450 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY vember 30, 1905, to Frank J. Wurmser, of Lima. Mr. Wurmser is a native of Findlay, Ohio. The family are members of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church of Lima, which Mr. Custard served as an official for 17 years. Both the Custard and the Terry families have been identified with the development of Allen County for a great many years. Mr. and Mrs. Custard have a fund of interesting reminiscences of the early days in Allen County. Mrs. Custard remembers hearing her parents tell of their removal from Lebanon, Ohio, into the wilderness of Allen County. They came in a covered wagon, which they had stocked with supplies designed to comfortably support them for a year, but a large part of these went to feed the hungry Indians who came begging, Mrs. Terry fearing to refuse them. Portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Custard accompany this sketch, being shown on a preceding page. E. G. WEADOCK, M. D., one of the prominent young medical practitioners of Lima, is a native of this city, where he was born in 1876, and where he has been established as a physician and surgeon since 1900. He was primarily educated in the common and parochial schools at Lima, and was graduated in 1894 from the Lima High School. He then turned his attention to the study of medicine and in 1896 was graduated from Assumption College, Ontario, Canada, and completed his medical education in the University of Michigan, in 1900. Dr. Weadock immediately entered into practice in his native city. where he secured recognition very soon, and for the past three years he has been surgeon for the police and the fire departments of Lima and the County Jail. He is local surgeon of the U. T. C. and Brotherhood of Locomotive and is also examining physician and surgeon for the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Catholic Knights of Ohio and the Catholic Mutual Benevolent Association, to which he belongs, He is a member of the medical staff of the Lima Hospital and takes a deep interest in all that concerns the sanitary condition of the city. Dr. Weadock is county president of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He is a worthy member of St. Rose Catholic Church. McDOUGALL EMMITT, secretary of the Lima Progressive Association, is a well-known newspaper man, having for 15 years been connected with the leading publications of Pike, Ross and more recently, of Allen County. Mr. Emmitt was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1868. In his youth his parents moved to Chillicothe, Ohio, where he received the greater part of his education. He is a graduate of the Waverly High School. After leaving school, he entered a newspaper office of Waverly, where he remained for five years. He next accepted a position on the Chillicothe Gazette and four years later came to Lima where he was connected with the Times-Democrat. He was employed on this paper six years, resigning his position in August, 1905, to accept the secretaryship of the Lima Progressive Association. He was married July 7, 1892, to Edith McKinzie, of Waverly, Ohio. IRA R. WETHERILL, M. D., one of the leading physicians and surgeons of Bluffton, was born July 21, 1853, in Hardin County, near the village of West Newton. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Gloyd) Wetherill. His father was born in Lincolnshire, England, March 19, 1809, and was 10 years of age when his father, whose name was also John, came from England and settled in Virginia. Later they came to Richland County, Ohio, where the grandfather of our subject died at the age of 45 years, leaving five sons and two daughters. John Wetherill, Jr., was married in 1836 to Elizabeth Gloyd, who was born in Rockingham County, Virginia, in 1816, and came with her parents to Richland County, where she was married. In 1839 Mr. Wetherill took his family to Hardin County, where he cleared and put under cultivation a large tract of land. He was an in- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 451 dustrious, thrifty man, a devout Methodist, and and in early years a Democrat, although after the nomination of Lincoln he supported the Republican ticket until his death in 1899. His wife died in Hardin County in her 49th year, leaving 14 children, all of whom grew to adult years except the youngest, who died in infancy. Of this family, 12 were married and eight are now living. Ira R. Wetherill attended public school and engaged in teaching district schools for several terms, supplementing this with a course in the university at Ada, and, later, in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Maryland. Graduating from this institution in 1881, he at once began the practice of his profession at Beaver Dam, where he remained 10 years before locating in Bluffton. He enjoys a large general practice and has been very successful in his work. In 1874 Dr. Wetherill was married to Susan A. Lattimore, who was born in Hardin County, Ohio, April 24, 1857, and was a daughter of John and Sarah (Shanks) Lattimore of that country. Mrs. Wetherill died in 1895, leaving three children, namely : Ova, wife of Row Ewing, of Bluffton ; Webb ; and Cliff, a freshman in the medical college at Columbus, Ohio. Webb is a soldier in the United States Army, and served three years in the light artillery, two of them being spent in the Philippines He served three years in the coast artillery, when he was stationed at Fort Hamilton, New York and has but recently reenlisted in California in the light artillery. The Doctor is a Republican. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias of Bluffton and is a genial, popular gentleman. He is president of the Bluffton Telephone Company, having held the office during the past four years.   JACOB STALEY, an influential agriculturist of Allen County, has resided on the farm of 150 acres in sections 19 and 20, Jackson township, his entire life, having been ushered into the world on homestead farm September 11, 1839. His parents were Jacob and Eunice (Fisher) Staley, both of whom were natives of Virginia. - 24 - Jacob Staley, Sr., was born in 1800 and was married in his native State before coming with his parents and family to Ohio. He was one: of a large family of children born to Peter Staley and his wife, all of them came to Ohio.. They were as follows : Wilkes who was a farmer and conversed almost entirely in the German language; Peter; John ; Sally (Hall) ; Betsey (Mauch) ; Jacob; Eva (Suddith) ; and Katie (Fisher). Jacob Staley was a man of tall„ spare build, capable of accomplishing a large amount of work. He entered 160 acres of land on Hog Creek and lived there until his death at. the age of 62 years. He voted with the Whig. and Republican parties and was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His, wife passed away in 1887 at the age of 86 years.. Their children are as follows : Betty (Grant),. deceased; Eva (Watt) ; John ; Jemima (Boyd) ; Eunice (Hall) ; Jacob and Hannah (Mrs. Thomas Watt). Jacob Staley, the subject of this biography„ has been a farmer and for 25 years was engaged in quarrying stone, giving up that occu pation only about three years ago. He has been. very successful as a stock-raiser and general farmer and has put many of the improvements on the farm. On December 5, 1861, he was, married to Olive Hall, of Jackson township, who was born May 10, 1842, and is a daughter of William M. and Lydia G. (Walton) Hall,. who came here from Pickaway County and. were among the first to take up a claim. Mr and Mrs. Staley have no children. Mr. Staley is a Democrat. CLIFFORD L. KIPLINGER, a leading contractor and carpenter of Lima, was reared and educated in this city where he was born 46 years ago. Daniel Kiplinger, his father, is now in his 76th year, and is one of the most respected citizens of Lima. He is a native of Springfield, Clark County, Ohio. In 1854 he came to Allen County, where he soon became one of the most successful contractors and carpenters. At the time of his settling in Lima, it was a village of some th0usand inhabitants and, as Daniel Kiplinger was among the first contractors to 452 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY locate here, he built a large per cent. of the structures erected in this vicinity. He is the father of two sons, namely : Clifford L. and Clarence, who is located at Columbus and is agent of the Pittsburg Reduction Company, having under his management three States—Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. Clifford L. Kiplinger began working at the carpenter trade when he was a lad of 15 years and, after mastering it, became a partner with his father, with whom he was associated in the contracting and building business for 13 years. He then engaged in the same business by himself, and has been busy with general contract work during the eight years he has been alone. He is a first-class workman, and many of the finest buildings in Lima and vicinity stand as monuments of his skill. Mr. Kiplinger was married in 1885 to Lizzie Moore, whose father Amos Moore, was at one time a prominent contractor of Zanesville, Ohio, where he died in 1873. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kiplinger, Lawrence, the elder, was graduated from the Lima High School before he had reached his 17th year; he then entered the offices of the Buckeye Pipe Line Company, where he is still employed. Karl, the younger son, is still attending High School. Mr. Kiplinger is a member of the Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church of Lima. DAVID W. HIGBY, superintendent of the Allen County Children's Home for the past seven years, was born in Hardin County, Ohio, July 25, 1854, son of Elisha and Rebecca (Priest) Higby. His father was born in Canada but came to Columbus, Ohio, where he was married. Afterwards he located in Hardin County where he and his wife died. Their family consisted of four children, viz : Mattie, who married George Woods and now resides in Toledo ; David W. ; Joseph, deceased ; and Lydia, who married Richard Walker and lived in Hardin County until her death. David W. Higby became a carpenter and worked at that occupation in his native county until his 24th year, when he came to Allen County. Locating in Harrod, he worked as a millwright and also conducted the Central House there until 1899. Having been appointed by the Board of Directors as superintendent of the Allen County Children's Home, he took up his duties at once and has discharged them in a manner to win the hearty commendation of all. The home has been in active operation about 12 years, and is one of the institutions of which Allen County may well feel proud. furnishing, as it does, temporary care and shelter for hundreds of homeless children until the management can place them in permanent homes. Eighty-two little ones are now being cared for in the institution. They will be placed with families where they will be given parental love and reared to lives of usefulness and honor. It would be impossible to give an estimate of the good that is done in thus caring for children, many of whom would otherwise grow up in ignorance, poverty and vice. The farm belonging to the home has about 152 ½ acres of land and this, with the work about the building which is a fine brick edifice, requires the employment of at least 10 persons. Mr. Higby has been in charge since the sixth year after it was opened. He has everything in the most perfect working order and at the same time keeps the expense within reasonable limits. Mr. Higby was married in 1878 to May Eubanks, a native of this county and a daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Darby) Eubanks. Mrs. Eubanks was twice married, her second husband being Enoch Harvey. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Higby, namely : Maude, born December 23, 1880, who is the wife of Cliff Breese ; and Blanche, born February 23, 1885. Mr. Higby is a Democrat but does not take an active part in politics. He is a member of Lima Lodge, No. 91, Knights of Pythias Lodge, and is a man who will ever be found true to his friends. ABRAM HARROD, a highly esteemed retired resident of Lima, was born in Mercer County, Ohio, April 27, 1850, and is a son of David and Jane ( Rickmire) Harrod. The father of Mr. Harrod was born in 1792 in Knox County, Ohio, and the mother in the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 453 same locality two years later. After marriage they settled near Fort Recovery, in Mercer County, in 1837, and lived there on a farm until 1852, when David Harrod went west on a prospecting tour, in search of a suitable location to which to remove. He was taken ill with cholera on a steamboat on the Missouri River and ,died far from home. Abram Harrod lived at home in Mercer County until 1875 and then went to California, where he spent one year and then settled at Geneva, Indiana, where he engaged in an undertaking and furniture business for some seven years, removing then to Portland, Indiana. There he .embarked in an implement business which he continued four years. On January 1, 1886, he came to Lima and became traveling salesman for Henry Parham in an implement business. After seven years in this employment, he took up the duties of county recorder, to which he had been elected on the Democratic ticket. He served six years and eight months, having been reelectd. Since retiring from this position he has been traveling representative of a Court House supply firm. Recently he has been appointed market master by the Board of Public Service of Lima. On May 15, 1875, Mr. Harrod was married to Harriet Smith, of Van Wert County, Ohio, who is a daughter of David and Jane (Hartzog) Smith. They have two sons, viz. : Bert G., who is connected with the Lima Locomotive Works, and Robert L., who is traveling for a wholesale implement firm of Kansas City, where he resides. He is a graduate of the law department of the University of Michigan, but imperfect hearing interfered with his professional career. Mr. and Mrs. Harrod are members of the Methodict Episcopal Church. L. T. FURNAS, proprietor of the Apex Skirt Company, of Lima, was born at Pleasant Hill, Miami County, Ohio, in 1852, and was there reared and educated. His first commercial venture was in his native village, where he conducted a dry goods store for about three years. He next went West and was in the dry goods business in Luzerne, Iowa, about four years, when he returned to Ohio and for 11 years conducted a merchant tailoring establishment at Columbus Grove. In 1883 he came to Lima and purchased the business of John Siegfried, merchant tailor, and for 20 years devoted his time and attention to working up a large trade. During recent years he saw the possibilities awaiting the individual who could supply the ever-growing demand for ladies' tailored skirts, and in 1903 the Apex Skirt Company was established by him. The success of the undertaking has shown the correctness of his theory. He has ti aveling salesmen in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania and the company employs a large number. of workmen to keep up their orders. Mr. Furnas was married in 1874 to Anna Tinker, daughter of Samuel Tinker, of Chester, Massachusetts. They have two children, Everett C. and Anna. The son is engaged in business with his father. JOHN W. ROTHE, one of the substantial farmers and representative citizens of German township, where he owns land aggregating 292 acres, situated in sections 13, 14 and 23, was born in Germany, November 29, 1830, and is a son of Frederick and Mary Rothe. In 1855 John W. Rothe, accompanied by his parents, came to America and located in Perry township, Allen County, Ohio, where he bought 50 acres of land for which he paid $12 per acre. It was a piece of woodland on which a round-log cabin stood, and this was the family home for 10 years. Mr. Rothe then purchased 80 acres in sections 13 and 14, German township, subsequently adding to this until he now owns 292 acres of some of the finest land to be found in the county. Prior to coming to the United States he had learned the blacksmith trade at which he worked during his younger years. In 1856 Mr. Rothe was married to Mary Fuchs, and they have had two sons—John and Frederick. The elder son, John Rothe, died in 454 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY 1898; his wife, Elizabeth Lease, died in 1899 and their only child died when one year old. Frederick Rothe, the second son, resides on the home farm and superintends its cultivation. He married Tinnie Houseman, and to them have been born four children, viz. : Rudy (the only daughter), who died at the age of six years ; and Albert, Calvin and Leonard, who attend the district school in section 13. Mr. and Mrs. Rothe are worthy members of the German Reformed Church at Lima, of which Mr. Rothe has been a trustee and deacon. These good people are looking forward with pleasure to a celebration of their Golden Wedding," which occurs January 27, 1906. They will have a wide circle of friends to wish them continued peace and prosperity for they are well known and most highly esteemed.   HARRY THOMAS, one of Lima's leading grocers, who is well established in the Holland Block, in the city's business center, was born in 1864 at Lima, and is a son of the late Lewis Thomas. The father of Mr. Thomas was born in Wales and came to Allen County about 1850. For a number of years he was engaged in the brewery business at Lima. Our subject was reared and educated at Lima and began business in boyhood in his father's employ. After completing his second year in the Lima High School, he became a clerk in the grocery store of F. A. Holland, with whom he remained 18 years and then became the junior partner of the firm. Two years later, in 1891, the relationship of the partners changed and since that time Mr. Thomas has continued the business as sole proprietor. Mr. Thomas was married October 22, 1889, to Belle Bowdle, who is a daughter of M. W. Bowdle, of Westminster, Ohio, the family being among the early pioneers of Allen County. Mrs. Thomas' father still survives at the age of 88 years. