1200 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY He is a prominent factor in Democratic politics and for ten years has served as a delegate to Congressional conventions, and at present holds position in county, city and ward. In 1901, at Crestline, Mr. Babst was married to Miss Effie A. Harworth, a daughter of Albert Hayworth, of Crestline. Mr. and Mrs. Babst are members of the Episcopal church. He is a member of the Blue Lodge, F. & A. M. and Chapter at Lima, O., and the Commandery at Mansfield, the Elks at Bucyrus and the Eagles at Crestline. He has retained membership also with his Greek letter fraternity at Kenyon College. LAFAYETTE YEAGLEY, secretary of the Crawford County Farmers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company, has devoted himself more or less exclusively to this important business enterprise since 1904, prior to which date, for some 20 years, being a teacher and a farmer. He is a native of Crawford county, born near Bucyrus in 1856. Mr. Yeagley enjoyed only such educational advantages as the public schools afforded but reading an active intelligence early qualified him for work as a teacher and for two decades he devoted his winters to educational work, while his summers were spent in agricultural pursuits. In 1904 he left the farm and school room and accepted his present position which he has filled with efficiency ever since. The Crawford County Farmers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company was organized and incorporated in 1877, tinder an act passed in March of that year. It is one of the substantial, sound and reliable companies of the state, giving insurance at a lower rate than any other company but having the financial backing and stringent laws together with admirable management, that makes this a great feature. Its officers are all dependable men, farmers with substantial properties. The president is Wesley Beal and vice president, Joseph H. Beard, while Mr. Yeagley is secretary and manages the affairs of the company from Bucvrus. The board of directors is made up of five farmers, there is one insurance adjuster and ten agents represent the company. The company has 6300 members, has issued 22.400 policies and has risks amounting to $ 15,000,000. Mr. Yeagley was married to Miss Jennie Ross, who was born and reared in Bucyrus township. They have three children: Bertha M., who is the wife of D. C. Holtsberry, of Bucyrus, and has one daughter, Dorothy J.; Mabel A., who is the wife of C. H. Newmann, and has one son, Emerson; and Etha A., who is the wife of Charles Schmidt, a druggist of Marion, O. Politically Mr. Yeagley is a Republican and was candidate for mayor on the Reform ticket, but Bucyrus is largely Democratic and he was defeated by a small majority. As an able business man and public spirited citizen he is well qualified for any office. Mr. Yeagley is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to the Commandery at Marion, O., and is past master of the Blue Lodge at Bucyrus. Both he and wife are active in the Methodist Episcopal church and he is financial secretary and a steward in the same. The family takes part in the pleasant social life that a large contingent of intellectual, earnest and cultured people make possible in this city. ERWIN S. BAGLEY, freight and station agent for the Big Four Railway at Crestline, O., locally known as the Cleveland Division, has been connected with this road at this point since August, 1866, occupying the same quarters. From 1866 until 1875. he was a clerk and was then advanced to his present position. He was born in Clinton county, N. Y., Oct. 19, 1852, and is a son of William W. and Agnes (Richmond) Bagley. William W. Bagley was born in Vermont, a direct descendant of a Revolutionary soldier. He was married in his native state to Agnes Richmond, who was of Scotch descent. In the early fifties he was connected with the Central Ohio Railway Company at Zanesville and Columbus, and in 1861 he came to Crestline to assume the duties of agent for the C. C. & C. Railroad, now the Rig Four, and all through that period during which Crestline was one of the leading railroad centers of the country, he served as freight and passenger agent here. He died in 1866, when aged forty-two years. During the Civil War he was an outspoken Union man and more than once his life and liberty were threatened by Northern sympathizers with the secessionists of the South, but he possessed moral as well as physical courage and never retracted or disguised his opinions. He attended the Pres- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1203 byterian church with his wife. She survived him many years, her death occurring at Crestline in February, 1909, when her age was 8r years, she at that time being one of the oldest residents. Of their family of four sons, Erwin S. was the eldest, the others being: James E., who makes his home at Washington, D. C., and who is prominent in musical circles; Frank J., traveling auditor for the Big Four Railroad, who resides at Indianapolis, Ind., married Emma, daughter of George Stull, of Crestline; and William H., who has charge of Standard Oil interests at Tulsa, Okla., and has two children. Erwin S. Bagley, since he was fourteen years of age has been identified with railroad affairs and with his present company and has practically grown up with it, and with almost a proprietary interest has watched the wonderful growth and extension of this system. Changes has come about, new roads have been constructed, other transportation lines have to some degree relieved Crestline traffic but the road itself has made wonderful progress. No one is better informed concerning all this than Mr. Bagley. After his father's death George H. Lee succeeded as agent, he being a son of the late Judge Lee. Mr. Lee continued in the office until 1875, when he was promoted and sent to Indianapolis and subsequently to Columbus, where his death occurred after his retirement, a man well known in railroad circles. Mr. Bagley succeeded Mr. Lee. He has been a resident of Crestline since he was ten years old, completing his education here and subsequently identifying himself with the best interests of this city, marrying her and investing in property. He stands as one of the stable, reliable and representative citizens, for ten years serving on the board of equalization and cheerfully bearing all the responsibilities which provide for the enjoyment of the privileges of high class citizenship. At Crestline Mr. Bagley was married, in 1880, to Miss Ione Reynolds, a daughter of F. B. and Margaret (Gauweiler) Reynolds. The parents of Mrs. Bagley were married in Morrow county, 0., and came to Crestline in 1873, where the father died, the mother still surviving. Mr. and Mrs. Bagley have one son, Erwin E., who is a graduate of the Crestline High School and is his father's chief clerk. He married Miss Jennie Lolcus of Crestline and they have two children; Edwin M. and Marion L. The family belongs to the Presbyterian church. JACOB BABST, sole proprietor and cashier of the Babst Banking House, at Crestline, O., is one of the prominent and progressive men of this city, his intimate connection with the banking interests of this part of the state, making him influential in financial affairs, while, additionally he is identified with all those movements which contribute to the substantial advancement of this section along other lines. He was born at Canal Fulton, in Stark county, O., Feb. 11, 1846, and is a son of Daniel Babst, who founded the Babst Banking House, in May, 1871. Jacob Babst came to Crestline with his parents, in 1853 and has resided here ever since. After his school days were over he learned the trade of a tinner, and as a journeyman traveled all over several states. In 1862 he was with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company and at the end of 12 months was offered an engine but declined the promotion, by the advice of his parents and continued work at his trade until January, 186 j. In January, 1868, he went into the stove and tinning business and was thus occupied for three years. He then in May, 1871, became connected with his father's banking house. The father conducted the business for seven years, with Jacob Babst as cashier and in 1878, Jacob and Daniel Babst, Jr., took charge of the hank, Jacob continuing as cashier, and they operated it together until 1886, when he became sole proprietor, retaining the old name and signing, Jacob Babst, Banker. Mr, Babst has many additional business interests. He is president of the Burch Plow Works, started in 1887 and incorporated in 1897; president of the Crestline Telephone Company, since its incorporation in 1902; treasurer of the Crestline Building & Loan Association since its incorporation in 1891, treasurer of the Crestline Manufacturing Company, an enterprise eight years old; a director of the Crestline Publishing Company for many years; and a director and member of the executive committee of the Ohio State Life Insurance Company, of Columbus, 0., which has 1204 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY resources amounting to half a million dollars. In politics, Mr. Babst is a Republican and is a member of the Crawford County Executive Committee and many times has been a delegate to important conventions. He has taken an active part in shaping public sentiment when the welfare of the city has been at stake, and is a representative of the best type of citizen. Mr. Babst has been identified with the Masonic order since 1868 and also belongs to the Order of Elks. He has long been a member and trustee of the Presbyterian church. He is a thorough master of every detail of his many business interests and yet finds time to keep in touch with the life of the outside world, doing his part and bearing his share of responsibility in making life better and of fuller meaning than the ordinary individual who works only for selfish ends ever understands. Mrs. Jacob Babst was a daughter of George Frederick and Caroline Stoll the seventh of a family of twelve children, being born at Upper Sandusky, March 20, 1848 and christened Mathilde Caroline Stoll. He father and mother were natives of Germany and came to America in 1832, after three months' sailing voyages. From New York they drove over the mountains to Pittsburgh, Pa., where they remained a short time before again taking up their migration to Ohio, which they did in 1838, finally settling with other members of the Stoll family at Upper Sandusky. Her father was a man of prominence among the pioneers of Wyandot and Crawford counties, not only as the builder of the earliest public buildings, but as a leader in public and religious affairs. He was an accomplished musician and possessed one of the few collections of books among the pioneers of the thirties. During the earlier years of Mrs. Babst's childhood at Upper Sandusky, some of the Wyandot Indians were still a part of the community life. Her father's home, with its own large family, was the center of a still larger family circle long prominent in both counties. Such was the childhood and girlhood surroundings of Mrs. Babst, much of which she passed in the companionship of her father, who inspired her with a desire for reading and education, which may be said to be the dominant purpose which influenced her entire life. Her own education was obtained in the Bucyrus union schools, where she became a teacher, as well as later teaching in the district schools of the county. Upon the death of her father in 1867 she became a teacher in the Crestline union schools, resigning her place to marry Jacob Babst of Crestline, on April 22, 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Babst resided in Crestline continuously, with the exception of the year 1872, when they were residents of Berea, Ohio, where Mr. Babst went to found the first bank of that town. Mrs. Babst died at Crestline on April 30, 1912, survived by her husband and their three children—Earl D., Jessie B. and Bertha S. Earl D. Babst, born July 6, 1870, graduated in law at Ann Arbor, Mich., in the class of 1894, and is now general counsel for the National Biscuit Company, of New York. He married Edwina Uhl, daughter of Edward F. Uhl, a prominent citizen of Grand Rapids, Mich., who was ambassador to Germany under President Cleveland's administration. Mr. and Mrs. Earl D. Babst have two children—Catherine De Gormo and Alice Edwina. Jesse B. Babst, born March 2, 1871, is the wife of Harry H. Cockley, formerly Secretary of the Shelby Tube Company, of Shelby, Ohio, but who is now engaged in the orange growing industry at Nordhoff, California. They have three children—Harriet B., Edith P. and Clayton B. Bertha S. Babst, born December 6, 1878, was educated at Detroit, Mich. She married Henry E. Freeman, who is secretary and treasurer of the American Trust and Banking Company of Springfield, Ohio, and now resides in that city. Mrs. Babst never tired of her kindly interest in young people and, in addition to maintaining a generous hospitality for the wide circle of personal and family friends, always found opportunity for stimulating others, especially young people, with an interest in literary and historical subjects. Her own children, under her immediate supervision, received their education in the Crestline public schools, and afterwards in the University of Michigan, for her son, and in the best girls' boarding schools of the larger cities for her daughters, supplemented by European travel. As a member of the Presbyterian church of Crestline, she took an active interest in the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1205 work of foreign missions and for many years took a leading part as an officer of the Woman's Missionary Society of the Bellefontaine Presbytery, reading many original papers, based on wide reading and requiring technical, historical and literary research. As the constant companion and advisor of her husband through forty-three years of married life, in which he was the recognized leader in Crestline financial and commercial enterprises, she won wide respect and admiration, worthy of her inheritance. In the remembrance of her high ideals, her work for church and missions, her devotion to family and friends, there is an inspiration and example, which will long stimulate all who knew her forceful and commanding character. So high was the affection and esteem in which she was held that on the day of her funeral, for the only time in the history of Crestline, every business house was closed out of respect to her memory. CHARLES M. HERSHNER,* stock dealer and livery man, conducting sales stables in the old Sam Hedrick barns, on Liberty Street, Galion, O., has been established here since 1897 and does a large business along each line. He was born in Morrow county, O., June 4, 1886, a son of Jacob and a grandson of Andrew Hershner. Andrew Hershner was born in Pennsylvania and when he came to Morrow county, O., secured virgin land in Troy township, which he developed into a valuable farm, on which he died in his 86th year. In early life he was a school teacher. He married Mary Edinger, who died in Morrow county when aged 70 years. They were members of the United Brethren church. Of their nine children seven still survive. Jacob Hershner was born in Troy township, Morrow county and spent his whole life on the old homestead there, where he died in 1905, when aged 56 years. He was a successful farmer and dealt in stock. He married Emma McCune, who was born in Morrow county, a daughter of Joseph McCune, the family being of Scotch ancestry. She died on the old homestead in 1899. They had three children: Charles M.; Bert, a street car conductor living at Columbus, who married there and has one son, Avery; and Verda, now deceased, who was the wife of Irvin Colver. Charles M. Hershner was reared on the home farm and before lie reached his majority had proved a shrewd stock dealer and carried on a large business in handling stock while he still made his headquarters on the farm. Since coming to Galion he had added other business features and conducts one of the best livery stables in this section, having fifteen horses with complete outfits, together with all kinds of modern conveyances for hire. He has become one of the representative business men of the city. Mr. Hershner was married in Troy township, Morrow county, to Miss Emma Meckley, who was born there and was a daughter of Andrew Meckley, who is one of the substantial farmers of Troy township, now in his loth year. Mrs. Hershner died at Galion, Dec. 10, 19o8, and is survived by two clildren : M. Adelaide, who is nine years old, and Laura M., who is in her seventh year, both little maidens being pupils in the public schools. Politically Mr. Hershner is a Democrat and fraternally is identified with the Elks and the Eagles. EDWARD LIBINS,* bank clerk for the Babst Banking House at Crestline, 0., was born in this city, Jan. 24, 1874, and is a son of John and Margaret (Kile) Libins. John Libins was born in Germany and came to the United States in early manhood, locating at first in Maryland, where he married Margaret Kile. Some years later they came to Crestline, O., where John Libins died when aged about 45 years. His widow survives. They were members of the English Lutheran church. Six of their children survive, four of whom are married and all but one reside at Crestline. Edward Libins obtained his education in the public schools and then became an employe of the Babst Banking House where he has continued for 23 years and is bookkeeper for the bank. He is held in high esteem by Mr. Babst who has watched his upward rise with interest and is not slow in showing appreciation of the honesty and fidelity of those in whom he feels he can repose the utmost confidence, Mr. Libins being one of these. Mr. Libins married Miss Margaret E. Pow- 1206 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY ell, who was born and educated in Morrow county, O., and they have one daughter, Marian K., who was born March 23, 1907, at Crestline. Mr. and Mrs. Libins are members of the Presbyterian church. He holds an independent attitude as to politics. WILBUR GRIFFETH, a successful business man of Crestline, O., has been a dealer in livestock for the past 20 years and for the past eight years has also conducted a meat market in this city. He was born at Plymouth, O., was reared and educated there and some 13 years since came to near Crestline. Levi Griffeth, father of Wilbur, was of Welsh ancestry, and lived on the farm in Ohio on which he was born and died there in 1899, when aged 73 years. He married Nancy Kelley, who was born at Plymouth, O., of Irish parents, and died when aged 63 years. They had four children : Ida, who died at Tiffin, O., who was the wife of Harold B. Adams; Wilbur, our subject; Benjamin F., a Baptist minister located at Granville, O., who has two daughters and one son; and Charles, who owns and operates the old home farm, and who has one son. Mr. Griffeth owns a farm near Crestline and on that is located his slaughter house. He has been interested in the livestock business almost his entire active life and at times has shipped as much as a car load a week. He maintains his home on his farm which he carefully cultivates in addition to attending to his other business. At Plymouth, O., Mr. Griffeth was married to MissPhebee Smith, who was born at Crestline but was reared and educated at Plymouth, a daughter of Charles J. and Mary (Taylor) Smith. Mr. Smith was an engineer on the Pennsylvania Railroad for some years and then engaged in farming and died at Plymouth, O., at the age of 73 years, being still survived by his widow, who is now in her 72nd year. Mr. and Mrs. Griffeth have one daughter, Ruth M., who was educated at Crestline and resides with her parents. In politics Mr. Griffeth is a Democrat but is no seeker for office. He is identified with the Knights of Pythias at Crestline. JOHN L. HAZLETT,* one of Crestline's best known citizens, for many years a rail road engineer and a veteran officer of the great Civil War, was born in County Derry, Ireland, in May, 1844. Mr. Hazlett can recall nothing of his very early life, his father dying when he was very young and his mother coming to the United States shortly afterward. He was reared by an uncle, with whom he remained until he was sixteen years of age, when he came to America and joined his mother, that being his earliest recollection of her. Landing at Philadelphia, Pa., he went to his mother at Wilmington, Dela. Later in life she came to Ohio and died in advanced age, in Perry County. In 1860 Mr. Hazlett came to Crestline, O., and entered the service of the Pennsylvania Railway. On October 6, 1861, he enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering Co. K, 64th O. Vol. Inf., and was honorably discharged in January, 1866, having been made a veteran by re-enlistment in 1864, his rank being sergeant and orderly sergeant. He may well be proud of his record which shows him to have been a courageous, cheerful, obedient and active soldier, ever at the post of duty and uncomplainingly bearing the many hardships which fall to a soldier's lot. He was in the entire campaign from Shiloh to Nashville and the names of the historic battlefields are very familiar to him, his memory recalling their dangers, terrors and triumphs as he fought on their sites. He was never captured and but once was wounded, that being by a minie ball in the hip at the battle of Chickamauga. On many occasions he won hearty commendation from his superior officers, one of these being Captain, now General E. B. Finley, of Bucyrus. After the war closed. Sergeant Hazlett returned to Crestline and resumed work with the railroads, becoming an engineer, and thus remaining until he was retired. At Crestline, Mr. Hazlett was married to Miss Susan Fate, who was born in Crawford County, February 22, 1846, was reared in Jackson township, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Baker) Fate. Her father was of German extraction but was born in Pennsylvania, while her mother was born in Baden. Germany. At the age of sixteen years Elizabeth Baker accompanied her parents to Richland county, O. She was married