two terms, five terms in the schools of this coun-
ty), and S. B. Our subject acquired his education in the schools of Venice
Township. He was married in this county. May 24, 1870, to Catherine A. ,
daughter of Jacob (a farmer) and Mary (Sell) Lebold, natives of Germany.
This union has been blessed with one child — Minnie Myrtle. Mrs. Resh is a
member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Resh has devoted his entire time to
farming and stock-raising, now owning a fine farm of 154 acres, and he is a
model farmer. Politically he is a Republican.
JOHN ROGERS, P. O. Attica, a pioneer farmer of Seneca County, was
born in England, in March, 1819, son of Stephen and Jane (Rogers) Rogers,
also natives of England. His father, a blacksmith by trade, came to America
i:i 1818, and settled eighteen miles south of Baltimore, Md., but in 1837 came
to Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest of a family of nine chil-
dren, was reared on the farm. There were but few schools in those days in
this county, and his educational privileges were limited to one month's attend-
59
1038 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
ance at the niglit school. He early became attached to hunting pursuits, and
frequently staid out all day and night rather than give up the chase. For
many years he killed from twenty to thirty deer each winter, and other game
in proportion. He was married, in 1845, in Venice Township, to Almira Sny-
der, a native Ohioan and daughter of Jacob and Mary (Prouse) Snyder, who
were of Dutch descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Rogers were born following chil-
dren: William; Mary M., wife of Edward R. Hillis; Anne, wife of Silas E.
Hull; Levina, wife of Hiram McGloffin; Mary' J. , wife of Lafayette Hastier:
Daniel, married and residing at home; Amos C, at home, and Isabella;
IVIi-s. Rogers is a member of the "United Brethren Chiu-ch. j\ir. Rogers has
been a very successful farmer, owning at one time 220 acres, and he still owns
140 acres, on which he now resides. He has been a great wood-chopper in his
time, and thinks he has cleared, with his own hands, 100 acres of heavily tim-
bered land in Venice Township. He has served as school director. Politically
he is a Republican.
LEONARD SACHS, merchant, P. O. Attica, was born in Germany, Decem-
ber 25, 1838, son of John and Margaret (Smith) Sachs, also Germans. His
father,' a tailor and a farmer by occupation, spent his life in his native land.
Om* subject, the eldest in a family of live children, received his education in
Germany. After the death of John Sachs (our subject's father) his widow
came to America, bringing her family with her, and located in Newark, N. J.,
where our ' subject went to school for a few months and studied the English
language. He then commenced to work on the Lehigh & Morrow Canal.
In 185^2 the family moved to Crawford County. Ohio, and fi'om 1852 to 1859
om- subject helped to make brick, and made potash, and also worked on the
farm. In 1859 he came to Caroline, this county, with A. Whitaker, a di-over
and merchant, and here was employed by him. In 1862 he embarked in his
present business, keeping a general stock of dry goods, groceries, etc. , etc. ,
and has met with success. "Six. Sachs was married, in 1863, to Caroline,
daughter of J. C. Lebold, by whom he has three childi-en: Franklin Otto.
Menzo Emerson and Emma Lusseta. Mr. and Mrs. Sachs are members of the
Lutheran Church, in which he has been trustee and treasurer. Politically he
is a Democrat.
SEBASTIAN SENN, Attica, a prominent pioneer of this county and a rep-
resentative farmer and stock-raiser, is a native of Switzerland, born January
20, 1828. His father emigrated fi-om Switzerland to America in 1838, and
settled on a farm in Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest of seven
childi-en, resided with his parents on the farm until fifteen years of age. He
then learned the miller s trade, an occupation he followed in connection with
farming in Pulaski and Carroll Counties, Ind., fi'om 1849 to 1863, since which
time he has devoted himself to his present business, meeting with marked suc-
cess. His farm, on which he resides, consists of 165 acres of land, well
improved and stocked. Mr. Senn was married, in Ohio, in 1852, to Miss
Louise, daughter of Jacob and Maria (Sickle) Meyers, the former a native of
Switzerland, the latter of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. To Mr. and
Mrs. Senn were born, in Indiana, four childi-en. all living at home: Frank,
Lizzie, John and Maria. IMr. Senn is a prominent member of the Catholic
Church in Attica, and was a member of the building committee when it was
erected, and has always given liberally to its support. Politically he is a Dem-
ocrat.
JACOB SHERMAN, a native of Germany, was born January 26, 1819.
and is the youngest of the nine children born to William and Elizabeth
(Shaffer) Sherman. He received his education in the common schools, and
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1039
learned the trade of Aveaver iu his native land. He came to America in 1847.
and same year settled in Attica, this county. He was man-ied in America to
Catherine Hachtle, also a native of Germany, and by this union were born
four children. Mr. and Mrs. Sherman are members of the Lutheran Church,
of which he has been trustee and Sabbath -school superintendent.
GEORGE SHERMAN, harness-maker, Attica, was born in Attica, thi.s
county, May 4, 18G2; son of Jacob and Catherine (Hachtle) Sherman, of Atti-
ca. Our subject is the third born in a family of four children. He was edu-
cated iu the schools of his native town, and learned harness-making. In 1882
he embarked in business on his own account, and is meeting with success. He
is a Republican in politics.
J. M. SILCOX, merchant, Attica, was born in Reed Township, this coun-
ty, January T), 1831; son of Alonzo and Mary (King) Silcox, natives of New
York State and of English descent; former of whom, who was a farmer, only
lived to be thirty-five years old. Our subject, the second in a family of three
children, attended common school six years, and this constituted all his school-
ing. He worked on the farm till twelve years old and then was a clerk for
William Rininger ten years. He afterward moved to Huron County, and had
a half interest in a store with his employer with whom he continued two and
one half years, then sold out and embarked in the dry goods business at West
Lodi, Ohio, where he continued for four years. In 18G1 he sold this business
and came to Venice Township and bought a farm which he worked nearly two
years; then sold it and pui'chased the store of William Rininger. which he car-
ried on alone for one year, when his former partner and old employer bought a
half interest. Mr. Silcox is nmning the store and has full charge of the busi-
ness. He is a first-class business man, enjoying the fullest confidence of his
partner, and having many warm friends and very few, if any, enemies. Mr.
Silcox was man-ied, in 1859, to Zilla, daughter of Seth Read." a farmer, and of
English descent, and to this union have been born the following children:
Belle, wife of O. A. Smith ; Ella, now attending college, and Frank B. , at
school. Mr. and IVIi-s. Silcox are members of the Universalist Chm-ch, of which
he is treasui-er. In politics he is a Republican. He served as a member of the
town council several times, has been a member of the school board for four-
teen years and president of that board for six years.
MARTIN SMELTZ is a son of Peter Smeltz who came fi-om Germany and
settled in Pennsylvania when our subject was only seven years old. Peter
Smeltz afterward moved to Carroll County, Ohio, and settled on a farm where
Martin grew to manhood. He, Martin Smeltz, was among the early settlers of
this county where he followed the occupation of farming. He was' man-ied to
Christiana Lebold and reared a family of eight children.
MARTIN SMITH, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. New Washington, Craw-
ford County, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, July 2*2, 1834; son of
John and Mary (Weaver) Smith, natives of Washington County, Penn. , and
of Dutch descent. His father, who was a farmer by occupation," came to Sen-
eca County, Ohio, in 1838, and settled in Venice Township, where he spent
the remainder of his life, dying in 1882. Our subject, the fifth in a family of
seven childi-en, acquired his education in the log schoolhouse. He remained
with his parents on the farm until the breaking out of the war of the Rebel-
lion, when he enlisted in Company C. Sixty- fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer
Infantry. He was in the forty-two battles in which his regiment participated,
and at one time was under fire for ninety days. He was wounded at the bat-
tle of Stone River, and after a service of three years, one month and thirteen
days was honorably discharged. The first year after returning home he
1040 BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCHES:
worked at the carpenter' s trade, since when he has been farming. He now
owns a line farm, comprising ninety-three acres of land. Mr. Smith was mar-
ried, in 1868, to Fannie, daughter of James and Kebecca (Overholser) Eobin-
son, the former born in "Washington County, Penn., July 8, 1808. the latter
in Westmoreland County, Penn., January 7, 1815. They came to Huron
County, Ohio, in 1838, and reared a family of live children. Mrs. Smith is a
member of the United Brethren Church. Politically our subject is a Repub-
lican.
SAMUEL SPEAKER, farmer and carpenter, P. O. Attica, was born in
Columbiana County, Ohio, July 20, 1880; son of Samuel and Hannah (Har-
per) Speaker, the former born in Pennsylvania of German parents, the latter
a native of Virginia of "Welsh descent. They reared a family of twelve chil-
di-en. Our subject's father, who was a miller, came to Seneca County, Ohio,
in 1840, and for a time worked at his trade, but eventually pursued farming;
he was among the first settlers in Venice Township, and died in 1868; he was
a Democrat in politics, and served as justice of the peace of Venice Township.
Our subject, the fifth born in the family, was reared on the farm and learned
the carpenter' s trade, which he has followed, together with farming, all through
life. He was married, in 1851, to Caroline, daughter of John Bait, and of
German descent, and to this union were born the following children: Martha
Ellen, wife of Alvin Cheny; Harriet F., wife of Simeon Stout, and JefPerson,
a resident of Caroline, Ohio. Mr. Speaker is a Democrat in politics, and has
served as trustee of Venice Township.
I. A. SPENCER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Washington Township,
Richland Co., Ohio, . November 21, 1828, son of Huckkins and Nancy (Bing-
ham) Spencer, latter a native of Ireland. Huckkins Spencer, a farmer, of En-
glish descent, born in Maine, settled on a farm in this county in 1834. Our
subject, the eldest of a family of ten childi-en, was reared on the farm, receiv-
ing a limited education in the common schools of Venice Township, and has
followed agricultural piu'suits through life. At the death of his father, who
was accidentally shot, in 1851, he was appointed administrator of the estate.
and has since taken care of the family. Mr. Spencer has been very successful
and now owns a farm comprising 111 acres of land. He was maiTied first, in
1852, to Catherine Mechener, by whom he had the following children: Mary
J., widow of Dr. J. C. Myers; Emma E., wife of Scott N. Bruner, of Chi-
cago, HI. ; Anna and Sherman. Mrs. Spencer died in 1864. She was a mem-
ber of the Free- Will Baptist Church. The year of his wife's demise Mr.
Spencer enlisted in the United States Regulars and served 100 days as Foiu-th
Duty Sergeant, Company C. November 25, 1865, he was married to his pres-
ent wife, Emeline. daughter of Daniel Dunahay, and to this union were born
Ella and Jennie. Mrs. Spencer is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church.
Mr. Spencer is a Republican in politics. He has passed all the chairs of the
I. O. O. F.
JOHN W. STEIGMEYER, farmer, P. O. Attica, is a son of Frederick
Steigmeyer, who was born in Switzerland, and there received his schooling.
Frederick Steigmeyer' s parents were Dominicus and Barbara (Meyer) Steig-
meyer, also natives of Switzerland. Fred. Steigmeyer came to America in
1831 and settled in Pennsylvania, where his father worked at the carpenter's
trade for six years. He came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1836, and in 1837
retiu-ned to Switzerland and there married Elizabeth Senn, retru-ning to Seneca
Coiinty the same year. To this union were born the following children: John
W., FredH. (a resident of Attica) and Ehzabeth (wife of John Buchman, a
prominent farmer living near Tiffin. Ohio). John W. Steigmeyer, the subject
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1041
of this sketch, was born in Venice Township, this county, January 4, 1888,
and was reared on the farm, acquiring his ediication in the schools of his na-
tive county. He has proved himself to be a successful farmer, and now owns
a fine place consisting of 160 acres of land. He was married, in 1808, to
Mary E. , daughter of Henry Seiger, a farmer, and of German descent. They
have three children: Flora A., Henry F. and Cecilia. Mr. Steigmeyer has
served his township as trustee. In politics he is a Democrat.
M. C. STEINMETZ, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. St. Stephen, was
born in France September 29, 1829, son of Martin and Elizabeth (Baltz)
Steinmetz, also French people, who immigrated to America in 1881 (being six
months making the journey), and settled on a farm in Stark County, Ohio, but
moving in 1887 on a farm in Venice Township, this county; the former, who
was a shingle-maker in France, after coming to America followed farming.
Our subject's parents raised a family of nine children, of whom M. C. is the
sixth born. Our subject was reared and acquired his education in this county,
and worked on the farm until nineteen years old. He then learned the car-
penter and millwright trades, which he followed (most of the time in this coun-
ty), and with more than average success, for eighteen years. Since then he has
devoted his entire attention to farming. He has met with marked success, and
is the owner of two well-improved farms, one comprising^ seventy-eight and
three-quai-ters acres, and the other (where he resides) 186 acres. When he
started out for himself Mr. Steinmetz worked for |8 a month, and what he has
accumidated has been obtained mostly by his own exertions. Our subject has
been twice married; first, in 1852, to Mary E., daughter of Philip Falter, a
native of Germany, and who died in 1881. The children born to this union
are John C, Philip, Mary, Christena, Celia, Clement, Louise, Anthony, Law-
rence and Maria. The first five mentioned are married, and are useful citi-
zens. Mr. Steinmetz was married, on second occasion, January 1, 1885, to
Magdalena, daughter of Henry and Freniga (Wagner) Wattz, natives of Ger-
many. Mr. and Mrs. Steinmetz and family are members of the Catholic
Church, of which he has been a trustee for thirty- four years, and he has also
been a member of the church council. In politics he is a Democrat. He has
served as trustee of Venice Township for six years, and as assessor for two
yeai's.
CAPT. AVILLIAM STEPHENSON, grandfather of Prof. William H.
Stephenson, a teacher and carpenter, was born in Washington County, Penn. ,
in 1784; was raised on a farm, and received his education in the common
schools and subscription schools of Washington County. He was a very suc-
cessful teacher, having taught three years in his own house; left the school to
raise a company in Belmont County,' Ohio, to go to the war of 1812, serving
all through it, marching with his men across the State from St. Clairsville to
Lake Erie; took active part through all the campaign at Detroit and Fort
Stephenson (Croghan),and came back home very much broken in health. Capt.
Stephenson moved, in 1821, with his family to Crawford County, Ohio, where
he took an active part in opening iip the new country; purchased land of the
Government, and cleared up a very fine farm three miles west of Bucyrus, where
he died about the year 1880. Capt. Stephenson took an active part in church
and educational matters, and everything for the good of society. He de-
parted this life very highly esteemed by his many fi'iends and acquaintances.
PROF. WILLIAM H. STEPHENSON, farmer and teacher, Attica, was
born in Venice Township, this county, July 13, 1842, son of John A. and
Sarah (Stephenson) Stephenson, natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish descent,
and who were parents of four children. His father came to this county, and
3042 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
settled in Venice Township in 1831, obtaining land from the Government. Our
subject was raised on the farm, receiving his education in his native township
and at the high school of Bucyrus, Ohio. He has taught twenty-eight terms
in this county, mostly in the schools of Venice Township. He favors and is a
constant attendant of the teachers' institutes, and he himself writes for edu-
cational journals. He was married, in ISOfi, to Maria, daughter of Francis
Montgomery, and of Irish descent, and their children are Homer (attending
the Attica High School), Frank O., William M. and Cora. Prof. Stephenson
and wife are members of the JNIethodist Protestant Church, and he has been
Sabbath- school superintendent for many years. Politically he is a Ptepub-
lican. Dm-iug the late civil war he enlisted, in 18G4, as a member of Company
¥, Sixty- second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in several engagements
and serve<l till the close of the war. He was taken prisoner the day Lee sur-
rendered, and was discharged as a prisoner of war. He is chaplain of Post
112 of theCi. A. K. He took an active interest in the Grange movement, and
serv-ed two years as secretary in that organization. He served two years as
secretary and one term as Worthy Chief of the Good Templars, and is a F. &
A. M. His farm comprises sixty-six acres of well-improved land, located a
mile and a half south of Attica on the Sandusky pike.
LESTER SUTTON, attorney and banker, Attica, was born in Steuben
Coimty, N. Y., July IB, 183G, son of John and Chi-istina (True) Sutton; the
former.' a native of "Pennsylvania, was of Dutch descent, the latter, born in
New York, was of English lineage. John Sutton, a farmer, was twice mar-
ried, cm- subject being the eldest child by the second wife. Lester Sutton was
reared on the farm, remaining with his iDarents until he was seventeen years
old, when he commenced teaching school, an occupation he followed until he
was ahnost twenty-three years of age, He then began the study of law at
Tiffin. Ohio, in the office 'of Col. Leandor Stem, and was admitted to the bar
in 18(37. He opened an office at xVttica in 1SC5, and has been in active prac-
tice here ever since. In 1880 Mr. Sutton started in the banking business, and
has since divided his time between the bank and his profession. He was
united in marriage, in 1859. to Emaline Rundell, and to this union were born
four- childi-en: Lt>onard Ij., attending college; Laura, Charles and Luella.
Mi-s. Sutton is a member of the Baptist Church. In politics Mr. Sutton is a
Republican.
ISAAC TANNER, farmer and stock-raiser, Attica, was born in Newport
Township, Herkimer Coiinty, N. Y., August 24, 1811, son of John, a
farmer, and Nancv (Noi-trip) Tanner, natives of Rhode Island and of English
descent, and of whose nine children. Isaac is the fifth. The parents and
grandparents of Isaac Tanner, our subject, moved into New York State, when
a wilderness, with only here and there a settlement, wild animals being in
abundance. The schooling of our subject was obtained in his native State.
He came fi'om New York to Ohio in 1854, and settled in Venice Township,
this county, when Aftica was not worthy of being called even a village, where
he has followed farming, an occupation in which he has been successful, and is
now the owner of a farm. Mr. Tanner was married, in 1833. to Hannah,
daughter of Isaac and Taliitha (Bently) Tanner and granddaughter of Isaac
Tanner, Sr. She was born June 27, 1813, in Schuyler Township, Herkimer
Co. , N. Y. This union has been blessed with six children, of whom only two are
now living: Augustus U. B. and Eugene B., both farmers in Venice Township,
this county, and both married; the former of whom served as a soldier all
thi-oucrh the late war of the Rebellion (he has two children: Avis Agnes and
Harlev Martin). The parents and grandparents of IMr. and Mrs. Tanner were
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1043
ii-om Rhode Island. Our subject and wife are members of the Universalist
Church.
HENRY V. TRUMPLER, agent for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company,
Carrothers, was born in Venice Township, this county, February 17, 1853,
son of Peter and Christine (Deisler) Trumpler, natives of Bavaria, Germany,
and who reared a family of seven childi-en. live now living, of whom Henry V.
is the youngest. Peter Trumpler, father of our subject, a shoe-maker by trade,
was among^the early settlers of Venice Township, and here followed farming
as an occupation. He was a member of the German Chiu-ch, and died in 1870.
Our subject received his education in the common schools, chose farming as an
occupation and followed agricultural i^ursuits until 1884, when he sold his
farm of K )9 acres adjoining the village of Carrothers and entered his present
occupation. He was united in marriage, in 1881, with Rebecca, daughter of
George and Elizaljeth (Revert) Meiser, and a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch
desce'nt. ^h: and Mrs. Trumpler are members of the English Reformed
Church, in which he is deacon. In politics he is a Republican.
J. W. WALKER, fm-niture dealer and undertaker, Attica, was born in
Cadiz, Han-ison Co. , Ohio, February 27, 1849, son of John and Fanny (Hoff-
man) Walker, the former a native of Virginia of Irish descent, the latter of
New Jersey and of Welsh lineage. His father, who was a plasterer and stone-
mason, came to Attica. Ohio, in 185'J. He is now residing on a farm in Huron
County, Ohio. Oiu- subject is the third of eight children born to his parents,
and is the oldest of the four that lived to grow up. His education was
obtained in the common school. Baldwin University, Berea, Ohio, and at the
Northwestern Normal College at Republic, Ohio. He learned the trade of a
stone-mason and plasterer, which he followed for twelve years during the sum-
mer months, teaching school in the winters, commencing at the age of nineteen
years. He was mairied, April 12, 1874, in Hiu'on County, Ohio, to Miss
Jennie Fast, who was born in Ashland County, Ohio, and of Dutch origin.
To this union were born Winfred J., Royall B. (who died in infancy) and
RoUo E. Soon after his marriage IVIr. Walker purchased a small farm in
Richmond Township. Huron Co. , Ohio, where he resided until the spring of
1880, when he sold the farm and bought property in Attica, this county. In
1881 he entered into partnership in the furniture and undertaking business,
which he still follows, having since purchased the entire stock. Mr. and Mrs.
Walker are members of the Free-Will Baptist Chm-ch. IVIr. Walker usually
votes the Democratic Ticket. He is a member of Venice Lodge No. 197, I.
O. O. F.
E. WEAVER, Attica, one of the most extensive farmers and stock-raisers
of this county, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1856, son of Samuel
Weaver, a native of CaiToll County, Md., born in 1822, a farmer by occupation,
and who came among the early settlers to this county. Samuel Weaver was
united in marriage with SarahBisler, who was born in 1824, and to this union
were born eight" children, of whom six are living. They were of German
descent. The father died in 1868, and the mother died in 1866. Samuel
Weaver owned 320 acres of land, and since his death the sons have paid all
out-standing debts, bought more land, and at present the farm comprises 420
acres of well-improved land, which is well stocked. E. Weaver, our subject,
received his education in Freeport, 111. In politics he is a Democrat.
MARTIN S. WEAVER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Washington
County, Penn., April 17, 1811, son of John, a farmer, and Catherine (Spoon)
Weaver, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Our subject, the
eio-hth in a familv of twelve childi-en, was reared on the farm, receiving a com-
1044 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES :
mon school education, and lias followed agricnltural pursuits through life. He
now owns a farm of 117 acres of land in Venice Township, where he has lived
since 1833. He was married, in 1831, to Narcissus, daughter of Valentine
Cooper, a farmer, and of English descent. She died in 1860 and subsequently
Mr. Weaver married Mrs. Abigail (Bennington) Thompson, widow of Adam
Thompson. Mr. Weaver is the father of eleven children, nine of whom grew to
manhood and womanhood, viz. : Washington, Joseph, John V. , Mary, Elizabeth,
Clarcy C. and Sarah, by his first wife, and Julianu, Jane, and John W. (deceased),
by his last marriage. Two sons served in the Union Army during the civil
war, one dying in his country's defense. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver are members
of the Free- Will Baptist Church. In politics he is a Kepublican.
J. B. WILHELM, farmer, P. O. St. Stephen, was born in France
October 6, 1844, son of John and Catherine (Swailer) Wilhelm, also natives of
France. His father, w^ho was a farmer, came to America in 1857, remaining
two years in the State of New York, and thence came to and settled on a farm
in Bloom Township, this county. Our subject, the eldest of four children,
was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the county schools at
Republic Academy and Baldwin University, a Methodist institute at Berea,
Ohio. At the age of twenty-two he commenced to teach school, chiefly in
Stark County. He taught ten months each year for two years, and then for
eight winters, working in the summers. He is an extensive reader. Mr. Wil-
helm was man-ied, in 1871, to Marcella, daughter of Matthew and Annie
(Melio) Delaney, natives of Ireland, her father being an early settler of Venice
Township, this county, and to this union were born the following children:
Francis X. , Catherine and Clara. They are members of the Catholic Chui'ch.
Mr. Wilhelm is one of the trustees of Venice Township. In politics he is a
Democrat. He is owner of 126f acres of well-improved land.
E. D. WILLIAMS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in
Morgan County, Ohio, January 6, 1853, son of O. H. and Agnes (Shepherd)
Williams, natives of Ohio and of English and French descent, the former a
carpenter in early life, but later a successful farmer, still residing on a farm.
Their family consisted of twelve children, seven of whom now survive. Our
subject, the fourth in the family, was reared on the farm. His education was
obtained in the normal school, Lebanon, Ohio, and at Fostoria, this county,
where he attained his majority. He first taught school for six years, and then
for three years farmed in the siimmers and taught in the winters. He has
three sisters and one brother who have followed the same profession, and his
brother E. E. is now a successful lawyer in West Jefferson, Madison Co. , Ohio.
Our subject was married, in 1879, to Miss A. J. McKibben, of Scotch-Irish
descent and daughter of James B. McKibben, a pioneer farmer of Venice
Township, this county, but now a resident of Reed Township, this county. To
this union were born two children: Bessie and Ivan. Mrs. AVilliams is a mem-
ber of the 'Presbyterian Church. In politics Mr. Williams is a Republican.
By request of Mr. E. D. Williams the following letter, MTitten to him by
his brother, E. E. Williams, is inserted verbafim:
Ringgold, Ohio, September 14, 188-1.
Dear Brother : I received your letter yesterday. Many thauks for your kindness. Ttiree weeks ago I vis-
ited the old home. I walked out from Malta. When I arrived at the brow of the hill above the old sciiool-
house, being tired, I lay down on the grass beneath the shady beech trees that line the hillside, and while lying
there I lived over again our whole past life My mind went back to our boyhood days when we used to play in
the bright sunny meadows of southern Ohio. I could see every little mill and flutter-wheel we had ever made.
I remembered our removal from Ringgold on to the old farm. I remembered our struggle with poverty, and I
could see two little white-headed boys as they started out across the fields to their work, either talking over the
hardness of their lot, or singing some old war song that made the hills ring with gladness. I could see their
white heads bobbing up and down iu the hot sun among the long corn rows, or after hoeing to the top of the
hill, the giant strides we made to reach the bottom of the hill to liegin anew another row. I remembered of
lying behind the fence over behind the vineyard (which had not then been planted), waiting for the horn to
VENICE TOWNSHIP. 1045
blow for dinuer and talking over their wrongs, which were more imaginary than real. I remembered some of
the things we were going to do when we became men. Yes ; we would travel and see the world. I remem-
bered our school davs, the burning of the old schoolhouse on the hill, our fun and fights for our rights. I
looked at the old schoolhouse near home and could see a great change; the storms had washed the dirt away
from the foundation, and it looked as if in a few more years it would topple to the ground. There is a little
crove of locust trees above the schoolhouse that I helped to plant, and I guess you did, too. I remembered our
struggle to obtain an education. I can see two boys starting away from home, their arrival at Newark, then-
attendance at school at Fostoria and the normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, their success at school, and their suc-
cess as teachers. Will the world ever be anv better for our having lived in it ? Certainly, if we do our duty,
for that is all the most noted men ever accomplish Memories of my brother who has ever been so true will
last until this life is no more. Many, many things were brought to my memory which, though they may never
be recorded on paper, in writing or print, vet thev are printed on the pages of memory which will never be
erased until reason is dethroned. Again, the scene is changed, and the wedding bells are ringing out then-
glad notes of jov. One has now the hand and heart of one of Seneca's fairest and best, whose love and womani y
Irace is a more' precious heritage than palaces made of gold; they are living the same life of happiness lived by
to manv since the world was voung. E. D. Williams is now living the grand old life of a farmer, the most use-
ful occupation among men. Slay happiness, health and prosperity be his throiigh a long and useful life and a
grand entrance into that rest that was planted for the children of men. The other (EE. Williams) is still
fighting the battle of life where he is carrving off a few laurels in the practice of law. AV hat will the future
be? Time will tell. From your affectionate brother, E. t.
JACOB WISE, retired farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Cumberland
County. Penn., January 16, 1819. His parents, John and Sophia (Wise)
Wise, though of same name, were not related. His father was a native of Ger-
many, and when quite young came to America, settling in Pennsylvania; his
mother was a native of ' Pennsylvania, where they were maiTied. The^father
of our subject, who was a blacksmith, came to this county in 1827. He
obtained a State contract to build one mile and a half of turnpike in Reed
Township, this county, for which he was to receive 413 acres of land in that
township and $300 in cash. He completed the contract and commenced to
improve his land, but died in 1834, having cleared but twenty acres. In
politics he was a Jacksonian Democrat. He was a member and trustee of the
Lutheran Church. Of his family of thu'teen children ten attained maturity.
Our subject, the seventh born, was educated in the log schoolhouse, the first
built in Venice Township, and which was located on the site of his present
residence in Attica. He grew up on the farm, learned the mason' s trade, and
at the age of twenty-one leased the homestead farm, proved himself to be a
successful agriculturist, and later bought the interest of the other heirs in the
estate for which he now holds the deed given to his father by the State. He
has been twice married, the first time, in 1840, to Eliza Armsby, of English -
Irish descent, and who bore him six children, three of whom are now living:
Alfred, a farmer, married; Josephine, wife of Benjamin Van Fleet, and Frank
at home. This wife dving in 1870, ]Mr. Wise, in 1871, married IVIrs. Mary
(Sutton) Hall, widow of Thomas Hall. IVIi-s. Hall had two children: Lester
and Albert. INIr. and Mrs. Wise are members of the Eegular Baptist Church,
of which he has been deacon for the past twenty-five years. He has been a
prominent member of the Masonic fraternity for twenty-five years; also is
a member of Venice Lodge No. 197. I. O. O. F. During the late ci\dl war
he was a member of the Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Home Guards, which
was called into active service for 100 days near the close of that struggle. He
is a member of the G. A. R. He has served his township as trustee. Politi-
callv he is a Republican.
JOHN C. WORM, farmer. P. O. Carrothers, was born in Venice Town-
ship, this county, April 13, 1848, son of Christian and Hannah (Lehman)
AVorm, who were among the pioneers of this county; coming here fi-om Ger-
many in 1833. Oui- subject, the eldest of a family of six children,^ was reared
on the farm in Venice Township, attending the district school. When he was
twenty years old he commenced to learn the carpenter' s trade, and has since
continued to work at same; in partnership with his brother Matthias, he carried
on the farm which is well -improved, consisting of nearly 200 acres of good land.
Our subject was married, May 4. 1875. to Philomena, daughter of John B.
1046 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:
and Margaret (Steinmetz) Falter, and sister of Mrs. Matthias Worm. To this
iinion were born following children: Mary J., Martha Celia, Clement A.,
Joseph Lawrence and Maggie J. The family are members of the Catholic
Church. Politically Mr. Worm is a Democrat.
MOREIS WURTS, hardware merchant, Attica, was born in Canada, March
9, 1833, son of Abraham and Ehoda (Willow) Wnrts, the former a native of
New Jersey, of German descent, the latter a native of Canada, of English
lineage. His father, a cooper by trade, also a farmer, was thrice married, and
had twenty-one childi-en, Mon-is being the third born of the fourteen childi-en
by last wife. Our subject received his education in Huron County, Ohio,
where his parents resided in an early day. He was reared on the farm, and
followed agricultvu-al piu'suits until 1878, when he removed to Attica. In
1884 he bought a half interest in the hardware store of Armatage & Wui'ts.
He has been remarkably successful in business, owns town property at Bellevue,
a fine residence in Attica, and a well-improved farm comprising 193 acres in
Huron County, Ohio. He was maiTied in 1860, to Caroline, daughter of Peter
Burket, who was born in Ohio, of German descent.' Their children are Harriet
Edith, Loa Almetta and Merle Ethel. IVIi". and Mrs. Wurts are members of
the Protestant Methodist Chm-ch, of which he has been trustee. In politics
he is a Democrat.
APPENDIX.
ORIGINAL ENTRIES OF LANDS IN SENECA COUNTY.
THE value of such a list, as is presented in the following pages, cannot be
overestimated, particularly when the original purchasers of the land
formed a majority of the pioneers of the county, as in this case. In the general
history, as well as in the township histories, a complete record of grants, made
by the United States to Indian captives, half-breeds, and others, appears.
For this reason mention of such grants is not made in this division. Again,
the names of purchasers of canal and pike-road lands are not given, the record
of entry simply crediting to the canal or road company. School lands are
treated in the history of the township schools, except in some special cases, to
which reference is made herein.
Acknowledgments are due to Gen. Sparks, United States Land Commis-
sioner; to Assistant Commissioner Stockleger, and Chief Clerk Parke for offi-
cial coiu'tesies, and to Maj. Laurence for material aid rendered in the research.
BIG SPRING TOWNSHIP. ?;'''''^''i'p^'''''''°\'''-A°-i/ii'f ■Tnivr;s«^^^''"
Daniel Reese, w. V2 s. w. 14 sec 7, July 6, ib.iS.
TOWN 1 N., iiANGE 13 E. Adam Wickerhain, e. l-i s. w. H sec. 7, Sept 10, 1833.
.Tacob W. Sneider, s. e. % s. e. !4 sec 1 Jan. 25, 1834. Thomas Foughty, n. w '% n. w. 14 .sec. 7, ftlay 9, 1830,
Jacob W. Sneider, w. ^2 s. e. I4 sec. 1, Jan. 25, 1834. John Keesberry, n. e. 14 n. w.K sec. 7, Aug 8, 1836.
Valentine Brosamer, s. w. ^^ sec. 1, Sept. 16, 1833. Jacob Moore, s. ^ n. w. % sec. 7, May 14, 1836.
Maimi & Dayton (anal, n. 1, sec. l,May 24, 1828. Abel Hennon, e. J-^ s. e. '4 sec. 7. Aug. 15, 1832.
.Tohn L. Bertoon, n. e. 14 s. e". I4 sec. 1, March 17, 1834. Adam VVickerham, s. w. It s. e. % sec. 7, Sept 10, 183S.
< ieorge MuUin, n. w. 14 n. w. % sec. 2, May 1, 1833. Francis Easihin, n. w. '4 s. e. Vi sec. 7, Nov. 17, 1834.
.Tacob Miller, n. e %n vi.]4 sec. 2, Jan. 9, 1834. Moses Kling, e. >^ n. e. H sec. 8, Nov. 18, 1833.
Francis Bisclioflf, s. H n. w. ^ sec.2, Jan. 8, 1834. Francis Easihin, w. 3^ n. e. 14 sec. 8, Nov. 18, 1834 _
Oliver Childs, w. 1/, s. w. 34 sec. 2, May 23, 1833. Schuvaler Nicolas, s. e %^. e. I4 sec. 8, June 28, 18.j4.
Charles Darrow, e.">^ s. w. i4 sec. 2, May 23, 1833. Adam Killtoger, e. 4 n- w. % sec. 8, Nov. 1, 1832.
Frederick Karper, n. e. % sec. 2, May 29, 1833. Joshua Watson, w. 1^ n. w. 14 sec. 8, June 10, 1882.
Hiram Darrow, s, e. I4 sec. 2, May 29, 1833. John Boucher, w. Y^ s. e. 14 sec. 8, Oct. 8, 1832.
.lames II. Wilson, n. e. \i sec. 3, May 1, 18.32. Jacob Boucher, n e. 4 s. e. % sec. 8, May 14, 1834.
Miami & Davton Canal, n. w. 14 sec. 3, May 24, 1828. John Boucher, e. y^ s. w. % sec. 8, Oct 18, 18^2.
I iliver Childs, s. ]/„ sec. 3, May 23, 1833. Abel Hennon, w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 8, Aug. 15, 18^2.
Stephen Kuntz, n. Vi. n. e. 14 sec. 4, Jan. 25, 1834. Thomas Blackburn, n. % n. e. M sec. 9, Oct. 28, 183.>.
Peter Ilinehart, s. }4n.e.l4 sec. 4, Nov. 8, 1833. Henry Myers, s. ^ n. e. '4 sec. 9, Oct. 28, 1833.
Feter Kinehart, s. e. 54 sec 4, Nov. 8, 1833. Jacob Miller, e. U n. w. % sec. 9, Jan. 8, 1834.
Benjamin Harsh, n. w. hi sec. 4,Nov. 10, 18.32. George J anz, n. w. 4 n w. % sec. 9, Feb. 28, 18.35. _
Maimi & Dayton Canal, s. w. '4 sec. 4, May 24, 1828. Samuel Watson, s w. % n. w. 1-4 sec. 9, July 19, i»di>.
(ieorge Wella (or Welba), e. 14 n. e Y sec. 5, April 9, Jacob Bousher, s e % sec. 9, Oct. 18. 1832.
1834. Jacob Bousher, e. i^ s. w. I4 sec. 9, Oct. 18. 1832.
Levina IIotFman, s. w. 14 n. e.]4 sec. 5, Jan. 23, 1835. Samuel Boucher, w. 'i s. w. i^ sec. 9, July l;i, 1836.
Joseph Stackhouse, n. w.14 n. w. I4, sec. 5, Nov. 24, 1832. David Smoker, u e. \j, sec. 10, May 21, 1833.
Michael (iiove, s. U n. w. 14 sec. 5, Nov. 15, 1832. Jacob Reader, e. !4 s. e. I4 sec 10, Oct. 7, 1833.
Michael Crove, n. e. ^4 n. w. \i sec. 5, Nov. 23, 1833. Frederick Davlin, w. Y^ s. e. I4 sec 10, Oct. '29, 1833.
Miami A Dayton Canal, s. w. 14 sec. 5, May 24, 1828. Isadore Fry, e. '-% n w. 1.1 sec. 10, Nov. 8, 1833.
Levina Hottman, n. Y" s- e. ^4, sec. 5, June 23, 1835. John J Troutmau, w. Vi u- w. '.1 sec. 10, Oct. 9, 183.>.
James Waison, Sr. s. % s- e. '4 sec. 5, May 6, 1834. Frederick Davlin, e. Yi s- «'. i.j, sec. 10, < )ct. 29, 1S.J3.
Joseph Stackhouse, n. e. Ya n. e. 14 sec 6, Nov. 24, 1832. Teriock Moock, w. 14 s. w. "4 sec. 10 Nov. 8, 1833.
David Grabeal, Jr. n. w. '.i sec. 6, April 19. 1833. Isadore Fry, 11. w. I4 n. vr. I4 sec. 11. April 20, 1833.
Jacob Grove, s. Y" u e. '4 sec. 6, May 8, 1833. Isaac Smoker, s. Yi n- w. '4 sec. 11, May 21, 18.J3.
John Clark, n. w! ' ^ n e. ' j sec. 6, June 2, 1834. Isadore Fry, n. e. I4 n. w. ' 4 sec 11, Nov. 4, 1833.
Jacob Grove, n. e 1,4 s. o. '.;: see. 6, May 8, 1833. Anthony §chindler, s. w. I4. sec 11, Sept. 16, 1833.
I>avid Gi.'iybeal, Sr. 11. w 4 s. e. 4 sec. 6. June 4, 1834. Thos. Jefferson Gates, n. e 4 sec 11, May 23, 18.j3.
David Graybeal, .Sr. s. w. Vi sec 6, June 4, 1834. Jacob Kabala, n. Vj s. e ^4 .sec. 11, Sept. 16, 1833.
.lothua Watson, e. ><^n e. '4 sec. 7, June 13, 1832. Jacob Kabala, s. 14 s. e. K4 sec. 11, Sept. 16, 1833.
1048
John Myer, e. li n.
Jacob Haser, w. '.;
Robert Browu, e. "■
Valentiae Brosame
Michael Shurr, s. w
Joseph Martin, n. a
Wm. Frees, e. ^ n.
John Waltermire, i
John Waltermire, i
Peter Watcher, e
?ept. 11,
14 sec. 13, July 10, 1832.
Dominique Filliatre and Nicholas Filliatre, s. w. '-i s.
e. li sec. 13, Sept. 16, 1S33.
Dominique Filliatre and Nicholas Filliatre. n. w. \<i s.
e. 1 i ^ec 13, Sept. 27, 1.^33.
Willhelm Templeman, n. \n s. w. % sec. 1.3, Oct. 3, 18.33.
Joseph Simon, s. ' j s. w. '^ sec. 13, Oct. 3, 1833.
Henry Sehumacker, s. e. V sec. 14, June 6, 1833.
John Sheets, n. e. '4 sec 14.
Philip Sickman, e pt. of s. w. I4 sec. 14, Nov. 13,1883.
Samuel Young, w. pt. of s. w. '4 see. 14, Oct. 9, 1833.
Jacob Lower, n. ■«•. fr. ' ^ sec. 14, Nov. 13, 1833.
Jacob Lower, s. w. fr. ' ^ n. w. 1,1 sec. 14, Nov. 13, 1833.
.Tacob Ault, n. e. fr. ''^ sec. \^, Nov. 13, 1833.
Samuel Young, s. e. I4, sec. 15, Oct. 9, 1833.
Lucas Garber, n. fr. (old-survey) sec. 15, Jan. 8, 1834.
Wm. Baker, e. pt. of n. w. fr. ^^ B. S. Reservation, sec.
15, Jan. 8, 1834.
Charles Stoolfire, W. pt. n. w. fr. i.j, B. S. Reservation,
sec. 15, June 3, 1834.
Michael Wagner, s. w. \s, sec. 15, Oct. 4, 1833.
William Durbin, Jr. and Robert Meyers Shoemaker,
e. M s. e. I4 and w. {J s. e. \ sec. IG*, Aug. 30, 1842.
William Durbin, Jr. and Robert Meyers Shoemaker,
e. ^2 s.w. I4 and w. 14 s. w. ^4, sec. 10.* Aug. 30, 1842.
AVilliam Durbin, Jr. and Robert Meyers Shoemaker,
e. Yn n. fr. »,.^ and w. V2 n. fr. H sec. 16*, Aug. 30,
1842.
Henry Boucher, fr. (of 114 a.) sec 17, Aug. 18, 1832.
Isaac Dewitt, w. \^ s. w. '.i sec. 17, Feb. 26, 1833.
.John Luellen, e. ^Z s. e. 14 sec. 17, March 11, 1833.
.John Luellen, w. 1/2 s. e. k sec. 17, March 11, 1833.
Timothy Smith, n. w. fr. Ki sec. 17, July 2, 1833.
Adam Heil, e. V2 s. w. 14 sec. 17, Sept. 9, 1833.
J. Guear (or Grear),e.pt. n. e. fr. M see. 17, June 3, 1834.
Joseph Wilford, fraction of sec. IS, June 13, 1832.
John Laiwill, n. w. 14 sec. 18, Dec. 10, 1832.