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have two children, viz. ; Holland B. and Lenore Y. The family belong to Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, Mr. Thomas being one of the board of trustees. He is much interested in the Sunday school work, is a teacher and has been superintendent, and he is first vice-president of the Epworth League. Mr. Thomas occupies a very high position both personally and in a business way in Lima, and is looked upon as one of the city's sterling citizens and representative men. THOMAS C. ROBERTS, general farmer and stock-raiser of Allen County, owns a quarter section of land in Perry township and is one of the most influential and prominent agriculturists of the country. He was born at Westminster, Allen County, Ohio, April 14, 1853, and is a son of Josiah B. and Margaret (Winrot) Roberts. His grandparents, William and Hannah (Morrison) Roberts, were natives of Virginia, of Scotch-Irish descent, the latter being a daughter of Andrew Morrison. The grandfather was a carpenter, working at his trade in West Virginia, where he reared a family of three children, viz : Josiah B. ; Margaret T., wife of Samuel Davison French, whose sketch and portrait appear elsewhere in this work; and Catherine, wife of Jacob Moss, of Westminster. Josiah B. Roberts was born February 20, 1822, at Frankford, Greenbrier County, West Virginia, making his first trip to West Liberty, Ohio, when a boy, but returning to his native State. About 1835 he located at Westminster, Allen County, and was obliged to cut his way through the dense timber in making the journey from West Virginia. He conducted a store at Westminster for several years, and in 1854 purchased the homestead which is now occupied by his son, Alton. He moved his family to this farm in the fall of 1854 and lived upon it until his death. His wife, Margaret, was born near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and was a. daughter of Isaac Winrot. Of the 11 children born to them, but six reached maturity, namely: Oliver C., who resided in Perry township and was a member of an Ohio regiment enlisted for the 100-day service in the Civil War—his constitution was undermined and he was taken with jaundice, which probably resulted in his death later ; William A., who died in the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 455 spring of 1905 ; Lenora (Mrs. Hiram Holdridge), of Lima; Viola (Dunlap), who resides in Hardin County ; Thomas C. and Alton, who resides on the home farm. In politics Josiah B. Roberts was a Republican. Thomas C. Roberts was an infant when his parents removed to the farm where he grew to manhood and became familiar with the work which has made him one of the most practical and progressive agriculturists of his day. Soon after his marriage he purchased his present farm of 160 acres, and has carried on general farming in connection with stock-raising. He has improved the property with substantial buildings and his method of cultivation is steadily increasing its value by adding to the productiveness of the land. Mr. Roberts married Elizabeth T. Moore, who was born in Perry township, but was reared in Lima, where her father, William Moore, founded the wholesale house of The Moore Brothers Company, one of the largest mercantile concerns in the city. Her mother was formerly Amanda Ballard. Mrs. Roberts is the mother of two children—Florence, born in 1882 and Ruth, born in 1886. Mr. Roberts is a stanch Republican. ELIAS H. JOHNS, one of the honored retired residents of Lima, was for a great many years prominently identified with the city's business interests and public affairs. Mr. Johns was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, June 11, 1834, and is a son of Elias and Adaline (Otley) Johns. The Johns family were among the pioneers of Washington township, Union County, Ohio, removing there from Charlestown, Virginia. The father of our subject was a man of enterprising spirit. When he located in Washington township, in 1852, he erected the first hewed-log house there. When his life approached middle age, he removed from the farm to the village of Essex and there engaged in mercantile business. Elias H. Johns obtained his education in Virginia prior to the removal of the family to Ohio and from the age of 18 years until his enlistment in the Union Army he followed school teaching. Mr. Johns was 0ne of the first patriotic young men of his neighborhood to respond to the call for troops in 1861, becoming a member of Company B, Second Battalion, 18th Reg., United States Infantry. With all the loyal enthusiasm of the time he entered the service and nobly performed a soldier's duty and almost gave up his life for his country. On the terrible battle-ground of Stone River, he with scores of his comrads fell, and such were the prevailing conditions that he was left to suffer without surgical care for a number of hours. His life was in the balance when he was taken to a hospital. From December until the following September he was under treatment in army hospitals at Murfreesboro, Nashville, Louisville and Camp Dennison. From the effects of that dreadful day of battle, Mr. Johns never fully recovered, although the day came when he was able to take a position in the recruiting service, in which he spent the remainder of his term of enlistment, being honorably discharged in 1864. In spite of the injuries suffered when just in the flower of his manhood, Mr. Johns has survived many of his comrades and, approaching the evening of life, he is still vigorous of mind and body, and in most entertaining manner can recall those days which must always possess vital interest for every true American. After his return from his army service, Mr. Johns came in the same year to Lima and entered into business, opening up a grocery which he continued to operate until 1879, when he became associated with Townsend & Moser for four years, and later with the late Judge Hughes, in the manufacture of furniture. Close attention to business and careful investments have provided Mr. Johns with ample competency, which his leisure permits him to enjoy. He owns considerable property here, including his pleasant home at No. 222 South Pierce street. In 1857 Mr. Johns was married to Elizabeth Cheney, of Union County, Ohio, a daughter of William Cheney, who was a farmer all his life. Of the four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Johns, two are now living, namely : Silas 456 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY H., who is assistant superintendent of the Prudential Life Insurance Company's agency at Lima ; and Septa J., who is the wife of W. A. Hall, a journalist, of Racine, Wisconsin. Mr. Johns has always been an active and interested citizen and for a number of years was a valuable member of the City Council. His advice was always considered as he was known to be a practical, reliable public-spirited man. He is a member of Mart Armstrong Post, No. 202, G. A. R., and of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church. He has for many years been prominent in the York rite bodies of the Masonic order and at present is secretary of Garett Wykoff Lodge, No. 585, F. & A. M. He is past master of the Blue Lodge, past high priest of the Chapter, past thrice illustrious master of the Council and past eminent commander of the Commandery. A. F. KNISELY, M. D., eye, ear and throat specialist, at Lima, enjoys a reputation for professional skill which extends far beyond this city. Dr. Knisely was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1859, and received his literary training in the common schools and his scientific education at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, where he was graduated in 1884. From college Dr. Knisely entered the office of Dr. Seely, of Cincinnati, where he remained two years, gaining much valuable experience in a varied practice, and then removed to Chicago, where he continued in practice for five years, making diseases of the eye, ear and throat his specialty. He then returned to his old home at Uhrichsville, Ohio, for a short season, after which he returned to his work in Chicago for another period of five years. The climate of the "Windy City" did not agree with him entirely and as a matter of prudence he gave up the position he had won in his profession there and returned to Ohio, locating at Lima in 1897. He enjoys an extensive practice in his specialty. He is also a leading member of political and social circles. Dr. Knisely was married on April 12, 1880, to Mary De Grieff, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, and they have two sons, viz. : Allen D. and Virgil M. The former was educated at New Philadelphia and Chicago and then spent two years in the Ohio State University, after which he entered the medical department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. After two years there he became a student at the Louisville Medical College, where his graduation will take place in June, 1906. The second son is a student in the Lima High School. Dr. Knisely is prominent in Masonry, a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery at Lima and the Shrine at Dayton. During his residence at Uhrichsville, he was one of the officers of the Masonic lodge there. He is a member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Lima. JOHN HEFNER, a well known agriculturist of Jackson township, was born in this vicinity July 12, 1849, and belongs to a family which has been closely identified with the history of the county for 65 years. He owns and cultivates a large farm of 280 acres in section 30 and 31, Jackson township and section 25, Bath township and is regarded as one of the best farmers in the county. His parents, Isaac and Mary (May) Hefner, came originally from Pennsylvania to Ross County, this State, and, in 1840, removed with their family to Allen County where they remained until their death, the former in 1884, at the age of 75 and the latter in 1901 at the more advanced age of 94. Isaac Hefner accumulated large tracts of land, which are still in the possession of his descendants. The following children were born to him and his good wife : Jacob, of Jackson township ; Harison, of Jackson township ; Amos, of Auglaize township ; two that died in infancy ; Clarissa, wife of Jacob Mowery, of Bath township ; David, of Bath township; and John and Albert, who live in Jackson township. John Hefner was married in 1880 to Miss F. R. Growdon, who was born in Auglaize township, Allen County, Ohio, April 13, 1857. Her parents were Brice and Sarah (Ash) Growdon, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 457 Mrs. Hefner died January 2, 1900, leaving seven children, namely : Sarah Olive ; Tillie A.; Jesse William ; Harvey R. ; Mary ; Robert and Leah. Edith died at the age of nine years and two died in infancy. After his marriage, Mr. Hefner moved at once to his present property and has devoted his entire time to farming and has found it to be far more profitable to feed the products of his land to his stock than to put it on the market in the natural state. He handles all kinds of stock and his premises are well provided with barns and sheds to properly accommodate them, large cribs and grainaries affording storage for his grain. Sixty-seven acres of his land lies in section 30 and 87 in section 31, Jackson township, the remainder being located in section 25, Bath township, it is all in one body, excepting a tract of 40 acres. Mr. Hefner is deacon of the Reformed Church and was formerly elder. He is a strong Democrat and has been an efficient member of the School Board. He is a member of the Auglaize Grange, of which he was one time treasurer and has always taken a lively interest in advancing agricultural interests in Allen County. JEAN VETTER, deceased, founder of the Delphos Hardware Company, at Delphos, and one 0f the city's most valued and respected men, was born in 1848 in Hessen, Germany. After completing a public and normal school education by the time he was 20 years old, Jean Vetter came to America. He had also learned the locksmith's trade in his native land and soon found employment at Crestline, Ohio, in a Crestline lock shop, where he remained for the next five years. In 1875 he came to Delphos and opened up a hardware business on a small scale. The venture proved successful and developed into important business of the Delphos Hardware Company. He erected the fine building in which this business is located, and he also put up a number of other substantial structures in the city. After an active and useful life, he retired to the enjoyment of the fruits of his former energy ; but two years later, on October 19, 1903, a sudden message came and he passed away. For some time his health had not been of the best and an affection of the heart developed. For a number of years he was a member of the Board of Education and was a liberal supporter of all educational and religious reforms. He was a consistent member of the Lutheran Church. His only fraternal connection was with the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Vetter was married at Delphos to Lina Eysenbach, the youngest daughter of the late Prof. Wendel Eysenbach, and they had three children, viz : Ella, wife of Louis Huber, who is interested in the Delphos Hardware Company—they have one daughter, Mildred ; Amelia, wife of William Du Wece, also of the Delphos Hardware Company—they have one child, John Vetter; Meta, wife of William Steinle, son of Felix Steinle; and Ernest. The late Prof. Wendel Eysenbach was born in Eberstadt, Germany, April 29, 1810. At the age of 17 he attended the seminary of Friedberg and was graduated there as a public teacher at the age of 20 years. After acting for a time as private tutor, he received an appointment as public teacher, and for many years was popular as such During the troubles of the Revolution of 1848 he was impeached by the government on account of his liberal sentiments and as a result of a trial was sentenced to punishment. However, in 1851 he escaped to America with his family and settled on a farm in Marion township, Allen County, east of Delphos, where he passed the remainder of his life, dying in May, 1886. He was a natural and trained musician and taught the piano for about 10 years, having many pupils in Lima. In 1838 he married Margaret Schillings and they had four sons and one daughter who were born in Germany, namely : Louis, a farmer of Marion township ; Henry P. a merchant and manufacturer of Delphos ; William of Delphos; Theodore, a merchant of Spencerville ; and Mary, widow of George Schilling. Their youngest child, Mrs. Vetter, was born in Ohio. Professor Eysenbach's mind was a versatile one, turning as easily to science as to literature and music. He spent some years inventing and perfecting astronomical apparatus. He 458 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY was probably one of the most learned men who ever lived out a quiet, useful life in Allen County and he commanded the respect and enjoyed the esteem of all who knew him. COL. C. T. HOBART, general manager and chief engineer of the Columbus & Lake Michigan Railway, now in operation from Lima to Defiance, Ohio, is a railroad man of long experience and scientific training. He was born in Vermont and was educated in his State University, where he was graduated in the polytechnic department. For 12 years after entering railroad service Colonel Hobart was in the operating department of the Central Vermont Railroad. From that time on he has been more or less continuously connected with great lines of transportation. In 1866 he made the first survey of a preliminary nature, for the construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad 900 miles were covered before the party was attacked by the Indians. Of the party of 21 surveyors, only eight escaped with their lives. The exigencies of his business often required long journeys through unbroken forests and over dangerous paths. One winter he left Montana by stage and traveled 700 miles to Salt Lake City, thence by stage 600 miles to Austin, Nevada. This was necessary in measuring the ground for the Central Pacific Railway. Afterward he worked back across the Sierra Nevada Mountains. He was then superintendent of the operating department which built the road out to a point connecting with the Central Pacific and continued it until it was in operation to Ogden. Upon the completion of this great engineering work, Colonel Hobart was engaged by the Northern Pacific, met the directors at St. Paul and after impressive services, in which the directors took part, including Governor Smith of Vermont (the president of the company), Colonel Hobart was left in charge as superintendent of construction and operation. This was the initial step in the building of that great highway of commerce and promoter of civilization—the Northern Pacific Railroad. For 17 years Colonel Hobart continued in charge of this great enterprise. When it was found desirable to construct a branch line from the Northern Pacific to Yellowstone Park, under a government lease, Colonel Hobart built the line and erected the hotel in the park for the entertainment of the people who visit that wonderful region. These hotels he later turned over to the Northern Pacific road. On account of the delicacy of his wife's health, Colonel Hobart then gave up his connection with the Northern Pacific and went to the Argentine Republic, South America. Here he built 200 miles of railroad, under government concessions to American capitalists, through Paraguay and other portions of South America. The road was later abandoned. Upon his return to New York, he became vice-president of the Raritan River Railway and constructed the same. It was while engaged in this great project that he was approached by Benjamin C. Faurot, who gave him such a glowing picture of the business possibilities of Northwestern Ohio and so convincingly placed before him the de' sirable climab0o and other advantages for happy home-building, that Colonel Hobart determined to settle in this section. From this determination subsequently came about the building of the Columbus & Lake Michigan Railway (at first known as the Columbus, Lima & Milwaukee). Within the current year in all probability, the road will have reached Columbus as one terminus and Eastern Lake, Michigan, as the other. Colonel Hobart is a Knight Templar Mason, and belongs to the Protestant Episcopal Church. JOHN STEVENS, deceased, was one of the most highly esteemed citizens of German township, where his death occurred on February 1, 1896. He was born in 1846 in Somerset, Ohio, and was a son of Frederick and Agnes Stevens. John Stevens was reared in his native place and attended the district schools. He devoted AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 461 his life to farming and lived in Perry County until he was about 30 years old. Immediately after his marriage in 1878, he settled at Columbus Grove, Putnam County, Ohio, but 18 months later removed to German township, Allen County, and bought 50 acres of land in section 8. Subsequently he bought 10 additional acres and this was his estate at the time of his death. On January 2, 1878, Mr. Stevens was married to Margaret O'Neil, a daughter of John and Frances (Lawler) O'Neil, who came to America from Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Stevens had these children : John Henry, born October 28, 1879, who married Alta Smith, of Lima, January 1, 1901, and has one child, Velma—they are residents of German township; Frederick, born June 17, 1882, who resides at home; Adam, born September 4, 1884, who died at the age of six years ; Frances Esther, born April 5, 1885, who lives at home; Alice Margaret, born December 9, 1891, who resides at home, and Mary Agnes, her twin sister, who died September 4, 1892. Mrs. Stevens is a lady of excellent business capacity. After her husband's death she increased her farm of 60 acres to 90 acres, subsequently selling 41 acres, just north of her present farm, to James McKenzie, who paid the handsome price of $ 100 per acre. She makes her home on her farm of 50 acres, three of her children residing there also. The family belongs to St. Rose Catholic Church at Lima, and in the cemetery of this church the remains of the father were interred. He was a worthy member of St. Rose Catholic Church, was a kind and loving husband and an honest, whole souled friend and neighbor. HON. S. D. CRITES, whose portrait appears on the opposite page, ably represents the 32d Senatorial District in the Ohio State Senate. He was born in German township, Allen County, Ohio, November 28, 1847, and is a son of Jacob and Mary J. (Cremean) Crites. Jacob Crites, father of Senator Crites, was born October 19, 1822, in Pickaway County, Ohio, came to Allen County as an early pioneer and died in German township, in March, 1904. During a long and useful life he was identified with a large number of the important interests of the county and was a highly respected man and valued citizen. S. D. Crites was reared on his father's farm and was instructed in all the practical work incident to the development of a large property. When 18 years of age he began to teach school. earning enough in this way to enable him to attend the National Normal University, at Lebanon Ohio, under the superintendence of that noted educator, President Alfred Holbrook. In 1870 Mr. Crites was appointed superintendent of the Elida public schools, a position he filled with efficiency for 12 successive years, resigning at the close of this long period on account of failing health. From 1876 until 1888 he was a member of the Allen County Board of School Examiners and for nine years he served as a justice of the peace in German township. In 1883 Mr. Crites decided to try the effects of the out-door life necessary in the successful carrying on of large agricultural operations, and devoted himself to extensive farming and t0 the raising, buying and shipping of stock. A few years of country life restored his normal health. He now has his farms under rental to J. L. Edmiston and Alva Benedum, owning two adjoining farms, consisting of 300 acres. In 1895 he purchased the grain elevator, at Elida, which he renovated ; at present he is operating it in partnership with his brother, D. H. Crites, who is the active manager. In September, 1903, Senator Crites organized one of the leading financial establishments of this part of the State, the Farmers' Bank of Elida. Aside from his public duties, Senator Crites devotes all his time to the interests of this bank and is ably assisted by his very capable daughter, Zoe Crites, who is cashier. Senator Crites has not only been a prominent figure in the educational and business circles of Allen County, but for years he has been a dominating factor, in its political life. His sympathies have always been in accord with the Democratic party. In 1901 he was nominated by acclamation, an unusual testimonial 462 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY of party esteem, at the Democratic District Convention, for the position of State Senator, to represent the 32d Senatorial District, which is composed of the rich and populous counties of Allen, Auglaize, Defiance, Mercer, Pauling, Van Wert and Williams. He was elected to this high position by a majority of 2,300 votes, and was re-elected at the expiration of his first term, practically without opposition. His work has been especially given, as committeeman, to finance, agriculture, benevolent institutions, common schools and school lands, fees and salaries, public works and public lands, penitentiaries, universities, colleges and banks, and building and loan associations. Upon his retirement from public life, Senator Crites proposes to devote himself exclusively to his banking interests. In 1872 the subject of this sketch was married to Sarah Jane Reichelderfer, of Pickaway County, Ohio, who died in the same year. In 1876 he was married to Emma M. Ditto, and they have four accomplished daughters, viz : Mrs. S. 0. Morris, of Lima ; and Mabel, Zoe and Grace. Fraternally Senator Crites is a Mason and has taken all the degrees up to and including the 32d. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Elida. JOHN W. SHANAHAN, manager of the Consumers' Fuel, Building & Supply Company, of Lima, is one of the leading citizens of the city, being closely identified with a number of the most important business interests of Allen County. He was born in 1860 in Delaware County, Ohio, where his father, P. Shanahan, is still engaged in farming, and where our subject was educated and grew to manhood. Mr. Shanahan began his career in commercial circles as proprietor of a grocery store which was located on North Main street, in Lima. After some 10 years in this line, he turned his attention to farming and the production of oil, extending his operations until he is now connected with the Richland Oil Company and the German-American Oil Company, being a member of the board of directors of the latter company. In 1894 he accepted the position of manager of the Consumer's Fuel, Building & Supply Company, and has since efficiently served in this position. In 1901 he disposed of his grocery stock and has since given his entire attention to the constantly increasing responsibilities devolving upon him. He is vice-president of the Allen County Building & Loan Association and holds the same office in the Allen County Agricultural Society. Mr. Shanahan was married in 1891 to Kate Baker, whose father is A. C. Baker, a farmer of Ada, Ohio. They have four children : George, Nellie, Catherine and Eugene. The family are devout members of St. Rose Catholic Church of Lima and Mr. Shanahan is a member of the Knights of Columbus. He has been an active worker for the good government of the city, having served as a member of the City Council for two terms and is at present on the Board of Public Safety of Lima. SCHULTHEIS BROTHERS, who own and operate the large tannery at Lima, are among the best known and esteemed citizens of the city, where they have lived since childhood. The firm is composed of John and Charles Schultheis, successors of their father, Wolfgang Schultheis, who came to this city in 1863 and established the business. The elder Schultheis was born in Bavaria, Germany, where he learned the trade of tannery with his father, John Schultheis. Coming to America, he made his first stop in Columbiana County, going from there to Cincinnati, thence to Wayne and Pickaway counties, Ohio, and finally conducted a tannery for a short time in Shelby County, Ohio. His next move was to New Bremen, Auglaize County, where he formed a partnership with John Kunzel in 1855, which was continued until 1863 when he disposed of his interests in the tannery and came to Lima. When the tannery was first started in Lima, Mr. Schultheis was associated in the business with his brother, but in 1867 he purchased his brother's interests and from that date until AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 463 1891 he carried on the works alone. Since 1891 the business has been managed by the present firm. Charles Schultheis is a native of New Bremen but has been a resident of Lima since his fourth year. He has worked in a tannery from boyhood and his practical knowledge of the business enables him to conduct it in a profitable manner. In 1895 Mr. Schultheis was married to Matilda T. Eckert, daughter of the late Frederick Eckert, who was widely known during his lifetime as owner of a large pork packing plant at Fort Wayne, Indiana. Charles Schultheis is a prominent Elk and a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. GEORGE W. HERRING, a prominent agriculturist of German township, owns a well-improved farm of 80 acres, situated in section 19, about a mile southwest of Elida. He was born November 4, 1869, in German township on the old Herring homestead, three-quarters of a mile south of his present home. His parents, Penrose and Lydia (Hunsaker) Herring, were both natives of Fairfield County, where they were engaged in farming before coming to Allen County. The father, who was born August 24, 1830, died November 5, 1893, and the mother on March 6, 1905 ; both were laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery at Elida. Mr. Herring's paternal grandfather was Philip Herring, who was born in Pennsylvania, whence he came to Ohio, settling in Allen County as a pioneer. George W. Herring was reared on the homestead farm and has given the greater part of his life to farm work. He spent some time in preparing himself for office work in Valentine Brothers' school of telegraphy and shorthand at Janesville, Wisconsin, but while he was yet a student his father sickened and died and his presence was needed at home and the business course was accordingly abandoned. His farm of 80 acres is one of the best kept and most profitable in German township. There are 10 oilwells in active operation, five of which are leased to Mr. Whipple and five to W. L. Russell. Mr. Herring was married April 13, 1899, to Callie F. Sawmiller, daughter of John and Mary (Bower) Sawmiller, residents of Amanda township. Mr. Herring has served on the School Board and is now a member of the advisory board of German township. He is a Democrat in politics, and in religion a member of the United Brethren Church, of Allentown. He is a zealous worker in the church and is serving as treasurer of the Sunday-school. Z. A. CROSSON, one of Lima's well-known business men, a dealer in fancy and staple groceries, who has been a resident of the city for 26 years, was born in 1858. in Auglaize township, Allen County, Ohio, and is a son of Columbia Crosson. The father of our subject came to Allen County about 1851 and carried on his trade of wagonmaking. That he was an expert mechanic may be inferred when it is known that a wagon that he made in 1852 has been in use to the present time. He now lives in retirement at the age of 78 years in a pleasant home at Westminster, this county, where two of his four children also reside, the eldest,—William L. and the youngest,—Alwilda, wife of Miner Smith. Mary is the wife of N. D. McCoy, of Lima. Early in the days of the Civil War, Columbia Crosson offered his services to his country and served over four years, as a member of Company F, Fourth Reg., Ohio Vol. Cav. He was always active in politics and at numerous periods filled local offices. Our subject was reared and educated in Allen County and began his business career by running a huckster wagon through the country. This gave him a little business experience and made him a good clerk when he entered the employ of J. Langan at Lima. He continued with Langan & Company, successors to the old firm, for about nine years. On Christmas Day, 1889, he embarked in business for himself, opening up a small grocery store at his present stand, No. I12 East Market street, where he 464 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY has continued ever since, each year adding to his patronage and accommodations, until now he is one of the leading merchants of Lima. Mr. Crosson owns stock in the Lima Driving Park Association. In 1879 Mr. Crosson was married to Lillie Starbuck, who is a daughter of James M. Star-buck, of Randolph County, Indiana, and they have four children, viz. : Elsie H., wife of C. T. DeWeese, of Sidney, Ohio; Columbia Monroe, who is in the automobile business at Portland, Oregon; Edith M. and Lethia Hazel. Politically Mr. Crosson has always been a Republican and for the past six years has been a member of the Board of Health. He belongs to the Lima Business Men's Association and to the Retail Grocers' Association of Lima, and was president of the latter for five years. His fraternal associations include the Royal Arcanum, the Odd Fellows and the Red Men. ISAAC B. POST, president of the Citizens' Banking Company, of Spencerville, and long a resident of Allen County, was born at Shelby, Richland County, Ohio, June 21, 1837, and is a son of Hon. Charles C. and Elizabeth (Bryant) Post. The branch of the Post family to which our subject belongs was domiciled in Pennsylvania during the active business life of his grandfather, Jeremiah Post, who was, however, a native of New York. Hon. Charles C. Post, son of Jeremiah Post and father of our subject, was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, July 27, 1800, and came to Ohio in 1822. He settled for a time at Shelby, Richland County, and then moved to Wyandotte County, where he bulit a grist and sawmill, and a council house for the Wyandot Indians under contract with the general government. He became friendly with the Indians and was respected by them on account of the justness with which he dealt with them. In March, 1841, he removed to Allen County, settling in Amanda township, where he built the old Post mill on the Auglaize River, which he operated until 1849. He then settled on an estate of 485 acres in sections 8 and 17, about one mile and a quarter from his previous home. His residence continued here until 1883, when he went to live with his daughter, Mrs. Cyrus H. Hover, where he died when almost 84 years of age. Charles C. Post was a man of sterling integrity, one who enjoyed in the highest degree the esteem of all who knew him. He took a prominent part in all that materially affected the good government of his community, and was elected by his fellow-citizens to represent them in the State Legislature. His honorable life closed March 27, 1884. He married Elizabeth Bryant, who was born March 13, 1801, and died February 22, 1886, aged 85 years. Of their nine children, but four survive, namely : Martha, widow of Cyrus H. Hover, now of Lima ; Adam Clark, of Carthage, Missouri.; Isaac B. and Charles G., of Parma, Missouri. Isaac B. Post was reared from the age of four in Amanda township, and was educated in the local schools in which he later taught during several winter seasons. In April, 1861, he enlisted for the 90 days' service in Company E, 15th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and marched away with his comrades to serve in the mountains of West Virginia, under Gen. George B. McClellan, then the hero of the hour. On July 27, 1861, he reenlisted for three years in Company C, 32nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., under General Milroy. The command returned to West Virginia, and he served under Generals Sigel and Fremont in the Shenandoah Valley until the battle of Harper's Ferry, September 15, 1862, when he, with his regiment, was captured by the enemy and paroled. Subsequently he was exchanged, and returned to the field in command of his company, of which he had been commissioned 2nd lieutenant in February, 1862. He served in the Army of the Tennessee, and was with General Grant at Vicksburg. In 1863, for meritorious services, he was promoted to a captaincy and served as such in the Atlanta campaign in 1864. After this he was again promoted, being commissioned major, and as such served until the close of the Civil War, also filling the position of division inspector. At the close of the war, Mr. Post returned AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 465 to Allen County and for s0me two years dealt in hardwood lumber, and then turned his attention to farming and stock-raising. He became much interested in agricultural pursuits, to which he devoted his time almost exclusively until August 4, 1883, when he formed a partnership with Henry Wasson and opened a private bank at Spencerville, from which Mr. Wasson retired a few years later. The bank has greatly prospered and was reorganized in 1905 as the Citizens' Banking Company with these officers : President, Isaac B. Post ; 1st vice-president, Dr. Jacob R. Welch ; cashier, Ira B. Post. For a number of years before the reorganization of the bank our subject served as its head and also as its cashier, an office now capably filled by his only son, Ira B. Post. Mr. Post owns valuable farming lands, located mainly in Amanda township. In October, 1873, Isaac B. Post was mar-. ried to Emma E. Berry, who was born in 1851, in Van Wert County, Ohio, and is the only daughter of John and Eunice A. (Griffin) Berry, early pioneers of that county. Mrs. Berry is still living at the age of 82 years ; she is one of three survivors of a family of 10 children, the others being a brother, aged 92 years, living in Mercer County, and a sister, Mrs. Parrott, aged 85 years, who lives in Van Wert County. The only son of our subject's marriage, Ira B., above mentioned is one of the town's popular citizens a graduate of the Spencerville. High School and prominent in social life. On July 23, 1899, he was united in marriage with Ida M. Robbins, and has one son, Stanley Bryant. Our subject and wife have in their home a daughter by adoption, Gladys M., who was born in October, 1899. In political sentiment, Mr. Post has always been a supporter of the Republican party. He is public-spirited to an unusual degree and has taken a great deal of interest in improving Spencerville. All of his own property is kept in good condition and presents a more than creditable appearance. Some years ago he purchased considerable property in the city which he improved. He built the two-story brick block used by the Gamble Grocery Company. He took much interest in building the new Spencerville Methodist Church, being a member of the building committee. Since 1879 he has been an active worker in this religious body. He was a charter member of Fair Post, No. 322, G. A. R., and its first commander, serving for some time in that position.   CHARLES KRUSE, an implement dealer and hardware merchant of Elida, was born October 2, 1860, in Champaign County, Ohio, and is a son of Henry Kruse, whose biography will be found elsewhere in this work. Charles Kruse has been a resident of this vicinity since his sixth year, when his parents located on a farm near Elida where he was reared and educated. He engaged in farming and cultivated the farm owned by his father in German township until 1903, when he moved to Elida and purchased the hardware and implement business of Mr. Mosier, which he has since conducted. Affable and courteous, he has always been popular throughout the county and has worked up an extensive business, putting out a large number of wagons, machinery and other farm implements. Mr. Kruse was married to Minnie Coun sellor, daughter of Rev. Elias Counsellor, who-was for many years a traveling preacher of the United Brethren denomination, but who is now stationed at Burgoon, Ohio. Six children, all of whom are living, have been born to this; worthy couple, viz : Dora, Carrie, Duane, Elias, Zilpha and Isabelle. They are affiliated with the Lutheran Church, of Elida. G. S. VICARY, proprietor of the Star Iron Works, of Lima, where he is also identified with many other important business interests, and is deservedly counted among the city's leading and most influential men, was born in Devonshire, England, in 1844. Mr. Vicary was but a lad of 16 years when he left home ; but he had learned the machinist trade in his father's shops and, being of an ambitious and energetic spirit, decided to cut loose from old ties and make his own way in the world. He went to British Columbia to 466 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY put his plans into operation, and soon found employment in a sawmill on Puget Sound, where he remained engaged in machine work for some years. Later he had charge of a big mill at Fort Madison, where he remained for two years, going from there to the Oregon Iron Works at Portland, Oregon. After one year there he entered the Marysville foundry in California, where he worked by the side of Prescott, who later became a national character. After some two years there, Mr. Vicary accepted the position of gang foreman in the shops of the Central Pacific Railroad, which he held about four years. Mr. Vicary had all this experience while still a very young man, displaying even then the stability of character which has made him one of the leading men of Lima while still in the prime of life. As master machanic he then went to Nevada for the Nevada Central Narrow Gauge Railroad for two years, going then to Virginia City, where he assisted in setting up some of the largest machinery in the Comstock lode, some of the greatest pieces of machinery that were ever put up in the mines at Virginia City. He helped to put in the machinery in the Justice mine, a 1,200-horsepower engine, with all the modern improvements including the Cataract valve motion and condensing machinery. Subsequently he went to Bodie, Mono County, California, where he had charge of the great machine shops for two years, and then came to Ottawa, Putnam County, Ohio. His introduction to Lima was quite accidental. While on a visit to his first wife's people in Putnam County, he came to Lima to see the place, and was persuaded to accept a position in the shops of the C., H. & D. Railway. Later he became assistant foreman of the Solar Refinery. Mr. Vicary has traveled extensively, having been in every State and Territory west of the Rocky Mountains. He is known from Sitka, Alaska to Salt Lake City. Those who have had the good fortune to meet Mr. Vicary have found him a courteous and pleasant gentleman. He has resided in Lima for the past 23 years. In 1894 Mr. Vicary bought the Star Iron Works at Lima, which under his ownership have become one of the city's most important industries, being the largest repair works in this section of the State. Being a practical machinist, he thoroughly comprehends every detail of the most intricate pieces of machinery, and his supervision covers every branch of the work done. When he took charge of these works, he had about absorbed his capital, but through his thorough knowledge and business capacity he has become a leading factor in business life here, has won honorable prominence in financial circles and enjoys also the esteem and approbation of his fellow-citizens. He is one of the stockholders in The First National Bank and also of The Lima Trust Company. Mr. Vicary was married in 1865 to Melvina Harden, in California. She was a daughter of Walker Harden of Putnam County. Her death occurred in 1878. In 1882 he was married to Anna Belle Melhorn, who is a daughter of John Melhorn, one of Lima's oldest pioneers, who still survives, aged 87 years. Politically Mr. Vicary is a Republican. He is a Mason of the 32nd degree, a Knight Templar and a Shriner. HON. HENRY L. ROMEY, one of Bluffton's most prominent and esteemed citizens, formerly mayor and postmaster, and closely identified with the city's varied interests, was born in Canton Bern, Switzerland, October 19, 1843, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Conrad) Romey. Mr. Romey is of French extraction. His father brought the family to America in 1854, the mother having died two years previously, and with his one daughter and three sons, came to Allen County, settling on a farm four miles south of Bluffton. On February 1, 1862, Henry Romey enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering Company H, 74th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., under Captain Ballard and Col. Granville Moody, the "preacher colonel." He served through three years of the war, a soldier on the field until after the battle of Stone River, where he was disabled, and after. that a prison guard. His death took place May 3, 1904, at the age of 88 years. His children were : Henry L:, Julius, a resident of