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JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 601 JACKSON TOWNSHIP. JOHN AKERMAN, farmer, P. O. Herring. The father of our subject, William Akerman, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., April 17, 1810, and came to Perry County, Ohio, with his parents when but five years of age. On arriving at maturity he removed to Morgan County, Ohio, where he lived till 1834 when he came to this county and entered 120 acres of wild land, placing the same under cultivation ; he also added other land, and at the time of his death owned 254 acres. He held several offices of trust in the township and filled the office of county commissioner four full terms. He was a son of John and Nancy (Baird) Akerman of Pennsylvania. He was married May 9, 1833, to Miss Kezia Carroll, who was born in Morgan County, Ohio, May 17, 1814, daughter of And rew find Letitia (Beech) Carroll, of Pennsylvania. They were parents of thirteen children : Samuel B., Nancy (deceased), John, William H. (deceased), Maria J., Andrew J. (deceased), James M. Mary S., David C. (deceased), Albert J., Newton, Letitia (deceased), and Kezia. Mr. Akerman had one brother, John, and two sisters, Maria and Jane. He died October 9, 1878. Mrs. Akerman had three sisters— Margaret, Sabina and Ruth. John Akerman, the subject of this sketch, was born May 12, 1838, in Allen County, Ohio, and has always been a farmer. He enlisted in Company I, Forty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was under command of Gen. Sherman nearly four years taking part in all general engagements from Pittsburg Landing to the close of the war; was promoted to sergeant in May 18, 1863; first lieutenant in September, 1864, and had command of a company till mustered out. He was a charter member of Dexter Gilbert Post, No. 206 G. A. R.; is a member of Sager Lodge, F. & A. M., and of the P. of H. ; he a member of the Christian Church, and president of Northwestern Ohio Christian Conference. For four years Mr. Akerman was township trustee in Hardin County, where he lived from 1865 till 1872, and the following nine years he lived in Paulding County, Ohio, where he improved a farm of forty acres; was trustee five years and justice of the peace three years, and land appraiser one year. Mr. Akerman married October 31, 1858, Sarah A., daughter of Christian and Eve (Stumbaugh) Fisher, born in Perry County, Ohio, September 15, 1840. To this union were born ten children : Norton, William N,. Emma M., Eugene, Charles H. (deceased), Loren E., John J. (deceased), Junetta, Newton and Cora. Our subject in politics is a Democrat. SOLOMON H. ARNOLD, farmer and county infirmary director, P. O. Herring, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, August 10, 1843; son of Hickman and Martha (Garree) Arnold; former, a son of Solomon and Barbara (Stonebrook) Arnold, early settlers of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, was born in 1820. died in 1848 (he was a captain in the Ohio National Guards in an early day); latter was born near Bridgeport, Ohio, and is 602 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. still living. To them were born two children-Solomon H. and Joseph. Our subject's mother's second husband is Samuel Fackler, by whom she has eight children: Philip H., Catharine, Isaac, Simon, Eva, Henderson, Samuel and Maggie. Our subject was reared on a farm and his educationah advantages were himited to the common schools. He was but four years old when his father died and but ten when his mother again married. He remained at home until he attained his twentieth year, then commenced working at odd jobs. In 1853 his mother and step-father moved to this county, hocating near Beaver Dam. The first real estate Mr. Arnold owned was 100 acres of wild land in Paulding County, Ohio, and he paid for the same by day-habor. In 1864 he went to Bureau County, Ill., to work in a mill, but soon after enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry with Capt. E. R. Virden, going into camp at Peoria. He was mustered into service June 6, and eventually his regiment relieved the One Hundred and Twenty-Second at Cairo. He took no part in active engagements, but was busily employed as clerk in the commissariat department and in transporting prisoners up and down the river. He received an honorable discharge in October 1864, and for a time worked at the carpenter's trade. January 25, 1866, Mr. Arnold married Miss Sarah Milliken, who was born in Richland County, Ohio, August 27, 1843, and to them were born six sons: Thomas, Ernest B., William, Joseph F., Carrie C. and Elsworth. Since his marriage our subject has followed the occupation of a farmer, and located in Jackson Township, in this county. In 1871 be sold out and purchased a fanm of J. Wood, paying him the sum of . $6,000. He erected in 1882 the first brick residence in this vicinity. He has dealt more or less extensively in stock in addition to his other farm interests. Mr. Arnohd was a charter member of a grange which has since been removed and is now called Rattlesnake Grange. He is class-header of the West Point Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is an active Democrat. Having received the nomination, Mr. Arnold was elected county infirmary director at the falh election of 1883, and has since performed the duties of the office with honor to himself and to the full satisfaction of the people. T. W. CORBET, Evangelicah Lutheran minister, P. 0. Herring, was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, January 12, 1819, eldest child of Peter and Elizabeth (Barber) Corbet, natives of Enghand. Peter Corbet came to America about 1806, when eighteen years of age. His death occurred August 4, 1855; his wife died in the fall of 1839. Two of their ten children died young, and those who grew to maturity are Thomas W., Sarah A., Rachel R., Peter (an M. D.), Adam, Joseph, Elizabeth and Rev. John B. At the age of twenty years our subject entered the Pennsylvania College at Gettysburg, where he finished a curriculum, graduating in 1844. He also took a course in theology at Gettysburg Seminary, and soon after entered upon the duties of his chosen profession in his native county as pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. He has labored as such in Perry, Van Wert, Hardin and Allen Counties. coming to the latter county in 1860 and locating in Lafayette, Jackson Township, where he has since resided, and where for twenty years he has filled the office of school director. His health having failed to such an extent as to cause JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 603 his partial retirement from active life, he accepted the office of justice of the peace, to which he was elected in 1882, and the duties thereof he has filled with honor to himself and to the full satisfaction of the people. His first marriage occurred November 1, 1849, with Elizabeth C. Robins, who was born July 9, 1832, daughter of John and Mary Robins, natives of England, and early settlers of Guernsey County, Ohio, where Mrs. Corbet was born. To this union were burn six children: Emma C. (wife of M. Contris), Wihliam H. (treasurer of Van Wert County, Ohio), Mary E., Charles M., Ella A.. and Edward H. Politically our subject is a