Isaac Dewitt, e. 14 s. e. 14 see. 18, Feb. 26, 1833.
Benjamin Bower, s. w. I4 sec. 18, June 12, 18.33.
Benjamin Bower, w. ^A s. e. \i see. 18, June 12, 1833.
Timothy Smith, n. e. fr. 14 sec. 18, July 2, 1833.
Timothy Smith, w. pt. n. e. fr. I4 sec. 18, July 2, 1833.
Wm. Burgess, s. e. ',1 sec. 19, Feb. 11, 1833.
Giles Aylesworth, n. w. '4 s. pt. sec. 19, ]March 13,1833.
Wm. Mullholland, n. Y^ n. w. 14 sec. 19, April 10, 1833.
Giles Aylesworth, n. pt. of s.w. I4 see.l9, March 13, 1»33.
Samuel Gibson, s. ^^s. w. I4 sec. 19, June 10, 1833.
Wm. Benhani, n. c'lj, sec. 19, March 13, 1833.
Charles Henderson, e. y„ s. e. U sec. 20. Dec. 20, 1832.
David Ferrier, w. 'i s. e. 14 sec. 20, Feb. 8, 1833.
David Ferrier, e. >^ s. w. 14 sec 20, Feb, 8, 1833.
Charles Stoolfire, w. y, s. w. 14 sec. 20, Feb. 8, 1833.
John Jenkins, e. Va n. e. ^i sec. 20, Feb. 8, 1833.
Fred. Kimmell, s. w. ^4, n. e. ^i sec. 20, April 13, 1833.
Wm. Hargier, u. w. ^.^ .n e. Vj, sec. 2o, Jan. 31, 1834.
Samuel Farmer, w. }ii u. w. I4 sec. 20, Feb. 11. 1833.
Fred. Kimmell, s. e. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 20, April 13, 1833.
John Weaver, n. e. 14 n. w. ^ sec. 20, Oct. 9, 1833.
Chas. Henderson, s. w. \i, s. w. I4 see. 21, Dec 20, 1832.
David Strouse, e. J4 s. w. I4 sec. 21, Feb. 11, 1833.
.John Barcus, n. w.''^ s. w. I4 sec. 21, Feb. IS, 1S33.
John Barcus, w. Y2 n. w. K^ sec. 21, Feb. 11, 1833.
John Barcus, n. e. I4, n. w. i.j, sec. 21, Feb. 18, 1833.
David Strouse, s. e. I4 n. w. i.^ sec. 21, April 15, 1833.
David Kimmell, e. 14 n. e. I4 sec. 21, April 11, 1833.
Samuel Vanhorn, s. w. % n. e. 1.4 sec. 21, June 22, 1833.
S. T. Vanhorn, u.w. 14 n e. I4 B.S.R. s. 21. May 12,1834.
Samuel T. Vanhorn, s. e. '.i sec. 21, June 22, 183:1.
Ephriam Baer, s. Yi s. w. Vi sec. 22, April 12, isy3.
Sol. Battenfield, n.Yi s w. i.j sec. 22, March 6, 1834.
Henry Huffman, s. eT i^ sec 22, 1833.
Nicholas Fere, e. V.^ 11. 0. ' , -ee. 22, Oct. 4, 1833.
Michael Wagner, w. ' ,, n. e. ' , sec 22, Oct. 4, 1833.
Michael Wagner, n. w. 4 sli-. 22, Oct 4, 1833
John Lower, n. ],', s. e. '1 sec. 23, Nov. 13, 18.33. ,
Samuel Dutcher, s. e. ^s. e. 14 sec. 23, March 17, 1834.
James McFarland, s. w. I4 s. e. }i sec. 23, Dec. 18, 1833.
John Lower, s. Y n. e. '4 sec. 23, Nov. 13, 1333.
Fred. J.Schumaker, n. Y2 n. e. I4 sec. 23, Aug. 31, 18.33.
Joseph Clapper, e pt. u. w. 4 sec. 23, Oct. 9, 1833.
Philip Sickman, w. pt. n. w. 4 sec. 23, Nov. 13, 1833.
Henrv Sprau, e. pt. s. w. 14 sec. 23. Aug. 12, 1833.
William Blue, w. pt. s. w. 14 sec. 23, Nov. 13, 1833
John Allen, s. e. 14 n. e. 4 sec. 24, March 18, 18,33.
Archibald Allen, n. e. 14 "■ e. i.i sec. 24. May 25, 1833.
John Kibler, n. w. 14 n. e. 4 sec. 24, Oct. 3, 1833.
Dominique Wagner, s. w. 14 n. e. !4 sec. 24, Oct. 7,. 1833.
John Koebler, n. w. ^ sec. 24, Oct. 3, 1833.
Jacob Weimer, s. e. Y sec. 24, June 6, 18.33.
Mary Ann Fryberger, s. w. }i sec. 24, Nov. 4, 1833.
John Peter Courtade, e. Y s- w. }i sec. 25, July 5, 1833.
Daniel Kunkler, n. w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 25, Feb. 5, 1834.
George Wagner, s. w. ',4 s. w. I4, sec. 25, March 1, 1834.
John Lewis Bertoon, e. 1^ n. w. 14 sec. 25, Jan. 31, 1834.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. Y> sec. 25, May 24, 1828.
Jacob Mulholland, w. Yi n. w. 4 sec. 25, Jan. 23, 1834.
John Baker, n. w. 14 sec. 26, April 23, 1833.
John Peter Courtade, s. e. I4 sec. 26. May 7, 1833.
.John Straser, e. li n. e. I4 sec. 26, Nov. 22, 1833.
James McFarland", n. w. I4 n.e. ^ sec. 26, Dec. 18, 1833.
Matthias Wilhelm, s. w. I4 n. e. 1,4 sec. 26, Nov. 22, 1833.
John N. Kurtz, e. pt. of s. w. I4 E. J. B. sec. 26, May
7, 1833.
John Springer, w. pt. s. w. 14 sec. 26, June 25, 1833.
George Snellenberger, s. w I4 sec. 27, April 22, 1833.
David Parks, w. Vi s. e. I4 sec. 27, April 22, 1833.
William Blue, e. v; s. e. 4 .sec. 27, Nov. 13, 1833.
Geo. Snellenberger, s. e. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 27, April 22, 1833.
Nancy Atkinson, s. w. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 27, Nov. 20, 1833.
Matthias Clark, n. 1/2 u. w. I4 sec. 27, Aug. 30, 1833.
Wm. Baker, n. e. I4 sec. 27, April 23, 1.S33.
Aaron Walsh, e. '^- s. w. I4 sec. 28, Dec. 10. 1832.
Aaron Walsh, w. Y" s- w. 4 sec. 28, Dec. 10, 1832.
Kinsey Ogg, w. '.; n. w. 4 sec. 28, Dec. 10. 1832.
William S. Drake, w. 'i s. e. I4 sec. 28, Dec. 10, 1832.
Jacob W. Reed, e. 1. s. e. 4 sec. 28, June 5, 1833.
Adam Battenfield, e. >i n. w. I4 sec. 28, April 12,1833.
Geo. Battenfield, n. V^ n. e ^ sec. 28, Oct. 29, 1833.
Thos. Wallace Greer, s. % n. e. I4 sec. 28, Aug. 16, 1833.
Elijah Brayton, e. '-4 and w. Y' >!• "'■ '4 sec. 29, Dec.
10, 1832.
Elijah Brayton, w. V^ n. e. H sec. 29, Dec. 19, 1832.
William Brayton, s. w. 4 s. w. 14 sec. 29, Aug. 30 1833.
William Brayton, n. w. 4 s. W.I4 sec. 29, Feb. 12, 1833.
William Brown, e. '.; s. w. I4 sec. 29, Jan. 7, 1833.
Jacob Stem, w. Y s. e. 4 sec. 29, Dec. 10, 1832.
John Cary, e. '.; n. e. 14 sec. 29, ])ec. 10, 1832.
Jacob Stem, e. ':-■ s. e. 4 sec. 29, Dec. 10, 1832.
William Burgess, n. e. 4 n- e. 4 sec. 30, May 7, 1833.
John Luellen, s. e. 4 n. e. 4 sec. 30, Aug. 25, 1833.
Leonard Kimmell, n. w. 4 n. e. I4 sec. 30, Sept. 2, 1833.
John Kimmell, s. w. 4 n- e. 4 sec. 30, Jan. 2, 1834.
William Burham, n. e. I4 n. w. '-4 sec. 30, June 15, 1833.
Swamp land granted for Indians, w. Ir. pt. of s. e. ^
sec. 30, rejected.
Swamp land granted for Indians, w. 14 n. w. 14 and n.
e. ^i n. w. 4 sec. 30, located in 1859.
Jacob G'uear, n. e. 4 s. e. 4 B. S. R. sec. 30, May 5, 1834.
Aaron Walsh, s. e. 4 s. e. 4 sec. 30, May 20, 1834.
Lewis England, e. ^ii s. e. 4 sec. 30, May 29, 1834.
Adam Heil, s. w. 4 s. e. 4 sec. 30, Jan. 27, 1836.
•loseph BriggiS, n. 4 s. w. 4 sec. 30, Dec. 10, 1833.
James Chambers, s. pt. of s. w. 4 sec. 30, Oct. 8, 1833.
Wm. Reynolds (or Rennells), w. '4 s. e. 4 and e. Vz s. e
4 sec. 31, Dec. 10 and 20, 1832.
Wm. Reynolds (or Rennels), s. V^ n. e. 4 sec. 31,
March 10, 1833.
Richard Reynolds, n. e. 4 n. e. 4 sec. 31, June 14. 1834.
Wm. Rennells, n. w. 4 n. e. 4 sec. 31, April 3, 1835.
Geo. Heil, n. w. 4 sec. 31, April 9, 1833.
Mary Snider, e. 4 s. w. 4 B. S. R. sec. 31, July 1,1834.
George Wines, w. pt. s. w. ^4 sec. 31, Sept. 7, 1833.
Peter Lantz, w. Yi. s- e. 4 sec. 32, Deo. 10, 1832.
Peter Lantz, e. 'i s. w. 4 sec. 32, Dec. 10, 1832.
Elijah Brayton, e. ^i u. e. 4 sec. 32, Dec. 10, 1832.
Elijah Bravton, e. ;» n. w. 4 and w. V^ n. e. 4 sec. 32,
Dec. 16, 1832.
Benjamin Jenkins, n. w. 4 n. w. 4 sec. 32, Oct. 29, 1833.
John Hildebrand, e. 4 s. e. 4 sec. 32, June 19, 1833.
Peter Lantz, (B. S. R.) w. M s. w. 4 sec. 32, Jan. 17, ISO-
John Carey, e. ;4 n. w. 4 and e. '4 s. e. 4 and w. Yi s-
e. 4 sec. 33, Dec. 10, 1832.
Samuel Vanhorn. w. \4 n. w. 4 sec. 33, June 22, 1833.
l^roclaimed for sale Aug. 29, 1842.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES
1049
Erastus H. Cook, s. w. '^ u. w. U sec. 33, May 20, 1834.
John Cary e. '2 s. w. 14 and w. \4 n. e. ^4 and e. '2 n.
e. 1.4 sec. 33, Dec. 10, 1832.
John Hildebrand.w. ]4 s. w. ^i sec. 33, June 19, 1833.
John Cary, w. K n. w. i.i sec. 34, Jan. 7, 1833.
Samuel Phillips, e. '4 n. w. ^ i sec. 34, July 20, 1833.
John Cary, w. v, s. w. I4 and e. ! 2 s. w. 1.4 sec. 34, June
25, 1833, and June 3, 1834.
John Springer, n. e. ij, n. e. '.i and s.e. >.i n. e. 1.1 B. S.
R. soc. 34, June 25. 1833, and March 5, 1834.
John Eush, w. '4 n. e.14 sec. 34, July 20, 1833.
John Cary, e. Y, s. e. ^4, and w. Vj s. e. ^4 B. S. R. see. 34,
Nov 13, 1833, and June 3,1834.
H. Bogard,e. pt. of n. w. yi fr. sec. 35,* July 9, 1828.
J. Springer, w. pt. of n. w. '4 fr. sec. 35, June 25,1833.
John Cary, w. pt. of s. w. ^4 sec. 35, Nov. 13, 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. pt. of s. w. % and e. 1.2 sec.
35, May 24, 1828.
.Tohn Moses, e. '4 n. e. I4, sec. 36, July 7, 1823.
Miami & Davton Canal, w. V2 ri.e.% section 36, May
24,1828."
Miami & Davton Canal, e. J^ s. e. 14 sec. 36, May 24,
1828.
Samuel Elarton, n. e. K n. w. % sec. 36, May 29, 1833.
Samuel Elarton, s. e. 14 n. w. 14 sec. 36, Feb. 19, 1833.
John Elarton, w. 1/, n. w. '4 sec. 36, March 14, 1831.
Hugh Mullhollandrw. V. s. e. U sec. 36, March 31, 1828.
Fred. Waggoner, e. 'i s. w. i.i sec. 36, Nov. 15, 1830.
John Peer,"w. 14 s. w" 1.1 see. 36, April 22, 1829.
LOUDON TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 2 N., RANGE 13 E.
John Good, u. w. I4 sec. 1, Dec. 20, 1832.
M. W. Brown, s. >2 n. e. li sec. 1, Oct. 10, 1836.
A. Hampshire, n. w. ^4, n. e. i.i sec. 1, Dec. 30, 1835.
B. Turner, n. e. 'in. e. H sec. 1, May 28, 1836.
Denis O'Neil, e. >$ s. e. I4 sec. 1, Oct. 11, 1836.
V. W. Benjamin, w.'.; s. e. '4 and e. M s. w. I4 sec. 1,
Nov. 15. 1836.
Jacob Troxel, w. H s. w. 14 sec. 1, Dec. 12, 1834.
l>evant B. Cotes, n. e. 14 sec. 2, Nov. 9, 1836.
Christian Foster, e. M n. w. 14 sec. 2, May 20, 1834.
John Rinebolt, w. ]4 n. w. 14 sec. 2, Feb 2, 1830.
.John Smith, s. e ii s. e. V4 sec. 2, May 14, 1835.
Mary Van de Mark, e. H s.' w. 14 and w. y^. s. e. ^4 sec.
2, Sept. 1, 1836.
Levant B. Cotes, n. e. 1,1 s. e. I4 sec. 2, Nov. 9, 1836.
Jonathan Reese, w. '2 s. w. I4 sec. 2, Jan. 29, 18.34.
John Rinebolt, e V^ n. e. I4 sec. 3. March 2, 1831,
J. Parkhurst, n. w. 14 n. e. I4 sec. 3, Dec. 29, 1834.
Benj. McDougle, s. w. '4 n. e. I4 sec. 3, March 3, 1834.
Ben'). McDougle, s. e. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 3, Jan. 19, 1835.
J. Parkhurst, n. e. pt. of n. w. I4 sec. 3, April 16, 1839.
Conrad Lust, w. I:', n. w. '4 sec. 3, July 2, 1839.
J. Reese, s. e. ^i and e. y> s. w. Vi sec. 3, Sept. 7, 1832.
Laurence Rumple, s. w. ^.j s. w. 14 sec. 3, March 4, 1836.
A. Lockwood, n. w. ^ i s. w. I4 sec. 3, Maich 14, 1836.
Benj. McDougle, s. e. \i s. e. I4 sec. 4, Nov. 14, 1836.
C. (i. Downs, n. e. pt. of s. e. 14 sec. 4, June 24, 1839.
D. ITpdegraff, e. 'o w. I4 and w. }4 s. e. 14 sec. 4, Aug.
26, 1839.
Conrad Lust, e. ]4 n. e. I4 sec. 4, July 2, 18.39.
D. Updegraff, e. '14 n. w. ^4 and w. 14 n. e. I4 sec. 4.
Aug. 26, 1839.
Ahijah Ives, w. l-.; s. w. I4 sec. 4, Feb. 20, 1837.
.lohn Crocker, w'lA n. w. Vi sec. 4. June 12, 1839.
Augustus Avres, s. e. I4 s. w. '4 sec. 5, Aug. 19, 1837.
.Tohn Crocker, w. '.; n. c. I4 sec. 5, Aut;. 30, 1838.
John Crocker, e. 14 n. e. \i sec. 5, April 17, ]S3S.
John Crocker, n. !4 s. e. 'i sec. •'>, April 17, 18:;;!i.
Roswell Crocker, s. lo s- e. I4 see. ',. .hily 5, 18.39.
John Crocker, e. }4 n. w. I4 sec. 0, Aui;. .30, 1S38.
.lohn Crocker, w. ^ n. w. I4 sec. 5, Julv 28, 1834.
John Crocker, n. e. pt. of s. w. 14 sec. 5, April 22, 1839.
Miami A Dayton Canal, w. V4 s. w. ?4 sec. 5, May 28,
1828.
Hannah Boyer, n. e. H sec. 0, July 23, 1832.
Jliami it Dayton Canal, n. w. '4 and s. e. U sec. 6,
May 24, 1828.
Roswell Crocker, e. 34 s. w. li sec. 6, July 7, 1831.
James Anderson, w. Vi s. w. 14 sec. 6, Nov. 9, 1831.
Roswell Crocker, w. M n. e. '4 sec. 7, July 13, 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. M n. e. V4 sec. 7, May 24,
1828.
David Ferrier, n. w. J4 n. w. I4 sec. 7, July 29, 1833.
John Crocker, Sr., n. e. Va n. w. '4 sec. 7, July 1, 1833.
James Anderson, s. w. '4 n. w. 14 sec. 7, June IS, 183 i.
Benj. Oriu (or Owen), n. ]4 s. e. \4 sec, 7, Feb 26, 1834.
Jonathan Emert, s. '4 s. e.'],^ sec. 7, Nov. 1, 1833.
Nathan Ball, e. i^j s. w. 14 sec. 7, Feb. 26, 1834.
James Anderson, w. '4 s. w. 11 sec. 7, June 18, 1832,
Leven. Ludwell Sands, e. }4 n.e. '4 sec. 8, Feb. 9, 1832.
Jacob Rumpel, w. '2 n. e. 3^ sec. 8. May 3, 1832.
Jacob Rumpel, e. '2 n- w. J^ sec. 8, Sept. 17,, 1831.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. e.i^ sec. 8, May 24, 1,«2S.
Benjamin Stevens, e. '2 s. w. % sec. 8, Jan. 9, 1832.
Jacob Rumpel, w. 1.; s. w. sec. 8, April 15, 1833.
Miami tt Dayton Canal, w. '/a n. w. }4 sec. 8, Mav 24,
1828.
Eli Weaver, s. w. 1^ n. e. K sec 9, Feb. 4, 1336.
Wm. Pierce, n, e. \i n. w\i4 and u. w. I4 n. e. I4 sec. 9,
Nov. 2, 1836.
Wm. Pierce, e. y, n. e. U sec. 9, Nov. 2, 1836.
Laurence Rumpel, s. e. 14 n. w. }.4 sec. 9. Nov. 15, 1832.
Leven. L. Sands, w. I/2 n. w. ^ sec. 9, Feb. 9, 1832.
Benjamin Hartley, e. % s. e. }i sec. 9, May 1, 1832.
A. Ferrier, w. ' i s. e. I4 and s. w. 14 sec. 9, Apr. 19, 1832.
Peter W. Benjamin, e. V. n. e. 1,4 sec. 10, Nov. 14, 183G.
H. Bromley, w. 1^ n. e. 14 sec. 10, Sept. 28, 1833,
Ephraim Murray, e. y, n. w. ^.i «e". 1*"', .\i.'il ■_'.•;. 18S2.
Hazael IMurray, w. ;4 n. w. '4 sr, i- \],-\' ■_■-,, i-:!2.
Wm. Pierce, e. 34 s. e. ',4 sec. 1". ' - .
Peter W. Benjamin, w. iJ s. e ' , -• ' 1 '. N- • . l"i, Is-ij.
8amuel Stoner, s. i.j s. w. I4 sec. in, Aps li ';.">. i8:;4.
Henrv Hersh, n. e'. 4 s. w. '4 and n. w. '4 s, w. i^-^
sec. 10, May 29, 1832.
.'^amuel Pegg, e'. U u- e. !4 sec 11, May 14, 1.S35.
Noah t'andemark, e. J/^ n. w. 14 and w. Va n. e. V4 sec.
11, Sept. 1, 1836.
Wm. Pierce, s. w. I4 sec. 11, Oct. 26, 1836.
Peter W. Benjamin, w. U n. w. 14 sec. 11, Nov. 14, 1836.
George Chambers, s. e. I4 sec. 11, Jan. 26, 1830.
Wm. Pierce, s. Vt n. e. I4 and n.j. I4 i.e. I4 sec. 12, 1836.
Peter W. Benjamin, n. K n. e. I4 sec. 12, Nov. 15, 1836.
Adam Siekel, n e. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 12, Sept. 26, 1836.
Augustus Gott, s. e. ^4 s. e. H sec. 12, Aug. 5, 1834.
Benedict Hoover, s. w. ^4 s.e. ^4 sec. 12, Aug. 5, 1834.
Ludwick Sheely, n. y s. w. 14 and w. '4 n. w. 1-4 sec.
12, Jan. 26, 1836.
Wm. Pierce, e. 14 n w. 14 sec. 12, Oct. 1, 1836.
(ieorge Chambers, s. w. I4 s. w. ^4 sec. 12, Dec. 23, 1835.
Henrv Zwing, s. e. ^4 s. w. I4 sec. 12, Aug. 15, 1834.
Peter'T. King, e. '.; n. e. I4 sec. 13, Sept. 13, 1828.
Eben. Mills, w. U u- e. I4 sec. 13, March 1, 1828.
Nathan Shippy, 0. y a. w. I4 sec. 13, April 2(), 1S27.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. Vj n. w. I4 sec. 13, May 24,
1828.
Jacob Smith, e. V2 s. e. 14 sec. 13, April 1, 18:>5.
.Tohn Schieferly, w. ys. e. U sec. 13, Nov. 9, 1833.
Peter Weimar, n. e. M s. w. 14 sec. 13, Aug. 26, 1833.
Thomas Eldridge, n. w. 14 s. w. ^4 and s. y s. w. 14 sec.
13, June 5, 1834.
George Adams, n. y s. w. V4 sec. 14, Jan. 28, 1833.
Abner Wade, Jr., s.V. 14 s. w. ^i sec. 14. .Tulv 9, 1834.
Abner Wade, n. w. I4 sec. 14, May 28, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. I4 sec. 14, May 24, 1S2S.
John Adams, n. w. I4 s. e. ^4 sec. 14, March 4, 1S.)3.
M. Hoover, e. '/» and s. w. I4 s. e. I4 sec 14, Jan. 2, 1,835.
Wm. L. Ricketts, e. ]/« n. e. I4 sec. 15, Oct. 26, 1827.
R. Fox, w. y n. e. I4 and e. 'J n. w. I4 sec. 15. Feb. 8, 1828.
Benj. Hartlev, w. y n. w. i.i sec. 15, June 21, 1831.
Henry Webb, s. e. ^i sec. 15, Mav 27, 18.;3.
Martin Adams, e. '.. s. w. I4 sec. 15, Feb. 24. 1.834.
Martin Adams, w. K s. w. I4 sec. 15, April 29, 1834.
School Lands, sec. 16 (see page 591).
George Young, w. y n. w. I4 see. 17, Nov. 9, 1832.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. 14 and e. M n. w. 14 and
s. y sec. 17, May 24, 1828.
George Young, e. y n. e. 14 and vr. y n. e. 14 sec. 18,
Nov. 9, 1832, an'd Oct. 21, 1833.
Jacob Keiser, e. 1/0 s, e. \i sec. 18, Oct. 26, 1832.
Lewis Keiser, w. y s. e. I4 sec. 18, Oct. 26, 1832.
John Sponseller, n. w. I4 sec. 18, May 29,183.3.
John Sponseller. n. ;.; s. w. I4 see. 18, May 30, 1833.
Jacob Kurtz, s. y s. w. I4 sec. 18, Nov. 22, 18.33.
Peter Ebersole, e. M s. e. U sec. 19, Sept. 15, 1832.
Jonathan Milbourn, s. w. 14 sec. 19, Oct. 17, 1832.
Christian Swank, s. w. \i s. e. I4 sec. 19, Feb. 16, 1833.
Henry Heminger, n. w. ^4 s.e. ^4 sec. 19, Oct. 21, 1833.
George Young, s. I2 n- "^- -4 sec. 19, Feb. 17, 1834.
'■ Comprises all the lauds then subject to entry.
1050
APPENDIX;
Wesley Hollopeter, w. i i n. w. '^ sec. 19, Feb. 29, 1832.
J. Mogle ' or Wogle), n. 'i n w. '.j sec. 19, June 27, 183.3.
Perry Chance, n. \4 n. e. \, sec. 19, July 1, 1833.
Joshua Borton, s. is n- e. ^.i sec. 19, Sept. 6, 1833.
Jonathan Betts, e. }An.v!.% sec 20, Sept. 22, 1832.
Peter PJbersole, s. w. % n. w. i^sec. 20, Sept. 15, 1832.
John Fletcher, e. }/^ s. e. M sec. 20, June 18, 1832.
Newman Havens, w. Vz s. e. \i sec. 20, Sept. 26, 18.32.
Isaac Tintsman,n. w. \i n. w. ^4 sec. 20, July 1, 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. I4 and s. w. ]X sec. 20,
May 24, 1828.
Jacob Fruth, e. H n- e. J^ sec. 21, Dec. 3, 1833.
John Stump, w. %^ n. e. ^i sec. 21, Sept. 17, 1831.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. w. % sec. 21, May 24, 1828.
Abel Simmons Pearce, s. e. % sec. 21, May 17, 1832.
Henry Bucher, s. w. 14 sec. 21, Nov. 30, 1832.
Miami &. Dayton Canal, n. 14 sec. 22. May 24, 1828.
*John Houseman, n. w. 14 sec. 22, Aug. 6, 1834.
Andrew List, e. '4 s. e. % sec. 22, June 9, 18.34.
Abram Kimmell, w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 22. Nov. 10, 1834.
James M. Scott, s. w. % sec. 22, April 18, 1834.
Peter Huwer (or Hoover). e.V^ s.w.i4sec.23, Apr.o,1834.
Martin Knoll, n. e. % s. e. '4 sec. 23, May 13, 1834.
Jeremiah King, s. -e. %s. e.^ sec. 23, Oct. 2G, 183.5.
Thomas M. Scott, w. 'X s. e. ^^ sec. 23, Aug. 12, 1834.
Robert M. Reney, e. V2 n. w. ij sec. 23, April 23, 1834.
Abner Wade, w. 'in. w. '4 see. 23. April 29, 1834.
Thomas M. Scott, n. e. % sec. 23, Aug. 12, 1834.
John Geo. Ostgen, w. }4 s. w. 14860. 2.3, Feb. 25, 1834.
Jeremiah King. n. w. %n. e. '.i sec. 24, Oct. 26, 1835.
.Tohn Henry Long,s. w. i.j n. e. I4 sec. 24, Julv 31,18.34.
Miami & Dayton i anal, s. e. ^^ May 24, 1828."
.Tames Leahy, n. e. ^^ n. w. ij, sec. 24, Feb. 23, 1835.
James Leahy, n. w. V^ sec. 24. June 3, 1834.
( ornelius Leahy, s. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 24, Oct. 29, 1833.
David Leahy, s. w. i.j sec. 24, Oct. 29. 18.33.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. J^u.e.14 sec.24. May 24, 182S.
Francis A.Altinbaugh, e.'i n.e. ^-4 sec. 2.5, Apr. 10,1834.
Rachael Ruse, w. 14 n. e. %, and e. 'i n. w. ' l sec. 25,
April 19,1830.'
Rachael Ruse, w. ^2 n. w. % sec. 2.5, Nov. 7, 18.33.
Wm. L.Ricketts, e. »i s. e. '^sec. 2.5, Mav 20. 1833.
John(i. King, w. '.2 s. e. ij sec. 2.5, May 11, 1830.
John Ricketts, e. 'i s. w. I4 se;. 25, May 12, 1828.
John Ricketts, s. w. I4 s w. i^ sec. 25. Nov. 9, 1833.
Samuel Stoner, n. w. I4 s. w. 1.1 sec. 25, April 15, 18?r4.
Michael Martin, e. !-.< n. e. Vj, sec. 26, March 13, 18.34.
Bernhard Ball, w. }.Cn. e. Vj sec. 26, Mav 12, 1834.
John ( allanan, s.e, i.^ sec. 26, Dec 12, 18.33.
John Callanan, e. >^ n. w. I4 sec. 26, Feb 6, 1834.
John Leitner, n. w.'ij n. w. ij sec. 26, Feb. 8, 1834.
John Leitner, s w. i^ n. w. I4 sec. 26, Oct. 17, 1834.
John Callanan, e. J.^ .*<. w. 1.1 sec. 26, Jan. 1, 18.34.
Daniel Shea, w. y^s. w. 1.1 sec. 26, Jan. 3, 1834.
Jacob Merganthaler, w. y^ n e. I4, sec 27, Oct 21, 1.833.
Jacob Merganthaler, s. e. I4 n. e. I4 sec. 27,Oct.21,1833.
Jacob Merganthaler, n. e. I4 n. e. 14 sec. 27,.\pl. 16,1834.
Melchior Houseman, w. H s e. 14 sec. 27,Oct. 21. 1833.
Michael Mar.'in, e. '^ s. e.'i4 sec. 27, March 17, 1834.
George Sting, u w. I4 sec. 27, Oct. 21, 1833.
.Tohn El'ersole. s. w. I4 sec. 27, Oct. 3, 1833.
(iiles Pearce, n. e. 1.1 sec. 28, May 17, 1832.
John Evans, e. 'i s. e. >4 sec. 28, Aug. 13, 1833.
.lacol) Fruth. w. y^ s e. 14 sec. 28.Dec. 3, 1833.
Ira Picket (or Picket), n. '4 n. w. I4 sec. 28, Dec. 10,1833.
John Riugel, s % n. w. I4 sec. 28, Feb. 15, 1834.
Miami & I)ayton Canal, s. w. I4 sec. 28, May 24, 1828.
Rachel Ruse, n. w. \ sec. 29, Nov. 7, 1833
Miami & Davton Canal n. e., s. e. and s. w. I4 sec. 29,
May 24. 1828.
Peter Weimer, u. w. I4 sec. 30, March 21, 1833.
Miami A Dayton Canal, e y, sec. 30, May 24, 1828.
Ephriam Baer, w Y2 s w. ^:[sec 30 April 12, 1833.
Andrew Utz. e. '4 s. w. '4 sec. 30. May 15, 1833.
Henry Shellar,e. y-a. e. 14 sec. 31, April 18, 1833.
Abram Gantz, w. '., n. e. I4 sec 31, Sept. 27, 1834.
Abram Gantz, n w. I4 sec. 31, Dec 7. 1833
David Graybeal, s w. I4 sec. 31, April 19, 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. e. 14 sec 31. May 24, 1828.
Miami it Dayton Canal, all sec. 32, May 24. 1828.
Miami &. Dayton Canal, all sec. .33, May 24, 1828.
James H. Wilson, n. e. '4 sec. 34, May 1. 1832.
Frederick Rawhouser, n. w. '4 sec. 34, May 17, 1833.
Frederick Karper, s w. I4 sec. 34, May 29, 1833.
George Mullen, s. e. I4 s. e I4 sec. 34, Mav 1, 1833.
Jonathan Foltz, n.'z s. e. I4 sec. 34, May 29, 1833.
Timothy Berks s. w. i.i s. e. I4 sec. 34, Nov. 2, 1836.
James H Wilson, e. y n. e 14 sec. 35, April 25, 1832.
John Chaney, w >i n. e. I4 sec. 35, March 3, 1832.
Jonathan Foltz, n. w. I4 sec. 35, Dec. 17, 1833.
James H. Wilson, s. w. 14 see. 35, May 1, 1832.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. e. 14 sec. 35, May 24, 1828.
Henry Cronise, all sec. 36, Aug. 27, 1827.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 3 N., RANGE 13 E.
Edmund Ash, n. w. I4 n. e. 14 sec. 1, Oct. 20, 1847.
Located by Aloys Rauke, s. e. H M. B. land warrant,
sec. 1, April 1, 1848.
F. I. Norton and A. B. Taylor, s. y n.e. \i and n. e.14
n. e. I4 sec. 1*, Aug. 18, 1853.
Daniel Long, n. w. I4 sec. 1, May 22, 1834.
John Sprout, Sr., n.w. i.i s.w. \i sec. 1, March 26, 1835.
<reo. R. Lewis, s. w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 1, Nov. 2, 1835.
M. B. Land Warrant 27134, e. y s. w. M sec. 1, June
14, 1853.
Daniel Long. e. V2 n. e. 14 sec. 2. May 22, 1834.
Jonathan Kissinger, e. y s. e. 14 sec. 2, Nov. 7. 18.39.
Horace Sessions, s. w. 14'n. e. \i sec. 2, June 16, 1856.
Henry F. Johiison, w. ys. e. 14 sec. 2, March 26, 1835.
Joseph Kinsey, n. e. 14 n. w. fr. I4 sec. 2, Oct. 21, 1847.
M. B. Land Warrant 7037 s. 14 n. w. 1.4 and n. w. H n.
w. fr. 14 sec. 2, Feb. 25, 1853.
John Kopp, s. y s. w. 14 sec. 2, Feb. 13, 1835.
Andrew Glenn,"n. Vi s. w. '4 sec. 2, Dec. 13, 1841.
Jacob Hollinger, n. w. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 3, Dec. 16, 1834.
John Sibberell. s. 14 n. w. I4 see. 3, April 24, 1837.
Patrick Nicholas, s. w. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 3, June 24, 1835.
Robert Barnes, s. e. I4 s. w. 14 sec. .3, May 23, 1839.
Jacob Creek, n. w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 3, Aug. 30, 1841.
F. I. Norton and A. B. Taylor, n. e. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 3*
Aug. 18, 18.53.
Andrew Glenn, s. e. I4 sec. 3, Dec. 13, 1841.
John G.Camp, n.e. fr. 14 sec. 3, Oct. 1, 1851.
M. B. Land Warrant 651, n. e. % sec. 3, Oct. 1, 1851.
M. B. Land Warrant 33044 n. e. i.s. w. H sec. 3, Feb.
4. 18.S2.
c harles Ely, e. ■» n. e. 14 sec. 4. Nov. 2, 1835.
John Free, s. e. % n. y;.. fr. 14 sec. 4, June 10. 1847.
Andrew M. Williams n.Ws I4 s. e.14 sec. 4, Nov. 12,1847.
Andrew M. Williams, s. w. 14 s. e. ^sec. 4, Jan.6. 1835.
Magdalena Pistner, s. e. 14 s. e '4 sec. 4, Aug. 1, 1835.
Jacob Creek, n.e. \ s. e. I4 sec. 4, Aug. 30, 1841.
F. I. Norton and A. B. Taylor, w. y n. e. fr. M sec. 4*
Au;:. 18, 1853.
Geo. R Lewis, s. w. ^4 sec. 4, Nov. 2, 1835.
John Free, n. e. I4 n. w. 14, and w. y n. w. fr. \i sec.
4. May 3, 1847.
Josiah Smith, s. e. I4 s. e. 14 sec. 5, Oct. 22, 1836.
David Boyd. s. w. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 5, Dec 1, 1843.
Azariah Fennell, n. e. I4 s. e. Vi sec 5, April 1, 1847.
Urias Kniselv, e. y n. e. I4 sec. 5, Jan. 29, 1842.
G. W. McMillan, n. w. 14 n. e fr. I4 sec 5,April 26, 1847.
Jacob Free, w. 1 i n. w. fr. '4 sec. 5, April 28. 1847.
Jacob Free, n. e. I4 n. w. fr. 14 sec. 5, May 3, 1847.
Jacob Free, s. w pt. of n. e. \, and s. e. pt. of n. w. hi
sec. 5, Feb. 5. 1847.
F. I. Norton and A. B. Taylor, n. w. 14 s. e. 14 (can-
celed) sec. 5, Aug. 18, 1853.
Heirs of Wm Richardson's M. B. land warrant, S.W.V4
sec. 5, April 29, 1844.
Jonas Rischel, n. y n. e. I4 sec. 6, Oct. 1, 1834.
Nath. Wilson, s. h^n. e. Vi sec. G, Nov. 17, 1836.
Roswell Crocker, s. w. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 6, Julv 15, 1852.
R. Shippy,n.i4 s.e. I4 and S.W.I4 s.e.14 sec.6,Aug.l,1835.
L. B. Coats s. e. '4 s e. Vi sec. 6, Nov. 2, 1836.
T. Shawhan, n. w.^^.and n.U S.W.I4 sec. 6, Feb.5,1834.
John Frees, s. e. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 6, Feb. 29, 1836.
Chas. Ely, n. e. 'i sec. 7, Nov. 2, 1835.
J. M. Hoover, n. w. I4 s e. I4 sec. 7, Feb. 24, 1844.
Samuel McCulley, s w. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 7, Sept. 20, 1833,
Nathan Warner, e i^s. e. ^4 sec. 7, Nov. 12, 1833.
John H. Frees, n. e. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 7, Aug. 22, 1836.
John IL Frees, s. e. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 7, Aug. 25, 1836.
Wm. Bunn, w. V2 n. w. fr. I4 sec. 7, Nov. 3, 1845.
James H. Frees, n. w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 7, Aug. 17. 1839.
Rachel McEwen, s. e. \ s. w. pt. of sec. 7, Aug. 10, 1846.
Richard Harbaugh, s. w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 7, Sept.25,1833
M. B Land Warrant 43577, n. e. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 7, June
22, 1852.
^Indemnity granted on s. e. I4 fr. of n. e. 14 fr.
"Error.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1051
Madison Pennell, e. 'A n. e. 'i, and s. w. V4, n. e. J4 sec.
8, Nov. 12, 1834.
.Tosiah Smith, n. w. \i n. e. U sec. 8, March 12, 1841.
Gideon Humphrey, n. w. Vi sec. 8, Aug. 13, 18.36.
Israel Smith, e. % s. e. U sec. 8, April 24, 18.32.
Israel Smith, w. 14 s. e. ^4, sec. 8, June 2, 1832.
David Desinger,e }^s. w. ^:^ sec 8, June 13, 1839.
(ieo. R. Lewis, w. v; s. w. '4, sec. 8, Nov. 2, 1835.
.John Silver, e. V- n" e. 'i sec. 9, Oct. 25, 1833.
Samuel Ake, n. iv. I4 n. e. '4 sec. 9, May 28, 1834.
John Silver, s. w. i.i n. e. ^4 sec. 9, Oct. 2,5, 1833.
H. Hutchins, Jr.,s. e. ^ s. w. i.i sec. 9, Dec. 13, 1833.
Wm. Braden, n. w. 1.1 sec. 9, Sept. 19, 18.34.
Henry Smith, e. V'^ s. e. ^.i sec. 9, canceled, Jan.l, 1833.
Henrv Smith, w. j^^ s. e. ^i sec. 9, Nov. 19, 1S32.
JohnLambright, e. M s. e. I4 sec. 9, Dec. 12, 1832.
James Walker, n. K2 s. w. '4 sec. 9, March 3, 1834.
Asa Crockett, s. w. ij, s. w. '.^ sec. 9, June 9, 1832.
Samuel Youngker, n. w. U sec. 10, Oct. 2-1, 1883.
J. Caspar Bucher, e. '-i sec. 10, Nov. 17, 1834.
John Silver, n. w. I4 s. w. 'i sec. 10, Feb. 16, 1836.
John Lambright, s. w. 1 4 s. w. I4 sec. 10, Oct. 20, 18.34.
Geo. Klahn, s.e. I4, s. w. Vi sec. 10, Nov. 2, 1835.
Jacob Henry, n. e. ^4, s. w. 14 sec. 10, Nov. 7, 1840.
J. Casper Bucher, w. 14 sec. 11, *Nov. 17, 1834.
George W'eiant, n. e 14 sec. 11, Nov. 9, 1S35.
George Weiaut, e. V2 s. e. 14 sec. 11, Nov. 28, 1835.
Isaac Schall, n. w. %i s e. H sec. 11, Jan. 25, 1836.
Jacob Thomas, s. w. 14 s. e. M sec. 11, Nov. 18, 1840.
Luther A. Hall,e. }4 s. e 14 sec. 12, Sept. 20, 1841.
Mary A. Huffman, n".e. '4 n. e.14 sec. 12, March 11,1848.
Barbara Huffman, n. w.'i n.e.Vi sec.l2, March 11, 1848.
(ieorge R. Lewis, w. '., n. w. 14 sec, 12, Nov. 2, 183-5.
Jacob Miller, s. ]4 n. e'. '4, & w. 14 s. e. 1 1 and s. e. pt. of
s. w. 1/4 sec. 12, Sept. 12, 18.51.
M.L. Land Warrant 16079, e. }4. n. w. i.i sec. 12, June
14, 1853.
Jacob Schupp, n. l.-; s. w. 14 ands. w. 14 s.w.U see. 12,
Sept 25, 1839.
Abraham Craun, e. V2 n. e. 14 sec. 13, Aug. 3, 1833.
Bart. Sears, w. \4 n e. \ sec. 13, Nov. 19, 1833.
George Ash. s. e.'i.i s. e 14 sec. 13, Oct 21, 1833.
Chas.Ely, s w i^s.e.i.i and n.lAs.e.hs, sec.l3,Nov.2. 18.35.
William Pierce, n. w. 1.1 n. w.'i4 sec 13, Oct. 26, 1836.
Charles Ely, s. w. I4 s. w. 14 sec. 13, Nov. 2, 1835
Margaret Haynes, s. e. ^4 s. w. 14 sec. 13, June 26, 18-35.
Nancy Reed, n. l^ s w. Usee. 13, Oct 21, 1883.
