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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.


BRYAN AND PULASKI TOWNSHIP


JAMES T. ASHTON was born in Paterson, N. J., August 1, 1836, to James and Elizabeth (Balch) Ashton, natives respectively of England and Connecticut. These were the parents of three children—James T., who came to Bryan in 1862; Oliver C., who came here in 1857, and engaged in merchandising, and Elizabeth, who is married and residing in the Empire State. The father having died early, the duty of rearing these children fell upon the mother, who gave them a good academic education. James T., was reared in Colchester, Conn., attending the Bacon, Academy until fourteen years of age, when he engaged as a clerk in Colchester, served his employers a number of years and then bought them out and ran the business until 1862, when he came to Bryan and red into mercantile business with his brother, Oliver C., and for years did a lucrative trade. They have now withdrawn from mercantile affairs and are looking after their landed interests. September 19, 1865, Mr. Ashton married Miss Mary L. Stevens, a native of this county, born June 20, 1844, and daughter of William A. Stevens, one of its first settlers and officials. To this marriage have been born five children, viz.: Clara E., James T., Frederick W., Walter and Emma. The two brothers Ashton are members of the Masonic fraternity and in politics are Republicans.


D. C. BAXTER, one of the prominent citizens of Bryan, was born April 29, 1840, in Fulton County, Ohio. His father, James Baxter, was a native of Pennsylvania, where his youth was passed. He went to Knox County, Ohio, at an early day, where he married Miss Marcia Morrison. In about 1828, they emigrated to what is now Franklin Township, Fulton. County, Ohio, then a part of Williams County, and consequently were among the first settlers of that locality. Mr. Baxter entered 200 acres of land from the Government, it at that time being in state of nature. He erected on this one of the old-fashioned back woods cabins, into which he moved his household goods and family, and in this manner began life's battle in the backwoods of old Williams County.


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He always made that his home, dying in 1856 on the land he had entered. His widow married Timothy Hickson, since deceased, and is now living in West Unity. D. C. Baxter is the third of a family of nine children, seven of whom are yet living. He received good educational advantages in youth, and began for himself in the capacity of pedagogue, continuing the same in Fulton and Williams Counties a total of twelve terms. In 1866, he went to West Unity, where he engaged in stock trade and merchandising, and for some time held the position of Postmaster under Lincoln's administration. In 1871, he moved to Bryan, and in January, 1872, was elected Cashier of the First National Bank—of which he was a stock-owner--a position he held until February, 1882. Besides his interest in the First National Bank of Brian, Mr. Baxter is a partner in a private bank at Fayette, is junior member of the firm of Gleason & Baxter, hardware dealers of Bryan, and owns an interest in a hardware store at Hicksville. He possesses valuable town property, including a half-interest with Hon. J. N. Nelson in the Armory Hall, and conjointly with

 A. J. Tressler and A. M. Pratt, owns one of the finest farms in Williams County. This he has acquired entirely by his own labors, having began life a poor boy. He is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellow fraternities, and is a Sir Knight of Defiance Commandery and Camp degree Odd Fellow of Bryan. He is of Scotch descent on his father's side, his great-grandfather being the progenitor of the name in America. His mother is a native of Vermont and of English descent. Mr. Baxter was married in March, 1861, to Miss Maria Shepardson, who has borne him one son—Charles E., now a student of Williams College. Mr. Baxter is a stanch Republican in politics and one of the prominent men of Williams County.


JAMES Q. BEATTIE was born in Cumberland County, Penn., April 25, 1817. His father, Robert Q. Beattie, was born in the tome county March 11, 1791, and January 30, 1815, he married Mary Kelso, who was born in 1798. To this marriage were born nine children, of whom three brothers and three sisters are yet living. In 1838, the family moved to Richland County, this State, and located on a farm near Mansfield, where Mrs. Beattie died July 19, 1845. In 1848, Mr. Beattie married Eliza Cook, and to this union six children were born. December 5, 1872, Robert Q. Beattie took his departure for " that undiscovered country, from whose bourn no traveler e'er returned." James Q. Beattie is the second son born of his fathers' first marriage. He was reared to manhood in his native State, where he received only very limited educational advantages. Notwithstanding this fact, he has paid considerable attention to educational matters, and to-day is one of the well-posted citizens of Bryan. He has always made farming his oc-


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cupation, and owns good farming interests in Williams County. He parried Miss Asenath W. Cleland, November 18, 1841, who was born :July 5, 1819, in Washington County, Penn. They remained in Richland County until October, 1849, when they emigrated to Williams County, Ohio, where they have been engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1874, they removed to Bryan, where they are esteemed and respected citizens. They have had born to them a family of eight children, only two—Robert C. and Mary A.—of whom are yet living.


EZRA E. BECHTOL, County Clerk, was born in Superior Township, Williams County, March 7, 1841, and is the son of Adam and Mary (Starr) Bechtol, the former a native of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Adam was a molder, and worked at that trade till about 1837, when he came to this county and entered 320 acres of Government land in Superior Township, which at that time was a dense forest. Here his wife, who had borne him seven .children, died in January, 1851. His second and present wife, who was Elizabeth A. Hight, has borne him five children, of whom four are still living. Ezra E. Bechtol was reared in this county, and August 30, 1862, enlisted in Company K, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was sent to join his regiment at Bolivar, Tenn. His regiment made its first important move through Mississippi the winter of 1862-63, worked along the line of the Memphis & Charleston R. R., and then co-operated with Grant until the fall of Vicksburg, and participated in a number of severe engagements, among others, Port Gibson, Jack3on and Champion Hill. At Vicksburg his regiment was veteranized ; subsequently it joined Sherman at Acworth, Ala., and fought through all that campaign up to and including the 22d of July, 1864, when the battle of Peach Tree Creek was fought, in which our subject was shot through the left shoulder by a musket ball, which caused his confinement in hospital till September 25, when he received a thirty-days furlough, came home, then reported at the hospital in Columbus, and April 10, 1865, received his discharge. On his re'turn home, he attended the Ohio Wesleyan University four years, during and after which time he taught school five terms. In the fall of 1875, he was elected Clerk of the Common Pleas and District Court of Williams by the Republicans ; served three years; was defeated at the next election, but in 1881 was re-elected over his successful competitor of 1878. November 11, 1869, he married Miss Louanna M. Griffith, who has borne him one daughter—Florence. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.


CHARLES S. BENTLEY was born in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, September 5, 1846, and is the son of Stoughton and Orsey (Baldwin) Bentley, natives of Ohio, to which State their parents came at an early


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day. The elder Mr. Bentley died in Erie County, Ohio, September 5, 1852. His widow (now the relict of Joel Chapman) resides in Bryan with Charles S. Adamson Bentley, the grandfather of Charles S., was one of the earliest Disciple ministers in this State, and was quite renowned in his day. Baldwin Bentley, eldest brother of Charles S., at the breaking-out of the rebellion, enlisted in Company A, Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry—which regiment was almost wholly made up of students from Hiram College, of which James A. Garfield was then the President—and died in his country's defense. Charles S., after eleven years of age, lived on a farm until sixteen, attending in the interval the common schools. He then entered Hiram College, and afterward Eastman's Business College at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., from which he graduated in 1865. For three years thereafter he clerked in a store at Portage, Ohio, and then entered Hillsdale (Mich.) College, from which he graduated in 1870. Be next engaged in the wholesale lumber business at Allegan, Mich., and while there employed his spare hours i4 the study of law. In the spring of 1872, he entered the law office of Hon. D. Cadwell, of Cleveland, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar in the fall of the same year. February, 1873, he formed a copartnership with the Hon. A. M. Pratt in the practice of law at Bryan, which association still continues. May 1, 1874, he married Miss Isabel Kempton, who was born in Hillsdale County, Mich., January 20, 1849, and to this union one daughter was born—Isabel L.—March 30, 1875. Mrs. Bentley died October 30, 1877. Mr. Bentley has filled the office of Prosecuting Attorney of Williams County, and also has been School Examiner and City Solicitor. He is a stanch Republican, a leading member of the bar and an influential citizen.


SCHUYLER E. BLAKESLEE, attorney at law, was born near Avon Springs, N. Y., and when a child was taken by his parents, Uzi and Achsa (Taylor) Blakeslee, to Geauga County, Ohio, where the father engaged in farming. The parents were natives of the Nutmeg State and to them were born eight children. The father was a Captain in the war of 1812, and was present at the battle of Black Rock, near Buffalo, N. Y. At this battle, Col. Samuel Blakeslee, father of Ozi and grandfather of Schuyler, was in command of the American forces, the General in charge of the same being absent at the time. The father lived in Ohio after the war, serving in many minor offices, and for a time was Captain of a company of State Militia. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, receiving in early years an academic education, and when twenty-one years of age entered the law office of Gov. Seabury Ford, who resided at Burton, Geauga Co., Ohio. Here he remained until he graduated in law. In 1844, he came to Bryan, where he began the practice of his profession,


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which he has continued until the present. Mr. Blakeslee is a man of unusual mental endowments, and since 1844 has been one of the recognized leaders, not only of the Williams County bar, but also of the bar of Northwestern Ohio. He has been Commissioner of Insolvents, Prosecuting Attorney, and has represented Williams County three terms in the Lower House of the State Legislature, first in 1856, and then in 1869 and 1871. He was the author of several bills which became laws of the State, and was one of the most active members of the sessions in which he served. He was an Old-Line Whig, but since the formation of the Republican party, has been an earnest soldier in its ranks. The county has no better citizen.


MELVIN M. BOOTHMAN, merchant, was born in Jefferson Township, Williams Co., Ohio, October 16, 1846, and is one of nine living children, of a family of ten, born to Lemuel M. and Melisendra (Hart) Boothman, who were natives of Trumbull County, Ohio, and of English descent. Lemuel Bnothman was reared and educated in his native county. At the age of eighteen months he was left an orphan, and was reared by a Mr. Mitchell. The spring of 1843, he came to Williams county ; purchased eighty acres of land in Jefferson Township, it, at that time, be- ig all woods; cleared a place, sufficiently large in which to erect a log cabin, and shortly afterward married, moved upon his place and began clearing and improving it. He lived on this farm until 1873, when he sold out and moved to Bryan, where he has since resided. M. M. Boothman was reared in Williams County, assisting his parents on the farm at clearing and farming. He received a fair common-school education, and January 4, 1864, enlisted for three years, or during the war, as private in Company H, Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into service at Toledo, a few days after his enlistment. He participated in his first battle the 7th of August, 1864, at the right of Atlanta, known as Utoy Creek, when his company lost eleven men killed and wounded. After that occurred the battle of Jonesboro, September 1, 1864, in which the company went in with thirty-three men and came out with a loss of nineteen. It was here that Mr. Boothman was one of five who, lost left limbs. He was shot directly through the left knee, by a musket ball, which resulted in the amputation of that limb the next morning. The wounded went into hospital on the field, and after a few days were removed to Atlanta ; remained there until October 29, and thence were ret moved to Chattanooga, Tenn.., Nashville, Jeffersonville, Ind., Camp Dennison, Ohio, and from there received a thirty-day furlough. He received his final discharge June 7, 1865. He began then going to school, afterward engaged in teaching, and in this way acquired a good practical education. He attended the law schoO1 at Ann Arbor in October, 1869, graduating in September, 1871. He then came home, and the 20th of


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June of that year married Miss Angeline Bushong. That same fall, he was elected County Treasurer by the Republican party, and re-elected in in 1873, serving two terms. He then began the practice of his profession, in partnership with B. E. Sheldon ; subsequently (1881), with Thomas Emery. Mr. Boothman has made the practice of law a success, and he and Mr. Emery are doing a good legal business. He is a Republican in politics, and he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and the parents of four children—Howard E., Grace, Dale M. and one as yet unnamed.


CHARLES A. BOWERSOX, present Representative from Williams County to the State Legislature, was born October 16, 1846, in St. Joseph Township, Williams County, Ohio. He is the youngest but one of a family of seven, four of whom are yet living, born to John W. and Mary Jane (Breckenridge) Bowersox, who were both natives of Maryland, and of German and Scotch-Irish descent respectively. John W. Bowersox was reared in his native State; and when a young man, moved into Pennsylvania, where he married, after which he moved into Stark County, Ohio, where he worked at his trade, shoemaking. He came to St. Joseph Township, Williams Co., Ohio, in October, 1838, where he entered a large tract of land from the Government. He has lived on this farm ever since. At the time of his arrival, settlers were very few, and wild animals and Indians were far more plentiful than civilized people. His wife died in March, 1868. Charles A. Bowersox was reared in Williams County, receiving his education in the log schoolhouse of that early day. The winter after he was sixteen years old, he began teaching school and vocal music, and from the proceeds of his labor as teacher, together with what he earned farming summers, he has educated himself. He entered Otterbein University at Westerville in 1870, and graduated from the classical department in June, 1874. He then came back to Williams County, and for two years superintended the schools of Edgerton, during which time he was a member of the Board of County Examiners. In 1875, he was elected Probate Judge of Williams County, and after serving his term of three years, formed a partnership in the practice of law with Hon. Edward Foster, which has since continued with success. The fall of 1881, Mr. Bowersox was elected. Representative to the State Legislature by the Republican party, and is at present occupying that position. He was married, June 10, 1875, to Miss Laura A. Jarvis, of Westerville, Ohio, also a graduate of Otterbein University. She was born December 8, 1854, in Stark County, Ohio. The log cabin erected by John W. Bowersox in St. Joseph Township on his arrival is yet standing, and in this cabin five of his seven children were born.


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ANDREW CALVIN was born in Portage County, Ohio, April 10, 1834, and is a son of Josiah and Elizabeth (McGowan) Calvin, who were respectively born in Virginia and Ohio, and parents of twelve children. In 1848, they came to Williams County, and here the mother died in 1850; the father then married Nancy Cosily; who died in August, 1858, the remains lying interred in Lick Creek Cemetery ; for his third wife lie selected Esther Norris. Andrew Calvin was married, January 1, 1860, to Emily Byres, of Portage County, and to them have been born six children—Jerome B., Emil E., Charles, Rosa, Harry and Ella Dell. Mr. C. always resided with his parents, and now owns the old homestead. He and wife are members of the church of the Disciples, in which his father is an Elder.


F. M. CARTER, druggist and grocer, was born in Loudoun County, Va., April 11, 1828, and is the eldest of two children, a son and a daughter, born to Eden and Susanna (Hann) Carter, who were natives of Virginia, and of English and German descent respectively. Both families came to America about the same time, settling in New Jersey, the Carters being Quakers. Eden Carter was a stone mason by trade, but after his marriage engaged in farming. In September, 1852, he and family moved to Williams County, Ohio, having a previous knowledge of the county and his daughter being the wife of Dr. Kent, of Bryan. They located in Bryan, then a village of between 400 and 500 people. Mr. Carter did not engage in active life, but lived retired until his death, which occurred August 15, 1857, preceded bylis wife April 29, 1855. He and wife were respected and esteemed people, and were widely known and universally beloved. F. M. Carter's advantage's in youth were but limited, and he received only a common school education. He preceded his parents to Williams County in 1850 to look at the country. He purchased an in- terest in Dr. Kent's drug store in the building Mr. Carter yet owns, and enlarged their stock to a general stock of goods besides their drugs. Since that time, he has been actively engaged in mercantile pursuits in partnership and alone. He is now doing business alone, and has two rooms, one drug and the other grocery, and carries a stock valued at upward of $10,000. He does a first-class business, averiging annually $20,000. He came here a poor boy, but las made a comfortable home and established himself in a good trade by his honorable dealings. He has been three times married. First, to Lucy A. Moore, who bore him two sons, both of whom are now dead. He married Miss Moore November 29, 1855; she died April 5, 1861. His second wife was a niece of his first, Ellen M. Moore, to whom he was married April 7, 1862. This lady died No- vember 9, 1871, leaving two children—Frank L. and Minnie B. His third and present wife is Zilpha E. Myers, to whom he was married June


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23, 1873. To this union was born one son, George M. The mother is a daughter of G. W. Myers, whose biography accompanies this volume. Mr. Carter is a member of the I. O. O. F., and a Democrat in politics. He was elected to the State Legislature the fall of 1877, and served in the regular and special sessions of 1878 and 1879. Besides the above, he has held various other positions of honor and trust.


W. W. DARBY, marble dealer, is one of six living children of a family of eight born to Darius and Ann (Gardner) Darby, who were natives of Maryland, and of English descent. Darius Darby, who had made agriculture a life pursuit, died on the Maryland homestead in 1851, at the age of sixty-one ; his widow came to Williams County in 1868 where her son, our subject, was then living, and here died in 1879. W. W. Darby was born June 13, 1845, in Montgomery County, Md., and was there reared to manhood, receiving an ordinary education. He remained farming in his native State until 1863, when he came to this county, where his brother-in-law, Judge Willett, was then living. He began working at the marble cutter's trade, at which he continued about four years, when he formed his partnership with J. H. Willett, which has ever since continued. Mr. Darby has been steadily working at his trade since 1863, with the exception of four years when he was elected to the office of County Sheriff by. the Democratic party, and re-elected and served in this position with honor to himself and satisfaction to the citizens of the county. Mr. Darby is one of Bryan's prominent and enterprising citizens, having been identified with its best interests since becoming a resident. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the O. F. Encampment, having passed through all the chairs of these two lodges, and also a member of the Patriarchal Circle, the Royal Arcanum, and the F., & A. M. He was married in June, 1868, to Miss Olive A. Griffith, who died in 1869, and in February, 1881, he married Miss Laura M. Reynolds. Mr. Darby began life principally with his own resources, and by good management has acquired a comfortable home, and secured a trade in marble that promises to meet all reasonable expectations of reward.