Columbia City, Indiana, a AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 469 soldier in the Civil War with his father and brother Henry L. ; Edward, of North Baltimore, Ohio ; Rosetta, the only daughter, who met death in childhood, falling from a train while on her way from the old country. Henry L. Romey remained with his father on the home farm until 1862. His father entered the army in February and our subject followed his example, enlisting on June 15th, in the same company and regiment. The 74th Ohio made a notable record as may be judged in recalling the long list of important battles in which it took so proud a part, viz. : Stone River, Hoover's Gap, Dug Gap, Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Missionary Ridge, Buzzards Roost, Resaca, Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain, Chattahoochee River, Peach Tree Creek, siege of Atlanta, Jonesboro, Averysboro and Bentonville, and the remnant of the regiment, with the tattered flags, was honored in the Grand Review at Washington. Mr. Romey did not escape injury in this long period of almost constant fighting, receiving a serious gunshot wound in his left foot at Jonesboro, September I, 1864. This entailed four months of treatment in the hospital, but he rejoined his regiment in the following January, and was honorably discharged at Louisville, Kentucky, July 10, 1865. After his return from the army, Mr. Romey worked at the carpenter's trade for a number of years, and then gave attention to fine cabinetmaking, conducting a furniture store and also manufacturing furniture. He sold out in 1889 and went into the fire insurance business, was made a notary and is now serving his second term as justice of the peace. Mr. Romey has been a life-long Democrat. Personally he is a very popular citizen of Bluffton, and was twice elected mayor, serving as such for four years. He was postmaster during the second term of President Cleveland, and has acceptably filled other offices ; has been township clerk for six years ; was treasurer for seven years and for three terms was a member of the Board of Education. On March 16, 1872, Mr. Ramey was married to Rosa Kenie, who was also born in Canton Bern, Switzerland, in December, 1852, and came to America with her parents in 1854. She is a daughter of John and Barbara Kenie. They have had these children : Elizabeth, wife of John T. Badertscher, of Hancock County ; Carrie, wife of J. C. Welty, of Bluffton ; William H., a furniture merchant, of Richmond, Indiana; Elmer C., assistant cashier of the First National Bank, of Bluffton ; Samuel D., who is in the employ of his brother at Richmond, Indiana ; Richard, a student in the Bluffton High School, class of 1906; and Fred, who is attending school. Mr. Romey is the Bluffton agent for the Trans-Atlantic French line, the Red Star line, the North German Lloyd and the Baltimore. and American lines of steamships to Europe. He is a valued member of Robert Hamilton Post, No. 262, G. A. R., at Bluffton. For many years he has been a member of the Reformed Church and one of its trustees and liberal supporters. HON. THEODORE D. ROBB, mayor of Lima and president of The First National Bank of this city, was born June 29, 1843, and is one of a family of eight children born to the late Hon. Thomas M. and Anna (Moore) Robb. The Robb family originated in Scotland but it has been settled on American soil for many generations. Thomas M. Robb was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, October 25, 1812. In 1815 his father removed to Guernsey County, Ohio, and there Thomas M. Robb was reared until old enough to learn the printing business. The early part of his life was spent in newspaper work in various towns in. Ohio. As late as 1854, he took upon himself the editing of the Lima Argus and two years later he acquired control of the People's Press, which he conducted with marked success until the demands of other duties upon his time caused him to withdraw from journalistic work. He was admitted to the bar in 1853 and what with legal contests, editorial work and political leadership, he became one of the noted men of this section of the State. In 1856 he was elected judge of the Probate Court. In 1873 he was elected to the State Legislature and continued as useful there as he 470 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY had been in other positions of responsibility. His death took place in 1879. Theodore D. Robb was only a lad in years when he came to Lima with his parents and the greater part of his education was secured in the Lima schools. He learned the carpenter trade in young manhood and followed it some four years and then began the study of the law under his distinguished father, and then entered the Michigan State University at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated. He entered into practice with his father at Lima, the law firm of Robb, Hughes & Robb being formed. In 1874 the retirement of Judge Robb caused the firm name to be changed to Hughes & Robb, which continued until the election of Judge Hughes to the bench. Our subject then went into partnership with the late Judge James Mackenzie, the new firm being in business under the style of Mackenzie & Robb. This partnership was continued for five years, at the end of which period Judge Mackenzie retired from the practice of the law. Mr. Robb practiced alone for one year and then became senior member of the firm of Robb & Leete, which continued until his election to the probate bench, in 1894, on the Democratic ticket. During the six years of his incumbency, Judge Robb distinguished himself as a jurist of great ability and retired with the respect and admiration of the bench and bar and the commendation of his fellow-citizens. Mr. Robb is a stanch Democrat and his party has pressed upon him offices of honor and responsibility. In 1903 he was elected mayor of Lima and again in 1905, being one of the most popular city executives Lima has ever had. He was elected in 1903 by a majority of 123 ; in the election two years later his majority was 1,031. He has served as president of the Board of Trade and is president of the South Side Building & Loan Association and of The First National Bank. Mr. Robb was married January 21, 1894, to Mary C. Owens, and they have two children, viz. : Theodore J., Jr., born June 21, 1895, and Inez A. They enjoy the comforts of a beautiful home at No. 637 West Market street. Fraternally Mr. Robb is a member of Lima Lodge, No. 205, F. & A. M. ; and Lima Lodge, No. 162, B. P. O. E. His portrait accompanies this sketch. ISAAC JONES, who resides on a well-cultivated farm in German township,. was born in 1841, in Carnovanshire, North Wales, and is a son of Isaac and Jane (Thomas) Jones. The parents of Mr. Jones were also natives of North Wales, and there the father died. The venerable mother, now almost 95 years old, continued to make her home in her native neighborhood. The two survivors of their family are : Isaac and his sister, Mary. Mary married (first) John Jones, the name being a very common one in Wales, and married (second) John Williams. They reside in. Wales. In June, 1867, Isaac Jones emigrated to America and came to Lima, Ohio. He then settled on a farm in Sugar Creek township, from which he moved in 1882 to his present farm in German township. He has always lived in Allen County since coming to this part of the United States, and is one of the intelligent, good citizens of German township, where he has lived in harmony with his neighbors. for 23 years. He is a Republican in his political convictions, and in 1904 was elected township trustee, the first one of his party ever so honored in German township. Mr. Jones was married February 27, 1871,. at Gomer, Ohio, to Mary J0nes, who is a daughter of Edward Jones, a native of Wales who upon coming to Ohio settled first in Butler County, removing to Allen County in 1861. Our subject and wife have three children, viz : Edward H., born at Gomer, July 21, 1872, who was married April 12, 1898, to Delia Wilson and is connected with the Buckeye Pipe Line Company ; Ellen, born June 19, 1874, residing at h0me ; and Lewis Thomas, born October 20, 1876. The last named resides at home engaged in farming. He was married July 27, 1904, to Lulu Patterson, a daughter of William H. Patterson, a farmer living near La Fayette. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 471 Mr. Jones is a deacon in the Welsh Congregational Church, of Gomer. In 1904 he gave himself the pleasure of a trip to his native land to visit his aged mother. It was a delightful renewing of old ties and recalling of old associations. WILLIAM McCOMB, JR., formerly mayor of the city of Lima for a period covering 10 years, and now the local representative of some of the leading insurance companies, was born in Rockland County, New York, January 29, 1851, and was one of two children born to his parents, William and Sarah (Sands) McComb. The father of Mr. McComb was born in Ireland, where he was trained to be a weaver of linen goods. In young manhood he came to the United States and at the time of the birth of our subject was a resident of Rockland County, New York. In 1862 he came to Allen County and settled at Lima, where he lived the remainder of his life, his death occurring in 1900. William McComb, Jr., was educated in the common schools and his attainment of prominent position has been the result of his own efforts. In young manhood he learned the molder's trade and worked in an iron foundry for a number of years. He had always been rather active in politics, being a young man of wide-awake intelligence, and thus he attracted the attention of Postmaster Parmenter, in 1873, and was chosen by him as his assistant. He served in this capacity until 1876, when a change in the administration caused his removal. Mr. McComb then engaged in the grocery business at Lima for several years, but subsequently returned to his trade as an iron worker. About this time he was elected as the representative of the Cincinnati Gazette at Lima, and he continued to further the interests of this jounral until 1884, when he was chosen as mayor of Lima. Although he took up the reins of office with little previous preparation in the way of public service, he pleased the people - 25 - and they re-elected him in 1886, again in 1888, in 1892 and finally in 1900, at the expiration of his last term, he retired from the municipal chair in order to give more attention to his insurance business, which he had established in 1890. This he has continued to develop until he represents many of the old, sound and reliable companies of the country among which may be mentioned : the American, of Newark, New Jersey ; Reliance, of Philadelphia ; National Union, of Pittsburg; United States Fire, of New York ; Columbia, of Dayton, Ohio ; Phoenix, of Brooklyn ; Glens Falls, of New York ; New Hampshire, of Manchester, New Hampshire; Security, of New Haven, Connecticut; Anchor, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and German, of Indianapolis, Indiana. Mr. McComb was united in marriage with Francis E. Bitner. Both he and his wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They have a pleasant home at No. 213 North Elizabeth street, while his office is at No. 202 ½ North Main street. Politically Mr. McComb is a Republican. Fraternally he is a member of the Odd Fellows. Personally Mr.. McComb is held in very high regard at Lima. During 10 very important years of the city's life he held the controlling power, and during this period many of the. city's most important improvements were made and her leading utilities furthered. While the dominating factor, he was always noted for his open mind, and between him and the other members of the city government there was accord which: resulted in general welfare for the public. JOHN ELSWORTH EVERSOLE,. a director of the Allen County Infirmary, is a resident of section 28, Jackson township, where he owns and cultivates 80 acres of land. He was born on this farm June 2, 1862, and is a son of Lemuel and Sarah (Nash) Eversole, who reside on the adjoining farm. He is the fourth: in a family of 12 children, eight of whom are-living. Mr. Eversole was brought up on the farm,. 472 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY and at the age of 18 learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until about 12 years ago, when he went to Dinwiddie County, Virginia. While there he worked at his trade the first year and spent the second in farming. He then returned to Allen County and purchased from his father the 80 acre tract upon which he now resides and which is a well-improved farm. Mr. Eversole was married in 1883 to Jennie Hefner, daughter of Jacob and Christina (Holman) Hefner, whose sketch and portraits appear elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Eversole have six children, namely : Carrie Ethel ; Mary Gertrude; Hazel Florence ; Donald Virginia ; John Wesley ; and Arvard Carl. Donald Virginia was born in the State of Virginia. Mr. Eversole is a member of the Christian Church of LaFayette ; and of Jackson Lodge, No. 846, I. O. O. F. and Lima Encampment. He is a Republican in politics. Since his election as a director of the County Infirmary, he has devoted the greater part of his time to his official duties, as he believes in doing thoroughly whatever work he undertakes. MORGAN THOMAS, president of The Lima Creamery and Cold Storage Company, has been a resident of Lima, for a period of 23 years and is one of those hustling energetic citizens who form the backbone of commerce and incite others to a spirit of progressive emulation. He was born in New York City, September 19, 1839, and was there reared and educated. For 18 years he was engaged in the shoe business in his native city, but in 1871 removed to Sidney, Ohio, where he embarked in the butter and egg business. Meeting with success there, he extended the business to Lima, to which city he moved in 1882. Here the company was M. Thomas & Son and they added dealing in poultry to their operations. The business is conducted on an extensive scale and is exclusively wholesale, with branch stores at Sidney, Bluffton, and Leipsic, Ohio. The amount of butter, eggs, dressed and live poultry that pass through their hands amounts to from $250,000 to $300,000 annually, and requires from 60 to 75 employees during the winter and from 25 to 35 in summer. Mr. Thomas is also interested in the produce business in Boston, Massachusetts, being a member of the wholesale commission house of Griffin, Thomas, Paine & Company. Morgan Thomas was a member of the New York militia during the Civil War, and was called out with his command to quell the riots in New York City, and also when Lee invaded Pennsylvania. He is a member of the G. A. R. He was a member of the School Board of Sidney during his residence there, and was in the City Council of Lima for two years. He is a deacon of the First Baptist Church. He has been twice married—first to Diana Unkenholz, who died in 1866, leaving two sons, Charles E. and Joseph M., the latter of whom is engaged in the wholesale commission business in Boston. His second union was with a sister of his first wife—Joanna Unkenholz, who died in July, 1905, leaving three children, namely : Benjamin F., president of the Lima Pork Packing Company ; Frank A., who travels for the same company ; and Elizabeth E., wife of Rev. William J. Fitzgerald, of Philadelphia. CHARLES E. THOMAS, treasurer and general manager of The Lima Creamery & Cold Storage Company is the eldest son of Morgan and Diana (Unkenholz) Thomas, and was born in the city of New York in 1863. He was a lad of eight years when his parents located in Sidney, and there he received his education, after which he entered his father's commission house as a clerk. Two or three years later he was made manager of the business, and remained in this capacity four years. When the family removed to Lima, he became bookkeeper in the business which his father had established here the year previous. In 1885 or 1886 he was again sent to Sidney to take charge of the branch office as general manager, remaining here three years, when he returned to Lima where he has since resided. In 1901 The Lima Creamery & Cold Storage Company was incorporated, with a capital stock of $60,000, and the following officers elected : President, Mor- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 473 gan Thomas ; vice-president and secretary, S. Miller ; treasurer and general manager, Charles E. Thomas. Charles E. Thomas was married in 1885 to Harriett G. Dann, daughter of Jonathan Dann, now deceased, who was for many years prominently identified with the manufacturing interests of Sidney. Their children are : Paul M., attending school at Mount Hermon, Massachusetts ; Mary D., and Lois. Mr: Thomas is a member of the First Baptist Church, of Lima, and is serving on its official board. FRANKLIN ROUSH, owner and proprietor of the "Clover Leaf Farm," which is situated in section 28, Bath township, was born in Juniata County, Pennsylvania, October 1, 1838, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Morehead) Roush. The Roush family originated in Germany. George Roush, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Union County, Pennsylvania. There his son Henry was born, December 25, 1803. He died here at the age of 78 years. During a few years of his early manhood he followed the trade of blacksmith, but the remainder of his life was spent in agricultural pursuits. He was at one time captain of a company of State militia. Politically he was a Democrat ; in religion, a Lutheran. He was a hard-working man, honest and upright, and left 100 acres of good land to his family. He married Elizabeth Morehead, who belongs to a Pennsylvania-Dutch community. She died when our subject was only four years old, the mother of these children : George, of Michigan ; John, of Lima ; Joseph, of Macon, Georgia ; Katherine (Copeland) of Lima; Wil liam, who died in Kansas ; Henry, of Iowa; Franklin, of this sketch; Philip, of Allen County ; and Jacob, of Illinois. The father married again and the children of his second union were : Theodore, of Lima ; Jane (Boose), deceased ; Emma (Roberts), of Bath township ; and Ephraim, of Bath township. Franklin Roush remained in Pennsylvania until his father moved to a farm in Bath town- ship, about 1851. Being 13 years old at that time, he was able to give considerable assistance about the farm, where he remained until he was 17 years old. He then went to Iowa where he stayed one year. At that time a large part of the .present populous State was nothing but a wilderness and where he stayed while in Iowa was so secluded that it could only be reached by ox teams. It took him a month to make the trip over the 1,000 miles of road. He worked in the wilderness for one year and then turned eastward and proceeded as far as Illinois, where he took the cars and came home. Two years he spent here and then went hack to Illinois and spent a summer, and in the following spring, when the Civil War broke out, he was one of the first in his neighborhood to offer his services to his country. Mr. Roush enlisted in April, 1861, from Greenville, Darke County, Ohio, entering Company K, 11th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., under Captain Newkirk. During his four months of service he was not out of the State, but before he was discharged he assisted in the building of Camp Dennison. He was then taken sick and for a whole year he was in poor health, or he would have immediately re-entered the army. He farmed for a time but in the spring of 1865 he again enlisted, this time in Company D, 192nd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., under Captain Lybrand, and was sent with his regiment to guard Harper's Ferry. He was mustered out on September 1, 1865. For the following 12 years Mr. Roush lived at Lima, working at first for others ; but later establishing a business of his own in the manufacture of wood stirrups and saddle trees. For three years he was in partnership with Messrs. King and Day, and the business was prosperous, furnishing employment for 29 hands, 1876 being the banner year. Subsequently Mr. Roush bought out his partners and continued the business alone for a number of years. After disposing of his interests at Lima, he removed to the homestead farm which he operated for two and a half years. In 1880 he bought his present farm of 142 ½ acres in section 28, Bath township. He named his farm "Clover Leaf" and for six years he ran the "Clover Leaf Dairy," building up a great repu- 474 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY tation for his products. His land is very valuable for all purposes. Oil has been found here, and of the 10 wells that have been sunk six are in active operation. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, but also enjoys an income from a fine stone quarry on the place and runs a crusher to prepare stone for road purposes. He is a man of a great deal of energy and understands how to turn all his advantages to excellent account. In 1862 Mr. Roush was married to Mahala Harvey, of Allen County, who is a daughter of George and Nancy Harvey, and they have a fine family of children, named as follows : Willis, living at home; John F., of California, who has one son ; Bertha Ellen, who married Charles Mumaugh, of Bath township and has six children ; Araminta, living at home; William, a traveling salesman, who has one child; Mary, living at home; Alanson George, of Cleveland ; Oliver S., of Lima, who has one child ; James Delbert, of Cleveland, who has two children ; Ina Pearl, who married Harry Lewis and has one son ; and Grace May, living at home. The last named, the 11th member. of the family, shares this distinction with both her mother and grandmother. Mr. Roush has always been a Democrat, and on numerous occasions he has been elected to office. He has been township trustee for six years and has been assessor, councilman and a school official in Lima and in Bath township. He is one of the comrades of Mart Armstrong. Post, No. 202, G. A. R., at Lima. For a number of years he has been a member of the Christian Church, of which he is one of the deacons. Mr. Roush is a man of sterling character and is truly representative of the best type of Allen County farmers and first-class citizens. PHILLIP KEIL one of the highly respected retired business men of Lima, and one of the city's capitalists, was born in Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, July 26, 1842. His parents were Sebastian and Josephine (Miller) Keil. The parents of Mr. Keil remained throughout their lives in Germany where they were re- spected residents of Hessen-Darmstadt. They had a family of 11 children, seven of whom came to America. When Phillip Keil came to the United. States in 1860, he was a well-informed, well-educated young man of 18 years, equipped with a knowledge of the cabinet-maker's trade. He followed this trade first in Marion County, Ohio. He located in Lima in 1861 and followed his trade until he retired from active work. He was a man skilled in his trade and prospered exceedingly. Wise investments brought him large returns and he became known as an extensive manufacturer and as a large property owner. He erected a number of buildings, notably a substantial business block on Main street. A large portion of his time for the past few years has been taken up with looking after his various holdings and investments. On January 30, 1866, Mr. Keil was united in marriage with Elizabeth Amelung, who was, born in Germany and is a daughter of Charles and Mary Amelung, who came to America and settled in Allen County in 1854. Mr. and Mrs. Keil have had these children : Josephine, wife of Charles Schrader, of Lima; Mary, wife of Lawrence Townsend, of Lima ; Mildred, wife of Stephen Churchill, of Lima ; Clara, wife of P. M. Magley, of Kenton, Ohio ; Elizabeth, wife of Dr. Frank Steiner, of Lima ; and a babe which died in infancy. Mr. Keil has always been considered a man of sound business judgment. He has been a good citizen and enjoys the respect and friendly regard of his neighbors and fellow-citizens. LEMUEL EVERSOLE, a prominent agriculturist of Jackson township, residing on his farm in section 28, represents the sturdy, independent spirit of our American manhood which has overcome all obstacles encountered in the highways of life and has made our people honored and respected among the nations of the world. Left an orphan in early childhood, he has worked his way, unaided, to an independent position. He is one of the large land-owners of Allen County. having 360 acres of well-im- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 477 proved land, upon which he makes his home. Mr. Eversole was. born October 30, 1829, in Perry County, Ohio, and is a son of Peter and Rebecca (Snyder) Eversole, being one of seven children that grew to adult years, viz : Eliza, Catherine, Francis, Nancy, Lemuel, Rebecca and Daniel. When our subject was a child of two years, his parents moved to Sandusky County where they died four years later, in 1835, within a month of each other. Left alone in the world; Lemuel was taken into the home of his uncle, John Eversole, of Perry County, where he remained until he was 17. Educational opportunities were meagre and consisted of a short term of schooling each winter. He was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, and for the three years thus engaged was given his clothes and $30. Within three months after his time had expired, he was on his way to California to seek his fortune in the gold fields, During the two years spent in mining and gold-washing, he did not make a fortune and decided to return to his native State. In the spring of 1852 he came to Allen County where he purchased a tract of wild land and secured work for the winter in the cabinet-shop of Musser & Winn, of Lima. For another six years he worked at his trade in the eastern part of the county, living frugally and saving his earnings so that he was able, by selling his first purchase, to buy his present property. In 1872 he built a large, substantial bank barn, and three years later his pleasant brick home, one of the most attractive in the county. He was married July 8, 1855, to Sarah Nash, who was born July 11, 1837, and was a daughter of Thomas and Rebecca (Akins) Nash, early settlers of this county. They were the parents of 12 children, viz : George W., Eliza J., wife of L. B. Harrod ; Frank J., John E., Charles A., Elva C., Daniel B., Nettie B., Lemuel N., Aura D., Ralph and a child that died in infancy. Mr. Eversole is a member of the Christian Church. He is a Republican and a veteran of the Civil War, having enlisted as a l0o day man in May, 1864, in Company A, 151st Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., under Captain King, of Delphos, with the rank of 2nd corporal. Mr. Eversole is a prominent Odd Fellow. He has served as township trustee and on the School Board and has never failed to put his shoulder to the wheel when the voice of duty called him. GEORGE HALL, D. D. S., one of Lima's leading professional men and formerly postmaster of this city for a period of nine years, whose portrait is shown on the opposite page, was born in 1842 in Iowa, and is a son of the late Harrison Hall, who was once the leading contractor in this city, dying here in 1902 at the age of 88 years. George Hall was educated at Cornell College, Mount Vernon, Iowa, and began the study of medicine and dentistry with Dr. Carhart, of that city. At the outbreak of the Civil War, although but 18 years of age and with a promising career before him in professional life, he enlisted in the three months' service but was not mustered in the United States service because the Iowa quota was filled. The Doctor then re-enlisted in the three years' service on the call for 300,000 men. Dr. Hall's entire term of service covered four years and four months, at the close of the first three years re-enlisting as a veteran. The young soldier participated in all the battles in which his command was engaged until July 22, 1864, when in front of Atlanta, he was made a prisoner of war, the entire command being captured at the same time. As a prisoner he was remanded to Andersonville where three wretched months were spent three of almost equal misery were passed at Florence, South Carolina, and one month at Charleston, where on the third attempt he accomplished his escape. This was done by jumping from a moving train near Wilmington, North Carolina. Dr. Hall had then been imprisoned just seven months to a day, and did not purpose being again subjected to the horrors from which he had escaped. Cautiously he made his way to Wilmington, then occupied by the Confederates, and fortunately found a Union family 478 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY willing to secrete him and give him necessary food and raiment. After remaining with these good Samaritans for six days, the city was taken by the Federal forces, and as soon as possible he reported to the commander, General Perry. The exposure brought on a violent illness and he was sent to the hospital at Annapolis, where he spent 2 months. His honorable discharge was received on July 21, 1865, at Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Hall then joined his parents at Lima, whither they had removed during the war, and as soon as he was fully restored to health he established a dental practice in which he has virtually been engaged since 1867, although much of his time has been occupied in the discharge of duties of a public nature. President Harrison appointed him postmaster at Lima and he served also under Presidents McKinley and Roosevelt, having always been more or less prominent in political matters in this section of the State. The affairs of his city have also claimed his interest. He has frequently been elected a member of the City Council and has been president of that body. He served two terms on the Board of Education of Lima, and among thoughtful citizens he is recognized as one of the strong men of the community. In 1875 Dr. Hall was married to E. Virginia Hackedorn, who is a daughter of George G. Hackedorn, long engaged in a banking business here. Fraternally, Dr. Hall is prominent in Masonry, belonging to the Blue Lodge, Council, Chapter and Commandery at Lima. He is also an Odd Fellow. He has been one of the moving spirits in Grand Army circles here ; has been commander of Mart Armstrong Post, No. 202, and has served as a member of the administrative committee of the Department of Ohio, G. A. R. J. R. MORRIS, who was recently elected mayor of Elida, is a member of the firm of Morris Brothers, dealers in general merchandise and in staple and fancy groceries, and was born in Elida June 17, 1875, and is a son of the late J. N. Morris. The father of Mr. Morris was born in Ross County, Ohio, a son of James Madison Morris, who served in the Mexican War with credit and was also a sergeant in the Civil War. In 1853 J. N. Morris, when four years of age, came to Allen County and for 3o years was a successful business man of Elida. He died October 18, 1904. J. R. Morris was reared and educated at Elida and taught school for six years in German and Sugar Creek townships, during the last year serving as assistant principal of he Elida schools. In June, 1904, he resigned this position in order to more closely devote his attention to his pressing business interests, having been connected for three years with the furniture house of J. W. Rowlands, of Lima. The firm of Morris Brothers is made up of J. R. and 0. B. Morris and they have the control of the largest establishment of its kind and the greatest volume of business in the town of Elida. Mr. Morris has always been a zealous Democrat and on this ticket he was elected, in November, 1905, mayor of Elida, by a majority of 58 votes. This is in the nature of a personal triumph as he is the first mayor ever elected here on a straight Democratic ticket. In 1899 Mr. Morris was married to Alma T. Curtis, who is a daughter of T. J. Curtis, formerly a soldier of the Civil War, now a farmer of German township. Mr. and Mrs. Morris belong to the United Brethren Church, in which both take an active interest, Mr. Morris being superintendent of the Sunday-school. His fraternal connection is with the Odd Fellows and the Knights of the Maccabees. WILLIAM C. AUGSBURGER, manager and half owner of the Arras Cream Separator Company, of Bluffton, was born at Bluffton, August 23, 1874, and has been a continuous resident of the town. His parents are Frederick and Sophia (Villiard) Augsburger. The father of our subject was born in Switzerland and came to Bluffton with his par- ents when a child of six years. He married in Wayne County, Ohio, and both he and his wife reside at Bluffton. Their children are : Wil- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 479 liam C., of this sketch ; Lulu, wife of Ross Bogart, of Bluffton ; Elfa, wife of Frank Moran, of Mount Cory, Ohio, and Elmer, still at school. While our subject was still a pupil at school, he assisted in his own maintenance, employing his spare time in selling newspapers. When 21 years of age, his small earnings having been saved by his careful mother, he was able to buy a lot and was prepared to build a house on it. The thrift taught him by his excellent mother has assisted greatly in his success as a business man. When 16 years old he left school and clerked in a hardware store for a year and a half at Beaver Dam and for the same period at Kenton, and then for eight years at Bluffton for John Fett. In 1901, with Mr. Fett, he entered into partnership in the manufacture of cream separators and they formed the company which does such a large business under the name of the Arras Cream Separator Company. Employment is given 15 competent persons at the factory, and it is one of the town's flourishing industries. In 1895, Mr. Augsburger was married to Belle Lewis, who was born at Bluffton, and is a daughter of W. I. and Eliza Lewis. They have four children, viz. : Hazel, Donald, Howard and Villiard. In political affiliation, Mr. Augsburger has always been a Democrat. He has taken an active part in local affairs, is a member of the Town Council and is chairman of the finance committee. Fraternally he belongs to two organizations—the Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. He is one of the leading business men of the community. JAMES M. LIPPINCOTT, a prominent farmer of Monroe township, living in section 36, was born at Rockport, Ohio, May 11, 1851. He is a son of James T. and Mary A. (Kidd) Lippincott, both deceased. His paternal grandfather, Morgan Lippincott, entered a large body of land north of Lima, where he engaged in farming. James T. Lippincott was born in Champaign County, Ohio, but came to Allen County with his parents at the age of 13 and continued to live here until his 69th year, when his spirit passed into the great beyond. He was a farmer and also shipped stock quite extensively ; and, being a money-maker, he accumulated 320 acres of land. He married Mary A. Kidd, who was born at Mansfield, Richland County, this State, and who died at the age of 71 years. Two brothers survive her—Nathaniel, who is in his 94th year and resides at Columbus Grove, and Wesley, who resides in Illinois and is a minister of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mrs. Lippincott was the mother of 12 children, six of whom have died. Those living are : Charles, of Columbus Grove ; Joseph, of Putnam County ; Rena (Marshall), of Columbus Grove; Dora (Lora), of Monroe township ; Ina (Bogardus), of Lima ; and James M. James M. Lippincott was brought up on the farm, but was given all the advantages of a good, practical education, going from the district schools to the Ohio Normal University at Ada, where he studied one year. While there he was a prime factor in organizing the Philo Literary Society, of which he was a charter member. After leaving college, he taught school one term, and during the '70's began the manufacture of tile, his factory being the first in the vicinity and one of the first in the county. In 1873 he purchased his present farm, upon which he has erected substantial buildings and made many improvements. The 80 acres upon which he lives is located in section 36, Monroe township, while 40 acres lie in section 31, and 60 acres in section 34, Richland township. This farm is one of those historic spots which abound in Ohio, the spring from which Crawford took his last drink before he was carried away prisoner by the Indians being located here. This was also the camping ground of the Indians, some of whom are buried beneath the sod on this farm ; many interesting relics have been found by Mr. Lippincott. On February 6, 1873, Mr. Lippincott was married to Mary. E. Stewart, who was born in Monroe township, Allen County, Ohio, November 2, 1853. and is a daughter of Alexander and Sarah Jane (Rockhill) Stewart. Her father was born July 26, 1818, in Highland 480 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY County, Ohio, and the mother was a native of New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs. Lippincott are the parents of two children, Otis T. and Eugene T., both of whom give promise of a brilliant future. The elder son, Otis, was graduated from the law school of the Ohio Normal University at Ada and is now practicing his profession at Lima, where he is associated with Mr. Sprague under the firm name of Sprague & Lippincott. Eugene, the younger son, was graduated from the Ohio Normal University at Ada and the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, after which he attended the Western Reserve Law School at Cleveland for one year and .then matriculated at the University of Chicago, where he is preparing for admission to the legal profession. Mr. Lippincott has been a member of the Prohibition party since its inception in 1876, and has takes an active part in its advancement. Besides being chairman of the executive committee of Allen County and attending many of the conventions as a delegate, he has allowed his name to be used as candidate for several county offices, for the Legislature and for probate judge. He is a member of the Beaver Dam Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is a steward and has been a trustee for 30 years. He is the efficient superintendent of the Sunday-school, which position he has held for a number of years. ALBERT HEFNER, who recently completed a term of three years on the Board of County Commissioners, a portion of this period serving as president of the board, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, October 23, 1839, and is a son of David and Frances (Frederick) Hefner. The parents of Mr. Hefner were natives of Pennsylvania. In 1840 they came to Allen County. Ohio, where the father engaged in agricultural pursuits until the close of his life. He reared a family of eight children, all of whom are well settled in life. Albert Hefner was reared a farmer boy and was educated in the public schools of Bath township. His life has been mainly spent as a farmer and stock-raiser and he still owns a fine estate, although his official duties prevent his close supervision of its operation. He has always been one of the county's intelligent, public-spirited men and for many years has been a force in politics. As a leading Democrat he has filled a number of local offices and in 1901 was elected a member of the Board of County Commissioners and was honored by being chosen as president of that important body. His term expired in September, 1905. His services on the board were eminently satisfactory to the public. Mr. Hefner was married October 20, 1893, to Emma B. Ziler, a daughter of John Ziler, a well-known citizen of Allen County, and they have three children—Ruth, Esther and James E. The family belong to the Christian Church. FREDERICK G. STUEBER, M. D., oculist and aurist, at Lima, is a native of Germany, a country which has contributed largely to the ranks of scientists in the United States, and par ticularly to the medical profession. He was born May 18, 1860, being one of the two sons born to his parents, Andrew J. and Catherine (Marx) Stueber. His only brother, Louis J. Stueber, also an eminent physician of Lima, died December 8, 1904. Frederick G. Stueber was seven years old when he came to America and he was reared and mainly educated in American institutions. His home has been at Lima since 1867. After preliminary preparation he entered Rush Medical College, Chicago, where he was graduated in 1882. Subsequently he took post-graduate courses in Chicago and New York and in various cities of Germany, spending a year in his native land. Dr. Stueber is a man of high attainments in his profession and keeps thoroughly informed through attendance on the sessions of the various leading medical societies, having membership in Allen County Medical Society, the Ohio State Medical Society, the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association, the American Medical