Abraham Sears, s. '- n.w. 14 sec. 13 Nov. 9, 1838.
Isaac Miller n. e. i.i n. w. I4 sec. 13, May 9 18.36.
J. Caspar Bucher, w. l.^ sec. 14, Oct. 14, 1834. ■
William Wason, n. '.; s. e I4 sec. 14, Nov. 19. 1833.
.Joseph Kinsey, e. ' ^ n. e. ^ sec. 14, June 1, 1885.
Luther A. Hall, w. 14 u. e. I4 sec. 14, Aug. 14, 1841.
Luther A. Hall. s. 1,.; s. e. I4 sec. 14, Aug. 14. 1841.
Jacob Henry, n. w. V4 n e. I4 sec. 15, Aug. 30, 1841.
M.B.Land Warrant 17f>.s.w. '4 n.e.'4 sec 15,Jan. 4,1853.
Abram Burton, n. w. V^ n. w. I4 sec. 1-5, Nov. 9, 1837.
Michael Lingnaker, n. e. 14 n. w. I4 sec.l.'i, Nov.2,1835.
Daniel Rinebolt, s. li n. w I4 sec. 15, Sept 4, 1834.
Charles Ely, n. ;i s. e. I4 sec. 15, Nov. 2, 18.35.
Luther A. Hall, s. yi s. e. 14 sec. 1.5, Aug. 14, 1841.
M. B. Land Warrant 13813, e. V2 n. e. J4 sec.l5, Feb. 2,
1853.
George Stower, e. \4 s. w. '4 sec. 15, Jan. .30, 1834.
George Stower, w. j^ s. w. I4 .sec. 15, Oct. 25, 1838.
School Lands, sec. 16 (see page 567).
George Free, n. e. I4 sec. 17, April 16, 1832.
George Slosser, n.. w. '4 sec. 17, April 12, 1832.
George Boston, n.'e. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 17. Dec. 12, 1833.
Levant B. Cotes, s. e. '4 s. e. I4 sec. 17, Nov. 2, 1836.
William Noble, w. V^ s. e. I4 sec. 17, Feb. 21, 1834.
Samuel Dysert, e. '-i s. w. I4 sec. 17, April 1.3, 1832.
Isaac Miller, w. ' .^ s. w. ^ sec. 17, June 1, 1832.
Samuel McCullev.'n. 'i n. e. ^4 sec. 18, Sept. 20, 1833.
.Joseph Herrin, s. w. I4 n. e. I4 sec. 18, March 1, 1886.
Isaac Miller s. e. Vi s. e. I4 sec. 18. June 26, 1837.
John Miller, W. 1., s. e. Vj, sec. IS, Nov. 5, 1834.
Richard Herrin, s. e. pt. of n.e. I4 andn. e. pt.ofs. e.14
sec. 18, April 8, 1835.
Humphrey Chilcote, n. e.14 n.w.14 sec. 18, July 21,1834
,Tohn Schneider, s. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 18, Oct. 18 1834.
Joseph Chilcote, n. w. I4 n. w. U sec. 18, Feb. 11,1834
Robert Shippy, s. w. I4 sec. 18, Jan. 24, 1835.
Matthias Hollopeter, s. e. ^ n.w. 14 ands. w. ^4n. e J4
sec. 19, Aug. 29, 1833.
William Nobles, s. e. I4 n. e. %i sec. 19, May 12, 1837.
Wesley Hollopeter, n.eMn.w.li sec. 19, March 14, 1843.
Conrad ftlyers, n. ]-2 n. e. J4 sec. 19, Aug. 8, 1846.
Samuel Crossley, s. w. \i a. e. M, sec. 19, Nov. 24, 1836.
John Garlock, s. e. I4 s. e. 14 sec. 19, March 8, 1834.
Charles F. Drake, n. e. I4 s. e. U sec. 19. Dec. 8, 1836.
Israel Nestlerode,e. >i s. w. 14 sec. 19, Oct. 27, 1834.
Israel Nestlerode, w. U s. w. '4 sec. 19. Jan. 24, 1832.
Andew Hollopeter, w. U n. w. I4 sec. 20, May 1, 1833.
Samuel Youngker, n. e. I4 s. e. 14 sec. 20, Oct. 24, 1836.
Jacob Henry, e. y^ n. e. \i sec. 20, Oct. 26, 1842.
Charles Reber, w. '4 n. e. =4 sec. 20, March 8, 1834.
Richard Ridgeley, e. V2 n. w. I4 sec. 20, March 28,1832.
Jacob Dowell, e. ]4 s. w. '4 sec. 20, March 28, 1832.
Jacob Dowell, w. H s. e. Vi sec. 20, March 28, 1832.
Thomas McCulley, w. '/„ s. w. 14 sec. 20, April 18, 18.33.
Samuel Youngker, s. e.pt.of s.e. I4 sec.20, Feb. 22, 1833.
Jacob Stahl, e. 'i s. w. \ sec. 21, April 8, 1833.
Jacob Stahl, s. w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 21, Nov. 4, 1833.
Jacob Stahl, n. w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 21, March 20. 1837.
Daniel Swope, e. "2 n. w. I4 sec. 21, Oct. 13, 1832.
Charles McNumee, w. 1,^ n. e. 14 and n. e. }.i n.e. 14 sec.
21, Aug. 16, 1841.
Thomas Joins {or Tims), s. e. 14 n. e. 14 and n. e. J4 s. e.
14 sec. 21, Sept. 17, 1836.
Joseph S English, s. w. )i s. e. 14 sec. 21, Sept. 17, 1836.
Michael Stall, s. e. 14 s. e. % sec. 21, Oct. 17, 1836.
Michael Stahl, n. w. pt.. of s. e. % sec. 21, Aug. 28, 18.38.
Jacob Stiffler, n. w. V4 n. w. \i sec. 21, March 12,1851.
Frederick Teble, s. w. 14 n. w. 14 sec. 21, Nov. 17, 1852.
George Stahl, n. w. 14 n. e. M sec. 22, Nov. 4, 1884.
George Stahl. s. I4 n. e. 14 sec. 22, Sept. 28, 1832.
Jonas Hampshire, e. Yi n. w. H and w. vj n. w. H sec.
22. Oct. 7, 1831, and May 23, 1832.
Andrew Trumbo, s. e. 14 sec. 22, July 4, 1831.
Luther A. Hall, n. e. }.i n. e. U sec. 22, Aug. 14, 1841.
Michael Stahl, e. U s. w. 14 sec. 22, May 20, 1831.
Michael Stahl, w. 1^ s. w. % sec. 22, Sept. 17, 1830.
Wm. Stahl, s. I/2 n. e. 14 sec. 23, Mav 13, 1834.
Charles Ely, n. !^ n. e. M sec. 23, Nov. 2. 1835.
Jacob Her, s. w. '4 n. w. >4 and n. e. Vi n. w. 14 sec. 23,
Sept. 6, 1841.
Henry Shults, n. w. \i n. w. % sec. 28, April 15, 1849.
George R. Lewis, n. }4 s. e. 14 sec. 23, , 1835.
Henry F. Murphy, s. e. 14 s. e. % sec. 28, Sept. 11, 1841.
Henry F. Murphy, s. w. H s. e. M sec 23, Oct. 29, 1842.
Charles Ely, s. V2 s. w. % sec. 23, Nov. 2, 1835.
Jonathan Ake, n. e. \ s. w. '4 and s. e. ^ n. w. I4 sec.
23, May 28, 18.34.
Jacob Her, n. w. I4 s. w. '4 sec. 23, Sept. 6, 1841.
Isaac S. Browning, n. e. \i n. e. I4 sec. 24, , 1836.
George Brehm, n. w. I4 n. e. ^4 sec. 24, June 2, 1834.
Pressley Trumbo, n. e. I4 n. w. I4 .sec.24, Oct. 31, 1832.
Pressley Trumbo, s. e. ^4 n. w. 14 sec. 24, Sept. 30, 18.35.
Jacob Miller, w. \^ s. e. ^4 and s. e. '4 n. e. ^ sec. 24,
June 19, 1851.
Presslev Trumbo, w. i/i n. w. H sec. 24, Oct. 80, 1832.
George Brehm, s. w. 14 n. e. I4 sec. 24, Jan. 6, 1840.
Jacob Miller, s. e. I4 s. e. U, and u. e. I4 s. e. }i sec. 24,
March 13 and 18, 1848.
George R. Lewis, w. '2 s. w. 14 sec. 24, Nov. 2, 1835.
Levant B. Cotes, e. V-, s. w. I4 sec. 24, Nov. 9, 1836.
Henry Huffman, s. K s. e. 14 sec. 25, Dec. 20, 1832.
Wm. Pierce, e. Vo n. w. '4 and n. e. ^4 s. w. }i sec. 25,
Oct. 15, 1836.'
John Her, s. w. I4 n. w. ^4 sec. 25, Aug. 19, 1838.
Isaiah Morris, n. w. ^4 n. w. ^4 sec. 25, Oct. 25, 1886.
Levant B. Cotes, n. e. 14 sec. 2.5, Nov. 9, 1836.
John Oiler, w. ^ s. w. '4 sec. 25, Aug. 19, 1833.
Geo. Hampshire, s. e. ^ s. w. 14 sec. 25, Aug. 10, 1836.
Levant B. Cotes, n. '4 s. e. Ki sec. 25, Nov. 9, 1836.
Andrew Utz, s. e. ^i sec. 26, May 16, 1833.
Henry Stall, s.v/.h n. w. \i sec. 26, Oct. 27, 1836.
Lennox Perrin, e. »'" n. w. 14 sec. 26, Feb. 20, 1837.
Peter Brown, n. e. '4 s. w. 14 sec. 26, April 20, 1848.
M. B. Land Warrant 49888, n. w. I4 n. w. 14 sec. 26,
Aug. 12, 18.52.
Israel Jiams, n. e. \i sec. 26, Jan. 26, 1837.
Noah Myers, s. e. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 26, Oct. 28, 1833.
Andrew Ferrier, Jr., w. Vi s. w. H sec. 26, Apr. 19, 1832.
Daniel Snider, n. e. I4 sec. 27, May 1, 1830.
Andrew Ferrier, Sr., e. % n. w. '4 sec. 27, May 21,1832.
Henry llossler, w. }4 n. w. I4 sec. 27, Oct. 12, 1832.
Abraham Rinebolt, s. e. >4 sec. 27, June 1, 1829.
John Miller, n. e. M s. w. V4 sec. 27, Sept. 27, 1836.
.Tohn List, s. e. ?4 s. w. 14, sec. 27, Nov. 9, 1836.
Matthew Berry, n. w. H s. w. '4 sec. 27, Jan. 26, 1837.
*Military Land Scrip No. 9710.
1052
APPENDIX:
Jacob Miller, s. w. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 27, Juue 1, 1844.
Henry Frlnk, n. e. I4, sec. 28, Oct. 12, 1832.
Michael Bricht, s. y, s. e. 14, sec. 28, Sept. 10, 1833.
Elijah Ake, d. 4 s. e. \ sec. 28. May 28, 1834.
Reuben Hugh .Smith, n. 'i n. vr. \i (canceled) sec. 28,
Oct. 11, 1.S42.
Alonzo M. Jones and Mary Jones, same lands, sec. 28,
July 1&, 1836.
James Robertson, s. e. \i n. w. I4 see. 28. Sept. 15, 1836.
Charles F. Drake, s. w. I4 n. w. I4, sec. 28, Nov. 9, 1836.
James Robertson, e. ' 2 s. w. }4 sec. 28, Oct. 12, 1832.
Andrew Ferrier, Sr., w. 1^ s. w. I4 sec. 28, July 3, 1832.
Samuel Youngker, n. e. I4 sec. 29, Oct. 25, 1833.
William Wagner, w. 3^ n. w. I/4 sec. 29, Jan. 11, 1836.
Baker Hales, e. 'e n. w. I4 sec. 29, Sept. 2, 183G.
David Ferrier, e. 14 s. e. I4 .sec. 29, May 2, 1832.
Lucinda A. Jones, w. 14 s. e. 14 sec. 29, July 19, 1836.
Charles F. Drake, s. w. I4 sec. 29, July 29, 1836.
Elias Sower, n. e. 14 n. e. h sec. 30, March 5, 18.36.
Charles F. Drake, s. e. U n. e. U sec. 30, Nov. 9 1836.
John Stevens, s. w. U n. e. 14 sec. 30, May 17, 1834.
Samuel Crossley, n. w. U n. e. ^4 sec. 30, Nov. 24, 1836.
George Free, w. '; n. w. U sec. 30. April 19, 1832.
John Stevens, e. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 30, May 17, 1834.
Oliver Peak, s. e. I4 sec. 30, July 19, 1836.
John Taylor, e. ' .; s. w. '4 sec. 30, Aug. 23, 1833.
Henry Harrold, w. 1.. s. w. I4 sec. 30, Nov. 11, 1831.
John Gorsuch, n. e. V^ sec. 31, Sept. 18, 1832.
Henry Harrold, n. w. I4 sec. 31, Nov. 11, 1831.
Hannah Boyer, .s. e. ^4, sec. 31, July 23, 18.32.
John Gorsuch, e. Y2 s. w. 14 sec. 31, Dec. 2, 1831.
John Gorsuch, w. 14 s. w. 14 sec 31, June 8, 1831.
Wm. Cochran, e. '4 n. e. V4 sec. 32, Dec. 6, 1832.
Jacob Miller, w. 'i n. e. >4 sec. 32, June 1, 1844.
Ralph Leigh, n. w. I4 s. w. 14 sec. 32, May 9, 1834.
Adam Minear, s. w. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 32, Sept. 8, 183-5.
Philip King, e. 'i s. w. I4 sec. 32 March 28, 1836.
Abner Allen, n. i.-. s. e. '4 sec. 32, May 15, 1833.
John Crocker, s. 'is. e. '4 sec. 32, Oct. 20, 1838.
Charles F. Drake, n. w. I4 n. w. 14 sec. 32, Sept. 1, 1836.
John P. Reznor, e. ]i n. w. 14 sec. 32, May 26, 18.36.
Henry Hitesman, s. w. ^4 n. w. I4 sec. 32, Nov. 27, 1833.
Nicholas Portz, s. e. pt. of s. e. \i sec. 33, April 3. 1839.
Michael Bricht, n. '/„ n. e. I4 sec. 33, Sept. 10, 1833.
Mary Hamor, e. 'i n. w. '4 sec. 33, Sept. 1, 18.3,'5.
Mary Hamor, s. w. pt. of s. e. '4 sec. 33, April 27, 1839.
Wm. Cochran, w. ^i n. w. 14 sec. 33, Sept. 6, 1832.
Jesse Stoneman, s. w. '4 see. 33, Sept. 24, 1836.
Ralph Leigh, s. '.j n. e. "4 sec. 33, Oct. 17, 1836.
Levant B. Cotes, n. l-j, s. e. '4 sec. 33, Nov. 9, 1836.
Adam Patterson, w. 'i n. e. '4 sec. 34, Aug. 2.5, 18-36.
John List, n. e. '4 n. w. I4 sec. 34, Nov. 9, 1836.
Martin Brubaker, e. > i n. e. I4 sec. 34, May 19, 1829.
Frederick Gibbons, e. '.> s. e. '4 sec. 34, April 19, 1832.
Jacob Ronk, s. w. I4 s. e. '4 sec. 34, July 19, 1836.
.John Rinebolt, n. w. I4 s e. I4 see. 34, June 25, iS.41.
Wm. D. Harper, s. '.i n w. '4 and n. '■A s. w. I4 sec.
.34, Nov. 1, 1836.
Levant B. Cotes, n. w. '4 n. w. '4 sec. 34, Nov. 9, 1836.
Not on original records or additions : s. '-i s.w. I4 sec.34.
Michael Brecht, e. ^ n. e. I4 sec. 35, Aug'. 19, 1833.
Christian Foster, w. ^4 n- e. ^4 and e. '4 n. w. ^4 sec.
.35. June 25, 1829.
Christian Foster, w. 14 , n. w. 14 sec. 35, Sept. 16, 1829.
Jacob Good, s. e- ^4 s- e- I4 sec. 35, April 20, 1833.
Henry Lambright, n. e- '4 s- e- I4 sec. 35, Jan. 3, 1834.
Melancton W. Brown, w. ' , s. e. '4 sec. 3.5, Oct. 10, 1836.
John Stumbaugh, e. 4 s- w- '4 sec. .35, May 1, 1830.
John Snider, w. •/, s. w. I4 sec. a5. May 1, 1830.
Henry Huffman, n. e. '4 sec. 36. Dec. 11, 1828.
John Williams, e. '-i n. w. I4 sec. 36, April 3, 1832.
Melancton W. Brown s. w. I4 n. w. '4 sec. 36, Oct. 10,
1836.
-Michael Brecht, n. w. >4 n. w. 14 sec. 36, Aug. 19, 18.33.
Samuel Rinebolt, s. e. ^^4 sec. 36, June 5, 1829.
Jacob Good, s. w. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 36, April 20, 18.33.
Henry Lambright, n. w. '4 s. w. ^4 sec. 36, Jan. 6,1834.
Jacob Hoover, n. e. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 36, April 25, 1835.
Benj. Hoover, s. e. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 36, April 25, 1835.
SEXECA TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 1 N., RANGE 14 E.
John Johns, Sr. e. pt. of n. w. ]4 fr. sec. 1, July 14, 1821
(ieorge Johns, n. w. }^ of fr. sec. 1, Aug. 10, 1821.
Thomas Gale, s. e. pt. of fr. sec. 1, Oct. 1. 1821.
Charles Leonard, n. e. pt. of fr. sec. 1, Nov. 29, 1822.
Philip Zinn, e. '.. of n. e. ]i sec. 2, Jan. 9, 1822.
Jacob S. Jennings, e. M n. w. }.^ sec. 2, June 3, 1823.
Jacobs. Jennings, w. '.; of n. e. J^sec. 2, June 3, 1823.
Jacob S. Jennings, w. M n. w. % sec. 2, Nov 2, 1830. .
Philip Zinn, n. pt. s. e. ;^ sec. 2, Feb. 21, 1822.
John Lidey, s. w. fr. % sec. 2, April 25, 1827.
Jesse Mickendaffer, e. Yz of n. e. % sec. 3. Nov. 19, 1832.
John Pirrony, w. Yz n. e. }4 sec. 3, May 28, 1833.
Abel Biggs (or Briggs) n. w. J^ sec. 3, Jan. 1, 1831.
Jacob Dice, e. ii of s. e. i^ sec. 3, Nov. 19, 1832.
John Davidson, w. \:-, of s. e. % sec. 3, Sept. 10, 1331.
Isabelle Sloan, e. !4 of s. w. % sec 3, Sept. 27, 1832.
John Wenk, w. ' r, s. w. ^^ sec. 3, Nov. 12, 1831.
Sam'l Wright, of Md., e.Yz n. w. 14 sec. 4, Sept. 11, 1823.
Sam'l Wright, of Md., w. 3.^ n. e. J^ sec. 4, Sept. 11, 1823.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. Yi n. e. 14 sec. 4, and w. 1,4 n.
w. I4 sec. 4, May 24, 1828.
Samuel Cadwallader, e. '/i s. e. ]4 sec. 4, Sept. 25, 1832.
Samuel Cadwallader, s. w. J^ s. e. J^ sec. 4, Sept. 25, 1832.
Michael Coleman, n. w. }4 s. e. 34 sec. 4, Dec 25, 1832.
Michael Coleman, s. w. 34: sec. 4, April 8, 1830.
Anthony Sanders, e. 3^ n. e. '4 sec. 5, Dec. 24, 1832.
Matthias Wiseuberger, n.w. 3k n.e. 3^ sec. 5,Dec.25,l832.
Matthias Wisenherger, s.w. 34 n.e. 3^4 sec. 5, April 8,1833.
John Dockwiler, n. w. 34; sec. 5, May 28, 1833.
Anthony Sanders, n. e.'% s. e. 3^ sec. 5, May 23, 1833.
Christian Schleimer, s. ]4s. e.% sec. 5, June 13. 18.33.
Peter Arntz, n. w. % s. e. % sec. .5, Aug. .5, 1834.
Miami tt Dayton Canal, s. w. 34 sec. 5, May 24, 1828.
Christian Schleimer. n. e, 34 sec. 6, June 13, 1833.
ilichael Heber (or Weber) s. w. 34 sec. 6, June 13, 1833.
John Houck, n. 14 s. e. 34 sec. 6, Nov. 18, 1833.
Joseph Henry, s. !4 s. e. % sec. 6, April 9, 1834
n. w. 31 sec._6, June 13, 1833.
Christian Kraemer,
Michael AVeber, w. Vj n. w. i^ sec. 6, June 13, 18.33.
Samuel Hoover, n. e. 3^ sec. 7, June 1, 1833.
Nimrod Phillips, s. w. '4 s. w. I4 seo. 7, June 1, 1822.
Joseph Hart, e. ij of s. w. '4 sec. 7, June 1, 1822.
John Frees, n. w. 14 of s. w. 14 sec. 7, Feb. 24, 1834.
Jacob Adelsperger, w. 14 of u. w. % sec. 7, June 12, 18.33.'
Jacob Kapler, s. e. % sec. 7, July 1, 1833.
Philip Newmeyer, e. }/., u. w. 34 sec. 7, June 2, 18.34.
Frd'k & Rob't Byrne, e. 3^ n. e. % sec. 8, May 18, 1831.
John Henry, n. w. % n. e. 34 sec. 8, April 9, 1834.
Jacob Klinkert, s. w. 3^ n. e. ^i sec. 8, Oct. 3, 1833.
James Hoover, n. w. 14 sec. 8, June 1. 1833.
Frederick Zellar, e. y, s. e. I4 sec. 8, Nov. 24, 1832.
Michael Stippick, w. % s. e. 34 sec 8, May 16, 1833.
Jacob Adelsperger, e. 3^ s. w. 14 sec 8, June 12, 1833.
Martin Keafer, w. 3-^ s. w. I4 sec. 8, Oct. 23, 1833.
Wm. Cadwallader, n. e. 34 n. e. 34 sec. 9, Aug. 21, 1832.
Daniel Foglegesong, s. e. '4 n. e. 54 sec. 9, Aug 19, 1833.
Nicholas Hanover, w. Vi n. e. 14 sec. 9, Aug. 19, 18.33.
Frd'k ct Rob't Byrne, e."3^ n. w. 34 sec. 9, May 13, 1831.
Frd'k & Rob't Byrne, w. '4 n. w.'4 sec. 9, May 17,1831.
Theobald Koch. n. 3< s. e. I4 sec. 9, July 10, 1833.
Ludwig Faulhaber, sT 34 s. e. 34 sec. 9, July 15, 1833.
William Beagle, e. 34 s. w. I4 sec. 9, Feb. 20, 1833.
Frederick Zellar, w. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 9, Nov. 24, 1832.
Gustave Reiainger, n. e. l^ sec. 10, Oct. 15, 1832.
Isaac Sloan, n. e. I4 n. w. 34 sec. 10, Sept. 27, 1832.
George Philip Wahl, s.e. 3^ n.w. 34 sec. 10, May 23, 1833.
Wm. W. Blair, w. 3^ n. w. '4 sec. 10, Jan. 13, 1831.
Gustave Reininger, e. '4 s. e. I4 sec. 10, Oct. 15, 1832.
George Griffith and George Ebert, w. 3-^ s. e. 34 sec. 10,e.
1 -i s. w. I4 sec. 10, Nov. 29, 1832.
John Sheets, w. ]A s. w. 14 sec. 10, Oct. 15, 1830.
Frederick Lamb, s. w. pt. of s. w. 34 sec. 11, Nov. 29, 1825.
John Lidey, w. pt. of n. w. I4 sec. 11, April 25, 1827.
Josiah Hedges, s. w. pt. of fr. sec. 12, Aug. 20, 1821.
Ebenezer Mills, n. e. pt. of fr. sec. 12, Sept. 21. 1821.
William Wisely, s. pt. of s. w. ^fr. sec. 13, July 16,1821.
Josiah Hedges, n. pt. of n. w. % fr sec. 13, Aug. 20, 1821.
.Tosiah Hedges, s. pt. of n. w. 34 fr. sec. 13, n. w. pt. of b.
e. 34 fr. sec. 13, Aug. 23, 1821.
John Crocker, n. e. pt. of n. e. 34 fr.sec. 13,July2S,1823.
■Tohn Crocker, s. e. pt. of s. e. I4 fr.sec. 13,Feb.25, 1828.
Miami &. Davton Canal, n. pt. s. w. I4 fr. sec. 13, May
24, 1828. ■
Wm. H. Tong, s. pt. of s. e. '4 sec. 14, July 16, 1821.
Chris. Brandstill and John Wirtzburger, w. Y-, n. e. 34
sec. 14, Aug. 23, 1821.
Chris. Brandstill, e. 3<i n. w. % sec. 14, Aug. 23, 1821.
Philip Zinn, n. pt. s. e'. • [ sec. 14, Sept. .5, 1822.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. pt. s. w. % sec. 14, and e. ]A
u. e 14 sec. 14, May 24, 1828.
Jo.seph Pearce, w. 3 > n. w. 34 sec. 1\, and e. 3'o n. e. 3^
sec. 15, May 3, 1823.
k .
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1053
Philip Zlnn, w. pt. s. w. % sec. 14, March 1, 1823.
David Fox, s e. ^ sec. 15, ,Tuue 3, 1823.
< iustave Heinep:er. w ' .; n. e. J<i sec. 15, March 13, 1833.
.lacob Spitler. u. w. ' ^ Jec. 15, Feb. o, 1829.
Michael Meier, v. ' .. s w ' t, sec. 15, June 6, 1833.
Jacob Kergus, v , ' , s. «. ' ,,sec. 15, Sept. 9. 1833.
Pchool Lands sold Tiy i^tate, sec. 16.
.John Arney or ( Ainey), e. ] ., u.e. % sec. 17, May 22,1882.
lieorge (iriffith, w. 34 n e. 'i sec. 17, Nov. 29, 1832.
.lohn Wurley, n. w I4 sec. 17, Nov. 24, 18.32.
Adam Wimar, e y.', s. e. \i sec. 17, Dec. 6, 1832.
.Tohn Bland, w. 34 s. e. 'i sec. 17, .July 19,1831.
Henry Zimmerman, s. w. I4 sec. 17, .Tuly 25, 18-32.
Thomas Brooks, n. w. Vi n. w. 1, sec 18, Feb. 2fi. 1833.
Andrew Burgderfer, s.w. I4 u. w. Ki sec. 18, .Tuly 12,1834.
Philip Stam, e. ^4 n. e. ^^ sec. IS, Aug. 17, 1833.
•Tacob Rayz, w. 34 n. e. '4 sec. 18, Aug. 17, 1833.
.Jacob Redfox, e.'Va n. w. I4 sec. 18, Aug. 17, 18.33.
.Tames Hunter, s. e. 3-4 sec. 18, Oct. 30, 1832.
.Jacob Redfox, e. 3-^8. w. 34 sec. 18, Aug. 17, 1833.
Peter Wuchter, w. 3^ s. w. 34 sec. 18, July 10, 1832.
Ralph Dudleston, e. 1/2 n. w. 14 sec. 19. Aug. 21, 1827.
(Jerhart Schultz, w. ]4 n. w. I4 sec. 19, April 17, 1832.
John Wikart, s. e. I4 sec. 19, May 23, 1832.
James Mouser, n. V^ n. e. I4 sec. 19, May 17, 1833.
John Drake, s. e. 'I n. e. ^ see. 19, Nov. 15, 1834.
Danifl Sni.ii.i.'is, n. <■. ' ■ s. w. ' , s.-c 19, Oct. 19, 1832.
.iohn r.iik.T, w. ' .s. w. ', srr I'.i, .lune27, 1833.
John Lewis n.'itonn,^.^ i s. « . • , sec. 19, Oct. 30, 1833.
Peter VVuchtev, e. > ;, n. e. m sec. 19, July 10, 1832.
George Vanness, s. e. 14 n. e. 1.4 sec. 20, March 6, 1833.
George Vanness. n. e. >4 n. e. I4 see. 20, April 16, 18.33.
George Vanness, w. 3.^ n e. 34 sec. 20, Nov. 17, 1832.
George Vanness, e. >;;"n w. 34 sec. 20, Oct. 12. 1832.
Samuel Ilarman, e. Ki, s. e. 14 sec. 20, Jan. 2, 1833.
\Vm. McKiunev, w. li s. e. 14 sec. 20, Oct. 12, 1832.
(4eorge Vannes^, e. i-fs. w. 1.4 sec. 20, Oct. 12, 1832.
Samuel .^iKuii, -.v. ' ,. Ts. w. I4 sec. 20, Sept. 11, 18.33.
Wm T;m Inr, n. w. > ,^ n. w. I4 sec. 20, July 9. 1833.
.Samuel >li:i 1 1., s. «v. ' 1 n. w. I4 sec. 20, Sept. 11, 1833. ^"
Daniel Wiuier, 11. e 4 n. w. I4 sec. 21, Dec. 6,1832.
Andrew libv (,or i:iey ),s e. ^ 1 n.e. I4 sec. 21, Nov. 10,1832.
Martin Keafer, s. w. I4 n. w. '4 sec. 21, March 25, 1833.
Velentine Ilamni, n. w. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 21, and s. e.^i n.
w. 1.1 see. •_'!, April 10, l,s:;:!.
Henrv I i|,t, s. w. '4 11. e. ' , sec. 21, July 27, 1833.
Jacob" Terllinuer, n. e, 1 , 11. e. I4 sec. 21, Aug. 1, 1833.
John Curry, n. w 1 1 n. 0. '4 sec. 21, Nov. 8, 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. y, s. w. and e. }4 s. e. 34
sec. 21, Mav 24, 1828.
.Toseph Clevenger. w. ]4 s. e. 3* sec. 21, Nov. 15, 1827.
Benj. Clevenger, w. % s.w. 14 sec. 21, Nov. 15. 1827.
Philip Zion, e. 3^ n. e". I4 sec. 22, Feb. 11, 1822.
Eli Bloomer, w. U s. e. I4 sec. 22, August 10, 1822.
Philip Zinn, e-]4s e. 34 sec. 22, March 1, 1823.
Wilson Winter, w. 14 n. e. »<, sec. 22, Jan. 2, 1824.
Daniel Dick, n_w. 1 i n. w. I4 sec. 22, May 2, 1833
Daniel Dick, n. e. - 1 n w. \^ sec. 22, June 17, 1833.
Frederick Ariiv. s. e. ' ,. 11. ^v.K^ sec. 22. Oct. 8, 1833.
Frederick Am V, e. ' ■■, s. w. % sec. 22, June 28, 1830.
John Bright, w'. '.; s. w 14 sec. 22, Oct. 21, 1830.
Wm. H. Tong, n. pt. of n. w. }^ sec. 23, July 16, 1821.
AViu. H. Tong, e. pt. of n. e.\4 sec. 23, July 16, 1821.
Horton Howard, s. pt. of n. w. ^i sec 23, May 2, 1822.
Joseph Heist and, e. pt. s. e. 3^' sec. 23. Nov. 21, 1822.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. w. % see. 23, May 24, 1828.
Milton L. Mounts, w. pt. of s. e. 1 ^ sec. 23, Sept.26, 1828.
John Crocker, e. pt. of n. w. V^' sec. 24, Sept. 10, 18i7.
Wm. Wisely, w. pt. of n. w. 3<^ sec. 24, July 16, 1821.
George Johns, s. w. pt. of s. e. ]4 sec. 24, Aug. 29, 1821.
( ieorge John.-, e. pt of s. w. ' I sec. 24, Aug. 29, 1821.
Moses Beers, w. pt. of s w. 3i sec. 24, Aug. 19, 1822.
Isaac Pence, e. ' . n. e. ' , sec. 24, May 19, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. 'i n. e. 34 and e. pt. of s. e.
\i sec. 24, JNIay 24, 1828.
T. Brundige, e pt. ofn. w. 34 sec. 2.5, Nov. 22, 1821.
T. Brundige, n. w. pt. of n. e. '4 sec. 25, Nov. 22, 1821.
J. Eakin, s. pt. of s.w. and s.e.]4 sec. 25, April 30, 1822.
Fred. Hack, s. e. pt. of s. w. V4' sec. 25, June 10, 1822
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. pt. of n. w. % sec. 25, May
24, 1828.
Frederick Hack, w. pt. of s. e. Vi sec. 25, June 10, 1822.
Frederick Hack, e. pt. of s. e. 34 sec. 25, May 28, 1823.
J. S. Jennings, e. ^ n. w. ^4 fr. sec. 2, June 3, 1823.
J. S. Jennings, w.'U n. e. '4 fr. see. 2, June 3, 1823.
J. Waggoner, s. e. pt. of n e. 14 sec. 25, April 18, 1828.
John Reid, w. ^.^ s. w. % sec. 26, March 27, 1822.
Wm and .-V. Tteid, e. 3'» s. v.% sec. 26, April 10, 1822.
Milton L. Mounts, e. i-i n. w. 34 sec. 26, Sept. 26, 1828.
Shepard Cowdry, w. 3-4 n. w. 34 sec. 26, Jan. 29, 1828.
John Beery, w. 14 s e. 34 sec. 26, Nov. 17, 1826.
Miami A Dayton Canal, n. e. 34 and e pt. of s. e. I4 sec.
26, May 24, 1828.
A. Courtwrighl, w. 3^ s w. 34 sec. 27, July IG, 1821.
Eli Bloomer, w.
Miami & Dayt.
; sec. 27, Aug. 10, 1822.
27, and e.
David Foght, e. ' _. s. c. ' 4 ^ee. JV .( .t 2. ISJS.
Andrew Ely, e. ' ^ ». w. ' _^ see. 27, Nuv. ^, 1826.
J. Mongar(or Mougai), e. 1-2 n. w. 34 sec. 27, Dec. 8, 1827.
Andrew Ely, w. '4 s. e. 34, sec. 27, Feb. 6, 1828.
Hampton Crandall, s. e. 34 sec. 28, Aug. 26, 1825.
Gresha Alison, e. 34 s- w. 34, sec. 28, Aug. 22, 1826.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. ',4 s. w. '4 and n. 14 sec. 28,
May 24, 1828.
John Tingler. e. 34 s e 34 sec 29, Nov. 26, 1825.
vx
\u-. 26, 1820.
■:■<, Aug. 26, 1826.
1 ' . nT vre. ami w. '..; S. W.
K-r.'s s,.e, :;ii, Mav 24, 182,8.
..Tuly 7,1.823. "
31, Sept. 3, 1827.
V:, see. 31, May 24, 1828.
14 sec. 32, Dec. 9, 1824.
I4 sec. 32, Aug. 4, 1825.
sec. 32, June 7, 1827.
'an. w. 34 and s. 34 sec.
David Cur
Daniel Longsdon, w. !4 s. e.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n
34, sec. 29, and 634.50 ac
John Moses, s. w. 34 sec. 31, ,
James Mallow, s. e. 3^4 sec. 3:
Miami & Dayton Cai.al.
Samuel Sargent, w. i', n
Samuel S:iri4ei]t, e, ' , 11.
.John Drake, e. ' . 11. w
Miami .tDavlon ( ajial,
32, Mav 24, 1824.
Denis Lee, e. 'o s. e. 34 sec. 33, Feb. 18, 1822.
Peter Dell, w. 14 s. w. % sec. 33, March .30, 1822.
George Nessell, w. V, s. e. 34 sec. 33, Aug. 19, 1822.
Abel Piatt, w ' : n. w. I4 sec. .33, Nov. 13, 1823.
Peter Swii /.r, <■. ' , n. w. 14 sec. 33, Nov. 13, 1823.
Peter SNvii/ri,e. I , s. w. 34 sec. 33. Nov. 13,1823.
Abraliaiii Cdiutwright, e. '4 n. e. 34 sec. 33, Dec. 4, 1823.
Abraham Huff, w '.; n. e. 34 sec. 33, Aug. 24, 1824.
Abr Courtwright, w. >; n. w. 34 sec 34, July 16, 1821.
Daniel Whetsel. e. Us. e 34 sec. 34, Sept. 25, 1822
David Culver, s. w. 34 sec. 34, Sept. 25, 1822.
David Culver, w. % s. e. 34 sec. .34, Sept. 25, 1822.
Samuel Grimes, e. 34 n C- 34 sec 34, Nov. 22, 1822.
Samuel Brundage, e' Vz n. w. '4 sec. .34, June 30, 1825.
SI. & D. Canal, w. 14 n. e. 34 sec. 34, May 24, 1828.
Peter Switzer, s. U sec. 35, July 16, 1821.
Joseph Work, e. pt.of n. e. 34 sec. 35, and w. pt. of u.
e. I4 sec. 35, Aug. 17,1821.
David Griffith, e. 'i n- w. I4 sec. .3.5, Oct. 20, 18 Jl.
James Seward, w. i-i n. w. 34 sec. .35, Nov. 2, I82I.
Thomas Deeper, s. pt. of s e. '4 sec. 36, Aug. 6, 1821.
Robt. and Jno. Reid, w. 'j s. w.i4sec. 36, Apr. 10, 1822.
James Eakin, n. e. I4 sec. 30, April 30, 1822. •
James Eakin, e. pt. of n. w. 34 sec. 36, April 30, 1822.
Frederick Hack, n. pt. of n. w. % sec. 36, June 10, 1822.
.Tohn Kell, n. pt. of s. e. 14 sec. 36, Nov. 12, 1822.
John Kell, e. pt. of s. w. I4 sec. 36, Nov. 13, 1822.
John Alspach, w. pt. of n. w. H sec. 36, May 12, 1823.
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 2 N., RANGE 14 E.
Bradley Squire, s. w. '4 see. 1, April 11, 1822
Henry Rosen berger
Solomon Ruse, e. ^
John Doran, \
John Crocker.
Nicholas Schall,
e. '4 sec. 1, May 6, 1822.
;n. w. 'i sec. 1, May 24, 1822.
h. w. '4 sec. 1, May 27, 1822.
2 s. e. 14 860. 1, July 28. 1823.
'4 sec. 1, Sept. 2.5,
Fred'k Rosenberger, Jr.,w.34 s.w. 34 sec.2,May, 31,1824.
Nicholas Houser, w. 34 n. w. 34 sec. 2, June 4, 1825.
Solomon Valentine, e. 34 n. w. '4 sec. 2, March 7, 1834.
George Shedenhelm, e. Si s. w. 34 sec. 2, Jan. 28, 1831.
Charles Chaiiey, e. 34 s. e. 14 sec. 2, Nov. 23, 183(i.
Solomon Valentine, w. 34 s. e. 3'+ sec. 2, Aug. 3, 1833.
.Solomon Valentine, w. y, n. e. I4 sec. 2, March 7, 1834.
Wm. Kime, s. w. I4 sec. 3, June 4, 1825.
Nicholas Monser, e. H n. e. '4 sec. 3, June 4, 1825.
James Fisher, w. 'i n.'e. '4 sec. 3. April 15, 1835.
John Monser for Mouser), n. w. I4 sec.3 March 26,1831.
Charles Chaney, s. e. 34 sec. 3, Jan. 21, 1832.
John Anderson, w. M n.e. 34 sec. 4. May 6 1.833.
John Monser, e 14 n. e. 34 sec. 4, Jan. 17, 1834.
•Tames Barringer, e. 34 n. w. 34 sec. 4, Aug. 26, 1834.
Wm. Kime, e. 34 s. e. 34 sec. 4, March 13, 1834.
Thomas Green, w. 34 s. e. 34 sec. 4, Nov. 14, 1831.
Melancton W. Brown, w. y n. w 34sec.4, Oct. 10,1836.
Melancton W. Brown, s. w? 34 sec. 4, Oct. 11, 1836.
60
1054
APPENDIX ;
Melancton W. Brown, e. j^u. e. % sec. 5, Oct. 11, 1836.
Peter W. Benjamin, n. w. M and w. V2 n. e. %, and n.
1/2 s. w. 14 sec. 5, Nov. 15, 1836.
Levant B. C-tes, s. e. M sec. o, Nov. 9. 1836.
Michael Vollraer, s. w.14 s. w. M, sec. 5, Nov. 24, 18.54.
Michael Vollmer, s. e. '^i s. w. >4 sec. 5. Jan. 20, 1S3.5.
Melancton W. Brown, w. 1/0 n. e. M sec. 6 Oct. 10. 1836.
Melancton W. Brown, e. p. of n.w, 1^ sec.6 Oct 10,1836.
Melancton W. Brown, s.w.14 n.w. 14 sec. 6,Oct.lO, 1836.
George Flack, n. w. 14 n. w. % sec. 6, April 25, 1836.
Levant B. Cotes, n. 14 s. w. % sec. 6, Nov. 9, 1836.
Peter W.Benjamin, e. ^e n- e. Vi and's.e. '4 and s. J-.^ s. -
w. '4 sec. 6, Nov. lo, 183H.
Jacob Birhla 'or Buhla '.n.e. K ne- M sec.7, Oct. 17,1834.
John Theobald, s. Vi n. e. 14 sec. 7 Oct. 1, 1833.
Conrad Kline, s. e. }4 sec. 7, Oct 1, 1833.
Jacob Shoff, s. e. 4 n. w. % sec. 7, May 6, 18.^3
Peter \V. Benjamin, n. V2 n. w. 34 and n. w. '^ n. e. %
sec. 7, Nov. 15, 1886.
Alichael Hammer, s. w. \i n. w. 14 sec. 7, Sept. 22, 1840.
Conrad Kline, n. 14 s. w. M sec. 7. Oct. 1, 1833.
Jonathan Ruse, s. 'i s. w. '4 sec. 7, Sept. 7, 1832.
Michael Ennisser, e. Y^ n. e. »4 sec. 8, May 1, 1834.
Levant B. Cotes, n. w. % n. e. 14 sec. 8, Nov 9, 1836.