A. C. DILLMAN was born in Centre Township, Williams Co., Ohio, April 6, 1844. His father, Jacob Dillman, was a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent ; was a wheelwright by trade; went to Canada when a young man, and there married Mariah Crocker, afterward moving

to Summit County, where he remained working at his trade until his removal to Williams County. In 1834, he started west through Ohio to look up a mill location. He was attracted to Williams County by its bright prospects, and selected a location in Centre Township, but made no entries that year. He then returned to Summit County, and in March of


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that year sold his interests there, and the same year moved out, locating on Section 34, when he took up a large tract of land and engaged. in a general trading business, having brought out a stock of goods that would be needed in a pew country. He came to the county a comparatively

wealthy man, and with this wealth did more for the general welfare of the county than perhaps any other one man. He took an active part in the building of churches, schools, etc. He built the first schoolhouse in Centre Township with his own means ; built the first steam saw-mill in ,the county ; was active in the support of the County Agricultural Society at its organization, and, in fact, all matters of a public benefit found in him a warm supporter. He was a temperance man in principle, a rare thing among our pioneers, who deemed pure corn juice a necessity ; was a member of the United Brethren Church, and a Republican in politics. His first wife died January 8, 1843, leaving a family of six children. The same year, June 29, he married Mrs. Lois (Horton) Stoddard, widow of Israel Stoddard, with four children. To this union were born three children, all living. The mother died in August, 1855, Mr. Dillman afterward marrying a Mrs. Maynard. Mr. Dillman continued a long life of usefulness, and died in March, 1870, beloved and esteemed by all who knew him. A. C. Dillman was reared in Williams County, and at the age of seventeen joined the regimental band of the Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, afterward with the One Hundredth and Twenty-eighth. He received his final discharge from the service July 13, 1865. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant of militia in 1863 by Gov. Tod. For seventeen months succeeding the war, he was in Kansas and the Indian Territory, afterward coming home, where, October 30, 1862, he married Miss Mell E. Huffman, who has borne him three children— Loal B., Grace E. and Jessie B. Previous to his coming to Bryan in 1871, he resided in Indiana, working at carpentering and cabinet-making. Since being here, he first started a dimension mill, afterward engaging in a general furniture trade, also undertaking, still carrying on the last named. In 1882, he took charge of the wheel-barrow factory, and is doing well. Mr. Dillman is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.


R. D. DOLE, Postmaster at Bryan, was born May 5, 1838, at Salem, Columbiana Co., Ohio; is one of seven children (six of whom are still living), born to Michael and Leanorah (Dunlap) Dole. The father of this subject, Michael Dole, was born in Elizabethtown, N. J., of English ant cestors, June 19, 1808. He was born, reared, and died in the Quaker faith of religion. His mother, Leanorah, was born. the 17th of May, 1814, near Salem, Columbiana Co., Ohio (of Irish parents); these parents lived in Butler Township, Columbiana Co., Ohio, after their marriage,


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to wit : June 18, 1835, until 1847, when they moved into Edinburg Township, Portage Co., Ohio., on a small farm of sixty acres, purchased by them, where they lived and prospered till in May, 1854, they, with seven children, came to Williams County, Ohio, and settled on 150 acres, nearly all woods, part in Jefferson and part in Superior Township, and with the boys cleared up the farm, and carried on farming. Here, January 25, 1867, Michael Dole departed this life, his widow, Leanorah, still surviving him. Our subject worked at farming and carpenter work up to September 1, 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as a private, and was discharged November 25, 1863, re-enlisting as a veteran in the same company and regiment, Continuing in the service until May 25, 1865, when he was finally discharged a non-commissioned officer. Mr. Dole served through the great Shiloh campaign, and also the siege of Corinth; was among the first, to enter this city on its evacuation ; participated in the campaign from Corinth, Miss., to Winchester, Tenn., and from there in the great forced march to Louisville, Ky., a distance of 600 miles, in the months of August and September, and immediately after this, in the Perryville and Crab Orchard campaign ; still later in the Stone River, and Triune and Tullahoma campaigns ; then in the Chickamauga and Chattanooga campaigns ; was among those who made the gallant charge up Mission Ridge, and here, after his re-enlistment and veteran furlough of thirty days, he rejoined the army, and set out with it and Sherman in the great march to the sea ; continued with it till September 1, 1864, at Jonesboro, Ga. ; in that terrible charge upon the enemy's works, he was wounded in the left knee-joint, which necessitated the amputation of the leg above the knee. Thus totally disabled, after remaining in different hospitals till May, 1865, he was discharged, having served three years and eight months at the front, in active, hard campaigning, and returned home very much emaciated, and unable to do anything until January, 1867 ; having been elected by the Republicans to the office of County Recorder, he entered upon the duties thereof. He was twice re-elected, and served nine years ; and in the meantime, in the summer of 1868, suffered a second amputation of his leg, which had not as. yet, up to that time, become sound. Since the expiration of his third term as Recorder, he has been engaged in insurance, pension and real estate business. In politics, he has been a Republican from the organization of the party. He was one of the Representatives of this (then Sixth) Ohio Congressional District in the Chicago Convention that nominated the lamented Garfield for President, and in 1871 the Republicans again put him on their ticket, this time for Probate Judge, against the Hon. Martin Perky, who was the Democratic candidate for re-election, and who won the office. On October 24, 1868, he was mar-


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ried to Miss Jennie E. Terpening, of Hudson, Mich., and to them have been born three children—Georgie E., Fred and Roy Einar. In March, 1882, Mr. Dole was commissioned Postmaster of Bryan, which office he now holds.


J. A. DORSHIMER, County Sheriff, was born in Jefferson Township, this county, November 30, 1838, one of five children (thre‘yet living) born to George D. and Catharine (Andre) Dorshimer, who were natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. The father was reared

a farmer and moved with his wife to Seneca County, Ohio, about 1835, and thence, in February, 1838, to what is now Jefferson Township, this county, where he entered 200 acres of forest land, which he cleared up and on which he and wife now live. On this farm our subject was reared. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer. Infantry, as private, and during the late war took part in the battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Iuka, Metamora, Thompson's Hills, Raymond, Jackson, Champion Hill, Fort Hill; Vicksburg, Monroe raid, Bayou Chitto, Meridian, Big Shanty, Bush Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Nickajack Creek, Atlanta, twice, and in the siege also, Jonesboro, Lovejoy, Milledgeville, and some nine others. February 14, 1863, he was made Commissary Sergeant, and December 24, 1864, was commis- sioned First Lieutenant ; January 27, 1865, he was promoted to a Captaincy, and July 26, 1865, received his discharge. He then came home and engaged in farming, and in 1876 he entered into the drug and gro- cery business in Montpelier, which he followed till 1881, when he was elected Sheriff of the county by the Republicans. He was married, April 27, 1864, to Margaret M. Durbin, who was born in Jefferson Township, November 18, 1840, a daughter of George W. Durbin, one of the old settlers. To this union have been born three children, viz. : Mary K., M. Belle and Bertha May.

E. G. FAY was born in Madison County, N. Y., December 13, 1824, and is one of six surviving children of a family of fourteen, born to Perrin and Sally (Farr) Fay. Mr. Fay's ancestors were English people, and came to America in about 1650. They settled in Bostoq, Mass., and the family have since scattered and have became prominent in all trades, professions and business, and have been known in both legislative affairs and in the defense and support of their country. E. G. Fay was reared in his native State, working in a woolen factory, his father's occu- pation being that of carder and cloth-dresser. He came to what was then Williams, now Defiance County, Ohio, in 1844, and began teaching school. He came with his parents, his father dying ii Defiance County in 1852, followed by his widow in Bryan in '1871. E. G. Fay taught school and clerked in Ohio for a number of years, and was married in


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1848 to Miss Cynthia D. Haymaker. This lady died in 1873, leaving two children—Frederick E. and Frank E., now Mrs. Joseph Neumann, and residing in Berlin, Germany. Mr. Fay married his first wife's sister, Miss Frances A. Haymaker, in December, 1879. In 1848, Mr. Fay kept hotel in Brunersburgh, and in 1853 traded his hotel for land, moved upon it, and there remained until 1856, when he came to Williams Centre, Williams County, and engaged in mercantile pursuits. In 1862, he returned to Defiance County and farmed until the spring of 1864, when he sold out, came to Bryan and engaged in the manufacturing of woolen goods. In 1865, he sold out this and engaged in the manufacture of plows, at which he has since continued. Mr. Fay began life's battle without a cent. By hard work and economy he has acquired a comfortable fortune. He is a seventh degree Mason, is a Republican in politics' and is a Universalist in religion ; his wife is a member of the Baptist Church.


JOHN FAY, a native of Northern England, is the first of that name who came to America, the descendants of whom are now living in Bryan, Ohio. At the age of eight years (1656) he took passage on the good ship " Speedwell" bound for the new country across the Atlantic Ocean where he had friends living. On the arrival of the ship at Boston, he learned of his friends' death, and at that age he began for himself. After remaining there a short time, he drifted to different places, and finally died in Boston.


HON. EDWARD FOSTER, attorney at law, was born October 27, 1824, in Portage County, Ohio, and was the son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Eggleston) Foster, natives of Massachusetts, and of English descent. They were the parents of seven children, four of whom are still living. The father was born October 25, 1773, and was a farmer, an occupation which he followed chiefly through life. At the age of twenty- one, he emigrated to. Portage County, this State, where he married, about 1807, Miss Betsy Eggleston, who was born in 1783, and was a daughter of Benjamin Eggleston, who settled in Portage County about 1804. The mother died September 20, 1866, and was followed by her husband six days later, after a married life of nearly sixty years. He enjoyed the full confidence of his fellow-townsmen, and was elected by them to several offices, among them, Justice of the Peace, Township Trustee, County Commissioner, etc., and was also appointed by the Legislature Associate Judge. He was also a member of the seventeenth and eighteenth sessions of the House, and of the nineteenth and twentieth of the Senate of the General Assembly. Edward Foster's youth and early manhood were passed in Portage, with the exception of the time passed at school. He acquired a thoroughly practical education, finishing at the Western Re-


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serve College. In 1844, he began the study of law under the instruction of Judge Day, of Ravenna, afterward under Tilden & Ranney, and was admitted to the bar in the fall of 1846. In 1848, he came to Bryan, engaged actively in his profession, and occupied a leading position as a member of the bar of Williams until the spring of 1867, when, because of ill health, he sold out his practice and retired to a less active life. He has been prominent in county affairs ever since his arrival ; has been Presi- dent of the Bryan Bank (now the Farmers' National Bank), for ten years, and has filled several other responsible positions. Previous to the war, he acted in harmony with the Democrats, and by them was elected to represent the counties of Williams, Defiance, Paulding, Van Wert, Mercer, Allen and Auglaize in the State Senate. He served in the same session with Gen. Garfield, Gov. Cox, Judge Key and other men who have risen to prominence. While in the Senate in 1861, Fort Sumter was fired upon, and Lincoln issued his call for troops. Mr. Foster then took an active part in the support of the Administration, and since then has affiliated with the Republicans. He formed his present law partnership with Judge Bowersox in December, 1879, which has since been successfully conducted. Mrs. Serena C. Foster, wife of our subject, is the eldest daughter of Levi and Amanda Cunningham, and was born in Zanesville, Ohio. She has borne her husband four children, three of whom are still living— Emmett C., aged twenty-six, and a lawyer ; B. Douglas, aged twenty-four, and a student of medicine at Jefferson University, Philadelphia, and George C., aged twenty. Mr. Foster is a Royal Arch Mason, and one of the oldest residents of Bryan.


SIMON FRASER was born in Perry County, Penn., March 3, 1817. He is one of the seven sons of Paul and Jane (Kirkpatrick) Fraser, the former being a native of Scotland and the latter of Pennsylvania. Paul Fraser, at the age of about seventeen, left his native land and came, with his parents, to the United States. The family purchased a large tract of land in Pennsylvania, upon which a fine home was made. Paul was married here, but, in 1832, he moved, with his family, Co Richland Gounty, Ohio, and here himself and wife passed the remainder of their lives. Simon was reared on his father's farm, receiving, meantime, a common education. He lived with his parents until the age of twenty-five, when his marriage with Miss Rebecca Cooper was celebrated, February 15, 1842. This lady was born in Washington County, Ohio, May 16, 1822. Mr. and Mrs. Fraser have had no children of their own, but they have reared four other children, and have given them a good educa- tion, and a start in life. In 1844, Mr. Fraser and wife came to this county, locating on a farm of eighty-the acres, on Section 6, Brady Township, which Mr. Frazer had bought two years before. Here he


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farmed until 1874, when he moved to Bryan, in which place he has since resided. He owns a small property in the city, besides considerable land outside. At one time he owned an eighty-acre farm in Hillsdale County, Mich. Mr. Frazer was formerly a Whig, but is now a Republican. Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is a man who says but little regarding the good deeds he may have done in life, but the past speaks for itself; it tells of a good- citizen and an honest man.


PETER S. GARLOW was born in Alleghany County, Md., June 22, 1824. His parents, John and Barbara (Shockey) Garlow, were natives of Pennsylvania, and passed their lives in that State and in Virginia and Maryland up to 1831, when they moved to Wayne County, Ohio, where they resided until 1841. They then came to this county, and for a number of years resided in what is now Washington Township, Defiance County. The father died September 28, 1863, at Georgetown, and after that sad event, the mother resided with her son, Peter S., until her death, May 6, 1877. Of their eight children, two sons and one daughter only are now living. Peter S. Garlow was reared on a farm, and received such education as the common schools of his youthful days afforded, until twenty-three years of age, when he entered upon a two years' course of study at Edinburg Academy, Wayne County, Ohio. He then taught school for several terms in that county. In 1850, he started; with a company, for California, overland, and after considerable trouble with the Indians and a tedious journey of seven months, reached his destination in

tination in safety. There he engaged in mining and merchandising, d accumulated considerable property. In 1859, he returned to Williams County, and in the fall visited Dubuque, Iowa, where he married, September 8, 1859, Miss Mary L. Bostater, who was born in Wooster, Ohio, August 11, 1837. Shortly after marriage, he cape to Bryan, and three years later purchased 160 acres of land, one-half mile south of the town. On this farm he now resides, and owns, besides, seven and a half acres on Portland street, Bryan, and considerable other property. He is a Democrat, and for three years filled the office of County Commissioner. He is a member of the Universalist .Church, a Mason, a member of Toledo Commandery, No. 7, and was also a prominent member of the Grange. Mr. Garlow began life a poor boy, and has gained all he has by his own exertions. He has done much toward enhancing the resources of the county and toward. liquidating its indebtedness, and has been identified with all enterprises that have tended to build up the town and advance the interests of the community in which he lives.


JOHN A. GARVER was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, February 11, 1832, and is qne of eight children (three now deceased), born


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to Martin and Susan (Shaffer) Garver, who were of German descent. John A. Garver was reared on his parents’ farm and received a fair district school education. When about seventeen years of age, he learned the tinner's trade in New Philadelphia, and in 1850 came to Bryan, opened a shop, and began general manufacturing and dealing in tinware. September 22, 1853, he married Miss Helen Fay, sister to E. G. Fay, of Bryan, and the same year of his marriage moved to Williams Centre, where he kept a general country store. In 1859, he returned to Bryan and established the firm of Garver Bros. He continued this occupation for about ten years, when, owing to ill health, he was obliged to relinquish active business, which he did, turning the same over to his two younger brothers, who yet continue it. Mr. Garver was identified with some of the leading industries of Bryan, and without doubt contributed largely to making the town what it now really is. Through his endeavors, the Morrison & Fay Manufacturing Company was established, and he was the founder of a factory for the manufacture of a wheelbarrow, of which 'he was the inventor. When in the hardware trade, he also was connected with like stores at Wauseon, Butler and Edgerton. He came to Williams County with scarcely any capital Whatever. By careful management and 'untiring labor he amassed a comfortable fortune, and in every sense of the word was a self-made man. In April, 1881, he removed to Des Moines, Iowa, where he and family all now reside, except one daughter, the wife of C. W. Pitcairn, of Bryan. Mr. and Mrs. Garver were the parents of five children—Ella M., Eitma (Mrs, C. T. Sperry), Warren F., Laura and John. Mr. Garver is a stanch Republican, and both he and wife yet retain their membership with the Universalist Church of Bryan.


SIMEON GILLIS, of the Bryan Press, was born near Iberia, Morrow Co., Ohio, May 2, 1842, and, is one of eleven children, six yet living, born to William and Jane (McClaren) Gillis, who were .natives respectively of Jefferson County, Ohio, and Northern Ireland. They were married in Ohio and engaged in farming. Mr. Gillis, Simeon's father, is one of the pioneers of Ohio, asfriell as of Williams County, having come to the latter place in 1845. They settled in Florence Township, where they are both yet living. Simeon Gillis was reared on the farm, in .youth receivmg but a very limited education. October 22, 1861, he enlisted as private in Company K, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. They went into tamp at Napoleon, afterward at. Camp Chase. They left the latter place the Sunday previous to the battle of Fort Donelson, and were present but not actively engaged in that battle. Mr. Gillis was at the battle of Shiloh, and was with Grant on his Mississippi campaign in the fall of 1862. Was . at Port Gibson, Jackson, and engaged in the battle of Raymond. Early


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in the battle of Champion Hill, he was shot by a minnie ball through the left leg, the result of which was the amputation of that limb below the knee. After lying on the battle-field from about 1 o'clock to sundown, he was conveyed to the field hospital, and ten days later, on the 26th of May, was taken prisoner and remained in rebel hands twenty-nine days. He was Then in the hospital at Memphis until December 1, 1863, when he was discharged. The fall of 1866, he was elected County Auditor by the Republican party ; re-elected in 1868, and again re-elected in 1870, serving in all six years; and by act of the Legislature, in changing time of taking seat of office, served eight months longer than six years. In 1875, Mr. Gillis engaged in the saw-mill and lumber business, which he ran until the fall of 1877, when he and Judge Bowersox purchased the Bryan Press, continuing as its proprietors and publishers for one year, when Mr. Bowersox sold his interest to Elisha M. Ogle, since when Gillis & Ogle have conducted the periodical. Tie Press, under the supervision of Gillis & Ogle, has increased its circulation, and has prospered, and to-day is the leading Republican taper of Williams County, and one of the best county papers of Northern Ohio. Mr. Gillis was married, July 7, 1870, to Miss Myra Ball, and to this union have been born three children—Ethel, Fay and Wright. The mother is a daughter of Thomas and Phebe (Wright) Ball, of William County, Ohio. Mr. Gillis is a member of the G. A. R., and he and wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. James F. Gillis, brother of Simeon mid two years younger, enlisted in the same company and regiment one year later than did Simeon. By exposure, he contracted bronchial consumption, and went to the hospital, when Simeon was wounded, and acted as nurse, not being able to do active service in the field. After doing efficient services in this capacity, he was paroled, sent to St. Louis, and a few days later sent to the hospital at Columbus. He was discharged September 23, 1868, and died at Mount Gilead, Ohio, four days later, While on his way to his home in Williams County.


