CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 350 of incentive. Major E. Roberts Kearsley was long recognized as one of the most distinguished and honored citizens of Bucyrus and Crawford county, and maintaining deep interest in the affairs of life until called away in death, He led a long, honorable and useful career, which was an aid and inspiration to which occurred February 21, 1901, at the advanced age of eighty-five years. his fellow men and well worthy of emulation. Fortunate is the man who has back of him an ancestry honorable and distinguished, and to be praised is he who has cast his lines of life in harmony. therewith. In person, in character and in talents Major Edmund Roberts Kearsley was a a worthy scion of his race. Though his life was one rather of modest reserve than of ambitious self-seeking, he was a peer of many of the most prominent men in the state, and in his adopted county he was a lead-. ing figure in promoting the interests calculated to advance the material, intellectual and moral advancement of the community. Major Kearsley was a native of Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Harrisburg, on the 18th of May, 1816, his parents being Jonathan and. Margaret (Hetich) Kearsley. His mother died in 1821 and he then went to live with his grandfather, Samuel Kearsley, at Paxton, Pennsylvania. The latter had served as a captain in the Revolutionary war, under the immediate command of General Washington, of whom he was a great favorite, and in the possession of our subject's family is a sword, which was worn by Washington at General Braddock's defeat, in 1755. It is a three-edged flint rapier,, on which is engraved : "Draw me not without reason; Sheathe me not without honor." At Valley Forge, during the war of the Revolution, while the American soldiers were suffering for food and clothing during the severe and memorable winter there, Captain Kearsley and his wife presented the troops with all the flour and meat they could possibly spare from their own larder. Washington was deeply touched by this and ordered the troops paraded at headquarters, and, calling Captain Kearsley from the ranks, personally thanked him, commended his past bravery and his late generous act, and unbuckling the sword' which he wore, presented it to the Captain. This weapon passed into the possession of Major Kearsley and was highly prized by him. Jonathan Kearsley, the father of our subject, was born in Middletown;, Pennsylvania, August 20, 1786, and at the age of twenty-five was graduated in Washington College, now Washington and Jefferson College, of Wash- 19 352 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. ington, Pennsylvania. He was a man of superior intellectual attainments and for a time was professor of languages in his alma mater. In the war of 1812 he served as a captain, becoming a member of the staff of General Winfield Scott and participated in the engagements around Lake Erie. August 20, 1814, he was commissioned assistant adjutant general, with the rank of major. The loss of a leg caused his retirement in September, 1814. He was appointed, in 1817, collector of inland revenues in Pennsylvania, holding the position until 1820, when he went to Detroit as receiver of public moneys and as a member of the land board, serving in those capacities until 1849, when he retired to private life. As a citizen he contributed in large measure to the improvement and upbuilding of Detroit and at one time filled the position of mayor. His name is inseparably connected with the history of the early development and progress of Detroit and he won for himself a high place in the esteem and regard of his fellow men. Major Kearsley remained with his paternal grandfather at Paxton, Pennsylvania, until 1825, when he joined his father in Detroit and there entered the public school, which in those days was held in the Officers' quarters inside the stockade. At recess the students extracted much amusement from climbing over the pickets. The Major also pursued his education in Utica, New York, and from 1829 until 1832 was a student in Kenyon College, Ohio. He then went to Detroit as assistant receiver in the Michigan land office, under his father. He was so efficient that Major John Biddle, register of the land office, requested his removal to his department and made him chief clerk, in which service the Major continued until 1840, when failing health Caused his retirement. Believing that he would be benefited by outdoor life, he then took' up his abode upon a farm of six hundred acres in Oakland. county, Michigan, where he remained until 1847. His health being fully restored, he re-. turned to Detroit and among other things superintended the construction of the Biddle house. Descended from military ancestry, he possessed the same spirit of loyalty and patriotism that prompted his grandfather's service in the war of the Revolution, and his father's aid in the war of 1812. He was active in organizing the Brady Guards and became captain of his company. The organization was named in honor of General Hugh. Brady, commander of the United States forces, and General Scott pronounced the guards the best drilled company under his inspection. During the Canadian rebellion of 1837-8 the guards were called into active service, which continued a year and a half. The company was composed of the best young men of Detroit, and during the severe winter campaign in protecting the border their services were so thor- CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 353 oughly performed and hardships so well borne as to elicit the highest praise from General Brady. Many years later this general, while driving in Detroit, was thrown from a carriage and sustained injuries from which he died. Major Kearsley, who in the meantime had left the city, on hearing of the General's death, returned, and, calling the old Brady Guards together again for the last time, now composed of the solid business men of the city, commanded them as a guard of honor in escorting the remains of the brave General to his last resting place in Elwood cemetery. Major Kearsley was for many years secretary of the Detroit fire department and was also appointed quartermaster of the state. In that capacity he served with Captain U. S. Grant, then stationed in Detroit. He remembered the future president and brilliant military commander as a mild and unassuming officer. In his younger days Major Kearsley was a thorough sportsman and Crawford county, Ohio, was his favorite hunting ground. During those expeditions he formed many pleasant acquaintances in the then newly settled country about Bucyrus, and in 1851 he took up his residence in the city, entering the office of his uncle, Charles Hetich, who was then county treasurer. In 1852 the Major became deputy auditor under A. M. Jackson. The following year he was elected county auditor and was re-elected for a second term. At the end of that time he was nominated by both parties for a third term, a compliment never before or since conferred upon a single official in Crawford county. During his service in the office the court house and jail were erected. It is needless to say that he was most faithful and capable, as his re-elections indicate this. In 1861 Major Kearsley retired from office, but ever afterward retained an active interest in public affairs, often assisting county officials in the settlement of questions requiring a ripe experience. Through a long period he was a member of the board of education and did much to advance the interests of the schools. In 1862 he was appointed draft officer for this county, where the draft was somewhat bitterly opposed and trouble was feared, but Major Kearsley took personal charge and the confidence of the people in his integrity quieted the bitter feeling. In later years much of his time was given to business interests in Detroit and elsewhere. Often he was called upon to preside at public meetings, which were held in the interests of the city and all improvements found in him a cordial supporter and generous contributor. In his quiet acts of Christian charity he had a faith- ful assistant in his wife and their acts of benevolence were many, yet performed in true unostentation. The Major was a veteran of the Kearsley Cadets, a well drilled company composed of the best young men of the 354 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. county seat. The Bucyrus Memorial Library, to perpetuate the memory of the soldiers and sailors of the Civil war, received his moral and financial support, and it was largely through his instrumentality that the library was placed on a safe financial footing. It stands to-day among the last of his many successful acts for the benefit of the citizens. On the 27th of June, 1857, Major Kearsley was united in marriage to Miss Martha C. Sweney, a daughter of the Hon. Geroge Sweney, a member of congress. They had one child, a daughter, who became the wife of Elmer L. White, and her only daughter is Margaret Sarah: Mrs. Kearsley died February 25, 1874, and on the 7th of September, 1875, Major Kearsley was again married, his second union being with Miss Susan I. Phillips, then of Geneseo, Illinois, but formerly of Bucyrus. He was connected with various fraternal and social organization. He was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and took great interest in its work. Prominent in Masonic circles, he was for several years master of Bucyrus Lodge and was a member of the chapter and commandery. He was also identified with the independent Order of Odd Fellows, and passed all the chairs of the subordinate lodge, and Kearsley Encampment, of Bucyrus, was named in his honor. A man of strong integrity and honesty of purpose, he despised all unworthy or questionable means to secure success in any undertaking or for any purpose, or to promote his own advancement in any, direction, whether politically or otherwise. Not even the tongue of calumny ever uttered a, word to the contrary, nor did the malevolence of detraction dare to assail his private reputation. He was an earnest and consistent Christian, a member of the Presbyterian church, and of the same faith as were his father, grandfather and many generations before them. It is our duty to mark our appreciation of such a man—a man true in every relation of life, faithful to every trust, a citizen diligent in the service of his country and seeking only the public good. NATHAN LUST Nathan Lust, who resides in Liberty township, was born in Lykens township, on the 30th of September, 1861. His father, Frederick Lust, was a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born December 24, 1813, and during his childhood he came to America with his parents. After a short stay in Pennsylvania the family removed to Marion county, Ohio, where the grandparents took up their abode, and as the sons, Caleb, Conrad and Frederick, attained sufficient to and strength, they secured work on the Columbus & Sandusky CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 355 turnpike. In this way they earned the capital which they later invested in land, each securing a farm of one hundred and sixty acres early in the '30s. Caleb, who was married, and Frederick Lust came to Crawford county with their household effects loaded in a wagon, and on reaching Chatfield township, they located on a farm in the forest. Caleb there entered one hundred and sixty acres of land and erected a cabin as quickly and as cheaply as possible, while Frederick Lust, who was preparing for the ministry, boarded with his .brother and sister-in-law. He adopted the ministry as his life work and for thirty years engaged in preaching the gospel. Although he was not a member of any organized church, he gained many followers through his teachings, his wonderful personality and his clear presentation of the truths of Christianity, and erected what was known as the Lust church. In recent years the old house of worship was torn down and a substantial brick church was erected, which is still known by the old name. Rev. Lust was a man of wonderful memory, of strong mentality and of unquestioned fidelity to the principles in which he believed and which he taught. He labored among his fellow men for their own good and upbuilding of the cause and never sought remuneration for his work in the church. Some time after his arrival in Crawford bounty he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land of Robert Knott, who was the original settler of the place. The farm was located in Lykens .township and there he resided up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1883. In his political views he was a Democrat and he gave his hearty cooperation to every movement or measure which he believed would prove of public benefit. In early manhood he married Miss Sophia Beal, who was born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, June I, 1821, a daughter of Michael and Sophia Beal, both of whom were natives of Germany, but became early settlers of Crawford county. Mrs. Lust passed away December 23, 1864, when our subject was only four years of age, and the father afterward married Miss Dorothy Gross, who still survives him, and is now the widow of Ernest Wilhelm. Unto the parents of Nathan Lust were born nine children, five of whom are yet living, namely : Lydia, the wife of Frederick Hieber, of Liberty township; Sophia, the widow of Martin Durr, of Chatfield township; Louisa, wife of Charles Lindner, of Valparaiso, Indiana; Emanuel, who is living in Holmes township; and Nathan. In taking up the personal history of Nathan Lust we learn that his boyhood days were spent under the refining influences of a good Christian home and there was received the foundation for his upright character and his useful career. His literary education was obtained in the common schools. On 356 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. the 25th of September, 1884, he married Miss Catherine S. Klopfenstein, a daughter of Isaac Klopfenstein, a prominent merchant and stock man of Sulphur Springs. The young couple began their domestic life upon his father's farm, which Mr. Lust rented until 1889, when he removed to Sulphur Springs, and, in partnership with his father-in-law, purchased the flouring-mill at that place; carrying on the enterprise for three years, after which they exchanged the mill for one hundred and sixty acres of land, known as the "Old Fry" farm, just north of the town. To this place Mr. Lust removed, making it his home, and after the death of his father-in-law in 1898, he purchased it in partnership with the Keller brothers, cultivating the place for one year. On the expiration of that period he sold his interest in the farm and purchased his present home of forty-one acres in Liberty township. He also owns forty-eight acres in Sandusky township, which has been his property for the past ten years. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Lust has been blessed with four children, of whom three are yet living, namely : Wilbert Lee, Frederick I. and Lloyd E. The daughter, Lulu L., who was the third in order of birth, is now de ceased. Mr. Lust keeps well informed on the political issues of the day and votes with the Democracy, but he has never been a politician in the sense of an office-seeker, although he served for twelve years as school director. He belongs to the German Reformed church, in which he has held the office of deacon and elder for several years, and for five years he served as superintendent of the Sunday-school. By all who know him he is highly esteemed as one of the representative men of his community, honored for his sterling worth and respected for his social and friendly nature. JOSEPH W. QUAINTANCE. A highly esteemed farmer of Holmes township, Crawford county,. is Joseph W. Quaintance, who was born in Steubenville, Jefferson county, Ohio, on August 31, 1828, a son of Fisher and Sarah (Irey) Quaintance, and was a member of a family of ten children, viz : Ann, who, as the widow of Henry Peasely, recently died at Ada, Ohio; Eli P., who was a respected citizen and' prosperous farmer of Holmes township, is also deceased ; Susanna, who married John Talbott, is also dead ; Hannah died in childhood ; Ira died at New tom, Iowa; Dawson is a resident of Putnam county, Ohio; Joseph W., our subject ; Charles and George, twins, the latter being deceased and the former a resident of Bluffton, Allen county, Ohio ; and the last of the children, Sarah CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 357 Jane, is also deceased. Fisher Quaintance was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, on October 12, 1793, a son of Joseph and Susanna Quaintance, of German ancestry, who removed to Jefferson county, Ohio, when their son Fisher was a young man. Here the latter married and six of his children were born. In 1829, with his family and his parents, he removed to Crawford county, Ohio, settling in Holmes township. The grandfather entered forty acres of land, the father one hundred and sixty acres, and his brothers Eli and Samuel each one hundred and sixty acres, and his brother William eighty acres, all of these tracts in mutual contiguity, forming a settlement of the name of Quaintance, and here all of the original members of that settlement lived and died on their farms. On each tract was erected the pioneer log cabin, in the forest, the father of our subject finishing his in one week, although he was obliged to work through rain and snow. The little settlement prospered, and from it came men and women who have been identified with much of the development and progress of this county. Fisher Quaintance was a cooper by trade and pursued it in connection with his farming for some years in Crawford county. The mother was a most worthy helpmate in those pioneer days, and while all praise should be given those courageous men who faced hardship and toil for the sake of their descendants, how sympathetic should grow the heart over the pioneer mothers ! It was not alone the industry of Fisher Quaintance which produced such excellent results and furnished not only the necessities but also the comforts of life to a large family, for every hour was spent by the busy mother, if not in household tasks, in the spinning and weaving which provided the family clothing and the bedding needed through the long winters. Until his fifteenth year our subject never had any clothing that had not been made by her untiring hands. Fisher Quaintance died in 1866, having been a Whig in early days but later a Republican. His religious belief was that of the Quaker, and his honest, upright and peaceful life was a practical illustration of his religion. His testimony was against war, but he cheerfully contributed to provide substitutes during the Rebellion for Holmes township. The mother, a native of Loudoun county, Virginia, was born on January 25, 1792, a daughter of Philip and Hannah Irey, and on the maternal side was a second cousin to the famous John Brown. Our subject grew to manhood in his home and obtained his education in the schools of his locality. After reaching his majority he began to engage in farming on the home place, on shares, but that year agricultural conditions were poor, resulting in bad crops. In 1852 Mr. Quaintance purchased two 358 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. hundred sheep and put them on the farm. For the first shearing he received fifty cents a pound, and with this money he bought his present farm of one hundred and three acres, and since then has continually prospered. Mr. Quaintance was married on March 17, 1853, to Lucina L. Gidley, a native of Dartmouth, Bristol county, Massachusetts, the daughter of Charles and Bathsheba (O'Kelly) Gidley, both of them natives of Massachusetts and prominent members of the sect of Quakers. The mother died in Massachusetts, and then the father removed to Crawford county, Ohio, in 1850, married again, and fifteen years later removed to Henry county, Ohio, where he died. The children born to Mr. Quaintance and wife were: Bathsheba G., who married John Eaton, of Kansas City, Missouri, once a prominent member of the Kansas legislature; Isadore B., the widow of William P. Brown, who resides with her parents; Edith M., who married and is now the widow of Dr. E. B. Simmons, of Los Angeles, California; Ira E., a prominent farmer of Dallas township, this county; Lemert, a miller in Toledo, Ohio; Cora E., who :is the wife of W. A. Sherer, of the Provident Loan Company, of Toledo; and Howard J., who also resides in Toledo. Mr. Quaintance is one of the leading Republicans of this section of the county, and for several years has been a member of the election board. His religious belief is that taught him by his beloved mother, but he attends and .assists in supporting the Lutheran church with his estimable wife. HENRY ALTSTAETTER. Henry Altstaetter, for. years one of the most public-spirited citizens and prominent business men of Galion, died in 1900, mourned by a very large circle of friends. He was born in Germany, July 9, 1843, and was a son of Frederick and Susannah Altstaetter. His parents came to this country in 1851, and his father, who was a minister of the gospel, located with his family in Allen county, Ohio. He was not dependent upon his ministerial labors, however, for the support of his family of eleven children, as is shown by his purchase of a quarter section of school land near West 'Cairo. There the family resided for nearly a decade, when they removed to Delphos, Allen county, which was their home until the death of the father, which occurred in 1883, when he was eighty-one years of age. A few years later the mother died. Henry Altstaetter received only such educational advantages as were CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 361 afforded by the common schools near his home, and then was enabled to pursue his studies only through the winter season, for throughout the remainder of the year his services were needed in the cultivation and improvement of the farm. .After the inauguration of the Civil war he offered his services to the government, enlisting in Company K, Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and with his regiment he participated in some of the most hotly contested battles of that sanguinary conflict. During his three years' service Mr. Altstaetter never lost a day from sickness or wounds. He took part with his regiment in the siege of Corinth, the battles of Iuka and Chattanooga, the Atlanta campaign and Sherman's march to the sea, and at Pulaski he veteranized, continuing with his command until the cessation of hostilities. He was one of the most popular "boys" of the regiment and was most loyal and true, being ever found at his post of duty, whether it was on the picket line or the firing line. The patriotic spirit and good fellowship which distinguished him in the great civil conflict seems to have fallen on the shoulders of his son Frederick, now a lieutenant with the regular troops in the Philippines. Mr. Altstaetter was married September 25, 1865, to Hedwig Jettinger, of Delphos, and to them were born the following children: Henrietta A., now the wife of Frederick Berry; Louisa F.; Lina; Carolina M.; Emma C.; Frederick W.; Hedwig and Ida H. W. Mr. Altstaetter conducted a brewery at Delphos until 1877, when he removed to Upper Sandusky. A few years later he assumed charge of the Galion brewery, which he successfully managed until his death. When he took control of the enterprise it was in the hands of an assignee and trustees. From the first his wise business judgment enabled him to put it on a firm basis, and in a brief period he had absolute control of the plant. He also became identified with many other business interests of Galion, including the Citizens' National Bank. Quiet and unassuming in manner, he was, nevertheless, a power in the business community, and no project of any importance to the city's prosperity was discussed without the counsel and advice of Mr. Altstaetter, while no subscription paper was circulated, either to help a new enterprise or a deserved charity, that secured a larger contributor than he. Modest, quiet and retiring, he nevertheless exerted a strong influence for good along many lines, and he enjoyed the friendship and regard of young and old, rich and poor. His death, which occurred in 1900, came as a shock to the entire community, and his funeral was attended 362 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. by a large concourse of people, many of whom came from Allen and Wyandot counties, where he had previously lived, to pay their last tribute of respect to one whom they had loved and honored. JOHN MICHELFELDER. There is no element which has entered into our composite national fabric that has been of more practical strength, value and utility than that furnished by the sturdy, persevering and honorable sons of Germany ; and in the progress of our Union this element has played an important part. Intensely practical and ever having a clear comprehension of the ethics of life, the German contingent has wielded a powerful influence, and this service cannot be held in light estimation by those who appreciate true civicivilization true advancement. The subject of this review comes from stanch German stock. He was born, however, in New Washington, September 6, 1847, and is a son of John and Frederica (Utz) Michelfelder. His father was born in Wurtemberg, Germany; October 5, J818, and there spent his youth, during which period he learned the trade of a shoemaker. In the spring of 1846 he came to the United States, landing in New York, whence he proceeded by boat to Albany, thence by canal to Buffalo and on to Sandusky by way of lake Erie. At the last named place he worked at his trade as a journeyman until the spring of 1847, when he came to New Washington, Crawford ckuncountyd soon afterward opened a shop of his own. In 1863 he put in a general line of manufactured shoes, and in 1870 admitted his sin John to a partnership in the business. In 1873 the father withdrew, being succeeded by his son Jacob, and in 1881 the father retired altogether from active business life, enjoying a qcluiuiett up to the time of his death, which occurred September 14, 1891. He was a stanch Democrat, but never an office seeker. He held membership in the Lutheran church, and his upright Christian life commended him to the high regard of all with whom he was associated. His wife was also a native of Wurtemberg, born January 23, 1823. She came to America with the party of which her future husband was a member. After remaining in Sandusky for a time she came to New Washington, where she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Michelfelder. Her death occurred May 18, 1898. This worthy couple were the parents of five children, namely : John, of this review ; Frederica, wife of George Hildebrand, of New Washington Jacob, who is with his CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 363 brother in business; Catherine, of