John Jacob Fox, s. w. '4 n. e. ^4 sec. 8. May 1, 1834.
Francis Raef, n. w. 14 sec. 8, Oct. 1, 1833.
Eman "el Ruse (or Reese ',e. 14 s.e. '4 sec. 8, Oct. 11,1831.
John Riehm. w. V% s. e. Yi sec. 8, Oct. 1, 1833.
.John Riehm, s. \^ s. w. ^4 sec. 8, Oct. 1, 1833.
Francis Crouse, n ii s. w % sec. 8, Oct. 1, 1833.
David McCracken, n. e. % sec. 9, Nov. 14, 1831.
John Dreisbach, s. e. 4 sec 9, June 16. 1832.
John Dreisbach, w. V^ sec. 9, June 16, 1832.
Jacob Ruse, e. '4 n. e. 14 sec. 10. May 24, 1822.
Barnet Freeze (or Freerej.w vi n e.^isec 10,Sept.21,18o2.
John Upp. Jr.. e 'is. e. \i sec 10, Oct. 14, 1823.
Bartholomew Schall,w. 'i s. w. U sec. 10, May 31,1824.
Martin Schall. w. >^2 n. w. I4 sec. 10, Dec. 27, 1824.
Martin .Shaul, e. '.; n. w. i.j, sec. 10, May 5, 1826.
Solomon R'lse, w. 's s. e. Ki sec 10, Jan. 16, 1824.
Solomon Ruse e. ^/j 8. w.14 sec. 10, Jan. 16, 1824.
Stephen Vickery, e. Y^ n. e. I4 sec 11, May 3 1822.
Jacob Ruse, w. \i n. e. }i sec. 11, May 24. 1822.
Jacob Ruse n. w. 14 sec. 11. May 24, 1822.
Nicholas Schall, e. Y s- e. 14 sec. U, Oct. 11, 1V22.
Jono Upp, Jr , w. y^'s. w. ij, sec. 11, Oct. 14, 1S23.
Richard Sueath, e. Yi s- w. 14 sec. 11, June 29, 1826.
Richard Sneath, w. M s. e. 14 sec. 11. June 29, 1826.
Bradley Squire, s. e. M sec 12, April 11, 1822.
Stephen Vickerv, w. 14 n. w. 14 sec 12, May 3, 1822.
Nicholas Schall,' w. 1^ s. w. H sec. 12. Oct. 11, 1822
John Stoner & Geo. Stoner. n. e. '.i sec. 12, Oct. 2o, 1822.
John Stoner & Geo. Stoner, e. ^A n. w. ^4 sec. 12, Oct.
25, 1S22.
John Crocker, e. V, s. w. I4 see. 12, July 28, 1823.
Eli Bloomer, w. 14 s. w. % sec 1.3, April 3. 1822.
Cornelius -Skinner, e. V2 s. w \i sec. 13. April 3, 1822.
Joseph Pool, e. V2 n. w M sec. 13. April 3, 1822.
Joseph Pool, w. pt. of s. e. 14 sec. 13. April 3, 1822.
Rollin Moler. n. e. ^ sec. 13, April 12 1822
Bartholomew Schall, w. 14 n. w. 14 sec. 13, May 6, 1822.
Dr. Dunn, s H sec. 14, March 27, 1822.
Bartholomew Schall. e. M n. e. \i sec. 14, May 6. 1822.
Thomas Wheeler, w. Vi n. e li sec. 14. Aug. 23, 1823.
Thoni IS Wht^eler, e. % n- w. ^4 sec. 14, Aug 23 1823.
Fred Rosenberger, w. ^i n. w. 14 sec 14. June 3, 1826.
Dr. Dunn, e. '» s. e. Hsec 15, March 27, 1822.
Peter Hajnos, w. 14 s. e 14 sec. 1.5, Sept 5. 1823.
Peter Havnes. e. K s- ^- ^4 sec. 1.5_. Sept. 15, 1823.
Martin Sch Jl. e 'i n. w. \i sec lo. May 31, 1824.
Geo. Schall, w. i.i n. w ^4 sec 15 May 31, 1824.
John Kime, w. Vi n. e. 14 see. 15, May 24, 1824.
John Kime e. '4 n e. 14 sec. 15 Nov. 4, 1824.
Frd'k Rosenberger, w. 14 s. w. 14 «ec. 15. June 3, 1826.
School Lands, sec. 16 (see page .5.=i9).
John Miller, w. y; n w 14 sec 17 June 24, 1822.
Michael Miller, e. Y n. w. M sec. 17, June 24, 1822.
Jacob Ruse, n. e. 14 sec. 17, Oct. 1, 1822
Jacob Ruse, e. 1/2 s. e. % sec. 17, Oct. 3, 1822.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. Vi s. e. M and the s. w. \i
sec. 17, .lune 24, 1828.
Abraham Miller, n. e. 14 sec 18, April 7, 1824.
Robert >hippey. e. Y n. w. 14 sec. ix, Jan. 2fi, 1826.
Jonathan Ruse. w. V2 n. w. 14 sec. 18, March 7, 1827.
Miami & Davton Canal, s. V. sec. 18, Mav 24. 1828.
John Cookerlv, e. 14 s. e. % sec. 19, March 25, 1833.
John Kirshne'r, w. 14 s e J4 sec. i9.June 18, 1834.
Isaac Chenoweth, w. Y n- e. M sec. 19, June 28, 1830.
David Fox, e. l.< n. w. K^ sec. 19, Oct. 29, 1830.
Miami & Dayton Canal,w. V» n.w I4 and s.w. U sec. 19,
May 24. 1 828.
Joseph Fisher, e. '-i n. e. ^4 sec. 19, Nov. 5, 1838.
Thomas Whealer, e. K s.e. 14 sec. 20, Aug. 23, 1828.
Peter Magers, n. w. 14, s. e. 14 and n. e. M s. w. M= sec.
20, Jan. 31,1834.
George Slosser, n. w. M sec. 20, Sept. 5, 1831.
Benj Roller, s. e. 14 s. w. M and s. w. 54 s. e. M sec. 20,
Sept. 23, 1833.
Martazal Frederetzy, s.w. H s.w. M sec. 20, Dec. 2,1833.
Wm. Leitner, n. w 14 s w. i;i sec. 20, July 14,1834.
Bayard Landerman, e. '4 n. e. 14 sec. 20, Oct. 26, 1832.
Peter Slosser, w. ^i n. e. M sec. 20, Sept. 26, 1831.
Thomas Whealer, e. ^'^ n. w. 14 sec. 21, Sept. 5, 1827.
David Betz, e. y, n. e. H sec. 21, Oct. 31, 1829.
Jacob Ru.se, w. »; n. w. 14 sec. 21, Oct. .3, 1822.
Thomas Whealer, w. 14 s. w. 14 see. 21, Aug. 23, 1823.
Peter Judv, w. Vi n- e. 54 sec. 21, Sept. 5, 1823.
Nancy Patterson, e. V2 s. w. \i sec. 21, June 1, 1832.
Burrows Moore, s. e. M sec. 21, July 16, 18.32.
Peter Stimmell, e. 54 n. e. 54 sec. 22, March 27, 1822.
John Hite, s. w. 14 sec. 22, Nov. 19, 1822.
Michael Schall, e. 54 n w. 54 and w. 54 n- e. M sec. 22,
Aug. 7, 1823.
Isaac Cadwallader, s. e. 54 sec. 22, Aug. 23, 182.3.
Saiuuel Smith, w. K n. w. 54 sec. 22, Sept. 30, 1831.
.John P Gordon, e. Y s- e \i sec. 23, Jan. 17, 1822.
Jas. Eakins w. '4 and w.14 s.e. 14 sec. 23, Mch. 26,1822.
Samuel Ream, n. e. 14 sec. 23, Sept. 16, 1822.
Wm Little, s. pt. s. e. I4 sec. 24, July 18. ]S21.~-
Elisha Smith, s. w. pt. s. w. 14 sec. 24, June 20, 1822.
Samuel Ream. n. w. pt. n. w. ^4 sec 24. Sept. U, 1822.
Elijah Huntington, n. pt s. e. 54 sec. 25, July 17, 1821.
James Gordon, e. pt s. w. 54 sec. 25, July 17. 1821.
Wm. Little, e. V^ n. e. I-4 sec. 25 July 18, 1821.
George Johns, s. pt. s. e. 54 sec 2-5, Aug. 10, 1821.
Wm. Little, w 1^, n. e 14 sec. 25, Oct. 26. 1821.
John Porter, e. 1.; n. w. 14 sec. 25, Sept 16, 1822.
John Crocker, w '<. n. w. 54 sec. 25, July 28, 1823.
Frederick Lamb, w. pt. s. w 14 sec. 25, Oct. 29, 1825
Peter Stimmel, e. V, n. e 54 sec. 26. March 27,1822.
Robert Roberts, w. 54 n. e 54 sec 26, Nov. 19, 1822.
John Hite, w V2 sec. 26, Nov. 19. 1822
Richard Sneath. s e. \i sec. 26, .Tuiy 6, 1826.
Jas Quiua (of Penn.), e. 14 s. w. 54 sec. 27. Dec. 6, 1822.
John Foresman, w. Y s. w. 14 sec. 27, Feb. 19, 1823.
George Stoner. s. e U sec 27. Apr. 17, 1823.
Andrew Mains, w. Y< n. w. 14 sec. 27, Sept 10,1824.
John L. Flack, e. 54 h. w. 14 se--. 27, Jan. 20, 1827.
Michael Thomas, n. e. 54 sec 27, May 30, 1827.
John Robertson, e. '/, s. e. I4 sec. 28, Oct. 24. 1825.
Leonard Lebar, w. 54 s. e. 54 sec. 28, .Tune 15, 1829.
Christian Zaring, e V2 n e. 54 see. 28, May 7, 1828.
Fred Wampler w. 54 n. e. 54 and e. 54 n- w. 5^4 sec. 28,
Nov. 8, 1828.
John Briner, w. 5i n. w. 14 sec. 28, Oct. 20, 1830.
Leonard Lebar, e. 'i s. w. U sec 28, June 15, 1829.
John P. Gordon, w. V« s. w. i.j, sec. 28, Nov. 22, 1883.
Martin Houseman, e. 54 s. e. ^4 sec 29, June 6, 1826.
Arnold Livers, w. 14 s. e. 54 sec. 29, June 17, 1828.
John P. Gordon, w. "-A n. e. 14 sec. 29, April 24, 1830.
John Briner, e. 54 n. e. 14 sec. 29, Apri 13, 1832.
George Slosser, n. w. 54 sec. 29, Aug. 10, 1831.
Arnold Livers, e. v, s. w. 54 sec. 29, June 7, 1828.
Joseph Elder, w. 14 s. w. 4 sec. 29, June 17, 1828.
George .Slosser, e. v„ n. e. 54 sec. 30, Aug. 10, 1831.
John Callanan, w. 14 n. e. 54 sec. 30, March 13, 1834.
William L.Ricketts, s. w.'4 n.w. Y sec.30. May 20. 183o.
John Rummell, n. w. ^i n. w. 14 sec. 30, Oct. 29, 1833
John Callanan, s. e. \i n. w. 54 sec. 30. March 13, 1834.
John Henry Long, n. e.14 n.w. 54 sec.30, July 18, 1834.
George Slosser, e. V« s. e. 54 sec. 30, Aug. 10, 1831.
Amos Wheeler, w. V4 s. e. 14 sec. 30. Sept. 19, 1831.
James H. Wilson, e. '4 s. w. ^4 sec. 30, April 2.o, 1832.
William L. Ricketts, w.14 s. w.14 sec. 30, March 10,1827.
Philip Hasla, e. 14 n. e. % sec. 31, Nov. 6, 1832.
-- ^ - '• ■ ■--■'--'» Nov. 6, 1832.
V4 sec. 31, May
Miami & Davton Canal,
24, 1828.
Jacob Kime, n. Y sec. 32, May 28, 1824.
John Stump, n. e'.\i s. e. % sec. 32, April 15, 1834.
George Ehrhart. s. e. H s.e. 14 sec. 32, Dec. 25, 1832.
Joseph Wonderlen. w. 14 s. e. Y sec. 32, Oct. 18, 1882.
John Wonderlen, n. e. % s. w. ^4 sec. 32, Oct. 13, 1882.
Anthony Wonderlen, s.e. 54 s.w. 14 sec.82. July 4.1834.
.Jonathan Foltz, w. 54 s. w. 54 sec. 32, May 19, 1832.
James Earl, e. Y n. e. 54 sec; 33, April 22, 1823.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1055
Philip Panel, s. e. I4 sec. :!:>, June 2 1S23.
John Runiiuell, w. U n. e. \i sec 3!, Dec. 1, 18.3^
John Ruiuiaell.e. 'c n. w. Ki sec. 33, Dec. 1, 1S30.
Henvv KcII.t, w. ' n. w. ' , M-r. ;; ;, '><■[. 17, is-j,
Frederic'k l-roxcl. .'. ' . s. w 1, --.; ;;::. ,1 11 nr r ', 1 -:;u
Lewis l:iuiiiin'l, \v. ■ . s, \v ' ; ^riv :;;;. .l:iii I;, l.--::i
NathuuCaawaila.hM'.r. 11 .• ', -rr :;,. Mavl.i, l-j^.
Philip l'ai;.'l, II. «'. ' I •'.,■. :u, .iiiii,- J.'-j::
Jas.Ai'rtn huii.hr.iv,. ' .^.M•. ', ~.r::l .Iuuel2.1823.
James D,.,m'u.,i v, w ' . -w ■; >'.-.:'.>. Iv,- 'J, 1825.
Levi til-, a nrr;iss,.v >- :. .■ , ^.- ;i Vov. 10,1826.
mlmi',v''havl',nra,,ai..' .'■ .' '-■' 1' May 24,1828.
Moses l;r..a'^, I-. ' . -. r ' , MT . >, .l.i'l .'. i -'-.
Nathan (adwallad.T.w. ': 11. w. ■ , seu. .: ., .Vi.iiIlo,1823.
James Smith n. c. ' 1 sec. '■>>, June 2, 1S23.
Jacol. S. .Irnuiims, e. ' .■; s. w. h sec. 3.5, June 3, 1823.
Jacob S. .leimiuj^s, w. '.. s. e. Vj, sec. Ho, June 3, 1823.
Agreeu Inf,'raham, e ' « s. w. ' i sec. 35, Jan. 12, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w.' 2 s-W.^i sec 3o, May 24, 1828.
James (lordon, n. pt. of u. w. 1.1 sec. 3G,July 17, 1821.
*(jeoif;e Johns, n. pt. ol's. w. i.j, sec. 36, July 17, 1821.
Wm. V. Sharp ,^ Jos. McCluug, s. pt. of s. w. '4 sec. 36,
Julv 17, 1.^21.
Michael Koucaunnn, s. pt. of n.e. ki sec. 30, July 17,1821.
Mich. Foacann(m,n.pt.of n.e. ^i sec. 36, Aug6,lK21.
lieorge Johus, s. pt. of n. w. S ""'<'■ '■'■'''< Aui;. in, 1821.
James Spink s. e. pt. of s. e. ' , m^'. '■'•'''. .\piil 2, 1822.
John Cood, n. pt. of s. e. '.i see. :;r.. .luno Li5, 1S22.
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 3 N., RANGE 14 E.
Jacob Brunner, e. '4 n. e. hi sec. 1, June 2, 1824.
Adam Wiseman, w. H n. e. 'X sec 1, Nov. 4. 1831.
Adam Wiseman, e. Yi n w. 34sec. 1, Nov 4, 1831.
Isaac Myers, w. 14 n. w I4 sec 1, June 18, 1831.
John Fry, s e. '4 sec. 1, June 2, 1829.
.lamns Hudson, e ]4 s. w. ]4 sec. 1, Dec. 30, 1830.
Philip Myers, w. V. s. w. )4 sec. 1, May 28, 1832.
Margaret Brunner, w. % a. w. '4 sec. 2, June 2, 1824. >
Craig Hunter, e. ^^ n yf.% sec 2, June 28, 1830.
Peter Heen, n e. 14, sec. 2, Nov. 4, 1831.
Jacob Myers, e. V2 s. e. \4 sec 2, .May 28, 1832.
Jacob Myers, w. 14 s. e ><^ sec. 2, July 13, 18 !2.
Jacob Myers, e. V2 s. w. ',< sec. 2. July 13, 1832.
John Roseniierger, w. % s. w. % sec. i, May 26, 1829.
MargaiTt P.runnrr, e. '4 n. e. ^i sec. 3. June 2, 1824.
Jaci>li ' .rir, w. ' . n. e. '4 sec. .3, Aug. 6, 1827-.
Davi.l l;iplev, e. ' , n. w. l.i sec. 3. Oct 2, 1827.
!-»ihis stuii,,ni, w. > ., n w. 4 sec 3, June 13. 1833
Wm. 1 Ill's (or Hires), w. ';, s.e. I4, sec. 3, .Tan. 11, 1827.
John I. kis, <■ ' . s. e. % sec 3, June 30, 1828.
Thiuiias WaiT, c. I , s. w. 14 sec. 3, Aug. 4, 1827.
John Uuscub.rn^'r, w. 1.; s. w. '., .sec. 3, May 22, 1827.
Fred. Kuscubergcr, w. ' .. s. •■. ' , see, I, Si.pt 15, 1826.
Jos. Rosenberger, e. ' . s. c ' , ^''c'. 1, -May 22,1827.
Adam Leffler, n. w. '4 M/r 1. .lunr l.s, l.s:;i.
Craig Hunter, n. e. 4 n. c. '4 sec. 4, .May 28, 1834.
Nathan Belts, s. e. !4 n. e ]4 sec 4, Jan. 23, 1834.
Nathan Belts, s. w. M u. e. 14 sec. 4, July 14, 1834.
Jacob Hollinger. n w. % n. e. 4 sec. 4, Nov. 26, 1834.
Fred. Rosenberger, w. ^i s. w. Ki sec. 4, July 19,1828.
Henry Mowry. e. '4 n w. '4 sec, 5, Oct. 3 1834.
Abraham Beaber, w. '^ n. w. H sec. 5, Sept. 10, 1833.
Hoi-ace Peake, e. ' i s. w. '4 sec 5, Julv 5, 1832.
Philip I>e«niau w. '4 s. w Ki sec. .5, Nov. 26, 1831.
John F.ih, s. e. ', sec. 5, May 28, 1833.
John staiitz. n. ' ., 11. e. i.i sec. 5, June 11, 1834.
David Crawford, s. '.2 n. e. '4 sec. 5. Jan. 25, 1836.
Jacob Ash, s. ',4 n. e. 4 sec. 6, Sept 17, 1833.
John Ash,n e 4 n. e. 4 sec. 6, July 21, 1836.
Samuel Fry, n. w 4 n. e. i.i sec. 6, Nov. 19, 1836.
Samuel Fry, n. e. 34 n. w. 4 sec 6. Nov. 19, 1836.
Jacob Mowry, s. e. 4 n. w. }4 sec. 6, Dec. 27, 1834.
Samuel R. Fry, w V2 n. w. 4 sec. 6, July 15, 1839.
Jacob Ash, e. Us. e. 14 sec. 6, Nov 17, 1831.
Jacob Ash, w. V^ s. e. % sec. 6, Sept. 17, 1833.
Jacob Ash, e. 14a. w. ^4. sec. 6, Oct. 14, 1833.
Jacob .Mowry, w. I4s.w.% sec. 6, Oct. 3, 1834.
Joshua Downing, e. '4 s. w. '4 sec. 7, March 28, 1833.
Samuel Kinsey, s, w. 4 s- w- M sec. 7, June 1, 1835.
David Smith, s. w. 4 n. e. 4 sec. 7, Apr. 6, 1833.
Peter Sears, s e. ^i n. e. ^4 sec. 7. Apr 19, 1833.
Peter Sears, n. w. 4 sec. 7, Apr. 19, 1833.
Valentine Lvbarger, n. I., u. e. 4 sec. 7, Oct. 14, 183
Jonathan Dicken, e. ]4 s. e. % sec. 7, Nov. 16, 1831.
Peter Sears, n w. 4 s. e. 4 sec. 7, .\pril 19. 1833.
T'li/.a I'islliri' Scars, s. w. ' ,' s. <•. 1 ■( see 7, Ni'v. 5!'. 1^'
.\-l
Dr. Horace I'eake, u. w. ' 1 11. • . , m ■■ ^, Sejit 22. is-.f.
Joseph Cjood, s. -w.-^.i n. e. ' . -« ■ . s. .lum 'jd, 183.5.
Nathan Peake, e. 3^ n. w. ' , -■- ^. 1 »< t li( 183i.
Russell Peake, w. 1.4 n. w. '4 mi S < »' I 19, 1832.
.John Shukv (or Sheiky),e V^ s.e. 1.4 see. 8, June 3, IStU.
Louis MeCloy, w. '.i s e. 4 sec. 8, Nov. 1, 1828.
Louis McHlov. e. 14 s. w. M sec. 8, Nov. 1, 1828.
Amo- Dii'keii. w. >', s w 1, sec. 8. Oct. 24, 1832.
Josepli I. -.J ■.•,., ., - ■■ ' II. » ■ , ,.,.,•. ,s, Nov. 9, 1833.
Al.iani ,v I'aill. --.a. . ■ n - . -- '.i, Oct. 1.5, 1828.
Freilfi I' k l-tk.-r. ,-i- II i^. i n • , -., !■ a, Oct. 16, 183'i.
Fredei-iclv Halter, u. e. -4 1. w H -ec. ;i, Sept 14,1832.
Joseph Good, w. '4 u. w '4 sec. 9, June 3, 1831.
David Blocher, s. w. K^ of n.e. Vi and s.e. i^of n. w. '^
sec 9, Aug. 24, 1833
Samu. I Si.iiiLT. II. r 1 , s. .■ ■ , SIM-. 9, April 5, 1836.
Fri'ili-iii k .-ii:irl:r\'. n. n . , s c ' . see 0, Dec. 2, IS:;.">..
Ware s. '< . >. c. ' , mt. ;i, Dec. 2'., 18;».
ikrr, 11. IV ', s. w. '; sec. 9, Dec. 2, 183.5.
. sec. 9 Dec. 27, 1834.
sec. 9, Nov 10, 1832.
.sec. 10, June 12, 1833.
4 ,sec. 10, Nov. 10, 1832.
i.i sec. 10 (no date given) 183.1.
■. I4 sec 10, Aug. 27, 1833.
sec 10, March 28, 1833.
i e. \i sec. 10, .Tune 3(1, 18.34.
ec. 10. -Mav 17. 183:'.
. I4 see 10", June 15, IS^o.
!C. 11, Oct 1, 1822.
Wi
Peter I'.aker, 11. e ',
John Keas, s e. • , s
John Keas, \v ' . s. nv
John Sherer, e. '.,'!.
lieorge Fry, w. ' ._. a.
Jacob Hassler, w. J-.2 •
Jacob Beachtal, e 14
Isaac Ringle, e. '
John Houseman, v
John Betz, e. li n-
Jacob Hassler, w. 1
John Robertson, e.
s. e
AVilli
.\iigustus Harris,
I'l.i
Evan r.n.i.ke, e, '.s w. U sec 11, Dec 31,1830.
John Ko^i-iil.er-er, w. 1^2 s w. \ sec. 11, Jan. 12, 183S.
Heiirv I orey, s; w. I4, n. w. I4 sec. 11, Apr. 1-5, 1833.
Jonathan Betts, s. e. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 11, July 17, 1S33.
Jonathan Betts, n. w. 14 n w. I4 sec 11, July 17, 1833.
John Robertson, s. w 34 sec. 12, Oct. 1, 1822.
John, Geo Wm. ct Nicholas Rumbaugh, n 34 sec. li,
June 28, 1830.
David Gamble and James Cochran, s. e. U sec 12, Julj-
21, 1832.
Martin Houseman, n. 14 sec. 13, June 6, 1826
Martin Houseman, s e 14 sec. 13, June 6, 1826.
Martin Houseman, e. 34 s. w. 14 sec. 13, June 6, 182f!.,
Joseph A. Hall, w. 4 s. w. Vi sec. 13, June 22, 1827.
t Michael Trout, e. 34 n. e. I4 sec. 14, Aug 17, lS'.i:
Ephriam Bowen, n w. \ sec. 14, June 13, 1S29.
Robert Roberts, w. 34 n. e. Vi sec. 14, Feb. .5, 18;;:;.
Samuel Havs, n. e. >4 s. e. ^4 sec. 14, Aiir. H., I8:;t
Marshall Burton, s e. 4 s. e. \i sec 1 1. < let. 2, l.'^35
David Houseman, w. 3-4 n e. '4 see 1 1, .liiiie e, iS2ii..
Oliver Oodner s. w H"sec. 14, Nov j.', ls:;i.
Jacob Icenhart, e. 34 s. e. '4 sec. 15, March 20, 183S
Marshall, w. % s. e. 4 sec. 15, Oct. 2, 1835.
Harvey Corey, n. e. 4 "■ e. 4 sec. 15, Aug. 31, 183S-
Williara Ware, w. '-;:; n. w. ' , see. 15, March 5, 1836.
Wm. Edwards Powell e ' . n . ^^• ' i, w. H n. e. 4, s. *.
3/^s. e. 4i sec. li, .\pril a. \^:''i'i.
George Feasel, s. w. ' , se(\ 1.5, .\u,g. 12, 1831.
School Lands, sec. 16 isee page 579 .
Henrv Huffman, w. '4 n. w. 4 sec. 17, Dec. 12, 182?-.
Jacob Dore, w. ',4 s. w. 4 sec. 17, Nov 29, 1826.
James Dounard, e. 3^ s. w. I4 sec 17, Sept. 2, 1834
Adam Fleck, e. Vj n. w. 4 sec. 17, Dec. 28, 1826.
Henry G. Spayth, w. Vi s. e. 34 sec. 17, Oct. 3, 184i
Harvey Corey, n. e. 34 sec. 17. Oct. 8, 18:^4.
Henry Brinkman, e. 'A s. e. 54 sec. 17, Feb. 12, 1834.
Abram & Bart. Sears, e. '<. n. e.4 sec. l8,Nov. 12, 1S31.
Joseph Good, w. 34 n e. V4 sec. 18, Oct. 30, 18.30.
George Ash, w. % s. w. 14, sec. 18, Oct. 21, 1833.
George Ash, n e. 14 s. w. % sec. 18, Feb. 3, 1834.
Elizabeth Stockwell, s. e. '4 s. w. 4 sec. 18. Jan. 12, 1841
Jonathan Dicken, e. '■.i s. e. 4 sec. 18, Nov. 16, 1831.
Jonathan Dicken, w. 14 s. e. 34 sec. 18, Oct. 24, 1832.
Joshua Downing, n. w. 34 n. w. 4 sec. 18, Mar. 25, IfeSa.
John Thomas, e. 14 n. w. V4 sec. 18, Nov. 1, 1833.
Thomas Hughes, s. w. 3-4 n. w. 4 sec 18, Oct. 22, 1847.
David Bunn, e. y. n e. 4 sec 19, Feb. 11, 1833.
*Assigned to Elizabeth Musser.
t Should appear in sec. 24, and now does appear.
1056
APPENDIX:
Samuel Arm^Mniili, \i
Wm.E. Pow.ll, w i s
Samuel Arni" Miiitli, e
AVni. Eilwaids ri.w.,11,
Jacob Flack, e. '2 s. e.
Samuel Arrowsmith, w.
sec.
.; sec. 19, Oct. in, l.s:>!.
19, April .i, 1830.
1 sec. I'.i, Oct. 10, 1833.
e. 19, Aiiril .^. 1830.
April -., 1>:;.-,.
, sec i',', net. in, 1S33.
I4 sec. 20,
sec. 20, y c
, Sept. 27, 183G.
.V. IS, 18.30.
I4 sec. -'1,
.luiir 1:;, is:;3.
David Bunn, w. '., n w. 14 sec. 20, F^
John Powell, s. w. 1 ,; s e. ' ,' sec. Cii, '
Lorentz Hut, ^. «'. '1 s. e. ' , sec -jo, (
LcA'ant B. ( otr>, n. ' ; >. c ' , mi j 1,
Levant B CoU;>. n. w. ' , -. \\ ' , -.c
PetevShabtroi sliolar,ii..vi ,>,.■■ ^s
Jacob Geisei-, s. c. ' , 11. -a.' , iiuil s
20, Aug. 1:;, is:;i;.
Isaiah Morris, u. e. ' ,
Lewis Michaels, s w.
Isaac Hartstock, e. ]4
Jacob S. Imler, s. e. *",
Wm. Dutch er,u. w. '.
Daniel Lynch, n. e. 'i
Henry Hufhuau, e. 's
Samuel Wright, 11. w.
Noyes Higgins, s. e. '
Jacob Myers, s. w. ' 1
Noyes Higf»ns, w. ' ^
Jacob Martin, w. '.. s
Wm. Dntcher, s. e. ' 4
Jacob Lower, n. e. Ki
Marshall Burton, e. ' ■.
John Powell, s. w. i.i
Wm. Dntcher, u. w. '
Thomas Hughes, n. e.
Henry Feasel, e. '.^ n
Daniel Lynch, w. V. i
Richard Freer, n '
Marshall Burton, ■
Thomas Hughes, - ., 1831.
Samuel Hays, n. c. . i.. ^. , .-^c. _.., 1-^. . 23, 1833.
Ehas P. Slane, s. e. ^ a. e. Kt, sec. 23, Feb. 7, 1834.
John Maxwell, s. w. I4, n. e. I4, sec. 23, Mav 16, 1834.
Marshall Burton, n. w. i.i n. e. U sec. 23, Oct. 2, 1835.
Nicholas Schall, e. l^ s. e. Vi sec. 23, June 11, 1829.
Marshall Burton, w.'i , s. e. \i sec. 23, Oct. 2, 1835.
Marshall Burton, w. ' , sec. 23, Oct. 2, 1835.
Stephen Thomas, e. '., n. e. h sec. 24, Aug. 30,1821.
Daniel Peterson, e. 1 .. s, e. ; , -r, . Jl. Au-. 30, 1821.
George Crookshauk, w ',-. ( m.. . j, Xov. 17, 1820.
*David Housemaii, w. i_ 11. . . , -c. j: .i ime 6, 1826.
Wm. Moobeeny (or Muulunv ;, ji, u. ' 11. w. % sec. 21,
May 31, 1820.
Samuel Moobeenv, w. }4 n. w. % sec. 24, May 31, 1.S20.
David Moobeeny," e. 1.2 s. w. ]4 sec. 24, May 31, 1826.
Nicholas Schall, w. Vk s. w. H sec. 24, June 11, 1829.
Benjamin Collvcr, s. e. I4 sec. 25, Aug. 31, 1821.
David Conway, n. e. % sec. 23, March 28, 1822.
John G. Reichert, e. '4 n. w. I4, sec. 2-5, June 29, 1820.
Henrv Crall, s. w. '4 sec. 25, July 4, 1827.
Upton McDaniels, e. '.2 n. e. I4 sec. 26, Aug. 23, 1831.
Samuel Ludwig, u. w. \i and w. }4 n.e.J^ sec. 26, April
, sec. 20, Sept. 1, 1836.
'4 sec. 20, Feb. 19, 1836.
sec. 20, Sept. 22, 1S30.
s35.
e. ^1 sec. 21, >iOv. 8, 1S36.
s. w. I4 sec. 21, Aug. 11, 1836.
w. 1.1 sec. 21, Nov. 18, 1836.
s. w. I4 sec. 21, April II, 1851
1.1, sec. 22, Nov. 14, 1831.
w. I4 sec. 22, Nov. 14, 1831.
w. I. sec. 22. AU..I. 12,1831.
i ,. h 31,1835.
' 11,1830.
Jacob Shoeniakei-. c. ' .; s. u. ', -• c '2'\ '.' Ji, 1.828.
John Lauser, w. ' ., s. w, ' , -. 1 .■■. "' i ;-.'.i.
John L. Flack, s. w.' , 11. < ' , i > '. ; , 1832.
John L. Flack, u. e. '1 u 1 , ' , ^. , .;'i. i i, 1. j;, isni. .
Andrew M. Smith, s. 1., u w. I4 .sec. 30, .lune 13, 1834.
Jacob Flack, n. w. ' , n. e. % and n. e. I4 n. w. V4' sec.
30, Apiil 25, 1830.
Solomon Barricks, w. V^ * e. ^4 sec. 30. Nov. 9, 1827.
Miami & Dayton ( anal" e. J4 s. e. J4 and e. ]/2 S- ^. ]4j
sec. 30, May 24, 1828. " *
Geo. M. Brown, n. w. I4 n. w. fr. '4 sec. 30 .\ug. 11, 1853.
Andrew M. Smith, w. ' , s w, ' -; soc 3i), Jutip 13, 1834.
John L. Flack, n. c. ^ n. ^ ' , ^ :\ ::i. I..- T,i,lS32.
Andrew lirurkner, s c ' 11. . 1 mm :;!, \,;.^. 7, 1833.
Andrew Ftz, w. ' , n. e. 1,, -re. :;i. Nov, ].;, 1S32.
John Long, u e. '4 s. e. ' , sec. 31, Aug. /, 1833.
Christopher Gotz, s e. 14 s e. 14 sec. 31, July 14, 1834.
George Amreau, s. w. (4 s e % sec. 31, April 10, 1835.
Daniel Rinebolt. w. ^ n. w. H sec. 31, Nov. 22, 1827
David Smith, e. 34 s,
Ezra Cromer, w. i", :
Andrew Doll, w. '2 ;
Marshall Burton, e.
John Upp, Jr. w. ia
VVm Dutcher, n. e. '.i :
John Berkev, w. 1; n. e
Davi-' Kiini',« r \ ti
Mair.i 'AMv;, , ., , ,
Jae.i . ■', ,. ,1 : , i
Cliri-:M I ' I, V,
Joseph Nickei.-oij, w. '
George Puttinbarger, e.
John Upp. Jr. e. '.Jn. e
George Hielt, J
. 14 sec. 26, June 23, 1829.
e. 14 sec. 26, Aug. 23. 1831.
w. 14 sec. 26, Nov. 29, 1834.
s. w. I4 sec. 26, Oct. 2, 1835.
w. i^isec. 27, Dec. 10, 1825.
e. yi sec. 27, April 11, 1837.
1 ■ sec 27, Julv 1, 1830.
• <p<- 27, Jan. 17, 18-34.
, - ^ - c. 'JT, .Ian.. 5, 1831.
., , Mv J7, .\ug. 11,1820.
-.-. ::. Nuv.'.i. 1,826.
s. e. '4, see. 27. May 21, 1829.
., s. e. I4 sec. 28, Aug. 26, 1825.
li .sec. 28, Dec. 10, 1825.
1. e. >4 sec. 28, Nov. 9,1827.
s. e. I4 sec. 28, Sept. 17, 1«28.
1. w. i| sec. 28, May 7, 1827.
f. \i sec. 28, June 24, 1829.
iv. 14 sec. 29, Nov.' 17, 1831.
s. e. M sec. 29, Aug. 30, 1833.
George Michael, n. e. V4 n. w. '/.'
Lorenze Huth, n. w. '-j, s. e. ^
L. Grocel (or liross), s. e. '/, s,\
Francis Abbott. n p. ' 1 -^ w '
Samuel Kineboli, -a , - " . '
Wm. (,!aultz, n. '.N, : ■ ' , •
John Michael, v. ' n .■. ' , -«
John Michael, n. e. '4 ^ i'
Geo Schurger, u. w. 4 s 1 '
Michael Brukner, s. w. ', ~ ".
Lorenze Gross, n. w. 1^ s. \v. '
Jacob Null, n. '2 n- w. V; sec. 32, June 22, 1833.
Michael Sendelback, s. w. 1,4^ n. w. 14 sec. 32, Aug. 7, 1833.
.John Michael, e. '2 n. w. I4
12, 1834.
1, .\u--7, 1S33.
,-.:;i, Aug. 13,1834.
!, March 24, 1834.
1, .tune 5. 1829.
! !.■<•. 5, 1832.
rl.. 23. 18.35.
March 21, 1834.
1. .Inly 20, 1836.
, :;2, Oct. 9, 1834.
Aug.
32, Oct. 14, 1833.
John Michael, s. e. '4 n. w. and s. w. % n. e. \4 sec. 32,
March 21. 1S34.
Henry Hossler, n. i', n. e. H sec. 33, June 1, 1833.
John M. Gwiuuer, n. e. 14 n. e 14 sec 33, cancelled.
Jacob Martin, s. e. I4 sec. 33, Oct. 7, 1833.
David La.ser, s. '4 n. e.V^ and s. e. 14 n- '^- 14 see. 33,
May 21, 1836.
James Grimes, w. 1^ n. w. 14 sec. 33, Oct. 21, 18.33.
John Michael Gwinner, n. e. '4 n.w. ]4 sec. 33, Feb. 1,
18.34.
Marshall Burton, s. w. \4 sec. 33, Aug. 11, 1886.
John Brughman, s. e. 14 sec. 34, Nov. 0, 1S26.
Jesse Starker, e. ]'k n. e. \i sec, 34. .Viiu. 'Js, 1830.
Nicholas Schall. w. i/, n. e. % sw. :■ 1, .M:,v Ju, 1829.
Nicholas .^chall, e. H n. w. I4 se<-, :;l, .Inlv !, 1829.
Jacob Kime, Jr., w. 14 n. w. Ij svv M. IVh, 19, 1828.
Jacob Mouser, s. e. 14 s- w. ki^sec. 34. ,Iuue 7, 1833.
Jacob Kime, Jr., n. e. 14 s. w. -.1 sec. 34. Aug. 29, 1833.
Daniel Kime, w. l^i s. w. 14 sec. 34, Sept. 29, 1830.
George W. Huss, e. v.; n. e. U sec. 35, Dec. 17, 1829.
Martin Zeisz, w. V2 n-"e. \4 sec. 35, Oct. 16, 1829.
Philip Gassman, s. w. 14 s. e. '4 sec. 35, Dec. 5, 1833.
Philip Gassman, n. w. \i s. e. I4 sec. 35, Aug. 7, 1835.
George Lauck and John H. Morrison, e. >« s. e. 34 sec
3.5, Aug. 14, 1835.
Martin Lies. e. K n. w. I4 sec. -35, Nov. 29, 1834.
Harvey Burton, w. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 35, Aug. 11, 1836.
Nicholas Shmet,t,e. 'i s. w. '4 sec. 35, Oct. 31. 1832.
Robert Powell, w. 14 s. w. !4 sec. 35, March 8, 1832.
Erastus Bowe, w. 14 n. e. }4 sec. 36, July 18, 1821.
Christopher Crum, e. Vr, s. e. 14 sec. 36, Nov. 25, 1823.
John Bishop, e. ^ n. e.''/t sec. 36, April 13, 1824.
Frederick Baugher, w. I;; s. e. I4 sec. 30, x\pril 13, 1824.
" " " sec. 30, April 13, 1824.
_■, :;o, .\u'-, :;, 1833.
.'•■. :;i;. Ah,v M, 1835.
Frederick Baugher, e. '
Rudolph Smith, w. 1.; s.
John (Jasman, s. w. 4 i
John Crawn, e. '2 n. w.
Gerhard Limmer, n. w.
!:!3.
Geo. Puttinbarger, w.
Jonathan Jarrett, e. '
James Harden, e. '7 1
Philip Seewald, w. K s. w. % sec. 28, Aug. 30, 1833.
John Farrell (or Porrell), e. J'a n. e. 34 sec. 29, April
23, 1833.
Jo'm Michael, w. '4 n. e. li sec. 29, May 7, 1830.
John Michael, 6. '/2 u- w. 14 sec. 29, May - - -
Peter Hissong, w. % u.
Valentine Seewald, e '/
John iMichael, w. Vi s. e. U sec. 29, Dec. 4, 1829.
14, this township, being entered there in
EDEN TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 1 N., RANGE 15 E.
Wm. Clark, s. w. '4 sec. 1, Aug. 20, 1821.
Charles McClung, n. e. 'i sec. 1, Oct. 19, 1S21.
James jNIcCIung, s. e. I4 sec. 1, Dec. 5, 1821.
Margaret McClung and Charles McClung, e. '..
14 sec. 1, Jan. 10, 1S22.
John Pittenger, w. •<- u. w. '4 sec. 1, Nov. 21, 182
Wm. Clark, s. '. sec. 2, Aug. 20, 1821.
Elisha Cole, w. '2 n. w. 4 sec. 2, Aug. 12, 1823.
John Pittenger. e. ^2 n- ^^- '1 sec. 2, Nov. 21, 182
John Pittenger, n. 67 4 sec. 2, Nov. 21, 1.827.
*Thi
appear
1 sec.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1057
John Spanknable, s. e. v^ sec. 3, Aug. 20, 1821.
.John Searles, n. w: I4 sec. :j, Aug. 20, 1821.
.Tolm Walshe, s. w. I4 sec. ;i. Aug. 20, 1821.
Drtuiel Lewis, w. '2 n. e. ^4 sec. 3, Aug. 10, 1S22.
Klisha Cole, e. ^^ n. e. Vi sec. .3, Aug. 12. 1823.
Philip Bretz, s. e. >i sec. 4, Aug. 20, 1821.
.Samuel Heninger, u. e. 14 sec. 4, Aug. 20, 1821.
.lohn Miller, e. '4 s. w. I4, sec. 4, Aug. 10, 1822.
(ieo. Mack, e. y, n. w. '4 sec. 4, Aug. 24, 1822.
.Tacob Wolfe, w: 1.4 n. w »4 sec. 4, Dee. 21, 1827.
.Tno. Mich. Liellich. w. '4 s. w. %i sec. 4, Aug. 14, 1827.
George Dittoe. w. '^ n. w. 14 sec. .i, Sept. 10, 1824.
lieorge Markley, n.e. pt. ofs. e. U sec ,5, Nov. 18,182.5.
