550 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. on the same lot, No. 621 Croghan street, Fremont, .ever since their marriage, a period of fifty-five years. He followed farming and dealing in real estate; bought new farms, cleared them up, made improvements, sold the timber, and then disposed of the farms at a profit, and he is now classed as one of the wealthy citizens of Fremont. The children of John and Margaretta Newman were: John, born March 31, 1842, and died in 188o; Catharine E., born August 14, 1845, wife of Charles Boyer, whose children are—Hattie (widow of Eugene Wagner), Jennie (wife of James Weaver, and has one child —Roy), Minnie (wife of Michael Wolf, and has one child—Hazel Corinne), Katie (wife of James Wolf, and has one child—James, Jr.), Charles, Harry and Burt; Mary L., born July to, 1847, widow of William Forsythe, whose children are John (ex-deputy county clerk, bookkeeper now in June's gristmill; he married Minnie Moore), Robert H. (in the livery business, at Fremont, Ohio; he married Mabel Dieffenbaugh, December 25, 1895); Margaret Evaline (who married Fred Birdsell, May 25, 1895); Lydia. Ann, born November 14, •185I, died in September, 1885; and Charles J., born November 16, 1854, who was educated. in the city schools, and attends to the general business interests of the family (he is unmarried). Mr. and Mrs. John Newman are, perhaps, the oldest couple now residing in Fremont. They celebrated their golden wedding April 8, 1891. WILLIAM SCHWANE. The subject of this sketch, who resides in Gibsonburg, Sandusky county, is the proprietor of a meat market and a sample room, as well as the Owner of a farm, and he has been successful in all these lines, owing to his energy and perseverance and the reputation which he has acquired as an honest, upright man. He was born October 3o, 185o, in Wood county, this State, a son of Henry and Marie (Westerfeldt) Schwane, natives of Germany. On coming to America they settled in Wood county, and when our subject was a little over one year old his father was killed by a tree falling on him when he was chopping in the woods. The mother was fortunately spared to see her little family grow up to be respected citizens, and she died in December, 1877, at the age of sixty-two years, happy, in the consciousness of having reared her children in paths of rectitude, and of having borne the responsibilities of her busy life with unfailing fidelity. Her remains rest in Frieding township, Wood county. The record of the children is as follows; Henry resides in Wood county; Ernst died in Germany; Kasper died in Wood county.; Frank and Fred live in Wood county; William is the subject of this sketch. Mr. Schwane grew to manhood in the place of his birth, where he acquired his education at the German Lutheran 'schools. He has always been an exceedingly busy man. For twenty-two years he ran a harvesting machine, and for four years operated a sawmill. He purchased a farm in Madison township, two and a half miles west of Gibsonburg, which he carried on for six years, and still owns eighty acres of land in the center of the great oil region of Ohio. He has sunk two wells on this property which produce twenty barrels of oil per day. On May 1, 1873, Mr. Schwane was married to Miss Caroline Borckhelding, of Woodville township, Sandusky, county and they have had five children: Carrie, born January 31, 1874, who married Charles Westerhouse (she died August 6, 1895, leaving one child four months old); Henry, who died when a child; Frederick, William and Frank. Mr. Schwane is a man of more than average intelligence and information, and is active and zealous in all things pertaining to the public good. He COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 551 served for several years as trustee of Madison township; and is the present treasurer of the corporation of Gibsonburg. In politics he is a Democrat, and he is a prominent member of the Lutheran Church. He is also president of the German Aid Society. WILLIAM B. SHELDON, retired merchant, of Fremont, Sandusky County, was born in East Rupert, Bennington Co., Vt., November 28, 1818, son of David and. Sarah (Dunton) Sheldon. David Sheldon was born in East Rupert, Vt., December 1, 1785, was a farmer by occupation, and died October 1, 1842, on the farm where he was born. Sarah Dunton was born at Dorset, Bennington Co., Vt., November 26, 179o, and died October 11, 1828. Their children were: Joel, born September 27, 1811, who was a farmer, and is now living retired in the town of Pawlet, Vt. ; William B., our subject; Thaddeus D., born December 5, 1824, died in May, 1855 (he was born in East Rupert, and later lived in Pawlet, Rutland Co., Vermont). William B. Sheldon was reared on a farm at East Rupert until seventeen years old, when he went to Pawlet, Vt., to clerk in a store. He remained there as clerk until 1839, when he became a member of the firm of William B. Sheldon & Co., dealers in general merchandise, continuing as such for about one year, when, he became successor to the firm, and con- . ducted the business until 1852, when he sold out. In May, 1853, he located in Fremont, Ohio. becoming a member of the firm of Roberts & Sheldon, dealers in hardware, which partnership lasted until 1869, when both sold out. In 1872 Mr. Sheldon became actively interested as a stockholder and worker in the Fremont Car Company. This was subsequently changed to The Fremont Harvester Company, of which Mr. Sheldon - 35 - was president during its entire existence. He is one of the oldest living merchants of Fremont. In politics he is a Republican, and cast his first Presidential vote for' William H. Harrison, in 184o. In 1841 our subject married Miss Maria Betsey Andrus, a native of New York, who died in February, 1844. On September 17, 1845, he married Miss. Esther Ann, daughter of Samuel Hafford, who in the fall of 1835 came to Ballville township, Sandusky county, and settled on a farm where he continued to reside until his death, in 1871. Mrs. Sheldon was 'born in Hoosick Falls, N. Y., September 11, 1823, and died at Fremont, Ohio, October 21, 1887. Mr. Sheldon had no children by his first marriage. The children of the second marriage were -(I) Altie Maria, born June 8, 1852, who was married September 17, 1879, to John P. Bell, and is residing in Fremont; they have two children, Esther L. and Francis S. (2) Harry . G., born June 5, 1855, who is engaged in the lumber business in Fremont; he married October 22, 1879, Miss Alice Huff, and their children are Catharine and William H. FRED N. FALLER, proprietor of a leading drug busines in Port Clinton, Ottawa county, is a native of Ohio, born at Fremont, Sandusky county, August 3o, 1867, son of George F. and Mary (Grund) Faller. The father of subject emigrated from Germany about the year 1854, and after spending some time in New York City came, about the year 1857, to Fremont, Ohio, where he worked at cabinet-making several years with T. S. Tschumy. He afterward built a shop of his own, and was twice burnt out. The rapid manufacture of furniture by machinery, and its consequent cheapness, at length induced Mr. Faller to give up cabinet-making by hand, and he now lives are tired life with his family at Fremont. His children 552 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. were: Edward, born October 2, 1864, died at Fremont at the age of twenty-two; Fred N., our subject; and Bertha C., born January 8, 1873, living with her parents. Fred N. attended the schools of Fremont until he was sixteen years old when he commenced an apprenticeship to the drug business in the store of S. Buckland & Son (now L. W. Buckland), where he remained four years, after which he attended the School of Pharmacy, Michigan State University, one year. Returning to Ohio, he passed the State Pharmaceutical examination successfully, and then for some eighteen months took charge of a drug store at Toledo, Ohio, for Mrs. Fenneberg. He then came to Port Clinton, where he had the management of the drug store of Eisenhour & Bleckner, whom he bought out in July, 1890, since when he has been sole proprietor. On May 1, 1890, Fred N. Faller married Miss Cora E. Mackey, daughter of Louis Mackey. She died in October, 1892, and October 4, 1893, Mr. Faller married Miss Hattie I. Affleck, daughter of William J. and Belle (Duff) Affleck, the former of whom is secretary of the water works at Sandusky City. Mr. Faller was reared in the faith of the Lutheran Church; in politics he is a stanch Democrat, has served in the city council of Port Clinton one term, and as a public-spirited, honorable citizen, he enjoys the highest respect. LEANDER S. PORTER, M. D., who has for some years been prominently connected with the business interests of Port Clinton, Ottawa county, in his professional capacity, as well as along other lines of enterprise, is a native of Connecticut, born in New Fairfield, New Fairfield county, October 22, 1829. His parents, Wheeler and Lydia Ann (Bearss) Porter, were both also natives of Connecticut, whence they migrated west ward, locating in October, 1832, in Danbury township, then in Huron county, now Catawba Island township, Ottawa county, when there was but one other white family residing on the Island. There the father engaged in agricultural pursuits and also worked at his trade of shoe making. He carried on farming and engaged in dealing in shoes in Port Clinton for several years. He was well and favorably known as an expert at his trade, and, as an upright, honorable citizen. He passed away at his home on Catawba Island, April 10, 1888, and his faithful and devoted wife was called to her final rest September 2, 1852. They had a family of three children, of whom Leander S. is the only known survivor. One died in infancy, and Augustus W. is supposed to have been killed at the battle of the Wilderness while serving in defense of his home and country. The great-grandfather Hubble, the father of the Doctor's paternal grandmother, fought in the Revolutionary war, and Grandfather Bearss was a soldier of the War of 1812. The grandparents on both sides of the Doctor's family were natives of Connecticut, and were of English descent. The paternal grandparents with their three sons—Wheeler, Lyman and Charles—all settled on Catawba Island in 1832. After a short time Lyman returned to Connecticut, where he spent his remaining days, while the other members of the family continued to reside in this locality until called to the home beyond, and were well-known and highly respected residents of the community. Dr. L. S. Porter lived on Catawba Island until the breaking out of the Civil war. He received his primary education in the district schools of his township, and in early life became familiar with agricultural pursuits, following that honorable occupation for many years. When he had attained the age of manhood, he entered the Delaware University, Delaware, Ohio, where he remained a year, and also COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 553 spent two terms at the Baldwin University, Berea, Ohio, attending to the duties of the farm during vacations. He then engaged in teaching, and from 1856 until 1861 carried on farming on his own account. In September of the latter year Dr. Porter responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in Company F, Forty-ninth O. V. I. On December 31, 1862, during the battle of Murfreesboro, he was severely wounded in the ankle by a rifle ball, and he lay on the field of battle four days and three nights before receiving any assistance. On the morning of January 7, 1863, he was conveyed to the hospital at Nashville, Tenn., where he