PHILETUS S. GLEASON. Among the old pioneers of Williams County, Ohio., is the subject of this sketch, who was born June 24, 1814, in Tompkins County, N. Y. He is a son of Luther and Lydia (Ryder) Gleason, who were natives of Wales and Connecticut respectively, and farmers by occupation. Philetus S. was raised to manhood in his native county, and at an early age was apprenticed to learn the, cabinet maker's. He was married, September 13, 1835, to Jane Douglass, and the following month emigrated to Williams County, Ohio, locating in Sprigfield Township. At this time, Williams County was in a state of nature. Mr. Gleason took up a piece of land, which he began clearing, at the same time working at his trade when opportunity afforded. From Springfield Township he removed to Pulaski Township, where his wife died,


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April 29, 1854. They were the parents of six children—George B., Jerome D., Lettie J. (now Mrs. Frank Teeter), Sydney M., Emily (deceased ) and Alfred (deceased). The father married his present wife, Mrs. Mary (Bostater) MeNary, March 1, 1855, and in November, 1865, moved to Bryan, where he and second wife are yet living. To his second marriage there were born three children—Emma L. and Charles E. (Deceased) and Alvin Frank. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church..


JEROME D. GLEASON was born May 3, 1839, in Springfield Township. He was reared on a farm in Williams County, receiving only ordinary educational advantages, and September 1, 1861, enlisted as private for three years, or during the war, in Company H, Thirty-eighth

Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The winter of 1861-62, he was campaigning in Eastern Kentucky, succeeding which he participated in all the movements and engagements of his regiment. In the winter of 1863, he was discharged by reason of re-enlistment, took a thirty days' furlough home, after which he re-joined his regiment at Chattanooga as veteran. He actively participated in the engagements of Corinth, Stone River, Hoover's Gap, Missionary Ridge, through the Atlanta campaign, ending with the battle of Jonesboro. At this engagement, Mr. Gleason was

third Duty Sergeant, but, owing 'to all his superior company officers being either killed or wounded in the early part of the battle, he commanded the greater part of the time. After Lee's surrender, he went to Washington and participated in the grand review of Sherman's army. From here he was ordered, with his company, to Texas, but, while on the way, the order was countermanded, and they were discharged at Louistville July 5, 1865. Mr. Gleason then came home, and November 2, 1865, married Miss Sarah Newman, who has borne him a family of four

children—Henry N., Fred S., Vera E. and Olin W. He engaged in the grocery trade in Bryan, but. at the end of two years embarked in the produce-shipping business in partnership with Joseph B. Jones, under the .; firm name of Jones & Mason, which has since been carried on successfully. Mr. Gleason is a Republican in politics, a member of the Royal Arcanum, and he and wife belong to the Presbyterian Church, of which denomination Mr. Gleason is Elder, and in 1881 was one who represented the Maumee Presbytery, in the General Assembly. of that church, that convened at Buffalo, N. Y.


SYDNEY M. GLEASON was born August 2, 1842, in this county, of which he is yet a resident. In 1861, he went to the State of New York, and engaged in farming. While there, he enlisted, August 18, 1862, as private in Company G, One Hundred and Ninth New York Volunteer Infantry. His company was detached from the regiment and detailed


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guard the Baltimore& Ohio Railroad and arrest deserters, until the latter part of 1863, when they joined the Ninth Army Corps under Gen. Burnside, and in 1864 engaged in the Eastern campaign under Gen. Grant. Mr. Gleason participated in the battle of the Wilderness, where, on the 16th of May, 1864, he was shot through the left hip by a nainie ball. He was sent to Fredericksburg, where he obtained such medical aid as the surrounding circumstances allowed, and twenty days after being wounded was transferred to Washington. He remained there until December 15, 1864, when he was discharged for disability. He then went to New York, and in January, 1865, was elected door-keeper in the New York House of Representatives. At the end of the session, he came back to his old home in Ohio, and engaged in the grocery trade with his brother, Jerome D., in Bryan. At the end of two years, he began clerking in a hardware store. In 1870, he and D. C. Baxter purchased the stock and have since been operating one of the leading hardware stores of the county. Mr. Gleason was married, May 3, 1866, to Miss Kate Shorthill, daughter ofikla es Shorthill, deceased, an old settler of Williams County. To this three children were born—Ora (deceased), Berta and Claire. Mr. G. is a Republican, a member of the G. A. R., is a Royal Arch Mason, and, with his wife, is a member of the Presby- terian Church.


DR. Q. H. GRASER is a native of Hungary, his birth occurring in 1822. He emigrated with his family to Baden, Germany, at the age of fourteen, where he at once commenced the study of medicine under some of the most skilled physicians of Germany. He entered a course of study at Prague Medical School, from which he graduated in 1847. Shortly after this, he came to America, and began the practice of his profession in Pittsburgh andather portions of Pennsylvania. He married in this State, and in 1862 moved to Bryan, where he has ever since remained in active practice. He came to this place a poor man, with scarcely a dollar in his pocket. By industry, he has made a comfortable fortune, and by hard and indefatigable labor, he has acquired one of the finest and largest collections of natural curiosities to be found anywhere in the United States. He has given much attention to scientific writings, and his arti- cles on evolution, and the " Crime of Vaccination" and various other articles on scientific subjects have attracted widespread attention from all classes. Many are the complimentary notices he has received at the hands of the press and distinguished citizens of the United States. His walls are graced by nine different diplomas, and for one year he occupied the chair of "Professor of Natural Science and Histology and Curator ,of the Museum" in the College of Physicians of Topeka, Kan. Since being a resident of Bryan, his presence has been highly appreciated in


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many ways. He has carried on a most successful practice, and is now paying special attention to chronic diseases, and his fame has extended for as to bring him patients from many hundred miles distant. To one who has attained the knowledge and standing of Prof. Graser under the difficulties he has had to surmount, is due great credit. Long after he is dead and gone his name will be known and honored. He is the father of three children, only two, a son and daughter, living. The Doctor is a fine linguist, speaking six different languages—English, Latin, Greek, Hebrew, German and Hungarian.


JACOB HALM, brewer, came from Wurtemberg, Germany, to America in November, 1854, and worked in a wholesale wine house in New York City until 1858, when he married Caroline Kiesel, and the same year came to Bryan, Ohio, to look for a location, his brother-in-law, Kiesel, then living here. Not being pleased with the country, he returned to New York, buAre1859 he returned and engaged in the grocery and saloon trade. This he carried on until 1864, when he

sold out, purchased a farm in Washington Township, Defiance County, and engaged in farming. In 1865, he sold out and returned to Bryan, and purchased the old brewery of Henry Arnold, which was then very poor in comparison with the one he 'Low owns. He carried the business

on in that brewery until 1873, when he began the erection of his present brewery, which was completed in 1874. The building is a four-stork brick with basement, 84x88 feet, on which he has all the latest and best improved machinery, together with ice houses, etc., etc. The beer manufactured by Mr. Halm is pronounced by those who know best to be superior in quality and taste to the greater part that is manufactured in our country, and this is not to be wondered at when it is known that he is one of the cleanest Brewers in the United States. Every day the whole build' ing is renovated and cleaned up, and Mr. Halm can congratulate himself in having one of the best breweries in the State of Ohio. This has cost him between $70,000 and $75,000 and he does an average annual business of from $35,000 to $40,000, keeping employed from six to seven men. The machinery is operated by a twenty-five horse-power steam ene gine. Mr. Halm was born in 1834, March 16, in town of Baltmannsweiler, County of Schorndorf, State of Wurtemberg, Germany. He is a member of the Royal Arch Masons, the I. O. O. F., K. of H. and Royal Arcanum, and he and wife are members of the German Lutheran Church, and the parents of six. children, only the following-named yet living—Rosa T., Jacob, Julia and William. The dead are Caroline and one that died in infancy. Mr. Halm is t Democrat in politics, has served two years as a member of the Town Council, and is an enterprising citi-


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izen, favoring the advancement of all laudable public enterprises. In connection with his 'brewery he operates an extensive grocery store.


WILLIAM HARDING, JR., son of William and Matilda (Bayliss) Harding, was born in Licking County, Ohio, June 9, 1848. The father was a native of Buckinghamshire, England, and was born April 5, 1809. In 1832, he came alone to America, and engaged in boat-building at Utica, N. Y. January 8, 1834, he married Miss Bayliss, who was .born in Oxfordshire, England, December 4, 1811, and also came to America in 1532. They came to Licking 'County, Ohio, in 1837, where he worked at carpentering and farming, and in 1863 moved to Bryan, where Mrs. H. died December 17, 1876. In October, 1877, he married Mrs. Maria (Freeman) Baker, a native of Virginia, and they are now living in retire- ment at Bryan. born. to him by his first wife the following children : Sarah eceased ; Annie, deceased ; Matilda, now Mrs. Daily; George W.; Joseph H.; Susanna, deceased ; Hattie, now Mrs. Perkins ; William ; and Levi, deceased. Mr. Harding is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the English Lutheran Church. William Harding, Jr., came from Licking County to Bryan with his parents, and here enlisted, February 13, 1865, as private in Company C, One Hundred and Ninety-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was at first engaged in active duty with the Twenty-second Army Corps of the Shenandoah Valley, but latterly was chiefly engaged in guard duty, and received his discharge December t6, 1865, at Alexandria, Va. On his return home, he resumed his trade as harness maker at Waterloo, Ind., and in 1868 opened out in Bryan on his own account. He was married, April 2, 1878, to Miss Ida Haller, and to his marriage has been born one son— Bert 0. Mr. Harding is a Republican, a member of the G. A. R. and one of Bryan's successful business men.


GEORGE W. HOPKINS, son of George S. Hopkins, was born in New London County, Conn., Ari1 1, 1844. His father was born in Rhode Island, and was a direct descendant of Stephen Hopkins, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and of English descent. He married, for his first wife, Mrs. Esther (Rose) Cooley, who died in 1838. September 1, 1843, he married Dianthia Robinson, who bore him one son—George W. George W. was reared in his native State, receiving a good common 'school and academical education. At the age of about fifteen, he began doing for himself, and in 1862 came to Bryan, Ohl, where he had friends living. -He has remained here ever since. He first embarked as clerk in 0. C. Ashton's dry goods store, with whom he continued six years. He then became a partner of Samuel White, in the hat and cap trade, in the building they now occupy, and they have ever since carried on the business with success.





He was appointed U. S.


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Express Agent at Bryan the spring of 1882, and is serving in that capacity at present. May 15, 1867, he was united in marriage with Miss Tillie E. White, daughter of his present partner in business. To their union has been born one daughter,---Edith L. Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins

are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Hopkins is a Democrat in politics and held the position of City Clerk of Bryan for eight consecutive years, beginning in 1870. He has also been Clerk of the Board of Education for a number of years, 'and was Democratic candidate for County Auditor in 1881, but defeated by a Republican majority in the county. Mr. Hopkins has taken an equal part with the citizens of Bryan and Williams County in the Support of all laudable enterprises, and he is one of the successful business men of Bryan.


SETH B. HYATT was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 1, 1818. His father, Meshach Hyatt, was a native of Maryland, where he was reared, afterward moving to Pennsylvania, where he married Sarah Brownfield, and this couple in 1815 moved to Wayne County, Ohio, and were among the first settlers of that part of the State. They both died in Wayne County, and they were the parents of four sons and four daughters, all of whom are. still living. S. B. Hyatt is the eldest son and second child of this family.. He was reared in Wayne County, Ohio, first receiving a good education from the common schools, afterward attending Apple Creek Academy, where he studied the higher branches, paying particular attention to mathematics and surveying. He expected to come West and make surveying his business, and accordingly thoroughly posted himself in all the different branches of that study. In the fall of 1843, he came to Williams County,. Ohio, and that same fall was appointed by the County Commissioners to the office of County Surveyor, to fill the unexpired term of. Miller Arrowsmith, who was the Surveyor of the county before the boundary lines were changed. The reason of the change was the making of Williams County what it now comprises, and Mr. Hyatt was its first-County Surveyor. After serving out his appointment he was elected to the same office, and after serving out the regular term of three years was re-elected. In 1843, he purchased his first land in the county, consisting of town property in Bryan. He has made his residence in the county since his first arrival, and in this time he has figured considerably in important work here; has farmed, taught school, etc. He was among the early teachers of the county, and has had an experience of several terms. He is at present living retired in Bryan, and confines his attention to brokerage. He owns 160 acres of land in Brady Township, besides good :town property in Bryan. The 160 acres of land when he went upon it was only worth $400. Time and improvements have wrought wonderful changes in the price of the property as


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it is now worth $10,000. Mr. Hyatt is a Republican in politics, and he and wife are members of long standing with the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was married first to Ellen Bodel, November 27, 1845, and this lady died February 28, 1854, leaving three children—Alonzo R., Sarah I. and Cordelia G. Mr. Hyatt's second marriage was solemnized May 23, 1856, his wife being Emily Keeler.


JOSEPH B. JONES, Secretary and General Manager of the Bryan Boot & Shoe Company, is a native of Logan County, Ohio, and was born September 28, 1832. His father, William Jones, was three times married, his first wife being Margaret Beath, by whom he had six children, Joseph B. being one ; his second wife, Catherine Stevenson, bore him three children, his present wife was a Mrs. P. Smith, and they are now living m County, Ohio. Mr. Jones was a farmer, and Joseph B. assisted on the farm till he was sixteen years old, when he began teaching a country school. At the age of twenty he purchased a stock of goods and opened a general store at Columbus Grove. In 1853, he there married Miss Anna Edmon, and continued in active business until 1864, when he removed to Bryan and engaged in a general grocery and provision trade. In about 1867, J. D. Gleason was admitted a partner, which has ever since continued. The spring of 1882, he was elected by the Bryan Boot & Shoe Company, of which he was a stockholder, Secretary and General Manager, and at once entered upon the performance of his dutiet at which he is yet engaged. Under his management the business of the company has materially increased and is one of the leading industries, Bryan. Mr. Jones is a Republican in politics and has been since the organization of that party, and is a member of the Presbyterian Church of which he has occupied all the official positions. To him and wife have been born six children, only four of whom, Elwood S., Laura E., Charles H. and Florence A. are living. The two eldest of these are married the former to Miss Ada Fitch, and is one of Bryan's successful merchants., and the latter is the wife of William R. Starr; of County, Ohio, formerly ; now of Iowa.


E. B. KAUKE, one of the oldest merchants of Bryan, is a native of Wayne County, Ohio, where he was born May 11, 1830. . His father, Frederick Kauke, was a native of Amsterdam, Holland, and Was educated by the Dutch Government, receiving good, practical instruction, for 'which he gave his services about three years. He studied navigation and spoke eight different languages. He came to America at the age of eighteen years, and for some time was at Philadelphia engaged in morocco dressing, afterward going to Wilkes Barre, Penn., where he married Mrs. Elizanth (Blaine) Inman, a widow with two children. He remained there for some time and moved to Wayne County, Ohio, at a very


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early day, where he assisted in laying out the county seat—Wooster. In 1850, he went to California, and after remaining there that season returned to the States, and while on his way home took sick and died in New Orleans in the fall of 1850. To his marriage with Mrs. Inman,

were born nine children, two of whom are yet living. E. B. Kauke, of Bryan, is the youngest of this family. He remained in Wooster until the age of eighteen, when he began learning the tinner's trade. In 1848, he went to Medina County, finishing his trade and working at the same there about six years. He married there, in 1851, Jane I. Pardee, and in the spring of 1854 moved to Bryan, then a village of about five hundred inhabitants. He began working at tinning alone, afterward putting in stoves, and in about 1870 added hardware. He carries a full line of hardware, tinware, etc., and is doing a good business. His wife died in 1856, leaving one son—Walter E. His second and present wife Sallie E. Caldwell, to whom he was married the fall of 1856, has born him three daughters—Evelyn E., Cora A. and Emma L. Mr. Kauke began as a poor man, but hat succeeded in acquiring a comfortable home and a lucrative business. He is a member of the I. 0. 0. F. of Bryan, and in politics is a Prohibitionist.


KEISER BROTHERS. Dr. E. A. Keiser was born in Richland County, Ohio, April 4, 1838, and was there reared to manhood, receiving such education as the county schools afforded. He is one of a family of twelve children, nine of Aim are yet living, born to Jacob and Elizabeth (Worst) Keiser, who were natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Jacob Keiser was reared in Somerset County, Penn., and at the age of about twenty-three moved to Wayne County, Ohio, where he married and engaged in farming. He moved from there to Richland County, Ohio, in about 1833, and was among the old settlers of that county. He continued farming there untit,1875, when he moved to Williams County, where his sons were then living, and here Mr. Keiser died in 1876, followed by his widow in Hillsdale County, Mich., in 1878. The parents of the Doctors Keiser were honest, respected and industrious people, beginning poor and acquiring, only through hard and continuous labor, a comfortable fortune. Dr. E. A. Keiser came to Williams County, Ohio, in 1860, and began the study of medicine with Dr. A. Netz, of Primrose, remaining here two years. He then returned to Richland County and completed his studies in 1863,. under Dr. Francis Stohl. He attended medical school at Cleveland tlitt winter term of 1863-64, and graduated from the same institution (Homoeopathic Medical College) the spring of 1866. Dr. Keiser then began life practice of his profession near where he was reared, and in 1867 came to Bryan, entering into active practice. In this he has been quite successful, and has by diligence and close at-


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tention to business acquired a first-class practice. He began a poor boy, and by laboring at odd times, while pursuing his studies, acquired sufficient means to carry him through college. He was married, October 10, 1867, to Miss Lydia J. Brown, and to them have been born two children —Romeo O. and Forest L.


