798 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP.


ELISHA ALLIS, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born Oct. 30, 1829, in Plainfield, Berkshire Co., Mass., third child born to Lemuel and Lydia Beals. Lemuel was born in Massachusetts about the year 1785 ; he was a son of Lemuel, who was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. Lemuel, the father of our subject, was married, in May, 1825, to Lydia Beals, who was born Feb. 10, 1806, in Hampshire Co., Mass., daughter of Samuel and Sallie (Chamberlain) Beals. He was a son of Joseph, to whom were born Samuel, Joseph, Polly, Lydia, Robert and Lovica. To Samuel were born three children—Dennis, Otis and Lydia. Elisha's father first came to Ohio in 1833. He was a man of some means. He traded his farm in Massachusetts for a quantity of unimproved land in this township. After his arrival, he purchased several hundred acres, and at one time owned about 2,000 acres, which he sold out to settlers at a small advance, and did what he could to encourage immigration to this township. He was first a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church ; afterward joined the Congregational. His death occurred Oct. 20, 1857. Ten children were born ; of those living are Justin, in Wyandot Co.; Sallie, now Mrs. John Murray, in Williams Co.; Elisha, in this township ; Manilla, now Mrs. Eli Grimm, of Williams Co.; Wells P., Hiram and Alonzo, in this township ; and Mrs. Mat. Kelley. Elisha left home at 21. Sept. 10, 1851, he was . married to Elma A. Palmer, who was born Dec. 25, 1835, in Jefferson Co., this State, the eldest child of Dr. David and Elizabeth (Bovard) Palmer. The Doctor was a son of George Palmer. Dr. Palmer's sons were David, now a minister in the M. E. Conference ; Dr. George B., settled in Chatham, now deceased ; also, Thomas ; James is a druggist in Troy, Ashland Co., Ohio. Her father, Dr. Palmer, located in this township in 1847, and now resides in Lodi. His wife died in 1878. After Mr. Allis was married, he located west of the Center one mile and a quarter, where he resided twelve years. In the spring of 1864, he located where he now resides. His farm of 149 acres is situated in the extreme south part of the township, on the Lodi road. Of five children born to him, four are living—David L., who married a daughter of Isaac Rogers ; she died of consumption Dec. 25, 1880 ; Dora, George L. and Verona L.; Mary L. died Dec. 5, 1879, wife of Alvaro Kinney. The Allis family are of Republican faith.


J. M. BEACH, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born Feb. 21, 1821, in Morgan Tonwship, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, the youngest of a family of twelve children, born to Luman and Lydia ( Wright) Beach. The Beach family are of French and English ancestry. Lydia Wright was a daughter of John, who was of Welsh and English descent. To Abner Beach, were born three children—Luman, Marsh and Maria. Luman and wife, were married in Connecticut, moved to Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., remained one year, and in


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 799


1804 moved to Ashtabula Co., Ohio, and located on land given him by John Wright, his father-in-law. During this time, war broke out, and Mr. Beach cast his lot among the number who were to defend themselves against the British and Indians. Returning home after the war, he lived there until 1834, when he moved to Wadsworth Township, where he lived until removed by death, which occurred Dec. 28, 1836. His wife died Jan. 25, 1849. She was a Presbyterian ; he was not a member of any church, but made a profession of religion some time ere his death. Jonathan being young at the time of his father's death, he lived with his mother, and assisted her in the management of the farm. Oct. 31, was married to Mrs. Angeline Brooks, who was born in Connecticut, daughter of Shubael Whitney. She died in 1858, leaving him one child—Luman, now in Washington Territory ; was a soldier in the late war, a young man of energy, and has been in that region for several years. Oct. 30, 1859, Mr. Beach married his present wife, who was Caroline K. Clapp, eldest child born to Luther Clapp, of this township. She was born May 23, 1839, in this township, where her parents first settled. Mr. Beach was one of the " boys in blue," entering the first year of the war, Sept. 24, 1861, in Co. B, 42d 0. V. L, and served three years, and received an honorable discharge, Dec. 29, 1864, having been a faithful and efficient soldier. The last two years, he was permanently connected with the hospital as a nurse, and assistant to the Medical Corps. He had no superiors. For a few years after Mr. Beach was first married, he carried on the blacksmith's trade. After he came to this township, he was engaged in selling medicine some time, and finally settled down to farming, in which vocation he has since been engaged. Has 109 acres of land, situated a short distance north of the Center. Since 1847, he has been a professor of religion, was for several years, a licensed exhorter, and has endeavored to do what good he could possibly in his Master's vineyard. Being an excellent singer, he has been instrumental in doing much good, in a local way, in the community in which he has lived. Is an enthusiastic worker in the Sunday school cause ; is now conducting a Mission school, of which he is Superintendent. He and wife, are members of the Congregational Church. Of his children living are Harry M., Louie (an invalid), Edith and Willie.


JOHN BUCK, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born Nov. 7, 1807, in Pennsylvania ; son of Barney and Polly (App) Buck. The grandparents of our subject, on both sides, were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. To the grandfather of John, our subject, were born six children, four sons and two daughters. On his mother's side, were born the following children : John, Leonard, Frederick, Matthias, Catharine, Susan and Polly. John and Leonard were in the war of 1812. Mr. Buck, our subject, was raised a farmer. At the age of 18, he went to learn the carpenter and joiner's trade. About the year 1830, he moved to Canada, where he engaged at his trade. Six years later, in June 17, he was married to Isabella Potter, born Oct. 19, 1815, in County Tyrone, Ireland, daughter of Robert and Sallie (Matheson) Potter. Mrs. Buck emigrated with her uncle to Canada in 1831, landing in Toronto. Mrs. Buck was of a family of three children, she having one brother, Robert ; her sister was Rosania. In 1839, he emigrated West to Akron, Summit Co., where he lived seven years, and carried on his trade. In 1846, he located in this township, on the farm now owned by Daniel Wise, purchasing 45 acres, remaining here until about the year 1871, when he purchased 117 acres, where he now resides. Four children have been born him, three living, viz.: George, born March 28, 1836, married Augusta Brainard, they now reside in Michigan, Gratiot Co.; James, born Oct. 21, 1837, now in Michigan, married daughter of Seth Lewis ; James was a soldier in the late war ; Hulda J., born March 1, 1848, now the wife of Madison Rice ; they were married Jan. 1, 1867 ; he was born Aug. 6, 1846, in Madison Co., N. Y., son of Johnson and Chloe (Inman) Rice ; Madison came West with his parents when he was but 7 years of age. His father yet resides in the township. His wife died in 1863. Mr. Rice and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and now reside with Mr. Buck. Mr. Buck is one of the self-made men in the township. He began poor, had nothing but his hands and a good resolution when he started in life, but, with the assistance of his faithful wife, he has obtained a good home and competency.


B. A. BISSELL, farmer and carpenter ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born July 1, 1836, in Otsego, Co., N. Y.; son of John and Harriet M. (Parker) Bissell. He was born in Otsego Co.,


800 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


December, 1806 ; son of Benjamin B., who was born 1782, in Litchfield Co., Conn.; his father was Isaac Bissell, of Welsh ancestry. Harriet Parker was born in February, 1816, in Franklin Co., Mass., daughter of Levi, who was born in New Haven, Conn. He was a son of Eliakim, who was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. To Levi were born eight children ; but six of the number grew to maturity ; two of them now survive. Benjamin Bissell's mother, before marriage, was Lorain Johnson ; her father, Daniel, was also a participant in the war of the Revolution. To Benjamin Bissell were born eight children, seven of the number growing to maturity, viz.: Hulda, Daniel J., John B., Ruby, Isaac, Lois B. and Henry. Benjamin B., the grandfather of B. A., came west to Medina, in 1846, and engaged in the grocery and produce business. His death occurred in 1859 ; that of his wife four years previous. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. John B. and family emigrated West in 1852, arriving here in April, locating in the eastern part of this township. Our subject was brought up to be familiar with carpenter's tools ; his father being a tradesman in that line, his son naturally took up this trade, learning it of his father. July 3, 1857, our subject married Sally Fellows, who was born Aug. 22, 1837, in New York State. She was a daughter of Henry and Polly (Porter) Fellows. After Mr. Bissell was married, he located on the place he now owns. Of seven children born, six are living, viz.: Henry J., Riley Austin, Bradley L., Mary E., Edwin 0. and Ruby L.; Susan H. died when 9 months old ; Henry J. married Anna Hall, and resides on the farm adjoining. Mr. Bissell has but one sister, Harriet N., now the wife of Albert Sanford, of Harrisville Township. Since living at his present place, Mr. Bissell has been engaged at his trade. Has a good farm of 208 acres, or really, is made of two farms, his, and the one purchased of Henry Ware, where his son Henry resides. Being an excellent workman, his services are always in demand. His sons having a desire to learn the trade, he has consented to continue longer in the business, on their account. Mr. Bissell's father and mother are yet living, and reside with him. The elder members of the family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, the Bissells are Republican, and are warm advocates of the principles of that party.


WILLIAM BRINKER, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born in Westmoreland Co., Penn., Aug. 18, 1816 ; son of George and Mary (Wimble) Brinker. George was a son of Henry, who was a son of Jacob, whose ancestors were from Germany. To George Brinker was born a family of fourteen children, twelve of whom grew to the years of responsibility. Their names were Jacob, Elizabeth, Henry, George, Abram, William, Margaret, Simon, Isaac, Jesse, Mary and Lewis. Of those living are Henry and Jesse, in Marion Co.; Simon, Abram, Lewis and Margaret, in Westmoreland Co., Penn.; Isaac, in Dakota Territory ; and William, in this township. The father of Mr. Brinker was born in Northampton Co., Penn., Jan. 5, 1781 ; his wife, Mary, was born Jan. 15. 1788. William came West with his parents to Wayne Co. at 21 years of age. Nov. 7, 1839, was married to Mary Rice, who was born in June 1819, in Wooster ; daughter of Peter Rice, who was a son of Frederick. Peter Rice was married to Elizabeth Vandyke, and by her had ten children, nine of whom grew up—Frederick, Susannah, Mary, Eliza, Anna, Sarah, William, Harriet, Fannie. Of those living are Mary, Eliza, Mrs. William Hendee, of Michigan ; Sarah, Mrs. William Inman, of Wellington ; Harriet, Mrs. James Hilman, of Sullivan, Ashland Co. ; Fannie, Mrs. Green, of Missouri. Elizabeth Vandyke was a daughter of William, to whom were born five sons, four of whom came to maturity. Elizabeth had one brother in the war of 1812, his name was William. After Mr. and Mrs. Brinker were married, they located in Ashland Co., and lived there until spring of 1848, when he came to this place. He first purchased 65 acres of land, for which he paid $8 per acre. This land was a portion of the " Porter tract." Two years later, he added 66 acres more, for which he paid $17 per acre. A portion of his land had been in the course of the " windfall," which saved him no little labor in clearing up his land. Mr. Brinker is one of the self-made men of the township ; beginning poor, he has, through his own resources, accompanied by the assistance of his companion, secured a farm of 206 acres. Of eight children born him, five are living, viz., Leah A., Irvin A., Curtis W., Frederick S., Sylva E., all residing in the township. All of the family are members of the Congregational Church, Mr. Brinker having been identified


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 801


with a church organization since 21 years of age.


LEVI L. CLAPP, farmer ; P.O. Chatham Center. The Clapp family trace their origin to one Roger Clapp, who sailed from Plymouth, England March 20,1609, in a vessel bearing the name " Mary and John," whose passengers were the first settlers in Dorchester. His wife was Johannah Ford. Roger Clapp afterward became a prominent man in that locality; was commissioned a Captain and placed in charge of Fort Independence, in Boston Harbor, which he commanded for twenty-one years ; was one of the founders of the church in Dorchester, and a member of the same for sixty years. Levi, whose name heads these lines, was born June 15, 1810, in Hampshire Co., Mass.; eldest child born to Ira and Judith (Wild) Clapp, who were born, respectively, March 14, 1783, and Jan. 1, 1781. The children of Amasa were Mary, Paul, Salma, Elah, Dorothy, Ira, Amos, Lyman. Moses and Morris. Hiring out to work at $8 per month, he, after a few years of patient labor, saved enough to justify him in making a purchase. The next thing in order was a helpmeet, which he found in the person of Lucinda House ; their nuptials were celebrated April 15, 1835 ; she was born Nov. 16, 1812, in Chesterfield, Mass., and daughter of Gershom and Mary (Utley) House. He was born in Ashford. Conn., in 1777 ; she in 1785. Shortly after the marriage of Mr. Clapp, he started West with $500, to invest in land, but hardly knew where he would go ; but, on the boat, met with Lemuel Allis, who was on his way to this county, who induced him to accompany him. He finally purchased 1791 acres at $5 per acre, paying what he had to spare, and gave his obligation for the remainder. His first work was to build him a cabin for the reception of his wife, yet back in the East. She came out afterward, in company with a family to Hinckley Township, and hired a conveyance to bring her to her husband's home in the woods. Their first meal was eaten off of a high box, which they partook of standing, she having brought the butter and pork from Massachusetts with her. The first year, his time was employed in alternately working for himself, clearing, and working out whenever he could obtain a day's labor. The first fall he put in a small piece of wheat. The next winter, Mrs. Clapp, having had some experiencedown East as teacher, organized a subscription school of twenty-six scholars, furnishing the room and fuel and boarding herself; receiving therefor $2 per week. Mrs. Clapp had taught school in Massachusetts. Mr. Clapp has often worked one-half a day to earn enough money to enable him to get a letter from the post office at Lodi, walking after the same. Notwithstanding disadvantages, he and his faithful wife labored on, and, after years of arduous labor and much self-denial, they are in the possession of an abundance of everything that will conduce to their comfort and happiness, having over 360 acres of choice land, and adorned with excellent farm buildings. To them have been born four children, viz.: Amasa L., of this township; Julia M., of St. Louis, the wife of Alvin Dyer, who is a reporter for the Globe-Democrat and other papers in the city; George T., in Allegan Co., Mich., and Alvin R., on farm adjoining. While Mr. and Mrs. Clapp have been successful in life in acquiring this world's goods, yet they have not done this to the exclusion of laying up treasures above, as they have for forty-five years been consistent members of the Congregational Church.


LUTHER CLAPP, retired farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center. Among the representative farmers and self-made men of this township, is the above-mentioned gentleman, who was born Jan. 20, 1813, in Chesterfield Township, Hampshire Co., Mass., son of Ira Clapp, who was born March 14, 1783, and was a son of Amasa, whose great-grandfather was an Englishman, and came to this country three years subsequent to the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers. From this gentleman and his brother, who came with him, have descended a numerous progeny. To Ira Clapp was born a family of five children, three sons and two daughters, who are Levi and Luther, of this township ; Sophronia, Dorothy and Ira yet remain on the homestead in Massachusetts. The Clapp family are generally farmers as a class, and of the successful kind, to which vocation our subject was, in early life, quite thoroughly drilled, as well as in the fundamental rules of a common-school education. Aug. 31, 1837, he was united in matrimony to Hannah Jackson, who was born Feb. 25, 1818, in Northampton, Mass. ; she was a daughter of. Benjamin and Electa (Miller) Benjamin, she being a native of England. Immediately after the marriage of Mr. Clapp, he


802 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


came West, having, when he started, $300 in money, which he had earned prior to his marriage, working out by the month, which he invested upon his arrival, buying one-half interest in his brother Levi's land and stock and tools, he having preceded him one year ; thus engaged in partnership, they continued in this relation for twelve years, at which time there was a division, and each assumed absolute control over their own individual affairs. To Mr. Clapp have been born four children, who are Caroline, since the wife of Jonathan Beach, of this township ; Ellen, now Mrs. Silas Moody, of Gratiot Co., Mich. ; Adelaide, Mrs. John B. Whitney, and Dyer A., who now resides on the home farm, which consists of 235 acres. Mr. Clapp is now retired from active business, having been successful in his career as a farmer and business man. Mr. Clapp's parents never came to this country to settle, but died in Massachusetts, he Jan. 27, 1850, she Dec. 26, same year, and was, for many years, a member of the Congregational Church. Mr. Luther Clapp and wife, since the spring of 1841. have been members of the same church as that of his parents. His father's family were all very temperate, neither using intoxicating liquors of any kind, or even tobacco, which example has since been ever followed by his descendants, even down to his grandchildren. Although a stanch and standard Republican, yet he has never craved publicity in the official relations of his township, and has declined all invitations to public honors, and been content and best satisfied to remain in the quiet walks of life. His sound judgment and ripe experience in business affairs. and, pertaining to agricultural matters, are worthy of the emulation and practice of the rising generation. He is a liberal patron of the public journals, there being over a dozen of papers and periodicals taken in his family. Has been a patron of the Cleveland Leader and New York Independent since their commencement.