remained for about three weeks. He was then transferred to the hospital at Covington, Ky. , where it was found necessary to amputate his foot, and the operation was performed. On becoming convalescent, he was honorably discharged and proceeded to Port Clinton, where for a short time he was engaged in the photograph business. In 1864 the Doctor was appointed lighthouse keeper at Port Clinton, and efficiently filled that position some five years. In 1809 he resumed. agricultural pursuits, which he followed three years, and then removed to Sandusky City, where he began reading medicine with Dr. Ed. Gillard. In 1877 he entered the Homeopathic Hospital College at Cleveland, Ohio, and was •graduated at that institution with the class of 188o, whereupon he immediately commenced practice in Bellevue, Ohio, remaining there for a year. In 1881 he removed to Vernon, Mich., where he continued for about eleven years, in 1891 returning to Port Clinton, and here lived a comparatively retired life, attending only to office practice until 1894. The Doctor was married, May 6, 1856, to Elizabeth Lowry, a native of Ottawa county. He and his wife are members of the Daughters of Rebekah, Port Clinton, and also consistent mem bers of the Congregational Church, and are most highly-esteemed people. He also belongs to the Michigan State Medical Society; 0. H. Perry Lodge, F. & A. M. ; Vernon Lodge No. 99, I. O. O. F. ; Perseverance Encampment No. 88, of Vernon, Mich. ; and George R. McRitchie Post No. 524, G. A. R. In politics he is an earnest Republican, and at various times has served as trustee, clerk, assessor and constable of Catawba Island township. He served as health officer of Vernon, Mich., and for one year as member of the board of health of Port Clinton. He has always performed the duties pertaining to these various positions with rare judgment and to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, and he is an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, ever to be found on the side of progressive good government and of everything pertaining to the welfare and up-building of the community. He enjoys the sincere regard of all who know him. HENRY W. NIEMAN, a prominent member of the legal profession and highly-esteemed resident of Elmore, Ottawa county, is a son of Frederick A. and Christine (Schreiber) Nieman. His birth occurred July 11, 1857, in Westphalia, Prussia, of which kingdom his parents were also natives, and there his mother departed this life. Later, in April, 1871, the father, with the other members of the family, emigrated to the United States, locating near Port Clinton, Ohio, where the father still resides, and is one of the prominent agriculturists of Ottawa county.. In the family were eight children, all of whom are still living: Fred H. is a leading farmer of Bay township, Ottawa county; Caroline is the wife of George Westfall, of the same township; Louisa is the wife of Thomas Seaman, of Port Clinton; Henry W. is the subject of this sketch; Christian G. is a resident of Port Clinton; 554 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. William also lives in that city; Ferdinand is in Bay township; and August C. is a hardware merchant and machine agent of Port Clinton. In the schools of his native land our subject received a good German education, and his early life was spent in agricultural pursuits, which occupation he continued to follow for several years after his arrival in America. In 1878 he commenced attending a select school in Port Clinton, and after perfecting himself in the English branches he engaged in teaching, being thus employed for two terms in Bay township, Ottawa county. He continued to follow that profession during the winter months until 1883, and also took a normal course during the same period. In 1883 he entered the engineering department of Ann Arbor (Mich.) University, but in the fall of 1884 became a student in the law department of the same institution, from which he was graduated with the class of 1886. In the same year he began the practice of his profession in Grand Rapids, Mich., but the. following year found him a resident of Elmore, where he has since continued in active practice, and has been very successful, both from a professional and financial standpoint. He is one of the progressive citizens of the county, always deeply interested in everything which will advance the prosperity of the community, and has the utmost respect of his fellow citizens. On Christmas Day, 1886, in Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, Mr. Nieman was united in marriage with Miss Delia Boggs, a daughter of James and Susan (White) Boggs, who rank among the earliest settlers of Harris township, where they are honored and respected residents. Our subject and his wife have become the parents of one daughter, Amy, born May 8, 1888. Mr. Nieman has been called upon to fill several official positions of honor and trust, having served as county examiner of teachers some six years; has been president of the township board of education, and held the offices of justice of the peace and notary public. He is a Democrat in political faith, taking quite an active interest in the success of his party; and socially is a member of Elmore Lodge, No. 26, K. P. With the Disciples Church he and his wife hold membership. WILLIAM KESSLER, a prominent and progressive citizen of Oak Harbor, Ottawa county, undertaker and an extensive dealer in furniture, pianos, organs, sewing machines, bicycles, general merchandise, etc., is a native of Salem township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, having been born there December 18, 1857, to Charles and Barbara Kessler, natives of Germany, and early settlers of Salem township. The father, now at the advanced age of seventy-three years, is a resident of Oak Harbor; the mother passed away May 13, 1892. Their family consisted of eight children, seven of whom are yet living, viz. : William; Mary, now the wife of Charles Zimmerman, a resident of Bowling Green, Wood Co., Ohio; John, a resident of Lakeside, Nebr. ; George, Albert and Edward, all residents of Oak Harbor; and Annie (Kessler) Leberman, widow of Frederick Leberman, for many years a respected resident of Harris township, who for three years, during the Rebellion, served in the Thirty-seventh O. V. I. (Annie is a daughter of Charles Kessler by a former marriage). The father is a veteran of the war of the Rebellion, having served for three years in Company G, One Hundredth O. V. I., and with his regiment participated in several important engagements. William Kessler, the subject proper of this sketch, received his preliminary education in the district schools of Harris township, Ottawa county, and his early life was spent in assisting his father in the COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 555 care of the farm. When eighteen years of age he left the farm, apprenticing himself to the trade of cabinet maker, and in 1878, his term of apprenticeship having expired, he went to Oak Harbor and engaged in business for himself, having been a constant resident of that town ever since. By a life of energy, perseverance, and strict attention to business, Mr. Kessler now takes\ a leading position among the prominent and substantial business men of the county; and well merits the confidence and esteem extended to him by his fellow citizens. On September 5, 1882, our subject was united in marriage, at Lockport, N. Y., with Julia S. Hayes, a daughter of James and Mary (Hayes) Hayes, both natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America in 1840, and are now honored and respected residents of Lockport. To this union have come five children, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Mary Gertrude, March 13, 1884; Julia Maud, March 9, 1885; Cornelius Florence, July 4, 1886, died December 10, 189o; Clara, February 15, 1888; and William Bernard, December 13, 1893, died January 13, 1895. The .family are strict adherents of the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Kessler has served as a member of the Oak Harbor council board one term. Politically he is an active supporter of the Democratic party, and socially he fills the positions of first lieutenant of Kahler Camp No. 292, Sons of Veterans, and captain of the Knights of St. John. JOHN H. PFEIFER. The history of Ottawa county, and especially of Benton township, would be incomplete without honorable mention of the Pfeifer family, Jacob Pfeifer and his sons having been actively, identified with the growth and development of its agricultural interests from early pioneer times. Their progress and thrift have been almost proverbial, and the land now in the possession of the family is among the most highly improved in the vicinity. The family is of good old German stock. The great-grandfather was born in Germany in 1769, served under Napoleon the First in the war with Russia, was with him at the burning of Moscow, and also at the defeat at Waterloo; while in the service he had one limb badly frozen. The great-grandmother was born in Germany about 1779, and died at the age of forty-two. They had two children, one of whom, George, came to America about 1847. He was accidentally shot in New Orleans. John Pfeifer, grandfather of our subject, was born in Germany, May 10, 1801, and was a farmer by occupation; he was exempt from military duty on account of the loss of a finger. The grandmother was born in 1807, and they were married in 1831, becoming the parents of two children, of whom Jacob Pfiefer is the only survivor. Jacob Pfeifer has been a prominent factor in the advancement and progress of Benton township and vicinity. Born in Rabelshausen Kurhessen, Germany, June 28, 1838, he came to America in early manhood,locating first in. Cleveland and later in Bellaire, whence after a brief residence he came to .Ottawa county, settling first in Elliston. On coming to Benton township he took up the farm where his son John now lives, when the surrounding country was all a wilderness. The only road was an Indian trail along the creek, now known as the " Creek road." The country was all a forest, and Jacob Pfeifer has helped to make the township of Benton the fertile region it, now is by clearing up and improving one of the best farms in Ottawa county. His wife has been of great service in making the home, for she has taken a noble interest and borne an active part in the work, and her assistance has been fully appreciated by her husband and family. Mr. Pfeifer's first wheat crop in Benton township is an illustration of some of the 556 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. hardships the pioneers of those days underwent; the seed he secured from Cleveland—ten bushels at $1 per bushel; the crop was harvested, and threshed with a flail; and the entire return from the ten bushels of sowing amounted to eight bushels, and that at a time when flour was $16 per barrel, and not first-class either. They had to drive nine miles through the woods to the mill, and then get chopped feed for the grist. The old farm is all underdrained, so that the surface water is quickly carried away, leaving the land in good shape for cultivation, and the farm is a credit indeed to those whose labor has brought it to its present state of perfection. Jacob Pfeifer purchased the first steam threshing machine rig ever used in Benton township, and his sons John and George operated the machine for sixteen years, making a financial success of the business. For several years Mr. Pfeifer was foreman of the L. S. & M. S. railroad, and it was while engaged in this work that he practically ruined his health. Industrious and progressive, he and his family have contributed in no small degree toward the welfare of the community, and the kind and obliging spirit they have ever shown has made them highly esteemed in the township which has so long been their home. Mr. Pfeifer's marriage to Elizabeth Emerich took place in 1857, and their union was blessed with three children: John, born September 29, 1858; George, born February 26, 1862; and Edward, born April 25, 1864. On July 14, 1873, Edward was accidentally killed by the discharge of a gun, the charge entering his right side below the ribs and passing diagonally through the body. Mrs.. Pfeifer was born in Germany February 25, 1828, and came to America in 1848. George Pfeifer the second son, lives on a farm near his brother John. At the age of twenty-two he married Matilda Tabbert, of Elliston, who was born December 22, I861, at Elliston (where she obtained a liberal education), daughter of August Tabbert, who died in 1894. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. George Pfeifer settled on the farm where they now live, a place which, like that of his brother, shows enterprise and neatness on the part of the owner. John H. Pfeifer, son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Emrich) Pfeifer, was born September 29, 1858, at Bellaire, Ohio, and spent his boyhood days in Cleveland and Ottawa county, where he received the education afforded by the district schools of his time and place. An incident which occurred when he was nine years of age is worth relating: He was sent to Elliston on mule back for some groceries. He rode down the L. S. & M. S. track, and all went well until the train was seen backing to Elliston from Toledo. The mule did not propose to give the right of way for the train, and John succeeded in dismounting in time to save all of himself save a piece of one toe, but the animal was not a match for the train, which completely demolished him. When twenty-two years of age our subject commenced life for himself as a fireman on the L. S. & M. S. railroad, continuing thus for three years. On September 25, 1883, he was married to Miss Matilda Lick, of Elliston, and having purchased a farm near Rocky Ridge they made their home thereon for six years. They then sold out and purchased the old homestead of his father on Section 23, Benton township, where they now live. His parents moved to Rocky Ridge, where they have erected the finest home in the village. A walk over Mr. Pfeifer's farm at once con vinces one that he is a thorough agriculturist; the fences are in neat shape, the farm stock and buildings are all well kept, and the yards around both house and barn display neatness and care on the part of the owner, who takes a pardonable pride in his beautiful property. The history of one member of the family is the history Qf all, and to say that has worked with COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 557 his father from boyhood shows what part he has taken in this work. Mrs. Matilda (Lick) Pfeifer was born Auguest 28, 1862, at Elliston, where she received her education and lived until her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Pfeifer have been born three children: Walter George, April 10, 1885; Reuben Edward, May 6, 1887, and 'William Carl, October 19, 1891. Walter G , died March 19, 1892, and was buried in the Elliston cemetery. CAPTAIN WILLIAM J. SLACKFORD (deceased) sailed on the lakes for many years, and was a well-known sea captain, whose death was deeply regretted by a large circle Of friends and acquaintances. A native of England, he was born near Kent, February 28, 1831, and was one of a family of four children, two of whom are now living: Edward, a retired sea captain now in Detroit, Mich. ; and Hannah, wife of Thomas Clayton, who makes his home in Carthage, Hamilton Co., Ohio. In the summer of 1849, when he was seventeen years of age, the Captain came with his father to the United States, locating at Plasterbed, Portage township, Ottawa Co., Ohio. Here, soon afterward they were joined by the wife and mother, and other children of the family, and the parents were continuous residents of the township throughout their remaining days. In 1861 the Captain purchased a farm a short distance from •the old family homestead, and engaged extensively in fruit growing and farming up to the time of his death. From 1864 up to 1878 he was part owner and operator of the steamers "Gen. Grant," " Clinton " and " R. B. Hayes," running ferry between the Peninsula and Sandusky. The change in his occupation was caused by ill health. The captain was for many years numbered among the valued citizens, and 04 an active part in all progressive movements. He was esteemed by all who knew him for his many sterling qualities and straightforward business methods. On November 20, 186o, at Sandusky. Ohio, the Captain was married to Thirsa Gertrude Moore, who died October 12, 1864, and this union was blessed with one child, William George, born September 24. 1861; he is a licensed sea captain, and resides in Danbury township, Ottawa county, The Captain was again married, this time at Fremont, Ohio, December 7, 1875, to Kate C. Englebeck, daughter of Herman and Caroline (Fechtler) Engle-beck. This union was blessed with two children: May Pearl, born May 1, 1878; and Jennie Gertrude, born May 5, 1884. After a long illness of three years, the Captain passed away December 14, 189o. His last voyage was over and he reached the harbor of rest. He had been a prominent member of the. Masonic fraternity, and was highly esteemed by his brethren in that Order. He was a man of more than ordinary ability, and was possessed of broad, general information. He had a genial, sunny temperment, and was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him. His faithful and devoted wife deserves no little credit for the manner in which she has conducted the affafrs of the estate since her husband's death. She is a lady of culture and sound judgment, and controls her farm in a way that well exemplifies her innate business sagacity and acumen. Her residence is among the finest in the township, and all its surroundings give evidence of the exquisite state and refinement of the owner. JOAB KELLY, one of the best known and most honored farmers and fruit growers of Danbury township, Ottawa county, was born January 31, 1842, on the homestead farm on which he still resides, and is a son of Ion. John and Elizabeth (Pettibone) Kelly. His 558 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. educational privileges were such as were afforded by the district schools of that day, and since early life he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, though for the past twenty-five years he has devoted his attention more especially to the cultivation of grapes, peaches and other fruits. Mr. Kelly was married in Danbury, December 21, 1870, to Miss' Stella M. Hogg, who was born in Sandusky City, Erie Co., Ohio, June 15, 1849, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Driver) Hogg, early settlers of Erie county, Ohio, who; removed to Danbury township about 1868, where the former passed away in 1882; the latter still makes her home in Danbury. To Mr. and Mrs. Kelly have been born two sons--Thomas LeRoy, on September 15, 1871; and J. Reid, on October 8, 1874; both are still under the parental roof. In his political views Mr. Kelly is a Republican, and he and his family attend the Congregational Church. The mother of our subject was the first white child born in. Newberg, Ohio, her birth having occurred October 18, 1814, and she was but six weeks old when she was brought to Danbury township by her parents, Truman and Phoebe (Wolcotte) Pettibone. The Wolcotte family came to Danbury township in 1808, but after a residence of three years' were driven away by the Indians, and went to Cleveland, Ohio, where they remained until 1814, when they returned and from that time until their deaths were continuous residents of Danburytownship. On July 23, 1835, Hon. John A.. B. Kelly and Miss Elizabeth Pettibone were united in marriage. Mr. Kelly was born in Troy, N. Y., December 14, 1809, and was a son of William and Jane (Reid) Kelly, both natives of Ireland. Eight children were born of this union, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Jane, May, 1836, was united in marriage with Josias B. Wright, now of Danbury, October r, 1853; William, March 17, 1838, makes his home in Port Clinton, Ohio; Alice, October 14, 1840, died November 5, of the same year; Joab comes next in the order of birth; Malcolm, July 31, 1844, is judge of the court of common pleas and resides in Port Clinton; Salima, January 6, 1847, is the wife of John G. Bredehoft, of Danbury township; John August 14, 1851, lives in the same township; and Mary, March 28, 1855, died June. 13, 1856. The father, who represented the Thirtieth Senatorial' District in the Fifty-fifth General Assembly of Ohio, 1862-63, died April 18, 1883; the mother passed away October- 8, 1895. SIMON HENRY KINSTING is numbered among the pioneer settlers of Ottawa county, having located within its borders when it was almost an unbroken wilderness, with few roads laid out and few settlements made. With the work of development and progress he has been identified, and has aided in the improvement of the locality by faithfully performing his duties of citizenship. Mr. Kinsting was born in Prussia, December 25, 1832, and is a son of Frederick William Kinsting, also a native of Prussia, .born in 1800, a tailor by trade, who died at the home of his son, July 28, 1871. In 1849 he 'emigrated with his wife and two children to America, after which he followed the occupation of farming. He was. first employed for only fifty cents per day, and was very well satisfied, but as years passed his financial resources increased. In the Fatherland he married Minnie Saack, who was born in Prussia, April 4, 1804, and died December 13, 1885. They had two children-Simon Henry, and Henrietta, wife of William Budky, of Woodville, Sandusky county. The parents spent their last years at the home of, their son, who tenderly cared for them in their declining days. Our subject's paternal grandfather and his wife COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 559 were both born in Germany about October, 1766, and the former died in. 1833. The maternal grandfather was born in Prussia, in 1774, and his wife's birth occurred there in 1775. S. H. Kinsting, the subject proper of this review, spent the first seventeen years of his life in his native land, and was educated in the public schools. He then came with his parents to the United States, and here attended the English schools, so that he now speaks both languages fluently. In 1858 he was united in marriage with Miss Frederica Priesing, a native of Hanover, Germany, born June 6, 1835. She obtained her education there, and when twenty-two years of age came to America, locating in Toledo, Ohio, where she, met her future -husband. The wedding was celebrated six months later at the old homestead, one mile from Elmore, where our subject now resides. Her parents, who were also natives of Hanover, Germany, had a family of six children, five of whom are now living, one son, Henry, having died in the hospital in Memphis, Tenn., while serving in the Civil war. The father was a blacksmith by trade, and died at an early age, leaving a widow "to care for her family. Mrs. Kinsting was a faithful wife and loving mother, one who trained her children to habits of industry and uprightness. A fall occasioned the loss of her mental faculties to a degree, and on September 2, 