SAMUEL KEISER, D. D. S., was born in Richland County, Ohio, January 11, 1840, the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Worst) Keiser, and there rearedMI twenty-one years old, when he engaged in farming on his own account till about 1865, when he moved to Madison Township, this county, purchased eighty acres of new land, and began clearing up, but was compelleny ill health to abandon farm life. In the fall of 1874, he began the study of dentistry, and for two years read under the instruction of his brother, Dr. G. W. Keiser, of Bryan. He then attended the Philadelphia Dental College, and graduated in February, 1879, since when he has been engaged in professional work. He was married' in 1863, to Miss Sarah A. Hall, of Richland County, and to this union have been born four children—Minnie J., Ora A., Zella M, and Pearl G. The Doctor is a Democrat, but liberal in his views of local politics, and he and wife are members of the German Baptist Church.


G. W. KEISER, D. D. S., is a native of Richland County, Ohio ; was born August 20, 1845, and is one of the twelve children of Jacob and Elizabeth Keiser. His early life was passed on the home farm, and at the age of twenty-one he began the study of dentistry under Dr. William Mitchell, of Mansfield. After reading for two years, he began practice for himself, and in 1870, located in Shelby, Ohio, where he practiced three heart, attending, meanwhile, the Philadelphia Dental College, from which he graduated in the spring of 1873. The fall of the same year, he located in Bryan, and has here remained in practice ever since. He was married in December, 1870, to Miss Hettie W. Duffee, of Shelby, and by her is the father of three children—Gertie B., Zula S. and Bessie E. The Doctor is a Democrat, and a. member of the German Baptist Church. Keiser Brothers have been very successful in their practice, which has from the first rapidly increased, and now extends over Northwestern Ohio, Northeastern Indiana, and Southeastern Michigan.


JAOB KELLY, was born in Stark County, Ohio, January 3, 1822, and is the son of John and Christina (Brothers) Kelly, natives of Delaware and Pennsylvania respectively. They were married in Stark County, in 1820, moved to Holmes County in 1830, thence to Wayne in .1839, and to this county in 1854. In 1840, Jacob Kelly began milling in Wayne County, and for fourteen years followed that business at various points. In 1850, he made an overland trip to California ; returned in 1851, and purchased seventy-two acres of land in this township, on which


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he now has his home. January 2, 1855, he married Miss Elvira J. Shorthill, a native of Pennsylvania, who has borne him nine children— James Jeff, John C. Fremont, Maryauzonetta, Lew Wallace, A. Sherman, Lincoln, Earl, Harry M. and Tina. Of these, Earl and Tina are dead.

In 1872, Mr. Kelly was elect by the Republicans to the Auditor's office, and re-elected at the expiration of his first term. In religion, he and wife, are Methodists. In 1861, Mr. Kelly enlisted in Company H, Thirty-Eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served two years, and re-enlisted at Defiance, September 10, 1863. On the 7th of August, 1864, he was shot through the jaw, near Atlanta, Ga., and was discharged at Cincinnati , December 22, 1864, with rank as Second Lieutenant.


FREDERICK J. KLEIN was born in Bavaria, Germany, March 12, 1854, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Deszloch) Klein, also natives of Bavaria, and is the youngest of a family of ten children. He was left an orphan when about thirteen years of age, lived with an elder brother, a farmer, until 1869, and then came to Williams County. He was employed at Ditching for some months, and then engaged with Charles Nebelong, a barber of Bryan, with whom he remained nearly three years, and then started business on his own account ; ran his shop about four years, then started as an insurance, and real estate agent, which he followed about two years, and then resumed his trade. He was married, May 25, 1875, to Caroline Arnold, who was born in Bryan, November 9, 1854, and is now the Mother of his two children—Mary L. and Caroline M. In 1878, Mr. Klein was commissioned a Notary Public, and again in 1882; he is agent for the Hambuk and Bremen Steamship line ; keeps employed in his shop two barbers, and is prospering in his three vocations. Mr. Klein is well educated, both in German and English, and has acquired a thorough understanding of the laws and business customs of his adopted country.


SAMUEL KEMBLE was born in New Jersey, July 21, 1805, and is the fifth child of a family of thirteen, only two of whom, a daughter and our subject, are now living, The parents, Samuel ,and Susan (Blizzard) Kemble, were also natives of New Jersey, the father of English and the mother either of Irish or Scotch descent. They moved from their native State to Columbiana County, Ohio, near New Lisbon, in the year 1810, and consequently were among the pioneers of Eastern Ohio. They were farmers, and lived there until their respective deaths, the father dying in about 1847 and the mother being drowned by a flood in 1861. Samuel Kemble was reared in Columbiana County, receiving only such education as the common schools of that early day afforded. He was married, February 27, 1828, to Miss Jane Hollingsworth, who was born near Wilmington, Del., August 20, 1809. Succeeding their marriage, they engaged in


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farming for a number of years in Columbiana County, afterward moving to Hancock County, where they remained until 1872, when they concluded to come to Williams County, where their only living son Seth was then and is yet living. They settled on the place where they now reside adjoining the corporate city limits of Bryan, where they have ever since resided. Mr. Kern1 le owns 196 acres of good land, and besides this owns town property. He makes no specialty in active farming as he is too old for that, and he and wife are really living retired. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have had born to them a family of ten children—Cynthiann, now Mrs. Lewis J. Dales ; Seth, who married Thamer Crawford and came to Williams County in 1865; Err H., who died at home from effects of army life ; Phebe, deceased; Susannah, deceased ; John, who served his country in the late war and died at home from effects of exposure during the war ; Carey, who served in the war, and during the engagement at Dallas was missed, being either killed or taken prisoner, and has never been heard of since ; Samuel, deceased ; Josephine, deceased, and Emma J., who is single and resides with her parents. The Kemble family are among the most respected and esteemed citizens of Pulaski Township.


FRANCIS KENNEDY was born in Ashland County, Ohio, September 25, 1842. His father, George W. Kennedy, was a native of Somerset County,' Penn:, where he was reared, was taught the saddler's trade, and when hewmarried Charlotte C. Glessner, about 1840, he moved to Ashland County, and farmed and worked at his trade. In May, 1852, his wife died, leaving a family of six children. In the fall of 1854, he married Mrs. Ann R. Buchan, and in the spring of 1855 moved to Pulaski Township, this county, and purchased 200 acres of land on Section 1, where he died February 16, 1879. His widow is still living at the old homestead. Me' Kennedy was a thrifty and thoroughgoing farmer, and a man of some considerable mark. In Pennsylvania, he was a commissioned officer in the State Militia, and during his life in this State held several positions of public trust. From the time he was thirteen years old, Francis Kennedy has made his home in Williams County. He received an ordinary education from the common schools, and September 1, 1861, became a member of Company H, Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in Buell's Campaign, the battles of Stone River and Hoover's. Gap, the Tullahoma Campaign and Missionary Ridge, all through the Atlanta Campaign, and while he was at Atlanta, Ga., received his discharge September 5, 1864, and was mustered out of service at Louisville. On his return from the. army,. Mr. Kennedy engaged in going to and teaching school and farming. He finished his studies at Oberlin, and followed teaching in Ohio and in Kansas, being in the latter


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place eighteen months. In 1871, he came to Bryan and engaged as a drug clerk with Dr. H. Coomy. The fall of 1866, he engaged in the drug trade at Ottawa County, Ohio; in Elmore, under firm name of Hughes & Kennedy. He sold out the spring of 1878, and came back to Bryan, engaging as a clerk to Long Bros., druggists. In August, 1878, he became a partner in the store, and now owns a half-interest with William H. Long, under the firm name of Long & Kennedy. This partnership has ever since been continued with success. Mr. Kennedy is a Republican in

politics, and a member of the K. of H. and the Presbyterian Church. John A. Kennedy and George W. Kennedy, both brothers of Francis, were members of the same company and regiment as Francis. John A. was wounded twice at the battle of Jonesboro, from the effects of which he died December 24, 1864, in the hospital at Evansville, Ind.


A. KENNINGER was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, February 28, 1832. His father, John Kenninger, was a native of Bavaria, Germany. He there married, and came to America in 1819, and began working at his trade, wagon and carriage making, in Philadelphia. They moved from the city of Brotherly Love to Columbiana County, Ohio, living there many years, and from there to Galion, Crawford County, in the spring of 1840, where Mrs. Kenninger died the fall of the same year, leaving a family of four children, all of whom continue to survive her. Mr. Kenninger continued to reside in Crawford County until his death, which occurred the fall of 1880. Mr. K. was a hard-working and industrious man, of steady and temperate habits, a member of the Lutheran Church, and an esteemed Sand respected citizen. The name of Kenninger is very familiar to the people of Crawford County, as some of that name are yet residents there. A. Kenninger was reared principally in Crawford, where he received a fair education from the common schools. He learned carriage-making in Bucyrus, and, in December, 1859, went west

to Illinois, and from there to Glasgow, Mo., working at his trade. On the breaking-out of the late war, he returned. to Illinois, and located at Salem, Marion County, where he continued his trade. In the meantime he had returned to Bucyrus, where, on the 24th of January, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Margaretta Kissinger. After living Illinois until the fall of 1862, he returned to Bucyrus, where he remained until the spring of 1863, when he removed to Bryan, where he has ever since resided. Mr. Kenninger has been steadily working at his trade, opening a shop on meager means, and by doing good work and paying close attention to business, has become one of the leading manufacturers of the town. He now -has three different buildings, employs from eight to ten men steadily, turns out from 75 to 100 carriages and buggies per annum, and transacts an average annual business of $12,000.


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Mr. Kenninger is a ember of the Masonic fraternity of Bryan, and he and wife are the pare of four children—Mary Myrtle, Mabel Rebecca, Anna E. and John Jay,


DR. THOMAS KENT was born in Loudoun County, Va., March 30, 1806, the son of Benjamin and Sarah Kent. The father was a plasterer, and about 1824 came to Columbiana County, Ohio, where he worked at his trade till 1840, when he came to Pulaski Township, this county, where he died, December 27, 1860, his widow following August 11, 1866. They were the parents of seven children, six of whom are still living. Dr. Thomas Kent was reared in Virginia until seventeen years of age, when he preceded his parents to Ohio, and engaged in carding and fulling in Columbiana County. In 1835, he began the study of medicine under Dr. Hugh Martin, of Unity;; then went to Willoughby, finished his studies under Dr. George McCook, and graduated in 1838. In 1839, he began practice at Lafayette, this township, and there remained till Bryan was located in 1841, in the midst of the woods, when he came here, and here has since remained, with the exception of a few years taken forest in Michigan, where he was established in the drug business at Lansing. His then wife died September 14, 1875, when he returned to Bryan to pass the remainder of his days in retirement. Dr. Kent has been four times married. First, November 17, 1825, to Elizabeth Garretson, who died August 27, 1845, the mother of seven children —Oleva (deceased), Miranda C., Stanley E., Fenimore C., Somerton E., Armind (deceased), and one that died unnamed. Second, in 1851, to Susan A. Carter, who died August 20, 1867. Third, June 4, 1870, to Hannah M. Edgar ; and fourth, February 16, 1877, to Sarah Kittedge, who is, yet living. The Doctor is,the oldest physician in the county, and has been a very successful one, his practice having extended over the entire county. In politics he is a .Democrat, and under the old constitution was one of the Associate Judges of Williams County.


ANDREW KUNKEL, was born in Knox County, Ohio, March 30, 1826, the son of Martin and Susanna (Mock) Kunkel, natives of Bed- ford County, Pennsylvania, where they were married in about 1816. They soon after moved to Knox County, and, in 1848, came to Williams County, where Andrew settled in Jefferson Township, and cared for his father until the latter's death in 1852. The mother died in Noble County, Ind., in 1872. April 2, 1846, Andrew married Susanna Leedy, daughter of Daniel and Susanna (Holsinger) Leedy, and to them have been born eight children—Alexander (deceased), Daniel, Lyman, John, Abraham (deceased), Alice, Newton and Dora. Mr. Kunkel sold his land in Jefferson Township, and went for awhile to Bryan and worked out by the day ; he then bought forty acres .in this township, and engaged


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PAGE 572 BLANK


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in getting out shingles and hickory timber, at Ali he did well ; he cleared up his land, and, from time to time, has added to it, until now he owns 112 1/2 acres. He is an active school worker, is a Democrat, and with his wife is a member of the German Baptist Church:


JUDGE JOHN W. LEIDIGH is a native of Cumberland County, Penn., his birth occurring April 4, 1840, and is a son of David and Catharine (Brownwell) Leidigh, who were natives of Pennsylvania, of German and English descent, and the parents of ten children, six of whom are yet living. They were farmers by occupation, and moved to Knox County, Ohio, in about 1848, afterward moving to Morrow County, where Mr. L. died November 6, 1856. John W. Leidigh was reared on a farm, receiving a good common school education. He enlisted October 22, 1861, at Lexington, Richland County, in Company C, Sixty-fourth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as private. He soon went into active service in the Army of the Cumberland, and, December 23, 1863, re-enlisted in the same company and regiment, and was veteranized. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, siege of Corinth, Iuka, Perryville, Stone River, Missionary Ridge and Rocky Face Ridge in Georgia, at the latter engagement receiving a gunshot wound in the thigh and other injuries. He was sent to the hospital, and was absent from his command one year lacking three days. He then rejoined his regiment at Nashville, and was promoted to Sergeant Major, and from that to Second Lieutenant. His regiment was then sent to Texas, where he remained until December 15, 1875, when they sailed for home via New Orleans, Cairo, etc. They were mustered out of service at Camp Chase January 3;1866. Diving his term of serving his mother and the rest of the family moved to Bryan, and, succeeding his discharge, he came to this place and engaged in carpentering summers , and teaching school winters. While operating in a spoke and hub factory, in 1868, he lost his left hand. He then began the study of law with Hon. S. E. Blakeslee and Judge Long, and clerking in the Probate Judge's office. At the October election of 1869, he was elected Probate Judge of Williams County, and re-elected in 1872, serving in all six years. Since that time, he has been engaged in the practice of law, and is at present senior member of the firm of Leidigh & Scott. Judge Leidigh is a Republican in politics, and a member of the Baptist Church. He was married, February 1, 1870, to Miss Florence E. Pollitt. He was one of the original incorporators of the Farmers' National Bank of Bryan, and is still a stockholder and one of its Directors. He began life a poor boy, but by his own exertions has placed himself in comfortable circumstances.


WILLIAM LONG (deceased), father of the Longs of Bryan, was a native of Donegal County, Ireland, where he was born in 1795, one of a family of six children born to John and Susanna Long. William Long


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was reared in his native county ; married Miss Mary W. Hamilton in about 1819, and, in about 1830, emigrated to America for the purpose of improving his circumstances, and located in Carroll County, Ohio, where he engaged in farming. He removed from Carroll County to Williams County in about 1849, settling in Superior Township, where he purchased half a section of land, all in the woods. He erected a log cabin into which he moved his household goods and family, and engaged in clearing and, farming. Mr. Long was honest, hard-working and industrious, and in time he made a comfortable home. To him and wife there were born a family of nine children—George E., Henry C., William H., Rosanna (now Mrs. P. S. Slevin, of Toledo), Susanna (who died in childhood), John W., James H., Thomas (deceased), and Prate (now Mrs. Dr. J. U. Riggs). The father of these died in about 1874. His widow is yet living and resides in Bryan aged, eighty-one years. George E. Long,. or Judge Long as he is more familiarly known, was born May 1,1821, in Donegal County, Ireland. lie came with his parents to the United States, and with them moved to Carroll County, Ohio. When about twenty-four years of age, he began the study of medicine under his brother, Dr. H. O. Long, of Mount Vernon. He came to Williams County in about 1850, and began the practice of medicine in Superior Township. The winter of 1854-55, he attended the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, and, the spring of 1855, graduated, and came back to Williams County, which has been his home ever since. He was first a Whig in politics, but afterward an Abolitionist, and now a stan4 Republican. He has held the position of Justice of the Peace and Mayor of Bryan, and, in 1864, was elected Probate Judge of Williams County. After serving his term of three years; was re-elected, serving in all six years. He was married, the fall of 1856, to Miss Harriet H. Parker, daughter of Judge Parker, of Williams County. Shortly after his marriage, Judge ,Long moved to Bryan, but remained here only one winter, when, owing to his father-in-law's death, he moved out to the Parker farm. He remained there until his appointment as Probate Judge. He owns a farm of 365 acres in St. Joseph Township, besides town property in Bryan. tie is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Chusch, and the parents of three children—Mary J. (deceased), Parker W. and John P.


HENRY Q. LONG (deceased) was born in Donegal County, Ireland, October 4,1823. He came across the Atlantic with his parents and with them located in Carroll County, Ohio. He was apprenticed to learn the tailor's trade when eleven years old; but owing to ill health, gave that up and read medicine. He began practicing in Waynesburg, Ohio, in partnership with Dr. Crane, but shortly after removed to Mount Vernon. From here he moved to and practiced in Wooster, Wayne County ; thence


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moved to Bryan, Williams County, and was one of the most successful practitioners of the county during his time. He married Miss Armenia Ehle March 20, 1851, and to them were born four children--Mary and Emma living, and Edwin and Hattie deceased. Dr. Long was a man of

strong, energetic disposition ; a Republican in politics ; a member of the I. O. O. F., and also of the Baptist Church. He died April 11, 1867; his widow is yet living and residing in Bryan. Mrs. Long was born in Syracuse, N. Y., May 24, 1832, and is one of eight children, three only of whom are living, born to Abraham, and Elizabeth (Godard) Ehle. The mother is dead, but Mr. Ehle is a resident of Bryan and makes his home with Mrs. Long.