A. L. CLAPP, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; is the eldest child born to Levi L. and Lucinda (House) Clapp ; his birth occurred Sept. 20, 1836, in this township. At the age of 21, he set out for himself; his first employment was in a saw-mill for William Packard, for whom he worked one year; afterward for Wales Dyer. Subsequently, he purchased an interest in the same, which firm was known as Dyer & Clapp, which association lasted one year. April 5, 1860, married Euphemia Talbot, who was born on Oct. 22, 1839, in Madison Co., N. Y., being the eldest of a family of five children, born to Edward and Cynthia (Reynolds) Talbot. In August, 1862, though recently married, left his wife and donned the blue for three years. First enlisted in Co. K, 42d Infantry, and served two years as Wagonmaster. In 1864, was transferred to the 96th O. V. I. ; went into the ranks ; afterward was advanced to Corporal, and served until the close of the war. Soon after his return home, he engaged in the produce business, residing at Chatham Center. In 1867, he began farming. Since 1869. he has resided on the farm he now owns, which consists of 100 acres. In 1874, he engaged in the fine-stock business, making a I specialty of the breeding of thoroughbred short-horn cattle, with Royal Airdrie at the head of his herd. Also of improved Amerian merino sheep and Berkshire swine, and, in this line of stock, has been the leading representative in Chatham Township. Since 1878, has served as President of the agricultural association of the county, his term expiring in 1881. Is a man that is well read in matters pertaining to the stock business, and is a liberal patron of the leading stock journals and agricultural papers of the day, as well as the general news. But one child has been born to him—Edna, whose birth occurred Oct. 14. 1861, deceased Aug. 5, 1864.


A. R. CLAPP, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; is the youngest child born to Levi and Lucinda Clapp. His first observations were made in this township March 12, 1843 ; has been raised to the business of his worthy paternal ancestor, and lived with him until his reunion with Martha M. Talbert, who was born Nov. 14, 1848, in this township, daughter of Edward and Cynthia (Reynolds) Talbert. The marriage of Alvin R. was duly solemnized in 1868. Their union has been blessed with three children—Edwin L., born June 10, 1870 ; Charles B., born Aug. 22, 1876 ; Clyde, born May 29, 1880. Since his marriage, he has resided on the farm adjoining his father's. As readers, the Clapp family are noted for their generous and liberal patronage of the literary journals and newspapers, as the mail which comes to their address most truthfully attests.


IRA CLEVELAND, farmer; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born March 3, 1800, in Sa-


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 803


lem, Washington Co., N. Y. ; son of Job and Hannah (Clark) Cleveland. The Clevelands descended from one Moses Cleveland, who came from England in 1635, and settled in Woburn, Mass. Both Job and wife were natives of Rhode Island. His father was Deliverance Cleveland, to whom was born four children—Benjamin, Abel, Job and Hannah, who were born in New York, where their parents located when leaving Rhode Island. To Job were born eleven children, who were Anna, Hannah, Daniel, Lydia, Susan, Mary, Rosanna, Job, Ira, Levi and Benjamin ; all of them lived to maturity. Of those living are Levi and Benjamin, in Salem ; Mary, the wife of Mr. Graves, of Vermont ; Rosanna, in Wisconsin, and Ira, of this county and township, who was reared to farming pursuits. Nov. 18, 1821, he was married to Elizabeth Russell, who was born Oct. 10, 17 99, in Salem, Washington Co., N. Y., whose parents were William and Submit (Fosgitt) Russell. William Russell was born in Washington Co., N. Y., and was Treasurer of that county for many years, and was a son of Ebenezer, born in Connecticut, and was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. His wife was a Wilson before marriage. Job Cleveland, the father of Ira. was in the Revolution, as was also Daniel Clark, Ira's grandfather on his mother's side—he was killed in the battle of Bunker Hill. Job, the brother of Ira, was also a soldier in the war of 1812. After the marriage of Mr. Cleveland, he located on a farm in his native county, where he lived until 1831, when he moved to Akron, Summit Co., where he was engaged in the mercantile business two years ; subsequently engaged in farming near Akron. In 1840, he removed to Guilford Township, locating two years, when he moved to his present place of living, where he bought 197 acres of land, situated one mile and a half north of the Center, for which he paid $8 per acre, upon which there were no improvements. Five years after his arrival, he moved to Mississippi, and, in company with Mr. Blodgett, built a saw-mill, but, as the elements and times seemed to work against them, the enterprise did not prove a financial success, and he returned after two years' Southern experience. Since that time, he has been a constant resident of the township. He has three children living—Elizabeth. Mrs. Suggett ; Laura, Mrs. Alfred Samelson, and Clara, Mrs. Amos Jump. Mr. Cleveland has a good farm of 315 acres, and, for forty-five years, he and wife have been members of the Congregational Church. He is a solid Republican and a citizen highly esteemed in the community.


SIMEON CONKLIN, farmer; P. 0. Lodi; was born in Tioga Co., N. Y., Dec. 14, 1818, the third child born to Jonathan and Lucy (Nicholds) Conklin. Jonathan was born April 23, 1794. Lucy Nicholds was a daughter of Simeon Nicholds. Simeon came West with his parents in 1837, locating in Harrisville. His father was a cooper by trade, which our subject partially learned at home, and would have completed it there, but ran away from his father ere he had it finished. After he left his father's, he completed the same, at which he worked for several years afterward. Feb. 15, 1849, he was married to Laura M. Belding, who was born in Portage Co., Ohio, in January, 1825, daughter of Titus and Lucy (Bostick) Belding, both natives of Vermont. Gershom Bostick, the grandfather of Mrs. Conklin, emigrated West in 1805, and was one of the first settlers in that county. Mr. Belding, the father of Mrs. Conklin, came West with the Bosticks, and was raised in that county, and afterward married his wife out of that family. To Gershom were born three children, Titus being one of two sons, to whom was born a family of twelve children, all of whom grew to man's estate. Of those living, are Melvina, of Iowa, now the wife of Joseph Wilcutt ; Sarah, Mrs. Snell, of Minnesota ; Mrs. Mary Bosworth, of Michigan ; Gershom B., in Stark Co., Ohio, also Omar; Byron, in Findlay, an engineer ; Edmund, in Washington, Clerk in the Treasurer's office. Of Mr. Conklin's brothers and sisters, four are living—Phoebe, Mrs. Fleming, Mrs. Matilda W. Cotton ; and Charles, now in Minnesota. The parents of Mrs. Conklin were members of the Disciples' Church. Mr. Conklin moved on the farm he now owns in 1849, where he had located his land at $11 per acre. No improvements had been made on the land. There were 55 acres in the first purchase, and he has since added to it until he has 87. The cabin he erected at his coming, yet stands in the yard as a relic of former days. He has now a good home, and in easy circumstances, the result of the labor and savings of his manhood's years. Mr. and Mrs. Conklin have no children. He is a liberal patron of the leading newspapers of


804 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


the day, and is a member of the Republican party.


WILLARD H. COLE, harness-maker, Chatham Center ; was born Aug. 1, 1854, in Penfield, Lorain Co.. Ohio, son of Hanson and Nancy (Mallard) Cole. Hanson was born in New York State in 1817, and was a son of Walker Cole. Nancy was also a native of New York, and a daughter of John Mallard. Walker Cole came to this county when it was comparatively new ; was a farmer, and one of the esteemed citizens of the community in which he resided. His son Hanson was married in Litchfield. To him were born five children ; three living—Delia, Abbie and Willard. Willard's father now resides in Strongsville. He resided eight years in Chatham and twenty in Penfield, where W. H. was born. W. H. was raised to farming pursuits, and left home at the age of 19 to do business upon his own account. Six years were spent in the cheese-factory at Chatham Center, in the employ of Maj. Williams. April 15, 1880, he bought out the harness-shop and interest of Andrew Greenwald, and has since been conducting the same. Mr. Cole, though a young man, is, by his integrity, securing to himself a liberal and growing patronage. He employs skilled labor, and, using the best of material and placing his work upon the market at the very lowest prices, he has a promising future before him. Feb. 24, 1875, he was married to Etta Brogan, born in Chester Co., Penn.. Oct. 24, 1853, daughter of John and Phoebe (Whitcraft) Brogan, now in La Fayette Township. Two children—Grace and Eva—are born to them. Both Mr. Cole and wife are members of the Congregational Church.


L. C. CRANE, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born May 27, 1822, in Schoharie Co., N. Y.; son of Charles A. and Lydia (Fuller) Crane, who were born in Massachusetts March 14, 1797, and Aug. 15, 1800, respectively. They were married Jan. 11, 1817. To them were born ten children—Emily, Lyman C., Ashbil, Lewis L., Elmina, Hannah, Walter, Abigail, John and Sarah. Of the above, six are living—Emily, of La Grange, the wife of Noah Holcomb ; L. C., this township ; Lewis, in La Grange; Elmina (Mrs. J. Richardson), of Wood Co. ; Walter, in Wellington, and Sarah (Mrs. Daniel Sheldon), also of Wellington. John was a soldier, and died in the service. The religious belief of the family has heretofore been of the Close-Communion Baptist, and politics Democratic. The younger members of the Crane family have been Republican. Mr. Crane, our subject, came West with his parents when he was 14 years of age. They settled in La Grange, Lorain Co., Ohio. Here his parents died—she February 5, 1855, and he Jan. 19, 1878. Mr. Crane was raised a farmer. Jan. 21, 1841, he married Dianah C. Hastings, born in Wilna Township, Jefferson Co.. N. Y., Oct. 16, 1829, daughter of Curtis and Polly (Graves) Hastings. Mr. Crane has been engaged in farming. He first purchased 50 acres in Penfield. Came to this county, locating in La Fayette in 1869, purchasing 168 acres where Duncan Nairn now resides, which farm Mr. Crane owned until 1876, when he sold out. Came to this township, purchasing 106 acres on the Smith road, which was settled by A. R. McConnell. Mr. C. remained on the farm until May, 1880. Has since been a resident of the Center. They have but one child living—Mary, born July 5, 1845, now the wife of Edward Goodyear. They now occupy the home farm. They have three children—Charles, George and Edna. All the family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. and Mrs. Crane have lost three children—all died of consumption—Dianah, born Aug. 4, 1842, died at 16 ; Chester, born March 27, 1851, died at 28 years of age ; Ernest, born May 25, 1852, died at 19. Mr. Crane has one adopted daughter—Alice, born July 15, 1861 ; also one child living with them, named Olive, born March 2, 1869 ; also Clarence C., their grandson, born Oct. 26, 1876, son of Chester. John Crane, uncle of L. C.. died in the war of 1812.


EBENEZER DUSTIN. farmer; P. O. Chatham Center; is a descendant of one of the early settlers of Portage Co.; was born March 5, 1821 ; son of Seth and Betsey (Redfield) Dustin. The Redfields descended from one Theophilus Redfield, who was born in England in 1682, and came to Connecticut in 1704, and settled in Killingworth one year later. His wife was Priscilla Grinnell. From this family have descended a numerous progeny, several of whom filled important stations in civil and military life. Seth. the father of Ebenezer, emigrated West from New Hampshire in 1813, locating in Portage Co., where he remained until his death. He was one of the pioneers of


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 805


that county, and upon. his way West passed through Cleveland. It was then a trading-post, there being but a few dwellings in the place. At the time of his location in Suffield, they had to go sixty miles to mill. Soon after Mr. Dustin arrived in Portage Co., he erected a saw-mill in Suffield Township, it being one of the first enterprises of the kind in that locality. To him were born Mandana, now Mrs. Robert Jordan, of Elkhart, Ind.; Sabrina, who died at 23 ; Cyrena, now Mrs. P. Merrill, of Utah ; Sylvanus, of Webster Co., Mo.; Ebenezer, this township ; Harriet M., now Hrs. Elisha Ellsworth, in Richfield, Summit Co.. Ohio ; also George, Chandler and Seth. Ebenezer left home at the age of 17. His first adventure in the way of travel was to Michigan, which, not having sufficient attraction for him, he returned to his native county and learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed for twenty-five years. At the age of 23, April 4, 1844, he was married to Rebecca Raudenbush. who was born in Berks Co., Penn., October, 1824, daughter of Adam and Barbara (Spone) Raudenbush. They were both born in Reading, Penn., in 1800. To them were born six children, four of whom grew to maturity—Mrs. Dustin; Adam, in Iowa; Isaac, in Indiana, and William, in Michigan. Mrs. Dustin's parents moved West to Portage in 1842, afterward moved to Indiana ; remained there three years, then came to this township, where they died. Before Mr. Dustin left Suffield Township, he began farming, which he carried on for eight years, then dropped his trade, and turned his attention exclusively to farming. In 1863, he moved to this county, locating in Hinckley, where he remained until 1869, when he located where he now resides. He has 241 acres of land, and was the first to introduce into the township short-horn cattle. Of a family of ten children born him, six are living—Ina L., now the wife of L. A. Wilson, attorney at law in Cleveland ; Harvey E., Nora, now Mrs. L. A. Severcool, of this Township ; Erwin D., Allon C. and Bessie L. Harvey E. was a soldier in the late war, and was a member of Co. H, 177th 0. V. I., returning home safe. Mr. Dustin has always been a Republican.


BARNEY DANIELS. retired, Chatham Center; is one of the pioneers of this township, and was born July 27, 1798, in Hampshire Co., Plainfield Township, in the "old Bay State." His parents were John and Lucy (Monroe) Daniels ; he was born in Bridgewater Township, Plymouth Co., Mass., son of William Daniels, whose death was brought about by being overheated and then immersing himself in cold springwater. Lucy Monroe was born in Hampshire Co., daughter of Jonathan Monroe. Barney was the third child of a family of twelve children. Seven of the number attained to man's estate. Our subject learned the shoemaker's trade after he left home, which business he followed for several years. Jan. 29, 1822, he married Mehitable Lincoln, whose birth was Feb. 18, 1794, daughter of Joseph Lincoln. In November, 1832, he emigrated West, in company with Amasa Packard and several other families, who cast their lots in the Buckeye State. Mr. Daniels swapped his farm down East (which, he says, was " one-half rocks and the other portion break knolls " for 125 acres where he now resides, which, at his coming, presented to his view a wilderness waste. A small log cabin was constructed, after some delay, it requiring three half-days to raise it (inasmuch as he declined furnishing whisky for the occasion). For several years, Mr. Daniels experienced many of the privations and hardships that are endured by the frontiersman. In the spring of 1834, he had but one peck of cornmeal in his house. One Saturday, a neighbor came, who was without anything for his family, and craved assistance, which was granted by dividing the meal—all be had. Mr. Daniels then started, in pursuit of work, to Harrisville Township, stating his case to several—that he would work for anything they had to spare that would satisfy hunger. Mr. Daniels was a good woodsman. He rarely went by the trace of the ax upon the tree's side, but would "strike out " through the forest, going miles to his destination, never losing his course. He was the first Supervisor in the township, as well as the first Treasurer. When he came here, there were but eleven voters in the township. He has always indorsed the principles of Jackson and Jefferson. For two years, he served the county as its Treasurer, and for many years has been a member of the Congregational Church ; was one of its Ruling Elders. He and his wife were of the few who constituted the first organization, his wife being a member ere she left Massachusetts. Mr. Daniels, before dividing out his land among his children, had 255 acres. He has never changed his res-


806 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


idence since he came here, except to remove from his log cabin to his present domicile. He has already passed the age allotted to man, being now past fourscore, yet he is well preserved for one of his years. His faithful companion has passed over before him ; her decease occurred in 1873. Of six children born him, but four are living, viz., John, who has settled near by ; Henry, in Kalamazoo, Mich.; Lincoln, now a merchant at Grafton, Lorain Co., Ohio ; and Susan, now the wife of Esquire Whitman, of this township. Mr. Daniels will be long remembered in the minds of his friends and descendants, long after he has passed to his rest.