Daniel Shonkwiler, e. '., n. w. '4 see. 5, Aug. 20. 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canaf, n. pt. s. w. ij. sec. .5, May 24,
1828.
Wm. Murray, w. ^ n. e. i4 and e. '2 n. e. Vi sec. 5,
April 10, 1828, and Dec. 18, 182(5. .
Tliomas Gale, n. pt. s. w. 14 fr. sec. 6, Oct. 1, 1821.
.Tacol) Raid and William Martin, w. M n. w. H fr. sec.
6, July 1.5, 1822.
.Tohn Dittoe, Sr., e. '4 n e. I4 sec. 6, July 26, 1822.
.lolin Wolf, w. 14 ri."e. ^4 and e. y, n. w. 14 sec. 6,
Nov. 21, 1823.
George Dittoe, n. pt. of s. e I4, see. 6, Sept. 10, 1824.
.Shepherd, Patrick and Henry Wilson, s. pt of s. e. ^4
fr. sec. 7, Aug 20, 1821.
.Shepherd, Patrick aad Henry Wilson, s. pt. of s. w.
14 sec. 7, Aug. 24, 1821.
.Tohn Kagv, e. pt. of n. e. li fr. sec. 8, July 24, 1824.
f harles Baker, s. w. i.j fr. sec. 8, Oct. 27, 1826.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. e. U fr. sec. 8, May 24, 1828.
Henry Wolf, n. e. '.j sec. 9, Aug. 20, 1821.
.Tohn Gibson, e. V^s. e. '4 sec. 9, Aug. 21, 1821.
Svlvester Hough, s. w. 14 sec. 9, June 9, 1823.
Robert McKeon, n. w. 14 sec. 9, Feb. 18, 1822.
.Tames Burlingame, w. H s. e. 14 sec. 9, May 31, 18. '6.
W7n. Clark, n. e. 14 sec. 10, Aug. 20, 1821.
John Gibson n. w. I4 and w. ^-^ s. w. 14 sec. 10,Aug.20,
1821 and Aug. 21, 1821.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. ]/, s. w. I4, and w. 14 s. e. i4
sec. 10, .Mav 24, 18J8.
.lohn Reed. e. U s. e. '4 sec. 10, Sept. 29, 1827.
Wm. Clark, e. ]Z n. e. 14 sec. 11, Aug. 20. 1821.
David Clark, n."w. lisec. 11, Aug. 20, 1S21.
John Bretz w. % n. e. -i sec. U, Aug. 20, 1821.
Samuel Baker, s."e. I4 sec. 11, June 16. 1824.
John Dimmick. w. \i s. w. ]i sec. 11, Nov. 18, 1826.
Miami it Davton Canal, e. (2 s. w.14 sec. 11, May 24,
1828.
Hamilon McCollister, n w. I4 sec. 12, Aug. 20. 1.821.
Christopher Spanknable, w. }.i n. e. li sec. 12, Dec. 8,
1821.
Harmon Knapp, e. l^ n. e. '4 sec. 12. March 18. 1S22.
Windsor Paine, w. y^s. w. ^4* sec. 12 May U, 1822.
Hamilton .McCollister, w. 14 s. w. \i sec. l2,Nov. 14,1822.
Nicholas Kuapp, e. 14 s. e. ^ sec. 12, Nov. 14, 1822.
James Cole. e. V^ s. \v. I4, sec. 12, Aug. 12, 1823.
Franklin Baker, w. '2 n. w. Vi sec. 13, Dec. 21, 1821.
Richard Jaqua, s. w I4 sec. 13, July 8, 18:^2
Thomas West, e. '-2 n. w. '4 sec 13, July IJ, 1823.
Thomas J. Baker, c. '2 sec. i:;, I'l'-. Jl. l^il.
Franklin Baker, n. e. ^i sec. 1 !. I >ff J], l^Ji.
Thomiis West, e '-i s. e. '4 sec.-l (. \\>i\ I', l-'-ll.
Joel Burlingame ind .Tas L. Burlingam'i, \v. y, s. e. '4
sec. 14. Julvl4. \>^2S.
Miami & Davton Canal, n. w. 14 sec 14. Mav 24, 1828.
Michael Kline, s w K^ sec. 14. Jan M, 1828
Wm. I lark w. '4 u. w. 14 sec. 15, Nov. 21, 1821.
,loel Burlin:.iame, w. '2 s. w 14 sec^ 1.5. May 4 1822.
Selden Graves, e '2 n. w. 14 sec. \.o, Nov 14, 18i2.
Benjamin Holmes, e '2 s. w. 14 sec. 15, Nov. 2S, 1822.
.Samuel Baker, s. e '4 sec. 15, June 13, 1824.
John Kyzer Houk. e. % n. e. 14 sec. 15, Sept 25, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. '-i n. e 14 sec. 15, May 24,
1828
School Lands, sec. 16.
John Kagy. n. w. 14 sec. 17, Aug. 20. 1821.
Peter Beaver, s. '.2 sec. 17, Oct. 1, 1 821.
Absalom Holmes, n. e. '4 sec. 17, June 11, 1323.
Shepherd Patrick and Henry Wilson, e. !4 n. w. I4
sec. 18. Au>.;. 20 1821.
George Kimmell, e. '4 sec. 18, Aug. 20, ISil.
John Crocker, w. '2 n. w. ^.^ sec. 18, .Tuly 23 1825.
.Johu Crocker, w. '^'s. w. 14 sec. 18, Nov. 9, 1826.
Charles W. Foster e. 'A s. w. i.i sec. 18, Aug. 20, 1827.
John Blauser, vr. ^2 u- e. I4 sec. 19, May 7, 1824.
Daniel Waggoner, e. '2 s. e. 'j, sec. 19, April 18, 1828.
Isaac Pence, w. Y« s. e. 'j, sec. 19, May 19, 1828.
David Waggoner, n. w. i.j sec. 19, Nov. 14, 1827.
Jacob Bare, e. '4 n. e. ^4 sec. 19, June 30, 1826.
Wm. McCormick, e. 14 s. w. ^4 sec. 19, Dec. 21, 1827.
Jacob Wagner, w. "i s. w. ]i sec. 19, April 18. 1828.
Jacob Harshberger, e. \i and e. V2 s. w. ^ and e. M n.
w. 14 and w. V4 s. w. 54 sec. 20, Oct. 1, 182..
Samuel Saul, w. i4 n- w. J4, June 24, 1826.
John Downs, s. e. ^ sec. 21, Sept. 5, 1821.
James Downs, e. '■.i u. e. }.i sec. 21, Sept. 5, 1821.
Bildad Adams, w. 'i s. w. 14 sec. 21, Dec. 5, 182L
John Downs, e. l-i s. w. 14 sec. 21, Dec. 18, 1822.
John Bare, n. w. ^4 sec. 21. Nov. 6, 1823.
Hiram Holmes, w. (j n. e. ^i sec. 21. June 7, 1824.
John Downs, w. '2 s. w. '4 sec. 22, Sept. 5, 1821 .
James Downs, w. '2 n. w. Vt sec. 22, Sept. 5, 1821.
Joshua D. xMunsell, e. '.i s. e. ij, sec. 22, Aug. 1.9, 1822.
I>aniel Hough, w. '4 Q- e '4 and w. V2 s. e. ^4 and e. Vi
s. w. 14 and e. >4 n. w. J4 sec. 22, Nov. 28, 1822.
Marv A. Sowers, e. Yz n. e. 14 sec, 22, March 1, 1825.
Philip Bretz, s. e. U sec. 23, Aug. 22, 1821.
Ezra Brown, e. ]■« s. w. 14 and e. li n. e. 34 sec. 23,
Aug. 19, 1822.
Case Brown, w. !4. s. w. '1 sec. 23, Aug. 19, 1822.
George Eaton, w. 54 n. e. 14 sec. 23, July 31, 1825.
James M. Stevens, w. hi n. w. 1,4 sec. 23, Sept. 21, 1825-
S. B. Lands, e. ^ a. w. h, Vol. VI, S. B. L., Fol. 1618.
Wm. Clark, w. i4 n. w. 14 and e. 54 n. w. ^ sec. 24,
Aug. 21, 1821.
Geo. Kimmel, w. Yz s. e. '4 and w. 54 n. e. ^4 and w.
'2 s. w. I4 and e. Yi- s. w. 14, sec. 24, Aug. 21, 182L
John Keller, e. '4 s. e. \i sec 24, Aug. 21, 1821.
Henry Wolf, n. w. 14 sec. 2.5, Aug. 21, 1821.
Philip Bretz, s. w. 1^4 sec. 25, Jan. 4, 18r2.
Joseph Richards, e. Yi s. e. 14 see. 25, Aug. 31, 1824.
Wm. Brown, w. Y2 n. e. ^4 sec. 25, Oct. 4, 1824.
Wm. Brown, of Ohio, e. Yz n. e. 14 sec. 25, May 31, 1826.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. Y" s. e. '4 sec. 25, May 24,
1828.
Wm. Clark, s. w. 14 sec. 26, Aug. 21, 1821.
Case Brown, w. I4 n- w. ^4 and e. }^^ n. w. ^4 sec. 26,
Aug. 21, 1821.
Joseph Osborn, w. 14 n. e. '4 sec. 26, Aug. 21, 1821.
Philip Bretz, e. Y2 n. e. I4, sec. 26, Aug. 22, 1821.
Jeremiah Williams, s. e. 14 sec. 26, Aug. 22, 1821.
Henry Craw, e. 14 s. w. 14 and w. Y2 s. w. 34 sec. 27,
Aug. 21, 1821.
Joshua Munsell, w '4 n. e. 14 sec. 27, Aug. 21, 1821.
Ira Holmes, w. Vj n. w. '.j, sec. 27, Aug. 21, 1821.
Samuel Knap, e. '4 n. w. ^4 sec. 27, Aug. 22, 1821.
John Searles. s. e. ^4 sec. 27, Sept. 10, 1821.
Joshua Vlunsell, e. Y2 n- e. '4 sec. 27, Sept. 10, 1821.
Samuel Knap, n. w. 34 and e. Yz u- e. 14 sec. 28, Aug. 21,
1821.
W. B. Matthewson, e. ]4 s. e. ^41 sec. 28. Aug. 21, 1821,
Isaac J. Halsey, e. Yi s. w. ^4, sec. 28, Dec. 5, 1821.
Lowell Robinson, w. y, n. e. I4 sec. 28, Feb. 7, 1822.
Daniel Parks, Jr., w. 34 s. e. 14 sec. 28, March 27, 1822.
Isaac Guruee, w. 34 s. w. I4 see. 28, Aug. 7, 1823.
Wm. Baker, n. e. I4 sec. 29, Oct. 13, 1829.
John Nell, s. w. I4 sec. 29, Oct. 16, 1822.
James .Marquis, s. e. '.1, sec. 29, Oct. 16, 1.822.
James Beaty, n. w. '4 sec. 29, Sept. 11, 1823.
Robert Irwin, e. }/i s. w. 14 sec. 39, Aug. 29, 1822.
Robert Lee, n. e. '4 sec. 30, Sept. 11, 1823.
George Brokaw, s. e. ' t sec. 3iJ, Feb. 9, 1824.
Jacob Waggoner, w. ]4 s. w. 14 sec. 30, Sept. 22, 1824,
ISIiami A Dayton Canal, u. w. '-4 sec. 30, May 24,1828.
John .Manary, e. ]4 sec. M, Aug. 21, 1821.
James Eakin, s. w."pt. of n. w. I4 sec. 31, April 30, 1822.
A iram Anders jn, e. pt. ofs. w. I4 sec. 31, .'Vug. 5, 1822.
John .\litche 1, n. e. pt. of n. w. '■4 sec. 31, Sept. 5, 1822.
Wm. And.n-.son, w. pi s. w. U sec. 31, Dec. 26, 1822.
Frederick Eyler, e. 34 s. e. ^4 sec. 32, May 6, 1822.
Jas. McCrar'y, w. 34 s. w. I4 and w. Yz n. w. 34 sec. 32,
Juue 10, 1822.
Barnaljiii Rogers, e. M s. w. '4 sec. 32, June 20, 1822.
John -Marquis, e. '4 n. w. 54 and w. 3^ n. e. ^4 sec. 32,
Oct 25, 1823.
Wm. Marquis, e. % n. e. '4 sec. 32, Oct. 16, 1822.
Wm. Cornell, w. 32 s. e. I4 sec. 32, April 1, 1825.
George Denison, e. Y2 s. e. ^4 sec. 33. Aug. 21, 1821.
John Gibson, e.. 14 n. e. '4 sec 33, Aug. 21, 1821,
Wm. J. Greer, e. 54 s. w. 14 sec. 33, Dec. 8, 1821.
*Entries of these tracts wrong in designation of quarters.
t-Vssigned to Samuel Knap.
1058
APPENDIX:
Wm. Cornell, w. V2 s. e. }i sec. 33, Jan. 21, 1822.
Frederick Eyler, w. V^ s. w. U sec. 33, May 6, 1822.
James Latham, w. y^ n. e. I4 sec. 33, Oct. 14, 1822.
Adam PeaDington' e. 14 n- w. I4 sec. 33, Sept. 5. 1828.
Miami k Dayton Canal, w. v; n. w. k sec. 33, May 24,
1828.
.J Gibson, w. i.;n.e. i^andn.w. 14 sec. 34, Aug. 21,1821
\Vm. Cornell, s. w. U sec. 34, Aug. 22, 1821.
Beniamin Brundige, s. e. 14 sec. 34, Oct. 13. 1821.
Mont. H. Fitch, e. y, n. e. '.i sec. 34, Nov. 28, 1822.
Wm. Baker, n. e. '4 sec. 3.5, Oct. 13, 1821.
Charles Meeker, e. »^n. w. I4 sec. 3.i, Dec
Horace Rogers, '
it
c. 35, Oct. 24, 182.5.
Henry Holverstol, w. "2 s. w. ^i sec. 9, Aug. 14, 1822.
Moses L. Ross, n. w. I4 sec. 9, Aug. 14, 1822.
John Keller, fr. of sec. 9, Dec 20, 1832.
Thomas Earl, w. 14 n. e. 1.4 sec. 9, April 22, 1823.
John Keating, w. >.; s. e. I4, and e. Vi s. w. I4 sec. 9,
Aug. 16, IS. '4.
Jas. Earl, w. ^ n.w. '^i and w. '2 s. w. I4 sec. 10, Aug.
21, 1821.
Stephen D. Palmer, e. V2 s. w. U sec. 10, March 9, 1822.
Asa Crockett, w. pt. of n. e. }.i sec. 10 April 5. 1823.
Peter Toughman, e. V2 n. w. 14 sec. 10, April 22, 1823.
Uriah Egiiert, w. M s. e. J4 sec. m, Feb. IG, 1H24.
Asa Crockett, e. pt. of n. e. '4 sec. 10, Oct. 29, 1824.
Jos. Straughan, fr. of .'^eneca Res. sec. 10, Dec. 11,1832.
Miami tt Dayton Canal, e v; s. 6.^4 see. 10, May 24, 1828.
M. Earl, e. '^ n.e. I4 and w. ',<. n.e. ^i sec. 11, Oct. 19
1826, and" Dec. 14, 1826.
Evan Dorsey, 50J/i acres sec. 11, Jan. 1. 1833.
John Pittenger, e. % n. w. 14 sec. 11, Nov. 21, 1827.
John Pittenger, w. Vj n. w. I4 sec. 11, Sept. 27, 1828.
.Joseph Todd, e. V. s. e. >4 sec. 11, Sept. 29, 1828.
Miami ct Dayton (anal, w.'^ s.e. ^.i sec. 11, May 24, 1828.
.John Pittenger.s. w. I4 sec.'ll, Nov. 21 18,'7.
Matthew Earl, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 12, Oct 19, 1826.
David Egbert, e. y, n w. ^i sec. 12, April 9, 1828.
Wm. Park, w. 14 n'.e. I4 sec. 12, May 17. 1827.
Benj. Lord, e. J^n. e Vi sec. 12, March 21, 1828.
Solomon Balizell, e. %». e. \i sec. 12, Aug. 17, 1828.
sec. 1, Mav -Henry Todd, fr Seneca Res. sec. 12, Dec 11, 1832.
_ ■ Miami ct Dayton Canal, w. V2 s. e. J4 and e. !i s. w. Ki
John Plum (Seneca Reservation), n. pt. n. e. ^4 sec. 1, sec. 12, May 24, 1828.
May 8, 1.^34. -Joseph Todd, w. ^ s, ~
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. Yn sec. 35, May 24, 1828.
Jeremiah Williams, w. I3 n. w. I4 sec. 36, Oct. 15, 1821.
Christian Smith, e. 14 n. w. H sec. 36, May 7, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. 'i and n. e. I4 sec. 36, May
24, 1828.
CLINTON TOWNSHIP.
TOVyN 2 N., RANGE 15 E.
William Park, w. 'i s. e. ^4 sec. 1, Dec. 11, 1832.
I harles McNamee, s pi. n. e. ^4 sec. 1, Dec. 11, 1832
James Robison and E. Avery, w. Va s. w. I4 and e '
w. I4 and s. pt. n. w. ^4 sec. 1, Dec. 11, 1832.
neorge Park, e. '2 s. e. 14 sec. 1, Dec. 12, 1832,
Fdmund Ingmand, n
-2 3.
fr. k n-
u.w. Vi sec.
John Herpert (Seneca Reservation) n.e
I, Mav 8, 1834.
Joseph Howard, s. pt. n. w. I4 sec. 2, Dec. 11, 1832.
.\bram Keller, u. pt. n. w. \ sec. 2, Dec. 11, 1832.
l':van Dwrsey, w.';. s.w. U and e. 14 s. w. k sec. 2, Dec,
II. 183i.
t;eo. W. Gist, w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 2, Dee. 12, 1832
Henry St. John, e. '.i s.e. Ki*, n- pt.'n. e
n. e. I4* sec. 2, Dec. 12, 1832.
Michael Rinebolt. n. pt. n. w. ^4 and s. pt. n.w. I4 sec
3, Dec. 11, 1832
John H. Culbertson, s. pt. n. e. Ki, w. 'j s. e. Vi and e
^'r, s. e. U sec. 3. Dee. 11, 1832.
Daniel Rife, n. pt. n. e. U sec. 3, Dec. 12, 1832.
Kzra Derr, s. w. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 3, Feb. 5, 1833.
Brice R. Barllett, n. w. . _
( ieorge Schroyer, e. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 3, March 20, 1833
Thomas Derr, s. pt. n. w. 14 and n. pt. n, w. 14 and s.
pt. n. e. I4 and n. pt. n. e. I4 sec. 4, Dec. 11, 1832.
John Keller, e. \i s. w. I4 and w. ^2 s. w. I4, sec. 4, Dec.
11, 1832.
Smith Mclntyre, e. i; s. e. ^^t sec. 4, Dec. 11, 1832.
Silas Adams, s. w I4 s. e. I4 sec. 4, April 13, 1>S33.
Jacob Huber, n. w. I4 s. e. '4 sec 4, June 5, 1833
Evan Dorsey, n. pt. s. e.
sec. 5, Dec. 11, 1832.
Henry Einsel. s. pt. s. e. I4 and s. pt. n. e. I4 and n.
pt. n. e. 14 sec. 5, Dec. 11, 18.</.
Zalmon Rouse, n. pt. n. w. 14 and s. pt. n. w. I4 and n.
pt u. e. I4 sec. 5, Dec. 11, 1832.
Ezra Sprague, n. w. I4J sec. 5, Aug. 21, 1821.
John Searles, s. pt. s. w. I4 sec. .5, Aug. 21, 1821.
John Searles, n. pt of s. w. I4 sec. n, Sept. 10, 1821.
Thomas Irish, e '4 n. e. U sec. 6, Dec. 20. 1821.
John Cruin, e. ' ^ s. e. I4 sec. 6, Apr. 20, 822.
Henrv Rosenberger. w. y s. w. >4 sec. R, May 6, 1822.
John'Crum, w. v„ s. e. I4 sec. 6, Au^ 21, 1823.
Jacob Kime, Jr., e. ' .7 s. w. 14 sec. 6, May 28, 1824.
John Martin, w. % n. e. V4 sec. 6, Dec. 14, 1826.
John Stoner, n. w. '4 sec. 6, Nov. 14, 1827.
Wm. D.Sherwood, 3. y sec. 7, Nov. 5, 1821.
Wm. D. -herwood, e. 'i n. e. I4 sec. 7, March 5, 1822.
T. Toner and A. Seligman, n. w. i4sec. 7, June4, 1822.
Wm. D.Sherwood, w. 14 n. e. Vi sec. 7, Sept. 11, 1823.
S. Heninger, n. pt. of s. w. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 21, 1821.
S. Heninger, s. pt. of s. w. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 21, 1821.
Josiah Hedges, n. e. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 23, 1821.
Wm. D. Sherwood, w. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 8, March 5, 1822.
Joseph Walker and .folin AValker, 14 acres Seneca
Reservation, sec. 8, Dec. 11, 18.32.
John Keller, n. pt. of s. e. I4, and s. pt. of
e. pt. of n. e. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 21, 1821.
James Earl, e. '.; n. w. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 21, 1821.
J. Earl e. Vj s e.'Vi and e.'4 n.e. 14 sec. 9, Aug. 21, 1821
2 3. .». ^4 sec. 12, Sept. 29, 1828.
John B. Spauknable or Sponable, w. J^ s. w. 14 sec.
13, Nov. 14, 1822.
Christian Potes, e 'o s. w. H sec. 13, Feb. 27, 1823.
Henrv Young, e "2 n. w. 14 sec. 13, June 14, 1823.
Jacob Hill, n. e. I4 sec. 13, Nov. 13, 1823.
Abraham De Long, e. '/, s. e. I4 sec. 13, Feb. 21 1825.
Wm. Shearer, w. 'o s. e. h sec. 13, March 29, 1826.
I* and s. pt. John Bibler, w. '2 n. w. I4 sec. 13, October 15, 1S27.
Willis Atwater, w. '4 s. w. 14 sec. 14, Augu.st 22, 1821.
John B. Spanknable, e. ';; s. e. U sec. 14, June 25, 1822.
Uriah Egbert, w. V2 s. e. Vi sec. 14, Aug. 19, 1K22.
David Egbert, e. V« s. w. I4 sec. 14, Nov. 18, 1822.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. U sec. 14, May 24, 1828.
(ieorge Hart^man, e. V-, n. w. I4 sec. 14, April 10, 1826.
Bernard Cass, w. V, n. w. k sec. 14, D.'C. 13, 1826.
sec. 3, JIar. 20, 1833. J. Goodvear,s.w. I4 and w. Vj s.e. \i sec. 15,Aug. 22,1821.
Willis Atwater, e. 14 s. e. U sec. lo. Aug. 22. 1821.
John Cole, w. ^^ n. w. 14 sec. 15, Oct. 9, 1821.
Carman C. Cox'e. 3^ n. w. I4 sec. lo, Nov. 11, 1824.
Edward Corser, e. V2 n. e. \ sec. 15. Jan. 21, 1825.
Samuel Cass, w. '4 n. e. ?4 sec. 15, June 14, 1825.
School Lands, sec. 16.
Robert McConibs, Josiah Hedges and H. H. Wilcox-
son,s. e. I4 sec. 17, March 26, 1822.
fr (Seneca Reservation) Josiah Hedges, w. part n. w. I4 sec. 17, Aug. 22, 1821.
(ieorge and John Park, u. e. I4 sec. 17, Sept. 10, 1821.
Abraham Rockev e. part n. w. li sec. 17, Sept. 10, 1821.
William Clark, s." w. ^4 sec. 17, Oct. 2, 1821.
Erastus Bowe, n. part n. e. I4 sec. 18, Aug. 2.3, 1821.
Erastus Bowe, w. part of fr. sec. 18, April 18, 1822.
Joseph H. Larwill, s. part s. e. 14 (canceled) sec. 18,
Sept. 22, 1830.
Josirth Hedges, s. e. fraction of sec. 18, Aug. 30, 1842.
William Little, w. part s. w. U sec. 19, Auu. 22. 1.821.
Josiah Hedges, s. part s. w. 14 sec. 19, .Aug. 22. 1821.
Josiah Hedges, n. part s. e. I4, aud s. part s. e. U and
e. part n. e. I4 sec. 19. Aug. i2, 1S2I. ,
Josiah Hedges, w. '4 n. w. 14, and w. »4 s. w. I4 and
n. e. 14 and e. "» n. w. 14 sec. 20, Aug. 22, 1821,
and Oct. 11, 1821.
Ambrose Dotv, e. y s. w. 14 and w. y s. e. '4 sec. 20,
Oct. 11,1821.
Henry Dildine, e. y s. e. Vi sec. vO, April 15, 1822.
Samuel Saul, w. U n. w. 14 sec. 20, June 24, 1826.
Joseph Sheldon, n. e. I4 sec. 21, Aug. 22, 1821.
Shepherd Patrick and Henry Wilson, e. 14 n. w. I4 and
w. ys.e. i4,andw. i^n.w. k ande. H % e. 14 sec.
21 A"ug., 1821.
Jesse Pugh, s. w. I4 sec. 21, June 3, 18^2.
Samuel Ryder, n. w. I4 sec 22, Aug. 22, 1821.
and John Atwater, e '4 n e. Vi sec. 22, Aug. 22 1821.
Daniel Perkins, w. Vi s. w. I4 sec. 22, March 9, 1822.
Zacariah Faucey, w. % n. e. 14 sec 22 Nov. 5. 1822.
Henrv Lifert, e. '4 s. e. U sec. 22, Nov. 30, 1822.
^■Assigned to Jacob Shaf
t Assigned to Aaron Beck, Feb. 1, 1833.
lAssigned to Moses Abbott.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1059
James Wallace.w. 's s.e. 'i and e. '^
19, 1822.
John Atwater, w. 34 n w. % sec. 23, Aug. 22, 1S21.
David McClung, e. li n. e. I4, sec. 23, Jan. 22, 1822.
Uriah Egbert, w. 1/2 n. e. U sec. 23, Aug. 19, 1822.
David Egbert, e. ]4 n. w. k sec. 23, Nov. 18, 1822.
Adam Schnider, s. w. }i and w. Vi s. e. \i sec. 23, Feb.
20, 1823.
Peter Robinault, e. 'A s. e. \i sec. 23, June 17. 1823.
David and Margaret McGlung, w. 1^$ n. w. 14 sec. 24,
Jan. 22, 1822.
Peter Robinault, s. w. Ki sec. 24, June 17, 1823.
Nicholas Goetschius, e. Vi u- e. k sec. 24, April 16.1824.
John Drake, e. \i n.w. J4 and w. % n. e. ^ sec. 24, May
17, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s e. I4, sec. 24, May 24, 1828.
Samuel Drake, w. K2 n w. U sec. 25, Oct. 15, 1824.
David Hartman, e.>4 n. e. li sec. 25, June 28, 1828.
Miami & Daytou Canal, s. }4 and e. }/, n. w. Kj, and w.
14 n. e. 1.4 sec. 25, May 24, 1828.
William Ewing, w. V'a n. w. 14 sec. 26, Nov. 21, 1822.
Jacob Bogart, e. % u-w. i.i and w. !4 n. e. ^ sec. 26,
Dec. 17, 1822.
Joshua Cole, e. H n. e. U sec. 26, Feb. 20, 1823.
Benjamin Mullen, e. Y^ s. e. '.i sec. 26, Jan. 19, 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. y, s. e. }i and e. J/S s. w. I4
sec. 26, May 24, 1828.
James Wolf, w. )4 s. w. ^i sec. 26, Nov. 14, 1827.
William Ewing, e" '.. n. e. 'i sec. 27, Nov. 21, 1822.
William McEwen, s. w. Vj, sec. 27, July 5, 1823.
William Lisle, e. 54 n. w. I4 sec. -^7, July 24, 1823.
Peter Marsh, w. !4 n. w. ij, see. 27, Dec. 3, 1825.
Reason Murray, w. '^^ n. e. '.i sec. 27, May 20, 1828.
William Williams, w.'vi s. e. I4 sec. 27, Oct. 6, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. ^s. e. ^i sec. 27. .May 24,1828.
Maria Bradley, e. 14 se. J.i sec. 28, Aug. 22,1821.
Leverett Bradley, w. '4 s. e. It sec. 28, .\ug. 22,1821.
James Burnside, s. w. Vi sec. 28, Sept. 10, 1S21.
Frederick Lamb, n. e. ^ sec. 28, June 3, 182.:.
Michael Schall, n. w. \i sec. 28, Oct. 11, 1822.
Reuben Williams, e. M s. e. }i see. 29. Aug. 22, 1821.
George Himmell, e.;i n. w.\i and w. V2 s. e. i.j, sec. 29,
Aug. 22, 1821.
Michael Foncannon, w. M n. e. 14 sec. 29, Nov. 9, 1821.
H.H.Wilcoxson, EUzv Hedges and Josiah Hedges, w. Vi
n. w. 14 sec. 29, .March 26, 1822.
Richard Freeborn, w. ' 2 s. w. I4 sec. 29, March 29, 1822.
Daniel Dildine, e. 14 n. e. h sec. 29, April 15, 1822.
Henry Hall, e. "e s w. Vt sec. 29, June 17, 1823.
Michael Fouoannon.w. ;; s. e. >4, sec. 30, Aug. 22, 1821.
Seldon Field, s. pt. of n. w. i.j, sec. 30, Aug. 22, 1821.
William Little, w. pt. of n. w. 1.1 sec. 30, .A.ug. 22, 1821.
Josiah Hedges, n. pt. of n. w. Vj, sec. 30, Aug. 23, 1821.
Horton Howard,- n. e. 'i and. n pt. ofs. w. }.i sec. 30,
March 23, 1822.
Richard Freeborn, e. 14 s. e. U sec. 30, March 29,1822.
.Joseph Blauser, s. pt. oTs. w \isec. 30, June 10, 1822.
•Solomon Kuder and John Galbraith, w.i^s.w.^.iseo. 31,
Sept. 21, 1821.
Richard Freeborn, e. >4 n.e. % sec. 31, March 29, 1822.
John Dittoe, e. }4 s. e. }i sec. 31, July 26, 1822.
Jacob Stapleton,"w.Vi s. e.14 and e.Vi S.W.I4, sec. 31, Julv
26, 1822.
George Shaver, n. w. 14 sec. 31, Nov. 24, 1823.
Richard Sneath, w. ]4u. e. li sec. 31, Nov. 11, 1826.
Richard Freeborn, w.';4 n. w. % sec. 32, March 29,1822.
.Teremiah Spaugler, w. }4 s. w. I4 sec. 32, Aug. 8, 1822.
John Drake, e. '4 n. e. 14 sec. 32, Nov. 18, 1822.
John Drake, w. Vj n- e. M sec. 32, March 3, 1824.
.Joseph Biggs, e. ^i n. w. 14 sec. 32, Oct. 19, 1826.
Wm. T. Dailev, e. '4 s. e. 14 sec. 32, Feb. 11, 1828.
Henry Elder, w. 'i s. e ^ sec. 32, Nov. 21, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e.Vz s.w.i4sec.32,May 24, 1828.
Martin Lentz, w. V2 n.w. '4 and e.V, n.w. 1,4 sec. 33, Aug.
22, 1821.
Valentine Reber,w. V2 n.e. 14 and w.14 s.e.ki and e.''> s.
e. 14 ande. K n- e. ^4 sec. 33, Aug. 22, 1821.
Henry DiWine, e. "2 s. w. Vi sec. .33, April 15. 1822.
John Searles, w. U s. w. ii sec. 33, .\ug. 1, 1822.
Jacob Gaster, w. y, s. W.I4, and e. '2 s.w.14 sec. 34, Aug.
22, 182!.
Isaac Comer, s. e. V4 sec. 34, June 2, 1823.
Henry Hall, w. 14 n. w. I4, sec. .34, June 17, 1823.
John Beard, e. J4 n. w. I4 sec. .34, Oct. 15, 1823.;
Daniel Lamt.right, u. e. ^ sec. 34, April 2!, 1825.
.Jacob aud Eve Hite. s. w. ' 1 sec. ^.l, June 21, 1823.
-John FittenKcr, s. e. • i ser. :>i. Nov. 21. 1J<27.
Peter Schi'.ck, u. w. 'j sei-. 35, Jan. 25, 1827.
sec.22,Nov. Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. I4 sec. 35, May 24, 1828.
Adam Morehart, e. 'i s. e. ^4, sec. 36, March 29, 1823.
William Clark, w. >.; s. e. U sec. .36, Nov. 22, 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. \4 sec. 36, May 24, 1828.
John Pittenger, s. w. 14 sec. 36, Nov. 21, 1827.
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 3 N., RANGE 15 E.
1 sec. 1, Dec. 15,
■. 1, Dec. 15, 1832.
u. pt. of n. e. 14 seel.
Amariah Watson, n. pt. of u.
1832.
D. H. Jopp, s. pt. of n. w. 1 1 sec
D. H. Jopp, s. pt. of n. e.
Dec. 15, 1p32.
D. H. .Jopp, w. 1 2 s. e. U and e, ' -j s. w. li Dec. 15, 1832.
J. H. Larwill,e. 'i s. e. 14 sec. 1, April 15, 1833.
Amariah Watson, w. 'j s. w. »4 sec 1, April 15, 1833.
John Brion, s. e. Ki s. e. >4 sec. 2, Mav 25, 1833.
John Briou, n. e. Is, s. e. 14 sec. 2, Dec. 9, 18.33.
Thomas Lacey, w. 4 s. e. 14 sec. 2, Oct. 3, 18.33.
Wm. Kelsey, S. Res. s. e. I4 n. e. I4 see. 2. Dec. 17, 1834.
C. Shuster, S. Kes. n. pt. of n. e. i4sec. 2 Jan. 14, 1835.
Joseph Cross, S. Res. s. w. 14 n. e. 14 sec. 2, Feb. 2, 1835.
Nathan B. Adams, n. w. I4 sec. 2, Dec. 11, 1833.
Thomas Lacey, s. w. I4 sec. 2, Oct. 3, 1833.
S. Stoner, S. Res. n. w. H s. w. 14 sec. 2, Jan. 31, 1835.
J. Bartlelt, s. w. ^4 s. w. 14 sec. 2, Dec. 9, 1833.
R. Guun, s. w. 1,4 n. w. 14 sec. 3, Jan. 11, 1833.
D. Jackman, n. pt. of n. w. 14 sec. 3, Jan. 15. 1833.
H. Burham, S Res. s. e. 14 n. w. I4, sec. 3, Feb. 2, 1835.
Abner Pike, e. M s. e. k sec. 3, Feb. 15, 1831.
Philip Alspach, w. 1/2 s. e. 14 sec. 3, Dec. 20, 1834.
William Ellis, w. Vi s. w. 14 sec. 3, June 8, 18.33.
S. Charles, S. Res. e. H n. e. k sec. 3, March 14, 1834.
J. D. Stage, n. w. I4 n. e. k sec. 3, Jan. 30, 1835.
J. H. Larwill, e. 'i s. w. I4 sec. 3, Nov. 12, 1835.
Shepherd Patrick and Alonzo Hulburd, fr. of sec. 4,
Aug. 23, 1821.
S. Ludwig, S. Res. s. pt. of w. pt. ofs. e. J4 sec. 4, Dec.
12 1832.
J. Lamberson, n. pt. of w. pt. ofs. e. 14 sec. 4, Dec. 12,
1832.
J. Lamberson, e. pt of n. w. I4 and w. pt. of n. w. \4
sec. 4, Dec. 12, l,s32.
Daniel Smith, e. pt. ofs. e. fr. I4 sec. 4, March 15. 1833.
David Wilev, s. pt. of n. e. fr. Vj, and n. pt. of n. e. ^
sec. 4, April and May, 1833.
Shepard Patrick and Alonzo Hulburd, e. pt. of n. e.
I4 and e. V2 s. e. 14 sec. 5, Aug. 23 and Dec. 10, 1821.
Jacob Brunner, w. I4 s- w. 14 and w. Y, n w. 14 sec. 5.
Sept. 30, 1825.
John Blue, S. Res. fr. of sec. 5, Dec. 12, 18.32.
Jaques Hulburd, w. V4 n. e. 14 sec. 5, Nov. 24, 1825.
John Weaver, e. % n. w. H sec. 5, Nov. 24, 1825.
Jacob Decker, w. '
Nov. 22, 1827.
Stephen Fowler, v
Aug. 31, 1821.
I. w. k sec. 6, June 2, 1824.
w. 14 sec. 6, Jan. 7, 1825.
14 sec. 6, May 24,
e. J4 and e. M s. w. J4 sec. 5,
. e. J4 and e. Y2 n. w. J4 sec. 6,
Jacob Brunner,
Henry Weaver,
Miami & Dayton Canal, w.
18^8.
Jacob Brunner, e. Y2 n. e. M sec. 6, Sept. 30, 1825.
Jacob Brunner, Jr., e. }4 s. e. }.% sec. 6, Sept. 30, 1825.
Wm. Rollins, w. ;.; s. e. 14 sec. fi, Sept. 30, 1828.
Stephen Fowler, e. '4 sec. 7, Aug. 31, 1821.
William Mooberry, Jr., e. vi s. w. 14 sec. 7, May G, 1822.
Miami .t Dayton Canal, w. % s. w. 14 and n. w. J4 sec.
7, .May 24, 1828
Shepard Patrick, e. Y2 n. e li sec. 8, Nov. 1, 1x21.
John Updegraff, e. 14 s. e. k sec. 8, Jan, 30. 1.-22.
Wm. N Montgomeiy, w. Yz s. e. I4 sec. 8, July 3, 1823.
Shepard Patrick, w. Y2 n e. k sec. 8, June 23, 1-25.
Isaac Butt or Hriit. e. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 8, May 26, 1x28.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. ^i s. w. k and n. w. ]-i sec.
8, May -.4,1828
Isaac Dumond, fr. sec. 9, Aug. 22, 1821.
Samuel Ludgwig, s. e.% n. e. 14 sec. 9, Dec. 20, 1832.
Samuel Ludwiu, S. Res. &. pt. of n. w. Vj, and n pt. ol
n. w. I4 and w. Yt n. e. 14 and w. pt. ofs. e. ^i and
s. w. I4 of fr. sec. 9, Dec. 12, 1832.
Henry St. John, e. pt. of s. e. ki assigned to Moses
Hoyt, sec. 9, Dec. 20, 1832.
David Davis, n. e. k n. e. \i sec 9, June 8, 1833.
Joseph H. Laiwill and Zaimon Rouse, w. pt. s. w. k
sec. 10, Dec. 20, 1832.
1060
APPENDIX:
Thos. Wilev, w. 'i s. e. 'j, and e. 'i s. w. I4 sec. 10,
iMarch 14, 1833.
Isaac J. Dumond, e. '/z n. e. U sec. 10, Dec. 26, 1832.
A.Ely, e. \i n.w.i.i and w.Vj n.e. ^.i sen.lO.May 15, 1833.
Robert Linu, e. J.^ s. e. '.i sec. 10, Dec. 7, 183:;.
David Davis, 11^ v.-. ' i n. w. ' i sec. 10, .Tune s, !s:;:;.
Tliomas Filxjei ;iM, -.w. \ 11, w. ', see M. .laii, 1,1834.
Benj. Eldrid; . , w. ' .■ u. w. ' , see. II, l>ee. L!ii, Is.ili.
Isaac J. Da n'l, u e \ ti, \v. 'i unci s. e. 'i 11. w, ^i
sec. 11, In e ■_■!■., ls:;-2.
John Clink, e , s e. • i sec. 11, Sept. 7, 1833.
Caleb Clink, w, ^ • .,. e. ' , sec. 11, ^ept. 10, 1833.
Daniel H. .lo|.i., n. w. '.j, u. e. '.i sec. 11, Sept. 7, 1833.
.Tosiah Hedges, e. '. n. e. I4 sec. 11, Dec 11, 1833.
Edmond A. F.oyer, s. w. I4 n. e li and n. e. Hi s. w. '4
sec. 11 Jan. 31, 183.5.
J. Redmond 8. Res., s.w. I4 s. w. U sec.ll, Jan 9, 1835.
Alex. McNuit, n. w. I4 s. w. >4 sec. 11, Sept. 11, 1833.
Jacob Thorp, s. e. 1,4 s. w. I4 sec. 11, Dec. 23, 1833.
Solomon Knuler, e. c; s. e. Hi and w. '2 u. e. Hi and e.
' . n. !■. '■, >ee. 12, Dec. 12, 1832.
Josi;iii ih'i.i - e. '., u. W.I4 and w. H2 s. e. ^4 sec; 12,
I4, sec. 12, Aug. 7, 1833.
sec. 12, Sept. 7, 1833.
; s. e. Hi ande. Vi s. e. Hi sec.
James Cmiell, w. U n.
Nathan B. Adums. s. w.
Henry Sheldenhelm, w
13. Dec. 13, 1832.
Thos. Lock S. Res. e. 'i n w. Hi sec 13, Sept. 10,1834.
Alonzo Curtiss, w. ' 2 n. w. Hi see. 13, Sept. 10, 1833.
Matthias Alber, n. '2 n. e. Hi sec. 13, :May 2, 1833.
Saml. Hunter, s. 'i n. e. Hi sec. 13. June 1.5, 1833.
David Neilly, S. Ues. n 14 s. w. Hi and s. !4 s. w. Hi
sec 13 March 17, 18.34, and Oct. 23,1833.
Isaac Hull. n. e. Hi n e. Hi sec. 14, Oct. 21, 1833.
Isaac Hull, w 'i n. e. I4 sec. 14, Sept. 11, 1833.
Bun Higgins, s. e. Hi n. e. Hi and u w. Hi s. e. Hi sec.
14. Dec 9, 1835.
Robert Linn, s. e. H. s. w. Hi and s. w. I4 s. e. Hi sec.