ISAAC McQUILKIN was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in July, 1831. He is one of five surviving children of a family of ten born to John and Nancy (Laughlin) McQuilkin, who were natives of Pennsylvania. John McQuilkin was a farmer, and he and were buried in Columbiana County. Isaac McQuilkin was reared his parents farm, receiving a good common-school education. In 1858, he began working as boatman on the Ohio River, taking loads of coa1 down the river to different destinations. At the end of three years he discontinued this occupation, and in October, 1863, came to Williams County, to look at the count,pr and visit friends and relatives who were living here. In January, 1865, he married Mrs. Elizabeth (Deakins) McHenry, and the same month and year came to Bryan, and embarked in a general grocery store on the west side of the square. That same fall he sold out, and during, the season of 1866 was employed as clerk for Samuel S. Will. In 1867, he formed his present partnership with his brother Harvey in the grocery and provision trade. They have ever since continued the business with success, and the firm of H. & I. McQuilkin are the oldest grocers of Bryan. They carry a full and clean stock of everything found in a store of the kind; and their success can by attributed to close attention to business and a knowledge of how to carry on the business. Mr. Isaac McQuilkin is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are the parents of one daughter—Anna A., born in August, 1866.


PHINEAS H. MAGNUS was born in London, England, in 1837, and is one of five children (three yet living) born to Harry and Rosetta (Isaacs) Magnus, who were also natives of England. The father died when Phineas was only two and a half years old, and the mother died November 19, 1871. Phineas Magnus was reared and educated in London, and has been doing for himself since about his fifteenth year, engaging in various pursuits until 1860, when he came to America. When he arrived at New York, his capital amounted to only $10 cash, and this


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he invested in pocket-books and notions, and began retailing.This he continued about six months, when he formed the acquaintance of Col. Christian of the Twenty-sixth New York Regiment, and at the same time became acquainted with Alexander Keller, book-keeper for a wholesale house in the city. Through the influence of the former he secured a position in Washington, D. C., as a member of the Citizens' Relief Corps, whose fluty was the caring for sick and wounded soldiers, etc. Subsequently, in 1862, through the advice of Mr. Keller, who had a brother-in-law named Jac6bs residing at Kendallville, Ind., he accepted a position as book-keeper for Mr. Jacobs and his subsequent partners. He remained at Kendallville till 1873, when he went to Ligonier as bookkeeper for Sheets & Wertheimer, with whom he remained until the fall of 1874. March 23, 1874, he married Miss Paulina Pickert, and the fall of that year bought out Neuberger, a clothier of Bryan. The following March he moved to this place, and took control of the store, as a partnership concern, under the firm name of Magnus & Scheuer. Their stock amounted to about $5,500. In 1878, Mr. Magnus bought out his partner's interest, has since conducted the business alone, and now carries a stock valued at from $16,000 to $18,000, and does an annual average business of from $351.000 to $40,000, carrying a full line of clothing and gents' furnishing hoods. Mr. Magnus has always taken an interest in American politics, and in his early days was strongly Abolitionist in his views. He allied himself with the Republicans on attaining citizenship, has since been quite active in furthering the interests of the party, and has been Secretary of every Republican County Convention held in Williams since he has been a resident thereof: He is considered to be one of the best book-keepers in Northern Ohio, as the many solicitations made to him to straighten complicated or mixed accounts at Toledo and other points fully testify. He and wife are members of the Jewish Church, and quite liberal in their religious views. They have had born to them three children—Edward (deceased), Lucille R. and Alfred J. Mr. Magnus is a Royal Arch-Mason, is a Knight of Honor, and is an upright man and a merchant of undoubted integrity.


THOMAS F. MORRISON, born in Pennsylvania April 28, 1838, came with his parents to Ohio in early childhood. His father was a farmer and miller, and Thomas was reared on the farm and in the mill. In his early manhood, he learned carriage-making, which he followed in the beginning of his business career. April 8, 1862, he was united in marriage to Miss Olivia Burras, who was born in Olena, Huron Co., Ohio, October 12, 1840, and to their union two children were born Blanche and Fred. Mr. Morrison came to Bryan in 1862 with Robert Park, for whom he worked, first in building and afterward in operating a


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foundry. In the summer of 1864, Mr. Park sold out to John A. Garver, for whom Mr. Morrison worked till 1865, when, in company with George Garver and Eugene Leonard, he bought the property. The following May, E. G. Fay bought out George Garver's interest, and about eighteen

months later Mr. Morrison and Mr. Fay bought out Mr. Leonard, and together they carried on the business until March, 1880, when, in consequence of failing health, Mr. Morrison sold out. He was an active and energetic man, and to his skill as a mechanic was largely due the success of the foundry. He devoted much time to the improvement of the Bryan plo,w, and hundreds of farmers can testify as to his success in that respect. He was of genial disposition, and affable alike in business intercourse and in society. At the time of his death, November 18, 1880, he owned one-third interest in the Bryan Manufacturing Company, and had made ample provision for the family left to mourn him. His widow still keeps her residence in Bryan, with her little family about her, and occupies a high position in the respect and affection of her friends and neighbors.


DAVID MORROW, son of Samuel and Margaret (Dysert) Morrow, is a native of Cumberland County, Penn., and was born September 29, 1814. He is of Scotch descent, and his father was a tailor by trade, but died when David was only an infant. His mother, with the family, moved to Wayne County, Ohio, in 1816, where she afterward married Oliver Day. Both are now deceased. They engaged in farming in Wayne, together with clearing, being among the first settlers of that

county. David received only the limited education of a pioneer district, his school days being limited to those of a log schoolhouse, two and a half miles distant from home, with a clapboard roof, puncheon seats, greased papers for windows, etc. He lived with his mother and step-father until manhood, assisting in clearing, farming and improving the place. He learned carpentering and house-joining when a young man, and has worked at that considerably through life. He was married Februar 2, 1837, to Miss Ruth Mitchell, of Stark County, Ohio, and they made Wayne County their home until 1854, when he sold his interests in Wayne County, with the expectation of going farther West to build a home for himself and family. Liking the soil, timber and water advantages in Williams County better than any of the other counties he had seen he purchased the old Stevens farm in Pulaski Township, on Sectons 12 and 13, consisting of 240 acres of land. It at that time was only partially cleared, and on this Mr. Morrow moved his family and engaged in farming and improving. As time passed on he gradually increased this farm, until at one time he owned about 700 acres, part in Centre and part in Pulaski Township. In 1872, he sold that property, and purchased his present place of 117 acres adjoining the corporate city


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limits of Bryan, and has since been engaged in general farm work. Since being a resident of the county he has dealt largely in grain and stock, taking special pains in the rearing of good and blooded stock, mostly sheep and cattle. Mr. Morrow has been quite fortunate in his career, making the greater part of what he now owns by his own exertions. He is one of the substantial citizens of Williams County, is a Royal Arch Mason, a Republican in politics, has held various positions of honor and. trust, among which was that of Infirmary Director. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he and wife are parents of four children—Elmer, Charles, Ellen and Walter. Mr. Morrow was one of the men who established the County Agricultural Society, and was its first President. He is also a stockholder in the Bryan Bank. Charles married Lydia Fields, and resides in Missouri ; Ellen is wife of William McNary, of Bryan ; and Walter married Effie Britton, and lives in Bryan.


GEORGE W. MYERS was born in Beaver County, Penn., December 24, 1808; and is one of two living children in a family of nine born to George and Susanna (Wenrich) Myers, natives of England and Pennsylvania, respectively. The father came to this country when a small boy, and in the latter part of the Revolution served in the Colonial army, and again, in 1812, rendered the country effective service. In 1813, he came to Wayne County, Ohio, thence moved to Richland County, thence to Cranberry Township, Crawford County, in 1827, where he and wife ended their days. George W. Myers learned the carpenter and joiner's trade in Norwalk, Huron County, and in August, 1836, there married Emily Lewis, who was born in Erie County, N. Y., May 27, 1846. In 1835, Mr. Myers had visited Jefferson Township, Williams County, and entered 160 acres of land, cleared three acres, sowed in wheat, and. put up a first-rate log cabin, and in 1837 moved his family and his few }household goods upon the place, and thus began life in the woods. In' connection with farming, he also worked at his trade, and erected many of the substantial buildings throughout this county and Defiance. In the spring of 1855, he sold his property in Jefferson, and removed to Bryan, with the intention of emigrating West. He made a prospecting tour through Illinois, Iowa and Kansas, but, finding nothing to suit him, returned home and resumed his old occupations, secured a comfortable fortune, and a few years ago retired from active life and is now a resident of Bryan. He and wife are parents of five children, viz. Julia A., now Mrs. J. M. Welker ; Zilpha, wife of F. M. Carter ; Amzi V., who resides in Colorado ; George W., who married Jennie Gilbert, and Elias, who married Caroline Reeves. The first farm owned by Mr. Myers in Williams is now owned by the county-, and used as the Poor


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Farm. At present he owns 180 acres in this county, some valuable town property, 2,000 acres in Texas, and an orange farm in Florida. He is a Democrat in politics ; was Justice of the Peace nine years in Jefferson Township, and has filled various other offices ; is one of the few remaining pioneers of the county, and is universally respected.


JOHN AND PHILIP NIEDERAUR. John Niederaur, of the manufacturing firm of Niederaur & Bro., of Bryan, was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 28, 1833, the son of 'John D. and Barbara (Young) Niederaur, who were the parents of eight children, of whom five are yet living. John Niederaur came to America in 1851, landing at New York, where for two and a half years he worked at his trade of cabinet-making; he then came to Ohio and located at Mansfield ; a few months later he moved to Tiffin, where he married Margaret Goffuy, in 1854. While residing at Tiffin, his parents and the rest of the family came over from the old country and joined him. Hearing of the superior advantages Williams County possessed, of its new county seat that would eventually make a city, of its splendid water facilities, etc., John and his brother Philip concluded to came to Bryan and locate, which they did in the spring of 1855, having paid the place a visit the previous fall, and having purchased property on which to locate. The Niederaurs have ever since resided here and have always engaged in active business. The father died in 1879, at the age of seventy-seven, preceded by his wife in 1870, at the age of sixty-five. The names of their children are John, Philip, Charles, Jacob and Varbara. On their arrival in Bryan, they all began working at cabinet-making, but after a year or two John branched off and engaged in carpentering, there not being sufficient business in Bryan to keep him employed at his trade. In 1866, John and Philip erected their present planing-mill, in which they have all the latest im- proved machinery, operated by a sixty-five horse-power engine. They give employment to ten or twelve men, and besides doing a general planing-mill business, handle a full line of all kinds of lumber, doors, sash, blinds, etc., etc. They came to Bryan when it was a village, and have assisted it to become one of the leading country towns in the State. John Niederaur and wife are parents of one child—Flora. Philip Niederaur was born in the old country, October 26, 1836; came to America in 1852, and with his parents, to Bryan, where he was married in December, 1865, to Sarah lineman, and by her has two children—Bertha and Frank. The Niederaurs have been Independent in their political views, inclining toward Democracy. They are of the Protestant faith in religion, and John is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Honor. They have been fortunate in their business career, having acquired considerable property by hard labor and


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good management. John is one of the present Town Councilmen, and Philip is a member of the Town School Board. They have been identified with the town's best interests ever since they came here, and are among the leading and substantial citizens of the place. The other two brothers, Charley and Jacob, emigrated West—the former in about 1858, going to Texas, where he married and is yet living; Jacob served in the late war in the Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry one year, as a musician, and in 1863 went to California, where he married and is yet living. Barbara married George lineman, and resides in Centre Township. John and Philip, besides their town property, own 232 acres of land in Williams County, 160 in Defiance County and 120 in Iowa.


JOHN W. NELSON, banker, was born in Portage County, Ohio, April 10, 1849, and was the son of David and Esther (Garrard) Nelson. The father was a native of the north of Ireland, and when about fifteen years old crossed over to Canada ; shortly after, he went to Pittsburgh, Penn., where he was employed in the construction of a canal in the vicinity., his superior skill soon securing for him the superintendency of a division. He was there married, and shortly after went to Kentucky, where he superintended the construction of a dam across Green River. About the year 1839, he removed to Portage County, Ohio, where he had a contract to build a feeder to the Ohio & Pennsylvania Canal. Some years later, he purchased a farm in Portage County, and followed agriculture till 1866, when he sold out and moved to Geauga County. In 1861, he returned to Portage, where he ended his days in 1873—his wife having died in 1855. Of his eight children, John W., our subject, was the eldest. The latter, until seventeen years of age, was employed upon the home farm and in attending the district school ; then for two years he attended an educational institution at Hiram, and afterward the Law Department of the University at Ann Arbor, Mich., graduating in 1862. In the fall of 1863, he came to Bryan, and entered the law office of Foster & Pratt, with whom he remained till 1867, except that, in August, 1864, he went to Tennessee, and remained there one year, acting as chief clerk to Capt. Robert McQuilkin, Commissary of Subsistence. In July, 1867, he formed a law partnership with A. M. Pratt, which was continued Still 1870, when the Bryan Bank Was instituted, and he was elected its Cashier. The bank is now known as the Farmers' National Bank, and was chartered under that name in June,' 1880. Mr. Nelson retained the position of Cashier till January, 1882, when he became its President. In April, 1868, he was elected Mayor of Bryan, and was re-elected in 1869. He has been a number of times elected to the Common Council, and is now a member of that body. In 1873, he was elected by the Democracy to the Lower Branch of the State Legislature, and he was also


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a delegate to the National Democratic Convention held at Cincinnati in 1880. May 31, 1871, he married Miss Lou Ritchie, who was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, August 23, 1848. Mr. Nelson is a Knight Templar, and has always been active in the promotion of enterprises tending to the improvement of the town in which he resides.


ELISHA M. OGLE was born in Carroll County, Ohio, September , 16, 1839, and is the seventh child of a family of nine, three of whom are yet living, born to William and Isabelle (Lyons) Ogle, who were natives of Jefferson County, Ohio, and Washington County, Penn. William

s Ogle's parents moved to Jefferson County, Ohio, at an early period in the history of Eastern Ohio, and he was among the first-born children of Jefferson County. He was reared a farmer. He and family moved from Carroll County to Williams4County, Ohio, in 1850, locating on Section 1, in Northwest Township. Mr. Ogle here engaged in clearing and farming, and this was his home until his death, which occurred in the spring of 1863. He was one of the early settlers of North West Township, although not among the first. He was a hard-working and industrious man ; was a Captain in the State Militia while a resident of Carroll County, and was a man self-made in every respect. His wife survived his death until April, 1881, when she, too, died. Elisha M. Ogle came with his parents to Williams County when eleven years old, and this has ever since been his home. He received a common school education, and, October 22, 1861, enlisted in Company K, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry as private. They left Camp Chase in time to be present, although not actively engaged, in the battle of Fort Donelson. From here he went to Crump's Landing, where he was taken sick. After remaining at the hospital at camp Dennison for a time, he received a furlough, went home, and then rejoined his regiment while they were att Bolivar, Tenn. From here, he was in all the movements of his regiment, until he was wounded at the battle of Atlanta, on the 22d of July, 1864, where he was shot directly through the head, the ball entering below the right eye, and passing out back of the left ear. He was left for dead on the field of battle, and was so reported to his comrades. On the retreat of the union forces, he was taken prisoner, sent to Atlanta, and from there to Andersonville, remaining at the latter place seven months, where he saw the suffering that only those know who realized Southern prison life. He and one other, one dark and rainy night, climbed the fence, and, by a miracle, escaped the guard, took to the swamps, and, after traveling all night, found they were within eighty rode from where they got out. The next night, they started again, and continued this some five or six days, when they were recaptured by a detachment of Hood's army, and were then sent to Macon, Ga., where they remained two months ; and, on Lee's


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surrender, were. paroled, and finally regained their liberty. Mr. Ogle re-enlisted, and was veteranized in December, 1863, when his first enlist- ment had expired. He received his final discharge from the service at Camp Chase June 20, 1865, as Corporal. After the war, he returned to Williams County, and engaged in farming. He was married, October 1, 1868, to Miss Amanda Starr, and, in 1875, was elected to the office of County Treasurer, and re-elected in 1877. He moved his family to Bryan in 1876, and, in 1878, became a partner of Simeon Gillis in the proprietorship and publication of the Bryan Press. Mr. Ogle is a Republican in politics ; a member of the Presbyterian Church, and he and wife are parents of two children—Wilbur and Maud. Mr. Ogle owns the old homestead, consisting of 160 acres, besides 83 acres in Florence Township, and town property in Bryan.


