250 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY the death, removal or secession of many who were then active in church affairs, it has been very difficult to procure much accurate information. In 1872 (perhaps as early as 1872) a few church families residing at Lima, then a town of less than 3,000 people, secured the establishment of a mission in their town. The City Hall, an auditorium in the City Building fitted as a theater, was chosen to be their meeting place and Rev. Wainwright, then resident at Piqua, Ohio, was assigned to the mission by the diocesan authorities. Mr. Wainwright had formerly been in the missionary service in the far North, and upon one of his visits to Lima he delivered a lecture upon the manners and peoples of the Arctic zone. His manipulation of an 80-foot dog-whip was a feature of that lecture that greatly impressed his audience. How long Mr. Wainwright supplied the mission cannot now be determined, nor does the writer know whether he be living or dead, but it is certain that his early ministrations served to knit together the church families in the parish to such a degree that the work, begun at that time, has never ceased, and the local church of to-day is the result. Succeeding Mr. Wainwright, Rev. C. S. Bates came to the parish in the same capacity, remaining about six months. The work went on and plans for a church home were perfected and partly executed, and in May, 1874, three trustees for the parish (Robert Mehaffey, William B. Gorton and Shelby Taylor) took title to a lot on the corner of North and West streets, for which the parish paid the sum of $1,500. Mr. Bates was succeeded by Rev. Edward L. Kemp, who ministered to the parish for an extended period, coming from Gambier every two weeks. In passing, it should be noted that during all the missionary period of the parish and until the organization of the parish after the building of the church, meetings were held periodically, every two weeks being the usual term, although at times the intervals were longer. Some time in the period of Mr. Kemp's service the people secured the old Methodist Church as a meeting place. The Methodists had moved into their new church at the corner of Market and Elizabeth streets, leaving their old building vacant. The old church stood at the corner of Market and Union streets and has long since disappeared, the location now being given over to commercial business. But the little children who learned their catechism there will always remember the old church with love and reverence ; it was their first church home, the City Hall never being anything else than a theater—never a temple. To Mr. Kemp must be awarded much credit for the work done during, this period. Although but a missionary supply, visiting the parish every two weeks, with other work to distract his attention in other fields, his zeal for the movement to build a church at Lima never faltered. And after he was called to new fields of activity he did not forget Christ Church. The stone baptismal font now in use in the church is the gift of the scholars of Mr. Kemp's Sunday-school at Baltimore. In July, 1878, the title to the parish lot was transferred to the trustees of the diocese and this is about the date of the laying of the corner-stone of the church building. The church was fitted for occupancy some time late in 1878, or early in 1879. It was consecrated by Bishop Bodell, the bishop of the diocese, and Rev. Leighton Coleman, then rector of Trinity Church at Toledo, Ohio, but now Bishop of Delaware, preached the sermon. He also held the first burial service from the new church upon the 0ccasion of the death of Elizabeth Gordon Lamison, in April, 1879, one of the: pioneers in the church work. At some time during the service of Mr. Kemp he introduced to the parish a deacon by the name of Charles S. Ayes. Mr. Ayes sometimes came to Lima instead of Mr. Kemp and read the service. The impressions made upon the parish by these early visits were so favorable that, after the completion of the new church, Mr. Ayes having been in the meantime ordained to the priesthood, he was called to the parish and became its first resident minister. The records here are faulty both locally and at AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 251 the headquarters of the diocese. Some claim that the parish was fully organized at this time, and was afterward reduced to a missionary parish, as will appear later, but others insist that the parish was always missionary in character until 1889. Mr. Ayes remained in charge of the parish until the latter part of 1881. He married in the parish the daughter of Judge Charles M. Hughes, and is now the rector of Trinity Church at Galveston, Texas. After the departure of Mr. Ayes, the parish entered upon a term of ups and downs that ended in its total disorganization. During this period the resident ministers were Rev. John L. Taylor, Rev. J. B. Pitman and Rev. R. C. Wall, in the order named. But, labor as they would, none of them seemed able to stem the tide of disaster overflowing the parish, and one after another they reluctantly abandoned the work. In 1888, there being again a vacancy in the parish and its affairs at a very low ebb, the missionary board took charge. Two trustees were elected, the vestry and other officers relieved of their responsibilities and the parish supplied every two weeks by the missionary board. Rev. A. B. Nicholas was the mission ary who visited the parish regularly, and during this period there were a few services conducted by Rev. D. D. Edwards, an unattached priest temporarily resident in the parish.. At the convention of 1889 the parish representatives proposed to call their own rector and to conduct its affairs thenceforth as a self-supporting parish if the convention would allow it for one year the sum of $100 from the missionary fund. This was agreed to and in October, 1889, the parish called Rev. Abner L. Frazer, Jr., who accepted the call and took charge ; since then the parish has conducted its own affairs with uniform success, now has a complete organization and most important of all has its records in proper condition. Mr. Frazer married in the parish the daughter of L. H. Hume and is now the rector of St. John's Church at Youngstown, Ohio. He remained with the parish about four years. On the 15th day of January, 1893, Mr. Frazer was succeeded by Rev. C. B. Crawford, who remained in active charge of the affairs - 14 - of the parish until the 1st of May, 1896, at which time he was given leave of absence that he might serve as chaplain of the Third Regiment, Ohio Infantry, U. S. Volunteers, in the war with Spain. Mr. Crawford joined his regiment and served it during the war. He never resumed active work in the parish, but resigned his rectorship in September, 1898, and is now the archdeacon of the diocese of Kansas, residing at Topeka. Rev. G. F. Hoyt became rector of the par-. ish November 1, 1898, and was in charge of affairs until September I, 1905. Under his ministrations the parish work was more thoroughly systematized than ever before in its history ; and its records were gotten into accessible and understandable condition. The usefulness and helpfulness of the church as a social factor in the community is now firmly established. UNITED BRETHREN. First United Brethren Church. — The United Brethren Church in Christ effected their first organization in Lima in March, 1880. The services were held in a private house on West North street. Rev. William Miller organized the church with the following charter members : J. J. Ogden and wife, Thomas Montague, Charles McClain, John Barr and wife, Jacob Poling and wife, Noah Culp and wife and Joseph Evans and wife. The first church building was erected at the corner of Spring and Union streets and cost $3,000. The congregation had a long struggle with debt and had just succeeded in arranging for the payment of the last dollar when the church took fire and burned, July 5, 1896. By heroic faith and earnest efforts the church, under the leadership of Rev. R. W. Wilgus, succeeded in erecting the present commodious building at a cost of $10,000. This again entailed a heavy debt on the society, but with liberality and constant effort year after year the debt was reduced, until on the evening of May 29, 1904, the last note was paid and notes and mortgage burned. The following pastors have served the 252 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY church : Revs. 'William Miller, 'W. E. Bay, D. N. Howe, D. A. Johnson, William Miller, J. Q. Kline, A. W. Ballinger, I. Imler, R. W. Wilgus, L. C. Reed and the present pastor, A. E. Davis. The church has enjoyed many extensive revivals and has at this time a membership of 654. Sunday-school enrollment, 450; average attendance, 200. CONGREGATIONAL. First Congregational Church.—At Cambrian Hall, March 18, 1887, the society was .organized with 42 members. Rev. J. E.. Davies was called to the pastorate. Services were held in the assembly room at the Court House and in Cambrian Hall until the last of October, 1892, when the church building on South Elizabeth street was finished and dedicated. Mr. Davies continued as pastor until the first of July, 1895, when his ill health caused him to resign and seek a milder climate. In October, 1895, Rev. I. J. Swanson, of Odell, Illinois, was given a unanimous call by the church. He accepted and began work January I, 1896, and is in charge of affairs at the present time. The West Lima. Congregational Church was organized in 1899 with about 20 members. Rev. J. G. Thomas has been pastor since its 'organization. It has a flourishing Sunday-school with about 90 members. CHRISTIAN. First Christian Church.—About 1902 Rev. G. B. Garner, now of Vaughnsville, Ohio, organzed in Lima the Christian Church. He was pastor until a year ago, when Rev. S. S. Newhouse, D. D., took charge. Services were held in the Court House assembly room for some two years. Last year the society finished a handsome brick church on the corner of Elm and Elizabeth streets and, from the 18th of December until the church was dedicated in July, services were held in the Sunday-school room of the church. At the dedication $4,800 was raised to liquidate the debt and provide for the pastor. The society has 80 members and under the sincere and earnest pastorate of Dr. Newhouse has an excellent outlook for growth and usefulness in the community. MISCELLANEOUS CHURCHES AND MISSIONS. First Church of Christ (Scientist)—German. Baptist (Dunkard) Church—Gospel Tabernacle—Salvation Army—And the Baptist, Beulah, Christian., Third Street and Solarville Missions. Ministers of Lima. REV. THOMAS POWELL JOHNSTON, deceased, an early pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, of Lima, was born March 15, 1819, at Wooster, Ohio, being the son of Thomas and Abigail (Powell) Johnston. His father, a native of Ireland, was of Scotch-Irish descent, and a descendant of one of those Presbyterian families whose faith was only strengthened by persecution. One of his ancestors, who emigrated to America some time in the early half of the 18th century, is supposed to be of the same lineage as Col. Richard M. Johnston, by whose hand Tecumseh is said to have fallen. Mr. Johnston's mother was a native of Pennsylvania, her father's family, the Powells, being among the early settlers of Chester County, in that State, where they have owned land for over a century. The subject of this sketch was educated in Jefferson College, at Canonsburg, and at the Western Theological Seminary, in Allegheny. He was licensed to preach by the Beaver (now Shenango) presbytery and in 1848 was ordained a minister, the same year accepting his first call at Clarksville, Mercer County, Pennsylvania. He was united in marriage in 1848 with Mary Haskell, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth (Dana) Haskell, both of whom were descendants of families of early settlers of Marietta, who with other pioneers occupied the block-house for several years. Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were the parents of four children : Mary E., Charles H. (deceased), Lizzie McLain (deceased) and Mrs. Grace Catt. Charles H. Johnston was ordained a minister of the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 255 Presbyterian Church in 1881. He was a young man of rare personality, but his sphere of usefulness was cut short by his untimely death, which came just as he began his work. He was married to Mary B. Smith, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Rev. T. P. Johnston remained in Clarksville for 10 years, coming to Lima in 1858; he was pastor in Lima in 1864 ; was stated supply at Lima Centre from 1864 to 1870; stated supply at Concord, 1871, and afterward engaged in missionary work whenever his work permitted. He had long been in feeble health and died from pulmonary trouble after a two weeks' illness, May 2, 1895. His death was a calm and peaceful one, fit ending to a life filled with good works. He was a man of fine education and marked ability. The Herald and Presbyter paid this tribute to him : "Mr. Johnston was a devotedly pious man, an earnest preacher, and a sound theologian. The Jefferson College students of 50 years ago who are still living will remember his earnest prayers, and also his efforts for the good of his companions. He was strong in his personal attachments, clinging to his friends throughout his entire life. REV. ROBERT JAMES THOMSON, D. D., late pastor of the Market Street Presbyterian Church, of Lima, whose portrait appears in this chapter, was born in Syracuse, New York, on the 14th of August, 1855. He attended the common schools in his native city until 12 .years of age, then left school to learn the mason's trade with his uncle, with whom he worked till he was 18. He then entered Syracuse University and, following this, Hamilton College, completing the four years' course in three years in each institution. At Hamilton he tutored throughout the course, graduating third in his class. He entered Union Theological Seminary in New York City, graduating therefrom in 1884. While at the seminary he had charge of Mizpah Chapel, a Russian church on l0th avenue near 57th street, and here he met Alice Walton, one of the Sunday-school teachers, who in 1885 became his wife. In May, 1884, he took a four-months' trip through Europe. His companions on this journey were Douglass Walton, brother of his fiancee, and Rev. S. G. Anderson, who was for 12 years pastor of Westminster Church in Toledo, and whose death occurred in October, 1900. On his return from Europe, Dr. Thomson took charge of the First Presbyterian Church at Winona, Minnesota, where he remained until he was called to the Market Street Presbyterian Church of Lima in November, 1890. Dr. Thomson was always a tireless worker. As chaplain of the Second Regiment of the Ohio National Guard he was especially successful in his work among the boys, using a great deal of tact, which in such a position is peculiarly needful. He held this office from 1900 to 1905, when he retired on account of his prospective change of residence. As a writer of short stories and also as a lecturer, Dr. Thomson won a considerable reputation. Several of his stories were taken up by the Youth's Companion. It is interesting to n0te that the original of Westcott's hero of "David Harum" fame lived in Syracuse in Dr. Thomson's younger days and the two families were intimate friends and neighbors. During his pastorate at the Presbyterian Church in Lima he was made chairman of the missionary committee of the presbytery, and also was made moderator of the synod, a position which he filled with great ability. In the year 1905, on account of ill health, he decided to give up the ministry. He became interested in an orange grove plantation in Porto Rico and on the 25th of March sailed for the West Indies. His health, however, was not benefited by the change and, being recalled by a unanimous vote of his congregation, he returned to his pastorate at Lima. After a long illness, Dr. Thomson died at Clifton Springs Sanitarium, New York, November 24, 1905. In November 27th a most impressive service was held over his remains at Lima in the church where he had so often preached the Sacred Word. His last resting, place is in Greenlawn Cemetery. On December 3 a beautiful memorial service was held in his church. "The Interior," in its issue of January, 256 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY 1899, paid him the following tribute : "Dr. Thomson, of the Market Street Church, is a man of striking personality. The extremes of society seem to have contributed to his making. He has the broad hard hand of an humble toiler that has been close to nature, a face that classes him on sight with the aristocracy of the intellect, and a manner that would carry him gracefully into any social circle. His is a personality that takes to itself friends, even of the mammon of unrighteousness, friends that come not to sojourn, but to abide with him. "This American-Scotchman was born in Syracuse, New York, where he could look out on the Onondaga hills that the Irish orator Burke regarded as a synonym of savagery. Here he must have gained his remarkable powers of analysis. He seems to be able to take things apart and show you how easy it is to put them together again. Dr. Thomson has had two pastorates, one at Winona, Minnesota, of six and a half years, and at Lima. He is stronger with his people and stronger with the Lord every day. The summer of 1897, Wooster University did a very gracious thing in conferring on him the degree of Doctor of Divinity. Pre-eminently is Dr. Thomson a preacher of the word. As a preacher, he is striking, eloquent, magnetic and powerful. He does not come to the sanctuary each Lord's Day to sell Joseph's wheat at so much a bushel. He has resources of his 0wn and can make Egypt grow wheat at a time when most would pronounce it famine. This takes his pulpit 0ratory out of the rut, divests it of bookishness and makes it fresh and interesting to an audience. A man of such parts is, of course, largely in demand by the public. His is the pioneer voice preparing the way for all public enterprises. Dr. Thomson married into one of the prominent families of New York City. His accomplished wife is a great help to her husband in every way." REV. THADDEUS L. WILTSEE, late pastor of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1850. When a boy of 13 he went to Chicago and secured a position as clerk in a bank. His college education was received at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, and later at the Ohio Wesleyan, where he graduated in 1873. After his graduation he was engaged for two years in the work of the Freedman's Aid Society of the Methodist Church at Holly Springs, Mississippi. Here he met and married Margaret Herbert. Returning to Ohio in 1875, he entered the Central Ohio Conference and served successively charges at Upper Sandusky and Marion. He was then sent to Toledo, remaining at the Broadway Church for three years and subsequently serving St. Paul's Church of that city for the same length of time. At the close of his ministry there his failing health compelled him to seek a change of climate in Colorado. His activity there was unabated, for we find him superintendent of missions in Arizona. To, him is due the establishment of the first mission among the Navajo Indians in that State. The climate, however, did not agree with his wife and he returned to the Central Ohio. Conference, of which he became an active and prominent member. He was sent to Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church at Lima and here, in 1891, Mrs. Wiltsee died. Within a year her death was followed by that of a son. Four children of the first marriage are still living. They are: Rev. Herbert Wiltsee, of Rhinelander, Wisconsin ; Edward Wiltsee, who is in business in Chicago ; Mrs. Harriet Demorest, of Parkersburg, West Virginia ; and Margaret Wiltsee, who is a student at Delaware, Ohio. In 1893 Mr. Wiltsee married Alberta Smithy by whom he had one son, Warren. From Lima he was sent to Sidney, Ohio, and later to Marysville, Ohio. In 1900 he toured abroad for several months and after his. return engaged extensively in lecturing. In 1904 Mr. Wiltsee was installed at Grace. Methodist Episcopal Church, Lima, and again in 1905 he received the same appointment, but his career was cut short by his death, which occurred at the Lima Hospital on Saturday, October 14, 1905. He was greatly loved by reason of his high Christian character and his earnest, successful work. His congregation and his many friends deeply mourn his loss. REV. JOSEPH MERCER AVANN, pastor of AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 257 Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, was born at Teuterden, in the beautiful County of Kent, England. He was second in a family of eight children, and when 8 years old came with his parents to America, where the family settled in Breckville, near