New Washington; and Frederick, also of New Washington. John Michelfelder, whose name forms the caption of this review, has spent his entire life in the locality of his birth. His educational privileges were limited, for at the age of fourteen he was taken from school by his father and placed on the shoemaker's bench to assist in providing for the family. When he had attained his majority his father paid him a salary and he remained as an employe in the shop and the store until 1870, when he purchased a half interest in the business. In 1873, however, he withdrew from the firm and established a store of his own. In 1880 his brother Jacob purchased the father's business and the two stores were then merged into one, and the store has since been conducted under the firm style of J. Michelfelder & Brother. They carry a large and well-selected stock of goods manufactured by reliable houses, and their trade is extensive and profitable. Their business methods commend them. to the confidence and support of the public, for they are energetic, persevering and trustworthy. On the 1st of December, 1873, Mr. Michelfelder was united in marriage to Miss Matilda C. High, a native of Cranberry township and a daughter of Michael High. Her paternal grandfather, Valentine A. High, was one of the first settlers of Cranberry township, coming to this county from Germany. Mr. Michelfelder exercises his right of franchise in support of the measures of Democracy, and in the '80s he was elected a member of the board of councilmen of New Washington, in which capacity he served for eight years. During the four succeeding years 'he was township trustee, and for ten years was a member of the school board, while for three. years during that period he served as its chairman and for six years as its treasurer. He has also been justice of the peace for three years ;.for four years was treasurer of Cranberry township, and for fourteen years was deputy county collector, collecting the taxes for Cranberry township, and for two years served as a member of the Democratic central committee. Thus again and again called to public office, his long retention in official service indicates his strict fidelity to duty and his unquestioned probity in public affairs. He is a zealous advocate and consistent member of the Lutheran church, and in that organization has been honored with various offices, having.acted as deacon for ten years, as church treasurer for seventeen years and was chairman of the building committee at the time the present house of worship was erected. This is one of the finest church buildings in the country in a town of its size, the 'church and grounds costing twenty-two thousand dollars. Our subject is a representative citizen of New Washington. 364 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. His is a well-rounded character, in which he has given due attention to physical, mental and moral development. He is justly regarded as one of the leading business men of the community, and as a financier his ability is widely recognized and his integrity is above question. Publc spirited and progressive, he withholds not his support from any movement calculated to prove of benefit to the community. FREDERICK SCHIFER. Although Frederick Schifer is one of the largest farmers and stock-raisers and substantial men in Crawford county, he began life as a poor boy, coming alone to the United States at the age of sixteen and climbing the ladder of success totally unaided. Mr. Schifer was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, April 7, 1857, a son of George and Barbara (Heinle) Schifer, also natives of Germany, who lived and died in their native land. They had four children, of whom two are dead, and our subject is the only one who came to America. Mr. Schifer was reared in the town of Pfullingen and was given a good common-school education, later learning the butcher trade. At the age of sixteen he decided to emigrate to this country, several causes inducing him to leave his native land. According to German law he would have been obliged to serve in the army for four years, and this was distasteful to him, as he felt he could better use his youth and strength in bettering his condition. At that time his country was involved in no war and he felt that his services were not really needed by it. Another reason that his decision was made at that time was that his maternal relatives were prospering in Crawford county, Ohio, and he knew he could reach them and he felt sure enough of his own ability and energy to enable him also to prosper in the new land. With a few dollars, Mr. Schifer reached New York in the fall of 1873, and made his way to Bucyrus township, immediately securing employment as a butcher, continuing in that line for the following two years and then engaged as a farm hand. For five or six years he labored hard, and then married, immediately after forming a partnership with George Kramer in the butcher business, this connection lasting for eight years. Mr. Schifer displayed most excellent business judgment in the buying and shipping of cattle, handling a great amount of live stock, and operating at the same time one bf the best meat markets the residents of Bucyrus ever had. Two or three years previous to his withdrawal from the butcher business he bought a farm, consisting of one hundred and twenty acres, and to that he finally removed, adding later two CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 365 tracts, one of twenty acres and another of eighty acres, and started into farming and stock-raising on an extensive scale. Mr. Schifer has almost all of this land under cultivation or prepared for it, having improved its drainage by tiling, and here he has made a number of most desirable improvements. A fine barn with stone foundation, and a commodious and comfortable residence have been erected, and also a power windmill, which is utilized not only for water but also for the grinding of feed. Mr. Schifer is modern and progressive and has all the comforts and conveniences which in these days make an ideal country home. He is engaged in buying, feeding and selling much stock,. principally cattle, and is regarded as one of the best judges of the same in the township. Mr. Schifer was married in 1881 to Miss Lizzie Leitzy, and the four children born to this union are: William, Emma, Elsie and George. He has been an ardent and influential Democrat, and for six years from 1894 to 190o1900,was township trustee, serving with great acceptability to the people of both parties. Both he and wife are members of the German Lutheran church,. where they are highly esteemed for their many excellent traits of character. Mr. Schifer, by his honest and exemplary life, has become one of the most highly considered citizens of Bucyrus, and well represents the grand old country of his birth. SAMUEL MYERS. Samuel Myers is now living a retired life in Galion. The rest which should ever crown years of active connection with business has been vouchsafed to him, and with a handsome competence acquired by former toil he is now spending the evening of life in the enjoyment of a well-earned ease. For forty-five years he has been a resident of the city, and his career throughout that period has been as an open book, capable of bearing the closest scrutiny. A native of Switzerland, Mr. Myers was born in the land of the Alps, in the year 1837, his parents being Samuel and Mary (Hildbold) Myers, who came from canton Aargan, Switzerland, to the United States in the year 1838. After landing on the American seaboard they proceeded across the country to Crawford county, Ohio, and took up their abode in Vernon township. There upon a farm Samuel Myers spent the days of his boyhood, for he was only but a year old at the time of the arrival of the family here. He worked in the fields in his youth, and in the schools of the neighborhood became familiar with the common branches of English learning. In Vernon he mas- 366 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. tered the trade of wagon-making under the direction of his two brothers, Jacob and John Myers, who established and concluded business along that line in Vernon township: The first. mentioned of these brothers, is now deceased, but the latter is still living. Mr. Myers, of this review, with the exception of Adam Howard, Sr., was the first to engage in the manufacture of buggies and carriages in Galion. He took up his abode in the city in 1856 and opened his factory, which he conducted with signal success until 1882. As the years passed his patronage increased, his force of workmen was enlarged and the manufactured articles of his factory were sent widely over the country. In 1882, after twenty-six years' connection with the business, Mr. Myers retired, putting aside the more arduous duties and cares of an industrial life. In the meantime he had become prominent in public affairs, and was ever a citizen who gave his earnest support and co-operation to every measure and movement calculated for the general good. . In 1872 he was elected mayor of Galion and filled the office for two years. His service in the city council covers a period of eight years altogether, his last term being in 1893. He filled the office of justice of the peace for two years, occupying that position at the same time when acting as mayor. He has been city marshal, and was constable of Polk township for four years. Over the record of his official career there falls no shadow of wrong, for he gave earnest and careful consideration to the performance of his duty and to the settlement of questions affecting the weal or woe of the people whom he represented.. At the present writing, in the spring of 1901, he is again a candidate for the office of mayor. Mr. Myers was united in marriage, on January 28, 1858, to Miss Catherine Hess, a daughter of Phillip and Philipina (Lautenslager) Hess, residents of Jackson township, Richland county. They were natives, however, of Germany, coming from Hesse-Darmstadt to the new world. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Myers has been blessed with three children, Charles Franklin being the only one living, and is now a resident of San Francisco, California. Nettie, the eldest child, was born March 31, 1859,. and died August 4, 1872 ; William, the youngest child, was born in December, 1863, and died November 25, 1864. Charles Franklin was born August 23, 1861; attended school in Galion, and in 1888 removed to the west. He married Miss Anna Archibald, of this city, and they have two children,—Archibald, who is now a student in a military school in San Francisco, and Marleteta. For a quarter of a century Mr. Myers has been an exemplary representative of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to the lodge in Galion. He closely follows the beneficent teachings of the society, has several times CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 367 passed all of the chairs and is regarded as one of the most loyal exponents of the principles. His political support has ever been given to the Democracy and he does everything, in his power to secure the success of the party at both the state and county elections. He belongs to the Reformed church and his life record is consistent with his profession. In an analyzation of his character and life work we note many of the characteristics which have marked the Swiss nation for many centuries, the perseverance, reliability, energy and unconquerable determination to pursue a course which has been marked out. It is these sterling qualities which have gained Mr. Myers success in life and made him one of the substantial and valued residents of Galion. ALEXANDER HALL. For half a century Mr. Hall has resided in Crestline and is now a worthy railroad employe. He was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, July 4, 1826, and is a son of Joseph Hall, whose birth occurred in County Antrim, Ireland, in 1790. When a young man the father sought a home in the new world, and in 1821 took up his abode in Columbiana county, where he purchased a tract of land and carried on farming for a number of years. While in Ireland he was married to Miss Connor, and they had a son and daughter, who are both deceased. Mrs. Hall died in Ireland.. He then began merchandising in New Alexander, following the latter business until his death, which occurred in 1832: Ere leaving. the Emerald Isle he married Miss Jane McCormick, who was born in Ireland in 1800 and died in Ohio in 1871. By this union there were five children—three boys and two girls. Our subject and the youngest daughter, Isabella Gaff, of Wayne county, Ohio, are the only survivors of the family. After the death of Mr. Hall she was a second time married. In taking up the personal history of our subject we present to our readers the life record of one whose days form a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present, for he lived in Ohio during the period of its early development. He pursued his studies in a log school house in Columbiana county, Ohio, and afterward continued his studies in Hanoverton. He remained in that place for ten years and then went to New Lisbon, where he was engaged in clerking for two years. He afterward spent two and a half years as a salesman in a hardware store in Mansfield, and on the expiration of that period went to Stark county, spending six months in selling books and stationery upon the road. He afterward located in Richland county and was employed as a clerk in a grocery store, while for five years he occupied the 368 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. position of postmaster, serving in that capacity during the administrations of Presidents Taylor and Fillmore and under Lincoln's first term. In the year 1852 he came to Crestline, where he opened a general mercantile establishment, which he conducted for three years, after which he entered the service of what is now the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, as chief clerk in the warehouse. He is connected with the company for forty years and was then retired with a pension. Great corporations never retain any one in their employ who cannot show a clean record for faithfulness, ability and trustworthiness, and the fact that Mr. Hall was so long connected with the company is unmistakable evidence of his commendable qualities. In 1849 occurred the marriage of Mr: Hall to Miss Sarah E. Gardner, who was born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, in 1829, and was taken to Wayne county, Ohio, when ten years of age. She afterward removed to Richland county, where she was married. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hall have been born six children, of whom four are yet living, namely : Mary R., Frank, .Rose and Charles. Lawrence, the second child, and Elsworth, the youngest,, have now passed away. Mr. Hall has spent some time in public office. In addition to four years as postmaster, he was postal clerk for two years. He has been a member of the board of education and was trustee of the water works of Crestline for two years. In early life he was a Whig in his political affiliations, and since the organization of the Republican party he has been one of its stalwart advocates, never failing to cast his ballot for governor or president at each election. Having resided in Crestline for almost a half century, he is very well known here, and his life record is as an open book, which all may read. JONATHAN F. KIMERLINE In no other phase of life can a man better demonstrate his fealty to his country and his loyalty to its interests than in the political arena, for therein is invested the vitality of the nation's power, the mainspring of its internal machinery and the keynote to its progress and prosperity.. Among the patriotic citizens of Crawford county who have been closely identified with the Democracy none is better known or more highly appreciated than Jonathan Frederick Kimerline, who is now occupying the position of county auditor. He believes that it is the duty and privilege of every American citizen to give his time and attention to some measure or party interest and to carry out this principle in life by taking an energetic part in political CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 371 canvasses, and is a firm believer in the trite saying, that "Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty." Mr. Kimerline was born in Wooster, Ohio, December 6, 1855, and is a son of. John and Maria (Derr) Kimerline, both of whom were natives of Germany, the father having been born in Wurtemberg, while the mother's birth occurred in Baden. They were married in that country and came to America in 1854, locating in Wooster, Ohio, whence they removed to a small farm in Wayne county, upon which they spent their last days. Mr. Kimerline, of this review, pursued his education in the public schools. of Wayne county until fifteen years of age and afterward spent one year as a teacher in Smithville Academy. He then became identified with educational interests as an instructor, following the teacher's profession for five or six years during the winter months, while in the summer season he continued his own studies in the Ohio Normal, at Ada, Ohio, where he was graduated with the class of 1882. He has had to depend entirely upon his own efforts,. not only for his advancement, but for the educational privileges which he received beyond those of the common schools. His labors enabled him to pursue a college course and thus prepare for his chosen profession. In 1874 he was employed as a teacher in the schools of. Chatfield, Ohio, and the following year was made superintendent of the public schools of New Washington, where he remained for a period of twenty years, retiring from the office in 1895 with the confidence and good will of the people,. for he had labored untiringly and effectively for the improvement and promotion of the schools of that town. In 1895 he was elected to the office of auditor of Crawford county, and after serving through his first term was re-elected in 1898, so that he is the present incumbent. This is, however, not the extent of his public service, for he was a member of the county board_ of school examiners from 1880 until 1888. In Wayne county, Ohio, Mr. Kimerline was united in marriage to Miss Ida May Breneman, a daughter of Dr. J. H. and Lydia (McNary) Breneman. His wife was a very successful and prominent teacher in Wayne county for ten or twelve years, a part of which time she had charge of the Congress schools. She also taught in the New Washington schools. Their marriage is blessed with two living children,--Harry Breneman and Louise Marie. Mr. Kimerline is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, an active worker in its interests and has served as trustee and a member of the official board. For. three years he was a member of the Northwestern Ohio Teachers' Association. In 1899 he was elected' secretary of the State' 20 372 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Auditors' Association, a position which he held for two years. He is also identified with the Knights of Pythias fraternity and the Order of. Ben Hur. In November, 1895, he took up his abode in Bucyrus and he and his wife there enjoy the hospitality of many of the best homes of the city. FRANKLIN HOLBROOK. Franklin Holbrook, of Bucyrus, was one of the editors and proprietors of the daily and weekly Forum until October, 1901, when that paper was sold to the Bucyrus Publishing Company, just then organized. He has had undoubted influence on public thought and opinion through his connection with the paper, which is the oldest journal in the county and which has clone much to mold the public policy of city, county and district, having ever been a supporter of all movements and measures calculated to promote the general good and advance progress along substantial lines. Mr. Holbrook was born in Wapako neta, Auglaize county, Ohio, in 1854, and is a son of George W. and Mary Virginia (Nichols) Holbrook. The ancestry of the family may be traced through many generations to Thomas Holbrooke, who, with his brother John and a number of other emigrants, left Weymouth, in Dorsetshire, England, in 1624, landing on the coast of Massachusetts in the same year. There the party founded the town of Weymouth *and Thomas Holbrooke served for many years as selectman. He died there in 1676, and his widow, Joanna Holbrooke, passed away the following year. George W. Holbrook, the father of Franklin, was born in Palmyra, New York, September 12, 1808. studied medicine and was graduated in the University of New York. In 1834 he settled in Wapakoneta, Ohio, and became a well-to-do and public-spirited citizen. In the affairs which had marked influence on the development and progress of Auglaize county he took an active interest, laboring earnestly for their promotion. His name is inseparably connected with the history of that community. He mapped. out the county, spent three winters in Columbus in attendance on the state legislature and finally secured the passage of a bill establishing the county, practically at his own expense. He owned several thousand acres of land in the vicinity of Wapakoneta and was afterward instrumental in having the county seat established there. He was one of the first judges in the county under the old constitution and was always a prominent politician. In 1881 he was elected to the state legislature, where he served through four consecutive years. He studied closely the needs of his district and of the state and labored untiringly CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 373 to secure such legislative enactments as would prove of general good. On the 30th November, 1836, he married Lydia M. Nichols, who died December 28, 1843, and on the 14th of May, 1845, he, wedded Mary Virginia Nichols, who died November 20,. 1893. His death occurred June I, 1890, and all are buried at Wapakoneta. Her father, Isaac Nichols, was a captain in the war of 1812 He represented a Virginia family, who removed from Loudoun county, that state, to Ohio, locating in Lebanon, Warren county, after the second war with England. Franklin Holbrook pursued his education in the schools of Wapakoneta and was a member of the first class ever graduated in the high school—the year being 1871. He afterward learned the printer's trade in the office of the Auglaize County Democrat, becoming familiar with the business in all its departments. He was there employed until 1876, when he established a paper called the Wapakonetae, continuing the same until 1883, during which time he had made it a representative journal that received a liberal patronage. In its columns he took an active part in public affairs and labored earnestly for the benefit of the community. In 1885 he came to Bucyrus and purchased of Major Williston a half interest in the Forum, of which he was one of the editors and proprietors until October, 1901, as stated at the beginning of this sketch. The year after his. purchase the Major sold his interest to Horace Holbrook, a brother of our subject, and to G. A. Nuit. A few years later the last named purchased the fourth interest of Horace Holbrook, and in 1894 Albert M. Ensminger became a partner in the enterprise. Mr. Holbrook devoted his time and attention successfully to the paper after coming to Bucyrus, and during this period its circulation was more than doubled, while its plant increased two or three fold in volume, owing to the purchase of new and improved machinery and materials. The firm did, and still does, a large job printing business, and the circulation of the paper is extensive and constantly increasing. This makes it a good advertising medium, and its patronage in various lines is large and profitable. Mr. Holbrook was married at Wapakoneta, on the 7th of January, 1879, to Miss Mary F. Keuthan, a daughter of F. H. and Mary W. Keuthan, the father having come from Germany to America in early life, while the mother was a native of this country. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Holbrook has been blessed with three children : George Frederick, who was born October 11, 1879 ; Beatrice, born July 27, 1881; and Horace Rollin, born May 17, 1884. Mr. Holbrook is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Royal Arcanum, the National Union and the Maccabees. He and his wife 374 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. have a pleasant home in Bucyrus, where hospitality abounds and where their many friends desire to gather. In the office Mr. Holbrook is a practical man of affairs, busy and energetic,. and has attained a success that is the merited reward of his earnest labor and persistency of purpose. In his home he is a pleasant and agreeable companion, and in whatever place or relation found he is a thorough gentleman in the highest sense of the term. DANIEL BRINKMAN. Prominent among the successful, progressive and substantial farmers of Holmes township is Daniel Brinkman, who comes of fine old German ancestry. His birth was in Bucyrus, Ohio, on January 7, 1840, a son of Christopher and Mary (Heinle) Brinkman, who reared nine children. The three survivors. are: Henry, who lives retired in Holgate, Henry county, Ohio; Frederick, who resides in Putnam county, Ohio; and Daniel; who is the subject. The names of . those who passed away are: John, Louis, Christian, Jacob, Mary and Elizabeth. The father of our subject was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1804, and while still a young man came to America and located in Pennsylvania. There he learned the wheelwright trade and also the trade of chair-maker, coming to Bucyrus to follow these lines. Some years later he purchased an eighty-acre tract of land, this being the same upon which his son resides, and with a team of oxen and one horse hauled logs from the forest to Bucyrus, where he found a market for them, and in 1841 purchased a portion of the home farm, across the road from his former purchase. The former resident had left a modest frame house, and into this Mr., Brinkman moved, utilizing it as both a residence and shop, and here he carried on his work of chair-making. In 1858 he was able to erect the substantial brick residence which was his comfortable home until his death, in 1878. Mr. Brinkman had made a success of his life through his own efforts. At one time lie owned four hundred acres of land, and was regarded as one of the most substantial farmers of his locality. His political leaning was toward the Democratic party. In the German Reformed church he was known for his liberality and display of Christian characteristics. Daniel Brinkman gained a thorough knowledge of life on a farm during his early years, and has followed the pursuit of agriculture all his life. His education was received in the common schools. When he decided to set up a hone of his own he married Miss Sarah A. Layman, a native of this county and a daughter of Mathias Layman, who was one of