1892, she passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Kinstring were the parents of four children, namely: (1) William, born August 13, 186o, was married March 23, 1881, to Rachel Ernsthausen, of Elmore, and resides on a farm one mile from the town; they have three children—Mary, William and Clara. (2) Fred, born September 16, 1863, was married in August, 1885, to Cora Netcher, and, lives on a farm in Monroe county, Mich. ; their children are—John and George. (3) Henry, born April 1o, 1867, was married in November, 1890, to Libbie Wainwright, and they have one child—Naomi, born June 25, 1894. (4) Minnie, born April 25, 1870, was married in October, 189o, to Frank Dishinger, of Harris township, Ottawa county, and they had two children—Henry and Eddie; Mrs. Dishinger died August 1o, 1895, and was buried at .Elmore. During his entire residence in America Mr. Kinsting has lived on the farm which now belongs to Frank Dishinger. The first forty acres of land were purchased in 1849 for $375, and the first home was a little log cabin. By diligence and close attention to business our subject and his father and son cleared and developed the farm, extending its boundaries by. the additional purchase of seventy-three acres in Sandusky and Ottawa counties, erected good buildings and secured a nice home. Since his father's death our subject has purchased eighty acres, for which he paid $100 per acre. He has succeeded in business through his own well-directed efforts, and to-day is the owner of a valuable property, and the possessor of a comfortable competence. In March, 1895, he called his children together, and, after a very pleasant family reunion, gave each of them five thousand dollars. He has now reached the age of sixty-three years, has been a cripple for twenty-two years, but is one of the most cheerful and happy men in the community, finding great pleasure in visiting his children, who have for him the warmest affection, and take great delight in his visits to them. Since. 1858 he has been a member of the German Methodist Episcopal Church, a consistent and earnest Christian, enjoying the respect and confidence of all who know him. GEORGE M. HIGH, one of the most prominent and extensive fruit growers on Middle Bass Island, Ottawa county, was born in Springfield, Clark Co., Ohio, July 13, 560 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 1825, son of Hosea S. and Mary A. (McCormick) High. George McCormick, the maternal grandfather of our subject, was one of the contractors on the building of the first U. S. Capitol at Washington, D. C., which was destroyed by the British. Hosea S. High, born January 3, 1797, at Bridgeton, N. J., was united in marriage with Mary A. McCormick, who was born November 21, 1801, at Washington, D. C., and they had eleven children, seven of whom are now living, namely: George M., the subject of this sketch; Charles G. and Martin V. B., both residing in Madison county, Ohio; Jacob, in Franklin county, Ohio; Fannie, wife of John G. Thompson, of Columbus, Ohio; and Jennie and Susan, in Columbus. Hosea S. High passed away in Franklin county, Ohio, in September, 1874, and his widow, Mary A., at Columbus, Ohio, in March, 1893, she being at the time of her death one of the oldest inhabitants and residents of Columbus. Mr. High was Indian agent for several years, and in 1837 moved the Wyandotte, Delaware and Sandusky tribes to their reservations in Kansas. George M. High spent his boyhood days among the surroundings of a comfortable home, and received his primary education in the district schools, afterward taking a course at the Delaware College, at Delaware, Ohio. About a year after completing his studies he left home for Cincinnati, where in the winter months he was engaged in the pork business. During the first summer he was a tutor in a private family near Independence, Ky., and the second summer he taught the district school in the same neighborhood. For the eighteen years succeeding he was engaged in the pork business, purchasing in summer and slaughtering and shipping in winter. At Pleasant Ridge, Hamilton Co., Ohio, on October 21, 1852, George M. High was united in marriage with Anna M. Kincaid, daughter of lair and Mary (Lancaster) Kincaid, and born in Delaware October 3o, 1834. They have had four children, as follows: Hosea and Fannie (twins), born June 29, 1853, of whom Hosea is still living at home, and Fannie is the wife of Curtis P. Gladding, residing at Hartford, Conn. ; George M., Jr., born in Cincinnati, May 16, 1859, was formerly the editor and proprietor of the Evening Advertiser, a newspaper of Socorro, N. M. , and now resides in Butte City, Mont. ; and Carrie D., born February 4, 1864, resides at home. During the winter of 1864-65 Mr. High sold out his interest in the pork business, and late in the spring of 1865 loaded up a steamer with $30,000 worth of provisions, with which he went up the Arkansas river as far as Fort Smith, disposing of the goods on the way. He then returned to Cincinnati, purchased another cargo, and returned up the river; but, owing to delays caused by business, he was late, and so established a store at Spadra Bluff, Arkansas, in connection with Col. A. D. King. In the fall of 1866 he returned to Springfield, Ohio, where he resided during the next four years, for three years of that time continuing his interest in the business at Spadra Bluff, which he sold in 1869. On July 13, 187o, he removed to Middle Bass, and engaged in fruit growing. He has now been a continuous resident of the Island for twenty-five years, and has probably set out more grape vines than any other man on the Island. Mr. High was the first in the West to introduce the spraying of grapes and other fruits, for mildew and insects that have destroyed so much of the fruits, and this system has produced highly satisfactory results wherever introduced. In his political views Mr. High is independent, but leans toward the Democratic party. He is a prominent citizen, and a leader, especially in such good works as need sympathy, active work and benevolent contributions. To those who know him, it seems evident that he would COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 561 have been as successful in almost any line of life he might have chosen as he has been in that which he did choose. He is well educated by schooling, reading, travel and experience; happy in society, in his own home and abroad; hospitable, thoroughly appreciated by all who know him; intelligent, possessing tact and generosity. He has a most charming home, situated close to the shores of Lake Erie; is happily contented with such reasonable hobbies as occupy his mind, is independent in his own pursuits, and able to provide abundantly for the comfort and happiness of his appreciative Wife and family. THOMAS BOWLAND, a prominent manufacturer, of Martin, Clay township, Ottawa county, was born in Perry county, this State, October 14, 1844, and was a son of John and Diana (Parrott) Bowland, the former of whom was a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Ohio. The father of our subject died when the latter was only ten years old, and the little lad was early put to work that he might contribute his share to the support of his widowed mother and the younger children. His early education was therefore very limited; but, like many of the men who have been leaders of our nation, he neglected no opportunity to add to his scanty stock of book knowledge, and by reading and observation has made of himself an intelligent man whose opinions are eagerly sought for, and whose judgment in all matters is well worth considering. His parents removed before his death to Ottawa county, living for a time in Elmore, Harris township, and afterward coming to Clay township. Here our subject worked upon a farm with his two elder brothers until the breaking out of the Civil war in 1861, when they enlisted and left the care of the family to Thomas and a younger brother, John, of whom a sketch is given elsewhere. This labor of love which he performed diligently and faithfully was pursued for a number of years, the few leisure hours not employed in farm work being given to the improvement of his mind. In 1879 Mr. Bowland began the manufacture of hoops, starting a factory in Martin and employing several men. This proved to be a profitable business, and he has since successfully carried it on, being now assisted by two of his sons who have an interest in the establishment. Mr. Bowland was married January 21, 1869, to Charlotte Jones, daughter of Daniel and Ruth Jones, of Sandusky county, and they became the parents of one child, Irvin, who was born Jaunuary 2o, 1870; his mother died March 26, 1871. Mr. Bowland was again married December 22, 1872, to Miss Herminia, daughter of George and Sarah (Wall) Eyre, both of whom were natives of England. Three children have come of this marriage, namely: (1) George D., who was born April 6, 1874, at Genoa, and was there educated; he is unmarried, and is engaged in business with his father. (2) Ernest, born April 7, 1877, in the same town, was educated in the schools there, and in the high school, and holds a teacher's certificate; he is also connected with his father's firm. (3) Estella, born February 22, 1886, died August 13, 1887. The parental family of our subject comprised fourteen children, eight of whom are living, as follows: Mary is the wife of Powell Frugh, a farmer in Sandusky county; Daniel is a farmer of Clay township; Jeremiah, a machinist, lives in Wood county; Elizabeth is the wife of Stephen Walsh, of Clay township; Martin is a miller of Benton township; Thomas is our subject; Hannah is the widow of Walter Warrener; and John is postmaster at Genoa. The father of this large family died in Harris township, in June, 1854, and his wife in Clay township, April 17, 1875. George Eyre, the father of our sub- 562 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ject's wife, was born in London, England, and came to this country when eighteen years old, settling first in Cleveland, where he followed the occupation of a millwright, and also did some carpentering; his wife, Sarah Wall, was also born in England. They were the parents of eight children, five of whom are living: Mary is the wife of John Bowland, postmaster at Genoa; Cilena is the wife of William Bodett, a railroad man; Esletta married Albert Stewart, a cigar manufacturer, living in Toledo; Sarah is the wife of Miles Price, of Detroit; George died when aged thirty-six, Henry when five, and Carrie when fourteen. The parents are still living, and reside in Genoa. Mr. Bowland has always been very popular with his fellow citizens, as well as throughout the entire county, and in consequence has held numerous responsible offices. He was for two years constable of Clay township, and has been time and again elected justice of the peace, or local judge of Clay township, which position he is now filling with dignity and great ability. In all the cases which have come before him in the past twelve years, and which have been carried to the higher courts, his decisions have there been confirmed, without exception, and his honesty and integrity have never been questioned. During his official life he has solemnized upward of thirty-five marriages, which is a further evidence of his popularity with the people. Mr. Bowland has held the office of school director for seven years, and has been clerk of the board throughout that period. In politics he is a strong Democrat and a leader in his party, and, with his family, holds a prominent position in society. ALBERT ZIPFEL, mill owner and one of the well-known