Cleveland, Ohio. The mother's maiden name was Mercer. On the father's side he is a descendant of the French Huguenots, who in the 17th century fled from the persecution of the home country and sought refuge in England. His early training and home life were eminently religious. Family worship was a part of the everyday routine, and although the church was three miles distant the family were never absent. Indeed, some of the members have no recollection of ever missing a Sunday. Such training, supplementing inherited proclivities, could not but bear fruit in a strong sense of the supremacy Of the claims of man's mission, in a courage that recognized no obstacles, and in singleness of aim. Four of the children who lived to maturity worked their way through college, without a dollar of help and never spending a dime that was not earned. After finishing his course at Berea College, Mr. Avann entered the Boston Theological School, and was the first man from Ohio to attend a Methodist school of theology. The era in the history of the Methodist Church, when a college education and theological training were considered non-essential, had closed and Mr. Avann is thus classed with the new generation of Methodist preachers. He was chosen president of his class, whose large membership came from many States, and he graduated with his degree in theology in 1877. Joining the New England Conference, his first charge was North Brookfield, Massachusetts, followed successively by appointments in Southbridge, Massachusetts, and Waltham, in the same State. He was next transferred to St. Paul's Church, Manchester, the largest church of any denomination in New Hampshire. Under Mr. Avann's ministration the growth was phenomenal and he remained here, as in all previous charges, three years, then the full time limit. During his pastorate at St. Paul's a delegation from the First Methodist Episcopal Church, Findlay, Ohio, came to hear him, and by unanimous request of the quarterly conference Mr. Avann was transferred to Ohio and became pastor of First Church, Findlay, in April, 1889. Numerically and financially, this church soon became the strongest in the Central Ohio Conference, and the same success followed his appointment to the First Methodist Church, Van Wert, Ohio. Three years later, much against his wishes, he was made presiding elder of the Delaware district and the following year saw him transferred to the Toledo district. His six years' administration here resulted in an extraordinary development of Methodism. More than 20 churches were built, including all the best in the district : St. Paul's, St. John's, St. James', Asbury, Clark Street, Central Avenue in Toledo, also Bowling Green, Oak. Harbor, Weston and Elmore. Not alone were churches organized and houses of worship built, but the salaries of the ministers in the district were increased over 25 per cent, and the missionary offerings were increased 55 per cent. After serving his full term as presiding elder, Mr. Avann was appointed to the William Street Methodist Episcopal Church, Delaware, Ohio, where a successful year preceded his coming to Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church, Lima. This is the largest Protestant church in the city and Mr. Avann is now serving his third year as its incumbent. Many improvements both in the church and parsonage attest to his wise and efficient management. Trinity was never more united and prosperous than at present. The congregations are large and the church is one of the strongest forces in the religious activities of the city. REV. CLARENCE MULFORD RUPE, pastor of the South Lima Baptist Church, came to Lima in the fall of 1896 as pastor of the First Baptist Church, and most of the time since has been a resident and an active minister of the city. After being pastor of the First Baptist Church about four years, he went West, by the urgent advice of physicians, seeking health f0r Mrs. Rupe. He at once received a call to the Baptist Church in Greeley, Colorado, one of the 258 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY stronger churches of that State, and situated in one of its most beautiful and cultured young cities. During the first six months of residence in the new location, the bright, useful life of Mrs. Rupe was brought to its close by an acute attack of pneumonia, this event taking place February 9, 1901. After a successful pastorate of three years, family interests made it desirable that he should return to the East, and in the summer of 1903 he came back to Lima, where a portion of his family were residing. The South Lima Baptist Church soon becoming pastorless and, being in great need of careful management, Mr. Rupe, at the urgent solicitation of a portion of its members and 0f the superintendent of missions of the Ohio Baptist Convention, accepted the pastoral care of this church, which still enjoys his labors and is prospering under his ripe experience and well-directed efforts. In October, 1904, he was happily married to Mrs. Jennie L. Ballanger, of Indianapolis, Indiana, a life-long friend well known and prominent in Christian work in that city. Mr. Rupe was born in the village of Economy, Wayne County, Indiana, March 25, 1846, being the eldest son of Rev. Henry B. Rupe, a local lecturer of great popularity on temperance, slavery and education, a preacher of local fame and a citizen honored by his county with public office and other tokens of esteem. The subject of this sketch received his collegiate education at Denison University, and a thorough theological training at Rochester, New York, in one of the finest of the Baptist theological seminaries. Before coming to Lima Mr. Rupe held pastorates in Springfield, Tiffin, McConnelsville, Le Roy, New York and Franklin, Ohio. The last that at Franklin continued almost 11 years and was highly successful in all respects, one of the notable achievements being the building of a church edifice costing nearly $30,000. Several sermons of Mr. Rupe have been published and he has written frequently for the periodical press. REV. FRANCIS J. HENRY, deceased, who was probably one of the best beloved of all the priests who have served the Catholic population of Lima, and who will long be recalled by the congregation of St. Rose, which he served so faithfully, was born in County Derry, Ireland, April 14, 1848, and died February 22, 1886. Father Henry received classical instruction in Ireland, was trained in philosophy and theology at St. Vincent's, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and completed his course in the diocesan seminary. He was elevated to the priesthood on May 7, 1871, by the late Bishop Luers, in St. Patrick's Church, Toledo, where he remained in charge until May I, 1872, when he was sent to take charge at Brier Hill, which included the missions of Mineral Ridge, Girard and Canfield. In June, 1876, Father Henry was trans ferred to Lima, where he continued the beloved past0r of St. Rose until the close of a life which was notably one of Christian achieve ment. Ere more than in middle life, however, the good father, through strenuous work, had impaired his health, and in 1884 he visited his native land in the hope of recuperating, but, in the two remaining years which were permitted him, he never regained his former strength, although he never paused in his appointed work. He passed away, as he would have desired, in harness to the last, having twice celebrated mass on the day preceding his death. The work Father Henry accomplished during his pastorate still stands as a lasting monument to his memory. The funeral was one of the largest ever seen in Lima, every one seeming to wish to pay a last token 0f respect. Bishop Gilmour, who preached the funeral sermon, paid an eloquent tribute to the many virtues and earnest labors of one of whom he spoke as one of the most successful priests of his diocese. REV. ALFRED EDWARD MANNING, pastor of the Church of St. Rose, at Lima, is a man whose learning and piety make him a power in the community. With exceptional gifts as an orator and spiritual leader, he has also. shown himself an able administrator and has looked well to the material advancement of the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 259 parishes over which he has been called to preside. Father Manning was born September 1, 1856, in St. Patrick's parish, Cleveland, Ohio, and is a son of Thomas and Jane E. (Murray) Manning. Thomas Manning was born in Ireland but he left his native land at the age of 14 years in order to enter the great machine shops at Glasgow, Scotland. There he was trained to be a skilled engineer and he later enjoyed the distinction of being the engineer who handled the engines of one of the first steamers which crossed the Atlantic ocean. He settled first at Boston but later lived in Cleveland, where he carried on an extensive manufacturing business during the remainder of his active life. For some years prior to his death he lived retired. He reared a family of 13 children. Father Manning was educated in the parochial schools of St. John's Cathedral, Cleveland, and in St. Mary's Seminary of the West, at Cincinnati. In September, 1874, he entered the Seminary of Our Lady of Angels, Niagara Falls, New York. After completing his classical course he entered St. Mary's Seminary at Cleveland, in September, 1876, and after five years' study of philosophy and theology was there ordained priest by Rt. Rev. R. Gilmour, on July 2, 1881. On July 7th of that year he was appointed pastor of St. Mary's Church at Antwerp, Ohio, this field including the missions of Cecil, Emerald, Junction, Flat Rock, Hicksville, Mark Centre and Delaware Bend. When in the spring of 1883 he was transferred to St. Mary's at Clyde, he left behind him a remarkable aggregation of substantial results. He had enlarged and improved the churches 0f Antwerp and Hicksville, paid the debts of the churches at Delaware Bend and Junction, purchased and paid for a cemetery at Cecil, organized the mission and purchased land for cemetery, church and pastoral residence in Payne and had the church plastered and entirely out of debt. Father Manning's success in his next field was a repetition of his former accomplishments. When he took charge of the church at Clyde, with its mission at Green Spring, he found a debt of $2,000 at Clyde and one of $900 at Green Spring. By 1886 the latter was paid. In the same year the corner-stone was. laid for the beautiful Church of our Lady of Mount Carmel, in Clyde, and by 1890 the-church was frescoed and almost ready for use, . its cost—over $10,00o being practically paid.. In February of that year Father Manning was. called to be pastor of St. Ann, at Fremont,. and here again blessings seemed to fall on parish and priest. Father Manning said his first mass in the Church of St. Rose, of Lima, November 19, 1893. He then promised his people t0 serve them faithfully, and this promise he has kept in full measure. He has not only a powerful hold on the mass 0f his congregation but also on the thinking men of this body, and has a quiet method of inspiring enthusiasm which) has brought about great material as well as. spiritual prosperity. Personally he is Moved., and reverenced. REV. CARL ACKERMAN, M. A., PH. D., pastor of Zion's Evangelical Lutheran Church. at Lima, and formerly president of Lima College, was born September 12, 1858, on a farm. near Wooster, Wayne County, Ohio, and is a. son of George Ackerman, for years a promi nent contractor here. Mr. Ackerman received his early education in the local country schools, attended the Clyde. High School and then spent some time at Canaan Academy. In 1875 he entered the Capital University at Columbus, Ohio, where he was graduated with the degree of A. B. in 1879. He engaged in teaching until 1881, when he entered the theological department at the Capital University, where he was graduated in 1884. He was married in October,. 1884, to Mary Reese, a daughter of Rush Reese, a prominent farmer of Wayne County, Ohio. For the following nine years he served charges at Attica, Lithopolis, Fremont and Fostoria. In 1893 he came to Lima to accept the presidency of Lima College, which had just been organized. Mr. Ackerman has given the-weight of his name and the fruits of his intellect to this institution ever since, continuing as its president until 1897. He remained dean of the faculty until 1903, when he resigned,. 260 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY but continues to hold the chairs of mathematics and mental science. In 1888 his alma mater conferred on him the degree of M. A., and in 1901 he was given the degree of Ph. D. During his long association with Lima College he has been repeatedly offered positions of great honor in the church as the head of large and important churches, but his heart has been in his work in Lima and here he has felt it his duty to remain. Since 1898 he has been 'the beloved pastor of Zion's Evangelical Lutheran Church at Lima ; he had previously been pastor from April, 1895, to June, 1896. Mr. Ackerman has been a frequent contributor to religious and educational journals and magazines, was chairman of a committee of four appointed by the Joint Synod of Ohio for the preparation of a hymnal with music for Lutheran churches, and is at the present time actively taking part in a movement for the publication of Luther's works in English. In 1903 he took part in the organization of the International Lutheran Library Association and is one of its vice-presidents. REV. FRANK PHILIP BOSSART, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, came to Lima in the fall of 1899 to take up his present charge. He is a thoroughly educated churchman, having received his academic education at Thiel College and his theological education at the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. His former pastorates were in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and Buffalo, New York, in both of which cities he organized new congregations which have steadily grown in power and influence. The beautiful new St. John's Church, of Pittsburg, costing $33,000, was built during his pastorate in that city, and the Church of the Redeemer, of Buffalo, now having about 500 members, was organized 'during the first years of his ministry in that city. He is known in the church as a good preacher, an earnest worker, a successful organizer and a pleasant gentleman. During his ministry in Lima he has at various times addressed the prominent fraternal organizations and is known for his candor and firmness in dealing with public questions. He has served a term as president of the Luther League of Ohio, and is a member of the topics committee of the Luther League of America, whose duty it is to prepare subjects of study for the young. He has for three years been secretary of the District Synod of Ohio, and has been president for two years past of the Northern Conference of said synod. Last fall he was called to Binghamton, New York, and for a time was undecided, but his Lima congregation spoke in no uncertain terms and the happy relation so long cherished between pastor and people still continues. REV. PAUL HENRY LAND. At Breslau, the largest and most influential city of the eastern part of the German Empire, was born the subject of our sketch, who is pastor of the German Reformed Church of Lima. He went through the schools and colleges of his native city and in 1887 emigrated to this country. He first came to Cleveland, Ohio, and continued his studies at Calvin College, an institution of the Reformed Church. In the year 1890 he graduated with honors and went to Ursinus Seminary at Philadelphia, takinig a course in theology. After graduating from the seminary he at once received a call from Zion's Reformed Church in Baltimore, Maryland, which charge he served acceptably for four years, beginning at the same time a post-graduate course in the oriental languages at the Johns Hopkins University. This course he completed in 1897, having been appointed "Fellow by Courtesy" in 1896 and holding this office for two consecutive years. President Gilman, now of Carnegie Institute ; Prof. Paul Haupt,. and Prof. Gildersleeve, well known among educators, were then members of the university faculty. During these years Mr. Land also taught classes in French, German and Hebrew at Dr. Deichman's famous gymnasium school at Baltimore. In 1898 Mr. Land accepted a unanimous call to the German Reformed Church at Lima, Ohio, following his natural inclination to preach and to teach, and this position he has occupied for the last seven and a half years. REV. ERVIN E. YOUNG. In Fairfield County, Ohio, on a farm near Bremen, was born the subject of our sketch, who is pastor of Calvary Reformed Church. His early edu- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 261 cation was received at country schools. At 16 years of age he entered the Ohio Central Normal College at Pleasantville, Ohio, completing the normal course in 1889. He remained one year at this school as assistant instructor in algebra and geography and then took up the study of the law. He found the legal profession distasteful, however, and turned to the ministry. He entered Heidelberg University at Tiffin, Ohio, in 1892, completing the classical course in 1896 with his degree of Bachelor of Arts. While attending the university he paid his expenses by clerking in a shoe-store. In the fall of 1896 he entered the theological department at Heidelberg and upon finishing the course in 1899 he received his degree of Bachelor of Divinity. During his theological training, Mr. Young supplied the First Reformed Church at Fremont, Ohio, the Lindsay charge at Lindsay, and the First Reformed Church at Caruthers, Ohio. During his vacations he supplied the Grace Reformed Church at Lancaster, Ohio. After completing his seminary course he accepted a call from St. John's Reformed Church at Germantown, Ohio, where he served until coming to Lima, October 1, 1903. Under his earnest ministry at Germantown the congregation increased in membership from 200 to nearly 400, the church was remodeled and repaired, and a new parsonage valued at $5,000 was purchased. He had found the church greatly in debt and left it in possession of a bank account. His labors in Lima have been similarly rewarded and under his efficient and ministry his church has taken in members from all parts of the city and the congregation has been almost doubled. During the last two years they have contributed almost as much to benevolence as to the current expenses of the congregation. REV. GEORGE H. SIMS, or the "marrying pastor," as he is familiarly called in Lima, is the pastor of the South Side Church of Christ. He is the youngest child of Capt. John H. Sims, late of Cleveland, Ohio, and his wife, formerly Sophronia O. Gillette, of Newburg, Ohio. For many years Captain Sims sailed out of Cleveland as a lake navigator. His interests were connected with this city from the time it numbered a few hundred inhabitants until it was consolidated with what was then Forest City. At this time he removed to Royalton, Ohio, and later to Spencer, Medina County, Ohio. Here on January 9, 1860, 0n a farm in the Black River bottoms, was born the subject of our sketch. His early education was received in the district school. He graduated later from the Hinckley High School and then attended the Ohio Normal University at Ada to prepare himself for the work of teaching. He taught school for several years until at the age of 28 he entered upon his life work of the ministry. At this time also he was married to Cora E. Updike, daughter of the great evangelist, Rev. J. V. Updike. Mrs. Sims traveled with her husband for several years as musical director. She is a very efficient helpmeet for Mr. Sims. Two boys, Fay Updike and Kenneth J., are their only living children, a little daughter, Iva Belle, having died in infancy. Mr. Sims' first meeting was held at Bluffton. He then held a pastorate at Edgerton, Ohio, for two years, enlarging the pastorate and refitting the church. From this place he was called to minister for the First Church, of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The membership was doubled at this place, the debts paid off and a parsonage built, which was afterward sold for $3,200 to help build the new church. His ministry here was very successful, but on account of ill health he resigned and accepted a Western pastorate in Wichita, Kansas, remaining there four years. During his ministry at this place over 500 members were added to his congregation and the church became the largest in numbers of this denomination west of the Mississippi River. He was called to be State evangelist and later became general evangelist under the national board, with headquarters at Cincinnati, Ohio. Although very successful, he left this field and located at Tiffin, Ohio where he became pastor of a small but wealthy congregation. On October 1, 1901, Mr. Sims came to Lima and has improved the property of the South Side Church of