the early settlers of Craw- CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 375 ford county, from Pennsylvania. After marriage Mr. Daniel Brinkman took charge of a portion of his father's land, and engaged in farming on shares for some four years, and then purchased his present desirable farm, consisting of one hundred and thirty-five acres, and here he erected a comfortable but plain residence. He wished to clear off the debt of his farm before he made any extensive improvements, but in 1885 he felt justified in building the commodious .and attractive country home which now adorns his estate. In his farming he has been successful, and, like his father, is regarded as a very solid member of the farming community. Mr. Brinkman has two of his five children and his estimable wife with him, the former being Charles and Alvin. Martha, Anna and Emma, three beloved daughters, have passed out of life. In his political views Mr. Brinkman follows the example of his father and votes with the Democratic party, and is interested in its success, but he is no seeker for office. The religious connection of the family is with the Disciples church, where he is known for Is charitable and benevolent actions. Mr. Brinkman is held in high esteem in the township and deserves the good feeling that is generally felt for him. EDWARD FLICKINGER. The day of small undertakings, especially in cities, seems to have passed and the era of gigantic enterprises is upon us. In control of mammoth concerns are men of master minds, of almost limitless ability to guide, of sound judgment and keen discrimination. Their progressiveness must not only reach the bounds that others have attained, but must even pass beyond into new and broader, untried fields of operation ; but an unerring foresight and sagacity must make no mistake by venturing upon uncertain ground. Thus continually growing, a business takes leadership in its special line and the men who are at its head are deservedly eminent in the world of commerce, occupying a position which commands the respect while it excites the admiration of all. At the head of some of the leading industries of Galion stands Edward Flickinger, who is president of the Flickinger Wheel Works and of the Galion Wagon and Gear Company. These enterprises are not only of great benefit to the stockholders but have also materially promoted the interests of the city, for the upbuilding and growth of the community depends upon the industrial and commercial activity. Mr. Flickinger is a native of Ohio, his birth having occurred in Hamilton, Butler county, on the 12th of August, 1847. The family is of Swiss lineage 376 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. and was founded in America by the great-grandfather of our subject, John. Flickinger, who came from the land of the Alps in 1752 to the new world, and settled in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. He erected the first building in that place, and it is still standing. His son, Jacob Flickinger, the grandfather of our subject, was born in 1784, in Lancaster county, soon after the close of-the Revolutionary war, and became a minister of the United Brethren church. In 1810 he removed to Ohio, locating in Hamilton, Butler county. He was-active in establishing the church there, and his work along lines of good citizenship and Christian character is still manifest in the lives of all who knew him.. His example was a source of help to all with whom he was associated, and his. memory remains as a blessed benediction to those among whom he lived and. labored. He died in 1849. He married Miss Hannah Kumler, a daughter of Bishop Henry Kumler, of the United Brethren church. She was actively associated with her husband in all his pioneer ministerial work in Butler county. She was widely loved by all with whom she came in contact. Her death occurred in 1892, when she had attained the advanced age of ninety-three years. Through a long period she took an active interest in the reunions of her relatives, which were held in Butler county. Henry Flickinger, the father of our subject, was born in Butler county,. Ohio, in 1819, and there became a prominent farmer and a recognized representative of agricultural pursuits. He was also a leading and influential member of the United Brethren church, doing all in his power to promote the cause. of Christianity among his fellow men. He was considered a generous, kindly dispositioned man, and no worthy object or needy person sought his aid in vain. His political support was first given to the Whig party, and on its dissolution he joined the ranks of the Republican party. His wife bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Farlow and was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania in I819, coming with her parents to Butler county, Ohio, during her childhood. Her father, John Farlow, was a native of Berks county, Pennsylvania, and died in Butler county, Ohio, at the age of eighty years. In religious belief he was a Lutheran, and in his political faith a Democrat. Mr. Henry Flickinger died in 1891, when seventy years of age, and the mother passe& away in 1896, at the age of eighty years. The members of their family are as follows: Amos, who was killed in the battle of Stone River in the Civil war ; Matilda and Noah, both now deceased; Mrs. Anna Hone ; Enoch ; Landis; Susan; and Edward, the subject of this sketch. The last named was only sixteen years of age when, in response to the president's call, he enlisted in Company F, of the One Hundred and Sixty-- CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 377 seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until the close of hostilities. He participated in the campaigns of Virginia and West Virginia and was ever loyal to the starry banner. After his return to the north he became identified with the industrial interests of Ohio in 1868 as a manufacturer of buggy wheels in Sandusky. The business steadily increased in volume and importance and was carried on until 1880, when Mr. Flickinger removed to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Success attended his industry in that place and he was in control of an extensive business, which he afterward reorganized under the management of a joint stock company, of which he was chosen president. In 1890 the business was sold to the Buggy Wheel Trust Company, and in 1892 our subject erected a large factory in Galion, Ohio. In the same year he removed to Galion. In his wheel manufactory lie is now employing two hundred and fifty men. He is also president of the Galion Wagon and Gear Company, and his employes altogether number more than four hundred men. His output is very large, but can hardly keep up with the demands. The warehouses of the company are filled with the best seasoned stock, and both factories are now equipped with the latest and most approved machinery that money can buy and that will turn out AI high grade of work. The goods sold by these factories are so favorably known over the country that almost daily purchasers of wheels and bodies and spring wagons come to Galion from all parts of the United States. The growth of his factories has been continuous and healthful, and the enterprise is now one of considerable magnitude. Much of the success which has attended these two undertakings is due to the capable business management, keen discrimination and resolute purpose of Edward Flickinger, who has the business affairs of the two factories well in hand, and whose knowledge of every detail is the result of a lifetime of study. Another enterprise with which he is actively connected is conducted under the name of the Flickinger Company, the partners being our subject, Fred Unckrich and Frank Flickinger. The enterprise was established for the purpose of manufacturing a special line of wheel machinery, consisting of the Unckrich patent spoke polishing machine, a wheel riveting machine and several other machines which are now in process of construction. The company controls the patents on these machines, which are sold to wheel manufacturers all over the United States, and are spoken of in terms of highest praise wherever used. Edward Flickinger also has another branch of business which is equally successful, though of an entirely different nature. In 1890 he purchased a large stock farm at Bellefontaine, Ohio, comprising two hundred and fifty acres. The 378 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. place is called the Pleasant Grove Stock Farm, and on it he is extensively engaged in breeding fine draft and French coach horses. Mr. Flickinger has been twice married. In 1872 he married Miss Emma McCullough, a daughter of Judge McCullough, of Logan county, Ohio. They became the parents of two children, Frank, who has charge of one of the departments of the factory, and Edna. In 1882 the mother died, and in 1884 Mr. Flickinger was again married, his second union being with Miss Elizabeth Colley, of Sandusky, a daughter of Edward Colley, deceased. Their children are Edward, Hazel and Russell. In his political views Mr. Flickinger is a Republican, arid socially he is a Mason, having attained the Knight Templar degree in that order. To the subject of this review has come the attainment of a distinguished position in connection with the great material industries of Crawford county, and his efforts have been so discerningly directed along well-defined lines that he seems to have reached at any one point of progress the full measure of his possibilities for accomplishment at that point. A man of distinctive and forceful individuality, of broad mentality and most mature judgment, he has left and is leaving his impress upon the industrial world, and he certainly deserves the splendid success which he has attained, for it has been the result of his ability to recognize and improve opportunities and to control intricate business affairs. Kindness, amiability and courtesy not only characterize his social relations but are the marked features in his business life, and his employes never see a trace of the overbearing taskmaster in him. JAMES F. McMAHON. James F. McMahon is the editor and proprietor of the News-Democrat, of Crestline, and has for a number of years been closely identified with the journalistic interest of Crawford county. He was born in Wooster, Ohio, June 1, 1877, and is the youngest son of John J. and Rose (Cullivan) McMahon, both of whom were natives of Ireland, but in early pioneer clays crossed the Atlantic to the new world, and were married in Norwalk, Ohio. Through a long period the father was foreman in the blacksmith shop of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at Wooster, Ohio, and after a useful and honorable career he passed away on the 5th of May, 1890, at the age of fifty-four years. His widow still survives him and is now a resident of Crestline. In the family of this worthy couple were four children : James F. ; John, who is a car-builder of Toledo, Ohio; Katie, who is now associated with our CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 381 subject in the publication of his paper; and Mary, the wife of H. A. Schill, of Crestline. Mr. McMahon, of this review, spent the days of his youth in his native city and is indebted to its public-school system for the educational privileges which he enjoyed. He is now in a line of work which is continually increasing his fund of information. He became connected with the printing business in Wooster, Ohio, in 1894, and in 1895 he came to Crestline, where he was associated with the Vidette until the establishment of the News-Democrat in 1898. This journal now has a circulation of about a thousand copies It is published in the interest of the Democratic party and of local advancement, and through its columns Mr. McMahon treats in a fair and impartial manner the questions of local and general importance, at the same time giving an unswerving support to the principles of Democracy. He also conducts a job printing department, and in that branch of the business is securing a liberal patronage, which materially increases his income. WILLIAM SNYDER. William Snyder, who is living in Crestline, Ohio, was born in Middletown, Crawford county, July 12, 1841. His grandfather, Cristley Snyder, was born in Pennsylvania, and. was one of the early settlers of Ashland, Richland and Crawford counties. He took up his abode in the midst of the deep forest where he erected a log cabin and owned a farm. He lived to the very advanced age of ninety-nine years and nine months and then died from the effects of a fall, while his wife, Mary Magdaline Snyder, lived to the venerable age of one hundred and eight years. The father, Peter Snyder, was a native of Ashland county, born in 1803, and in 1808 he became a resident of Craw. ford county, which at that time was a. part of Richland county. Here he was reared upon the farm, and in. log school house, such as was common at that day, he pursued his education. When he had attained adult age he married Miss Lavina Gilland, who was born in this county before its separation from Crawford county. In this part of Ohio she spent her entire life, dying at the age of seventy-one years. After his marriage the father of our subject took up his abode in Jefferson township, near Middletown, but spent the last twenty years of his life in Crestline. He passed the ninety-second milestone and was then called to his final rest. He took an active part in Christian work as a member of the Presbyterian church, and held several offices in the congregation with which he was identified. A life long Democrat, he also filled some minor 382 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. political positions. He took an active part in everything connected with the good of the county and was one of its best known and highly respected citizens, having for eighty-eight years lived within its borders. He was identified with its development and progress and was a witness of its transformation from an unbroken wilderness to its present state of cultivation and improvement. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Snyder were born ten children, six sons and four daughters, all of whom reached mature years, while two of the sons and three of the daughters are yet living. William Snyder was the eighth in order of birth in the parents' family. He first opened his eyes to the light of day in a log cabin in Jefferson township, and remained upon the old home farm until ten years of age, when the family removed to an adjoining farm. He pursued his studies in the log school house in the primitive manner of the times, and assisted his father in the clearing and cultivation of the fields until 1861; when his patriotic spirit was aroused by the attempt at secession of the south and he offered his services to the government, enlisting among the "boys in blue" as a member of Company K, Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served for about sixteen month and was then honorably discharged on account of disability. Immediately afterward he returned home and has since been identified with the interests of Crawford county. In 1860 Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Mary Burnison, a. native of Monroe county, Ohio, born May 4, 1844, and is a daughter of John and Mary ( Myers) Burnison, who were early settlers of that county. Her father was a native of Stark county, Ohio, but her mother was born in Germany. They became the parents of ten children, Mrs. Snyder being the second in order of birth. She was reared and educated in her native county, and to her husband has been a faithful companion' and helpmeet on the journey of life. They began their domestic life in Jefferson township, where they remained for about four years, when they took up their abode in Crestline, Mr. Snyder engaging in the railway service. He was first employed as a brakeman and was soon after promoted to the position of conductor on the Pittsburg, Ft. Wayne & Chicago road. He acted in that capacity for eighteen years, running from Crestline to Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and to Chicago. During the greater part of the time he was a passenger conductor, and was one of the most reliable and trustworthy employes in the service. On leaving the road in 1885 he engaged in the grocery business in Crestline, and for some time has lived retired, enjoying a well-merited rest, his wants being supplied by the competence which he had gained in former years of activity. CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 383 The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Snyder was blessed with two daughters and a son, but the latter, Frank, is now deceased. Minnie Belle, the elder daughter, is the wife of W. D. Cover, and Alice May, the younger, is still with her parents. In his political affiliations Mr. Snyder is a Democrat, and on that ticket he was elected a member of the town council and of the school board. He belongs to Snyder Post, No. 101, G. A. R. and to the Methodist Episcopal church. He has always lived in Crawford county, so that his history is well known and his fellow townsmen have ever held him in the highest respect and regard, owing to his life-long fidelity to manly principle, his social characteristics being those which in every land and every clime command respect. JAMES W. COULTER. In the last half of the past century the lawyer has been a pre-eminent factor in all affairs of private concern and national importance. The man versed in the laws of the country, as distinguished from business men or politicians, has been a recognized power. He has been depended upon to conserve the best and permanent interests of the whole people, and without him and the approval of his practical judgment the efforts of the statesman and the industry of the business man and mechanic would have proved futile. The reason is not far to seek. The professional lawyer is never the creature of circumstance. The profession is open to talent, and eminence or success cannot be obtained except by indomitable energy, perseverance and strong mentality. Such qualities are manifest in the career of Mr. Coulter, now a well-known and successful attorney of Galion, who was born July 4, 1846, in West Bedford, Coshocton county, Ohio. His father, Richard Montgomery Coulter, died in that county when about sixty years of age. He was a native of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, and a son of William Coulter, a surveyor, who became one of the pioneer settlers of Coshocton county. He erected the first brick house built west of the city of Coshocton, and for many years he was an employe of the United States government. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Phoebe Greer, and was reared in Belfast, Ireland, whence she came to America, and ,here gave her hand in marriage to Richard M. Coulter. The subject of this review pursued his education at Spring Mountain, Coshocton county, Ohio, and after completing his literary course he commenced preparation for professional life as a student in the law office of Frank H. 384 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Hurd, of Mount Vernon. He afterward continued his studies under the direction of Hon. A. Jackson and Hon. Thomas Beer, of ucyrus, and in 1866 was admitted to the bar. He at once located at Galion, where he has since engaged in practice, having long ago won a position of distinction among the leading representatives of the fraternity in this place. Along with those qualities, indispensable to the lawyer,—a keen, rapid, logical mind plus the business sense and ready capacity for hard work,—our subject brought to the starting point of his legal career gifts,—eloquence of language and a strong personality. An excellent presence, an earnest, dignified. manner, marked strength of character, .a thorough grasp of the law and the ability accurately to apply its principles are factors in Mr. Coulter's effectiveness as an advocate. For six years Mr. Coulter served as prosecuting attorney of Crawford county. He was also a member of the board of county school examiners for four years, and :through a long period was a member of the. school board of Galion, acting as its president for some time. Since his retirement from that office his attention has been given strictly to the private practice of law, for he has a large and distinctively representative clientage. However, he is known as a leading and influential member of the Democratic party, has served on the county committee and has done considerable campaign work, attending various political meetings and conventions throughout the state. He is a director and vice-President of the First National Bank of Galion, and was attorney of the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad and the New York, Lake Erie & Western road,. now known as the Erie line, continuing in that position for thirty years, throughout all the changes made in ownership. For twenty years he has managed. two farms, located two miles west of Galion, and is one of. the largest real estate owners in the county. Mr. Coulter married Miss Flora Hetrick, of Galion, a daughter of Samuel Hetrick, one of the old pioneers of the county, and his married life is an exceptionally happy one, his wife being one of the most hospitable and generous women in Galion. Socially he is identified with the Masonic fraternity, and religiously he is connected with the Methodist Episcopal church. He began. his business career without capital, save his laudable ambition and unfaltering. determination, and the fact that he stands among the wealthy men of the county is due entirely to his own efforts. He has been quick to note opportunities and to improve them, has made judicious investments and throughout his career has transacted his business in harmony with the strictest professional ethics. With him success in life has been reached by sterling qualities of mind and a heart true to every manly principle. He has never deviated from what CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 385 his judgment would indicate to be right and honorable between his fellow men and himself and he has gained not only wealth, but the respect and good will of the entire community in which he lives. NICHOLAS FETTER. Nicholas Fetter is a retired farmer and miller living in Crestline. An. excellent example of the self-made American citizen whose life illustrates the progress that an ambitious foreigner can make in this country of unbounded opportunity is shown in the case of Mr. Fetter, one of the leading German-American citizens of Crawford county. His signal success is due to his own energy and the high ideal which his laudable ambition placed before him. Success in any walk in life is an indication of earnest endeavor and painstaking. effort,—characteristics that he possesses in an eminent degree. Mr. Fetter Was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, December 28, 1832, His father, George Fetter, was a native of the same locality, was a millwright. by trade, and in 1848, when about fifty years of age, came to America, settling. in Pennsylvania. There he carried on farming and also engaged in the manufacture of oak shingles. About 1853 he came to Crawford county, Ohio, Where he spent his remaining days, passing away in 1886. He married, in the: Fatherland, Miss Catherine Beach, and they became the parents of six children, five sons and a daughter, namely : Nicholas, Adam, George, Jacob,. Catherine. and Henry. All were born in Germany, with the exception of Henry, whose birth occurred in the Keystone state. Nicholas Fetter is the oldest, and was reared. in his native country until fifteen years of age, when. he accompanied his parents on their voyage to the new world, locating in Blair. county, Pennsylvania, where he remained for about five years. In 1853 he came to Crawford county and began work in a sawmill, also followed farming in the employ of others. In 1860 he . began business on his own account, and was so engaged until 1895, when, having acquired a comfortable competence, he retired to private life and has since enjoyed a well-merited rest. In the year 1860 Mr. Fetter was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Heckler, who was born in Germany, June 20, 1837, and came to the new world when about twenty-one years of age, taking up her abode in Crawford county. Their marriage has been blessed with two sons and a daughter, namely : Caroline, wife of Nicholas Amos, who is proprietor of the Continental Hotel at Crestline; Frances, wife of Frank Nicely, of Galion; and John, who married 386 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Miss Ludwig and resides in Crestline. Mr. Fetter has served as a member of the board of education of the city and is deeply interested in everything that pertains to' the substantial improvement of the community. He votes with the Democracy and is a member of the German Reformed church. He has ever conducted his business affairs so that he has won the confidence and good will of all who know him. As a man and citizen he enjoys the added prosperity which comes to those genial spirits who have a hearty shake of the hand for all those with whom they come in contact from day to day and who seem to throw around them in consequence so much of the sunshine of life. ISAAC C. GUINTHER. The world instinctively pays deference to the man whose success has been worthily achieved, who has acquired high reputation along the line toward which his energies have been.directed and whose social prominence is not less the result of an irreproachable life than of recognized natural gifts. It is a pleasing indulgence to write the biography of a man of this character. The country has produced many brilliant men, who in military or civil life have won prominence and honor; most of our noblest and best men are self-made, and Mr. Guinther is a representative of this class, for his life has been devoted to labors where wealth or influence availed little or naught, the measure of success depending upon the mentality, intellectual acquirements and broad culture of the individual. Mr. Guinther has left the imprint of his individuality on each place in which, for any length of time, he has resided, and has opened to many the portals of knowledge, wherein memory's casket may be filled with the choicest gems,—the only treasures which we may safely call our own. As an educator Professor Guinther is widely known and is now occupying the responsible position of city superintendent of the schools of Galion. Familiarity through the medium of books and study with the most gifted minds of every nation and of every clime has well qualified him for the incumbency. He has served in this capacity since 1896, during which period the schools have made marked progress. Professor Guinther is numbered among the native sons of Crawford county, his birth having occurred in Whetstone township, December 25, 1856, and his parents being Jacob and Catherine (Schallenmiller) Guinther. His