at Crestline to John Fate and they secured and improved land in Jackson township, where both AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1209 died. They were among the charter members of the German Lutheran church in Jackson township but later in life united with the Methodists. Of their eight children three are yet living, one of these being Mrs. Hazlett. To Mr. and Mrs. Hazlett four children were born, namely: Charles, who is a railway conductor residing at Newark, O., married and has one daughter, Florence; Orlando J., who is a conductor with the Santa Fe line, lives in New Mexico, and has two children—Nellie M. and Beatrice; Huldah V., who is the wife of Bruce Frank, who is a railroad man in California, and has two sons—Carl W. and Charles H. and August, who died when about five years old. Mr. Hazlett is a member of Snyder Post No. 129, G. A. R. Mrs. Hazlett tells in a very interesting manner of the building up of Crestline and relates many incidents connected with railroad building in this section, her memory going back to the commencement of these great industrial developments. GEORGE W. ALBRIGHT, a retired farmer and highly esteemed citizen of Bucyrus, O., was born in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., May 15, 1842, and is a son of Joseph Albright and a grandson of Daniel Albright. Daniel Albright was born in Berkes county, Pa., about 1776, and was a brother of Rev. Jacob Albright, who was the founder of the religious body known as the Albright Methodists, which, to all intents and purposes, is now the Evangelical church and numbers many thousand in its membership. The father of Daniel and Rev. Jacob Albright, was born in Germany and he was the first of the family to come to America. He settled in Pennsylvania and died there in old age. Daniel Albright learned the brickmaking trade and also engaged in farming. He married Esther Wagner, who belonged to another old German family of Pennsylvania, and afterward resided in Berks and Juniata counties, Pa. From Pennsylvania Daniel Albright and family, in 1813, moved to Ohio, bringing their household possessions with then in wagons, and made settlement on new land near New Lisbon, Columbiana county, O. There he followed the trade o; brickmaking and there the wife died, his death taking place in Crawford county. Joseph Albright, son of Daniel Albright, was born in Juniata county, Pa., May 15, 1801 and thus was 12 years old when the family reached Ohio. In 1829, after marriage, he left Columbiana county and came to Crawford county, bringing his wife and their one child, together with an eight-day clock and another cherished piece of furniture, in an ox-cart. He purchased 20 acres of land of James Scott, who had secured great tracts of Government land at an early day, paying the sum of $100 for the same. Here he started a brickyard and manufactured the first bricks ever made in Crawford county, and sold the first bricks used in the construction of the old Boyer residence, which is now within the city limits. It is now the property of the Crawford County Agricultural Society. Subsequently Joseph Albright purchased 20 additional acres of land and still later, 40 more acres, and this continued to be his home until the close of his life, his death occurring May 27, 1884. He had also, at times, bought timbered tracts which were very valuable. After 1840 he devoted his attention to farming and stock raising. In early life he was a Whig but later became a Republican. All his life he was a man of sterling character and after he experienced religion, at a religious gathering held under an oak three on his own farm, was a consistent member of the Albright Methodist body and did much to advance its work in this section. At his hearthstone all the preachers were welcome and when they went on their missionary way it was not only with his assurances of good will but with substantial assistance that often was sadly needed. About 1828 Joseph Albright was married in Columbiana county, O., to Hannah Jury, who was born March r, 1812, a daughter of Silas and Anna (Thorp) Jury, of Welsh ancestry but natives of Virginia. Silas Jury died in his native state and his widow married a Mr. Banks and they moved to Crawford county, O. Mrs. Albright died Oct. 4, 1890. To Joseph and Hannah Albright the following children were born: Sarah A., deceased, who was the wife of D. J. Sheckler, also deceased: Daniel B., deceased, who was survived by two sons and two daughters—Charles, James, Cora and Flora: Emanuel, deceased, who was a farmer and was survived by nine children- 1210 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY William, Joseph, George, Mary, Gertrude, Grace, Nellie, Fred and Margaret; Hester A., deceased, who is survived by her husband, James Ludwig, and who was the mother of an infant, also deceased; Joseph, Jr., who is a resident of South Bend, Ind., and has three sons and one daughter—Edwin, Zuah, Silas and Bertrum; George W., whose name heads this sketch; John Thompson, who is a farmer in Holmes township, Crawford county and has three children—Franklin, Anna, deceased, and Hannah; Marcia, deceased, who was the wife of W. T. Minnich, of Bucyrus, and has one child, Orris; Hannah, who is the wife of W. C. Kelly, of Bucyrus, and has three children -Hetty, Clarence and Bessie; and Frank, who resides at Bucyrus and has one son and one daughter—Cassius and Desdamonia. George W. Albright was reared on the old home place and the larger part of the homestead finally became his own property. He engaged there in agricultural pursuits until 1910, when he retired to Bucyrus and in the following year erected his fine business block on South Sandusky street, his residence being at No. 210 on the same thoroughfare. Mr. Albright is independent in his political sentiments to a large degree but nominally is a Republican. Mr. Albright was married in Whetstone township, Crawford county, in 1866, to Miss Jemima Scott, who was born in that township, Jan. 22, 1845, and is a daughter of James Scott and a granddaughter of James Scott. James Scott, the grandfather of Mrs. Albright, was born in Pennsylvania and was there married to Esther Halstead, and in 1822, with their family they came to Crawford county, making the long overland journey in the great covered wagons drawn by oxen. In Crawford county James Scott entered 320 acres of Government land and it was from this far-sighted pioneer that Joseph Albright bought his first 20 acres of land. On this tract Mr. Scott developed a fine farm, made all necessary improvements and lived long enough to enjoy them, passing away when aged 6o years. His widow lived to be 72 years of age. James Scott, Jr., son of James and father of Mrs. Albright, was born about 1796, near Wilkesbarre, Pa., and died in He accompanied his parents to Ohio and in Holmes township, Crawford county, was married to Caroline Martin. She was born in 1816, in England and in 1822 accompanied her parents to the United States and to Crawford county, O. They were James and Sarah (Hawks) Martin, the former of whom was born in Ireland and when 16 years of age matte his way to England. There he entered the British Navy and while serving for 14 years as a sailor, through his own efforts acquired a good education and became a man of religious conviction. When he came to Crawford county he settled in Holmes township, on what is now the Gephart estate. He taught school and also was a preacher for a time and was one of the first auditors of Crawford county. He died when aged 66 years and was survived by his wife for eight years. After the death of James Scott. Mrs. Scott married James Boner and died in Crawford county at the age of 48 years, Mr. Boner subsequently passing away at the home of a daughter, by a previous marriage. Mrs. Albright has one brother, Joseph Martin Scott, who resides with his family on his farm in Holmes township. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Albright: Georgianna, a popular teacher, who was educated in the schools of Bucyrus and at Berea College; Grace, who died at the age of 38 years, unmarried, a highly educated, cultured woman and a graduate of Baldwin University and of the Northwestern University, Chicago, Ill.; Mercy, who died at the age of 27 years, was also highly educated and a college graduate; Silas J., who died in infancy; Carrie, who is the wife of Forest R. McFarland: and Roscoe D., who died at the age of rd years. Mr. and Mrs. Albright and all their children have been members of the Methodist Episcopal church and active and interested workers. Mr. Albright was a charter member of the old order of Patrons of Husbandry, in Whetstone township, Crawford county. CHARLES GALLINAGER. Among the lawyers of Crawford county Charles Gallinger stands as one of the most successful. He has won his standing at the bar by his careful attention to the legal phases of his cases and by bringing to his work an understanding of right and justice which enable him to make AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1211 convincing arguments and to present his cases either to court or jury in a thoroughly convincing way. Charles Gallinger was born near ingert'ss Corners, in Lykins township. Crawford county, Ohio, on June 26th, 1869. His parents were Philip and Louisa (Angene) Gallinger. His father was a Bavarian, and his mother was born in French (now German) territory. iss father died in 1879, and his mother in 9055. The parents are intered in the Brokensword Cemetery. Charles Gallinger is the youngest of five children, all living. He received a common school education, and was an applicant for a teacher's certificate when only 13 years old,, but was refused a certificate on account of his age: lie secured one the following year, however, when H. J. Tracht, Reuben Stable and T. F. Kimerline were the county school examiners. He regularly attended each annual county examination, securing certificates, although he did not teach school until he was 18 years of age when he taught his home school three consecutive terms. Immediately thereafter he attended the Ohio Normal University at Ada, Ohio, for one year, at the end of which time he returned home for want of funds with which to complete a collegiate course, and while at home he continued to assist his brother on the farm, reading law during his spare hours. In September, 1893, he came to Bucyrus and commenced reading law in the office of Finley & Bennett, and in the following June he passed the law examination and was admitted to the bar at Columbus, standing third highest in a class of 63 applicants. He did not commence the practice of law until December, 1896, when he started alone, but two months thereafter, on the expiration of the term of Gen. E. B. Finley as Circuit Judge, a partnership was formed under the name of Finley & Gallinger. which has continued ever since in the legal practice in all the courts. State and Federal. In 1900 Mr. Gallinger was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Crawford county, and held the office for six years. He has been an indefatigable worker in his chosen profession and has built up a large and very lucrative practice. He has been engaged in some of the most important cases in the courts, and his firm is counsel for the New York Central lines in the county, and for a great many of the leading manufacturing plants. Mr. Gallinger brought to his chosen profession a natural love for study and the mastery of intricate problems. It was by conscientious devotion to a study of the principles of law that he has been able to attain and hold the high position as a practicing attorney. He gives to every case a care and determination to win which have naturally resulted to the advantage of his clients and he has won success for them by understanding their cases and applying his legal talents for their benefit. Mr. Gallinger was married July 14, 1903, to Miss Clara Hoffman, daughter of John and Anna (Burns) Hoffman, and she has been active in good works in and for the upbuilding of Bucyrus, her work as head of the Kings Daughters being especially noteworthy. Mr. Gallinger has always taken a firm stand in helping his home town and with both counsel and cash he willingly helps the city. JOHN H. SHEETZ, cashier of the Farmers Exchange Bank, of New Washington, O., is a member of one of the old and substantial families of Crawford County, one that has been identified with many leading interests and activities of this section. Mr. Sheetz was born at New Washington, Ohio, August 29, 1852, a son of John A. and Margaret (Donnenwirth) Sheetz. John A. Sheetz was born in Wuertemberg, Germany, Sept. 6, 1809. In 1830 he came to America, landing in New York City. From New York he went to Columbiana County, Ohio. For several years he was employed as a farm hand and at various occupations which would yield him an honest living, receiving but six dollars per month in the first capacity. From Columbiana County he went to Dayton. Ohio. About 1835, he came to Crawford County to visit his sister and while herebecamee so favorably impressed with the agricultural possibilities of this section that he bought ninety acres of land situated in Auburn Township which tract includes the present site of the village of Waynesburg. He erected a log cabin and began the task of clearing his land and cultivating crops. John A. Sheetz was a man of enterprise and became one of local 1212 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY importance. He was the first postmaster at New Washington and for several years prior to the establishment of the office here, carried the mails, once a week walking to a point four miles west of the village to meet the stage, its route not taking in New Washington. During his later years he was engaged in the mercantile business at New Washington. He was a sturdy, honest, self reliant man, whose whole life was an exemplification of the meritorious qualities which belong to the race from which he came. At Dayton, Ohio, John A. Sheetz was married in May, 1836, to Margaret Weisenbacher, who died in July following. In October, 1837, he was married secondly to Margaret Weaver, who was born in Auburn township, Crawford County, and lived but a little over one year after marriage, being survived by a daughter, Catharine Agatha, who is the wife of William H. Donnenwirth, of Canton, Ohio. His third marriage took place at New Washington, Ohio, in 1842, with Mrs. Margaret (Donnenwirth) Hesse, daughter of George Donnenwirth and widow of Ehregott Hesse. Mrs. Sheetz was born in Alsace, Germany. Her first husband was a merchant at New Washington, and after his death she continued in the business until after her marriage with Mr. Sheetz, when he took charge of the same and carried it on until 1866, when his son Jacob became a partner under the firm name of John A. Sheetz and Son. In 1876 he went into the banking business, in which he remained until his death, which occurred Dec. 7, 1889. To the above marriage six children were born, four of whore are yet living, namely: Jacob, president of the Farmers Exchange Bank of New Washington, Ohio; Caroline, the wife of John L. Assenheimer, of Bucyrus, Ohio: John H. Sheetz, cashier of the Farmers Exchange Bank, and Louisa P., widow of the late John NI. Guiss, of New Washington, Ohio. John H. Sheetz attended the public schools at New Washington, and later at Oberlin College. He learned the principles of banking at Mt. Union business college, Mt. Union, Ohio, where he took a business course. During the last two years of his school life he spent the summer months on his father's farm. Agricultural pursuits being congenial to him, he desired to engage in farming, but in 1872 at the earnest solicitation of his father, he became a clerk in the latter's store and served in that capacity until 1874, when lie purchased his father's interest in the business and became a partner of his brother Jacob, under the firm name of Jacob Sheetz and Brother. This firm continued in business until 1904, when they sold their stock of goods to William Foos. In 1876 the Farmers Exchange Bank was organized and our subject became cashier and financial manager. The success of the bank is largely due to his efforts, which have resulted in making this one of the leading financial institutions of the county. On Oct. 2, 1889, he was married to Miss Theresia W. Michaelis, who was born at Bucyrus, Ohio, and is a daughter of Rev. August Michaelis. The latter was born in Prussia and came to America about 1840, when a young man, subsequently entering the ministry of the Lutheran Church. To John H. Sheetz and wife the following children were born : John A., who is a student at Capital University, Columbus, O., a member of the class of 1913; and Walter F., who is attending the same educational institution and is a member of the class of 1915, both promising students and fine types of young American manhood, In addition to his banking interests, Mr. Sheetz is a director in the New Washington Lumber and Manufacturing Company. He is a member of the Lutheran Church. In political sentiment he is a Democrat. FARMERS EXCHANGE BANK, of New Washington, O., was organized in 1876 and thus is one of the oldest financial institutions of the county and has enjoyed unusual prosperity. Its officers were: John A. Sheetz, president : Jacob Sheetz, vice president ; and John H. Sheetz, cashier, and this board continued to operate the bank until the death of John A. Sheetz in 1889. The business was then reorganized with Jacob Sheetz as president: John M. Guiss, vice president, and John H. Sheetz, cashier, the directors and stockholders, in addition to the officers, being Mrs. Margaret Sheetz and Mrs. Louisa P. Guiss. The death of John M. Guiss in 1910 and of Mrs. Margaret Sheetz in 1802, called for changes and accordingly Jacob Sheetz continued as presi- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1213 dent, Mrs. Louisa P. Guiss became vice president, John H. Sheetz continued as cashier; George H. Seitter became assistant cashier in 1904 and in 1910 Miss Ida L. Kimerline became bookkeeper. This bank was organized with a capital stock of .$2,000.00. It now has a surplus account of $25,000.00 and its undivided profits aggregate $10,082.71. The earliest location of the bank was in the back part of the J. Sheetz & Bro. store, which mercantile business was sold in 1904 to William Foos, and in 1905 the present commodious and modern bank building was erected. Its dimensions are 25x64 feet, two stories high, of brick construction, the entire first floor being devoted to the banking departments and the second floor occupied by the local telephone exchange and by tenants. The bank is equipped with a burglar and fire proof vault, with inside dimensions of 7X11 is feet and an .automatic time-lock door weighing three tons. Conveniences for the patrons of the bank have also been provided and the interests of all customers are carefully conserved. The officers of the concern are members of the American Bankers' Association; the Ohio Bankers' Association, and of the Ohio Private Bankers' Association. GEORGE A. BRAUSE,* who owns 705 acres of land in Lykens township, Crawford county, was born in this township, May 29, 1855, a son of Rudolph and Catherine (Klink) Brause. Rudolph Brause was a native of Germany but at the age of six years came to the United States and in 1830 located in Lykens township, Crawford county, where he became a well known farmer. He married, as before intimated, Catherine Klink, who was also born in Germany, in Wurtemberg, and who at the age of six years came with her parents to the United States, they in 1828 settling in Liberty township, Crawford county. To Rudolph Brause and his wife were born the following children Caroline, who died when aged 2T years: George A.; John; Fidelia, deceased, who was the wife of Jacob Zeigler; Willis H., a resident of Lykens township: and Emma, who died when aged 46 years. Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph Brause belonged to the Lutheran church. George A. Brause received his educational training in the common schools of Lykens township and then turned his attention to farming. He at first assisted his father in the cultivation of the home place, but when he was 25 years of age he had through his industry and frugality acquired enough capital to be able to purchase a tract of 80 acres with but little help from his parents. To this tract he has added until he now has joy acres of valuable land, on which he carries on general farming along scientific lines, also raising some stock. On February 12, 1889, Mr. Brause was united in marriage to Miss Mary Anna Green, who was born in Chatfield township, this county. Her parents, Jacob and Magdalena (Drefts) Green, were natives of Germany but came to this country when young and were married here. Jacob Green was a farmer. Both he and his wife are now deceased and are buried at Sheely cemetery near Sulphur Springs. To them were born the following children : John; Catherine, wife of Emanuel Ulmer; Daniel; Benjamin; Gottlieb; Edward; Louisa, deceased, who was the wife of Jobn Bower; Sophia, the wife of Jacob Feightner; Mary Anna, the wife of our subject; and Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of of Abraham Clopftesteen. To Mr. and Mrs. Geo. A. Brause have been born children as follows: Edward Rudolph, Walter George, Clarence Albert, Rosa Anna and Hattie Magdalena Catherine. A Democratic in politics, Mr. Brause is serving as a member of the school board. He and his family are affiliated with the German Lutheran church. EDWARD VOLLRATH has been a lifelong resident of Bucyrus. He was born of German parentage, 54 years ago, at the old homestead on the northeast corner of Mary and Walnut streets. He attended the public schools at his native city, graduating from the High School in the class of 1878. Part of his youth was spent in learning the trade of the cabinetmaker and joiner in his father's wood-working establishment at Bucyrus, and when he resumed his studies in the local schools he had become an expert wood worker. After graduating from the Bucyrus schools lie entered Wittenberg College at Springfield, Ohio, in the fall of 1878, and remained at this latter institution 1214 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY until the close of his junior year in the spring of 1881. He subsequently entered Princeton College and graduated from that institution in the classical course with the degree of A. B. in 1883. I-le afterwards received the degree of A. M. from Princeton. After leaving college Mr. Vollrath began the study of law in the law office of General E. B. Finley at Bucyrus and was admitted to practice by the Supreme Court of Ohio in the fall of 1885. He immediately entered upon the practice of his profession at Bucyrus and has continued in the practice of the law in this city since that time. In December, 1904, Mr. Vollrath was appointed Circuit Judge by Governor Myron T. Herrick for the Third Circuit of Ohio to succeed Judge Mooney who had died. Jude Vollrath occupied this position for a period of one year, being defeated at the ensuing election by Judge Michael Donnelly, of Napoleon. Judge Vollrath made a second campaign for this same position in the fall of 1906, but was again defeated by Judge Donnelly, who had an overwhelming democratic plurality behind him. Although defeated, Judge Vollrath had the satisfaction of reducing the normal democratic plurality of ten thousand to three thousand. Mr. Vollrath was united in marriage June 27, 1888, with Miss Millie Wise, daughter of William and Eliza J. Wise, of said city. To this union were born five children, Jeanne Elizabeth, Edna Grace, Charles Victor, Carol Permilla and Edward Wise Vollrath. Mrs. Vollrath died February z, 1910. Mr. Vollrath became identified with the Ohio ,National Guard in April. 