Association and the American Ophtholmic-Oto-Laryngological So- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 483 ciety, meeting and exchanging views and experiences with the most notable men of medical science in the country. Dr. Stueber was united in marriage with Emma Moser, a sketch of whose father will be found in this volume. Dr. and Mrs. Stueber have two children, namely : Paul, who is taking a collegiate course at Oberlin College ; and Ruth, who is attending the Lima High School. They have a beautiful home at No. 502 West North street and Dr. Stueber has well-appointed offices in the Metropolitan Block. He limits his practice to diseases of the eye and ear. Politically he is identified with the Republican party. Fraternally he is a Knight of Pythias. He and his family belong to the German Reformed Church, of Lima. EBENEZER B. GOBLE, one of the representative farmers and valued citizens of Richland township, who resides on his well improved farm of 80 acres in section 27, belongs to one of the fine old pioneer families of this township. He was born within one mile of his present home on the 29th of November, 1848,. and is a son of George W. and Jane ( Allison) Goble. George Washington Goble, father of our subject, was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, March 20, 1819, and is a son of Daniel L. and Elizabeth (Dilly) Goble, the third of their family of seven children. George W. was 14 years of age when he accompanied his parents overland to Allen County, his new home being in the vicinity of Bluffton. In his early manhood he taught school for some winters. but devoted the greater part of his time to practical farming. On September 16, 1841, he married Margaret Fenton, who died shortly after, and on June 16, 1845, he was united to Laura Ackley. She also lived but a short time and on March 26, 1848, Mr. Goble married, as his third wife, Jane Allison. The children of this marriage were : Ebenezer B. ; Allen B., deceased, at the age of 41 years ; Mrs. Martha Jane Yerger, of Bluffton; and Charles, of Richland township. After his marriage, George W. Goble settled on a farm of 160 acres, which was a gift from his father, and to this he subsequently added two tracts of 80 acres each. He cleared and developed the greater portion of the property, of which he has retained 75 acres, his children enjoying the remainder. He has many old papers and records, not only of this neighborhood, but some that have descended from his grandfather, Ebenezer Goble ; the latter was born in New Jersey, of French parents, who spelled the family name Goblee. George W. Goble has lived on his farm in Richland township for the past 64 years, and is one of its most venerable citizens. Ebenezer B. Goble has spent the years of a useful and busy life almost entirely in Richland township. He remained on the paternal homestead until his 30th year, and then settled on his present farm, which was given him by his father. He has cleared 32 acres and has made many valuable and substantial improvements thereon. In 1881 he erected his comfortable and convenient family home, and in 1886 completed the large barn and other buildings. He conducts general farming, but within the past three years his property has greatly advanced in value, on account of the discovery of oil, eight wells having been developed within this period. Mr. Goble was married August 21, 1879, to Christianna Rummell, who was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, August 1, 1849, and is a daughter of Francis and Mary (Hall) Rummell, the former a native of Ohio, and the latter of New Jersey. Two children were born to our subject and wife, viz : Earl, who died in infancy ; and Mary Blanche, who is the wife of J. A. Badertscher, of Athens, Ohio. The father of Mr. Goble has been a stanch Democrat since 1840, but our subject affiliates with no party, voting independently and consenting to fill only school offices in his township. He belongs to the lodge of Odd Fellows at Beaver Dam. For many years he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His portrait is shown on a preceding page. 484 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY ORRIE HERRINGTON, residing on the old family homestead in section 5, Shawnee township, is extensively engaged in dairying, conducting the "Model Dairy" in partnership with his brother Reuben, under the firm name of Herrington Brothers. He embarked in this business some five years ago and has two milk routes in Lima. He keeps from 12 to 20 milch cows on the farm, and in addition buys milk to supply his trade. The Herrington farm, pleasantly located on the Spencerville road, about five miles from Lima, is one of the best in its section of the county. A handsome two-story residence has been erected in recent years, which in arrangement, construction and finish compares favorably with modern city homes: It is finished in hard wood throughout, the parlor and lower hall being in quarter-sawed oak. Mr. Herrington was born in Allen County, and is a son of James Horace and Catherine (Andrews) Herrington, and a grandson of Reuben Herrington, who was a native of Pennsylvania. James H. Herrington was born in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, October 22, 1851, and was three years old when his mother died, being thereafter reared by his maternal grandfather, Abel Davis. He was seven years old when brought to Allen County, his grandparents locating in South Lima. They subsequently located in Bath township, where he lived until he reached the age of 19. He then went to Altoona, Pennsylvania, and served an apprenticeship at the painter's trade. Returning to Lima, he followed his trade four or five years. He then engaged in farming at Allentown for some time and from there moved to the Kessler farm. In 1888, he located upon his present property. In 1876 James H. Herrington was married to Catherine Andrews who was born in Allen County, Ohio, and is a daughter of Isaac and Mary (Ireland) Andrews. Her father was born in Ross county, Ohio, April 6, 1830, and was 10 years old when he accompanied his father, Thomas Andrews, to Allen County, the latter dying on the old Andrews farm in Shawnee township. Isaac Andrews also farmed on this place until his death July 5, 1886, which resulted from injuries sustained in a run-away. He married Mary Ireland, who was born in Ohio and came to Allen County with her father Charles Ireland, when about four years old. They had two children : Charles T. who now lives on the old Andrews homestead ; and Catherine, mother of our subject. To Mr. and Mrs. Herrington were born the following children : Orrie ; Clara, who died in December, 1903 ; Reuben, in partnership with our. subject and living in Lima, who married Pansy Owen, of Urbana, Ohio ; Laura, living at home, who was graduated from the Lima High School in 1903 ; Hugh, who lives in Lima ; Homer, who lives on the home place; and Irma, who lives at home and attends school. Religiously, the family are Methodists. MILTON C. CRAIG, deceased, was a resident of Ohio from 1856 until his death, which took place April 2, 1902. He was closely identified with railroad construction in the early days and later was a well-known and successful business man of Lima. Mr. Craig was born at Beaver, Beaver County, Pennsylvania, February 20, 1821, and was a son of Samuel and Elizabeth Craig. The parents of Mr. Craig were natives of Pennsylvania. They reared six children, and when the Civil War broke out gave three sons to the support of the Union cause. These have long since passed away, although they survived the dangers of the battle-field. Prior to coming to Ohio, Mr. Craig had attended school in his native State, had carried on farming and milling and had married and become a man of family. When he came to this locality, the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railway was in course of construction and he helped to lay the rails on this great transportation line and then entered the employ of the Dayton & Michigan Railroad Company, with which he was connected for 18 years. In 1881 he came to Lima, established his AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 485 permanent home here and later opened up a feed mill on East Market street, with which he continued to be connected during the remainder of his active life. He was a man of business stability and of personal integrity. In 1898 Mr. Craig married Mrs. Elizabeth Chew, who was born in Ohio and who still survives, residing in a very pleasant and comfortable home at No. 402 McPheron street, Lima. Mr. Craig by-his first marriage had six children—Samuel, Sarah and Grace still survive and Harvey, William and Ellen are deceased. Mrs. Craig had two children by her union with Archibald Chew—of whom Irvin Chew, D. D. S., survives and resides in Toledo, Ohio. Laura married Edison Kuenzli and at her death left four children. WILLIAM M. FLETCHER, M. D., prominent physician and business man of Lima, of two decades ago, whose promising career was cut short at the early age of 34 years, was born in 1854 in Dalton, Wayne County, Ohio, and is a son of William and Ann Eliza (Moffitt) Fletcher. The late Dr. Fletcher was of Irish ancestry, both of his parents having been born in Ireland. The family was founded in Ohio by his grandfather, who came from Ireland at an early day and settled in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1833, where he reared a large family. Dr. Fletcher was one in a family of eight children born to his parents, namely : Belle, Ella, Frances, Wesley, William M., Charles, John and Emma. Dr. Fletcher obtained his literary education in the local schools and very early in life decided to study medicine. Much of his earlier reading was clone without special direction but it was no less thorough, and he prepared for and later took a course of lectures at the P. M. Medical Institute at Cincinnati. He began his practice among his old friends at Dalton, but two years later removed to Auglaize County, Ohio, and there engaged in practice for almost five years. In the fall of 1884 Dr. Fletcher came to South Lima and opened a first-class drugstore, giving it the name of the "South Lima Drug Store." This he continued to conduct in association with his practice until his death, which took place July 22, 1888. Few men were better known in his section of the city. He did much in the way of charity and at all times was a liberal supporter of movements for the general welfare. Dr. Fletcher married Pauline A. Herring, a daughter of William M. Herring. She survives him, together with two children : Carl J., of Lima, who married Borghild Zetlitz, November 15, 1905, and Bernice A., who lives with her mother in the pleasant family home at No. 719 South Elizabeth street. CHRISTIAN U. AMSTUTZ, a well-known farmer of Allen County, and owner of 200 acres of land in section 3, Richland township, is a Frenchman by birth and an American by adoption. He was born August 28, 1829, and was five years of age when his parents, Ulrich and Barbara (Clay) Amstutz, came to this country. The father was a native of France and was twice married in that country. By the first union there were three children, one of whom died and the other two came with him to America ; these were Mary and Anna Amstutz. His second wife was Barbara Clay, a native of Switzerland, by whom he had two children, Christian U. and John U., who resides in Richland township. The family landed in New York in 1834 and soon after settled in Ohio, locating in Wayne County in 1837. Later they moved to Allen County where they spent the remainder of their lives, the father dying at the age of 77 and the mother at the more advanced age of 95 years. In 1854 Christian U. Amstutz moved to his present homestead, which at that time consisted of 80 acres of woodland, and built a rude log cabin as a home for himself and bride. He lost no time in clearing and getting his land under cultivation, and has added to the original purchase until he now owns 200 acres, 80 of which are in section 16. In 1866 he built his present commodious residence and the other 486 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY improvements he has effected make it in every way a desirable home. Grain is his principal crop. Mr. Amstutz was married in 1854 to Fannie Neuenschwander, a native of Wayne County and a daughter of Ulrich and Elizabeth ( Basinger) Neuenschwander, both of whom were natives of Germany. The following children were born to this union, viz. : Eli, who died in infancy ; David, who resides in section 16, Richland township ; Samuel, a widower, who with his daughter Paulina, lives with his father—his other child is dead ; Christian D., who resides in Bluffton ; Barbara, who lives at home ; Adam, also living at home ; Ulrich, who lives at home and is a teacher of vocal music ; and Ephraim, who lives on an adjoining farm. Mrs. Amstutz, who died December 16, 1895, at the age of 66 years, 8 months and 11 days, was a woman of noble qualities and had scores of friends. Mr. Amstutz is a Democrat and has served as trustee of the township one term and as a member of the School Board for 12 years. He is a member of the Mennonite Church and for 28 years has been janitor of Ebenezer Mennonite Church, which he assisted in building. EVAN L. THOMAS, cashier and general manager of Branch "A" of The Lima Trust Company, was born in Jay County, Indiana, in 1855, and is a son of Andrew J. Thomas, who was born in West Virginia in 1816. Andrew J. Thomas went to Indiana when 16 years old and engaged in farming until his death in 1892, at the age of 76 years. He was the youngest of a family of 13 children, whose average age at death was 77 years. Evan L. Thomas received all the advantages of a superior education, attending Farmer's Academy in Jay County, then the Whitewater Academy, and finishing at the Indiana State Normal School at Terre Haute. In 1872 he engaged in teaching school, and, with an exception of two years, was thus employed for 25 consecutive years. He rapidly advanced in his profession, being superintendent of the schools at Sevastopol and West Richmond, and later accepting a like position in the New Paris schools, Preble County, Ohio, where he remained seven years. He was recognized as one of the foremost educators of the State and was for years a member of the Preble County Board of School Examiners, being president of that body when he removed from the county. Having accepted a lucrative position with the O'Connor insurance agency, Mr. Thomas came to Lima in 1897 and acted as its representative until December 31, 1904, when this relation was dissolved and the next day he assumed his duties as cashier and general manager of Branch "A" of The Lima Trust Company. This is one of the strongest and most substantial banking institutions in Allen County, and the choice of the directors for the important office of manager of the branch was a most suitable one, as Mr. Thomas is abundantly qualified for the position. Mr. Thomas was married October 13, 1887, to Lillie D. McPherson, daughter of George McPherson, a retired citizen of Preble County. They have two children—Earl W. and Minor M. Mr. Thomas is master of Lima Lodge, No. 205, F. & A. M. ; high priest of Lima Chapter, No. 49, R. A. M. ; and acting recorder of Shawnee Commandery, No. 14, K. T. of Lima ; also a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows. WILLIAM J. WEMMER, vice-president of The Deisel-Wemmer Company, one of the largest cigar manufacturing concerns in the country and one of the most important industries of Lima, is a native of Germany, where he was born September 10, 1862. Mr. Wemmer attended school in his native land and developed into early manhood at home, being one of a large family. When 19 years of age, he decided to emigrate to America in search of better industrial conditions than prevailed in his own section of Germany. After reaching the United States he lived for eight months in the city of New York, and then removed to Delaware, Ohio. There he was engaged in a cigar business for nearly five years, which he continued later at Toledo, coming to AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 487 Lima, in 1890. He first entered the employ of Henry Deisel and later formed a business association with the latter and, after the incorporation of the business in 1902, became vice-president of The Deisel-Wemmer Company. This important office he has since filled. The unusual expansion of the business made necessary the recently completed additions to their former large factory, which make it one of the prominent landmarks of this manufacturing city. Mr. Wemmer, with Mr. Deisel and his brother, Henry G. Wemmer, deserve the high esteem in which they are held, for by their energy and enterprise they have developed a business, within the short space of 14 years, which overshadows almost every one of its kind in the country. In addition to his extensive interests here, Mr. Wemmer is connected with other successful Lima enterprises, and is also one of the city's public-spirited, broad-minded and liberal citizens. Mr. Wemmer was married January 2, 1884, to Helen Rickert, who was also born in Germany and came to America in girlhood. They have three children—Pauline, Helen and William Henry. The family is connected with the German Reformed Church, in which Mr. Wemmer is a trustee. Individually Mr. Wemmer has always been noted for his persistency, his energy and carefulness. He has many personal, as well as business, friends, and he is fraternally associated with the Elks, the Red Men, the Odd Fellows and the Traveling Men's Protective Association.   