14. Dec. 7, 1833.
T. Lock, S. Res. s. w. ^4 s, w. % sec. 14, Sept. 10, 1834.
J. Souder. n. M s. w. li and e. Vi n. w. I4 sec. 14, Aug.
24, 1833
Harper Senter, w. y, n. w. Hi sec. 14, Aug. 13, 1833.
David Neillv, e. »i s" e. Hi sec. 14, March 17, 1834.
Zalmon Roiise and J. H. Larwill, s. pt. of n. w. Hi and
n. pt. of n. w. 'i sec. 15, Dec. 17 and 20, 1832.
Zalmon Rouse and J. H. Larwill, u. pt. s. w. Hi and s.
pt. s. w. 14 sec. 15 Dec. 20, 1832
.John L. Cross, s e. '4 sec. 15, Jan. 1, 1833.
Dr. Eliakim Crosby, w. 4 n. e. Hi (pat. land warrant)
sec. 15. Oct. 25, 1834.
Isaiah McCHsh, e. ' j n. e. % sec. 15, Jan. 22, 1834.
School lands, sec, 15, under act.
Benj. Culver, s. e. '4 sec. 17, Aug. 31, 1821.
Alex. McNutt, e. "4 s. w. ' , see 17. Sejit. 14, 1822.
Andrew Dukes, e. '-i n. e. ' ; se. 1;, 1 ut. 7, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. ' j s. w. and w. 'o n.e. Hi
aud n. w. Hi sec. 17, May -4, 1,5-S.
Anson Gray, w. '4 n. e. H4, sec. IS, Dec. 19, 1822.
Wm. Martin, Jr., w. V2 s. e. Hi and e. y, s. w. I4 sec. IS,
Mav 26. 1823.
Almerand Rollins, e. J^ n. w. Hi sec. 18, Sept. 9, 1824.
Jos. Keeler, e. '2 n. e. '4 sec. 18, June 23, 1825.
Martin Houseman, w ia s. w. Hi sec. 18, June 6, 1 826.
Benajah Parker, e. Hi s. e. I4 sec. 18, July 13, 1826.
Eliptialet Rogers, w. Vi n. w Hi sec. 18, Aug. 17, 1826.
Joseph Conway, w. H2 s. w. I4 sec. 19, June 13, 1822.
James Fish, e. )4 s. e. Hi sec. 19, July 6, 1822.
Eli Bloomer, n. e. 'X sec 19, Aug. 10, 18^2.
Tobias Miller, w. 14 n. w. 14 sec. 19, Oct. 6, 1824.
John Clark, e. H2 n.vi.% sec. 19. Dec. 15, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. ]i s. w. I4 and w. H2 s. e. Hi
sec 19, May 24, 1828.
Benj. Colver, s. e pt. of s. w. ^i fr. sec. 20, Aug.22 1821.
Alex. McNutt, Caleb Rice and Anson Gray, n. and w.
pts. of fr. sec. 20, Aug, 23, 1821.
John Claggett, e. pt. of n. e. Hi sec. 20, Dec. 12, 1832.
Vincent Bell, w. pt. n. e. fr. and n. w. Hi fr. and s. w.
Hi fr sec. 20, Dec. 12, 1832.
Jacob Blue, w. pt. of s. e. Hi fr. sec. 20, Dec. 12, 1832.
Solomon Firestone e.pt.of s.e. '4 fr sec.20,Dec. 12, 1832.
Benj. Convenor Culver), fr. sec. 21, Aug. 22, 1821.
.Joseph Howard, e. pt. of n. w Hi fr. and w. pt. of n. e.
Hi fr. aud e. pt. of n. e. I4 fr. sec 21, Aug. 22, 1821.
.lohn Claggett, w pt. ofn.w. I4 fr.sec. 21, Aug. 22, 1821.
Saml. Stouer, w. pt of s. w. Hi sec. 21, Aug. 22, 1821.
John Claggett, e. 'is. w. H4 and w. 'is. e. Hi sec. 21,
Dec. 19 1832.
Jos. Howard, n. e. 14 s. e. V4 sec. 21, Jan. 15, 1833.
John Roof, s. e. H4 s. e. Hi sec. 21, Oct 12, 1S33.
Christian Ransburg, w. M s. e. Hi .sec. 22, Dec. 12,1832.
Isaac Miller, e. H': s. e. ' , sec. 22, Jan. 5, 1833.
Joseph H. Larwill and Zalmon lionsc, n. pt. n. w. Hi
sec. 22, Dec. 211, l.s:!2.
Isaac Walker, e. ' ., n. w. ' i sec. 22, .lune 5, 1833.
Riehard (ox s. w. '1 sec. 22, Jan. 19, 1833.
Christian Itan.sliurg, n. e. '4 sec. 22, March 14, 1833.
Frederiek ( rauier, n. w. Hi sec, 23, Dec. 25, 1832.
II. Ziniiuernian, n. e. '4 sec. 23, Dec. 25,1832.
Wm. Milchell, e. ' :. .s. e. Hi and n. w. Hi s. e. Hi sec. 23,
Jan. 7, 1833.
John Galmire, s. w. '4 s. e. '4 sec. 23, Jan. 21, 1833.
Peter Yeakey, s. e. I4 s. w. Hi sec. 23, March 7, 1833.
David Neilly, w. H2 s. w. Hi aud n. e. Hi s. w. ^4 sec. 23,
Oct, 3 aud 23, 1833.
James Crocket, w. '•; n. e. H and e. ]4 n. e. I4 sec. 24,
Dec. 12, 1832.
Samuel Gray, e. ' . >. e. ' , si'e, 24, Dec. 12, 1832.
Uriah Linu, w. ' , s. e. ' j .see. 24, Dec. 2, 1833.
Graf. Shedenhehn, w. '. n. w. ',1 .sec. 24, Dec. 2.5,1832.
Seneca Howig, s. e. '4 n. w. Hi sec. 24, Deo. 2fi, 1832.
Graf. Shedenhelm, n. e. I4 n. w. Hi sec. 24, Oct. 5, 1833.
Geo. W. Gist, n. e. '4 s. w. ^t sec. 24, Oct. 31, 1835.
Henry Zimmerman, s. e. Hi s. w. I4 and w. 'i s. w. ^4
sec. 24, April 18, 1833.
Wm. Smith, w. y n. w. Hi and e. 'i n. w. '1 sec. 25,
Dec. 12, 18,32. "
Samuel Ryder, w. y, s. w. Vj and e. 'J s. w. '1 sec. 25,
Dec. 12, 1832,
Smitli Mclntyre, w. U n. e. '1 ande. 'i n. e. '4 sec. 25,
Dec. 12, 1832.
Joel Stone, w. ;4 s. e. Hi and e. 54 s. e I4 sec. 25, Dec. 12,
1832.
John Galmire, w. 14 s. e. '4 and e. Hi n. e. 14 and w. Vi
n. e. '4 sec. 26, Dec. 12, 1832.
Charles Free, e. U s. c. '4 sec. 26, Dec. 12, 1832.
William Bartlett, w. i, n. w. Hi sec. 26, Dec. 12, 1832.
James Crockett, e. y u. w. '1 and w. {i s. w. I4 aud e.
'i s. w. Hi see 24, Dec. 12. 1832.
L. C. Stone, e. 14 u. e. '4 and n. e Hi s. e. '4 sec. 27,
Dec. 13 aud 20, 1832.
Asa Crockett, w. ;i s. e. '4 and s. e. '4 s. e. ^i see, 27,
May and June, 1833
Richard Cox, n. w. fr Hi sec. 27, Jan. 19, 1833.
John Leatherman, s. w. fr. Hi sec 27, Dec. 16, 18.33.
Jno. Blue, S. Res. s pt. ofn.w. I4 fr. sec.28, Dec 13, 1832.
Jonathan Abbott, S. Res. n. pt. of n. w. ^4 fr. sec. 28,
Dec. 13, 1832.
Henry C. Brish, s w. Hi u. e. ^4 fr.sec. 28, Dec. 29, 1832.
Sold to No 7917, 8. V„ n. e. ^4 fr. sec. 28, .
Henry C. Brish, n. w. ' 1, n. e. '4 fr. sec. 28, May 31, 1833.
Sold n. e. Hi u. e. Hi aud s. e. '4 s. e. U sec 28, .
Benjamin Culver, n. e. H, fr. sec. 29, and e. pt. fr. n.
w. Hi sec. -.^9, Aug. 22, 1821
Samuel Wright (Island), e. pt. s. e. Hi fr. sec. 29, Aug.
23,1821.
Samuel Wright, w. pt. s. e. Hi fr. and e. y s. w. }i ir.
sec. 29, Aug 23, 1821.
Benjamin Culver, w pt. n. w. Hi fr. and w. '.i s w. Hi
fr.sec. 29, Aug. 31, 1821.
John Blue, Sen Res. fractional sec. 29, 1832.
Daniel Garrison, w. '.i n. w. '4 sec. 30, June 19, 1822.
Asa and Lawson Teal, e. 'i u. e. '4 sec. 30, June 22,
1822.
Abraham Crumm, s. e. Hi sec. 30, Jan. 19, 1825.
Miami & Davton Canal, e. H^ n. w. Hi sec. 30, May 24,
1828.
John. Stouer, s. w. I4 sec. 30, April 6, 1826.
John Geo. Reichert, w. y n. e. Hi sec. 30, June 5, 1826.
Piatt Brush, e. >;i s. e. '4* sec. 31, Sept. 24, 1821.
Piatt Brush, e. M n. e. H4 sec. 31, Oct. 11, 1821.
James Taylor, w. H2 s. w. 14 sec. 31, May 28, 1822.
Henrv Friesner, w. !4 n. w. V4 sec. 31, May 28, 1822.
Nicluilas Scball, e. Yz s. w. H and w. '/4 s. e. Hi sec. 31,
June 4, 1825.
Jonathan Kemp, w. H n. e. Hi sec. 31, Oct. 19, 1826.
Jonathan Kemp, e. '4 n. w. Vi sec. 31, Oct. 26, I826.
Piatt Brush, n. e. '4 fr. and n. w. I4 fr. and s. w. H^,
fr sec. 3 . Aug. 22, 1821.
Jacob Stem, S. Res. n. pt. of w. pt. of s. e. 'i fr. and s.
pt. of w. pt. s. e. '4 I'r- sec. 32, Dec. 13, 1832.
.Jacob Stem, e. pt. s. e. Hi sec. .32, Dec. 19, 183.:.
*Entered with surveyor-general.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1061
Josiah Hedges, n. e. fr. on right bank of river, sec. 32,
Dec. 19, 1832.
Thomas Derr, e. Y^ s. w. I4 sec. 33, Dec. 13, 1832.
Jonathan Hess, w. '4 s. w. H sec. 33, April 13, 1833.
Jonathan Abbott, e. 'i s. e. 14 and w. Vj s.e. V4 sec. 33,
Dec. 13. 1832.
George W. Gist. n. e fr. 14 sec. 83, May 27, 1833.
Perrv A. Freeze, n. w. fr. I4 sec. 83, Dec. 11, 1833.
John Laniberson. w. 'ii s. w. \i sec. 31, Dec. 13. 1832.
Michael Hepf, s. e 14 s^ w. I4 sec. 34, Feb. 9, 1833.
David McCracken, n. e. I4 sec. 34, Oct. 28, 1833.
William K. Bartlett, e. Vi s. e. ^^ sec. .34, Dec. 20, 1832.
Alfred Jordan, w. 1^, s. e. ^4 sec. 34, Dec. 20, 1832.
Henrv Zimmerman, n. pt. of n. w. ^4 sec. 34, April 18,
1833.
.John Souder. s pt. of n. w. I4 sec. 34, June 20,1833.
Ira Law, s. 'X n. e. I4 sec. 34, June 19, 18 J3.
William Slaymaker, n. "o n. e. 14 sec. 34, Jan 3, 1834.
Abraham Keller, e. '4 s. w. i.j, sec. 35, Dec. 13, 1832.
Thomas Clarke, S. Res. n. w. 14 s. w. ^^.^sec. .35, June 4,
1834.
Thomas Clarke, s. w. 14 s. w. i.i sec. 35, Nov. 18, 1833.
John Searles. e. > i s. e. 14 sec. 35, Dec. 13, 1832.
Henrv C. Brish. w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 3.^, Dec. 14, 1832.
John Decker, n. e. 14 sec. 35. Dec. 20, 1832.
George Titler, n. w. 14 sec. 35, Dec. 20, 1832.
John Searles. w. <4 s. w. 14 sec. 36, Dec. 13, 1832..
George W. Gist, e. V^ s w. 14 sec. 36, Feb. 15, 1833.
Samuel Rider, w. V.^ n. e. 14 and e.'i n.w. '4 sec.36, Dee.
13, 1832. "
Earl Church, n. e. 4 n. e. 14 sec. 36, Jan. 14, 1833.
Jacob Peter.son,8. Res. s.e.i^iU.e. ^4 sec.36. .fune4,1834.
Henry C. Brish, w.'s n. w. 14 sec. 36, Dec. 14, 1832.
George W. Smith, w. 14 s. e. 1.1 sec 36, Nov. 21, 1833.
Robert Linn, e. H s. e. I4 sec. :i6, Dec. 2, 1833.
BLOOM TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 1 N. R.\NGE 16, E.
Roswell Munsell, w. I/2 n. e. I4 and n. w. I4 sec. 1, Feb.
25, 1825.
Jacob E. Spores, e. ^2 n. e. 14 sec. 1. Dec. 29, 1828.
David Ralston, s. w. 14 s. w 14 sec. 1 May 27, 1833.
Jacob Meyer n \A s. w. '4 sec. 1, Sept. 11, 18.33.
Jacob Meyer, s. e.'Vi s. w. 14 sec. 1, Feb. 24, 1834.
Oliver L. Robinson, n. w. ^^ s. e. '4 seel Sept.l", 1833.
Sylvester (iriffin. e. ^ i s. e. '4 see. 1, Sep. 25, 1835.
Jacob Plants, s. w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 1, Nov. 2, 1833.
John Brovvuell,-w. K2 n. w. 14 sec. 2. Oct. 26, 1822.
Edward Sutherland, e. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 2, June 18, 1823.
Thomas Boyd, w. (4 n. e. ^4 sec. 2, Aug. 13, 1824.
Roswell Munsel, e. >4 n. e. 14 sec. 2, Feb. 28, 1825.
David Ralston, e. J^ s. e. 14 se.;. 2, May 27, 1833.
Jacob Mever, n. w. ^4 s. e. '4 sec. 2, May 5, 1834.
Charles JIcMillan, s. w. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 2, Oct. 26, 1833.
Charles Swartz, e. ij s. w. 14 sec. 2, Aug. 16, 1830.
Charles Swartz and H. Rees, ^.'4 S.W.J4 sec. 2, June 28,
1830.
Joseph McClellan, e. V2 n. e. 14 sec. 3, Dec. 28, 1821.
Jonathan Brown, e. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 3, July 8, 18:i2.
Eli Williams, w. 34 s. w. f4 sec. 3, Aug 28. 1822.
George Free, w. ■; n. e. ^4 and w. ^i s.e. '4 sec. 3, Nov.
9,1822.
John Lafferty, e. 14 n. w. 14 sec. 3, Nov. 24, 1823.
John C. Donnell, w. '^ n. w. ^i, see. 3. June 19, 1824.
Elijah Ridgeley, e. V^ s. e. I4 .sec. 3, Aug. 24, 1829.
Oriu Brannau, e. }^ s. e. 14 sec. 4, April 12, 18-.i3.
Jacob Rodecap, s. w. 14 and w. '^ s. e. ^i sec. 4, May 1,
1823.
James B. Donnell, e. 3^ n. e. \i sec. 4, Aug. 6. 1824.
Elijah Ridgeley, w. \i n. e. 14 sec. 4, Aug. 25, 1829.
William I-luk, n. w. I4 sec. 4 June 29, 1829.
Lowell Robinson, e. VSs. e. ^4 sec. 6, Dec. 10, 1822.
Jacob Rodecap w.}/^ s.e. I4 sec. 5, May 1, 1823.
Daniel Mc.Mullen, w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 5', May 7, 1823.
John Straw, w. 14 n. w. '.j, sec. 5, May 4, 1824.
John Gibson, e. Vi s. w. Ki sec. 5, May 25. 1824.
John Stinchcomb, e. ^i n. w. 14 sec. 5, Oct. 20, 1824.
James Dornan, n. e. 14 sec. 5, May 20. 18^8.
James Taylor, w. '4 n. e. ^4 sec. 6, Nov. 14, 1821.
Samuel S. Martin, e. 'i n. e. 14 sec. 6, Nov. 14, 1821.
Charles Clark, s. w. I4 sec. 6, Nov. 21, 1821.
Elijah Wells, n. w. 14 sec. 6, June 5, 1822.
John Atkinson, s.e. I4 sec. 6, Dec. 24, 1822.
Henry Blaekman, n. w. I4 sec. 7, Dec. 19, 1821.
John Congor, e. 1.,' n. e. '4 sec. 7, June 17, 1823.
Peter Beaver, e. 'i's. e. '4 sec. 7, June 19, 1823.
Henry Valentine, w. '4 n. e. I4 sec. 7, Dec. 19, 1821.
Nathan Brown, w. 1.; s. w. \% sec. 7, June 7, 1824.
John Reid, w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 7, Nov. 25, 1825.
Andrew Miller, "e y, s- w. I4 sec. 7, Oct. 28, 1829.
Wm. Loxley, s. e. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 27, 1821.
John Davis, s. w. I4 sec. 8, Blarch 23, 1822.
Ezra Brown, e. ■,.; n. e. 14 sec. 8, Aug. 19, 1822.
Asa L. Whitemore. w. ',4 n. e. k sec. 8, Sept. 9, 1822.
John C. Martin, e. 34 n. -w. 14 sec. 8, Dec. 13, 1822.
Townsend Reed, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 8, Aug. 13, 1823.
Thomas Bovd, w. J 2 sec. 9, Aug. 27. 1821.
Valentine Reber, e. Vi sec. 9, Aug 27, 1821.
Valentine Reber, n. w. 14 sec. 10. Aug. 27, 1821.
Obadiah Hall. w. V^ n. e. % sec. 10, Oct. 2. 1822.
Thomas Boyd, e. 34 n. e. 34 sec. 10, Aug. 13, IH24.
Samuel S. Clark, e. Vj s. e. 34 sec. 10, June 15, 1833.
Truman King w. }4 s. e. ^4 and e. 3-2 s. w. 14 sec. 10,
March 8, 1828.
Zelophehad Owen, w. y^ s- ^- ^4 sec. 10, Dec. 31, 1827.
Amos Hall, e. 3^ n. w. \i sec. 11, Nov. 2, 1822.
Lem. Haxton Ames,s. e. 34 n- e.'34 sec. 11, Aug. 1, 1832.
Thomas Boyd.-w. 34 n. w. 14 sec. 11. Aug. 13, 1824.
James Boyd, w. 34 n. e. 34 sec. 11, July 4, 1829.
Morgan Hall. e. 34 n. e. 34 sec. 11, Oct. 17,1833.
Frederick Cristine*, w. 34 n. e. 34 sec. 11 (under act)
Dec. 3, 182H.
Samuel S. Clark, w. y s. w. 14 sec. 11, June 15. 1833.
Richard Freer, s. e. '4 s. w. 34 sec. 11, June 4. 1834.
Frederick Cristine,* w. 34 s. e. '4 sec. 11 (under act),
Dec. 3,1828
Elijah Ridgeley, w. V% s. e. Vi sec. 11, Aug. 24, 1829.
Jacob Geiger, e. V% s. e. '4 sec. 11, May 28, 1833.
Samuel Ralston, e. y^ n. e. 14 sec. 12, May 27, 1833.
Gilbert M. Ogden n. w. 14 n. e Vi sec. 12, May 20, 1834.
Henry Geiger, e. y, s. w. ^4 and w. y-, s. e. 34 sec. 12,
May 28, 1833.
Jacob Geiger, w. y^ s. w. 34 sec. 12, ]\Iay 28, 18.33.
Jacob Adams, e. 34 s. e. 34 sec. 12, Nov. 13, 1833
William Jones, w. 34 n. w. 14 sec. 12. Oct. 11, 1833.
Morgan Hall, s. e. 14 n. w. 34 sec 12. Oct. 17, 1833.
John McClellan, w y s. e. 34 and n. e. 3* s. e. 34 sec.
13, May 14, 1833.
Jacob Hossler. s. e. i.j, s. e. 34 sec. 13, Oct. 24 1833.
Jacob Troxell, n. 34 ands. w. h sec. 13, May 1.5, 18-33.
John Smith, e. '4 n. e. ^4 sec. 14, Sept. 16, 1x31.
George P. Truit, n. w. '4 n. e. \i sec. 14, Feb. 6, 1834.
Jacob Depler, s. e. ^4 s. w. I4 sec. 14, Dec. 3, 1832.
James Hammond, n. e. li s. w. 34 sec. 14, June 27,
1833.
Jacob Depler, n. w. 1.4 s. w. 1.4 sec. 14, Aug. 9, 18.33.
George Shafler, s. w. 34 n. e. 34 sec. 14, May 15, 1834.
George Muckley, s. w. I4 s. w. 'i sec. 14, Dec. ;?9, 1834.
James Hammond, w. >4 s. e. I4 sec. 14, Jan. 16, 1830.
Jacob Troxell, e. V2 s. e. I4 sec. 14, May 29, 1813.
(Jeorge Smith King, n. w. 34 U- w. I4 sec. 14, Nov. 12,
1833.
George Shaffer, n. e. 34 n. w. I4 sec. 14, May 15, 1834.
David B. Banks, s. 34 n- w. 34 sec. 14, Nov. 13. 1833.
David B. Banks, s. e. 34 n. e. 34, and n. e. 34 s. e 34 sec.
15, Oct. 9. 1833.
Zelophehad Owen, n. e. 34 n. e. 14 sec. 15. Nov. 29. 1833.
Nath. Hammond, w. y n. e. 34 sec. 15, Jan. 16, 1830.
Thomas S. Cooley, e. y,Q. w. I4 sec. 15. Aug. 6 1828.
Edward Coolev, w. y n. w. 14 sec. 15, June 23, 1.828.
Isaac Gilford s. e. Vi's. e. 34 sec. 15, Dec. 11, 18«.
Samuel Hammond, w. y s. e. '4 sec. \^, Jan. 16, 1830.
John S. Smith, e. 34 s. w. 34 sec. 15, July 8, 1829.
Samuel Groce or Gross, n. w. I4 s. w. H sec. 15, May
28, 1832.
Dr. James Fisher, s. w. ^4 fr. s. w. I4 sec. 15, Sept. 17,
1835.
School Lands, sec. 16.
Valentine Reber, w. 14 sec. 17, Aug. 27, 1821.
Wm. Harmon, s. e. ^4 sec. 17, Aug. 27, 1,821.
John Vallentine, n. e. ^i sec. 17, Nov. 14, 1821.
George Kimmell, s. e. ^4 sec. 1.^, Aug. 27. 1821.
Jacob Shaffer, s. w. '4 sec. 1-f, Aug. 27, 1821.
Daniel Beery, n. e. ^i sec. 18, Aug. 28, 1821.
John Seitz, e. 'j n- w. '4 sec. 18, Aug, 23, 1822.
John Seitz w. y n. w, I4 sec. 18, Sept. 7, 1822.
George KimmelF, n. e Vi sec. 19, Aug. 27. 1821.
Jacob Shaffer, n. w. 34 sec. 19, Aug. 27, 1821.
Philip Bretz, e. 54 s. w. 14 and s. e. 34 sec. 19, Aug. 27,
10fJ2
APPENDIX:
John Keller, w. U s. w. \i sec. 19, Aug. 27, 1S21.
Lewis Seitz, s. e. 'i and w. ^ n. w. }4 and e. y, s. w.
1], sec. 2!il, Aug. 27, 1821.
Philip Bietz, w. ' j s. w. 'j, sec. 20, Aug. 27, 1821.
Lewis Seitz e. 'i u. w. i^ sec. 20, Auij. 2S. 1821.
Rudolph ICagy, u. e. '4 sec. 2(J, Oct. 4. 1S21.
Philip Brelz, n. w. ^i sec. 21. Aug. 27, 1821.
George Free, s. e. '4 .sec. 21, .Ian. 1, 1825.
Henry Perkey, c. '4 n. e. '4 see. 21, Oct. 22, 1828.
Daniel Bixler, s. w. l^ sec. 21, Jan. 25 1827.
Wm. Beagle w % "■ e. ^i see. 21, Oct. 22.1828.
Benjamin Wright, e. li s. e. '4 sec. 22, March 27, 1833.
James Traill, w. }4 s. e.' I4 and s. w. U n. e. J4 sec. 22,
ilay 21, 1833. ■
James Traill, e li n w. U sec. '22, Sept. 4, 1830.
Dv. James Fisher, w. '.. n. w. I4 and n. w. % s. w. '4
see. 22, Au.4 31, IS5.-,.
Isaac (liliord. n e. 'i n. e. I4 sec. 22. Nov. 28, 1833.
Samuel D. ."^palilinn, 11. w. 'j, n. e. 14 and s. e. I4 n e.
•4 sec. -!, .^.■i,t. in, lS3i.
John C. Ilami.tnii s w. 'i s. w. ii sec 2.', June 1, 1833.
Wm. B. Sinitli, 11. e. ' , -;. w. I4 sec. 22, .Sept. 8,18.3.").
Thomas l^iyir, s. e. -^ s. w . '4 sec. 22, Nov. 7, 1835.
Jacob Tro.Kcll, n. e. I4 sec. 23, May 2it, I8.i3.
Jacob Tro.xell, s. e. I4 sec 2i, Sept. .5, 1833.
George Schweitzer, s. e. I4 s. w. '4 sec. 23, Aug. 7, 1834.
Henry Kraft, n. e. '4 n. w I4 sec. 23, Feb. 2.5, 1834.
George kevser, s. e. I4 n. w. 14 and n. e. ^i s. w. k sec.
23, .^eii't. ii, l,s33.
Samuel Uammuud, w. ^-^ n. w. ^-i sec 23. March 21, 1831.
Heury Tutavern, n. e. M sec. 24, Aug. 13, 1833.
Henry Klahr, e. ;^ s. e. 14, s. w. '4 s. e. U sec. 24,Aug.
13. 1833. ' ■
Wm. O'.M alley (or Mealia), n.w. k s. e. ksec. 24, Feb.
13, 1834.
.Joseph Zanker, e. Yz s. w. I4 sec. 24. Aug. 29, 1833.
Frederick Myers, n. w. li s. w. I4 sec. 24, Feb. 25, 1834.
James Stiuchcomb, w. ]4 s. w. ^i see. 21, Ja,n. 1-5, 1831.
David Blosser, n. 1^ n. w. J4 sec. 24, .fune 26, 1833.
Peter Hendricks, s. »^ n. w. % sec. 24, Sept. 9, 1833.
George Heabler or Krebler, s. w. 1.4 s. w. I4 sec. 24,
May 8, 1835.
James W^ilson, s. w. I4 sec. 25, June 14, 1833.
Jonas Hossler, u w. I4 sec. 25, Nov. 6, 1833.
Peter Tro.Kel, n. e. 14 sec. 2.5, Nov. 6, 1833.
Adam Essig, s. e. I4 sec. ::5, Nov. 6, 1833.
Michael Leightewilter, n. e. '4 sec. 26, Oct. 16, 1S33.
Jacob B. Funk, e. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 26, April 3, 1834.
Jacob Troxel. w. 14 s. e. I4 and e. ]4 s. w. 14 sec. 26,
May 2, 1834. "
Henry Funk, n. w. I4 sec. 26, Oct. 24, 1833.
John Ritter, w. ',4 s. w. ^ sec. 26, June 8, 1829.
Bartholomew Stout, e. V2 n. e. I4 sec. 27, Nov. 20,1830.
Bartholomew Stout, n. w. k n e. ' t sec. 27, Nov. 9, 1833.
James Traill, s. w. I4 n. e. '4 see. 27, .May 5. 1835.
Isaac Clay. e. i.i n. w. Hi sec. 27, April 25, 18.34.
David Bixler, w. }4tl. w. I4 sec. 27, March 18, 1828.
John Ritter, e. '4's. e. Hi sec. 27. June 8, 1829.
George Beigh, w. y, s. e. '4 sec. 27, Nov. 24. 1835.
Chester B. Shurtleif, n. e. I4 s.w. I4 sec. 27 May 31,18?6.
Nicholas Bixler, s. e. M s. w. \i sec. 27, Nov. 22, 18.<3.
Jacob and Joseph Rittgers.w. y^, s. w. 14 .sec. 27, March
4. 1830.
John Bixler, e. 1^ n. e. I4 sec. 28, Dec. 21, 1829.
Christopher Perk'ey, w. V, n. e. I4 sec. 28, Aug. 23, 1833.
.lohn Kiiisell, e. ' ., n. w. I4 sec. 28, March 17. 1828.
.loliii i;in.sell, w. i;j n. w. I4 sec. 28, Oct. 27, 1827.
James I'raill, w. i. s. e. '4 sec. 28, May 21, 1,833.
John Hullabaugh, s. e. k s. e. 14 sec 28, March 18, 1834.
Wm. (ialt. n. e. 14 s. e. sec. 28, Aug. 15, 1834.
John Dorman. e. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 28, Nov. 1, 1833.
Elizabeth Smith, w. ^4 s. w. 14 sec. 28, Feb. 22, 18.34.
Jacob Rinehart, w. V4 n. w. % sec. 29, June 3, 1822.
r.«wis Seitz. w. ', s. w. J4 sec. 29, Aug. 23, 1822.
SoloiiiDu Miller, e. % s. w. 14 sec. 29, Nov. 7, 1833.
Jacob Spitler, e. 'a n. w. I4 sec. 29, Feb. .5, 1829.
Benjaml'i Huddle, e. U n. e. '4 sec.29.Aug. 12,1329.
Jacob Spitler, w. '., n. e. '4 sec. 29, Feb. 5, IS29.
Mary Smith, e. 'i s. e. '4 sec. 29, Nov. 7, 1833.
.Solomon .Miller, w. !4 s. w. \i sec. 29, Nov. 7, 1833.
Jacob Huffman, n. e. I4 sec. 30. April 10, 1822.
.lacob Spitler, e. "2 s. e. I4 sec. 30, Aug. 23, 1822.
John.--ctiz (or .Seitz i, n. ■W. I4 sec. 30, Aug. 23, 1822.
Philip r.retz, w. !4 s. e. >4 sec. 30, March 4, 1825.
Philip Hretz, e. ''i s. w. I4 see. 30, Julv 26, 1826.
Philip l.'-elz w. 'i s. w. V4 sec. 30, Aug 16, 1828.
Jacob Miller, e. '., n. w. I4 sec. 31, June 16, 1825.
David Rrotz w. ' .; u , w. I4 .sec. :'.!, Mav 2S, ls-i7.
Philip Bretz, n. e. '4 sec. 31, June 1, 1829.
John Junk (or Fuak),w. '4 s. e. \ sec. 31, July 1, 1833.
Noah Mussellman, e. '4 s. e. \ sec. 31, Aug. 2, 1826.
Joseph Hall, e. ;4 s. w. I4 sec. 31, Sept. 24, 1829.
David Bretz, w. )4 s. w. k sec. 31, Nov. 3, 1829.
Noah Mussellman", w. '4 s. w. \ sec. 32, Aug. 2, 1826.
Jacob Webster, s. e. I4 s. w. 14 sec. 32, Sept. 17, 1833.
Philip Henry Bouck, e. ij n. w. % and n. e. 14 s. w. 14
and w. '2 n. e. I4 sec. 32, Feb. 15, 1834.
John Stuckey, s. e. Hj, sec. 32, Oct. 21. 1833.
Jacob Spitler, w. !4 n. w. 14 sec. 32, Nov. 2, 1832.
John Rummell, n. e. I4 n. e. '4 sec. 33, Nov. 12, 1833.
Henry Youltz, s. e. ^i n. e. ' i sec. 33, June 2, 1834.
Isaac Jackson, w. ' , u. e > 1 sec. 33. May 31, 1834.
John Lewis, e. '^ s.'e. 'i sec. 33, Oct. 12, 1833.
Adam Buckman"ui- Burkmau, w. }4 s. e. k sec. 33, Oct.
21, 1833.
Isaac Jackson, e. % n. w. I4 sec. 33, May 31, 1831.
Wm. Caughey, w. U n. w. I4 sec. 33, Dec. 25, 1833.
John Crisinger. s. Y^ s. w. \i sec. 33, Oct. 14, 18.33.
Samuel Crisinger, uT Ii s. w. 14 sec. 33, Nov. 4, 1833.
John C. Hampton, w. H n. e. I4 sec. 34, 1833.
Joseph McClelland, e. ]Z n. e. I4 sec. 34, Nov. 29, 1833.
Ira G. Allen, s. e. 14 s. e. 14 and n. e. >4 s. e. li and w.
1-2 s. e. I4 sec. 34, Nov. 12, 1833.
Josiah B. Bond. w. \4 s. w. I4 sec. 34, Aug. 3, 1833.
Daniel W. Clark, e. % s. w. 14 sec. 34, Nov. 5, 1833.
Rufus Cashner, e. % a. w. \i sec. 34, Nov. 28, 1833.
Henry Youltz, w. ]Zu. w. 14 sec. 34, June 2, 1834. •
James Wilson, n. e.''4 n. e. 14 sec. 35, June 14, 18.33.
George Berry, n. w. I4 n. e. I4 sec. 35, March lo, 1834.
Joel Berry, s. K n. e. '4 sec. 35, Feb. 6, 1834.
John Cook, n. w. I4 sec. 35, May 30, 1829.
Henry Click, e. '^ s. e. I4 sec. 35, June 8, 1829.
Heirs of Isaac Larimer, w. V2 s. e. ^4 and s. w. V4 sec.
35, June 2, 1829.
James Wilson, n. w. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 36, June 14, 1833.
Henry Hossler, e 'i n. w. k sec. 36, June 3, 1834.
Charles Durn or Dunn, s. w. J4 n. w. I4 sec 36, May 28,
1834.
Richard Watson, e. >i s. w. ^4 sec. 36, June 15, 1831.
Henry Glick, w. y, s. w. 14 sec. 36, June 8, 1829.
,Iohn Schooner, n e. I4 s. e. M sec. ■86, June 28, 1834.
Philander Wilkenson, s. e. ^ s. e. '4 sec. 36, June 2,
1834.
Richard Watson, w 14 s. e. 14 sec. 36, Jan. 11, 1831.
Henry Hossler, n. e. Vt sec. 36, April 3, 18.34.
SCIPIO TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 2 N., RANGE 16 E.
Thomas Earl, w. ^.^ n. w I4 sec. 1, May 6, 1823.
Stephen Balleit, Sam. HelfFrich and Sol. Graff, e. !4 n.
w. I4 sec. 1, June 9, 1823.
Miami & Dayton Caual, n. e. %, and w. ]As. w.Vi sec.
1, May 24, 1828.
John Heter. e. ]/, s. e. V4 and w. 54 s. e. k sec. 1, March
31, 1828^
Daniel Maurer, e. '4 s. w. 14 seel, June 18, 1828.
Ledgyard Littlefield, w. K n. e. Vi sec. 2, April 14,1823.
Thomas Earl.e. >-i n. e. k sec. 2, May 6. 1823.
Balliet. Hellfrich & Graft', n w. I4 sec 2, June 5, 1823.
David Harpster, e. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 2 June 18, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. w. k and w. ' i s. e. J4 sec.
2, May 24, 1828.
Ledgyard Littlefield, e. ' .2 n. e. '4 fr. sec. 3, April 14,
Eliphalet B. Simmons, w. '/ n. e. I4 fr. sec. 3, Feb. 3,
1824
John Gready, n. pt. n. w. 14 sec. 3 Dec. 13, 1882.
Jacob Auinend, s. pt. n. w. 14 and n. w. k s. w. I4 sec.
3, Jan. 9. 1833.
Luke D. Stage, n. e. 14 s. w. % sec. 3. Feb. 21, 18.33.
Daniel Rule, w. »4 s. e. k fr. sec. 3, Aug. 18, 1826.
George R le, e. 54 s. e. 1,4 fr. sec. 3, June 1, 1827.
Amos Wilcox, s. pt. s. e. fr. V4 fr. sec. 3, April 10, 1833.
Seneca Baker, n. pt. n. w. ^4 and s. pt. n. w. ^ sec. 4,
Dec. 13 1832.
John Gready, n. pt. n. e. '4 and s. pt. n. e. '4 sec. 4,
Dec. 13, 1832.
Harman Henry Schabers, s. pt. s. w. ^i sec. 4, Jan. 15,
1833.
.lohn Henry Kluter, n. pt. s. w. k sec. 4, .Ian. 15, 1833.
John Greeu, n. e. '4 s. e. 14 sec. 4, April 5, 1833.
Wm. Blair, s. e. I4 s. e. -4 sec. 4, April 20, 1833.
Samuel Rule. w. \<, s. e. '4 sec. 4, May 25, 1833.
Thomas Starr, n. p't. u. e. I4 sec. 5, Dec. 1.3, 1832.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1063
Jacob Neikiik, n. e. % n. w. M sec. 5, Dec. 20, 1832.
,)ohn Rode, Jr, w. V4 n. w. % sec. 5, April 15, 1833.
Jacob Beigh, s. e. i4 n. w. k sec. b, Oct. 19, 1833.
Matthias (.'uinmins, s. e. % sec. 5, Jan. 2, 1833.
John Cummins, s. e. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 5, April 19, 1833.
John Henry Sherman, w. '.7 s. w. I4 sec. 5, April 22,
1833.
Philip Beigh, n. e. 14 s. w. U sec. 5, Oct. 19, 1833.
Danifl 1). Decker, n. pt. s. w. 14 sec. 6, Dec. 13, 1832.
Philip Beigh or Bight, s. pt. s. w. i.t sec. 6, Jan. 16,1833.
Daniel D. Decker, s. w. I4, n. W.I4 sec. 6, Dec. 20, 1832.
Zachariah Tansey, e. pt. n. w. U sec. 6, Jan. 3, 1833.
Thomas Strickling, n. w. 14 n. w. '4 sec. 6, June 25,
1833.
John Poets, s. pt. n. e. 'i sec. 6, Jan. 3, 1833.
Daniel Martin, n. e. 'j, n. e. I4 sec. 6, March 26, 1833.
James Cuddigen, n. e. I4 s. e. Vi sec. 6, May 6, 1833.
Joseph Shaw, s. pt. s. e. ^4 and n. w. '4 s. e. I4 sec. 6,
May 10, 1833.
Kvan Dorsey, s. e. >4 sec. 7, Sept. 18, 1827.
Thomas Todd, n. e. M, fr. sec. 7, Jiilv 14, 1828.
Nathaniel Norris, s. w. ^4 fr. sec. 7, "July 14, 1828.
Luianor Todd, e. >i n. w. I4 sec. 7, Sept. 22, 1828.
Solomon Baltzell, w. ^i n. w. I4 fr. sec. 7, Aug. 7, 1828.
.Joseph Earl. s. w. I4 fr. sec. 8, June 16, 1823.
William Smith s. e. I4 sec. 8, March 22, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. I4 sec. 8, May 24. 1828.
Lance Lot. Todd, n. w. '4 fr. sec. 8, Aug. 16, 1828.
Benjamin Clevinger, e. 'i s. e. I4 and w. 'i s. e. '4 sec.
9, Nov. 25, 1822.
Richard L. Hartwell, w. 1.; s. w. I4 sec. 9, Sept. 4,1823.
Levi Gray, e. J-^ s. w. I4 and n. w. I4 fr. sec. 9, June
1,% 182.5.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. Vi sec. 9, May 24, 1828.
iienjamin Clevenger, s. w. i.j sec. 10, Nov. 2.i, 1822.
l?enjamin Moore, e. }.; s. c. ^i sec. 10, Sept. 11, 1824.
Frederick Road, w. ^'.{s. e. Vi sue. 10, Jan. 1.5, 1825.
Isaac Spaulding, e. H n. e. '4 sec. 10, Nov. 11. 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. w. I4 and w. Y^ n. e. ^4 sec.
10, May 24, 1828.
Henry Roberts, s. w. M sec. 11, March 24, 1824.
(jeorge Spangle, n. w. ^4ande. Y2 n- e. U sec. n,May
16, 1825.
Eppenetus Hopkins, w. % n. e. 1-4 sec. 11, Mav 16, 1825.
David Rule, w. '4 s. e. 14 sec. 11, May 30, 1826.
Adam Heter, e. '-2 s. e. I4 sec. 11, June 10, 1828.
Nathan Chapman, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 12, .tune 7, 1825.
John Mittower, e. li s. e. I4 sec. 12, Aug. 16, 1826.
.lohn Heter, e. ;i n. e. I4 sec. 12, March 1, 1828.
.lohu Heter, e. 'i s. w. I4 sec. VI, March 3, 1828.
Adam Heter, w. '.2 s. w. I4 sec. 12, June 10, 1828.
John Mittower, w. '., s. e. \i sec. 12, July 7, 1826.
Henry Spangle, w. 'i n. e. I4 and e. 'J n. w. I4 sec. 12,
July 7, 1826.
John Hindman, s. w. I4 sec. 13, June 11, 182.3.
Abram Briindige, s. e. I4 and e. '.i n. e. I4 sec. 13, Oct.
27, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. w. '4 and w. ;.; n. e. Vi sec.
13. May 24, 1828.
.Samuel Swickart (Swigart) n. e. iisec. 14, May 27,1823.
Samuel Hiudman, s. w. I4 sec. 14, June 11. 1823.
Benjamin Clevenger, w. '., n. w. '4 SfC. 14, Dec.3 1823.
(ieorge Free, s. e. '4 sec 14, Jan. 19, 1824.
Frederick Road, e. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 14, July 7, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. I4* sec. 14, May 24, 1828.