business men of Rocky Ridge, Benton township, Ottawa county, is a native of Germany, born September 27, 1857, son of Lawrence Zipfel. When about four years of age our subject came to America with his father, who settled at Port Clinton, Ottawa Co., Ohio, and engaged in the boot and shoe business, following same for several years, when he sold out and purchased a farm near Oak Harbor. After farming for some time he §old his place and settled in Oak Harbor, where he died in the spring of 1895. During the first nine years of his life Albert Zipfel obtained what education he could, and at the early age of nine he went out into the world to earn a livelihood for himself, commencing work in a shingle mill in Oak Harbor, where he labored some twelve years. On July 8, 1879, he was married to Miss Amanda A. Fountain, of Oak Harbor, and they shortly afterward settled in .Rocky Ridge, where he was employed as foreman in the stave factory of Bopst & Bosh, a position he held for eleven years. In 1889 Mr. Zipfel purchased an elevator and feed mill of Mr. Bopst at Rocky Ridge, in 1890 adding to the mill a sawmill; and he has since been engaged in lumber sawing and feed grinding. The business is prospering, and the mill is busy the entire year. For several years Mr. Zipfel has been village councilman in Rocky Ridge; he is greatly interested in the improvement of the public schools of the place, and endeavors to have them the best possible. His business, which is constantly increasing, demands his strict personal attention, and he may always be found at the mill, attending very carefully to every detail; this surely is the only way to success. Mr. Zipfel was married July 8, 1879, to Miss Amanda A. Fountain, who was born October 30, 1857, near Port Clinton, where she received her early education, completing it in the schools of Oak Harbor. Her parents were Alexander and Amy (Sampson) Fountain, the father born July. 4, 1829, in Sandusky county, COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 563 where he lived his entire life, save the one hundred days he served in the war of the Rebellion. He died in 1876. Mrs. Zipfel's grandfather, Alexander Fountain, Sr., was born in Michigan. Her paternal great-grandfather was of French descent. Mrs. Zipfel's mother, Mrs. Amy Fountain, was born in Port Clinton, May 1, 1837, and when eight years of age removed with her parents to Chicago, where they remained for three years. Her father, Joel Sampson, then entered the Mexican war, and died of cholera near the Gulf of Mexico. He was born in Vermont in 1807. Mrs. Zipfel's maternal great-grandfather was of French descent, born early in the eighteenth century, and served in the French and Indian war, 1757-1763. GEORGE W. GALLANT, an enterprising and wide-awake business man of Elmore, where he is engaged in the manufacture of doors, sash and blinds, was born in Bay township, Ottawa county, January 15, 1842, and is the only known living representative of the family of seven children born to John and Eleanor (Deselms) Gallant, the former a native of Baltimore, Md., the latter of Belmont, Ohio. The parents located in Bay township at an early date in the history of the county, but in 1863 removed to Sandusky, Ohio, where the following year the father's death occurred; later, the mother came to Elmore, where she passed away in 1884. In the district schools of Bay township, George W. Gallant acquired a limited education, but his instruction in the duties of farm life was not so meagre, and he continued to follow that honorable occupation until 1862, when he enlisted in Company G, One Hundredth Regiment, O. V. I. On May 4, 1864, he was wounded at the battle of Resaca, Ga., and sent to the hospital at Chattanooga, Tenn., from which place he was transferred to Knoxville. After becoming convalescent he rejoined his regiment at Fort Fisher, and later was ordered to David's Island, N. Y. On the close of hostilities he received an honorable discharge, and returned to Jackson township, Sandusky county, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1873. On the first of January of that year he removed to Elmore, and since that date has continuously carried on his present business with marked success, having now secured a liberal and lucrative trade. At Jackson, Ohio, October 22, 1865, Mr. Gallant wedded Miss Nancy Huffman, who Was born in Fremont, this State, July 1, 1846, a daughter of Michael and Nancy (Nye) Huffman, the former now deceased, the latter still a resident of Fremont. Mrs. Gallant is one of a family of ten children, eight of whom still survive: Washington, who makes his home in Battle Creek, Mich. ; Michael, living in Fremont; Ellen, wife of Henry Hiller, of Hillsdale, Mich. ; William H., a resident of Hastings; Mrs. Gallant, the next in order of birth; May Etta, widow of the late Andrew Whitemore, residing in Fremont; Charles Luther, living in Hastings, Mich.; and Elizabeth A. , now the widow of Louis Benner, and making her home in Fremont. Five children have come to bless the union of Mr. and Mrs. Gallant, as follows: Charles M., born April 25, 1867; Lillie Jane, born March 19, 1869, now the wife John F. Sanders, of Elmore; James W., born February 7, 1871; Edward E., born July 21, 1885; and Bertha Belle, born June 1, 1887. Of these Charles M., whose education was begun in the public schools of Elmore, completed a course in the North American Normal School of Fostoria, Ohio, graduating from that institution in 1887. He then took up the study of mechanical engineering at Salt Lake City, Utah, and for four years was a locomotive engineer on the Rio Grande 564 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. & Western railroad. At the expiration of that time he returned to Elmore, and engaged with his father as bookkeeper. At the present time, however, he is engaged in the manufacture of a patent clothes rack, in connection with his brother James. On January is, 1895, in Elmore, he married Miss Elizabeth Hotmer, a daughter of John and Sarah Hotmer; the former a resident of Elmore, the latter being now deceased. James W. , the second son of our subject, after completing his education in the public schools of Elmore, learned the trade of wood turning, which occupation he followed up to a recent date, but is now engaged in the manufacture of a patent clothes rack. In Toledo, Ohio, January 2, 1895, he was united in marriage with Miss Nettie Walters, a daughter of Thomas and Nettie Walters, the former of whom still makes his home in Toledo, but the latter has departed this life. In his political views, George W. Gallant is an ardent Republican, being a strong supporter of the men and measures of that party, and he has served his fellow-citizens as, a councilman in the corporation of Elmore for four terms. He is one of the solid and reliable business men of the city, and in social as well as business circles stands high, having the confidence and esteem of all with whom he comes in contact. With the Knights of Pythias fraternity he holds membership, belonging to Elmore Lodge, No. 261, K. of P., and also takes a prominent part in Robert Caldwell Post, G. A.R. SAMUEL R. GILL, secretary of the Lakeside Company, of Lakeside, Ottawa county, is a native of the county, born in Portage township, December 16, 1845, and is a son of William and Martha (Payne) Gill, both natives of Berkeley county, W. Va. , the father born in 1796. In 1840 William Gill located in Portage township, Ottawa county, where he engaged in farming until his death which occurred December 31, 1857. His wife, who was a daughter of Jesse and Martha (Dunn) Payne, was born December 10, 1810, and her death occurred on the old homestead in Portage township, April 28, 1894. They became the parents of four children, namely: (1) Joseph, a resident of Port Clinton, Ottawa county. (2) William, who died at Evansville, Ind., from wounds received while serving in the Union army as a private in Company I, Forty-first O. V. I., in which he enlisted September 6, 1861, and being wounded at the battle. of Shiloh, which was fought April 6-7, 1862, he died a few days later. (3) Mary P., wife of Lane Lockwood, a resident of Sandusky City, Ohio, and (4) Samuel R. The primary education of our subject was acquired in the district schools of Portage township, and he completed his literary studies at Baldwin University, Berea, Ohio, graduating from that institution in 1869. He then engaged in agricultural pursuits on the old homestead farm, following that honorable occupation until 1873, when, in January of that year, he was appointed secretary of the Lakeside company, since when he has made his home in Lakeside, devoting his entire attention to the duties pertaining to the office, still retaining possession of his farm in Portage township. He is also a stockholder in the Lakeside Company. In Danbury township, Ottawa county, on January 12, 1875, Mr. Gill was united in marriage with Miss Mary C. Alexander, a daughter of David and Harriet R. (Petit) Alexander, who, in 1863, located in Danbury township, near Marblehead, where the latter still resides; the former passed away December 23, 1894, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Gill have three children: Robert Alexander, born May 21, 1880; William Payne, born February 16, 1883, and Samuel Vincent, born September 1, 1893. COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 565 Mr. Gill has always been a progressive citizen, taking an active part in all matters pertaining to the improvement and welfare of the county: Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he votes the Republican ticket, but in sentiment is a strong Prohibitionist. LEMAN M. THOMPSON, a leading and influential farmer, who makes his home in Carroll township, Ottawa county, first opened his eyes to the light of day in that township, April 1, 1845; His parents are William and Ruth (Ogden) Thompson, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of New Jersey. From his early boyhood he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, having assisted in the cultivation of the home farm, while he obtained his literary education in the district schools of the community. Mr. Thompson displayed his loyalty to his country, by enlisting, in August, 1862, in Company G, One Hundredth Ohio V. I., and remained in the service until the close of the war, being mustered out at Greensboro, N. C., and finally discharged at Cleveland, Ohio, July 3, 1865. He took part in numerous important engagements, among which were the battles of Ringgold, Resaca and Franklin, Tenn. , the siege of Knoxville, the battle of Eltawa, the siege of Atlanta and the battle of Pumpkin Vine Run, Ga., together with a large number of skirmishes, in all of which he proved a valiant and fearless soldier, always found at his post of duty. After being discharged from the army, Mr. Thompson returned to Carroll township, where he again engaged in farming, which occupation he has made his life work, and he is still a resident of his native township. There he was married July 4, 1869, to Miss Rebecca Brown, daughter of Daniel and Melissa J. Brown. By this union there is one child—William LeRoy, born July 9, 1882. In politics Mr. Thompson generally supports the men and measures of the Democratic party, though he is not strictly partisan, and has served his fellow citizens as township assessor two terms, and school director three years. He and his family attend the United Brethren Church. He is a practical, self-made man, having, by energy and perseverance, secured his own financial success. Equipped by nature with strong intellectual endowments and rugged physical powers, he