CALEB EDSON, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born Dec. 4. 1801, in Willington Township, Tolland Co., Conn. His parents were John and Jerusha (Hatch) Edson. John was a son of Jesse, who was a son of Obed, who was a son of Samuel, whose father was John Edson. The Edson family came from England. Samuel, who was the great-great-grandfather of Caleb, was born near London, and came to America in the latter part of the sixteenth century. The old family Bible, printed in 1781, now in Mr. Edson's possession, tells the following : Jesse was born in Bridgewater, May 24. 1747 ; had sons and daughters as follows : Caleb, Hannah, Jesse. David, Howard. John, Susannah, Hannah and Elizabeth. Jesse's wife, was Susannah Howard, and he was born March 25, 1748 ; they were married in 1768. Of those who grew up and raised families were Jesse, Howard, John, David, Hannah and Elizabeth. John Edson was born in Buckland, Franklin Co., Mass., April 8, 1779. and was married to Jerusha Hatch, born in 1779, in Willington, Conn. To them were born five sons and three daughters, viz.: Caleb, Anna, Otis, Jerusha, Almon, Susannah, Dinarbus and John B. Our subject, at the age of 8 years, went on the sea, and engaged with his uncle, George Hatch, as cabinboy. remaining with him about three years. In 1811, he went on board an American man-o'-war ship, Constellation, and sailed in the waters of the Mediterranean. After the breaking-out of the war, he was placed in the naval school, and, after four years' close application. graduated as midshipman ; then went on the brig Enterprise, under Capt. Allen ; then the brig Philander ; afterward sailed on the brig Amelia, which was his sea service. Jan. 15. 1825. was married to Sallie Nelson, born in Southwick Dec. 22, 1801, daughter of Luther and Sallie (Hall) Nelson. Three years after his marriage, he came West to Cuyahoga Co., where he purchased 108 acres of land. In 1841, he located on the place he now owns, and has since remained. His wife died Feb. 6, 1870, leaving three children—Maria, of Williams Co., wife of Josiah Austin ; Celista A., now Mrs. N. W. White, of this town ; Phoebe J., Mrs. Frank Mantz. Mr. Edson first purchased 60 acres, afterward added 30 more. The land was formerly owned by Iram Packard. Was married to second wife. April 8, 1872. Her name was Mrs. Rebecca Austin. born in Wallingford, New Haven Co.. Conn., in 1806. She died in 1876. leaving no issue. Dec. 8, 1878, he was married to Mrs. Mary Ann Randall. born in New Haven March 18, 1814 ; was a sister of his second wife. She was a daughter of William and Jane (Cameron) Reed. William was a son of Martin Reed. who came over with La Fayette, and fought under him during the Revolution. The father of Jane Cameron was Daniel, a Highland Scotchman. and when but a cadet, was pressed by the British in the Revolution, and, upon his first opportunity. escaped from them, and came to the States, still wearing his kilt and hose. Mr. Edson is a man of remarkable memory ; been a great reader, and has always been a liberal patron of literature ; has always borne the part of an honest and worthy member of the commonwealth, and is held in high esteem by all who know him.


D. P. FELLOWS, farmer and stock trader ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born Jan. 4, 1836, in Wayne Co., N. Y .; son of Henry and Polly (Porter) Fellows. Henry was born Feb. 14, 1811, in the Empire State ; he was a son of William, of Scotch ancestry, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. Polly Porter was born July 20, 1811 ; daughter of John and Deborah Porter, who were born Nov. 16, 1767, and Jan. 12. 1771, respectively. He died Sept. 28, 1828 ; she, Jan. 2, 1831. Polly Fellows died March 21, 1840. To John and Deborah Porter were born twelve children, but three of whom are now living—Deborah, in Michigan ; Phoebe; in New York ; and Betsey, in Geauga Co., Ohio. To Henry Fellows and wife were born four children, viz.: William, who left home when a lad, went off to sea on a " whaler," and never was heard from afterward ; Daniel P., in. this township; Sallie, Mrs. Benjamin A. Bissell, of this township; and an infant unnamed. Henry,


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 807


the father of Daniel P., was a farmer. He came West about 1838, first locating in Litchfield about four years, then purchased a farm of 126 acres of land in this township, which he cleared up, and remained on the same until his death, which occurred Jan. 6, 1873, of typhoid pneumonia. He was a man of strong constitution, and herculean frame ; had poor school advantages, but was a great reader, and took a marked interest in the politics of his country. Daniel P. was raised at home. Leaving the parental roof at his majority, he began to work for himself. hiring out by the month ; afterward rented land, and taught school, and, in fact, turned his attention to any labor that promised the most satisfactory returns. Sept. 28, 1857, was married to Philena Lewis, who was born Sept. 27, 1841, daughter of Elisha and Jane (Huntsman) Lewis. Mrs. Fellows died October, 1865, leaving three children, but one living, Philena J., born Dec. 2, 1859, now the wife of Francis M. Martin, of La Fayette Township ; Mary and Lewis were buried in one grave. April 17, 1867, was married to Mrs. Elma E. Main, who was born Nov. 25, 1841. She was a daughter of Allen and Polly (Palmer) Coulter, to whom were born three children. Mrs. Fellows was first married to Alexander Main, Oct. 17, 1858. He was a son of Alexander and Elizabeth Main, of Harrisville Township, and died in the service, March 28, 1863—had enlisted for three years in Company D, 128th 0. V. L—leaving one son, Allen C., born May 15, 1862. To Mr. and Mrs. Fellows has been born one child, Frank P. Mr. Fellows' first purchase of land was 26 acres in Harrisville Township. Located on his present farm in March, 1872 ; his farm, consisting of 186 acres, lies in the southern part of the township. Mr. Fellows is an energetic and enterprising farmer. He began empty-handed, but has been diligent and successful. He has traded considerably in real estate, and built the cheese-factory at the Center, and, aside from carrying on his farm, is one of the leading stock traders in the township. Is a liberal patron of the public journals, has a pleasant home, a cheerful companion, and is a sound Republican.


E. W. FRITZ, blacksmith ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born April 17, 1841, in Akron, Summit Co., Ohio ; son of Jeremiah and Maria (Hyde) Fritz ; both were natives of Lancaster Co., Penn. He was born Jan. 8. 1812 ; she in June, oneyear later. The brothers of Jeremiah were Jacob, Philip, John, Amos, Samuel, Uriah Martin ; had but one sister, whose name was Catharine. Jeremiah came West to Summit Co. when young ; married his wife in Wayne Co. She was a daughter of Henry Hyde, whose wife was Maria Baughman. Mr. Fritz settled in Summit Co. after marriage, and engaged in farming. To him were born twelve children—of those who grew up are Mrs. Alvira Damon, Mrs. Catharine E. G. Dixon, Delta Co., Mich. ; Henry, who died in Texas ; was Lieutenant in Co. K, 8th 0. V. I. ; Dexter was killed in Georgia, July, 1864 ; was a member of Co. B, 124th 0. V. I.; he enlisted first in the 8th O. V. I., in 1861, in the three months' service ; then reenlisted for three years ; but met his death as above stated. He had participated in all the battles of the regiment. Ezra comes next in order of birth ; then Martin, of Lorain Co. ; George, in Harrisville Township ; John and Milton—the former in this township—the latter in Litchfield, on the homestead, where his father located in 1847, where he now resides. Martin Fritz, the grandfather of our subject, was a soldier in the war of the Revolution ; his sons, John and Jacob, in the war of 1812. The Fritz family being represented in the three wars of our country in as many generations. Ezra began learning his trade in Lorain Co. The war breaking out, he cast his lot with the " boys in j blue ;" enlisting Sept. 22, 1861, in Co. B, 42d O. V. I., for three years, and served his time, receiving an honorable discharge in October, 1864, having participated in the many battles of his regiment, some of which were Middle Creek, Chickasaw Bluffs, Cumberland Gap, Arkansas Post, Champion Hills, Thompson's Hill, Black River, Vicksburg, on Red River Expedition and at Jackson. He came through without serious wounds. Upon his return to peaceful pursuits, he resumed his trade. After its completion, he set up in business for himself, first at La Grange, with a partner, under the firm name of Smith & Fritz, which association lasted but one year ; then went to Penfield, where he ran a shop six years ; then set up in Spencer ; but, the location not being to his interests, he remained a short time, and came here to Chatham Center in August, 1871, and has since continued, and is doing a thriving business. In November, 1865, was married to Harriet Forbes, who was born in Litchfield Township, Jan. 15, 1845, daughter


808 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


of Alexander and Cornelia (Randall) Forbes ; his father's name was Alexander. Both families are from the Empire State. To Alexander and Cornelia were born ten children ; but seven of them are living—Medwin, in Wood Co., Ohio ; Mary E., in Wellington (Mrs. David Snyder) ; Harriet, Mrs. Fritz ; George, in Dakota, railroad engineer ; Levi, Kansas, in cattle business ; Charles. in Illinois ; Hiram, at home, in Litchfield. Mr. Fritz has one son, De Forest W., born May 6, 1872.


ANSEL FROST. farmer; P.O. Chatham Center ; born June 14, 1838; in Richfield Township. Summit Co.. Ohio ; the youngest of a family of four children, born to Jewett N. and Eunice (King) Frost. He was born in Riga Township. Monroe Co., N. Y., in 1800 ; she in Wheatland

Township, same county and State. Aug. 16, She was a daughter of William King, whose

wife's maiden name was Strong. The Frost family came West about the year 1827 ; their vehicle was an oxcart drawn by oxen. Cleveland being a small town at this time. Mr. Frost purchased 100 acres of land in Richfield Township, for which he paid $5 per acre ; but few improvements were made at this time in the township. Mr. Frost had taught school several years in New York, and his services as teacher were brought into requisition in his newly found home. But farming was his business, having at the time of his death, which occurred in 1845, 150 acres of land. Mr. Frost was for many years a member of the Christian Church. commonly known as the Disciples. and was a man of integrity. Mrs. Frost subsequently married Dougall McDougall, a native of Canada. but came West many years ago and settled in Hinckley Township ; he died about 1871, being 87 years of age. His widow still survives him and resides with Ansel. She is also a member of the Christian Church. In 1865, our subject located in this township, one mile and a half north of the Center, where he has 240 acres of land. Dec. 30. 1858. he was married to Sarah Kent, born April 13. 1838. in Bath, Summit Co., daughter of John and (Thankful) Sears. both natives of New York, and early settlers of Summit Co. They had six children born to them, but three living—Mrs. Frost ; Roxie, who is the wife of William Frost, the brother of Ansel. They reside in Brecksville, Cuyahoga Co.. and have three children ; Jane is in Bath, Summit Co., the wife of Charles Webster, and had three children. To Mr. Frost have been born the following children : Mary 1 Iona. Elva M. and Effie A. living ; Gracie died at the age of 8 years ; Elbert. at the age of 2 years ; and Henry, when a babe of 6 months. Mrs. Frost is a member of the Disciples' organization. Mr. Frost is a member of HarrisvilIe I Lodge. No. 137, A.. F. & A. M. Also of Empire Lodge. No. 346. I. O. O. F., located in Royalton. Cuyahoga Co.


ORRIN GRIDLEY. farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center; born Nov. 4. 1811. in Paris Township. Oneida Co.. N. Y.: son of Shubael and Sallie (Tremain) Gridley. Shubael was a son of David, who was a native of Connecticut. and raised a large family. among whom were Shubael. Jared. James. Chauncey and David. Of those born to Shubael. were Reuben. Mabel. Sybil, Orrin. Mary. Oliver. George W., Samantha. Emily and Sophronia. Sarah and Henry died young. Of these living. are Sybil, now Mrs. James Landon. of Litehfield ; Orrin. this township ; Mary. in Bates Co.. Mo.; Oliver. in Lodi ; Samantha, now Mrs. Alonzo H. Peckham, this township ; Emily, now Mrs. Orrin Rogers : also Sophronia. now Mrs. Abel Sheldon. in Missouri. and George W. in La Fayette Township. David Gridley. the grandfather of our subject, came out with his family in 1817. and purposed settling at Rising Sun, in the south part of Indiana. but. finding the country sickly, they moved to this State the year following. and spent one year near Columbus. Shubael, the father of Orrin. moved his family to this county in 1819, locating in Westfield, north of Friendsville, more commonly known as Morse's Corners ; here he remained until his death. which occurred about the year 1836, that of his wife in 1841. He experienced all the inconveniences of a frontiersman. At the age of 16, Orrin went to learn the tan and currier's trade, serving his time at Wadsworth. and carried on his trade at Lodi, in Harrisville Township. June 12. 1839, he was married to Lydia H. Palmer. born Aug. 12, 1817. in Montgomery Co., N. Y., daughter of Thomas and Rebecca (Snow) Palmer. Thomas was a son of Ephraim. who was a son of Joseph. Ephraim was a soldier in the war of 1812. Thomas Palmer was born June 13, 1787, in Middlesex. N. J.; his wife, Rebecca. Oct. 1, 1790, in Montgomery Co., N. Y. They were married in Genesee Co., N. Y., May 30. 1815. To them were born Margaret, Lydia, Joseph, Eliza. Chloe and


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 809


Ephraim. The family came West about the year 1833, and six years later, moved to Kane Co., Ill. He died in La Salle Co. in 1866 ; his wife dying soon after his advent to Illinois. Of the family living, are Mrs. Gridley, Joseph and Ephraim, in La Salle Co., Ill.; Eliza, now Mrs. Lorin Williams, in Washington Co., Iowa ; Chloe, now Mrs. N. L. Post, in Livingston Co., Ill. Thomas Palmer settled on the farm now occupied by Mr. Gridley, in 1833, and, before moving to Illinois sold it to another party, who failing to pay for it, it came back upon his hands, and was finally purchased by Mr. Gridley, who moved on the same in 1844. Four children have been born to Mr. Gridley, three are living—Henrietta. born June 23, 1843, and was married March 9, 1871, to Isaac Duke, born in Sandusky Co., Ohio. They have two children—Cora M. and Orrin I. They removed to Page Co., Iowa, in the fall of 1871, where they have since resided. Mr. Duke is one of the prominent farmers in that locality. He was a soldier in the late war ; was in the 2d O. V. C. ; his brother William was a prisoner in Andersonville and Libby. Sarah A.. born Feb. 22, 1847, the second daughter of Mr. Gridley, now resides in Decatur Co.. Ind., the wife of William Cooper. They have two children—Lydia M. and Lillian M Shubael was born June 28, 1849 ; his wife was Lepha Eddy, whose parents were among the early settlers in this township. They reside in Franklin Co., Iowa. Have three children—Novella, Eddie and Orrin. Mr. Gridley and wife and entire family are members of the M. E. Church.


REV: SAMUEL GARVER, farmer and minister ; Chatham Center ; born Oct. 8. 1825, in Fayette Co., Penn.; son of Jacob and Mary (Lucas) Garver ; Jacob was born near Hagerstown, in Maryland, June 16, 1800, and was a son of David Garver, to whom were born four children, who were Samuel, Jacob, Betsey and Susan. Jacob, the father of our subject, was a minister of the Gospel of the German Baptist persuasion, and was an Elder in that body for forty years. He emigrated West in 1827, landing in Chester Township, Wayne Co., April 12. His first purchase was 90 acres, for which he paid about $6 per acre ; afterward added 160 more, for which he paid $4 ; he remained here until his death, which occurred in May, 1879. To him and wife were born a family of sixteen children, whose names are Eliza, Anna, Samuel, Mary, David, George, Margaret, Lydia, Sarah, Amos, Catharine, Jesse, Samantha, Melinda, Almina and John. Fourteen of the above lived to be married and had families ; thirteen of them are yet living. David in Michigan ; Amos, commission merchant in Philadelphia ; George, a minister in Montgomery Co., this State ; Jesse, a farmer in same locality ; John, in Union Co., Ind.; Margaret, Mrs. John Welts, in Westfield Township ; Mary, Mrs. John Pittenger, of Spencer Township ; Sarah, of Wayne Co., Mrs. David Miller ; Lydia, Mrs. A. McMicken, of Marion Co., Iowa ; Melinda, of Wayne Co., the wife of H. C. Fortney ; Almina, in Kansas, Mrs. James Rennie ; Catharine, Mrs. B. Emerich, of Wayne Co.; Samantha was married and died at the age of 19 ; Anna raised a family ; Eliza died when 17. Jacob, the father of the above numerous progency, had at the time of his death seventy-two grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Samuel, our subject, left home at the age of 21 ; his marriage was duly celebrated April 22, 184 7 ; took to wife Sarah Rice, born Nov. 30, 1823, in Wayne Co., Ohio, daughter of Christian and Charlotte Hine ; both were born in Westmoreland Co., Penn. Christian was a son of Frederick, who lived to be 96 years of age. Christian Rice had eleven children born him ; eight of the number grew to maturity, who were Betsey, Simon, Frederick, Susan, Henry, Sarah, Mary and Margaret. Mr. Garver took up his residence in this county in Spencer Township, in the spring of 1849, purchasing 100 acres at $10 per acre, 20 acres cleared. In 1859, moved to the farm he now owns, purchasing 107 acres at $32, of Ezra Truesdell, the first settler ; has since added to the same until he now owns 287 acres. The Garver family are as thrifty and enterprising as they are numerous ; of the extensive family above mentioned. there are none of them worth less than $10,000, from these figures to $50,000, apiece. Nine children have been born to him, eight living—Margaret, Mrs. Edwin Parent, of Spencer Township ; Jacob, at home ; Charlotte, Mrs. Daniel Martin, of Wayne Co., Ohio ; Lydia, Mrs. Meno Meshler, of Summit Co., Ohio ; Simon, a teacher ; John, Daniel and David N. For twenty-five years, Mr. Garver has been a member of the German Baptist Church, and for twenty-two years he has officiated as minister of the Gospel, and has been instrumental in


810 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


doing much good in the capacity in which he has labored. He has charge of the Black River German Baptists of the township, also of the Mahoning Church.