Democrat. WILLIAM CRAIG, farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born in Fayette County, Penn., January 19, 1804; son of Joseph and Elenor (Sargent) Craig. Joseph Craig was a son of William and Martha (Lytle) Craig, born in New Jersey in July, 1776, killed by a fahling tree in 1824. Elenor Craig died in 1812, leaving four children: Andrew, William, Joseph and Richard, of whom William is the only survivor. Joseph Craig married, for his second wife, Susan (Coughenour) Bright, who died in about 1820, heaving two daughters: Sarah and Elenor. (Elenor is the wife of John Lilly, of Brownsville, Penn., and mother of five children: William, Robert, Ira, John and Joseph). Sarah now lives with her brother William. Our subject received a limited education, and early in life served an apprenticeship to learn the chair making and painting trades, which occupations he followed several years. He came to Adams County, Ohio, in 1822, from there removing to Highland County, and while here he entered land in 1835 in Allen County, and four years after removed to the same. He cleared about 100 acres of this hand, and in 1868 came to the farm, which is still his home. Mr. Craig has retired in a measure from active life, although the management of his farm has been under his directions. He has also been quite an extensive stock grower. Mr. Craig was married in 1825 to Sarah Taylor, who died in 1840. She bore him one son who grew to maturity—Richard, a farmer in Iowa. (He married Mary McDougal, of Davenport, and by her has three children: William, Mary and Sarah.) In politics our subject has been a life-long Democrat. THOMAS DOTSON, farmer, P.O. Herring, was born in Ross County, Ohio, March 20, 1836, son of Charles and Mary M. (Debenbaugh) Dotson, former a native of Pennsylvania, who in his younger days was a teamster, making nine trips over the Rocky Mountains, once with a drove of hogs. Although of a quiet nature he was a public-spirited man and took an active part in public improvements. He died July 4, 1862, aged fifty-eight years, seven months, eight days. His wife was born in Pennsylvania, reared in Fairfield County, Ohio, died January 28, 1847, aged thirty-seven years, eleven months. They had twelve children: Rufus, Catherine, Samueh, Daniel, Thomas, Hannah, Caroline, Stephen, Charles, Mary, Isaac and Sarah. Mary and Thomas are the only residents of Allen County at present. Our subject was but six years of age when his parents removed to this county, locating in Shawnee Township, where he grew to maturity. He obtained a common school education, and at the age of eighteen years entered upon his career in life as a farmer, which he has made the occupation of his life. From the date of his marriage till 604 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1871, he rented a farm, but in that year purchased the property where he now lives. He has been a hard-working, energetic man, and as a result of hardships and exposure suffers more or less from inflammatory rheumatism, but his farm is carried on under his management by the assistance of his children. Having been early in life thrown upon his own resources, his property is the accumulation of years of labor, and the appearance of his farm denotes him to be a practical farmer. September 28, 1854, Mr. Dotson married Susanna Betz, who was born in Ross County in 1833, and came to this county in 1842. She was reared by Isaac Heffner, her mother having died while she was an infant. To our subject and wife were born eleven children: Caroline (deceased), Clara (wife of J. W. McClure), Isaac, Eliza, Stephen, Thomas, Mary, Albert, Katie, Jacob and Milly. ISAAC DOTSON, farmer, P. O. Herring, was born in Shawnee Township, this county, July 31, 1859, son of Thomas and Susanna (Betz) Dotson. He received a common school education and entered upon his career in life as a farmer. He has resided on his present farm six years, and bears the reputation of being an enterprising young man, and is regarded as one of the rising young farmers of Jackson Township. He makes no specialty other than the usual crops and stock. Mr. Dotson married, February 20, 1879, Miss Mollie May Shipley, who was born May 30, 1862. They have one child, Pearly Lewis Delino, born August 20, 1880. Mrs. Dotson is the only survivor of the five children of Benedict and Samantha (Durbin) Shipley, natives of Knox County, Ohio. and who came to this county in 1863. Mr. Shipley died August 19; 1880; his widow survives. Our subject is a consistent member of the German Reformed Church. In politics he is an active Democrat. E. LINCOLN DURBIN. hardware merchant, Lafayette, was born in Knox County, Ohio, July 3, 1860, third in the family of ten children of Samuel and Rachel (Shipley) Durbin, natives of Knox County. Ohio, and now living in Auglaize Township, this county. Mr. Durbin was married September 21, 1882, to Miss Mary F. Cook, daughter of William H. Cook, and born in Putnam County, Ohio. November 27, 1861. Their only boy, Charles Elsworth, was born August 1, 1883. Our subject's earliest recollections are of Allen County, his parents having located in Auglaize Township in 1866. He finished his education at the Normal School at Ada, Ohio, and embarked upon his business career at Lafayette in June, 1882, purchasing the hardware stock of S. W. Merchant. By close attention to business, and through his courteous manner in attending to the wants of his customers, his trade steadily increased, necessitating an increase of stock, which he has made in proportion to the demand, his sales amounting to nearly $4,000 per year. In connection with his other stock Mr. Durbin also handles a line of agricultural implements. He and his wife are connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Durbin is a member of the Council; politically he is a Republican. LEMUEL EVERSOLE, farmer and stock-raiser. P. O. Herring, was born in Perry County, Ohio, October 30, 1829; son of Peter and Rebecca (Snyder) Eversole, natives of Perry County. Ohio. They were the parents of seven children who grew to maturity: Eliza, Catherine, Francis, JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 605 Nancy (deceased), Lemuel, Rebecca and Daniel. When our subject was but two years of age his parents removed to Blackswamp, in Sandusky County, Ohio, where they both died in 1835, within a month of each other. Our subject was thus early thrown on his own resources, and his educational advantages were necessarily limited to a few months each year in the common schools. At the death of his parents he returned to Perry County, and until he arrived at the age of seventeen years resided with his uncle, John Eversole. He then served as apprentice to the carpenter trade for three years, and received for his labors the sum of $30 and his clothes; three months after his time was out he went to California, and for about two years engaged in mining and constructing gold washers. Soon after his return East, in the spring of 1852, he purchased wild land in Allen County, Ohio, and during the winter of that year he worked for Mussey & Winn, of Lima, at cabinet-making. The following six years he worked at his trade in the eastern part of the county, and during this time sold his land and purchased the farm of 320 acres upon which he now resides, and on which he has