has Worked his way upward, and, possessing a sterling honesty which characterizes his conduct in all the offices of life, he has won a high place in the esteem and confidence of his fellowmen. JOHN H. WENDT is an enterprising and popular merchant and fruit grower of Danbury township, Ottawa county, of which township he is a native, having been born October 2; 1853, on the homestead where he still resides. His early life was passed amidst the surroundings of a comfortable home and fond, indulgent parents' care. He received the advantages of a liberal common-school education, and at an early age adopted farming for his life vocation, which he still continues to follow. In '887, in connection with agricultural pursuits, he also began merchandising at Marblehead Junction, and by his straightforward business principles has built up a large and increasing trade, and established an enviable record for honesty and fair dealing. In 1887 he was appointed postmaster at Danbury, which position he filled seven years to the satisfaction of all concerned. In Danbury, November 15, 1882, John H. Wendt was married to Miss Matilda Meter, a daughter of Christian and Dorothy Meter, both natives of Germany, 566 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the former of whom is deceased, the latter still making her home in Danbury township. Mr. and Mrs. Wendt have three children; Lydia S., born May 18, 1883; William H., born February 19, 1885; and Clara, born February 22, 1889. Politically, our subject affiliates with the Republican party, while in religious faith he and his family attend the Lutheran Church. He is one of the live progressive men of Danbury township, a good friend and desirable neighbor. The pleasant social and hospitable qualities of Mr. and Mrs. Wendt are widely known, and they enjoy the esteem and respect of all in their community to a marked degree.. Herman Wendt, the father of our subject, was born in the Province of Hanover, Germany, April 14, 1827, was educated in his native land, where he also learned the trade of a cabinet maker. In 1845 he landed on the shores of the New World, and for about a year after his arrival worked at his trade in New York City. He came to Ohio in 1846, and for a few years was employed at the cooper's trade at the Plasterbed Mills. in Portage township, Ottawa county. In 1851 he located in Danbury township, where he followed farming until his death, which occurred on the 6th of February, 1894. He was a true friend, a good neighbor, a loving husband and a kind, indulgent father, and his memory will long be cherished by those who knew him best. Herman Wendt was twice married, his first union being with Mrs. Anna Marie Brauer, the widow of Henry Brauer, and of the four children born to this union, three are still living, namely: Christina, born April 18, 185o, is the wife of Angelus Hauschild, of Salem township, Ottawa county; Anna, born November 18, 1851, is the wife of Henry Windish, of Carroll township, Ottawa county; and John H., who forms the subject of this brief sketch, is the third child. His mother died on the 21st of September, 1855. The father later wedded Miss Rachel Schwartz, a native of Germany, and to them were born three children, one of whom still survives—John A., born July 18, 1857, makes his home in Chicago. Mrs. Wendt passed away June 5, 1872. MRS. MARIAR E. NELLIS. In a record devoted to the representative people of a county the ladies who have borne their part in .public work are also deserving of mention, and prominent among this class is the one whose name opens this sketch. She is a most capable business woman, and is successfully carrying on a farm of more than 200 acres, superintending its cultivation and its management and making it one of the neatest and most valuable country homes in this section of the State. Mrs. Nellis is a daughter of Isaac W. and Lucy Ann (Lewis) Ingraham, and was born in Harris township, Ottawa county, March 26, 1853. Her father was born July 22; 1827, in Connecticut, and came with his parents to Ohio, where he is still living, on a farm that belongs to Mrs. Nellis. His wife was born June 23, 1836, in New York, and they were married in the Buckeye State, November 30, 1851. Eleven children were born of this union, namely: Mariar E. ; Calista, wife of G. H. Damschroeder; Flora, wife of David McGowan ; Gleny, who died at the age of one year; Theodore; Arnold W. ; Ruth, who died in infancy; Eunice, wife of George Hotmer; and .three that died in infancy unnamed. Benjamin Ingraham, the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Nellis, was born in 1779, and died in 1869. He followed farming the greater part of his life, and reared a family of thirteen children, eight of whom have families of their own. Benjamin Ingraham, Sr., father of Benjamin Ingraham, came to America on the " Mayflower." Sallie Maria Fuller, the maternal grandmother of Mrs. Nellis, was born COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 567 in Bristol county, Mass., May 1o, 1807, and was one of the eight children of Joseph Fuller, who fought in the war of 1812. His father was one of the Revolutionary heroes, and was one of the famous band who participated in the " Boston Tea Party," when the British tea was thrown- into the harbor. Miss Fuller was married in 1828 to Lyman Lewis, and they became the parents of eight children, four born in New York and four in Ohio. The father died in 1845, and in 1848 the mother became the wife of George Fletcher, by whom she had one son. Mr. Fletcher died in 1857. On May 1o, 1889, Grandma Fletcher celebrated her eighty-second birthday, in which celebration twenty-one grandchildren and twenty-five great-grandchildren participated. Two of her sons and one son-in-law were in the war of the Rebellion. The family has long been prominently connected with this locality, and Mrs. Nellis' father helped to grade the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railroad. He has also cradled wheat on the site of the depot at Elmore, and is numbered among the honored pioneer settlers of Ottawa county. Mrs. Nellis obtained her education in a country schoolhouse that stands on the farm which she now owns. When sixteen years of age she began to earn her own living, and displayed the remarkable business ability which has always characterized her. She was employed in a tailor shop until about nineteen years of age, and then began doing housework. On May 5; 1874, she became the wife of Cyrus T. Nellis, of Elmore, and the first six months of their married life were passed in Elmore, during which time Mr. Nellis erected buildings, on their farm north of the village. In the autumn they removed to the new home, where they lived four years, in the meantime purchasing the farm upon which Mrs. Nellis is now living, and still retaining possession of the other. The present home adjoins the corporation limits of Elmore, - 36 - and on the place stands a beautiful brick residence and barns and outbuildings which are models of convenience. All the improvements of a model farm may be found there, and have been secured entirely through the efforts of Mrs. Nellis. When Mr. Nellis had the large barn well under construction he lost his mind and insanity caused him to attempt his own life by trying to hang himself in the new barn, which was unfinished. He was then, on October 28, 1878, taken to the hospital at Columbus, where he remained one year. During that time Mrs. Nellis completed the buildings which were then in process of erection. On his return Mr. Nellis began preparations for a fine brick residence, and had the foundations laid when his mind again became unsettled, and he was once more taken to Columbus, remaining there six years, after which he was transferred to Toledo. The work of completing the home then fell to his wife, and with indomitable energy and perseverance she has carried forward the enterprise, and to-day has one of the most beautiful homes in Ottawa county. [On September .25, 1895, since the above was written, by some cause unknown, Mrs. Nellis' barns, three in number, caught fire and were totally destroyed together with all the contents, her own property as well as that of her father, including the latter's two span of horses, the best in the county. By November 6, 1895, she had managed to have a new barn erected.] The family of Mrs. Nellis numbered three children, the eldest of whom died in infancy; Dow L., born March 20, 1878, has acquired a good literary education in the public schools of Elmore, and now aids his mother in the care of her property; the youngest, Bede C., born September 16, 1881, is attending school in Elmore, and has also studied music. The family is one of prominence in the community, having many warm friends, and Mrs. Nellis commands the respect and admiration of all by the masterly way in 568 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. which she has carried forward her business interests. A thorough lady, she yet has the business ability which characterizes usually the sterner sex. HUGH SMITH, an old and highly respected resident of Danbury town ship, Ottawa county, is a native of the Emerald Isle, born in County Monaghan, about the year 1825. His parents, James and Alice (Burns) Smith, were also born in the same country, and passed away in their native land. The subject of this review received a limited education in the schools of Ireland, and from his early youth has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1847 he left his native land, going to Scotland, and for about seven years resided in Glasgow and Busby. He worked at farming and in a print factory until, deciding to try his fortune in America, he took passage, June 17, 1854, on a sailing vessel, which reached Quebec, Canada, in August of the same year, after a voyage of two months. From there he at once proceeded to Ohio, locating in Marblehead, Danbury township, Ottawa county, where he worked in the plaster quarries for about a year. The succeeding three years were spent in the same line of business at Catawba Island and Plasterbed. About 1861 he removed to Kelley's Island, Sandusky county, where he also worked in the quarries some three years. In 1861 he purchased his present farm near Lakeside, making it his home continuously since, and for some time past he has devoted his time and energy to fruit growing on an extensive scale. Mr. Smith was married in Sandusky City, in February, 1855, to Alice Boylan, a daughter of James and Nancy (Matthews) Boylan, who were natives of County Cavan, Ireland, and are both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Smith became the parents of ten children. (1) Mary, the eldest, born September 23, 1855, became the wife of Robert McKinney, a native of Rochester, N. Y., who died October 12, 1889, leaving three chilpren-Alice, Isabel, and Jeanette; Mrs. McKinney was married November 6, 1894, to Francis Thomson, and they now reside at Lakeside. (2) Hughie died in infancy. (3) Alice, born March 8, 1859, married James Connolly, and passed away November 27, I 893, leaving a husband and two children-Alice and Mary-to mourn the loss of a faithful wife and loving mother. (4) James, born January 12, 1861, resides near Marblehead, Ohio; he married Miss Annie McMahon, a native of Ireland, and they have a family of six children, namely: Mary, James W., Isabel, Walter, John and Alice Margaret. (5) Hugh, born July 12, 1863, died December 12, 1894. (6) John B., born August 5, 1865, is a resident of Lakeside; he was married November 29, 1888, to Miss Bridget Rowan, a native of Ireland, and they have three children, named respectively-Henry M. and