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618 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. MARION TOWNSHIP. FREDERICK AMMAN, bakery and general groceries, Delphos, was born in Greene County, Ohio, in 1838, his father, George Amman, being a native of Baden, Germany. Our subject learned the baker's trade in Xenia, where he carried on the business nine years. In the spring of 1868 he came here and established his business, and has been successfully connected with it since. He was married in 1860 at Kenton, Ohio, to Margaret Kautz, of that place, her father being a native of Saxony, Germany, and to this union have been born two sons and two daughters riving: Alwinnie (widow of Adolf Eberantz, who has a little girl—Min- nie), Frank Henry (a baker), Maggie and William. JAMES BAXTER, farmer, P. 0. Allentown, was born September 9, 1817, in Ross County, Ohio, son of Samueh and Keziah (Cremean) Baxter, former born in Knox County, Ohio, son of John and Sarah Baxter, botb foreigners. Samuel Baxter had eleven children, those living are James; Curtis, in Marion Township, this county; Smith, in German Township, this county; David, in Marion Township, this county; Eliza, wife of William Cochran, of Marion Township, this county. The family came to Amanda Township. this county, in 1827, where they endured all • the trials and hardships of pioneer life. The father died about four years after his removal to this county. Our subject being the eldest, manfully assumed the responsibility left by his father in providing for the family and clearing the farm, and for this reason he received but little education. At eighteen years of age he started out for himself, engaging in daily labor. He was married, April 20, 1837, to Melissa John, who was born January 10, 1820, in Ross County, Ohio, daughter of Griffith and Rachel (Miller) John, former a son of Abia and Martha John, born September 6, 1795, died February 20, 1856; latter a daughter of George and Sarah Miller, born September 13, 1802, died June 23, 1862. They were married February 20, 1817. To our subject and wife were born eleven children, four of whom died without issue. Samuel, the second child, was born April 6, 1839 (he was a corporal in Company 1, Thirty-fourth Regiment, killed at Winchester, Va., in the battle between Gens. Sheridan and Early; he was married to Rachel Cremean, by whom he had three children). Those living are Griffrth J., in Cotfey County, Kans.; Keziah, wife of William D. Poling, county auditor; David E., in Amanda Township, this county; Levi, in Amanda Township, this county; Eliza (wife of Otis Fraunfelter), of Bath Township, this county, and Rachel, at home, unmarried. Mr. Baxter has held the office of township trustee for sixteen years and was for six years county infirmary director, arriving to these positions of honor by energy and close application to business. The family are members of the Christian Church, in which our subject was elder. He takes an active interest in the improvement of stock and farm products, and in the advancement of MARION TOWNSHIP - 619 education and religion. He has lived to see a beautiful and productive country developed from the once dense forest, and to see thirty-two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren around him. FREDERICK BEYER, merchant tailor, Delphos, represents the business established here in 1857 by his father, Frank Beyer, who was born in Rockenberg, Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, January 21, 186, where he learned his trade. In 1852 the latter came to America, and settled in Delphos, where he carried on an active business in his line till turning it over to his son. He married, in 1854 in Delphos, Mary Geiser, who was born in Mehlstadt, Germany, in 1818. Their only child, Frederick, was born here July 9, 1855, and after receiving a good school education, embarked in merchant tailoring business, which he successfully carries on in an artistic style. He was married May 20, 1880, to Louisa. daughter of the late Edward Koenig, of Delphos, a native of Saalfeld, Saxony, and educated in pottery work there, but identified with hotel business here. Mr. and Mrs. Beyer have a son and daughter, William and an infant not named. Our subject and wife are among the leaders in musical circles of Delphos, and he is director of the musical society. Our subject has been a cordial supporter of public and social matters, attending to the city's growth, and has served with ability in its councils. COL. LESTER BLISS, breeder of fine cattle and hogs, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Cooperstown, N. Y., August 17, 1817. His father, Dr. David Bliss, a native of Vermont, removed from Cooperstown in 1818, and settled in what is now Morrow County, Ohio, where he was well and favorably known as a pioneer and a physician of repute. Col. Bliss obtained a liberal education at Fredericktown high school, and completed a good classical and literary education at Granville College. At twenty-one years of age he engaged in the study of law at Mt. Vernon. Ohio, under the tuition of Henry B. Curtis, Esq., and was admitted to the bar of Ohio at Marion in June, 1841. In August of the following year he located in Lima, where he carried on an active practice of law for several years. He served as prosecuting attorney for the county one term during this time, and subsequently declined a nomination for that offrce. Our subject married in Lima, in 1844, Miss Belinda Ann, daughter of the late Manuel Hover of Shawnee Township, this county, who departed this life in 1847, leaving two sons, David M., now a farmer and stock raiser of Marion Township, this county, and Lester Le Grand, who, after completing a fine commercial education, died at the age of twenty-one years in Fort Scott, Kan. Our subject, on second occasion, married Mrs. Aldulia Kennedy, daughter of the late William Curtis, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, by whom he had one son—Charles C., now a merchant druggist of Delphos. Again Col. Bliss was compelled to lay to rest his companion in life, and he subsequently married Harriet N., (sister of his first wife), with whom we find him happily associated. He removed to Delphos in 1850, and engaged extensively in manufacturing. While residing on the Van Wert side of the Miami St Erie Canal, which divides Delphos in halves, he was elected and served one term as county commissioner, of Van Wert County, and served as township trustee for a long series of years. In 1852 he was elected to represent Allen County 620 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. in the Legislature, it being the first representation of the county under the new constitution. He has engaged actively in railway building, and during this time declined the nomination for lieut. governor of Ohio, but had the satisfaction of seeing his party coming through by an immense majority. In August, 1862, he volunteered his services in defense of the Union, and was commissioned first lieutenant and assigned to quartermaster's duty with the One Hundred and Eighteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In the early part of the following year he received honorable promotion as a field officer with the rank of major. In the spring of 1864 he was commissioned a lieutenant. colonel, and did active and honorable service until his resignation. After retiring from war service he engaged at farming and stock breeding, and has given his exclusive attention to it since. During his residence in Delphos he was active in the promotion and development of its interests, with which he still continues prominent. The Colonel is a stockholder and director of the Commercial Bank, and is interested in other industries. He served as the first mayor of the city and filled many other local official positions. Col. Bliss still retains the vigor and ambition of his youthful days, and will long be remembered' in the history of this locality as one of its most reputable and persevering pioneers. DAVID M. BLISS, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born at Lima, Ohio, July 17, 1845; son of Col. Lester and Belinda (Hover) Bliss. From the high schools of the county, he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, studying there two years. He spent some time reading law, with the intention of following the legal profession, but eventually engaged in mercantile business at Delphos, for a year and a half, then went to Sidney, Ohio, and edited the Sidney Journal for over a year, after which time he returned to this county, and turned his attention to farming and breeding shorthorn thorough-bred cattle, of the Lady Elizabeth stock. Mr. Bliss served the people as justice of the peace and township treasurer etc. He was married January 5, 1867, to Mary A. Lytle, who died nine months later without issue. She was a daughter of R. K. Lytle, of Delphos. Our subject's second marriage occurred September 20, 1869, with Alice J. Neel, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, September 10, 1845, and by this union were born five children: Lester L., born August 10, 1870; Neel V., born March 2S, 1872; Charles M. and Morgan C. (twins), born September 11, 1876, died in infancy; and Mary Aldulia, born November 15, 1878. Our subject is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics, he is a Democrat. Charles Buss, half-brother of our subject, was born in this county, son of Col. Lester and Aldulia (Kennedy) Bliss. He read medicine with Dr. Wagner, of Delphos. three years, attending lectures in Bellevue Hospital College, N. Y., and graduating in Michigan, in 1874. He returned to Delphos, and, disliking the profession after a practice of four years, engaged in farming, and in February, 1883, entered into the drug business with J. W. Evans. He was married February 8, 1877, to Sophronia A. Herrick, a native of Mount Gilead, Ohio, daughter of Simeon Herrick. Charles Bliss is P. S. W., of F. & A. M.. at Delphos. THOMAS BREESE, farmer and stock-breeder. Delphos, Allen County, was born in North Wales, March 15, 1835; son of Richard and Elizabeth MARION TOWNSHIP - 621 (Rollands) Breese, former of whom died November 20, 1875, aged seventy-three; latter September 28. 1852, aged forty-eight years. They came to America, lauding at Philadelphia, and settled the same year on the farm, where the subject of this sketch now lives, there being only four acres, cleared out of the 160, and for which Richard Breese paid $100 cash. Here, before the father's death, they cleared about seventy acres, and endured the trials and hardships of pioneer life. Richard Breese was a man of prominence in his township, a deacon in the Congregational Church many years. He and his wife, were parents of seven children: Mary (wife of Joseph Watkins, in Sugar Creek Township, this county), Thomas, Ann (wife of John Morris, of Lima), Jane (wife of Evan Morgan, in Benton County, Ark.), Alice (single), Richard (deceased, leaving a family of three children in Delphos), Samuel R. (who enlisted in May, 1861, in Company H, Thirty-second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, going out as the first lieutenant, he was killed in the Battle of Harper's Ferry, in August, 1862, and had his death not occurred, he would have been promoted to lieutenant colonel in a few days). Thomas Breese, the subject of this sketch, received a meager education; being the eldest son, his services were required in clearing up the farm. He was married September 6, 1861, to Martha Davis, a native of Montgomeryshire, Wales, born Septembor 10, 1842, daughter of Rev. James and Mary (Davis) Davis, who came to America in August, 1849, and settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the former preached for three years, in the Lawrence Street Congregational Church. They then came to Gower. this county, in 1853, where Mr. Davis preached eight years, thence moved to New York State, remaining two years, thence to Radnor, Ohio, where he preached eight years. Rev. James Davis, was a son of Isaac and Sarah Davis; he died in April, 1873. His widow who is still living with Mr. Breese, is a daughter of Richard and Margaret (Davis) Davis. Rev. James Davis was the father of seven children, of whom three died without issue. Those who had families were Sarah (deceased wife of John Thomas, leaving family in Van Wert County, Ohio), Benjamin (deceased, leaving family in Crawford County, Kane.), James (a business man in Sandusky City, has a family of three children), William (a merchant in Keokuk, Iowa, has a family of three children), and Martha (Mrs. Breese). To our subject and wife, have been born six children: Emma, born' July 10, 1862; Samuel, born July 23, 1864; Mary (deceased at five years of age); James D., born January 31, 1874; Richard, born May 1, 1878, and Mary, born May 29, 1881. The life of Mr. Breese has been spent chiefly on the farm which he now occupies. He takes an active interest in all educational and religious matters. The family are members of the Congregational Church. In politics he is a Republican. DAVID BRENNEMAN, farmer and stock-breeder, P. 0. Elida, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, November 28, 1840, son of Jacob and Caroline (Ogden) Brenneman, latter of whom was born in Hardy County, Va., July 12, 1819. Jacob Brenneman was a native of Rockingham County, Va., son of Abraham and Magdalena (Shank) Brenneman, natives of Pennsylvania, former born 1745, and died aged seventy years. Was twice married, and had in all sixteen children, the youngest of whom is the only survivor. Jacob was also twice married, first to Mary Beery, 37 622 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. who was born November 20, 1802, and moved with her husband from Virginia to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1828, where she died four years later. Her children were John L., born October 24, 1821, in Marion Township, this county ; Abraham, born June 21, 1823, in Lancaster County, Ohio ; Barbara, born June 7. 1824, wife of John Keller, in Branch County, Mich. ; Isaac, born September 25, 1825, in Adair County, Mo.; Ehizabeth, and Joseph. Annie and Mary died young. Jacob Brenneman, by his second wife, Caroline (Ogden) Brenneman, had the following named children : Catharine, born March 8, 1838, widow of Abraham Friesuer (deceased), now wife of George Keckler, in Branch County, Mich.; David, born November 28, 1840, in Fairfield County, Ohio ; Jacob R., born May 18, 1843, a druggist in Elida ; Rebecca, born January 2, 1847, wife of Daniel F. Berry, in Branch Mich.; Sarah A., born November 10, 1849, wife of Thomas Wisher, in Van Wert County ; William F.. born April 30, 1852, in Elida ; Noah E., born November 8, 1855, in Marion Township ; Charles B., born July 12, 1862, in Blanchard, Isabelle Co., Mich. Jacob Brenneman died January 1, 1865, aged sixty-eight years, two months and twenty-five days. David Brenneman received very limited educational advantages, remaining with his father upon the farm until August 10, 1862, when he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he did valiant duty, participating in the siege of Knoxville, the battle of Resaca and Buzzard's Roost ; under fire from Dalton to Atlanta, Ga.; at Salisbury, N. C., and in Sherman's march to the sea. He was discharged June 20, 1865, never having been off duty a single day, was neither sick nor wounded during the whole time, but always in the front rank. He was married, September 27,1866, to Phebe A. Lutz, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, December 15, 1846, daughter of John and Sarah (Griffnth) Lutz, former a native of Maryland, latter of Fairfield County. By her he had four children : Laura A., born October 10, 1867 ; Irwin E., born August 28, 1869; Sarah E., born July 19, 1871; Stephen A., born November 8, 1873. David Brenneman has a valuable farm of 65 acres, secured principally by his own efforts. He takes an active interest in the improvement of farm products, the advancement of education and religion. He is a member of Mart Armstrong Post 202, G. A. R., at Lima. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. B. J. BROTHERTON, mayor of Delphos, was born in Piqua, Miami Co , Ohio, June 24, 1850, son of Jasper Brotherton (carpenter), a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, his father, Abel Brotherton (farmer), having settled there from Pennsylvania at an early date, prior to the history of the State. The subject of our sketch, after receiving a good literary education in the Piqua High School, from which he graduated when nineteen years of age, entered the Denison University, of Granville, Ohio, pursuing a classical course of study, subsequently taking up law under the able tuition of the Hon. J. F. McKinney, of McKinney Bros., attorneys, of Piqua. He was admitted to the bar of the State, August 29, 1872, and soon after came to Marion Township and engaged in the practice of his profession, with which he has been creditably connected since. He has taken an active interest in the development of the many MARION TOWNSHIP - 623 industries of Delphos ; is present member of the board of directors of Delphos Gas Company ; a stockholder of tbe Delphos National Bank, as well as an active member of other interests. During tbe war he did honorable service as bugler of Company I, First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. He married, in Warsaw, Ind., October 17, 1877, Miss Hattie L., daughter of James M. Laemon, a prominent pioneer merchant of that city, originally from Virginia. They have two daughters : Jennie W. and Mary Margaret. Mr. Brotherton is a member of the Baptist Church, Mrs. Brotherton of the Christian denomination. JOHN C. CAMPBELL, physician and farmer, Landeck, was born in Belmont County, Ohio, May 14, 1827 ; son of Charles and Jane (Clung) Campbell, natives of Pennsylvania, former deceased, latter still living. They were parents of three children : Charles, Ann and John C, Our subject received a common school education, and after completing a medical course at Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, graduated in 1851, and entered on the practice of his profession in Perry County, Ohio, landing there September 10, same year, the memorial day of Perry's victory. Soon after, he removed to Spencerville, Ohio, where he practiced twenty-eight years, and then returned to Landeck in the fall of 1883. In addition to his professional duties the doctor owns and works at farm. Dr. Campbell was married in May, 1856, to Sarah J. Wells, who was born in Licking County, Ohio, in 1830, and by her has three children : Oral, Mary J. (wife of F. Fackler), and an infant, deceased. The doctor's success in life is due entirely to his own efforts. His practice has been successful, and he has experienced the bardships incident to the lives of all medical men in pioneer days. He was the first mayor of Spencerville, also served the people as justice of the peace. He was formerly a member of the order of I. 0. 