Matthew Earl, w. 'i n. w. I4 and e. i.i n. w. I4 sec. 15,
April 28, 1823 and Nov. 11, 18.'4.
Wni. An way, e. ^1 s. e. '4 and w. 'o s. e. ^4 sec. 15,
July 7, 18^3.
•Samuel Rule, e. Vi n. e. '4 sec. 15, May 30, 1826.
Albright Rule, w. '', n. e. I4 sec. 15. May 30, 1826.
Satwell Moore, w. Vn s. w. ^4 sec. 15, Oct. 6, 1826.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. % n- w. H sec. 15, Mav 24,
1828.
School Lands, sec 16.
Daniel Seger, n. w. ^j, sec. 17, June 5, 1823.
■(.leo. Sterns, e. 'i sec. 17, June 15, 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. w. ^4 sec. 17, May 24, 1828.
John Kagy, n. e. \i sec. 18, Aug. 24, 1822.
.fohn Bibler, s. e. I4 and e. 'i s. w. ^4^ sec. 18, Aug. 24,
1822. and March 31, 1827."
.lohn Wolf, e. ^2 n. w. I4 sec. 18, Dec. 18, 1823.
John Hall, w. '4 n. w. I4 and w. 'i s.w. I4 sec. 18, Oct.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. '.i and n. e. I4 and e. V2 n.
w. I4 578.38 a. sec. 19, May 24, 1828.
Henry Fausey, w. 14 n- w- ^4 sec. 19, Feb. 7, 1828.
Abraham McClain, e. ;4 s. e. M sec. 20, Oct. 19, 1822.
Jehu Wright, w. 1/2 s. e. % sec. 20, Feb. 23, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. '.i and s. w. 14 sec. 20, Mav
24, 1828.
Wm. Laughrey, e. 'J s. w. '4 and w. '4 s. e. '4 sec. 21,
July il, 1822.
Wm. Anway, e. 14 s. e. '4 sec. 21, Aug. 15, 1822.
Abr. McClain, w. ;i s. w. 14 sec. 21, Oct. 19, 1822.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. w. I4 sec. 21, May 24, 1828.
John Wright, e. 's n. e. I4 sec. 21, Apr. 14, 1823.
Benj. Clevenger, Jr., w.'i n 6.^4 «ec. 21, June 30, 1828.
Wm. Anway, w.U s. w. I4 and w.V;, s.e. '4 sec. 22, Aug.
15, 1822, and July 7, 1823.
John Anway, e '2 s. e. I4 sec. 22, July .30, 1823.
Adam Hance, n. w. I4 sec. 22, .Sept. 30, 1822.
.lohn ]MctUain. n. e. ^i sec. 22, Oct. 10, 1822.
Timothy P. Roberts, e. '4 s. w. 14 sec. 22, Feb. 7, 1822.
Joseph Burson, n. w. I4 sec. 23, Sept. 9, 1822.
Benj. Clevenger, n. e. I4 sec. 23, Nov. 25, 1822.
John Hooper, e. '2 s. w. '4 sec. 23, Nov. 24, 1823.
Edward Parce w. '2 s. w. I4 sec. 23, June 11, 1824.
Benj. Clevenger, e. ^o s. e. I4 sec. 23, July 13, 182.5
Hiram Smith, w. i.i s. e. I4 sec. 23, March 11, 1825.
Joseph Burson, n. w. 14 sec. 24, May 27, 1822.
Sam Swickart, n. e. ^i sec. 24, May 27, 1822.
Benj- Clevenger. e. 'i s. w. I4 sec. 24, Dec. 14, 1824.
John Gander, w. Y s. w. I4 sec. 24, Dec. 14, 1824.
Daniel W. Smith, s. e. I4 sec. 24, June 6, 1826
Zephaniah Hathaway, n. w. I4 see. 25, May 23, 1825.
Joseph Lapham, s. w. I4 sec. 25, June 6, 1826.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. e. I4 and e. 'i n.e. Vj, sec. 25,
May 24, 1828.
Charles Fox, w. "2 n. e. ^4 sec. 25, May 23, 1825.
Lois Shearman, w. Vi n. w. I4 sec. 26, July 7, 1823.
Josiah Smith, w. Y^ s. w. '4 sec. 26, June 11, 1824.
Zephaniah Hathaway, e.'o i.e. ^4 sec. 26, May 23, 1825
Wm. Smith, w. y, n.e. '4 and e. ij H- w. I4 sec. 26, Nov.
29 and 30, 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 26, May 24.
1828.
Simon Jones, e. H s.e. ^4 sec. 26, Dec. 21, 1826.
Julius Smith, e. '2 s. w. I4 sec. 26, June 28, 1827.
Wm. Anway, w 34 n. w. I4 sec. 27, Aug. 15, 1822.
Eathan Smith, w. ''i s. e. 14 and s. w. I4 sec. 27, June
4, 1823.
Lois Shearman, n. e. '4 and e. '-i n.w. I4 sec. 27, July 7,
1823.
Josiah Smith, e. 'i s. e. I4 sec. 27, May 12, 1824.
Wm. Anway, e. ' . n. e. I4 sec. 28, Aug. 15, 1822.
Daniel Bickford, e. ij n. w. I4 sec. 28, Oct. 18, 1822
George Free, w. '.. n. w. I4 sec. 28, Nov. 9, 1»22
John Wright, w. '2 n. e. I4 sec. 28, Apr. 14, 1823.
Eathan Smith, e. ', s. e. I4 sec. 28, June 4, 1823.
Timothy P. Roberts, w. Yi s. W.14 sec. 28, Oct. 5, 1825.
Chauncey Runole, w.Ji s. e. ^4 and e. \A s. W.I4 sec. 28,
Dec. 29, 1825.
John Niesz, e. Y2 n. w. ^4 and w.'o n. e. '4 sec. 29, Oct.
18, Wl-i.
Samuel Wisler, e. '4 n. e. I4 sec. 29, Oct. 18, 1822.
Joseph Osborn, s. e. J4 and e. V2 s.w. J4 sec. 29, Oct. 15,
1824.
Wm. Moode, w. Yi s. w. \i sec. 29, Feb. 16, 1825.
Henry Glick, w.}4n. w. =4 sec. 29, Oct. 19, 1825.
Robert Milligan. e. > 2 s. w. J4 sec. 30, Apr. 23, 1824.
Solomon Woodring, w. 'i s. e. I4 sec. 30, Dec. 6, 1824.
Arch. Stewart and Thomas Clark, e. Yn s. e. >4 sec. 30,
March 31, 1><25.
Nathan H. Hall, e. i, n. e. I4 sec. 30. May 18, 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. w. 14 and w. y^ n e. 14 sec.
.30, Mav 24, 1828.
Henry Hail, w. v„ s. w. 14 sec. 30, Feb. 10, 1826.
Morrison McMillan, w. U s. w. I4 sec. 31, Aug. 19, 1822.
George Morehart, e. K s. e. ^4 sec. 31, Aug. 19, 1822.
John Hindman. w. ^2 s. e. I4 sec. 31, June 11, 1823.
Daniel Lamberson, w. 'i n. w. 14 sec. 31, Dec. 1, 1824.
Henry Hall, e. '2 n. w. '4 sec. 31, Dec. 0 1824.
James Beard, n. e. I4 sec. 31, May '2, 1825.
John Hindman, e. '., s. w. I4 sec. 31, June 11, 1823.
Michael Ix)ng, s. w. I4 sec. 32. Oct. 26, 1824.
Nathan F. Dicks, w. >; n. c. I4 sec. 32, Oct. 27. 1824.
Andrew Morehart,'e. '2 n. w. >4 sec. 32, Apr. 11, 1825.
Marv Baker, e. '.^ n. e. ^4 sec. 32, June 15. 1825.
Christian Morehart. e. '2 s. e. ^4 sec. .3j, Feb. 8, 1826.
Isaac Wiseman, w. » , s. e. I4 sec. 32, June 4, 1828.
John McCollister, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 3.', Dec. 31, 1827.
*This was never recorded as patented and must be identical with Swigart's I4 sec.
1064
APPENDIX:
Robert riunlap, e.
Mary Baker, w. vi
Nathan Kellogg, t^
Erastiis Jones, e. ]
Joseph Kistler, w.
Mav 12,1824.
: 1 ", 1825.
:;v31,1827.
>!av :', 1,1827.
w. i.jt i^ec. :i:i, .M:iy 31, 1827.
Jliaiui ^ Havton Canal, e. ]4 s. w. i.i and s. e. '.i sec.
y:i, May iil, 1828.
(ieorge Dunlap, w. '; n. w. h sec. 34, May 12, 1824.
Natlian l-'i)ster, e. ' . n. w. ' , -^fC. :U, .May 12, 1824.
Josiah Smith, n. e. ''i ^e(^ -1. .lune H, 1-24.
VVm. Sjuitli, s. e. 't .■^i-c. :U, Ott. li', 1>27.
Miami A Daylon Caiial, s. w. 'i sec. :;l, -May 2t, 1823.
Josiah Smiih, w. »;; n. w. ^.i, sec. 3.1, .liim.- 11, ls:'.l.
(ieorge Free, s. e. ^j. sec. 3.5, Jan. 1, l'2a.
Julius .Smith, e. ^2 n. w. Vi sec. 3.5, .Uine 28, isj?.
(Tiirden Ockrev, e. V^ u- e. K^ sec. 35, May 17, isj7.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. 'i n. e. i.i sec. 35, May 24,
1828.
Adam Baker, s. w. '.j, sec. 35, Oct. 14 ]S2(i.
John Gander, e. ^i s. e. ^4 sec ::i'i, lU'c. 5. 1825.
John Chazey, w. '.i n. w. S ^<i.v .;;, .\|mi1 18, 182i).
Asa VViiy, e. M n. w. ^i sec. :;i;, s, i.t. M, ls28.
Arch. Smith, w. M s. e. li sec. 3i;, .N.i\ . 2_i, 1827.
Levin Culver, e. ].i s. w. i,i sec. 31',, I'ec. ■>, Is.;.,.
John Gander, w. ^i s. w. I4 sec. 3G, Apr. is, ls2(;
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. i.i sec. :; '., May 2i, 1828.
ADAMS TOWNSHIP.
TOW>
Reuben B. Phelps, n.
James Jones, e. ^^ s. c
Ezekiel Swarthoilt, w
Daniel .Spade, e. J 2 11.
John .^ackiaiiei-, \v. '
Elisha HaiM k, s. e.
Willi
Eli^^
3 N. RANGE 16 E.
.. '-: sec. 1, Oct. 13, 1832.
> i M'c. i,.Iuue 7, 1833.
c: s. e. ', sec. 1, June 7,1833.
,v."i, sec. 1, Xuv. 21,1827.
u. w. ' I sec. 1, Iiec. 2(i, 182/.
II.
w.
sec
s. w.
. 1, M:
I, .lul
\ sec. 2, Nov. 24, 182.;.
s. w. 1.J, sec. 2, July 30, 1830.
^ I sec. 2, Oct. 4, 1827.
s. e. i.t sec. 2, Aug. 17, 1831.
" sec. 2, May 20, 1833':
324.
Thoiiia- Tal'laaii. W. '4 n. w. '.i sec.
Janu-r ri> ivy, w.
John (',:;;,, w ■ s.
Charles l; .-. ll.v, e
Jac(.i.r„i,el, e. '.. n.
Cyrenus W liu'lu,' w.
William Holsiuger,
John Lee, s. e. fr. ^j, sec. 3, May 31, 1823.
Thomas Dunnuch, w. ^-^ n. e. '.1 sec. 3, Jan.
Enos Meade, n. pt. s. 'j'sec. 3, June 12, 1833.
Augustus E. Hull, e. pt. n. e. J4 (canceled) sec. 3,
Jul V II, 1833.
Wm. Keating, adm. e. pt. n. w. I4, 56.82 a. sec. 3, June
30, 1854.
Charles Selby, Jr., e. K n. e. '4 sec. 3, March 22, 1826.
John Oliver, e pt. s. w. I4 sec. 3, July 27, 1826.
Jonathan Botchford, n. pt. n. w. 14 and s. part n. w.
i.i sec. 3, Dec 29, 1832, and Jan. 1.5, 1833.
Ira Phelps, s. pt. s. w 14 see. 3, May 1, .
Bartlett Brown, s. pt. n. e. Ki and n. part n. e. I4
sec. 4, Dec. 14, 183i.
Arthur St. C Beyraer, e. 14 s. w. \i and w. V2 s. w. I4
sec 4, Dec. 14, 1832.
Arthur St.C. Beymer, w. ]4 s. e. U sec. 4. Dec. 14, 1832.
David Sutton, n. e. 'i s. e. U sec. 4. Jan. 4, 1833.
Ira Phelps, s. e. U, s. e. 1,1 sec 4, May 1, 1833.
Ephraim Quimby,Jr., n. pt. n w. Ki sec. 4, Dec. 14,1832.
Ed. Avery Llobison, s. pt. u. w. I4 sec. 4, Dec. 15. 1832.
James A Watson, e. y^ s. e. ^4, sec. 5, Dec. 14, 1832.
David Dornor Dore),w. % s. e. I4, and e. V» s. w. I4 sec.
5, Dec 2(1, 1832.
Nathan B. Adams, u pt. n. w V4 sec. 5, Dec 15. 1832.
Othias Miller, s. pt. n w. li sec. •<>, Dec. 15, 1832.
Charles R Selby, w. ]4 s. w. I4 sec. 5, Dec. 15, 1832.
William Thompson, n. w. I4 n. e. I4 and s. part n. e. '4
sec 5, Dec. 26, 1832.
D Neillev (or Neeley),n.e.li n. e. '4 sec. 5, Oct. 23.1833.
Charles H. Selby, e. 'A s e. I4 sec. 6, Dec. 14, 1832.
William (iuinn, w. J^s. e. ^j. ande. part s. w. I4 sec. 6,
Dec. 24 1832.
Nathan B. Adams, n. pt. n. w. li and n. part n e. ^i
sec. 6, Dec. 14, 1832.
Mary Adams, s. pt. n. w. I4 sec 6. Dec. 20, 1832.
John Zimmerman, s. 3^ n. e 14 sec. 6, March 8, 1833.
♦Assigned to Evau Dor.sey, same date.
fW. >4ofsec. 12 was selected as school lands under
act May 20, 1826, in lieuof .Seciion 16, then owned by
Seneca Indians.
^Assigned to Wm. Myers.
Joseph Hollis, w. pt. s. w. I4 sec. 6, Sept. 1, 1833.
Solomon Kuder (or Krideri,w. ]4 s. e I4 and w part s.
w. I4 and e. pt. s. w. '4 sec. 7, and e. part n. w '4
and w. 'o n. w. I4 and e }^ n. e. I4 and w. Yi n. e.
I4 sec. 7, Dec. 14, 1832.
William Smith, w. 'i n. e. Vt and e. ',^ n. w. '4 and w.
% n. w. I4 sec. 8, Dec. 14, 1832.
S. Kuder ( or Krider), e. '.2 n. e. I4 sec. 8, Dec. 14, lSi2.
Samuel Gray, w. % s. e. '4 and e. 'is. e. \], sec. 8, Dec.
14, 1832.
Jacob Neikirk, e. 14 s. w. I4 and w. }4s. w. I4 sec. 8,
Dec. 14, 1832.
Ezia Thornton, w. V^ n. w. I4 sec. 9, Dec. 15, 1832.
Simeou Jenuin^'s, e. 14 i- w. '4 sec. 9, Dec. 15, 1832.
Erastus Sheldon*, w. ^4 n. e. ^4 and e. '/» u. e. H sec.
9, Dec. 1 ■, 1832.
Ebenezer SniJtli, e. '.Is e. U and w. ]4 s. e. I4 and e.
ij s w , M( :ri)oc. 15, 1832.
Wm! Smith, V,-. ' . s w. '4 sec. 9, Dec. 15, 1832.
Edward Piper, w. "2 n. e. Vi sec. 10, .March 10, 1823.
Israel Ptnrod, s. e. i4sec. 10, April 25, ls2.i.
Enos Mead, e. pt. of s. w. ij, sec. Ki, Mav 26, 1825.
Joseph Todd, e. li u. e. '4 sec. 10, May 4, i830.
Enos Mead, e. pt. of u. w. I4 sec. 10, Feb. 8, 1826.
Simeon Jennings, S. Res., n. pt. of n. w. Ki and s. pt.
of n. w. I4 sec. 10, Dec. 15, 1832.
Jos. Howard, n. pt. of s. w. '4 and s. pt. of s. w. I4
sec. 10, Dec. 15, 1832.
Lyman Amsden, s. Yz sec. 11, May 31, 1823.
James Campbell, w. 14 n. e. ^4 sec. 11, Feb. 7,1831.
George Hossler, w. ».; n. w. '4 sec. 11, Sept. 17, 1831.
Wm. Hane,e. '., n. w. \i sec. 11, Aug. 20, 1830.
Robt. D. ( ampbell, u. e =i u. e '4 sec. 11, Jan. 2, 1833.
Thomas Swope, n. e. '4 sec. l.:t, .lutie 1, 1825.
Daniel Jackson, w. '4 s. e. '4 and s. e. I4 s. e. li sec.
12. Sept. 22, 1832.
Daniel Jackson, n. e. Kj, s. e. 14 sec. 12, June 15,1833.
Jacob Rine, Jr., e. 14 s. e. '4 sec. 13,Sept. i-l, 1827.
Wm. Myers, w. ]4 s. e. ^4 and e. fa s. w. I4 see. 13,.
Jan. and .March 8, 1824.
Sam'l llartsock, w. }4 s. w. 14 sec. 13,M.arch 13, 1824.
Aquilla (iilbert, e. Y2 n. e. 14 sec. 13, Dec. 23, 1825.
Daniel Whiteman, w. Vi n. e. Ki see. l'-. Sept. 5, 1831.
Daniel Whiteman, e. Van. w. '1. sec. \.\ Nov. 12, 1827.
David Sutton, w. V, n. w. '4 sec. 1 '.. .lulv 1, 1830.
Josepii .laekson.n. e. \ sec. 14, Jcilv s, l,s31.
J.ihn St<iu-h, n. w. 'i see. It, May 10,1833.
.lohn I'aiue. w. '. s. e ' , see. U,".\Iarch 16, 1827.
.Samuel \V hiteman, e. SjS. e. I4 sec. 14, Nov. 12, 1827.
Abram Zeamer, e. 'i s. w. '4 and w. ',2 s. w. 14 sec. 14,
April 2(, 1828, and Sept. 1, 1829.
Benj. Pontius, u. e. '4 fr. sec. 15, May 18, 1827.
Ephriam Quimby, Jr., n. pt. of s. \v. '4 fr.sec. 15, Dec.
14, Ks32.
Wm. .Myers, n. pt. of n. w. I4 fr. sec. 15, Dec. 14, 1832.
Benj. Pontius, e. pt. of n. w. I4 fr. sec. 1.5, May 18, 1827.
Ephriam Quimby. Jr., s. pt. of n. w. 1^,1 sec. 15, Dec.
14, 1832.
Abraham Zeamer, e. }4 s.e. V4 sec. 15, Sept. 1, 1829.
Benj. Pontius, w. I4 s. e. li and e. pt. of s. w. V4 sec.
15, Mav 18 1827.
Timothy Baker, s. pt. of s. w. V4 sec. 15, Dec. 2, 1833.
(Jrdered into market, sec. 16, Aug. 10, 1874.
Erastus Sheldon, w. K2 s> w. 14 and e. li s. w. V4 sec.
17, Dec. 14, 1832.
Samuel Gray, w. '^ n. w. Ki and e. 'i n. w. -4 sec. 17,
Dec. 1 1, 1832.
Daniel W. Jones, e Va s. e. I4* sec 17, Dec. 14, 1832.
.lolin II. Culbertson, w. ^ s. e. ^4 sec. 17, Dec. 14, 1832.
Hannah .Ionian, w. 'i n e. I4 sec. 17, Dec. 15, 1832.
Samuel (iray, e. '2 n. e. V4 sec. 17, Dec. 15, 18.i2.
John Steine'r, w. 'i s. e. K4 and e. 'j. s. e. Vj sec 18,
Dec. 14, 1832.
Lorenzo Abbott, e pt of s. w. Ki and w. pt of s. w. Ki
sec. 18, Dec 14, 1832.
Wm. Myer.i, e U n. e. I4 and w. 14 n. e. '4 f sec. 18,
Dec 14, 1832.
Samuel Hunter, s. pt. of n. w. K4 sec. 18, Feb 15, 1833.
Peter Vannette, u. 'i n. w. 14 sec. 18, Oct. 3, 1833.
Zalmon Rouse, e. li u. e. 14 and w. 'i n. e. ^4 X sec.
19, Dec. 17. 1832
Joseph Culbertson, w. pt. of s. w. Ki and e. pt. of s. w.
Kill sec. 19, Dee. 17, 1832.
♦Assigned to James Robison and Edward Avery
Jan. 4, 1»33.
tAssigned to John Myers. Dec 18(3.
|.\ssigned to John J Stiener Dec , 1832
j; Assigned to Hugh Culbertson, same date.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
106/
Simeon Jennings, e. >i s. e. I4 and w. ij s. e. I4 sec. 19,
Dec. 17, 18a-2.
Isabella Long, n. pt. n. w. ^ sec. 19, Jan 9, 1833.
Thomas Teave, s. »^ n. w 1.4 sec. 19, Feb. 12, 1833.
Wm. Smith, e. 'i n. w. 14 and w. Vi n. w. 14 sec. 20,
Dec. 17. 1832.
V'harles MrNamee, w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 20, Dec. 17,1832.
John Newhouse, s.e. ^4 s w. 14 sec 20, Jan. 30, 1833.
Benjamin Bolander, u. e. ^4 s. w. 14 and n. 14 s. e. ^4
sec 211, March 2.5, 1833.
Simeon Jennings, e. 14 n.e. 'i sec. 20, Dec. 20, 1832.
John Beebe, w '5 n. e. i_i sec. 20, Dec. 20, 1832.
Wm. Newhouse, s. w. '.t s. e. I4 sec. 20, Jan. 30, 1833.
Melchoir Yotter, s. e. Vi s e. ^i sec. 20, March 25, 1833.
Bezor Benton, w. '., n. e. '4 sec. 21, Dec. 24, 1832.
Jabez A. B. Calkins, e. 3.. n e. 1 , pec. 21, April 3, 1833.
Horace H. Hall, s. e. ^4 see. 21, Jan. 2.5, 1S:W.
Elijah Babcock, w. y, n. w. '4 sec. 21, Jan. 20, 1833.
Benj. Williams, e. 'i'n. w. I4 and n. }:, s. w. ^4 sec. 21,
Jan.^28,1833.
Melchoir Yotter, s. w. I4 s. w. 14 sec. 21. Jan. 2.5 1833.
Benj. Bolander, s. e. I4 s. w. 14 sec. 21, Jan. 25, 1833.
John Stotts, e. \i n. e. M fr. sec. 22, June 24, 1823.
Daniel Pontius, e. pt. of s. w. 14 and w. Yo s. e. i.i fr.
sec. 22, Mav 18, 1827.
Wm. Myers s.pt. of s. w. I4 sec. 22, Dec. 17, 1832.
Jacob Jfetzgar, n. pt.of s. w. 14 sec. 22, March ?o, 1833.
Timothy B;iker, n. pt. of n. 'i sec. 22, Dec. 2, 18.33.
John (ireirbert, e. 1 ; n. e. I4 sec. 22, Jan. 2G, 1830.
John Greirbert. w. 1 , n. e. V4 sec. 22, Sept. 8, 1829.
.lacob Metzgar, n. w fr. (old survey) and s.pt. n. w.
fr. I4 sec. 22, Mav 25 1833.
Balliet, Helfrich & Gratf, s. w. I4 sec. 23, June 19, 1S23.
Wm. Elder e. i.;n. e. I4 sec. 23, March 13, 1824.
.John Paine, e. T, s. e. I4 sec. 23, Oct. 21, 1836.
Jacob ZeaiiKT. w. ' , u. w. ^i sec. 23, Sept. 1, 182r..
Sam'lWhiteman, w. H n. e. '4 sec. 2.3, July .5, 1820.
23, Aug. 29, 1826.
T. i;t sec. 23 Jan. 27, 1><27.
e. I4 sec. 24, Feb. 10, 1824-
-. Vi, sec. 24, Feb. 10, 1824.
,-. 1, sec. 24. March 13, 1824.
, -I' 24, June 1.5,182.5.
^ w ' I sec. 24, March 22, 1826.
MM-, -jl Oct. 4, 1822.
sr,v 21, June 4, 1833.
. ' , sri'. 24, Oct. 28. 1833.
<• '., sec. 21, Oct. 3, 1829.
Davis, e. 'i s. e. '4 sec. 2.5,
John Fairchild. w. !4 '
Sam'l Whitman, e. ]4j
Sam'l Whitman, w. J4
Sam'l Whitman, e. i.f;
Abraham Riue, w. ' . i
L. C. Stewart .-. > ^
Thomas Longwith. «
Jacob Cobel, 0. ' n l
John Noel, s. e ' - e
L. C. Stewart, 11 <■ 1
Sam'l Whitemaij. \v '
Isaac Davis and SmI.
Oct. 21 , 1823.
Samuel Elder, w. 'i s. e. 14 sec. 2.5, Sept. 29. 1829.
John Noel, e. K n- e. }'i sec. 25, Dec. 5, 1828.
John Noel, s. w'. I4 n. e. U sec. 25, March 11, 1833.
Henry Orner. n. w. I4 n. e. H sec. 25, Oct. 28, 1833.
Josiah Gooding, s. w. I4 sec. 25, May 28. 1833.
Fred'k Christine, n. w. '4* sec 2-5, act of May 24, 1828.
Robert Linn, vr. <
Henry 0,1,, 1, . . '
Abram Sict;-. \'.
.John Peltici.Kl. f.
John Pettiopnl, e.
Joseph Orner, w. '
Daniel Pontius, s.
EliasStoudt, s. e. '
Thos. J. Elder, e.
n. w. '1 see. 25, ,lan. 31, 1831.
'1 v.- ' , Mv L',-;. .\u<;. ir,, 1831.
II -v ■• , M_.,. -jr,. ,lune24, 1823.
,11. w. , see. L'C, Dec. 24,1827.
^11. e. '4 sec. 2!!, April 8, 1829.
"n. e. 14 sec. 26. April 13. 1832.
T. I4 sec. 26, Oct. 27, 1836.
sec. 26, June 13,n833.
i4.fr. sec. 27, Nov. 8, 1830.
Henrv Metzgar. w. 14 n. e. I4 and n. w. fr. sec. 27,
Oct. 24, 1831.
Anthony Doyle, s. pt. of n. w. '4 sec. 27, Dec. 26, 1832.
Wm. Myers, n. pt. of n. w. 14 sec. 27, Dec. 25, 1832.
Sam'l Graham, e. '4 s. e. 14 sec. 27, June 14, 18.32.
Cieorge W. Elder, w. 14 s. e. 14 sec. 27. Feb. 8, 1831.
Henry Metzgar, s. w. fr. of fr. sec. 27, Oct. 24, 1831.
Anthony Doyle, n. pt. of s. w. I4 sec. 27, Jan. 2,1833.
Adam Metzgar, s. pt.of s. w. fr. ^4 fr. sec. 27, March
25. 1833.
James Boyd, s. w. ^4 and w. 'j s. e. ^4 sec. 28, Jan. 2
and 5 1833.
Levi Dunham, e. !4 s. e. I4 sec. 28, June 6, 1833.
Wm. Myers, n. e. 14 n. e. 14 sec. 28, Jan. 10, 1833.
'"ornelius Stage, Jr. s. e. I4 n. e. '4 sec. 28, Nov. 4,1833.
Michael Kestler,Sr. w. K n. e. \i sec. 28, Nov. 21, 1833.
Thomas Gamble, s. 14 n. w. \i sec. 28, Jan. 30, ,1833.
David Pontius, n. w. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 28, March 2.5,18-33.
Michael Kestler, Sr. n.e. 14 n.w. 14 sec. 28, Nov.21,1833
'4 sec.
.1S32.
Thomas Gamble, s. 'i n. e. '4 sec. 29, Oct. 7, is:;:'..
James Robison, s. w. J4 sec. 29, Dec. 20, 1832.
Stephen F. Day, s. e. \i sec. 29, Dec. 20, 1832.
Wm Newhouse, n. w. I4 n. e. i; -^"e '?'.\ Jnn 'Mi. ^^^■V^.
Paviil lN>!itiiis, n. e. I4 n. e. ^ -■ ,■ ■:•<_ Al:!r.'h J ■. ^ ■-:::'..
."^'ilniiKiii n' 11,'eman, n. w. I4 --I I ',,.', 1... l^:.,
Siiu.'oii .Irniiings, w. pt. n.w. , ■•' . . : '-^ . IT. ] -i.^:.
Samuel Rule, e. pt. n. w. I4 ser -.". Dec. 1-^, l.^-i.'.
L. C Stone, w. U n. e. I4 fsec. 3u, Dec. 17, 1^31.
James Fisher, e. i., n. e. I4 .sec. 30, Feb. 27. 18:'.3.
Daniel Rule, e. pt. s. w. Ki sec. 30. Dec. 17, 1832.
Chas. McNamee, w. pt. s. w. Ut sec. 30, Dec. 18, 1832.
Uriah Egbert, e. 'i s. e. I4 sec. 30, Dec. 19, 1832.
Christian Rensburg, w. 14 s. e. I4 sec. 30, Dec. 25. 1832.
Simeon Jennings, e. ]=, n. e. '4 sec. 31, Dec. 17, 1832.
Christian Kensburg,w. 14 n. e. U sec. 31, Dec. 25, 1832.
Simeon Jenuings.w. 54 s. e. I4, and e. Ki s. e. ^4 sec. 31.
Dec. 20, 18.32.
Thomas Strickling. s. w. I4 s. w. I4 and e. pt. s. w. '4
sec. 31, July 4, IS33, and June 25. 183.3.
Earl Church, n. y, n. w. I4 sec. 31, Jan. 14, 18.33.
Wm. Mitchell, s. pt. n. w. I4 sec. 31, June 21, 18.33.
Uriah Egbert, n. w. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 31, J'une'4. 1834.
Simeon Jennings, w. K n. w. '4 and w. J/^ s. e
32, Dec. 17, 18.32.
Jacob Peterson, n. e. I4 n. w. ^4 sec. .32, May 1.
David McCracken, s. e. I4 n. w. 14 sec. 32, Oi't :
Philip Read, e. y s. e. I4 sec. 32, Dec. 17, 1832.
Jacob Neikirk, e."J^ s. w. ^4 and e. '■> n. e. *i
Dec. 17 and IS, 1832.
Simeon Jennings, w. ]4 s. w. ' i sec. 32, Dec -O
John H. Culbertson, w' Ji n.e. ^4 sec. 32,Dec.
Wm. Smith, e. 14 "• e. I4 sec. 33, Dec. 17, 1832.
John .Steiner, v^y n. w. \ and w. }4 n. e. ^i and e. Va
n. w. ' 1 sec. 3.3"" Dec. 17, 1832.
Jacob Neikirk, w. '.1 s. w. ^4 (assigned to Jacob Roads)
sec. 33. Dec. 18, 1832.
John Duhm, s. e. I4 s w. I4 sec. 3.3, Feb. 9. 1833.
Melchoir Kalt, n.e. I4 s. w. i.l sec. 33, April 19, 18-33.
Courad Happel, s. e. 14 sec. .33, Feb. 9, 1833.
John Evans, e. % s. e. '4 fr. sec. 34, June 24, 1833.
.Jonathan Sprague, w. y s. e. ^4 and e. part s. w. I4
sec. 34, June 24, 183L
J. Bouker, n. part s. w. fr. I4 of fr. sec. 34, .Tan. 9, 1833.
John Bouker, n. w. fr. >4 of fr. sec. 34, Jan. 9, 1833.
Conrad Happell, s. pt. s. w. fr. 14 of fr. sec. 34, Feb
9,1833.
Henry Spangle, w. y n. e. I4 fr. sec. 34, Aug. 16, l'<26.
Henry Spangle, e. pt" n. w. I4 fr. sec. 34. Aug. 16, 1826.
Daniel Pontius, e. J4 n. e. ' 1, fr. sec. 34, May 18, 1827.
Wm. Frink, e. 'a s. e. I4 sec. 35, Jan. 6, 1823.
Ledgyard Littlefield. w. y, s. e. I4 and e. y s. w. I4 sec.
35, April 14, 1S23.
Daniel Saiger, e. % n. e. I4 sec. 35, June 9, 1823.
Francis F^vans, w. y s. w. I4 sec. 35, June 24, 1823.
Daniel Pontius, n. w. 14 sec. 35, Oct. 27, 1826.
Daniel Pontius, w. V2 n. e. ^4 sec. 35, May IS, 1827.
Wm. Frink. w. ^ s. w. I4 sec. .36, Jan. 6, 1823.
Balliet. Hellfrich & Graff, e. y s. w. I4 see. .36, June 5,
1823.
Balliet, Hellfrich & Graflf, w. M s. e. I4 sec. 36, June 5,
1823.
Daniel Saiger. n. w. '4 sec. .36, June 9. 1823.
John Geo. Fender, e. M s. e. I4 sec. 36, Aug. 25, 1832.
John Geo. Fender, e. V, n. e. I4 sec. 36, April 2.3, 1833.
Jos. Stephenson, Jr., w. y n. e. '4 sec. 36, Sept. 2, 1830.
VENICE TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 1 X. RANGE 17 E.
Miami & Dayton Canal, sec. 1, Act May 24, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, sec. 2, Act May 24, 1828.
Frederick Oastine. n. e. I4 sec. 3. June 11, 1829.
Frederick Custine^, n. 14 sec. 3, Dec. 8, 1828.
William Long, e. y n. w. I4 sec. 3, Jan. 24, 1831.
Michael Sowerwine, w. ;4 n. w. '4 see. 3, May 16, 1832.
Johnson Ford, e. y s. e. I4 sec. 3, Oct. 8, 1828.
Wm. McPherson, w. y s. e. \ sec. 3, Nov. 6. 1828.
John Woollet, e. y s. w. I4 sec. 3, Feb. 22, 1830.
John Woollet, w. !^ s. w. I4 sec. 3. Sept. 3, 1829.
Frederick Onstine, sec. 4, June 25, 1829.
Miami & Dayton Canal, e. y s. w. V4 and e. ' .. n. w.
■ - ' - R2'S.
.6, Act May 24, 182
^Erroneous entry.
fAssigned to Wm. Bears, same date.
t Assigned to Joseph Cun>ertson, same date.
II Assigned to William Read, same date.
^Erroneous entry.
1066
ArPENDIX:
Miami & Dayton Canal, sec. 5 Act May 24, 1828.
Seth Reed, w. K n. w. \i sec. 6, Oct. 10, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, sec. 7, Act May 24, i82§.
Miami & Dayton ("anal, w. i i sec. 8, Act May 24. 1828.
Columbus .4 Sandusky Road, n. e. 'i and s e. li sec. 8.
Columbus & Saudusky Road, sec. 9.
Columbus & Saudusky Road, n. J^ and e. 14 s. e. 1-4
sec. 10.
William Sweitzer, w. V^s. w. I4 sec. 10, June 11, 1822.
Byron Kilbourn. e. U s. w. 14 sec. in, April 24. 1826.
Orange Johnson, w. yi s. e. ^4 sec. 10. March 31, 1827.
Thomas West, s. w. i.i sec. 11, July 28, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. e. ^.i aud n. }^ sec. 11, Act May
28, 1828.
Miami & Dayton Canal, sec. 12, Act May 28, 1828.
Miami & Davton Canal, sec 13, Act May 28, 1828.
Miami ct Dayton Canal, sec. 14, Act May 28, 3828.
Orange Johnson, w. }4 s. w. 14 sec. 1-5, .4pril 11, 1826.
Orange Johnson, e. >^*'s. w. I4 sec. 15, March 7, 1831.
Joseph Straughn, s. e. ^i sec. 1-3, Nov. 21, 18.32.
Hector Kilbourn, e. '2 n. w. i^ sec. 1.5. May 10, 1820.
.Foseph Pierce, w. ]i n. w 1 , see 1 ".. July 28, 1828.
Andrew Moore, n. e. I4 sec. 1 ■, IniH' ■_'". H30.
Martin Smelts, n. e. U sec. i:. < nt i^. 1^.:2.
Martin Smelts, n. e. I4 s. e. - . !7 March 22, 1834.
John McClelland, n. w. 'ts. e. ■-, >^c. 17, Jan. 27,183-5.
David Fulton, s. V, s. e. It sec. 17, Jan. 28, 1835.
William Mealio, n. }4 n. w. I4 sec. 17, Oct. 4, '833.
John Klingman, s. '2 n. w. 14 sec. 17, May 12, 18.34.
George Hammontree, e. % s. w. I4 sec. 17, June 8, 1835.
Christian Kimmel, w. K s. w. i.j, sec. 17. Aug. 20, 1834.
Mathew Delanev, n. e. I4 n. e. -4 sec. 18, Oct. 14, 1833.
Martin Smelts*, n. e. 1.1 n. e. I4 sec. 17, March 22, 1834.
Francis Obry, n. w. ^i n. e. M sec. 18, Sept. 18, 1834.
Jacob Klingman, s. w. H n. e. 14 sec. IS, Jan. 15, 1835.
Asa H. Trobridge, s. w. 14 s. e. I4 and e. H s. e. '.i see.
18, Oct. 21, 1833.
.Tames Hanna, u. w. ^i s. e. '4 sec. 18, Nov. 10, 1834.
Jacob Hosier, n. w. I4 sec. 18, Aug. 6, 1833.
John Christian Wurm,s.e.H n.e. H sec. 18, Jan. 18,1836.
Jacob Funk, s. w. I4, sec. 18, Aug. 5, 1833.
James Hanna, w. '2 n. e. '4 sec. 19, Jan. 25, 1834.
Columbus & .Sandusky Road, e. ^2 n. e. H and s. e. ^v
sec. 19.
James Hanna, n. '.2 n. w. 14 sec. 19, Nov. 8, 1833.
John Clelland, s. '2 n. w. ii sec. 19, Nov. 12, 1833.
John Shanower, n. 'i s. w. Ki sec. 19, Aug. 20. 1834.
Henry Troxel, s. e. 'j^ s. w. 14 see. 19, Nov. II, 1834.
Joseph Zund, s. w. \i s. w. I4 sec. 19, Dec. 15, 1834.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, sec 20.
Columbus & Sanduskv Road, sec. 21.
Thomas Kettch, Jr., s". e. '4 sec. 22, April 10, 1833.
John Shade, e. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 22. March 25, 1833.
John Shade, w. K n. w. '.j sec. 22, July 10. 1829.
John Zimmerman(of Peter),s.w.>4 sec. 22,April 16,1833.
James McKibbon, n. e. 14 n. e. Hi sec. 22, Nov. 2, 1833.
Andrew Males, w. H n. e. 14 and s. e. I4 n- e. ^4, sec. 22,
Nov. 29, 1833.
Thomas Kettch, w. K s. w. 14 sec. 23, April 10, 1833.
Orange Johusonf, n.w. s.w. }i sec. 5, T. 16, R. 17, May
12, 1835.
George Shaffer, e. K s. w. 14 sec. 23, April 11, 1834.
Maurice Moore, e. Y2 s. e. 14 sec. 23, Oct. 29, 18.33.
Leander Eickraan, w. '4 s. e. li sec. 23, May 31. 18.34.
David Fulton, e. M u. w. 14 sec. 23, Nov. 4, 1833.
James McKibbon, n. w. 1.1'n. w. 14 sec. 23, Nov. 2,18.33.
George Lauck, s. w. '4 n. w. H sec. 23. April 21, 1834.
David Fulton, w. '.; n. e. 1% sec. 23, Nov. 4, 1833.
Jacob Whitchurst and John Whitchurst, e. '4 n. e. ^4,
sec. 23, Sept. 19, 1834.
Robert Huston, s e. ^4 sec. 24, May 20, 1833.
Tarlington B. Willoughby, n. e. I4 n. e. 14 sec. 24, Sept.
28, 18.33.
Jer. Carpenter, s. e. ^4 n. e. ^i sec. 24, March 19, 1835.
.Fohn Bigham, s. w. 'i n. e. k sec. 24. April 13, 1835.
James Willibey, n. w. ^4, n. e. ^4, and n. e. '4 n. w. I4
sec. 24, Nov. 4, 1833.
John Bonnett, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 24, Nov. 4, 18.34.
Nathan McBane, s. e. I4 n. w. 14 sec. 24 Dec. 19, 1834.
Maurice Moore, w. U s. w. ^i sec. 24, Oct. 29, 1833.
Farlington B.Willoughbv.e. J^ s.w.14 sec. 24,Feb. 7,1834.
James Burnisson, n. ]4 sec. 25, May 20, 1833.
David Kemp, Sr., n. e. 14 s. w. 14 and n. w. 14 s. e. I4
sec. 2.5. Jan. 1,1834.
Robert Smith, s. w. '4, s. e. ^4 sec. 25, Jan. 18, 1834.
Robert Smith, s. e. ^4 s. e. '4 sec. 25, Dec. 16, 1834.
Huckliug Spencer, n. e. M s. e. ^4 sec. 25, July 22,1835.
Daniel Smith n. w. Ig s. w. ^4 sec. 25, Jan. 5, 1834.
Samuel Carson, s. % s. w. 14 sec. 25, Sept. 11, 18.33.
Jacob Link,n. w. i.iandw.'i n.e. '4 sec. 26,May 20,1833.
Samuel Carson, s. e. \% s. e. \t sec. 2G, Sept. 11, 1834.
David Hillis, s. w. '- 4 s. e. I4 sec. 26, March 6, 1834.