JUDGE SELWYN N. OWEN, son of Horatio and Clarissa (Ransom) Owen, is a native of Steuben County, N. Y., his birth occurring July 5, 1836. Horatio Owen was a native of New York State where he was reared, educated and married. He served an apprenticeship at the tailor's trade, and afterward worked as a journeyman tailor. He came with his family to Columbus, Ohio, in about 1837, shortly afterward moving to Huron County, where he engaged in merchandising and dealing in grain. He was killed October 6, 1860, at one of his elevators in Havana, Huron County, by the breaking of a rope used in drawing cars of wheat up in the elevator on an inclined track from the office below. His widow yet survives him, and resides with a daughter in Butler, Ind. Judge Owen is the second of a family of eight children, five of whom are yet living. He was reared to manhood in Huron and Seneca Counties, receiving a good common-school and academic education. For four years he was a student of the Norwalk Institute, paying for his tuition and books by acting as janitor. He finished his literary education by an elective course at Antioch College. The winters of 1856-57, he was Principal of a seminary in Clark County, Ky., succeeding which he came to Norwalk and began the study of law with Kennan & Stewart, attorneys of that place. He attended the Cincinnati Law School, beginning in 1861, and graduating in 1862. Mr. Owen began his career as an attorney at Fremont, Ohio, but remained there only until November, 1863, when, he came to Bryan and engaged actively in law pursuits. This has been his home ever since, and, with the exception of one year, he has followed his profession alone. He is a Democrat in politics, and in 1876 was elected without opposition Judge of the Common Pleas Court for five counties of the Third Judicial District. He served his first term of five years, and during this time the Territory of which he was then Judge was redistricted. In 1881, he was re-elected, and was .assigned to the Judgeship of the subdivision, at


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present comprising Paulding, Defiance and Williams Counties. In 1880, he was elected one of the Judges of the Inter-State Oratorical Contest, comprising the States of Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Wisconsin and Iowa. His Associate Judges in this contest were Elihu B. Washburne, of

Illinois, Gov. Foster, of Ohio, and Thomas A. Hendricks, of Indiana. Judge Owen has been one of the leading lawyers of the bar of Williams and neighboring counties. He was united in marriage in 1870, with Miss Beulah B. Barrett, of Rochelle, Ill., and to this union has been born one daughter—Gertie L. Judge Owen owns, besides a valuable town property, a farm of seventy-five acres adjoining the city of Bryan. He is a member of the A., F. & A. M., and the Universalist Church, and is one of the most prominent men of Northwestern Ohio.


ROBERT N. PATTERSON, editor and proprietor of the Bryan Democrat, is a native of Delaware, Ohio, his birth occurring January 19, 1831. His father, Gen. A. H. Patterson, was a native of Huntingdon, Penn., his father being a native of Scotland. This gentleman, Thomas Patterson, came to America in 1773, a single man, served the colonies in the war of the Revolution and was wounded at the battle of Brandywine. After the war, he married a Quaker lady, Jane Slack, a native of England. There was a large family born to this union, Andrew H., father of Robert N., being the fourth son. Andrew H. learned the saddler's trade, was an active politician thirty or forty years ago in Ohio, and held various positions of honor and trust—among them being that of State Representative. He married our subject's mother, Rosanna Vining, for his first wife, and by her had six children. This lady was a direct descendant of the Vinings and Carters of Puritanical fame, who settled in Massachusetts. She died in 1839, and Gen. Patterson then married Miss Lucy Bixby, who bore him three children. Gen. Patterson died in Bryan in August, 1863, aged fifty-five years. Robert N. Patterson lived with his father until the age of seventeen, when he began learning the printer's trade in the office of the Buckeye Eagle at Marion, Ohio. Since that time, he has worked on different papers in Ohio until 1862, and the

spring of 1863 came to Bryan and established the Bryan Democrat, of which he has ever since continued publisher and proprietor. The Democrat has flourished and thriven under his management, and is the leading Democratic paper of Williams County, and among the best newspapers of Northwestern Ohio. Mr. Patterson was married, in 1852, to Miss E. J. Fulkerson, and to this marriage were born six children, only the following named yet living : Cora, Addie, Medary M. and Mary. Mr. Patterson is a Democrat in- politics and principles, is a Knight Templar of the Masonic fraternity, a Patriarch of the I. O. O. F.'s and a member of the K. of H. He is a charter member of the Grand Temple of the


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Patriarchcal Circle, has served nine years as Secretary of the County Agricultural Society, and is the present incumbent.


JAMES PAUL, civil engineer, is a native of Portage County, Ohio, his birth occurring June 16, 1844. His mother, a widow lady, married Jacob Byers in about 1850, and this couple, to better their circumstances, moved west in 1853, locating in Superior Township, Williams County, Ohio. They purchased eighty acres of land, partly paying for the same, and engaged in agricultural pursuits and are yet residents of Superior Township. James Paul was but nine years old when he came to Williams County, and he made his home with his parents until twenty-five years of age. His educational advantages were very limited, but through the influence and persuasions of his mother and a cousin, J. M. Welker, of Bryan, he succeeded, by close application, in obtaining an excellent practical education. Having an ardent liking for mathematics, he passed many hours in the study of that science, and while a student at the Normal School in Bryan perfected his knowledge in civil engineering. Mr. Paul has for many years been one of the most successful school teachers of Williams County. He taught the schools of Pulaski a number of terms, and in 1870 went to Stryker as the Superintendent of the schools of that place. Through his influence and management, the schools of Stryker became second best to none in the county, which reflects much credit on Mr. Paul as an educator, as he took charge when they were considered in very-poor shape. Mr.4Paul is a Republican in politics, and has served two terms as Surveyor of Williams County and one term as School Examine. He is chief engineer of what is known as the "Forty- five-Mile Ditch," now attracting much attention in the county. In 1873, he married Miss Emma J. Carver, who became the mother of three children—Mary N.., Charles C. (deceased) and Alice M. Mrs. Paul was a a member of the Presbyterian Church ; she died March 1, 1881, and her remains now repose in Bethesda Cemetery, Superior Township. April 27, 1882, Mr. Paul married his present wife, Miss Dr. Jennie Buckley, a graduate of the Woman's Medical College, of Chicago. Mr. Paul is a member of I. O. O. F. Lodge, No. 611, of Stryker, and is a popular man in his party, and with the community in general.


MARTIN PERKY, Probate Judge of Williams County, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., January 18, 1819, one of ten children, five yet living, born to Christopher and Elizabeth (Slater) Perky, who were also natives of the Keystone State. Christopher Perky was a farmer, and at an early day emigrated to Seneca County, this State, and there died in 1833, his widow surviving him till 1852. Martin Perky was reared and educated in Seneca County, and followed farming there till 1839, when he came to this county and located in Florence Town-


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ahip, where he entered 140 acres of Government land and resumed his vocation as farmer. In 1843, he married Catharine Gaudern, whose parents came to the county in 1840. He joined the M. E. Church in 18433, and in 1853 joined the North Ohio M. E. Conference, and from that time till about 1865, was engaged in pastoral work over Northwestern Ohio. In 1861, he was appointed Chaplain of the Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained with them until the fall of 1862, when ill health caused him to resign. In 1865, he engaged in mercantile pursuits in Pioneer ; he sold out in 1878, and was elected Probate Judge of Williams County, and re-elected in 1881. The Judge is a Democrat, a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders, and he and wife are old and honored members of the M. E. Church. He is the father of two daughters, viz., Eugenia (now Mrs. Hilton), and Abbie L. (now Mrs. Lewis). The Judge is widely known because of his long residence in the township (there having been but thirteen voters in it when he located here), and is universally respected and esteemed.


C. W. PITCAIRN is a native of New Lisbon, Columbiana Co., Ohio, and was born March 23,1819. His father, John Pitcairn, is a native of Scotland, a tailor by trade, and he came to the United States when about eighteen years of age. He married Catharine Small, a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, and of German descent. He followed his trade till about 1864, when he retired from business, and he and wife are now livig in New Lisbon. They were the parents of nine children, C. W. being the eldest son and second eldest child. C. W. was reared in his native county, receiving a fair education. When in his sixteenth year, he enlisted as a member of Company H, One Hundred and Ninety-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served one year in the Army of the Shenandoah Valley. After his discharge, he returned home and engaged in clerking. In 1870, he began the study of law in the office of Clark & McVicker. He attended the Law Department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, the winter of 1872-73, and on April 1, 1874, was admitted to the bar. In December, 1874, he came to Bryan and began practicing his profession. In August, 1881, he discontinued practicing and accepted the Secretaryship and Treasurership of the Morrison & Fay Manufacturing Company, of which he was a stock-owner, at which he is yet employed. He is a Republican in politics and has been Mayor of Bryan about two years, hiving been elected in 1878. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney in but resigned to fill the position he now occupies. He was married October 8,1878, to Miss Ella Garver, daughter of John A. Garver. Mr. Pitcairn is an Odd Fellow, and Mrs. P. is a member of the Univers'alist Church.


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M. B. PLUMMER, son of Jacob and Lucy (Berkshire) Plummer, is a native of Ross County, Ohio, where his birth occurred January 2, 1818. He was reared in Ross County to manhood, where he acquired a fair district school education. By trade he is a woolen manufacturer, but his life has been diversified with a number of different employments. At the age of twenty-two he began his career as a school teacher, at which he engaged both in his native county and in Williams. In November, 1841, he came to Williams County, Ohio, stopping first in Springfield Township, where he began teaching, and Williams County has ever since been his home. He was married, October 13, 1844, to Miss Emily Moudy, and the spring of that year moved to West Unity, and embarked in mer- chandising. In 1848, he was elected County Recorder by the Democratic party and moved to Bryan. The spring of 1851, he was appointed County Auditor to fill the unexpired term of Jacob Bowman, resigned. He continued as such until his term expired, afterward acting as Deputy County Auditor three years. In 1856, he engaged in merchandising in Bryan, at which he continued until 1860. He was one of the Census Enumerators for that year, and in 1862 he was appointed route agent on the Toledo & Wabash Railroad. The fall of 1863, he resigned this position to fill the position of Clerk of Courts of Williams County, to which he had been elected by the Union party, and in 1868 was ap- pointed postal clerk on the same railroad on which he had been route agent. In 1870, he engaged in business in Bryan, at the same time em- barking in a manufacturing enterprise at Pioneer. In 1874, he was elected May,or and Justice of the Peace of Bryan, and in 1877 was re- elected Justice of the Peace. In 1870, he engaged in a general insurance business at which he is yet engaged. Mr. P. is a Democrat in poli- tics, and he and wife are members of the M. E. Church and the parents of nine children—John M., Charles W.. Edward E., Lizzie Z., Leroy D. and Alice, living ; and Eliza J., Udora and Frank W., deceased.


JOHN W. POLLOCK was born December 28, 1825, in Richland County, Ohio, and is one of a family of thirteen children, ten of whom are yet living, born to Samuel and Frances (Wilkin) Pollock, who were natives respectively of Ireland and Pennsylvania. Samuel Pollock came with his parents to America when six years old ; was reared in Pennsylvania and .Harrison County, Ohio, at the latter-named place marrying in 1818. He served in the war of 1812; was a farmer by occupation ; moved to Richland County in about 1820, where he died in 1876. His widow still survives him at the age of eighty-two years, residing in Mans- field. John W. Pollock was reared in Richland County, receiving in youth duly such education as limited means in the common schools of that early day afforded. In August, 1818, he came to Williams County for


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the first time, purchased a piece of land directly across the county line and then returned to Richland County, remaining there until the winter of 1849, when he returned to Williams County, where he remained one year, working at his trade of carpenter and joiner. The winter of 1850, he returned to Richland County, when, on the 19th of June, 1851, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary A. Finny. He remained in his native county until August, 1851, during which time he erected two barns. He then moved to Williams Centre, Williams County, and recommenced workig at his trade, which was that of barn building chiefly, until the breaking- out of the war. September 1, 1861, he enlisted as private in Company E, Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained with them until November, 1863, participating in all the movements of his regiment until it was veteranized. He was sent home for recruiting services in November, 1863, and in April, 1864, was commissioned Second Lieutenant of Company C, Thirty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. They went into active service, but soon after startirt out, Lieut. Pollock was placed in the Quartermaster's Department, remaining therein until June, 1865, when he participated in the grand review of Sherman's army. In December, 1864, he was promoted First Lieutenant, mustered into Company D, of the Thirty-eighth, and in about June, 1865, was advanced to Captain of Company F. After the war, Mr. P. returned to Bryan, on the place he had purchased in 1852, and to which he had moved a year or two later. He has remained here ever since, first engaging in saw-milling, subsequently at his trade and farming. He owns twenty-four acres where he now resides, and 160 acres in Pulaski Township. His wife died January 15, 1877. To her marriage With Mr. Pollock there were born three children—James F. (deceased), Clayton E., and Ella B. (deceased). April 21, 1878, Mr. Pollock married his present wife, Mrs. Hattie (Newman) Eaton. To their marriage has been born one daughter, Fanny F. Mr. Pollock is a Republican in politics, and is one of the present Trustees of Pulaski Township. He is a member of the G. A. R., and he and wife belong to the Presbyterian Church.


A. M. PRATT, lawyer, was born in Berkshire County, Mass., December 26, 1825. His father, Michael Pratt, was a native of Taunton, Mass., a direct descendant of the Puritans, and dated the advent of his forefathers in America as far back ait 1623, and it is said that one of them surveyed and laid out the town of Plymouth. John, the father of Michael, served in the Revolution as a Massachusetts minuteman. Michael married Lydia Douglas, of New London, Conn.,'a distant relative of Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois. This lady died, leaving no children. His second wife, Sophia Humphreville, of Fair Haven, Conn., became the mother of eight children, five of whom survive their parents, the father dying Janu-


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ary 6, 1862, and the mother in September, 1867. Our subject was the sixth child born to this union, and was reared on his father's farm in his native county. In 1846, he entered Williams College, and graduated in 1850. In December of that year, he came to Ravenna, this State, and under the instruction of John L. Ramsey, there began the study of law, and was admitted to the bar in Medina in 1853. The same fall, he came to Bryan, then a town of about 450 inhabitants, and began practice in partnership with Edward Foster, and here he has carried on his profession with gratifying success ever since. January 17, 1855, he married Elizabeth C. Atwood, of Portage County, who died July 20, 1870, leaving two daughters, Mabel E. and Cornelia A. His second and present wife was Mary W. Northrop, whom he married October 26, 1871. Mr. Pratt is a Republican, has served as Mayor of Bryan, and was a delegate to the last State Constitutional Convention.


OLIVER J. ROTSEL, M. D., is a native of Bucks County, Penn., and is a son of Matthias J. and Margaret A. (Hendricks) Rotsel, who were patents of four children, three of whom continue to live. Frederick Rotsel, great-grandfather of Dr. Rotsel, was a native of Germany, and the progenitor of that name in America. As a people, they have generally been agriculturlists with but few exceptions. The parents of Dr. Rotsel were farmers, although his father was a weaver by trade. They moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1832, and after living there until about 1850, moved to Ashland County, Ohio. The spring of 1853, Mr. Rotsel took the gold fever, sailed around South America to California, and engaged in mining and farming until the fall of 1855, when he re- turned to Ashland County. From this place he moved to Dallas County, Iowa, in 1856, where he died in 1877, followed by his widow in Febru- ary, 1881. Between the ages of ten and twenty-two years, Dr. Rotsel remained in Columbiana County, Ohio, during which time he received a good common school education. In 1840, he began the study of medicine under Dr. N. S. Sampsel, of Columbiana, now of Delaware, and the winter of 1852-53 attended and graduated from the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati. Dr. Rotsel practiced his profession in Richland County, Ohio, for a number of years, and in 1865 moved to Pulaski Township, Williams County, where he recommenced practicing. In 1876, he moved to Bryan, where he nOw lives. He was married, May 17, 1845, to Elizabeth Purdy, w.ho died two years later, leaving one daughter, Mary, since deceased. May 1, 1849, he married his present wife, Rebecca Backensto, who has borne him eight children—Amanda, Josephine, Oliver C., Q. C., James H., William C., Sarah A. and Ella M. Dr. Rotsel is one of the most successful practitioners of medicine in Williams County, and is, besides, popular in his township. He is a member of the


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I. O. O. F., the O. F. Encampment, of the O. F. Temple, and also of the Universalist Church, and in politics is a Democrat. He is owner of some good town property, besides 272 acres of good land in Pulaski Township.


ROBERT A. SCOTT, attorney at law, was born in Fulton County, Ohio, August 7,1854, and is the son of William C. and Elizabeth (Millhouse) Scott. When Robert A. was about one year old, his parents came to Bryan, where the father engaged in the grocery trade for a time, and afterward with a brother engaged in saw-milling. About 1857, he moved to Centre Township and bought a farm, on which he and wife are now livtig. They are the parents of six children, viz., Margaret S., now Mrs. A. C. Bates, Robert A., Charles E., H. Winfield, J. Ellsworth and Matus R. Robert A. was reared on the farm in Centre Township, and there educated. During the winter of 1871-72-73, he taught school in this county, and in 1874 began the study of law in the office of Pratt & Bently ; during the sessions of 1874-75 and 1875-76, he also attended the Law Department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, and received his degree of LL. D. in the spring of 1876. He remained in the office of Pratt & Bently that fall, and in November of the same year formed a partnership with Judge Leidigh, which has been harmoniously and successfully conducted ever since. In 1878, he was elected by the Democracy to the office of Prosecuting Attorney, his competitor being C. S. Bently, his former preceptor. He served two years to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, and was again nominated for the office, but was defeated, although running ahead of his ticket, by a Republican county majority. He is a member of I. O. O. F., the O. F. Encampment, and the Patriarchal Circle, and has passed all the chairs in both lodge and encampment. He was married May 1,1879, to Miss Minnie Meeks, of Wauseon, Fulton County, who has borne him two children: Herma and Bertha. Mrs. Scott was born in Wauseon, December 3, 1856, of a highly respectable family.


J. W. SMITH, merchant, was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, March 26,1833, and is one of-seven children, six sons and one daughter, born to Andrew and Christina (Shaffer) Smith, who were respectively descended from Irish and Dutdh ancestors, and natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania. Andrew Smith was reared a farmer, married in Coshocton County, and in 1834, emigrated to Seneca County, Ohio, and in May, 1835, removed to Williams County, Ohio, then an almost impenetrable forest, locating in Jefferson Township. They were among the first settlers in the county, and through years of continuous residence, have become a part of its history. They engaged in clearing and farming, continuing the same until within the past few years, when they removed to


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Bryan where both are yet living, aged respectively seventy-one and seventy-two years. J. W. Smith was reared in Williams County, which has always been his home. He received only the education of a pioneer boy in youth, but in latter years attended and took a thorough commercial course in Folson's Commercial College, at Cleveland. In December, 1853, he was united in marriage with Miss Marium G. Richardson, and from that time until 1862, was engaged in threshing, farming, and teaching school. In 1862, he removed to Bryan, where he has ever since resided, engaged in buying stock, grain, soliciting insurance, and hand- ling agricultural implements, the latter being his present employment. For two years-1865 and 1866—he was partner in the Bryan Woolen Mills, Which were burned while he was a stock-owner. Mr. Smith is a Demobrat, a member of the Royel Arch Masons, and a non-affiliative member of the I. 0. 0. F. He and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are the parents of five children—Eliza J, (now Mrs. C. W. Wertz), Willard A. (who married Sarah Folwell), Emma (deceased), Elmer E. (deceased), and John A. Mr. Smith began life a poor boy com- paratively, and by his own exertions has placed himself and family in comfortable circumstances.


