650 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY born December 14, 1905. Mr. Burnison was married (second) to Miss Viola May Cole, who was born in Sandusky township, Crawford county, November 11, 1882, a daughter of Samuel F. and Debra N. (Lauchbauta) Cole. The parents of Mrs. Burnison retired from their farm to Galion, in 1911. The father is a Republican in politics and both he and wife are members of the United Brethren church. Mr. and Mrs. Burnison have a bright little son, John Franklin, who was born April 25, 1909. They attend the United Brethren church. Mr. Burnison belongs to the order of Railroad Conductors, No. 109, at Galion. FERDINAND D HECK, a respected resident of Galion, where he owns property, is a locomotive engineer, employed on the Cincinnati division of the Erie Railroad, was born in Prussia, Germany, about 20 miles from Berlin, Feb. 12, 2861. His parents, John and Frederica (Erest) Heck, were natives of the same place. In 1864 they emigrated with their family to the United States in a sailing vessel, the voyage occupying six weeks. They landed at Castle Garden, New York City and continued on to Mansfield, Ohio, where John Heck found employment at his trade of mason. After following his trade in Mansfield for ten years, he turned his attention to farming, at the end of ten years thus occupied locating on a five-acre tract of land near Shelby, Richland county, O., where he died September 24, 1898, at the age of 78 years. His wife died March 17, 1905, at the age of sixty-two. They belonged to the German Lutheran church and he was a Democrat in politics. Their children—five in number—were as follows: Amelia, who is the wife of Michael Meuchen, resides on the old homestead near Shelby and has two children—Williazn and Anna. Ferdinand, whose name appears at the head of this sketch; Rena, who lives near Shelby, O., is the wife of Jacob Ginder and has two children—Wilbur and Edith; Augusta, who was born on the voyage to America and who died in Mansfield, O., at the age of four years: and Anna, born in Mansfield, O., who is the wife of Martin J. Molder, resides in Shelby, O., and has three children—John, Myrtle and Glenn. Ferdinand Heck was reared and educated in Mansfield and in Richland county, Ohio. He acquired a knowledge both of mason work and farming, but at the age of 24 years obtained employment on the Big Four Railroad. Later he secured a position as fireman on the Erie road and was thus employed for twelve years, at the end of that time being promoted to engineer on the Cincinnati division of the Erie road (known as the Third Division) and has since been thus occupied. Some time ago he purchased half a block of land on East Main street, Galion, on which he has two large residences,, one of which he occupies. On June 25, 1885, he was married in Mansfield, O., to Miss Susie Placer, who was born near Richland, Ohio, March 10, 1862, and who was there reared and educated. Her parents were Conrad and Elizabeth (Christman) Placer, natives of Germany, who came to America when young people and who were married in Mansfield, later locating in Richland county, where Mr. Placer died in 1868 at the age of about forty years. His wife died in Crestline, on the Richland county side of that city, June 19, 1888, when she was nearly 6o years of age. They were German Lutherans in religion. Their daughter Susan (Mrs. Heck) was the fourth born of six children, three of whom are yet living, namely: Mrs. Heck; a half brother, J. C. Klingelhafer, who resides in Galion, is married and has three children—Ruth, Robert and Mary; and a sister, Mrs. Sarah Placer, who is now residing with Mrs. Heck. Mr. and Mrs. Heck have no children; the latter is a member of the English Lutheran church. Mr. Heck is a socialist in his political views. He is a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and is a reliable and progressive citizen. ALFRED LEUTHOLD, attorney at law at Bucyrus, O., was born in Canton Bern, Switzerland, November 11, 1874, one of a family of nine children born to his parents, Christian Leuthold, Jr. and wife, and a grandson of Christian and Sarah (Von Bergen) Leuthold. The paternal great-grandfather was a prominent physician in Switzerland. Christian Leuthold, Jr., was born in Canton Bern, Switzerland, in 1841 and died at Bucyrus February 15, 1906. In his native land he was a grower of stock. He married Kath- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 651 erine Knoti, of Canton Bern, and they, with their nine children, came to the United States in 1884, landing at the harbor of New York. From there they made their way to Upper Sandusky, O., and four years afterward moved to Bucyrus township, Crawford county. The father and sons rented a large farm, all of his sons helping industriously in order to acquire homes of their own. After the father died the mother retired to Bucyrus, where she still lives at the age of seventy-four years. At present this family owns valuable land and stock and is numbered with the substantial ones of the county. Their children were as follows: Katherine, who is the wife of Jacob Bohn, a farmer in Holmes township, and they have three children: Christian, who is a farmer in Crawford county, married Clara Geisman and they have eight children; Rosa L., who is the wife of Godfrey Welty, a farmer in Holmes township, and they have eight children; David, who is a farmer in Holmes township, married Louisa Geist, and they have one child; John, who is a farmer in Bucyrus township, married Anna Spring, and they have two sons; Godfrey, who is an attorney at Bucyrus, is unmarried; Alfred, the subject of this sketch; Samuel, who is associated in the practire of law with his brother Alfred, married Tena Miller, and they have one son; and Louisa, who resides with her mother and is an exemplary daughter. Through many hardships and discouragements, Alfred Leuthold secured an education and was graduated in the class of 1897 from the Ohio Northern University at Ada, O., with the degree of A. B., having been admitted to the bar before he was graduated. Later he taught school in Crawford county, O. When the Spanish-American war broke out in 2898, he enlisted as a private in the 4th Ohio and served for one year, during this time being stationed for three months on the island of Porto Rico. He was honorably discharged January 20, 1899, and then came to Bucyrus, where he established himself in the practice of law. He is a member of Camp Thoman, No. 33, Spanish-American War Veterans, at Bucyrus. Mr. Leuthold was married in Crawford county to Miss Hattie Keplinger, who was born in Liberty township in 1874 and was educated in the public schools. They have three children: Emerson, who was born in 1903; Warren Keplinger, in 1905 ; and Ruth Katherine, whose birth took place May 12, 1898. Mr. and Mrs. Leuthold are members of the United Brethren church. DAVID H. WHITE, who has been identified with the mills operated by Zigler & Co., at Bucyrus, O., for the past twenty-seven years and for eighteen of these has been a member of the firm, has been connected with the industry since he was thirteen years of age. He was born at Beaver Falls, Pa,, in 1839, and is a son of Hugh and Sarah J. (Boyles) White. They also were natives of Pennsylvania and the father died in that state some years ago. For a considerable period he had been superintendent of a steel company and was widely known. His widow resides at Cleveland, Ohio. David H. White is the eldest of a family of seven children born to his parents, all of these surviving. He entered one of the first flour mills built at Beaver Falls, as an apprentice, when he was merely a boy, learned the business and has devoted himself to it all his life. Since he has been a resident of Bucyrus he has made his influence felt as a worthy and dependable citizen, and served through three terms as a member of the city council, elected on the Democratic ticket. Mr. White was married at Bucyrus to Miss Anna M. Zigler, a daughter of G. K. Zigler. She is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. White is a member of several fraternal organizations and is prominent in Masonry, belonging to the Consistory at Toledo and the Shrine at Cleveland. He is also a director in the Second National Bank. HON. THOMAS BEER—distinguished along many lines, the late Judge Thomas Beer will long be recalled as one of Crawford county's eminent citizens. He came of an ancestry notable for its achievements, but his fame rests sufficiently upon what he accomplished himself, his indebtedness to his forebears, however, always having been a matter of pride to him. They were soldiers and patriots, missionaries and scholars—men of courage and women of beauty and refinement 652 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY —and heredity was clearly shown in the character of their descendant. Thomas Beer was born September 7, 1832, the third of a family of thirteen children, two of whom died in infancy. His parents were Rev. Thomas Beer, D. D., and his wife, Margaret (Cameron) Beer. The earliest paternal ancestor on record was William Beer, and the line of descent was through Thomas and Adeline (Aten) Beer, and through Thomas and Margaret (Cameron) Beer. William Beer was born in Londonderry, Ireland, in 1717 and emigrated to America in 1764, accompanied by his son, Thomas, and they settled in Northampton county, Pa. Thomas Beer, son of William, was young when his father came with him from Ireland and probably was still a youth when he first enlisted, at the beginning of the Revolutionary War, in Col. Stroud's regiment, serving further under five enlistments. When wounded at the battle of Trenton, he was taken to the home of Lieut. Richard Aten (Auten), and was nursed back to health by the young daughter, Adeline Aten, whom he subsequently married. Lieut. Aten was a member of Capt. Riddle's company, 2nd regiment of the Sussex militia, N. J. He was a son of Adrian and Jacobje, or Jemima (Middagh) Aten, the former of whom died at Readington, N. J., in 1758. The Atens and Middaghs emigrated to America from near Amsterdam and Leyden, Holland, settling first, between 1660 and 1680, near Flatbush, L. I., but later both families moved to Somerset county, N. J. Lieut. Aten finally settled in Northampton county, Pa., six miles north of Belvidere, N. J., where he established a ferry which was known as Aten's Ferry for more than 120 years. Thomas Beer, son of Thomas and Adeline (Aten) Beer, was born in Northampton county, Pa., March 22, 1801, and in 1827 was graduated from the Western University of Pennsylvania. In the same year he entered the Western Theological seminary, which had just been established at Allegheny, Pa., and in 1829 was licensed to preach, being graduated from the seminary in the following year. He was sent first as a missionary to Virginia and later to Ohio and after some time passed in Wayne township, Wayne county, he returned to Mt. Hope. His parishoners came for miles to the Mt. Hope church, which held about 1,000 persons. This church was erected under his pastorate. During this period he also served as pastor to the Presbyterian churches at Congress and West Salem. He held these charges over a quarter of a century. IIis latter years were passed at Ashland, O., his death occurring October 7, 1886. He had been honored with the degree of D. D. On October 9, 1828, he was married to Margaret Cameron, a daughter of John and Mary (Symmes) Cameron, John Cameron, a member of Clan Cameron, was born in Inverness, Scotland, and served as a soldier in the British army. In 1804 he emigrated to America and settled at Pittsburgh, Pa., where he married the daughter of a Revolutionary patriot, who lost his life at the storming of Quebec. Margaret (Cameron) Beer was born March j, i8og, and lived until March 27, 1880. She was a remarkable woman in many ways, an example of wifely devotion and maternal solicitude. Thomas Beer, bearing the favorite family name, when very young, displayed an interest in learning, insisting on accompanying his older brothers and sisters to the near-by school. His opportunities were meager but he evidently made the most of them, as he was accepted as a teacher when he was only sixteen years of age, the salary of $12 per month being carefully saved to assist in paying his way when he entered Vermillion Institute, at Hayesville, O., of which his father was one of the trustees. He early felt a predilection for the law, and during 1851-2 he devoted himself to the study of his profession, in the office of John C. Tidball, at Coshocton, 0., and also taught special pupils. His means not being adequate, however, to cover his expenses while devoting his entire time to the study of law, he looked about for some method of self support and in 1853 became a railway telegraph operator at Alliance, so continuing until 1858. In the latter part of 1853 he was appointed postmaster at Alliance and attended to his official duties until 1858, in connection with the rather trying ones of his profession, and then became editor and publisher of the Stark County Democrat. After two years of newspaper AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 653 work, he had made the property so desirable that he was able to dispose of it at a very good figure, after which he came to Bucyrus and resumed journalistic work, becoming editor of the Crawford County Forum and thus continued until 1862. In the meanwhile he had never lost sight of his original ambition and in the above year was admitted to the bar and immediately entered into practice. From 1864 until 1868 he served in the state legislature, where he displayed qualities of a patriotic statesman and eloquent orator, and in 1873-4 was a member of the constitutional convention, secretary of its judicial committee and otherwise prominent in its deliberations. In August, 1874, Governor Allen appointed him judge of the court of common pleas, a position he filled until 188,, with signal distinction, after which, until 1893, he served on the circuit bench, retiring then from public life and devoting his attention exclusively to his private practice. He was engaged as counsel in a number of important cases, in which the emoluments were large and the outcome for his clients eminently successful. All his life he was a democrat, one of the old school, whose principles could never be changed or his views on public cluestions swayed by money or influence. On many occasions he was tendered offices of the greatest honor and responsibility, being twice nominated for supreme judge, while he twice declined the nomination by his party for governor of Ohio. He had the eloquent tongue of an orator and his political, professional and judicial addresses were gems of learning illuminated by flashes of wit and humor. He was an honored member of the Ohio State Bar Association and his last public address, "Coke Literature," was delivered before this body, on July 7, 1909. Judge Beer was a man of versatile gifts and many accomplishments. Had opportunities been afforded him he would have been able to make a name for himself in music, and, without any particular instruction, was a fine performer on the flute, violin and piano, and the writing and composing of a music score seemed as easy to him as the settling of a legal point. He was an artist, also, and had a natural talent for friendly caricature, one often exercised for the amusement of his friends. His memory was remarkable, and was also a natural gift, for no training could ever have brought it to the perfect state which enabled him to recall, at an