0. F. at Clear Cut. In politics he is an active member of the Democratic party. SAMUEL D. CHAMBERS, ex- auditor of Allen County, Delphos, was born in Bolivar, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, November 2, 1835; son of Thomas Chambers of Pennsylvania, and grandson of James Chambers who came from Ireland and settled in Pennsylvania. Samuel D. Chambers began life as a molder when fifteen years old, but after a few years abandoned that trade and took up merchandising here as clerk, and at the expiration of six years' close application engaged as principal in the business. HI has since enjoyed a prominent position in the mercantile interests of this city. Upon the organization of the Ohio Wheel Company's works here. he took an active part in tbat industry, and has since remained an ably supporter of it. For many years he has been one of the directors of the Delphos National Bank; was also a member of the Commercial Bank with which he but recently severed his connection, and has assisted ix many other enterprises of the city and locality. Upon the organization of the Toledo, Delphos & St. Louis Railroad, he assisted materially and continued for many years an active member of its board of directors Mr. Chambers marrned in Columbia City, Ind., in 1862, Miss Sarah J. dlaughter of W. W. Kepner, a pioneer merchant of that city. Thei family consists of one son. William T., a student of the Pennsylvania Dental Institute of Philadelphia, Penn., and one daughter, Anna, a lady of fine literary and musical attainments, a graduate of Oxford Female Col- 624 - BIOGRAPHICAL. SKETCHES. lege. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. During the late war of the Rebellion our subject did active service as quartermaster of the One Hundred and Fifty-first Regiment, Ohio National Guards, from which he was honorably discharged. He has been an active F. & A. M. for many years, and is a member of the Shawnee Commandery at Lima. He has been a member of the city council for many years, and has filled its clerkship with ability. Mr. Chambers is an honest and conscientious Republican in politics, and has always served his party with great in terest and zeal. JOHN F. CLAPPER, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born on the Roberts' farm in Sugar Creek Township, this county, near his present home, March 31, 1840; son of Andrew and Stasha (Schlegel) Clapper, natives of Fairfield County, Ohio, former a son of Henry and Eleanor (Bussert) Clapper, latter a daughter of John Schlegel, a native of Maryland. Henry Clapper, who was a native of Pennsylvania, born near Hagerstown, Md., died July 24, 1860, aged eighty-four years; he was a millwright by trade, served in the war of 1812, moved to Fairfield County, Ohio; cleared up a farm and plied his trade until 1832, when he came to this county with his wife, three sons and three daughters, a part of the family remaining in Fairfield County. The father of our subject, who was one of the number who came to this county, died April 25, 1881, aged seventy years; his wife died in November, 1851. They had thirteen children: Jacob, in Marion Township, this county; Mary A. (died, aged seventeen years), an infant (deceased), Hannah (deceased, aged twenty years), Margaret J. (wife of Curtis Leist, in Marion Township, this county; Nancy A. (deceased wife of John Conrad, leaving a son, Stephen T., in this county), John F., Joseph H., in Van Wert County, Ohio; William D. (deceased October 20, 1863. at Chattanooga, Tenn., of disease contracted in the United States service, while a member of Company E, Ninety-ninth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry), Elizabeth, (wife of Lewis Allen of Marion Township, this county), Rachel (wife of Isaac Conrad), Susan and Jemima, single. Andrew Clapper for his second wife, married Lovina Bechtel, a native of Pennsylvania, but an early settler in this county. By her he had eight children: Mary M., Vasta (wife of Benjamin Runyan, of Ft. Jennings), Sarah, Charles, Amos, Salena, William A. and Albert M. (last two twins). The subject of this sketch remained upon the farm with his father, and attended winter school until his marriage, May 29, 1861, with Sarah Stuckey, who was born on the farm where she now lives, June 2, 1843, daughter of Samuel H. and Mary (Peters) Stuckey, former one of the first settlers in Marion Township, this county, and a prominent man in official circles in the township, being one of its first officers. He entered the land upon which Mr. Clapper now lives, receiving his patent for eighty acres November 27, 1833, signed Andrew Jackson. Samuel H. Stuckey, who was a son of Christian and Mary M. (Harsh) Stuckey, natives of Maryland, but early settlers in Fairfield County, Ohio, was born September 27, 1806; he died April 2:5, 1876. His wife, Mary (Peters) Stuckey, was a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, born March 8, 1811, died October 1, 1876. She was a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Nye) Peters, natives of Maryland, but early settlers of MARION TOWNSHIP - 625 Ohio. Samuel H. Stuckey and his wife were parents of the following children: Levi, in Van Wert County,Ohio; Enos (deceased),Ezra, married (deceased): Elizabeth (deceased wife of Isaac Sthralem; she left one child, William L., in Lawrenceburg, Ind.), Mary M. (deceased wife of Henry Sherrick, of Marion Township; she left six children), Maria (wife of Henry Friesuner, of Marion Township, this county); Sarah (wife of John F. Clapper); Daniel P. (deceased February 14, 1865, in South Caroplina, while a member of Company D, Fifty-fourth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Seventeenth Army Corps), Christian, in Marion Township, this county; Lydia A. (deceased). To our subject and wife were born eight children: Minnie F. (died, aged three years, four months), William D., born May 27, 1866; Mary A., born September 14, 1868; Joseph C., born September 6, 1870; Lula A., born July 11, 1873; Elliott E., born September 19, 1875; Clara C., born November 6, 1877; Margaret J., born December 27, 1881. Mr. Clapper enlisted August 8, 1862, in Company E, Ninety-ninth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was in twenty-eight battles with that regiment before its consolidation with the Fiftieth Regiment, He was a faithful soldier, good and true; was never sick nor wounded, and never off duty. He was discharged June 26, 1865. His brothers, Henry and Daniel. and brother-in-law, Lewis Allen, served with him in the same regiment. He is a member of the United Brethren Church, superintendent . of the Sabbath-school, and generally takes an active interest in educational matters. JAMES COCHRUN, farmer and stock raiser, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Ross County, Ohio, November 25, 1804, descended from a line of Scotch pioneers of that name in Virginia. He has a brother and two sisters living: John M., Catharine and Nancy. Mr. Cochrun came to this county in 1817. He married, in 1829, Miss Julia Ann, daughter of Andy Russell of Amanda Township, this county, who settled there in 1817. He has one son, William M., living, by this marriage. His second marriage was in 1834 with Isabel, daughter of William Sunderland, who settled in Amanda Township in 1817. He has two sons and six daughters living by this marriage: Elizabeth, Julia Ann, Mary, James M., Ellen, Hattie, Nancy and Orlando, and lost a daughter and three sons, one of whom George W., died in Mellon Prison, Ga., after an honorable service in the Union Army. James M., the second son living, was married in 1870 to Ellen. daughter of Jacob Roush of Amanda Township, who bore him a daughter, Minnie Almerta, now living, and two sons, William S. and Edward, who are buried with their mother in the King cemetery here ; and in 1878 he married Catharine, daughter of Samuel Baxter, and by her he has one son and two daughters: Dora, Orlando Bertrue, and Viola. He did active and honorable service in Company B, McLaughlin's Squadron, Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, during the last two years of the war; is a member of Reul Post G. A. R. James Cochrun Sr., has been a member of the Presbyterian Church for thirty-five years, and an elder in it for many years. He is well and favorably known as one of the public-spirited pioneers of Allen County. S. F. CONKLING, M. D., Delphos, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, April 9, 1826, son of Isaac Conkling, who moved to that city from New Jersey and there settled at an early period of the city's history. Our 626 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. subject graduated from Farmer's College in a literary course of study in 1847-48, and entered the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati, from which he graduated in 1851. He carried on a profitable medical practice in Reading, Hamilton Co., Ohio, for several years. In 1858 he came to Delphos and actively engaged in manufacturing business, with which he has continued for several years, retiring from it latterly to return to the practice of his profession. Dr. Conkling married in Butler County, Ohio, in 1851, Miss Margaret, daughter of Isaac King of that county, by whom he had a family of three sons and five daughters: Luella (wife of J. Abel, a merchant of Walton, Ill.), Eva, Lillie, Frank K. (a farmer of Reno County, Kans.), Harry W. (of the Dutton House, Topeka, Kans.). Eddie P. (at home); Clarabell died November 25, 1875, Hattie died in August, 1880, and they are buried with their mother, who departed this life in 1867. The doctor was married on second occasion to Mrs. Ann Cowan, a daughter of J. S. Feeley, of Delphos. by whom he has two daughters, Minnie and Mollie, and had one son, Willie (deceased). Dr. Conkling has been one of the many active supporters of Delphos interests. He has served in the city council; was commissioner of Van Wert County several years; member of the board of school directors and has held other (local official positions. He is a Royal Arch Mason and has been a F. & A. M. for many years. CHARLES S. DAVIS, of the firm of Weger & Davis, manufacturers of all kinds of hoops, staves, headings and lumber, Delphos, was born in Oakville, Canada, November 10, 1844. At the age of fifteen he went to New York State, where he remained for several years. In 1860 he came to Delphos and engaged in his present business, and has since been actively connected with it here. He was married, in 1869, to Miss Mary Jane, daughter of G. W. Hall of this place. They have one son and two daughters: Jessie Belle, George Ray and Grace Rebecca. Mr. Davis is an active Mason and Odd Fellow and has held offrcial positions in both societies here. He is also a member of the J. W. F. Hook and Ladder Company. JOSEPH DERWORT, hardware, stoves and tinware merchant, Delphos, was born in Buffalo, N. Y., March 19, 1849, son of Marcus and Catharine (Raider) Derwort, former of whom was born April 25, 1822, in Sachsen, Weimar-Eisenach, Amt Grisa, Germany, and came to America August 17, 1839, latter born at Geismar, Germany, November 25, 1826. They were married October 8, 1844, and are still living in Delphos, this county. They had a family of thirteen children: Elizabeth; Elenor, died July 17, 1847; Joseph; Mary; John; Marcus, died November 21, 1865; Henry; Sophia; Rosalie; Francisca, died July 19, 1862; Anna; Theresia and Josephine. Our subject’s education was limited to four years in the common schools. He came to this county with his parents, in 1860, and first worked at the cooper's trade with his father, then he learned the tinner's trade, and engaged in same line at Delphos, in 1870. His business has steadily increased, and he has added, in proportion to the demand, a complete line of hardware, stoves, etc., employing five men. He now occupies a two-story brick building and a large warehouse for surplus stock ; his success is the result of his own efforts. In 1872, having lost nearly all by lire, he had to commence again. Our subject was married MARION TOWNSHIP - 627 August 1, 1882, to Miss Annie Slier, who has borne him one son, Joseph, born November 23, 1883, and one daughter, Theresia, born May 11, 1885. He is a member of the Catholic Church ; politically a Democrat. JACOB DIENSTBERGER, wagon and carriage-maker, Delphos, was born in. Baden, Germany, July 4, 1831, and learned the trade of blacksmith there. At eighteen he immigrated to this country and completed his trade at Norwich, Conn. In September, 1851, he came to Delphos, this county, followed his trade a short time, and then worked in the iron foundry. In April, 1860, he began business for himself as wagon and carriage-maker, and has accumulated a handsome competency. Mr. Dienstberger married here, in 1853, Miss Caroline, daughter of the late Christopher Gessner, a farmer of Washington Township, Van Wert County, and by this union are two sons and two daughters : Cherie (blacksmith, with his father), Christopher (painter, with his father), Amelia (wife of Tobias Foster, a blacksmith of Spencerville), and Mary. Our subject has served in Delphos city council, and has filled other local official positions of honor and trust. He is interested considerably in the coal and iron trade, from which he derives a handsome revenue. During the late Rebellion he did active service in Company I, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from which he received an honorable discharge at the close of the war. JONATHAN DILLSAVER, farmer and stock-breeder, P. O. Elide was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, February 8, 1828, son of Simon any Elizabeth (Winstead) Dillsaver' former a native of Shenandoah County Va. (he was in the war of 1812, died in 1880, aged about eighty-three years), latter a daughter of Griffin and Magdalene (Smith) Winstead The Dillsaver and Smith families are of German, the Winsteads of Eng lish extraction. Simon and Elizabeth Dillsaver had four children, wh became heads of families : Nancy (deceased wife of Solomon Moyer, sh left a family in Sugar Creek Township, this county), Jonathan, Mary A (wife of Benjamin Sigman, living in Van Wert County, Ohio) ; Matilda (wife of Jacob Nitler both deceased, leaving no family). Our subject came in 1834 to Sugar Creek Township, this county, with his parent! who entered land and experienced the trials of pioneer life in clearin up the country. Here he remained till 1860, when he came to his prat ent home. He was married December 14, 1851, to Miss Melinda Shop( a native of German Township, this county, daughter of William an Elizabeth (Tester) Shope, early settlers of this county from Fairfield County. Ohio. By this marriage there were thirteen children : Elizabeth William and Rachel, all deceased ; those living are : John, born Decen 'her 24, 1852, now in Delphos, Ohio ; Matilda, born January 8, 1854 Rebecca, born June 26, 1856 (wife of John M. Garvey) ; Simon, boi July 31, 1857, ; George, born November 19, 1858; Mary E., born Apr 18, 1860 (wife of Joseph Seitz), in Putnam County, Ohio ; Lucinda, bor September 22, 1864 (wife of Charles Stemen), in Sugar Creek Township this county ; Amanda, born May 13, 1867 ; Susan, born May 20, 1868 Noah, born August 12, 1871. Mrs. Malinda Dillsaver was born Febr ary 27, 1831, and died November 23, 1873. Our subject then married July 30. 1874, Melinda E. Mauker, who was born January 12, 183 Mr. Dillsaver joined Company A, Thirty-third Regiment, September 2 628 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1864, in which he served until June 8, 1865, when he was discharged at Camp Dennison. 13e was severely wounded in a skirmish near Gillsboro, March 16, 1865. The family are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been deacon and trustee. SIMON DILLSAVER, farmer, P.O. Delphos, son of Jonathan and Melinda (Shope) Dillsaver, was born in Sugar Creek Township, this county, July 31, 1857. He remained on farm with his parents until after arriving at maturity, receiving a common school education, and entered on his career in life as a farmer. Although young in years, Mr. Dillsaver is considered one of the most enterprising young farmers of the township. He makes no specialties other than general farming and stock breeding. He was married, November 15, 1879, to Mary E. Ridenour, who was born in Marion Township, this county, May 1, 1862, daughter of Alex and Ann (Hover) Ridenour, natives of Fairfield County, Ohio, and early settlers of this county, and to this union was born, July 30, 1881, one daughter-Rhoda Bell. Mr. Dillsaver is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a stanch Democrat. DAVID W. DITTO, farmer and bee keeper, P. 0. Delphos, was born November 16, 1846. in Brown County, Ohio, son of William W. Ditto, also a native of Brown County, Ohio, born October 23, 1823, died May 13, 1884, and Mahala (Brown) Ditto, born August 12, 1822, in Brown County Ohio, and still living. They were parents of eight children: Melviva, wife of J. Irick; Rebecca (deceased); David W; William H. (deceased); Caroline (deceased); Benjamin D. (deceased); Emily wife of S. D. Crites and Samuel F. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Richard and Rebecca (Dunham) Ditto, former a native of North Carolina, latter of Brown County, Ohio. His maternal grandfather was William Brown of New Jersey, and one of the earliest settlers of Brown County, Ohio. in 1849 our subject's parents moved to this county, locating on section 9, Marion Township, and there David W. Ditto grew to maturity, his earliest recollections being of pioneer scenes and industries. From the common schools he entered the normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, and has taught five terms of school in connection with his farming interests. He is now one of the most extensive bee keepers in the section, and in this line he has been successful. He is also interested in breeding graded stock. Mr Ditto came to his present farm in 1871, and has since erected a substantial residence and barn. The appearance of his farm denotes him to be an enterprising man and a practical farmer. During the war he was a member of Company A, Thirty-third Ohio National Guards. Mr. Ditto's marriage occurred December 25, 1870, with Elizabeth Burkholder, who was born February 12, 1851, and died August 22, 1872. Her son, Charles Albert, died at same date aged four months and twenty-five days. Our subject married, on second occasion, September 18, 1873, Miss Florence B. Harris, who was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, January 7, 1849. She is the mother of four children: Clifford, born November 12, 1874, died twelve clays later; Theodore Walter, born November 25, 1875; Raymond C., born July 19, 1880; Edith Ethel, born April 28, 1883. Mrs Ditto is a daughter of Calvin and Edith (Dunn) Harris, early settlers of Amanda Township, this county. Mr. Ditto is a F. & A. M., a member of Marion Grange. He is a member of the Meth- MARION TOWNSHIP - 629 odist Episcopal Church, taking an active part in the sabbath school. Politically he is identified with the Republican party. SAMUEL F. DITTO, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born February 16, 1858, on the homestead farm, where he still resides; son of William W. and Mahala (Brown) Ditto. He received his education in the common and high schools of the county, was brought up a farmer and has followed agriculture all through life, in connection with which he takes a practical interest in graded stock. Mr. Ditto was married, December 27, 1879, to Miss Sarah Isabel Strayer, who was born September 27, 1858, in Amanda Township, this county, daughter of Samuel K., and Sarah A. (Elliker) Strayer, early settlers of Amanda Township. To our subject and wife have been born three children: Zelmer, born May 1, 1880, died August 23, 1880; Jeanetta, born October 22, 1881; Wilmer, born November 11, 1883. Mr. Ditto is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican. THOMAS B. EDWARDS, dealer in general groceries, etc., Delphos, was born in Jackson County, Ohio, February 4, 1855. His father, the late Benjamin Edwards, farmer of that county, settled there from Wales about 1840. The subject of our sketch received a good common school education in his native county, and for a time engaged in farming, but on April 22, 1877, he took up merchandising here, with Jones & Griffith, and in March Of the following year assumed entire control of the business, has by dint of able management secured a very lucrative trade, and has already amassed a nice competence although a young man, amid old established competitors. Mr. Edwards married in Delphos, in 1879, Lucy Ann, daughter of the late John Morrow of Indiana. She was reared and educated in this city and is a lady of good literary and musical attainments. They have two sons and one daughter: Robert Thomas, Edna May and an infant (unnamed). Mr. Edwards is one of the progressive men of Delphos, an able supporter of its interests. He is a member of the K. of P. and of the R. A. WILLIAM H. ELWER, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, February 20, 1840, son of William Elwer who was born and reared in Westphalia, Prussia, and who came to America and to Hamilton County, Ohio, when a young man, and September 29, 1853, to Marion Township, this county; his children are William H. and Joseph. Our subject was married in 1867 to Miss Mary Ann Recker, daughter of Andrew Recker, a pioneer farmer of Putnam County, Ohio, a native of Hanover, Germany; and to this union have been born two sons and four daughters: Kate, Frederick, Christena, Mary, Rosa and Andrew. Mr. and Mrs. Elwer are members of the Catholic Church. He has been an active worker. Has served on school board two years and has filled other official positions. JOSEPH ESCH, proprietor of restaurant, billiard room and saloon, Delphos, was born August 27, 1856, son of Bernard and Mary (Heckman) Esch. He clerked for his father until the latter's removal to Kansas, and in 1877 he embarked in his present enterprise. October 6, 1879, he was married to Miss Kate Kroft, born in Dayton, Ohio, February 14, 1856, by whom he has a daughter-Niona, born July 22, 1880. Politically Mr. Esch is a Democrat. He is a member of the Catholic Church. 630 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. The father of our subject was born January 1,1821, near Osnabruck, Germany, where he lived till 1842, when he came to America with Theo Wrocklage, locating at Fort Jennings. A year later he assisted in building the first log-cabin at Delphos. In 1844 Esch & Wrocklage, formed a partnership and erected an ashery, and in the following year opened a general store, continuing in business till 1855. He was a member of the town council several years, was one of the original movers in the organization of the First National Bank, and for several years was one of its board of directors. He was elected county commissioner in 1870, and being re-elected served in that office six years, making one of the most efficient and capable commissioners the county ever had, and through his exertions a system of road improvements was inaugurated, the benefits of which are now enjoyed by almost every section of the county. His death occurred June 3,1884, at Dexter, Kansas. In 1847 Mr. Bernard Esch married Mary Heckman, who die.d in 1857, leaving to his care three children: Henry (agent for the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad at Middletown, Ohio), Annie (widow of Lehm Kahl), and Joseph. His second marriage occurred in 1859, with Catharine Karst, who survives him. By this union were born six children: Bernard, Lewis, Theodore, Alexander, Frank and John. RICHARD EVANS, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O. Delphos, was born in Montgomeryshire, North Wales, September 4, 1817, and immigrated to America in 1840, settling in Butler County, Ohio. In 1852 he came to this county and settled on his present farm, paying $1,860 for 60 acres uncleared land, of which he has cleared 135 acres. His parents were Evan and Mary (Jones) Evans, who died in Wales. (Evan Evans was a son of John and Mary Evans who were married at the ages of nineteen and seventeen years, respectively, and lived together until they were aged, respectively, one hundred and three and one hundred and one, a period of eighty-four years of married life). They were parents of nine children': John, who died without issue; Lewis, living with family in Montgomeryshire, Wales; Evan, died in London, single; Mary, died young; Edward, died, leaving a family in Wales; Elizabeth, died young; Richard, and Margaret, deceased wife of Edward Evans, leaving one daughter and son residing in Allen County. Mr. Evans received but twelve days' schooling during his life-time, but having a natural love for live stock he hired out as a herd in Wales, and turned his attention to the study of the habits and diseases of stock, thus arriving at a considerable degree of prominence as a veterinary surgeon and dealer and shipper in stock. He has, in connection with his other business, been engaged in the manufacture of brick for thirty-five years. Mr. Evans was thrice married, his first and second wife bearing him children who all died young. His third marriage was with Mary Jones, who was born March 20.1827, on Paddy's Run in Butler County, Ohio, from which place her father, John R. Jones, came to what is now Gomel., this county, in 1834, being one of the first and most prominent settlers of that place. To our subject and wife have been born ten children, eight of whom died in infancy. The surviving two are now living with their parents: Margaret J. (wife of John W. Humphreys) and Francis (who married Elizabeth J. Howells, by whom he hid one child). Mr. Evans is an enterpris- MARION TOWNSHIP - 631 ing man, and takes an active interest in all educational and religious matters. With his family he is a member of the Congregational Church. C. A. EVANS, M. D., Delphos, was born in Hillsboro, Ohio, July 29, 1828, and comes of a people who have furnished a fair share of medical talent in the West, several of whom are reputable practitioners, dating, on the paternal side, their coming to this country about 1775, locating in Kentucky, and their advent in Ohio about 1802. On the maternal side, the Duckwalls came from the Rhine Provinces in connection with Methodist mission work here, early in the eighteenth century. The subject of this sketch began the study of medicine at nineteen years of age, and at twenty-two graduated from the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati, in the class of 1849-50. In June of 1850 he came to Delphos, and has since been successfully identified with the practice of medicine here. He was married, April 4, 1855, in Columbia City, Ind., to Miss Katie Ensler, a highly educated lady, and an ardent worker in church and social interests. Upon the organization of the T. C. & St. L. Railway, Dr. Evans took up railway work with., that corporation, with which he was actively identified till it ceased to be a Delphos enterprise. He organized the Delphos & Kokomo Railway, and remained its president till 1878. In the following year he organized a railway to Kokomo, Ind., (D. B. & F. By.), and was chosen its President. In 1880 he organized the Cleveland, Delphos & St. Louis Railway, serving as President till 1881, when he resigned and accepted the Vice-Presidency of the Construction Company. ''He has also been connected with the establishment of other lines. During the last year he has attended quietly to his professional practice. The Doctor served the city as mayor four successive terms, and has filled other civic official positions. JOHN W. EVANS, druggist and bookseller, Delphos, one of the most worthy and enterprising men of the city, was born May 21, 1847, among the mines in Jackson County, Ohio; son of William and Jane (Evans) Evans, natives of Aberystwyth, Wales, and who came early to America. They had seven children: two died early in life; D. AV., a farmer and stock-dealer in Venedocia, Ohio; Jane, wife of D. E. Evans, a merchant in Venedocia, Ohio; John W.; William, farming in Van Wert County, Ohio; and Thomas, who died aged twenty-three years. The father was killed while at work at Cambria Furnace, in Jackson County, Ohio, the subject of this sketch being then but seven years of age. The mother was afterward married to Isaac Jones, of Jackson County, Ohio, where she died. Mr. Evans received the chief part of his education by the time he reached his twelfth year, attending but two terms afterward, as at that age he was engaged in hauling ore, iron, coal etc., at the mines and furnaces. Upon starting out for himself at sixteen years of age he received $13 from his stepfather, and this he was compelled to use for necessary clothing and traveling expenses to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he arrived penniless. He secured work, however, on gun-boats which were being built at that place, and here, by industry and application, he soon commanded the confidence of his employers and the highest praise for his labor. He first came to Van Wert County, Ohio, in the fall of 1863, and returned to Jackson County, where he worked until the following fall, when he again came to Van Wert County, and taught school during 632 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. the winters, continuing his work at the same time. In the fall of 1867 Mr. Evans was married, and then engaged in farming and teaching for seven years. He next became a partner in the drug and book firm of Eysenbach & Co., in which he continued two years. when Mr. Eysenbach retired and the firm became Evans & Evans. Early in 1883 another change occurred, and the firm became Evans & Bliss, as at present. Mr. Evans is engaged with his brother-in-law, Hugh Evans, in the real estate business. His wife, Elizabeth, was a daughter of Richard E. and Mary (Jones) Evans, who were natives of Llanbrynmair, Wales, and who first settled in Franklin County, Ohio, thence moved to Van Wert County, Ohio. By her he has five children: Richard J., Jane, John H. V., Irvin Blaine and Viola Ann. While a resident of Van Wert County Mr. Evans was township trustee, and was commissioned justice of the peace under Gov. Noyes. Since his residence in Delphos be has been a member of the city council several years. He is P. G. and treasurer of Okonoxy Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., No: 201, also collector of Delphos Council No. 200 Royal Arcanum. HUGH W. EVANS, druggist, Palace Drug Store, Delphos. was born in Brown Township, Franklin Co., Ohio, in 1853; son of Richard E. and Mary (Jones) Evans, former a native of Wales, a farmer by occupation, and a resident of Van Wert County, Ohio; latter, also a native of Wales, died in 1880. They were parents of eight children: Richard M., Elizabeth, Jane, Catherine, David H., John It., Mary A. and Hugh W. Until he was fourteen years of age, the life of our subject was spent on a farm. He then came to Delphos and engaged in a drug store, in order to learn the business. In 1875 he became a member of the firm of Eysenbach & Co., which three or four years later became Evans & Evans, remaining so till 1883, when the firm dissolved, and our subject formed a new partnership with F. G. Beckman. Mr. Evans has been a member of the American Pharmaceutical Association since September, 1881, and his knowledge of the Welsh, in addition to the English language, is an advantage in his business, whilst his many years experience justly entitle him to the confidence of the people. Our subject was married, March 20, 1883, to Miss Annie Robinson, by whom he has one son—Robinson Blaine, born March 15, 1884. In politics Mr. Evans is a leader and a stanch advocate of the principles of the Republican party. He is an active member of Hope Lodge, F. & A. M. WENDEL EYSENBACH, professor of music and inventor of astronomical instruments, Delphos, was born in Eberstadt, near Darmstadt, Germany, April 29, 1810, and was reared on a farm. At seventeen he attended the Seminary of Friedberg, and graduated from that institution as public teacher at the age of twenty. After acting for awhile as private instructor, he received appointment as public teacher, and was very reputably connected with that profession in his native land for many years. He was, however, impeached (during the troubles of the Revolution in 1848) for his very outspoken liberal sentiments, and upon trial was sentenced, but embarked for this country with his family, in 1S51, and settled in Delphos. He had married, in 1838, Miss Margaret Schilling by whom he had four suns and a daughter born in Germany: Louis, a farmer in Marion Township; Henry P., a prominent merchant MARION TOWNSHIP - 633 and manufacturer in Delphos; William, proprietor of billiard ball and saloon in Delphos ; Theodore, a merchant in Spencerville ; Mary, widow of George Schilling, of Delphos; and Lina (born in Delphos), now the wife of John Vetter, hardware merchant, in Delphos. Since coming to this country Mr. Eysenbach has applied himself successfully in different business pursuits, and beside accumulating a nice competence. has educated his family well and has lived to see them prosperously connected. For several years he has been well known in the county and elsewhere as an able music-teacher. Durrng the last four years he has applied himself to inventing and perfecting astronomical apparatus, which is his pride, and his workshop amply attests to his close observation and industry. LOUIS EYSENBACH, farmer and stock-breeder, Delphos, was born May 22, 1841, in Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany; and ,came to America with his parents at ten years of age. He received the advantages of the German schools until leaving the " Fatherland," and also some instruction in the schools of Delphos, this county. He remained with his father on the farm until July 26, 1862, when he enlisted in Company A, Ninety- ninth Regiment, under Capt. William C. Scott; starting from Camp Lima, he went through the Kentucky, Tennessee and Atlanta campaigns, thence was transferred to North Carolina, where he wound up his military career, and was discharged at Camp Dennison, Ohio. He participated in the battles of Stone River, Ringold, Chickamauga, and at Lookout Mountain, where the colors of the brave Ninety-ninth waved over two of the enemy's forts. He was also at Mission Ridge, Pigeon Mountain and Nashville. The regiment having by this time suffered heavy losses, the remnant was consolidated with the Fiftieth Regiment. Mr. Eysenbach never was off duty during the whole time, was never in the hospital and never wounded, excepting a bruise in the shoulder by a ball at Stone River, not sufficient to relieve him from duty. He was mustered out of service in July, 1865, and returned home and engaged it general farming and stock raising at his present place. He was married August 17, 1869, to Minnie Winkleman, born in Mecklenburg, Germany, December 1, 1844, daughter of William and Earnestine (Mueller) Winkle man, former a native of Strelitz latter a daughter of Theodore and Fredric; (Tack) Mueller. But two of their children survive, Mrs. Eysenbach ant Eliza, who is in Cincinnati. Mrs. Eysenbach, after immigrating with he parents in 1854, losing her mother one week after reaching this country lived in Cincinnati until 1850, and after changing places of residence several times in Ohio and Indiana, went with her father to Minnesota in 1857 where they were some of the founders of New Ulm. Living there among the Sioux Indians, her father was at one time offered thirty ponies fo her by an Indian chief, but being refused, he tried to capture her afterward when the Indian outbreak occurred at that place in July, 1862. On thi occasion the whole family had a very narrow escape, having their hous burned and losing all other property. They returned to Cincinnal where Mrs. Eisenbach completed her education, and engaged in teachin public school until her marriage in 1869. To Mr. Eysenbach and wife were born nine children: Gretchen, born June 24, 1870; Earnest, born September 13, 1872; Ella, born March 26, 1874; Ida, born December 2: 634 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 1875; Oscar, born August 15, 1877; Wendell, born August 15, 1879; Louis, born July 8, 1881; Dora, born September 2, 1883, and Juliania, born January 17, 1885. Our subject was the first to introduce into Allen County the famous Holstein cattle of which he has a small, but fine herd. HENRY P. EYSENBACH, druggist, Delphos, was born in Odernheim, Germany, December 12, 1843. His father, Wendel Eysenbach, a teacher, in 1851 came to this country with a family of four sons and one daughter, viz.: Mary (now widow of George Schilling), Louis, a farmer, Henry P., William, a merchant, all of Delphos; Theodore, a merchant of Spencereille ; Lina, born here, wife of John Vetter, a hardware dealer of Delphos. The subject of this sketch spent his early life upon the farm taken by his father in Marion Township in 1851. After receiving a good education he entered the drug business at the age of eighteen, and has by dint of able business tact secured for himself a handsome competence. He has been an active