PHILETUS SMITH, son of Elijah T. and Caroline (Fisher) Smith, is a native of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, his birth occurring December 25, 1842. The Smith family are of English descent, and their genealogy is traced back to 1685, when they, with the religious sect known as Quakers, emigrated with William Penn to America. They have in this country been leading citizens, and ex-United States Senator Oliver H. Smith, of Indiana, was a brother of our subject's father. Elijah and Caroline (Fisher) Smith were the parents of seven children, six sons and one daughter. Of these sons, three are lawyers, and two are doctors. The father was a farmer, and died in Michigan in 1869. His widow yet resides in that State. Philetus Smith was reared, until thirteen years old, in Cuyahoga County, afterward moving to Michigan with his parents. He received a common school education, and for six years taught public school. He began the study of law in 1863, but did not make it a spe- cialty until tliree years latir. He came to Bryan in 1868, and in 1869 was admitted to the bar, being sworn in by Judge William White, of the Supreme Court of Ohio. He has ever- since remained in active practice, and at different times has had associated with him as partners Capt. B. H. Fisher, 0. C. Beechler, L. B. Peaslee and his present partner, George Strayer. Mr. Smith was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Williams County, by the Republican party, and served two years, beginning in, 1872. He has also filled the position of Mayor of Bryan for some time. He was married, in 1870, to Cordelia Bissell, of Cuyahoga County, Ohio,


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where she was born December 19, 1847, and is one of eleven children born to Enos and Corinthia (Phelps) Bissell, who were among the early pioneers of the county named.

 

GEORGE F. SOLIER, Auditor of Williams County, is the second son and third child born to Francis and Catharine (Barber) Solier, both of whom were natives of France. The father was born in 1817, and resided in is native land until he became a young man, when he came to the United. Mates, locating first in New York City, but afterward coming West, where for some time he worked as steam boatman on the Mississippi River. He then returned to New York, and in about 1854 came to Williams County, Ohio, locating at Lockport, Brady Township, where he purchased the grist-mill, and operated the same until about 1866, when he sold the property and moved to Stryker, engaging in the dry goods business, and continuing there until his death in 1867. His wife was Miss Catharine Barber, to whom he was married while in New York City. The children of these parents were Alfred, Amelia, George, Charles and Celia. The mother is yet living, well advanced in years. In October, 1880, Alfred was elected Auditor of Williams County by the Republicans, but, unfortunately, his death occurred April 18, 1881, while he was serving in that ; pacity. Soon after his death, his brother George was appointed by the County Commissioners to fill the unexpired term. This he did to the entire satisfaction of the citizens of the county. He became a candidate for the same position in the autumn of 1881, and was elected by a handsome majority, notwithstanding the fact that other Republicans on the same ticket were defeated and some slipped in by a hair's breadth. He is universally respected by his associates in office and by all his acquaintances. All the sons, like their father before them, are stanch Republicans. George received a good education, having attended Oberlin College some four years. He is a young man of good habits and principles.

 

J. D. STARN was born in Melton Township, Wayne County, Ohio, October 7, 1851, and is the son of Alexander and Melinda (Schartzer) .tarn, both natives of the Buckeye State. Alexander Starn for a number of years was a school teacher, and was favorably known as an edueator. In 1856, he came to this county, and here died in the spring of 1861. His widow is a resident of Bryan. J. D. Starn attended school in Bryan until twelve years old ; then for five years attended the Wayne County schools. He then returned to Bryan, and while still young began teaching, which he followed for several years with success, always receiving the highest salaries. In 1872, he began the insurance business, representing only one company. His business increased rapidly, and he is now the representative of thirty-one companies and is considered to be the best posted man in the business in Northwestern Ohio. He began as

 

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a poor boy, but by fair dealing, strict business habits and a good share of native ability and energy, he has built up the most lucrative insurance agency in the county. He is district agent for a number of leading companies, who do all their business through him. In politics, he has always been a Republican.

 

BRIGADIER GENERAL WILLIAM STOUGH. Some time during the last century, Nicholas Stough, a native of Germany, crossed the Atlantic Ocean with two brothers, and established himself in Cumberland County, Penn., where he married, secured himself a comfortable home, reared a large family and founded the town of Stoughstown. One of his sons was William Stough, Sr., a man of more than ordinary ability, who, like many others of his day, was compelled to face the world with a comparatively slight education. He became a husbandman, and, in about 1815, married Miss Barbara Whitmore, who bore him three children, two of whom are yet living, one being Gen. William Stough, of Bryan. The mother died in 1821, and the father married Elizabeth Terman, who likewise died about twelve years later, leaving five children. The father again married, his third wife being a widow lady, by name Mrs. Susanna Browneller, who died, leaving her husband five children. Mr. Stough's fourth wife was Eliza Patterson, who died of a fever, without issue, about a, year after her marriage. His fifth and last wife was Mary A. McMatin who died in 1877, without children, her husband surviving her about a year. William Stough, Sr., lived in Pennsylvania until about 1833, which time he moved to Richland County, Ohio ; but, in 1850, mov to Whitley County, Ind., where he resided until his death. His th child by his first wife was Gen. William Stough, whose name heads th sketch. This gentleman was born in Cumberland County, Penn., Jan ary 22, 1821, and was about twelve years old when his father moved Richland Oounty, Ohio, where he grew to manhood, serving, in the me time, at Mansfield, an apprenticeship at the cabinet-maker's trade. In the autumn of 1840, his marriage with Miss Sarah Ann Reding was ebrated, and two years later he moved to the village of Pulaski (then called Lafayette), Williams Co., Ohio, and engaged in cabinet-maker, carpentry and undertaking. Such occupations were followed until 15 when he began merchandising in the same village ; but at the end of th years moved the stock to Bryan, where for another year he conducted mercantile pursuit. For nine years preceding his removal to Bryan, served as Justice of the Peace, and also nine years after coming here. About a year after moving to Bryan, he engaged in lumbering and farming, and continued these pursuits until the fall of Sumter, when was ordered by the Governor to raise a company of infantry, at the time receiving his commission of Captaincy. Gen. Stough was. not

 

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known to the military officials of the State, as he had been commissioned Colonel of home militia a number of years before, at which time he had :become thoroughly familiar with military tactics. He immediately entered upon his task, and soon had a company of one hundred and twenty fine men, who became Company H, Thirty-eighth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. "Captain" Stoughton took his company to the field, leading it in all engagements until the fall of 1862, when, owing to increasing ill-health, he was compelled to resign and come home. But he was not permitted to rest long. In July, 1863, he received orders to enlist a company of cavalry, which he did, the same, under his command, going to the field as a part of the Ninth Ohio Cavalry. He engaged in active service in Kentucky and Tennessee ; but, his health again failing, he was compelled to sojourn at Nashville to recuperate. At this time, he was called home by the illness and death of his wife. While at home, he received the news of his promotion to the Majority of his regiment over five ranking Captains. He rejoined his command, and, a few days later (October 1, 1864), was commissioned Lieutenant Colonel over two ranking officers. He joined Gen. 4erman on the march to the sea ; but at Savannah his regiment with others was organized into a "dismounted Command," owing to the fact that suitable horses could not be obtained, and formed a part of the Second Brigade of the Second Division of Kilpatrick's dismounted cavalry. On the 10th of March, 1865, the rebels under Gen. "Wade Hampton swept down upon the dismounted cavalry, killing and capturing men and officers, and destroying property. The Ninth was thrown back about six hundred yards ; but was then rallied by the gallantry of" Col." Stough, who wheeled his men about, charging the enemy with great spirit and pluck, forcing them back in full retreat and retaking his camp. For this splendid act, he was brevetted Colonel and Brigadier General, his commissions to rank from March 13, 1865, "for gallant and meritorious services in the battle of Fayetteville, N. C."* , At the close of the war he was mustered out with his regiment. He returned to Williams County, where he has since resided. For six years he was Mayor of Bryan. file now represents several standard insurance companies. In 1876, he engaged in the boot and shoe trade with his son, but the latter now conducts the business alone. Mrs. Sarah A. (Reding) Stough bore her husband ten children, five of whom are yet living—William E., E. Amelia, Mary A., Alpheus L. and Ida M. This lady died, and Gen. Stough married Ellen, M. Mickey, by whom he had one child, since deceased. His present wife was Mrs. Ellen (Wilson) Yates, widow of James B. Wyatt, a native of Marion County, Ohio. Mr. Wyatt's parents came to the county in 1838. Their son, the former husband of

 

*Ohio in the War ;—Reid. Vol. I, page 984.

 

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Mrs. Stough, became a prominent lawyer at Bryan, and also served as County Recorder. His death occurred in 1855. His wife bore him two children. both of whom are dead. Gen. Stough is eminently a self-made man. He has made his own name and fame, and can look back with pride over a trying but successful life. He is a Republican, is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the Grand Army of the Republic, and of the Reformed Church. His present wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Bryan.

 

WILLIAM E. STOUGH, son of Gen. William Stough, whose portrait and biography appear in this work, was born in Pulaski Township, Williams Co., Ohio, September 18, 1843, and Williams County has ever been his home. He received a common school education in youth, and August 9, 1862, enlisted as musician in Company C, One Hundredth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Its first service was in Kentucky, and finally it formed apart of the Twenty-third Army Corps. It remained in Kentucky about a year, and, in 1863, it crossed over with Gen. Burnside into Knoxville. A detachment of the One Hundredth Regiment, comprising Company C and a few other companies, were, in 1863, ordered to Bristol under command of Col. Hayes to intercept the rebels, who were attempting to re-enforce Longstreet,who was at that time contemplating the capture of Knoxville. While on their way, our troops were met at Tilford Station, and, after the engagement there, fell back to Limestone Station, where the rebels succeeded in capturing the Union forces, Mr. Stough among the rest. He was sent to Richmond, and after remaining two days in Libby Prison was transferred to Belle Island, where he suffered all the horrors of rebel prison life for six months. March 7, 1864, he was paroled and came to Columbus, where he received a furlough to visit home. At the end of one month, he rejoined his regiment in the field,- and remained in active service until the close of the war, receiving his discharge at Greensboro June 20, 1865. Mr. Stough took part in some of the most hotly contested battles of the war, and was ever at his post of duty, Since its close, he has resided in Williams County, and for the past seven years has been a leading merchant of Bryan, carrying a full line of boots, shoes, etc. He was married, October 3, 1867, to Miss Frances J, Newman, and to their union have been born two children—Henry W.', and Ray N. Mr. Stough is a Republican, and a member of the G. A. R., and he and wife belong to the Presbyterian Church.

 

GEORGE STRAYER, present Prosecuting Attorney of William, County, was born February 15, 1853, in Superior Township. His father Eli Strayer, is a native of Stark County, and his grandparents we among the old settlers thereof. They moved from Stark to Lucas County and thence to Superior Township, this county, about 1838. George

 

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Strayer was reared in his native township, received a fair education, and for five years traveled through Michigan, engaged in various pursuits. He taught two terms of public school in the winters of 1877-78 and 1879, and began reading law in August, 1878, under Hon. S. E. Blakeslee, of Bryan. In October, 1879, he attended the law school of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and continued there six months. March 17, 1880, he passed an examination at Columbus, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar, and immediately afterward opened an office in Montpelier. In August of the same year, he formed a partnership with W. 0. Johnston at the same place, Mr. J. being the present Mayor of Bryan. That winter they were burned out, but they remained as partners until September, 1881. In May, 1881, he received the Republican nomination for Prosecuting Attorney of Williams County, and, in October of the same year, was elected. Owing to the resignation of the Prosecuting Attorney at that time, he received the appointment, and immediately moved to Bryan in discharge of the duties of' his office, and immediately formed his present partnership with Philetus Smith, which has ever since continued. He has here met with good success as an attorney, and also will make a popular and competent official. He was married,. June 17, 1880, to Miss Alice Stauffer, who was born in Montpelier, March, 1860. Mr. Strayer is a Republican in politics, a member of the I. 0. 0. F., the 0. F. Encampment and the Patriarchal Circle of Bryan Temple, No. 9. His mother was Mary Kagg, a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born about 1832, and came with her parents to America when eighteen months old. Her parents first settled in Lucas, County, Ohio, but removed to Williams County in about 1842, where she married our subject's father in about 1851.

 

TAYLOR BROS., druggists. W. S. Taylor and Hiett B. Taylor were born respectively in Wayne County, July 8, 1854, and in Coshocton County, Ohio, May 18, 1856, and are the sons of William H. and Rachel (Lewis) Taylor, who were natives Of Washington County, Penn., and Holmes County, Ohio, an of English descent. William H. Taylor resided in his native State until about twenty-two years of age, when. he came to Coshocton County, Ohio, shortlS, afterward entering Martinsburg Academy of Knox County, becoming a room-mate of William Windom, ex-Secretary of the United States Treasury, and of Hon. George P. Money, who served Williams County, Ohio, in the State Legislature. While a student in 1847, he enlisted in Company G, of the Second Ohio Infantry. He was under the command of Gen. Scott, and participated in the battle of Vera Cruz, Mex. After this war was over, he came back home and began teaching and going to school. In about 1848, he be- came a member of the M. E. Church, and in 1849 was licensed to

 

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preach. Up until the fall of 1861, he traveled, engaged in ministerial labors, then came to Bryan and engaged in the hardware trade. Two years later, he sold out and recommenced preaching, continuing the same until 1871, when he settled in Bryan, where he and wife are yet living. Their two sons, William S. and Hiett B., were reared chiefly in Williams County. The former, after going to the public schools of Bryan, attended the Ohio Wesleyan University for two years. Both brothers served in Dr. Snyder's drug store three and four years respectively, the elder also taking a course in the Chicago Pharmacy. In March, 1880, they began the drug trade on their own account in Bryan, and now carry a full line of pure drugs, books, stationery, cigars, etc., their stock invoicing over $6,000. Hiett B. takes considerable interest in the live stock of the county, and for the last two years has been manager of the horse department of the County Agricultural Society. Both brothers are Republicans, and members of the Masonic fraternity. W. S. was married, December 12, 1881,4to Miss Emma Long, daughter of Henry C. Long, deceased, appropriate mention of whom is made elsewhere in this work.

 

THOMAS TANEYHILL was born in Calvert County, Md., December 7, 1803, the Elm of John and Ellen (Sunderland) Taneyhill, both natives of the same State, where the father died in 1811, and his widow in 1832. Thomas left the home farm in his twenty-fifth year, and began to study for the ministry in the M. E. Church. In 1858, he came from Pennsylvania to this State, and for nine months stopped at West Unity ; he then purchased the eighty-acre farm on which he now resides in this township. February 1832, he married Miss Elizabeth B. Berryman, who was born in Pennsylvania, December 11, 1811, and to this union have been born nine children, viz., Sarah Ann, Mary Ellen, John Emery, George Lane, Charles Wesley, Elizabeth G., Adam Clark (deceased), James Thomas and Olin Venson. Politically, Mr. Taneyhill was formerly a Whig, but became a Republican on the organization of that party. His son, Charles Wesley, now living on the home farm, is the owner of some very fine Jersey cattle, to the rearing of which he devotes most of his attention.

 

COLIN THARP is s native of the Keystone State, his birth occurring in Columbiana County in 1808. His parents, John C. and Rachel (Perry) Thorp, were natives of Sussex County, N. J., where they were married, and where they lived until the latter part of the last century, when they removed to Pennsylvania, remaining there until 1820, when they moved to Wayne County, Ohio, and to near Lima, Ohio, in 1835, where they lived until their respective deaths. The father in early years was a miller, but later in life followed the occupation of husbandman. His family consisted of twelve sons and two daughters, and of these five

 

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brothers and one sister are yet living. Both parents are dead. Colin Tharp, at the age of about eight years, though still living a portion of the time at home, began working in woolen and flouring mills, and was thus variously employed until about seventeen years old, when he worked for two years on the Cleveland & Portsmouth Canal, and about one year on ' the Pennsylvania Canal. He then entered the coal mines near Steubenville, Ohio, working thus about two years, and carefully saving his money. When but a stripling, after he had begun for himself, he adopted a few good principles of conduct, to which he has rigidly adhered until the present. He left Steubenville, and went to Wayne County, Ohio, and located on a farm there. At the time he was working on the canal for $8 per month, he purchased a tract of land, and the payments for the same were made from the savings of his wages. To this day he humorously remarks that he worked for $8 per month and saved $15, meaning that the proper investment of his wages brought the same returns as if he had received the latter amount per month. In 1835, he came to Farmer ; Township, Defiance Co., Ohio (then Williams County), and entered 400 acres of land near Williams Centre. He then returned, but the following year came out to stay, bringing with him his family, a wagon and two horses, seven head of cattle, fifteen hogs, and many useful articles for life in the woods. On this farm he lived for twenty-eight years, since which his home has been in Bryan. For a number of years he has been dealing , in real estate. His wife, to whom he was married in 1833, was Miss Maria Price, who was born in Dauphin County, Penn., June 3, 1813. These parents were blessed with two sons and three daughters, as follows : George P., Sarah J., Milton, Lucy A. and Harriet. Lucy A. is dead ; the others are living and married. Mrs. Maria Tharp departed this life June 1, 1882. Milton was in the late war, in Company F, One Hundred and Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was captured in Tennessee, and spent some seven months in Southern prisons. Colin Tharp came into the woods with some means, and, by judicious manage- ment in buying, selling and trading land, made a comfortable fortune. He was formerly a Democrat, but became a Republican when that party was formed. He is a member of the Disciples' Church, and a good citizen.