father was a native of Germany, born in Wurtemberg, near Stuttgart, in 1814, but when fourteen years of age he came to the new world, taking up his abode in Philadelphia, where he remained until he had attained his majority. He CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 387 then came to Ohio, acting as clerk for William Miller in one of the first hotels in Bucyrus. Subsequently he located upon a farm in Tully township, Marion county. A few years afterward he took up his abode in Whetstone township, Crawford county, a location joining the one in Tully township, where he spent his remaining days, his death occurring in 1884, when he was about seventy years of age. His wife represents one of the pioneer families of Pennsylvania, her people having located in the Keystone state prior to the war of the Revolution. From Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, representatives of the name came to Ohio, and Mrs. Guinther was one of the first settlers on the plains south of Bucyrus. She is still living at the old homestead in Whetstone township, south of New Winchester, at the age of eighty years. Her children were as follows : Mrs. Mary Ulmer, who is living in Whetstone township ; George J., a resident of the old homestead in Tully township, Marion county; Sophia, at home; Catherine, the wife of S. Rexroth, of Polk township; Crawford county ; Isaac C., of this review; Charlotta, wife of S. Stump, of Whetstone township; and J. F., who is living on the old homestead in Whetstone township. Jacob Guinther was, as is still his surviving widow, well known for honesty and integrity, and for devotion to the welfare of the family, and held in the highest esteem by all. Professor Guinther, who forms the immediate subject of this review, pursued his preliminary education in the public schools of Whetstone township and later entered the Northwestern Ohio Normal University, at Ada, where he pursued the scientific and classical courses, being graduated in 1883, with the degree of bachelor of science and master of arts. He determined to devote his life to educational work, and some time before his graduation he began teaching, his first school being at New Winchester, in Whetstone township, taking charge thereof in the y ear 1876. For several years his time was devoted to teaching and to study. After graduation he continued teaching, having been employed at Nevada, Galena, and Utica, all in Ohio. At Nevada, one year ; Galena, three years and Utica, four years. Throughout his teaching he has never been obliged to change positions, but did so as better fields opened up for his service. In 1891 he accepted a position as teacher in the grammar grades at Galion, since which time he has been identified with the schools of this place. In 1892 he became principal of the high school, and for four years served in that capacity, and was then, in 1896, chosen to the position of superintendent of the Galion schools. In this position he has direction and supervision of all the pupils of the public schools, and at present thirty-two teachers. There are four school buildings in the city, 388 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. The high school course now covers four years and is most thorough and efficient, as is the work done in the grades. Professor Guinther is continually studying, striving to improve the school work and introduce new Methods, as they seem of practical value and benefit, and his own interest in the work is an inspiration and aid to the teachers. In 1885 occurred the marriage of Professor Guinther and Miss Mary M. Rexroth, a daughter of John and Anna (Reimhern) Rexroth, who came from Germany to this country in 1840 or '41, and are now deceased. The marriage of our subject and his wife has been blessed with five children, namely Paul Emerson, a youth of fourteen, who is now in the high school; Fred Ernest, Robert I. and Lawrence Oliver,. aged, respectively, twelve, ten and seven years; and Mildred Lucile, the only daughter, now a little maiden of four summers. In his political affiliations the Professor is a Democrat, but has no time for active political work. He holds membership in the Presbyterian church and is deeply interested in its growth and progress. He is a man of broad, scholarly attainments, who has had marked influence upon the intellectual development of the city and whose labors have been of incalculable and of far-reaching benefit. L. M. SMITH. L. M. Smith, the well-known business manager of the Crawford County News, was born in Lykens township, Crawford county, September 1, 1868, his parents being Frederick and Lucy Ann (Shupp) Smith. The father located in this county when a young man, in 1840. He was a native of Saxony, Germany, and on coming to America first took up his abode in Columbus, Ohio, whence he came to this county. He did contract work on the national pike and afterward purchased a quarter section of land in Lykens township, which he brought under a high state of cultivation. He first married Christiana Tipman, of Saxony, Germany, who died in 1846, leaving four children, namely : Louis F., of Lykens township, who has served as justice of the peace and notary public; John F., a resident farmer of the same township; Adolph G., a contractor living in Aurora, Illinois ; and Clara, now the wife of Joseph Laipply, of Lykens township. After the death of his first wife the father married Lucy Ann Shupp, a daughter of Michael Shupp, a native. of Pennsylvania and a pioneer of Crawford county. She was born June 3, 1830, and the children born of this marriage are : Cornelius, who CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 391 is living in Bucyrus ; Matilda, deceased; Catherine, the wife of Jacob .Meck, of Holmes township; Frederick, who is engaged in business at Lemert, Ohio ; Henry, a farmer of that place; Lucy Ann, deceased; Jefferson I., of whom Mention is made elsewhere in this volume; Emma J., wife of Abraham Scheifer, of Lykens township; L. Melancthon; and Serepta, wife of C. H.. Flickinger, of Holmes township. The father of this family was a very prominent and influential citizen of Crawford county, and from 1862 until, the time of his death served as justice of the peace. His rulings were strictly. fair and impartial and his counsel was sought far and wide in law matters. He was also township clerk for many years and during a greater part of the time was a member of the school board and actively promoted the educational interests of his community. He was also a leading member of the Grange and was an active and progressive citizen. He died December 3, 1877, at the age of sixty-one years, and his wife passed away in 1891, when also. sixty-one years of age. L. M. Smith, of this sketch, spent the days of his childhood upon the home farm and in the district schools of the neighborhood acquired the rudiments of his education. He was only nine years of age at the time of his. father's death, and at the age of sixteen' he was forced to start in life on. his own account. For several years he acted as a salesman in a general store belonging to his brother Lemert, and the practical business training 'which he there received. has proven of value tb him in his later career. Realizing the importance of education and feeling its lack in his. own life he determined to add to the knowledge he had previously acquired and therefore entered the high school at Bucyrus. At a later date he also pursued a commercial course, in the Ohio Business College, at Mansfield, and was graduated in that institution in 1888. After leaving school Mr. Smith filled important positions with a large manufacturing establishment and with the Adams Express Company until 1891, when he became connected with the .journalistic interests, becoming an equal partner in the New Washington Herald in conjunction with his brother, J. I. Smith, deputy county auditor. He successfully managed the Herald until. September, 1898, when, being desirous of locating in the county seat, he purchased a half interest in the Crawford County News, of which he is the business manager. He is a conscientious and far-sighted business man and his executive ability is manifest in his capable control of the business affairs of the News office. Prosperity has attended the undertaking, owing in no, small degree to the efforts of Mr. Smith. 21 392 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY In New Washington, Ohio, in 1892, was celebrated the marriage of L. M. Smith and Miss Bessie Sexauer, a daughter of C. Frederick and Mary (Zeigler) Sexauer. Her paternal grandparents were Christian and Caroline ( Schindler) Zeigler, both of whom were natives, of Baden, Germany. They came to America 1827, locating in Sulphur Springs. After the death of her first husband Mrs. Sexauer married J. G. Kinnger, ho opened a wagon shop at Sulphur Springs, Ohio. He as joined in the industry by his stepson, C. F. Sexauer. Together they carried on business fora number of years. The wife of C. F. Sexauer is a daughter of Dr. G. L. Zeigler, who was a prominent physician in pioneer times. Mr. Smith is a member of the. Knights of Pythias lodge and he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. P. S.—Since the foregoing sketch of Mr. Smith was penned, the Bucyrus Publishing Company, a stock company, was organized. The new organization purchased the Daily and Weekly Forum and the Semi-Weekly News, and combined the two newspapers. Stock in the new company was offered for sale to the public, many leading Democrats of the county taking stock. Such was the popularity of Mr. Smith that he, also being a stockholder, was, upon the 'organization of the company, elected a director and the treasurer and business Manager, a position he is ably filling at this writing. JOSEPH W. HOLMES. As the prosperity or progress of a nation is the result of the aggregate endeavor of its individual citizens, so the history of a nation is the record of the aggregate achievements of its people. Biography thus becomes the very foundation upon which must rest all general history of mankind. The importance of making permanent record of the life work of men who are worthy such distinction cannot be overestimated. Colonel Joseph William Holmes is one who has attained distinction in connection with public affairs in Crawford county and in the military service of his country, where he won the title by which he is now known.. At present he is living retired, enjoying a well merited rest. His life history closely associates him with the progress and advancement in this portion of Ohio, and therefore he well deserves 'honorable mention in this volume. Colonel Holmes is a native of Massachusetts, his birth having occurred in Dalton, in September, 1821, his parents being Joseph and Ruth Ann   CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 393 (Renne) Holmes. The father was a native of England, his birth occurring near the city, of Boston, in Yorkshire. When a young man he crossed the Atlantic to the new world, and here met and married Miss Renne, who was a native of the Empire state. The wedding was celebrated, however, in the old Bay state, where they resided for a few years, after which the father started on a return trip to England to settle up an estate there, and on his homeward journey was lost at sea. The mother had one brother who served in the war of 1812 and afterward became a pioneer settler of Springfield, Illinois, where many of his descendants are still living. Colonel Holmes pursued his education in the schools of his native city and spent much of his youth upon a farm, but, not desiring to follow agricultural pursuits as a life work, he learned the trade of cabinet-making. After attaining, his majority he made his way to Albany, New York, and at different times resided at New:New Lebanonings, Chatham Four Corners, where he was engaged in business as a cabinet-maker and:and undertakerile residing at Lebanon Springs he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Lord, a daughter of Joseph Lord, but she did not long survive their marriage. She died leaving one daughter, Mary. Josephine, who is now the wife of Ernest S. Cooper, a merchant traveler residing in Toronto, Canada. Colonel Holmes continued his residence in the Empire state until 1862, when country having becobecomeolved in war over the slavery question and the right of the southern states to secede from the Union, he enlisted in response to the president’s call for troops, joining the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth New York Infantry at Niagara Falls, in 1862. This was afterward changed to the Eighth New York Heavy Artillery and was commanded by Colonel Peter A. Porter. Mr. Holmes was mustered into the service as captain of Company E, Eighth Regiment of New York Heavy Artillery, for three years, on the 22d of August, 1862; was appointed major on the on the 19th June, 1864, and became lieutenant colonel on the 14th of January, 1865. He served in the Second Brigade, Second Army Corps, of the Army of the Potomac, and acted as commander of the regiment and also of the battalion, much of the time, for Colonel Porter was killed at Cold Harbor while making a charge upon a masked battery and the senior major was there wounded, So tsot Colonel Holmes was left to command the battalion. When the start was made for the James he also commanded the battalion. The regiment numbered nineteen hundred men. On the 18th of June, 1864, in front of Petersburg, his promotion first came to him on the field of battle, in recognition of his coolness and bravery under fire and in return for his services in 394 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. preventing a panic in the line in front of his command. With fixed bayonet he ordered his troops to gather the panic-stricken line into place until their officer could get the men once more under control. This prevented a great disaster to the Union troops. The aide at division headquarters praised this as one of the most prompt acts he had ever witnessed in an emergency. Colonel Holmes participated in the battles of Spottsylvania Court House from the 17th to the 21st of May, 1864; Harris House, May 19; North Anna, May 22 to 26 ; Totopotomy, May 27 to 31; Cold Harbor, June 3; the movement before Petersburg from the 15th of June until April, 1865; the assault on Petersburg, continuing from the 15th to the 19th of June, 1864; Weldon Railroad, June 21 to 23; Deep Bottom, July 27 to 29; Strawberry Plains. August 14 to 18; Reams' Station, August 25; Boyington Plank Road, October 27 to 28; Dabney Mills, February 25 to 27; the attack on the works at Petersburg, March 25; Appomattox, from the 28th of March to the 9th of April; White Oak Road, March 29 to 31 ; the fall of Petersburg, on the 2d of April; the battle of High Bridge, April 7; the engagement at Appomattox, on the 9th of April ; and many others of lesser importance. On account of the close of the war Colonel Holmes was mustered out of service on the 5th of June,. 