Christ in many ways. 262 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY He is still young and in the midst of usefulness. He is now working to send a missionary to foreign lands to be supported by his congregation. REV. ISAAC J. SWANSON, B. A., B. D. Located in Northern Scotland is Thurso, the little "town that is seated by the sea." This old town of Caithness, bristling with historic facts and traditional fancies, was the birthplace and early home of Rev. Isaac J. Swanson, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Lima. Throughout Scotland there is hardly a locality where a boy is not within two or three miles of a school where he can get the necessary preparation for college, and our little Scotch lad early pursued his education in his native town at a noted academy for matriculation at a Scottish university. While still quite young, however, he came to America, but not before something of the rugged strength of that stern Northern clime had left its impress on his nature expressed in the strong personality and sturdy simplicity and power that characterize the man we know to-day. Mr. Swanson finished his college course in Montreal at McGill University, the leading Canadian institution of learning whose degrees are recognized by Oxford in England, Vienna in Austria and by Harvard and Yale. He excelled especially in Hebrew, and graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. A course in theology followed at the Congregational College in Montreal, and here he won the special prize offered for general excellence and was made valedictorian of his class. Coming to the United States, he completed his theological education at Chicago, graduating with the foremost members of his class and receiving the degree of Bachelor of Divinity. While in Chicago, besides pursuing his own studies, he taught English to the foreign classes at the seminary. His first charge was at Odell, Illinois, where he remained about three years, meeting with notable success. During his pastorate there he was a member of the State Home Missionary Board and moderator of the local conference. On leaving Odell he was presented with a gold watch and highly complimentary resolutions from his church and congregation. In 1895 Mr. Swanson received a call from. Lima, which he accepted, and he preached his first sermon in the First Congregational Church of this city on the first Sunday in the year 1896. His 10 years of ministry here have been marked by a steady increase of membership, over 240 having been added, and a decrease in the church debt by $5,000 until at present the debt is so small as to be a scarcely perceptible burden on the shoulders of the congregation. As a preacher and pastor he easily takes front rank and his church fills a prominent place in the religious life of the city. Mr. Swanson has been twice honored by being chosen moderator of the Toledo Conference, and he was sent as a delegate to the National Triennial Council of the Congregational Churches in the United States. Going abroad in 1903, he toured extensively in his native country and England, besides taking a short trip through France. The story of these travels has been, told in a number of illustrated lectures. He has been very active in the Y. M. C. A. work of the city and his-labors in the Sunday School Training Class have been markedly successful. His influence and happy method of instruction resulted in the largest graduating class, that of 1905. This-class presented him with a very handsome set of books in token of their regard and of their-appreciation of his services. His appointment as secretary of the Sunday School Teachers' Training Association of Allen County, and as. president of the Pastors' Union of Lima, attest to the prominence his labors have won him and are a well-deserved acknowledgment of his learning and sterling religious character, as. well as the high esteem in which he is held by his clerical co-workers. He is generally regarded as one of the ablest ministers in the city of Lima, possessing the highest regard of the public generally, and the confidence and love of his own congregation. CHAPTER XV EDUCATION The Public School System of Allen County—The Public Schools of Lima—Board of Education—List of Teachers—The Lima High School—First and Last Graduating Classes of the High School—The Lima Training School—The Truant Law—Supplementary Reading—An Ancient Appeal—Lima's School Buildings—Demolishment of the Old West Building—"That Dear Old Building"—Destruction of the Old East Building by the Terrible Cyclone of September 24, 1898—Other School Buildings—The New High School Building—A Brief History of the Public Schools of Lima—Account of Mrs. Josephine C. Smith—Complete List of Superintendents and of the Presidents of the Board of Education—The Parochial Schools of Lima—Lima College—The Allen County Teachers' Institute—Board of County School Examiners—The New School Code—The Old Academy, Called "The Allen County Institute." THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM OF ALLEN COUNTY Is of greater interest and moment to the people than any other institution, save the church. Every citizen should take the deepest interest in the selection of the teachers and in the making of the course of study. The time has long since passed when a citizen of Ohio should be careless about matters of education. Allen county has a large number of intelligent, interested and competent teachers. All they need is proper encouragement. From the schools of the county have come a large number of young men and young women thoroughly grounded in the rudiments of an education. Many of these have continued their work in higher institutions of learning, and have accomplished most excellent results. In this article only those schools will be considered that have not already been given. In the history of each township, under Chapter VII, the reader will find a history of the schools of the township, together with a list of the present day teachers. The same is true with the villages. The course of study very largely followed in the villages and in the city of Lima consists of eight years' work below the high school, viz., four primary and four grammar years. This is followed, in most instances, by a four-year high school course. Much honor is due to pioneer teachers who had every obstacle to overcome; but in the face of every difficulty there were often seen in these schools, groups of students, the equal of any of to-day In fact, the "giants of the past"—Mackenzie, Lamison, Cunningham, Coffinberry, Metcalf, Nichols, Harper, McHenry, Marshall, Robb and Pillars—were all trained in these primitive schools. Likewise, all honor is due the advanced system of to-day. It aims to teach not only the "Three R's," but the full measure of a well-educated gentleman or lady of the l0th century. THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF LIMA Are organized as follows : Primary department, four years ; grammar department, four 264 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY years ; high school department, four years ; and training department, one year. The courses of study in the primary and grammar departments are the common branches ; in the high school department there are three courses—Latin, German and scientific. The school buildings include the new High School, costing $75,000, and 11 ward buildings, two of which were recently completed. The value of all school property is $405,000. The total expense of the teaching force in 1903-04 was $46,562.50. The total enrollment of the schools in 1905 was 4,430, of whom 348 were enrolled in the High School. The total enrollment, January, 1906, is 4,600, of whom 430 are in the High School. The total number of teachers employed in 1906 is 115, of whom 11 are teachers in the High School. The members of the Board of Education for the year 1905-06 are as follows : Dr. J. C. Pence, president ; Charles W. Banta, C. H. Churchill, Dr. A. H. Creps, J. N. Stolzenbach, W. H. Uhl and G. A. Herrett, clerk. The treasurer of the board is Clem S. Baxter. The superintendent of schools is John Davison Following is a list of the teachers of the Lima schools : Lima High School----S. Steffens, principal ; Nettie M. Snook, Blanche Andrews, Ella M. Richards, Millie M. Cooke, Grace Hunton, Mary Jones, Herbert M. Thomas, Fern M. Renick, Genevieve Hanna and Lillian Raudabaugh. Garfield School (East Building) —Elizabeth Disman, principal; J. C. Arbaugh, Nannie Francis, Mary Armstrong, Jennie Christopher, Verna Driver, Chloe Davis, Agnes Connell, Bertha W. Borges Ada Shreve, Etta Johnson, Elizabeth Jewett, Cora R. Reynolds, Mabel Ballard, Nellie Potter and Emeline Reilly. Franklin School (West Building)—W. H. Thomas, principal ; Wessie Baker, Emma Knupp, Mae Ward, Lizzie Ducey, Mabel Sheidemantel, Alice Stockton, Gertrude Weixelbaum, May C. Epke, Clara Stolzenbach, Genevieve Henry, Rosabel Keve, Marie Robinson, Ella Bresler and Lucy Hooper. Lincoln School (South Elizabeth Street Building)—Mary Gore, principal ; Elizabeth Williams, Edna Goodenow, Anna Ducey, Grace Overholtz, Bernice Fletcher, Julia Lyons, Grace McClurg, Lelia Waugh, Nora Keville, Leanne Saunders, Emma Ford, Edna Smiley, Alice Morris and Minnie Littler. Washington School (South Pine Street Building)—Clara S. Reed, principal ; Anna L. Conrath, Effie Sherrick, Anna Klein, Kate Carter, Laura Frail, Dorothy Jones, Bertha Wilhelm Goldie Blair, Nellie Smith, Matilda Robinson, Nina Morehead, Emma Guy and Bessie Morris. Lowell School (West Spring Street Build- ing)—Kathryn Ford, principal; Clara E. Herr, Elizabeth Parrett, Elizabeth Hughes, Arminta Allison, Lillian Elliott, Anna Phillips, Lena Schnabel, Minnie Keve and Bessie Eastman. Irving School (Grand Avenue Building)—Etta Boysell, principal ; Agnes Higginbotham, Lorena Gottfried, Frances Lawlor, Nina Cantieny, Mary Arthur, Anna Gagin and Kathryn Prophet. Whittier School (Reese Avenue Building) —Belle Gibbs, principal ; Myrtle Busick, Blanche Long, Mae Murphy, Nellie McCachren, Minnie Eisley and Vera Sherrick. Richardson School (Maplewood)—Clara V. Bingham, principal ; Laura Hirseland, Anna Taylor and Jennie Thompson. Emerson School (North Jefferson Street Building)—Florence Bower, principal ; Daisy Simmons, Mary Bingham and Nellie Donahue. McKinley School (Harrison Avenue Building)—Hannah R. Gordon, principal ; Lenore Gottfried, Mabel Busick and Minnie Bloxham. Longfellow School (Shawnee Building)— Gladys Eppert, principal ; Helen White, Gertrude Moore and Marie Umbaugh. Solar Avenue School—Mary Parish. Music and physical culture are taught in all of the schools by Myrta Hartson. THE LIMA HIGH SCHOOL. No part of the public money is expended to better advantage than that which is used for the maintenance of the High School. That the people of Lima appreciate the advantages of the High School is shown by the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 265. constantly increasing attendance. In 1896, the enrollment was 156; in 1897, 192; in 1898, 214. It is now (1906), 430. The High School ranks first grade in Ohio and maintains a four-year course. There are 11 teachers employed (1906). The school library has 900 volumes on its shelves. The High School was organized in 1856 and to date there have been 730 graduates. The first graduates were four in number, namely : Dr. Samuel A. Baxter, Lima ; Fidie Bennett (Holmes), Marion; Josephine Cunningham (Smith), Lima ; and Mary Watt (Nichols), deceased, Toledo. The last graduating class, that of 1905, was made up of 30 members, as follows : Girls—Mabel Arnold, Marie Badeau, Carrie Botkins, Blanche Craig, Elena Crider, Lenore Kissel, Hazel Maskey Florence Moore, Treva Morris, Hazel Morrison, Isabel Morrison, Francis Myers, Ethel Neise, Mary Philips, Lenna Rudy, Jessie Siglin, Martha Weixelbaum, Frieda Wilhelm and Goldie Zurmehly ; Boys—Karl Bassler, Robert Black, Karl Deakin, Harry Drake, Emmet Jackson, Walter Murphy, Manley Osgood, Clayton Paine, Levi Reichelderfer, Karl Sproul and Charles Walther. THE LIMA TRAINING SCHOOL. Acting on the recommendation of the superintendent of schools, the Board of Education, in 1899, wisely decided to establish a training school for the city of Lima. The object of this school is to train young people for the serious business of teaching in the public schools. The plan is a very simple one. A thoroughly trained and experienced teacher is selected by the Board of Education, who is known as the training teacher. This teacher is given control of all who wish to enter this school. By the aid of these pupil teachers or cadets, the training teacher is enabled to teach two rooms in the regular school work, thus causing two less teachers to be elected and paid by the board. The training teacher receives the salary of these two teachers, and that amount of money ($90 per month) will secure a most competent and skillful teacher. Only graduates of the Lima High School, or of other high schools of equivalent standing, are-admitted to the training school. Each one of these applicants , however, must first secure a certificate to teach, from the City Board of Examiners of Lima, before they can enter the training school. The course of study consists of the regular work of teaching the two schools placed under the charge of the training teacher, and in addition the study and mastery of two high-grade texts taught by the training teacher. These. books are White's "School Management and Seeley's History of Education." One hour. each day is devoted to the study of these texts;: thus the pupil teacher secures both the theory of teaching and the actual practice. This. course of study is continued daily during one school year. If the pupil has completed the-work to the satisfaction of the training teacher at the close of the year, the Board of Education grants to these pupils a diploma, as a graduate of the Lima Training School. These teachers are then elected by the board and assigned to regular work. By this method, only thoroughly trained teachers are admitted to the regular corps in the city of Lima. This plan has greatly elevated the standard of teaching, and has a strong influence in securing increased pay for meritorious service. The first training teacher elected in 1899,. was Ruth English, a graduate of the Fredonia State Normal School of New York. Upon her resignation, at the end of the second year, 1901, Jennie Elizabeth Chapman, a graduate. of the same sch0ol, was elected. Miss Chapman resigned at the close of the year 1905, and in her place Cora Ruth Reynolds was elected. The following are the graduates of the Lima Training School : Class of 1900—Belle Bloxham, Rhoda Basinger, Chloe Davis, Lillian Elliott, Lillian Robinson, Minnie Sontag, Margaret Tehan, Mae Ward and Ethel Zurmehly ; class of 1901—Armitta Allison, Laura Borges, Ethel Hefner, Grace Hunton, Minnie Keve, Marie Mills, Grace Overholtz, Helen Smith, Ada Shreeve, Nellie Steffens and Lillian Williams ; class of 1902—Agnes Connell, Verna Driver, Laura Frail, Edna Godenow,. 266 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY Elizabeth Hughes, Genevieve Henry, Laura Hirseland, Edna Johnson, Fanny Lawlor, Matilda Robinson, Leanne Saunders, Marion Smith, Bertha Wilhelm and Julia Weaver; class of 1903—Ina Cook, Dorothy Jones, Grace McClurg, Nina Morehead, Mary McCarey, Anna Phillips and Clara Stolzenbach ; class of 1904—Myrtle Busick, Bertha Wise Borges, Bernice Fletcher, Lenora Gottfried, Blanche Long, Helen Smith, Mary Stephens, Lena Schnabel and Anna Taylor ; class of 1905 —Mary Arthur, Mabel Walker Ballard, Inez Bedford, Maybelle Busick, Clara Belle Clizbe, Mary Catherine Epke, Nora Frances Keville, .Julia Teresa Lyons, Mae Murphy, Mary Parish, Lydia Alice Stockton, Vera Dalphyne Sherrick, Marie N. Robinson, Helen Amelia White and Halsa Marie Umbaugh ; class of 1906—Mabel Arnold, Margaret Finley, Lenore Kissel, Florence Moore, Mary Phillips and Frieda Wilhelm. THE TRUANT LAW. Among the most beneficial school laws passed in the last two decades is the truant law. This compels the attendance 0f all children of school age, and regulates the employment of minors by shops, factories or private persons. In Lima, F. C. Povenmire has filled the responsible position of truant officer for the past 12 years. The conscientious manner in which he has performed his duties at all times has made the law effective, and, in consequence, many children were kept in school who would otherwise have grown up in ignorance. SUPPLEMENTARY READING IN THE LIMA PUBLIC SCHOOLS. "If there is a benefactor of mankind in this world, it is the author of a good book. Towers crumble to earth, but he whose book lives cannot die." So wrote old Richard De Bury in his book entitled "About Books." One of the most momentous questions before the educators today is that of reading. Just what shall be placed before the child is a much unsettled problem. That good reading matter should be placed in their hands all agree, but the proper selection is important and difficult. The books of the "Ohio State Pupils' Reading Course" have been, from year to year, put in the hands of the pupils. The results have been very satisfactory. A better taste for the right kind of literature is acquired and the habit' of reading firmly implanted. By this means the pupil's vocabulary is wonderfully broadened and improved—a consummation devoutly to be wished. The number of pupils who have, each year, completed the course grows larger with each succeeding year and it is larger in proportion to the size of Lima than that of any other city in Ohio. In 1896-97, 675 pupils completed the course; in 1904-05, more than 2,000. AN ANCIENT APPEAL. Out of the mists of the past comes an echo which might have resulted from a more modern cry. It is an appeal for a new school house and could well enough have emanated from a patron of the schools of 1904 in place of 1868. The slip of paper, a circular, aged and yellow and printed in quaint and long since abandoned styles of type, reads as follows : PARENTS 1f you would have your children educated vote for A NEW SCHOOL HOUSE on The 13th day of January, 1868. Between 2 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon. Let every child watch his pa and see that he votes on that day for his child. Children, it is for you that the new school house is wanted. More than 1,000 of you have no place to go to school. Not more than one out of every three can get in the schoolhouse you now have. Give you knowledge and you will be intelligent men and women; turn you out of school on the streets and you will soon be bad men and women. Who are in favor of a new schoolhouse? Every parent who prefers to give his children an education above everything else; every man who loves his little child; every man who desires the prosperity of the town; every man who prefers good society, and would diminish suffering and crime. Who will vote against the schoolhouse? Every AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 269 man who loves money more than everything else— even more than his own children. January 10, 1868. N. TUCKER. LIMA'S SCHOOL BUILDINGS. The school buildings of a city are an index to the character of the people. While Lima has not always had buildings of a high grade, the tendency in recent years is very largely towards modern, handsome and substantial buildings. This is shown particularly in the new Garfield Building, and the new High School Building—structures that would command attention and admiration in any city. Lima's first school building of any pretension was the old West Building, erected in 1858. For many years this was the most imposing school edifice in Northwestern Ohio. It was a three-story, 12-room building, constructed of brick laid in old-fashioned mortar, which hardened equal to the best cement of to-day. The timbers throughout were hard wood, and the walls so thick and firm that they seemed to defy both time and the elements. It was constructed by John P. Haller, whose work was so honestly done that had the present Board of Education acted with less haste and more wisdom, the building would be standing to-day, and as good as ever. There was no reason whatever for the destruction of the building, which was done by order of the board, in February, 1905. This hasty act on the part of the Board of Education brought only inconvenience to the school children, and great expense to the taxpayers. No doubt, however, a new and modern building will soon arise upon the ruins of the old. An architect has been selected and plans are now being prepared. Many sacred memories cling about that old west Building, for in it many of Lima's most substantial and honored citizens received their 'early training. At the time the Board of Education ordered the abandonment and demolishment of the old West Building the following editorial, entitled, "That Dear Old Building," appeared in the Lima Times-Democrat : "The action of the new School Board in ordering the abandonment for ever of the old. West Building brings a sense of sadness to many who have been