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RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 751 RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. GODHARD ALTHAUS, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Switzerland, February 7, 1836. His father, John Henry Althaus, and his grandfather, Rudolph Althaus, were physicians. His great-grandfather, Ulrich Althaus, a farmer and dairyman in Germany, was born in 1705,and lived to be ninety-three years old. Our subject possesses portraits of all these ancestors. His mother, whose maiden name was Barbara Gagesil, was also a native of Switzerland. Godhard Althaus was the tenth in a family of twelve children, nine of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. He came to America in 1854, traveled in the West for two years, and in 1859 settled in Allen County, Ohio. In 1859 be was married to Elizabeth Steiner, whose parents were natives of Switzerland, her father a farmer; and to this union were born John, Barbara, wife of Martin Grismore; Jacob, Johanna, Elizabeth, Mary, Maggie and Albert. Our subject, who has made farming the business of his life, is the owner of a well-improved place, comprising fifty-five acres. Mr. and Mrs. Althaus are members of the Mennonite Society, He has been school director of this township. Politically, he is a Democrat. JOHN C. AMSTUTZ, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, December 12, 1825; son of Christian and Anna (Burkhalter) Amstutz, natives of Switzerland, who came to America and settled in Wayne County about 1824, former a farmer. They reared a family of six children (three sons and three daughters), of whom John C. is the eldest. Our subject received a common school education in Putnam County, Ohio, where his parents moved when most of the county was a wilderness. He used to drive the oxen over the wheat to thresh it, and, when it was ready, had to go many miles to a mill to have it ground. He worked from the time he was large enough to do anything, and can remember when Richland Township was almost covered with woods. He has been thrice married. The children by his first wife (nee Anna Amstutz to whom he was maried March 2, 1848) were Abraham (deceased), and Fannie, and those by his second wife (nee Mary Ann Habegger, to whom he was married February 17, 1853) were Isaac (deceased), Jacob and Anna (twins) both now married, and Elizabeth (deceased). Mr. Amstutz was married to his present wife (nee Anna Kaufman, February 15, 1861), and to this union were born eleven children, nine now living: Catherine (married), Lydia, Peter, Lena, Christian, Sarah, Noah, Gideon and Ida; Mary and Josephine (deceased). Mr. and Mrs Amstutz are members of the Mennonite Church. Our subject has had to make his own way in the world. He owns eighty acres of land which he has cleared and improved, himself. Politically he is a Democrat. CHRISTIAN U. AMSTUTZ, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, is a native of France, born August 28, 1829,and is next to the youngest of the four children of Ulrich and Barbara (Clay) Amstutz, the former a Frenchman, the 752 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. latter a native of Switzerland. Ulrich Amstutz. a farmer by occupation, came to America in 1833, settling in Wayne County, Ohio, and was one of the pioneers of Allen County, coming here in 1837. Our subject acquired his education in the district schools of Richland Township; learned the carpenter's trade and worked at it for a time, but has farmed for many years, and now owns 331 acres of land. He was married, in 1854, to Fannie, daughter of Ulrich Neuschwander and brother of Michael Neuschwander, who was the first German settler in Richland Townships, this county. To this union were born the following children: David and Samuel, married and farming in this county; Christian, a student, school teacher and the author of a Sabbath school singing book, which has a fair sale; Barbara, Adam, Ulrich, Amos and Ephraim. They are members of the Mennonite Church. SAMUEL AMSTUTZ, farmer, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, July 29, 1858, of German parents. His father, Christian U. Amstutz, was a farmer, a school teacher, and a pioneer of Allen County, where he now owns 331 acres of land. Our subject was the third in a family of nine children, eight of whom are now living. He grew to manhood on the farm, attended the Richland Township school, and has farmed all his life; now resides on one of his father's farms in Richland Township. He was married, in 1881, to Elizabeth Gerber, by whom he has one child, Paulina. Mr. and Mrs. Amstntz are members of the Mennonite Church. In politics he is Democrat. CHRISTIAN B. AMSTUTZ, farmer, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, May 20, 1837; son of John and Fannie (Lehman) Amstutz, natives of Switzerland, who came to America when young. His father lived in Pennsylvania two years, thence went to Wayne County, Ohio, where he was married and commenced farming, and in 1849 settled in Putnam County, Ohio. He reared ten children, whom Christian B. is the seventh. Our subject was reared on a farm, received his education in Wayne and Putnam Counties, and early in life taught both German and English schools. He has spent most of his days, however, farming in Allen County, where he now resides, owning a well improved farm of 155 acres. He was united in marriage, in this county, in 1859, with Catharine, daughter of Christian and Barbara (Hilty) Lugibihl, natives of Germany. To Mr. and Mrs. Amstutz were born fourteen children, ten of whom are now living: Christina, Caroline, Elizabeth, Mary, Menno, Susanna, Christian, Edwin, Helena and Levina. Our subject and wife are members of the Mennonite Church. In politics he is a Democrat. PETER B. AMSTUTZ, farmer, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, January 6, 1846, and is the youngest of twelve children born to John B. and Fannie (Lehman) Amstutz, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1818, settling first in Pennsylvania, but who subsequently moved to Wayne County, Ohio, and in 1850 came to this county. Our subject was reared on the farm, and taking advantage of good schools improved his time, obtaining a good education both in German and English. He then learned the carpenter's trade at which he worked several years and also operated a saw-mill for five years. He is now devoting his time to farming, having eighty acres of land. He has been twice married, first in 1870 to Elizabeth Lugibihl. who died in 1873 RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 753 leaving one child, Dina. Just ten years to the day after the marriage of his first wife, he married Leah Gerber, which union has been blessed with one son, Amos. Mr. and Mrs. Amstutz are members of the Mennonite Church. This church has an insurance society for protection against fire, and our subject is the secretary of this society. In politics he is a Democrat. JOHN AMSTUTZ, Jr., farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, February 7, 1846, son of John and Elizabeth (Steiner) Amstutz, who were of German descent. John Amstutz, Sr., is living, at the advanced age of seventy-four years, in Richland Township, this county, of which he has been a resident for over half a century, and in which he has filled nearly every office of public trust. His wife was a daughter of Rev. Christian Steiner, the first Mennonite preacher in Richland Township, and who organized the first Mennonite Church in this county. Their family consisted of twelve children, six of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, and who are now living and prospering. John Jr., the fifth born, was raised on the farm and wisely chose the occupation of his father, making agriculture the business of his life, and he is now the owner of eighty acres of land. He was united in marriage, in 1871, with Sarah Klinger, of German descent, and a daughter of Adam and Eva (Hoffart) Klinger. To this union were burn the following children, Lona, Paulina, Philip (deceased), and Albert William. Mr. and Mrs. Amstutz are members of the German Reformed Church, in which he has served as trustee. He has been one of the school directors of Richland Township; is a member of the I. O. O. F.; politically, he is a Democrat. G. W. BAILEY, farmer, P. O. Beaver Dam, was born in Rockingham County, Va., June 15, 1834, son of William and Lydia (Neuschwander) Bailey, also natives of Virginia, of English and Irish descent, former a farmer. Our subject was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education. He settled in Richland Township, this county, and engaged successfully in farming. He was married, in 1852, to Malinda, daughter of Dr. Jacob Driver, and to this union were born twelve children, all of whom are now living: John P., an attorney at law in Ottawa, Ohio; P. R., a law student, now engaged in the insurance and, loan business at Lima, Ohio; Mary, a teacher, wife of John Luke; Jacob W., a telegraph operator; Daniel M., a school teacher and general agent; Jennie, wife of A. G. Kenney; and Nancy E., Alice, Charles, Sadie, Melvin and Edward at home. Mr. and Mrs.Bailey take much interest in their children, four of whom received collegiate education, five teaching school. Mrs. Bailey is a member of the German Baptist Church. Our subject is an industrious man and now owns a well-improved farm in Richland Township, this county. A. BALMER farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Bluffton, is a native of Richland Township. this county, and was born March 9, 1843. His parents, Peter and Mary (Stauffer) Balmer, natives of Switzerland, came to Wayne County, Ohio, and were there married. In 1849 they came to this comity and settled on a farm here. They were parents of thirteen children, twelve of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, nine of whom are now living. Our subject, the fifth born, was reared on the 754 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. farm, attended the school in Richland Township, and worked at the car-. penter's trade. He was married, in 1870, to Miss Anna, daughter of David Beeler, by whom he had three children : Calvin, Amanda and Andrew. Mrs. Balmer died in 1875, and two years later our subject married Jennie Beeler, a cousin of his first wife and a daughter of John Beeler. To this union were born three children, two now living : Sarah and Ella. Both wives were of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Balmer are members of the German Reformed Church, in which he has served as deacon. Mr.. Balmer is one of the trustees of Richland Township. In politics he is a Democrat. B. BALMER, farmer and stock-raiser, Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, February 15, 1847; son of Peter and Mary Ann (Stauffer) Balmer, natives of Switzerland, and who were parents of thirteen children, twelve growing up, nine of whom are now living. Our subject, the seventh child, was reared on the farm, acquired a common school education, and learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked four years, farming, however,- being the principal business of his life. He is the owner of eighty acres of land,. on which he now resides. He was married in 1871 to Elizabeth Lugibihl, the fourth born in the family of nine children of John W. Lugibihl, a farmer, and an early settler of Allen County. Her parents were German, and most of their family now reside in this county. To our subject and wife were born the following' children : Emma, William, Peter and John. Mr. Balmer is a member of the German Reformed Church, his wife of the Mennonite Society. He has served as a school director. In politics he is a Democrat. REV. JOHN BARNHARD, retired minister and farmer, P. O. Richland, was born in Maryland, February 20, 1821, eldest son and second in the family of David (a farmer) and Margaret (Walker) Barnhard, who were of English and German descent. They raised two daughters and two sons. Our subject was reared on the farm, and, not having ever had the privilege of attending school, educated himself. He was married when twenty years old to Nancy Lambert, a native of Germany, where her parents were also born, and the children by this union were as follows : Melvin Z., Virgil F., Leonadas Q., Philena M., Sylvester W. (The first three named served in the Union Army during the war of the Rebellion.) They also raised and adopted John T. Huber, who is now a telegraph operator at Beaver Dam. Mrs. Barnhard died in 1860, and in 1861 our subject married Amanda C. Jennings, by whom he has one child; John Williams Wesley. Mr. and Mrs. Barnhard are members of the Methodist Church. He has .been a local preacher, and was engaged in farming for a number of years. He lived in Knox County, Ohio, from 1829 till he came to Allen County, in 1856, and has since resided here. He owns a well-improved farm in Richland Township, which he rents, however, and is now living a retired life on his property in Beaver Dam. In politics Mr. Barnhard is a Republican. JOHN C. BASINGER, farmer andstock-raiser, P.O Columbus Grove, Putman County, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, October 5. 