J. B. GEISINGER, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born in Bucks Co., Penn., April 21, 1826 ; son of George and Barbara (Baum) Geisinger. He was born in Northampton Co. in 1808 ; he was a son of John, to whom were born David, Jacob, Jonathan and George. Jacob moved from Canada to Wadsworth, this county, and raised a family of children. Of the children born to George, were Hannah, John B., Abram and Henry ; of these, only two are living—J. B. and Henry, who now reside in Philadelphia ; Hannah and Abram died young. Barbara Baum was born in the same county as her husband ; she was a daughter of Abram Baum, whose wife's maiden name was Margaret Myers. To them were born Henry, Peter, Barbara, Katie, Hannah and Susan, all of whom are deceased except Susan. The parents of our subject dying, he was, at an early age, thrown upon his own resources ; at the age of 12, he went to live with his grandparents, with whom he lived until 16 years of age. He then hired out to work on a farm ; at the age of 18, he went to learn the carpenter's trade, which being completed, he worked as journeyman two years, then engaged in business for himself. March 14, 1830, he married Mary A. Myers, born Oct. 11, 1825, in Bucks Co., Penn., daughter of Isaac and Christina (Gottsshall) Myers. He was a son of Christian. Christina's mother's maiden name was Barbara Chratz. To Isaac Myers, were born John, Magdaline, Barbara, Isaac, Mary A.. Christina and Elizabeth, all of whom are residents of Pennsylvania, except Isaac, who resides in Wayne Co., Ohio. In April of the same year. John B. was married ; he came West, first to Wadsworth, where he bought a small piece of ground. and engaged for six years in the millwright business ; then worked some time in the oil mills at River Styx and at Wadsworth. In 1863, he moved to Westfield, where he purchased a farm in Westfield Township, at Morse's Corners. which he owned one year, then purchased a farm north of there, near G. Burry's, which he sold after one year's occupancy, then rented a farm in that township three years ; in 1869. he moved to the farm he now owns. Of his children living. are Christina ; Mrs. Robert Stigler, of Lancaster Co., Neb.; Susan, the wife of Orrin Brinker, of this township ; Lizzie, now Mrs. Alvin Shaw, of Lodi ; William, now in Spencer, married Emma Auble ; David, Sarah, Jonathan and Edwin at home. Mr. Geisinger has carried on building and contracting several years, employing several workmen. Although he began life poor, he has accumulated a good property, having 121 acres of land. He and wife are members of the Mennonite Church ; her parents Lutherans.


E. B. GILBERT, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born March 2. 1818. in Litchfield Co.. Conn.; son of Orrin and Mary (Barber) Gilbert : Orrin was a son of Abner, whose ancestry were of' English stock. To Orrin and Mary Gilbert were born a family of eleven children, six sons and five daughters ; of those living are Emily L.. Albert L.. William W., Harriet L.. Edwin B., Abigail M. and Joseph L. William W. is in Iowa ; Maria in Michigan ; Emily L. in Williams Co.; E. B. in this township ; all the others are residents of Summit Co., Ohio. Orrin Gilbert emigrated West in 1828, locating in Stowe. Summit Co., where he cleared up a farm and remained on the same until his death, which occurred in the year 1846. Edwin B. was raised to farming ; leaving home at 23. he launched out for himself. In February, 1843. he was married to Nancy R. Brainard, whose birthplace was in Massachusetts ; she was born in 1824. She died four years afterward, leaving one son—Harlow B.—living in Buffalo. Neb. Oct. 13, 1850. Mr. Gilbert was married to Anna A. Rice, born May 9, 1832, in Hampshire Co., Mass., daughter of Stalham and Anna (Taylor) Rice. He was born in 1804 ; she was his senior by three years. The family came West in 1839, locating in this township. Mrs. Rice died May 20, 1872. To them were born eight children, but six living Anna E. now Mrs. Woodward ; Celesta, now Mrs. Richards ; Augustus M., Micajah T., Adaline and herself (Mrs. Gilbert). Mr. Gilbert located on the farm he now owns, in 1850, situated two miles east of the Center. His farm consists of 122 acres. and was settled by one Culver. Mr. Gilbert is one of the safe and substantial farmers in his neighborhood. He has two sons by his last marriage—Ernest E. and Ellsworth M. Mrs. Gilbert had three brothers who were in the late war—Micajah, Augustus


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 811


and Daniel—the two former serving through the entire struggle, and returned safely home ; Daniel died of disease in hospital. Mr. Gilbert's father was an Episcopalian ; E. B. and entire family are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Gilbert is a liberal patron of the newspapers, and has always voted the straight Republican ticket.


MRS. LUCY REYNOLDS HANCOCK, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born March 22, 1820, in Cazenovia Township, Madison Co., N. Y., a daughter of Colonel and Phoebe (Avery) Reynolds. He was a son of Francis, whose father was John Avery, of pure English ancestry, to whom were born Henry, Francis and Betsey. Francis Reynolds was born Aug. 15, 1750. His wife was Martha Tibbetts, who was born April 22, 1748. To them were born a family of seven children—Dorcas, Mary, Francis, Colonel, Joe, Anna and Martha. Colonel, son of Francis, was born Oct. 17, 1786, in Washington Co., R. I. His wife, Phoebe, was born in Herkimer Co., N. Y., Oct. 31, 1795. Their marriage was celebrated Dec. 29, 1813, in Herkimer Co. To them were born the following offspring : Camilla, Cynthia, Mary, Lucy. Francis, Martha, Avery, Lucetta, Phoebe, Theresa, Ermina and Job—all of whom lived to raise families. Phoebe Avery was a daughter of Punderson E. His wife was Lavina Barnes. They were a family of strong patriotic proclivities, and, at the time the colonists were struggling for freedom, the family turned out in force, Lavina Barnes having seven brothers in the war of the Revolution at one time. Punderson Avery was among the number, then but a lad, who volunteered, and went to Ft. Griswold after the massacre, and helped haul the wounded and slain to their several homes. Mrs. Hancock came West, with her sister, in the spring of 1842, to Liverpool Township, this county. She had been engaged in teaching in the East, and pursued her vocation for one year and a half after her arrival. Meeting with Elisha Wilmot, they became acquainted, and an intimacy sprung up which ripened into an engagement. After her return to New York, Mr. Wilmot went to her home, and married her Oct. 1, 1844, and returned with his bride to his home in Liverpool, with whom she lived happily until Nov. 13, 1854, when the death angel bore him away from her companionship. He was born Sept. 20, 1821, son of Ebenezer and Harriet (Pardy) Wilmot. March 15, 1859, she was married to her present husband, James A. Hancock, who was born March 25, 1817, in Rutland Co., Vt., son of Lot and Persis (Hubbard) Hancock. Mr. Hancock had been twice married previous to his union with his present wife. His first wife was Harriet Tillson ; by her, he had three children—Charles, who died of disease in the late war, was a member of the 76th O. V. I.; George, at St. Helen's, Ore.; and Tillson, who is of a roving disposition, now in the Far West. Mr. Hancock's second wife was a Vaughn ; by her he had no children. Mr. Hancock came to Liverpool when he was 18 years of age, and has since been a resident of the county, and is one of the respected members of the township. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Church, and have been for forty years past. Mrs. Hancock's ancestry entertained various religious tenets ; some were Quakers, Universalists and Presbyterians. She read the Bible, and, taking this as her guide, her opinions were soon molded and permanently fixed, and she has ever since been a conscientious Christian worker. Mr. and Mrs. Hancock have 118 acres of land.


ALONZO H. HYATT, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born March 4, 1826, in Jefferson Co., N. Y., and is the fifth child born to Aaron and Prudence (Ross) Hyatt. Alonzo was raised a farmer, and learned the spinner's trade in the early part of his manhood. April 1, 1852, he married Mary Main, who was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Nov. 27, 1832. She is a daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth Main, of Harrisville Township. After Mr. Hyatt's marriage, he located in Calumet Co., Wis., where he engaged in farming, where they lived until November, 1868, when they returned to this township. The climate they enjoyed in Wisconsin, and were doing very well, but, not having the proper educational facilities, and Mr. Hyatt, having daughters to educate, could not follow out the bent of his inclinations in this direction, and returned to this county. Since 1869. he has resided on the farm he now owns, which was settled by one Thayer. Mr. Hyatt has three daughters, viz.: Flora (now a teacher), Laura and Bertha (at home). The deceased are Cyrus and Frank. He and wife are members of the church at Lodi. Both he and family are great readers, and are patrons of a goodly number of papers and journals. His farm of 50 acres is well kept, and is the re-


812 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


suit of his own labor, accompanied by that of his worthy wife. He has always been a Republican in principle.


J. J. JOHNSON, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born in Canaan Township, Wayne Co., Nov. 26, 1839, son of James and Ann Caughey. Both were born in 1804, in Lancaster Co., Penn. The grandfather of our subject was named James, and was of Irish descent. His mother's maiden name was Jane Andrews, of Scotch ancestry. James had but one brother, John. The Johnson who shot Tecumseh. as recorded in history, was a second cousin to James. The father of J. J. came West about the year 1832, locating in Canaan Township, where he purchased a farm partially improved. To him were born seven children, two sons and five daughters. whose names are Franklin, Eliza, Phoebe, John, Lucy. Harriet and —. J. J. was among the "boys in blue" during the late rebellion. Enlisted, in October. 1861. in Co. K, 16th O. V. I., and served three years and twenty days. Participated in the battles of Chickasaw Bluffs, Thompson and Champion Hills, Black River Bridge, at the retaking of Jackson, Miss., and at the siege of Vicksburg and others, and was twice slightly wounded, and lost the hearing of one ear from the effects of concussion by the bursting of a shell. Receiving an honorable discharge, he returned home in November, 1864. Afterward taught school one term, and for several years was engaged as traveling salesman and as canvasser, in which he was quite successful. In January, 1871, he was united in wedlock to Catharine Kinder, born in Milton Township, Wayne Co., Feb. 22, 1839. daughter of Daniel and Catharine (Hyde) Kinder, both natives of Pennsylvania. He was a son of Daniel. Catharine Hyde was a daughter of Henry Hyde, a native of Germany. The Hyde family emigrated West to Wayne Co. when the country was new, locating in Milton Township. Mrs. Johnson was of a family of twelve children, seven of whom are living, viz.: George, John, Maria, Priscilla, Catharine, David and Flora. After Mr. Johnson was married, he located on the farm he now owns, consisting of 100 acres. Six children have been born to him ; five living —William F., Mary A., James C., Dora E. and an infant. Mr. Johnson is a stanch Republican, and is a hardworking. industrious man.


SETH LEWIS, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born Sept. 30, 1809, in Otsego Co., N. Y. ; son of Seth and Elizabeth (Rogers) Lewis, both of whom were natives of Connecticut. Seth was a son of Cyrus. The Lewis family came West about the year 1821, locating in Harrisville Township, on the farm where Mrs. Elisha Lewis now resides. There were seven children born to Seth and Elizabeth ; but two of the number are living, viz., Seth, the subject of this sketch, and Selinda A., now Mrs. John Jason, of Harrisville. Seth did not leave home until 25 years of age ; during this time was at work for his father. July 4, 1837, he was married to Phoebe P. Clark. who was born in Catharine Township, Tioga Co.. N. Y. Her birth occurred Oct. 1, 1820. She was a daughter of Peter and Hannah (Taylor) Clark. Peter was born in Orange Co.. N. Y. ; son of Elias, a native of Connecticut, and a Colonel in the Revolution, and rode with Gen. Washington. Hannah Taylor was a daughter of John Taylor, a native of Scotland. Mrs. Lewis was of a family of thirteen children. nine of whom grew to maturity. The family came to this township in 1832, and remained here until their removal to Michigan in 1849, where they both died in the year 1858. Sept. 5, 1837, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis located on the farm they now own, which was but slightly improved at the time of their purchase. Of six children born to them. but two are living—Lester Allen, in Granger Township. who has three children—Harry S., Dolly and Charles Foster ; Harriet J., now Mrs. James Buck, of Gratiot Co., Mich. They have five children—Allen D., who resides with his grandparents ; Jennie A., Minnie M., John L. and Walter. Mr. Lewis lost one son—Shepherd E., who died at the age of 26. Mr. Lewis has 76 acres of land ; is a man of quiet demeanor, taking but little interest in matters outside of his own home and neighborhood circle. Mrs. Lewis is a lady that is well read in the general topics of the day, and always has had a desire to store her mind with the best knowledge and literature of the time. For forty-six years, they have been professors of religion, and are of Methodist belief.


EZRA LEONARD, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; is a son of one of the early settlers in this township, who came here in 1835, cotemporaneous with Levi L. Clapp and some other early arrivals. Ezra was born Feb. 28, 1815, in what was then Ontario, now Yates Co., N. Y. He was the third of a family of ten children, all


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP. - 813

of whom grew to maturity, whose parents were Truman and Rosanna (Allis) Leonard ; both were born in Massachusetts. His native place was in Worthington. He was a son of Ezra, and of Irish descent. The grandfather of Roxanna Allis was a Scotch missionary. Truman Leonard emigrated West with his family in July, 1835, locating in this township, one mile north of the Center, where he 'purchased 300 acres of land in a wild state ; settling on this, he cleared it up, and remained on the same until his death. He was not a man to mingle much in political matters, yet a man of good information for the chances afforded him. He was always a stanch and reliable member of the Whig party. At the age of 21, Ezra went to Akron, and began work in the Stone Mills, operated by Beach & Co., and, in less than four years from the day he entered the mill as a novice, he had progressed so rapidly, that he was then placed in charge of the same, the mill having a capacity of 300 barrels per day. In a short time after his taking charge of the mill as head miller, his flour received the first premium at the New York Agricultural Society in 1843, it receiving the diploma over all of the many competitors. He became so thoroughly established as a first-class miller, that he retained the position for thirty-four consecutive years. He has been thrice married, first in 1842, to Alvira Weston, born in Cuyahoga Co., daughter of Asa Weston. She died in 1848, leaving two children, George M., now in Akron, and Alvira D., now. Mrs. Frank Wadsworth. He was next married to Electa Wadsworth, daughter of Sardan and Alma Wadsworth. She died shortly afterward, leaving no issue. His present wife was Mary M. Slater, a native of Massachusetts, a lady of education and marked intelligence, having, for several years, been a teacher in the public schools. Mr. Leonard has 240 acres of land in this township, which his father settled, besides valuable property in Akron. He cast his first vote for Henry Clay, and has always been an enthusiastic supporter of the Republican party. For five years past, he has been living on his farm, and engaged in farming and stock-raising. His stock is of the best, his cattle being about seven-eighths pure, and his horses, of which he keeps a goodly number, are of the best stock, which he breeds for the market ; and, in the breeding of the same, he takes especial pride.


H. MORGAN, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born Sept. 8, 1822, in the town of Sheffield, Berkshire Co., Mass. His parents were Elijah and Polly (Strong) Morgan. Elijah was the youngest of a family of fourteen children. The greater portion of the family were born in Litchfield Co.. Conn., the remainder of them in Berkshire Co., Mass., where James removed and lived until his death. Elijah and his wife were born in Massachusetts. To them, were born a family of eight children, seven lived to be grown, five now living—Lydia, in Burbank, Wayne Co., Ohio, who married John Perkins ; George, in Michigan ; Harriet, married John Burry ; Hiram, this township, and Phoebe A. Prentice, of Lodi, relict of Squire W. W. Prentice. Elijah came West in June, 1829 ; came first to Lodi, and settled in Harrisville Township, and cleared up the farm now owned by Charles Fenstermaker. He died on this farm in October, 1848. His wife survived him until 1877. Upon this farm, our subject took his first lesson in pioneering ; remained with his father until Nov. 17, 1847, at which time he was wedded to Delilah Sanford, born May 28, 1830, in Erie Co., Penn., daughter of Beers and Rachel (Ackley) Sanford. After Mr. Morgan was married, he remained about three years on his father's farm. In 1851, he purchased 60 acres of W. W. Prentice, at $13.66 per acre, upon which place there was a small cabin, and a partial improvement ; here he located, and has since been a constant resident, remaining in the log cabin until 1871, when he built his present neat and comfortable dwelling. In 1857, August 5, after having his entire crop safely stored in his barn, it was struck by lightning, all destroyed, including harness, tools, etc.; with the exception of about $225 insurance, was a total loss. Has three children—Adaline, Mrs. Stephen Fellows, this township ; Evalaide, at home ; Orville, in Jasper Co., Mo., who married Alice Sheldon , Orlow died at 14 years of age. Mr. Morgan has a comfortable and pleasant home, his yard being tastily set out with evergreens and hedge. For thirty-one years Mr. Morgan has been a member of the M. E. Church. His father was a Whig; he a consistent Republican.