made all the improvements, having placed it under a state of cultivation, making it second to none in this vicinity. He erected in 1872 a fine bank barn, and in 1875 a fine brick residence, among the first in the township. In May, 1864, our subject enlisted, and was appointed second corporal of Company A, One Hundred and Fifty-first Ohio National Guards in the 100 days' service with Capt. King, of Delphos. Mr. Eversole was married, July 8, 1855, to Miss Sarah Nash, born in Jackson Township, this county, July 11, 1837, daughter of Thomas and Rebecca (Akins) Nash, who were among the early settlers of the county, former deceased, latter now living at the advanced age of ninety-eight years. To the union of our subject and wife were born twelve children: George W., of Van Wert County, Ohio; Eliza J. (wife of L. B. Harrod), Frank J. (in California), John E., Charles A., Elva C., Daniel B., Nettie B., Lemuel N., Aura D., Ralph and an infant (deceased). While a resident of Perry County Mr. Eversole united with the I. O. O. F., and was one-of the charter members of the Order at Lima. He has been a consistent member of the Christian Church about three years; is one of the present township trustees; is a school director. For several years he has been considered among the most extensive as well as successful stock-raisers of the neighborhood. In politics he has always been a stanch Republican. JOSEPH FISHER, farmer, P.O. Herring, was born in Perry County, Ohio, August 3, 1828, son of Christian Fisher, who was born in Perry County, Ohio, and died August 22, 1863, aged sixty-six years. Christian Fisher came to Allen County in 1854, and held several offices of trust in this and Perry Counties. His widow, nee Eve Stombaugh, was born in Perry County, Ohio, April 12, 1810, and is still living. They were parents of eleven children: Levi, Joseph, Margaret, Elizabeth, Eve, Charles, Sarah, Hannah, Catherine, Franklin and Frederick. Five of the above are still living, Charles, Sarah and Joseph being residents of this county. Our subject received a common school education, and remained with his parents until after arriving at maturity. In 1854 he came to Allen County, and located upon the farm which is still his home, and which is now under such a state of cultivation as to denote a thrifty 30 606 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. owner. Mr. Fisher owns ninety-one acres. He owned the first separator in this vicinity, and for twenty seasons followed threshing. He was also among the first to adopt the new agricultural implements, such as mowers, reapers, etc. Under Gen. Sherman he served his country nearly four years, having enlisted in Company I, Forty-sixth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry. Our subject was married Jannary 27, 1850, to Jemima Stockberger, of Perry County, born January 14, 1830, and to this union six children were born: Mary A. (wife of J. H. Umdangh), Benjamin F., Almanary (wife of James W. King), Noah (deceased), Martha ElDora and Sarah. Mrs. Fisher is a daughter of George and Christine (Boyer) Stockberger, of Pennsylvania, who settled in Perry County, Ohio, in 1804; the father died in 1846, the mother in 1850. They were parents of thirteen children: Sarah, Elizabeth, John. Mary, Nancy, Susan, Catherine, Christine, Hannah, George, Solomon, Jemima and Joseph. Our subject is an active member of Dexter Gilbert Post, G. A. R., also of a grange; he has served as township trustee several terms; is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Democrat, and voted for Grover Cleveland and Thomas A. Hendricks. HARRISON HEFFNER, farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born in Ross County, Ohio, December 25, 1834. Isaac Heffner, the father of our subject, was prominent among the self-made men of this county. Commencing in life a poor man, with but a limited education, he eventually became one of the largest land owners of the county, and at the time of his death owned about 1,500 acres of land, nearly all of which he had improved. Ho was born in Pennsylvania, February 12, 1809, and when a child was' taken by his parents to Ross County, Ohio, where he grew to maturity. In May, 1833, he married Mary May, born in 1807, daughter of John and Mary (Strouse) May, natives of Pennsylvania, and early settlers of Ross County. In about 1842 Isaac Heffner came with his family to this county, and here erected the first brick house built in Jackson Township, where he died May 30, 1884. He was a very public-spirited man, and much credit is due him for the present state of development Jackson Township has obtained. He was the founder of the church deeded to the Christian denomination, although for years a member of the German Reformed Church. Our subject has resided upon his present farm since 1863. He is one of the most extensive stock dealers in this vicinity, his herd consisting of thoroughbred shorthorns. He was married April 30, 1803, to Miss Mahaley Ice, who was born in Auglaize Township, this county, March 11, 1842, daughter of Samuel. and Mary (Shelenberger) Ice, natives of Pennsylvania, and who are among the early settlers of Auglaize Township, this county. To this union were born six children: Mary L., Charles E., Jennie A., Rison B., William G. and Harry H. Mr. Heffner has served the people of Jackson Township as trustee. He has for several years been identified with the German Reformed Church. In politics he is an active Democrat. ELIJAH HELSER, farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born in Perry County, Ohio, October 20, 1815; son of John Heiser, a farmer, born in Virginia, and died in Perry County, where he was an early settler, and whose wife, Mary (Reisen), was also a native of Virginia. They were the parents of nine children: William (deceased), John, Daniel (deceased), Catherine JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 607 (deceased), Elijah, George, Peter, Levi and Mary. The Helser family are of German extraction, and their ancestors were among the colonists who settled in Virginia, Our subject was educated in the old subscription schools, and reared a farmer. Early in life he learned the trades of carpenter and cabinet-maker, which he followed in his native county about fourteen years. saving enough of his earnings during the time to buy 240 acres of wild land in this county, where he removed with his family in 1854. He has placed his land under a high state of cultivation, and in 1860 erected a large frame barn, which at that time was the best in the township. In 1875 he erected the second brick residence in tho township. Mr. Heiser has been an extensive stock grower, and is one of the substantial farmers of the county. He was married in 1841 to Eliza, daughter of Peter and Rebecca (Snyder) Eversole, and to this union were born nine children: John W. (married to Milly A. Sivitz), James G. (married to Sarah Long), Lemuel L. (married to Esther Ashum), Daniel 0. (married to Ella Grant), Sarah A. (wife of F. R. Thompson, an M. D. in Nebraska), Melvina, George E., Jennie F. and Peter F. (deceased). Our subject is a charter member of Jackson Grange. In politics he is a Democrat, voting first for Van Buren. SOLOMON HUBER, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, October 24, 1851, eldest son of Jacob and Annie (Depler) Huber, former a native of Germany, latter of Swiss descent, early settlers of Richland Township (both now deceased). They were the parents of six children: Solomon, John (deceased), Matilda (deceased), William W., Jacob D., and John T. Our subject received a limited common school education, and commenced farming and stock raising at the age of twenty-one, which he has since followed on the farm where he still resides. Mr Huber is a publicl spirited man and takes an active part in public enterprises and improvements, and deserves much credit for what he has done toward assisting in the development of this part of the county. As a farmer and stock-raiser, his aim is to excel, and a fine residence, substantial barn and cattle sheds bear testimony of his enterprise. He is an extensive breeder of and dealer in extra pure Poland- China hogs. Our subject was married September 12, 1875, to Mary M., daughter of Benjamin Franklin, born in Jackson Township, this county, January 26, 1856. Their only child now living, William Henry Perry, was born June 7, 1876; those deceased are Annie E. and Matilda A. Mr. Huber since 1872 has been a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church; politically he -is a leader in the Democratic party. He has served two terms as road supervisor, and two years as school director, an office he still holds as clerk; is a member of township school board. In manner Mr. Huber is very quiet and peaceable, aiming to be the friend of all. He is highly respected by all who know him intimately, and stands among the best citizens of the township or county. SAMUEL KNOBLE, dealer in stoves and tinware, Lafayette, was born in Switzerland, July 27. 1830, son of Frederick and Anna (Zeiset) Knoble (both deceased). Of their nine children six are now living: Elizabeth, Ann, Susannah. Samuel, Mary and John. Those deceased are Frederick, Mary M. and an infant. In 1834 our subject's parents immigrated to America. and in 1835 located in Wayne County, Ohio, 608 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. where he grew to maturity. In early life he served an apprenticeship to the trade of tinsmith. In 1860 he removed to Allen County, and for three years was engaged in business at Beaver Dam, and then removed his stock to Lafayette, this county, where he has since continued his business, and in 1876 took his eldest son. Henry, into partnership. In connection with the regular stock of stoves and tinware they handle agricultural implements, and make a specialty of roofing and spouting. In 1861, Mr. Knoble enlisted as musician in the Eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry Band, serving one year. Mr. Knoble was married, in 1854, to Jane E. Chitester, who was born at Mount Eaton, Wayne County, Ohio, July 10, 1831, and their children are Henry, Sarah E. (wife of J. L. Heath) and John. G. telegraph operator. Henry was born March 27, 1855, married March 6, 1882 to Jennie Gansel, who bore him one child, Goldie, born March 6, 1883. Several years since our subject became a member of the Lodge, F. & A. M. at Massillon, Ohio, and at its organization became a charter member of Sager Lodge, 513, of Lafayette. He is identified with the Lutheran Church; politically he is a Democrat. He has held the offices of township clerk and recorder of the corporation. JOHN LONES, farmer, P. 0. Herring. was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, October 18, 1815, son of John and Mary Magdalene (Strickler) Lones. John Lones, the father of our subject, was born in Shenandoah County, Va., and died about 1843, aged fifty-seven years. He was a farmer by occupation, an early settler of Fairfield County, Ohio. His wife, a native of Pennsylvania, died about 1860, aged seventy-four years. They were parents of ten children, of whom eight grew to maturity: Catharine, Elizabeth, Leonard, Sarah, Lydia, Rebecca, John and Rose Ann; only three of this family are now living. Our subject was reared on a farm and obtained his education in the old subscription schools. In 1838 he removed to this county, where he purchased eighty acres of land at $1.25 per acre. and he still resides upon the same to which he has added 60 acres. The old log hut which he erected within three weeks after his arrival in the county, is still standing, and is occupied by his son Levi. The one in which he now lives was built in 1850. Mr. Lones was one of the six founders of the Lutheran Church. He belonged to the old time militia both in Franklin and Allen Counties in an early day. He was married, November 18, 1847, to Elizabeth Baker, who was born in Perry County, Ohio, January 9, 1814; she died January 4, 1884. She was the mother of twelve children: Samuel, Many J., Nancy (deceased), William, Henry, Julia A. (deceased), Levi, Lucinda, Michael (deceased), Daniel (deceased), Susan and Aaron, all of whom except two grew to maturity. Our subject has been a life-iong supporter of the Democratic party. MOSES McCLUER. farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born in Allen County, Ohio, December 1, 1826; son of Samuel and Margaret (Watt) McCluer. Samuel McCluer was born November 17, 1793, in Harrison County, Ky., where he lived till the war of 1812. in which he served as private. After the war he removed to Champaign County, Ohio, where he married Margaret Watt, who was born July 6. 1800. Samuel McCluer was a very influential man, sober and upright, quick to decide right from wrong, choosing the former. He would willingly divide with those in need. JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 609 For many years previous to his death, which occurred December 29, 1876, he was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His first wife bore him twelve children : Sarah A.., Nathaniel, Mary, Thomas, Moses, Elizabeth, Nancy, Cynthia, Margaret, Samuel, Robert and an infant. By his second wife-Elizabeth Patterson, born in 1824-he had eleven children : John, Catherine, Isabel, James, Esther, Eliza, Joseph, Newton, Alexander, Benjamin and William. Eleven of his twenty-three children are still living, also his second wife. Our subject was the first white child born in this county, and at the time of his birth the nearest neighbor known to his parents was thirty miles distant. He remained with his parents until his twenty-third year, assisting in clearing a large tract of land, having always lived within three miles of his birth-place. His education was neglected, the object being at that time rather how to obtain food and raiment. Since arriving at manhood Mr. McCluer has obtained a fair education, enabling him to transact all kinds of business ; he was administrator to his father's estate. His first real estate consisted of forty acres of wild land, which he has improved, as well as the additional 224 acres which he has made at intervals. He also owns 108 acres in Bath Townsbip, which joins the old home farm. Our subject was married July 23, 1848, to Miss Elizabeth Murray, who was born in Highland County, Ohio, February 8, 1831, daughter of John Murray. She died March 7, 1855, having borne her husband four children, only two of whom were named : Martha (deceased) and Margaret T. Mr. McCluer was married October 18, 1855, on the second occasion, to Elizabeth K. Greer, of Montgomery County, Ohio, born January 18, 