1834; son of Christian and Catherine (Lugibibihl) Basinger, natives of Germany, who came to America when young. His father, a farmer, who lived to the advanced age of eighty-five, died in 1882. They raised a family of fifteen RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 755 children, of whom John C.. the third, was reared on the farm. receiving his education in the schools of Richland Township, this county. Our subject has been a farmer all his life, and now owns a first-class farm in Richland Township, consisting of 160 acres, whereon he resides. He was married, in 1859, to Elizabeth Wixel, a native of Germany. Their children are Theophilus, Christian, Noah, Leah (deceased), and Caroline. They have an adopted daughter—Maggie Flatt. Mr. and Mrs. Basinger are members of the Mennonite Church. REV. DAVID P. BASINGER, minister and farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, August 14, 1841. His parents, Christian, Jr., and Catherine (Lugibihl) Basinger, were natives of Germany. the father, a farmer by occupation, being a son of Christian Basinger, Sr., who came to America in 1824, settling in Virginia, where he lived for ten years, and then moved to this county, in 1836. Here the father of our subject lived, from the time he was nineteen years of age until his death, which occurred April 21, 1876. David P. was the eldest of twelve children, nine of whom attained maturity. He was reared on the farm, early attending the common schools but, later, academies in Findlay and Lima, and then taught school for six years in Allen and Putman Counties. He also worked at carpentering for a time. He was married in 1867, to Mrs. Barbara Amstutz, daughter of Peter Schumaker, an early settler and prominent farmer of this county (by her first marriage she had two children: Peter D., a school teacher, teaching German and English, and Abraham C., a farmer). To Mr. and Mrs. Basinger were born the following children: Nahum, Joel, Noah, Lydia, Julia, David and Reuben. Mr. Basinger was ordained a minister of the Reformed Mennonite Church, in 1882. He is an earnest and devoted follower of the Great Master, and allows no personal concern to stand between him and his duty to God. He has been also engaged in farming, during his life, and is owner of a well improved farm in Richland Township. PETER P. BASINGER, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born on the farm where he now resides in Richland Township, this county, June 3, 1857; son of Christian, Jr., and Catherine (Lugibihl) Basinger, natives of Alsace, Germany (then belonging to France). Christian Basinger, Jr., a farmer by occupation, was born in 1817, and when seven years old, his parents came to America and settled on a farm in Virginia, where they remained for ten years, thence moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, and after a few years to this county. The family consisted of twelve children, nine of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. Our subject, the eleventh in the family, grew to maturity on the farm where he now resides, receiving his education in the township schools. He was married, in 1880, to Miss Mary Alice Lower, a daughter of Samuel Lower, a farmer, and Catherine (Baer), who were natives of Wayne County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Basinger have been blessed with three children: Catherine Olive, Samuel Alfred and Isadore. Our subject and wife are members of the Reformed Mennonite Church. NOAH C. BASINGER, farmer and school teacher, P. 0. Bluffton, of German descent, was born in Richland Township, this county, June 15, 1860, youngest son and twelfth in the family of Christian and Catherine (Lugibihl) Basinger. Our subject was reared on a farm in his 756 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. native township and here obtained the rudiments of his education, subsequently attending the high schools at Bluffton and Ada, and Hawesville College. He then taught for several terms, but subsequently engaged in farming, which has been his principal occupation. Mr. Basinger owns a half interest in the farm, comprising 140 acres, where he and his brother Peter P. now reside. He is not a church member. In politics he usually votes the Democratic ticket. - SAMUEL BASSETT, farmer, P. O. Beaver Dam, was born in Allen County, Ohio, October 23, 1848, son of Lewis and Sarah (Edgecomb) Bassett, of English descent, and natives of New York and Ohio, respectively, the former of whom came to Allen County, Ohio, over half a century ago, and was a farmer all his life. They reared a family of eight children. Samuel, the eldest, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in this county, and early in life commenced to teach school. During the late civil war he enlisted in 1864, in Company I, Twenty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was engaged in the battle of Atlanta, and participated in other battles and skirmishes. He was discharged at the close of the struggle, and returning home worked at the carpenter's trade for a time, then commenced farming. He is now the owner of two farms. Mr. Bassett was married in 1868, to Mary, a daughter of D. L. Whip, a retired farmer of Beaver Dam, and to this union were born six children: Otis, Rossie, Sadie, Louise, Clarie and Samuel. Mr. Whip was born in Maryland, December 31, 1822, son of George and Sarah (Barnett) Whip, who were of German descent; he has been twice married, Mrs. Bassett being the fourth in a family of six children by his first wife; Mr. Whip's present wife's mother, aged eighty-five, and his own mother, aged eighty- six, are still living. Mr. and Mrs. Bassett are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in which he is class leader. In politics he is a Republican. J. T. BATES, proprietor of stone quarry, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Allen County, Ohio, April 27, 1837, son of Elijah and Nancy (Chandeler) Bates, natives of Virginia, the former of English descent, who had been a farmer all his life, and the latter of Irish descent. Our subject, the sixth in a family of eleven children, was reared on the farm, receiving his schooling in the log schoolhouse in Bath Township, this county, and worked on the farm until he was twenty-seven years old. He then went to Lima, Ohio, and worked by the day for a time. In 1874 he came to Bluffton, and opened a stone quarry, which he has conducted successfully to the present time. Mr. Bates was united in mar riage in 1860, with Miss Susanna Bope,whose parents were Germans (her father, George Bope, was a farmer in Allen County). This union has been blessed with six children: William H. (a telegraph operator in Colorado, and who learned telegraphy at Bluffton under Myron Rounsavell, who is the agent here for the Lake Erie & Western Railroad), Tempa J., Nannie May, Elijah H., Bertha B. and John Earl. Mr. and Mrs. Bates are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Republican in politics; has served as supervisor and township trustee of Richland. GEORGE BENROTH, proprietor of saloon, Bluffton, was born in Germany, September I, 1844; son of Charles and Anna (Scheller) Ben- RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 757 roth, former by trade a cooper. Our subject received a good education in the common schools of Germany, and there learned the cabinetmaking trade, at which he worked till he came to America, in 1865, settling at Bluffton. After engaging at his trade here for two years, he opened a furniture store which he carried on till 1881, when he sold out and commenced a saloon and lunch room business; he also sells tobacco, and has a good trade. Mr. Benroth was united in marriage, in 1867, with Miss Anna, daughter of Rev. Ulrich Steiner, a Mennonite minister; she is a native of Allen County, Ohio. This union has been blessed with eight children: Edward, Ferdinand, Rosa, Mary A., Pauline, Albert, Emma and Minnie. Mr. Benroth is a Democrat in politics. THOMAS J BENTLEY, farmer and stock-raiser, Bluffton, was born in the eastern part of Ohio, July 14, 1822; son of John and Nancy (Patten) Bentley, of English descent. John Bentley, a native of Massachusetts and a farmer by occupation, died at the advanced age of ninety- two years. Mrs. Nancy Bentley, born in Maryland, died aged seventy-six years. During the last ten years of their lives they made their home with our subject. Thomas J the fifth in a family of six children, was reared on the farm, receiving a limited education in the common schools of Ohio, and early in life learned wagon making at Youngstown, Ohio. In 1852 he came to Hancock County, subsequently returned to Allen County, and settled in Bluffton, where for four years he carried on a wagon shop. He then purchased a farm, and has since engaged successfully in agricultural pursuits, owning now 160 acres where he resides, in Richland Township. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Bentley has been twice married, first in 1845, to Miss Barbara Fusselman, by whom he had the following children: W. S., a farmer; Edward; Ella, wife of N. Carney; Rozelia; Agnes and H. G. Mrs. Bentley died in 1863, and in 1865 our subject was married to Mrs. Rachel M. Ault, of English descent, widow of Philip Ault, who was a member of the Fifty-seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and lost his life in defense of his country. They were parents of seven children, all married: Nancy E., Rosanna, Matilda,, Theodocia and R. S.; Elijah and Wellington are deceased. Mrs. Bentley's grandfather served in the Revolutionary war. Her father, Elijah Perkins, a wealthy farmer, whose parents died when he was a child, has been very successful in business, possessing at one time 800 acres, and is at present owner of 600 acres of well-improved land in Richland Township; he is ninety-eight years old, and his wife ninety-two years. T. H. BIERY, butcher, Bluffton; was born August 16, 1844, in Lehigh County, Penn.; son of John (a farmer) and May (Kimerer) Biery, who were natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Their family consisted of ten children, of whom T. H. is the youngest. Our subject received a common school education, and early learned butchering, in which business he has continued all his life. He came to Bluffton, this county, in 1875, and opened a butcher shop and meat market, and has continued here ever since, meeting with more than average success. He was !harried, in 1867, to Miss Sarah Wasser, a native of Hancock County, Ohio, and to this union were born eight children: William, Lew, Felix, James, John, Milton, Charles and Stillman. Mr. Biery is a mem- 758 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. ber of the German Reformed Church, his wife of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a Democrat. PETER BIXEL, P. 0. Bluffton, is a representative farmer, and was prominent among the early settlers of Allen County. He was born in Holmes County, Ohio, April 28, 1833; son of Peter and Fannie (Diller) Bixel, natives of France and Switzerland, respectively, and who came to America when young. They were married in Holmes County, and had a family of twelve children, of whom Peter is the fourth; they came to Allen County in 1845, and settled on a farm. Our subject received his education in the common schools of Putnam and Allen Counties, and wisely chose farming as his life occupation, as his father and grandfather had done before him. He has been very successful, and now owns 200 acres of well improved land. He was married, in 1856, to Miss Fannie Suter, a native of Putnam County, Ohio, and of French descent, and this union has been blessed with thirteen children, eleven of whom are now living: Christian, David, Maggie, Peter, Anna, Fannie, John, Mary, Elias, Samuel and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Bixel are members of the Mennonite Church, of Richland Township. Our subject takes a just pride in his children, and has carefully educated them. He has served ten years as school director of his township. In politics he is a Democrat. R. F. CAHILL, grocer, Bluffton, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., December 2, 1831; son of Richard and Sarah (Foulk) Cahill, the former born in Maryland, and of Irish descent, the latter a native of the Keystone State, of German lineage. His father, a physician, came to Ohio, where he followed his profession for many years, and in 1858 settled in Bluffton, same State, and here practiced. Our subject, the third in a family of seven children, received a common school education in Wayne County. His first business enterprise was buying and shipping live stock. On coming to this county he entered into partnership with H. Waltz, who is now in the commission business in Buffalo, N. Y. After the dissolution of this partnership Mr. Cahill continued in the stock business alone until 1876, when he embarked in the grocery business, which he has carried on with more than average success ever since. He employs four clerks and enjoys a good trade. Mr. Cahill was married, in 1859, to Miss Carrie Alexander, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Rev. John Alexander, a pioneer minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and who was also a politician, a Democrat, and who at an early day served as county recorder of Allen County. Mr. and Mrs. Cahill have two children: Lulu B. and Harry Lee, who is clerk in the store when not attending school. Mr. Cahill went to California in 1850, returned in 1851, but the same year went back to the gold fields of that State, where he remained for about two years. In politics he is a Democrat. H. J. CALL, life and fire insurance and real estate agent, and traveling ticket agent for the Lake Erie and Western Railroad Company, with headquarters at Bluffton, was born in Erie County, Ohio, July 28, 1842; son of D. C. and Eliza (Grenolds) Call, of English descent, and natives of Vermont and New York, respectively. D. C. Call is a minister of the Disciples Church, and has lived in Allen County since 1874; of his six children H. J. is the second. Our subject received his education in the RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 759 common and high schools, and at Oberlin College. During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted, in 1861, in the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, acting as Second Sergeant; was discharged in 1863, re-enlisted in Company C, Seventy-eighth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served till the war closed. He then went to Ottawa, Putnam County, Ohio, and embarked in the grocery business. In 1866 he came to Bluffton, this county, and engaged in the manufacture of oil barrels, in company with J. C. Powell. Subsequently selling out his interest here, he sent to Lima, where he carried on the same business; afterward returned to Bluffton, and for a time engaged in a similar pursuit, but in 1879 he commenced the insurance business, and now represents eight fire and life companies, and is also in real estate business. Since 1882 he has also been traveling ticket agent for the Lake Erie and Western Railroad Company. Mr. Call was married, in 1865, to Miss N. J., daughter of Hon. James Hogland, ex-congressman from Holmes County, Ohio. Mrs. Call is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Call has served as trustee of Richland Township; is a Democrat in politics; a F. & A. M. JOHN CHARLTON, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., September 9, 1809; son of Thomas and Elizabeth (McClain) Charlton, the former, a farmer, of Irish descent, the latter a native of Pennsylvania. of Dutch lineage. Our subject, the eldest in a family of four children, received his education in the common schools of Pennsylvania, and learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed for eighteen years. He came to Allen County, Ohio, in 1849, and bought his present farm comprising seventy-four acres of land, which he has since improved. He was married in 1828, to Elizabeth Kemp, a native of Huntingdon County, Penn., and of Irish descent. She died in 1883. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Of the eight children born to this union only four are now living: Ellen, wife of Isaac McHenry; Jane, wife of Mr. Russell; Martha, wife of Mr. Bernhard; and Mary, who is single and keeps house for her father. Mr. Charlton is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Republican in politics. J. ROSS CLARK, physician, Bluffton, was born at Marietta. Washington Co., Ohio, January 8, 1827, the only son of Miller and Rachel (Corns) Clark. Our subject’s maternal grandmother, of German origin, was a resident of Valley Forge, at the time Gen. Washington and his soldiers wintered there. The doctor's father, a farmer by occupation, came to Ohio in 1798, and here he was reared among the rural scenes of farm life. He was of Irish descent, but of a family who came to America in an early day, his uncle, Abraham Clark, being one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. At the age of eighteen years our subject commenced teaching, an occupation he followed with success for fifteen years. During this time he studied medicine, and after he had fitted himself for the profession he abandoned teaching and immediately commenced to practice. first in Wyandot County, Ohio, then at ,Mount Blanchard, subsequently at Beaver Dam, this county, where he remained five years, and finally, in 1867. came to Bluffton where he has been in regular practice ever since. The doctor has been 760 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. twice married, and is father of six children, four by his first wife: Marshall, Cynthia, Lowell and Lillie, and two by his second wife: Rowena Mabel and Roscoe. Our subject is a Republican in politics; has never held any public office. He is a member of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association. L. C. CRIBLEZ, proprietor of saw-mill and lumber dealer, Beaver Dam, was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, January 15, 1833. His father, Victor Criblez, who came to America in 1836 and settled in Ohio, was a shoe-maker and carpenter, and worked at these trades until he came to Allen County, Ohio, in 1846; he reared a family of nine children. Our subject, the eldest, was educated in the common schools of this county and worked at the carpenter's trade until thirty-five years of age. In 1879 he built the saw-mill at Beaver Dam with a capacity of 10,000 feet per day, and is now employing from four to six men in the same. He was married, in 1862, to Rachel, daughter of John Jennings, an early pioneer of Allen County. Mrs. Criblez was born in Ohio and is of English descent. The children born to this union are Jehu, William and L. C. Mrs. Criblez is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Criblez has constructed several saw-mills, and now owns 100 acres of land, besides a half interest in the mill, and town property at Beaver Dam. He is a F. & A. M.; in politics a Democrat. N. W. CUNNINGHAM, editor and proprietor of the Bluffton, News, Bluffton, was born at Lima, Ohio, February 24, 1856; son of Col. James and Martha (Kennedy) Cunningham, natives of Ohio. His father, who came to Allen County in 1832. first settled on a farm, but was afterward a merchant at Lima, and held almost every office in the county from supervisor to State senator. Our subject, who is the youngest of the eleven children born to his parents, learned the printer's trade in the Democrat office at Lima, which was then conducted by D. S. Fisher, and there remained four years. In 1875 he established his present paper in Bluffton. He was married at Durango, Col., in 1882, to Miss Eva A. Ballard, formerly a teacher of Bluffton Schools. CHARLES S. DAY, of the firm of Day & Hilty, proprietors of grocery and bakery, Bluffton, was born in Putnam County, Ohio, January 31, 1861; son of R. B. and Mary (McBride) Day, the former a native of Vermont, the latter of New York, who were parents of two children, of whom our subject is the elder. His father enlisted during the late war of the Rebellion, in the Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was killed in battle in 1864. Charles S. received his schooling in his native county and came to Bluffton, Ohio, when sixteen years old, and for six years was engaged as a clerk, the first two years with R. F. Cahill, the last four with Vernon & Steiner. He was married, June 5, 1882, to Catherine Keim, to which union has been born one child—Hallie. In politics Mr. Day is a Republican. HENRY DILLMAN, grocer, Bluffton, was born in Hancock County, Ohio, February 27, 1844, and is the sixth in the family of seven children of Peter and Elizabeth (Bame) Dillman, natives of Germany. His father came from his native land to America and settled on a farm in Jefferson County, Ohio, and there Henry was reared. Our subject received his education in Hancock County, living with his parents until he attained his RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 761 majority, when he went to Springfield, Ohio, and lived there one year, and came to Bluffton, clerking for two years for Philip Tranch. In 1869 Mr. Dillman embarked in the grocery business, in which he has continued successfully ever since. He is now the owner of a business room, three houses and lots in Bluffton. He was united in marriage, in 1875, with Miss Emma Helms, a daughter of Joseph Helms, a pioneer and prominent farmer of Hancock County, Ohio. To this union have been born five children: Maud, Harley, Budd, Charles and Toney C. Mrs. Dillman is a member of the Methodist Church at Bluffton. In politics Mr. Dillman is a Democrat. M. K. EDGECOMB, retired farmer, Beaver Dam, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, December 11, 1826, son of Uriah and Elizabeth (Doud) Edgecomb, of English descent, and who came to Allen County in 1831 or 1832, settling in Bath Township. Their family consisted of thirteen children, twelve of whom grew to manhood and womanhood and five now living in this county. The father, who died at the advanced age of eighty years, was a farmer, and made his home for many years with his son, M. K., previous to his death. Our subject, the ninth in the family, was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He has been very successful in life, has engaged in farming most of the time, and now owns a farm in Richland Township and property in Beaver Dam. He operated a threshing machine during the falls and winters from 1844 to 1858, and now keeps a hotel in Beaver Dam. He was married, November 18, 1847, to Hannah E., daughter of Jacob Everitt, a farmer and an early settler of Allen County, this State, and of English descent. Their children are Madison, married and farming, G. W. and William. Mr. and Mrs. Edgecomb are members of the Disciples Church, in which he is elder and of which he has been superintendent of the Sabbath-school. He is a Republican in politics. WILLIAM Mc. FENTON, retired farmer P. O. Bluffton, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, December 25, 1815, son of Robert and Jane (McCrea) Fenton; the former a native of Pennsylvania, of Irish descent, in early years a carpenter, but in later life a farmer; the latter born in Ireland. They settled on a farm in Richland Township, this county, in 1836. Our subject, the fourth in their family of nine children, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the pioneer log schoolhouse. He has made farming the occupation of his life, and is the owner of eighty acres of land in Richland Township, this county, on which he now resides. He was married, in 1860, to Miss Jane Hatch, born in Marion County, Ohio, in 1837, a daughter of Gardner and Harriet (Dudley) Hatch, who were natives of Maine and of English descent, former a farmer in Hardin County, Ohio. This union was blessed with five children: Emma Jane (deceased), William James, Lizzie May, John McCrea and Charles Gardner. Mr. and Mrs. Fenton are members of the United Presbyterian Church, in which he has officiated as elder. In politics he is a Republican. He has served as trustee of Richland Township. Mr. Fenton worked hard in early life, and by prudent management of his resources has succeeded in accumulating enough of this world's goods to keep him comfortable in the declining years of his life. JOHN FENTON, a prominent pioneer of Allen County, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, July 11, 1825; son of Robert and Jane (Mc- 762 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. Crea) Fenton, natives of Pennsylvania and Ireland, respectively, the former of whom, of English descent, a farmer by occupation, enlisted in the war of 1812, though he did not see active service. John Fenton and his twin sister (now Mrs. James D. Bentley) are the youngest in a family of eight children. When ten years of age our subject accompanied his parents to this county, and was here reared on the farm, attending the log schoolhouse near by, and has made farming his life avocation. He was a dutiful son, attending to the wants of his parents who lived with him until they died—his father in 1852, aged seventy five years, and his mother in 1855, aged seventy-one years. He was married in 1849, to Isabella Outhwaite, who was born in England in 1830, a daughter of George and Isabella (Swan) Outhwaite. Mr. Fenton came to this township forty eight years ago, before Bluffton was incorporated, and when the country was almost a wilderness. During the late civil war he enlisted, in 1863, in the First Ohio Heavy Artillery, serving till the close of the struggle. Mr. and Mrs. Fenton have an adopted son, Frederick George Fenton, a farmer of this county. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Bluffton. He is a Republican in politics. CHRISTIAN GEIGER, farmer, P. 0. Columbus Grove, Putnam County. was born in Switzerland, November 16, 1835; son of Peter and Anna (Welty) Geiger, also natives of Switzerland, former of whom came to America in 1837, settling on a farm in Richland Township, and raised a family of eight children. Christian, the youngest, was reared on the farm, receiving a common school education, and has made farming the business of his life. He is the owner of a well-improved farm of eighty acres of land. He was married, in 1858, to Anna, daughter of Peter Thut, a native of Switzerland and a pioneer of Allen County. To Mr. Geiger and wife were born Elizabeth (wife of Albert Shutz, a farmer in this county), Elias (a farmer), Emma (at home), Mary and Sarah. Mr. and Mrs. Geiger are members of the Mennonite Church. In politics he is a Democrat. FREDERICK GEIGER, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Putnam County, Ohio, October 17, 1838; son of John and Barbara (Welty) Geiger, natives of Switzerland, who came to America in 1835, and settled on a farm in Riley Township, Putnam County, Ohio. They were parents of seven children, three boys and four girls, all of whom are now living and prospering. Our subject, the sixth born, was reared on the farm, receiving a common school education, and early in life learned the cabinetmaker's trade. He is of a mechanical turn of mind, and a first-class workman. In 1853 he completed the first pipe organ in Richland Township, which is still in use. Farming, however, has been the principal business of his life, and he is now owner of 116 acres of well-improved land in Richland Township. Mr. Geiger was married, in 1864, to Elizabeth, daughter of John Hilty, a prominent farmer of Allen County, Ohio. Her parents were natives of Switzerland. To our subject and wife were born ten children: Amos, Paulina, Calvin, Menno, Katie Ann, Emma, John, Isaac W., Lavina and Lillie May. Mr. and Mrs. Geiger are members of the American Mennonite Church, in which he is a deacon. CHRISTIAN GERBER, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, September 6, 1823, only child of Ulrich (a farmer) and RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 763 Elizabeth (Leatherman) Gerber, natives of Switzerland, and who came to America in 1822, settling in Wayne County. Our subject received a common school education, and has been a farmer all his life. He is now the owner of a well-improved farm, comprising 116 acres of land, in Richland Township, where he has resided since 1852. He was united in marriage in 1854 with Mary, daughter of John Basinger, a farmer and an early settler of Allen County, Ohio, and of German descent. Their children are Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Amstutz ; Leah, wife of Peter B Amstutz ; David, farming on the home farm, and Hannah. Mr. and Mrs. Gerber are members of the Mennonite Church. In politics he is a Democrat. A. D. GOBLE, a member of the Bluffton Tile Company, Bluffton, was born in Alabama, September 15, 1849, son of John and Catherine E. (Isbel) Goble, natives of Pennsylvania; former of Scotch-Irish descent, a Presbyterian minister, who came to this county in 1866; latter of English origin. They were parents of six children, of whom A. D. is the next to the eldest. Our subject was educated at Hayesville Institute, and chose for his occuption the drug business, in which he continued but one year, however. He then went West, remaining for four years, then ran an engine ten years, and in 1874 came to this county, embarking in his present business