1865. In 1863 he hack been made provost marshal at Fort McHenry, serving there until the month of May, 1864. The Colonel was ever found at his post of duty as a faithful defender of the old flag, and his own bravery and loyalty inspired. his men to deeds of valor in many an attack upon the Rebel works or the troops in the field. When hostilities had ceased Colonel Holmes returned to Niagara Falls and entered the railway service. He was afterward at Meadville, Pennsylvania, and Kent, Ohio, and in 1865 entered the service of the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad, at Galion, Ohio, with which he remained for nineteen years in charge of the car department. In 1884 he went to Peru, Indiana, in the service of the Wabash Railroad Company, and afterward to Big Springs, Texas, on the Gould railroad. Subsequently he returned to Peru, Indiana, and was later transferred to Butler, Indiana, having charge of the car department. When the shops were destroyed by fire he went to Allegheny, on the Pittsburg & Western Railroad, where he was made general foreman in the car department, acting in that capacity most acceptably until ill health forced his retirement in 1890. Mr. Holmes then returned to Galion, where he has since resided, one of the valued and honored residents of this place. His long continuance in the railroad service is a proof of his fidelity to duty and his faithful performance of all work entrusted to his care. CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 395 Colonel Holmes was united in marriage, in 1862, in Niagara Falls, New York, to Miss Emily Parsons, a native of that place. They now have one son, Charles Parsons, who pursued his education in the public schools of Galion .and afterward entered the railroad service, being foreman in the machine shops of the Big Four Railroad at Lindale, Ohio, and at the present time is employed in the Erie Railroad at Cleveland, this state. The family are Presbyterians in religious belief, and the Colonel is a stanch Republican, having supported that party since attaining his majority. Since 1846 he has been a valued and loyal representative of the Masonic fraternity, having joined the order at Chatham Four Corners, New York. He now belongs to the blue lodge, chapter, council and commandery, and has attained the Thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite. He passed all the chairs in the subordinate lodge and was one of the organizers of Galion Lodge, No. 414, F. & A. M. He also belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, and in 1884 served as commander of the post in this place. His life has been open to his fellow citizens, .and no suspicion of any doubtful practice in business has ever been attached to it. It has been clean in every way, and his influence has ever been for what is honest, for everything that is elevating, for everything that conserves the interests of the city, for everything that is sound in finance, for everything that is true and everything thatis right. JACOB H. PETRI. For more than a quarter of century Jacob Henry Petri has been numbered among the merchants of Galion and is to-day the leading dealer in men's furnishing goods and clothing. He also conducts a general merchant tailoring establisment, and through the long period of his association with commercial interests in the city he has enjoyed a large and constantly increasing patronage. A native of Germany, he was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Yeater) Petri, the former a farmer by occupation. In the year 1866 the subject of this review bade adieu to the fatherland, and, with a determination to seek his fortune in the new world, crossed the Atlantic to the United States. He had pursued his education in the public schools of Germany, but aside from his education had little to aid him in starting out in life on his own account. Ohio became the scene of his labors, and he took up his abode in the city of Akron, whence he came to Galion in 1872. Here for two and a half years he was employed as a cutter in a merchant tailoring establishment and 396 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY then, with the capital he had acquired through his industry and economy in former years, he began business on his own account, opening a merchant tailoring establishment. Success crowned his efforts and in about three years he increased his business by adding a line of ready-made clothing, hats and caps ; and so successfully has been his adventure that to-day he has. one of the finest and best stocked gents' furnishing stores in Galion. As the years have passed he has enjoyed an excellent trade, for his workmanship in the one department is reliable and the line of ready-made clothing which he carries is just what it is represented to be. His business methods are in harmony with the strictest ethics of commercial life, and his well known honesty and fair dealing have gained for him a liberal share of the public patronage. Mr. Petri was united in marriage to Miss Margaret B. Byrider, of Akron, Ohio, and unto them have been born the following named : Edward W., who is engaged in business with his father ; Otto G., who is also in the store;. Laura, Estella and Florence, who are at home. Mr. Petri is a valued and consistent member of the German Lutheran church of Galion, in which he has served as trustee through the past twenty years. He takes quite an active interest in public affairs, doing all in his power to promote the substantial development and upbuilding of the community. For four years he was a member of the city council and for six years was trustee of Polk township, while for three years he occupied a position on the board of equalization. In 1901 he received the nomination for county commissioner on the Democratic ticket. In the positions which he has filled his fidelity to duty has been most marked and commendable and has been the salient feature which has caused his retention in office. He is public spirited in an eminent degree : national progress and local advancement are causes both dear to the heart of this adopted and thoroughly loyal son of the republic. His devotion to the country is above question, and no native son of America is more true to her institutions or more faithful to his duties of citizenship.. WILLIAM LINN. It is generally conceded that the state of Ohio has a type of citizenship which is not surpassed by that of any other state in the 'Union. From its farming communities have come men of world-wide fame. Crawford county is particularly favored and among the representatives of old and honored families is William Linn, whose ancestors were among the early settlers. CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY - 397 William Linn was born in Holmes township, Crawford county, on July 17, 1835, a son of William and Sophia (Veivle) Linn, who reared a family of eight children, four of whom still survive, these being: William, of this sketch ; Caroline, the wife of Augustus Cronenbaugh, of Ada, Ohio ; Julia, the wife of Louis Holker, of Kansas City, Missouri ; and Louis, of 'Williams county, Ohio. The father and mother were born in Bavaria, Germany, and married there, where two children were born. In the spring of 1834 they emigrated to America, landing in New York City, after a voyage of thirty-five days, and coming then to Ohio, spending six months in Massillon, where Mr.. Linn worked at his trade of shoemaker. hey then came to Crawford county and settled on thirty acres of land, nearly all of which was covered with timber, on the Sandusky pike road, in Holmes township. Mr. Linn immediately set to work clearing his land and built. a log cabin and settled down to hard and laborious work. Later lie purchased eighty acres, which is now owned by 'our subject, and an additional eighty acres, which is now the property of Henry Leimenstoll. The father lived and died on the thirty-acre farm, on March 30, 1895, at the advanced age of ninety-one years. His political choice of party had been that of Democracy. A faithful member of the-German Lutheran church, he was valued for his many excellent qualities. Our subject was reared on the farm and found much to do while still a lad. His school facilities were limited, but his natural ability enabled him to learn quickly when he had the oportunity. In 1856 he married Miss Leah Fralick, a native of Holmes township, in this county, the daughter of Jacob Fralick, one of the early settlers of this county. Then Mr. Linn located on his present home farm, which was covered with timber except some fifteen acres, upon which was erected a log cabin. Game was plentiful, squirrels, wild pigeons and wild turkeys were abundant. Mr. Linn set about industriously to clear his land and paid his father a stipulated sum yearly up to the time of his death. A number of additions have been made to the original tract, and now Mr. Linn owns five hundred acres of some of the very choicest land in Crawford county. A family of seven children, two boys and five girls, blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Linn, these being: Washington G., a farmer of this township ; Lafayette, a farmer of this township; Allie J., the wife of T. W. James, of Holmes township ; Lucy A., the wife of Charles S. Spore, of Holmes township; Melissa, at home; Laura J., the wife of George Heilerman, of Marion county ; and Clara D., the wife of Welmer Sawyer, a manufacturer of soft drinks in. Bucyrus, Ohio. 398 - CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Mr. Linn is a stanch Republican, although he was born and bred a Democrat. Slavery in the old party caused him to join the Republicans. For many years he has been a consistent member of the German Lutheran church, and is one of the most highly esteemed men of the county. DANIEL BABST. Daniel Babst was born at Elkirch, a little village near Strasburg, France, March 11, 1810, and at the tins of his death had reached the advanced age of eighty-three years, one month and nine days. His father, Jacob Babst, was an officer in the French army, holding a commission from Napoleon I. His mother was of a wealthy and distinguished family of Great Hoffstaater, near the city of Berne, Switzerland. Her father was one of two staatsrather representing the canton of Berne in the stende-rath of Switzerland, an elective body corresponding to our United States senate. The youth of Daniel Babst was passed amid the stirring events following the time of Napoleon I, a vivid impression of which he ever retained, especially the return of Napoleon's straggling army from Waterloo. His home being broken up by the death of his mother he resolved to come to America, and landed in New York city in the summer of 1832. Some years later he was followed by the members of his immediate family. In his later years he was fond of relating to his grandchildren his hunting experiences on the present site of Central Park ; Hoboken, New York's populous suburb, comprising only truck farms. During his three years' residence in the city he was a frequent witness of the heartless persecution of the embryo Abolition Association, a fact which accounts for his subsequent anti-slavery activity. In 1835 he removed to Massillon, and from there to Canal Fulton, one of the most considerable towns on the Ohio canal, then the only direct connection between the lakes and the Ohio river. At Canal Fulton he was married to Margaret Yost in 1841, which union was blessed by seven children, five of whom, and the aged mother, survive him; the children being Mrs. C. F. Frank, Jacob Babst and Daniel Babst, Jr., of this city, Mrs. 'William Ritter, of Mansfield, and Thomas P. Babst, of Topeka, Kansas. Previous to his removal to Crestline, he made an extended prospecting tour through the west and northwest, spending several days at the present site of Chicago, then a mere hamlet, presenting no very attractive inducements to a prospective citizen. Crestline was one of the most important railroad towns in the State and presented advantages to Mr. Babsr, which resulted in his re-