instant's notice, pages of law books, technical points needed in prosecuting or expounding some obscure law problems and precedents on every subject. Having once read certain data in relation to his profession, even after the lapse of years, he could remember facts, book and page. It was sometimes said of him that he absorbed libraries, so learned was he and so entirely accurate in all his knowledge. Poetry always appealed to him and often, in his quiet moments, he relaxed his mind by repeating choice selections that had taken his fancy as he read them, and were never forgotten. As may be imagined, these various gifts made him an invaluable member of the different organizations in which he took an interest. He was a member of the Society of Natural History, was a mason, and belonged for many years to the State Historical Society. Perhaps, outside of a public institution, there is no finer collection of engravings, prints and books than belonged to Judge Beer. For many years he was interested in collecting autographs and many important ones are the names of his friends and contemporaries, while there are many others. including one of King George III, most of Lord Chancellors of England and many English and American authors. He was a great lover of nature and his avocation was farming to which he turned for relaxation and rest from his legal duties. In Ashland county, O. April 23, 1856, Thomas Beer was married to Tabitha Mary Dinsmore. She was a friend of his childhood and one of his classmates at Vermillion Institute. She also attended the seminary at Hudson, 0., and taught school several years. Her father, James Alexander Dinsmore, was a veteran of the war of 1812, and was a retired civil engineer, who came to Ohio in 1833 and lived afterward on his farm in Ashland county, O. To Judge and Mrs. Beer nine children were born, seven of whom are living, namely: James Dinsmore, who is a practicing physician of Wooster, 0., married jean Lyle Thoburn, and they reside in Ashland county, O. James Alexander Dinsmore's earliest paternal progenitor was Laird Dinsmoor, born 654 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY about 1600, who lived on his estate at Achenniead, Scotland, on the Tweed. His son, John (1650), rebelling at being compelled to hold the stirrup of his eldest brother's saddle when the latter mounted his horse, ran away from home in 1667 and settled in Ballywattick, county Antrim, Ireland. His grandson, Andrew (born at Ballywattick, Ireland, 1753), emigrated to America, 1771-72, was a soldier in the Revolution, settled at Peach Bottom, York county, Pa., where he married Catherine, daughter of James Alexander, a Revolutionary patriot. Their eldest son, James Alexander Dinsmore, was born at Peach Bottom, Pa., March 20, 1788. He was one of the defenders of Ft. McHenry at Baltimore. In 1814 he came to Ohio and entered a half section of land in Jackson township, Ashland county, O. He then returned to Pennsylvania, where he resided on a farm near his father's until 1833, when he and his family, consisting of his wife and four children, of which Mrs. Beer was one, journeyed by wagon over the mountains and through the wilderness to Mr. Dinsmore's farm in Ashland county. He died here January 7, 1863. He was married March 14, 1826, to Grizzell, daughter of David and Dorcas (Keel) Collins of Chanceford, York county, Pa. David Collins' father, Cornelius, with his wife and several children, emigrated from Ireland and took tip land in Colerain and Drumore townships, Lancaster county, Pa., where he lived as a farmer until his death. He was a member of the Associate Reformed church. His son, David (born 1768, died March 28, 1828), farmed his property of 160 acres at Chanceford, York county, Pa. His wife, Dorcas Neel, was a daughter of Licut. Thomas Keel (born March 25, 1744, died April 5, 1824) , a gallant Revolutionary officer, who owned a large estate with fishery and mill on the Susquehanna, near Christiana, Lancaster county, Pa. The mother of Dorcas Neel was Grizzell Penny, born Dec. 1, 1753, who died Sept. 1, 1833. They were married Dec. 1, 1770. To Judge and Mfrs. Beer nine children were born, seven of whom are living. namely: James Dinsmore, who is a practicing physician of Wooster, Ohio, and who married Jean Lyle Thoburn and has four surviving children—Mary Margaret, Thomas, Jean Lyle and Dorcas Katherine; Thomas Cameron, who is a resident of Bucyrus; William Collins, who is engaged in the practice of law in New York city, married Martha Ann Baldwin, and has three children—Alice Baldwin, Thomas and Richard Cameron; Dorcas Grizzell, who has been engaged in educational work for a number of years; Katherine Jeannett, who resides with her mother; Robert Lea, who is assistant postmaster at Yonkers, N. Y., married Mary Goodrich Fitch and has one daughter, Mary and Mary Elizabeth, who is widely known as a grand opera singer, and made her debut and appeared several seasons in grand opera at Rome, Italy, as a member of the National Opera company. FRANK J. SNYDER, proprietor of a first class grocery store, located at No. 108 West Main Street, Galion, O., is one of the representative business men of this city and is serving in the office of clerk of the Board of County Elections. Mr. Snyder was born in Morrow county, O., June 26, 1861, and is a son of George Snyder, who came to Galion with his family about 1865. Frank Snyder has been a resident of Gallon since childhood. He was educated here and graduated from the Galion high school in the class of 1878, immediately afterward becoming associated with his father in the grocery business. This store was established by George Snyder in September, 1865, and has ever since been continued by the Snyders. The location is excellent and the building, 25x7 feet in dimensions, affords sufficient space. First quality goods are carried, honest methods of business prevail and this is known to be a reliable and dependable business house. For the past twenty years it has been under the direct management of Frank Snyder. He has other city realty, including a handsome residence on the corner of West Main and Orange streets. Mr. Snyder was married at Galion. O., to Miss Nina Wineland, who was born at Upper Sandusky, O., but was reared and educated at Galion, being a graduate of the Galion high school in the class of 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have two children—Norma and Maude. These young ladies are high school graduates and are numbered with the younger AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 655 social set in the neighborhood in which they have grown up. The family belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics Mr. Snyder is a republican and is an active and upright citizen. He served two years as a member of the city council, seven years on the county board of elections. For twenty years Mr. Snyder has been one of the directors of the Galion Building & Loan Association and was one of its organizers. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity. J. FOSTER HUBLEY, proprietor of the Hubley confectionery store and ice cream parlors, at No. 110 East Main street, Galion, O., is one of the prosperous business men of this city, which is his native place. Mr. Hubley was born April 29, 1873, and is a son of George and Hannah C. (Pague) Hubley. The parents of Mr. Hubley were born at Shippensburg, Pa.—the father, August 27, 1830—their parents being of German extraction. In 1854 George Hubley and wife came to Galion, O., where Mr. Hubley went to work for the Big Four Railway company. His work caused his home to be in other parts of the country at times and he was in Pennsylvania when the Civil war broke out and for several years was connected with the quartermaster's department, with headquarters at Chambersburg, Pa. In 1870 he returned to Galion, where he still resides and where his wife died in the fall of 1906, having lived to celebrate her golden wedding anniversary. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which Mr. Hubley also belongs. He is a democrat in his political opinions. Of his family of eight sons and two daughters, six sons and one daughter survive, all being married and having families of their own. J. Foster Hubley obtained his education in the Galion schools and then learned the candy making trade, beginning in an establishment that occupied the site of his present fine store. He is a practical confectioner and has been in the business for twenty-nine years, serving under different proprietors. The stand at No. 1 to East Main street is the oldest confectionery stand in the city and Mr. Hubley has been proprietor of the business for the past five years. His building has dimensions of 18x16o feet and built to accommodate loo guests at one time in his ice cream parlor. His equipments are modern in every particular and in the manufacture of his dainties and sweetmeats every sanitary precaution is used. He enjoys a large patronage and is regarded as one of the honorable business men of his city. Mr. Hubley was married at Galion, O., to Miss Luella May Kunkler, who was born at Wadsworth, O., but has been a resident of Galion since childhood. They have two children: Lorimer, who is his father's assistant, and Lois, who still attends school. Mr. and Mrs. Hubley are members of the Baptist church. Politically he is a democrat and fraternally a Mason, and both he and wife belong to the Eastern Star. CLARENCE E. GREENICK, general farmer and dairyman, residing one and one-half miles from the public square, Bucyrus, O., owns a farm of eighty acres situated in Whetstone township and another of twenty acres, in Bucyrus township, and is one of the substantial and prosperous citizens of Crawford county. He was born in Holmes township, Crawford county, O., Sept. 15, 1862, and is a son of Jacob L. and Louisa (Lichtenwalter) Greenick. Jacob L. Greenick was born in Germany, a son of Jacob Greenick. In his early manhood he worked as a machinist and operated a stationary engine but later became a farmer and at the time of death owned the home farm of his son, Clarence E., who later purchased it. Both he and wife died at Bucyrus. She was of German parentage, a daughter of John Lichtenwalter, but was born in Ohio. Three children were born to then, one of whom died in infancy and another when aged five years, Clarence E. being the only survivor. The parents were members of the Lutheran church. Clarence E. Greenick attended the public schools and was about sixteen years old when his parents moved on his present farm on which he has lived ever since. While he carries on general farming with much success, his main interest is dairying and he owns a valuable herd of twenty-five Holstein cows. Bucyrus draws from his dairy sixty gallons of milk daily. On Oct. 29. 1885, Mr. Greenick was married to Miss Emma Padgett, a daughter of 656 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Stewart and Mary Jane (Loves) Padgett. The father of Mrs. Greenick was born in Indiana and the mother in Ohio and both are now deceased, the burial of the father being in his native state and that of the mother in Seneca county, O. After the death of her first husband, Mrs. Padgett married George Schafner. All her children were born to her first union : Josephine, who married Dennis Mulligan ; Margaret, who married Joshua Lichtenwalter; Emma: and George L. and Robert C. To Mr. and Mrs. Greenick the following children were born: Nina L., who married Harry Ryland and has two children—Edith and Virginia; Jessie Marie, who died in infancy; and Arthur Raymond, Harold Preston, Josephine June, Grace Hildred and Clarence Edwin. Mr. Greenick and family attend the Methodist Episcopal church, In politics he is a democrat as was his father. GEORGE W. HOOVER, a representative citizen of Bucyrus, O., a retired farmer who has resided in this city for some seven years and is well known in many circles, is a member of one of the old families of Ohio, the name being connected with pioneer settlement. He was born in Dallas township, Crawford county, O., and is a son of William and Phebe (Swisher) Hoover, a grandson of Christopher and a great-grandson of George Hoover. George Hoover was nrohably of German ancestry but he was born in Virginia and from there came to the Western Reserve and secured government land in what is now Pickaway county, prior to 1803, when the territory became a state. Christopher Hoover was born about 1783 and grew to manhood on his father's farm in Pickaway county. His first wife died there and he married a second and with his family moved to Crawford county and, like his father, secured government land. He became a successful farmer and accumulated property and felt justified in retiring from active life, moving then to Sandusky in the early fifties. They succumbed to cholera in the prevailing epidemic and both died on the same day. By his first marriage, Christopher Hoover had two children, William and Hannah. The latter married Wesley White and they lived and died in Dallas township and three of their children survive. William Hoover was reared in Dallas township and naturally became a farmer. He continued to farm and raise stock until 1866, when he came to Bucyrus, where subsequently he went into business as a member of the firm of h ry, Shecklev & Hoover, which was merged into the large enterprise now known as the American Clay Machinery Company, in which he was a large stockholder. His death occurred in June, 1897, when he was eighty-one years. He was married in Franklin county, 0., to Phebe Swisher, who died at Bucyrus on May 9, 1911, having passed her ninety-fourth birthday. She and husband were members of the English Lutheran church. Of their ten children eight survive, three of whom live in Crawford county and two in the city of Bucyrus—George W and Mrs. Thomas Jessem. George W. Hoover was the fourth born child in his parents' family and the third son. His birth took place on the old homestead on January 27, 1847. He attended school in Dallas township and later at Bucyrus, after which he engaged actively in agricultural pursuits until 1903, when he retired and established his home at Bucyrus. He still owns his excellent farm in Bucyrus township but no longer operates it. Mr. Hoover, like his late father, is a stanch republican but he has never been willing to accept public office. He has never married. GODFREY LEI; THOLD, a well known attorney at law at Bucyrus, O., was born in Daerstetten township, Simmenthal valley, Canton Bern, Switzerland, which was the scene of the early history of the Leuthold family, a country held in affectionate remembrance by those who have, nevertheless, found happy homes in other lands. The father of Mr. Leuthold was Christian Leuthold, who was the only son of Christian Leuthold, the latter of whom spent his life in Canton Bern, his ancestors coming from Southern France. The Leuthold family was an old and vigorous one, but Grandfather Leuthold died when comparatively young and left but one son, but his early death reflected credit upon him in that he contracted scarlet fever, from which he died, while ministering to a stricken neighbor. His widow subsequently married again but had no issue to the second marriage. She be- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 657 longed to the royal family of Von Bergen and all her life was noted for her high bred qualities, her charities and many virtues. Christian Leuthold, Jr., the only son, was born in 1842 and grew to manhood in his native place and there married Katherine Knoti, who came from one of