 

ANDREW J. TRESSLER was born in Stark County, Ohio, Octo- ber 26, 1818, the son of Jonathan and Rebecca (Holm) Tressler, who were of German descent, and , early settlers in Stark, in which county they were married. The father was a miller and followed that business for a number of years, but later in life engaged in farming. In the fall of 1839, he moved with his family from Stark County to Williams County, and settled in Jefferson Township, where he accumulated considerable property through his thrift and skill as an agriculturist. Here he

 

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ended his days in April, 1869, after a long and useful life. Andrew J. Tressler was reared on the farm, and in youth received such an education as the schools of that early day afforded. When about twenty-one years of age, he began life for himself, and for several years was variously employed. In the fall of 1840, he visited the place where Bryan now stands —then a perfect wilderness, and just laid out as the future county seat of Williams County. In the spring of 1841, he located in Bryan and purchased some lots. Two of them he still holds and occupies as his residence. Here he entered the law office of E. H. Leland, who had located in Bryan in 1841, when the county seat was first established. He studied law for some time, during the interval clearing up his town lots, and the following winter taught the first school ever established in Bryan. Subsequently he was employed in some of the county offices, or engaged at anything that brought honest remuneration. In the fall of 1842, he married Miss Oleva Kent, who was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, August 21, 1826, and bore her husband five children—Arminda, Ellen, Byron, Elmore and Andrew R. This was the first marriage ever - solemnized in Bryan. Mr. Tressler now became, for a time, collector for Dr. Kent and others, and then engaged in the grocery business, during the prosecution of which he was appointed Postmaster of Bryan. Some time after he relinquished his grocery, and went into the office of the Northwestern, a newspaper conducted by T. H. Blocker, and here learned something of the printing business. His employer broke down:; in his enterprise, and Mr. Tressler, with others, bought the office and for a year performed. the duties of editor and publisher, still filling the office of Postmaster. About this time (1848), a change took place in the National administration, and Mr. Tressler was removed from the Post mastership. He was again employed variously in the county offices for a time, but soon accepted a clerkship in the store of Boyer & Case. This firm sold out, when Mr. Tressler accepted a clerkship in a store at Wes Unity, to which point he moved his family in 1850. His employers there failed, and in the fall of 1851 Mr. Tressler, by borrowing a sum sufficient to raise his cash capital to $500, started for New York and purchased small stock df goods with which to begin business on his own it account in the same village. This he conducted very successfully until 1861, when he sold out, and about the same time was elected Treasurer of Williams County, which office he filled two terms. He then, with others, organized the First National Bank of Bryan, of which he became the Cashier, in 1872 President, which position he still holds. Mrs. Oleva Tressler died in August, 1870, and November 8, 1871, he was united in wedlock to Miss E. L. Richardson, who was born in Columbiana County, 0hio, June 13, 1844, and to this union three children have been born—Annie

 

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R., Emma and Austin J. Mr. Tressler began life poor, but is now one of the wealthiest and most prominent men in the county, and is in every sense the architect of his own fortune. In politics, he was a Democrat until 1856, when he joined the Republican ranks. He is a Knight Templar, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and has ever manifested a laudable desire to advance the progress of his town and county in edu- cation and morality.

 

THOMAS Q. WATERHOUSE is a native of Portland, Me., where he was born July 7, 1840. He is one of two children and the only surviving child born to J. M. and Susan (Quimby) Waterhouse, who were also natives of New England and of English and Scotch descent. His parents both died in the East, and he was reared in his native city, receiving an excellent practical education. In 1856, he began learning telegraphy and general railroading in Portland, and followed that until 1862, when he entered the Government eoploy as an operator. For one year, he was in this capacity in the Army of the Potomac ; after which he returned home, and enlisted, in December, 1863, in the Seventh Maine Light Artillery. They went immediately into active service, their first engagement being the battle of the Wilderness ; succeeding that they participated in the battles of Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, Woody House, Curry House, Mattapony River, and from that time were in active skirmish duty until they reached Petersburg and participated in that engagement. They were then stationed at Fort Steadman until the mine exploded under the rebel fort opposite, and that night, after, the battle, Mr. Waterhouse was detailed into the telegraph corps, and reported for duty at Gen. Grant's headquarters at City Point. He was then sent flown the river to Fort Powhattan, and had charge of a detachment of cavalry to keep up telegraphic communication with Washington. He remained thus employed until the close of the war, and was discharged in June, 1865. For four years succeeding the war, he remained in the South, railroading. From there, he was engaged in various places until the spring of 1877, when he located permanently in Bryan, where he has resided as traveling excursion agent for the West. He was married, in October, 1880, to Miss Olive M. Vineyard, this lady being his second wife. His first was Edmonia De Vlaming, of Appomattox County, Va., who bore him one son, now living in Bryan with his father. Mr. Waterhouse is a Democrat in politics and a member of the G. A. R., of which he is Mustering Officer for the Thirty-fotirth Ohio District, and Mrs. Waterhouse is ticket agent and operator for the L. S. & M. S. R. R. Co, at Bryan.

 

JOHN M. WELKER, merchant, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, January 26, 1833, where he resided until 1851, when he went to

 

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Massillon and entered the employ of G. & P. Welker, and subsequently that of Humberger, Oberlin & Co. His mother preceded him to Williams County in 1852. He came here in 1854, and entered the employ of Col. William Stough, at Pulaski, in a general store, continuing with him until the spring of 1856, when the business was removed to Bryan. In the spring of 1855, he became a partner of Col. Stough, under the firm name of Stough & Welker. In the winter of 1856-57, owing to the panic of that year, the firm failed. In 1856, he married Julia A. Myers, daughter of George W. Myers, one of the old settlers, whose biography accompanies this work. His father-in-law purchasing the stock, Mr. Welker entered his employ until August, 1860, when he and Jacob N. Howe, under the firm name of Howe & Co., purchased the stock and kept up the business. In February, 1865, the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Welker removing to Tennessee, where he engaged in raising cotton. He returned to Bryan the same year, and in the fall of 1866 he obtained a position as traveling salesman for a wholesale dry goods house of Chicago. In the spring of 1867, he and A. W. Killits embarked in general merchandising in Bryan, and continued as partners up to 1878. This firm at one time carried on two general stores, and in 1874, Mr. Welker established a cheese factory. On the dissolution of the firm, in 1878, the store stock was divided. Mr. W. still carries on the manufacture of cheese, and in the spring of 1881, established a creamery in connection with the cheese factory. He manufactures an average of 140,000 pounds per annum. Besides these, Mr. Welker owns a cheese factory at Eaton, and one in partnership at Edgerton. In addition to his manufacturing interests, Mr. Welker is senior of the firm of Welker, Dales & Co., dealers in dry goods, shoes and carpets. They carry in this line a stock of goods valued at about $17,000, and are doing an average annual business of $40,000. Mr. Welker is a Democrat ; was a. member of the Town Council ; has held several official positions in the gift of the Democratic party, and he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, having ascended to knighthood in that order, and being a member of Toledo Commandery, No. 7. He and wife are members of the Universalist Church and the parents of six children—Emma, now Mrs. Dales ; Alice M., who died the wife of E. T. Binns; Louis J., George M. and John J.

 

WILLETT FAMILY Benjamin Willett, deceased, the father of the Willetts of Williams County, was born in Montgomery County, Md., July 25,1787, and was the son of. Benjamin and Mary (Howes) Willett, the father of English descent, and the mother of French parentage. Benjamin, Jr:, was reared, educated and married in his native county. For seven years after his marriage, he engaged in carpentering, when his father gave him a farm, but he refused to accept slaves as property. He

 

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was married, December 20, 1810, to Anna Howes, who bore him the following-named children, all of whom were born in Maryland except the youngest : Horatio, deceased; Hamilton J., deceased ; Catherine M., who died the wife of Amos Parson ; Meredith R., Sarah M., now Mrs. Gibson, of Bryan ; Otto W.; Elizabeth A., now Mrs. Palmer, of Bryan ; Benjamin R., Joseph H. and Oliver D. In April, 1834, the parents and children moved to Richland County, Ohio, engaged in farming till the fall of 1851 or 1852, and then removed to Brady Township, this county. In 1860, they came to Bryan, where Mr. Willett died August 4, 1862, followed by his widow in September, 1863. They were both members of the Old Calvinistic Baptist Church, and their departure was deplored as a serious loss ta the community.

 

BENJAMIN R. WILLETT was born in Montgomery County, Md., January 4, 1828, and came with his parents to this county about 1851. For awhile he resided West Unity, engaged in the manufacture of fanning-mills, and he was there married in April, 1856, to Miss Mary L. Wilhelm. In 1860, he came to Bryan and entered into the marble and granite trade. In fact, he was the founder of this business in Bryan, and with his brothers conducted it until about 1868, when he embarked in mercantile pursuits, in which he has been actively engaged ever since. He is now senior member of the firm of Willett & Gibson, one of the oldest houses in town. They carry a full line of dry goods, notions, boots and shoes, etc., and their annual sales average from $35,000 to $40,000. Besides valuable town property, Mr. W. owns a half-interest in a farm of two hundred acres* and it is one of the best in Williams County. In politics, he is a Democrat, and Mrs. W. is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Their only child is named Ada T. At a meeting of the Trustees of Pulaski Township, April 28, 1881, a petition was presented calling for an election for-the purpose of determining whether or not the township should issue bonds to the amount of $50,000 in aid of building a railroad through Pulaskit; on Sections 33, 28, 21, 17, 8 and 5. The election was held May 21, l881, and resulted as follows: In favor, 613; against, 41; not voting, 9. Benjamin R. Willett and A. M. Pratt, of Bryan, were the principal opposers of the measure, and after the election carried the matter into court, which declared the matter unconstitutional. Thus it was that, this ugh the endeavors of these two men, aided by a few others, a bonded debt of $50,000 was avoided by the township.

 

J. H. WILLETT was born January 11, 1830, and when about three years of age left Montgomery County, Md., with his parents, and came to Richland County, this State: Here he was reared on the farm, receiving a good common-school education. About 1851, he came to Brady Township, this county, with his parents. Here he engaged in farming

 

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for about eleven years. He was married March 12, 1857, to Catherine E. Fisher, and thus became the father of two children—Emory B. and Louie A. In the spring of 1862, he removed to Bryan, and joined his brothers, B. R. and O. W. in the marble and granite trade, under the firm name of Willett Bros., in which he still remains, although the firm name is now changed to Willett & Darby. Mr. W. is a Democrat, a Freemason, an Odd Fellow, a member of the O. F. Encampment and also of the Patriarchal Circle. Mrs. and Miss Willett are members of the Presbyterian Church.

 

O. D. WILLETT was born in Richland County, Ohio, March 23, 1835, one of the ten children, seven of whom are yet living, of Benjamin and Anna (Howes) Willett. At the age of sixteen, he came to this county with his parents, and engaged in the grocery business at West Unity. In January, 1856, he married Miss Harriet L. Miller. He continued in the grocery trade and in the manufacture of pumps with his brother, Benjamin R., until 1860, when he came to Bryan, where he carried on the pump business and dealt in real estate until September, 1870, when he moved to Kendallville, Noble County, Ind., and engaged in the marble and granite business. While residing there, he was, in 1874, the choice of the people to represent them in the State Legislature. He served in the sessions of 1875 and 1876, and was the author of the " Drainage" bill, which has since become a State law. He also introduced the bill compelling railroad companies to fence in their tracks, and also took an active part in favor of a stringent license law. The fall of 1881, he returned to his home in Bryan, where he now resides, engaged in the real estate business and in superintending a farm of two hundred acres, in which he has a half-interest. In politics, he is a Democrat, he is also a Knight of Honor, and while in Scotland, in 1875, was made a Master Mason, and is now a Knight Templar in Apollo Commandery, No. 19, Kendallville, Ind.

 

DAVID A. WOLFF was born near Hamburg, Germany, in 1838, and came to America in 1852, when about fourteen years of age, having been sent over by his parents, Alexander and Rosa (Meyer) Wolff, who intended following him. They never came, however, but in the fall of 1881, the father died in the old country, where the mother is still living. David A., on his arrival, first went to South Carolina, where he had friends, and there went to school for one year, and afterward clerked in a store in Charlotte. Then he went to Greensboro, N. C., where be operated a branch of the Charlotte store in partnership with his former employer. At the breaking-out of the war, he went to Louisville, where he joined the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry, and was one of its original Captains. He only remained in the service about eighteen months, after

 

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which he went to Washington, D. C., and engaged in clerking until 1864, when he opened a clothing and general furnishing goods store in Alexandria, Va. From this place he moved to Bryan, Ohio, the spring of 1866. He was induced to come here by army acquaintances from this place, and particularly of the One Hundred and Ninety-fifth Regiment, who were, in 1864, stationed in Virginia. Mr. Wolff has ever since been a resident of Bryan, and engaged in active business. He began life a poor boy, and has made his own way in the world. He now is one of Bryan's most substantial merchants, and operates a clothing store in which he keeps a general and first class line of gents' furnishing goods. He carries a stock of about $25,000, and does an average annual business of $60,000. He was married, in New York City, in 1865, to Miss Rosa August, and to them have been born a family of seven children, only the following named being yet alive—Charley, Elias, Estella, Solomon and Carmen.

 

JACOB YOUSE was born in Franklin ()Minty, Penn., September 30, 1820, and came to Bryan July 24, 1841, where he built the first tant nery ever seen in the county, and followed the business for six years. In October, 1842, he was elected County Recorder, and in 1845 re-elected. In 1847, he was chosen Justice of the Peace for Pulaski Township, and, at the expiration of his term became a dealer in real estate, and a farmer. In 1853, he and Ezra Smith engaged in the stove and tinware trade, and continued their partnership till the spring of 1855, when Mr. Youse sold out and moved on a farm, which occupied his attention but a short time, as he returned to Bryan and for about a year was employed in the County Clerk's office, and then he engaged in the grocery and provision business. In the fall of 1857, he was elected Clerk of the Common Pleas Court, and was re-elected in 1860, and proved a^ very efficient and popular officer. He then engaged in the real estate business in construction with H. H. Wilcox. In 1864, he went to Gallatin, Tenn., as Superintendent for Capt. W. A. Hunter, Assistant Quartermaster. In the fall of 1867, he went into the First National Bank of Bryan as Teller, remaining two years. The fall of 1869, he engaged with 0. 0. Ashton and J. D. Wiley in the hub and spoke business, which he relinquished in 1874, and entered the office of the Probate Judge for a year. He then went as clerk for the Milburn Wagon Works at Toledo, but five months later returned and engaged as clerk with Morrison & Fay, in their foundry and machine shop. A year later he, with nine others, organized the Bryan Boot and Shoe Manufactory, of which he was elected Secretary and one of the Directors, and in which he is a stockholder. He was married, April 18, 1844, to Miss Emily R. Washburn, a native of Woodstock, Vt., and to their union four children were born—Arthur L., John M., George J.

 

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and Emily C. Mrs. Youse died in October, 1866, and November 24, 1867, he married Ann A. Moore, who was born in Henry County, Ohio, January 14, 1829 ; to this marriage one child has been born—Lizzie S. Up to the beginning of the late war Mr. Youse was a Democrat, but since then has been a Republican. He is a Knight Templar, and is a self-made man in the fullest sense of the expression.

 

PHILIP YUNCK, JR., was born in Alsace, France, July 25, 1840, son of Philip G. and Barbara (Milleman) Yunck, both of whom were natives of Alsace. They had but two children, Philip and his brother Frederick. The father followed weaving in his native country, where he resided until 1854, when they came to this country, and located in Massillon, Ohio, where they remained some two years, and then came to Williams County, and located on a farm in Centre Township. Here they resided a number of years. They now live in Bryan, and are respected and useful citizens. Philip Yunck was reared on a farm, and was married to Miss Adaline Gemminger September, 1865. She was born in Alsace, France, in 1846. From this marriage four children were born—Frederick A., Cora C., Ella A. and William P. After his marriage he lived for some time in Massillon, where he and his father in-law ran a tannery. They after some years sold out and went to Tiffin, Ohio, where they built a tannery, which they ran a short time, when the father-in-law died, and Mr. Yunck ran the business some two years after that, and then, on account of his ill health, sold out and came to Bryan, and engaged in the mercantile business with his brother Frederick. After some time, they dissolved partnership, since which the two brothers have been engaged in mercantile pursuits separately. Mr. Yunck is a Democrat, though liberal in his political views as well as in religion. He owns a good brick business building and a nicely improved home property., He is a man of good business habits, and has the respect of all who know him.

 

FRED YUNCK is a native of Alsace, Germany, and was born November 10, 1849, the younger of two sons, Philip and Fred, born Philip and Barbara (Milleman) Yunck, who were also born in Alsace, an were there reared, and married. In April, 1854, the family came to America, remained in New York about three months, then moved to Massillon, Ohio, and thence, in the spring of 1857, to Centre Township this county, where the father purchased a tract of land, and engaged in farming until 1871, when the family came to Bryan, where they have since resided, the parents living retired. Mr. Yunck has identified himself here with the Democratic party, and he and wife are adherents of the Lutheran Church. Fred Yunck came with his parents to Centre Township, and was reared on the old homestead until twenty-one years

 

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of age. He received a fair education, and in December, 1870, he and brother embarked in the grocery and saloon trade in Bryan. They met with good success until the dissolution of the firm in 1877, when Philip continued the business on the old stand, and Fred, in partnership with John Mattox, engaged in the hardware trade. At the end of one year Fred disposed of his interest in the hardware store, and then embarked in the saloon business, at which he has ever since continued. He has been very successful, and besides his fine billiard hall and saloon on the northwest corner of he public square, owns other good town property. He is a member of the I. 0. 0. F., K. of H., Royal Arch Masons and a Democrat, and was married April 21, 1871, to Louisa Gollar, and by her has two sons—Edward G. and Charles F. Philip Yunck's birth occurred in Alsace, Germany, July 25, 1840.