promoter and stockholder in many of the important interests of the city, chief among which may be mentioned the Delphos Paper Company, of which he is president, and the Delphos Woolen Company, as well as many others, providing, in the aggregate, support to about 100 people. Mr. Eysenbach has been ever ready to uphold all measures tending toward the growth of the city and locality. He is a member of the city council and school board, and has filled other local official positions. During the late war of the Rebellion he did active service in Company A, One Hundred and Fifty-first Regiment Ohio National Guards. He married in Delphos, in 1867, Miss Augusta, daughter of the Rev. Frederick Altstatter, late of Delphos. She was born in Koenig, Germany, in 1848, and reared and educated in Marion Township, this county, having come to this country in the same ship as her future husband. Mr. and Mrs. Eysenbach have one son and two daughters living: Clara, Lina and Gustav; their eldest daughter, Louisa, died aged fifteen years and is buried in the city cemetery. The family are supporters of the German Reformed Church, but Mr. Eysenbach has always contributed liberally to all denominations. EDWARD FINCKH, proprietor of restaurant and saloon, Delphos, was born in Wurttemberg, Germany, June 20, 1841; son of Augustus and Theodora (Zimerle) Finckh, also natives of Wurttemberg, where they died. Augustus Finckh was stadtpfleger at Ellwanger, Wurttemberg. Our subject came to America at the age of twelve years, with his uncle, Joseph Zimerle, and the first two years after his arrival in this country worked in a bakery and brewery; then clerked for Wrocklage & Co. nine years, and afterward was engaged in butchering with Lawrence Deubler. In 1864 Mr. Finckh was married to Anna Worner, who was born May 12, 1843, in Wurttemberg, Germany, coming to Delphos, this county, at seven years of age. To this union have been born eight children: Annie, Edward (in drug business in Delphos, Ohio,), Adolph (preparing for the priesthood at Notre Dame College, South Bend, Ind.), Josephine, Alexander, Flora, Joseph and Albert. August 31, 1864, Mr. Finckh commenced the wholesale liquor business, in which he remained until 1870, and then engaged in brewing in Delphos, and also Van Wert, Van Wert Co., Ohio, until 1874, when he embarked in his present enterprise. Mr. Finckh started out in life a poor boy, having received but a meager edu- MARION TOWNSHIP - 635 cation, but by energy and application he has surmounted many obstacles, and has succeeded in taking his place among the first in his line in the city of Delphos. He was a member of the city council several terms. He is active in politics and educational matters. The family are members of the Catholic Church. H. GOETTE, secretary and treasurer of the Pittsburg Hoop and Stave Company, Delphos, was born in Berlin, Prussia, November 22, 1840, and there received a thorough mercantile business education. In 1866 he came to this country and engaged in his professional work in New York City, from which he traveled in the interest of wholesale trade for several years. In 1878 he went to Pittsburgh, where he was connected with merchandising till 1880. and in that year he engaged with the Pittsburgh Keg and Barrel Company, who had established a business here, and came here in their employ as book-keeper and cashier. After the burning of their building here he joined F. A. Weger, and bought the plant, etc., which he represents. Mr. Goette was married at Pittsburgh, in 1875, to Miss Emily, daughter of G. G. Backofen, a hardware and tinware merchant of that city, and a native of Nuernberg, Bavaria, Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Goette have one son and two daughters: Elida, Carl and Catherine. Our subject has been an active supporter of matters tending to the city's growth since coming here, and may be reckoned as among the prominent and enterprising citizens of Delphos. THEODORE A. HANDEL, farmer and stock-breeder, P. O. Delphos, was born in Licking County, Ohio, May 1, 1834; son of Nicbolas and Millie (Hayes) Handel; former a native of Virginia, a miller by trade, and an early settler of Licking County, Ohio, died in about 1870, aged eighty- four years (he served as private in the war of 1812); latter, a native of New York, died in 1856; by a former husband she had six children: George (deceased), Harvey (deceased), Amanda (wife of J. Safford, in Michigan), Sarah (deceased ), Lanson (deceased) and Mary (wife of J. Andrews, in Iowa). To Nicholas and Millie (Hayes) Handel was born one child, Theodore A., our subject, who came to this county with his parents in 1846. His education was limited to the common schools, and at the age of fourteen he left home and lived with Ormon Kephort, of Amanda Township this county, till after arriving at maturity, receiving for his services, besides his board, forty acres of wild land, which he sold soon after. In 1854 he rented and eventually purchased the farm on which he now lives, cleared the same,. and placed it under a high state of cultivation, erecting a fine residence and barn. During the war he enlisted in Company I, Thirty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained in the service of his country three years, most of the time as a non-commissioned officer, and received an honorable discharge. He participated in all the battles in which his regiment was engaged except one, and received a slight wound at the battle of Chapmanville. Mr. Handel was married April 5, 1857, to Miss Mary Angeline Harris, who was born at Lockland, Hamilton Co., Ohio, October 13, 1836, daughter of Calvin and Edith (Dunn) Harris. They have no children of their own, but have reared two as adopted: Ernest A. (Emerick) Handel and Sabina Coon. Mr Handel is a member of the G. A. R. at Delphos; a member of the Baptist Church; in politics a Republican. 636 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. ENOS W. HASTINGS, superintendent of Union Schools, Delphos, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, June 1, 1845, his grandfather having settled there at a very early period in the history of that county. Prof. Hastings completed a good literary education in the schools of his district and at sixteen began teaching. He continued successfully in the profession and at twenty-one entered the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, taking a classical course of study, graduating from that institution at the age of twenty-six years. After receiving his degree he continued reputably in the profession as principal and superintendent of Chesterville schools till 1873, when he accepted his present incumbency, which he has held honorably since. He has given a cordial support to the social and literary interests of the town and county, and has assisted very materially in their advancement. He has served upon the examining boards for teachers and has carried on institutes for the development of the people of the teaching profession. Prof. Hastings married in Delaware, Ohio, in 1872, Miss Bessie A., daughter of J. T. Rippey, a prominent merchant, citizen and public man of Shippensburg, Penn. She is a lady of able literary and musical attainments, and a graduate of Mary Institute of Carlisle, Penn. They have one little girl—Mary M. During the war Prof. Hastings did service in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from which he received an honorable discharge. Since locating here he has devoted himself very closely to his professional work REV. JOHN B. HEILAND, Catholic priest, Landeck, was born in Bavaria, Germany, August 31, 1839; son of Adam and Margaret (Haeckel) Heiland, both still living in Avon, Ohio, and who were the parents of six children: John Baptist (our subject), Lawrence, also a priest, educated at Cleveland, now in charge of the church at New Washington, Ohio; George, John, Annie and Catherine, all living. Up to his fifteenth year our subject remained with his father on a farm, then came to America • with his parents, who located at Avon, Lorain Co., Ohio. He worked at the stone-mason trade till 1862, when he entered St. Mary's College, at Cleveland, Ohio, remaining four years each in college and seminary, and in 1870, being ordained a priest, he entered on his clerical duties at Rockport, Ohio, where he remained two years. He then went to Shelby, Richland Co., Ohio, for five years; thence to Tiffin, Ohio, One year, and has since had charge of the church at Landeck, this county, which was organized in 1867, being formed from a part of St. John's congregation of Delphos. Father Heiland has elevated himself to his present position through his own efforts and the help of God, having entered upon his career in life a poor boy. (For record of the Catholic Church at Landeck, see Church History, Marion Township.) IRA S. HERRICK, dealer in general hardware and agricultural implements, Delphos, was born in Kirkersville, Licking Co., Ohio, November 9,1842. His father Simeon was born in Delaware,Ohio, 1812, and was the son of Septimius Herrick, a native of Vermont, who served in the war of 1812, and after its settlement, located in Delaware. Mr. Herrick's ancestry dates back to very early times in the history of the Union, both from the Herricks and the Hatchs (his mother's people), and among the latter is Rufus Hatch of New York City. In 1873, Mr. Herrick left MARION TOWNSHIP - 637 farming in Licking County, and engaged in his present line here where he has been successfully connected since. He married in 1875, Mrs. Elizabeth, widow of Mr. Schauber (by whom she had a daughter, Zella), and daughter of Jacob Boos, farmer of Knox County, Ohio, and a native of Pennsylvania. They have one son, Harold Herrick. Mr. Herrick has been an active citizen since coining here and has given a cordial support to the development of Delphos' interests. Upon the call for troops in 1861 for 75,000 men, he willingly responded, and did service in Company G., Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In October of the same year he re-enlisted in Company D. Sixty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, where he did active and honorable service for three years and three months, when he was honorably discharged. JOHN HENRY HESSELING, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Hanover, Germany, December 8, 1829; son of John Harmon and Narpheimia (Beenmun) Hesseling, former a shoemaker in Germany, and a farmer in America (he helped to cut the road through from Ottawa to Clyde, Ohio; he died in 1844); latter died in Germany in 1831, leaving five children: John Harmon, Jane, Catherine, Eliza and John Henry. By his second wife—Catherine (Fracita)—John Harmon Hesseling had two children: Margaret and Lucetta. Our subject was brought to America in 1832, his parents locating in Putnam County, Ohio, where he grew to maturity, assisting on a farm and attending the common schools. He came to this county in 1869, and has cleared and placed under cultivation all but twelve acres of his farm of 140 acres, and has also assisted in clearing six other farms. He has recently purchased a farm of fifty acres near Delphos for his son, and erected, in 1881, a substantial residence. April 28, 1857, Mr. Hesseling was married to Mary Ann Hemme, also a native of Germany, born July 25, 1S35, and who came to America in 1841; nine children have been born to this union: Frank, Mary, John Harmon, John Henry, Charles Andrew, Katie, Joseph, Denie and William. Our subject is an active member of the Catholic Church. LEONARD HILTNER, farmer and postmaster, Landeck, was born in Germany, February 24, 1828; son of Leonard and Barbara (Dirnhofer) Hiltner (both deceased), parents of seven children: Michael, Eva, Annie. George, Leonard, Barbara (deceased), Theresa (deceased), and Barbara (deceased). Our subject was educated in the common schools of his native land, and in 1853 came to America, locating in Van Wert County, Ohio, near Delphos, and for eight years was engaged in teaching a German school. He also spent three years teaching in Wisconsin and Minnesota, after which he purchased the only store at Landeck and embarked in mercantile business. Mr. Hiltner was commissioned postmaster at Landeck in 1872, which office he still retains. He rents his store room and gives his attention to farming. He was married, May 29, 1865, to Elizabeth Wedig, who was born in Germany in 1840, daughter of Henry and Annie Wedig. Ten children have been born to this union: Annie M.. Mary A., Leonard (deceased). Philip, Kate, Michael, Rosa, John G., Henry W., and an infant (deceased). Our subject is a member of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat. REV. FATHER ALOYSIUS ISIDORE HOEFFEL, pastor of the Church of St. John the Evangelist, Delphos, was born in Lutzelbourg, 38 638 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. department of Meurthe, diocese of Nancy, May 14, 1832. At the age of fonrteen he entered the college of St. Amand at Courtrai, Belgium, remaining there live years. He afterward spent four years in Fenetrange College and Pont a Mousson Seminary, France, and was inscribed at Nancy, but soon after left for America, and after passing a few days with friends and relations, near Norwalk, Ohio, immediately entered St. Mary's Seminary at Cleveland, Ohio, where, after three years' study, he was ordained by the Very Rev. Bishop Rappe, June 13, 1858. He was then sent to Defiance, Ohio, to replace Father Westerhold, from where, for ten years, he performed clerical duties in the following counties: Defiance, Henry, Paulding, Williams, Fulton, touching over to Lucas and Putnam County, and coming here in the latter part of January, 1868, where he has been actively engaged in clerical work since. (See History of Catholic Church at Delphos, p. 451.) JOHN HOTZ, proprietor of restaurant and saloon, Delphos, is a native of Crawford County, Ohio, born May 8, 1857; son of Joseph and Catharine (Frehlick) Hotz, the former a native of Baden, Germany, the latter of Weissemburg, Alsace. Joseph Hotz came to America in 1848, settling first in Huron County, Ohio, where he was married, thence moved to Crawford County, then to Putnam County, and finally to this county, where he arrived about nineteen years ago, and where he has been a prominent farmer since. The mother of our subject, on coming to America, landed at New York, where she remained for a time, thence went to Huron County, Ohio. They had eleven children, two of whom died in childhood. Those now living are Frank J., in Delphos, with his brother; John, Mary, Frank, William, Catharine, Francis, Anna and Benjamin. All are single but the eldest who married Mary Heitz, by whom he has one son, George. Mr. Hotz received a common school education and staid on the farm with his father until eighteen years of age, when he began learning the blacksmith trade, at which he worked six years in various places. He then engaged in clerking in a restaurant, and in August, 1884, he opened out for his own account at his present stand where he is carrying on a first-class business in his line. Mr. Hotz started out in the world without a dollar of financial aid, and has won for himself a place second to none in the business in which he is engaged. Politically he is an active Democrat. EVAN HUMPHREYS, farmer, P. O. Delphos, was born near Machyulleth, Montgomeryshire, North Wales, in October, 1818; son of Morris and Mary (Roberts) Humphreys, also natives of Montgomeryshire; the mother was a daughter of Evan Roberts. After the death of Mr. Humphreys she married William Paul, and died in her native country. The children born to Morris and Mary Humphreys were Annie (who died at twenty-one years of age),Hannah (who became the wife of Richard Fauks, both dying, leaving three sons and one daughter), and Evan. Our subject was but six years of age when his father died, and he was then taken by a Mr. Williams, a farmer, to be brought up. He never attended school a day in his life, but by tact and practical application became thoroughly acquainted with the system of agriculture, and won the prize, in a pleasant contest in his native country, over more than sixty teams. He came with Richard Breece to America, having been married about MARION TOWNSHIP - 639 two years previously, or in 1846, to Elizabeth Pugh, who was born in 1817, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Tibbot) Pugh. After arriving at Cincinnati, Ohio, he started out on foot for Butler County, Ohio, with but three cents, all he then possessed. in his pocket. There he remained two and a half yearse working in the harvest field at seventy cents per day, and chopping in the winter season at twenty-five cents per cord, boarding himself. Upon his arrival in this county from Butler County, he purchased for $600 eighty acres of his present farm, which was then heavily timbered. Here he secured a farm of 260 acres, one of the most beautiful and well-cultivated in Allen County, and by practical ability has placed himself in the foremost rank of agriculture. His children are Lizzie, born in Butler County in 1849, now widow of David T. Morgan (by whom she had three children: Evan, Robert and Essie); Evan, who was born in Allen County, May 14, 1851, farming with the father (he was married to Maggie Davis, daughter of Edward Davis of Van Wert County, Ohio, and by her has had three children: Evan, Annie E. and Edward). The family are members of the Congregational Church. WILLIAM J. HUMPHREYS, farmer, P. O. Delphos, was born in Wales, August 27, 1828; son of John and Elenor (Ellis) Humphreys, also natives of \Vales, the former of whom died in 1864 aged sixty-seven, latter in 1879. They were the parents of ten children: Mary, David, William J., John, Hugh (died in the army), Elenor, Edward, Rollond, Richard and Ann. The paternal grandparents of our subject were William and Ann Humphreys, and the maternal grandparents were David and Elenor Ellis. Our subject was thirteen years of age when his parents immigrated to America, locating in Cambria County, Penn., where he grew to maturity, assisting on a farm and attending the common school. He came to this county in 1858, comparatively a poor man, but industry and enterprise have now placed him in possession of property worth about $10,000. From a state of nature his farm has gradually developed into one of the best in the township. In 1884 he erected a very fine frame residence, and his other buildings are all in keeping. During the late war Mr. Humphreys served 100 days in Company F, Ohio National Guards, One Hundred and Thirty-third Regiment, was drafted later and served till the close of the war iu Company D, Seventy-sixth Regiment. He was married March 1, 1853, to Miss Margaret Davis, also a native