the most industrious and wealthiest families of her township. Her father, Gottlieb Knoti was accidentally killed by a fall over a precipice in the mountains. The mother, of a healthy constitution, married again and with her second husband, emigrated to the United States and died at the age of 84 years in the state of New York. After the birth of their nine children, Christian Leuthold and wife decided to leave Switzerland and seek better fortune across the ocean than they were sure of, with so large a family, in the more constricted regions of their native land. At Havre, France, they took passage on the emigrant ship, America, and with great hopes set sail for New York, where, after a long voyage, they were safely landed arriving at said city in the month of April in the year 1884. From there they made their way to Upper Sandusky, Ohio, the place of their destination. Here the family was warmly received by David Geiger, a brother-in-law of Christian Leuthold. The first year the family lived in a cottage one mile east of -Upper Sandusky, all the members working industriously in order to add to the capital of $300.00 which they brought from Switzerland. Godfrey Leuthold then being but eleven years old, like four of his brothers was compelled to work for other people. The second year they rented a small farm four miles east of Upper Sandusky; here they resided for three years. The boys continued to work during the summer months for other people, mostly for farmers in Crawford county. In the year 1888 the family came to Crawford county. For five years they lived on a large farm which they rented south of Bucyrus. During the first years they met with difficulties and failures and the boys were often compelled to bear great hardships. But at the end of the five years the family was able to buy a good farm of 80 acres two miles north of Bucyrus. Here the father died February 15, 1906. The mother then moved to Bucyrus into a handsome new house provided for by her sons. Here she still resides, living with her daughter Louisa a retired life. Godfrey Leuthold is one of the younger sons in the above family. He was permitted to attend the township public schools during the winter months till he was 16 years old. Then, though having a passion to devote himself to study, he was compelled to help work and manage a farm till he was 21 years of age. This was a strenuous life, which deprived him of the pleasures of youth and compelled hint to cope with great difficulties, due to the fact that the family was then heavily involved in debt. On one Friday, September 15th, he was of age and left home tinder most discouraging circumstances. Having worked bitterly hard for his father, he was obliged to leave home with nothing else but the clothes he wore while working at home. But he left with a determination to work and save his money. The first three months he worked for farmers, cutting and husking corn; thus he earned his first money, every dollar of which he saved. When winter set in he determined to work for his board and then attended the public schools in Liberty township, in order to get a better education, which he was deprived of while working for his father. The next spring he was licensed to teach school without ever having attended a high school. The following winter he taught school and worked on the farm in the summer, aiming to save all the money possible in order to prepare himself financially to attend a college. In the fall of the year 1898 we find him attending the college at Berea, Ohio, a Methodist school. He was graduated in the classical course and received the degree of B. A. in June of the year 1903. The year preceding he was chosen by the Goethe society of which he was a member to deliver the valedictorian address. It was during the difficult struggles while working for his father that he first realized the usefulness and power of the knowledge of the law. So after being graduated at the college at Berea, he at once took up the study of law and completed a course in this science at the Ohio Northern University at Ada. Ohio, and was graduated at this school in the fall of the year 1904, receiving the degree of B. L. In 658 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY December of the same year he was admitted to the Ohio bar and has ever since been in the active practice of law at Bucyrus, Ohio. In June of the year 1907 the college at Berea conferred upon him the degree of M. A., he having first fully complied with all requirements for this honor. Mr. Leuthold always took an active part in the politics of the republican party which in his county, at present is in the minority. AVith an aim to do justice to all and with malice toward none his judgment and principles are respected by men of both parties, his character being clean, his influence uplifting. He was reared in the Methodist church of which he has been a faithful member. To consider the career of Mr. Leuthold in all its bearings, it is indeed inspiring, his success demonstrating what can be accomplished through persistent effort and in the face of difficulties and discouraging circumstances. MICHAEL A. RICKSECKER, who now lives retired at Galion, O., after many years of honorable connection with the great Erie Railroad system as locomotive engineer, was born October 19, 1839, in Springfield township, Richland county, O., and is a son of Greenberry and Elenora (Firestine) Ricksecker. Greenberry Ricksecker and wife were born at Hagerstown, Md., where they married and after two children had been born to them—Mary A. and Charles A.—they started for a new home in Ohio. This was in 1835 and they came overland to Springfield township, Richland county, and located on land which was wild at the time, but which they developed into an excellent farm. The old log house which served as their first home is still one of the landmarks of that section. Greenberry Ricksecker was a .vhig in early political life but later became a republican and, notwithstanding his southern birth, was an anti-slavery man. An underground railroad station, the name given to sheltering places for escaping slaves prior to the Civil war, was situated in the home of a neighbor, John C. Finney, and as Mr. Ricksecker was in sympathy with the movement, he often helped negroes on their way to the Canadian border, where they were safe from pursuit. Another neighbor who offered a place of concealment to escaping slaves was Joseph Roe and through the eftorts of these philanthropic men, many men, women and children escaped from slavery. In many ways Greenberry Ricksecker was an admirable man and he was esteemed and respected in his community, where he lived to be seventy-three years of age, his wife passing away when aged sixty-one years. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. After reaching Richland county, two more children were born to them—Michael A. and Helen. All the children married and reared children of their own and became respected and useful members of society. Michael A. Ricksecker is the only survivor of his parents' family. He attended school in Springfield township and helped his father, after school, on the farm and also in his carpenter shop and frequently assisted in the erection of log houses for other settlers. He thus gained a practical knowledge of carpentering while quite young. By the time he was fourteen years of age he was anxious to provide for himself and soon found a place where he could work for his board and receive $4 a month. When sixteen years of age he worked at cutting cord wood for forty cents a cord and also split rails, as did Abraham Lincoln in early manhood, and while keeping busy and contented in this way he also kept on assisting his father as a carpenter. On April 21, 1861, Mr. Ricksecker responded to the call of President Lincoln for 75,000 men and entered Co. H, 15th O. Vol. Inf., under Capt. Hiram Miller and Col. Moses R. Dickey, and served through a first enlistment of three months. On December 11, 1861, he re-enlisted for three years in the First Ohio Independent Battery, Light Artillery, under command of Capt. McMullen, and was honorably discharged December 13, 1864. During the larger part of the time he served in West Virginia with the Army of the Potomac, taking part in such hard fought battles as South Mountain, Frederick city and Antietam. Ever at the post of duty, Mr. Ricksecker made a record as a brave and efficient soldier, and having faced the many hazards of war without being wounded, returned safely to his borne. He then turned his attention to railroading AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 659 and entered the service of the Atlantic & Great Western Railway Company (now known as the Eric Railroad) in the capacity of brakeman, at a time when the company sent out only one train a day, this being in March, 1860. In April following he made the trip on the first through freight train that left Galion, and in July of the same year was promoted and became fireman. Until January, 1868, he was engaged in freight and passenger transportation and then was promoted and made engineer and operated both through and local freight trains until June, 1880, and from that time until October 23, 1910, when he was retired on the age limit, his place was in the cab of the passenger train on the Cincinnati division, east. Mr. Ricksecker is still retained by the company, which knows how to recognize efficient service, and fills the position of assisttant train dispatcher, his duties making no heavy demand on his health. On June 17, 1869, at Ontario, O., Mr. Ricksecker was married to Miss Mary A. Rater, who was born in Germany and was three years old when her parents brought her to Richland county, O. She was born April 3, 1844, and died June 10, 1906. Mr. and Mrs. Ricksecker had no children of their own, but they adopted a little seven-year old maiden, Elizabeth Keiser, who was born at Mansfield, O. She has been a real slaughter to them and her foster parents have had reason to take much pride in her as a sweet and amiable member of the household, as a good student, being a graduate of the Galion high school, and as a singer in the choir and teacher in the sabbath school of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which religious denomination Mr. and Mrs. Ricksecker were Iong very active members. In politics Mr. Ricksecker is a decided republican but has never had the politician's desire for public office. He is yet, as always, interested in the progress and development of the city's various interests, where he has investments and almost lifelong friends. He has been very active in Dick Morris Post, G. A. R.. No. 130, of which he is the present commander—a dignity well deserved—and on several occasions he has attended encampments held in other and distant cities. For many years he has been identified with the Masonic fraternity, uniting with the order in young manhood and belongs to Galion Lodge, No. 414, F. & A. M.; to the Chapter No. 142, at Galion, and to the Council, at Bucyrus. Mr. Ricksecker belongs also to another organization, one that is known all over the United States and numbers thousands of trained and experienced men in its ranks—the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers—he being connected with Division No. z6. For forty years he has preserved his membership in this representative industrial body and in recognition of this, at the termination of the above period, he received a handsome gold badge, suitably inscribed, which, it is needless to say he values highly. Mr. Ricksecker is a valued member of the Richland County Historical Society and his reminiscences of former events have contributed to the interest of its published reports on many occasions. MRS. SARAH A. DICE, a highly respected and well known business woman of Galion, O., who, for twenty years has successfully conducted a millinery business here, was born in Crawford county, O., neat Galion and is a slaughter of Isaac and Susan (Smith) Garberich. The parents of Mrs. Dice were of German ancestry, but were born in Pennsylvania and both accompanied their parents when young, to Crawford county. The father of Mrs. Dice engaged in farming in Polk township for many years and died there in 1897, when aged Est years. The mother of Mrs. Dice still survives and lives on the old homestead, hale and hearty, despite her 83 years. Isaac Garberich was a strong Republican. He was a man of sterling character, honest and upright, and was a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his widow also belongs. Mrs. Dice is one of a family of nine children born to her parents, three sons and six daughters, all of whom survive. After creditably completing the public school course, Mrs. Dice learned the millinery business, for which she had a natural aptitude and has been in business for the past 26 years and for twenty years has been at her present location, where she erected her building. She carries the finest line of 660 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY millinery and millinery goods to be found at Galion and caters to a very exclusive trade. Her display of tasteful and attractive. millinery would do credit to any large city, while her long experience and natural artistic talent in the blending of colors and materials and in adapting them to the lines of head, face and figure are so well known and appreciated that her taste and judgment are depended upon by a very particular class of purchasers. Too much credit cannot be given to Mrs. Dice for her energy and enterprise in building tip and enlarging this business enterprise and her unusual success reflects the high opinion in which she is held by those who have known her from childhood. Mrs. Dice has two children : Clare D., a resident of Galion; a machinist by trade , and Gladys C., who is the wife of John Scott Boyd, who is superintendent of the Galion Iron Works Company. Mrs. Dice and daughter are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. REV. THOMAS J. SHEPPARD, well known among Civil War veterans as the "Andersonville Chaplain," was born at Zanesville, O., June 22, 1834, being a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (LeHue) Sheppard. He was of Puritan and Huguenot stock, his grandfather, Joseph Sheppard, having been born at Attleboro, England. The family came to the United States in 1811, landing at Boston. On his mother's side the LeHue family came from France, and were Huguenots, one of the founders of the American branch coming to America with Marquis de Lafayette as avolunteer in the American Revolution. Others of the LeHue family were already settled in Winchester, Frederick county, Va. Thomas J. Sheppard, the subject of this sketch, was practically born into the Baptist church. His grandfather, Rev. Thomas Sheppard, was a leader in the denomination at Zanesville and on the formation of the Market Street Baptist Church, of Zanesville, in 1825, his parents united there. Thomas J. Sheppard spent his early life in Zanesville. His parents both died there in 1853, his mother's death occurring in July and his father's in November. He after that lived with his sister Elizabeth, the wife of Capt. John Thompson north of Dresden. He spent six years in the drug store of Capt. Thompson and attended West Bedford Academy, where he met Miss Margaret Collins of Moundsville, W. Va., who became his wife June r, 1859, the wedding being at the Collins family home, the residence of William Collins at High Oaks on the hills overlooking Moundsville. After marriage he took tip the reading of law