1884, enlisting as a private in Company "A" of the Eighth Regiment. He was elected and commissioned captain of his company in 1886, became major in 1892 and in that capacity served with his regiment during the Spanish-American war. The regiment saw service in the siege of Santiago in Cuba and assisted in the reduction of the province of that name. Major Vollrath was present at the surrender of Santiago and, returning to the states with his regiment at the close of the war, was commissioned lieutenant-colonel in the fall of 1899. Upon the organization of the Division, Ohio National Guard. Colonel Vollrath was elected and commissioned colonel of his regiment, the Eighth Ohio, with rank elating from December 23, 1899, and has remained in command of his regiment since that date. This regiment, under Colonel Vollrath's command, has been called upon by the governor of Ohio on various occasions in aid of the civil authorities. Colonel Vollrath has always been a Republican in politics. Socially and fraternally he is a veteran member of the Knights of Pythias. In his church relations he has been a member of St. Paul's Lutheran church of Bucyrus, Sunday school and church, since early childhood. Colonel Vollrath, whose full name is Charles Edward Vollrath, is the son of Charles and Elizabeth (Hocker) Vollrath. The father was a native of Schwartzburg-Rudelstadt, Saxony, and the mother is a native of the grand duchy of Baden. The father, Charles Vollrath, who died December 26, 1902, was for long years prominent in manufacturing circles in Bucyrus and the head of the manufacturing firm of Vollrath Brothers. The manufacturing establishment on the corner of Mary and Walnut streets, Bucyrus, and the lumber yards in connection therewith, were long and well known to the older citizens of Bucyrus. THE BRINKMAN FAMILY* of Tod township, Crawford county, O., is one well known and highly respected and was established here by the grandfather of the present representatives, William F., Edward F. and Jesse R. Brinkman. The grandparents came from Germany but the father, Jacob Brinkman, was born on the farm known as the Brinkman homestead, on which he passed his life as a farmer, and died March 17, i895, when aged 52 years, four months and twelve days. Jacob Brinkman did much to develop and improve his farm of fertile land, leaving to his family an estate of 229 22-100 acres, with substantial buildings. stock and machinery. He was a man of sterling character and commanded the respect of all who knew him either as a business man or as a neighbor. He married Augusta Smith, who was born in Germany and still survives, residing with her youngest son. Three sons were born to them: William F., Edward F. and Jesse R. William F. married Sarah Ferrall and they have had four children: Nina Harper. deceased, Clarence and Henrietta. Edward F. married Della AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1215 Shell and they have three children: Hazel, Lela and Robert. Jesse R. was married first to Gertrude Pickering, who died without issue, and second to Tornette Wingert. William F. follows the carpenter trade while the other sons carry on the farm industries and all are reliable and respected business men. It is a Democratic family and all the sons are active and interested citizens. William F. served for a number of years in the office of constable; Edward F. was township trustee for six years, while Jesse R., at the present writing, is his party's candidate for county commissioner. The brothers are closely united in all their interests. They belong to the Methodist Episcopal church. JAMES D. FERREE, newspaper reporter and historical writer, Bucyrus, Ohio, is a descendant from an old French Hugenot family and traces his ancestry back to Robert La Ferree, who in A. D. 1265 was confirmed to an extensive estate at Forchamps in lower Normandy and became the founder of the family. During the troubled period following the revocation of the edict of Nantes in 1685, Daniel Ferree and wife, whose maiden name was Mary Warembur, with their family, escaped from France, made their way to Strasbourg, where they resided for some time, then went to Lindau in Bavaria, where the father, who was a silk manufacturer of wealth, died in a few years. A short time after his death his widow decided to emigrate to America with her children—three sons and three daughters. Her passport dated Bittingheim, March 10, 1708, as well as the family's certificate of standing and withdrawal from the French Reformed church at Pelican, of which they were members, under date of May 10th, 1708, are still in the possession of her descendants. They came via Holland and England : in the latter company they remained several months. Madam Ferree and family were introduced to Queen Ann by William Penn, both of whom extended many favors that greatly assisted the Madam in bringing her family to the new colonies. Her patent of naturalization and permission to colonize in America bear the date of August 27th. 1708. Upon the family's arrival at New York in the fall of 1708 they went to Esopus about 100 miles north of that place on the Hudson river, where they had relatives. In the spring of 1712 they emigrated to the Pequea valley, Lancaster county, Pennsylvania and located upon a land grant of 2,000 acres, granted to the family by William Penn, the warrant bears the date of September 10th, 1712. There it was that the Madam with her children established their home in the new world and became the progenitors of all of the name in the United States. Shortly after her arrival in the Pequea Valley, Madam Ferree vested in the care of trustees a plot of ground for burial purposes for the use of the settlers. In early times it was known as the "Ferree Graveyard," but the faun upon which it was located eventually became the property of the Carpenter family and at the present it is known as the "Carpenter Graveyard." It is located near the village of Paradise, Lancaster county, and in it the Madam and many of her descendants are buried. Her posterity is numbered by the thousands and are to be found in nearly every state in the Union. Many of them have attained distinction in the various walks of life. The archives in the War Department at Washington contains the records of more than thirty of the name that were in the Revolutionary war, among the more prominent were Col. John Ferree, who cammanded the Tenth Pennsylvania Rifles; Col. Joel Ferree, who commanded the First Battalion of Lancaster Associators; Major Michael Ferree and twenty-nine others who served as non-commissioned officers and privates. The Madam's descendants were also prominent in the war of 1812, among them was Col. Joel Ferree, who commanded the Pennsylvania troops that built the fort at Upper Sandusky and named it Fort Ferree in his honor. In the Rebellion large numbers were conspicuous, but we will pass them all by but one, whose great military talents and glorious achievements have not only shed a lustre on his Huguenot ancestry but covered his memory with undying glory—Major General John F. Reynolds, commander of the First Army Corps at the battle of Gettysburg. Again in the Spanish-American War her descendants were conspicuous. Admiral Winfield S. Schley, the hero of Sanitago, was a great grandson of Rebecca Ferree, who was a great-granddaughter of Madam Ferree. Our subject traces his lineage from Madam 1216 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Ferree through Philip, her youngest son, who died in the Pequea Valley and is buried in the old Ferree graveyard. Jacob, Sr., born in Lancaster county, died in York county. Jacob, Jr., born in York county and died in Adams county and was a Revolutionary war soldier. William, born in Adams county, July 14th, 1779, died in Richland county, Ohio, October 14th, 1846. He married at Carlisle, Pa., February 11th, 1808, Mary L. Le Boob, who was born in Adams county, Pa., March 2d, 1779, died in Richland county, Ohio, January 27th, 1849. She was of French and Swiss descent, her grandfather, Michael Le Boob, having been a Huguenot refugee and married a Swiss woman and came to America prior to 1760 It might be mentioned that the Le Boobs were the last of our subject's ancestors, on both paternal and maternal side to come from a foreign country. In 1826 William and Mary M. Ferree emigrated with their family of eight children from Cumberland county, Pa., to Franklin, now Weller township, Richland county, Ohio. Their eldest son, James B. Ferree, born November 14th, 18o8, in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, died August 2d, 1862, in Richland county, Ohio. Married March 22d, 1842, at Mansfield, Ohio, bliss Elizabeth Davidson, born January 1st, 1803, at Carlisle, Pa., died March 8th, 1864, at Shelby, Ohio. They were the parents of twins, one died in infancy the other being the father of our subject. William Henry was born in Richland county July 26th, 1843, received his education in the country schools and the "Shelby Institute." Was married November 17th, 1863, at Shelby. Ohio, to Miss Eliza Dickerson, who was born January 29th, 1844, at Martinsburg, Knox county. Ohio, and died June 9th, 1911 at Bucyrus. Her ancestry is traced back to William the Conqueror's invasion of England, when Walter de Coen was given the manor of Kenson in Yorkshire, by the Conqueror as a reward for valor on the field of battle. Philemon Dickerson came over from England in 1630 with Winthrop's colonists. In 1643 he moved to the north shore of Long Island. His grandson, Peter, located in Morris county, New Jersey, in 1741 ; his son Silas lived and died in that state and among his children was Peter, who resided many years at Doylestown, Pa., and married Addie Kahl, of Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Their last born, a son, was named for his uncle, Mahlon, who at that time was governor of New Jersey and later Secretary of War. Mahlon Dickerson came to Ohio in 1838 and worked at the carpenter trade at Newark, where he married on September 23d, 1839, Miss Mary Cochran, who was born January 12th, 1823, at Winchester, Frederick county, Virginia, and died at Shelby, Ohio, February 4th, 1884. Her ancestry were the Cochrans, Langleys, Stuarts, all noted pioneer families of old Virginia. They were the parents of eleven children, seven of whom grew to woman and manhood. After the marriage of William H. Ferree and Eliza Dickerson they resided for some years in Shelby, where he was engaged in the lumber and planing mill business, then moved to a farm in Richland county, where they lived a few years, then moved to Galion in 1873, and in 1881 to Bucyrus, where the family has since made their home. Five children were born to them : James D. (the subject of this sketch) Edna J., died at the age of nine years; Agnes L., married John C. Doll, and resides at Indianapolis, Ind. ; Lois D., married Frederick J. Heine, resides at Klein, Montana: William F., died at the age of eight years. James D. attended the public schools at Galion and was a member of the graduating class of 1882, but was compelled to leave before graduating by the removal of the family to Bucyrus in the spring of 1881. He learned the painter's trade tinder Samuel D. Welsh, which he followed until 1888, when he became a brakeman on the Toledo and Ohio Central Railway ; lie was promoted to freight conductor, July 7th, 1890. Was promoted to yardmaster at Columbus. September 1st, 1901, and resigned that position in 1002. Was engaged as superintendent of construction for the Crescent Lumber Company on a lumber railroad in West Virginia in 1907, and held a similar position with the Algoma Central and Hudson Bay Railroad Company in Ontario. Canada, for several months in 1909. He was a member of the Order of Railway Conductors for several years while actively engaged in railroad work and filled the responsible position of general chairman of the first federated general committee for the Ohio Central lines during the years 1899, 1900 and part of 1901, and it AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1219 was through his exertions and endeavors that the agreement and schedule of 1900 was granted the employes by the railroad company. He was the recipient of complimentary letters from Grand Chief Conductor E. E. Clark, of the O. R. C., and other leaders of railroad orders interested; also was highly complimented by the officials of the Toledo and Ohio Central Railroad for the businesslike manner in which the grievances were handled and presented. He was presented with a fine armchair by the Bucyrus Division, No. 193, O. R. C., as a token of appreciation for the services he rendered in their behalf. He has served ten years in Company A, Eighth Regiment, O. N. G., under three enlistments and has a first-class record as a militiaman. He served nearly four years on the Bucyrus police force, and was considered by his superiors a first-class man. He some time ago took up newspaper work and is making a success of it. He was married April 3d, 1912. to Mrs. Helen M. Bressler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Reichard, pioneer settlers in Chatfield township, Crawford county. William H. Ferree, our subject's father, resides with them at 837 North Sandusky avenue. FREDERICK L. KOPP, one of Galion's best known and highly respected retired citizens, occupying his comfortable residence at No. 125 East Main street, for many years was active in business in this city, and is an honored veteran of the Civil War and a valued comrade in Dick Morris Post, No. 130, G. A. R., at Galion, O. Mr. Kopp was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Feb. 27, 1846, and is a son of Frederick and Catherine (Menner) Kopp. The parents of Mr. Kopp grew to mature years in Wurtemberg and were married in the city of Stuttgart, Germany. Their one son and three daughters were born before they decided to make the great change in their lives of leaving their native land for one across the Atlantic Ocean, and they were led to this measure because they believed their children would have better opportunities than appeared possible, at that time, in Germany. After a voyage of 60 days the travelers reached New York and from there proceeded to Sandusky City, O., and from there, two years later, moved to Marion county. It was there, in 1856, that the mother died and afterward the father went to Jay county, Ind., and his death occurred there, in the home of a daughter, in 1868, when he was aged 6o years. He had followed the shoemaking trade all his active life. Both he and wife were members of the Evangelical Lutheran church. Frederick L. Kopp was six years old when his parents, in 1852, came to America. He attended school as opportunity was afforded, in his boyhood, and grew up into sturdy and self respecting youth, so well developed physically that in the early days of the Civil War he had no difficulty in being accepted as a soldier, although lie was aged but fifteen years and three months. He enlister on June 21, 1861, in Co. K, 4th O. Vol. Inf., in which he served for three entire years, reenlisting in September, 1864, in Co. H, 7th N. J. Vol. Inf., in which he served until the war terminated, and was honorably discharged, with the rank of first sergeant, in June, 1865. He participated in many of the important battles of that great war. He was at Rich Mountain; was all through the Shenandoah Valley campaign; was at Petersburg, Gettysburg and Mine Run, and in innumerable skirmishes in which a brave comrade often lost his life. He was once seriously wounded, on Nov. 28, 1863, receiving a gun shot in his right foot. After the war was over and his military duties well performed for his adopted country, Mr. Kopp returned to Galion and engaged in the bakery business here on East Main street, for many years and through his honest business methods prospered greatly. In 1892 he built the Phoenix Hotel which he operated for ten years and then retired. He erected a three-story brick building on East Main street which he rents for business purposes. He is prominently identified with the Democratic party at Galion and for six years has been a member of the city council. In January, 1867, Mr. Kopp was married at Galion, to Miss Margaret Schneider, who was born in Crawford county in 1847 and has spent her life here. Her grandfather, John Schneider, was born in Germany and was married there to his first wife who died and left five children—William, Peter, Charlotte, Elizabeth and Catherine. The grandfather mar- 1220 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY ried (second) Margaret Simond and they had three children born to them—John, Henry and Catherine. They came to the United States when William Schneider, Jr., was 18 years old and landed at Baltimore, Md. From there they came to Crawford county and located in Whetstone township. William Schneider became a well known minister in the Reformed church but late in life they united with the Methodists. William Schneider, Jr., father of Mrs. Kopp, grew to manhood in Whetstone township. He was first married to a Miss Behler, who died one year later, with her infant. Later he married, in Morrow county, O., Miss, Sophia Eichhorn, who was born in Baden, Germany, and was four years old when her parents brought her to America. Her father, John Eichhorn, followed his trade as a harness-maker in Morrow county, later became a farmer and still later moved to Mansfield, O., where he died aged about 70 years. The family is of the German Lutheran faith. The mother of Mrs. Kopp died at the latter's home, in March, 1905, when within a few months of her 85th birthday. Of her 11 children, eight grew to mature years, all married and the following survive : Catherine, who is the widow of John Betts and resides with Mrs. Kopp; Margaret, who is the wife of Frederick L. Kopp; Mary, who is the wife of Frederick Starr, residing at Bellefontaine, O., and has two children, Paul and Clara B. ; and Calvin H., who is pastor of a Reformed church at Decatur, Ind., his family including three sons and three daughters. Mr. and Mrs. Kopp have had the following children: Clara Belle, who was born Aug. 31, 1869, died April 22, 1899, aged 22 years, a beautiful and talented girl, who had graduated from the Galion High School in the class of 1887: and Willard F., who was born May 12, 1872 and is now a resident of Salt Lake City, Utah. He married Hattie Shaw, who, at death, left one daughter, Margaret Helen, who was born Feb. 3, 1901, and is now in school. Mr. and Mrs. Kopp are members of the First Reformed Church at Galion, O. CHARLES ROEHR,* proprietor of the lumber and planing mill business of The C. Roehr Company, with plant and offices on the corner of Lane and Railroad streets, Bucyrus, O., is one of the enterprising and representative business men of this city. He was born July 26, 1835, in Saxony, Germany, and is a son of Henry and Caroline (Gresky) Roehr. Charles Roehr attended school in his native land until he was 14 years of age and then became a clerk in a store where he remained for six years and gained his first ideas of business. He decided then to come to America and sailed from Hamburg in the summer of 1855, the sailing vessel on which he embarked taking six weeks to cross the Atlantic ocean, but landed him safely at the port of New York. His intended destination was Bucyrus, 0., and when he reached here he became an apprentice under a German carpenter by the name of George Stoll, with whom he learned his trade. He remained two years with Mr. Stoll and then went into business for himself and had already become known as a reliable and capable contractor before he became a member of the firm of Stoll Brothers & Company, which association continued from 1868 until 1873. At that time John Stoll, one of the brothers, retired from the firm, after which Charles Roehr, Jacob Stoll and John Shealy became equal partners in a lumber and planing mill business. This concern was small at its beginning, but within ten years had more than doubled its force and had added to its plant. The members of the firm as above mentioned continued until 1880, when reorganization took place and since then Charles Roehr has been proprietor. He has acquired a large amount of realty in every part of the city and has shown commendable public spirit and local pride by improving it. In November, 1858, Mr. Roehr was married to Miss Lizzie Eberth, of Bucyrus, and they have the following children : Kate, Edward, Emma, William, Helen, Henry, Carl and Alma. Mr. Roehr and family are members of the German Lutheran church. The family residence is located at No. 434 S. Sandusky street, Bucyrus. JOHN FREDERICK KERN, deceased, for many years was a reputable and successful business man of Bucyrus, O., and had lived retired for some time prior to his death. He was born in Wurtemberg, Germany. June 27, 1835. and was a son of John and Regina (Bender) AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1221 Kern. He carne to America in 1854 and died at Bucyrus, Jan. 31, 1897. His parents died in Germany. John Frederick Kern was the youngest of his parents' children and lie remained in his native land until he vas 19 years of age, when he came to the United States landing at New York City and from there coming to Bucyrus, where he joined a brother and two older sisters, who had preceded him to America. In Germany he had learned the tailor's trade and this he followed for some years and then went into the clothing business and continued a clothing merchant until he retired. He was an honorable business man and worthy citizen. In politics lie was a Democrat but was never active in public affairs but was ever ready to contribute time and money in the cause of charity or in times of public calamity. Mr. Kern was a member of the Blue Lodge in the Masonic order. At Upper Sandusky, O., Mr. Kern was married to Miss Caroline Rieser, who was born in Baden, Germany, April 17, 1841, a daughter of John George and Regina (Denzer) Rieser. After the birth of five children, John George Rieser and family came to America in 1846, leaving the port of Hamburg on the sailing vessel Victoria, and landing at New York twenty-six days later. Mr. and Mrs. Rieser and children—J. F., George, Mary, Sophia and Caroline—crossed the state of New York to Buffalo and from there went to Upper Sandusky, near which place the father bought a farm. There both parents of Mrs. Kern died, her father at the age of 73 years and the mother in her 84th year. They were members of the German Lutheran church. In every relation of life they were good people, possessing the admirable traits for which the German nation is noted. Mrs. Kern has one surviving sister, Mrs. Sophia Myers, widow of Samuel Myers. She has nine living children and her home is at Cambria, Ia. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Kern : John Edward, who is proprietor of a drug store on the Public Square, Bucyrus, and lives with his mother ; George F., who died in infancy; Clara C., who died in infancy; Joanna Laura, who was the wife of Otto Wollweber, and who died in 1910 without issue; Jacob Frederick, who died in infancy; Sophia, who is the wife of Adna E. Foulke, of Bucyrus, and has five sons; Anna Elizabeth, who died when five years old; Charles William, who is associated with his brother in the drug business and who married Alberta Geiger; and Mildred Anida, who is the wife of Charles F. Keiss and has a son, Jonathan Edward; Louisa Caroline married Charles Rorick and resides at New Winchester. She has one daughter, Aileen Juanita. Mrs. Kern and family are members of the German Reformed church at Bucyrus. GEORGE H. BECK, who conducts a billiard parlor and cirgar stand in the Opera House Block at Crestline, where he has been established since November, 1911, is one of the representative business amen here and has excellent standing as a citizen. He was born at Mansfield, Ohio, April 28, 1875, but has lived in Crestline during most of his life. He obtained his first employment when about 12 years old as call boy for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, was afterward made a brakeman and served as such until he reached the age of twenty-five. Through an accident. which caused him to lose a leg, he then retired from railroading and went into the cigar trade, for nine years conducting a cigar store on Seltzer street, just opposite his present location. He takes an enthusiastic interest in all sports, believing in the necessity of wholesome amusements, and in his well regulated establishment he has installed a billiard table and four pool tables, which are well patronized. Here he also sells cigars, tobacco and soft drinks. His present building is a commodious one, with dimensions of 120 X 23 feet, and here his patrons have opportunities for healthful relaxation. In 1908 Mr. Beck completed one of the finest residences in the city. It is of brick and stone construction and located at No. 311 West Bucyrus street. Mr. Beck was married at Crestline to Miss Alice B. Carrens, who was born, reared and educated here, being a daughter of R. M. Carrens, a well known railroad engineer. Mr. and Mrs. Beck have one son, Frank, a bright youth of 14 years, who is now in his second year in the high school. Mr. Beck is a member of the Elks, the Knights of Pythias and the Masons. For ten years he has been secretary of the 1222 - HISTORY OF CRAW FORD COUNTY Crestline Local No. 327, A. F. of M. For 22 years he has been a member of the city band. He is also a member of the executive board of the Central Ohio Base Ball League, and for two years has been manager of the local Basket Ball Club, which has won every season game in the state contests. EDWARD A. WHITEAMIRE,* one of the representative men of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., member of the school board and township trustee, resides on his excellent farm of 70 acres, and was born February 2, 1873, in Marion county, O. He is a son of John and Catherine (Guinther) Whiteamire. John Whiteamire was born in Germany, a son of Michael Whiteamire, and died in Crawford county, O., April 15, 1911. He was seven years old when his parents brought him to America and his subsequent life was mainly spent in Ohio as a farmer. He was identified with the Democratic party and was a man of Christian life, a member of the German Methodist church. He married Catherine Guinther, who was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of John Guinther, and she still survives and resides in Whetstone township, one mile south of her son, Edward A. They had the following children : Sarah, who married Isaac Meyers; Simeon, who is deceased ; Ella, who is the wife of Samuel Tupps; Edward A. and William. After his school attendance period was over, Edward A. Whiteamire remained on the homestead with his father until he was 21 years of age, after which he rented farm land for one year in Whetstone township and for five years in Polk township, in the spring of 1899 purchasing his present farm from Henry Lupp. The old barn that stood on the place at the time, later was destroyed by fire, and in its place Mr. Whiteamire built the present substantial one, made repairs on other buildings and bas everything quite comfortable. He carries on general farming and raises stock for his own use. On February 16, 1893, Mr. Whiteamire was married to Miss Sarah Christman, a daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Beach) Christman. They were natives of Crawford county but later settled on a farm in Marion county and both are now deceased, the father's remains resting in the Whetstone Cemetery and the mother's at Galion. Their fathers were Adam Christman and Henry Beach. Mrs. Whiteamire had the following brothers and sisters John; Mary, wife of Fred Seiters; Ella, deceased; George and Francis. To Mr. and Mrs. Whiteamire three children have been born, namely: Edith, born August 20, 1893 ; Esther, born July 20, 1896; and Layton, born January 21, 1906. Mr. Whiteamire and family attend the Reform church at Galion. In politics he is a Democrat and is serving in his second term as township trustee and in his third year as a member of the school board. JOHN A. CHESNEY, M. D., physician and surgeon, whose death on August 31st, 1912, deprived Bucyrus of one of her foremost citizens, was a man who had attained prominence in his profession, although not devoting all his energies to it, having also been actively connected with various important business enterprises. He was born November 10, 1857, at Marseilles, Wyandot county, O., a son of John M. and Jumelia (Thompson) Chesney. His paternal grandparents were John and Elizabeth (Mahon) Chesney. Dr. John M. Chesney, father of Dr. John A., was born at Jamestown, Pa.. of Scotch parents. He was educated in an academy at Jamestown, Pa., and later studied the science of medicine with an older brother, Dr. Robert Chesney. In 1853 he settled at Marseilles, 0., and remained tbere until 1876, when he came to Bucyrus. Here he opened a drug store, which he conducted until his death in 1883. His wife was a daughter of James and Elizabeth Thompson, of Marion, O., to which place they came from Lynchburg, Va. James Thompson, who had served as colonel in a Virginia regiment during the Mexican war, became one of the leading citizens of Marion and served as sheriff of the county. John A. Chesney was mainly educated at Wooster University, in Ohio. In the year that his father moved to Bucyrus, he entered the office of Dr. Cuykendall, a well known medical practitioner, and after studying tinder him, entered the Columbus Medical College, where he was graduated with the class of 1879. In 1880 and 1881 he was associated in medical practice at Oceola with Dr. J. N. Richie, in AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1223 the latter year entering the College of Physisians and Surgeons, New York, where he was graduated in 1882. Upon his return to Ohio he entered into partnership with Dr. Thrift, of Lima, who was then a professor in the Fort Wayne Medical College, which institution tendered Dr. Chesney the chair of physiology in the following year. The death of his father at this time recalled Dr. Chesney from Lima to Bucyrus, and this city was the special field of his professional and business activities from that time until his death. He enjoyed a large and lucrative practice, having patients from near and far, and his success in both medicine and surgery was very marked. He was surgeon for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, the West Virginia & Ohio, and the Cleveland & Southwestern Railroad companies. He was also widely known in business circles, being president of the Bucyrus Telephone Company, president of the Brokensword Stone Company, and a director in the First National Bank of Bucyrus ; also a director in the Bucyrus Steel Casting Company. He was identified officially or otherwise with other important business concerns. Dr. Chesney was married June 30, 1887, to Miss Cora A. Rowse, daughter of William and Catherine ( Finn) Rowse. She died November I, 1892, being survived by a daughter, Edith. In 1898 Dr. Chesney married for his second wife Mrs. Celia B. Mulford, of Hanover, N. J., who died February 18, 1912. The family residence at No. 255 East Mansfield street. Bucyrus, was the scene of many pleasant social gatherings, as both Dr. and Mrs. Chesney were exceedingly hospitable. Dr. Chesney maintained his office in his residence. He was identified with the Masons. Elks and Knights of Pythias. As a citizen he showed a marked interest in the welfare and advancement of Bucyrus, at all times faithfully performing a citizen's duties, and giving freely both of his counsel and cash to any good and worthy cause. JOHN W. RUSSELL,* who is an honored veteran of the great Civil War, residing at Galion, 0., and a retired engineer of the Erie Railway, with which corporation he was connected for 27 years, was born in Morrow county, O., December 23. 1838, and is a son of Charles and Margaret (Eners) Russell. Charles Russell was born in Loudoun county, Va., in 1773, and went from Virginia as a soldier in the War of 1812, and afterward received a pension from the government. He married in Virginia and they had born to them Frances M., Robert T., Leedam, Sarah and Barton T. After moving to Ohio the family was increased, there being 13 children, ten of whom were sons and three daughters, and nine grew to maturity and had children and homes of their own. The only survivors are Barton T. and John W., the former being a resident of Mt. Gilead, O., and is now aged 85 years. His four sons and two daughters are all married. In 1849 the mother of the above children died and Charles Russell married Mrs. Sarah Dawson, who had no children born to this marriage, but had two sons and four daughters born to her first union. She survived her husband for eight years, during which time she drew her husband's pension, and died in 1878. After moving to Ohio, Mr. and Mrs. Russell and family lived for 11 years at Loudonville, in Ashland county, and then Mr. Russell moved to what was then Marion, but is now Morrow county, this being in the 30's, securing 160 acres of unbroken land. Mr. Russell secured an additional tract of 164 acres and that remained his hone until his death, in January, 1878. John W. Russell was the youngest of his parents' large family and he remained with his father, who, at his birth was a man past middle life, until he was 25 years of age. In 1864 he enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering Co. E, 26th O. Vol. Inf., commanded by Capt. Kelly and Col. Clark, under General Thomas, and survived to be honorably discharged and mustered. out, in Texas, October 23, 1865. He took part in many hard-fought battles of those stormy years including Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, Kenesaw Mountain, Big Sandy, fall of Atlanta, Nashville and Franklin. a long list considering that his life was endangered every moment on the battle field and only less so during the long and toilsome marches through the enemy's country. When the war closed Mr. Russell returned home and lived on the farm in Morrow county until 1875, when he came to Galion and two years later entered the service of the Erie Railway in the capacity of brakeman. In 1885 1224 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY he was promoted to the responsible position of engineer and continued until December 26, 1904, when he was retired on a pension, as is the rule of the Erie Company. He made a fine record on the railroad as lie had done in the army and possessed the confidence of his employers and the regard of his fellow-workmen, during the whole period. Mr. Russell's case was that of others. He passed safely through all the perils of war and then, in times of peace met with an accident that almost cost his life, this occurring April 27, 1878, the injury resulting in the loss of his right leg below the knee, while at the same time his left arm was broken in two places. Otherwise, during his many years of railroading, he met with few accidents and through fidelity and hard work won favor and promotion. Politically he is a Republican but his business has not been one leaving him much time to perform duties pertaining to public offices, although his qualifications have been many and frequently his experience would have made him valuable. Mr. Russell has been twice married but has no descendants. He is a member of Dick Morris Post, G. A. R., at Galion, and for 28 years has been a member of that sturdy organization, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. DAVID E. TOBIN, who is a member of one of the old pioneer families of Cranberry township, Crawford county, O., resides on his valuable farm of 120 acres, which lies in section No. 34, was born in this township on the old Tobin homestead one-half mile further east, June 25, 1854, and is a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Shilling) Tobin. Thomas Tobin was born in Ireland and came to the United States while young. While working at Mansfield, O., he was ambitious to obtain an education and attended night schools. When he had the opportunity he learned the carpenter trade in Richland county and after he came to Crawford county, he built barns through Cranberry township. Later he married Elizabeth Shilling, who was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of David Shilling. then of Cranberry township, and eight children were born to them, namely: Mrs. Anna Mary Springer, William James, David E., John Franklin, Mrs. Ellen Bittekofer, Thomas Grove, Clement and Mrs. Eva Elmira Miller. After marriage Thomas Tobin and wife settled on a wild tract of 120 acres, which, with the help of his children later on, was all cleared and he quit carpenter work and devoted the rest of his life to farming, his death occurring on Oct. 6, 1911, in his 89th year, and his burial was in the Union Cemetery in Liberty township. His widow died May 29, 1911, her age being 82 years and she was buried in the same place. They were members of the Lutheran church, in Auburn township. David E. Tobin was reared on the home farm and attended the district schools. At the time of his marriage he and his wife settled on the farm on which he now lives but he did not purchase it until 1907. His residence on this farm has been continuous except for five years spent on the old homestead, for in 1907 he went to live there on account of the advanced age of his parents, who both died in 1911, when the homestead was sold by the administrator and in 1912 Mr. Tobin returned to his farm. He has made many fine improvements here, in 1910 erecting his comfortable modern residence and in 1912 putting tip his commodious barn. His land is all under cultivation with the exception of about 15 acres, which is in valuable timber. He carries on a general farming line and devotes some attention to raising a good grade of horses and sheep. Mr. Tobin married Miss Clarinda Magner, who was born in Western Ohio, and they have five children: Ernie L., Elva B., Ira Otis and Thomas Grove and Jane Elizabeth, who are twins. Mr. Tobin is a stanch Democrat but has never accepted any political office except membership on the board of Education. He is one of the representative men of Cranberry township. The family attends the Methodist church. JOHN BENTON CAMPBELL, a resident of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., is the owner of 480 acres of land and is also a stockholder in the Farmers and Citizens Bank of Bucyrus. Mr. Campbell was born on the farm on which he now lives, April 4, 1849, a son of Edward and Amanda (Tupps) Campbell and a grandson of John and Mary (Tones) Campbell. The grandfather was born in Virginia, Oct. 1, 1788, but moved with his parents AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1227 when a boy to Wayne county, where he was reared and where he married Mary Jones, who was also a native of Pennsylvania, but who had removed with her parents to Wayne county, O. They became the parents of nine children. Mrs. John Campbell died in 1857. It was in the spring of 1824 that John Campbell and his wife came to Crawford county, O. He was at that time a poor man with only enough money to enter 80 acres of land and for tbe first few years he owned neither oxen nor horses and his farming operations had to be carried on without the use of these and other implements so necessary to work on the farm. However, his neighbors were good to him and with what little help he received from' them, he prospered, and notwithstanding his early poverty became one of the most prominent and influential men in the county. For 27 years he was justice of the peace and during that time his decisions were rarely reversed when appealed to the higher courts, this fact proving the accuracy and excellence of his mind and judgment. In 1832 he was elected to the legislature by the people of Fairfield county and was reelected in 1834. While in this office he advanced the interests of both the county and state by his judgment and deliberation. It was he that started what is known as the Campbell graveyard which is located on the Campbell farm and the first burial was that of his infant son, John, who died Aug. 16, 1825. John Campbell died Jan. 3, 1867. Edward Campbell, son of John and Mary (Jones) Campbell and father of our subject. Was born Dec. 16, 1816, and was about eight years old when the family removed to Crawford county. This region was at that time a wilderness and it became his duty to help clear the home farm. He began the battle of life when of age and by his own exertion and business sagacity acquired much land. At the time of his death he owned about 6,;6 acres of land, but he always resided on the home farm. His marriage to Amanda Tupps took place Jan. 4, 1838. She was born in Pennsylvania, Sept. 20, 1820, but came to Crawford county when a small girl and there was reared. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Campbell had the following children: Catherine, deceased, who was the wife of Benjamin F. Keifer; Samuel K., deceased: John Benton. whose name heads this article: and Letta J., the wife of Andrew H. Gibson. Edward Campbell died Nov. 5, 1901. He was a Democrat in politics but joined the Republican party upon its organization. He and his wife were members of the Disciples church. John Benton Campbell, the direct subject of this article, attended the common schools and then the Galion High School. Later he spent three terms in the Lebanon Normal School, after which he spent his winter months in teaching school and the summer time in farming. Following three years so spent, he gave his entire time to farming, and this has been his life work to the present time. He carries on general farming and has one of the finest homes and barns in the county, these buildings being modern and equipped with all the conveniences of the city homes. On Sept. 16, 1872, Mr. Campbell was married to Jennie Shanks, a native of Edinburg, Scotland. She is a daughter of David and Jessie (Frazer) Shanks and was born in Edinburg, Scotland, coming to the United States with her parents when 18 months old. They landed in New York where they lived about five years when they came to Crawford county. David Shanks was a contractor all his life. He and his wife had the following children : Jennie, Andrew, Grace (Mrs. Charles Weisinger), Devine (wife of Charles Gravelle), William. Christian, Joseph and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. John Benton Campbell are the parents of two children: Mabel, who is the wife of E. W. Crall and has two children—Muriel and Clark; and Edward, who married Elva Rexroth. Our subject is a Republican in politics. He has served as supervisor and school director. He and his wife attend the Christian church. D. N. WEITHMAN, who is one of the representative business men of New Washington. is general contractor for all kinds of concrete work, and manufacturer of cement building-blocks and brick, and a dealer in stone, coal and all kinds of building materials. He has been a resident of Crawford county, O., since June 23, 1885. He was born in Bavaria, Germany, Feb. 17, 1864, and was three years old when he accompanied his parents, Frank and Barbara Weithman, to the United States. They settled in Erie county, Pennsylvania. D. N. Weithman attended school in Erie 1228 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY county and there learned his trade. He has lice brothers and two sisters—Aloysius, Martie, Frank, Louie, Jacob, Barbara and Margaret, all of whom still reside in Erie county. After coming to Crawford county, Mr.Weithmann was married to Elizabeth Durnwad, a daughter of Martin Durnwald, a well known and retired citizen of New Washington. To Mr. and Mrs. Keithmann the following children have been born: Cecilia, born Aug. 18, 1889, was married Jan. 1, 1910,, to Julius Wurm, who is a business man of New Washington and a leading carpenter; they have one child named Albert, born Nov. 5, 1910, Edward, born July 22, 1890. is a dealer in slate, with slate roofing a specialty, the firm being Keithmann & Worm,, he being in partnership with Julius Wurm ; both are members of the Knights of Columbus, C. M. B. A., and, besides, carry incident insurance. Josephine, born Aug. 30, 1892, died the same year. Alfred. born April,3, 1894, works with his father, and is also a member of many Catholic organizations. Rose, born June 12, 1895, is employed at her father's office and also does much sewing: she is a member of the L. C. B. A. and Prudential. Aloysius, born June 21, 1896, for the past three years has been working at one of the leading dry goods stores in this city. Mary, born Dec.18, 1898, at present is working at home. Cornelius, born March 5, 1899, is attending New Washington High School. Agnes, born April 10, 1900, is attending St. Bernard's Catholic school: as also are George, born May 30, 1901 : Walter, born March 6, 1902: Cyrill, born Feb. 8, 1904, and Mildred, born Aug. 30, 1906. The remaining children are Lina, born Jan. 22, 1908, and Carl, born May 10, 1910. Mr. Weithman and his family are members of the Catholic church. His father died in his 70th year and his mother is still living in Erie county and is 78 years old. Since marriage Mr. Weithman has resided and carried on business at New Washington, of which place he has been an active and useful citizen. Politically he is a Democrat and has served in the city council for nine years. As a business mean he is held to be prompt and reliable, and has done a large amount of the important mason work in and adjacent to New Washington, all the stone work on the handsome Lutheran church of this city, and has done a large amount of turnpike road and bridge contracting in the county. He is one of the stockholders in the Cranberry Nursery Company at New Washington and takes an interest in having capital invested here. He is a worthy member of that widespread Catholic organization, the Knights of Columbus, and belongs also to the C. M. B. A. In the spring of 1912 he embarked in the business of manufacturing cement blocks and this enterprise has proved very successful. IRA E. QUINTANNCE,* proprietor of Oak Valley Stock Farm in Dallas township, was born in Holmes township, Crawford county, Ohio, Aug. 30, 1861. He is a son of Joseph W. Quaintance and a grandson of Fisher Quaintance, who was born in Germany, and who, after coming to the United States, settled first in Jefferson county, O. In 1829 Fisher Quaintancee came to Crawford county, settling in Holmes township, where he became the owner of 167 acres of land, which, after clearing off the timber, he improved into a good farm, erecting substantial buildings thereon. He married Sarah Iry and they became the parents of a large family, numbering ten children, namely: Eli, Ira, Dawson, Joseph W., George, Charles, Ann, Susanna, Bessie and Sarah Jane, of whom Joseph W.. and Charles are the only survivors. Joseph W. Quaintance was brought up on the parental homestead. He attended the little log schoolhouse and assisted his father on the farm, finally becoming a practicalfarmerhimself... On reaching manhood he bought 8o acres, whichhee cultivated for some years, after which he purchased another farm—the one on which he now lives, which he improved with substantial buildings, including a comfortable residence, wherehee now lives retired from active labor. On his farm is anapple-treee, which grew from seed distributed by "JohnnyAppleseedd," the quaint traveling philosopher. whose life forms a part of the early history of Ohio and other states and whose deeds live after him. Joseph W. Quaintance married Lucina G. Gridley. who was born near New Bedford, Mass. They have been the parents of nine children, namely: Bashie. wife of John Eaton, an attorney of Kansas City, Mo.: Isadora B. Edith M.; Ira F.(subject of this AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1229 sketch) ; Leonard and Cora E., both of whom are deceased; H. J.; and Charles and Edward, who are both also deceased. Ira E. Quaintance was educated in the common schools and at Ohio Northwestern University, which he attended for one term. After his school days were over, he turned his attention to farming in Crawford county, Holmes township, and has since been thus engaged. Besides cultivating the soil, he deals extensively in Jersey cattle and is now the owner of a very fine herd of animals of that breed; he keeps about 25 head yearly. Mr. Quaintance is a man of literary tastes and has contributed various articles to farm journals, and also to the Bucyrus Daily Telegraph. He is a Republican in politics and has been a justice of the peace since 1904. Mr. Quaintance was first married to Ella Martin, of Holmes township, this county, in February, 1909. She died Nov. 29, 1910, having borne him two children—Truman and Thelma. After his first wife's death, Mr. Quaintance contracted a second marriage, with Miss Martin, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Martin, of Holmes township, this county. Her father, Henry Martin, a carpenter by trade, was for a number of years a justice of the peace in this township. Mr. and Mrs. Quaintance attend the Methodist church and the former has served as steward of the Sunday school. They are well known people and have many friends. Their farm contains 170 acres and is a fine piece of agricultural property, well supplied with substantial and commodious buildings and kept in the best of condition, the surroundings indicating thrift and prosperity. LORENZO DOW WILLFORD, who is filling the important office of assistant state fire marshal of Ohio, serving tinder State Fire Marshal John W. Zuber, has been a prominent citizen of Crawford county for many years. He was born May 8, 1864, in Auburn township, Crawford county, O.. and is a son of Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Graffmiller) Willford. In changes incident to crossing the Atlantic ocean and penetrating into wild and unsettled sections of the United States to found new homes, old records, in many families, were entirely lost, but in others were preserved as most valued possessions and are still carefully treasured among the family archives. These possess an interest and value not only to the owners, but to all those who cherish a love of country and pride in what the early settlers, handicapped as they were, accomplished for posterity. In this connection the Willford family of Ohio may be cited. Samuel Willford, the first of the name associated with settlement in America, resided in Leicestershire, England, married there and had three sons. The eldest, born in 1742, became a physician in the city of London. The second son, born in 1744, went to Germany. Joseph Willford, the third son of Samuel Willford, was born in Leicestershire, England, in 1746, and studied medicine with his eldest brother, in London, in 1765, and in the following year migrated to the American colonies. He landed at Philadelphia, Pa., and established his home in the Tuscarora Valley, in Cumberland county, in the same year. In 1770, in Mt. Pleasant township, York, now Adams county, he was married to Mary Campbell, who was born in Cumberland county, Pa.. in 1750. She had passed through thrilling experiences. When only seven years old, with her brother William, she started from her father's cabin on Penn's Creek, to bring home the cows from the pasture. A marauding band of Delaware Indians captured the children and took them to their camp on the banks of the Muskingum River, in Ohio. All trace of little Mary was lost and her parents finally gave up all hope of ever seeing the child again. In 1764, Col. Bouquet took command of an expedition against the Indians, and in a treaty signed near Coshocton, stipulated that all white captives held by them should be released, and about 300 were surrendered to Col. Bouquet, Mary Campbell being one of the number. Either at the time of marriage or previously. Joseph Wilford removed to York county as the tax duplicate of Mt. Pleasant township, York county, shows that Joseph Willford was a tax payer there in December, 1771, and in 1778 he removed to Washington county, Pa. the record stating that his first wife, Mary Campbell Willford. died in Greene county, Pa., in 1801, it then being Washington county. Her husband, Joseph Will ford, survived until 1230 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY 1828, his death occurring in Monongalia county, Va., now West Va. His second marriage was to a Mrs. Garlow, but his seven children were born to his first union and the record stands thus: Samuel, born in York county, in 1771 ; Daniel, born in York county, in 1773; William, born in York county, March 15, 1775; Dougal, born in York county, in 1777; Joseph, born in Washington county, in 1779, died in Greene county, in 1796; and Betsey and Peggy, born in Washington county, Pa., in 1781 and 1783, respectively. William Willford, son of Joseph, who was born March 15, 1775, died Oct. 6, 7842. After the War of 1812 he came with his uncle, Samuel Willford, to Greene township, Wayne county, O., and the records show that Samuel Willford was treasurer of that township from 1819 to 1824. Before leaving Pennsylvania, William Willford married Sarah Rich, who was born Feb. 12, 1780, and died Sept. 9, 1844, and to them were born the following children: Catherine, born Nov. 4, 1800, died July 25, 1837; Daniel, born Feb. 1, 1803; Jacob, born Feb. 8, 1805; Samuel, born Jan. 7, 1807; Anne, born July 25, 1809; Margaret, born Dec. 22, 1810; Elizabeth, born Oct. 5, 1812; Mary, born Nov. 12, 1814; Jeremiah, born Oct. 5, 1816, died May 9, 1887: and John R., born Oct. 9, 1818, died Feb. 6, 1892. Jeremiah S. Willford was born in Wayne county, 0., and was about r.5 years old when his father settled in Cranberry township, Crawford, then Richland county. Here, on Oct. 19, 1843, Jeremiah WilIford was married to Elizabeth Graffmiller, who was born Sept. 24, 1824, in Baden, Germany. and was brought to America by her parents, who settled in Auburn township, Crawford county, where her death occurred Jan. 22, 1904. Her parents were Andrew and Elizabeth Graffmiller. both of whom were natives of Baden, Germany, where the mother was born Nov. 1, 1782, and died in Crawford county, Dec. 3, 1837. In 1834, Andrew Graffmiller, with his wife and six children-George, Barbara, Christian, Anna Mary, Andrew and Elizabeth-emigrated from Germany and settled in Crawford county, O., where he died Oct. 4, 1839 aged 64 years. To Jeremiah and Elizabeth Willford the following children were born: William, born Aug. 22, 1844, died Aug. 22 Caroline, born Nov. 22, 1845, who is the Wife of E. M. Keller, of Plymouth, O. ; Samuel, born Nov. 28, 1847, who resides with his family in Cranberry township; Elizabeth D., who is the wife of W. O. High, a farmer in Auburn township, and who was born June 9, 1849; Mary M., born Jan 22, 1832, who is the wife of John Kemp, a farmer in Seneca county; John W., who was born Dec. 30, 1834; and Lorenzo Dow, who was born May 8, 1864. The two sons last named live on the old homestead, of which they are joint owners. The parents of this family were among the leaders of the Methodist Episcopal church in Auburn township, good, virtuous people, whose influence in their neighborhood was marked, and whose memory is tenderly cherished by their children. Lorenzo Dow Willford was reared on the home farm and attended the township schools, subsequently becoming a student in the State Normal School, at Ada. O., and the New Washington High School. In 1884 he was graduated from the latter institution and later took a business course in the Tri-State Business College. For nearly 20 years Mr. Willford taught school in Crawford county, never going very far from the old home because of his affection for his parents, and his anxiety for their health and comfort. He became well and favorably known all over Crawford county, however, as an able educator. From early manhood an interested factor in public affairs in his native county and prominently identified with the Democratic party, on numerous occasions he has been called to public office and has served frequently as a delegate to important Democratic conventions. In 1892 he was elected secretary of the Crawford County Democratic Committee and with the exception of one year has served continuously in that position or as chairman of the committee until 1910, when he was elected chairman of the Crawford County Democratic Executive Committee, and was reelected in 1912. Twice he has been elected county clerk, first in 1903 and again in 1906, serving five years in all. In June, 1909, Mr. Willford was appointed assistant fire marshal of the State of Ohio, by Governor Harmon, a position that involves duties of grave importance to the public. In addition to his educational and political AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1233 prominence, Mr. Willford is well known in a number of fraternal organizations. He is a Blue Lodge Mason, an Odd Fellow, Eagle, Knight of Pythias, Maccabee and Elk, and is or has been officially connected with several of the above orders. He is a member of Cranberry Lodge No. 441, Odd Fellows, at New Washington, and at present is representative to the Grand Lodge of the state for the 19th District. For more than ten years he has filled the office of record-keeper for the K. Q. M. at New Washington. VERNE E. KIESS,* who is one of the enterprising and successful agriculturists of Whetstone township, Crawford county, 0., operating 200 acres of farming land belonging to his father, was born in Whetstone township, April 30, 1880, and is a son of Simeon and Catherine (Kile) Kiess. The father was born in Pennsylvania and the mother in Ohio, and they now live retired at Bucyrus. Three of their children died in infancy and three survive : Sidney, Harvey and Verne E. Until he was 19 years of age, Verne E. Kiess attended school every winter and a portion of the time the summer sessions as well, but as he became strong enough his help was needed on the home farm, where ploughing, seeding, haying and harvest taxed the endurance of his father and brothers. He remained at home until his marriage, in 1904, and then took charge of tbe farm that he has been managing ever since. Like other members of his family he is a Democrat in politics but has never been a seeker for office. On Oct. 20, 1904, Mr. Kiess was married to Miss Rebecca Neff, who is a daughter of John and Emma (McKinstry) Neff, farmers in Marion county, O. Mr. and Mrs. Neff had seven children : Rebecca, Kinsel, Lena, Laura, Paul, and two who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Kiess have two daughters : Marjorie, who was born Dec. 7, 1905 ; and Marion, who was born July 14, 1908. They attend the Evangelical church. HON. P. W. POOL,* who is a prominent member of the Crestline bar and for many years identified with important movements, political and legal, in Crawford county, O., was born in Westmoreland county, Pa., in 1817, and is a son of Joseph M. and Mary (Woodsworth) Pool. The parents were of German extraction. The father died in Pennsylvania and the mother some years later, in Summit county; O. P. W. Pool enjoyed educational advantages of a high order, first attending Greensburg College, in Trumbull county, O., and later, Hiram College, where he became well acquainted with James A. Garfield, later President of the Uniter States. Mr. Pool was an exceptional student in several branches, languages and mathematics in particular, and afterward, when he entered the University of Michigan, led his class in law and was graduated there in 1865. In the same year he came to Crawford county, where he was admitted to the bar. For two years he taught German at Bucyrus, coming to Crestline in 1867, where he has resided until the present. He has been a most active citizen, serving six years as prosecuting attorney of Crawford county, and for 17 years as mayor of Crestline. Necessarily politics have more or less engaged his attention and since early manhood he has been identified with the progressive wing of the Democratic party, on many occasions servmg with party zeal as a delegate to both State and Congressional conventions. Mr. Pool married Miss Augusta Frye, who died in 19o1, leaving one son, Charles W., who is a commercial traveler who makes his home at Galion, O. Mr. Pool belongs to the various branches of Masonry, has been a delegate to the Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows, from Crestline, and is a member of the Elks at Bucyrus. HOWARD H. SMITH, M. D.,* physician and surgeon at Bucyrus, O., has been established here since 1895, making a choice of this city as his field of professional effort immediately after his graduation from the Cleveland University of Medicine and Surgery. He was born in 1869, at Wooster, O., and is a son of Cornelius and Elizabeth (Beerhower) Smith and a grandson of Jacob Smith. Jacob Smith came to Ohio as a pioneer from Pennsylvania, in 1806, and located in Wayne county, taking tip virgin land near Wooster and that land he improved and lived on during the remainder of his life. He married an 1234 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY estimable woman, the daughter of an Irish neighbor, and six children were born to them, all of whom became creditable members of society. Jacob Smith and wife were early supporters of the Presbyterian church in their neighborhood. Cornelius Smith, father of Dr. Smith, was born in Wayne county in 1820 and continued to live on the old homestead and carry on its industries until within seven years of his death, when he moved to Wooster where he passed away April 25, 1901. He was recognized as a man of sterling character, for 18 years served as a justice of the peace, and for many years spent much of his time attending to the settlement of estates. In politics he was an unflinching defender of Democratic principles. He was married in Wayne County to Elizabeth Beerbower, who was born in Wayne County in 1827, and died there March 10, 1910. Her father, Jacob Beerbower, was of German ancestry but was born in Pennsylvania. Like Jacob Smith, he came early to Wayne county, and secured unimproved and uncleared land in the vicinity of Fredericksburg, on which he made his home, married and reared his family there. To Cornelius Smith and wife the following children were born: Benton D., who is in the livery business at Wooster; Kansas, a man of family, who is a retired farmer at Wooster; Emma, who is the wife of Brandon McClure, who is a large dealer in small fruits; Howard H.; Kate May, now deceased, who was the wife of Harper McDonald; James Wiley, who, at death, left a widow, one son and two daughters ; and two who died young. Howard H. Smith had excellent educational advantages in his youth, the fact of his home being in a college town contributing to this, and when he entered medical college had already a trained literary understanding. He is engaged in a general practice and has built up an enviable reputation for professional efficiency. He is identified with all the leading; organizations of the Homeopathic School of Medicine and keeps fully abreast with the times in scientific discoveries. Dr. Smith was married at Wooster, O. , April 4, 1899. to Miss Ida Marie Smith, who was born in Wayne county, in 1872, and is a daughter of William N. and Adaline (Johnson) Smith. The father of Mrs. Dr. Smith was born at Steubenville, O., and was a son of N. W. and Maria (Waits) Smith, who were pioneers in East Union township, Wayne county. The old home place, where Mrs. Dr. Smith was born, is now the Qhio State Experimental Station. William N. Smith was a stock raiser and dealer. He died in May, 1898, aged 68 years. He married Adaline Johnson, who survives. Her parents were Isaac and Rachel (Ernst) Johnson, old Pennsylvania pioneers of Wayne county. All these famihes have had much to do with developing that section of Qhio and for years public record will show that they have been leaders in agricultural progress and in educational and religious movements. Mrs. Dr. Smith was carefully educated and is a graduate of Wooster University and also of the Conservatory of Music, taking both degrees in 1891. In music she was a pupil of Prof. Carl Mers and of Prof. Conrad, both of national reputation. To Dr. and Mrs. Smith one daughter has been born, Pleasant Jeanne, an attractive little maiden of nine years. Dr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Presbyterian church and are well known in the pleasant social life of the city. SAMUEL KURTZ, a highly respected citizen of Bucyrus, a retired farmer, was born in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O.. Sept. 8, 1848, and is a son of George and Catherine (Shearer) Kurtz. The parents of Mr. Kurtz were natives of Germany, where the father was born in 1821 and the mother in 1827. They came to America when young, the father of George Kurtz locating with his family in Lycoming county, Pa. About 1842 George Kurtz carne to Crawford county and here was married some time later to Catherine Shearer, whose parents had also come to Ohio from Pennsylvania. The newly married couple settled on the Shearer farm and continued to live there, Mr. Kurtz assisting in its clearing. Mrs. Kurtz died there in 1868, at the age of 5 years. The second marriage of George Kurtz was to Catherine Geibler, who still resides on the old homestead in Whetstone township. There George Kurtz died in 1903, at the age of 83 years. To his first marriage two sons were born : Jacob and Samuel, the former of whom AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1235 is a prosperous farmer in Tully township, Marion county, O. He was married (first) to Caroline Stoltz and they had one son, who survives. His second marriage was to Christiana Cover and they have two sons and two daughters. Samuel Kurtz, in many ways, has been a very fortunate man, growing up on his father's farm with comfortable home surroundings and being afforded an education that included both Enghsh and German studies. In the course of years he became the owner of 78 acres of the old homestead and he also acquired 79 acres in another part of Whetstone township, and on these two farms he spent many prosperous years, carrying on large agricultural operations until age and inchnation led him to retire from further activities. In Qctober, 1910, he and his wife took possession of their comfortable residence at No. 947 Prospect street, Bucyrus. It was in this city that Mr. Kurtz was married to Miss Margaret Rexroth, who was born near Bucyrus, Aug. 26, 1848, a daughter of John Nicholas and Anna Maria (Rittmann) Rexroth, one of a family of ten children. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Kurtz, namely: John George, a graduate of the Ohio Northern University at Ada, O., who is a clerk in the Government service, residing on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in Montana, married Mary Myers and has three children—Loneta, Lowell and Kenneth; Samuel Aaron, also a grauate of the Ohio Northern University, who is now science teacher in the Bellevue, O., High School, married Nellie Beldon and has four children—Russell, Marguerite, Wilbur and Elizabeth. Simeon Gershom, who also completed a course at the university, at Ada, O., now a successful farmer in Whetstone township, married Mrs. Emma (Stump) Lepp and has two children—Byron and La Verne ; Mary Catherine, a handsome young woman and a most lovely character, who had musical talent of a high order and who had served the church as organist for several years, died on Feb. 23, 1897, in the twentieth year of her age; Bertha Rexroth, a graduate of expression and oratory at Ada, O., is the wife of Prof. Russel Myers, also a graduate of the Ohio Northern University and who is now principal of the High School at Columbus Grove, O. ; Harrison, who also pur sued a course of study at Ada, O., has charge of the hone farm, married Caroline Mildred Rexroth; Paul, who died in infancy; and Edwin Charles, who attends school at Bucyrus. Mr. Kurtz and family attend the German Reformed church. Pohtically, Mr. Kurtz is a Republican with independent tendencies. Since the above was written and before it was in print Mr. Kurtz died. The end came suddenly while he was engaged in doing some light work on the form. Death was due to heart failure and occurred on the 13th of April. Brief funeral services were held at the home with extended and impressive services at the Whetstone Reformed church, of which he had been a member most of his life and where he had held official relations as treasurer, secretary of the board, deacon and elder for many years, and Sunday-school superintendent for 16 years. Fitting eulogies were given by former pastors while Rev. Mr. Keller gave the main discourse. The choir rendered touching and appropriate music. The interment was in the Shearer cemetery. HENRY C. DYE,* superintendent of the municipal light and power plant, at Galion, O., has been identified with this public utility since before he was 21 years of age. He is a native of Galion, born here in September, 1874, and is a son of Samuel and Rebecca (Ness) Dye. Samuel Dye was born at Sidney, O., and for 36 years has been in the service of the Big Four Railroad Company, and as he has reached the age limit of about 60 years, will probably soon retire on a pension, which is the method employed by this great corporation to reward fidelity and efficiency. He and wife are members of the English Lutheran church and he belongs to the leading railway social and fraternal organizations. Nine children were born to Samuel Dye and wife and Henry C. is the eldest of the six survivors. Henry C. Dye attended school at Galion but from boyhood was more interested in mechanics than in any other study and this natural leaning determined his life work. His study of engineering secured him a license and for nineteen years he has been connected with the light and power plant here and for ten years has been superintendent. Mr. Dye was married at Galion to Miss 1236 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Emma Helfrich, who also was born, reared and educated here, and they have one daughter, Marjorie, a school-girl of ten years. Mr. and Mrs. Dye are members of the First Reformed Church. Politically he is a Republican and fraternally is a Master Mason, is past chancellor in the Knights of Pythias, and is a charter member of the local lodge of Elks. He belongs also to the National Association of Stationary Engineers. CYRE FIELD, was a veteran of the great Civil War, and for many years afterward was an honorable and successful business man of Bucyrus, O. He was born in Delaware county,O., May 12, 1840, and died Jan. 17, 1895. His parents were James and Mary (Landon) Field. James Field was born in Canada, a son of Roswell Field, who came to the American colonies prior to the Revolutionary War and about that time moved to Canada, in order to escape fighting the army of his own land. It was during the war between the United States and Canada that he was forced to fight against his country. He finally located in Delaware county, O., where he lived into old age. James Field grew to manhood in Delaware county and became a farmer. His birth took place in 1806 and his death, at St. Louis, Mo., on May 7, 1875. He married Mary Landon, who was born in 1810, and died July 27, 1889. They were members of the Christian church. Of their nine children two survive : Rev. Samuel Field, who resides with his family on his farm near Francisville, Ind. ; and Rev. Nicholas Field, who now lives in the State of Washington. As the same family names appear it is reasonable to infer that the late merchant prince of Chicago, Marshall Field, belonged to a branch of this family, and also the poet, the late Eugene Field, together with many others of name and note in this country. Cyre Field grew to manhood on the home farm. Early in the Civil War, with his brother Roswell, he enlisted for service, entering the 49th O. Vol. Inf., on the first call and serving for three months, and later served out a second enlistment. He was well educated and successfully taught school for a time and then accepted a clerical position with the Erie Railroad and still later was with his brother, James A. Field, a well known manufacturer at St. Louis, Mo. In 1882 he came to Bucyrus and embarked in the mercantile business in which he continued until failing health made retirement obligatory and his death occurred two years later. He was, like the majority of the Fileds, of fine manly appearance. His manner was pleasant and his speech agreeable to the ear, while his kindness of heart was daily exhibited to those around him. For some years he was commander of the Kelley Post, G. A. R., at Bucyrus and always an interested member. Politically he was identified with the Republican party. At Marion, O., June 1, 1873. Mr. Field was married to Miss Margaret C. Brinker, who was born in Westmoreland county, Pa., in 1850, and was brought to Qhio at the age of two years by her parents. Jesse and Jane (Eagle) Brinker. Mr. Brinker was a carpenter by trade and after locating at Marion continued active in this trade until within a few years of his death, in May, 1895, when in his 73rd year. His wife passed away in 1854, when Mrs. Field was a child. They were members of the Free Will Baptist church. To Mr. Brinker's second marriage, one daughter was born, who still survives. Mrs. Field was one of four children and she has two sisters: Mary, who is the wife of Henry Crosby, living near Cuyahoga, O., who has one son and two daughters ; and Kate, who is the wife of J. L. Shower, of Grand Rapids, Mich., and has one daughter. To Mr. and Mrs. Field the following children were born : Lillian E., who is the wife of James Queeney, residing at Knoxville, Tenn. ; Elva Florence, who is the wife of Clarence R. Corey, residing at Seattle, Wash., and has one daughter, Eleanor C. ; Herbert C., an electrician, residing in Southern Ohio, who married Clara Decker, and has two sons—James and Herbert C., Jr. ; and Catherine Estella, who resides with her mother. Mrs. Field is a member of the Christian church, as was her husband. CHRISTOPHER W. DENNIG, builder and owner of the Dennig business block, at Galion, O., a commodious structure with dimensions of 22x120 feet, and proprietor of an old established business here, his grocery AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1237 store occupying the entire first floor, a part of the second and the entire basement, has been a resident of Galion since 1876. He is a veteran of the great Civil War, in which he bore an honorable part both as a private soldier and later as an officer, and is known and respected the entire length of Crawford county. He was born in Baden, Germany, Feb. 9, 1839, and is a son of Francis and Magdalena (Schentenhart) Dennig. Francis Dennig and wife were natives of Baden and prior to marriage he learned the wagonmaking trade. In 1852, with their one child, Christopher W., they started for America, taking passage on a vessel that required 29 days to make the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean but which landed them safely at Castle Garden, New York. From there they continued their journey to Galion, Q., Francis Dennig finally selecting a location for his small shop between Waldo and Marion, in Marion county, along what he deemed a well traveled road. His judgment proved correct and through hard work he accumulated some capital which he later invested in another part of Marion county but he died soon afterward, when aged 55 years. His widow and only son then moved to Marion and from there came to Galion, where the former died in 1900, when aged 73 years. They were worthy people and their son recalls them with respect and affection. They belonged to the German Methodist church. Christopher W. Dennig learned the wagon-making trade tinder his father's supervision and assisted in his father's shop until he decided to enlist for service in the Civil War. On Nov. 11. 1861, he enlisted in Co. D, 82nd O. Vol. Inf., which regiment was sent to the front, in West Virginia, and, with very little preparation found itself in active service. It was called on to face the forces under Gen. Stonewall Jackson, and participated in such hard fought battles as Cedar Mountain, the second battle of Pull Run, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Missionary Ridge, Knoxville, Dallas, Bentonville and Goldsboro. His service all through the war covered two enlistments and during the second period he held the rank of second lieutenant. He took part in that remarkable triumphant review at Washington, D. C., after the close of hostilities, and received his final honorable discharge on May 24, 1865, from a regiment that had lost over 500 members. Although he was ever at the post of duty, whether marching or fighting, Mr. Dennig escaped all injury and was never made a prisoner, while comrades fell by his side and many were captured who never lived to return. Qn numerous occasions he had close calls, once a bullet singing his hair as it sped through his cap, while often shells exploded near his path and enemies lay in wait when crossing streams. After he returned from the army to Ohio, Mr. Dennig was married in Marion county, to Miss Mary Haberman, who died at the age of 43 years. In 1876 he came to Galion, having previously, for four years, been in the grocery business at Marion, and for four years was in the machine shops of the Big Four Railway. In 1880 he returned to the grocery business, and in 1893 he erected the Dennig block at Galion, his business having outgrown his first quarters, and he, in association with his sons, has been established here ever since, conducting one of the largest stores of this kind in this section of the county and carrying a complete stock of fancy and staple goods. Mr. Dennig was married second to Miss Mary De Vour, who was born in Columbiana county, O. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church while he retains his membership in the German Methodist church in which lie was reared. Politically he is a Republican. He is much interested in Grand Army natters and is a member of Dick Morris Post, No. 130, G. A. R. WILLIAM HEIBERTSHAUSEN,* deceased, for many years was engaged in business at Crestline, O., where his life was mainly spent and where he was universally respected and much esteemed. He was born at Crestline, Dec. 7, 1862, a son of John and Elizabeth (Pepper) Heihertshausen. John Heibertshausen and wife were natives of Hesse-Darmstadt. Germany, and were young when they came to America and later to Crestline, where Mr. Heibertshausen was one of the first to embark in the furniture and undertaking business, having learned the trade of cabinetmaker before leaving Germany. He continued in business at Crestline until his 1238 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY death, in 1889, when aged 56 years, his wife surviving him but a few months. They were members of the German Lutheran church. The family consisted of the following children: Charles, who lives in Indiana; William; Kate, who is the wife of Elmer Gilson of Crestline, and has two children; and Henry, who died at the age of 21 years. William Heibertshausen attended the public schools at Crestline and assisted his father from boyhood, practically growing up in the business, and succeeding to it when his father died in 1889, and continued until his own death, in March, 1909. He was an honorable business man and public spirited citizen, and at times served in the city council. He was a strong Democrat all his life as his father had been before him. On Nov. 22, 1887, Mr. Heibertshausen was married to Miss Lena Weber, who was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 4, 1867, a daughter of Christian and Caroline (Busche) Weber. The Weber family came to the United States in 1867, landing in the harbor of New York and from that city removing to Erie, Pa., and soon after to Crestline, where Christian Weber entered the Pennsylvania Railway shops. His death was caused by an accident in the roundhouse, Dec. 8, 1899, when aged 56 years. He was an industrious man and was respected by all who knew him. His widow still lives at Crestline, the mother of seven children, namely: Lena, who is the widow of William Heibertshausen; Mary, who is the wife of Martin Wilkinson, proprietor of the Gibson House, Crestline ; Henry, a railroad man, who married Irene Helfrich and has three children; Caroline, who died unmarried, at the age of 21 years; Minnie E., who is employed in a store at Cleveland: Charles, who is an engineer in a steel plant at Lorain, O. ; and Edward, a machinist, who hves with his mother at Crestline. To Mr. and Mrs. Heibertshausen two children were born Alma Mary, who was born March 11, 1890. and who was graduated from the Crestline High School in the class of 1908 ; and Robert William, who was born Nov. 29, 1893, and who was graduated from the Crestline High School in the class of 1912, and is employed in the offices of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in this city. The family belongs to the German Lutheran church. JONATHAN SONGER,* deceased, was born in Ohio in 1834, a son of George and Sarah Songer, of German extraction, who settled in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., at an early date. They were parents of seven children, five of whom survive, and were devoted members of the German Lutheran church. Jonathan Songer grew to manhood on his father's farm in Whetstone township, and there passed his life, following farming and stock raising and giving attention to public affairs and private duties as became a worthy man and good citizen. He died on his farm in the above township, March 4, 1872, at the early age of 38 years. Jonathan Songer married Miss Ruth Stewart, who was born some 6o years ago, on a farm two miles east of Bucyrus, O., a daughter of Joseph and Jane (Stean) Stewart, and a granddaughter of Hugh Stewart. Grandfather Stewart was born in Pennsylvania, of Scotch ancestry, and later married Barbara Stean, also of Scotch parentage. She died in Pennsylvania and he came in advanced age to Ohio and spent his last years at the home of his son in Whetstone township. He had three sons, Joseph, James and John, all of whom married sisters, members of the Stean family. John Stewart died in Pennsylvania but the other brothers came from Carlisle, Pa., to Ohio and settled in Crawford county, living and dying on adjacent farms in Whetstone township. Of the eight children born to Joseph Stewart and wife, two survive : Mrs. Songer and Charlotte, who is the wife of Daniel Sheckler. Mr. Sheckler was one of the early proprietors of the Bucyrus foundry, which later was merged into the American Clay Machinery Company. To Mr. and Mrs. Songer two children were born: Edward J. and Ursula Gertrude. The former is one of the leading citizens of Bucyrus and is mayor of the city (1912). Ursula Gertrude was reared and educated at Bucyrus and was graduated from the High School in the class of 1888. She is the wife of Owen Leon Bradley, who has been superintendent of the Carroll Machine Works at Bucyrus for the past ten years. Mr. Bradley is exalted ruler of the Elks in this city and is identified also with the Knights of Pythias. Mrs. Songer and family belong to the Methodist Episcopal church. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1239 A. W. LEWIS,* attorney-at-law, educator and formerly superintendent of the public schools of Galion, O., is one of the representative men of Crawford county. He was born in 1868, in Richland county, O., but has been a resident of Galion since he was two years old and obtained his educational training here. Mr. Lewis prepared himself for the profession of teacher previous to engaging in his law studies, and began as a public school teacher here in 1875. From 1883 to 1888 he served as principal of the city schools and in the latter year was elected superintendent and continued in that office until 1896. Although another profession has claimed his time and attention in large measure since then, he has never lost his interest in the schools and for more than 20 years has been a member of the board of school examiners. In 1890, while still engaged in educational work, he was admitted to the Ohio State bar and in 1896 he became associated with R. W. Johnston in the practice of law. Additionally, from 1903 to 1909 he had charge of the claim department of the Erie Railway Company and satisfactorily adjusted many accident and death claims. Since then he has devoted himself exclusively to his large practice. Mr. Lewis was married in Richland county, O., to Miss Florence C. Speel, who was born, reared and educated at Shelby. Richland county, and previous to her marriage was a successful and highly valued teacher in the public schools. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have three children: Georgiana, Wade A. and Robert. The eldest child was thoroughly educated, completing her school course at Lake View Seminary. at Painsville, O., afterward becoming a teacher at Galion and later at Tacoma, Wash. In February, 1912, she was married to Charles W. Fucht, of Mansfield, 0., where he is connected with the Citizens National Bank. The eldest son, Wade A., was graduated from the Galion high School and then entered the medical department of the Western Reserve College, where he was graduated with his degree, in 1902, before he was 21 years of age. He then spent three years in hospital work. after which he came to Galion, where he practiced for one year and then became assistant surgeon for the United States Steel Company, at Lorain, O. Robert H., the youngest of the family was a member of the 1912 graduating class of the Galion High School. Mr. Lewis and family are members of the First Presbyterian Church at Galion. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity and is past master of the Blue Lodge at Galion. In politics, Mr. Lewis is a leading Republican of this section and has frequently served as a member of the Crawford County Republican Executive Committee. WILLIAM J. DENNIG, proprietor of the large grocery establishment at No. 134 South Market street, Galion, O., succeeding his father, who established the business 30 years ago, was born in Marion county, O., in 1867, and is a son of Christopher W. and Mary (Haberman) Dennig. Christopher W. Dennig was born in Baden, Germany, in 1839, and cane to the United States with his parents, in the 50's, Iocating at Marion, O., where the father died a few years later. The mother lived to be 73 years old and died at the home of Christopher W. Dennig, at Galion. When the Civil War broke out, Christopher W. Dennig entered the Federal Army, becoming a member of the 82nd O. Vol. Inf., in which lie served for four years and when he was honorably discharged he was a second lieutenant. He participated in a large number of the important battles of that long struggle, including Bull Run and Gettysburg but was never seriously injured although on two occasions his clothes were penetrated by bullets. On one occasion he was captured but was shrewd enough to effect his escape before he was shut up in prison. When the war closed Mr. Dennig returned to Marion, O., and remained there until 1876, when he came to Galion, where he worked in the shops of the Big Four Railway until 1882. when he embarked in the grocery business on Market street and continued active in business until 1906, when the Dennig Grocery Company was formed, William J. Dennig becoming manager, Christopher W. Dennig retiring to a large degree although still taking an interest in the affairs of the company. He accumulated a substantial fortune during his 30 years in business and owns a comfortable residence on Union street. He has long been numbered with the reliable and representative 1240 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY men of the city, is a stockholder in several banks and has always been a liberal contributor to public spirited enterprises. He is a valued member of Dick Morris Post, G. A. R., at Galion. In 1866, Christopher W. Dennig was married to Miss Mary Haberman, who was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, and was brought to America by friends when a child of 12 years. She grew up at Marion, where she was married, and died at Galion, in 1890, when aged 43 years. She was a member of the German Methodist church, as is her husband. They had the following children : William John; Dora, deceased, who was the wife of C. A. Koppe, of Galion; Carl H., who is a resident of Galion: Edward E., who is in the clothing business at Galion, and who married Lulu Frank and has a son, Edmund and Emma, who is the wife of Samuel J. Gommel, a member of the firm of the Dennig Company, and has a son, Robert D. William J. Dennig completed his education at Galion, to which city his parents moved when he was young and when 12 years old he became a clerk in his father's store. In 1880 he embarked. In the dry goods business in which he continued until 1898, in which year he went into the grocery line and, as noted above, is now the active proprietor of the Dennig Grocery Company. He is a man of substantial character and business experience and is numbered with the city's representative men. He is a charter member of the Galion Commercial Club and one of its board of directors and is vitally interested in all that concerns the progress and development of this city, lending his influence and financially assisting in public spirited enterprises 0f evident merit. Mr. Dennig was married at Galion to Miss Nettie Gugler, who was born here in 1868. They had one son, Harold, who died in early infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Dennig are members of the German Methodist Episcopal church, Mr. Dennig being a trustee of the same. In his political affiliation he is a Republican. CHARLES W. BECHTOL, a well known and highly respected retired citizen of Galion, O., occupying his handsome residence which is located at No. 250 South Columbus street, be longs to one of the old families of Knox county, O., where he was born in 1850. MARTIN DURNWALD, one of the highly respected citizens of New Washington, O., a retired farmer, living in his comfortable home which is situated on Williacker street, New Washington, was born in Essen, Germany, Oct. 16, 1834, and is a son of Wenzel and Mary (Hiesel) Durnwald. The parents of Mr. Durnwald emigrated with their children to the United States about 1854, coming directly to Crawford county, O., where they cleared 18 acres of cranberry marsh land, southwest of the present city of New Washington. Like other pioneers they endured many hardships and carried on the early farming operations with ox teams and hand implements but developed a good farm and lived here into old age, their later years being made very comfortable. The mother died in her 80th year and the father when aged 86 and both were interred in the Catholic cemetery at New Washington, having been faithful members of the church there. They had eight children, all of whom were born in Germany, namely : Margaret, who died in Germany; Anna and Elizabeth, both of whom are deceased; Mary, who lives at Toledo, O. ; Magdalena, who is deceased ; Martin, subject of this sketch; Peter, who lived in Chatfield township; and Joseph, who lives at Clyde, O. After his school period was over, Martin Durnwald learned the principles of farming in his native land and after coming to America remained at home until he was 32 years of age, doing a large part of the clearing and cultivating of the home farm- Following his marriage he settled on 60 acres situated in section 23, range 17, Cranberry township, which he improved and to which lie later added 80 adjoining acres, and continued the active management of this farm until 1903, in which year he sold his farm and moved to New Washington. Martin Durnwald married Miss Mary Wentzlick, who was born in Germany and died at New Washington, Feb. 19. 1905, her burial being in the Catholic cemetery here, she having been a devoted member of the Catholic church all her life. She was a daugh- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1243 ter of Andrew and Elizabeth entzlickk, and the mother of 14 children, all of whom were born in Cranberry township. Joseph resides with his family in Cranberry township; George, who is unmarried, lives at New Washington; and Thomas resides with his family in Cranberry township. Elizabeth married D. N. Weithmann and they live at New Washington. Cecelia married John Hiler, who lives on a farm in section 3, Cranberry township, and they have had 12 children: Louisa, Alfred, Bertha, George, Charles, Rosa, Fred, Ida, Leona and three who died infants. Anna married Louis Rothchild, who was born at Galion, O., Nov. 8, 1869, and was killed by a stroke of lightning, June 16, 1912, while walking from his barn to his house, during an electric storm. His widow and four children survive him: Gertrude, aged 12 years; Emma, aged it years; Fred, aged nine years; and Lucile, aged four years. Magdalena is the wife of Albert Karl, of Cranberry township. Frederick resides with his family in Huron county, O. The other children died in infancy. Mr. urnwaldd and family are all members of the Catholic church at NewWashington.. He has always been a strong Democrat in his political views and has conscientiously supported his party but has never accepted any township office although well qualified for the same. G. K. ZEIGLER.* Vice president and a member of the board of directors of the Second National Bank of Bucyrus. O., and a member of the firm of Zeigler & Company, proprietors of the Alain Street Mills, is one of the older business men of this city, where he is still active in the milling industry with which he has been long associated. He was born in Montgomery county, Pa.. Dec. 4, 1834, and is a son of Abraham andRachell (Kroutz) Zeigler. G. K. Zeigler had few educational opportunities in youth and the whole period of his school attendance was covered by a part of one winter session. When he was199 years of age he left the farm and became an apprentice in a mill at Perkiomien, Pa., wherehee proved so apt in learning details and methods, that within a year he was made foreman, and in two years he made a grinding record. 12,000 bushels of grain having been passed by him through his hopper. In the summer of 1855 he came to Bloomville, O., and was in the employ of Simon Keller, a well known miller there, for six months, when he went back to Pennsylvania. There he was induced to embark in the dry goods business but as he was entirely without experience in that line, he lost his entire investment. He took a practical view of the matter and knowing that lie could succeed at mill work, he returned to Crawford county, O., and secured work in a mill at New Washington. Fifteen months later he came to Bucyrus, where he was employed by a Mr. McClain for more than two years, and for the next two years had charge of the Honey Creek mills, and then returned to Mr. Keller where he remained for three years. By this time Mr. Zeigler had established a reputation as a very competent miller and lie was anxious to go into business f, ~r himself, this resulting in a partnership with Mr. Keller and they conducted a mill forfivei years, afterward purchasing and operating the Honey Creek mills. Mr. Zeigler's next move was to go into business with Mr. Keller at Napoleon, 0., where they not only conducted mills but also built an elevator at a cost of$10,000.. In April, 1876, Mr. Zeigler returned to Bucyrus and became proprietor of the Main Street Mills, where the capacity is 150 barrels of flour per day, and since 1877 these mills have been continuously operated by Zeigler & Company and the enterprise is one of large importance in this section. Mr. Zeigler was married in 1857, to Miss. Ann M. Keller, who was born in Seneca county, O., and three children were born to them. Mr. Zeigler has never been active in politics but is a Democrat in his political convictions, and his vote as an honest and well-meaning, law-abiding citizen is always tobee counted on. He can recall many changes in the methods of milling, his memory going back to the old water-wheel mill race until the present when he can show visitors his own plant where the proved complicated mill easily governed, working under steam power. HENRY C. SPOONHAUER machine manu many year 1244 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY proprietor and manager of his establishment at No. 316 East Main street, occupies the important office of chief engineer of the Galion Fire Department, with which organization he has been connected for 47 years. He was born Aug, 12, 1851, in Juniata county, Pa., and is a son of Martin and Lydia (Hilliard) Sponhauer. Martin Sponhauer, who is one of Galion's most venerable and respected citizens, was born in Pennsylvania in 1822 and came to Galion in 1854, where he engaged in business as a druggist and continued until 1875, when he retired. Time has been gentle in its passage and in a very remarkable degree he preserves both physical and mental vigor. He was twice married, his first wife dying in 1853, leaving four children, namely: Ida, who is the wife of R. A. Williams, of Cleveland, O., and has two children—Morris and Ida; Stephen, who is a retired hardware merchant at Fort Wayne, Ind., and has a family of two sons and two daughters ; Henry C., subject of this sketch; and Martin, who died unmarried, at Chicago, Ill., when aged 54 years. The second wife died in 1875, the mother of two children, Edward and Retta. The former was a railroad man and was accidentally killed at Hamilton, O., in his 26th year. The latter is the wife of John Smith and they reside at Cleveland, O. Henry C. Sponhauer was three years old when his father brought the family to Galion and here he was reared and educated and learned the machinist trade with a local foundry and machine company. In 1882 he went into business for himself and for almost 30 Years carried it on with success, frequently during this time expanding, re-equipping his quarters and adding to his office and shop force until now a dozen skilled workmen are required. In addition to boiler and machine manufacturing, a general tinning business is carried on. Mr. Sponhauer continued at the affairs until April, 1911, when he his heaviest responsibilities to his is the present manager. It to not find the name of identified with the fire very nearly a half assumed duties body. Few of the old names or personalities remain but Mr. Sponhauer has continued his active interest and has had much to do with building to the present strong and efficient organization. for 36 years having been its engineer an," chief engineer. In 1847, at Galion, Mr. Sponhauer was married to Miss Mary DeVore, who was born at Cardington, O., and was reared and educated in Morrow county and at Galion. The following children were born to this marriage Florence, who is the wife of M. McDonald, of Rochester, N. Y., and has two children—Mary and Harland ; William, who learned the plumbing trade and for some years was connected with his father's business, of which he became manager in April, 1911 ; Jennie, who is the wife of Frank Martine, of Galion, and has three children : Grace, who is the wife of Daniel Connors, foreman in a boiler shop at Elgin. Ill., and has two children—Robert and Mary; Blanche, who is the wife of Rollin Reingert, a druggist at Barberton, 0. : and Verna, who resides at home. Mr. and Mrs. Sponhauer are members of the Lutheran church. Politically lie and his son are Democrats, while fraternally he is connected with both the Masons and the Odd Fellows, being a Shriner and a member of Al Koran Temple. at Cleveland and past grand in the latter organization. WILLIAM H. SNYDER, * who is one of the reliable and representative business men of Crestline, for the past 15 years has conducted a department store at No. 134 Seltzer street, where he has a commodious building, his store room of 23x101 feet giving him adequate space for the display and sale of his large and well selected stock. He was born at Crestline, June 13, 1879, and is a son of Adam and Louise (Scott) Snyder. Adam Snyder was born in Germany, July 17, 1830, and was eight years old when his parents, John A. and Mary (Helfrich) Snyder. brought him to the United States. They settled at Shippensburg, Pa. but later came on to Crestline, where the father died in 1878, when aged 78 years and her death followed at the age of 79 years. They left Hesse Darmstadt. Germany, May 14, 1837 and made a quick passage for those days, being but three AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1145 weeks on the ocean.heyey were members of the Evangelical church. Of their four children Adam was probably the eldest. One died in childhood and one, Christopher, died at the age of 27 years. The other son, John, who is a veteran of the Civilarar, lives with a daughter, at Chicago, Ill. Adam Snyder learned the painter's trade and during the summers worked as a decorator, while he made chairs in the winter time, having a shop of his own. He now lives in comfortable retirement and both lie and his wife are aged about 76 years. He married Louise Scott and seven children were born to them, namely Mary J., who is the wife of J. N. Kyser, of Crestline, and has one son, Ernest R. ; Frank E., a painter by trade, who lives at Crestline, and who married Anna Libens and has the following children—Clarence, Albert, Margaret and Chester: Daniel, who died unmarried at the age of 36 years: Ella, who is the wife of Charles Hazlett, a railroad man at Newark0-,., and has one daughter, Florence; Rosa, who is the wife of David L. Churchill: Minnie R., who resides at home: an lliamam H. William H. Snyder was reared andducateded at Crestline. When 17 years of age he became a clerk in a local store and displayed talent also as a window decorator and then went into business on his own account. Mr. Snyder began in a small way on the same street where he has continued, nearly opposite to his present building, in 1900 moving into larger quarters and in 1903 taking possession of his present three-story building. He has built up a very satisfactory business, making something of a specialty of novelties but also carrying a full line of staple goods. Mr. Snyder was married in this city to Miss Ollie P. Steward, who was born in 1880 at Cardington, O., where she was reared and educated. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have three children : Louis E., Carl E. and Ruth L. They are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Snyder was reared in the Democratic party but in late years has assumed an independent attitude as to political principles. He has been a resident of Crestline since May. 186 and has done his part in building titbehe city's present prosperity. LEVI L. ROOKS, a well know business man of Crestline, O., a coal dealer and engaged in the teaming industry, was born in Huron county, Ohio, in 1845, a son of Ezekiel. and Sophia (Tubbs) Rooks. Ezekiel Rooks, the father of our subject. was born near Painted Post, Steuben county, N. Y., perhaps as early as 1790, as it was at a time when Indians still lived in that section, and the youth made friends with them and became familiar with their ways and speech. In 1814, with other adventurous men, he started on foot for Ohio and after his arrival purchased land in Huron county, about 100 miles from what is now the city of Plymouth, Ohio. For some years he lived in a log house or cabin, but later, after he had become more prosperous, he moved into a large two-story brick residence, which he erected in 1832, amid the upper story of which he donated for it district schoolroom. This schoolroom was well lighted with eight windows and heated with a fireplace, and it is probable that Mr. Rooks furnished the wood for fuel, on the condition that the big boys should cut it, as was then the general custom in district schools. This was the first public school in the vicinity, the pupils coming from miles around. According to early custom, the teacher "boarded around," and was paid by subscription or by the united contributions of the parents otbehe pupils. The bricks of which this house was constructed were made from clay found on Mr. Rook's farm, and .that the work was well done is proved by the fact that the house is still standing and in good condition. On his farm Mr. Rooks planted an apple orchard that became known far and wide for its fruitage. In this one way, if not in many others also, he was a benefactor to Huron county, for from this orchard spread others and thus horticulture received early attention in that section. To the land he first purchased he added until he owned about 1000 acres. In every situation of life he displayed a resourceful character, and when hdieded in 1872. at the age of 8 years, Huron county lost a man of more than ordinary worth. It is sad to record that his life was terminated by a railroad accident. Politically he was a Democrat and always adhered firmly to the old time principles of his party. He never used in- 1246 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY toxicating liquor or tobacco, with the exception of some home-made bitters for medicinal use, to which thetbembers of his family had access, and his example in this respect was followed by all his sons, including the subject of this sketch, in whose house no filthy spittoon may be seen. In Richland county, Ohio, Ezekiel Rooks was married to Sophia Tubbs, who was born in New York and came to Ohio an early day. He died Huron county when aged 49 years, a good and virtuous woman, whose memory is tenderly cherished by her son. The family of Ezekiel Rooks and wife numbered five sons and six daughters. One of the former, Alonzo, enlisted as a soldier in the Union army during the Civil War died in the service. Levi L. Rooks remained at home in Huron county until he was 25 years of age, assisting his father on the farm. He was then engaged for two years in mercantile business at Plymouth, Ohio, and at the end of that time moved to Richland county, Ill., where he followed farming for 15 years. He then returned to Ohio and settled on a farm in Richland county, this state, where he spent six years, coming to Crestline in 1891. Here he subsequently went into the coal business and since 1902 has been engaged also in teaming. He has always been a man of action, both in business and in promoting the best interests of the community. In politics he is somewhat independent, often casting his vote without regard to party lines, as he deems expedient. Mr. Rooks was married at Plymouth, Ohio, to Miss Annie E. Frye, who was born, reared and educated in that place. She is a woman of amiable character and is still capable of looking after her household affairs and enjoying social life. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Rooks, one son and two daughters, namely : Abraham E., Irilla Isadore, and Mary L. Abraham E. Rooks, who is now engaged in the grocery business at Crestline, for 17 years previously was a skilled machinist in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railway Company. He is married and has two children—Kenneth P. and Lethia G. He and his wife are members of the M. E. church at Crestline. Irilla, familiarly called "Rilly," is the wife of Albert H. Kinsey, who is en gaged in the drug business in Crestline; they have two children—Herbert Samuel and Albert Rooks Kinsey. Mrs. Kinsey is a member of the Presbyterian church and her two sons attend the Sunday school. Mary L. Rooks married Edward D. Miller, who is a telegraph operator for the Pennsylvania Railway Company; they have a daughter, Bertha Isadora Miller, who attends the Presbyterian Sunday school and who is the best pianist of her age in the town. Mrs. Mary L. Miller is a member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Rooks is a member of the M. E. church, to which his wife also belongs. ISAAC F. SWOPE, formerly a very active business man of Galion, O., now living retired, is a representative of an old Swiss family of Canton Bern. His grandfather was David Samuel Swope, a blacksmith by trade, who lived into old age but was survived by his wife, who lived to the age of 116 years. They had eight children and all of them lived and died in Switzerland except one son, David, who was the father of Isaac F. Swope of Galion. David Swope was born in Switzerland in 1800 and by the time he was 14 years of age had so continually assisted his father at the forge that he knew all the practical details of blacksmithing. It is not known if his father gave consent, but, at any rate, the boy took passage in 1814 for America, crossing the Atlantic Ocean in one of the old-time sailing vessels but reaching New York in safety. He made his way to Black Fork, Richland county, O., where he was one of the early settlers. He must have been a youth of unusual parts and ready for adventure, for in this strange country his first friends were the Indians, who admired his skill in tipping their arrows and and as he was kind and friendly with them they treated him in the same manner. In fact they became very helpful to him, assisting him in clearing off hisbisnd and as long as he remained in that neighborhood these friendly relations were maintained. In the early 20'S he came to the vicinity of what is now Plymouth but was at that time called Paris in Richland county, Crawford county not being organized until 1823. Here lie acquired a farm and built a shop in the northeast corner AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1247 of Crawford county. Here again he was surrounded by Friendly Indians, he using the same tactics as formerly and never had any cause to regret the fellowship he extended to his brethren of a darker color than his own. Here he improved a farm and as his blacksmith shop was one of the earliest, he had much custom. In the course of time he erected a handsome brick residence and put up a large barn, with dimensions of 80x40 feet. He had started an orchard very soon after locating there and later as many as 90 bushels of apples were gathered from a Rhode Island Greening tree that he had set out. He was a very progressive and resourceful man and was the inventor of the first threshing machine in his day, a one-cylinder machine that threshed the grain that went out with the straw. This ingenious invention was the cause of his death, for while operating it very satisfactorily, his clothing was caught accidentally and his death was instantaneous, this happening in October, 1852. He had accomplished a great deal totally unaided and at the time of his death had a competency and had he lived no doubt would have improved his crude threshing machine until, in all probability, he might have made a vast fortune as have other experimenters along the same line. In politics he was a Whig and in religion he was a member of the German Reformed church, a most worthy man in every relation of life. He was married first in Stark county, O., to a young woman who had been born in Connecticut and when she died she left six children, the three survivors being residents of Ohio. His second marriage took place in what is now Auburn township, Crawford county, to Margaret Blum, who was born in Frankfort, Germany, in 1827; and was brought to Stark county, O., when young. She survived her husband for many years, her death occurring in 1876, when aged 69 years. She was a member of the German Lutheran church. Two sons are yet living: Isaac F. and Abraham, the latter being a resident of Shelby, O., where but one grandchild remains of his family. Isaac F. Swope is the younger of the two brothers and he was born Jan. 30, 1846, in Auburn township, Crawford county, and was only a small boy when accident removed his father. His mother kept him at home until he was 14 years of age, when he learned the painter's trade, which he followed for a few years but this seemed to bring ill health and lie then learned the carpenter's trade and had a natural leaning toward architecture and later became a contractor. In this line he became very successful and completed contracts all over the northern part of the state, erecting buildings in different cities and through the country. He purchased a small farm on which he finds much enjoyment in growing fruit. Mr. Swope was married at Plymouth, O., to Miss Emily J. Solinger, who was born at Belleville, O., where she was educated and was graduated from the High School. They have. one daughter, Mabel Estelle, who is the wife of Bert E. Place, and Mr. and Mrs. Place have three children: Lawrence Earl, Margaret E. and Horace Frederick. In politics Mr. Swope is a Democrat but he has never been a politician, just a fair-minded, law-abiding, good citizen. FREDERICK E. UHLE,* of the firm of Crooks & Uhle, machinists, at Bucyrus, O., and manufacturers of the Crooks' go-cart runner, have a fine plant and do a large volume of business, and Mr. Uhle has been connected with it from the first. He was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, April 29, 1844, attended school in his native province and then learned the shoemaking trade. Every German youth gives military service to his country in some department, and in 1864, when the Prussian-German War was in progress, Mr. Uhle became identified with the army hospital service and continued until the close of that war. In 1871 in the war between France and Germany, he volunteered. He saw hard service, his duties frequently being continued both day and night, when he had charge of from 60 to 70 disabled soldiers. Finally he received his honorable discharge and a vote of thanks for his valuable services. In the spring of 1872, Mr. Uhle decided to see something of other countries of the world beside his own and took passage on the steamer Simpare bound for the harbor of New York. After a short time spent there he made his way to Attica, O., where at first 1248 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY worked at his trade and through prudence accumulated enough capital to enable him to go into the grocery business, where he continued for many years, in the meanwhile becoming interested also in other enterprises and investing in property which he still owns. Prior to coming to Bucyrus he retired for a period from business care but later became interested in the invention of the go-cart runner, by his son-in-law, Earl G. Crooks, a practical and skilled machinist, and in 1908 the present partnership was formed, Mr. Uhle becoming then a resident of this city. The manufacture of this invention, which is a runner that can be adjusted to any kind of a go-cart, has been developed into a large business. The machine shop operated in connection is mainly for repair work of every description and it is equipped with machinery of all kinds, the motive power being supplied by electricity. In the fall of 1871, Mr. Uhle was married in Germany, to Miss Wilhelmina Kramer, who was born in May, 1849, of Nassau. Germany, parentage. All of their children were born at Attica, O., and are seven in number. William, the eldest, is a prominent citizen of Attica, formerly a hotel-keeper and now town clerk and president of the local Fair Association. He married Jane Courtright and they have an infant daughter, Wilhelmina. Anna, the eldest daughter, is the wife of Rev. George Smith, who is a Lutheran minister stationed in Indiana. They have four children. Carl is engaged successfully in the practice of dentistry at Springfield, O. He married Helen Eckerson and they have one son, Robert. Edwin conducts a large meat market at Attica. He married Minnie Bookman and they have two sons: Clyde and Frederick. Albert C. is manager of a large cement plant at Columbus, O. He married Louise Farion and they have three children: Frederick, Louise and Nicholas. Eugenia is the wife of Earl G. Crooks, Mr. Uhle's talented partner in business. They have two children: Dorothy and Eleanor. Freda, the youngest of the family, is the wife of Philip Seifert and they live at Bloomville, O. and have one daughter, Alberta. Mr. Uhle and family are members of the German Lutheran church. Politically he is a Democrat. PROF. THOMAS N. JOHNSON,* for many years was a prominent educator in Ohio, a man of scholarly attainments and of high personal character. He was born in 1846, in Harrison county, O., and died in 1892, at Cleveland, O. Thomas N. Johnson had district school advantages in his youth and displayed the mental gifts that led his father to encourage his ambition for a higher education and consequently he became a student in a Babtist college and later was graduated from Dennison University, at Granville, O. His subsequent life was devoted to educational work and after some years of teaching in Normal schools in Maryland, lie became superintendent of the schools in Canal Dover, 0., and from there was called to Cleveland, where he was an instructor in the public schools and also was a Normal school teacher. He was identified with the Masonic fraternity. Professor Johnson married Miss Anna E. White, a daughter of the late Prof. Thomas Fuller White. The father of Mrs. Johnson was also a very prominent educator and for years was connected with the public school system of Pennsylvania, his death occurring at the age of 55 years, in Allegheny county. To Professor and Mrs. Johnson two sons were born, Alfred T. and Reginald G. Mrs. Johnson and sons are members of the Episcopal church. She is a leading member of the Current News Club, at Galion, and at one time was its president. MAJOR J. CHARLES BIGELOW, deceased, for many years a well known resident and prosperous business man of Galion, O., and a veteran and honored officer of the great Civil War, was born April 10, 1841, in the State of New York, and was a son of John and Maria (Stout) Bigelow. Major Bigelow came of the old Bigelow family of Massachusetts which has contributed many distinguished citizens to the United States. His father died in advanced age at New London, O. In New York he was married to Maria Stout, who died at Canton, O. They were members of the Adventist church. Of their large family there are two vet living: Mrs. Elizabeth Wood, now of Alton, Pa.: and Frank, whose present place of residence is AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1251 not known. Two of the sons, John and Silas, served in the Civil War from 1861 until 1865, in a New York regiment and both held the rank of lieutenant. J. Charles Bigelow was 21 years old when, in 1861, he enlisted for service in the Civil War, contracting for 90 days. Later he raised a company at Syracuse, N. Y., which became a part of the 15th N. Y. Cav., and he was advanced to the rank of major, filling that office when he was honorably discharged and mustered out in 1865, at the close of the war. He was in many battles and saw much hard service, being ever at the post of duty and danger, but he escaped all serious injury and at the close of the Rebellion returned to his parents at New London, O. Later he settled in Richland county and from there came to Galion. For nine years he was in the Government mail transfer business here and conducted a livery and transportation business of his own. His death occurred at Hamilton, O., in July, 1908. Major Bigelow was married at Cumberland, Md., to Miss Eugenia White, who was born, reared and educated in Maryland, and is a daughter of Prof. Thomas Fuller White, who was born near Boston, Mass., and died in Allegheny county, Pa., at the age of 55 years. He was a college graduate and for some years was professor of languages at Charlotte Hall, Cumberland, Md., after which he went to Allegheny county, where he practically organized the public school system. His widow survived to the age of 78 years. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while he belonged to the Episcopal church. Ten daughters were born to theirs and the following survive: Mrs. Anna E. Johnson, widow of Prof. Thomas N. Johnson; Mrs. Bigelow; Mary E., who is the wife of Dr. F. L. Brown, of Galion; and Alice and Jessie, both of whom reside in Maryland, Miss Jessie White being a well known teacher. Mrs. Bigelow and Mrs. Johnson reside together at Galion. Mrs. Bigelow, like her sister, is a member of the Episcopal church. Major Bigelow was a Republican in politics. He was identified with the Masonic fraternity and with the G. A. R. Post at Hamilton, O. JOHN G. HERBOLD. Closely identified from his early youth with Galion's business life, was John G. Herbold, the well known funeral director, the character of whose work brought him prominence and easily accredited him with being an artist in his profession. Mr. Herbold was born in Galion, Ohio, his life-long home, on July 3, 1866, and passed away there on Aug. 16, 1910. He was the son of Philip and Frederica (Feldman) Herbold, natives of Germany, and for many years well known and highly respected citizens of Galion. As a boy he attended school in Galion, his education being furthered by study in Cleveland, Ohio. When a very young man he became associated in the cabinet and undertaking business with his father, the latter long being one of the substantial business men of the city. Purchasing his venerable father's interest in 1899, he embarked in business for himself, locating at 250 South Market street. In 1909 he erected a combined residence and business block at 218 South Market street. The building, a handsome three story brick structure, is one of the finest in the city. Its first floor is fitted for the undertaking and funeral business, and includes a reception room, private offices, a chapel accommodating one hundred and fifty people, a morgue and embalming room. Mr. Herbold's equipments for his business were always of the best and his enterprise was noteworthy. He was the first embalmer in Galion, and owned the first funeral ambulance used in the city. Through his efforts the business to which he devoted his life was brought up to the present standard in which it is found in Galion. Mr. Herbold was married June 4, 1895, to Miss Esther Burgener, who was born near Galion, March 23, 1867. She was a real helpmate during her husband's lifetime, learning the business in order to assist him, and since his death, continuing it, being capable and efficient in every way. Mr. Herbold was highly esteemed and held in tender regard by many, his kind and sympathetic manner gaining and retaining for him the friendship of those with whom his extensive business brought him in contact. Mr. Herbold was an Elk, a Pythian, an Odd Fellow, a Modern Woodman, a member of numerous Embalming Associations and also of the National Association of Funeral Directors. He was associated with the Presbyterian Church, as is also Mrs. Herbold. 1252 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY JEFFERSON PFAHLER,* who owns 100 acres of fine farming land situated in Cranberry township, Crawford county, O., lives on the 60-acre farm which lies in section 25, range 18, the other 4o acres being located in section 24, same range, the home place lying six miles southeast of New Washington. He was born in Cranberry township, April 30, 1864, and is a son of Mathias and Margaret (Gossman) Pfahler, and a grandson of John Pfahler. Jefferson Pfahler attended school in District No. 5, Cranberry township, and afterward remained on the home farm with his mother, his father having died when he was not more than four years old. He continued to live at home until 1888, when he was married to Miss Mary Amanda Hilborn, a daughter of William Harrison Hilborn. In the spring of the following year he rented a farm of R. T. Geiger which he operated for a time and then located on his present farm which he worked for ten years for his father-in-law and bought the place two years after the father's death. In a general way Mr. Pfahler found the buildings on the place satisfactory but since taking possession has added to them as he has deemed necessary and has carried on a general line of improvement. He has a valuable sugar maple grove on his land and makes this profitable. He is much interested in high grade cattle, hogs and horses and owns a valuable stallion, which, as a colt, broke all weight records at the county fair at Bucyrus. Since May, 1912, Mr. Pfahler has been practically retired from many of his former industries. On Oct. 7, 1911, he met with a heavy bereavement, in the loss of his beloved wife, who is survived by three children: Royal Emerson, Oran Harris and Iona Irene. The eldest son showed musical talent and was given advantages at the Dana Musical School and also in Chicago and now is on the road for musical firms. Oran Harris, the second son, taught school for several terms and now is foreman in the Fort Wayne Electric Works at Madison, Wis. The daughter is the wife of Melvin Hartman, who rents and operates Mr. Pfahler's farms. Mr. Pfahler is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and has served as trustee of the Tabor and Goodwill churches. In politics he has always been a Democrat and with other responsibilities of citizenship, at one time accepted the office of road supervisor. He is one of the well known men and substantial citizens of Crawford County. A. G. KIBLER,* who is vice president of The S. J. Kibler & Brother Company, wholesale dealers in hides, at New Washington, O., belongs to an old and representative family of this section and was born at New Washington, Aug. 1, 1817, son of S. J. Kibler. A. G. Kibler attended the New Washington schools in boyhood and afterward took a course in the Tri-State College and upon his return home became associated with his father in the present business. When the company was organized he became one of the officers and travels for the company. He is president of the associated concern, the Lake Erie Hide and Leather Company, of Sandusky, O. The business is one of volume and importance in Ohio and is largely in the hands of the Kiblers. On Nov. 6, 1900, A. G. Kibler was married to Miss Mildred Donnenwirth, a daughter of John and Malinda (Hosler) Donnenwirth, the former of whom is a resident of Bucyrus, while the latter is deceased. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kibler: Alfred G., Jr., Beatrice Elizabeth and Eunice Winnifred. Mr. Kibler built the handsome family residence on Main street. The family attends the Lutheran church. Mr. Kibler has long been identified with the Democratic party although he has independent tendencies, nevertheless has served as a member of the Democratic Executive Committee of the county and for some six years has been president of the school board. L. MELANCTHON SMITH, principal owner and managing director of the Bucyrus Publishing Company, was born in Lykens township, Crawford. county, Ohio, Sept. 1, 1868, a son of Frederick and Lucy Ann (Shupp) Smith. The father, Frederick Smith, was a native of Saxony, Germany, who, on coming to America, first took up his abode in Columbus, Ohio, whence he came to Crawford county in 1840. He did contract work on the National pike and afterward purchased AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 1253 a quarter section of land in Lykens township, which he brought under a high state of cultivation. He first married Christina Tipman, of Saxony, Germany, who died in 1846, leaving four children, namely: Louis F., formerly of Lykens township, who died several years ago, after having served as justice of the peace and notary public; John F., a farmer of the same township; Adolph G., a contractor at Aurora, Ill.; and Clara, the widow of Joseph Laipply, of Bucyrus. After the death of his first wife, Frederick Smith 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. The children born of this marriage were as follows: Cornelius, of Bucyrus; Matilda, who is now deceased; Catherine, wife of Jacob Meck, of Holmes township; Frederick, who is in the Walther hardware store; Henry, a farmer of Holmes township; Lucy Ann, now deceased; Jefferson I.; Emma J., wife of Abraham Scheifer, of Lykens township; L. Melancthon, subject of this sketch; and Sarepta, wife of C. H. Flickinger, of Holmes township. The father of this family was a 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 fair and impartial and his wisdom and honesty were so generally recognized that his counsel in law matters was sought far and near. He was also township clerk for many years and during a great 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 in all things an active and progressive citizen. He died Dec. 3, 1877, at the age of 61 years; his wife passed away in 1891, when also 61 years of age. L. Melancthon Smith spent his childhood days on the home farm in Lykens township and acquired the elements of knowledge in the district schools. He was only nine years old at the time of his father's death and at the age of 16 was obliged to begin the battle of life on his own account. He worked in the country store of his brother, where he acquired a taste for business and where he came into contact with human nature. He later attended the Bucyrus High School and the Mansfield Business College. After graduating from the latter, he was engaged in business, and in 1891 bought an interest in the New Washington Herald and was associated there with his brother, J. I. Smith, deputy county auditor. In 1898 he desired to come to the county seat and accordingly bought an interest in the Crawford County News and became its business manager, filling that place so successfully that the consolidation of his paper with the old party organ, the Forum, was a logical result. He made many improvements in the Daily Forum and in the semiweekly issue, which, since the consolidation has been called the News-Forum. One of his most notable improvements was the installing, in 1912, of a Goss Comet perfecting press for the more rapid printing of his papers. The Forum under its old management was scrappy, peevish and arbitrary in party affairs. Mr. Smith changed this and declined to enter into party bitterness. He believed in the right of everyone to express honest opinions and did not call names editorially nor speak disrespectfully of those whose opinions did not coincide with his own. If there was an argument to make, he made it, and if only nasty talk would suffice, he neglected the opportunity to use it. He has given to his papers a great deal more popularity than they ever had before. In party councils he has had an important place. For four consecutive terms he was chairman of the Democratic County Executive Committee. In March, 19o8, he was appointed a member of the Ohio State Board of Penitentiary Managers, by Governor A. L. Harris, where his ability was used to the advantage of that important state institution, As a citizen he is public spirited and enthusiastic for the prosperity of Bucyrus. L. M. Smith was married in 1892, at New Washington, Ohio, to Miss Bessie Sexauer, a daughter of Frederick and Mary (Zeigler) Sexauer. Mrs. Smith's paternal grandparents were Christian and Caroline (Schindler) Sexauer, both natives of Baden, Germany, who came to America in 1827, locating at Sulphur Springs, this county. After the death of her first husband, Mrs. Sexauer married J. G. Kinniger, who opened a wagon shop at Sulphur Springs, being associated in this indus- 1254 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY try by his step-son, C. F. Sexauer, and together they carried on the business for a number of years. Mrs. Mary (Zeigler) Sexauer was a daughter of Dr. G. L. Zeigler, who was a prominent physician in pioneer times. Mr. Smith belongs to the Elks and the Knights of Pythias; and he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church.