identified with the growth of this city and the intellectual development of her people. "For 46 years that old building, which was not erected by a 'contractor who was cracked,' has stood as a monument to the burning desire among the good pioneers that their children should have the advantages of an education. "The glory 0f this ambition is the Lima of to-day. "With the razing of the structure there will pass away for many of us a constant reminder of many happy childhood days, but all that can bring back those pleasant memories does not fade with the destruction of its' great square walls. "We recall two teachers, Mrs. O. W. Smith, and Mrs. M. J. Ballard, who are still living in Lima to note the influence and elevating impressions they made on many 0f those who were their pupils in the '60's, and who are now among the best men and women in this prosperous city. They, too, will recall many happy hours spent in the old West Building teaching the ideas of the young how to shoot, but not at 'cracks,' which a recent addition to the occult pencil-shovers of this community has discovered, doubtless through some clair voyant, have always existed. "Whatever its faults, the building has covered thousands without harm to them physically ; it has provided shelter for teachers and pupils, and the moral and school learning therein imparted and absorbed will last as long as eternity. "Whatever its faults, it has played a part in teaching an army to be honest within themselves, and respectful in discussing these things which are dear to others. "Whatever its faults, it is responsible for Lima. "To the dear old school building we say a fond farewell. The sweet remembrance of the days of our youth spent within its walls will last as long as life endures to us." The next building of importance was the East or Garfield Building, erected in 1871. This structure was used jointly as a ward and high school building until September 24, 1898, 270 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY when it was destroyed by a most terrific electric storm or cyclone. The people of Lima were fortunate in this : The storm occurred on Saturday, and no lives were lost in the destruction of the school building. The large bell, weighing 2,000 pounds, fell through three floors, carring everything with it to the basement. Had the storm occurred at the same hour on a school day, not less than 300 children would have been crushed. In its place was erected, in 1900, the handsome modern structure in use today. This building is of mottled pressed brick, finished in hardwood throughout, and of m0st excellent design. The architect was William R. Brown, of Cincinnati, with Leech & Leech, of Lima, associate architects. Other buildings were erected as follows : Lincoln School (South Elizabeth Street Building) 1882 Irving School (Grand Avenue Building) 1888 Washington School (South Pine Street Building) 1890 Lowell School (West Spring Street Building) 1890 Whittier School (Reese Avenue Building) 1891 Whittier School (two additional rooms added) 1905 Longfellow School (Shawnee Building) 1892 Emerson School (North Jefferson Street Building) 1897 Solar Avenue School 1903 Richardson School (Maplewood) 1904 McKinley School (Harrison Avenue Building) 1904 High School Building 1904-05 A new High School building for Lima had been an absolute necessity even before the destruction of the Garfield Building in 1898, but the people of the south side of the city insisted that the new High School structure should be "centrally" located, at least it should be farther south than the West Building lot, where it was proposed to erect it. The proposition to bond the city for the erection of a new High School failed to carry on its first presentation, but later the proposition carried by a large majority. The Board of Education decided by an emphatic vote to locate the new building upon the south side of the old West Building lot, viz., on the school property between McDonald and Pierce streets, the building to face High street. Dissatisfied citizens of the South Side carried the matter of the location into the courts, seeking to prevent its. location as decided by the board. The case was bitterly contested, appealed again and again, until it reached the Supreme Court of the State. The Board of Education was sustained in every court. In the meantime, the building had been erected and opened to the admiration and delight of the citizens of Lima, at the dedicatory exercises, May 4, 1905. The Board of Education under whose direction this beautiful structure was built was constituted as. follows : President, H. S. Prophet ; vice-president, Dr. Fred L. Bates ; treasurer, C. E. McClain ; clerk, Miss Annie Disman ; members, James Donahue, A. L. Metheany, Frank J. Klatte, J. H. Blattenberg, T. E. Fenwick, Charles W. Mooney, Joel Spyker, Mrs. Anna Vicary, Dr. T. R. Terwilleger and H. K. Fredericks ; superintendent of instruction, Charles C. Millet. The building committee. was composed of Dr. T. R. Terwilleger, Charles W. Mooney and James Donahue. F. S. Packard, of Columbus, Ohio, was the architect. He was assisted by a local architect, J. A. Chapin, in the construction of the building. The building was 182 days in erection and cost-$75,000. The furniture and equipment will increase this amount to nearly $90,000. A cut of this building is found on another page of this. book. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF LIMA. The organization and development of the school system of Lima is no inconsiderable part of the city's history. It is interesting to the old and instructive to the young. Great credit is. due those intelligent pioneers, who saw, with the eye of the seer, the future growth of Lima and the consequent need of an adequate school system. These wise founders held to the faith expressed in the Ordinance of 1787, one of the most noted laws ever given to a people, that "Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government, schools and the-means of instruction shall forever be encouraged." AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 271 Hence they organized, in 1856, the "Lima Union Schools," a well-founded system, which has developed into the excellent city school system of to-day. Every citizen of Lima is deeply interested in this great work, and it is most confidentily hoped that such aid will, at all times, be accorded those in authority, as will conduce to the formation of noble and useful lives—to advancement, culture and refinement. For the courtesy of Mrs. Josephine C. Smith, of Lima, who supplied the following interesting sketch, prepared in September, 1897, acknowledgment is hereby made.— Prior to 1856 Lima was divided into three school districts : The first west of Main and south of Market, the second west of Main and north of Market, the third east of Main. In 1852 the Lima Academy was established with Rev. John A. Campbell, principal. It was a flourshing institution, patronized by all of Lima's best citizens, and continued its prosperous course until 1856, when the organization of the Lima Union Schools took from it the majority of its best students, and its instructors went elsewhere. The Lima Union Schools were established, after much heated battling against the system, in 1856, with Dr. D. W. Littlefield as superintendent, and occupied the basement rooms of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the same building still standing, as it did then, on the southwest corner of Market and Union streets. In 1857 the schools opened with Rev. P. J. Stirewalt as superintendent and the following corps of teachers : High school—P. J. Stirewalt ; grammar school—Mrs. Mary A. Fry ; intermediate school—Hattie McGervy (Mrs. Jacob Watt, of Nebraska) and Fannie Johnston ; primary school—Lizzie Lloyd (Mrs. McGilliard, of Indianapolis), Lizzie Nichols and Martha Richardson (Mrs. M. J. Ballard, of Lima.) In the next school year, with a Mr. Wilhelm, as superintendent, the schools entered their first building erected at a cost of $20,000. It was then deemed a handsome structure, and still stands on the square enclosed by High and North, Pierce and McDonald streets. [Demolished 1905.] - 15 - The high school course had included higher mathematics and scientific and classical studies, but a new superintendent coming in at this time, these were all dropped and the course limited to the common branches. In 1860 a new and happy era dawned, and it would seem more proper to say that the present system of our schools began at this date. A four-years' high school course was adopted under the supervision of William A. Shaw. The following were the officers of the schools at this time : Board of Education—W. H. C. Mitchell, president, William E. Lee, Esq. and Hon. M. H. Nichols ; school examiners—Hon. James Mackenzie, Rev. Charles Gibbs and Dr. D. W. Littlefield; superintendent—William A. Shaw ; instructors—high school, William A.. Shaw ; grammar school, George H. Sanford intermediate school, Lizzie Lloyd, Martha J. Richardson and Olivia Meily (Mrs. Calvin S.. Brice) ; primary scho0l, Lizzie Hurd, Talma O. Alderman, Lizzie Nichols and Amanda Grove ; vocal music, William A. Shaw. The course of study for the High School at this time included Greek. Instruction in drawing, painting, French and German were provided at extra charge. Five years was the age necessary for the admission of children to the schools. Public oral examinations were held in each department by the superintendent, and printed certificates given for each study to each pupil. The school regulations provided for the suspension of school on all public holidays and "fast days," appointed by civil authorities. Prof. John Hanson, a graduate of Dartmouth College, came to the superintendency in 1862, at which time the High School had its first lady assistant in the person of Mrs. J. R. Hughes, and the first class was graduated on the 3rd of June, 1864. Of the 25 who formed this class when beginning the High School, four only completed it : Dr. Samuel A. Baxter,. of Lima ; Mary Watt (Mrs. Nichols. of Toledo ; Fidelia Bennett (Mrs. Dr. Hunter, of Marion, Ohio,) and Josephine Cunningham (Mrs. O. W. Smith, of Lima). The commencement exercises were held in Ashton's Hall (now the I. O. O. F. Hall, over the Ohio National Bank) 272 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY Rev. Thomas M. Cheever, of Lane Seminary, delivering the address. Lima was proud that day over her first commencement. In 1868 W. E. Crosby came to the superintendency with Miss M. V. Friend as assistant in the High School. In 1870 the schools passed under the control of G. W. Walker, who occupied the position of superintendent for a period of 14 years. In 1871 the second school building, our present High School Building,* was erected on Pine street, between High and North, at a cost of over $46,000. J. M. Greenslade succeeded Mr. Walker in 1884 and remained until 1895. Following are given lists of the superintendents of schools and the presidents of the Board of Education : Superintendents.—Dr. D. W. Littlefield, 1856-57 ; Rev. P. J. Stirewalt, 1857-58 ; Professor Wilhelm, 1858-60 ; William A. Shaw, 1860-62 ; John Hanson, 1862-68 ; W. E. Crosby, 1868-70 ; G. W. Walker, 1870-84 ; J. M. Greenslade, 1884-95 ; Charles C. Miller, 1895-1905 ; John Davison, 1905—. Presidents of the Board of Education.—W. H. C. Mitchell, 1860 ; Thomas K. Jacobs, 1863 ; S. R. Badeau, 1864 ; Richard Metheany, 1867 ; Norman Tucker, 1868 ; Theodore Mayo, 1870 ; Thornton T. Mitchell, 1871 ; D. C. Richmond, 1872 ; G. W. Overmyer, 1873 ; W. K. Boone, 1874; R. W. Thrift, 1875; 0. B. Selfridge, 1876; Calvin S. Rrice, 1877 ; I. T. Moore, 1878; Theodore Mayo, 1880 ; W. K. Boone, 1882 ; Dr. Charles Metzger, 1884 ; Dr. J. P. Vail, 1886 ; Theodore Mayo, 1887 ; H. S. Prophet, 1888 ; Jacob Moser, 1891 ; H. S. Prophet, 1892 ; Thomas H. Jones, 1894 ; F. G. Borges, 1896 ; E. W. Jackson, 1897; Dr. Fred L. Bates, 1898 ; H. S. Prophet, 1899 ; Henry Blosser, 1900 ; G. M. Sprague, 1901 ; H. S. Prophet, 1902 ; and Dr. J. C. Pence, 1905—. THE PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS OF LIMA. St. Rose Parochial School is one of the educational institutions of Lima, which has made *The High School building, referred to in the above account of Mrs. Smith, was blown down in the severe electrical storm, or cyclone, of September 21, 1898. remarkable onward strides since its establishment. The first resident pastor of the parish, Rev. Edward Murphy, recently deceased, built a little frame schoolhouse in 1865 in which he gathered the children of the parish and placed them under the care of two ladies, Miss A. Richardson and Anna McGuckin. In 1867 Jen- nie McGuire taught. In 1868 the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary took charge of the school. Lay teachers, Peter J. Scully and Kate McGormley (now Mrs. Dr. T. M. Weadock), succeeded these teachers in 1871. A two-room addition was then made, and the school given to the Franciscan Sisters, of Milwaukee. From 1872 to 1874, George Weadock, since a successful lawyer and mayor of Saginaw, Michigan, and Maggie Ryan taught in the school. In 1883, John McLaughlin was employed to teach the larger boys. In 1885 the Dominican Sisters succeeded the Franciscan Sisters in charge of the school and remained until 1888, when the present teachers, Sisters of Charity, from Mount St. Joseph, replaced them. Up to 1895 there was always at least one lay teacher assisting the Sisters. The little frame schoolhouse meanwhile grew by repeated additions as the school grew in numbers and strength, until in September, 1889, it was abandoned for the beautiful 10-room building on North West street, a view of which is shown on another page. The building, which will compare favorably with the majority of those since built in this city, is a standing monument to the zealous labors of Rev. James O'Leary, now of Cleveland, and the generosity of St. Rose parisn. There is an investment of nearly $40,000 in the building and equipment. The annual expenses exceed $3,000. Since the dedication of the new building the school has grown in numbers and efficiency ; so much so that it became necessary in 1904 to take the 11th grade to the new parish building on McKibben street, where two beautiful rooms are occupied. There are, in all, 11 grades in the school; in the last three a commercial course including Latin, is given. In every grade from the first to the last vocal music is taught ; with what success can be told by those who have assisted at AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 275 the services in St. Rose or attended any of the entertainments given by the children. At the opening of the February term in 1905, there were 512 children in the school. St. John's Parochial School.—This school, made necessary through the growth of the Catholic population of Lima, was first opened January 2, 1902, with 185 pupils, which number has increased until there were over 250 on the roll in 1905. The school has eight grades, in which all the common branches are taught. Five Sisters of Charity constitute the teaching force; one of them teaches vocal and instrumental music exclusively. Sister Joseph is the principal and Rev. F. G. Rupert, the superintendent. The school building was erected in the autumn of 1901; its architecture is along tasteful and harmonious lines. The school rooms, four in number, are located on the second floor. Each room is 22 by 40 feet in dimensions, well lighted by windows on two sides and heated by steam. LIMA COLLEGE Was incorporated by the Lima Lutheran Educational Association, May 24, 1890. The incorporators were Frank P. Graff, Theodore Roush, Henry A. DeLong, Aaron Albert and Christian H. Eckhardt. The beautiful location, consisting of ten acres of ground, on which the college building stands, was donated by Judge John E. Richie, in 1902. This generous act on the part of Mr. Richie has been of great benefit to the city of Lima and the country at large. The building was erected in 1892-93 and the college opened its doors for the instruction of students in the spring of 1893. The building, a view of which is shown elsewhere in this work, is a commodious structure of brick and stone, costing at the time of its construction about $45,000. It is well lighted, airy and healthful and excellently adapted for its purpose. The six steam and three electric railroads passing through the city render the college easily accessible from all parts of the county. Rev. Carl Ackerman was one of the most influential men in the Lutheran Church in securing the organization which led to the final incorporation, and to the construction of the building. He was also its first president. He was ably assisted by Rev. C. H. Eckhardt, whose heart has always been and still remains very close to the interests of Lima College. His untiring efforts in its behalf placed the institution upon a sound educational basis. He was also one of its presidents. Lima College has had the following presidents : Rev. Carl Ackerman, 1893-97 ; Rev. S. P. Long, 1897-1902 ; Rev. C. H. Eckhardt, 1902-05 ; and Charles C. Miller, 1905—. In January, 1905, the control of Lima Col- lege passed from the hands of the Lima Luth- eran: Educational Association to a board of control, composed of Lima business men, of which board Jackson B. Adkins is the leading spirit. On July 1, 1905, Charles C. Miller was elected president of the College. The broadminded, business-like management of the present board of control has built up the College very rapidly. The attendance has greatly increased, causing changes and additions to be made in the college facilities. The interest on the part of the pupils is very marked, and most excellent-work is being done in all departments. The original faculty has been increased by the addition of 10 new names, all of them distinguished instructors in their respective departments, among them being : Prof. W. W. Newcomer, an experienced teacher in expression and dramatic art ; -Prof. J. A. Christman, who was called from the State Agricultural College of Colorado to take charge of the commercial department ; Prof. Arthur Blaser, a graduate of the University of Wooster, Ohio, and of the Case School of Applied Sciences, Cleveland, who was elected to take charge of the department of civil engineering ; Prof. Charles Wesley Picquette and his talented wife Mrs. Leah Arthur Picquette, who were put at the head of the department of voice; and Prof. John W. Forbing, trained in the University of Pennsylvania and an excellent teacher of pharmacy; who was chosen as the dean of the department of pharmacy. The members of the faculty are experienced instructors, ladies and gentlemen of culture and refinement. They are fitted for their work by 276 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY careful study, travel and observation. The methods employed are modern and based upon solid, pedagogical principles. Following is the faculty for the college year 1905-06: Charles Christian Miller, Ph. D., president and instructor in history and literature; Jackson B. Adkins, secretary ; Carl Ackerman, A. M., Ph. D., instructor in mental science and mathematics ; Miss C. C. Cromer, A. M., instructor in German, French, literature and history ; F. E. Assenheimer, A. M., principal of the normal department; Miss Alpha Fraunfelter, A. B., instructor in Greek, English and algebra ; J. A. Christman, M. C. S., in charge of the commercial department; Rolland B. Mikesell, B. C. S., instructor in stenography and typewriting ; Arthur F. Blaser, B. S., in charge of the civil engineering department ; John W. Forbing, Ph. G. Ph. C., B. S., dean of the department of pharmacy ; Miss Helen Badeau, B. S., instructor in Latin and English ; J. G. Park, A. M., instructor in grammar and civil government ; Hon. J. A. McDowell, instructor in grammar and history ; Harold B. Adams, B. Mus., instructor in piano and organ ; Mrs. Julia Ackermann Adams, B. Mus., instructor in piano, harmony and theory ; Charles Wesley Picquette and Mrs. Leah Arthur Picquette, in charge of the department of voice ; W. W. Newcomer, A. M., principal of the department of expression, physical culture and dramatic art ; Miss Jennie Bowman, instructor in Swedish gymnastics ; Mrs. Ora Blanche Wheeler, instructor in Froebel kindergarten work ; Miss Frances Adkins, registrar and librarian. The courses of study include the following : Classical, scientific, literary, normal, music, commercial and preparatory civil engineering, pharmacy and law and in addition a course is offered in elocution, reading and dramatic art. The classical course is well arranged with ample studies in the classics to meet the demands of the student of Latin, Greek, French and German, while it is strong in mathematics, science, history and literature. The scientific course is equally well planned. It has less work in languages and more in science. The literary course is one of four years work and its aim is to fit students for duties in life in a general way with special reference to literary pursuits, music or elocution. The normal course has been prepared with especial reference to the training of teachers for highest attainments in the profession. In the commercial department instruction is given in bookkeeping, banking, commercial law, shorthand and typewriting and in all branches necessary to the acquirement of a complete business education. The preparatory course consists of three years work and embraces such studies as will fit pupils for a regular college course. The department of music offers to students of music opportunity to study piano, organ, voice and harmony under the direction of competent, wide-awake and experienced teachers. The course in pharmacy is. of high grade, and is designed to meet the wants of the professional pharmacist and those desiring thorough preparation for, the study of medicine. In the law course which is designed to prepare students for the practice of the law, regular class work is conducted and in addition thereto lectures are delivered by leaders of the l0cal bar and by judges. of the common pleas and higher courts. The course in engineering consists of plane survey ing, railroad engineering, hydraulic engineering, municipal and sanitary engineering, graph-. is statics, bridge designing and actual field practice. The department of expression and dra matic art is complete, giving students an opportunity of making a specialty of these subjects if desired. Students are taught in oratory,. physical training, fencing and all the arts of expression. A large amount of money has been spent upon the equipment of the various departments, —especially in the domain of science, where the apparatus is all new and of the latest design. While the college is non-sectarian, it is understood that all its work is from the point of view of the Christian thinker and the Christian scholar. Daily chapel exercises are held which students are expected to attend. In addition to the nine months regular college work, a summer school is also conducted at Lima College, where teachers have an opportunity to not only review the common branches but also to take up advanced work and secure degrees. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 277 THE ALLEN COUNTY TEACHERS' INSTITUTE Is almost as old as the county ; it has always been a power for good. Very early in the history of the county, the teachers saw the need of conference with one another and of concerted action on all educational questions, hence teachers' associations and teachers' meetings were frequently held. These meetings led to the formation of the annual institute, the management of which has always been conservative, yet making sufficient advances each year. In recent years, instructors were employed strictly on merit, without regard to cost. Many teachers are in the habit of attending these meetings from the first to the last session, not missing a single lecture or exercise. The officers of the institute for 1905-06 are as follows : President, J. D. Cotner, of West Cairo ; secretary, Blanche Kinsey, of Herring; executive committee—J. K. Douglas, of Harrod, H. M. Peltier, of Delphos and Thomas J. Class, of Spencerville. The instructors at the last session of the institute held August 15-19, 1905, were Profs. S. D. Fess, T. I. Tussing and Thomas C. Blaisdell. As the number of teachers necessary to supply the schools of the county is 290-115 in Lima and 175 outside of Lima—the attendance of 250 at this institute shows the interest taken in the work. There is a long list of distinguished lecturers and scholars, who have appeared from time to time before the teachers at their annual institute in Allen County, among them being Dr. E. E. White, Hon. Nathan C. Schaeffer, Hon. Henry Houck, Margaret Sutherland, Prof. Edson S. Mills, and superintendents from various cities of the State. BOARD OF COUNTY SCHOOL EXAMINERS. The county school examiners at present are : Oliver Kies, of Spencerville, president F. R. Mason, of West Cairo, vice-president and H. M. Peltier, of Delphos, clerk. THE NEW SCHOOL CODE. It had long been recognized by the teachers of Ohio that the school laws needed amendment. This sentiment crystallized under the able ad- ministration of State School Commissioner L. D. Bonebrake. Assisted by his friends and after much consideration and many delays, he succeeded in having enacted into law the present school code. One of the wise provisions of this code is the clause, which authorizes the payment of teachers for attending the annual institute. There is no good reason why the State of Ohio should not aid her teachers in every way, and payment for time spent in the annual institute is a worthy measure. Boards of Education should not hesitate to meet this requirement, for it encourages the teacher in his work and increases by just a small amount his long underpaid services. THE ALLEN COUNTY INSTITUTE (1855.) In 1855 Lima had a very flourishing academic institution of learning called "The Allen County Institute." There were a total of 188 students from various parts of the State and from other States, as the accompanying list indicates. A well-arranged three-years' course of study, including ancient and modern languages, was pursued by the pupils. The textbooks used belonged to a day long since past yet they were standards for that age, among them being Bullions' "Latin Grammar and Reader ;" the classic texts of Anthon and Johnson ; Paley on "Natural Theology ;" Agassiz on "Zoology ;" Willard's "United States History ;" Cutter's "Physiology" and Clark's "English Grammar." We publish herewith a list of the officers for the year 1855-56 : Trustees—F. H. Binkley, Dr. William H. Harper, James S. Cheever, Samuel A. Baxter, P. R. Grauel, Shelby Taylor, Dr. William McHenry, R. Metheany and G. E. Poage ; officers of the board—Samuel A. Baxter, president ; Shelby Taylor, secretary ; P. R. Grauel, treasurer. Board of Instruction—S. E. Adams, principal and teacher of mathematics and natural history ; Mrs. Ada L. Adams, preceptress and teacher of mental and moral science ; Rev. J. A. Campbell, teacher of ancient literature; Miss M. M. Shipman, teacher of modern languages ; A. R. Boggs, teacher of ancient languages and 278 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY chemistry; Miss Margaret A. Lewis, teacher of instrumental music. The pupils in attendance for the year 1855- 56 were as follows : Men—John H. Anderson, George P. Alfred, Charles L. Anderson, Martin Armstrong, David L. Anderson, John K. Ashton, Matthew Anderson, John W. Bashore, George W. Britton, George M. Baxter, Daniel A. Brower, Harvey H. Bowers, Alfred C. Baxter, Jasper Buckmaster, John E. Binkley, Samuel A. Baxter, Jr., Benjamin A. Coleman, John Cunningham, Blanchard Chaney, Samuel A. Corner, Dewitt C. Dehart, J. N. Cunningham, Charles Curtis, Samuel W. Chaney, George Chapin, J. H. Cole, Samuel Cunningham, Henry W. Grauel, Ralph C. Harper, Wilson S. Harper, Thomas H. Harper, J. M. Harper, Richard T. Hughes, C. Volosco Hard, Edwin C. Hard, William C. Jacobs, Ferdinand Keller, Samuel L. Keller, William A. Kincaid, Ziba Kennedy, J. Edwin Keller, Lorenzo Kennedy, Alonzo Livingston, Junius R. McHenry, Luther M. Meily, Charles A. Metheany, Albert M. Metheany, Ringgold Meily, Robert McCauge, J. Milton Metheany, William H. Neal, Danton Nichols, William F. Poage, Gratton E. Poage, Thomas Pollock, William H. Richardson, Levi J. Saint, Henry W. Stevens, Porter Turner, James Turner, Elijah C. Tingle, Effingham B. Williams, Leonard G. Taylor, William Watt, Greenbury H. Watt, Joseph Wolf and Jacob D. Watt,—all of Lima ; Henry Boyd and George L. Davidson, of Shawnee township ; Chalmers Dobbins and Joseph Dobbins, of Bath township ; John Holland, of German township ; Alfred Jennings and Abel Jennings of Jackson township; William Ward and James M. Wood, of Sugar Creek township ; William Shoup, of Chesterville ; Abraham K. Alexander and Charles Wagoner, of Logansport, Indiana ; Martin Shell and Edwin Shell, of Goshen, Indiana ; Harvey Tingle, of Traverse Bay, Michigan ; and S. Irving W. Card, of Masonic Grove, Iowa. Women.—Ruth Ashton, Jemima J. Anderson, Sarah E. Bowers, Mary E. Brower, Harriette A. Badeau, Sarah C. Badeau, Emma Baxter, Mary P. Binkley, Annetta G. Binkley, Frances E. Binkley, Maggie A. Binkley, Louisa Benton, Arabella V. Bates, Leah J. Buck-master, Clara C. Cunningham, Mary P. Cunningham, Josephine A. Cunningham, Cornelia C. Cunningham, Sarah A. Coleman, Adaline Coleman, Laura Caldwell, Mary Clippinger, Mary Chaney, Louisa E. Chaney, Adaline Chaney, Ellen H. Chapin, Deborah Chaney, Mary A. Custard, Eliza L. Curtiss, Adelaide B. Cheever, Cornelia C. Cheever, Arabella Cheever, Alice Harper, Irena S. Holland, Mary A. Harper, Mary E. Harriot, Alice Harriot, Henrietta Huffer, Mary Huffer, Alice P. Hard, Ida Hard, I. E. Hancorn, E. Viella Holmes, Catherine Heckerthorn, Mary J. Jenkins, Ellen Jenkins, Anna Jenkins, Minerva Jolly, Tracy Keller, Irene I. Keller, Susan Keller, Julielma Kincaid, Sarah Kelly, Louisa J. Lambert, Julia Lambert, Rachael Lambert, Henrietta Lippincott, Mary Livingston, Mary E. Longshore, Celestine E. McHenry, C. Olivia Meily, Eliza C. Meily, Luella R. Mitchell, Emma C. Metheany, J. Augusta Metheany, M. Salena Metheany, Harriet E. Musser, Ellen A. McCague, Julia. C. McCague, Susan Moyer, Amanda Milligan, Sarah M. Mann, Mary Metcalf, Elizabeth Melhorn, Laura Nuese, Sarah Ann Poage, Margaret A. Pollock, M. J. Richardson, M. E. Richardson, E. A. Richardson, Virginia Richardson, Frances A. Robinson, Isabella Ross, Mary Ross, Lucinda Saint, Emma Saint, Huldah A. Watt, Elizabeth J. Tingle, Aldulia Wamsley and Frances G. Williams, all of Lima ; Elizabeth Atmer and Eliza E. Johnson, of Bath township; Asenath Budd, of Perry township ; Mary E. Elsworth, of Sugar Creek township ; Mary L. Harper, of Selma, Ohio ; Mary Higley, of Penolton, Ohio; Candace H. Hurd, of Mersails, Ohio ; Matilda Fanrote, of Kenton, Ohio ; Mary Jane Ketcham, of Vaughnsville, Ohio ; Rachael E. Mason, of Grove Port, Ohio; Emily McComb and Rebecca A. Turner, of Columbus Grove, Ohio ; Mary H. Jones, of Rochester, Indiana ; and Julia Burnell, of Fort Ann, New York. The reader will be interested in many of the statements made in reference to location and tuition : AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 279 Location, &c. This Institution is located in Lima, an incorporated village, of about 2,000 inhabitants; on the Ohio & Indiana Rail Road, about midway between Crest-line and Fort Wayne. Lima is a desirable location on many accounts. It is easy of access, there being three different Rail Roads passing through the place, either completed or in process of completion. There are societies of Methodists, Associate Reformed, Old and New School Presbyterians, and Lutherans, which are well attended on the Sabbath. The health of the place is good. Tuition. Primary Branches per term $2.50 Common English Branches 3.00 Higher English Branches, (each extra) .50 Latin and Greek 1.00 German and French 2.00 Drawing 2.00 Music, Instrumental 8.00 Students will be expected to be present at the commencement of the term. No deduction will be made for absence, except in cases of protracted illness. A daily record will be kept of the deportment and recitation of each student, and no one will be retained in the school who does not maintain a respectable standing. Pupils will be graded according to their advancement, so as to secure all the superior advantages of a thoroughly classified school. CHAPTER XVI PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS The Allen County Infirmary—The Allen County Children's Home — The Lima Hospital—The Lima Public Library—The Carnegie Gift and the New Library Building — The Lima Water Works—The Postoffice and Postmasters of Lima—The Federal Building —Federal Officers—The Allen County Fair—Sale of Fair Grounds to Lima Driving Park Association — The Proposed New State Hospital for the Insane. The institutions under the direct control of a State are always an index to the character of the citizenship of the State. It is greatly to the advantage of the people to have the strong arm of the government, State and National, control those institutions, which so widely affect the body politic. It is a trite saying that whatever the State does, is well done. Ohio has always stoutly maintained the principle of Algernon Sidney that the governor obtains his power only by consent of the governed. Hence the people's will has been the only guide, and the people have asked for a strong institutions of a public nature, supported by the public, for the good of all concerned. This idea found firm footing in Allen County, and the result is o. large number of public institutions, amply equipped and ably managed. The county, at public expense, cares for the indigent and the homeless clothes and educates the orphan, and administers to the sick—in fact acts as a broad minded, public-spirited benefactor of the people, whose child it is. THE ALLEN COUNTY INFIRMARY Allen County is not remiss in the maintenance of charitable institutions. The buildings known as the County Infirmary were erected in .1857-58 on the County Poor Farm, which is located in Bath township about four miles from the Court House, and occupies the southwest quarter of section 22, the northwest half of the northwest quarter of section 27, and the northeast half of the northeast quarter of section 28 of said township. The first infirmary building was built by John P. Haller. The contract was let to him in February 5, 1857, for the sum of $3,975. The building was accepted June 8, 1859, and forms the rear part 0f the present structure. In 1874 a three-story addition was built at a cost of $12,461 and. about 15 years later another addition of two stories was constructed, which completed the building as it now stands. A view of the infirmary is shown elsewhere in this work. The first board 0f directors elected in 1858 was comprised as follows. John B. Reeder, David Bryte and James Chenoweth. Previous to the election, however, Curtis Baxter, Shelby Taylor and David Bryte were appoined directors. The following have been superintendents : John W. Waters, Daniel Stevick, J. N. Shane, Martin V. Blair, Joshua L. Dunlevy, Amos Young, David Baxter and Frank Fraunfelter, the present incumbent. The last annual report gave the number of inmates as 93, and the expenses of the institution for the year ending September, 1905, as $15,119.62. The sanitary condition of the in- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 281 stitution is perfect and every comfort is provided for the county's infirm. It is under the supervision of the Infirmary Directors, consisting of David Stepleton, Christian H. Mosier, and J. E. Eversole. THE ALLEN COUNTY CHILDREN S HOME. On September 4, 1891, at a special meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, composed of William Bice, John Amstutz and John Akerman and C. D. Crites as clerk of the board, 80 bonds of $500 each were signed and delivered to the highest. bidder, the proceeds of which were to be expended in the erection of a Children's Home for Allen County. On September 15, 1891, the plans and specifications of Architect J. A. Chapin, with some modifications recommended by the State Board of Charities, were adopted by the board. On June 8, 1892, additional bonds for the sum of $10,000 were sold, being the second and final issue of bonds for the site and erection thereon of a Children's Home for Allen County. The Children's Home originally had 87 ½ acres, but now the farm contains 152 ½ acres of as fine farm land as can be found in Shawnee township. There is a fine spring near the roadside, which refreshes many a weary traveler. On December 10, 1892, the commissioners appointed the following directors : Alexander Shenk, William M. Melville and John Berryman. The present directors are : D. H. Sullivan, David E. Hover and Owen Francis. The president is Alexander Shenk, of Delphos, Ohio.. The former superintendent and matron were Mr. and Mrs. F. Blair. The present incumbents are Mr. and Mrs. David W. Higby. The governesses are Mrs. Jennie Erwin, and Ella Hickman. J. F. Garner is teacher of the home school. The children's Home is one of the best managed institutions of the State, maintained as a home for orphan children. The home, a view of which appears on another page of this book, consists of three large buildings including a school and workshop. The children are given the care of trained nurses. This institution is free to residents of Allen County when unable to pay and open to residents of other counties for boarding. Number of children from Allen County in the home, 50; number of children from other counties in the home, 30 ; number of pupils in the home school, 60. THE LIMA HOSPITAL. As Lima struggled from a village into a city and its energetic citizens had demonstrated that its permanency and growth were assured, the less fortunate began to increase in numbers, and a feeling began to grow among many of the people that something ought to be done to give the unfortunate sick and suffering, scientific and humane care and nursing. In 1894 a movement was started to build a hospital and a play was given, but the city was not yet large enough to stand the cost of establishing a home for the sick, and the proceeds of this play were saved and with accrued interest amounted to $372.82 when turned over to the present hospital. From time to time charitable and public-spirited citizens agitated the question, and so the hospital germ was kept alive until October, 1897, when the Pastors' Union of the city earnestly took up the necessity for a hospital and determined that they would neglect no effort to stir the hearts of charitable people, that a place might be provided where the unfortunate sick should have proper nursing and treatment. It was most proper that the pastors should head this movement, for they are the agents of the Great Master of Charity. The Pastors' Union appointed a committee to confer with the Allen County Medical Society, and the physicians, who best know the value of a comfortable home for the sick with proper care and nursing, heartily joined hands with the pastors in the project for a Hospital. A joint committee of the Pastors' Union and the Allen County Medical Society called a meeting at one of the churches for Sunday evening, November 7, 1897. This meeting was largely attended and manifested its entire sympathy with the movement. A hospital society was organized at this meeting and committees on by-laws and subscriptions were appointed. 