at Zanesville and his interest in church work started at that time. At the close of a revival service in 1854 he was licensed to preach and thereafter continued to conduct religious services regularly for 54 years. On Aug. it. 1862, he enlisted as a member of Co. E, 97th O. Vol. Inf. under Capt. Eagan, being appointed fifth sergeant. He was in eleven important engagements including Murfreesboro, Missionary Ridge and Stone River. He was captured June 27, 1864, during a night skirmish before the battle of Kenesaw Mountain, while on picket duty. He was sent to Andersonville where he was confined almost eleven months. While in prison here he conducted religious services and became known as the "Andersonville Chaplain," a term of endearment applied to him by men he helped there. His naturally sunny disposition and firm religious conviction gave him power to clo good among the discouraged prisoners. At the close of their term in prison a testimonial was prepared and signed by 15 prisoners commending his work and recommending him for appointment as a regular army chaplain. This testimonial he has prized highly, but did not desire to take up the work of an army chaplain, feeling he could do more good as a minister, pastor of a church. Mr. Sheppard was mustered out of the service at Camp Chase, June 15, 1865. He was associated with the United States Christian Commission after the war and took up his higher education at Denison University, Granville, Ohio, where he was graduated with the class of 1870. His first pastorate was at Kirkersville. Ohio, from 1867 to 186p. He held pastorates in Ohio at West Jefferson AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 663 and Lisbon, Clyde and Sidney, and was special agent for Denison University from 1876 to 1884. He became pastor of the Baptist church at Bucyrus, Ohio, in 1884, where he remained until 1889, when he went to Kenton as pastor and where he built a new church. In 1892 he was appointed chaplain of the Ohio State Soldiers' Home at Sandusky, and from there went to Grass Lake, Michigan, but in 1899 he retired from active work and located at Granville, where the family lived until the death of Mrs. Sheppard, July 3, 1911, since which time he has lived with his daughter, Mrs. James R. Hopley at Bucyrus. His son, Thomas Hamilton Sheppard, died at Los Angeles, Calif., April 3, 1911. His son, William Collins Sheppard, is a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and his daughter, Mrs. James R. Hopley, lives at Bucyrus. Many years ago the Ohio association of Ex-Prisoners of War elected him chaplain-for-life and it was while a resident of Bucyrus in 1887 that Keller Post advocated his selection as chaplain of the Ohio association of the G. A. R., a place he filled with honor. Rev. Mr. Sheppard has done much literary work, mostly of a religious and patriotic nature. IIe has written a number of poems, some of which have been set to music. His lecture on "Battle Fields and Prison Pens" has been heard in many towns and cities of the country. It was in introducing Mr. Sheppard to an audience at Lansing, Michigan, that the late Governor Pingree, a prison-mate at Andersonville, alluded to him as "the man who preached to me in Hell." WILLIAM BENDER, who is a retired farmer and one of the highly respected citizens of Tiro, O., occupies his comfortable home on North Main Street but still retains his farm of 180 acres, situated in Auburn township, Crawford county. He was born in Richland county, O., March 26, 1850, and is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Hoffman) Bender. Jacob Bender was born near Heidelberg, Germany, Oct. 5, 1816, where he was reared to manhood and in 1840 married Catherine Hoffman, who was born also in Germany, Aug. 13, 1816. In the year of their marriage they emigrated to America, and on reaching the United States settled in Richland county, O. He purchased 40 acres of land near Shelby, to which he later added 20 more acres, and after clearing and developing both tracts, purchased a farm of 16o acres, four miles south of Shelby. In 1862 they came to Crawford county and purchased 200 acres of land from George Cummings. He was a large landowner also in other states, having 300 acres in Iowa and 300 acres in Michigan. His death occurred Sept. 26, 1897, when he was aged 80 years. His wife died Jan. 15, 1885. They were members of the Lutheran church, in America, but he had been reared a Catholic and she in the Reformed church. They were good, Christian people in each organization. To them the following children were born: Jacob, Henry, Charles, Christina, Anthony, William, Catherine, who died Aug. 31, 1886; Lizzie, John Phillip, and one that died in infancy. William Bender was his father's helper on the home farm until he reached the age of 21 years. After marriage he located on 80 acres of his present farm, then the property of his father-in-law, and while renting the same for 11 years, was an extensive stock dealer. In 1882 he purchased a tract of 104 acres adjoining on the east and in 1885 bought his present homestead and now has land in both Auburn and Vernon townships. He improved his farm properties, erecting a handsome residence in 1889 and a substantial barn in 1890 and resided there until he retired to Tiro. He is interested in the Seamless Tube Mills at Shelby, O. On Sept. 3, 1873, Mr. Bender was married to Miss Cornelia Sawyer, a daughter of Albanus Sawyer. Albanus Sawyer was a native of this county while his wife was born in Pennsylvania. They had the following children besides Mrs. Bender: Asa, Rule, Royal E., John F., Erastus, deceased, Clara, deceased. Anna and Lottie. Mr. and Mrs. Bender have three children: Rilla May, wife of John W. Hutt, of Richland county, O.; and Minnie Luella, wife of Walter Ervin; and Ruth lone. While Mr. Bender has never been very active in politics, he has always exerted 664 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY his influence in support of movements that have made this section law abiding and a desirable place in which to live. Mr. Bender is a member of the Knights of Pythias at Tiro. He served as supervisor for 25 years. The family attends the Lutheran church and Mr. Bender has been a liberal contributor to the building of the church and to its support. JOHN S. MURPIIY, a representative farmer of Dallas township, who is the owner of So acres of land, was born in Springfield, Fayette county, Pa., June 23, 186o, but came to Crawford county in z866. His parents, William H. and Elizabeth (King) Murphy, were natives of Fayette county, Pa. William H. Murphy was a blacksmith by trade but in later years devoted his attention to farming. He was a Democrat in politics and he and his wife belonged to the U. B. church. They made their home with their son, John S. Murphy, for ten years previous to their decease. William H. Murphy lies buried in Nevada, Ohio, and his wife in Scotsdale, Pa. They were the parents of the following children : John S., whose name heads this sketch ; Mary, the wife of Zeph. Chance; Frederick, deceased; and Lula, the wife of Arizona Carmean. John S. Murphy received a common school education in the schools of Crawford county and at the age of 19 years began to learn the carpenter's trade and followed that occupation for 21 years. He still does some of this work, having quite recently built for White Brothers what is the largest barn in this county. Mr. Murphy's main interests, however, he in his farming, and he has met with success in his endeavors in this line. Besides his general farming he raises some stock, but only enough for his own use. In 1900 when Mr. Murphy bought his farm it was covered with woods and swamp and he has cleared all the land and has also built his house and barn. In 1885, Mr. Murphy was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda Heinlen. She is the daughter of Mathias and Elizabeth (Bickel) Heinlen, who were very early settlers in Crawford county, but who were natives of Germany. Their children were, namely: Elizabeth, the wife of A. E. Bollinger; John; Samuel; Lena, the wife of Byron Kent; Frank D.; Matilda, the wife of Tames Johnston ; Mathias ; and Lucinda, the wife of the subject of this article. To Mr. and Mrs. John S. Murphy have been born children who were named as follows : Elizabeth (Mrs. D. C. Lust) ; Charles; Dora, deceased; Lloyd, who met his death from the kick of a horse; Frank, deceased; Cooler; Lula, deceased ; Roy, John, Thomas and Stella. Mr. Murphy is a Democrat in politics. He and his family attend the U. B. Church. He belongs to the F. & A. M. at Nevada, Ohio. CHARLES A. GUISS, civil engineer at Bucyrus, O., and formerly county surveyor of Crawford county, is numbered with the reliable men of his profession in this section and has satisfactorily completed every contract he has undertaken. He was born at Sulphur Springs, Crawford county, O., Aug. 24, 1878, and was two years old when his parents moved to Chatfield township, where he was reared. He is a son of John and Susan (Fry) Guiss, who are highly respected retired residents of New Washington. The Guiss fancily is of German ancestry and it was founded in Ohio by the grandfather, Abraham Guiss, who came to Crawford county prior to 1838 and secured a large tract of land from the Government in Cranberry township. As soon as he had secured a home here he sent for his family and it is said that his wife drove with children and household goods, an ox-team, the entire distance from Columbia county, Pa., to Crawford county, O. She was a typical pioneer woman, strong and resourceful, and outlived her husband, dying at New Washington in extreme old age. They were members of the German Lutheran church. John Guiss, father of Charles A., was born in Cranberry township, Crawford county, where he was reared and lived for some years after his marriage, when he moved to West Liberty and later to Sulphur Springs, engaging in mercantile pursuits AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 665 and was a member of the firm of Albert, Fry & Co. Afterward he engaged in farming in Chatfield township and served in numerous township offices, elected to the same on the Democratic ticket. He was township clerk and trustee and also a justice of the peace. He married Susan Fry, a daughter of John Fry, who was born in Switzerland and came in early manhood to Chatfield township, securing Government land on which he lived until his death when aged 89 years. He married a member of the Helin family, in Crawford county. Six children were born to John and Susan Guiss, namely William H., who is a t,hysician at Tiro, O. Melville O., formerly auditor of the Birmingham & Nevada Railroad and general manager of the Georgia & Alabama Iron Company, now located at Memphis, Tenn.; Ethic R., who is the wife of Frank Derr. of New Washington ; Charles A. ; Warren G., who is in the oil business at Tulsa, Okla. ; and Maude R., who lives with her parents. Charles A. Guiss was graduated in the State University at Columbus, in the class of 1905. with his Civil engineer degree and afterward was appointed deputy county surveyor of Lake county, O., tinder County Surveyor J. C. Ward, and continued his duties there for about one year and then came to Bucyrus. He followed his profession privately from 1906 until 1907, when he was elected county surveyor of Crawford county and satisfactorily served out his term, retiring then to give his entire attention to his personal business. He is a Democrat in his political leanings and fraternally is identified with the Elks and the Eagles, both of Bucyrus. JOHN MEUSER, deceased, was identified with the Erie Railway for a number of years, for 19 of these operating a freight engine and for more than ten years being a passenger train engineer. He was born in Richland county, 0., Dec.. 31, 1842. and his accidental death occurred, while in the path of duty, Dec. 30, i9o1, the direct result of the explosion of an engine pipe. John Peter Meuser, father of the late John Meuser, was born in Prussia and served in Napoleon's Army at the Battle of Waterloo, in 1815, receiving a medal for his bravery, which is still in the possession of the family. He afterward came to the United States and settled in Richland county, 0., where he followed the cabinetmaking trade. Late in life he came to Galion, where his death occurred Aug. u, 1869, when he was aged 79 years. He was twice married, his first wife dying without issue. His second wife, Catherine Swain, was born in Switzerland, in November, 1823, and was brought to America by her parents in childhood. She died at Galion in 1863, the mother of nine children, eight of whom grew up, six of whom married and three of whom survive. John Meuser was the eldest born of the above family of children and remained in Richland county until 1865, when he came to Galion, entering the Erie Railway service. Through ability and fidelity he rapidly gained promotion and enjoyed the confidence of both his superiors and his associates in business. It was while running the Wells Fargo Express train on the Fourth Division, between Marion and Caledonia, O., that the accident occurred that cost this brave and experienced man his life. He was quite prominent in railway circles, and for many years had been a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. He was fraternally identified also with the Odd Fellows. Politically he was a Democrat, while in his religious connection he was active in the First Lutheran Church. On July 11, 1869, Mr. Mouser was married at Galion to Miss L. Agnes Sheaffer, who was born in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., Aug. 8, 1852, but has been a resident of Galion for 56 years and owns the valuable property on which he lives. Her parents were William W. and Savilla (Albright) Sheaffer, the former of whom was born in Dauphin county, Pa., April 16, 1827, and died May 20, 1889. He came to Whetstone township, March 17, 1850, in the following year was married to Savilla Albright, who was born in Whet- 666 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY stone township, June 11, 1833, and died November 29, 1884. Her parents were John and Sarah (Sheaffer) Albright, who were pioneers in Crawford county, from Pennsylvania. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Meuser: Letta L., who is the wife of R. C. Case, of Richwood, O. ; and William W., a fireman on the Erie Railroad, lives at Galion, who married Virda Nelson. Mrs. Meuser is very active in the First English Lutheran Church, to which her parents also belonged, and is interested in the Foreign Missionary Society. JOHN M. LEITZY, whose well cultivated farm of 80 acres is located in Dallas township, is a son of Francis and Hannah (Smith) Leitzy. He was born in Holmes township, Dec. 26, 1855. Francis Leitzy was born in Germany but cane to this country when young. His father, also named Francis Leitzy, resided in Crawford county at his death. Francis Leitzy, Jr., upon his arrival in the U. S., secured land and followed his occupation as a farmer. He married Ilannah Smith, a native of Columbiana county, Ohio, and they had seven children, namely : Catherine, who is the wife of George Strohm; Rose Ann, the wife of Philip Strohm ; Mary, the wife of Jacob Staiger; John M., our subject; Elizabeth, the wife of Frederick Schiefer; Williain; and Joseph. He was a Democrat politically and in religious faith, a Lutheran. He is buried in Crawford county, Ohio. John M. Leitzy since completing his education has spent his life in farming. His first experience in the cultivation of land was obtained while working for his father, with whom he continued until about 25 years of age. He then went to Bucyrus township, Crawford county, and rented a tract of land there. After five years spent at that place he went to Tod township, where he also rented land but before long he returned to Bucyrus township. Seven years ago he bought his present farm from M. M. McBeth and he has here successfully followed general farming since that time. He also raises stock for his own use. In February, 1881, Mr. Leitzy married Miss Barbara Staiger. Her parents, John and Rickey (Klink) Staiger, were prominent farming people of Crawford county, but are now deceased. Their children besides Mrs. Leitzy were : Samuel ; Joseph; Lena, the wife of Robert Rice; Rickey, deceased; Elizabeth and Mary, twins, the former the widow of Jacob Beller and the latter deceased ; and Lydia, the wife of William Roaker. To Mr. and Mrs. John M. Leitzy there have been born the following children Frederick, a music teacher and dealer in musical instruments; Laura, who is the wife of Clarence Shroll; Irvin G. and Corvin C., twins; and Richard F. Mr. Leitzy is a Democrat and has served his township on the school board and as road supervisor. He with his family are attendants of the Martin Luther Church. CHARLES A. BEILHARZ, the leading contractor in painting and decorating at Bucyrus, O., has been a resident of this city since boyhood, but was born in Republic township, Seneca county, O., April 16, 1853, a son of Dr. William and Maria B. (Crockett) Beilharz, and a grandson of Rev. John P. Beilharz. Rev. John P. Beilharz was born in 1795 and was educated in Germany and for many years after coming to America served pastorates in the German Lutheran church in Ohio. It is remembered that he preached the impressive sermon at the laying of the corner stone of the present old German Lutheran church edifice at Bucyrus. He died in Seneca county in May, 1867, aged 72 years, honored and esteemed to the encl. His remains are buried in Fremont, O. William Beilharz, son of Rev. William and father of Charles A., was born in 1819, in Germany, and was a child when his parents came to America and they settled in Birks county, Pennsylvania. He became a dentist and prior to the Civil War practiced dentistry at Tiffin, O., and from there came to Bucyrus and opened an office on Sandusky Street, where he continued in his AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 667 profession for sonic years and then retired, his death occurring June 23, 1899. He was married in Seneca county to Maria B. Crockett, who was born in Thomaston, Maine, March 30, 1824, and was a child when her parents moved to Seneca county, O., and settled in Eden township. She survived her husband, dying May 14, 1903, at the age of 79 years. Dr. and Mrs. Beilharz were members of the English Lutheran church. They had three children : Charles A.; Anna, who is the wife of F. L. Ingman, a merchant, farmer and real estate dealer in Iowa; and Cassius M., who was accidentally killed at Columbus, O., Aug. 29, 1891, while attending to his duties of conductor, on the T. & O. C. Railway. His widow, Henrietta Beilharz, died June 20, 1900. Charles A. Beilharz was educated in the Bucyrus schools and learned his trade under the supervision and direction of Samuel Welsh, who was a very competent man in his line. For 25 years Mr. Beilharz has been engaged in contracting in painting and decorating and has had important work to do with both public and private buildings and his judgment is pretty apt to be asked when any work of especial magnitude is contemplated. Mr. Beilharz was married to Miss EIla M. Choate, who was born at Napoleon, Henry county, O., a daughter of Col. William A. and Rosina (McGill) Choate. Colonel Choate was killed in battle while leadinpy his regiment during the Civil War. In politics Mr. Beilharz, like his late father, is a Republican. He is identified with the Elks and since 1883 has been a member of the 1cnights of Pythias. PERRY CHALMERS FULTON, a highly respected retired resident of Bucyrus, O., is a member of one of the early families of this city, in which he was born, Dec. 26, 1849. His parents were Andrew and Elizabeth Harper (Scott) Fulton. Andrew Fulton was born in Stark county, O., in 1820, where he lived until 21 years of age and then came to Bucvrus. Here he followed the cabinetmaker's trade, which included the manufacturing of furniture, by hand, and the making of coffins. Many of the latter were constructed of walnut and as they were usually ordered after the death of an individual, it was no unusual thing for Mr. Fulton to work sometimes the entire night fashioning the last receptacles for the dead, polishing and making them as attractive as possible. For some ten years he was in partnership with his brother, David Fulton, but in 1863 David went into the grocery business and Andrew became sole proprietor of the former concern, but died in the following year, on Nov. 13, 1864. He married Elizabeth Harper Scott, a daughter of Wilson Scott. She was born in Westmoreland county, Pa., in 1826, and was only two years old when her parents moved to Crawford county, reaching Bucyrus on Dec. 25, 1828, and camping over night on what was then the village square. Shortly afterward Mr. Scott secured 300 acres of Government land in Whetstone township, on which he erected a log cabin and there he and family spent many years. Late in life, when aged 73 years, he went to Springfield. Mo., and afterward all record of him was lost. Mrs. .Fulton survived until Oct. 28, 1898, passing away at the age of 73 years. Both she and husband were members of the Presbyterian church. Five children made up their family, Perry Chalmers being the first born. Anna Z. married Fred Tipple and they live at Youngstown, O., and have a family of children. James T. went out to Fairbanks, Alaska, but his wife and daughter have not yet joined hire. Estella E. died at the age of 18 months. Andrew D. resides with his wife and two sons at Somerville, Mass. Perry Chalmers Fulton attended the public schools of Bucyrus and all his subsequent business life has been passed here and since June, 1888, he has been connected with the T. & O. C. Railroad. He was married at Bucyrus, Sept. 20. 1888, to Miss Mary Heller, who was born in 1840, and died at Bucyrus, Sept. 11, 1951. She was a daughter of Jacob D. and Margaret (Daniel) Heller. For some years she was connected 668 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY with the U. B. church, but later became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Bucyrus and was always actively interested in its mission and charitable work. Mr. Fulton has four children, namely: Chalmers C., who resides with his wife, son and daughter, at Bethlehem, Pa. ; Blanche Estella, who married Homer Eggleston and they live at Chicago, Ill., and have one daughter; Wesley J., who resides with his family at Cardington, O. ; and Harvey Wiliiams, who is in business at Dubuque, O. Politically, Mr. Fulton is somewhat independent but nominally a Republican, and is connected fraternally with the order of Foresters and Royal Home. M. H. SCHILL, doing business under his own name at New Washington, O., in the clothing and gent's furnishing line, custom tailor and representative of the Royal Tailors, of Chicago, Ill., is well known in this part of Ohio and is a representative citizen of New Washington. He was born Sept. 11, 1865, in Richland county, )., but was mainly educated at Shelby, O. Mr. Schill entered upon his business career as a dry goods salesman, afterward traveling for a firm for two and one-half years through southern. Ohio and West Virginia, and then went into the clothing business and resided for the following seven years at Shelby, being connected with the Kennedy Clothing House. On Jan. 16, 1907, he came to New Washington and here for three years was manager for Kennedy-Robison Company, of Shelby, on April 12, 1911, embarking in business for himself and his trade name is Schill, the clothier. In addition to the stocks above mentioned, he handles a fine line of suit cases and trunks, having excellent business accommodations on West Mansfield Street. Mr. Schill is acknowledged to be a man of taste, skill and practical knowledge in his special line and attracts a very high class of patronage. Mr. Schill was married to Miss Elizabeth Fabian, who was born at Galion, O. They are members of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Schill is identified with the Knights of Columbus, Mansfield Council; with the Eagles, at Shelby, O., and C. K. of O., of the same city. JOHN W. LOOMIS, a well remembered educator in several sections of Ohio, has been a resident of Bucyrus since 1904, when he became connected with the U. S. Railway mail service and at present is a railway postal clerk on the Pennsylvania Railroad between Crestline, O., and Chicago, Ill. He was born in Seneca county, O., in 1871, and is a son of George and Susan C. (Beery) Loomis. The Loomis family is of New England ancestry but has been established in the State of Ohio for about ioo years. Reuel Loomis was one of the early colonists from Connecticut to settle in the Northwest Territory and secured land in Sandusky county shortly after Ohio became a State. In 1820 he moved to Tiffin and was one of the pioneer farmers of Seneca county. There his son, Wildman Loomis, grandfather of John W. Loomis of Bucyrus, was reared, his birth having taken place in 1819 in Sandusky county. He died on his farm in Eden township, Seneca county, when aged 83 years. He was intensely loyal to the Union and when civil war was precipitated entered the Federal Army, accompanied by his son George, and served as corporal of Co. B, 164th O. Vol. Inf., throughout a full term of enlistment. George Loomis was born in Seneca county, O., in April, 1841, and died at Hicksville, O., in 1905. He engaged in farming through most of his active period and was well known in his native state. He married Susan C. Beery, who was born in April, 1847 and died at Hicksville, O., in 1892. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church; Their children were seven in number, as follows: John W. ; Mary C., who is the wife of Noah Ames, residing at Hicksville, 0., and they have two children—Richard B. and Rachael N.; Ella E., who died unmarried at the age of twenty-two years; H. Edward, who is engaged in the harness-making business at Hicksville, married there AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 669 Ruby Coburn and they have three daughters—Susan L., Lulu M, and Alma L.; Janes W., who died in infancy; Lula M., who died when aged seven years; and Laura E., who died in infancy. John W. Loomis enjoyed excellent educational advantages in youth and early manhood, attending school both in Seneca and Wyandot counties and completing the scientific course at the National Normal University, at Lebanon, O. For some ten subsequent years he taught school in Defiance and Henry counties and for some time was at the head of the schools of Florida, O., and was principal of the Hicksville High School. After two years of travel in the South he was connected for a few years with the circulating department of the Bucyrus Journal and Daily Telegraph. For the past eight years as mentioned above, Mr. Loomis has been in the Government service. Mr. Loomis was married at Bucyrus in January, 1908, to Miss Maude May Minton, who was born in 1881, at Bradford, O., where she attended school and later perfected herself in music at Ada, O. She is a daughter of Ellis and Bertha (Burt) Minton, natives of Ohio and Kentucky, respectively, and a granddaughter of Dr. Henry Harrison and Elizabeth (Shellenbarger) Minton. Dr. Minton was a prominent physician at Bradford, where he practiced for 32 years. Mrs. Loomis has one sister, Alma G., who is supervisor of drawing and music in the New Comerstown schools, in Tuscarawas county, O. Mr. and Mrs. Loomis have one daughter, Grace Isabel, who was born Sept. 6, 1910. They are members of the Presbyterian church. In politics Mr. Loomis is a Republican and fraternally he belongs to Demas Lodge No. 108, Knights of Pythias. H. O. DUTTER, manager of the Bucyrus Telephone Company, a prosperous business concern of Bucyrus, O., was born at Garrettsville, Portage county, O., Jan. 16, 18i3. In 1891 Mr. Dutter was graduated from the Garretsville High School, after which he gave two years to electrical study and practice at Athens, O., which prepared him to fill a position of some responsibility in the electrical engineering department of the Electric Light and Power Company, of that city. From 1893 until 1896 he was connected with the Light and Power Cornpany at Delphos, O., and from then until 1901 was superintendent of the Clyde, O., Light and Power Company and for one year was also city engineer there andafter that occupied a similar position with a municipal plant at Bryan. From 19o2 until 1905 he was superintendent of the gas department, wvitli the Peoples Gas and Electrical Company, at Defiance, O. In 1906 he was connected for some time with the Light and Power Company at Alliance, O., coming from there to Bucyrus, where he became superintendent of the Light and Power Company of this city, assuming the management of the present company in October, 1910. The Bucyrus Telephone Company was incorporated in 1898, with an authorized capital of $150,000. Its officers are : Dr. J. A. Chesnes, president; H. S. Blair, vice president; A. D. Stoltz, secretary and treasurer, the board of directors including the officers and three additional capitalists: Benjamin Shearer, J. Wentz and E. Blair. The company operates 1000 automatic telephones and Soo farm telephones and they also have long distance connection with the Bell and Independent companies. Constant employment is given to twenty people. This is one of the most successful local enterprises of this section. Mr. Dutter was married at Delphos, O., to Miss Katherine Florence Mahoney, who was born and educated there. Mr. butter is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to the Commandery at Marion, O., and to the minor branches at Bucyrus. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias at Defiance, O., and is past chancellor of Clyde Lodge No. 146, Clyde. O.; to the Elks, at Bucyrus; to the Maccabees at Defiance, O.; and is a member of the American Gas Institute and an associate member of the American Insti- 670 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY tote of Electrical Engineers. Mr. Dutter is a busy, practical, competent man and is valued as a citizen. ISRAEL ULMER, one of the represent- ative farmers and good citizens of Crawford county, who owns a fine farm in Bucyrus township, in partnership with his brother, William Ulmer, containing 113 acres, was born in Crawford county, March 18, 1833, and is a son of Adam and Catherine (Bahler) Ulmer. Adam Ulmer and wife were born in Wurtemberg, Germany, and they came when young to Crawford county, married here and had the following children : John, William, Minnie, Msrael and Mary. The father of the above family died in 1856 and in 1860 the mother married Henry Miller and they moved to Henry county, O. They had four children : Sophia, Jacob, Pauline and Margaret. Israel Ulmer obtained his education in the public schools and afterward learned the carpenter trade which he followed for five years, all the rest of his mature life having been spent as a farmer. In 1884 he was married to Miss Mary Steiger, a daughter of George G. and Magdalena (Stohm) Steiger. The parents of Mrs. Ulmer were farmers in Holmes township where the father still lives, the mother being now deceased. Of their family of children, Mrs. Ulmer was the second born, the others being : Charles : Magdalena, wife of Charles Unger; George Emanuel; David; Moses; Emma, wife of Noah Lust; and Martha, wife of Warren Dinnenger, Philip; and Amelia, the wife of Casper Meyer. To Mr. and Mrs. Ulmer the following children have been born: George F. Emma, who is the wife of Arthur Luke and has two children—Clinton and Leola ; and Minnie, Otto, Milo, and Eunice. Mr. Ulmer and family attended the German Lutheran church. The Ulmers have always been stanch in their support of the Democratic party. Mr. Ulmer has served three years as school director, taking much interest in school matters in his township and in every other way performing his duties as a responsible and reliable citizen. HENRY A. BARTH, who is a member of the business firm of W William F. Barth and Brother, barbers; at Bucyrus, O., is a prominent Democratic politician of Crawford county and is serving in the office of city auditor. Mle was born in Chatfield township, Crawford county, O.. Aug. 4, 1862, and is a son of Frederick and Catherine (Boll) Barth, who reared a family of seven children. The father was born in Germany and when he came to Ohio settled on a farm in Chatfield township. His death occurred in 1882. Henry A. Barth was reared on his father's farm and was educated in the country schools. In 1880 he came to Bucyrus and here learned his business and in association with his brother, conducts a large establishment. He has been for years an active, interested and reliable citizen, served one term as a member of the city council representing the Third Ward, and in 1907 was elected city auditor. He is an officer in the National Union and is a member of the Barbers' Union and is treasurer of the local organization. Mr. Barth married Miss Amanda E. Orthwein, a slaughter of Jeremiah Orthwein, of Crawford county, and they have two daughters: Stella V. and Helen R. They reside at No. 325 S. Spring Street, Bucyrus, and they attend the German Lutheran church. JOHN W EIRICK, a retired farmer and highly respected citizen of Whetstone township, where he owns 218 acres of valuable land, was born at Perrysville, Richland county, O., June 6, 1840, and is a son of Levi and Elizabeth (Broner) Weirick. Levi Weirick and wife were both born in Union county, Pa., both came to Ohio when young and both died in Crawford county, where their burial took place. By trade he was a chair maker and he followed the same all his life. In early days he was a Whig but later identified himself with the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 671 Republican party. Both he and wife belonged to the United Brethren church. To them the following children were born: Charles H., who is deceased; Mary, who is the widow of John Smith; John; Margaret; Clarine, who is the wife of Henry Steinheifer; William and Sabina. John Weirick attended school through boyhood and then worked on farms by the month until he was 21 years of age. The Civil War was then in progress and with many other patriotic young men of the neighborhood, he entered the Union Army, enlisting in Co. C, 23rd O. Vol. Inf., in which he served for three years, receiving his honorable discharge at Cumberland, Md., in January, 1865. He saw hard service and in addition to participating in the wearying marches and many skirmishes, he took part in such important battles as South Mountain, Antietam and Cedar Creek. After the close of the war, Mr. Weirick came to Crawford county, O., with the intention of securing farm land and establishing a permanent home. For the first seven years he rented land and then purchased his first 100 acres of his present farm and later added 118 acres more and for many years carried on his agricultural industries by himself but now these responsibilities are carried by his son. General farming, including the raising of a good grade of stock, occupies the attention of Mr. Weirick. In 1867, John Weirick was married to his cousin, Miss Matilda Weirick, who is a daughter of Aaron and Margaret (Clark) Weirick, substantial farming people of Whetstone township who had the following children: Harriet, who is the wife of Hiram Anton; Matilda; Lucinda, who is the wife of William Miller; Clark M.; Charles; Mary Ann, who is the wife of Hiram Trautman; Nancy Jane, who is the wife of Henry Tate; and Catherine, who is the wife of John Brubaker. Mr. and Mrs. Weirick have had the following children: Catherine Irene, who is the wife of Charles D. Wise, and has one son, Clyde DeWitt : Charles, who died at the age of two years; Edna Viola, who is the wife of James Heinlen and has three children—Hilda, Mildred and Iva; Horace, who married Ella Hilliss, and has one son, Neal; Levi, who married Emma Bonner, and has two children—Ivan and Harold; Alberta, who is the wife of Simon Roberts; Margaret, who lives at home; and Ida, who is the wife of Charles I. Wise, and has two children—Eugene and Geraldine. The paternal grandparents of both Mr. and Mrs. Weirick were Henry and Mary Weirick. During his active years, Mr. Weirick served usefully in a number of local offices and was school director and road supervisor and for two terms was constable. He is a man of pronounced temperance principles and votes with the Prohibition party. Both he and family have long been active members of the United Brethren church and they are all people who stand very high in the esteem of their neighbors and fellow citizens. GEORGE W. NEUMANN, carpenter contractor, is a well known business man of Bucyrus, O., of which city he has been a resident for 27 years. He was born in Polk township, Crawford county, O., June 14, 1855, and is a son of George and Mary (House) Neumann. George Neumann was born at Berlin, Germany, in 1824, and his wife at the same place in 1822 and both died on their farm in Tully township, Marion county, 0., he in 1892 and she in 1881. They came to America in i80, with their first two children, Peter and Elizabeth, landed at New York and from there moved to Polk township, Crawford county, O. There four more children were born—George W., Mary, Henry J. and Jacob R., four of the family still surviving. George W. Neumann was young when his parents moved to Marion county and there he was reared and attended a local school in boyhood, afterward learning the carpenter trade. In 1885 he came to Bucyrus and here has continued to be actively engaged in business ever since. He 672 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY is a skilled workman and has been concerned in the erection of many of the substantial structures of this city and vicinity. In 1889 Mr. Neumann was married to Miss Laura Lowmiller, who was born at Bucyrus and is a daughter of Daniel and Louisa (Kiefer) Lowmiller, and a granddaughter of Adam Lowmiller. The latter was of German parentage but was born in Pennsylvania in i8o8 and died at Bucyrus in 1889. Daniel Lowmiller, father of Mrs. Neumann, was born in Pennsylvania in 1838 and came to Ohio in early manhood. In 1861 he enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering the First Ill. Bat. I. Light Artillery, and served until the close of the Rebellion. He participated in many battles and in every situation displayed true courage and patriotic spirit. After the war he came to Crawford county and married here and resided at Bucyrus until his death in 1896. The mother of Mrs. Neumann is a well known resident of Bucyrus. She was born in one of the Rhine provinces, Germany, in 1842, and was nine years old when her people came to Crawford county. Mr. and Mrs. Neumann have four children: Bessie Irene, born October 18, 1889; Martha Mildred, born July 7, 1896; Louise Elizabeth, born March 26, 1901 ; and George William, born July 30, 1908. Mr. Neumann and family are members of the German Lutheran church. In his political views, Mr. Neumann denominates himself an independent Democrat. FRANKLIN ADAMS. Among the forceful and sterling citizens of Crawford county who in recent years have passed to the Great Beyond was he whose name begins this brief notice. He was born at Alstead, N. H., Nov. 16, 1813, a son of John and Susanna (Morse) Adams. His paternal grandfather, Nathan Adams, was a native of Massachusetts and a colonial soldier in the American Revolution. The name of Adams stands prominently out in American history and the family of which our subject was a member is the some which furnished two presidents to the United States, while the eloquence of another representative of the family inspired the Declaration of Independence. The Morse family to which Mr. Adams' mother belonged has also been conspicuous in Bay State annals. The parents of our subject were both born in Massachusetts. They resided for some time in New Hampshire, but in 182o removed to Canadice, New York, and thence to Michigan in 1836, in which last named state both died. They had four sons and five daughters. Franklin Adams, after attending the common schools in early boyhood, entered an academy at Middleburg, Wyoming county, N. Y., and later continued his academic course in Henrietta, Monroe county, N. Y. On attaining his majority in 1834 he joined the general trend of emigration westward, believing that in a newer country he would find better opportunities of advancement. Settling in Ashland, Ohio, he made that place his home for iS months, and it was while here that he began the study of the law, under the direction of Silas Robbins. He continued it subsequently at Mansfield, Ohio, under James Purdy of that city. At the July term of the Supreme Court of Ohio, held in Bucyrus in 1836, Mr. Adams was admitted to the bar and also licensed to practice by the District Court of the United States, held in Columbus in 1839. He began the practice of his profession at Mansfield, in association with Mr. Purdy, his preceptor, but on the loth of August, 1837, he came to Bucyrus, of which place he subsequently remained a citizen until his death, which took place on August i, 19o9. From 1838 to i845 he held the office of prosecuting attorney, which was the only political office ever held by him. From 1852 to 1854 he was secretary and treasurer of the Ohio and Indiana Railroad Company when it was first built between Crestline, Ohio and Fort Wayne, Ind., which road is now a part of the Pennsylvania Railway system. In politics he was a stanch Democrat, but his undivided time and attention were given to the practice of the law and he never sought political preferment. His character as a lawyer has been well summed up in the following words: "As a lawyer his has been a general practice, covering the usual variety of litigated interests that make up the docket of nisiprius courts in a country town. To chancery he has given special attention, especially to the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 675 administration of estates. He accomplished much toward settlement of cases outside of the courtroom. He has always advised compromises rather than settlement of difficulties in the courts. In early days it was not unusual for disputants to bring before him their respective grievances for arbitration, and thus he became in the best sense counsel for both parties, and in fact took the part of counsel and judge. An amiable disposition, unquestioned integrity, unfailing tact, insight into human nature and regard for equity as well as law, enabled him to solve hundreds of difficulties and restore the relations of friendship and confidence between men who had become antagonistical over some point and were inclined to ruinous litigation. Always a student, always thorough, and ever exact, Mr. Adams has long held the reputation of being a learned and able lawyer, accurate and exact in his pleadings, alert in trial, logical and convincing in argument." Mr. Adams might well have been called the Nestor of the Crawford county bar. At a banquet tendered him by the bench and bar of Crawford county at the time he had completed his both anniversary as a lawyer he received from his professional associates and townsmen most complimentary and eulogistic expressions of their appreciation of his ability, of his devotion to duty and of his character as a man, among the principal speakers being Col. Wilson C. Lemert. The proceedings were published in pamphlet form making some forty or more pages. Mr. Adams was not only a lawyer of marked ability, he was also an able business man. He acquired a large amount of agricultural property and had a beautiful home, with spacious and well cared for grounds near the public square in the heart of the city. He was never married but left his large estate to Miss Elizabeth Ostermier. It was about 1870 that Miss Ostermeir became acquainted with Mr. Adams. She was then employed at the Sims Hotel (now the Deal House), where Mr. Adams was living at that time. He was attracted by her agreeable manners, her kindness, and the efficient way in which she performed her duties and soon made her an offer to become his managing housekeeper, which she accepted in 1878. She held this position to the close of Mr. Adam's life and was as faithful and efficient in it as she had been in her duties at the hotel, and caring for him tenderly in his last illness. As a reward for this faithful service, he willed to her all his valuable property in fee simple, and she has since kept up and conducted the household in the same neat and systematic manner that he desired when living. Miss Ostermier is a woman of natural refinement as well as business and administrative ability and those who know her best feel that she has met with a well deserved reward. Mr. Adams was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, being in fact a charter member of La Salle Lodge, of Bucyrus. As a man his life was irreproachable and at his demise there were many to mourn his loss. F. C. McGAUGHY, D. D. S., one of the leading professional men of Galion, who for 14 years has been engaged in the practice of dentistry in this city, was born April 4, 1875, in Chesterville, Morrow county, Ohio. He is a son of Hugh P. and Hannah L. (Boner) McGaughy. Hugh P. McGaughy was born in Pennsylvania and came to Morrow county, Ohio, in early manhood, where he married, and he and wife settled in Chester township, where he engaged in farming and also worked as a house carpenter. His death occurred in 1910, at the age of 72 years, his wife having passed away in 1904.. He was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and was reared in the Presbyterian faith. She was of Baptist rearing, and her people were of Dutch and Welsh extraction. F. C. McGauhgy attended the public schools in Chesterville, and then entered The Ohio Medical University, at Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio Medical University has since been consolidated with The Starling Medical College, to form The Starling Ohio Medical University. He was graduated from the dental department of said university in the class of 1897. In the following year he came to Galion, and has built up a large and substantial practice. He has a well equipped office, and keeps 676 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY thoroughly abreast with the times in all advancements in dental science. His residence is situated at No. 658 West Main Street, Galion. Dr. McGaughy was married at Bucyrus, Ohio, to Miss Eva A. Matthew, the only daughter of Charles F. Matthews. She was born at Bucyrus, in 1878, and was reared and educated in her native city. Dr. and Mrs. MIGaughy are members of the Presbyterian