1836, daughter of Joshua aud Rebecca (Pierson) Greer, of Kentucky and New Jersey respectively (they located in Bath Township, Allen County, in 1841). Mrs. McCluer is the mother of eight children : John M. (married to Clarissa Dotson), Isaac (married to Margaret Dotson), Rebecca (wife of J. Sweeter), Robert W. (married to Cora Bresler), Samuel L., Joshua G., Moses A. and Cynthia A. Mr. McCluer owes no man. He is consulted upon and takes an active interest in all public improvements and enterprises, and has always been liberal in the support of public institutions. He was a Whig but since its birth a member of the Republican party. He offered his services to his country during the war, but was not accepted on account of disability. For eight years he has been a consistent member of the Protestant Methodist Episcopal Church. HARRISON MALTBIE, retired preacher, Lafayette, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, December 5, 1807 ; son of Benjamin Maltbie. He was reared on a farm, and completed his education at Lane Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio. He joined the Presbyterian Church in 1828, and changed bis membership to the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1842 ; was licensed to preach in 1844 ; ordained a deacon in 1851 entered the traveling connection in 1853 ; ordained an elder in 185'7. HE traveled as circuit preacher for twenty years in Allen, Hardin, Logan, Auglaize, Shelby, Mercer, Van Wert, Putnam and Hancock Counties, Ohio. In 1834 he purchased his first land in Shawnee Township, Allen County, and removed to the same with his family in 1847, they remaining there during his absence, while engaged in his professional duties 610 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. He is now retired from active life, and become a supernumerary. Mr. Maltbie was married four times, first to Susannah Dowling, who bore him three children : Salas B., William F. and Margaret A. ; second to Nancy J. Wilkinson, who bore him one son-Thomas A.; third to Emily J. Wilkinson, who bore him one child (deceased in infancy); and fourth, April 4, 1882, to Mrs. Ann Moore (maiden name Ann Lochead), born in Glasgow, Scotland, January 4, 1823 (she was thrice married, first to John Moore, second to Smith Moore, and by each of these had two children, all now deceased). Mr. Maltbie has spent about fifteen years of his life in the schoolroom as teacher ; was county surveyor of Shelby County three years. ROBERT MEHAFFEY, real estate and stock dealer, Lafayette. Prominent among the self-made men of Allen County, is Robert Mehaffey, who was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, August 23, 1833. Until 1849 his life was spent upon a farm in his native land. In 1850 he arrived in America and took up his residence in Jackson Township, this county. His property at this time consisted of a sixpenny piece and a few articles in a valise. He attended school during the winter and labored during the summer, receiving as a compensation $6.00 per month. He came to Lafayette in 1852, and entered the employ of Dr. N. Sager, with whom he remained about seven years. He then purchased a stock of dry goods, and continued in business about eleven years, since when he has led a varied business career, dealing in real estate, farming, stock dealing, etc. Mr. Mehaffey was elected justice of the peace and served as such six years. In 1869 he was elected as clerk of the court and per, formed the duties of that office two terms with honor. In January, 1875, he was elected president of the First National Bank, of Lima. Three years later he severed his connection with the bank, and for several years remained out of that line of business, but eventually re-entered the organization and became president of the Merchant's Bank, of Lima, which office he still retains. His real estate business is very extensive, as well as his live stock interests, baving for about thirteen years been one of the largest dealers in short-horn cattle in the county. He filled the quota for men during the war of the Rebellion, and was instrumental in clearing the township from draft; was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of the state militia, under Gov. Tod. Mr. Mehaffey is a charter member of Sager Lodge, 513, F. & A. M., Lafayette. His brother, James, who accompanied him to America, died in St. Louis, about 1867. August 19, 1856, Mr. Mehaffey was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Richardson, of Lima, who was born January 5, 1834. This union has been blessed with three children, William R. (with Moore Bros., Lima, Ohio), Edith Alice (wife of Dr. Hill, of Toledo, Ohio) and George Edgar, at home. MICHAEL MURRAY, farmer, P. 0., Beaver Dam, eldest son of John W. and Dorcas (Widmire) Murray, was born in Highland County, Ohio, November 24, 1826. After receiving a common school education he commenced farming, which has been the principal occupation of his life, and in which he has been very successful. Our subject was united in marriage November 6. 1851, with Miss Elizabeth Guthrie, who was born in Licking County. Ohio. March 17, 1833. Her death occurred February JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 611 11, 1881. This union was blessed with eleven children, Mary J., America A. (deceased), Emma S. (deceased), James B., Ellen, Sarah, John, Tabitha. Sydney, Lettie M. and an infant deceased. During the years 1863, 1864 our subject served as assessor of the township, and in 1866 was elected justice of the peace, which latter office he filled with honor to himself two successive terms. He is an active member of Liberty Grange and a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Democrat. JAMES W. MURRAY, farmer, P. 0., Herring, was born on the farm which is still his home, August 18, 1838. His father, John W. Murray, was born in Pennsylvania in 1794, went to Highland County, Ohio, in 1807, came to this county in October, 1834, locating on Section 7, Jackson Township. He was a self-made man and very prominent in all public enterprises. He served as township trustee several times; although not in active service he was a volunteer in the war of 1812; his death occurred January 3, 1868. His wife, Dorcas (nee Widmire) Murray, was born in Virginia, March 20, 1805, and is still living. They had a family of ten children, Michael, Sydna J., Elizabeth A. (deceased) John B., Robert R,, James W., George W., William (deceased), and two infants deceased. Robert R. served three years in the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, during the civil war. Our subject's education was limited to a few months each year in the common schools of the day, and farming has been the occupation of his life. He assisted in clearing the home farm, upon which he has made most of the modern improvements, in shape of buildings, etc. January 23, 1862, Mr. Murray married Miss Bridget C. Boyd, who was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, January 6, 1844, daughter of . Robert and Catherine (Crager) Boyd, who came to this county in 1844, and are still living. By this union were born four children, James J., Leonia F., Charles E. and Wilbur B. (latter deceased). Our subject served the township as assessor in 1874-75; he is an active member of Liberty Grange 686; for fifteen