of Wales, born April 7, 1832, died October 8, 1874, and to this union were born ten children: John, Elizabeth, Harriet, George, Howard, Mary (deceased), David, William, Mary E. and Margaret (deceased). Mr. Humphreys was married for the second time November 27, 1877, to Miss Jane W. Evans, of Cambria County, Penn. , born October 13, 1854, daughter of William and Nancy (Cade) Evans. Our subject is a consistent member of the Welsh Congregational Church at Gomer; in politics he is a Republican. JACOB HUNSAKER, was born where Pittsburgh, Penn., now is, about the year 1783, and was a descendant of the early Swiss settlers of the State. At the age of eight years he was captured by the Indians, his parents being murdered at the time and scalped, and the scalps sold. After his capture he was taken through the wilderness of the eastern part 640 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. of the State of Ohio, and finally over to Canada, near the Falls of Niagara, and there resided with an Indian chief named Walker, who kept ''a trading post at the time. At the death of the chief he was exchanged as a prisoner, having been with the Indians nine years, returning to Pennsylvania. In the year 1804, he was married to Elizabeth Huffman, a native of Lancaster County, Penn. (her father was a soldier in Gen. Wayne's expedition against the Indians, through the western part of the now State of Ohio, and was killed at the battle of the Rapids, a few miles below Fort Defiance, on the Maumee River, in August, 1794). Shortly after their marriage, in 1804, they emigrated to Fairfield County, Ohio, and settled ten miles east of Lancaster, in Rush Creek Township, and resided there to the time of their death, which occurred in 1853 and 1854, respectively. By occupation he was a farmer and auctioneer. There were born to them three sons and three daughters. George Hunsaker, their eldest son, was born May 12, 1809; Mary Stemen, his wife, was born August 26, 1806. Her parents came from Greene County, Penn., to Fairfield County, Ohio, in the year 1803. In October, 1841, they settled in Allen County, Ohio, and there died, the mother August 23, 1844, and the father in October, 1855. George Hunsaker and Mary Stemen were married June 16, 1831, and settled in Fairfield County, Ohio, and Samuel Hunsaker, their eldest son, was born May 20, 1832. In the year 1834 they moved to Perry County, Ohio, and there the rest of the family were born, four daughters and one son, the son dying in infancy. April 25, 1849. In the year 1852 they with their family of one son and four daughters, came to Allen County, Ohio, and settled in the then forest, and now the farm where their son Samuel now resides, three miles east of Delphos, on October 20, 1852, and there continued to reside till the death of George Hunsaker, who died January 9, 1877; his widow, Mary, died June 12, 1883; they are interred in the Mennonite cemetery in Sugar Creek Township, this county. They were members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Their three daughters are residents of the county; the eldest daughter died in Iowa, in April 1881. Samuel Hunsaker was married December 13, 1866, to Petra Nella Huyesman, of Putnam County, Ohio, who was born March 10, 1844, in Province of North Brabant, Holland. In June, 1848, she immigrated with her parents, Henry and Petra Nella Huyesman. and settled in Monteray Township, Putnam County, Ohio. After their marriage they settled on the farm where they now reside, known as the Old Hunsaker Farm. There were born to them the following children: Augusta, born November 11, 1867; Nella W., born January 10, 1869; George Henry, born September 29, 1870; Louisa, born March 12, 1872; Mary, born January 31, 1874; Emma H., born January 27, 1876 ; Samuel, born May 2, 1878 (died September 1, 1878); Aaron, born March 11, 1880; Lydia E., born September 11, 1882. JAMES I. IRICK, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Mercer County, Ohio, July 29, 1845, son of A. F. Trick. He remained with his parents until after arriving at maturity, receiving a limited education. He first purchased a farm of forty acres which he has placed under cultivation, and here he erected a fine residence and made other improvements, and his farm now consists of 120 acres of choice land. Mr. Irick enlisted in MARION TOWNSHIP - 641 the Ohio National Guards during the war of the Rebellion, but was not called into active service. He was married September 6, 1866, to Miss Melvina Ditto, daughter of William W. and Mahala (Brown) Ditto, and born in Brown County, Ohio, July 16, 1845. To this union have been born ten children: twins. not named and deceased in infancy; Emma, born May 22, 1868; William W., born January 6, 1870; Alexander, born October 23, 1872, died August 14, 1873; Charles, born July 5, 1874, died September 5, 1874; Frank, born July 9. 1875; Stephen, born May 16, 1877; Albertus J., born November 22, 1879; Arthur E., born July 19, 1884. Mr. Irick is a member of Marion grange; in politics he is a Democrat. EVAN H. JONES, farmer and engineer, P. 0. Delphos, was undoubtedly the first child of Welsh parentage to come into the world in Marion Township, born on the farm which is his present home, January 15, 1844, son of Daniel and Martha (Jones) Jones, who were parents of eight children: Evan H., Elizabeth A. (wife of John R. Williams, in New Straitsville, Ohio), Mary J., Martha (wife of Evan D. Thomas, in Putnam County, Ohio), Hannah (wife of Thomas W. Evans, in Putnam County, Ohio), Richard (deceased), Margaret (deceased wife of John G. Evans, family in Putnam County, Ohio), Robert D., in Putnam. County, Ohio. The father died October 2, 1862, highly respected by the entire community. His widow, who now resides with her son, was born April 13, 1817, in Montgomeryshire, North Wales, Great Britain, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Hughs) Jones, both of wbom came to America in 1843, and here died. The subject of this sketch received an indifferent education, remaining with his father until August 21, 1862, when he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment, Capt. Rudolph Reul, of Delphos. He was in the engagement at Resaca, through the Georgia campaign, at Atlanta, Franklin, Tenn., Nashville and Fort Smith, N. C. He was bruised by a solid shot, this being his only wound, and was discharged June 24, 1865, and returned home where he engaged in farming. Mr. Jones was married January 11, 1870, to Mahala Myers, who was born in Fairfield County, April 22, 1848, daughter of Isaac J. and Leah (Houser) Myers, who came to Sugar Creek Township, in 1848. Our subject and wife have had four children: Martha L., Daniel E. and Sarah E. (these two died in childhood), and Augusta. Mr. Jones, outside of farming, is engaged in civil engineering. Politically he is a Republican. He and his family belong to the Congregational Church. WILLIAM WILSON JUDKINS, farmer, P. 0. Box 77, Delphos, was born in Brown County, Ohio, January 10, 1835, son of John D. and Elizabeth (Dunham) Judkins, natives of Brown County, Ohio, former of whom was born October 11, 1811, died September 6, 1841; latter was born January 12, 1814, died February 8, 1876, a daughter of Gideon and Mary (Bowen) Dunham, whose children were Sarah, Ruth, Gideon (ex-member congress), Rebecca, David, Wilson and Elizabeth. John D. Judkins, born October 11, 1811, was a son of Joel Judkins, who was without• doubt a descendant of Joel and Sarah Judkins, of Boston, latter of whom died in that city November 26, 1657, and where her eldest son, Job, was born May 3, or 10, 1637, and died the same year. The paternal 642 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. grandmother of our subject. Rebecca Drake, was a descendant of the celebrated English navigator, Sir Francis Drake. The children of John D. and Elizabeth Judkins were William Wilson; Franklin D., who enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Seventy-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and died at Nashville. Tenn., December 8, 1863, leaving no heirs; Rebecca Drake, deceased, leaving one son--Franklin Drake Hobson; Sarah E., wife of John W. Antrim (have two children: Fenton D. and Isadora Anna, both graduates of Delphos School), and Susannah (deceased wife of N. W. Stemen, she left two daughters: Elizabeth and Sarah P.) When our subject was six and a half years old his father died, and at the age of nine years, being thrown on his own resources, he entered upon his career as a clerk in a store, receiving $6 per month. After nine months at this work, which was not to his taste, he turned his attention to agricultural labor and has since made farming his chief occupation of life. After arriving at maturity, he attended, for six months, a common school where he obtained his education in such branches as to enable him to teach school, and he eventually taught eighteen terms, as well as attending to other business intenests. Mr. Judkins was married November 10, 1857, to Miss Emily J. Manker, who was born in Highland County, Ohio, October 3, 1838 or 1839 (owing to a change in the records the exact date cannot be determined on), daughter of Hiram and Phceba (Swadley) Manker, natives of Highland County, Ohio (both deceased), and who were the parents of six children: Ellen (wife of J. Dillsaver), Louisa (deceased), Melvina, Sarah A., Emily J. and Santford H. To this union were born three children: John H., married to Martha E. Patrick (they have two sons: Orlo W. and Clarence), Ella J. and Charles D. Mr. Judkins came to this county March 15, 1858, and located in Marion Township on Section 6, remaining two years, and then returned to southern Ohio and engaged in teaching till the commencement of the war, when, being unable to go into active service, he entered the quartermaster's department of transportation, and was stationed at Camp Nelson, Ky., where he remained till the close of the war; he then returned to this county and engaged in farming and teaching. Mr. Judkins purchased his present farm in 1865, twenty acres of which were improved; the balance he placed under a very high state of cultivation, erecting substantial buildings thereon. He is an active member of Marion grange, and since the age of twelve years has been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and an active Sabbath-school worker. In politics he is a stanch advocate of the principles of the Republican party. He has in his possession an old book containing the rules of arithmetic written on English crown paper, in 1800, by his grandfather Judkins. JOHN KING, attorney at law, Delphos. was born in Greene County, Ohio, January 22, 1822. his father, David King, a farmer, having located there from North Carolina; the original members of the family settled in Virginia in early times. Mr. King completed his literary training at the Ohio Wesleyan -University of Delaware, Ohio, and engaged in the practice of law, coming to this locality about 1846. He married in Delphos, in 1848, Miss Annie M. Metcalf, of Cincinnati, daughter of Rev. Amos and Sarah (Clymer) Metcalf (former deceased). and niece of the late Hon. MARION TOWNSHIP - 643 Benjamin Metcalf, of Lima. Tbey have one daughter—Fannie, wife of Horace A. Reeve, attorney at law, Delphos. Mr. King has always given a hearty support to measures in the interest of the social and business life of the city. He is a prominent member of the Methodist Church; has been for many years a F. & A. M.; is a R. A. M. FREDERICK KOLLSMITH, wagon and carriage manufacturer, Delphos, was born near Osnabruck, Hanover, Germany, October 19, 1835, his father, Henry Kollsmith, being a blacksmith there. Frederick was reared to that business, and at the age of sixteen came to America and settled in Delphos, where he has since been successfully connected with this industry, his various kinds of wagons, etc., being well and favorable known, the business being started in 1855. He was married in 1858 to Miss Mary Ossenbeck, born near Deep Cut, Auglaise County, in 1839, her father, Henry Ossenbeck, a brewer, having settled in the state, (from Germany) in early times. Mr. and Mrs. Kollsmith's family consists of six sons and three daughters: John, Frank, Clara, Henry, Joseph, Theresa, Freddie, Flora and Leo. In January, 1884, Mrs. Kollsmith passed away in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, and is buried in the Roman Catholic cemetery here. Mr. Kollsmith has always given a cordial support to all measures tending to the city's development. He was chief of the fire department for three years; has been a member of the council, and has held other important local offrcial positions. KRUTSCH BROS., dealers in furniture, etc., Delphos, represent a leading factor in this important industry here. The firm consists of two brothers, Charles A. and Frank H., who for many years carried on contracting in painting and decorating here. They established their present business April 4, 1881, and now propose to do considerable in the way of manufacturing. They come from a pioneer family in the State, their grandfather, George Krutsch, having settled in Fairfield County, Ohio, from Germany, about 1805. Their father, George W. Krutsch, now a contractor and builder in Delphos, was born in Fairfield County, April 17, 1822, and had four brothers and four sisters: Rachel (deceased), Benona C., a carpenter in Delphos; Elizabeth (deceased), William (deceased), Catherine (deceased), Margaret, David Otho, a carpenter and builder; and Henry C. (deceased). George W., the father, learned wagon-making in Perry County, and in 1849 came to Marion Township where he subsequently engaged at carpentering and building. He married, September 7, 1848, Miss Rosanna Burkett. by whom he had five sons and a daughter, of whom Charles A. and Frank H. survive. The deceased are Oliver H., Mary Elizabeth, Joseph and George B., all buried in the city cemetery here. He did active service in the Mexican war. Since coming here he has accumulated a nice competence, and has given a helping hand in the furtherance of many of the interests of Delphos. HENRY KUNDERT, livery, feed, sale and exchange stables, Delphos, was born in Delphos. September 28, 1860, son of Henry and Wilhelmina Pedicord (Myers) Kundert, the former a native of Switzerland, the latter of Rotterdam, Holland; she had one child, William, by her first marriage, and he is in the saddlery business at Fennimore, Wis. Henry Kundert was a contractor and builder, and carried on business many year: 644 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. in Delphos before his death. The children by his first wife were Fred and Annie, who is the wife of Walter Cordell, both of Delphos; and the children by the second marriage were Martha, wife of Evan J. Williams of the firm of Tuar & Williams; Henry, Egbert, Jacob and Minnie. The subject of this sketch, owing to his father's death, started out for himself early in life, engaging first in the produce and commission business, in which, by shrewdness and business tact he was successful. He then embarked in his present business, in which he is one of the foremost in the city. He is affable and pleasant, an energetic and enterprising business man. B. H. LAUSE (deceased) was a native of Mela, Germany, born March 20, 1820, died November 15, 1871; he was a son of Henry Lause who had five children, D. H. ; Clara, widow of Caspar Metzger, living in Marion Township, this county; Mary, wife of Andrew Glucky, in Dayton, Ohio; Frederick, in Marion Township, this county; Elizabeth, widow of Joseph Swatzengerber, also in Marion Township. Our subject landed at New York in 1844, and settled at Fort Jennings, in Putnam Co., Ohio. He was married April 10, 1849, to Elizabeth Miller, born April 30, 1832, near Osnabruck, Germany, daughter of Frederick and Catharine (Scharf)" Miller, who came to America in 1847, landing at New Orleans, thence moving to Cincinnati, Ohio, and from there to Delphos, the same year, where the father worked at the carpenter's trade until his death. He died in 1853, aged fifty-two years. Mrs. Lause was their only child. All her uncles and aunts on her father's side left families in Germany. To our subject and wife were born ten children, all living in this county, viz.: Catharine, born October 11, 1850, wife of Christopher Beckman ; Mary, born September 13, 1855, wife of William Potchas ; Fredrica, (deceased, aged 3 years); Anna, born February 3, 1859, wife of Matthew Sever, died February 2, 1881, leaving two children ; Clara, born October 26, 1860, wife of William Sever ; John, born February 6, 1863 ; Elizabeth, born September 3. 1866, wife of John Potchas ; Josephine, born January 12, 1868 ; Emma, born March 13, 1870 ; Henry, born April 5. 