Church. Professionally, Dr. McGaughy is a member of The Central Ohio Dental Society, component society of The Ohio State Dental Society, and fraternally is a Mason and Knight of Pythias. DAVID C. GAIBLER, whose valuable farm of 134 acres is well cared for and is a profitable property, situated in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., was born in Germany, January 19, 1869, and is a son of Gottlieb and Frederica (Schaaf) Gaibler. The parents of Mr. Gaibler lived in Germany until 1887, when they followed David C. Gaibler to Ohio, and for six months lived at Bucyrus. Gottlieb Gaibler and wife then moved to Frontier county, Nebr., and there the latter died in 1909, after which Mr. Gaibler went to Oregon for several years and then returned to his Nebraska farm. His children were : Christian; David C.; Mary, wife of Christian Schurr, Gottlieb, Pauline, Frederica and Nina. David C. Gaibler attended the public schools in Germany and afterward learned and worked at the carpenter trade. He was the first one of the family to come to America, which was in 1884, and since then he has engaged in farm work to the exclusion of everything else. He purchased his present farm from the heirs of his mother-in-law, Mrs. Elizabeth (Kerr) Sennet, who was born and spent her life on this place. Mr. Gaibler carries on all kinds of farm activities and is prosperous. In January, 1896, Mr. Gaibler was married to Miss Jennie Sennet, a daughter of Elias and Elizabeth (Kerr) Sennet, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania and now resides with his children. The mother of Mrs. Gaibler died Dec. 29, 1896. Mrs. Gaibler has four sisters and one brother: Sadie, wife of Dennis Miller; William Rosa; Della, wife of David Culp; and Daisy. The grandparents were Oliver and Elizabeth (Wooster) Sennet. Mr. and Mrs. Gaibler attend the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a Democrat in his political opinions, but takes no very active part in politics, being a practical, hardworking farmer and no seeker for office. JOHN W. BIRK, M. D., was born in Crawford county, Ohio, March 3, 1874, a son of Christian F. and Martha S. (Volk) Birk. He is a grandson of John G. Birk, a native of Wurtemburg, Germany, who came to the United States in 1845. After residing fora time in Albany, N. Y., John G. Birk removed to Tuscarawas county, Ohio; but he did not remain there long, as in 1847 he came to Bucyrus, where he established a harness making business, which he carried on for many years and which is still flourishing. He became a prominent citizen and served as treasurer of Crawford county from 1874 to 1876. His death took place Nov. 10, 1888. In 1851 he married Miss Joanna Kuhn, who was also a native of Germany and a representative of one of the pioneer families of Crawford county, her people having come to this section of Ohio in 1836. She died in October, 1893, having attained the age of 65 years. In their family were the following children : Christian F., father of Dr. John W. Birk; George M., who is engaged in the drug business with his brother, Christian; Emanuel R., who is now proprietor of the harness shop established by his father and is doing a very extensive business; Lewis C., who is foreman in the harness store; and Elizabeth, wife of F. P. Donnenwirth, a retired citizen of Bucyrus, O. Christian F. Birk was educated in the common schools of Bucyrus, which he attended until he was 14 years of age. He then began assisting his father in the harness shop, where he mastered the business, AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 677 which he mastered in all its details. For several years he was a partner with his father in the enterprise, which was carried on under the firm name of J. G. Birk & Son. For 53 years the business has been continued as the Birk's Harness Store, and is one of the most successful commercial institutions of the city, being now conducted by two of the sons of J. G. Birk, as above intimated. In 1892 Christian F. Birk, in connection with his younger brother, G. M. Birk, established a drug store, which they are still conducting. They carry a large and well assorted stock of goods and conduct their business so as to retain their patrons and build up their trade. Their sales are constantly increasing and the proprietors enjoy a good income. Christian F. Birk is also connected with the Board of Trade. In Bucyrus, in 1873, he was married to Miss Bertha S. Volk, a daughter of William F. Volk, who cane to Crawford county about 6o years ago. They had three children—John W., Carrie Elizabeth and Edna, of whom Carrie E. is the wife of G. W. Kerr, of Wrightsville, Pa., and Edna, at one time a teacher in the public schools, is now the wife of Otho Kennedy. Mrs. Christian F. Birk died Aug. io, 1898, a month after her son, John W., had sailed for Cuba on military service and while he was on the island. Mr. Christian F. Birk is connected with the Knights of Pythias fraternity and with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.. He belongs to the German Lutheran church and in politics is a stalwart Democrat. When only 23 years of age he was elected to the city council and after an interval he was chosen, in 1896, for a second term of two years. He served as city marshal from 1884 until 1890 and in the latter year entered upon a four years term as county sheriff. His fellow townsmen conferred upon him the highest honor within their power when in 1898 he was elected mayor of Bucyrus, and two years later they again called him to the same position, a fact which indicates how faithfully he had served them, his administration being practical, progressive and beneficial. His public career has been epitomized as follows: "Public spirited, he has withheld his support from no measure that he believes will promote the welfare and substantial advancement of Bucyrus, and his discriminating mind enables him to judge correctly of the value to the city of any measure introduced. Over the record of his public life and private career there falls no shadow of wrong or suspicion of evil, and he is rich in those qualities which win and retain personal friendships." John W. Birk, the direct subject of this article, was educated in the common schools. He graduated from College of Physicians and Surgeons, University of Illinois, in 1901. Previous to this, however, he had seen military service, being first lieutenant in Company A, Eighth O. Vol. Inf., during the Spanish-American War, and was present at the surrender of Santiago. He began the practice of medicine in 1903, locating in Bucyrus in that year. He was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Curtis, who is a daughter of Dr. Geo. Curtis of Hawley, Pa., and the family consists of one child, Margaret H. Dr. Birk and his family are now residents of Chicago, Ill. He belongs to the Masons and the Elks. WESLEY SAMUEL COOK, who carries on general farming and stock raising to some extent in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., has 114 acres of well cultivated land, this being the old homestead on which he was born, June 8, 1879. He is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Mutchler) Cook. The parents of Mr. Cook were both born in Lycoming county, Pa., and both married twice. The first wife of Jacob Cook was Mary Kiess and she was survived by the following children: Philip, Lena, wife of Amos Meek and Mary, wife of Joseph Wagner. His second marriage was to Mrs. Elizabeth (Mutchler) Walter and Wesley Samuel was the only child born to this union. To her first marriage Mrs. Cook 678 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY had three children, namely : Elmer; Addie, who was twice married, first to a Mr. Ball and second to John Cook; and Emma, who is the wife of Joseph Steinhilfer. Jacob Cook died on this farm Feb. 17, 1907, on which he had lived for many years. Politically he was a Democrat. Both he and wife attended the Evangelical church, to which his son also belongs. Wesley Samuel Cook obtained his education in the township schools and has always lived on the homestead, which he owns, subject to his mother's dower right. On June 8, 1904, he was married to Miss Bessie Kelley, a daughter of Walker and Hannah (Albright) Kelley, who live retired at Bucyrus. Mrs. Cook has one brother and one sister, Clarence and Hattie, the latter of whom is the wife of Ernest Steifel. Mr. and Mrs. Cook have three bright boys, Robert, Carson and Richard, who will be carefully reared and well educated. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are Christian people, belonging to the Evangelical body. A Democrat, like his late father, Mr. Cook votes for his party's candidates in National affairs but in local elections uses his own good judgment. FOREST R. McFARLAND, who, for the past eleven years has been a railway mail clerk for the U. S. Government, on the Pennsylvania Railroad between Pittsburg, Pa., and Chicago, Ill., in which connection he has proved himself a dependable and efficient official, was born in Champaign county, O., April 11, 1876, and is a son of Robert I. and Agnes (Baker) McFarland. The McFarlands were originally of Scotland and in about 16l0 the branch from which Forest R. McFarland came, moved into Ireland, and in 1740 the first representative came to America. This ancestor located first in Virginia and from there went into Kentucky as a pioneer. Rev. Robert McFarland, the great-grandfather of our subject, was born in Rockbridge county, Va., March 7, 1782, and moved to Kentucky with his parents in 1796. He became widely known as a Methodist missionary and he, with several other families, came to Ohio under the guidance of Gen. Simon Kenton, the noted Indian fighter, in 1807, and began his ministry here among the Indian settlements on the Mad River and was closely associated with those days of pioneer struggle and hardship in this now peaceful valley. He lived until 1864, having been born in 1782. For a long time his cabin was his church but later Concord Chapel, which still stands, was erected, and there he expounded Methodist doctrine for many years and ministered up and down the valley to all who needed spiritual help or instruction. John McFarland, son of Rev. Robert, was born February 18, 1824, and spent his life within one mile of his birthplace and followed agricultural pursuits. His death occurred May 7, 1895. For years he was an official in the Methodist Episcopal church and for thirty of these was the leader of the church choir. In his native county he married Sarah Ann Gibbs, who was possibly born in Kentucky, in 1826, and died in 1883. Of their five children there are four survivors, namely: Robert I. ; William, who is manager of a hotel, at Columbus, 0., who formerly was a school teacher; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Luther Myers, of Columbus, and has one daughter; and Harry L., who is engaged in the life insurance business at Chattanooga, Tenn. Robert I. McFarland, son of John and father of Forest R. McFarland, was born August 23, 1850, on the old Mad River Valley farm, in Champaign County, O., where he continued to reside and followed agricultural pursuits until some five years since, when he retired to Bucyrus, where he still lives. For a number of years he filled township offices and gave his political support to the Republican party. Mr. McFarland has always been known as an upright man and good citizen. He married Agnes Baker, who was born near Natural Bridge, Rockbridge county, Va., Dec. 30, 1847. Her father, Isaac Baker, brought his family to Ohio when she was quite young and for ten years they lived in Allen county and AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 679 then moved into Champaign county, where he died in 1902, after passing his gist birthday, having been born in 1811, of Swiss-German parentage. The mother of Mrs. McFarland died in middle age. Both parents were members of the German Reformed church. At the time of death, Mr. Baker was one of the oldest Democrats in Champaign county and was a well known man. Forest R. McFarland is an only child and he was carefully reared by good parents and taught to be thoughtful for others and to be kind and courteous in his demeanor, and these habits have not been detrimental to his advancement in business or social life. After graduating from the local High School he spent one term in the Ohio Northern University, at Ada, O., and afterward taught school until he received his appointment to his present position, as mentioned above. In 1900 Mr. McFarland was married at Bucyrus to Miss Caroline Albright, who was born and reared here and in 1898 graduated from the Bucyrus High School, after which, until her marriage, she was a teacher. She is a daughter of George W. and Jemima (Scott) Albright, prominent families in Crawford county. Mr. and Mrs. McFarland have three children: Martha Marguerite, who was born May 13, 1902; Isabelle Jemima, who was born January 6, 1906; and Agnes Georgiana, who was born August 8, 1908. Mr. and Mrs. McFarland are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and he is an official in the same and in the Sunday school. OSCAR K. SHARROCK, a contractor and prosperous citizen of Bucyrus, O., was born in a log hut near Iberia, Morrow county, O., September 6, 1849. His parents were Joseph and Mary (Woodside) Sharrock, and he is a great grandson of James Sharrock, who came to this country as a captain in the English army during the early years of the Revolutionary period, probably about 1776 or 1777. While in charge of a party succoring the wounded on a field of action, after the battle, he assisted a wounded American soldier, whom he recognized as an old schoolmate. Their acquaintance was renewed, they talked about the war and the causes of difference between the colonies and the mother country and Captain Sharrock finally became convinced that the cause of the colonies was a just one. He accordingly took an early opportunity of terminating his relations with the English army and, with some others, joined the Americans, serving under Washington and Lafayette against his former comrades. The principal scene of his military activities, while in the American army, was in New York State and he was engaged chiefly in patrolling the debatable ground between the advanced posts of the two armies, which was overrun and ravaged at frequent intervals by marauders of semi-military character from both sides. While engaged in these duties, he met and married Constance Williams, who was a sister of David Williams, one of the captors of Major Andre. They resided in New York State but later, after the war, settled in New York City, where Capt. Sharrock acquired a quarter section of land in the heart of the city, in the vicinity of Wall Street. Here they both died when well advanced in years. They had a large family consisting of eleven sons and one daughter. Ten of the sons were sea captains, the exception being Benjamin, grandfather of the direct subject of this sketch, who was the second in order of birth. Benjamin Sharrock, above referred to, was born probably before the close of the Revolutionary War in a log cabin in New York State. He contributed to the military record of the family, serving under Jackson at New Orleans in the War of 1812-15. At its close he returned home to New York State, but soon after, and before his marriage, removed to Ohio, settling in Guernsey county. Here he married a Quakeress by the name of Cotwell, of Quaker City in that county. This act seems to have been displeasing to his parents, as we are told that he