282 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY On November 15, 1897, a meeting was held and the name "Lima City Hospital Society," with a constitution and by-laws, was adopted, and a committee was appointed to nominate 12 trustees. On November 22, 1897, this committee reported the names for trustees and they were elected. On November 26, 1897, the trustees organized and elected officers. Committees were appointed to push the work of obtaining subscriptions by dividing the city into districts and appointing sub-committees. An invitation was extended to the Lima Lodge of Elks to give an entertainment for the benefit of the Hospital fund. At the next meeting of the trustees the Elks reported that the invitation had been accepted by their lodge by a unanimous rising vote and said : "We feel the great necessity for a place where the halt, the lame, and the blind, without regard to creed or nationality, can be taken in and their burdens lightened. There is nothing that could command our more hearty support. We thank you for the honor you have conferred upon us. "Yours in charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity." Right nobly did the Elks show their charity, do justice, work out brotherly love, and prove their fidelity in preparing and giving this entertainment, which delighted and entertained all the good people of Lima, and many from the neighboring towns, and netted for the hospital fund, $816.30. On October 30, 1898, the trustees met to consider the securing of a site for a hospital, as sufficient funds were on hand and subscribed to encourage the trustees to take up this question, and, although a large amount was still needed, the trustees resolved that the only way to have a hospital was to get one, and they felt that the charitable people of Lima were in earnest and would supply the funds when they saw the hospital. Various committees were appointed to carefully look over every part of the city for the most desirable hospital site. For many weeks the trustees met nearly every Sunday afternoon, and the work of soliciting subscriptions and finding a hospital location was vigorously prosecuted. On November 27, 1898, the trustees decided to purchase the Overmyer property on East Market street, if sold at the judicial sale at a satisfactory price, and a committee of three was appointed to attend the sale and bid on the property. The committee bid off the property for $3,635, and the title was taken in the name of Dr. S. B. Hiner, as trustee for the Lima City Hospital Society, as the society was not incorporated. The purchase of this property gave the hospital project new and greater impetus. The property had a frontage on East Market street of l00 feet and a depth of 216 feet on Scott street and had a large substantial two-story brick house. The lot is underlaid with gravel and it was a most desirable location, being central, yet removed from noise, and was worth much more than the price paid, for hospital purposes.. Committees were appointed and at once commenced to make necessary alterations and repairs to adapt the building for a hospital. On January 15, 1899, the trustees appointed a board of 20 lady managers. No band of women ever worked more earnestly and effectively "for sweet charity's sake." No work was too laborious, no discouragement too great, to disturb their earnest co-operation and patient devotion to this noble work. They made a warm place for the hospital in the hearts of the pe0ple, and too much credit and honor cannot be given to them for the modern, well-equipped hospital in which all our citizens feel a pride. On January 29, 1899, the trustees decided to incorporate the hospital under the name "Lima Hospital Society," and a committee was appointed to have this done. On February 1, 1899, the incorporation was completed and filed in the office of the Secretary of State. Dr. S. B. Hiner, as trustee, conveyed the hospital property to the Lima Hospital Society and from that date the incorporated society had full control of the hospital and all of its interests. The Knights of Pythias, Knights of St. John, Lima Club, German Citizens Concert, True Blues, Woman's Veteran Relief Union, Barbers' Union, and Dorcas Society gave entertainments or raised funds in some manner AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 283 for the hospital, and the benevolent orders assisted by donations; the by-laws provided for life memberships upon the payment of $50 and many became life members. The good people of Lima at last saw a completed hospital and on April I, 1899, came the opening. The board of lady managers took charge of this and thus insured a success. Hundreds of people came and were surprised and ratified with the arrangement of the hospital and the completeness of all its furnishings and equipment. From the opening the hospital has been run on strictly non-sectarian lines and any inmate can have the spiritual adviser desired. Charity is broader than any sect, and every creed and belief in the city has given the hospital earnest and continued support. The hospital was so well conducted that it commanded the confidence of the physicians and brought many pay-patients from other places, and soon the demand was greater than the capacity, and the trustees were confronted with the necessity of enlarging it. The physicians 0f the city formed a medical staff and have promptly and faithfully treated all charity patients, without any charge. In the spring of 1899, the Council made a levy for the hospital and have continued this each year, and the hospital receives and cares for- the unfortunate sick of the city, and members of the police force and fire department, when sick, or injured in the line of their duty. With this help from the city and earnings from pay-patients, a small fund had been accumulated, and the trustees felt justified in enlarging the hospital. On March 8, 1901, the building committee was instructed to have plans and specifications prepared for a new building, and it was resolved to establish a building fund. The board of lady managers again showed their earnest cooperation by starting this fund with $700, which they had made and saved from their work and entertainments. The new building was built north of and adjoining the former building. It is 42 feet by 48 feet, two stories high, with a good basement and attic and was ready for use in September, 1901. The hospital, as now fully completed and furnished, is steam heated throughout ; has a first-class operating room ; bath rooms, and accommodations for 35 patients ; it is modern in every respect and one 0f the best of its size in the State. The construction and equipment of the addition created a debt which, on April 1, 1902, amounted to $3,700 and accrued interest. In connection with the hospital, a training school for nurses was opened January 1, 1902. The class in March, 1902, numbered five, who-were under the immediate supervision 0f the chief nurse, Alice Henderson. The course covers a period of two years in study and training. A course of lectures has been arranged which provides for two lectures per week by different members of the hospital staff. This is expected to result in great benefit to the hospital, as well as affording worthy young women an opportunity to fit themselves for a profitable and worthy occupation. At the annual meeting of the Lima Hospital Society held January 15, 1906, the following trustees and officers were elected : Trustees—S. S. Wheeler, Walter B. Richie, W. K. Boone, C. H. Cory, E. Christen, F. E. Baxter, Henry Deisel, Dr. Thomas K. Jacobs, R. W. Argue, J. D. S. Neely, Dr. F. G. Stueber and Dr. S. B. Hiner ; officers—Dr. S. B. Hiner, president ; W. K. Boone, vice-president ; and A. E. Scheithe, secretary and treasurer. During the course of the meeting Dr. Hiner submitted his annual report, which showed that the total receipts for 1905 were $8,937.44, with total expenditures amounting to $9,209.39. The total deficit in current expenses including the deficits for 1904 and 1905, amounted to $518.39. The receipts were classified as coming from four sources, namely Pay-patients, $5,557.42; City of Lima, $2,993.98 ; life memberships, $185 ; and donations, etc., $201.04. During 1905, 395 patients were admitted, of which number 270 were pay patients. The purchase of the home for the nurses added $3,00o to the indebtedness of the society, which also owed $1,000 for building account and $31.50 accrued interest, making, with the 284 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY deficit in current expenses, a total indebtedness of $4,549.89. The hospital property "is valued at $25,000. The removal of the nurses to their home increased the hospital capacity by six beds, making it possible at the present time to accommodate 37 patients. Nine nurses are now in training. During 1905 the medical staff cared for 132 charity patients. The board of lady managers of the hospital submitted their report for the period from April 15 to December 31, 1905, which showed that the total realized from their efforts was :$943.57 in cash. The board also replenished and left well stocked the linen closets of the hospital and did much work not only for the comfort of the patients but for the nurses as well. It and the new home for the nurses and expended $279.31 in furnishings, repairs and painting. It expended on the hospital proper $537.20, besides which a new range was placed in the hospital kitchen at a cost of $224. An unexpended balance 0f :$127.06 was handed over to the board of trustees to be used as was deemed necessary. Herewith is given a list of the life members of the Lima Hospital Society : Walter B. Richie, S. S. Wheeler, C. H. Cory, D. J. O'Day,* J. Goldsmith, J. W. VanDyke, Dr. S. B. Hiner, W. K. Boone, J. D. S. Neely, E. Christen, Dr. T. K. Jacobs, Dr. D. W. Steiner, Dr. F. G. Stueber, Dr. W. B. VanNote, William Melville, H. F. Vortkamp, Mrs. Nancy Shotwell,* J. C. Linneman, Dr. S. A. Baxter, Herbert L. Brice, J. J. Ewing, Benjamin C. Faurot,* W. H. Harper,* J. H. Huntley, N. L. Michael, Albert Watson, Dr. T. R. Terwilleger, W. E. Hover, G. E. Bluem, R. W. Argue, Robert Mehaffey, A. S. Rudy, Buckeye Pipe Line Company, Solar Refining Company, Ohio Oil Company, Lima Natural Gas Company, Manhattan Oil Company, C. H. & D. Railway. Company, City Bank, Moore Brothers' Company, Schultheis Brothers, Elk Lodge, Knights of Pythias, Knights of St. John, Rebekah Lodge, Lima Club, True Blues, German Citizen Concert Company, Humane Society and John Crumrine. *Deceased. THE LIMA PUBLIC LIBRARY—I. (By Mrs. M. J. Ballard.) Years ago, so many in fact, that it must be but a hazy memory to any but the oldest living residents of Lima, a Reading Club, composed of men and women, both young and middle-aged, was organized for the two-fold purpose of social intercourse and mutual improvement. This club read in a desultory, but delightful, way, that which was held at the time to be "classic" in literature. Neither current topics, nor the new books were much discussed at these meetings of "auld lang syne," but many papers of unquestioned merit were read, and an occasional discussion was had of some subject of vital importance to the public. At such times, if Judge James Mackenzie and C. N. Lamison were present, nothing was wanting to make the occasion memorable. The public library movement, then in its infancy in this country, was the question of the hour at a never to be forgotten session held at the residence of Judge Thomas M. Robb. Because of the forcible arguments for and against the proposition to establish a Public Library in the village of Lima, and the decision called forth by a vote taken on the issue, it proved to be a "red letter" event in the history of the club. Before adjourning an "attempt to establish a Public Library in Lima," as our president wisely put it, was authorized, and Judge James Mackenzie, Olivia Meily and Martha Richardson were appointed a committee "to proceed in the matter as they saw fit and proper." As one now recalls it, the demands made on the public for aid in the enterprise were very modest. No money was asked for and no new books purchased. In lieu of these, books and magazines were solicited from all interested citizens, especialy from those having comparatively well-equipped libraries. It was a creditable showing of books thus gathered, and they were placed in Judge Mackenzie's office to be given out at his discretion. The demand for reading matter was not so great then as it is to-day, but this little library proved a boon to the genuine book lovers of the town. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 285. After the first generous contribution of literature had served its purpose, the venture for many obvious reasons, languished. With his growing legal duties, the self-imposed task of librarian proved too onerous for Judge Mackenzie; no money was forthcoming for new books, and the library, as a whole, was transferred to the "Rosicrucians" club and made a part of their possessions. Although not apropos to the subject under discussion in this article, one may be pardoned when he digresses to pay tribute to the memory of the many brilliant, forceful and ambitious young men who made up from time to time, the roster of the "Rosicrucians." This club, social and literary in its purpose, was an honor to Lima, and in the manly fiber of its membership has known no superior. Of this coterie of long ago, but few are left. Among these are H. A. Holdridge, James Irvine, Dr. Cloyd Jacobs and Dr. S. A. Baxter. Numbered among those who "sleep to wake" are Capt. Mart Armstrong. Judge C. M. Hughes, Gen. L. M. Melly, James Anderson, and Calvin S. Brice. There were certain characteristics in most of these men which gives the writer of this article heartfelt pleasure to recall. There was a directness and vivid reality in their conversation ; a gift for reaching their hearers at once, due to the self respect and self-reliance, which strength of purpose always creates. Brief as was the history of the first public library movement in Lima, it cannot be said that its influence was wholly lost. It served, at least, as a stepping stone for a later and more effective organization. Under the auspices of the Chautauqua movement, in the early '80's, the first regularly organized and systematic course of study was adopted by a club made up of the following Lima women : Mrs. C. M. Hughes, Mrs. Angerona Thrift, Mrs. J. F. Brotherton, Mrs. J. R. Hughes, Mrs. James Irvine, Mrs. Margaret Rumple, Mrs. S. A. Baxter, Mrs. Frances Mitchell Baxter, Mrs. C. S. Brice, Mrs. Elizabeth Freeman, Mrs. Martha J. Ballard, Mrs. J. N. Harrington and Mrs. H. A. Holdridge. Out of the growing demands for better literary facilities on the part of this club, and an ardent desire to promote the best welfare of the town, came the next public library movement. It met with an immediate and enthusiastic approval from all good citizens. A library association was formed and I. S. Motter was made its president. An entertainment committee was appointed with Mrs. J. F. Brotherton as chairman. A "paper festival," given by the influential women of the town, proved a signal success. A paper, edited by John F. Brotherton and Mrs. J0hn Harley, was published in the interest of the good cause. A detailed account of the amount accomplished by this band of faithful workers cannot be given here. Suffice it to say that through the many agencies employed a generous sum of money was realized. Judge James Mackenzie, Goodrich Nichols. and Mrs. C. S. Brice were appointed a committee to purchase books. The work was nobly done, and the library formed was one of unusual excellence. In order that the general public might have easy access to the books a room was set apart in the Court House to that end. This second Public Library failed, in a measure of realizing the fond hopes 0f its promoters. Lack of resources compelled the association to yield their cherished plans until a more propitious season, when a certain and assured revenue could be established and better methods found. The library was placed under the management and care of the Y. M. C. A. until that hour should arrive. The last public library movement in our city, and one that has come to stay, was inaugurated in the fall of 1900. With the many art music and literary clubs, with which our community abounds, there was felt, as never before, the necessity for more reference books and supplementary helps along the lines of their varied work. Then, too, the expansion of the library movement in other towns of less population than ours aroused the civic pride of our progressive women to such an extent that it would not "down." Several of the clubs at their first meeting in the year named urged vigorous and immediate action. 286 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY As an advance courier, Mrs. 0. W. Smith, of the Woman's Club, made a strong appeal for the library cause through the columns of our newspapers. But the spirit had "touched the waters" and they were troubled pretty generally, it would seem, as close upon this action of the clubs came the announcement that a number of our influential men at a meeting called for that purpose, had reorganized the library association formed in 1882. THE LIMA PUBLIC LIBRARY—II. (By Medora Freeman.) This reawakening among the men was almost entirely due to Herbert L. Brice. It had been a dream of his to rouse the citizens to action in the matter of a permanent library for Lima and for some time before the attention of the people was generally called to the proposition, he had discussed plans with a number of the leading citizens, which he afterwards formulated. At his suggestion the old association of 1882 was reorganized and for the first time in the annals of the library movement an organization was put on a thoroughly systematized and sure basis. To the regret of all those who lent their support to the movement, Mr. Brice was forced to withdrew his services on account of ill health, shortly after the library opened and was never again well enough to take any part in its progress. The Public Library as it is to-day is a monument to his memory ; and the Carnegie Library when completed will be a realization of his fondest hopes ; for it was through his efforts that we were put upon Mr. Carnegie's list of benefactions. The reorganized association elected as its board of library directors : L. S. Motter, president ; Herbert L. Brice, vice-president ; G. M. Sprague, secretary ; J. W. Roby, treasurer ; James 0. Ohler, J. W. Van Dyke and C. C. Miller. The various women's clubs were invited to co-operate and a plan was suggested and followed which gave the movement a start financially. Life membership tickets were sold for $1 each and the club women disposed of about 400 of these ; individual subscriptions were also solicited by a committee and the money thus raised was used in organizing and opening the present Public Library. This committee was made up of the directors with Herbert L. Brice as chairman. His work was persistent and untiring and the success met with was largely due to his efforts. Mr. Brice and Mr. Roby selected the books which were purchased and with the volumes housed at the Y. M. C. A. the library was started. Medora Freeman was elected librarian after a competitive examination and began the work of cataloguing the books on the 15th of July, 1901. On September 21st following, the Public Library was opened to the public with .1641 volumes ready for circulation ; of these volumes, 782 were purchased, 143 were donated and 716 the remains of the original library—were moved from their old quarters in the Y. M. C. A. Building to the present library rooms in the Black Block. At the end of the first year there were 2,678 volumes in the library and the circulation for the year was 31,423 volumes. At the year's close 1,952 borrowers were registered ; these being limited to Lima residents although there have been many requests from county residents for library privileges. There is a reading room in connection with the library, where a number of leading magazines are kept on file. The books are divided into three departments : Reference, fiction and juvenile. The reference department is classified under the general heads of philosophy, religion, sociology, philology, natural science, useful arts, fine arts, literature, history and general works. Each class is subdivided and all works dealing with a certain subject are kept together. The juvenile department is sadly handicapped as in truth are all the branches, for lack of room. At the close of the fourth year there were 4,547 volumes in the library, 2,906 having been added since the library opened. All branches have been added to at different times so that an effort has been made to keep the departments well balanced. There were 3,746 borrowers registered at the close of the fourth year. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 287 The Public Library, although quite inadequate to the demands made upon it, has proved a great benefit and pleasure to thousands and has become an indispensable factor in the advancement of the community. Soon after the library opened, it was found necessary to have an assistant in the work and Martha Gamble was added to the force and is still in the library. Several changes have occurred in the board of directors. Mrs. C. F. Lufkin was appointed to fill the place made vacant by the death of Herbert L. Brice ; D. J. O'Day filled Mr. Van Dyke's unexpected term ; and Mrs. T. K. Jacobs was elected at the expiration of Mr. O'Day's term. The board saw before the library had been in operation very long that larger and better quarters would be needed very soon and they were glad to accept the offer made to us by Mr. Carnegie in 1901 for a library building. At Herbert L. Brice's suggestion, Helen Brice, of New York City, interceded for us with Mr. Carnegie. Through her personal acquaintance with him, her appeal met with immediate success and Mr. Carnegie at once promised us a building to be given as soon as we could comply with the conditions he imposed. The stipulation made by Mr. Carnegie was that he would donate the sum of $30,000 for a library building if the people of Lima would furnish a site and guarantee I0 per cent. of his donation annually for its support and maintenance. His offer was gladly accepted. In November, 1902, the first step was taken toward securing a site. Under the management of the librarian, the ladies of the various clubs banded together and issued a special "Library" edition of the Re-publican-Gazette. This proved a very successful undertaking and gave the site-fund a splendid start of $1,000. In April, 1903, the Federated Clubs. gave a "twilight recital" and in June following under the supervision of Mrs. C. F. Lufkin they gave a lawn fete at McBeth's Park. Both benefits were successful, artistically and financially, and added $1,274 to the fund. The ladies of Lima were later called upon for individual donations and the balance necessary to secure the lot was solicited from the men. This work was done entirely by Mrs. C. F. Lufkin, whose interest and perseverance in the work have crowned it with success. The beautiful lot, 100 feet square, at the northeast corner of Market and McDonald streets, has been purchased and work has been begun on the plans so that by spring the actual building will be started to replace the castles that have been in the air the last four years. The work of raising a good sum of money for a public benefaction has never yet proved a light task—nor did this one. But perpetual pushing and assurance put the difficulties out of countenance,• and made the seeming impossibility give way. Those who know under what difficulties the work is carried on in the present quarters will doubly appreciate what the advantages of a real library with proper equipment will mean. For almost 50 years this library movement has been growing and gathering strength with the years. If as some one has said, "To know how to wait is the great secret of success," surely the time is now ripe to gather our reward. THE LIMA WATER WORKS. On the 19th of July, 1904, the Board of Public Service purchased from the County Infirmary Directors 72 acres of the bottom farm opposite the infirmary buildings, paying therefor $8,280. From George R. Fetter they bought an adjoining 40 acre tract, paying for this $5,150. To the Ohio Oil Company, which owned an oil lease covering the infirmary tract, with several scant producing wells, the sum of $20,000 was paid in order to secure the leases, and the Ohio Oil Company was permitted to at once "pull" the wells and retail the piping and other paraphernalia pertaining to the operation of the lease. To Oscar Hover, who owned a lease on the Fetter tract, was paid the sum of $2,000, this making the total cost 0f the site $34,430. The contract of building the reservoir with its necessary equipment of high-powered and capacious pumping machinery, conduit lines, electric current lines, etc., was let to J. C. Linneman for $139,578.49. This with the purchase price made a total of $175,008.49. The city 288 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY had been bonded for this purpose some years before to the extent of $150,000. The new reservoir, as indicated above, covered an area of about 112 acres, excavated to an average depth of 22 feet, and in volume this figures a little more than 600,000,000 gallons or more than five times the capacity of both the old city reservoirs, located on East North street which have a combined accommodation for but 117,000,000 gallons. The daily consumption of water in this city has increased from less than 1,000,000 gallons eight years ago to about 2,500,000 gallons at this time. Therefore the combined storage capacity of the old and new reservoirs of about 720,000,000 gallons is sufficient to supply the city for almost 300 days of 24 hours each, during which time there would be sufficient water even if not a drop were added to the supply. However, there is seldom three months at one time during which it would not be possible to greatly augment the supply in the new reservoir, as well as practically fill the old ones from the Lost Creek dam, not to mention the two dozen wells at the East and West Side stations of the present system. In view of these facts it will be seen that Lima has an abundance of water supply and in quality it is much better and purer than ever before. The water is taken from the Ottawa -River, which flows alongside the walls of the new reservoir in an artificial channel, the making of which involved the removal of several million cubic yards 0f earth, every yard of which entered into the retaining wall construction. It is taken only at flood tide, after all the impurities have been washed away by being carried off on the rise of the flood. A canal leads from the main channel of the pump suction pipe well, and so great is the capacity of the pair of centrifugal pumps that a swift current is created by their suction in this canal, which is 16 feet in width and four feet in depth. In the reservoir the sediment settles rapidly, leaving the water near the surface practically clear, while the outlet pipe is hinged upon a huge ball point, which permits it to be raised or lowered, always taking water for the city reservoir from near the surface where it is clearest and purest. By this arrangement, in connection with the twin reservoirs on East North street, all water pumped into the city mains is doubly purified. It is allowed to settle in the big reservoir before being drawn off into the conduit line and brought down to the East North street twin storage reservoirs. There the water is filled into one of the reservoirs and after it has been allowed to settle it is drawn off into the other and pumped into the mains, while another supply is being settled, and so on indefinitely. As has been before stated the contract for the building was placed with Lima men. J. C. Linneman, J. A. Bendure and J. D. S. Neely and Joseph B. Meyer, of Buffalo, president of The Lima Electric Railway & Light Company, were the principals in the contract. To Cliff Wise went the construction of the huge retaining walls which bound it on three sides and a portion of the fourth, and the dredging for the Ottawa River, by which that stream is diverted from its natural course, which was directly through the body of the reservoir, and carried past the big pond alongside its south bank to a point where it rejoins the natural channel. When the infirmary site was adopted, it was realized that there were several obstacles to. overcome and one of these was the handling of a small stream which crossed the road a few hundred feet west of the infirmary buildings, and passed down through the body of the tract Which now constitutes the reservoir. This little stream carried away the sewerage from the infirmary and it was an absolute necessity that it be taken care of in some manner that would absolutely and surely prevent any of its contamination coming in contact with the waters of the reservoir. This stream ran through a rather deep swale or ravine, leading down to the river, with high banks sloping t0 the east and west. The only feasible course was a tunnel leading almost directly eastward and at right angles with its old course which as to the south. This plan was adopted, and a hole seven feet in diameter was bored through the ridge skirting the n0rth and northeast bank of the big pond. In some places this bore is almost 30 feet beneath the surface of the ground. It is lined with a triple course of hard brick, laid in cement and the interior or net diameter of the tunnel thus formed is four feet, large enough to AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 291 enable a person to walk through it in a stooping posture. This tunnel is almost 1,200 feet in length, and constituted a large item in the cost of the construction of the reservoir, or rather in making it possible to construct the reservoir. It conducts the little stream mentioned above to the Ottawa River several hundred feet south or down stream from the point where the intake canal secures its supply, thus avoiding all danger of contamination from this source. THE POSTOFFICE AND POSTMASTERS OF LIMA. The postoffice at Lima was established February I, 1832, with Lewis Srouf, postmaster. At that time the business amounted to little over $500 per annum. For the year ending June 30, 1905, the receipts for the sale of stamps amounted to $62,214.28, while the total money order business aggregated about $520,000. The postmasters with their terms of service have been : Lewis Srouf, February I, 1832, to April, 1832. John Ward, April, 1832, to June, 1832. Henry Lippincott, June, 1832, to April, 1833. Charles Baker, April, 1833, to November, 1837. William Cunningham, November, 1837, to April, 1839. John W. Thomas, April, 1839, to July, 1841. John B. Wamsley, July, 1841, to May, 1843. Samuel A. Baxter, Sr., May, 1843, to December, 1844. B. A. Satterthwait, December, 1844, to April, 1851. John Keller, April, 1851, to June, 1853. Samuel Sanford, June, 1853, to September, 1856. Orrin Curtiss, September, 1856, to March, 1861. John R. Beatty, March, 1861, to October, 1861. Cornelius Parmenter, October, 1861 to March, 1867. Dr. William H. Harper, March, 1867, to April, 1869. Cornelius Parmenter, April, 1869, to November 8, 1877. George P. Waldorf, November 8, 1877, to April, 1886. R. W. Meily, April, 1886, to April, 1890. Dr. George Hall, April, 189o, to July, 1893. W. R. Mehaffey, July 1, 1893, to August 1, 1898. Dr. George Hall, August 1, 1898, to March 23, 1904. William A. Campbell, March 24, 1904. - 16 - The officers, clerks and carriers at the present time ( January, 1906) are as follows : Postmaster, William A. Campbell ; assistant postmaster, R. H. McKinney ; money-order-clerk,. Eda M. Ballard; mailing clerks—George F. Winemiller, Clarence H. Atmur, Guy. Sproul and Frank I. Mumaugh ; distributing clerks—Earl E. Winemiller, Jonathan K. Yant, Silas I. Barling and Bruce M. Darby ; stamp clerk, Joseph Y. Badeau; registry clerk, Harold L. French ; general. delivery clerk, Asa H. Osman ; clerk in charge of the South Lima station, John J. Anderson; substitute clerk, Fred F. Flager ; city carriers—. Arthur Baker, Frank J. Bolton, Calvin K. Carnes, Edmund L. Conrad, James W. Cremean, Edward G. Hall, Fred. C. Herold, Harry L. Hutchins, Robert T. Jones, Charles. A. Knecht, Cantwell McKee, Will S. Simpson, Cloyd E. Strawbridge, Norman .H. Townsend. and Harry D. Zurmehly ; substitute carriers—Benjamin F. Richie and Frank J. Smith ; rural carriers—Richard Stockton (Route ), Billa Hitchcock (Route 2), Walter Wetherill (Route: 3), Harry Ward (Route 4), Alton L. Osmon (Route 5), Emanuel Waltz (Route 6), John W. Bowersock (Route 7) John E. Vore (Route 8) and Charles Rousculp (Route 9) ; substitute rural carriers—Schuyler C. Early and Clara M. Roush ; janitors—Adolph Lehman and Edward Harrison ; mail messengers—John T. Swander, Thompson R. Kennedy and William M. Hawkins ; contractor screen-wagon service, O. D. Fisher. During Mr. Parmenter's administration as postmaster, the postoffice was located on the southwest corner of the Square ; afterwards,.. under Dr. Harper, it was removed to the old: Holland Block, corner of High and Main streets. In 1880 it was moved across the street to the room now occupied by Melville's drugstore, and the Commercial Bank and there it remained for 15 years. During Mr. Meily's term of office, 1886-90, free delivery of mail in the city was established. On July 4, 1894, in the administration of Mr. Mehaffey the cornerstone of the new Federal Building and Post-office on the corner of Elizabeth and High streets was laid by Allen Andrews, Grand Mas- 292 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY ter of F. & A. M. of the State. In 1895 the building, was completed, the cost being $40,000, and in September of that year the postoffice was moved to its present quarters. This handsome Postoffice Building was secured for Lima at the e \Tense of the national government through the efforts of Senator Calvin S. Brice. While the building presents a creditable appearance, it is, nevertheless, too small to accommodate the growing business of the city of Lima, and the rural free delivery. During the early years of Dr. George Hall's second term as postmaster, 1898-1904, and largely through his efforts, rural free delivery was inaugurated in the county. Federal Officers (1906) .—S. R. Vertner, deputy revenue collector, and F. L. Churchill, pension examiner, occupy rooms on the second floor of the Postoffice Building. THE ALLEN COUNTY FAIR. The first annual fair of the Allen County Agricultural Society was held in Blackburn's Grove, which was located south of Spring street and west of McDonald on what was afterwards known as Faurot's farm. The fair was held on the 4th and 5th of October, 1860. On the last day of the fair Hon: Isaiah S. Pillars was to have delivered an agricultural address but on that day the Democrats held a mass meeting adjacent to the Fair Grounds and, owing to the noise and confusion, Mr. Pillars declined to deliver the address. The address was published in the weekly paper. At a meeting of the board of directors of the Allen County Agricultural Society, held in January, 1861, the following officers were chosen : J. B. Roberts, of Ottawa township, president ; F. J. Lye, Jr., of Marion, vice-president ; O. E. Griffith, of Ottawa, secretary ; George W. Overmyer, of Ottawa, treasurer ; Joseph Slutz, of Jackson, Dr. R. E. Jones, of Sugar Creek, C. W. Jacobs, of Perry, J. L. Smith, of Auglaize, A. E. Hadsell, of Bath, J. R. Hughes, of Ottawa, Charles Crites, of German, James Pettit, of Monroe, Mr. Lewis, of Richland, Calvin Harris, of Amanda, Nelson Hayes, of Marion, John H. Harbison, of Spencer, and James A. Hover, of Shawnee, managers. The officers in 1868 were : President Thomas K. Jacobs ; vice-president, Robert Mehaffey ; directors—Gabriel Hefner, James A. Hover, Calvin Harris and S. R. McKee. In 1869 the officers of the society were : President, J. R. Hughes, vice-president, Robert Mehaffey ; secretary, G. W. Overmeyer ; treasurer, James A. Hover ; directors—S. R. Bailey, G. C. Schooler, William Yoakum and Gabriel Hefner. The officers for 1905-06 are : President, Joseph E. States ; vice-president, J. W. Shanahan ; treasurer, George R. Fetter ; assistant secretary, L. J. Keppler ; secretary. T. B. Bowersock. Until 1882 the Allen County Agricultural Society held their annual fairs on the grounds afterward known as Faurot Park, situated west of McDonald and south of Elm street. We find this entry in the minutes of the society tinder date of August 6, 1881 : "Agricultural Board met this day ; Pres. W. K. Boone in the chair. The Secretary stated the object of the meeting was to consider the question of buying 30 acres of ground of J. B. Roberts for permanent fair grounds. After considering the matter, motion was made by R. Mehaffey, That the society purchase the ground (30 acres) at the price offered by Mr. Roberts ($7,000) and that the $2,000 due the Agricultural Society from the surplus dog fund on hand be paid as first payment. Motion carried. Motion by Lester Bliss, That the President, Secretary and Amos Hefner be a committee to see to the survey and perfecting the title and that the President and Secretary execute, sign and seal the necessary . notes and mortgage to complete and effectuate said purchase, also to employ such legal advice as they may need in the matter. Motion carried. Adjourned to meet September 10, 1881." This ground has been used as the meeting place of the Allen County Agricultural Society since the fall of 1882. In 1903, the Lima Driving Park Association purchased the Fair Grounds, then having 34 acres, of the Agricultural Society. Since that time the fair board rent the grounds of the Lima Driving Park Association for the purpose of holding the annual fair. The Lima Driving Park Association was organized by representative citizens of Lima AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 293 and the surrounding territory. It is a stock company, with capital stock of $25,000. Improvements have been made on the grounds to the amount of $15,000. The grand stand, a view of which is shown elsewhere in this book, cost $7,500, and will seat 1,600 people. The half-mile track and equipment is the best in the Middle West and the track holds the half-mile track record. The race meetings given in the spring and fall are attended by the most prominent horsemen from New York to Chicago and from Detroit to Lexington. The officers for 1905-06 are: President, J. C. Linneman ; vice-president, J. W. Rowlands; secretary, F. E. Baxter and treasurer, Harry M. Moore. The following are extracts from the address of Hon. Isaiah S. Pillars. This address is the one referred to at the opening of this article on the Allen County Fair. "As early as 1784, the South Carolina Agricultural Society was established and still exists. As early as 1657, the growth of hops was encouraged in Virginia by legislative enactment. In 1732 the cultivation of the mulberry tree and silk worm was encouraged in Georgia by legislative enactment. In 1785, the Philadelphia Society for the Promotion of Agriculture was founded by a body of citizens, only "a few of whom were actually engaged in agricultural husbandry, but who were convinced of the necessity of such an association. This society was finally incorporated in 1809. In 1791 a society was organized in the city of New York `for the advancement of agricultural arts and manufactures.' "In 1792 was organized the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture. As early as 1794, the formation of a national agricultural society seems to have occupied the attention of Washington, then President of the United States. In a letter to Sir Peter Sinclair, he advised the establishment of such a society, but thought it would be some time before Congress would give the matter any aid. The agricultural report from the Patent Office •for 1859 says : 'The first proposition for the establishment of such an institution was made by Washington, in his annual speech, delivered on 7th of December, 1796, when he met the two houses of Congress for the last- time. He said : " It will not be doubted that, with reference to either individual or national welfare, agriculture is of primary importance. In proportion. as nations advance in population, and other circumstances of maturity, this truth becomes more apparent, and renders the cultivation of soil more and more an object of public patronage. Institutions for promoting it grow up, supported by the public purse, and to what objection can it be dedicated with greater propriety? Among the means which have been employed to this end, none has been attended with greater success than the establishment of boards, composed of proper characters, charged with collecting and diffusing information, and enabled by premiums and small pecuniary aids to encourage and assist a spirit of discovery and improvement." " 'Thus do we see that the formation of these societies for the promotion of agriculture met with the hearty approbation of one whom we all delight to call the father of his country. This recommendation of Washington met with a hearty response from Congress. " 'From this time, agricultural societies began to be formed in various parts of the country—in New England, in New York and Pennsylvania, and in the Southern States. " 'The first national agricultural association was organized at Georgetown, in 1809, which was discontinued in 1812, in consequence of the war with England. No effort was again made to organize it until 1840, which was not successful. In 1852 at the call of many agricultural societies, 153 delegates, representing twenty-three states met and a national society for agriculture was formed, which has been eminently successful. It has just closed its eighth annual exhibition at Cincinnati. It has done much good to raise the standard of agriculture and disseminate information.' "The first agricultural fair ever held in America was in 1804-05. The first exhibitions. however, that we have any definite record of were held by the Columbian Agricultural Society, at Georgetown, D. C., in 1809. Among the premiums awarded was $100 for the best 294 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY ‘two-toothed ram lam,' $80 for the second best `two-toothed ram lam' and $60 for the third best 'two-toothed ram lam.' President Madison and lady are spoken of as having attended this exhibition. "Thus do we find the men of the early days of the republic, laboring to advance the interests of agriculture by these societies and exhibitions. Should we not as intelligent men give the matter more attention in these advanced days of the republic ? Let us throw away party politics, the scrambling of men for position under our laws, which benefit us or our country not a whit, and devote a part of the energy and vigor we give to party, to accomplish something for that cause which works for our substantial happiness. "Having referred somewhat to the history of the formation of agricultural societies, it may not be out of place, nor uninteresting, to see what has been done in Ohio in that behalf. "In 1846 the Legislature passed an act Tor the Encouragement of Agriculture.' Under this law a State Board of Agriculture was organized. It is made the duty of the board to meet annually, and to report to the General Assembly the condition of agriculture throughout the State, to be accompanied by such recommendation as in the opinion of the board may be interesting and useful. Under this law they have published 12 volumes of reports, and have just held at Dayton their 11th annual fair, with a success unparalleled by any former exhibition, and have assisted most materially in impressing the people with an idea of the importance of a correct knowledge of the- science of agriculture. So common have the societies and. exhibitions become, so well are they approved by all men of science and friends of advancement, that scarce a county or State in the nation but what has its society thoroughly organized. Shall Allen County lag behind ? Certainly she now gives evidence of awaking from profound sleep. But it must be confessed that it is not by these societies, and these exhibitions alone that people are to be educated in the science of agriculture. We can here but interchange experience and observation, and