EDWARD J. MAIRE, who is prominent in the business life of Lima, is a member of the firm of Maire Brothers, extensively engaged in the production of oil. He is a son of Louis Maire, deceased, a native of France, who came to this country and settled in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, where Edward J. Maire was born and educated. His first business venture was as a merchant in Bolivar, New York, but so much money was being made in the oil industry all around him that he finally embarked in that line. putting his money in the Allegany (New York) oil field from which he received handsome returns. Encouraged by this success, he extended his operations to the oil fields of Indiana, Ohio, Kansas, Indian Territory, and in fact to these of almost every State in the Union in which oil was known to exist, devoting his. entire time and capital to his enterprises, with the most satisfactory results. It has been some eight years since Maire Brothers came to Lima and established an office, which now transacts a large volume of business. Their well-appointed headquarters are now in the Opera House Block, of which building they became the proprietors in November, 1905. Mr. Maire has identified himself closely with the municipal interests, and is one of Lima's most public spirited citizens. He is a director of The Lima Trust Company and a solid, reliable business man. He is also a prominent Mason, being a member of the Knights Templar. HENRY DEISEL, president of The Deisel-Wemmer Company, cigar manufacturers, at Lima, and one of the city's leading business men, was born in Germany, in 1862, and is a son of Edward Deisel who spent his whole life in his native land. Henry Deisel was 19 years of age when he came to America. He had received a good education and been instructed in the cigarmaking cra ft and soon after locating at Lima, in 1881, he found employment at his trade with Henry Sontag, a pioneer in that business here. He remained with Mr. Sontag for two years, and then was employed for a year by another firm, but by 1884 he was prepared to embark in business for himself. He continued an individual business until 1891 when, in association with his friends, Henry G. and William J. Wemmer, also practical cigarmakers, he formed a partnership which continued as Deisel & Wemmer until 1902, when the expansion of a great business made incorporation advisable. Through the energy and enterprise of Mr. Deisel and the Wemmer brothers, the establishment has become one of the largest cigar manufacturing houses in all this section. The present officers 488 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY of the corporation known as The Deisel-Wemmer Company are : Henry Deisel, president; William J. Wemmer, vice-president ; Henry G. Wemmer, general manager and Robert J. Plate, secretary and treasurer. In 1884 Mr. Deisel was married to Emma Wolf, who was born in Germany and is a daughter of J. B. Wolf. They have five children. Mr. Deisel and his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. He is a talented musician and is the director of the church choir. Mr. Deisel's fraternal connections are with the Old Fellows, the Elks, the United Commercial Travelers, and the Traveling Men's Protective Association. In addition to directing the policy of the immense business which he assisted in founding, Mr. Deisel is interested in a number of other successful enterprises. As a business man, Mr. Deisel stands deservedly high, and his career has been an almost unbroken line of successes. In the face of fierce competition, he has guided his great enterprise through every crisis, has outdistanced other firms and has established one of the important industries of this section, which is a credit to himself and a pride to the community. H. B. CORE, who formerly conducted a first-class livery establishment at Lima, is an old and valued citizen and is also a survivor of the Civil War in which he bore an honorable part for three years. He was born at Erie, Pennsylvania, in June, 1847. Mr. Core was three years old when his parents moved to Trumbull County, Ohio, and but a few years older when they removed to Morrow County. There he was reared to young manhood and was educated in the local schools. On the outbreak of the Civil War he was one of the first in his locality to indicate his willingness to take up arms for his country, enlisting in April, 1861, in Company A, 27th Reg., Indiana 'Vol. Inf., being mustered into the service at Indianapolis. He accompanied his regiment to Washington and during the winter of 1861-62 it was quartered at Fredericksburg, Maryland. In the spring it took an active part in the campaign in the Shenandoah Valley, and during his service there he was captured by the enemy at Antietam. Later he was paroled at Annapolis, Maryland, joined the Army of the West and at the close of his term of enlistment was mustered out at Annapolis. Mr. Core returned to Ohio and engaged in business at Columbus until he came to Lima, where he was the pioneer in the secondhand goods business, conducting a store for four years. From that he embarked in the livery business in which he continued until the fall of 1905. In 1869 Mr. Core was married to Martha Simpson and they have three children, viz. : William E., who is employed by a wholesale grocery firm, of Chicago ; Martha, who is the wife of George Strang, an electrician with the Automatic Telephone Company ; and Stella, who married Elmer Collier and resides at No. 522 West ,High Street. Mrs. Core is a member of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, of Lima. D. N. GENGLER, justice of the peace at Landeck, and the owner of a fine farm of 320 acres of well-improved land in sections 2, 0 and 11, Marion township, and 40 additional acres in the adjoining township, and joint proprietor of the Landeck Tile Factory, was born in Germany, December 24, 1842, and is a son of Peter and Mary (Bonifas) Gengler. Peter Gengler; emigrated to America in 1845 with his wife and our subject, Dominick, the eldest of the family of six children, the other survivors of which are : Louis, who is a notary public in Indiana; Felix, who resides near Coldwater ; and Thomas, who is a farmer in Putnam County. Peter Gengler came to Ohio and located on a small tract of 50 acres, then in the woods of Seneca County, where he lived for 17 years. having with the help of his children, cleared and developed it into a fine farm. In 1863, after disposing of it to advantage, he came to AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 491 Allen County and purchased 160 acres of land south of the village of Landeck, in Marion township, and this land he improved and lived upon until his death on January 31, 1894, aged 78 years. He was one of the liberal contributors to the building of the beautiful edifice of St. John the Baptist Church, at Landeck, and for a number of years was a member of its board of trustees. Dominic N. Gengler attended the public schools in Seneca County, and under his father's direction grew into a capable, practical farmer. After his marriage he settled on a part of his present farm, consisting then of 80 acres. He now owns 360 acres of fine land, 40 of which were willed to him and the remainder has come into his possession by purchase. When Mr. Gengler settled here, the surrounding timber was full of game. He built a log house for immediate occupancy, drained and cleared his farm and gradually brought it to its present state of rich cultivation. In 1890 he erected his beautiful brick residence, one which arouses general admiration from the passing stranger and which is a model of comfort and conveni ence for its inmates. It is beautifully situated south of the main road, and is enclosed with a neat, ornamental iron fence. In the charming arrangement of flowers and shrubbery, the good taste of both Mr. and Mrs. Gengler is shown. It is one of the most beautifully attractive homes in this section of Allen County. Mr. Gengler has important interests in the Landeck Tile Factory which he opened on his farm in 1880. Here tiles are manufactured ranging in size from 3 to 12 inches. On November 29, 1870, Mr. Gengler was married to Mary Ardner, who is a daughter of Nicholas and Susan ( Adantz ) Ardner, the former of whom was born in Germany, May 5, 1822. Mr. Ardner came to America in 1846 and located at Tiffin, Ohio, where he was married in 1863. He came then to Allen County and settled on a farm of 80 acres, situated three miles southeast of Landeck, which he has increased to 200 acres. Here he remained until 1884 when he removed to a 10-acre farm near Landeck, in order to enjoy church privileges, being a devout member of the Church of St. John the Baptist. He owns other tracts of land which have been developed out of the wilderness of Allen County. Mr. and Mrs. Gengler have five children : Nicholas, residing in section 10, where his father has built a nice home, who married Helena Roerig and has two children—Raymond and Rosala ; John, residing in section 2, also owning a comfortable home, who married Clara Roerig, a cousin of Mrs. Nicholas Gengler, and has two children—Loretta and Sylvester ; Margaret, who married Louis Karst, resides in a nice home in section 10 and has one son—Albert ; Thomas, who is unmarried and remains at home managing the farms and the tile works ; and Susan, who married C. H. Falter, of Seneca County, Ohio, and has three children—Armilla, Alwisa and John. In politics Mr. Gengler is a Democrat. He has served on the School Board and is an ardent friend of the public schools. He has done his full share in the material development of his section of the county. In his earlier years he worked many a day on the roads of Marion township, giving his time to advance the general welfare. Since 1880 he has been a justice of the peace, and it has always been his endeavor in his official position to serve as far as possible as a peacemaker while administering the law. He is a Catholic and is one of the leading members of the Church of St. John the Baptist and, like his father before him, is a member of the church choir. FRANCIS ASHTON, a retired business man of Lima whose portrait accompanies this sketch, was for many years largely interested in the grocery and lumber industries of this city. He is a son of Francis and Elizabeth (Mackinder) Ashton, and was born March 9, 1831, in Lincolnshire, England. Mr. Ashton came to America in early boyhood and received his education in the State of Ohio. His first business venture was at Kenton, Ohio, where he and his brother, William Ashton, engaged in the hardware line. This was continued until 1854, when he came to Lima and opened a hardware store, which he conducted alone for about 15 years. Soon 492 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY after retiring from this work, Mr. Ashton became interested in the grocery business, his partner being John Wheeler. The firm of Wheeler & Ashton was continued five years, when Mr. Wheeler retired and his place was taken by Henry Ashton, another brother of our subject. F. & H. Ashton conducted the business very successfully until 1880, when Francis Ashton became associated with Thomas R. Dobbins and opened a lumber-yard on South Main street. Here they soon worked up a prosperous trade, which was continued until Mr. Ashton's retirement from business in the latter part of the '80's. Mr. Ashton was married in 1856 to Mary Lantz and the following children have blessed their union : Elizabeth, wife of Charles Dunan, of San Francisco, California ; Annie, wife of R. M. Hughes, with the MacDonald Jewelry Company of Lima ; John R., of Lima ; Hattie B., wife of Frederick J. DeGrief, of Lima ; and F. L., a prosperous hardware merchant of Celina, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Ashton attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Ashton has been prominent in Odd Fellow and Masonic circles for many years. He was treasurer of Allen Lodge, No. 223, I. 0. 0. F., for 25 years and for several years held the same office in the Shawnee Commandery, No. 14, K. T. He was also for many years treasurer of Lima Council, No. 20, R. & S. M. He is one of the city's representative men, and has contributed largely to the prosperity and advancement which have attended the community in which he still takes a lively and substantial interest. W. H. GLOVER, wholesale and retail dealer in millinery, of Lima, is a Canadian by birth, having first seen the light of day in that country in 1844. Mr. Glover was raised on a farm, and since early manhood has been engaged in mercantile business, first as a clerk in a dry goods store, later in a general merchandise store, and finally in a store of his own in Lima. Mr. Glover had traveled on the road for 25 years when he came to this city in 1889, and in partnership with A. A. Winters opened a millinery store under the firm name of Glover & Winters. The business was a success from the start, and the volume of trade has extended until it has become one of the most extensive enterprises in Lima. In 1894 Mr. Glover purchased his partner's interest and has since then been sole owner. The business is both wholesale and retail, the former covering an extensive territory. Mr. Glover is interested in a number of enterprises in Ohio, including properties in Tiffin and Van Wert. He has paid up stock in the German American Oil Company to the value of $6,000 and is owner of a thriving fertilizing plant at Muncie, Indiana. He has added materially in the development of Lima. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Glover has been too much occupied with his business to dabble in politics. He was married in 1876 to Currence Winters. GEORGE D. KANAWL, formerly a member of the Board of County Commissioners of Allen County, and now a retired resident of Lima, has been more or less actively identified with this city's interests for almost 30 years. He was born in 1849 in Juniata County, Pennsylvania, and there obtained the greater part of his education. In 1866 Mr. Kanawl came to Allen County, and after working on a farm for three years :went into contracting and bridge-building. He was so employed in Allen County, for 25 years, and during that period he put in the foundations of almost all of the important business blocks on Main street, Lima, and built the foundation for the Solar Refinery. His careful and lasting work is seen in many of the finest residences all over the city. He did a large business all over the county in building bridge abutments and in bridge-work generally. He was well and favorably known in almost every branch of the building trade. For many years Mr. Kanawl has been connected with politics and public affairs in Allen County. Prior to his first election as county commissioner in 1897, he had been an official AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 493 in Bath township and had served as supervisor, trustee and justice of the peace in German township. After serving most efficiently as a member of the Board of County Commissioners for three years, he was reelected in 1900 and served three years more. For the past three years he has lived without business care or official responsibility, on account of failing health, and has taken this opportunity to travel over a large part of the United States. He spent last winter in the genial climate of Southern California and Mexico. At every point he has made new acquaintances and left friends behind. Mr. Kanawl has been thrice married. His first. wife was Adeline Ransbottom, a member of one of the pioneer families of Allen County, and they had two children—Charles and Fannie. The former is a commercial traveler and the latter is the wife of George Deimer, of Lima,. who is foreman for The Lima Telephone & Telegraph Company.' Mr. Kanawl married (second) Mary I. Murray, who was a daughter of John Murray, of German township, a member of one of the county's influential families. His third marriage took .place September 6, 1905, to Mrs. Tina (Moore) Crossley, who was the widow of Elmer Crossley. Mr. Kanawl is a member of the Epworth Methodist Episcopal Church which he assisted very materially while it was in course of Construction. Fraternally he belongs to the Odd Fellows and the Elks. B. F. WILLIAMS, an extensive oil producer, stands among the leading business men of Lima. He was born in Erie County, New York, in 1849, and is a son of the late J. W. Williams, a millwright by trade and a resident of New York. B. F. Williams was reared and educated in Erie County, and as early as 1868 became interested in the Pennsylvania oil field, being a producer at Shamburg and Pleasantville until 1877, when he entered the Bradford field, where he operated until he came to Lima in 1898. His present interests are located in the Ohio, Indiana and Kansas fields, being a mem- - 28 - ber of the firm of The Roth-Argue, Maire Brothers Oil Company, one of the most important independent companies now operating, having 16 wells in .the Bartlesville (Indian Territory) field. This company has just shot a new well, which promises great results, as it already produces Boo barrels of oil daily. On. October 8, 1904, the company drilled well No. 4, which proved a natural well, flowing 800 barrels of oil, and that the same conditions attend their latest boring speaks well for the value of the field. In addition to these large interests, Mr. Williams is a stockholder in other enter.: prises, one of them being The Lima Trust Company. In 1875 Mr. Williams was married to Ida J. Allport, who was born in Canada and died April 1, 1891, leaving four children, viz. Harry, who is the manager of a wood-fiber company at Birmingham, Alabama ; Maud E. ; Silas, who is a student at Orchard Lake, Michigan ; and Helen. The religious connection of the family is with the Baptist Church. Mr. Williams is a good citizen, but not an active politician. He is a member of the Elks. DANIEL LORY resides on his farm of 80 acres in section 34, Richland township, which he purchased about 35 years ago, soon after coming to Allen County. He grew to manhood on the farm upon which he was born May 26, 1847, near La Chaux de Fonds, in Canton Neuchatel, Switzerland. This property had been in the Lory family for more than 15o years, and was the home of his parents, Henry Louis and Marion (Herschey) Lory during their lifetime. Our subject was one of. 12 children, three of whom died in childhood. Three of his brothers, —Louis, Frederick and Ulysses—came to this. country and settled ; Louis in Illinois and. Frederick in New York. Ulysses returned to Switzerland and died there. Daniel Lory came to America alone at the age of 18, and after spending one year on a farm in Wayne County, Ohio, came to Allen County and hired out by the year as a farm hand for three years. He purchased 4o acres of land in section 34, Richland township and 494 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY was afterwards able to secure an adjoining 40, which he has in an excellent state of cultivation. He has erected substantial buildings on his property and is one of the progressive farmers of the county. A man of comprehensive knowledge and a deep thinker, he brings to his work an intelligent understanding that ;places him among the foremost agriculturists of his section and a leader in whatever he undertakes. Mr. Lory has had the advantage of a good education and is a fluent speaker in German, French and English, which he writes with equal facility. The German language was taught in the home, the French was acquired in schools in his native land, while the English was picked up after coming to this country. Mr. Lory was married in 1867, soon after coming here, to Katherine Basinger who was born in Richland township, Allen County, Ohio, December 26, 1843, and is a daughter of Simon and Barbara (Steiner) Basinger. Her parents were among the first settlers of Allen County, coming here from Alsace, France, the place of their nativity. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lory, four of whom died in infancy. The others are : Ferdinand, a resident of Bluffton ; Louis, living at home ; Emanuel, who lives in Lima ; Marianne, who died at the age of 20 years ; Ida, living at home ; and Daniel, who also lives at home. They are members of the German Reformed Church, of Bluffton, of which our subject was one of the first elders, serving in that capacity for a number of years. He has always been a prominent citizen and has served as trustee of the township for six years and as supervisor for eight years, having been elected on the Democratic ticket. FRANK W. HOLMES, one of Lima's prominent citizens, president of the Fidelity Coal & Supply Company, and identified for years with the oil and other industries of this section, was born in Lima, March 18, 1858, and is a son of Branson P. and Jane W. Holmes. The Holmes family is one of the oldest in the county. For ever 33 years Branson P. Holmes, father of Frank W., was a success ful merchant at Lima, and was an acknowledged founder of the city's prosperity. He died in 1870, a man generally esteemed and beloved. The aged mother still survives him, and is an honored member of the family of her son Frank. The death of the father of Frank W. Holmes, when the latter was only 12 years old, placed heavy responsibilities on the lad as the eldest son ; but he was equal to the task and zealously assisted his widowed mother in her struggles to provide for the support and education of the family. Much space might be devoted to narrating the various ways in which the youth concienciously tried to take his father's place in the family, often willingly sacrificing his own ambitions and comfort. Thus he was able to keep intact the estate left by his father, which increased so much in value in later years. Under many discouragements he also continued his studies, and in 1876 graduated in a class of 15 from the Lima High School. If conditions had been different, he would have taken a college course, but as that was impossible at the time he turned to the business field, accepting at first a position in the bank of a neighboring town. Here his only compensation was his board, but he remained nearly a year in order to increase his knowledge, and gain an insight into financial methods. He then returned to Lima and secured a position as clerk in the Lima Postoffice, at a salary of $20 per month, serving in that capacity for two years. Mr. Holmes' first entrance into the oil business, with which he subsequently became so closely identified, was in the capacity of bookkeeper for W. L. Porter, at a yearly salary of $600, which then seemed to the young man almost a fortune. His business relations with Mr. Porter were of the most satisfactory nature, the most cordial personal feelings being mutually entertained by both throughout Mr. Porter's life. Mr. Holmes held the position until 1881, when, on account of close application to his duties, his health became impaired and his physician recommended a change of climate. He then visited the West and engaged in mining for a short time in Colorado. His health became restored, but he did not advance financially, and he returned to Lima no richer in pocket, but AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 495 better prepared to stand the stress of business life. In 1882, soon after his return, he was offered the secretaryship of the Lima Iron Fence Company, a position he held for three years. In the meantime the value of his father's estate had been much increased, on account of the