in 1884. He was married in 1872 to Rachel J., daughter of Jacob Dilley, a farmer residing at Beaver Dam, Ohio. They are of English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Goble have had four children : Otis, Lewis C., Irma Zoe and Harley. Mr. Goble is a member of the Lutheran Church, his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Democrat. REV. PETER GREDING, D. D., farmer and minister, P. O. Beaver Dam, was born in Thusis Graubunden, Switzerland, February 28, 1837; son of Peter and Barbara (Pernisch) Greding, also natives of Switzerland, where the former died, leaving a widow with two children, Peter being the younger. Mrs. Barbara Greding came to America with her family in 1858, and settled in Milwaukee, Wis. Our subject received a good education in his native land, graduating from the Cantonal College, in Chur, in 1856. After coming to America he studied the English language and theology in Heidelberg College and Seminary, Seneca County, Ohio, where he was afterward a professor. He is a member of the Reformed Church in the United States, was ordained a minister in that denomination in 1859, and the same year came to Allen County, Ohio, where he established the first German Reformed Church at Lima, and organized the Emanuel's congregation at Riley Creek. He has been the means of having several churches built in different parts of the country since he was stationed in Ohio, and is actively engaged in ministerial duties, filling the pulpit regularly, The farm on which he now resides, and which he operates, comprises 133 acres of land. Our subject was married in 1860 to Miss Anna, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Matter, also natives of Switzerland. They have following named children : Lydia, wife of J. Scott ; Jennings, a farmer and school teacher ; Calvin ; Emma ; Bertha ; Clara ; Amelia ; Leander, and Hulda. JOHN GRISMORE, farmer,P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Pennsylvania, August 26, 1812. His parents, Abraham and Elizabeth (Kerchner) Gris- 764 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. more, were natives of Germany; the father was a farmer, but not very successful, for he died a poor man leaving a family of ten children. Our subject, from childhood, had to practice economy. He learned the tailor's trade which he followed for seventeen years. He was united in marriage, in 1837, with Catherine Weaver, of German descent, and who was born November 8, 1816, in Butler County, Ohio, daughter of Henry Weaver. To this union were born nine children: Sarah (deceased),Henry, Mary Ann,George, Elizabeth and an infant son (deceased),Harriett, Phebe Ann, and Martin. Mrs. Grismore, a member of the Lutheran Church, died in 1880. Mr. Grismore has been a resident of Richland Township, this county, since 1842 and has done more to increase its prosperity than any other man here. He first bought sixty eight acres of land,to which he added by subsequent purchases, until at one time he owned 630 acres. He has been industrious, economical and very successful, financially, and by judiciously investing his money has now a comfortable competency. He is a Democrat in politics. MARTIN GRISMORE, farmer, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, May 17, 1861, son of John Grismore, a wealthy retired farmer and pioneer of Allen County. Our subject received a common school education and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life, being owner of the farm on which he now resides. He was married, in 1882, to Barbara, daughter of Godhard Althaus, also a farmer here. Mr. and Mrs. Grismore have two children: Viola May and Harry Lee. Mr. Grismore is a Democrat in politics. CHARLES GUSTWILLER, manufacturer of carriages, buggies and wagons, Bluffton. a native of Germany, was born January 9, 1850, son of Sebastian Gustwiller, also a carriage-maker, and who came to America locating in New York, subsequently moving to Detroit, Mich., where he followed his trade till 1860, when he came to Allen County, Ohio, remainimg here till 1862; he then went to Henry County, same State, and there spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1882. Of the six children born to his parents, Charles is the eldest son. He received his schooling in this county worked with his father at carriage-making, and in 1871 came to Bluffton, working for different parties until 1875, when he went into business on his own account. He was united in marriage, in 1873, to Sarah E. Cahill, a sister of R. F. and a daughter of Richard Cahill, M. D. (deceased). They have two children: Lulu B. and Richard Clair. In politics, Mr. Gustwiller is a Democrat. He is secretary of the R. A. at Bluffton. SIMON HERR, harness and saddlery, Bluffton, an enterprising business man of this town, is a native of Allen County, Ohio, born April 17, 1851; son of Christian and Catherine (Mosser) Herr, who came to Ohio from Germany, their native land, over half a century ago, spending many years in this county. Of their seven children six grew to manhood and womanhood. Our subject's father, who learned and followed weaving in Germany, devoted his entire attention to farming after coming to America; he died in this county in 1856. Simon Herr was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the common schools of this county. He learned the harness-making trade, and has successfully carried on this business in Bluffton since 1870. He has also at different times en- RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 765 gaged in selling sewing machines, wagons, buggies and carriages. Mr. Herr is owner of sixty feet front on Main Street, occupied by business houses, which he made still more valuable by building, in 1884, the Herr's Opera House, which is one of the finest places of entertainment in this part of Ohio, having a seating capacity for 500 persons, folding chairs, raised floor, stage 40x22, four dressing rooms, good scenery etc. Our subject was married at Lima, Ohio, in 1876, to Maggie Tremains, also a native of Ohio, of English descent, and to this union were born Bertha, Anna, Jessie, and one deceased. Mrs. Herr is a member of the Disciples Church NOAH HILTY, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, March 4, 1852; son of Peter and Elizabeth (Neuschwander) Hilty, natives of Switzerland. Peter Hilty, a farmer by occupation, was born September 8, 1821, and was the third in the family of five children of Peter and Fannie (Lugibihl) Hilty, natives of Switzerland, and who came to America in 1826, settling on a farm in Wayne County. Ohio. Our subject's father was reared on the farm and attended the log schoolhouse, and came to Allen County in 1838, settling in the wild woods. He was married in 1842, and to this union were born ten children: Isaac, John, Barbara, Catherine, Benjamin, Noah, Mary, Peter B., Samuel and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Hilty are members of the Mennonite Church; he has served as school director of this township. Noah Hilty was reared on the farm, received a common school education, and worked for four years at the carpenter's trade, but is now a farmer and stock raiser, owing sixty acres of land. He was married in 1876, to Sarah, daughter of Rev. John Moser, a Mennonite minister, and of German descent. Their children are Elam, Elizabeth (deceased), Elmer, Dora and Edmond. Mr. and Mrs. Noah Hilty are also members of the Mennonite Society. J. HILTY, of the firm of Day & Hilty, proprietors of grocery and bakery, Bluffton, was born in Allen County, Ohio, August 7, 1859. He was educated at Bluffton, Ohio, and learned the harness-maker's trade, at which he worked for six years. In company with Charles S. Day he purchased the grocery and bakery in 1884. They are both good tradesmen, doing a cash business, and aiming to handle only first-class goods. J. GUY HONNELL, physician and farmer, P. O. Beaver Dam, Ohio, was born in Greene County, Penn., January 9, 1831, son of William and Eleanor (Pratt) Honnell, of French and German descent, former a farmer by occupation, being a native of Virginia; they were parents of twelve children, eleven of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. Our subject, the sixth in the family, was reared on the farm, attending the common school of the home district and at Sidney, Ohio, until he was sixteen years old. He then commenced teaching in the winter and attending school in the summer, and while at college he paid his own tuition and board and bought his own clothing. He was in school most of the time until he was twenty-one years of age. He then entered the office of Dr, Robert Johnson Sr Son, where he studied medicine for two years, then commenced to practice in Montra. Shelby Co., Ohio, following his profession there till 1855, when he came to Allen County, Ohio, and here he has practiced ever since. The doctor is well known, 46 766 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. and at one time had an extensive practice, having had as many as 100 calls in one day, many of whom he was compelled to turn away. He has never been a rigid collector, was always liberal to the poor, and though he has been very successful, is not wealthy. He is owner of 200 acres of valuahle land. Dr. Honnell was married in 1855, to Amelia C., daughter of Rev. Ezra W. and M. S. (Stiles) Clark, former a Baptist minister, of English and German descent. Their children are Stella, wife of Henry S. Shull ; Carrie V., wife of H. C. Hobart, of Cleveland, Ohio; Annie, wife of J. Marshall ; Jessie, at home ; Eugene Guy, eight years old, the only son, also at home with his parents. The doctor is a Presbyterian of the Calvinistic type. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a prohihitionist of the ultra stamp, always claiming that alcohol, in all of its forms, is more sedative than stimulant, and the use of it is not necessary in the treatment of disease. LEWIS W. HUBER, farmer and stock-raiser, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Allen County, Ohio, October 29, 184S, son of William and Sally Ann (Cunningham) Huber. William Huber was born in Batavia, Germany, in 1818, second of the five children (all boys) of Jacob Huber, a blacksmith, who married Barbara Maier, and came from Germany to Pennsylvania in 1832, and after working at his trade there for two years came to Bluffton, Ohio, where he spent the remainder of his life. Our subject's father is a very wealthy farmer, and has lived in this county since 1835; his wife was a native of Virginia; they reared a respectable family, of whom Lewis W. is the eldest. Our subject was reared on a farm, and received a common school education. He has made agriculture the principal occupation of his life, and now owns a well-improved farm of seventy-five acres in Richland Township. Mr. Huber was married in 1873 to Matilda Girod, whose parents were natives of France. To this union was born four children, three now living : Maud, John and Orville. Mr. and Mrs. Huber are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Democrat. LEWIS JENNINGS, miller, Beaver Dam, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, January 20, 1828, son of James and Elizabeth (William) Jennings, natives of Pennsylvania, and of Welsh and English descent, the former of whom was a pioneer farmer of this county, having moved here with his family over forty-eight years ago. Lewis was the eldest son of eight children, and had only a few weeks' schooling, as there were no schools in Richland Township for ten years after the family settled here, but he studied at night, after working hard all day, fitting himself to be a teacher, and taught school for several winters in this county. He was married in 1852, to.Ann McKee, who bore him the following children : Hiram (deceased), James B., Anna, John M. This wife died in 1860, and our subject then married, in 1861, Mary A. Everett, a native of this county, and of English descent. The children born to this union are Francis M., B. F., Alfred, Clara, George, Kittie May and Jasper W. W. Mr. and Mrs. Jennings are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has served as trustee and steward. He is a Republican in politics; has heen trustee of Richland Township. Our subject owns a well-improved farm, and made farming and stock-raising the business of his life till in 1882, when in company with RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 767 C. C. Woodard he built the flouring-mill at Beaver Dam. This mill is in a first-class condition, having six double sets of rollers and one of buhrs, costing him $18,000. Mr. Woodard sold his interest in 1884, and the business is now conducted by Lewis Jennings & Sons. O. S. LANGAN, hanker, Bluffton, a native of Ireland, was born December 19, 1839, son of Thomas Langan. He received his literary education in Ohio, and took a commercial course at Pittsburgh, Penn., graduating in 1861. When the war of the Rebellion broke out he promptly answered the call for men and enlisted in the Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, being soon after appointed corporal, then sergeant, was then promoted to orderly sergeant, and subsequently to sergeant-major of the regiment. He was wounded at the battle of Chickamauga, taken prisoner and held on the battle field for ten days—when he was exchanged and sent to hospital at Nashville, thence to Camp Dennison, where he remained till the expiration of his term of service. He then returned to Ohio, and in 1866 was married, in Findlay, Hancock County, to Miss Ella Mungen, and to this union were born the following children: William I., Belle, Merle and Glen. Mr. and Mrs. Langan are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Langan has been very successful in his business enterprises.. He served as corporation treasurer and as a member of the school board. He is a F. & A. M. WILLIAM LEWIS, Bluffton, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, Decembor 25, 1815, son of Henry and Leah (Hill) Lewis, the former of whom was a laborer. Our subject grew up among strangers, and the man with whom he lived put him to chopping wood as soon as he was able to handle an ax, keeping him at it and allowing him but