Peter Lampson, s. e. >4 n. e. 14 sec. 26, Nov. 5, 1833.
James P. Dowty, n. }4 s. e. 14 sec. 26, Nov. 24, 1834.
Henry Hersherer n. e. 14 n- e. ^4 sec. 26, Jan. 6, 1834.
James McKibbin, Sr., s. w. 14 sec. 26, Nov. 16, 1833.
Daniel Smith, e. 14 n. e. 14 sec. 27. Oct. 27, 1831.
Michael Onstine, n. w. I4 n.e. I4 sec. 27, Nov. 7, 1833.
Daniel Smith, s. w I4 n. e. '4 sec. 27, Oct. 27, 1834.
James McKibben, Sr., s. e. Ki sec. 27, Nov. 16, 1833.
Michael Onstine, n. e. 14 n. w. 14 sec. 27, Sept. 28, 1833.
Michael Onstine, n. w. 14 u. w. I4 sec. 27, Jan. 12.1839.
John McKibbin, s. w. I4 and s. 14 n. w. ^x sec. 27, Nor.
16, 1833.
Frederick Onstine, sec. 28, June 25, 182^.
Eliakim Crosby, w. ]4 n w. '4 sec. 29. June 4, 1832.
Samuel Robb, n. e. 14'n. w. ^i sec. 29, Dec. 5, 1833.
Samuel Taft, s e. I4 s. e. ^4 sec. 29, July 6, 1833.
John Armatage, n. e. ^4 s. e. ^4 and w. 14 s. e. % sec.
29, Dec. 11, 1833.
Joseph Dennis, w. '4 s. w. 14 sec. 29, Nov. 12. 1853.
Philip Falter, e. '^ s. w. 14 sec. 29, Feb. 22, 18.34.
John Snider, e. 14 n. e. I4 sec. 29, Nov. 14, 1833.
David Snider, w. ]4 n. e. 14 sec. 29, Nov. 14, 1833.
Peter Rineheimer.s. e. ^.i n. w. 14 sec. 29, March 11,1834.
David Snider, e. 14 n. e.'l^i sec. 30, Nov. 14, 1833.
John Spoonseller, w. .14 n. e. ^4 sec. 30, Aug. 26,1834.
S. Bennage, w. K s. e.' ^4 and e. V2 s.w. 14 sec. 30, Nov.
12, 1833.
.Tos, Dennis, e. "» s. e. '-4 sec. .30, Nov. 12.1833.
John Spoonseller. n. w. 14 sec. 30, May 28, 1834.
Michael Kocker, n. w. I4 s. w. 14 sec. 30, Oct. 24, 1835.
Michael Kocker, s. w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 30, April 18, IS 4.
Columbus ct .Sanduskv Road. sees. 31, 32 and 33.
Jos. Mvers, n. e. 14 sec. 34. Oct. 28,18:V^.
John House, s. e. '4 sec. 34, Nov. 9, 183$.
James House, e. ^4 n. w. I4 sec. 34. Nov. 9, 1833.
.Tames House, w. ' j n. w. '4 sec. 34. Nov. 7, 1833.
John Foster, n. >., s. w. U sec. 34, Feb. 17, 1834.
Elijah M. Sanlee, s. 14 s. w. H sec. 34, Nov. 8, 1834.
Sainl. Carson, n. e. 'i n. e. U sec. 35, Sept. II, 1833.
Michael Mowry. s. e^ I4 u. e. li sec. 35. Aug. 19, 1815.
Jacob Smith, w. 14 n. e. 14 sec. 35, March 8. 18J4.
Charles Flack, s. e. 14 sec. 35, July 10, 1835.
Abijah Ives, n. w. 14 sec. 35. Jan. 1, 1834.
Sani'l Morrison, n. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 35. March 4, 1834.
Anthonv McQueen, s. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 35, June 16. 1S35.
David Kemp, Jr., w. 14 n. e. ^j. sec. 36, Jan. 1,1834.
Cabel Carpenter, e. 'i n. e. ^4 sec. 36, Sept. 10, 18 i5.
Wra. Kemp, s. e. fr. 14 fr. sec. 36, Jan. 8, 1834.
Sam'l Carson, n. w. 14 sec. 36, Sept. 11. 183 J.
Michael Mowry, s. w. fr. I4 fr. sec. 36, March 8. 1834.
REED TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 2 N. RANGE 17 E.
Daniel Zepernick, n. e. ^i sec. I,' June 8, 1829.
Wm. Lewis Burge, e. '4 n. w. I4 sec. 1. Jan. 7, 1832.
Thos. Van Kirk, w. '4 n. w. I4 sec. I.April 12, 1831.
Jos. Reed, e. 'a s. e. I4 sec. 1, March 2, 1829.
Augustus Cook, w. ^2 s. e. ^4 sec. 1, March 15, 1830.
Henry (iray Richland, e. i; s. w. ^4 sec. 1. Sept.17,1830.
Isaac Vail w. '2 s. w. I4 sec. 1. Julv .\ 1830.
Daniel Vail, n. e. h see. 2. Nov. 26, 1831.
.Tohn Hines, e. '^ n.w. 14 sec. 2, Aug. 6, 1832.
John Boyd, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. v, Sept. 10, 18:31.
Isaac Vail. s. e. I4 sec. 2, July 3, 1830.
Reuben S. Hall, s. w. I4 sec. 2, Sept. 30, 1830.
Jacob V^ail, n. e. 14 sec. 3, Mavl8. 1832.
Jacob Zellars, n. w. 14 sec. 3, May 28. 1831.
Peter Eckley, e. "2 s. e. 14 sec. 3, June 9, 18.31.
Perry Cole, w. '/" s. e. V4 sec. 3, Sept. 14, 1831.
John Emery,e. ;4 s. w. 14 sec. 3, Oct. 27, 1832.
Jacob Zellar. w. 'J s. w. Vi sec. 3, June 8, 1831.
Jacob Zellar, n. '2 sec. 4. Juue 8. 1831.
Jacob Zellar, s. e. '4 sec. 4, June 8, 1831.
Hiram A. Root, e. '^ s. w. I4 sec. 4, Oct. 12, 1832.
John W. Root w. Yn s. w. \ sec. 4, Oct. 12, 1832.
Miami & Dayion Canal, sec. 5, Act Mav 24, 1828.
Benj. Moor. w. '4 n. e. I4 sec. 6, Dec. 4. 1826.
Catharine Beard, e. 14 n. e. U sec. 6, June 8, 1827.
*Error in posting.
fError.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
10(57
Wm. P. White, s. e. Vi sec. 6, July 18, 1827.
Benj. Moor, e. '■> n. w. I4 sec. 6, Dec. 4, 1826.
.lost Wyant, w. >.; n. w. I4 sec. C, Jan. 31, 1832.
Peter Beaver, e V, s. w. 14 sec. G.March 25, 1x31.
John Heter, w. U s. w. \i sec. 6, March 31, 1838.
David Meriou*, w. pt. ofs. e. '4 fr. sec. 7, Nov.30,1832.
Abiram Bassett, w. '2 n. w. ' 1 sec. 7, July 21, 1826.
Andrew Mittower, Jr., e. "o n.w.i.i sec. 7, June 15, 1827.
Andrew Mittower, .Jr., w. V2 n.e. ^4, sec.7, JunelS, 1827.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. '^ and e. M n. e. ^4, sec. 7,
Act May 24, 1828.
Miami c«c Dayton Canal, sec. 8, Act May 24, 1828.
Joseph Burgess, e. U n. e. '1 sec. 9, June 6, 1831.
Ellis Dwise, w. > , nTe. Vi sec. 9, Oct. 29, 1832.
Isaac l>wise, u. w. H sec. 9, Oct. 29, 1832.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. 1^0 sec. 9, Act May 24,1828.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, e. V<i sec. 10.
n. e. 'i sec. 25, Oct.
1.1 sec. 10. Jan. 7, 18:54.
and n. e. M n. w. I4
George Beard, u. e. '.i, s.
Jacob Beard, s. e. '4 n. \
10, May 11, 1833.
Joseph Burgess, w 14 n. w. \i_ and w. }^s. w. ^-i sec. 10,
June 6, 1831.
Alvah Finch, s. e. 14 s. w. Vi sec. 10, Aug. 30, 1833.
Columbus & Sandusky Road. sec. 11.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, sec. 12.
Daniel Zepernick, n. e. Vi sec. 13, June 8, 1829.
Orange Johnson, w. '., n. w. '4 sec. 13, July 4, 1829.
Orans^e Johnson, e. '., n. w. I4 see. 13. June 1, 1829.
Wilhelmus Eanes, e. i-i s. e. I4 sec. 13. May 4, 1830.
Frederick Onstiue, w. V^ s. e. '4 sec. 13, June 11, 1829.
Frederick On.stine,* w. Vi s. e. and S. w. Vj, see. i:'.,
Dec. 13, 18-28.
Frederick Onstine, s. w. ij sec. 13, .Tune 11, 1829.
William Hall, n. e. 'i sec. 14, March 2. 1830.
Levi Chase, Jr., e. ' - n. w. '4 sec. 14, March 5, 18.30.
Wilhelmus Knnrs, w. •., n. w. Vi sec. 14, May 9, 1830.
Frederick Oii-stine, e. ' ^ s. e. I4 sec. 14, June 11,1829.
Lewis Finch, w. ^i s. e. I4 and e. V2 s. w. M sec. 14,
April 29, 1830.
John Cole. Jr., w. 14 s. w. % sec. 14, Sept. 14, 1831.
Tunis Cronkite, n. e. I4 sec. 15, May 19, 18.30.
Miami & Dayton Canal, w. y. sec. l.";. Act May 24, 1828.
Samuel Finch, e. 'i s. e. '.1 sec. 15, May 14, 1831.
Samuel Finch, w. I4 s. e. U sec. 15, Oct. 12, 1831.
School Lands, sec. 16.
John Swisher, s. w. \i sec. 17, March 18, 1824.
William Baker, e. V2 sec. 17, June 16, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. w. 14 sec. 17, Act May 24,
1828.
William Smith, s. e. H sec. 18, Nov. 25, 1822.
Abraham Brundige, 2d, w. V- n. w. 14 sec. 18, Oct. 27,
1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. e. '4 and s. w. I4 sec. 18,
May 24. 1828.
AVilliam Scothorn, e. V2 n. w. H sec. 18, Dec. 27, 1826.
William Smith, n. e. \ sec. 19, Nov. 25. 1822.
.John Clay, e. >; n. w. U sec. 19, May 29, 1827.
.lohu riay, w. U n. w. '4 sec. 19. April 5, 1831.
.loseph Hover, e. ' .^ s. e. ^i. sec. 19, April 15, 1 828.
Miami Sc Davton Canal, s. w. I4 and w. 1/2 s. e. ^4 sec.
19. Act May 24, 1828.
Samuel Baker, s. e. '4 sec. 20, June 16, 1824.
Samuel Baker, Jr., n. e. ^4 sec. 20. June 16, 1824.
John Hover, n. w. I4 sec. 20, Nov. 3, 1824.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. w. 14 sec. 20, Act May 24,
Samuel Baker,
16. 1S24.
14 and w. ',^ n. w.
21, June
.■^aiiiuel Scotliorn, e. V, n. w. 14 sec. 21, Dec. 12. 1825.
Heiijaujiii Knnes.s. w. Vj n. e. 14 sec. 21, May 16, 1833.
Smith Tduipkins. e. V4 n. e. % sec. 21.
Columbus .t Sandusky Road, e. V'2 s. e. I4 sec. 21.
Reuben S. H;ill, w. '; s. e. 14 sec. 21, June 18, 1831.
Columbus A Sandusky Road, sec. 22.
Thomas Bennett, s. e." I4 and e. ' .; n.e. I4 sec. 23,Oct. 7,
18J5.
Edward Cassety, e. 1/2 s. w. 14 sec. 23, Oct. 7. 1825.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, w. V2 n. e. J4 and n. w.
H. sec. 23.
Levi Reed. w. ]/i s. w. H sec. 23, Dec. 14, 1825.
Seth Reed, e. 14 'sec. 24, June 19, 1823.
George Raymond, s. w. '4 sec. 24, June 19, 1823.
Abigail Clark*, e. ',4 n. e. ^4 sec. 26, Aug. 27. 1823.
Tunis Cronkite, n. w. % sec. 24, Sept. 29, 1824.
Joseph Reed, e. 14 s. w. »4 sec. 25, Sept. 20, 1826.
Isaac H. Bennet, w. i4 s. e.
23, 1826.
John Cassety, w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 25, Oct. 23, 1826.
Miami & Davton Canal, n. w. 1,4 and e. Y- s. e. M sec.
25, Act May 24, 1828.
William Raymond w. '/4 n. w. I4 sec. 26, Aug. 10, 1826.
Mward Cassetv, e. 'i n. w. 14 sec. 26, Julv 17, 1829.
John M. Sanlord, e. \4 n. e. 14 sec. 26. March 2. 18^9.
John M. Sanford, w. Y« n. e. '4 sec. 26, Julv 28. 1828.
Zephaniah Hathaway, e. ij s. e. '4 sec.26 Oct. 18, 1831.
Zephaniah Hathaway, \v. 14 s. e. I4 and e. Vi s. w. sec.
26, Dec. 16, 1828.
Garret Skidmore. w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 26, May 24, 1830.
Nathan Chapman, e. ¥« n. e. '4 sec. 27, Aug. 10, 1826.
John Wilkinson, w. H u- e. '4 sec. 27, Sept. 17, 1829.
Eli Munson, e. '4 n. w. \.i sec. '27, .Tain- 1 1. is,;l.
Andrew Sanford, w. '4 n. w. ' , .-n- J7, M;n- 11), 1831.
Zephaniah Hathaway, e. y, s. c, ' , 11 j , , ' 1, t . is, 1831 .
John Wilkinson, n. w. \i s. e. ' ■ uinl 11. c ' 1 s. w. '4
sec. 27, July 7, 1832.
Gurden Ochrev, s. w. I4 s. e. I4 and s. e. Vi s. w. 14 sec.
27, June li, 18.33.
Bradford Hathaway, w. 14 s. w. U sec. 27, Sept. 16. 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. K sec. 28, Act May 24, 1828. '
Bradford Hathaway, e. Y2 s. e. Vi sec. 28, Sept. 16, 1833.
Peter Kratzer. w. 'I4 s. e. Vi and e. V4 s. w. li, sec. 28,
.Tune 13, 1832.
Joseph Lapham. w. }4 s. w. Vi sec. 28, Nov. 22, 1831.
William Baker, s. V2 sec. 29, June 20, 1831.
Miami <t Davton Canal, n. Y2 sec. 29, act May 24, 1828.
Elijah Borum, e. Y2 s. w. li sec. 30, June 13, 1833.
Job Pettis, n. w. H s. w. 14 sec. 30. Oct. 26, 1833.
Miami & Dayton Canal, n. 14 sec. 30, Act May 24, 1828.
Reo. Pope (assigned to Joshua Cox), s. e. Vi sec. 30, Feb.
18, 1832.
Isaiah Brown, s. w. 14 s. w. 14 sec. 30, June 15, 1833.
Augustus Taber, e. li u. e. Vi sec. 31, Nov. 3, 1830.
George Free, w. Y" n. e. V4 and e. Y2 n. w. 34 sec. 31,
June 6, 1831.
Alanzo Silcox, w. Y2 n. w. U sec. 31. Jan. 16, 1832.
John Gander, e. !4 s. e. Vi sec. 31, Dec. 5, 1828.
John Ingle, w. 14 s. e. Vi sec. .31, Dec. 2, 1828.
.Tohn W. Williams, e. % s. w. Vj sec. 31, May 26, 1830.
Samuel Smith, w. 'i s. w. Vi sec. 31, Sept. 27, 1828.
William Baker, n. ^ sec. 32, June 2(i, 183L
(Jeorge Free, s. e. Vi sec. 32, May 21, 1831.
.Tacob Jlyers, Sr., e. >; s. w. Vi sec. 32, Oct. 3, 1831.
John Gander, w. ]4 s. w. Vi sec. 32. Dec. 5, 1828.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, s. ^2 and n.e. 34 and e.
Y2 n. w. Yi sec. 33.
Joseph Lapham, w. V^ n. w. Vi sec. .33, Nov. 22, 1831.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, sec. 34.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, sec. 35.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s.w. 34 and n. e. '4 sec. 36, Act
May 24, 1828.
Sally Gardner, n. w. V4 sec. 36, April 29, 1836.
Note. — Thes. e. Vi selected for schools under Act
of May 20, 1826, and taken in lieu i>f a quarter section
in Township 2 north. Range 18, there not being an en-
tire quarter section unsold in the fractional township
for which it is selected.
THOMPSON' TOWNSHIP.
TOWN 3 N., RANGE 17 E.
Peter Kremer, e. Y" n. e. Vi sec. 1, Feb. 2.'). 1831.
John Moores, w. 34 n. e. U sec. 1, Sept. 10, 18.30.
Mason Kinney, e. 14 n. w. Vi sec. 1, May 18, 1831.
Jacob Kain, w. Yz n- w. 34 and w. V^, s. w. 34 sec. 1,
Nov. 7, 1831.
Edward Frith and Bruno Silva, e. 34 s. e. 34 sec. 1,
Nov. 3, 1830.
Richard Hollenshead, w. 34 s. e. ^4 sec. 1, May 17, 1831.
Pliny Warner, e. Vo s. w. Vi sec. 1, Aug. 18, 1831.
Joseph Parmenter. s. w. Vi sec. 2. Nov. 2, 1831.
Charlotte Sherwood, e. V2 n. e. 'i sec. 2. Sept. 11, 1824.
Samuel Sparrow, s. e. Vi sec. 2, Feb. 5, 1825.
Jacob Kain, w. 34 n. e. 34 and w. V4 n. w. 34 sec. 2,
Nov. 7,1831.
Samuel Grimes, e. 34 n. w. 14 sec. 2, June 12, 1828.
Ira Bassett, s. e. V4 sec. 3, March 11, 1823.
John Lapley. s. w. V4 sec. 3, June 28, 1830.
Peter Borgner, w. V4 n. w. 34 sec. 3, July 1, 1830.
*Erroneouslv entered.
1068
APPENDIX:
I4 sec. :3, July 12,
Paniel Close, e. •'> n. w. l^ and
1S31.
Frederick Resenberger, e. 14 s. w. ^4, sec. 4, Sept. 5, 1826.
Peter Dewalt w. 14 s. w. I4, sec. 4, Aug. IS, 1829.
Matthew flark, s. e. I4 sec. 4, July 12, 1.S27.
Henry H. Brown, e. ]4 s. w. '-4 sec. 4 Dec. 4, 1830.
Peter Borgner, e. y2^'^- 'i sec. 4, July 1. 18:50.
John Borgner, w. % n. e. 1.1 sec. 4. May 28, 1831.
William Clark, e. U n. w. I4 sec. 4, Nov. 7, 1827.
Sidney Clark, w. I4 n. w. ^4, sec. 4, Jan. 31, 1831.
Henry Shire, e. }4 n. e. ^4, sec. o, June 12, 1832.
Samuel Clark, w.yi n. e. I4 and n. w. I4 n. w. ^i sec. -5,
July 11, 1833.
Peter Dewalt, n. e. 'i n. w. I4 sec. o, Feb. 17. 1834.
William Shate, s. 14 u. w. i.^, sec. o, May 28, 1834.
Peter De^valt, s. e. K^, sec. .5, June 22, 1829.
Henry Wagner, s. w. 14 sec. 5, Sept. 27, 1833.
Michael Barnhart, w. ]/^ s. w. I4 sec. 6, March 2.5, 1833.
Samuel Decker, e. V^ s. w. i.i sec. G. May 2.5, 1833.
Enoch Dick. n. e. I4 s. e. '-i sec 6, Aug. 30, 1833.
Bernard Mullen, u. w. 1.1 s. e. Vj, see 6, Sept. 20, 1833.
James S. Connell, s. 1. s e. ^ ^ sec. 0, Dec. 20, 1833.
Christian Miller, n. w. I4 sec. 6, May 23. 1833.
Adam Linton, n. J^ n. e. I4 sec. O, June 6, 1833.
John Kain. s. e. \i n. e. I4 sec. 6, July 5, 1833.
Adam Jordan, s. w. I4 n. e. ^t sec. 6, Feb. 7, 1834.
Casper Dick, s. w. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 7, March 26, 1833.
JesM' M, Aiilrrs,ni, n. w. I4 s. e. '4 sec. 7, May 1.5, 1833.
Cieorji- I lil. M, •• ' _, u. e. Vi sec. 7, June 6, 1833.
Geoiji i:iMili.iiat, w. I4 n. e. Vi sec. 7, June 15, 1833.
Georg.' I'.illiLiaii, s, 'j n. w. I4 and s. w. I4 sec. 7, April
25, 1833.
George Eberhardt, n. ',4 n. w. 14 sec. 7, June lo, 1833.
Richard Hollenshead, e. 14 s. e. }i sec. 7, July 3, 1833.
Henry Karn, e. !4 n- e. I4 sec. 8, April 22 1831.
Henry Karn. w. >4 n. e. '4 sec. 8, June 17, 1832.
Georg"e Often, n. I/2 n. w. I4 sec. 8, June 6, 1833.
Philo B. Scott, s. e. U n. w. I4 sec. 8, Nov. 9, 1833.
Philo B. Scott, s. w. I4 n. w. I4 sec. 8. Feb. 17, 1834.
Jacob Karn, e. U s. e. I4 sec. 8, Nov. 17, 1831.
l>aniel Close, e. V, s. w. I4 and w. V2 s. e. I4 sec. 8, Julv
12, 1831.
John Kob, s. w. I4 s. w. Vj, sec. 8, Sept 16, 1833.
Henry Dewalt, n. w. I4 s. w. I4 sec. 8, June 23, 18.34.
David (,'ochran, w. 3^ s. e. 'i sec. 9, May 16, 1822.
Samuel Graham, e. 4 s. e. \ sec. 9. Julv 3, 1833.
.Jacob Wright, e. H s. w. I4 sec. 9, April" 29, 1824.
Jacob Karn, w. Y2 s w. I4 sec. 9, Nov. 7, 1831.
John Heter, e. H n. e. ^4 and w. '4 n. e. Vj, sec. 9, Oct.
9, 1828.
John Heter, e. '2 n. w. \ sec. 9, Oct 10, 1828.
Henry K irn, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 9, April 21, 1831.
.lasper Whitney, w. ^ s. e. '4 and s. w. ^4 sec. 10, May
27, 1825.
Ami Whitney, w. 14 n. e. '4 and e. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 10,
May 27, 182.5.
Ami Whitney, w. ]4 n. w. I4 sec. 10, Dec. 24, 1825.
.lacob Karn, e. '2 nfe. I4 sec. 10. Nov. 7, 1831.
Adam Good, e. H s. e. ^4 sec. 10, Mav 13 1831.'
.lacob Karn, e. \4 n. e. I4 sec. ll^No'v 7, 1831.
Jacob Neikirk, w. K n. e. I4 see'. 11, Nov. 3, 1831.
Geo. Thos. Wayne, e. '4 n. w. I4 sec. 11, May 22, 1830.
.John Harpster, w. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 11, April 22, 1830.
Daniel Wonder, s. c. I4 sec. II, June 28, 1830.
George Harpster, s. w. I4 sec. 11, April 22, 1830.
George Klick, s, w. '4 sec. 12, Oct. 10, 1821.
David Clock, e. 14 s. e. I4 sec 12, Nov. 9, 1822.
Daniel Clock, w. ^i s. e. Ij, sec 12, Dec 12 1822.
Frederick Karick, e. '4 n. e. I4 sec. 12, Jan. 27, 1831.
Richard Hollinshead, w. H 11. e. I4 sec. 12, May 17,1831
Frederick Harpster, n. w."i4 sec. 12. Oct. 21, 1830.
Isaac Lewis, e. 'i n. e. I4 sec. 13, May 17, 1832.
Smith D. Baldwin, w. ^i n. e. I4 sec." 13, Sept. 5, 1827.
John Kob, n. w. '4 s. e. I4 sec. 13, March 2, 18.33.
Frederick Harpster, s. w. I4 s.e. Kj, sec. 13, June 12, 18.33.
Levi Sutton, n. w. i.t sec. 13.
Jacob Shatel, n. e '4 s. e. I4 sec 13, Nov. 29, 1832.
Jacob Swartz, s. e. I4 s. e. I4 sec. 13, Nov. 8, 1832.
Jacob Weaver and John Weaver, e. K s. w. U sec. 13,
Dec. 18, 1828.
William Weaver, w. V2 s. w. '4 sec. 13, Dec. 13, 1828.
Nathan Whitney, Jr., e. '4 n e Ki sec 14, Dec. 25, 1821.
Amanuel Gonwort, e. Vi s. e. U sec 14, Oct. 3, 1825.
Jacob Hassler, w. 14 n. e. \ and e. 14 n. w. i.i sec. 14,
Sept. 4, 1830.
Adam Gierharstien, w. ]/« s. e. ^i sec. 14, Sept. 6, 1830.
Adam Gond, w '^ n. w. I4 sec. 14, May 13, 1831.
William Thorp, e. }4 s. w. I4 sec. 14, .s"ept. 18. 1829.
William Mcrauley, w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 14, April 22, 1830.
Willard Knight, w. }4 s. e. 14 sec. 15, Nov. :l, 1822.
William McDowell, w. 14 n. e. I4 sec 15. Oct. 20, 1825.
Adam Good, e. I4 n. e. I4 sec. 15, Mav 13, 1831.
Susannah Harpster, e. ]4 s e. I4 sec. 15, April 22, 1830
Jesse Romick, e 14 n. w. I4 sec. 15, Aug. 18, 1829.
Jesse Romick, w. '2 n. w. I4 sec. 15, June 22, i8i9.
John Royer, s. w. I4 sec. 15, Oct. 10, 1829.
School Lands, sec. 16.
Jacob Dove*, w. K s. w. I4 sec. 17, Nov. 29, 1836.
George Eberhard, e. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 17, Oct. 13, 1831.
John Decker, n. w. ^i sec. 17, June 17, 1831.
Frederick Harpster, w. ]4 s. w. '4 sec 17, June 4, 1833.
George Eberhart, s. e. 14 sec. 17, Aug. 12, 1829.
John Decker, e. 'i n. e I4 sec. 17, April 16,1830.
Jacob Karn, w. ij u. e. U sec. 17, July 1, 1830.
John Stough, n. w. I4 n. e. I4 sec 18. Jan. 2, 1833.
John Hollinshead, n. }4 n e. '4 sec. 18, July 3. 18.«.
John Stough, e. I4 n. wr 14 sec. 18, Oct. 25, 1832.
William McCormfck, w. 'i n. w. '4 sec 18, .Tan. 22,1829.
Frederick Harpster, s, e. I4 sec. 18, June 4, 1833.
John Decker, Jr , s. e. I4 n e. I4 sec. 18, June 25. 1832.
William McCormick, s. w. '4 sec. 18, Nov. 26, 1828.
Jonathan Everhart, e. '4 of n. e. I4 sec. 19,0ct. 10,1828.
John Heter, w. '., n. e. ^4 sec. 19, April IS, 1831.
Solomon Trey, n. w. I4 sec. 19, June 1 1833.
Peter Karn, e. '4 s. e. I4 sec. 19, July 1, 1830.
John Heter e. '.i of s. w. ^4 and w. Yi s. e. U sec. 19,
Oct. 9, 1828.
John Heter, w. '4 s. w. \i sec. 19, Nov. 28, 1831.
Peter Karn, e. '4 n. e. I4 sec. 20, June 28, 1830.
George Eberhard, w. 14 n. e. I4 sec. 20, Oct. 13, 1831.
Jacob Karn, e. 14 n. w. I4 sec. 2U, Sept. 22, 1831.
Jonathan Everhart, w. y^ n. w. '4 sec. 20, Oct. 10,1828.
Peter Karn, n. e. }i s. e. M sec. 2o, July 5, 183;j.
John Karn, s. e. I4 s. e. J4 sec. 20, June 7, 1832.
Jonas Good, e. >2 s. w. I4 sec. 20, Nov. 7, 1831.
Jonas Good. w. H s. w. I4 sec. M, Sept. 13, 1831.
Thomas Lock. w. ]4 s. e. 14 sec. 20, Oct. 13. 1832.
Abraham Bennett, e. 14 n. e. '4 sec. 21, March 22,1822.
John Heter, w. '4 n. e. '4 sec. 21, Oct. 10, ^ 8^9.
John Heter, e. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 21, Sept. 29, 1S29.
Jacob Decker, n. w. I4 s. w. \i seo. 21, June 14, 18.33.
Peter Karn, w. 14 n. w. '/2 sec. ',il, June 28, 1830.
John Royer, e. Ki s. e. 1-4 sec. 21, Oct. 27, 1829.
John Decker, e. 14 s. w. 14 and w. V2 s. e. ^4 sec. 21,
April 16, 18.30.
John Karn, s. w. '4 s. w. I4 sec. 21, June 7, 1832.
Joseph Parmeter, n. e. I4 sec. 22. Nov. 1, 1821.
John Royer, e. 'i, n. w. ^4 sec. 22, Oct. 10, 1829.
John Royer, w. "2 n. w. I4 sec. 22, July 30, 1829.
Jacob Karn, e. '4 s. e. hi sec. 22, Nov. 7, 1831.
John Decker, e. Y, s. w. }i and w. '4 s. e. ^.± sec. 22
Jan. 11, 1830.
John Royer. w. 14 s. w. M sec. 22, Oct. 10, 1829.
Gordon Williams, w. Y2 of n. e. ^4 and n. w. J4 sec. 23,
Jan. 9, 18:2.
Benjamin Murrey, e. i4 s. e. I4 sec. 23, Jan. 5, 1824.
Joseph Underbill, e. V2 n. e. ^4 sec. 23, Nov. 11, 1825.
Jacob Karn, w. ij s. e. I4 sec. 23, Nov. 7, 1831.
Jacoh Karn, s. w. I4 sec. 23, Nov. 7, 1831.
Jasper Underbill and David Underbill, e. '4 s. e. ^i
sec. 24, Dec. 1, 1821.
William Whitnev, w. Y s. e. ^4 and e. ]/, s. w. ^4 sec.
24, Dec. 25, 1821.
Eli Whitney, w. '4 n. w. I4 sec. 24, Dec. 25,1821.
James Whitmore, w. Y" s. w. I4 .sec. 24, April 11, 1823.
Nathan Whitney, Jr., e. 14 n. w. I4 sec.21, Oct.l4, 18>3.
John Rans e. '.; n. e. I4 sec. 24, June 30, 1832.
David Underbill, 2d, n. w. I4 n. e. '4 sec. 24, Aug. 27,
18*2.
Ivory Douglass, s. -w. ^ n. e. }i sec. 24, Oct. 10, 1832.
Solomon Diraick, s. W.V4 see. 25, Aug. 27, 1833.
Ivorv Douglas, Jr. e. Yi n. w. 14 sec. 25, Nov. 12, 1824.
Calton V. Clark, w. '4 n. w. I4 sec. 25, May 30, 1831.
John Geo. Reiehertf, w. Yi n. w. \ sec. 25, Town 3,
Range 14, Oct. 5. 1826.
George Zahm, e. Y2 sec. 25, Oct. 11. 1832.
Benjamiu Clark, e. ;4 s. e. I4 sec. 26, Aug. 27, 1823.
Abigail Clark, e. 14 n. e. U sec. 26, Aug. 27, 1823.
Solomon Dimick, w. Y2 «• e. I4 sec. 26, July 1, 1824.
John Pepple, w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 26, Nov. 2, 1831.
Frederick Whealen, w. 1 .; s. e. k and w. 14 n. w. sec.
26, Sept. 17, 1830.
'Error; should be in Range 14.
fError.
ORIGINAL LAND ENTRIES.
1069
Solomon l)iniick,.e. '.2 u. w. i.i scr- 'iii, M-dYch (i, 1829.
Peter «iil be rt, e. '2 s. w. '4 sec. -S*'', Nov. :, is:',.i.
Elis Whitney, w. 4 s. w. i^ sec. ■-;7, .Vov U. 1S25.
Jacob Small, e. U s. w. I4, sec. 2,, Dec ,, l.-< -1
Barnard Eberhardt, e. '4 n. w. '4 sec. 27, May 4, 1832.
James Whitmore, w. 'o n. w. I4, sec. 27. Sept. 29,1829.
Bonjamiu Clark, e. ^A u. e. I4 sec. 27, March 27, 1828.
Henry Shaup, w. 1/2 n. e. '4 sec. 27. Aug. 21, 1822.
John Pepple, e. V2 s. e. I4 sec. 27. Nov. 2, 1831.
Nelson Bill, w. 14 s. e. \^ sec. 27, May 8, 1830.
Erasmus Porter, w. '.3 n. w. I4 sec. 28, May 5, 1825.
Frederick Bearingar,e. ^2 nw. I4 sec. 28, March 10,1832.
Jacob Karn, n. e. h sec. 28, July 1, 1830.
Michael Reik, e. ' - s. e. \ sec. 28, March 10, 1832.
Henry Loftier and children of Majer, s.w. \ s.e. 1.1 sec.
28, June 30, 1832. , ^
Henrv Heintzleman, s. w. I4 s. e. I4 see. 28, March 2.i,
1833.
Christ John Phesler, s. w. I4 sec. 28, Nov. 16,1831.
Joseph Parmeter, e. 4 s. e. i-i see. 29, March 3, 182.5.
Jacob Karn, w. ' ., s. e. I4 sec. 29, Nov. 7. 1831.
John Karn.e. Vi n f- '1 sec. 29, June 7, 1832.
Jonathan Batz, w. '.. n.e ^ sec. 29. Jlarch 4, 1833.
Nicholas Jones, e. '.; n. w. '4 sec. 29, June 11,1832.
George Bolin, w. ',(, n. w. I4 sec. 29, Aug. 2.5, 1831.
Jacob Karn, e. V2 s. w. I4 sec. 29, Nov 7, 1831 .
Martin Olds, w. V„ s. w. I4 sec. 29, Oct. 10, 1831.
Omer G. Davis s. w. '4 .sec. 30, Oct. 21, 1523.
William Frink, s. e. '4 sec. 30, Dec. 16. 1824.
.Joseph Miller, w. V^ n. w. Ki, sec. 30, July 12, 1821;
George Fought, e. 'i n. w. I4 sec. 30, July 15, 1829.
Geors?e Boliri, e. }4 n. e. '4 sec. 30, Aug. 25, 1S31.
David Stout, w. l^, a. e. '4 sec. 30, March 24, 1829.
Eliphalet B. Simmons, e. ]4 s. e. I4 sec. 31, Oct. 1.5, 1825.
Miami & Dayton Canal, s. w. 14 and w. K s. e. 14 sec.
31, Act May 24, 1828.
Oliver Collins, e. 14 n. e. 14 sec. 31, May 8, 1833.
James Morris, e. l^ n. vr. 14 and w. }/, n. e. ^ sec. 31,
March 16, 18277
Adam Housebrecht,w. ]4 n. w. \x sec. 31, Nov. 30, 1832.
Eliphalet B. Simmons, w.U s.w. Vi sec. 32, Feb. 3,1824.
William Smith, e. }4s. w. I4 sec. 32, Nov. 21, 1827.
Christopher Watkius, n. w. I4 sec. 32. June 5, 1832.
Michael Fauble, e },i s. e. '4 sec. 32, Oct. 13. 1832.
William Smith, w. ^'., s. e. I4 sec. 32, Nov. 21, 1827.
Stephen Fisher, u. e. '4 sec. 32, June 5, 1832.
Thomas Arnold, n. e. ' t sec. 33, Aug. 20, 1.S32.
Michael Ensley, n. w. I4 sec. 33, Aug. 21, 1832.
Jacob Zallar, s. e. I4 sec. 33, June 8, 1831.
.Tacob McClish, e. ]4 s. w. I4 sec. 33, Oct. 13, 1832.
.■Abraham Byers, w. 14 s. w. I4 sec. 33, Oct. 13, 1832.
Thomas Dole, n. e. 14 n. e. ^i sec. 34, Nov. 13, 1832.
Thomas Dole, w. y2 n- e. '4 sec. 'M, Nov. V>, 1832.
John Fleckinger, e. '.2 "• "'. ' , scr :'.4, 1 tct. 4, 1831.
Henry Hacket, w. ]4 n. w. '.i stc. :;4, May 11. 1830.
Rudolph Bauman and Henrv Baunian, s. e. I4 sec.
34, Nov. 16, 1832.
Peter Hurrer, s. e. \ n. e. I4 sec. 34, Dec. 20, 1832.
Jacob Zellars, s. w. 1.1 sec. 34, May, 28, 1831.
I olumbus & Sandusky Road, sec. 35.
.\lbertTwiss, w. '4 n. w. >4 sec. 36, Nov. 11, 1825.
Columbus A Sandusky Road, e. 'i n. w. i^ and n. e. '4
sec. 31).
Columbus A- Sandusky Road, s. 14 see. 36.
THiE c3-o:e^e.
VENICE TOWNSHIP.
FRACTIONAIj T. 1 N., R. 18 E.
John Williby, 169.78 a. s. >^ fr. sec 6, April 13. 183:i.
Levi Gray, 166.63 a. n. w. I4 sec. 6 July 2, 1830.
Thomas Bennett, 88.94 a.s. pt. of n. pc. sec. 7, May 23,
18.33.
Samuel Waint, 87.12 a. A. pt. of n. '4 fr. sec. 7, May 3,
1837.
Samuel Wiant.-*^ n. pt. of s. 14 fr. sec. 7, May 31, 1832.
.Tos. H. Larwill, 90.18 a. n. '4 s. pt. fr. see. 7, Dec. 1.5,
1830.
Jas. Williby. 92.62 a. s. ]4 s. pt. fr. sec. 7, Dec. 15, 1830.
Jas. Williby, .35.08 a. s. e. fr. of sec. 18, April 16, 1832.
Sam. Caldwell, 80 a. e. ]4 n. w. fr. sec. 18, May 3, 1831.
John Bennett 80 a. w. 14 n w. fr. sec. 18, Aug. 6, 1831.
Samuel Caldwell, 160 fr. pt. of n. e. fr. sec. 18, May 3
1831.
■School Lands, 29.72 a. s. w. h sec. 18.
Eli Gatchel, 80 a. e. '4 s. w. fr. sec. 19, Feb. 19, 1883.
Tarlingtou B. Willoughby, 40 a. n. w. '4 n. w. I4 fr.
sec. 19, Sept. 28.1833.
Eli Gatchel, 40 a s. e. I4 n. w. I4 fr. sec. 19, May 8. 1834.
John Aoderson. 40 a. s. w. I4 n w. U fr. sec. 19, May 8,
1833.
Eli Gatchel, 40.20 a. s e. fr. sec. 19, Nov. 26, 1833.
Eli Gatchel, .38.56 a. n e. fr. sec. 19, May 21, 1835.
Joseph Roop, 40 a. n. w. '4 n. w. I4 fr. sec. 19, Dec. 19,
1835.
Robert Huston. 80 a. w. J^ s. w. I4 fr. sec. 19, May 20,
Reuel Smith, 41.92 a. n. e. Vi fr. sec. .30. Oct. 28.18.36.
•Ion. Michener 43.68 a. s. e. '4 fr. sec. 30, July 22, 1835.
Averv Leonard, 160 a n. w. I4 fr. sec. .30.. Sept. 28. 1833.
.Ton. Michener, 160 a. s. w. I4 fr. sec. 30, Oct. 11, 1384.
Daniel Carpenter, SO a e. K> «• ^ ^4, fr- sec. 31, June 12,
Daniel Carpenter, 4">.7i; a. n. e. fr. Ki fr. sec. 31. June
12. 1835.
Suraerlin, 114.11 a. s. pt. of fr. sec. 31, Oct. 29,
1835.
Caleb Carpenter, 80 acres, w. 14
Sept. 10, 1835.
fr. sec. 31,
REED TOWNSHIP.
FRACTIONAL T. 2 N.,
18 E.
Miami & Davton Canal, 191.27 a. of fr. sec. 6, Act May
24, 1828.' . ,^
Miami & Davton Canal, 218.96 a. of fr. sec. 7, Act May
24,1828.'
Wilhelmus Ennes, 1 1 5.48 a. n. w.pt.of n.w.14 Ir. sec. 18,
May 4, 1830.
Wm. Baker, 120.48 a.s. pt. of fr. sec. IS, June 20, 1S31.
Elijah Read, 132.36 a. s. pt. of fr. sec. 19, June 7, 1825.
Wm. Baker, 126.20 a. n. pt. of fr. sec. 19, June 20, 1831.
J. Brundage, 188.64 a. n. pi. of fr. sec. 30, Oct. 6, 1826.
Jas. Thatcher, 145 a. s. pt. of fr. .sec. 30, June 4, 1838.
Matthew Clarli, 1.51.60 a, n, pt. of fr. sec. 31, June 4,1833.
Levi Gray, 158.48 a.s. W.14 fr.sec. 31, July 2, 1830.
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP.
FRACTIONAL T. 3 N., R. 18 K.
Wm. Johnson, 8.40 a. fr. sec. 6, July 21,1832.
Geo. Brugh, 24 a. fr. sec. 7, April 2, 1832.
Christian Repley, 64.96 a. fr sec. 18, Jan. 5, 1833.
Jasper Underbill and David H. Underbill, 98. .56 a. fr.
sec. 19, Dec. 7, 1821.
Geo. Zahm, 129.36 a. fr. sec. 30, Oct. 11. 1832.
Jos. H. LarwilH-, fr. sec. 31, Oct. 11, 1832.
Columbus & Sandusky Road, 1.5n SO a. w. '2 fr. sec. 31.
*Canceled, Relinquished, change of entry authorized. , . , , . ■,
t Repayment ordered Feb. 1, 1833, the tract having been reserved for the >andusky turninice.
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