M. MOODY, M. D., Physician, Chatham Center ; is one of the practicing physicians of this county, whose birth and entire life have been in connection with Medina Co.; was born in this township Nov. 29, 1843. His parents were E.


814 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


S. and Cynthia (Brown) Moody, both of whom have been citizens of the county for many years. The mother of Milo is a relative of John Brown of historic fame, whose " body," as the song goes. " lies moldering in the grave as we go marching on." Our subject was raised on the farm, but early in life entertained a desire to enter the medical profession. At the age of 17, he began teaching, and taught two terms. At the age of 18, he began the study of medicine, reading with Dr. J. K. Holloway, of Chester Co., Penn., and pursued his studies until his graduation, taking his first course of lectures at the Cleveland Medical College ; second at Charity Hospital, now known as the University of Wooster, where he graduated in the spring of 1865, and began practicing at Howard, Center Co., Penn.; returning then to this county, he began practice in this township in January, 1866, and has since continued without interruption or loss of time to the present. Nov. 17. 1869, he married Celestia A. Packard, who was born in this township Sept. 10,1843, daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth (Young) Packard ; he was born in Plainfield, Hampshire Co.. Mass., May 11, 1816, and was a son of Amasa Packard. He came West to this township in 1832. Elizabeth Young was born in Harrisville Township. Sept 8, 1819, daughter of Collins and Naomi (Ayers) Young ; the latter was born in New Jersey Jan. 10, 1778. To them were born a family of four children, who are Flora A.. now Mrs. D. B. Allen, of Van Buren Co., Mich.; Milan, and Perlia N., now Mrs. Ira P. Holcomb, both of Colorado Springs, and Mrs. Moody, the wife of the Doctor. They have one child—Archer N. Our subject is a member of the Union Medical Association of Northeastern Ohio, and, though not engrossed in political matters, yet is a strong advocate of the principles of Prohibition, and hopes for the ultimate success of the party. He is a member of the Disciples' Church. Having been raised in the township, his merits as a citizen and a medical man have been fully tested, and his widely extending and lucrative practice, gives ample testimony of his worth and standing in the community.


A. R. McCONNELL, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born Sept. 23, 1813, in Colerain Township, Lancaster Co., Penn. He is a son of William and Mary (Russell) McConnell. William was born in Lancaster Co., his wife in Chester Co. William was a son of Hugh, of Scotch ancestry, and had children born him as follows—Rebecca, Hannah, Jemima, William and Samuel. Of this number, none came West but Samuel and Jemima. She married James Caughey, and settled in Hancock Co„ and raised seven children—three sons and four daughters. To William McConnell. ten children were born—Hugh, Alexander R., Francis, Samuel H., William W., Esther R., Robert D.. John J., Ann E. and Abram. In 1827, the father of the above emigrated West to Milton Township, Wayne Co., Ohio, where he settled in the woods, and cleared up a farm. and lived on the same until his death, which occurred July 3, 1862. His wife died at the age of 84. William McConnell was in the war of 1812, and was a man of vigorous constitution. Alexander did not leave the ! home of his father, until he was 28 years of age. Oct. 14, 1841, was married to Harriet M. Conkey, of Scotch descent. She was born Oct. 3, 1823, daughter of John and Chloe (Prior) Conkey. To John and Chloe Conkey were born ten children. They emigrated West to Belmont Co., Ohio, in 1820, where Mrs. McConnell was born. Soon after the marriage of Mr. McConnell, he moved to the farm he now owns, situated on the Smith road. His first purchase was 115 acres, for which he paid $4 per acre. He has since added to it, until he now has 233 acres. Few men have done more pioneer labor than Mr. McConnell, having cleared up fully 200 acres, and is yet quite vigorous and healthy for one of his years. Mr. McConnell has been a constant resident of this township since his first settlement, and is one of the substantial citizens of the community. He and wife are members of the Congregational Church. Of eight children born him, five are living—Chloe, Mrs. Aaron Stranahan, of Litchfield Center ; Orlando, in the township ; also Lenora, now the wife of James Sears ; Alleta M. and Edith, at home.


JONATHAN PACKARD, retired, East Cleveland ; one among the prominent business men in this township is J. Packard, who was born December 9, 1824, in Hampshire Co., Mass., son of Amasa and Abigail (Pettingill) Packard, and came West at the time his parents did, in the year 1832. After attaining the years of responsibility, the first enterprise he embarked in was building a water-mill on the East Branch of Black River, which ran near


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 815


Cleveland, where he has valuable property which he is improving. They have three children—Lida E., the wife of Charles P. Thatcher ; Charles H. and Myra E. at home.


FRANCIS PACKARD, drug store, Chatham Center ; born Oct. 7, 1827, in Hampshire Co., Mass., is the youngest of a family of seven children, but five of whom grew to man and womanhood. Their parents were Amasa and Abigail (Pettingill) Packard. Amasa was born Jan. 6, 1788 ; his wife Aug. 8, 1781. Both of Hampshire Co., Mass. He was a son of Phillip, who was a native of Bridgewater, near Boston, and, at the age of 14, went into the war of the Revolution, and served five years. His wife was an Edson, prior to her marriage. Amasa, the father of our subject, was twice married. His first wife was Lucinda Ford, who was born July 11, 1787 ; by her he had three children, but one of whom is now living William, who resides in Van Buren Co., Mich.; Francis being the issue of the second marriage. The family came out in company with several others from the same locality, locating in this township in the fall of 1832, on the place now owned by D. B. Sanford, where he purchased 110 acres of land, situated south of the Center one mile and a half. Here he lived for thirty-three years, his death occurring Aug. 30, 1865. He was one of the township's best citizens. He was, for many years, a member of the Congregational Church, and officiated as Deacon in that body and, in fact, he and wife were among the first' members at the time of its organization. Politically, he was formerly an Old Line Whig, but in after years became affiliated with the Republican party, and, though not a partisan. yet was a man of decided opinions, which he did not fail to express annually at the ballot box. Francis, being the youngest of the family, remained with his parents until he entered the marriage relation, and for some time afterward lived on the homestead farm. His marriage occurred May 28, 1851, thus uniting his interests with Hannah Thayer, who was born in Hampshire Co. Nov. 1, 1827, whose parents were Alvin and Mercy (Marsh) Thayer. Alvin was a son of Asa and Lovisa (Haskins) Thayer. The father of Mercy Marsh was Ephraim Marsh. whose wife's maiden name was Hannah Simon. After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Packard, they remained on the homestead until 1868. Since that time, he has been engaged in the drug the homestead. This mill he run about three years, then sold out and engaged at the carpenter's trade ; although never having served a regular apprenticeship, yet his skill in the natural use of tools enabled him to turn his attention to the business, commanding wages from the first ; he continued in the trade until Sept. 1, 1854, when he engaged in partnership business with his brother Josiah, at the Center, in the mercantile business, which lasted about fifteen years, during this time did a heavy business —having to pay wholesale dealer's tax, although doing a retail business. About 1869, he purchased his brother's interest, and carried on the business himself, until 1876, when he sold out to C. P. Thatcher and Charles H. Packard, his son. For eighteen consecutive years. Mr. Packard held the office of Postmaster, receiving his first commission during the last days of President Johnson's administration. The Packard family are all stalwart Republicans, and men of upright character. Mr. Packard began his business career without much means, but has been a man of great energy and business enterprise, having had excellent health ; he has always taken a part in whatever was calculated to conduce to the general good and prosperity of the town and community at large. Since 1840, he has been a member of the Congregational Church. Nov. 2, 1848, he married Lucinda Bisbee, born Nov. 27, 1824, in Plainfield, Hampshire Co., Mass., daughter of Galen Bisbee, who was a son of Ebenezer, who was born in Bridgewater, Mass., whose descendants were of the Mayflower stock. Galen Bisbee's wife was Penelope Patch, of Warrington ; her father was Ephraim Patch, who married Rebecca Andrews. Mrs. Packard's parents started out with the colony of families who came out in 1832, but their trip was interrupted by the death of her father, who died on a canal boat Oct. 10, 1832, while on his way, and was buried at Buffalo, N. Y.; the family then turned aside to Geauga Co., where they remained about three years before they joined their companions in this township, in 1835, locating one mile and a half south of the Center ; her mother died Feb. 20, 1869. But two children are living, Charles Bisbee, now of Washington Co., Neb., and Mrs. J. Packard ; both her parents were members of the Congregational Church. For several years past, Mr. and Mrs. Packard have resided in


816 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


business at the Center, successor to Dr. Palmer. Since 1874, he has been serving as Justice of the Peace, meting out justice and equity to the people with credit to himself and to the evident satisfaction of his constituents. Like his paternal ancestor, he has been a representative of the Republican party, and has served the people in several township offices, and borne well his part as a citizen and member of the commonwealth. For several years has been a consistent member of the church of his parents' choice, as well as an upright and correct business man. Of three children borne him, but one is living—Vara, now the wife of George Johnson.


EVELETH PACKARD, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born Oct. 7, 1838, in this township ; son of George and Jane (Young) Packard. George was a son of Phillip Packard. Collins Young was the father of Jane, the mother of Eveleth ; he moved West to this State, locating in Harrisville, he being the fifth family that came in. His worldly possessions upon his arrival consisted of wife, eight children, ax, hoe and gun ; buckskin pants were the kind he used, his wife being clad in linsey woolsey ; here he remained until his death. George Packard, the father of Eveleth, came out to this county at the time the colony came, and made his settlement on the farm now owned by H. Homan, here he settled and cleared up that farm. But two children were born him—Harrison G., now in Ionia Co., Mich., and Eveleth. Mr. Packard died in November, 1872 ; his wife still survives him. March 17, 1858, Eveleth was married to Harriet A. Sandall, born in Lincolnshire, England, April 30, 1843, daughter of William and Martha (Roberts) Sandall ; he was born in same shire in 1805 ; she three years later. She emigrated to America with her parents in 1845, locating first in Cuyahoga Falls, where they resided until their location in this township. Her father resides in the southwest part of the township ; her mother died in 1863. To them were born a family of four children—Joseph, Catharine, Henry and Mrs. Packard. After Mr. Packard married, he moved to the southwest part of the township, where he lived four years. Then moved west of the Center, and lived on the farm adjoining him. where he remained until 1874, when he located where he now resides. Has 103 acres. Of the children born him are George, Milo and Warren. Mr. Packard and wife are both members of the Congregational Church.


MRS. ERASMUS D. PARSONS, farming ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born Nov. 23, 1808, in Otsego Co., N. Y.; eldest daughter of Peter and Celinda (Ross) Crush. Her maiden name was Hope Crush, and came West with her parents in 1822. Dec. 25, 1831, she was married to Erasmus D. Parsons, who was born Aug. 2, 1813, in Ontario Co., N. Y. His parents were Moses and Elizabeth (Crafts) Parsons. He was born in Parma, N. Y., in 1769 ; she in Wooster, Mass., in 1776. Elizabeth Crafts was a near relative of Maj. Benjamin Crafts, who was a Mason of high rank, and was a man of scholarly attainments as well as an efficient executive officer. To him is ascribed the honor of reading the Declaration of Independence in. Faneuil Hall, for the first time it was read before an audience. The Parsons are the real pioneers of Chatham Township, arriving in this township in 1818, May 10, Moses Parsons locating on the farm where Mr. R. Shaw now lives. To him were born three children, but one of them now living—Elizabeth C., who was born March 26, 1834. Mr. Parsons died in 1876. He had been a Democrat, and, though not a member of any church, yet was an ardent and enthusiastic admirer of the principles taught in ancient Freemasonry, and endeavored to conform his life to its teaching. Elizabeth was married, March 30, 1854, to William Packard, who was born Sept 18, 1826. He was a son of Caleb and Sallie (Stowell) Packard. She was a daughter of David Stowell. Mr. Packard came West in 1852, and for several years has been residing on the Parsons farm. Has one child. Mr. Packard is a member of the Masonic Fraternity. They have 125 acres of land. Mrs. Parsons is residing with them.


CHARLES ROSS, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; is one of the men in this county whose success in life has been the result of hard labor and the exercise of the most rigid economy. He was born May 22, 1823, in the town of Rochester, Windham Co., State of Vermont. His parents were Daniel and Susan (Whitcomb) Ross, to whom were born a family of eleven children. The family came West in 1834, locating in La Fayette Township. Our subject was raised to farming. At the age of 14, he left home and secured a place to live, where he


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 817

worked for his board and clothes, and got some schooling in the meantime. At the age of 16, he bargained with his father to buy his time in consideration of $56, which he paid him in work ; afterward he engaged in running a thrashing machine, and, by the time he was of age, he had saved about $400, when he sold out his interest and engaged at work at $10 per month, investing his means in some wild land in Wisconsin. 94 acres. Nov. 8, 1846, he married Nancy Eldred, born in Truxton, N. Y., Feb. 26, 1828. daughter of Daniel S. and Rachel (Soule) Eldred, who came West about the year 1833, locating in York Township. To them were born six children, two sons and four daughters. Soon after the marriage of Mr. Ross, he rented a saw-mill in La Fayette Township, and, after running it for some time, he traded it for 50 acres of land, which he now owns. His Wisconsin land he traded and invested in land in this township, and. has since operated in land considerably, having at times over 500 acres. In 1873, he moved to the farm he now owns, having, in all, land to the amount of 348 acres. He has two children—Daniel S., born Jan. 27, 1864 ; Seth P., born Dec 16, 1867. He is a man of strong will-power, and has, from ill health and bodily infirmities, been using stimulants since 1848 ; used a gallon of whisky per month constantly since, yet he has never been intoxicated in that time. Mr. Ross is one of the wealthiest farmers in the township, and has always lived an honest and sober life, and has accomplished more than the mass of successful business men.


ORRIN ROGERS, farmer; P. O. Chatham Center ; born Dec. 20, 1815, in Chenango Co., N. Y., son of Bela and Mina (Hale) Rogers. Bela was born near Cape Cod, and was a son of Solomon, to whom were born Thomas, Solomon, Bela, James, Sarah, Sevira and Hannah. Bela and wife were united in marriage, April 4, 1808 ; he was born June 25, 1787, she July 23, 1788: nine children were born to them, viz.: Lucinda. Orrin, Silas, Isaac, Sophia, Hannah, James, Mary, Sanford, all living but Sophia, all in Ottawa Co., Mich., except Orrin, Silas and Sanford ; the two former are in this township, and Sanford is in Indiana. Bela Rogers came to this county in 1834, stopping first year in Harrisville Township, the year following located in the northwest part of this township, where Silas now lives, and cleared up the farmwith the assistance of his boys ; he died May 15, 1857, his wife, April 6, 1854 ; both were members of the Baptist Church. Orrin left home at 21, and began his career by working out by the month. Feb. 19, 1838, he was married to Sarah Grant, who was born in Chenango Co., N. Y., Feb. 15, 1819, daughter of Elisha and Amy (Marsh) Grant. The Grant family came West about the year 1830. Soon after Mr. Rogers was married, he moved to Harrisville, where he rented a farm for two years, then came to this township and purchased 52 acres, a part of his father's farm, for which he paid $6 per acre ; settling upon this, he cleared it up ; eight years after, he sold the same and purchased land in Indiana, but never moved on it; moving then to the south part of this township, he rented land two years ; then purchased 65 acres in Harrisville Township, where he lived until 1860, when he sold out and bought 126 acres, where he has since lived. His wife' died July 8, 1863, leaving one son, Orange H., born Oct. 5, 1839, who married Corinthia C. Barnes, and by her had three children—Oliver, Wilson and Eudora, but one now living, Wilson, born in 1871. His wife died Aug. 28, 1876. Orange lives with his father on the home farm, which they carry on in partnership. In October, 1865, Mr. Rogers was married to Mrs. Emily Crush, whose maiden name was Gridley, daughter of Shubael, and sister of Orrin Gridley, of this township. Mr. Rogers has, by his own exertions, secured himself a competence.