years he has been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; in politics he is a Democrat. SANFORD P. PHILLIPS, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Knox County, Ohio, April 17, 1847; son of James and Mary (Hughs) Phillips, natives of Knox County, Ohio, and Pennsylvania respectively, and residents of Richland Township, this county. They were parents of eight children: Levi, Allen, Nelson, Shannon, Sarah (wife of E. Huber), John, James and Sanford P. Our subject's education was limited to the common schools, and he has made farming the principal occupation of his life. He was brought to this county in 1852, and grew to maturity in Richland Township. He came to his present farm in 1871, cleared the same and placed it under a high state of cultivation. During the year 1882 he erected one of the finest dwellings in this part of the township. Mr. Phillips was married March 3, 1870. to Miss Mary Huber, daughter of William Huber, born in Richland Township, this county, January 20, 1850, and to this union have been born two children: William Arthur, born Vine 2, 1873, and James Archie, born January 20, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips also reared Sally Huber, a younger sister of Mrs. Phillips, who was born October 10, 1870. Mr. Phillips has for several years been 612 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. a consistent member of the Methodist Church, also an active Sabbath-school worker. Politically he is an ardent Democrat. A. S. RUDY, physician and surgeon, Lafayette, was born in Auglaize Township, this county, December 5, 1855: son of Frederick and Mary (Staley) Rudy, natives of Miami County, Ohio, and who were among the early settlers of Allen County, former born December 4, 1809, still living in Auglaize Township; latter died in 1859, leaving seven children who grew to maturity: Jacob, Shepherd, Caroline (now deceased), Sylvester, Anna (now deceased), Albert and Alice. Our subject up to the age of nineteen years, was employed upon a farm and in attending the common schools of the neighborhood. During the fall of 1874 he attended the normal school at Ada, and taught school during the winter, his time being thus employed for several years, and about 1877 be became Superintendent of the public schools at Westminster, Ohio, which position he held for a period of nine successive terms. He completed the scientific course at Ada, graduating in May 1881. Our subject had previously given his attention to the reading of medicine, and continuing the same he attended his first course of lectures in the medical department of the Western Reserve University at Cleveland, Ohio. He entered the medical college of Ohio at Cincinnati, in September, 1883, graduating March 7, 1884. Having passed a very creditable examination he immediately entered on the practice of his profession at Lafayette, Ohio, where, through his thorough knowledge of and close attention to business, he has secured a practice justly due to years of labor, showing that much confidence is placed in his skill as a physician and surgeon. Dunsi: ing his practice the Doctor has not lost a patient, and has successfully treated severe cases of typhoid fever, congestion of the brain, etc. He became a member of Sager Lodge, No. 513, F. Sr A. M. in April 1880; was formerly member of an order of Sons of Temperance. Politically he is identified with the Republican party. WILLIAM RUMBAUGH, farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born in Bath Township, this county, July 9, 1834; son of William and Anna (Aldridge) Rumbaugh, of German and Scotch descent, respectively. William Rumbaugh, Sr., was born in Virginia, August 6, 1792, and moved to Greene County, Ohio, at an early date with his parents, and came to Allen County in 1828, moving his family three years later. During the war of 1812 he was in camp twelve days, but was not mustered in. He was an enterprising, kind-hearted, benevolent man. He lived to see his twelve children married, dying January 8, 1868. His widow, who was born in Pennsylvania, December 11, 1799, is still living. Their children were Jacob (deceased), Samuel (deceased), Mary, Benjamin, Elizabeth, Uriah (deceased), Lucinda, George, William, John, Anna (deceased), and Irena. Our subject remained upon the home farm until he was twenty-three years of age. Soon after his marriage he turned his attention to learning the cooper trade, which for twenty years was his chief occupation. Three years he engaged in mercantile business, and four years owned and operated a grist-mill at Lafayette. Owing to ill-health he eventually returned to agricultural pursuits, and in March, 1878, moved on his present highly cultivated farm of 187 acres, where he makes buying and selling stock a specialty. February 22, 1857, Mr. Rumbaugh JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 613 married Miss Anner 0. Bryte, a native of Ashland, Ohio, born October 22, 1836, daughter of David Bryte, who was born in Fayette County, Penn., in December, 1806, and whose parents a year later moved to Jefferson County. Ohio. He, David Bryte, followed teaching several years, and was twice sheriff of Richland County, Ohio. He was one of the first infirmary directors of -Allen County, where he lived a few years. He was a zealous Christian and an ardent Democrat; at his death his loss was universally mourned. His first wife, nee Mary Van ̊strain, lived but a short time; his second wife, nee Wealthy Slocum, was a descendant of Anthony Slocum, one of the forty-six original purchasers of the territory of Cohasset, now in Massachusetts. Mrs. Bryte was born in New York, January 6, 1816, and is still living, the mother of seven children: Anna 0., Eliza (deceased), Harriet, Hannah (deceased), Amanda, John (deceased), and Alice A. To the union of our subject and wife were born two children: Charles V. (a reporter for the Daily Republican of Lima), and Tully A. Mrs. Rumbaugh taught twenty-five terms in the common school and seven terms in the high school after her marriage. While in town our subject was for several years a member of the council and school board, and held other offices of trust. He enlisted in the 100 days' service in Company G. Fifty-first Ohio National Guards, and served for the term of his enlistment; he was at Fort Reno in defense of Washington. For many years he has been a zealous Christian and Sabbath-school worker. In politics he is a Republican. NEWTON SAGER, physician, Lafayette, Ohio, born in Union County, Ohio, October 31, 1817, is a son of Henry and Lovina (Haines) Sager, natives of Virginia, who became early settlers of Union County, Ohio. Henry was a farmer and blacksmith, be died about 1838, aged forty-seven years. His widow's death occurred in 1879. Four of their eight children are now living. Newton Sager's early life was spent on a farm, he receiving the foundation of his subsequent education in the common schools, and when nineteen years of age, entered Oxford University where he received a literary education. He afterward read medicine in Pleasant Valley, Madison Co., Ohio, and graduated from the old Jefferson Medical University in 1843. He immediately entered upon the practice of his profession in Lafayette, Jackson Township, this county, where he has since resided. At that early date