one-half a day's schooling, depriving him at same time of sufficient clothing, so that until he was sixteen years of age our subject never wore a hat, and had but two pairs of shoes until he made them for himself. But he was hale and hearty, almost as fleet-footed as a deer, and he claims he could catch a rabbit in a fair race. The Indians were numerous here at that time, and young Lewis won a wager of $78.50 by outstripping a famous Indian runner; he also threw the champion wrestler of this race. In 1840 he climbed the liberty pole in Van Wert, height seventy-five feet, and cut the ropes used in raising it. William Lewis was never a very large man, 170 pounds being his greatest weight, and forty inches his chest measure. He was noted as a wood-chopper, cutting and cording, on one occasion, 100 cords of wood in twenty two days. In his lifetime he has cleared 217 acres of land with his own hands, and has cradled six acres of wheat in one day. He became an expert marksman, carrying off many prizes in shooting matches, and one summer he killed eighteen deer and a bear. Mr. Lewis came to Allen County in 1832, and for a long time engaged in cutting and clearing timber lands, but in later years has been manufacturing brick. He comes of patriotic stock, his grandfather having been a soldier in the Revolutionary struggle, and his father in the war of 1812. During the late war of the Rebellion our subject enlisted in 1862, in Company B, Sixty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was injured by a wagon falling on him at the second battle of Bull Run, and was discharged on account of disability. After coming 768 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. home, however, his health improved, and in 1865 he re-enlisted, serving till the close of the war, but has never been able to do much hard labor since. Mr. Lewis was married in 1842, to Sarah Myers, of. Van 'Wert County, Ohio; a daughter of Henry Myers, a farmer, and their children are as follows: James B. (also a member of Company B, Sixty-first Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry), Mary J. (wife of C. E. Bowen, of Dayton, Ohio), William J. (a stonemason, married and residing at Bluffton), and George H. (interested with his father in the manufacture of brick, and who was born September 24, 1851, in Bluffton, Ohio, and married in 1875 to Elizabeth Conrad, have three children, Gertrude A., Bertha May and Hallie Edith). William Lewis and his sons are Republicans in politics. Our subject has been financially successful, and now owns five acres of land in Bluffton, four houses and lots, and a small farm in Hancock County, Ohio. He has been elected to public offices of trust in this county. He is well liked and is familiarly known as " Uncle Billy. " G. A. LIGHT, druggist and physician, Beaver Dam, was born in Putnam County, Ohio, August 7, 1860, son of Amos, a farmer, and Elizabeth (Wells) Light, natives of Ohio and of German and English descent. They reared a family of four children. Our subject, the eldest, acquired his education at Amalthea University, at Westerville, Franklin County, and Putnam County, Ohio. He studied medicine three years with Dr. H. T. Breckhill, and practiced with him for six months. In 1882, he commenced business on his own account, opening a drug store at Beaver Dam, where he still continues. Dr. Light has had to make his own way in the world, and prior to studying medicine, was for a time clerk in a dry goods store, and also taught school for nine terms. He was united in marriage in 1882, with Miss S. F., daughter of Samuel Morr, a farmer. Her parents were Pennsylvania Germans. To this union was born one child--Roy Austin. The doctor and wife are members of the United Brethren Church. He is a F. & A. M. In politics a Democrat; in 1884 he was elected justice of the peace. BENJAMIN P. LUGIBIHL, farmer, stock-raiser and breeder of fine horses, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, August 31, 1849. His father, David Lugibihl, was born in 1819, son of Christian and Catherine (Steiner) Lugibihl, natives of France, who came to America in 1824, and settled on a farm in Holmes County, Ohio. They reared a family of seven children, of whom David was the sixth. Our subject's father came to Allen County, Ohio, in 1836, settling in Richland Township, where he has lived ever since, and is among its wealthy farmers; he was married three times, his first wife being Catherine, daughter of Christian Geiger; they were married June 18, 1840, and their children were Mary, Regina (deceased wife Christian Basinger), Elizabeth (deceased wife of Peter B. Amstutz), and John (deceased). He was married (the second time) August 19, 1848, to Anna Sutter (nee Amstutz),widow of John Sutter, and their children were Benjamin P., Jacob and Fanny. August 17, 1865, he married, for his third wife, Anna Lederman. Benjamin P. was educated in the common schools of his native township and has successfully engaged in farming. He was married in 1875, to Catherine, daughter of Jacob and Anna (Stettler) Shif- RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 769 ferly, natives of Switzerland. The children born to this union were Rhoda, Walter, Huldah (deceased). Mrs. Lugibihl was a school teacher before her marriage. Our subject and wife are members of the German Reformed Church. In politics he is a Democrat. He has been school director for six years and has served his township two terms as trustee. JAMES MCPEAK, a successful physician of Bluffton, was born in Ireland, October 21, 1844, son of Samuel and Mary (Brown) McPeak, natives of Ireland. Samuel MePeak, an iron molder by trade, came to America in 1846 and settled in Cincinnati. Our subject, the second in a family of six children, attended the graded schools and also a private school in Cincinnati. During the late civil war he enlisted, in 1861,in Company C, Sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was private, and at the close of his three years' service, was appointed aide, with rank of captain, to Col. Greenwood, who was then inspector-general. At the close of the memorable struggle, our subject returned home and commenced (in 1866) the study of medicine in Cincinnati, in the office of Dr. S. B. Tomlinson, where he remained three years. He then entered the Ohio Medical College, graduated in 1870, and same year was appointed district physician and surgeon of Cincinnati, and was thus employed for two years; he then engaged in regular practice there for three years, and was at two other places before he came here in 1882. Dr. McPeak was married August 29, 1871, to Eliza White, who was born in Cincinnati, of Irish descent, and a daughter of Robert White. Their children are Blanche, Robert Samuel and Maggie. Dr. MePeak and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he is an elder. JAMES H. MARSHALL, farmer and stock-raiser, Beaver Dam, was born in Pennsylvania, April 9, 1823; son of J. H., a farmer, and Jane (Patterson) Marshall, natives of Pennsylvania, of Irish and German descent, respectively, and who had a family of ten children, all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. James H., the eldest, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the log schoolhouse, and has made farming the business of his life. He came to Allen County, Ohio, in 1842, and engaged in clearing, and helped make the first roads in his part of the township. His farm, then in the woods, is now well improved, and comprises 112 acres of land. Mr. Marshall has been twice married; first time, in 1846, to Nancy, daughter of John Steele, and a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. To this union were born seven children: Mary (wife of Jacob Zeiders), Jane (wife of R. Campbell), J. H., Sarah (wife of Samuel Stewart), Cyrus A., Margaret (wife of F. Miller) and John. Mrs. Marshall died in 1859, and in 1860 our subject married Susan, daughter of James and Maria (Shrieves) Vanmeter, who were of Irish and German descent. The children born to this union are Robert, Alice, George and Estella L. Mr. Marshall is a Presbyterian; his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. CYRUS MARSHALL, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Cranberry, was born in Lawrence County, Penn., June 22, 1826, a son of James Hayes Marshall, a farmer. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and of Irish descent. Our subject, the fifth in a family of ten children, was reared on the farm, acquiring a common school education. He was united in mar- 770 - GRAPHICAL SKETCHES. riage, in 1850, with Mary, daughter of Samuel Reed, a native of Mahoning County, Ohio, and of English descent. To this union were born four children: James H. and Margaret Alice (both deceased); John R. (who has been a school teacher, but is now a prominent farmer of this county), and Albert H. (also a farmer)—they both graduated from the normal school at Ada, Ohio, are married and own their farms. Mr. and Mrs. Marshall are members of the Presbyterian Church at Rockport, Ohio, which he helped build, has been a member thirty-three years, and is now trustee in same. In politics he is a Republican. Our subject came here by wagon in 1851, and settled in the woods on the farm where he now resides, comprising 150 acres, which his father, who never lived here, however, had previously entered. He put up a cabin, and began clearing his farm, sending the grain he raised to the mill at Delphos. By industry he has accumulated a comfortable competency, and now owns two well-cultivated farms, comprising 160 and 154 acres, respectively. He has been engaged in buying and selling live stock, making a specialty of sheep, and now has 450 head of Spanish merinos. W. H. MOHLER, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., August 8, 1846; son Of Henry and Anna (Howser) Mohler, natives of Pennsylvania, the former of English descent, the latter of German lineage. His father was a farmer, and lived many years in Ohio. Our subject was raised on the farm, attending the district school, and has made farming the business of his life. He came to Allen County in 1880, and bought the farm of eighty-seven acres where he now resides. He has been twice married; first, in 1870, to Harriet Quabill, who died in 1883, leaving two children—Ettie and Jesse. His second wife, whom he married in 1884, was Miss Katie Keim, born in Hessen, Germany, December 19, 1856, and whose father, Jacob Keim, came to America in 1866, settling in Richland Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Mohler are members of church, the former of the Dunker's sect, and the latter of the Evangelical denomination. Our subject is a neat farmer, and takes just pride in educating his children. In politics he is a Republican. WILLIAM W. MOORE, physician and surgeon, was born in Luzerne County, Penn.; son of Elijah and Sarah (Moss) Moore, who reared a family of eleven children, of whom William W. is the sixth. His father, a carpenter and farmer, was in good circumstances until he moved to Ohio, when misfortunes overtook him, at which time the health of William W. became poor, and his father, fearing that the labors of farm life would be too hard for him, gave him his time at the age of fifteen years, advising him to acquire an education, telling William when he needed help to call on him. Accepting his father's advice,our subject managed to secure sufficient means to enter the academy at Norwalk, Ohio, where he pursued a course of study for about three years. He next devoted himself to the study of medicine with Drs. Cole and Cook, at Monroeville, Ohio, during two years. He then commenced the practice of medicine at Rockport. Ohio. Having spent some two years in the practice of medicine, he next went to Cleveland, and attended the Western Reserve Medical College until finding his funds somewhat exhausted; he then left college and located at Decatur, Adams Co., Lrd., where he practiced medicine thirteen years. He subsequently went West, but, his health failing. he came to Allen RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 771 County in 1873, locating at Beaver Dam, and in 1882 moved to Bluffton, where he still pursues the practice of medicine and surgery. Dr. Moore has been successful as a physician, and though he has met with some business reverses, sustaining heavy losses, he is yet in fair circumstances, and owns some real estate in Bluffton and also in Lima. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he was a Democrat until 1864, since which time he has identified himself with the Republican party. THOMAS MURRAY, retired farmer, Bluffton, a prominent early settler of Allen County, was born at Congress Lake, Stark Co., Ohio, February 12, 1820; son of John and Charity (Friest) Murray, natives of Pennsylvania, of Dutch and Irish lineage, and who were parents of thirteen children, ten of whom attained maturity—seven sons and three daughters. His grandfather, Thomas Murray, was for many years a member of the Pennsylvania Legislature. His father, who was a farmer, at the time of his death had sixty-four grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, many of whom are now living. Our subject was reared on his father's farm and acquired his education in the subscription school, held in a log-house, in Mahoning County, Ohio, where his parents lived for many years; has followed agricultural pursuits nearly all his life. He came to Allen County, Ohio. in 1848, settling in Bluffton, where he followed farming and was among the first to make cheese. He afterward kept hotel for ten years, hut at present is living a retired life in comfortable circumstances. He owns lands in Ohio and in the West, and considerable town property. He manages all his business himself and has made all he now owns by his own industry. Mr. Murray has been twice married, first in 1844, to Julia A. Osborn, who died in 1863. Their children were A. J., the eldest daughter, wife of A. G. Kibler, a prominent merchant in Bluffton, Ohio; Elizabeth F., wife of Joseph Miller, of Bluffton; Marietta, at home; Alexander, on a farm of 250 acres belonging to his father, in Kansas, and Cynthia A., at home. Mr. Murray was married, on second occasion, in 1864, to Mrs Nancy (Vanmeter) Marshall, widow of Robert Marshall, a pioneer farmer of Allen (then Putnam, County, Ohio, by whom she had six children, five now living: Calvin, a farmer; Viama Amethia, widow of Mr. Young, now residing in Bluffton; James F., married and farming in Kansas; C. C., a railroad man, Chicago, Ill., and Nancy L., at home. Mr. Marshall died in 1855. By his second marriage Mr. Murray has one son—William B. Our subject was a Democrat in politics until the Kansas trouble, since when he has been a Republican. He served as township trustee in an early day, and many years on the school board. He has never taken a drink of whisky, never been sick a day in his life, and has never sued any one for debt or been sued himself, although he has done a large amount of business. F. MARION MURRAY, physician and druggist, Bluffton, was born in Bluffton, Ohio, January 17, 1855; son of Joseph A. and Nancy (Dray) Murray, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of Scotch-German descent, the latter of Ohio, of English-Irish lineage. His father, a wagon-maker by trade, has been a resident of Bluffton since 1851. Our subject, the sixth in a family of eight children, received his literary education in the 772 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. schools of his native town, and here commenced to work in a drug store when but thirteen years old, and continued clerking for over four years. He then went to Key West, Fla., being appointed steward. and apothecary of the United States Marine Hospital, a position he held for four years, and during this time he studied medicine and pharmacy. He subsequently entered the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, whence he graduated in 1876; at the same time attending lectures at the Jefferson Medical College, graduating in 1877; and, in 1878, the degree of Doctor of Philosophy was conferred on him by the University of Pennsylvania. Immediately after graduating in medicine he began practicing in the city, whence he moved to Lenni, Delaware Co., Penn., where he continued in active practice until he came to Bluffton in 1883, and here followed his profession till the latter part of 1884, when he became a partner with A. Hauenstein in the drug business. The doctor was married, in 1880, to Amanda Kirby, by whom he has two children: Jessie and Marian. Mr. and Mrs. Murray are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is trustee. He has had a longer medical training and has secured more diplomas than any other physician in Allen County. He is a member of the American Pharmaceutical Association, the Ohio State Pharmaceutical Association; the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy; an honorary member of the Florida Medical Association: D. D. G. M. of the I. O. O. F., and is a Master Mason. MICHAEL NEUSCHWANDER, farmer, Bluffton. Among the early pioneers of Allen County and the first German families in Richland Township was the Neuschwander family. Michael, our subject, the youngest of five children, was born June 11, 1823, on mid ocean, his parents being on their way from Switzerland to America. They located the same year (1823) in Wayne County, Ohio, where they remained for ten years. The father, a cooper by trade, engaged in farming after coming with his family to Allen County, Ohio, in 1833. They settled on the farm where our subject now resides, camping out for three weeks until a temporary cabin covered with brush was erected. The wolves were numerous at that time, and a fire was kindled at night in front' of the cabin to frighten them away. On one occasion, Daniel, our subject's elder brother, was chased by them, and, though in great peril, managed to effect his escape by urging on his horse. Deer and other game were plentiful. The Indians, who were camped near the settlers, proved themselves to be good neighbors, and were always friendly to the family. Later the father built the log-house which is still standing. Our subject was married in Richland Township, in 1845, to Fannie, daughter of John Geiger, a pioneer of Putnam County, Ohio. and the children born to this union are John S., Mary, Anna, Joshua, Amos E., David and Sarah. Mr. Neuschwander and wife are members of the Reformed Mennonite Society. He is owner of a fine farm of 200 acres with first-class improvements. J. S. NEUSCHWANDER, proprietor of farm and market garden, Bluffton, was horn in Richland Township, this county, November 28, 1849, son of Michael and Fannie (Geiger) Neuschwander. His father, who was a farmer the latter part of his life, was born en route from Switzerland to America, his mother was a native of Switzerland. They RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 773 came to Allen County, Ohio, in 1833, and settled in Richland Township. They reared a family of seven children—four sons and three daughters. Our subject, the eldest now living of this family, was reared on the farm, and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. He was married, in 1882, to Fannie Bender, who was born in Fulton County, Ohio. Her parents were natives of Switzerland, her father a farmer. To this union was born one child: Effie Peari. Mr. Neuschwander and wife are members of the Reformed Mennonite Church. Our subject is now engaged in raising garden truck, berries, etc., for the market. He owns seventy acres of land, ten acres being laid out in town lots. ISAAC N. NEUENSCHWANDER, farmer, P. O. Columbus Grove, Putnam County, was born January 1, 1845, son of John and Barbara (Basinger) Neuenschwander, natives of Switzerland, who immigrated to this country with their parents when quite young, and settled in Wayne County, Ohio. His father is now a wealthy influential farmer of Hancock County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest in a family of four children, lost his mother when he was but five months old, and was raised by Christian Basinger on a farm. At the age of nineteen years he commenced to teach school during the winters, farming in the summers, which routine he followed for six years. He was married, April 16, 1869, to Catherine, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Lugibibl) Geiger, natives of Switzerland. To this union were born the following children: Emma, Jacob, Caroline, Elias, David, Elizabeth, Lydia and Luela. Mrs. Neuenschwander is a member of the Mennonite Society. Mr. Neuenschwander is owner of eighty acres of land. In politics he is a Democrat. ELIAS NEUENSCHWANDER, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Allen County, August 14, 1848, son of Isaac and Mary (Steiner) Neuenschwander. He was reared on the farm, acquiring a common school education. He was married, in 1873, to Annie Neuenschwander, who bore him one child—Emma. This wife dying in 1876, our subject married, on second occasion, in 1879, Christene Welty, a daughter of Frederick Welty, a farmer; who is a native of Switzerland, and to this union were born Sarah, Rhoda, Alice and Catherine. Mr. and Mrs. Neuenschwander are members of the Mennonite society. In politics he is a Democrat. His father, Isaac Neuenschwander, a pioneer of Allen County, came here in 1836; he was born in Switzerland, March 24, 1821, son of John and Catherine (Furrey) Neuenschwander, also natives of Switzerland, and who came to Wayne County in 1826, first settling on a farm there, but later moving to Allen County, traveling with an ox-team, and taking fourteen days to make the journey. John Neuenschwander died September 12, 1838, his widow in 1853. Isaac, father of our subject, was their sixth child, and as there was a scarcity of schools here at that time, his whole attendance comprised but five weeks, and he grew to manhood inured to toil; he was married, in 1847, to Mary, daughter of John Steiner, a farmer and early settler of this county; he and his wife commenced housekeeping in a very primitive way; their cabin and bed were made of logs, and their table and cupboard of clapboards; in those days he had to take his grain to the mill at Sidney, Ohio, and at times had to wait fifteen days for his grist. The children born to this pioneer couple were as follows: Elias, our subject; Lydia, 774 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. wife of Job Steiner, farmer; Samuel and David, married, and farming in Putnam County, Ohio; Susannah, wife of Jacob Lugibihl; Elizabeth, wife of David Sutter, Philip, simarried, and farming in Putnam County; Gideon, deceased April 7, 1885; Amos, at home, and Sarah. Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Neuenschwander are members of the Mennonite society. He is a director of Richland Township; politically a Democrat. For years he owned 400 acres of land, but lately divided the property among his children, and at present he has 211 acres himself. J. H. PATTERSON. merchant, Bluffton, was born in West Virginia, July 1, 1837, son of Enoch and Mary (Moore) Patterson, who came to Ohio in 1838; the former, a farmer by occupation, born in old Virginia, of Irish descent; the latter, a native of Ohio, of English lineage. Of their three children J. H. is the eldest. Our subject received a common school education in Mercer County, Ohio, arid early in life commenced clerking in a dry goods store. When the war of the Rebellion broke out, he promptly enlisted, in 1861, in Company A, Forty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was orderly sergeant of the company. He was discharged on account of disability, but soon regaining his health, he re-enlisted in the Eighty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and when the company was organized was elected second lieutenant, being soon afterward promoted to first lieutenant. He participated in Shiloh and other battles. After his discharge he returned to Ohio and farmed for two years, then engaged in mercantile trade at Mendon, Mercer Co., Ohio, and in 1875 moved to St. Mary's, opened a store, and also engaged in the grain business, in which he still continues. In 1881 Mr. Patterson opened a dry goods store at Bluffton, this county. He was married, in 1866, to Mary J. Balliet, who bore him the following children: Emma, James and Ida. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He held most of the township offices in Union Township, Mercer Co., Ohio; is commander of Post 83, G. A. R. In politics he is a Republican. JAMES PHILLIPS, farmer, P. 0. Beaver Dam, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, September 11, 1823, son of William and Polly (Walker) Phillips, natives of Maryland, and of German and English descant. William Phillips served in the war of 1812; he was a farmer, and came to Ohio in 1818, settling on a farm in Harrison County, but six years after moved to Knox County, and here James, who is fifth in a family of twelve children, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the county schools. Our subject chose farming as an occupation for life. He came to Richland Township, this county, in 1851, and settled on the farm where he now resides, when the woods were almost impenetrable. But he went to work with a will, and the result of his labor is to be seen in his well-improved farm, where he is happily surrounded by an industrious and respectable family. Mr. Phillips is a Democrat in politics; has held most of the township offices of trust, and has served four terms as assessor. He was married, in 1845, to Mary, daughter of Barnett and Sarah (Gettis) Hughes, natives of Pennsylvania, and of Dutch and Irish descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Phillips were born the following children: Levi, Sanford P., Allen, Nelson, Wilson S., Sarah E. (wife of E. Huher), John Alfred, James A., all of whom were raised to manhood and RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 775 womanhood. The six eldest are married and doing well. Mr. Phillips served as a soldier for a short time in the Union Army during the late war of the Rebellion. ALLEN PHILLIPS, senior member of the firm Phillips Bros., Beaver Dam, was born in Knox County, Ohio, November 23. 1848: son of James and Mary (Hughes) Phillips. He was reared on the farm and attended the Lima High School and also a school in Ada, Ohio. He sold his farm in 1881 and opened a general merchandise store at Beaver Darn, which business he and his brother W. S. now carry on. Mr. Phillips was married, in 1872, to Sarah Ellen, a daughter of Walter and Laura (Bassett) Edgecomb, and a sister of Mrs. W. S. Phillips. She is a member of the Diciples Church, Mr. Phillips of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a temperate man. He usually votes the Democratic ticket; has been mayor of Beaver Dam, and is now member of the town council. He is secretary of the I. 0. 0. F. The father of Allen and W. S. Phillips is a prominent farmer and an early settler of Richland Township, this county. W. S. PHILLIPS, merchant, junior member of the firm Phillips Bros., Beaver Dam, was born in Richland Township, this county, February 27, 1855; son of James and Mary (Hughes) Phillips, and was reared on the farm in Richland Township. He was married, April 18, 1880, to Elsie Maria, daughter of Walter and Laura (Bassett) Edgecomb. Their children are Alfred and George Allen. Mr. Phillips is a member of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, his wife of the Disciples Church. He is a Democrat in politics. J. W. POGUE, of the firm of Pogue & Miller, blacksmiths and manufacturers of wagons, carriages, etc., Bluffton, was born near Indianapolis, Ind.; son of John and Melinda (Ferguson) Pogue, the former of French and the latter of English descent. His father, a carpenter, was twice married, and reared four children, three by his first wife, of whom J. W. is the youngest. Our subject received his education and learned the blacksmith trade rn the city of Indianapolis; then went to Illinois and settled in Paris, Edgar County, and there carried on business for five years, when he sold out and bought a place, which he farmed till 1866, when he came to Crawford County, Ohio, settling in Bucyrus and working at his trade there till 1883, when he came to Bluffton, Ohio. and embarked in his present business. He was married, in 1858, to Emma D., daughter of Hon. Henry Babcock of Indianapolis. Ind., and of English descent. The children born to this union are Ada, Frances E., Minnie, Emma, and Roy Ellsworth; of these Frances E. was married in 1883 to L. J. Miller, born in Ohio, January 23, 1855, son of Leonard (a cooper) and Frances (Gabe) Miller, and to this union was born one child-Earl W. Mr. and Mrs. Pogue are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he is a class leader. In politics he is a Democrat. LEWIS ROBERTS, farmer, P. 0. Beaver Dam, was born in the Empire State, June 3. 