C. R. REYNOLDS, farmer; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born Sept. 1, 1842, in Montville, this county, son of James and Lavina (Welton) Reynolds, to whom were born a family of seven children, who lived to maturity. Clark was but 11 years of age when his father died, but he remained on the homestead until his enlistment in the army, which was Aug. 16, 1864, and served until the close of the war, the greater portion of his time he spent at Nashville doing post and provost duty ; was there the time Gen. Hood made his advance on the place, and helped entertain him during his short stay. Upon his return home, he resumed farming ; in August, the following year, he married Carrie Collins, born Sept. 9, 1843, in Ashtabula Co., Ohio, daughter of Charles and Dorcas (Abbott) Collins. He was a native of England, she of Canada, and was a daughter of Benja-


818 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


min. Mr. Collins came West to Ashtabula County in 1830, and was married in 1837, and, finally, located in this township on the farm Ed Miller now owns. But two children were born them—Ann, now the wife of John Wilbur in Wellington, and Carrie, the wife of our subject. Mr. Collins and wife were born in 1811; he, for several years, was head collier in a mine in Connecticut, and had charge of a large force of men. Mr. Collins and wife now reside in Wellington. Mr. Reynolds' uncle, Uri Welton, was a soldier in the war of 1812, was taken prisoner and conveyed to Halifax, and was never heard of afterward. Mr. Reynolds moved to the farm he now owns, in 1876, has 86 acres of land ; is a man of a jovial disposition. Mrs. Reynolds, prior to her marriage, was, for several years, engaged as teacher. Of four children born them, three are living—Charles, Frank W. and Anna D. Edith died when 2f years old.


RALPH RICKARD, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born Aug. 17, 1814, in Manlius Township, Onondaga Co., N. Y.; son of John and Catharine (Ehle) Rickard, both families being of German extraction. Catharine's father was Peter Ehle, who married Catharine Nelas, he being one of the Revolutionary soldiers. Ralph's father (John) was a teamster in the war of 1812, and drove an ammunition wagon. Ralph was of a family of nine children, eight of whom came to maturity. Some of the number cast their fortunes in the West, others remained in their native county, viz., Archibald, Mary and Roena. Peter, George, Ralph, Betsey and Harvey, came West. Peter (now deceased) settled in Guilford. and raised a family—Betsey in Missouri ; George and Harvey in Michigan. His father generously gave him his time at the age of 19. He hired out on a farm, receiving the prevailing low wages of that time. December, 1838, he married Elizabeth Talbot, born Feb. 29, 1820, in Madison Co., N. Y.; daughter of Samuel and Betsey Talbot. Mrs. Rickard died June, 1852, leaving one child—Cyrus, now of Litchfield Township. His second marriage occurred April 28, 1853, with Phoebe Reynolds, born in Cazenovia, Madison Co., N. Y., Jan. 15, 1831, whose parents were Colonel and Phoebe (Avery) Reynolds. He was born at Warwick, on Narragansett Bay, R. I.; she in Herkimer Co., N. Y. He was a son of Francis Reynolds ; she a daughter of Punderson Avery, of Irish stock. Mrs. Rickard came West with her sister in 1850, and Mr. Rickard came West in 1845, first to Canaan Township, in Wayne Co. The following year, he located in this township, he and brother George purchasing 194 acres, for which they paid $8.50 per acre, which they carried on in partnership for several years. Has now 97 acres situated in the north part of the township, which has been the result of his own labor and patient industry. His last matrimonial union has been crowned with five children. three living—Frank, Harriet (Mrs. Ruthman Kent) and Jennie. Both Mr. and Mrs. Rickard are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Rickard has been a man of good constitution, and a very hardworking man, but is now enjoying the comforts of his home in comparative retirement.


O. J. ROGERS, hardware and tin-shop, Chatham Center ; born in this township April 21, 1851. Is the youngest of a family of three children born to Orrin and Rosina (Packard) Rogers. He was born in New York in October, 1815 ; she was born in 1818: daughter of Phillip Packard. a native of Penfield. Mass. Orrin J. was raised at home to farming. March 26, 1878, he was married to Fannie N. Porch, born in Chicago in June, 1858, daughter of Edward N. Porch, who was one of the early settiers and business men in Chicago ; was a man of excellent business qualifications. He was a lake Captain, and owned several vessels, and did quite an extensive marine business. The great fire of 1871, destroyed his residence and some of his vessels which were in port at that time. He afterward purchased a farm near Chicago, and engaged in farming. His loss by the fire, and excessive labor on the farm, hastened his death, which occurred in June, 1879. He was a native of England, and was the father of eight children, who are Giles, Daniel, Fannie (Mrs. R.), Anna, Edwin, Howard, Winifred and Willie. Since the death of their father, the family returned to Chicago. Giles is now a foreman in a telegraph office. Our subject, Onin J., first set up in business at Greenwich, in Huron Co., in 1877, in the stove, tin and hardware business with Mr. Lee, under the firm name of Lee & Rogers, which association lasted nearly two years. In October, 1879, he bought out the interest of J. W. Bernard, of this place, and has since been conducting it in a successful manner. The business being considerably in the decline when he came here, yet,


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP. - 819


under his management. it is assuming encouraging proportions. He keeps a good assortment of goods in his line, consisting of hardware. tinware, stoves, pumps, etc., etc. Mr. Rogers and wife are members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Rogers' father has been a member since 15 years of age.


JOHN RICE, milling and farming; P.O. Chatham Center ; born in Wooster Township. Wayne Co.. Ohio. Aug. 4. 1833 : eldest son of Philip and Sarah Rice. John was but a lad of 3 years of age when his parents came to this township. His early boyhood was spent in school, and in assisting his father in the duties of the farm. At the age of 16, he took charge of the saw-mill of his father. and ran the same until he purchased the entire interest of the same. Oct. 30, 1856. he married Hannah Stien, born Oct. 14. 1830. in Berks Co., Penn. Her parents were Joseph and Typhenia (Bear) Stien. Joseph was a son of John. who was drafted in the war of the Revolution. The parents of Mrs. Rice emigrated from Pennsylvania to Mahoning Co.. then to Ashland Co. In 1854. they settled in Homer Township. where he lived until his death, which occurred Dec. 20. 1880, in his 75th year. Of his children living are Solomon. who resides on the homestead ; Catharine, in Ottawa. the wife of Fred Dupler ; Elizabeth, Mrs.W. Andrews, of Homer; Caroline, Mrs. Wilson Hawk. of Homer, and Mrs. Rice. Since Mr. Rice has been married. he has been a resident of the farm he now owns. He has six children—Joseph P.. Sarah T., Irena E.. Mary C.. Clement S. and John W. Mr. Rice is proprietor of the Rice Mills. In 1877. he built the mill which he now owns. which is 34x40. and 34 feet high, all resting on a solid wall of rock. The building is three stories high, has the best of machinery, and was built on the New Process" plan, middlings purifier; and the latest improved cleaning machinery, and is doing a thriving business.


JOHN RICHARDS, wagon-maker. Chatham Center ; born in Moreland Township. Wayne Co.. Ohio. Sept. 13. 1841, the third of a family of twelve children, born to Wesley and Mary J. (Ogden) Richards. The former is a native of the Buckeye State. while his wife was born in Pennsylvania. They were the parents of the following children : Bezal E., Elizabeth, John, Sarah. Leonard, James A., Wesley, Samuel. Martha J., Charles, Margaret E. and George W. Bezal E. was a soldier in the late war, and is now a resident of Michigan. John Ogden. Mr. Richards' uncle, served three years in the war of the rebellion, and was taken prisoner and confined in Andersonville Prison. and, upon his release, was discharged from service, and, upon his return home, was among the number who lost their lives on the ill fated Sultana. At the age of 19, our subject left home, to learn the wagon-maker's trade. After serving one year at the same, he enlisted in the 16th O. V. I., Co. B. in the first call. ; His enlistment was April 21, 1861. After serving his time, he afterward reenlisted in a new company, which disbanded ere they were organized or mustered in. He then completed his trade, and set up in Chatham Center, and has since been the resident mechanic in his line, of the township. Dec. 1, 1863, he was married to Celestia A. Rice, born Dec. 31, 1846, in this township, daughter of Stahlman and Ann (Taylor) Rice, who were among the early arrivals to the county, and came into the township about forty years ago. Mr. Rice had eight children born to him. Mr. Richards' father died in 1875 ; his mother is yet living. Mr. Richards, Sr., and wife, were members of the M. E. Church. Mrs. Richards, the wife of our subject, is a member of the M. E. Church also. They have five children—Bertha M., Ethel, Charles H.. Hattie A. and Grace E. The Richards are true Republicans.


PHILIP RICE, farmer ; Chatham Center. Mr. Rice has been identified with the interests of the township since 1836. He was born May 18, 1810, in Westmoreland Co., Penn.; son of Barnhart, who was a son of Frederick, who served all through the war of the Revolution; his father was Barnhart Rice, of German ancestry. To Frederick Rice were born Barnhart, Frederick (who died in the war of 1812), John, Christopher, Simeon, Henry, Catharine and Susan. Frederick Rice. the grandfather of Philip, emigrated West to this State, locating in Wayne Co., Wooster Township, in the spring of 1816, where he purchased 124 acres, at $10 per acre. Barnhart and Christopher came the year following, Philip being a lad of seven years when his father emigrated to the State. At the age of 19, his father gave him his time ; he turned his attention to farming ; Oct. 9, 1834, married Sarah Herman. born in 1812, in Baughman Township, Wayne Co., daughter of


820 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


the father of Mrs. R., was a molder by trade and one of the most skillful of his kind ; hE moved West to Summit Co. in 1834, and died very soon after ; his widow married Isaac Hulett, of Brunswick Township. The father of Chauncey Lane was named John ; he was a soldier in the war of 1812. Chauncey, the brother of Mrs. R., was a soldier in the late rebellion, and " fought mit Sigel." In May, 1850, Mr. Roberts (our subject) made a purchase of 60 acres where he now lives, bought of Mr. Thayer, for which he paid $15.50 per acre ; but little improvements were made upon it ; it was almost a swamp or frogpond, but Mr. Roberts having had considerable experience in pioneer life, in Hinckley, he soon cleared it up and afterward added 55 acres more, for which he paid $25 per acre, and has now a good farm with excellent buildings. He has no children, yet he has made a home for others under his own roof. Mr. Roberts has a pleasant home and the best assortment or cabinet of Indian relics in the county.


S. C. RIPLEY, farmer and carpenter ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born April 22, 1813, in Bennington Co., Vt., and, when a babe, removed with his parents to Sparta, N. Y., on the east bank of Skaneateles Lake, in Onondaga Co. His parents were Jonathan and Ruth (Corey) Ripley ; Jonathan was born in Rhode Island, and was a son of David Ripley, who was a Revolutionary soldier ; he was a brother of Gen. Ripley, whose name is recorded in the annals of American history,. as one of the officers of the Revolution. Ruth Corey was a daughter of Silas, to whom were born sons, as follows : James, Reynolds, John and Joseph. The children born to Jonathan were Joshua, Rebecca, James, John, Whiteman, Menily, Elsie, David, Maria and Silas C. Our subject was raised to farm labor, but, as soon as he attained his manhood's years, he then turned his attention to the business his inclination and ability had in store. At the age of 20, he left home and went to learn the carpenter's trade, which he followed for some time ; afterward, he went to Auburn, and there engaged in a machine-shop, and afterward became the proprietor of the same. In June, 1836, he was married to Rosina Burgess, born in Springfield, Mass., in 1809, daughter of Benjamin S. and Rebecca (Chapin) Burgess. In 1842, Mr. Ripley joined the tide that was emigrating west George and Elizabeth Keester. To Barnhart Rice, the father of Philip, were born ten children ; of those living are Philip, John, Catharine, Elizabeth, Sarah, Susan, Anna and Mary, all living in this county except Mary. After Philip was married, he rented a farm south of Wooster, until his location in this township. He purchased 146 acres of John S. Strong for $2.50 per acre, having saved enough money, while renting in Wayne Co., to make his first payment. The first year he cut off one acre and a half, which he put in corn and potatoes. The next year he built a saw-mill, which was probably the first one built in the township, which he run for many years ; his son John is now running his mill upon the same site. Mr. Rice has now 170 acres, which is adorned with the best of farm buildings. Mr. Rice, having been one of the best farmers in the township, being now somewhat in decline, has given up the management of his farm mostly to his sons, George and Daniel. Mr. Rice is a Lutheran, and one of the solid farmers and honored members of the community ; has three children—John, George and Daniel.


H. D. ROBERTS, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born Jan. 25, 1826, in Hinckley Township, Medina Co.; son of Robert and Betsey (West) Roberts. The father of our subject was born in Connecticut ; he and his wife were married in New York and came West about the year 1824 ; soon after his arrival to the State, he shipped on the Lake and was never heard from afterward, supposed to have been wrecked and drowned. Betsey. his wife, was born in Berkshire Co., Mass., July 22, 1807, daughter of Ephraim West. Mrs. Roberta had two children by her union with Mr. Roberts, H. D. and Lyman C. Mrs. Roberts was subsequently married to Apollos King, with whom our subject lived until the death of his stepfather ; he then carried on the farm for his mother three years. Sept. 12, 1848, he was married to Betsey A. Lane, who was born in Madison Co., N. Y., Jan. 27, 1828, daughter of Chauncey and Sallie Lane ; both were natives of Madison Co. Their family consisted of five children, all of whom came to maturity—Samantha, who married Alex. Cassell, in Brunswick ; Anna M., Mrs. R. Hiers, of Michigan. She died suddenly while walking in the road to a neighbor's house ; Chauncey and Edwin in Wauseon, Fulton Co., Ohio. Chauncey Lane,


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 821


ward, and, in December of the same year, he landed in Guilford Township, and here carried on his trade, and, in 1847, he removed to Montville, where he lived until January, 1853, when he located in this township, and has since remained. He has made several minor moves and changes, but, since his advent to this township, has been a constant resident, and is still carrying on his trade as contractor and builder. In 1870, he located on the farm he now owns, consisting of 86 acres, which was formerly owned by Lemuel Allis, situated immediately south of the Center. Mrs. Ripley died in May, 1875. Five children were born, but two only are living—William and Amelia. Theodore F. was a soldier in the late war—was a member of Co. K, 42d 0. V. I.; he enlisted Aug. 20, 1862, and died of disease, just one year, to a day, from the date of his enlistment. Mr. Ripley's school advantages were very limited indeed ; what education he has was obtained in the practice of his business and self-teaching. Mr. Ripley is a strong temperance man, and not only lives in accordance thereto, but votes that way whenever the opportunity is presented.


HOMER SHANK, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born Feb. 19, 1829, in Chippewa Township, Wayne Co., Ohio, the eldest of a family of thirteen children born to his parents. His father is Rev. Michael Shank, whose wife was Betsey Hyde. He was born June 4, 1805, in Lancaster Co., Penn. She was a daughter of Henry Hyde, whose wife's maiden name was Mary Ashbaugh—all of whom are of German ancestry. Of Homer's grandfather's family, they were six in number, four living—Michael ; Barbara, now Mrs. Hyde, of Montville Township ; Nancy, now Mrs. Gish, of Lancaster, Penn. ; and Fannie, now Mrs. Gish, of Wayne Co., Ohio. Of Michael's family, Homer, of this township ; Valentine, Peter and Vincent, in Litchfield ; Mary E., now Mrs. Witter, in Des Moines Co., Iowa ; Mrs. Morgan Franks, of this township ; Narcissa, now Mrs. Wilson, of Wayne Co., Ohio ; and 1 Hampton, at St. Louis, Mich. Michael, the father of Homer, emigrated West when a young man, locating in Wayne Co., in 1827, where he married and cleared up a farm ; he remained here until 1854, when he moved to Medina ; remained four years, then returned to Wayne Co., where he lived until about the year 1875. His wife died in 1872 ; he has since married Mercy Carter. For forty years, Mr. Shank has been one of the leading Ministers of the Regular Baptist Church, and has now a church in charge at Penfield, where he now resides. Homer remained at home until 25 years of age. He was first married, April 6, 1854, to Mary Otis, born in Sugar Grove Township, Wayne Co., in 1836, daughter of Jesse and Charlotte Davy, he being a native of Vermont, and she of New Jersey ; they were among the early settlers in Wayne Co. Mrs. Shank died Nov. 7, 1864, leaving one child—Bert—who was but six days old at his mother's death. His second wife was Hannah Panny, daughter of Mrs. Merena Damon ; she died, leaving one child—Ray—born of this marriage. In June, 1873, he was married to Mrs. Jennie Ware, who was born in Harrisville Township, April 22, 1846, daughter of Darius and Nancy (Rosa) Sanford, who were natives of New York. By this marriage, two children have been born to Mr. Shank—Tressie and Edith. Mr. Shank has 145 acres of land ; his wife 46. As a breeder and handler of thoroughbred horses, Mr. Shank takes the lead in Chatham Township. He is a breeder and trainer, his horses always commanding the highest market price. He recently sold General Hayes (of Hiatoga stock) for $3,000. Being an excellent judge, and understanding thoroughly his business, he is acknowledged as the leading dealer in this part of the county.