accomplish the other objects I have spoken of. It is but the practical results which we view. We must have schools to teach the science of agriculture. We find a few of the States with agricultural schools and colleges ; New York has two or more ; Michigan upon our north has incorporated into her Constitution a provision, requiring the Legislature to establish an agricultural college, and they have done it—have given 700 acres of land and $90,000 for the purpose. So have Pennsylvania and Maryland given like assistance to the establishment of these schools. "The necessity for the establishment of these institutions or some place where those who design cultivating the soil may be taught in all that pertains t0 agriculture, is apparent. to everyone. Should Ohio be behind in this matter ? Most certainly not. If it is necessary to educate the sons of New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Maryland in the science of husbandry, then it is also necessary to give a like education to the sons 0f Ohio. "The Americans, as a nation, are eminently an agricultural people. We are tillers of the soil. Before the hardy industry of the Anglo-Saxon, the forest is made to 'bud and blossom as the rose', the earth is made to yield up her treasures, and the mineral is appropriated to the best use of man. Our wealth as a nation is in agriculture. The republic produces annually 200,000,000 bushels of wheat, 600,000,000 bushels of corn and 2,500,000 bales of cotton. Why, cotton is said to be King! Our agricultural exports amount to $220,000,000 annually whilst the manufacturing exports amount to but $23,000,000. Thus our agricultural exceeds our maufacturing products in exports alone, nearly $200,000,000. Is not agriculture our greatest source of national wealth ? "Take our own State of Ohio. In 1840-there were 300,000 of our people engaged in agriculture, and only about 70,000 engaged in commerce and manufacture combined. In 1850 we had 270,000 males over 15 years of age engaged in cultivating the earth. In 1860 we cannot have less than 850,000 engaged in farming. In 1858 our agricultural wealth exceeded our manufacturing by many millions of dol- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 295 lars. The annual agricultural productions of 'Ohio amount to $150,000,000. * * * But it is useless to enumerate the evidence of our pre-eminence as an agricultural State. They are manifest on every hand. Our people are fed and our treasury filled by agricultural in. dustry. "But let us come nearer home. What of Allen County ? We have 242,00o acres of land. Of this we cultivate 64,000. In 1850 we sowed 15,000 acres in wheat, and planted 0,270 acres in corn. In 1858 we sowed 16,165 acres in wheat; in 1856 we planted 0ver 19,000 acres in corn. In 1850 we produced 231,277 bushels .of wheat ; in 185i 300,000 bushels of wheat ; in 1859, 140,000 bushels of wheat. In the meantime, however, during those years of discouragement which you all will long remember, the wheat crop became alm0st a failure. "In 1851 the farmers of Allen County planted 11,326 acres in corn, and gathered about 40 bushels to the acre, or 443,126 bushels. In 1853, from 13,623 acres there were gathered 529,623 bushels of corn ; and in 1855 we gathered 529,541 bushels of corn from 18,000 acres. In 1858 from 12,000 acres we gathered 216,000 bushels of corn and in 1859 we gathered 646,000 bushels of corn. We have 6,560 horses, 17,000 cattle and 27,000 hogs. "Besides this we have 50 miles of railway in the county diverging and connecting us with the best grain markets in the West. Our population amounts to 20,000. Less than 4,000 of these live in the villages, leaving all who are able to labor out of 15,000 connected directly with agriculture." THE STATE HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE. The State hospitals of Ohio have for a number of years been overcrowded. On thorough investigation, it was decided to give these institutions greater facilities and, therefore, the Legislature of the State, on April 25, 1904, passed House Joint Resolution No. 60, authorizing Governor Myron T. Herrick to appoint a commission, whose duty it would be to select a site for the erection of a new State Hospital for the Insane. Acting upon this resolution, Governor Herrick appointed the following commission :—Dr. E. LeFever (chairman), Marietta ; Hon. A. H. Judy (secretary), Greenville ; Hon. C. J. Manix, Cleveland ; Hon. Walter B. Richie, Lima ; and Dr. A. B. Smith, Wellington. The first three named were members of the Ohio House of Representatives. This commission entered earnestly upon the responsibility with which it was charged, and, after an extended examination of sites proposed by a large number of the cities of Ohio, decided by unanimous vote to accept the location offered by the people of Lima and Allen County. The place selected consists of 628 acres of land, a little more than a mile directly north of the city of Lima. This tract of land has several streams of clear running water, most excellent drainage facilities, and two large natural groves of forest trees. The location is ideal in every way for the purpose for which it is intended. The above-named commission has made its report to the Legislature in session at the present time (1906), and resolutions are pending for the proper amount of appropriation for the purchase of the site and erection of the buildings. CHAPTER XVII FRATERNAL, BENEVOLENT AND BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS OF LIMA Sweet Charity—History of the First Lodge of Masons Organized in Lima—Masonic Societies of To-Day—The Masonic Temple—Independent Order of Odd Fellows—Odd Fellows Societies of To-Day—Knights of Pythias—The New Ritual, the Work of Walter B. Richie—Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks—Improved Order of Red Men—Ancient Order of United Workmen— Knights of the Maccabees and Ladies of the Maccabees—Modern Woodmen of America—Other Fraternal Insurance Societies—Catholic Societies—Grand Army of the Republic and Woman's Relief Corps—United Spanish War Veterans—The Crusade and the W. C. T. U.—Y oung Men's Christian Association —The Lima Club—The Business Men's Association—The Lima Progressive Association. SWEET CHARITY. The quality of mercy is not strain'd, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath; it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes. One of the noblest attributes of the human heart is benevolence. Sad indeed would be this old world were men not actuated to noble deeds by the impulse of charity. From Christ himself man has learned that the strong should bear the infirmities of the weak. In order to more fully comply with this divine instruction men have organized many societies for the purpose of alleviating human suffering, as well as to extend the social spirit. Benevolent organizations, both within and without the church, have collected millions of dollars, and with it they have made bright the dark places of earth, and have carried the blessings of Christian civilization to the poor, the sorrowing and the helpless at home and abroad. The humanitarian spirit has ever flourished in Lima, and throughout the country. The leaders in benevolence have ever taught the masses that There's a wideness in God's mercy, Like the wideness of the sea. And the masses have taken up the refrain and through the splendid benevolent and other organizations of the county— The charities that soothe, and heal, and bless, Are scattered at the feet of man like flowers. THE MASONIC ORDER. Lima Lodge, No. 205, F. & A. M.—On January 1, 1851, when Lima was only a little struggling hamlet of a few hundred inhabitants, under dispensation granted by Grand Master Hubbard, Lima Lodge met and organized in what was then the Jacobs Block on the present site of the Lima House, with the following officers : Orrin Curtis, worshipful master ; Seth W. Washburn, senior warden ; Samuel A. Baxter, junior warden ; Thomas K. Jacobs, treasurer, and John H. Meily, secretary. David H. Anderson, Zeno Bates and Phineas Edgecomb were also present at this first meeting. At the meeting of January 18, 1851, the petitions of John M. Anderson, Richard E. Thomas, Samuel Sanford and Napoleon B. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 297 Howard for the entered apprentice degree were received. On the 3rd of February the degree was conferred on Samuel Sanford, and on the loth of February on Napoleon B. Howard. These young men were business partners, were about the same age and were the first to receive the degrees. On the 5th of May, 1851, the first Masonic funeral was held over the remains of Ezekiel Hover, and in June of the same year Edmund S. Linn, the first victim to succumb to the scourge of cholera, was given a Masonic burial. During the siege of cholera, wherever there was a case of the dread disease, there were found members of Lima Lodge and their wives, bravely ministering to the sick, the dying and the dead. Of these heroic workers is still living one who pre-eminently deserves honorable mention in Lima Masonic history. For more than half a century the wife of the first secretary, although not permitted on bended knee to assume the lodge's vows she has followed its precepts and practiced its teachings. She has been foremost in deeds of charity and pure beneficence, has nursed the sick, soothed the dying, provided Christian burial for the dead. All this has been done without hope or expectation of reward. All honor to Mrs. Meily ! Surely for her, as she "descends the final slope" that ends the shadowy valley, the darkness will be edged with light from the Land beyond the border. In the spring of 1852 the lodge voted to turn over all the available assets to Thomas K. Jacobs as a partial compensation to him for having provided for the wife and children of a deceased brother during the preceding -winter. There is also an instance of three members of Lima Lodge, who took turns for more than a year in sitting up with a sick brother. This is the kind of Masons they had then and that the kind of lodge to which they belonged. The second home of the lodge was in the third story of the Badeau Block, built by Edmund S. Linn. The room was carpeted and that carpet was the cause of much tribulation to the brethren. The traditional mud of those days exceeded in amount all that could be found in the Black Swamp in springtime. "Uncle" Phineas Edgecomb. the tyler, did not propose to have that carpet spoiled, neither could he afford to travel 10 miles from his country home to. sweep it at 25 cents a week. So he solved the problem by issuing an edict that those brethren who did not provide themselves with slippers. should enter the lodge room neither barefoot. nor shod, but in their stocking feet. At the close of the fiscal year July 1, 1851,, Orrin Curtis, Seth W. Washburn, Samuel A. Baxter, Thomas K. Jacobs, John H. Meily, Zenas Bates, William S. Baker, Andrew Schindler, Lott Turner, Michael Leatherman, John M. Anderson, George Cowles, Henry Grove, Napoleon B. Howard, William L. Hartley., Grimes McConahy, Thomas Milligan, Phineas Edgecomb, Mathias H. Nichols, James M.. Nash, William S. Rose, Samuel Sanford,. Henry Sharp, Daniel Swalley, .A. N. Smith,. Richard Thomas, Eli Bond and William Winn. constituted the lodge. The first meeting under the charter was held. November 3, 1851. The officers installed were :. Orrin Curtis, W. M. ; Seth Washburn, S. W. Samuel A. Baxter, J. W. ; John H. Meily, sec retary ; John M. Anderson, S. D. ; Zenas Bates, J. D. ; Phineas Edgecomb, tyler ; and thus came into full maturity Lima 'Lodge No. 205, formerly known as Charity Lodge. For some time after this period the accretions were fitful—at times active, at other times dormant, but at no time dead. There have always been faithful members and few regular meetings were ever adjourned for lack of quorum or lack of business. On December 27, 1852, Benjamin F. Metcalf was the presiding officer and delivered the address at the first public installation, which was held in the old Court House. The next home of the lodge was in the Langan Block, now the City Bank corner, and on December 27, 1867, it established its quarters without pomp or ceremony in the rooms aver Melville's drug store, which it continued to occupy until the completion of the new Masonic Temple in 1900. Garrett Wykoff Lodge, No. 585, F. & A.. M., was organized under dispensation July 28, 1900, with Davis T. Cable, worshipful master under dispensation. The name was given to 298 - HISTORY OF ALLEN COUNTY the lodge in commemoration of Garrett Wykoff, an old and honored Mason of Lima. The charter was granted October 25, 1900. The past masters have been D. J. Cable, U. D., 'W. K. Boone, William M. Melville and F. M. Frey. The elections of November, 1905, resulted as follows : John Thomas, W. M. ; G. F. Winemiller, S. W. ; J. W. Puetz, J. W. ; T. W. Dobbins, treasurer ; E. H. Johns, secretary, O. F. Ramseyer S D. ; W. F. Dobbins, J. D. ; and J. H. Blattenberg, tyler. The membership numbers 90. Lima Chapter, No. 49 R. A. M., was organized under dispensation March 27, 1852, and chartered October 21, 1852. The following is a list of past high priests : Orrin Curtis, D. H. Anderson, Thomas Milligan ; Eli Bond, Milton Scott. D. C. P. Tirrill G. W. Overmeyer, Calvin Halladay, E. H. Johns, Garrett Wykoff, W. K. Boone, G. W. Walker, L. T. Furnas, A. B. Crall, G. Wms. Van Rennselaer, H. C. Scheide. P. A. Lown, James McBeth, Thomas Cahill C. E. Lanphier Gus Kalb, W. J. Shepherd and Henry C. Seebers. On November 15, 1905, the following officers were elected : Evan L. Thomas, H. P. ; Charles H. Cook, K. ; George B. Holland, S. ; Perry A. Lown, C. H. ; John W. Witmer, P. S. ; Charles M. Shaeffer, R. A. C. ; Robert P. Tones, treasurer ; Wallace Landis, secretary ; William E. Smith, G. M. 3rd veil ; Carl W. E. Boegel, G. M. 2nd veil ; John S. Patton, G. M. 1st veil ; and John W. Crum, guard. The membership is 198. Lima Council, No. 20, R. & S. M., was organized under dispensation May 31, 1854, with Eli Bond, William L. Hartley, D. H. Anderson, Thomas Milligan, S. F. Heffner, George Arnold, A. Youngkin, Alden Beasee, and W. S. Gallagher as members. It was chartered October 13, 1854. Eli Bond was thrice illustrious master and D. H. Anderson, deputy master. The past thrice illustrious masters have been : Eli Bond, Milton Scott, D. C. P. Tirrill, Calvin Halladay, C. I. Neff, D. S. Fisher, E. H. Johns, G. Walker, Garrett Wykoff, A. B. Crall, Miner A. Atmur, H. C. Scheide, D. R. G. Rouch and W. J. Shepherd. The following officers were elected December 5, 1905: George P. Conner, T. I. M. ; George B. Holland. D. M. ; Alfred Gustason, P. C. W. ; Thomas W. Dobbins, treasurer; Wallace Landis, recorder ; William E. Smith, C. G. ; Robert P. Jones, C. C. ; Albert D. Neuman, steward ; John W. Crum, sentinel ; and Mathias S. Bowser, chaplin. The council numbers 133 members. Shawnee Commandery, No. 14, K. T., was granted dispensation November 14, 1855, with Eli Bond, eminent commander. The charter was granted October 16, 1857. The following is the list of past eminent commanders : Eli Bond, A. N. Smith, Milton Sc0tt, D. C. P. Tirrill, G. W. Overmyer, Calvin Halladay, G. W. Walker, W. K. Boone, Levi Reichelderfer, Garrett Wykoff, E. H. Johns, C. M. Hughes, R. Wms. Van Rennselaer, G. W. Myers, W. M. Melville, G. E. Bluem, F. A. Zimmerman and R. 0. Woods. The present officers, chosen at the election of June 13, 1905, are as follows : Walter N. Boyer, E. C. ; John Thomas, G. ; Frederick T. Cuthbert, C. G. ; James L. Andrews, S. W.; Charles W. Herbst, J. \V. ; Mathias S. Bowser, P. ; W. K. Boone, treasurer ; George B. Holland, recorder ; Charles W. Lewis, standard bearer ; Bert F. Betchel, sword bearer ; Hermon V. Chase, warden; Byron S. Fogle, 1st G.; Charles H. Cook, 2nd G. ; Ira L. Shaffer, 3rd G. ; and John W. Crum, sentinel. The membership numbers 236. Thus the Masonic fraternity in Lima has steadily increased each year, numbering at present some 921 members. Its labors have always been for strong and resolute manhood, for virtue that is more than a name, for gentle deeds and kindly forbearance with the weak and erring. Trinity Chapter, No. 16, O. E. S., while not strictly a Masonic organization, is composed of the wives, daughters and sisters of Masons, and holds meetings in the Masonic Temple. It is distinctly a social organization, and was chartered October 28, 1893. Mrs. Lettie Lown was the first worthy matron, while Mrs. Mary Fall is at present in that office, and Mrs. Anna B. Frisbie is the secretary of the chapter. Its membership numbers about 130. THE MASONIC TEMPLE.—After the organization of Lima Lodge, in 1851, the or- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 299 der grew and prospered as the Masonic order does everywhere, recognized and revered as the parent of all secret organizations. A number of years ago the need of a modern home, for this and the several integral and constituent bodies or lodges growing out of the original organization, was keenly felt. For several years prior to that time the Masons had utilized the third floor of the building at the southwest corner of Main and High streets, now known as the "Old Masonic Building," for their home and meeting place. At one period the order owned this entire corner, extending from Main street west to the alley, but from time to time disposed of the property until the main building, fronting on Main street, was sold to Jacob Wise, the Masons, however, reserving the third floor for lodge purposes, and also erecting a third floor to the present City Building, which for a time was also utilized as a lodge room. The sentiment in favor of a more modern and more commodious home for the different orders rapidly grew and at the beginning of the present decade, or, in fact, toward the close of the past decade, had assumed such proportions and gained such foothold among the members of the allied orders that definite steps were taken to secure an establishment in keeping with the prominence and importance of Masonry in Lima. A company composed of members of the order was organized and incorporated under the laws of the State, bearing the title "The Lima Masonic Hall Company," the capitalization being set at $50,000, and the sale of stock, of course, restricted to members of the order. The value of shares was placed at $10 each, and members were permitted to subscribe a sum of that amount or its multiples. The subscriptions were payable in installments and certificates were issued on payment of the amount subscribed. The stock sold rapidly several of the individual members taking as high as $1,000 each, while a number of the lodges, from their treasuries, invested heavily in the stock. After the company had been organized and the stock sales had proceeded to a point where the success of the enterprise was assured, plans for the structure were accepted, George S. Mills, of Toledo, being the successful competing architect ; and a short time later a contract for the construction of the building was let, the firm of H. J. Spieker & Company, of Toledo, being the successful bidders for the construction. Ground was broken early in the year 1900, and the corner-stone was laid on the 18th of July of that year, amid great ceremony Past Grand Master Nelson Williams, of Hamilton, being present and officiating. Construction work was pushed as rapidly as possible, and it was completed and accepted from the contractors about the first of January, 1901. The ground plan of the building is T00 feet on High street extending west from Elizabeth, and 40 feet on Elizabeth, extending south from High street. The building is practically six stories and a basement in height, and the entire fourth, fifth and sixth floors, are devoted to the use of the different Masonic orders. The three lower floors are rented as offices and places of business. The structure is one of the handsomest in the city, of fine, gray, vitrified brick and tiling to correspond, while the interior finish is entirely in keeping with its exterior appearance. The interior finish is in handsome quartered oak, while the light and all other interior fixtures are of the best, handsome in appearance and convenient in use. The building is complete in all its details. It is equipped with a hydraulic elevator, supplied with water from a deep well in the basement of the building, pumped by machinery located therein. The basement contains an extensive heating plant, including a large boiler, and the heating system is one that has proven most satisfactory and is the only one of its kind in the city. It is what is called an indirect heating system. At the southeast corner of the basement is a huge network of steam pipe coils, through which steam may be forced either from the boiler plant of the building or from the mains of the city steam heating plant. Fresh air is brought from outdoors over these coils and heated, then is drawn by a large exhaust fan into a commodious duct and forced through smaller channels or ducts into every room and