his ride extended many miles the first settlements being scarce and practitioners correspondingly so. With the increase of population the call for his services also advanced and for months at a time he prescribed for as many as forty o: fifty patients in a day, and could not possibly visit them oftener than once in two days. At times it was quite difficult to obtain supplies. This being a malarious district, quinine was in great demand, and the supply at one time both in Lima and Kenton having been exhausted, the doctor was obliged to go to Piqua to purchase. As the demand for new remedies and drugs increased his stock eventually developed into a drug store, which he has managed for several years in connection with his professional duties. He has several times served the people as treasure] and politically has for years been considered a leader of the Democratic party in this vicinity; he has always taken an active part in all public enterprises, especially those for the advancement of educational privi- 614 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. leges; has been liberal also in the support of religious institutions, though not identified with any denomination. He joined the order of F. & A. M. at Lima, soon after the organization of the lodge at that place, and is a charter member of Sager Lodge at Lafayette, Ohio, which lodge he was instrumental in having established and which was named in his honor. The doctor came to this county a widower, having been previously married to Miss Hannah, daughter of Daniel Custard, of Lima, she died in 1840, leaving a daughter—Areneta, since deceased. The doctor was married, on the second occasion, to Miss Bethiah Gilbert. of Vermont, born in 1824. This union has been blessed with six children who grew to maturity : Newton Jr., Norvel (deceased), a graduate of Wesleyan University of Delaware, Annetta (wife of Wesley Biteman), Lovina (wife of D. Kinsley), Norton, a farmer, Mary Bell (wife of Geo. B. Muir). Perhaps no man has done more for the development of this part of Allen County than Dr. Sager, and to his efforts is due the locating, in a direct line, the Pittsburg, Ft. Wayne & Chicago Railroad from upper Sandusky to Lima. NEWTON SAGER, Jr., physician, Lafayette, was born in Jackson Township, this county, December 18, 1847, son of N. Sager. From the high school of the county our subject passed a year of study in Baldwin University, at Berea, Ohio, and having previously read medicine with his father he took several courses of lectures at Ann Abbor, Mich., graduating: in the medical department of Wooster University, at Cleveland. Ohio, in 1871. He immediately entered upon the practice of his profession in his native place, where he has gained a leading practice by a thorough knowledge of, and close attention to, business, and much confidence is placed in his skill as a physician and surgeon. He is an enthusiastic entomologist, and having given a great deal of time to the study of this branch of natural history, has perhaps the choicest collection of specimens in northwestern Ohio. Dr. Sager was married, April 4, 1871, to Sarah M. Hughs, born December, 1, 1847, daughter of Hiram and Emily Hughs, of Knox County, Ohio, and to this union were born two children: Grace, born June 29, 1873, and Georgie, born, August 30, 1876. Our subject became a F. & A. M. in Ada, and was a charter member of Sager Lodge, 513, Lafayette. He has been treasurer of the township two years; is an active member of the Democratic party. JACOB STEMPLE, farmer, P. O. Ada, Hardin County, was born in Carroll County, Ohio, July 28, 1826. Jacob Stemple, father of our subject. was a native of Virginia, born in 1792. He served in the war of 1812, under Gen. Harrison, and was captain of early militia companies of Carroll and Columbiana Counties, whore he removed from Virginia in 1816; was also a justice of the peace several years. He died in 1859. Eve Easterday, his wife. was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1797; died in 1850. They were parents of eleven children: Catherine, Susan (deceased). Martin, David. Jacob. Louisa (deceased), Eve, Melancton (deceased), Levi, Barbara and Milton (the latter served three years in the war of the Rebellion in the Eightieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry), and David, who is now a resident of Carroll County. Ohio. was in the 100 days' service Ohio National Guards, with our subject. Jacob Stemple, Jr., remained with his parents until he was twenty-five years JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 615 of age, at which time he entered on his career in life as a farmer.. He came to this county in 1849, and located on land ho had purchased from his father, to whom the land grant was made in 18:35. He has improved a farm of 120 acres, having placed the same under a high state of cultivation. During the Rebellion, Mr. Stemple enlisted in Company G, and was soon transferred to Company A, One Hundred and Fifty-first Ohio National Guards, in 100 days' service, under command of Col. Marble, of Delphos, Ohio, with Capt. King, and was stationed at Fort Reno, in defence of Washington. Our subject was married, March 5, 1855. to Miss Mary Earnst, who was born in Carroll County, Ohio, May 21, 1835. She has borne him ten children: Elizabeth A. (wife of J. H. Smith), Luther M. (deceased), Milton A. (married to Jennie Shaw), John L., Margaret L. (wife of S. Snyder), Emma S., Clara A. (wife of F. Jennings), Sarah J., Mary L. and Jacob O. Mrs. Stemple is a daughter of Lazarus and Margaret (Harsh) Earnst, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania respectively, early settlers of Carroll County, Ohio, parents of nine children: Hannah (deceased), Nancy, Daniel (deceased), Susan, Abraham, John (deceased). Elizabeth (deceased), Mary and Sarah (latter deceased). Mr. Stemple has been a consistent member of the Lutheran Church since 1843. In politics he was originally a Whig, but has been an adherent of the Republican party since its organization. FRANKLIN URICH, merchant, Lafayette, was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, March 7, 1841, son of David and Ann (Eckenrode) Urich (former deceased), natives of Pennsylvania, and who were among the very early settlers of Mahoning County, Ohio. They had a family of ten children, of whom Franklin is the fifth. Until our subject was twelve years of age, his life was spent on a farm and in attending school. He then worked at the tailor's trade two years, then for three years was engaged in printing, and from that time until he arrived at maturity he followed farming. He then removed to Hardin County, and for two years was again engaged in tailoring. He next formed a partnership with Mr. Reese, of Ada, that county, to whom he sold his interest about eleven years later, and for three years was in the clothing business at the same place. He also spent two or three years in the grocery trade, after which he purchased a farm and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. Tiring of this, he re-entered the dry goods business; came to Lafayette, this county, in 1875, and there gained a leading place in mercantile business. Our subject was married, July 11, 1869, to Miss Mary E. Maguire, who was born near Maysville, Ky., December 11, 1847. They have two children: Bert and Clifford. Mrs. Urich is a daughter of Viers and Sarah (Cochrun) Maguire, early settlers of Allen County, Ohio, the former killed in the army, the latter still living. Mr. Urich was township clerk two years and mayor of the town one year and a half, and has been a member of the council. He has been a F. & A. M. several years. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a regular attendant of the Methodist Episcopal Church. CHARLES WAMSLEY, proprietor of restaurant and confectionery, Lafayette, was born in Ottawa Township, this county, December 7, 1857, son of J. B. Wamsley, of Lima. He finished his education in a commercial course at Duff's Commercial College in Allegheny City, Penn. Having 616 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. served an apprenticeship to the jewelry trade, he embarked in business at Ada, Ohio, in 1877. Two years later he sold out, and for three years following was engaged in the boot and shoe business at the same place. He then removed to Lafayette, this county, where he has since been engaged in the restaurant and confectionery lino. At the spring election of town officers he was elected mayor. Mr. Wamsley was married, May 2S, 1882, to Miss Lulu, daughter of William Watt, born November 21, 1864, and to this union was born February 19, 1884, one daughter Madge. Our subject has been a member of K. of H. about three years. In politics he is a Republican. ROBERT WATT, farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born. in Champaign County, Ohio, November 16, 1827, and was brought to this county by his parents in 1829. Samuel Watt, the father of our subject; was a native of Kentucky, and in 1812 became a resident of Champaign County, Ohio. While employed in digging a well he took cold, and became a cripple for the balance of his life, but although so conditioned he took an active part in military affairs during the Mexican war, and for years was captain of the Light Horse Guards in company with Capt. Stots, under command of Gen. Blackburn; he died in July, 1881, in Iowa, where for. thirty years he had resided. His first wife Olive Walton, died about 1841; she was a native of Canada. They had eight children: Deborah. Harriet, Christina, Nancy, Thomas, James (deceased), Samuel (deceased) and Robert. By his second wife, nee Mary Greer. Mr. Watt had the following children: John, Samuel, Olive, Lydia, Sydney, Sarah Francis, all living. The earliest recollections of our subject aro of Allen County; and he has been active in keeping pace with the improvements which have taken place. His early life was employed in hard labor, and his education was necessarily limited. While a barefooted boy he drove a team of oxen, employed in hauling stone for the old court house. He is an energetic, enterprising farmer, and has placed his farm under the best of cultivation; the buildings are of the best, and all the surroundings denote thrift. He has reared a good many horses for market, in addition to raising crops, and for fifteen years he has been an extensive contractor, building pikes. Mr. Watt was married, March 29, 1848, to Miss Eye Staley, born in Pickaway County, Ohio, May 13, 1827, daughter of Jacob and Eunice Staley, of Virginia (former deceased), and who were parents of seven children: Elizabeth, Eve, Jemima, John, Eunice, .Jacob and Hannah. To Mr. and Mrs. Watt have been born seven children: Olive (deceased), Samuel, James, Marion, William, Jacob, and an infant deceased. In politics our subject is a leading light in the Democratic party. WILLIAM WATT, merchant, Lafayette, was born in Jackson Township, this county, April 4, 1839, son of William and Elizabeth (Hawk) Watt, early settlers of Allen County, Ohio; the former a native of Brown County, Ohio, and at one time judge of the court, Lima, died in October, 1838, aged forty years; the latter, born in Maysville, Ky., died November 14, 1883, aged eighty-nine years. They were the parents of ten children: John, Susannah, Mary, Sarah, Willis. Elspy, Margaret, Samuel, Eliza J. and William. Our subject remained upon the farm until sixteen year:: of age. when he entered the employ of Dr. N. Sager, with JACKSON TOWNSHIP - 617 whom be remained nine years. He was then employed by a Mr. Fisher till 1872, when he formed a partnership with J. W. Umbaugh, and the firm selling out in 1875, Mr. Watt has since conducted the business for his own account, his stock consisting of nearly everything needed by the farming community. The better to accommodate his trade he erected in 1879, a large two-story frame building, with three store-rooms. He also erected, the year previou, a fine brick residence. During the Rebellion he enlisted in Company F, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, in February, 1864, and remained in the service till the close of the war. Our subject was married, June 17, 1860, to Miss Sarah Cloore, born in Pickaway County, Ohio, January 7, 1838, daughter of Daniel and Thursa (Ewing) Cloone, both deceased. By this union were born five children: Walter, Lulu (wife of Charles Wamsley), Arthur, Pert and Harry. Mr. Watt has been a member of the Christian Church for several years. Politically he is identified with the Democratic party. He has served the township as clerk, and is the present treasurer. He has also held the position of freight, ticket and express agent of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad fourteen years. JOHN C. WINGATE, farmer, P. 0. Herring, was born in Carroll County, Ohio, March 28, 1819. Isaac B. Wingate, his father, was born in Delaware, and was an early settler of Carroll County, Ohio, coming to this county in 1848. He was a carriage-maker by trade, but in later days a farmer. He served in the war of 1812 as a private; died in 1870, aged seventy-seven years. His wife, nee Ursela Crist, died August 28, 1849, aged fifty years. Their children were John C., Nicholas, Eliza, Susannah, Delila, Martha, Cyrus, Aaron, Samuel, Isaac B., and an infant deceased. Our subject obtained a limited education, and when nineteen years of age commenced working as a hired hand. In 1855 he purchased his first real estate in Allen County, consisting of seventy-five acres of wild land, which, by much labor and diligence, he has converted into a fine farm. He was a private in the Ohio National Guards, during the war of the Rebellion, but was not called into active service. February 20, 1840, Mr. Wingate married Miss Lucinda Alford, who was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, December 6, 1823, daughter of George and Mary (Tope) Alford, early settlers of Jefferson County, Ohio, natives of Maryland. To this union have been born seven children: Lemuel, born December 18, 1840, died in hospital at Nashville, Tenn., February 10, 1863; Elizabeth, wife of Isaac. Bowers, born January 11, 1843; Melissa, wife of J. Beach, born April 21, 1845; Isaac, born July 22, 1847; Susan, wife of William Clark, born September 17, 1849; Mary E., widow of J. Larne, born December 15, 1853, and Joseph S., born April 23, 1858. For a period of over forty years our subject has been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and an active sabbath-school worker. Politically he was once a Democrat, but joined the Know-Nothing party, and since its day has been a stanch Republican. |