1827, son of Sylvester and Charity (Lewis) Roberts, who were of English descent and natives of New York. His father, a farmer, was three times married, and had nine children by each of the first two wives; had no children by his third wife. Our subject, the 776 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. seventh child by the first marriage, was reared on a farm, and has lived in the county forty-nine years ; has been a farmer all his life, and is owner of 188 acres of land in Allen County. Mr. Roberts was married in 1850, to Elizabeth, daughter of William and Anna (Aldridge) Rumbaugh, the former a farmer by occupation, of German descent, the latter of Scotch-Irish lineage. To this union were born the following children: Samuel (married to Sarah J. Parker), Electa (married to John Nicolet), Lafayette, Rosanna (deceased), Sylvester (married to Dor B. Weaver), Lewis Freman, Albert F. and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts are members of the First Disciples Church; in politics he is a Republican. A. J. ST. JOHN, manufacturer, Bluffton, was born in Walton, Delaware Co., N. Y., August 26, 1836; son of Smith and Emily (Hand- ford) St. John, natives of Connecticut, and of English descent, former a farmer. Our subject was reared on the farm, receiving a common school education. At seventeen years of age he commenced the manufacture of oars and handles in Ashtabula County, Ohio, where he remained till 1865, when he went to Logansport, Ind., and here be engaged in the manufacture of walnut lumber for two years. He then bought a tract comprising 300 acres of land in Warren County, Penn., and after working the timber into lumber went to Erie City, Penn., where he bought a planing-mill which he operated till 1879. In 1881 he came to Lima, Ohio, and same year moved to Bluffton and erected his present mill, where he employs about twenty men the year round. In 1884 he manufactured and shipped 40,000 sucker rods for oil wells, also 200,000 fork and hoe handles. Mr. St. John owns 400 acres of land in Ohio, besides his manufacturing establishment, and a substantial residence on Main Street in Bluffton. Politically he is a Democrat, and in politics as well as in business he is outspoken and pronounced. He was united in marriage, in 1862, with Miss Helen Trimmer of Ashtabula County, Ohio, of English descent, and to this union were born three children, two sons and a daughter: Guy, Zoe and Mac. JOHN SCHIFFERLY, farmer, P. O. Beaver Dam, was born in Switzerland, May 26, 1819, and there received a common school education. His father, a farmer, immigrated to America in 1833, located in Wayne County, Ohio (having in his possession at that time only $23.90), and in 1836 settled on the farm where his son, John, now resides, in Richland Township, Allen (then Putnam) County, and here died in 1861. Our subject, the youngest in a family of three children, was raised in the woods, and followed clearing and farming in early life. He was married in 1848 to Christine Swartz, a native of Germany. Her father was a pioneer farmer of Hancock County, Ohio. To this union were born eleven children, eight now living : Gideon, married, and farming in Hancock County, Ohio; John W., a farmer, whose wife died in 1883, leaving one child ; Jacob D., married to a tinner in Beaver Dam ; Mary, wife of J. E. Lugibihl ; Willie E., a tinner in Beaver Dam ; Frederick, at home ; Sarah E., and Margaret E. Mrs. Schifferly is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject, who now owns 152 acres of good land and a house worth $2,000, started with but forty acres of heavily timbered land, on which he built a cabin, and has by his own exertions accumulated a handsome competency. RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 777 JACKSON SHULL, house plasterer, P. O. Beaver Dam, a native of Ohio, was born November 25, 1826, son of Frederick Shull, who laid out the town of Beaver Dam. Our subject received a common school education, and at the age of eighteen learned the mason's trade, which he has made the business of his life. He was married March 27, 1856, tc Julia Ann Allison, of German-Irish descent, and who was born in 1832, in Allen County, Ohio, daughter of Alexander Allison, a pioneer farmer of this county. Their children are Cora, Zoe (deceased) and Lula. Mr. Shull is an independent thinker, well read, and posted on all the questions of the day. He is not a member of any church. He is owner of town property and a good farm of 159 acres adjoining Beaver Dam. He was appointed postmaster of Beaver Dam in 1856, serving two years. Politically he is a Democrat. JOSEPH SHULL, notary public, collector and justice of the peace, Beaver Dam, was born at Mount Eaton, Wayne Co., Ohio, July 4, 1833; son of Frederick and Catherine (Fackler) Shull, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Frederick Shull, a soldier in the war of 1812, was by turns a hotel keeper, merchant, farmer and miller, and was among the pioneers of Allen County, Ohio; he laid out the town of Beaver Dam, and built the first flour-mill in the village; he had a family of fourteen children by his first wife and three by his second, Joseph being the eighth child by the first wife. The father died in Allen County in 1865. Our subject was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He worked in the mill until he was twenty years of age, when he attended school in town for four months. Then he taught in the town and country schools for ten years. Three years of this period were spent in Illinois and three years in Beaver Dam. During the late war cf the Rebellion he enlisted, in 1861, in the Eighty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged in 1862. He was married in 1863 to Mary J. Carlile, also a teacher, and a daughter of Hector Carlile, a farmer, and Elizabeth (Woods) Carlile, who were of English and Irish descent. Mr. and Mrs. Shull both taught school the first year after their marriage. Their children are H. F., C. E., H. J. and Cloyd. Mr. Shull has been an active business man. He carried on a dry goods store from 1859 to 1861, then engaged in the drug business, which he sold out in 1882, since when he has ̊been notary public, collector and money loaner. In politics he is a Democrat.   GEORGE SOLOMON, carpenter, contractor and farmer of Beaver Dam, and trustee of Richland Township, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 8, 1828, youngest in the family of fourteen children of Paul and Catherine (Philipey) Solomon, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Paul Solomon, who was a farmer, came to Allen County, Ohio, in 1837, settling on the farm where our subject now lives. He died here in 1839, his widow in 1867. Our subject was reared on the farm, attended a district school, and at the age of eighteen learned the carpenter's trade, at which he has worked most of the time since. He was married, in 1860, to Catherine, daughter of Minor and Mary (Bemer) Loyd, who were natives of Maryland, and of German descent. Her father, a farmer by occupation, came here in 1840. To Mr. and Mrs. Solomon were born two children: James (now in Kansas) and George H.   778 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.   Mrs. Solomon is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject is a Democrat in politics; has been a member of the school board of Richland Township several terms, and is now trustee of said township. In 1864, during the late civil war, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served one hundred days. He is owner of a farm in Richland Township, this county.   MOSES STAGER, Bluffton, who is prominent among the representative farmers of Allen County, was born in the Keystone State, December 4, 1828. His parents, Frederick and Rebecca (Fensler) Stager, of German origin, were natives of Pennsylvania; they had a family of nine children, of whom Moses is fifth. His father, who was a farmer, never succeeding in gaining much of this world's goods. Our subject received but a limited education, and early in life learned the tailor's trade in Pennsylvania. After working for ten years with but average success, at his trade, he commenced farming, came to Ohio in 1856, and in 1860 to Allen County. Here lie rented a farm for seven years, and then purchased it. He has been successful as a farmer, and now owns 187 acres of land, with good improvements and well-stocked. Mr. Stager was married, in 1850, to Miss Mary Ann Weichrich, daughter of German parents. Their children are John (married, and farming in this county), Emma (wife of Philip Carbauch), William (also engaged in farming in this county), David (at home), Mary Ellen (at home) and Sarah. Mr. Stager has served as township trustee and school director. Politically he is a Democrat.   HORACE W. STEARNS, grocer, Bluffton, was born at St. Mary's, Auglaize County, Ohio, December 19, 1848; son of Rufus and Sarah Ann (Carpenter) Stearns, natives of Ohio and Vermont, respectively, and of English descent. Rufus Stearns, who was a physician, a graduate of the Ohio Medical College, practiced for many years in Ohio; he reared a family of six children, of whom Horace W. is next to the youngest. Our subject received his education at St. Mary's graded schools and Ada normal school, and at the age of eighteen began teaching school, an occupation he followed in four counties, Ohio, for thirteen years. During this time he was for two years in the grammar department of schools in Celina, Mercer County, one year as assistant superintendent of St. Mary's Union School, and lastly, in 1881, in Richland Township, this county. Mr. Stearns embarked in the grocery business at Bluffton in 1882. He has been twice married, on first occasion, in 1878, to Nettie Bruner, who bore him one child—Ada Lou; the mother died in 1880. Mr. Stearns' second marriage, in 1882, was with Hannah. daughter of of Robert Watkins, and to this union was born one child—Otis. Mr. Stearns is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican.   REV. C. P. STEINER, farmer and minister, P. 0. Cranberry, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, August 19, 1832, son of Peter D. and Fannie (Steiner) Steiner. His parents, natives of France, moved to Wayne County, Ohio, in 1824, and settled on a farm. His father, who was a minister of the Mennonite society (the family history shows that there has been a minister in the family for the past five generations), started in the world a poor boy and when he died, in 1854, owned 650   RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 779   acres of land. Our subject, who is the third in a family of eleven children, came to this county in 1855, and settled on the farm where he now resides. He was married, in 1855, to Magdalena Glosser, who was born in Virginia, of German parents, and died in 1856. Mr. Steiner then married, in 1861, Barbara, daughter of Rev. John Thut, and to this union were born Paulina, Meno S., Jennie, Nancy, Josiah. Sarah; Aaron (deceased), Albert, Reuben and Elvina. They are members of the Mennonite Church. Mr. Steiner was ordained a minister of the American Mennonite Church in 1871. In politics he is a Prohibitionist.   H. C. STEINER, butcher, Bluffton, was born in Baton Rouge, La., April 24, 1850, son of John J. and Margaret (Kloetze) Steiner, natives of Switzerland, former of whom, a commission merchant and importer of foreign wines and liquors, became very wealthy. Our subject, the eldest of a family of four children, received a classiscal education in Switzerland, graduating from Neuchatel College in 1866. His father then sent him to England, where he studied the English language at college in the city of Hull, till his father's failure and death. In 1867 he came to New Orleans, La., where his uncle lived, intending to continue the study of the English language, but this uncle died the same year, of yellow fever, and H. C. was thus thrown on his own resources when but seventeen years of age. He then went to Canada, and there learned the butcher's trade in Toronto. Mr. Steiner was married, in 1878, to Estella, daughter of Theophilus Charpie, now farming in this county. Her parents were born in France. Mr. Steiner moved from Toronto to Buffalo, N. Y., where he worked at his trade till 1868, when he came to Allen County, Ohio, went into business on his own account, butchering and buying and shipping live stock, and has been successful, financially. A Democrat in politics, he has been sent to county and State delegations, and has served as a member of the advisory committee of his party. He has served as, and is now, a member of the town council, and has been township trustee of Richland. He is a member of the 1. 0. 0. F.   CHARLES F. STOCKLER, farmer, P. 0. Bluffton, was born in Germany, October 13, 1834, only son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Brakel) Stockier. His father was a well-to-do farmer, and gave him good opportunities for obtaining an education in his native land. In 1854 our subject immigrated to America, and after remaining in New York a short time came to Franklin County, Ohio, thence moved to Champaign County, and was there married, in 1859, to Claracy Henkle, who bore him the following children: Albert E., Ida May (wife of Saint Boyd, a farmer), Emma (wife of Robert Hall), Elizabeth, Henry (deceased), Mollie, Frank, Nanie, Joseph and Ross. Mrs. Stockier is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. During the late civil war Mr. Stockier enlisted, in 1862, in Company G, One Hundred and Thirteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and in 1864 re-enlisted in Company G, Fifty-fifth Kentucky Volunteer Infantry, serving as a non-commissioned officer. In 1869 he moved to this county and bought his present farm, where he has resided since 1870; the farm comprises fifty-five acres of good land, the result of his own exertions, and which he has greatly improved. Our subject is a F. & A. M.; in politics a Republican.   