general progress and development of the city. In 1885 he undertook, for the Holmes estate, the building of the present Holmes Block. At that time he was residing with his mother on the old homestead. On account of the general municipal progress his property had become too valuable for business purposes to justify its retention as a place of residence. It was therefore decided that a fine business block could be erected which would return a large income in rentals, although, at that time, it was a considerable distance from Lima's business center notwithstanding which, contracts were secured with desirable tenants for long-term leases, on low payments. Mr. Holmes had a debt of $3,000 with which to contend, and it required all his business ability to accomplish the erection of the business block, which was satisfactorily completed in 1885. It was soon after the completion of this work, and while Mr. Holmes was unemployed, that the first oil well was opened at Lima. He was offered a humble position with the Trenton Rock Oil Company—a corporation supposed to control nearly all the oil territory of any value in Ohio—and this he accepted, his work being that of a notary whose business it was to acknowledge oil leases. As this work occupied but a short period, he was soon out of employment; but later, from a chance conversation with a friend, Mr. Holmes secured one of the earliest valuable oil leases in this locality. As a diversion and as an experiment, the friends, both then out of employment, went into the country with the idea of securing an oil lease which they hoped they might be able to sell to some investor. The result was that, after a long day spent with a farmer, who had little faith in the oil business but was of a friendly, accommodating spirit, they secured a lease upon his farm. This lease proved one of the most valuable taken in Allen County, and the well subsequently drilled upon it was really the pio neer in the opening up and extension of the oil field here. The operation of this lease was conducted, through a business combination, with parties in Olean, New York, who subsequently dealt with Mr. Holmes in connection with many other leases. At this time he was associated with Frank and Charles Coss, practical oil men, formerly of Olean. New York. While final prosperity came, the early days of Mr. Holmes' oil enterprises were filled with discouragement. When the old J. K. Speer, well was drilled, which daily produced boo barrels of oil, and was followed by the John Ridenour well, whose capacity was 1,000 barrels a day, Mr. Holmes soon acquired sufficient capital to meet all his liabilities. The history of the oil operations in this section, with the great promise of financial prosperity to hundreds of those, who, like Mr. Holmes, had gone into the business with small capital, and the quenching of hope and extinguishing of opportunity, is too well known in these days of publicity, to recount the tale, with its many details of the greed of the great Octopus which brought ruin to many happy homes. In Mr. Holmes' case, before he could sell any of his oil, the Standard Oil Company decided that they had made a mistake in considering that the product was of any value whatever except as fuel, and they therefore lowered the price, day after day, until the time came when 42 gallons of this oil brought the sum of 15 cents. Under these conditions, the various oil producers outside the Standard felt themselves justified in combining for self-protection, and each man's property, including that of Mr. Holmes, was turned into the company at a value which was established by a board of appraisers. He was one of the incorporators .and, later, a director in what was known as the Ohio Oil Company. This company continued one year but was forced to sell to the Standard Oil Company. Prior to the sale of his interests, Mr. Holmes had become associated with S. M. Jones in taking up a large block of territory in the western section of Allen, and the eastern section of Van Wert County, 496 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY forming what became the Geyser Oil Company. Although this venture did not prove as satisfactory as anticipated, Mr. Holmes made money out of it. Immediately afterward he became interested near Marietta, and later in valuable holdings of the Silurian Oil Company, of which he was a member, and in both of these connections he was eminently successful. For six months after this he was on the leasing force of the Ohio Oil Company and, while the work was exhausting, in that it exposed him to all weathers, he secured 100 leases in one month, on farms ranging from 40 to 800 acres. When the Manhattan Oil Company was organized, he was invited to enter the employ of this organization and as its object (an effort to build up a market for Ohio crude oil outside the Standard) appealed to him, he consented to enter its service for a short time. His connection with the company, however, covered a period of 10 years; first as cashier, then as secretary, and finally as general manager. There is little in connection with the oil industry with which Mr. Holmes is not perfectly familiar. He has watched the business from its beginning, has suffered from the rapacity of competitors, has assisted manfully in protesting against iniquitous business methods, and through sheer ability and brave persistency has reaped financial success where many others have failed. His oil interests are by no means all that have claimed Mr. Holmes' attention. For a number of years, with W. L. Mackenzie he was interested in the Fidelity Lumber Company and, with Mr. Mackenzie, he organized the Fidelity Coal & Supply Company, which has grown into an enterprise of large importance. He continues to be president of this company, being its main directing head. Its great warehouse at Lima has a frontage of 500 feet on the C., H. &D. Railway, and 200 on the L. E. & W. Railway. He is a stockholder and director in The Hall & Woods Company, of Lima, operating the Model Mills a director of The Ohio National Bank, at Lima, and is one of the incorporators and directors of the South Side Building & Loan Association. On the Holmes farm -he has erected several hundred houses which. he has sold to good tenants, on easy monthly payments. He has retained large real estate holdings and is an extensive operator in realty. In 1882 Mr. Holmes was married to May R. Harley, who is a daughter of Dr. L. G. Harley, of Wayne County, Ohio, and they have had four children, viz. : Van Cleve, Branson Harley, Donald (deceased), and Frank H. The eldest son, having completed his course at Amherst College, is now in business in New York City. The second son is a student in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and is also cultivating a remarkable musical gift, being under the instruction of noted teachers of the violin, at Detroit. For many years Mr. Holmes has been deeply interested in the Young Men's Christian Association, and has been prominently identified with its work. He has served as president and director of the organization at Lima, and has devoted time, money and effort to many other charitable and philanthropic enterprises. Not being a man who heralds his beneficences, much of his practical helpfulness is known only to the recipients. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and has served as a member of the session. WILLIAM W. CURTIN, a well-known and highly respected citizen of Lima, interested in the production of oil, is a son of Erin who has made his fortune in the oil fields of America being at this time largely interested in the most productive wells scattered through the oil belt of the United States. Mr. Curtin was born August 1, 1842, in Cork, Ireland, and was reared in that country to the age of 15 when he came to America. For the following eight years he was employed in New York and vicinity, but in 1865 he located in Venango County, Pennsylvania, where on April 11th of that year he engaged in the oil industry, and has prospered beyond his most sanguine expectations. He operated first in the Pennsylvania field as a contractor and producer, but in 1886 extended his operations to the Findlay and St. Marys fields, and in 1900 located at Lima. In addition to several wells which he operates in Ohio, he has a number in Indian Territory, the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 497 output from which brings him in a considerable income. Mr. Curtin was united in marriage July 13, 1866, to Rebecca Kells, a native of Ireland. Four children were born to this union, viz. : E. R. Curtin, vice-president and general superintendent of The Manhattan Oil Company, of Lima ; Annie Bell, wife of N. J. Loveless, of Bradford, Pennsylvania ; James A., who is in the oil business; and John F., a mechanic. Mrs. Curtin died November 4, 1900, and Mr. Curtin was married on the first of the March following to Wealthy Riddle, of Allegany County, New York. Mr. Curtin is a director of The Lima Trust Company. AUGUSTUS E. WEGER, one of the prominent business men of Delphos, the leading photographer and also the junior member of the undertaking firm of Jauman & Weger, was born April 20, 1878, at Newcastle, Pennsylvania, and is a son of Frank A. and Margaret.Elizabeth (Deitzel) Weger. George K. Weger, the paternal grandfather, was born in Germany. He came to America in 1852, locating in Baltimore, Maryland, where he followed the trade of cooper. His son Frank A., the father of Augustus E., learned this trade also and worked as a cooper for some years in Baltimore and then removed to Newcastle, Pennsylvania. Here he was married, in 1871, to Margaret E. Deitzel, who was born in that place, and was a daughter of Michael Deitzel, a native of Prussia. They had five children, viz. : Katie, George, Augustus, Mary and Frank. Mr. Weger removed from Newcastle to Pittsburg and in 1878 came to Delphos as foreman for the Pittsburg Keg & Barrel Company, with which concern he continued until he joined interests with H. Goette in the hoop and stave business. Augustus E. Weger has spent the main part .of his life at Delphos, being an infant when his parents came here. He was educated in both the English and German departments of the parochial schools and, after completing the Usual course, received private instruction at Delphos. For a time he assisted his father in the hoop and stave factory, later turned his attention to other activities, but in 1899 definitely decided to become a practical photographer, having always had an inclination in this direction. He has been in the business for himself for the past three years and until September 23, 1905, was alone. On account of needed expansion and great press of business, Mr. Weger then admitted Mr. Fry to partnership and now the firm stands Weger & Fry. The well-equipped studio is located on Main street between Second and Third streets. Mr. Weger is a natural artist and in giving way to his inclinations but followed what promises to be a promising and prosperous career. An enthusiast in his work, each year finds him better able to compete with those who have elevated the photographic art to the level of other artistic achievements. Since September 21, 1905, Mr. Weger has also been connected with another line of business, being the junior partner in the undertaking firm of Jauman & Weger, funeral directors and embalmers. Their quarters have been fitted up with all modern conveniences and their business is conducted in a quiet, orderly manner. Mr. Weger devotes his whole time to his studio, Mr. Jauman attending to the undertaking department. Mr. Weger is a member of the Church of St. John the Evangelist at Delphos. He belongs to the Catholic Knights of Ohio and the Catholic Knights of America. JOSEPH AARON STATES, president of the Allen County Agricultural Society and formerly county commissioner for several terms, is one of Monroe township's most respected citizens. He resides on his highly improved farm of 160 acres situated in sections 21 and 22. Mr. States was born on this farm April 20, 1848, and is a son of Daniel and Jane ( Jennings) States. Daniel States was born in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, April 14, 1810, and was a son of Peter and Susan (Praul) States. The father of Peter States, Daniel by name, was born in 498 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY France; while the father of Mrs. Peter States was born in England. Our subject's parents came to Monroe township, Allen County, in the spring of 1835, locating in section 21. With eight others, he was a voter at the first election held in the township, which they all had assisted in organizing. He entered 120 acres of land and on this farm, developed from the wilderness, he reared a creditable family, which through his efforts in promoting educatioal, re. ligious and social movements, enjoyed many advantages which even older localities did not present.. He was a man of great public spirit and was so admirably qualified for leadership, that he was frequently called upon to take a prominent part in public affairs. He served 14 years as township trustee and treasurer, was one of the founders of the Methodist Episcopal Church, built the first schoolhouse on his own farm, and, through individual effort and personal expenditure, inaugurated the making of good roads and the building of bridges, in this way setting a creditable example and earning the grateful remembrances of those who came after. On April 1, 1833, Daniel States was united in marriage with Jane Jennings, who was born June 16, 1810, and died January 20, 1873. She was a daughter, of Benjamin and Betsey (Milick) Jennings, a granddaughter of John Milick, a native of Pennsylvania, and a cousin of Governor David Tod, of Ohio. Seven children were born to this union, as follows : John, deceased, of Crawford County, Kansas ; George and Susan, who died in childhood ; Margaret, deceased, who was the wife of Scott Harris, of Monroe township ; Mary J., deceased ; Joseph Aaron, of this sketch ; and Huldah R., wife of Ephraim Tussing, of Van Wert County, Ohio, also deceased. Joseph Aaron States attended the district schools and was reared on his father's farm, where he received his training as a practical agriculturist. His main business in life has continued along the same lines—general farming and stock-raising. He has so frequently been called upon by his fellow-citizens to accept various offices of trust and responsibility, that in later years the larger portion of his time has been absorbed in attending to duties of a public nature. In political sentiment he has always been a stanch Democrat. In 1882 he was elected by his party county commissioner and, through reelection, he served continuously in this important office for six years and one month. For three years he was township trustee and for 20 years has been a member of the Board of Education. He has always taken a deep and intelligent interest in county organizations of all kinds, and has given support to those which, in his opinion, are calculated to advance the general welfare. In 1903 he was elected president of the Allen County Agricultural Society, and under his wise administration, it held the most successful county fair during its existence. He is a man of enlightened views, business capacity, unquestioned integrity and, withal, one of the genial, wholesouled men whose friendship is well worth the having, and whose citizenship honors his community. On September 3, 1867, Mr. States was married to Mary J. Powell, who was born March 6, 1842, near Spencerville, Ohio, and is a daughter of David and Sophia (Walden) Powell, natives of Juniata County, Pennsylvania. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. States was Amos Powell, who was born in Wales and with his family, was an early settler in Allen County. To Mr. and Mrs. States were born these children : Anna V., wife of Joseph G. Hersh, an attorney, of Lima ; William C., of the Lima Cigar Company, who has one son, Earl; Arthur L., a farmer of Monroe township ; Samuel E., who died in 1877 ; and Mary Lucretia, who married Jesse Vance, a farmer of Monroe township, and has two children. JONES & WILLIAMS. This firm conducts a large and complete undertaking business at Lima, with quarters on the southwest corner of the Public Square, the members of the firm being John D. Jones and Cary C. Williams. This business was established at Lima in December, 1900, by the gentlemen mentioned. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 499 They have a well-equipped establishment, employ strictly modern methods, including the latest processes of embalming, and as a firm stand very high in public esteem. JOHN D. JONES, senior member of the firm, has been a resident of Lima, for the past 23 years. He was born at Piqua, Miami County, Ohio, in 1852, and is a son of William H. Jones, a tanner by trade, who died in that place in 1859. Mr. Jones was the youngest of a family of eight children and was left fatherless at the age of seven years. After completing his schooling he went to Troy, and there learned the harnessmaker's trade. In 1872 he removed to Hartford City, Indiana, where he engaged in the harness business for one year. He then located at Montpelier, Indiana, where he entered into partnership with a Mr. Dick, under the firm name of Dick & Jones. Later he bought Mr. Dick's interest and conducted the business alone, remaining in business at Montpelier for a period of io years. In 1882 he came to Lima and here also engaged in the harness business until 1900, when he sold out and with his son-in-law, Cary C. Williams, embarked in his present enterprise as an undertaker and embalmer. Mr. Jones was married in August, 1874, to Alice Seal who died in June, 1878, leaving one daughter—Alberta—now the wife of Cary C. Williams. In 1884 Mr. Jones was married (second) to Sarah I. Meeks, who is a daughter of Amos Meeks, one of the pioneer settlers of the county. Both of her grandfathers came here at a very early day and bought land from the government. Mr. Jones is a member of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church and is serving on the official board. CARY C. WILLIAMS, the junior member of the firm was born in Defiance County, Ohio. He may be said to have almost grown up in the undertaking business, as his father was an undertaker for many years and he assisted from boyhood. He is a graduate of the Chicago School of Embalming. Mr. Williams was united in marriage with Alberta Jones, who is a daughter of John D. and Alice (Seal) Jones. HENRY G. WEMMER, one of the business men of Lima, who has contributed much to the importance of this city as a commercial center, was one of the organizers of The Deisel-Wemmer Company, which is known all over the United States in the cigar manufacturing line. Mr. Wemmer was born in Germany in 1865. Mr. Wemmer was reared and educated in his native land, coming to the United States in 1884. His uncle was established in a cigar manufacturing business in Delaware, and Henry G., remained for a time with him, thence going to Marion, Ohio, and finally to Lima. In 1891 he became associated with Henry Deisel, a personal friend and a practical cigarmaker, and the firm of Deisel & Wemmer was thereby formed. The partnership continued until 1902 when the immense growth of the business made incorporation advisable. The present officers of The Deisel-Wemmer Company are : Henry Deisel, president; William J. Wemmer, vice-president ; Henry G. Wemmer, general manager; and Robert J. Plate, secretary and treasurer. From a small beginning, in 1891, this business has become one of the largest in its line in this section, and probably is the largest house in the world manufacturing and selling direct to the retail trade. Our subject looks after the jobbing trade, and handles the 14 traveling salesmen who are constantly employed. The goods manufactured include several excellent brands of cigars, but the specialties are the "General Stark" and "San Felice." The latter is composed of a special blend of leaf and a particularly good wrapper, sells at five cents, and has a universal popularity. In addition to his interest in this great and still growing business, Mr. Wemmer is a director and stockholder in The Lima Trust Company, and is interested in other successful business enterprises. Mr. Wemmer was married in 1894 to Rica Sauter, and they have had three children—Esther and Pauline, who are living, and Edna, who died at the age of eight years. Mr. Wemmer is a member of the Lima Club and of the Elks. He is a liberal, broad-