JOSHUA SHAW, retired, Chatham Center; is a native of Plainfield, Hampshire Co., Mass.; his birth occurred Jan. 30, 1818 ; parents were Thomas and Rebecca (Hersey) Shaw. He was born in Abingdon, Mass., about the year 1765. He was a son of Joshua. To Thomas were born five children, one daughter and four sons, viz., Thomas, Jerome H., James, Joshua and Deborah, now Mrs. Abram Falconer, in Fulton Co. Thomas, an artist, now a resident of Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, and Joshua, are the only ones living (Deborah, Thomas and Joshua). Joshua was but a lad when his father died, and he came West in company with his mother in 1834, locating one and three-fourths miles south of the Center. Jerome, his brother, purchased land at $3 per acre. Joshua worked with his brother, and made his home with his mother, until his marriage, which event took place in accordance with the laws of the commonwealth,


822 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


being celebrated March 24, 1842 ; his spouse was Lucinda E. Packard, sister of Jonathan and Francis P. She died in 1864. Two children were born—Sarah and Francis R. Sarah ! died at the age of 15. His second wife was Emily Warner, who died in the spring of 1869, leaving no issue. Nov. 24, 1870, he married Mary P. Packard, who was born Aug. 18, 1836, in this township. daughter of William Packard, born in Plainfield, Mass., July 23, 1808, whose wife was Mary Smith ; her mother's maiden name was Mary F. Rude, born in Ashfield, March 19, 1804, all of Massachusetts. Mrs. Shaw's father resides in Covert. Van Buren Co.. Mich. She has but two brothers living—William O. and Alfred S., now of the same county as above. During the early part of Mr. Shaw's life, he taught school several terms, and employed his time at home on the farm, having bought of his brother a portion of the land he first settled upon. and remained upon this tract until his removal to the Center in 1873. and. with the exception of two years spent in Michigan, after leaving the farm in 1870, has resided in the township forty-six years. His farm, consisting of 100 acres, is now being carried on by Francis R., who was one of the principals in the invention of the telephone, now in operation all through the country. He has been twice married ; first to Eliza A. Parson ; she died, leaving no issue. His present wife was Sarah Garver ; by her he has three children—Eva M., William F. and Mary J. Since 1836, Mr. Joshua Shaw has been a consistent member of the Congregational Church. He is a self-made man, and came here without means.


ALFRED W. SHAW, farmer and mechanic ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born in Plainfield Township, Berkshire Co., Mass., May 3, 1827. the third child born to Orrin Shaw, who came West in 1833, locating in this township. Alfred learned the carpenter's trade of his father, and. at the age of 21, started out on his own " hook." Oct. 1, 1848, he married Mary Packard, who was born in Plainfield, Mass., Dec. 14, 1824, daughter of Phillip and Hannah Packard. The family came West in 1833, and located near the. farm Orrin Shaw settled. To Phillip Packard) were born nine children, seven of whom lived to be grown. Phillip Packard was born May 6. 1790 ; his wife Sept. 17, 17 92. They were married in 1812. Of the number who grew up. were 1 Jacob, Sallie, Rosina, Austin M.. Hannah L.. Mary and Aurelia. Jacob now resides in Cameron, Mo. ; Phillip died Feb. 25, 1872 ; his wife Feb. 20, 1833. Phillip Packard was one of the original members at the organization of the Congregational Church at the Center. Since the marriage of our subject. he has been a constant resident of the farm he now owns. He purchased 51 acres at $8 per acre, on what was known as the " Porter" tract. This land, at I the time of his purchase, was unimproved ; afterward added 25 acres, which cost him $25 per acre. Since his occupancy, has been engaged in farming and carrying on his trade. He has a mill on his premises. constructed to do grinding and planing. by steam power. Has but one child. William A.. born Jan. 7. 1854. who resides with him. who, in Jan. 5, 1881. was married to Mary E. Hyde. Mr. Shaw has been a member of his father's church for about forty years, his wife nearly same time. Mr. Shaw is a Republican.


E. P. SHAW, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born on the same farm he now owns. Nov. 8 1836: son of Orrin and Sarah (Poole) Shaw. He was born in Plainfield. Mass., Dec. 16, 1796, son of Thomas. whose birth occurred Dec. 16, 17655 ; his decease occurred in 1827. His wife was Deborah White, born Sept. 11, 17 74 ; she died Sept. 8. 1806. She was a descendant of Peregrine White. who was born on the Mayflower. Thomas was the father of three children—Cynthia. Chloe and Orrin. Cynthia married Iram Packard, who settled the farm now owned by George Holbern, of this township ; Chloe married a Catlin. To Orrin were born four children—Mary. now of Missouri, who married Marshall Shaw ; Orrin S., of Van Buren Co.. Mich. ; Alfred W. and E. P. in this township. Orrin Shaw was a carpenter by trade, and came West in 1833 to secure a home. Iram Packard had preceded him, and purchased a tract of land running from the Center road to the river. On the west of him, he purchased a small tract at $3 per acre, adding to this at times until he had 100 acres ; worked at his trade, and earned enough to pay for it. Here he remained until his death, July 7, 1877 ; that of his wife, Aug. 26, 1873. He was one of the first members of the Congregational Church at its organization, and its first Deacon, which office he held up to the time of his death. He was a conscientious and upright man. Edgar P., being the youngest, remained at home, and


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 823


co-operated with his father in the management of the farm. He taught school several terms, and, having a love for music, his services were brought into requisition as a teacher of vocal music. April 4, 1861, he married Barbara Hyde, born in this county, daughter of Henry and Sarah (Johnson) Hyde. He was born in Cumberland Co.. Penn., Feb. 10, 1815 ; she in Trumbull Co.. in August, 1816, a daughter of Austin and Maria (Oviatt) Johnson. The father of Henry Hyde was Henry, who married Mary Ashbaugh, to whom were born a family of fifteen children. all of whom lived to maturity. To Henry Hyde and wife were born eight children, seven living, who are Maria, Barbara. Nancy, Melissa, Henry, Anson and Mary. Henry Hyde, the grandfather of Mrs. Shaw, came West to this county and settled in Montville in 1815, they having to pack their effects on horseback to their cabin, as there were no roads cut. After residing here many years, he finally located in Litchfield, where he died July 21, 1877. His wife is now living in Sullivan, Ashland Co.. Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Shaw have six children—Edgar B., Clara E., Allison P., Mary B., Howard A. and Emily B. For twenty-eight years, Mr. Shaw has been a member of the Congregational Church, and had charge of the choir, being an able and efficient leader. His farm, consisting of 100 acres, was formerly owned by his father.


D. B. SANFORD, farmer; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born June 20. 1813, in Green Township, Chenango Co., N. Y.. the third of a family of nine children, whose parents were Beers and Rachel (Akerly) Sanford. Beers was a son of Lemuel Sanford, whose children were Beers. Jackson, Daniel. Darius, Hannah and Apha. Rachel was a daughter of Samuel, whose offspring were Rachel. Vina, Polly, Rhoda, Betsey, Conrad and Miller. The Akerlys were originally from Holland, while the Sanfords, so far as known, are descendants of the Puritans. The Sanford family came West in 1832, and located in the northeastern part of Harrisville Township, where Albert Sanford now resides. Here Beers Sanford purchased 60 acres, which cost $3.50 per acre. Here he settled, in the woods. and remained on this tract until his decease, which occurred Dec. 7, 1877, in his 84th year. His wife lived until she turned her fourscore and four years; she died Dec. 23, 1880. This venerable couple hadbeen members of the M. E. Church for many years. Both died in the triumph of a living faith. The last words he uttered were, " I know that my Redeemer liveth," and soon passed to his rest. Darius B. assisted his father in clearing up his farm. At the age of 21, he began working out by the month, receiving $9 per month. He continued in this way until his union with Nancy Rosa, Feb. 28, 1843, who was born Aug. 12, 1825, in Steuben Co., N. Y., daughter of William and Elizabeth (Davis) Rosa, the latter of whom was a daughter of Benjamin and Nancy Davis. William Rosa was a soldier in the war of 1812. To Benjamin Davis were born two sons and six daughters, whose names are Henry, Abram, Elizabeth, Margery, Phoebe, Julia, Nancy and Sarah. To William Rosa were born eleven children, all of whom grew to maturity. Mrs. Sanford had three brothers who took their places in the rank and file of the " boys in blue." William died of disease at Pittsburg Landing. Isaac was taken prisoner, and served many weary and hungry days within the confines of Libby Prison ; he had served all through the war, and was in the prison at the time Richmond was captured. Reuben after serving his time in the 10th Kan. V. I., and escaping the perils of war, was murdered, after the war, at Baxter Springs, being shot by some unknown party, and his body afterward found in the river. He was last seen driving his team, which was never seen afterward. Soon after Mr. Sanford was married, he set up housekeeping on his father's place. All the household effects he had to begin with, he could have wheeled upon a barrow. He lived there about eight years, and, during this time, worked out as he could, and managed to save enough, in this time, to make a payment upon a place of his own. His father was unable to assist him, but our worthy subject was energetic, and, having a good wife to assist him, "gained ground " every year. His first purchase was in the east part of the township, where he purchased the place which W. Wideman now owns, which was unimproved ; he soon cleared this, and made another purchase near by, which he also cleared up. Since 1872, he has been a resident of the farm he now owns, which was settled by Amasa Packard. Mr. Sanford has done an immense amount of hard labor, and has made all he has by the hardest of work. He has four children—Delia, Sarah, Jane and Hi-


824 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


ram. Mr. Sanford's wife and the daughters are all members of the M. E. Church.


JACKSON STROUP, farmer and blacksmith ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; born March 9, 1822, in Rich Hill Township, Greene Co., Penn., son of Samuel and Rachel (Rush) Stroup. Samuel was a son of Thomas, of German descent, to whom were born John, George, Millie and Lavina. The father of Rachel was Peter Rush, a native of Pennsylvania. Jackson was a lad of 13 when his parents came West. His father located first in Spencer, purchasing land, for which he paid $5 per acre. He did not remain long on this place. but moved about considerably before he died. renting land in different localities. His death occurred in the year 1840. His family consisted of nine children, all of whom lived to maturity. They were Lucinda, Eliza, Jackson, Silas. George. Parker. Oliver, Martin and Phillip. After the death of his father, Jackson took charge of the family. and kept them together, and maintained them until they were enabled to care for themselves. At the age of 25, he was married to Delilah Haines, who was born in Wooster. Ohio. Oct. 28, 1827, daughter of Jacob and Maria (Space) Haines. Jacob was born in New York, and was a son of Christopher. a native of Germany, whose family consisted of nine children. After the marriage of Mr. Stroup, he located in Spencer Township and worked at his trade. In 1859, he moved to this township and purchased of Mr. Charles Collins 40 acres, and has since added to the same until he now has 90 acres. Six children have been born to him, who are George A., Garner, Chester, Martha (now Mrs. William Maxon), Edman and Harvey. Mrs. Stroup's father came West to Wayne Co. when young, his father being one of' the first settlers in the county. Mr. Stroup and wife are members of' the M. E. Church.


WILLIAM SHOEMAKER, farmer; P. 0. Chatham Center; was born July 22, 1832, in Wayne Co., Ohio, the ninth child of a family of fourteen children born to Rev. John and Catharine (Ringer) Shoemaker. This gentleman was born April 3, about the year 1788, in Armstrong Co., Penn., son of Joseph Shoemaker, of German ancestry. To him were born seven children. Catharine Ringer was a daughter of Michael, to whom were born five sons and five daughters, who were John, George, Michael, William and Henry ; the daughterswere Catharine, Mary, Betsey and Catharine. John Shoemaker. the father of William, emigrated West about the year 1826, locating in what was then Perry Township, Wayne Co.. where he purchased 160 acres of land. John Shoemaker, after thirty years' ministerial labor in the German Baptist Church, departed this life June 10, 1855. He was a just and upright man, a kind father and a consistent Christian. William left home at 22 years of age. Nov. 22, 1854, was married to Leah Berkey, who was born in Northampton Co., Penn.. Sept. 4, 1831, daughter of Christian and Barbara (Shaum) Berkey. Christian was born and raised in Northampton Co.. his wife in Plainfield Township. The mother of Barbara Shaum was a Miller prior to her marriage. Mrs. Shoemaker's parents came West about the year 1842. Christian Berkey. the father of Mrs. Shoemaker, died in 1873. his wife. 1856. They were members of the Mennonite Church. After Mr. Shoemaker was married, he lived one year and a half on his father's farm. then removed to Ashland Co.. where he lived eight years. In 1863. located where he now resides. First purchased 85 acres of Robinson, for which he paid $34 ; has since added to it until he has 172 acres. Has three children—Melinda. now Mrs. McVicker, on farm adjoining ; Eliza and Lorin. at home. Mr. Shoemaker has a fine location. and his new residence. built the past year, is one of the finest. He and wife are members of the German Baptist Church ; also, his eldest daughter. In connection with his farming. he runs a dairy of twenty cows. and is a successful farmer.


EDWARD TALBOTT, retired farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born March 4. 1809, in Cazenovia Township, Madison Co.. N. Y.. son of Samuel and Betsey (Arnold) Talbott. Betsey was a daughter of Peleg, who was born in Providence. R. I., and of Scotch ancestry. Edward Talbott, grandfather of our subject, was a native of England. and emigrated to America during the latter part of the eighteenth century. He was a man of superior education and mental endowments, and was for many years in His Majesty's service as a Recording Officer and Surveyor. He was related to some of the noble families of England. His mother was a Countess, and resided in a fine mansion a short distance from London. Samuel Talbott. the father of our subject, was a farmer. To


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 825


him were born nine children—Hiram, Lorenzo. Edward, Alpheus, George, Maria, Caroline, Eliza and Sarah. Edward was 22 when he began for himself. His first purchase of land was in Murray Township, Orleans Co., N. Y. Jan. 22, 1839, he was married to Cynthia Reynolds, born in Madison Co., N. Y.. in 1816. daughter of Col. and Phebe (Avery) Reynolds. After his marriage, he purchased a small farm near his father's, where he resided until 1846. when he sold out and came West, locating in this township, purchasing 121 acres where Mr. Frost now resides. In 1855. he bought out Marcus Lyon. south of the Center, purchasing 146 acres at $30 per acre, and kept the same until 1870, when he sold out to A. C. Packard at $70 per acre, and has since resided at the Center. Five daughters have been born him. who have since married, and are residents of the township. Euphemia married Amasa Clapp : Lucy A., P. D. Stowell ; Henrietta, W. H. Shane ; Mattie, A. R. Clapp ; Ida. B. O. McConnell. Mr. Talbott began life poor. but by good management has accumulated a comfortable fortune. He is not a church member, nor has he ever taken an active part in the politics of his township, further than to vote intelligently.


O. E. TOWN. farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; is a native of the Buckeye State. and was born May 11. 1847. in Parkman. Geauga Co.; son of Lyman and Betsey (Porter) Town. The former was born July 13. 1801. in Chautauqua Co., N. Y.. and was a son of Isaac Town. Betsey Porter was born in the same State. Feb. 20, 1808, and was a (laughter of John Porter. To Isaac Town was born a family of eleven children, but one now living, Sylvia, who married Stephen Gates. of Geauga Co. Lyman Town was married in New York, and emigrated West to Geauga Co., where he settled in 1846. To him was born a family of eleven children, nine in the Empire State ; those living are Isaac ; Mary, Mrs. E. White, in Ashtabula Co.: A. C., in Parkman, on the homestead ; Ira P.; Francis H.; Roxie Mrs. Edwin Fisher, in Portage Co.; Orrin E., in this township ; and Alvira O. (Mrs. Edward Beardsley) ; all of them in Geauga Co. except Orrin E., Roxie and Mary. Clark Town, son of Isaac, was a soldier in the war of 1812. Of the Town family, there were engaged in the late waft Francis H. and Ira P., both members of the 9th Ohio Artillery, the former serving five and the latter three years. Lyman Townwas a farmer, and cleared up a farm in Chautauqua Co. before coming West. He died in Geauga Co., Feb. 13, 1880 ; his wife survives him. O. E. left home at 23. Jan. 17, 1871, he was married to Mary E. Fellows, who was born July 1, 1849, in Onondaga Co., N. Y.; daughter of Henry and Susan Fellows (his second wife), who was born in Pompey, Onondaga Co., N. Y., July 20, 1813. They were married in Lake Co., Nov. 15. 1840, and had five children, three now living—Stephen, Mary E. and Eunice (Mrs. John Dague) ; all of this township. Hiram died at Winchester, March 23, 1862 ; he was a member of Co. K, 8th 0. V. I. Since 1871, Mr. Town has resided on the farm he now owns, consisting of 91 acres, which was the farm settled and cleared up by Henry Fellows. To Mr. Town have been born three children—Henry L., Edwin O. and Leo E. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.