1872. Mr. Lause took an active part in the improvement of stock and farm products. He started out in life in slender circumstances, but by great energy and perseverance, secured for his family two fine farms of each 120 and eighty acres. He was highly esteemed by his neighbors and the eitizens of Marion Township generally. His son, John, who is farming on the homestead, and looking after his mother and family, is following closely in the footsteps of his father, and is a highly respected young man. FREDERICK LAUSE, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Hanover, Germany, March 2, 1825, son of Henry and Mary (Giesker) Lause, who were parents of seven children: Henry, Catharine, Elisabeth (deceased), Mary, Frederick, Elisabeth and Clara. Our subject received a common school education, and learned the carpenter's trade in his native land, coming to America when twenty years of age, and locating in this county. He purchased his present farm in 1850, and from a forest has transformed it into one of the best farms of Marion Township. His fine residence was erected during the summer of 1884. Mr. Lause was married April 3, 1856, to Mary Pohlmann, born in Hanover, Germany, May 2, MARION TOWNSHIP - 645 1838, and who was brought to America when six years old. Her parents, Caspar and Clara (Henseler) Pohlmann, had the following children: John, Mary and Clemens (living); Elisabeth, Henry, Joseph, Theresia, Anna, Catharina and Clara (deceased.) Twelve children were born to our subject and wife: Marv, Elisabeth (deceased), Dina, Caspar. Henry (deceased), Frank, Clara, Anna, Clemens, Joseph, Frederick and Aloysius. The family are consistent members of the Catholic Church. HENRY LINDEMANN, trustee of Marion Township, and boot and shoe merchant, .Delphos, was born near Osnabruck, Germany, November 25, 1834, son of Frederick and Clara (Monter) Lindemann. He came to America in 1845 with his people, who settled here, and at eighteen years of age began his trade in Delphos, and has since been successfully connected with the business here. He married, in 185S, Miss Clara Ossenbach, who was born in Kossuth, Auglaize County, Ohio, her father having settled there, coming from Oldenburg, Germany, about 1840. They have five eons and four daughters: John, assistant probate judge of Allen County ; Theresa, Frank, a shoemaker; Clara, Alexander, Rosa, Marquis, Ida and Willie. Mr. Lindemann has served in civic offices in Delphos for many years ; has been trustee for six years, marshal of the city ten years, deputy sheriff ten years, and has held other important local official positions. For four years he has been treasurer of the Roman Catholic Church. BERNARD AND FREDERICK LINDEMANN, manufacturers and dealers in boots and shoes, Delphos, are sons of Frederick Lindemann, a farmer who came from near Osnabruck, Germany, and settled on a farm in Marion Township, this county, in November, 1844. His family consisted of eight sons and three daughters: Joseph, a farmer; Frederick; Henry, a shoe maker; Frank, a farmer; Anna, widow of Charles Yonderembse, deceased; Bernard, Conrad, a farmer; Kate, wife of Henry Beckman, carpenter and builder; Otto, a shoemaker; Mary, wife of Frank Wahmhoff, druggist; and John, a shoemaker. Bernard Lindemann was born in Delphos, March 7, 1850, and learned his business here. He married it September, 1871, Miss Margaretta, daughter of the late Michael Brickner, merchant of this place, born in Bierne, Bavaria, and who came h America in 1836, when a boy, settling in Marion Township, this county in 1851. Frederick Lindemann, the other member of the firm, was bon in Germany; he married, in 1860, Elizabeth Schwarte, of 171m, Germany They have three sons and three daughters: Frances, Lizzie, George Charles, Rosa and Bernard. MINOR T. LONG, farmer and stock-raiser, P. 0. Delphos, was bon in Clermont County, Penn., Aug. 24, 1845. His parents, Jacob and Rebecca Long, are natives of Ohio and early settlers in this county The subject of our sketch was reared on the farm and has been a success ful agriculturist. He has always given a cordial support to measure tending to the advancement of the best interests of his locality, and has figured prominently in municipal politics, serving with honorable reputation in the township council and the school board of his district. During the late civil war he did active service in McLaughlin's Squadror Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, from which he received an honorable discharge at the end of the struggle. He is present commander of Reul Poe 646 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. No.95, G. A. R. Mr. Long married in 1867 Miss Jane Tucker, daughter of Greenbury .Tucker, and to this union have been born one son and one daughter, living; Cora E, and Delmer D. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Church in which. he has served as an official for several years. ISAAC LUDWIG, owner of "Sunnyside" Farm, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, January 3, 1842, and was brought to this county in 1849 with his people. His father, Jacob Ludwig, a native of Pickaway County, was a son of Jacob Ludwig, who settled in that county, coming from Bucks County, Penn., about seventy years ago. The subject of our sketch was reared on the farm. Upon the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, he enlisted in Company B, McLauchlin's Squadron, Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and remained in service till the close of the war, when he received an honorable discharge as a paroled prisoner from Libby prison, where he had been but recently confined. After the war he returned to farming, a pursuit he has since been successfully engaged in. Mr. Ludwig was united in marriage in 1866, with Miss Sophronia J., daughter of the late Thomas Harbaugh, of Putnam County. They have a family of four children: Thomas J., Omar I., Luella and Guy. He and his wife are active members of the Presbyterian Church of Delphos. He is a member of He'll Post, G. A. R., Marion Grange 302, Edith Lodge, K. of H., Hope Lodge, F. & A. M. and Delphos Chapter 105, R. A. M. CHARLES C. LUDWIG, farmer and teacher, P. 0. Delphos, is a representative of one of the oldest and most prominent families in Marion Township, born in Allen County, Ohio, May 12, 1853, son of Jacob Ludwig. His life until attaining his majority was spent with his father on the farm, excepting such time as was occupied in attending the district school and one year spent. in Lebanon, Ohio, and about one year in Normal, Ill. Since then he has been engaged as a teacher and farmer. He was married. February 8, 1883, to Melissa J. Neff who was born near Fremont, Ohio, daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Myers) Neff, and by this union has been born one son, Lucien Earl. Mr. Ludwig is a Master Mason of Hope Lodge 214, at Delphos; a member of Lodge 201. I. 0. 0. F.. and a member of Marion Grange 302. He has taught twenty-four terms in the schools of Marion Township, and as a teacher, citizen and friend is most highly esteemed and regarded as a most enterprising, energetic and genial man. FRANCIS JOSEPH LYE was born in the hamlet of Wollschiller, Alsace. Germany. March 19, 1817. In 1828 his father came to America with his family, of whom an unmarried daughter, Frances, and the subject of our sketch remain. Their father, Francis Joseph, died here in 1869, and their mother, Anna Maria, in 1872. Mr. Lye began life at wagon-making (his fathersis business), and after six years took up hotel business in 1846, and subsequently engaged in merchandising, with which he has been identified here since. Ho has also been interested in most of the important industries of Delphos. He was one of the original proprietors of the First National Bank, and held a directorship for many years. He was prominently identified with the organization and building of the Union Flouring Mills; has held the treasurership of Allen MARION TOWNSHIP - 647 County; been trustee of Marion Township; member of the city councils many years; of the city school board, and has held many other local official positions. Mr. Lye was married in McCutchenville, Ohio, to Mary Ann Burton, who died in 1872. They had eleven children, eight of whom are living: Lauretta Odelia, wife of J. H. Zimerle; Clement Vincent, in St. Paul, Minn.; Rosalia Frances, wife of S. F. Shenk; Joseph Marcellus, in Sioux City, Iowa; Leo F.. a miller; Mary Lucina, wife of Joseph F. Limbach, a teacher; Francis A., butcher; William E., tinner, in Delphos. Mr. Lye has always been a member of the Roman Catholic Church, of which Mrs. Lye died a full communicant. R. K. LYTLE, banker and manufacturer, Delphos, was born in Stark County, Ohio, February 17, 1819 ; son of Robert and Hannah (Knox) Lytle, former of Irish, latter of Scotch descent. They were parents of the following children : James, deceased, leaving a family at St. Mary's, Ohio ; Mary, who became the wife of David Williams, both of whom are now deceased ; Edmond, residing near Sidney, Ohio ; Margaret, widow of John Walkup of Delphos ; and R. K. The father died in 1821, the mother in 1842. The subject of this sketch, with his mother and other members of the family, moved to Sidney, Ohio, in 1833. In 1839 he entered the freshman class at the Miami University, and there remained untih completing his junior year ; he then began the study of medicine with Dr. G. Volney Dorsey, an eminent surgeon of Piqua, Ohio, where he remained one year. But surgery being distasteful to him, he discontinued the study of the profession and devoted his time to school teaching until 1845, when he came to Delphos and took charge of the general store of Hollister, Bliss & Petit, in which capacity he continued two and a half years, when he became a member of the firm of Hollister, Bliss & Lytle, which continued until 1856. The clothing and dry goods firm of Lytle & Robuck was then formed, and existed until 1859, when it was dissolved. The firm of R. K. Lytle & Co., dealers in general merchandise, was next established, and was carried on until 1864, when Mr. Lytle rented his store room and removed to Sidney, Ohio, to live a retired life on account of poor health. Two years being spent in retirement, Mr. Lytle became interested in the firm of Lytle & Scott, of Delphos, which in 1873 was terminated, owing to Mr. Scott's health. Our subject remained in Sidney until 1872, when he returned to Delphos, and engaged with his partner in building the Lytle Block. In 1874, upon the organization of the Commercial Banking Corporation, he became president, in which capacity he still continues. He is a director in the Ohio Wheel Company, also a director in the Union Stave Factory. At the request of the people of the Fifth Congressional District, he became a candidate for Congress upon the Republican ticket, against A. V. Rice, receiving 8,279 votes against 13,477 for his opponent, which was the smallest Democratic majority ever given in the district. Mr. Lytle was thrice married. first at St. Mary's, Ohio, in 1846, to Martha L., daughter of Samuel Major, and by her had six children, all of whom died young. Mrs. Lytle dying in 1861, Mr. Lytle married, in 1866, Mary Sprague of Wooster, Ohio, daughter of Lindol Sprague. To this union were born two children, both of whom are living: Lindol S. and Margaret K. The mother of these children died in 1874. 648 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. and our subject's third marriage occurred, May 10, 1876, with Miss Isabelle R. Harn of St.. Mary's, Ohio, daughter of Denton and Rachel (Pickett) Hera. Both he and his present wife are descended from the celebrated Knox family ; his mother a distant connection of James Knox Polk, eleventh President of the United States. Mr. Lytle is a Royal Arch Mason and a member of the Royal Arcanum. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Delphos, in which he is a trustee and of which he was instrumental in the construction. JAMES FRANCIS McSHANE, merchant, was horn in Pittsburgh, Penn., June 1, 1851. His father, James McShane, merchant of that city, having come to Pittsburgh from Dungannon, County Tyrone, Ireland,. about 1820, Mr. McShane was reared to merchandising and completed a good business education in the Iron City College of Pittsburgh. ,He was afterward very reputably identified with book-keeping and managing of business interests in his native city. He was united in marriage, in 1878, with Miss Catherine A., daughter of the late Peter Phelan, and the only survivor of that family. She is a lady of fine literary and musical attainments, a graduate of the Ursuline Convent, Toledo. To our subject and wife have been born one son, Peter, and one daughter, Kathleen A., living, and one child (the eldest) buried in the Roman Catholic cemetery. In 18'78 Mr. McShane came to Delphos with the view of taking charge of the interests of the late Peter Phelan, and has had successful business connections here since. He is a director of the Delphos National Bank ; of the Decatur National Bank. of Decatur, Ind.; also director of the Ohio Wheel Company, of Delphos ; general manager, secretary and treasurer of the Delphos Gas Light Company ; and has held stock in many other interests here. He and his wife are regular communicants of the Roman Catholic Church. GEORGE MEIHLS, proprietor of billiard room and saloon, Delphos, was born in Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, June 23, 1836 ; son of John and Mary (Leit) Meihls, natives of Germany (both deceased), parents of six children : Elizabeth, John, Andrew. Jacob, Philip and -George. Our subject received a common school education in his native land and in his seventeenth year came to America, locating at Delphos, Ohio, where he worked in a cabinet shop eight months, then engaged in the saloon business two years. In 1858 he moved to Spencerville, this county, where he was for about twenty-six years proprietor of the "Kolter House." He returned to Delphos in May, 1884, and re-entered the saloon and billiard business. Our subject was married April 26, 1858, to Miss Elizabeth Kleinheus, who was born in Germany in August, 1836, died April 14, 1870. By this union were born five children: Susie, Milton, George, Minnie and Philip. Mr. Meihls' second marriage was in 1872, with Elizabeth Neidhardt, who was born in August, 1848, and their family numbers four children : William H., Mary, Herman and John. Mr. Meihls was clerk of Spencer Township, this county, twelve years and councilman three years. He was a charter member of the order of Red Men at Spencerville, and is an active member of the I. 0. 0. F. In politics he is a Democrat. Our subject has paid two visits to his native land, on the second of which his father came to America with him. DAVID MINNIG, proprietor of Minnig's planing mill and furniture factory, Delphos, was born in Berne, Switzerland, February 10, 1828, MARION TOWNSHIP - 649 and there learned cabinet making. At twenty-two be came to America and in August, 1850, located in Marion Township. In 1853 he united in partnership with E. A. Garfield, manufacturer of this place. and who died in 1855, since which time Mr. Minnig has conducted the business, giving employment to about eight or ten skilled workmen. He married at Delphos. in 1857, Miss Margaret Foulk, who was born in Aran, Switzerland, in 1842. They have no children of their own, but have adopted Isaac Justice. They are members of the German Reformed Church. HENRY JOHN MOENNIG, merchant, Delphos, was born near Osnabruck, Germany, January 15, 1830, son of John Christopher and Elizabeth Moennig, and grandson of John D. Moennig. In 1843 they came to this country and settled in Delphos. His father's family consisted of Henry J., William, in Chattanooga, Tenn., Mary (wife of Henry Gerdeman, pioneer of Washington Township, Van Wert Co.), Angelica (deceased), Herman (deceased), and Frederick H., a merchant of Delphos. The parents and grandfather are buried in the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Delphos. The subject of our sketch when seventeen year of age engaged in merchandising, and when twenty-two embarked in business for himself with a general stock of goods, continuing successfully for many years. He married in Delphos, in 1857, Miss Mary B., eldest daughter of the late Ferdinand Bredeick. by whom he has three sons and two daughters living: Ferdinand H., Elizabeth B., Henry J. Jr.. Agnes and Otto. In 1866 he opened out in the hardware business, adding agricultural implements, and carried on a successful trade until he retired, turning Over his hardware trade to his eldest son, Ferdinand H., retaining the agricultural implement business. He has given a cordial support to many other interests of Delphos, including banking and manufacturing, and is con- siderably interested in agriculture and stock raising. Be has served several terms as a member of the city council, clerk and treasurer of Washington Township, trustee of the Roman Catholic Church, and has filled other local and official positions. DAVID H. MYERS, farmer and stock raiser. P. 0. Delphos, was born on his present farm, December 3, 1849; son of Silas Pryor Myers, a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, who settled in Marion Township, this county, in 1848, his father having come here from Virginia at an early period in the history of Hamilton County. The subject of our sketch received a good literary training and engaged in mercantile pursuits, but relinquished them after a short time and returned to the farm upon which he has been prosperously located since. He married. in 1870, in Van Wert, Miss Mary Ellen, daughter of the Rev. James F. Mounts, of the Meth. odist Conference, who was a native of Ohio, and a son of Humphrey Mounts, of Marion County, Ohio, a native of Scotland. Mr. and Mrs. Myers have one little girl—Luella A. Mr. Myers is an active, enterprising citizen. a shrewd, far-seeing farmer. He is a cordial supporter of measures tending toward liberal principles in our public, social and industrial institutions. JOSEPH OSTENDORF, merchant and manufacturer, Delphos, was born in Hanover, Germany, February 2, 1822, and was there reared to the cooper's trade. At the age of twenty-one he came to America and carried on his business in Cincinnati, moving to Delphos in 1848, and 650 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. continuing the same occupation till 1860. In 1852 he engaged in merchandising, from which he retired in 1875. In 1869 he became united with George W. Hall, in the establishment of the Delphos Union Stave Company; in 1875 he accepted the presidency, and has honorably filled the incumbency since. Mr. Ostendorf married in 1849, Agnes Paul, who departed this life in 1850, then, in 1852, he married .Mrs. Elizabeth Bredeick (nee Wrocklage), by whom he has two sons and. two daughters: Otto J. and Henry, merchants; Theresa (wife of Henry J. Mulfhorst), merchant, and Agnes (wife of Dr. F. H. Schlink), all of Delphos. Mrs. Ostendorf had three daughters by her first marriage, viz: Bernardina (wife of Henry J. Moennig), merchant; Mary (deceased wife of Charles E. Shenk), and Emilia (wife Of George F. Lang), all of Delphos. Mr. Ostendorf has always given a hearty support to all measures conducive to the improvement of the city, and has held prominent positions in connection with its citizens. His family, who are all grown up, hold creditable positions in the commercial and social life of Delphos. ALFORD M. PATRICK, farmer, P. O. Southworth, was born in Sugar Creek Township, this county, October 31, 1842; son of William and Mary (Demorest) Patrick, former a native of Virginia, an early settler of Marion County, Ohio, and who came to this county soon after its organization, locating in Sugar Creek Township, dying in 1863, aged seventy-seven years; latter died in 1846. William Patrick was four times married, his first and fourth wives dying without issue. His second wife bore him two sons and one daughter: Washington, in Nevada; John, in Kansas, and Rebecca (deceased). His third wife bore him six children: William C., in Sugar Creek Township, this county; Isaac W. in Kansas; Alford M., Leah (deceased), Mary J. (deceased), and Julia (wife of C. E. Enslow, in Indiana). Our subject's education was limited to the common schools of the neighborhood, and at the age of twenty years he enlisted in Company E. Ninty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with Capt. John Walters. serving thirty months. He took part in every battle in which his regiment was engaged, and received an honorable discharge on the consolidation of regiments. He came to his present farm in 1867, and from a wild state he has transformed it into one of the best cultivated farms in Marion Township, his residence and other buildings being among the best in the neighborhood. Mr. Patrick was married July 4, 1861, to Miss Sarah J. Bedford, who was born in Warren County, Ohio, May 17, 1841, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Murray) Bedford, now residents of Bath Township, this county. To this union have been born seven children: William A., married to Sarah A. Brown (have one child, Albertie), and nOw living in Illinois, Frank W., married to Sarah C. Smith (have one child, Ella F.), Viola M., Josie E., Julia (deceased), Annie E. (deceased), and an infant (deceased). Mr. Patrick is a member of Real Post, G. A. R., at Delphos. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican. BENJAMIN POLING, farmer, P. O. Elida, was born January 24, 1815, in Fairfield County, Ohio, son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Stemen) Poling, former a son of Rodner and Margaret (Black) Poling, natives of Virginia; latter a daughter of Peter and Magdalene (Swick) Stemen, also natives of Virginia. Our subject's parents had a family of six sons and MARION TOWNSHIP - 651 seven daughters, of whom are now living : Peter (in Hocking County, Ohio), Benjamin, John (in Fairfield County, Ohio), Noah and Ezra (in Hocking County, Ohio), Elizabeth, single and living with her sister Margaret (now the wife of Nathaniel Tucker, in Highland County, Ohio), and Louisa (wife of Bartlett McGinnis, in Van Wert County, Ohio). Mr. Poling received indifferent educational advantages. He was chiefly with his father assisting him in farm work, until his marriage, April 29, 1841, with Elizabeth Short, a native of Pennsylvania, born September 7, 1817, and who came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in about 1821, with her parents, John and Elizabeth (Donaldson) Short, who came to America from Ireland soon after marriage, landing at Philadelphia. Our subject and wife are parents of five children: Anna M. (wife of Lafayette Seitz, of Delphos), William D. (the present county auditor), Rachael (wife of George W. Liman, in Marion Township, this county), Mary E.(at home), Samuel A. (in Marion Township, this county). Our subject came to his present home in the fall of 1845, and here he has since resided carrying on general farming. He has cleared about eighty acres of land in this county, and now has a nicely improved farm of 120 acres with pleasant surroundings. Although not desiring office, Mr. Poling has been urged to accept positions of trust, and has taken an active interest in all things conducive to the advancement and general welfare of the people of his community. The ancestry of our subject have been remarkable for longevity of life, all having died at greatly advanced ages. PATRICK REDMON, proprietor of livery business, Delphos, was born in county Westmeath, Ireland, in 1828, and immigrated to America when about eighteen years of age, locating in New York City. Subsequently he traveled through several States, visiting Chicago, St. Louis, New Orleans, etc., eventually settling down in the livery business for a time at La Grange, Mo. In 1858 he moved to Van Wert, establishiug the first livery business there, thence went to Crestline, Ohio, wbere he engaged extensively in trading and dealing in horses, mules, &c., doing a profitable business for some years, and afterward located in Delphos, in the livery business. Mr. Redmon married, in Crestline, Miss Louisa Breece, of Delphos, Ohio, and to this union have been born six sons and two daughters : Charles, Ida, William, Michael, Albert, Philip, Arthur and Lillie. HORACE A. REEVE, attorney at law, Delphos, was born in Hancock, Delaware County, N. Y., March 29, 1854. His father, William Reeve, was a pioneer merchant there, and his immediate ancestors were the descendants of pioneers of New Jersey, among whom is known the Hon. Tapping Reeve, of Connecticut, author of "Domestic Relations" and other publications. The subject of our sketch graduated in a full classical course of study at twenty-two (he had however been admitted to the practice of law, in Ohio, upon attaining his majority) and after graduating he accepted the principalship of the schools of Rosco, Ohio. In 1877 he came to Delphos and engaged actively in the practice of law, and has been prominently identified with it since. He has given a cordial support to all measures tending to the city's growth and development; has held a directorship of the Commercial Bank for several years, and is secretary of the Delphos Paper Co., in both of which institutions he is 652 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.. stockholder. He married, in 1S79, Miss Fannie, only child of John King. a pioneer attorney of Delphos. She is a lady of excellent attainments, a graduate of Wesley College, Cincinnati. The.): have two sons: Albert King and Horace Kent. DR. RUDOLPH REUL (deceased) was born in Offenburg. Baden, Germany, November 24, 1826. He laid the foundation of his education in his native city, which has long been noted for its splendid high schools, and at the age of eighteen went to the University of Freiburg for the study of medicine. Just as he had finished his studies; the latent fires of the German revolution of 1848 burst forth into flames, and like many other educated young men, our subject joined the ranks of the revolutionary army as lieutenant, sometimes serving as surgeon. In 18-19. when the revolution was subdued, he was imprisoned, and after al time fled to Strasburg, France. In the fall of the same year he came to the United States and directly to Delphos, Ohio, where he had connections. and lived alternately there and at the Riley settlement. After his marriage, in the fall of 1854, at Letitz, Penn., with Miss Marie Hepp, daughter of a Protestant minister in Baden, Germany, our subject settled permanently in Delphos, devoting himself to the practice of medicine. His father, Joseph Reul, a tailor by trade, and for long years a citizen of Offenburg, followed his son to this country with his wife and daughter, in the spring of 1853. With a short interruption, he stayed in his son's family altogether, and died there in the winter of 1875, at the ripe old age of seventy-nine. When the Civil war broke out the doctor joined the army of the Republic, after Lincoln's call for 300,000 more men, in the fall of 1862, as captain of Company F., One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was with the Twenty-third Army Corps in Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia until the fall of 1864, when, having been wounded in the back before Atlanta, he retired from the service, and afterward devoted himself to his large practice. At the same time he acted as director and president of the school board, always taking a lively interest in educational matters, and the growth and prosperity of Delphos he had ever at heart. Naturally a strong man, he never felt perfectly well after the war, which he attributed to the exposure of the campaign, but strange enough, the real cause of his sufferings, and which ultimately led to his premature death, the wound in his back, he, the experienced physician, never thought of. After having twice visited his old home in Germany, where he took his two eldest sons to school, and which journeys refreshed his health greatly for a while, he declined gradually. He was struck with paralysis on July 29, 1879, and after much suffering, died August 19, 1879. Of his three sons only the youngest was present at his death bed. The two elder, whom he had called home in the last letter he ever wrote, started on their homeward journey on the day of his death. JAMES A. RISK represents the leading hotel business of Delphos, in the " Rose House," which is located convenient to the business interests of the city and at the crossing of the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago. the Toledo, Cincinnati & St. Louis and the Cleveland, Delphos & St. Louis Railways. It is entirely new, and furnished with all modern conveniences, the enterprising proprietor having spared no pains in the improvements. He has an able corps of assistants, and the valuable support MARION TOWNSHIP - 653 of his wife, Mrs. James Risk, a landlady to whom too much credit for her abilities cannot be given, and his son, J. M. Risk, under whose general management the hostlery is kept, and whose able executive abilities renders " Rose House" one of the most convenient and comfortable hotels in this part of the State. The traveling trade wnll take no "risk'' in stopping at this place. CHARLES W. RISLEY, general freight and passenger agent of the Cleveland, Delphos & St. Louis Railway, Delphos. was born in Delphos, August 13, 1851. His father, Winchton L. Risley, a native of Vermont, settled in Delphos in an early day. The subject of our sketch, after completing a good common school education, was employed as postal clerk in the postoffice (his mother succeeded his father in the postmaster-ship of Delphos). At seventeen he engaged in a collegiate course of study, and, at twenty-one, accepted a position in the then First National Bank as book-keeper, subsequently becoming assistant cashier. Retiring from this position, in 1878, he engaged in insurance business with the Fidelity Fire Insurance Company, of Delphos, and was appointed its acting secretary. He subsequently accepted the position of adjuster with the Fire Insurance Adjustment Company of Cincinnati. Upon the organization of the Cleveland, Delphos & St. Louis Railroad Company, Mr. Risley accepted the secretaryship of the Ohio Construction Company, who built the road, and when the road became operated by the present corporation in 1882, was appointed to his present incumbency, which he creditably fills. In 1879 our subject was married, in Delphos, to Miss Rose L., daughter of Charles H. Whittier, manufacturer, of Delphos, Ohio. She is a lady of good attainments. They have one daughter, Mary L. Mr. and Mrs. Risley are active members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is one of the board of trustees. He is one of the representative men of Delphos, an ardent supporter of all measures tending to its growth and welfare. STEPHEN G. ROLOSON, photographic artist, Delphos, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, February 28, 1835, and is descended of a line of pioneers of this county., His father, Utley Roloson, was born in Delaware County, son of Nathaniel Roloson, who settled there, coming from Pennsylvania at an early period in the history of the county. The subject of this sketch completed a good literary education and engaged at farming till at the age of twenty-five years, when he came to Delphos and took up his present vocation, which he has successfully carried on since. He has always given a cordial support to measures tending to the development of the social life of the city. He is a charter member of Delphos Lodge, No. 139, Knights of Pythias, and its present chancellor commander. He has also been for several years a member of I. 0. 0. F. of which be is a past grand. JOHN ROTH, retired butcher, Delphos, was born in Bierne, Bavaria in 1816, and engaged at butchering there. In 1842 he came to America and completed learning his trade in Baltimore, Md., afterward locating in Logan, Hocking Co., Ohio, where he was successfully connected with butchering for fifteen years. He was married in Logan, in 1845, to Mis Mary, daughter of the late John Ramser, a native of Alsace, Germany and at one time a prominent merchant of Logan. Our subject and wife 39 654 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. had a family of four sons and four daughters: Mary (wife of Joseph Kindly, of Delphos), Joseph J. (of the firm of Roth Bros.), Barbara (wife of George Stevens, of Delphos), John (also a member of the firm), Henry (a butcher in California), Kate, Frank (of the firm) and Julia. In 1859 Mr. Roth came to Delphos and carried on the butchering business successfully until his retirement from it in 1879, when he transferred it to his sons, who constitute the firm of "Roth Bros.," having a meat market, prominent among the leading industries of Delphos. Mr. Roth, by steadily working at his business, secured a handsome competence, and he has lived to see his family occupying good positions in the social and industrial life of his adopted city. He has visited the land of his nativity on different occasions. He and his family are members of the Roman Catholic Church. FRANCIS HENRY SCHLINK, M. D., Delphos, Ohio, was born January 14, 1856, in Milan Township, Allen County, Ind., being the second youngest of nine children, six boys and three girls, four boys surviving. His father, George Peter Schlink, at the age of twenty, with his mother, step father Knore, one brother and one sister, came to this country in 1832, from Londau, Bavaria. He settled with his folks in Eaton Township, Erie County, N. Y., about eighteen miles south of Buffalo. In 1837 he removed to New Haven, Allen County, Ind. The Doctor's mother, Mary Anna (Rose) Schlink, when also at the age of twenty, came with her father, mother, sister and three brothers, to this country in 1842, just ten years later than his father. She with her folks came from Alsace, France (now belonging to Germany), and settled in Fort Wayne, Ind. The Doctor's parents were united in marriage at Fort Wayne, Ind., January 1, 1843, the late Very Rev. Benoit, of Fort Wayne, officiating. George Peter Schlink died February 11, 1865, the widow following him to his grave the same winter, March 25, 1865. Dr. Schlink being thus left an orphan, went to New Haven, Ind., where he completed a liberal common school education. At sixteen he engaged in a literary and scientific course of study, graduating at the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Ind., in 1877. He then entered Ann Arbor, Mich., University, in a medical course of study, again graduating at the Miami Medical College, Cincinnati, class of 1880. He also attended a private course on physical diagnosis in the hospital wards, also a special course of lectures at the Cincinnati City Hospital, and upon graduating he became eminently fitted for his profession, the duties of which he entered upon in the spring of 1880, and has been very successful. In 1882 he became a member of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association, and in 1883 he was appointed a delegate from the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association to the American Medical Association, of which he became enrolled a permanent member the same year. He is member of the Board of Health of Delphos, Ohio, and examining physician at Delphos for the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company, of Detroit, Mich. Dr. Schlink was united in marriage in Delphos, May 18, 1881, with Miss Agnes, youngest daughter of ''Joseph and Elizabeth Ostendorf, Rev. A. J. Hoeffel officiating. To this union were born one son and one daughter, Elmer John and Josephine Elizabeth. Mrs. Schlink is a lady of able literary and musical attainments. MARION TOWNSHIP - 655 C. A. SCHMIDT, of the firm of Schmidt & Steinle, brewers, Delphos, ,Ohio, is a native of Ohio, born and reared in Fremont, where he was engaged in merchandising for a few years. Retiring from that line of business, he then united, in 1883, with F. Steinle in their present enterprise. Mr. Steinle, who is a native of Germany and a practical brewer, came to this country with an able experience in his profession, and after following it successfully in many of the important cities of this country, located in Fremont till 1883. The firm, since coming into possession of their present property, have added materially to its capacities and facilities. They now turn out about 5,000 barrels per annum; have a new twenty-five horse power steam steel boiler from the Ricord Bros. manufactory, Toledo, Ohio, and are laying pipe to the canal to facilitate their water privileges. They have improved on the general make-up of the brewery so as to effect a very successful change in this important industry of Delphos. All in all, the firm is composed of men of ability in the trade, and who have determination to make their business second to none. ALEXANDER SHENK, commissioner of Allen County, Delphos, was born in Heckingen, Hohenzollern, Prussia, July 19, 1842. His father, Martin Shenk, a merchant tailor of that place, came to tbis country with his family in 1852, and settled in Delphos October 8, 1853: he is buried in the Roman Catholic cemetery here. He left a family of five sons and one daughter, of whom three are now living: Charles E., Alexander and Sylvester. The deceased are Saffron, Constantine and Catherine, wife of H. J. Tream. Alexander Shenk, when young, engaged in the drug business with J. W. Hunt at Delphos, and at nineteen years of age bought a business in that line for himself with which he has been successfully connected for many years, retiring from it to engage in his present business of flour milling. He was married in Delphos, in May, 1863, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Matthias Wrocklage (deceased), a worthy pioneer of this locality. She is a lady of able attainments. (They have no children.) Mr. Shenk has given his cordial support, and been an active promoter of many of the industries of Delphos. He has been a reputable public officer for many years, serving as member of the city council, treasurer and clerk of Marion Township; commissioner of Allen County, and in many other local official positions. Mr. Shenk has been a very active member of the Roman Catholic Church, and was prominently identified with the erection of their handsome church in Delphos. SYLVESTER F. SHENK, merchant, Delphos, one of the most prominent and enterprising business men of the city of Delphos, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, December 31, 1847 ; son of Martin and Christine (Kern) Shenk, both now deceased. They landed at New York January 11, 1854, and came soon after to Delphos. Mr. Shenk received the advantages of a common school education during his earlier years, and at thirteen years of age commenced life as a clerk, in which capacity he served until 1876, when he became the head of the firm of Shenk Zimerle, subsequently becoming sole proprietor, and increasing the stock and business, until he is now one of the foremost in his line in this part of the State. He was married, June 29, 1872, to Miss 656 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. Rosilla Lye, a native of this county, and daughter of F. J. Lye, of Del. phos. This union has resulted in seven children : Frank, Mary, Martin, Amedus, Alexander, Sylvester and Richard. Mr. Shenk takes an active stand in the furthering of those measures tending to the advancement of education and religion, the improvement of the county and the elevation of the people. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church. JOHN SHENK, farmer and preacher. P. 0. Elida, was born January 19, 1848, in Hocking County, Ohio, eldest living son of Henry and Susan (Brenneman) Shenk, former of whom• a native of Rockingham County, Va., died in 1877, aged fifty-eight years. He was an early settler of Fairfield County, Ohio, but resided at different times in Hocking County, Ohio, and Hamilton County, Ind., coming to this county in 1860; latter is a native of Fairfield County, and is still living, aged sixty-five years. They were parents of nine children : Jacob (deceased), Henry (deceased). Annie (deceased), John, Andrew, Daniel, Catherine, Lydia, and Abraham. Our subject followed broom-making for a time, but gave most of his attention to farming till 1876, when he was ordained to the ministry by the Mennonite Church, near Elida, and has since devoted most of his time to the duties of his calling, although still retaining his farming interests. He erected a large barn in 1877, and a good residence in 1883. He obtained a good education, and has taught common school several terms. Mr. Shenk married, December 24, 1868, Miss Frances Good, who was born in Rockingham County, Va., March 24, 1849, and to this union have been born eight sons : Henry (deceased), Abraham, Amos, Simon, Moses, Reuben, John and Levi. ABRAHAM ISAIAH STEVER, farmer, P. 0. Elida, was born on the farm where he now lives, June 2, 1840; son of Jacob and Nancy L. (Doner) Stever. The father, who is still living, was born in Franklin County, Penn., July 20, 1805, son of John H. and Elizabeth (Cover) Stever, natives of Pennsylvania ; the mother was born July 18, 181 t, died September 17, 1844. They were parents of two children : Mary E., born October 5, 1837, in 'Butler County, Ohio (now widow of Calvin Clark, of Marion Township, this county, and the mother of ten children, five of whom are now living), and Abraham I. The subject of this sketch received a limited education, remaining at home until his enlistment, August 14, 1862, in Company I, Thirty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the battles of the campaign of Kanawa and Shenandoah Valleys ; was taken prisoner near Beverly,W. Va., about January 8, 1865, by Confederate Gen. Rosser, and was confined in Libby prison, at Richmond, until February 15, when he was paroled. He was discharged from the United States service June 12, 1865, at Camp Chase, by reason of General Order No. 77, releasing all paroled prisoners. He was a good soldier, and brave. After his return home he engaged in farming. Mr. Stever was married, December 24, 1863, while at home on furlough, to Rebecca J. David, born September 6, 1840, in Marion Township, daughter of Daniel and Catharine (Fair) David, who came to this county at an early date, and who were parents of ton children, six of whom became heads of families, viz. : Rebecca J.; Mary C., wife of Michael Burns, of Marion Township Johanna, wife of Robert Mills, of Delphos ; Martha J., wife of Erastus Bryant. of Delphos ; Saloma, of Delphos, and MARION TOWNSHIP - 657 Sydney J., wife of William Allison, in Venedocia. Isaac F. died April 11, 1864, of disease, at Nashville. being a member of Company 0, Eighty-first Regiment. under Capt. W. D. Hill. To our subject and wife Were born nine children : Jacob A., born January 14, 1866; Rachael R., born August 6, 1867 (married February 7, 18S4, to David Hilliard, of Amanda Township, by whom she bas one child); Anna C., born August 16, 1869; Ella ,T. (a twin), born April 24, 1872; Tursey J., born November 17, 1878; Adeline, born June 14, 1882, and three died in childhood. Thomas J. Fair, grandfather of Mrs. Stever, was one of the first trustees of Marion Township after its organization in 1834. Mr. Stever is a member of the G. A. R. Post, at Delphos. He is a school director, and takes an active interest in education and the improvement of stock and farm products. D. H. TOLAN, editor of the Delphos Herald, Delphos, was born in Carrollton, Carroll Co., Ohio, April 14, 1836. After completing a liberal education, he engaged, when fifteen years of age, at typesetting in the office of tbe Ohio Picayune, Carrollton, now the Carroll Count!) Chronicle, where he completed the business. In 1869 he came to Delphos, for the purpose of establishing the Herald, and has been actively connected with it since. He has worked industriously in the promotion of all measures tending to the prosperity of the city and locality. Upon the organization of the Toledo, Cincinnati St. Louis Railroad Company, he was chosen its secretary, and became one of the board of directors. lit has held the mayoralty of Delphos, served as member of the councils, and has offrciated with credit in many lesser capacities. He married in Car. rollton, in 1861, Miss Artamesia, daughter of Hon. John Beatty of that city, a lady of estimable attainments; she departed this life in 1876, it full communion with the Presbyterian Church, leaving two sons: C. M. associate editor, and R.B., a student. Mr. Tolan has been an active member of the K. of P. for several years, and a member of the R. A. HENRY TRENTMAN, farmer, P. 0. Delphos, was born in Hanoven Germany, July 28, 1830; son of Adam and Elizabeth (Creamer) Trentman natives of Germany, former of whom died January 15, 1873, aged sixty nine years; latter November 7, 1S64, aged sixty-two years. They were the parents of three children: Mary (deceased), Kate (wife of Hermal Ricker), and Henry. Our subject was educated in the common schools o his native land. In 1843 his parents immigrated to America, and locatee in Marion Township, this county. Here Henry Trentman grew to maturity, fully acquainted with the hardships and privations incident t pioneer life, and his exertions helped clear away the forests and prepay the soil for cultivation. Farming has been his life vocation, and he i still living on the old homestead. Our subject was twice drafted during the war of the Rebellion, but each time provided a substitute. He was married June 2, 1858, to Miss Clara Luersman, also a native of German: born in 1841. died February 23, 1884. She bore him eight children John. Mary, Henry, Frank, Bernard, Fred, Rosa and Agnes. Mr. Tren man is virtually a self-made man, having commenced life poor, accumulating his property through his own efforts. Politically he has always been a Democrat. He has for years been a member of the Catholic Church. HENRY P. WAGNER, M. D.. Delphos, was born January 7,1824, Wendelsheim, near the city of Mentz, in Hessen-Darmstadt, German; 658 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. His father, Louis Wagner, was a gentleman of fine literary taste, a highly cultivated mind, and in comfortable circumstances, but being dissatisfied with the monarchical government of Germany, he decided at the age of forty-four years to find or establish a new home for himself and family, in a free country, the United States. Accordingly he with his wife. Magdalena, and their eight children (four sons and four daughters), sailed for New York, afterward coming to Columbus, Ohio. After completing a good literary and scientific course, Henry P. Wagner, engaged in the study of medicine, at the age of eighteen years, under the preceptorship of Edwin H. Davis, A. M., M. D., professor of Materia Medics and Therapeutics of New York Medical College, city of New York, for three years, after which he visited Germany, where he pursued his studies several years. On his return to this country, he commenced and entered upon the practice of his profession at Chilicothe, Ohio, where he remained until he located at Delphos, then known as Section 10, in 1847. With the view of gaining additional knowledge of specialties in his profession, and to be more fully posted with the present state of the sciences connected with medicine, he visited New York in 1863 and 1864, where he attended private instructions of Prof. Austin Flint, Sr., M. D., in physical diagnosis; Prof. Frank H. Hamilton, M. D., in surgery; Prof. Austin Flint, Jr., M. D., in microscopy, and others. He also attended clinical lectures in Bellevue Charity, New York City, and other hospitals, and followed the private practice of distinguished physicians in the city. As testimonials of his ability and devotion to his profession, he received a diploma from Bellevue Hospital Medical College, and letters of commendation from eminent and distinguished physicians. Having actively practiced medicine during the past thirty-eight years in Delphos, while a considerable portion of the surrounding country was undeveloped and almost a wilderness, this has made him one of the pioneers in his profession, in Allen County. Dr. Wagner was married November 8, 1849, at Delphos, to Maggie M. Martin, daughter of Rev. E. N. Martin. Besides a faithful attendance to professional duties, he has been connected with nearly every important enterprise, tending toward the promotion of the welfare of the community, or the improvement and prosperity of the city and vicinity, and he has almost continually held positions of honor and trust. JOHN H. WAHMHOFF, druggist and member of the American and Ohio State Pharmaceutical Associations, Delphos, was born in Buffalo, N. Y., March 11, 1851. His father, the late Steven H. Wahmhoff of that city, was well known in railway circles as master mechanic with the Erie Central Railway, and in social circles as one of the prime movers in the establishment of the Roman Catholic Central Societies throughout this country. He was a native of Hanover, Germany, and came to this country when a young man. His family consisted of John H., a merchant and druggist of Delphos; Frank, druggist; Mary (deceased); August, a tinsmith. of Delphos; and Agnes. He died in 185S. The subject of our sketch came here in 1861, with his mother, two brothers and sisters. who settled on a farm, where he remained till he was fourteen years old, when he entered the drug business as apprentice clerk, meanwhile applying himself closely to the study of pharmacy and pharmaceutical jurispru- MARION TOWNSHIP - 659 dence. He is a member of the Ohio State Association, a committee on pharmaceutical laws, and is recognized by the profession as a prime factor in the revision and establishment of the late laws in relation to pharmacy. At the age of twenty-eight he embarked in the drug business at Delphos, with which he has been successfully connected since. Mr. Wahmhoff married in 1881, in Delphos, Miss Christina Catharina, daughter of the late Joseph Eich, a native of Koln. Germany. They have two little girls: Elizabeth and Henrietta. Mr. Wahmhoff has given a cordial support to the social and industrial interests of Delphos. He is present chief of the fire department, of which he has been an active member since it organization. SQUIRE WILLIAM E. WATKINS, owner of Cherry Ridge Farm, P. O. Delphos, was born in Sugar Creek Township, this county, March 28, 1835, second child of Welsh parentage born in the county. His father Thomas Watkins, a native of Wales, came from Butler County, Ohio, September 13, 1833. Our subject completed a good education in the schools of his district and engaged in farming. He married in 1859, in Venedocia, Van Wert Co., Ohio, Miss Margaret, daughter of the late Bebb, and cousin of Gov. Bebb of Ohio. By this marriage he had four children: Martha J., wife of D. W. Pugh; Thomas L., civil engineers of Van Wert; William B., a farmer; Margaret A., a teacher. On September 9, 1866, Mrs. Watkins was laid to rest in the Venedocia Cemetery, and in October, 1867, Mr. Watkins married Miss Margaret, daughter of the late Richard Humphrey, of Marion Township, by whom he had four children: Katie; John H., Richard B. and Minnie E. September 15, 1879, this wife died; she is buried in Gomer Cemetery. April 27. 1882, our subject married Catharine, sister of his second wife, by whom he has one son—Victor Emmett. In 1860, Mr. Watkins located on his present farm of 160 acres (then unimproved), and has improved it handsomely and stocked it well. He is a thorough supporter of the principles for which he did service under arms, and has named his residence "Lincoln Mansion." This is built on an eminence commanding a view of the farm, and is tastefully laid out and surrounded with nice gardens. When the call for troops for the defense of the Union came, he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Fifty-first Ohio National Guards, from which he retired with an honorable commission. He has been interested in measures tending to the development of his locality; is an active official and is the present justice of the peace and notary public of Marion Township, Allen County. He is an adherent of the Congregational Church. a member of Reul Post, G. A. R., Lodge No. 139. K. of P., and Marion Grange No. 302. Squire Watkins has been fortunate in his business pursuits and possesses in "Cherry Ridge" one of the handsomest farms in Marion Township. F. A. WEGER, superintendent of the Pittsburgh Hoop and Stave Company, Delphos. was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 6, 1845. His father. George K. Weger, came to this country with his family in 1852, and settled in Baltimore. Md., where our subject was reared and educated. He learned the trade of cooper, which he carried on in Baltimore for several years. He afterward spent a few years in the business at New Castle, Penn. Mr. Weger was united in marriage in 1871, with 660 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES Miss Margaret Elizabeth, daughter of Michael Dietzel, a shoe-maker of that city, and a native of Prussia, and to this union were born three sons and two daughters: Katie, George, Augustus, Mary and Frankie. In 1878, Mr. Weger came to Delphos as foreman for the Pittsburgh Keg and Barrel Company, with whom he remained till joining interests with Mr. H. Goette in their present enterprise. HON. HENRY WEIBLE, member of the State board of public works, Delphos, was born near Canal Dover. Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, December 19, 1827, son of Jacob Weible, who settled there with his people, who came from Wurtemberg, Germany, when he was about eight years of age. The subject of our sketch being left on his own resources when young, apprenticed himself to the blacksmithing business in his native town, where he completed learning his trade. In 1851 he came to Delphos, and established the second shop of the kind, and carried on a successful business for many years, retiring from it to pay his attention to public affairs, to which he had been chosen by the people of Van Wert County. In 1872 he represented their interests in the Sixtieth General Assembly of the State, where he served with distinction as chairman of the committee on drains, ditches, water-courses, and enunciated and brought about many good measures in that connection. Upon the expiration of his term of office, his constituents again elected him, in 1874, and he continued to represent their interests. Upon his retirement he engaged in manufacturing for a few years, but retired from that industry and embarked in merchandising, with which he is still identified. He married in Van Wert County, in 1849, Miss Mary, daughter of Peter Will of that place, who settled there from Maryland in 1836. They have a family of two sons and four daughters living: George and Henry, merchants in Dupont, Ohio; Anna and May, ladies of excellent literary attainments, and graduates; Mattie, now Mrs. Henry Buigfelt; and Agnes, at school. Mr. Weible has always been an able patron of scholastic interests, and has educated his family in the different branches of a good school training. He has held a directorship in the school board of Delphos for about twenty-eight years; has served as justice of the peace of the city and Washington Township for thirty years continuously; was member of the city council nine years; commissioner of Van Wert County three years. In 1882 he was elected to his present incumbency in the State board of public works. Mr. Weible has always been a liberal patron of all measures tending to the development of the public, social and industrial life of his community. GEORGE H. WILLIAMSON, M. D., Delphos, is a native of Ohio, born in Delaware, Delaware County, August 28, 1853, son of Henry Williamson, farmer, also a native of Delaware County, his father, John Williamson (millwright), having settled in that county at an early day, from Washington County, Penn.; latter was a son of Isaac Williamson, also a millwright, a native of England, born near Dorchester, and who located in Pennsylvania at an early period in the history of that State. The subject of our sketch, after receiving a good training in the public schools, entered Oberlin College in a classical and literary course, from which he graduated in June, 1874. He had meanwhile taken up the study of medicine, under the preceptorship of Dr. Andrews, of Cheshire, MARION TOWNSHIP - 661 and upon completing his course at Oberlin, entered Columbus Medical College, of Columbus, Ohio, graduating from that institution at the close of 1877-78. He then came to Delphos, where he has since been successfully engaged in the practice of his profession. The Doctor married, July 26, 1881, Miss Stella Hughes, a lady of able literary and musical attainments, daughter of the late William Hughes, merchant of Delphos, and niece of the Hon. Hughes, of Allen County. Mr. and Mrs. Williamson are supporters of the Presbyterian Church, in which she is an active worker. JOSEPH H. ZIMERLE, justice of the peace, Delphos, was born in Ellwangen, Wurtemberg, Germany, October 5, 1844. His father, Joseph A. Zimerle, a brewer, came to this country with his family in 1853, and settled in Delphos. His children are Joseph H.; Annie, wife of Caspar Kahl. merchant, of Defiance, Ohio; Emma, wife of John Smith, of Kansas City, Mo.; Frederick, of Cincinnati; Frances, wife of Charles Smith, of Defiance, Ohio. The subject of this sketch engaged at an early age in merchandising in Evansport, Ohio, coming here in 1863, in connection with different mercantile pursuits, with which he has been successfully identified. He has been an active supporter of other interests in Delphos, and has filled positions in the councils of the city and of the township, holding his present incumbency for the past year. Mr. Zimerle married in Delphos, in 1871, Miss Lauretta Odelia, daughter of Francis Joseph Lye, merchant. They have one son living, Joseph Francis, and have buried an infant son, and two daughters--Lauretta and Anna. Mr. and Mrs. Zimerle are regular communicants of the Roman Catholic Church.