Elizabeth (twins), born May 15, 1889, and William P., born May 15, 1892. (7) Henry, born September 6, 1867, and (8) Lillian, born December 23, 1869, are at home. (9) Catherine, born January 27, 1872, is the wife of George Connolly, a resident of Port Clinton, Ohio, and had two children-George G. and Clarence C., the former born October 7, 1893, died December 26, 1894, the latter born February 1o, 1895. (10) William T. , born October 6, 1870, died March 19, 1889. The mother of this family was called to her final rest in 1892, and her death was widely and deeply mourned. In his political views Mr. Smith is independent, voting for the man rather than the party, and he and his family are consistent members of the Roman Catholic Church. Though well advanced in years he is still hale and hearty, and retains considerable of the vigor of his youth, attending daily to his fine fruit orchard. He has led a busy life, and his success is the re- COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 569 ward of his own labors. Genial and social in disposition, he is highly esteemed as a friend and neighbor. JULIUS M. PETERSON, a substantial farmer of Benton township, Ottawa county, is a son of Peter and Hanna (Hansen) Peterson, and was born at Port Clinton, Portage township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, May 3, 1859. Peter Peterson, our subject's father was born in Schleswig, Germany, in 1825, and on June 18, 1848, was united in marriage with Hanna Hansen, who was born, in 1823, also in Schleswig, Germany. They had nine children, three of whom are now living, as follows: Julius M., whose name introduces this sketch; William, who lives in Arkansas, and Sophia, now Mrs. Carstensen, of Oak Harbor, Salem township, Ottawa county. Peter Peterson came to America in 1855, and located in Danbury township, Ottawa Co., Ohio, thence moving to Port Clinton, and in 1861 coming to Benton township, where he settled in Section 31, cleared a farm of sixty-two acres, built a barn and fenced the land, being assisted by his children. Julius M. Peterson, the subject of these lines, was about two years of age when his parents brought him to Benton township and, later, he attended the public schools of Elliston, Benton township, receiving a business education that has helped him in his life work since. On September 7, 1881, he was united in marriage with Miss Dora Braun, of Clay township, Ottawa county, and they have had eight children, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Julia, November 22, 1882; Leora, April 1, 1884; Edward, September 10, 1885; Mabel, May 6, 1887; Ora, March 3, 1889; Eliza, August 23, 189o; Gertrude, February 7, 1892; and Hazel, May 8, 1894. Mrs. Peterson's father, Adam Braun, was born in Hessen, Germany, in 1805; her mother, Margaret (Brandt), was born in Hessen, Germany, in 1819. They were married in 1836, and had eleven children, of whom five are now living, as follows: Dorathea (Gerlach), of Lorain county, Ohio; Justus Braun, of Ottawa county; Henry Braun, of Lorain county, Ohio; Eva (Truman), of Toledo, Ohio; and Dora, now the wife of the subject of this sketch. She was born September 7, 1858, in Hessen, Germany, where she lived until four years old, when she came to America with her parents, who settled in Lorain county, Ohio, residing there seven years, and then removing to Clay township, Ottawa county, where the daughter Dora lived until her marriage. Immediately after his marriage Mr. Peterson took his father's farm to work for three years. In 1885 he went to Arkansas where he remained only a few months, making the trip mainly for his health, which, however, he did not fully recover until two years after his return. He then, in 1887, went to North Amherst, Lorain county, and was engineer in a flour-mill there for two and a half years, after which he removed to Benton township, where he now lives and farms 110 acres of land, dealing somewhat in stock, mainly hogs, which he sells to local buyers. He and his wife are highly-esteemed citizens of Benton township, and are training up a family of children to good citizenship and usefulness in the world, work ranking among the noblest of parental duties. In society Mr. Peterson ranks high among the Grangers, being one of the founders of Benton Grange, P. of H., and is prominent among the Odd Fellows. In politics Mr. Peterson is a liberal Democrat. JOHN H. OVERMYER is one of the esteemed and representative citizens of Washington township, Sandusky county, and it is with pleasure that we present to our readers the record of 570 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. his life, knowing that it will be received with interest, for his friends are many. He was born July 2o, 1819, in Pennsylvania, son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Hoke) Overmyer, who were also natives of the Keystone State, and in 1834 came to Ohio, locating in Washington township, Sandusky county, on the farm which is now owned by our subject. There they spent their remaining days. John H. Overmyer received but limited school privileges. When only ten years of age he came to Ohio, and this region, being then on the frontier, afforded few advantages to its residents. His training at farm labor, however, was not meager, and he was soon familiar with the arduous task of developing wild land. He worked with his father up to the time of the latter's death, and then inherited the old homestead, a valuable property, which is accounted one of the best farms in his locality. He has made farming his life work, and the evidence of his labor is seen in the highly improved place which he to-day owns. The domestic relations of Mr. Overmyer have been of the most pleasant character. On January 24, 1856, he was married to Miss Mary Boyer, who was born December 25, 1833, daughter of John and Catherine (Smith) Boyer, and of this union were born eleven children, a brief record of whom is as follows: (1) Barbara E., born January 2, 1857, is the wife of David Miller; they were married October 27, 1881, and have four children-Wesley, born October 15,1883; Rosella, December 5, 1885; Harry, October 14, 1888, and Lula, April 14, 1894. (2) Mary E., born September 24, 1859, was married September 13, I 892, to Jefferson Notstin, and children as follows were born to them--a daughter, born August 30, 1893, died in infancy; and Berl Emerson, born June 6, 1895. (3) Catherine A., born November 23, 1860, was married December 17, 1885, to Fred Gnepper, who was born May 12, 1859, son of Ernst and Mary Gnepper, and children as follows have blessed this union-J. V., born December 18, 1886; P. M., January 30, 1889; A. F., January 21, 1891; and M. F., April 6, 1894. (4) Amos A., born November 6, 1862, was married June 16, 1892, to Emma Hetrick, and they have two children-Clyde, born January 31, 1893; and Ray F., November 30, 1894. (5) Alvin S., born October 9, 1864, was married December 15, 1887, to Edessa Lattig, and two children were born to them-a son on May 16, 1892, died in infancy; and R. Ruth, born April 24, 1895. (6) Susanna, born April 28, 1867, died May 27, 1883.            (7) Celesta, born November 8, 1869, was married March 19, 1891, to Alfred D. Hetrick, and two children blessed their union--Lloyd E., born July 14, 1892, died July 3o, 1893; and Vida, born September 3, 1894. (8) Elam, born February 15, 1873. (9) Festus, born March 23, 1876. The two other children died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Overmyer have also an adopted daughter, named Mabel Overmyer, who was born May 25, 1880. Mr. Overmyer and his sons are supporters of the Republican party. The family is one of prominence in the community, and its members are highly esteemed for their genuine worth. The long life of our subject has been well spent. He has ever been true to all trusts, whether public or private, and those who know him best are his warmest friends. GEORGE MALLORY is one of the extensive fruit growers of Marble Head, Ottawa county. Prominent among the brave old pioneers of Danbury township stands this worthy citizen, who is deserving of more than a passing notice in this volume. His birth occurred in Newtown, Fairfield Co., Conn., December 27, 1823, and he COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 571 is a son of Nathaniel and Laurena (Foote) Mallory, who were both also natives of the Nutmeg State. Of the family of four children, George was the only one to locate in Ohio, while his sister and two brothers are still supposed to reside in Connecticut. The father died in August, 1825, and in 1830 George went to live with an uncle. The education of our subject was very limited, as in boyhood and early youth his time was almost entirely occupied in laboring for his uncle and his only opportunity for attending school each year being the short winter term, while ofttimes not even then could he be spared from the farm duties. He is a thorough, practical farmer as his well-cultivated lands bear evidence, and for the past twenty years almost his entire attention has been devoted to fruit growing. In September, 1843, he located on Catawba Island, there being at that time but twenty-two voters on the Island. For seven years he there engaged in agricultural pursuits, and in 185o he sold that place, purchasing his present farm in Danbury township, upon which he has now made his home for over forty-five years. In that township, on May 18, 1845, Mr. Mallory was married to Miss Catherine D. Hartshorne, who was born in Sandusky City, Erie Co., Ohio, March 8, 1825, a daughter of Wyatt and Jane (Kelly) Hartshorne. Their union was blessed with five children, three of whom are yet living: Eliza J. , born November 15, 1850; Hattie M., born April 3, 1853, married to F. A. Rice, February 6, 1883, and resides at Lakeside, Ohio; and George, born September 23, 1865. The mother of this family passed from earth July 27, 1892. Her father had come to Ohio in 181o, and two years later located in Erie county, where in 1824 he married Jane Kelly. Later he removed to Danbury township, and here resided up to the time of his death. He was one of Ottawa county's most progressive and popu lar agriculturists, and was a highly esteemed citizen. His faithful wife still survives him at the advanced age of ninety years, and makes her home with a daughter in Sandusky City. Mr. Mallory is one of the few remaining pioneers of the county, who has been spared to see the wild timber land give place to fertile farms, and the untutored Indian and wild animals of the forest vanish before the inevitable march of civilization, while his personal unswerving integrity and general rectitude through life has gained for him an enviable reputation in the community where he is best known. In his political principles he has always been a stanch Republican, and the family attend the Congregational Church. WILLIAM WONNELL. Among those who follow farming and fruit growing in Portage township, Ottawa county, and well deserve mention among the leading citizens of the community is Mr. Wonnell. Born December 28, 1832, in the township which is still his home, he is a son of Isaac and Margaret (Shook) Wonnell, the former of whom was born in Maryland, June 18, 181o, and died February 18, 1875, while his wife, to whom he was married February 16, 1832, was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, August 18, 1814, and died February 2, 1895. Both became early settlers of Ottawa county, the Shook family locating in Portage township about 1825, the Wonnell family a short time afterward. John Shook, father of Mrs. Wonnell, died April 20, 1865, at the age of seventy-five, and his wife Susanna passed