CHARLES P. THATCHER. merchant, Chatham Center; born in Litchfield Township March 7, 1848 ; son of Buckley and Emeraney (Culver) Thatcher. He was born Feb. 22, 1806, at Lee. in Berkshire Co., Mass. She was born in same place Feb. 12, 1807 ; daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Leonard) Culver. The genealogy of the Thatcher family runs in this order : The father of Buckley was Timothy, who was born at Wareham, but removed in early life to Lee, Berkshire Co. He there married Dolly (Dorothy) Phelps, Dec. 31, 1799. He was a son of Deacon Roland, who married, June 28, 1773, to Elizabeth Nye, of Rochester, Mass. He was a son of Rev. Roland, who was born Aug. 28. 1710. at Barnstable ; was educated for the ministry, and graduated at Harvard College in 1733 : was ordained as minister in 1740, and was a Pastor for thirty-four years. His wife was Abigail (Crocker) Roland ; was a son of Col. John, born at Yarmouth Jan. 28, 1645. For thirty years, he was Register of Deeds for the county, and for many years Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and Colonel of a regiment of militia. He died March 17, 1764, at the age of 90. His wife was Desire Sturgis Dimmock. The parents of our subject emigrated West in 1830, arriving in Litchfield in June. He was a cabinet-maker by occupation. After his arrival, he made several removals, first to Elyria, then to Hudson, next to Ridgeville, then to Grafton, and, in 1837, returned to Litchfield, where he located and remained until his death,


826 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


which occurred Sept. 16, 1853, by railroad accident near Oneida, N. Y., while returning home from a visit to his friends in Massachusetts. His wife still survives him, and resides with her son Charles P. Of eight children who grew to maturity, but five are now living, viz., James G., in this township; Sarah E., Mrs. F. L. Fairchild, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio ; Abigail, with her mother ; Charles P. and Timothy D., in Buffalo, Neb. At the age of 16, Charles P. left home and engaged as clerk for one year in Ashland Co. Two years later he purchased a farm and engaged in farming. In 1862, bought a place in this township and remained on the same until he engaged in the mercantile business in 1876, at Chatham Center. Sept. 12, 1871, was married to Lida Packard, who was born June 18, 1851, being the eldest child of Jonathan Packard. To them have been born four children—Roscoe W., Edna L., Lula M. and infant unnamed. He and wife are both members of the Congregational Church. Since March, 1879. has been serving as Postmaster.


O. E. WHITE, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; born Oct. 12, 1834, in Sheridan Township, Chautauqua Co., N. Y., son of James and Anna (Peebles) White, his father's name was James, and came from the Emerald Isle. To him were born James, David, Daniel, John, William, Henry and Mary ; Henry was killed by the falling of a tree. To his son James were born Mary E., Christina E., Oliver 0., H. P., Henry, Walter C., Steuben, Oscar F. and Ozro E., of the above number but three are living, Christina E., of Fredonia, N. Y., the wife of O. Doolittle, Oscar in Wauseon, Fulton Co., Ohio, and our subject O. E. James White, the grandfather of Ozro, as well as his great-grandfather John, were soldiers in the war of the Revolution. James, the father of O. E., and his brothers David and John, were in the war of 1812. James White was born in Eastern New York June 14, 1784, his wife, Anna, in 1791 ; she died in 1855, and her husband Jan. 22, 1873. Mr. White, early in life, removed with parents to Madison Co., N. Y., afterward settled in Chautauqua Co., N. Y., and came West to this county, arriving Feb. 23, 1849. Anna Peebles was a daughter of William F., to whom were born Robert, William, Seth, Riley, Orrisa, Betsey and Anna. Since 1849, our subject has remained on the farm his father first located, consisting of 106 acres. May 3, 1855, our subject was married to Venila M. Stowell, horn in Plainfield, Mass., April 17, 1836, daughter of William and Mary (Shaw) Stowell ; he was born in Massachusetts March 28, 1812, she in same State in 1822 ; his father's name was David, whose wife was Polly Remington, to whom were born Nathan, Sallie, David, William, Harriet, Mehitable and Clarissa. The Stowells are of Scotch ancestry. Mrs. White's grandfather, on her mother's side, was John. Mrs. White has one brother and one sister living—Lydia A., Mrs. T. Rice, of Sullivan Township, Ashland Co., Ohio, and William H., in Fulton Co.. this State. To Mr. and Mrs. White have been born three children, viz.: Mary, born Jan. 3.183S. now the wife of H. Dustin. of this township ; Walter Perry, Jan. 2, 1860. and O. Stowell, born Jan. 1, 1866. Mr. White, since his father's occupancy of this farm, has been a constant resident ; is a man of easy habits, and is a lover of fun and good music, especially the violin. upon which he is an excellent performer.


MAJ. WILLIAMS. cheese manufacturer, Chatham Center ; was born in La Fayette Township May 22, 1836, the eldest of a family of four children. who are Mary C. (now in Polk Co.. Iowa, the wife of Robert McConnell), Henry A. (in Morris Co., Kan.), Herbert R. (in Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio), all of whom were born to Roswell and Clarinda (Jenkins) Williams. He was born Nov. 24, 1804, in Bennington Co., Vt., son of John Williams, of Welsh ancestry. Clarinda Jenkins was born May 29, 1812, in Jefferson Co., N. Y., and was married to Mr. Williams Oct. 7, 1834. Her father was Abiah Jenkins. who was an early settler in Jefferson Co. In the spring of 1833, Roswell Williams and wife joined the tide of' emigration Westward. locating on 200 acres of land now owned by J. Chamberlain, in La Fayette Township. From Medina, their course was marked by blazed trees, the country then being a wilderness. Here. upon this farm, the father of our subject spent the greater part of his life. He died Oct. 5. 1877, his death resulting from accident while in Iowa visiting. He was riding out with his grandchildren, when the horse took fright and threw him out, breaking his ankle. Gangrene setting in. amputation became necessary, which operation he did not ' survive. For many years, he had been a prominent member in the Congregational Church ; was one of its charter members, and for many


CHATHAM TOWNSHIP - 827


years was Deacon. He was a man universally ! beloved. He was a stanch Whig in the early part of his life ; later, he was a member of the Republican party, in which he ever took an active part. Our subject, though raised to farming, at the age of 1S began teaching, which he followed up to 1861, having taught in this time nineteen terms of school. March 26, 1860, he married L. C. Hickox, who was born Jan. 5, 1840, at Monroe Falls, Summit Co.. Ohio, daughter of William and Almira (Bissell) Hickox. Both were born in Ontario Co.—he June 12, 1810 ; she March 29, 1811. He was a son of William Hickox, a soldier in the war of 1812, as were also Maj. Williams' grandfathers Jenkins and Williams. William Hickox, Jr., died in 1872 ; his wife in 1856. During the first year of the war, our subject was chosen Drillmaster of a home company in La Fayette, and, in September of that year (1861), he enlisted, and was chosen Captain of the company, and mustered into Co. B, 42d O. V. I. July 25, 1862, he was commissioned as Major of the regiment, and served until Dec. 4, 1864, serving three years and three months, participating in many battles, some of which were Middle Creek, Chickasaw Bluff. Arkansas Post and Cumberland Gap. During a greater portion of the time, he was in command of the regiment. In May, 1863, he was in command at Thompson's Hill, at Champion Hills and at Black River Bridge. He was in command at the first assault upon the works at Vicksburg, also at Jackson, Miss., and commanded when building bridge of boats across the Atchafalaya River. During his term of three years and three months' service, he came through without a wound or a scratch, at one battle receiving four bullet holes through his clothing. The last gun he heard fired before leaving the front for home, was fired at him by a bushwhacker at short range, which barely grazed his temple. Since the Major returned home, he has been engaged mostly in agricultural pursuits. In 1867, he embarked in the cheese manufactory at La Fayette, which he carried on successfully for twelve years. Since March, 1872, he has been a resident of this township, where he has been engaged in the same enterprise, having had an interest in the Litchfield and Wellington factories. At present, he is mainly interested in the one at Chatham Center, which absorbs the product of eight hundred cows. In political matters, he has, for several years past, borne a prominent part in the county. During the year 1880, he was a delegate to the State and National Conventions, and was unanimously elected a member of the State Board of Equalization the same year. Is a member of the Congregational Church, and of the Masonic Fraternity, both as W. M. of A., F. & A. M., No. 58, and of the R. A. M., No. 36. Has five children—Gertrude I., Don R., Clare G. and Carl S. twins), and Blake, the youngest.


J. D. WHITNEY, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center ; was born Feb. 23, 1827, in Lewis Co., N. Y., the second of a family of four children, born to his parents, Hiram and Susan (Stanton) Whitney. Hiram Whitney was killed by the falling of a tree, when James was but a lad, and, as a consequence, he knows but little concerning the history of the Whitney family. After the death of his father, he lived with his mother until 12 years of age ; then he went to live with a man by the name of Kitts, with whom he lived one year; then he went to Jefferson Co., and lived with his Uncle Hutchinson two years ; he worked at the tailor's trade two years ; abandoning this, he worked one year at the cabinet-maker's trade; then he sailed on the lake one year; returning again to the cabinet business, he continued two seasons in the employ of Brittain ; then he returned to the lake again one season; that fall he came out to this county and stayed one year ; he returned once more to the lake, and at last came to Medina Co., to remain permanently. Jan. 1, 1843, he was married to Rhoda Smith, an adopted daughter of William Jordan, who was one of the first settlers of the township. After his marriage, he settled in town on a village lot. In the spring of 1850, he caught the gold fever and went to California, remaining one year ; he then returned to this county. In 1862, he located on the farm he now owns. His wife died in April, 1874, leaving three children—Mary, now Mrs. S. H. McConnell ; Florilla, who married A. Peckham, and James H. Mr. and Mrs. McConnell now reside in Kansas ; Florilla and husband in this township. Jan. 14, 1876, he was married to Adaline White, who was born Sept. 20, 1847, in Wayne Co., Ohio, near Smithville ; she is a daughter of William and Julia (Stiver) White. Mrs. Whitney is a sister of Mrs. W. A. Cotner, of La Fayette Township. Since Mr. Whitney located here, he has been a constant


828 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:


resident. He recently sold 16 acres, including his residence and farm buildings, to A. Benton, now used for hotel purposes, and known as the Chatham House. In 1880, he built a new and substantial residence and barn just in the rear of the hotel, and is now very comfortably situated ; he has 110 acres adjoining the town on the west. For several years he was engaged in raising short-horn cattle ; he afterward sold out to Amasa Clapp. Cast his first vote for Zachary Taylor ; has formerly been Democratic, but more recently has taken the Prohibition side, and is a strong temperance man. He has one child by his last marriage—Delbert B.


WILLIAM H. WIDEMAN, farmer ; P. 0. Chatham Center ; was born in this township, Feb. 17, 1845. His parents were Phillip and Elizabeth (Lance) Wideman, W. H. being their fourth child. William's father dying, his mother was married to Phillip Long, with whom our subject lived and worked until past his majority. Afterward he worked out by the month for other parties, and farmed on shares. May 16, 1872, he married Sarah L. Sanford, who was born in Harrisville, Feb. 10, 1849, daughter of D. B. and Nancy Sanford. Shortly after their marriage, he purchased, of his father-in-law, the farm he now owns, which was cleared up by D. B. Sanford himself. Has one son, Lucius, called Luie R.; Leon died aged 2 years 10 months and 6 days. Mr. Wideman is the youngest male member of the Wideman family, and is a representative of one of the most respected families in the county. His wife is a member of the Congregational Church.


ALDEN WHITMAN, farmer and Justice of the Peace ; P. O. Chatham Center. Esquire Whitman was born April 9, 1832, in Savoy Township, Berkshire Co., Mass., son of Isaac and Hannah (Packard) Whitman. He was born in Bridgeport, same State, in 1793, and was a son of Jeptha, who was of Irish ancestry. Hannah was born 1803, in Hampshire Co., daughter of Phillip Packard, who for five years was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. The Whitman family came West in 1842, locating in this township, one mile and a half south of the Center, on the farm now owned by John Lange, where he purchased 76 acres, for which he paid $14 per acre. To Jeptha Whitman were born seven children, whose names were Eben, Isaac, Ephraim, Noble, Ezra, Betsey and Sybil. To Isaac were born three children, two sons andone daughter, viz.: Alden, Isaac, Jr., and Harriet N.; Alden, of this township ; Isaac is now in the mercantile business in Granger Township ; Harriet N. is now the wife of J. A. Raw, of Granger. The father of Alden being in poor health, the boys remained with him until some time after becoming men in stature. Father died 1861, she 1863. In 1854, Alden and brother went to Granger Township, where they purchased a saw-mill, and engaged in the lumber business for several years. In 1865, they abandoned the lumber business and engaged in selling goods at Granger Center, which partnership lasted until 1873, when Isaac purchased Alden's interest, and has since been a merchant at that place. July 15, 1856, Alden was married to Susan J. Daniels, who was born in Hampshire Co., Mass., Feb. 1, 1832, daughter of Barney and Mehitable Daniels. To Mr. Whitman have been born two children—Mary L., now the wife of George E. Noah, on farm adjoining, and Eugene N. Mr. Whitman was elected Justice of the Peace in Granger, and, with the exception of one term, has been a continuous incumbent of the office. Early in life he had the misfortune to injure his left leg by a fall, which gradually grew worse, rendering amputation necessary. He learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed for some time afterward. He has now 111 acres of land, situated in the south part of the township. Mr. Whitman is a man of kind and generous impulses, and a worthy citizen of the township.


ALVAH YOUNG, farmer ; P. O. Chatham Center. The above gentleman was born in Addison Co., Vt., March 23, 1802. His parents were James and Naomi (Clark) Young. James Young was born June 19, 1779 ; his father was a soldier in the war of the Revolution. To him were born William, Thomas, Samuel, Stephen, James and Lydia. To James were born Melissa, Heman and Alvah. Naomi was a daughter of Michael Clark, to whom were born seven children, sons and three daughters, who were Samuel, Joseph Thompson, Daniel and Sheldon ; daughters were Naomi, Abigail and Lois. James Young was a farmer, and was descended from Scotch ancestors. He died April 9, 1829 ; his wife survived him until April 9, 1861. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Alvah was reared to farm labor, remaining at home until be attained his major years. Soon after ways joined by marriage to


LA FAYETTE TOWNSHIP - 829


Lucretia Thompson, of Vermont, daughter of James and Lucretia (Hatfield) Thompson. The marriage record bears date Nov. 24, 1824. In 1835, he emigrated West to this State, locating in Cuyahoga Co., where he remained until 1842. He made a purchase in the north part of the township, where he now lives, of 60f acres, at $5 per acre. When he came in to build his cabin, a trail had to be cut into his present location, leaving his family at a house in Litchfield until he could build him a house for their reception ; this cabin was covered with elm bark for a roof, under which he lived for several years. Arriving here in June, he succeeded in getting enough cleared to put in six acres of 1 wheat that fall. Being a man of strong and vigorous constitution, and not afraid to labor, he soon had 100 acres cleared and paid for. Has now 140 acres under excellent improvements. His wife died Sept. 16, 1863, leaving nine children ; of those born are Horace, in Monroe Co., Mich.; Jane died in Avon ; James, in Lenawee Co., Mich.; Delia, Mrs. James Flager, of Michigan ; Mary, now Mrs. C. Moon, of Lorain Co.; Melissa, the wife of E. Moon, of Michigan ; Clark D. and George. of this township ; Laura L., of La Fayette Township. the wife of John Wideman. Dec. 23, 1864, Mr. Young was married to Vesla Bicknell, who was born in Hoosac, N. Y., November, 1807, daughter of Elijah and Diana (Becker) Bicknell. He was born in New Hampshire ; she in New York. To them was born a family of eight children—Cornelia, Nancy E., Vesla, Jane A., Becker, Hiram, Dora and Peter.