G. W. SWANY, farmer, P. 0. Beaver Dam, was born in Knox County, Ohio, March 19, 1836, son of Israel and Susannah (Doty) Swany;   780 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.   the former a farmer, a native of Pennsylvania, of Irish descent, came to this county in 1846; the latter was a native of New Jersey, of English lineage. Their family consisted of eight children. G. W., the third born, was reared on the farm on which he has spent the greater part of his life, receiving a common school education. He worked at saw-milling for a time, but farming and stock-raising has been his chief occupation. He was married April 25, 1868, to Isabella, daughter of Samuel Swearingen, a farmer of Allen County, and by her he has had six children, three now living: Samuel I. Frank and Laura E. Mr. Swany is a Democrat in politics.   ABRAHAM THUT, farmer, P. O. Bluffton, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, November 24, 1839, son of Rev. John and Christina (Bechtel) Thut, the former born in Switzerland, the latter in Pennsylvania, of German descent. Rev. John Thut, a carpenter and farmer, came from his native land to Holmes County, Ohio, when a young man, and was there married; then came to Allen County in 1847, settling on a farm in Richland Township; he was a Mennonite minister for many years, and died in 1867. Our subject, who is the fifth in a family of thirteen children, ten of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, was reared on the farm, acquiring his education in the common school. He is the owner of 100 acres of well-improved land. Mr. Thut was married in 1866, to Elizabeth, daughter of Peter Steiner, a native of Wayne County, Ohio, and of German descent. Their children are Reuben. Enos. Noah, Malinda, Mary Ann, Timothy, John and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Thut are members of the American Mennonite Church.   WILL A. TRIPLETT, artist, Bluffton, was born in Licking County, Ohio, March 26, 1860, son of Peter and Nancy (Conaway) Triplett. His father, of German descent, is also a native of Licking County, where he is engaged in farming; his mother, a native of Ireland, was brought to America when but a child. Our subject was reared on a farm, attending the district school and high school at Newark, Licking County, until eighteen years of age, when he learned the art of photography, an occupation he has since followed. He first opened a gallery in Plain City, Ohio, thence went to Troy, Ohio, but not finding a suitable room for his studio, he came to Bluffton in 1881, and opened his art gallery in a large, beautiful room in the Herr Block. Mr. Triplett is a fine artist, wonderfully attached to his profession, polite and courteous in his manner to his patrons, and sends out first-class work. He was married in 1880, to Miss Mabel Spooner, of Plain City, a daughter of Stephen Spooner, and of English descent. Their children are Morris and Ray. Mrs. Triplett is a member of the Methodist Church.   REV. J. V. UPDIKE, Bluffton, was born in Celina, Mercer County, Ohio, January 23, 1850, the only child of J. V. and Maria (Lincoln) Updike, natives of Ohio, former of whom, a merchant and farmer, died in 1849 (before J. V. was born). Our subject received his literary education in his native town, and early in life became a member of the Church of God, and when but eighteen years of age was licensed to preach the gospel. When twenty years of age he received a regular appointment to preach at West Unity, Williams Co., Ohio. Since then he has accomplished much Evangelistic work, and has occupied several prominent   RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 781   positions. In 1879, Mr. Updike severed his connection with the Church of God, being better satisfied with the tenets of the Disciples Church, and accepted a call at Bluffton, Ohio. Although our subject is still a young man, yet a record of his eventful life would fill a volume in itself. He has been the means of bringing 2,530 persons into the Church, and has baptised, by immersion, 2,000 of this number, and at one protracted meeting held in Findlay, the county seat of Hancock County, Ohio, he baptized 156 persons. Mr. Updike is editor of the Gospel Light. a monthly paper published at Bluffton, Ohio. He is grand lecturer of the mechanic's and laborer's society, and has taken an active part in the Sabbath-school work of this State. He was married, in 1870, to Anna E. Houts, and by this union has had the following children: Cora Etta, Emma Belle, Perry Otto and Harry Edgar (twins, the last named now deceased) and Farron Mercer. Mr. Updike's ministerial work is now in Bluffton and Beaver Dam, this county. Financially, he has been successful, owning a neat, substantial residence in Bluffton.   JESSE VERNON, retired merchant, Bluffton, was born in Knox County, Ohio, January 11, 1832, son of Aaron and Elizabeth (Lambert) Vernon, natives of Ohio, and of English and German descent, former a farmer by occupation. Our subject, the eldest in a family of nine children, received his education in the common schools of Knox County, Ohio. At the age of seventeen he learned the carpenter's trade, which he successfully followed till the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when he enlisted, in 1862, in Company A, Twentieth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After participating in three engagements he was discharged, in 1863, on account of disability, caused by a gunshot wound in his left arm and side. He then came to Knox County, Ohio, bought a farm which he carried on till 1873, when he came to Bluffton, opened a store and here followed merchandising until the latter part of 1884, when he sold out. Mr. Vernon has been successful in business, and has accumulated an ample share of this world's goods. He was married, in 1852, to Sarah Brollier, a native of Pennsylvania and of English descent. They have two children: A. W., a baker by trade who lives in Bluffton; and Hester M., a graduate of the Bluffton High School, in which she is a teacher; she is also a music instructor. Her parents have taken great pride in their daughter's musical education, supplying her with first- class teachers and a splendid piano. Mrs. Vernon and daughter are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Vernon, a Republican in politics, has taken an active interest in Bluffton affairs, serving many years as a member of the school board. He has filled other minor offices, and is now a member of the town council.   JOHN VON GUNTEN, manufacturer of brick, Bluffton, was born in Richland Township, this county, November 16, 1856, son of John and Anna (Snifter) Von Gunten, natives of Switzerland, and who were among the pioneers of Richland Township, this county, where they are still residing in comfortable circumstances, owning a well improved farm; they have eight children of whom John, Jr.. is the eldest. Our subject was reared on the farm, receiving a common school education. When nineteen years old he commenced the carpenter's trade, which he followed about four years, and then. work being slack, he learned brick-making of W. M. Mclnd- 47   782 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.   eley, working at it for about two years. In 1880, having accumulated enough money to start on his own account, he embarked in his present business, which is increasing every year, and in which he has been very prosperous. He now owns seven acres of land in the corporation of Bluffton on which his brick-yard is located, and also his residence which cost him over 83,000. He makes on an average about 500,000 bricks annually, and cannot supply the large demands for his goods, which he ships to Lima, Findlay, and surrounding towns. In 1884 he sold 100,000 to one man alone, at Lima. He was married, December 22, 1881, to Catherine Pifer, a daughter of Jacob Pifer, a pioneer and prominent farmer of Hancock County, Ohio. To this union have been born two children: Orland and Tilman Grover. Mr. Von Gunton is a member of the Reformed Church, his wife of the Lutheran Church.   ROBERT WATKINS, retired farmer, Bluffton, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, September 6, 1820, son of Thomas and Susan (Miller) Watkins, natives of Ohio, the former of Irish and the latter of German descent. Thomas Watkins followed farming, and died in Hancock County, in 1865. Our subject, the fifth in a family of twelve children, received a district school education in Wayne County, Ohio, and has farmed all his life; was one of the pioneers of Hancock County, Ohio; has been very successful in all his undertakings; is owner of a farm, though he is now living a retired life at Bluffton. Mr. Watkins has been twice married, on the first occasion, in 1841, to Susan Showalter, who died in 1850, by whom he had four children, all now living: Rebecca, wife of James Rail, a farmer in Henry County,Ohio; William, Amos and Martin. All of these sons are married and engaged in farming. Our subject was again married, in 1851, this time to Mary Ann Benner, by whom he has five children now living: Jefferson J., married and farming; Lydia,wife of John Williams, a farmer; Susan V., wife of Gideon Clymer, a farmer in Hancock County, Ohio; Hannah, wife of Horace Stearns, a merchant of Bluffton; Clement, married and also farming. Mr. and Mrs. Watkins are members of the Christian Union Church, in which he has been an officer for twenty-three years, and is at present ruling elder. Mr. Watkins is a Democrat in politics, and has held most of the township offices.   I. R. WETHERILL, physician, Beaver Dam, was born in Hardin County, Ohio, January 21, 1853, son of John R. and Elizabeth (Gloyd) Wetherill, the former of whom, a farmer by occupation, a native of England, came to America when a young man; the latter was born in Virginia, and was of Scotch descent. Our subject was the eleventh born in a family of fourteen children, thirteen of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. He received his literary education in the Ohio Normal University, and studied medicine with Dr. R. Davenport of Ada, Ohio. He also took a thorough course at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Baltimore, Md., 1879-80 and 1881, and the same year came to Beaver Dam, where he has since continued in active practice. He is a member of the Northwestern Medical Association. The doctor was married in 1874 to Susan, daughter of John Latimore, a prominent farmer of Hardin County, Ohio, who served as a soldier during the late Rebellion, and lost his life in the defense of his country. To our subject and wife   RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - 783   were born Ova, Webb and Cliff. Mrs. Wetherill is a member of the Disciples Church. The doctor is a member of the I. 0. 0. F. In politics he is a Republican.   WILLIAM WILSON, undertaker and justice of the peace, Bluffton, was born July 25, 1815, in Ballymena, County Antrim, Ireland, a son of James Wilson, a soap boiler and chandler in Ireland. Our subject, the third in a family of five children, acquired his education in his native land, and there early began to learn the trade of carpentering and the undertaking business. In 1838 he came to America, remaining in New York until 1843, when he was joined by his brother and sister, and in 1847 the family came to Putnam County, Ohio. In 1849 our subject came to Allen County, settling at Bluffton (formerly Shannon), where he has since remained. Since coming to America he has worked mostly at his trade; was general workman for nine years in a large furniture store in New York City. When he came to Bluffton there were only seven families in the place, none of whom now reside here. Mr. Wilson was married in 1840, at Brooklyn, N. Y., to Miss Anna Eckles, and of the ten children born to this union only six are now living: Anna, James (married and conducting a stove and tinware store in Bluffton), William D. (a harness-maker, residing in Paulding County, Ohio), Martha (wife of Maurice S. Muma, a grocer of Bluffton, Ohio), John (married, residing in Bluffton), and Leonard (with his brother William). Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Presbyterian Church. In 1862 our subject was elected mayor of Bluffton, serving three years. He has been justice of the peace for eighteen years; is notary public; has been administrator of several estates, and has attended to a large amount of public business; he is noted for his exactness and honesty in all business transactions. Mr. Wilson has commenced to write a history of his life for the benefit of his children.   M. E. ZELLER, harness-maker, Bluffton, was born in Gilboa, Putnam Co.,Ohio, November 8,1845, son of Andrew (a wagon-maker) and Catherine (Henderson) Zeller, natives of Germany and Pennsylvania, respectively, and who reared a family of five children. Our subject, who is next the youngest, received a common school education, and early learned the harness-maker's trade, which has been the business of his life. He is also an inventor, and has taken out patents on eight articles, all pertaining to harness, except one which is a carriage improvement. His inventions, which are all practical, will eventually come into general use, and he owns them all except one that he sold to a manufacturing company in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Zeller worked at his trade in Massillon, Ill., and in 1865 came to Bluffton where he also works at harness-making, and is engaged in manufacturing a spring bed (not his patent). He was married here in 1866, to Nancy, daughter of Joseph Reese, of Richland Township, this county, and their children are Charles P., Catherine, Winfred, Earl Scott, Jacob A. and Lillie May. Mr. and Mrs. Zeller are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, he is a Democrat.