away March 3, 1856, at the age of sixty-two; the mother of our subject died at the advanced age of eighty years. Mr. and Mrs. Wonnell had a family of seven children, namely: William; Samuel, born March 24, 1834, and died January 5, 1858; Susanna, born November 8, 1835, and died 572 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. November 4, 1836; Margaret, born December 9, 1837, and died October 17, 1861; Sarah, born February 19, 1842, and died October 10, 1893; Daniel, born December 13, 1843, and died September 26, 1849; and Ephraim, born January 8, 1850, The eldest and the youngest are now the only surviving members of the family. William Wonnell acquired his education in the district schools of the township, and since early life has devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits, while for the past twelve years he has also extensively engaged in fruit growing. His labors were interrupted, however, by his enlistment in his country's service May 1, 1864, with the one-hundred-day men of Company K, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Ohio V. I. During his service he was stationed at Point Lookout, Md., and after being discharged he returned to his home, where he resumed farming. Mr. Wonnell was married March 26, 1861, to Mary S., the estimable daughter of Joshua C. and Stila (Shirley) Martin. Her father was born in the Mohawk Valley, New York, in 1806, and was of English lineage, while her mother was born in Almeda county, N. Y., October 13, 1811, of American parentage. The grandparents of Mrs. Wonnell removed from the latter county to Ohio, in 1817, and after living in Erie county, for a short time took up their residence in Danbury township, Ottawa county, where they both passed away. Joshua Martin was one of the first settlers of Erie county, and was a sea captain, sailing on the lakes for many years, during which time he resided in Sandusky county. He died December 23, 1840, his wife on January 28, 1885, at the age of seventy-five years, three months and thirteen days. She removed to the Peninsula when a young girl with her parents who located near Lakeside, which at that time was mainly the home of the Indians. She endured many trials and hardships incident to the frontier, and Jived a noble Christian life. In 1831 she became the wife of J. C. Martin, who died nine years later, and a year after married Elijah Nichols, whose death occurred ten years later. In 1858 she became the wife of James Metcalf, who survived her about two weeks, dying at the very advanced age of ninety-two. In 1843 Mrs. Metcalf became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and her exemplary life was in harmony with her profession. She reared eleven children, including two adopted children and one grandson. Her devotion to her family was unceasing, and she had not only their love and esteem, but also the high regard of all who knew her. Mrs. Wonnell, who was born in Ohio, October 11, 1840, is the only surviving member of the family. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children, only one of whom is now living-Maggie Estelle, born November 5, 1865. The youngest child died in infancy; Ella May, born December 25, 1861, died July 31, 1883; William Courtland, born April 14, 1863, died November 1, 1888. Mr. Wonnell is a member of George R. Mc-Ritchie Post, No. 524, G. A. R. In politics he is a stalwart Republican, and has served as school director and supervisor for several terms. He and his family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is a consistent member. His friendship is prized most by those who know him best, a fact which indicates a well-spent and honorable life. WILLIAM G. MILLER, a most Prominent fruit grower of Danbury township, Ottawa county, was born December 13, 1859, on the old homestead farm which is still his place of abode, and throughout the community in which he has always lived he is held in high regard, a fact which indicates a well-spent life. Descended from German ancestry, the family was founded in America by COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD - 573 Claus Miller, the father of our subject, who was born in the Province of Hanover, June 2, 1821, and emigrated to this country in 1838, locating in New York City, where he engaged in the grocery business until 1851. In that year he came to Ohio, and took up his residence in Danbury township, Ottawa county, casting in his lot with its early settlers. Here he successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred May 2, 1880. Fie was married in New York City, June 2, 1847, to Kathrina Buck, who was born in the Province of Hanover, Germany, August I, 1824, and with her parents crossed the briny deep in 1840. To Mr. and Mrs. Miller were born five children: Anna C., who was born in New York, April 2, 1848, is now residing in Toledo, Ohio; John H., born in the same place, March 11, 1851, was a prominent farmer and fruit grower of Danbury township, Ottawa county, and died April 20, 1894, leaving a widow and two sons; Herman, born March 4, 1853, is now residing in Sandusky, Ohio; William G. is the next in the family; Matilda R., born May 5, 1862, is the wife of J. W. Muggy, who is living in Catawba Island. In the usual manner of farmer lads William G. Miller spent the days of his boyhood and youth and acquired his elementary education in the district schools of his native township, after which he entered Oberlin College, at Oberlin, Ohio, where he pursued his studies four years. In the meantime he taught school three terms, and after the completion of his school life continued teaching several terms, being employed seven terms in Danbury township, and two on Catawba Island. During this time he also followed agricultural pursuits on the old homestead, and since 1886 he has devoted his entire attention to farming and fruit raising. He now owns and operates a rich and well-cultivated tract of land, forty acres being devoted to peaches, pears and plums, and the neat appearance of the place indicates his systematic and careful supervision. He has made the growing of different kinds of fruits adapted to the soil a specialty, and believes in thorough and intensive cultivation, to obtain best results. On January 20, 1892, Mr. Miller married Miss Lydia Reitz, daughter of Rev. G. F. Reitz, who was born in Brownsville, Minn., June 29, 1866, and one child graces their union—Helen C., born November 8, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Miller attend the Lutheran Church. He is highly esteemed in the community, where he resides, for his sterling worth and strict integrity, and belongs to that class of progressive and public-spirited young men to which the West owes its prosperity and advancement. ELIHU LINDSLEY. Among the prosperous farmers of Carroll township, Ottawa county, the records of whose lives fill an important place in this volume, it gives us pleasure to commemorate the name of the gentleman whose sketch is here given. He is a native of Ottawa county, born in the town where he now resides, March 14, 1849, and is a son of Elihu and Nancy (Webster) Lindsley, both of English descent, the former a native of New Jersey, the latter of Kentucky. Like the majority of the young men of that day, our subject received but a limited education in the primitive log schoolhouse of the district, and from early life has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. His life has been a quiet one, without any uncommon incidents, as he had no adventures as a pioneer in a new country, was engaged in business in a new town, nor has he aspired to any conspicuous office. Yet to those who know him, it is evident he would have been successful in any line of life as he has been in that which he has chosen. On March 7, 574 - COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 1869, in Carroll township, he wedded Vashti E. Humphrey, who was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, January i5, 1849, and is a daughter of Henry and Catherine (Ziegler) Humphrey. To this union have come eight children, as follows: Charles H., born May 10, 1870, now makes his home in Ashtabula; Katie O. I., born August 12, 1872, is the wife of Albert Gyde, of Carroll township; Florence A., born January. 15, 1875, is the wife of Elliott Whipple, of the same township; Ralph B., born December 9, 1876, is residing in Ashtabula; Lelila M. was born February 3, 1879; Wesley R. was born January 1, 1881; Bertha M. was born November 15, 1882; and Laura M. was born July 16, 1885. Mr. Lindsley is a prominent citizen, especially as a leader in such good deeds as need sympathy, active work and benevolent contribution—in fact, his whole life has been an example of what principle, square dealing and honesty can accomplish. He and his family are faithful attendants of the United Brethren Church, and are held in the highest esteem. Though no office seeker, Mr. Lindsey has been called upon by his fellow citizens to serve as school director and constable of his township, and he served as trustee of his township a number of years. JOHN F. RUDY, who for some time has been mail agent at Limestone, Ottawa county, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in the town of Lancaster, July 14, 1831, son of Theophilus and Elizabeth (Frittz) Rudy. The parents of our subject were both also born in Pennsylvania, the father in about 181o, and of their family five are still living—three sons and two daughters—all but John F. living in Pennsylvania, where the mother also makes her home. The father died in that State May 29, 1894. Mr. Rudy's maternal grandfather, John Frittz, was born in Pennsylvania, and lived to be seventy-five years old; the grandmother, who was some years his junior, died at a comparatively early age. The great-grandmother, Mrs. Merrick, was born in Philadelphia in 1754, and lived to the extraordinary age of one hundred and five years and five days. John F. Rudy attended the district schools until fifteen years of age, when he commenced to work, turning over his wages to his father until of age.. In his youth he learned the blacksmithing trade, but he has never devoted himself to it, preferring farming and other work. At the age of nineteen he married Miss Lizzie Porter, of Pennsylvania, and this marriage has been blessed with two children: Emma, born May 6, 1861, and Ida, born in 1867, the last named dying in infancy. Emma is married and lives in Pennsylvania, where her husband, Mr. Wilcox, is actively engaged in the tobacco business. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Rudy lived at his father's for two years, after which he worked by the day among farmers in his native State for two years, or until 1863, when he came west to Ohio, locating in Clark county. Early in 1865 Mr. Rudy entered the war of the Rebellion, enlisting in Company I, One Hundred and Ninety-seventh O. V. I., with which he served to the close of the conflict. He was never in any hard-fought battles during his service, and the command was just on its way to assist in the siege of Richmond when the news of its surrender reached them. During his absence Mrs. Rudy was in Pennsylvania with her people. After his return from the army Mr. Rudy farmed six months in Ohio, and then went to Pennsylvania to visit his parents, remaining there one year, after which he traveled for a time through Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. He finally took a position at Cincinnati, Ohio, as clerk on a steamer on the Ohio river, which he held one year, and subsequently farmed near Dayton for three years. After making another trip to Pennsylvania to visit his patents, he traveled exten-