was disinherited because of it. His father James had previously forfeited valuable property in England on account of his desertion of the Royal cause, which fact 680 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY does not seem to have made him act generously towards his son. However, the latter exercised his right to select his own wife, perhaps reflecting philosophically that "true love never does run smooth." Benjamin was a farmer by regular occupation and also a preacher, being known as Rev. Benjamin Sharrock. In 1821 he came with certain others to Crawford county, where he had a very large tract of land, a part of it being secured from the Government and State for services as a surveyor, he having laid out some of the earliest roads in northern Ohio. His last years were spent quietly near Iberia, Morrow county, where he was a prominent citizen, being also widely known throughout this section. He had made a careful study of Indian life and nature, and was respected by the Indians, whom he had always treated justly. He died November r6, 1879, at the remarkable age of 104 years and was buried at Iberia, in Morrow county. Shortly before his death he walked from near Iberia to four miles west of Bucyrus. The stone that marks his grave is a mill stone that he cut in 1820 for the mill he owned at Rockford, this county, and which was a famous old time grist-mill. Benjamin Sharrock was a remarkable man in more than one respect. He never used intoxicating liquors, though their use was almost universal during his earlier years, and though he attained so great an age, he never used glasses to aid his sight ; moreover at the time of his death he still retained all his teeth, these last two facts, top-ether with his ape, indicating a wonderful vitality. His wife, who had passed away some years before him, was the daughter of a pioneer settler of this part of Ohio, who also was familiar with Indian life and customs and who was a well known citizen. Rev. Benjamin Sharrock and wife were the parents of quite a large family, of whom Joseph, father of our subject, was the second born. The latter first saw the light in Guernsey county, O., November 4, 1814. When two years old he accompanied his parents to the vicinity of Sandusky, where they remained for a while. He was married in Morrow county to Mary Woodside, who was born in Pennsylvania, October 17, 1818. This marriage took place several years before the Sharrocks located in Crawford county. Joseph and his wife became the owners of a fine farm in Bucyrus township, consisting of nearly 300 acres of good land. Here they spent the rest of their lives, Joseph dying in 1893 and his wife in 1883. They were regular attendants at church, though not members and were quick to support any good work. Joseph Sharrock was a man of musical talent and for a number of years took a leading part in musical entertainments throughout the county. He was a Democrat in politics. The children of Joseph and Mary Sharrock were six in number, as follows: (1). Gardner accidentally shot himself April 3, 1874, when 32 years old. (2). Garrett is now a farmer in Crawford county. (3). Charles died two years ago at his home in Bucyrus, O. (4). Oscar is the direct subject of this article and will be further referred to herein. (5). Benjamin is a resident of Golden City, Mo. (6). James is a resident of Morrow county, Ohio. Oscar K. Sharrock, whose birth has been already narrated, had some difficulty in obtaining an adenuate education, as his father was opposed to his spending too much time over his books or at school. Without the latter's knowledge, however, and by dint of earnest application, with the friendly assistance of a Miss McCracken, he acquired a fairly thorough knowledge of the ordinary branches of study, so much so that for a time he followed the occupation of teacher. He continued to improve himself educationally, adding to his stores of knowledge and giving particular attention to language and rhetoric, also devoting much thought to public questions. His ability as a speaker and debater became known, and with it there grew tip a demand for his services on the lecture platform. In this sphere of intellectual activity he has made a name for himself throughout this section, having lectured on subjects of historic interest, two of his most noted lectures being on the subjects of Benedict Arnold and the Expansion of the United States, on the latter subject he taking the AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 681 affirmative proposition that "It was right for America to expand." On the platform Mr. Sharrock has an agreeable and sympathetic voice of commanding volume, and an easy delivery that never tires his auditors but holds their attention to the end. As a contractor in the line of his regular business he has been successful and is a thoroughly skilled mechanic and a reliable man of business. He was married in Liberty township to Miss Cynthia A. McMichael, a daughter of David and Margaret (Anderson) McMichael and a grand-daughter of Daniel and Mary (McDowell) McMichael. Grandfather McMichael was born in Ireland and came to America about 1794, when i6 years of age. His family locating in Westmoreland county, Pa., he there married, his wife, Mary being a native of Scotland. Soon after their marriage they moved to Ohio and settled north of the Sandusky near where Bucyrus is now located. He entered 160 acres of land at a point tip the river and built a saw and grist mill—one of the first in the county. Of his eight children, David married Margaret Anderson, daughter of John Anderson, a pioneer in that locality. On his father-in-law's death David McMichael moved to the latter's farm, where he subsequently resided, dying Nov. 3, 1857 and leaving a widow and seven children—Rebecca J., Daniel L., John A., George W., Maria, Cynthia and David—of whom, George W. and Maria removed to Nebraska. Daniel McMichael, Mrs. Sharrock's grandfather, built the first white man's cabin in Liberty township and was the third settler in the county. Mrs. Sharrock was well educated and was for a number of years a teacher in the public schools. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Sharrock are as follows: (i). Walter Scott, was educated in Crawford county and is a steam engineer by occupation. He resides at home with his parents. (2). J. Wayland, who is a clerk in a hardware store in Bucyrus, married Bessie Souder and has a son, Jack B. (3) . Maude Estella, was educated at Ohio Northern University and was employed for some years as a teacher. She is now in Cuba and also travels Southern territory as representative of the Crescent Mfg. Co. of Seattle, Wash. She is unmarried. (4). Mirian Thorne, a cultivated young woman, educated at Ohio Northern University, is residing at home. (5). Ross C., graduated from the Ohio Northern University at Ada, O., in the class of 1909 and is a civil engineer and assistant surveyor residing in Bucyrus. He married Lurlie Snavely and has a son, Harold C. (6). Mabel B. is the wife of Harry Ehrick, of Bucyrus and has a daughter, Thelma Norine. (7). Ralph Beaumont, who resides at home, is attending high school and will graduate in the class of 1913. It will thus be seen that Mr. and Mrs. Sharrock have a promising family who are contributing to the good citizenship of the state and upholding the family reputation, of which fact they may well be proud. S. L. FRENCH, general farmer and well known citizen of Crawford county, O., residing on his well improved farm of seventy acres, situated in section 11, Cranberry township, belongs to one of the old county families of substantial character. He was born in Lykens township, Crawford county, Jan. 14, 1864, and is a son of John and Elizabeth Jane French, who reside in Cranberry township, on a farm that adjoins that of their son, on the north. S. L. French received primary instruction in Cranberry township and afterward attended school at New Washington and was a member of the class of 1883, the first one graduated from the New Washington High School. Afterward he took a course in the Ohio Normal School at Ada, O., and then became a teacher, both in Cranberry and Auburn townships. Mr. French then visited the Northwest and resided at Fort Stellacoom, Wash., and for four years was leader of the orchestra engaged to play at the Insane Asylum. He also played in orchestras in hospitals for the insane in Jacksonville, Ill., Columbus, O., Blackfoot, Idaho, and for three years directed the orchestra at the Toledo, O., State Hospital. After coming back to Crawford county in 1895 he bought property in Cranberry townships, parts of the old Robert Robin- 682 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY son and Curtis farms, improved the same and has here carried on a general agricultural line ever since. Mr. French follows progressive methods, keeping himself well informed through attendance and interest in the Grange and other agricultural bodies and agricultural literature, and his success proves that his system is entirely practical and again demonstrates that an educated man often makes the best farmer. The location of his property gives it excellent drainage and the Northern Ohio Railroad running through it has proved to be of advantage. At Tacoma, Wash., on Jan. 12, 1893, Mr. French was married to Miss Lena Unkrich, who was born at Fairfield, Ia., a daughter of Henry Unkrich, and they have four childred: Helen, who is a student in the New Washington High School; and Florence, George and Jeanette, all of whom were born in Cranberry township. Dail Robison, a young man of 20 years, has lived with the family since he was four years of age. Mr. French and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically Mr. French is a Democrat. In some local organizations he has been interested to some degree and is on the directing board of the Crawford County Fire Insurance Company. Mr. and Mrs. French are members of Cranberry Grange No. 1435, also of the Crawford County Pomona, the Ohio State and National Grange. Many years ago he joined the Knights of Pythias and has passed all the chairs in the local lodge. Mr. French and family are representative people of this section. ADAM SHUNK, deceased, was one of the best known and most highly respected citizens of Bucyrus, O., for many years. He was the founder of one of the large manufacturing houses here, the plow company which bears his name, and he was also a citizen whose sterling worth could not fail of being appreciated. He was born in Somerset county, Pa., March 23, 1797, grew to the age of 21 years on his father's farm, developed into a man of great usefulness to his family, community and generation and died October 30, 1892. As a youth Adam Shunk had no educational opportunities. He dutifully performed the labors assigned him on the farm as long as he remained at home, but, when the age of maturity set him free, he devoted himself to work as a carpenter, having constructed his own tools. He was cleft of hand from childhood and it is said of him that a wagon, perfect in all its parts, was made by his boyish fingers, when he was not more than eight years of age. He never served an apprenticeship to any mechanical trade, his aptness in the use of tools being a natural faculty. His work of 21 years, in his native section, compared favorably with that of other carpenters, but this work did not entirely satisfy himself and a part of his time and all his leisure was given to experimenting. In 1843 he purchased a patent right to manufacture a certain kind of plow. In the following spring he opened his plow plant at Xenia, O., and while engaged there he also conducted a grocery store and for a time he worked at Canal Fulton. In the fall of 1854 Mr. Shunk came to Bucyrus, and with the capital he had at command built a brick shop and started into the manufacture of plows. There are yet business men of Bucyrus who recall the beginning of this enterprise and others who know of its expansion, while the active business men of today point with pride to the Shunk Plow Company as an example of the commercial importance of this city as a successful manufacturing center. In his day Mr. Shunk made all the different patterns of plows that he manufactured. The business has been developed until not only the Shunk New Model Steel Plow is manufactured but the plant also turns out: the Handy Steel Farm Wagons, steel plows, combination plows, contractors' plows, single shovel plows, potato di,gers, steel plow shapes and steel plow beams made to pattern, gas engine trucks, steel, scraper blades, corn harvesters and other steel implements. Mr. Shunk was twice married, first. in 1816, to Miss Mary Banfort, of Somerset county, who died in 1844, and second, in 1845, to Miss Catherine Bauch, of Springfield, O. Children were born to both unions, the survivors of the second being: AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 683 Francis, Nelson F., Isaac, John Q. and Katie. The Shunk Plow Company is owned and operated by Nelson F. and John Q. Shunk, the former of whom lives at No. 421 Mansfield Street, and the latter at No. 603 Rensselaer Street. They are men of business enterprise and are worthy citizens. Should they claim the honor, they are entitled to membership in that organization, Sons of the American Revolution, their grandfather having served under General Washington. In many ways Adam Shunk was a very remarkable man and his fellow citizens of a younger generation remember his wonderful activity in business even into old age. From the age of seventeen years he had been a faithful member until death of the English Lutheran church. HENRY P. REXROTH, deceased, for many years was a well known citizen and successful farmer in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., where he was born April 4, 1859 and died in December, 1909. His parents were John and Mary Ann (Gebhart) Rexroth, who were early settlers in this section, locating in Whetstone township when they came from Germany. They had five sons and one daughter, namely: George, J. J., Daniel, Samuel, Henry P. and Mrs. Guinther. Henry P. Rexroth was reared on his father's farm and obtained a district school education. Farming was his main business through life but he also was a veterinary practitioner. He was able to leave a valuable farm of 120 acres, well cultivated and well stocked, to his family, and his widow and son continue to operate it, carrying on general farming and raising Duroc Jersey hogs. In 1882 Mr. Rexroth was married to Miss Margaret Nungesser, a daughter of Christian and Elizabeth (Helfrich) Nungesser, and they had children born to them as follows: Bertha, who is the wife of John Eyler, and has four children—Marguerite, Russell, Harry and Glenn; Mary, who is the wife of Emanuel Fauser, and has two children—Miriam and Wilbur: Carrie, who is the wife of Harry Kurtz; Emma, who is the wife of Walter Diebler and has one daughter, Ernestine; Enomah and Harry J. G. Mr. Rexroth was a prominent man in township politics and was frequently elected to office, serving four years as township clerk and fifteen years as constable. He was a valued member and comrade in several fraternal organizations, belonging to the Eagles and the Royal Arcanum. With his family he belonged to the German Reformed church in Whetstone township and gave it liberal support. JOHN M. DOSTAL, a member of the firm of Dostal Bros., brewers, at Bucyrus, O., was born at Iowa City, Ia., and is one of the representative business men of this city. His parents were John P. and Johanna (Cerny) Dostal. John P. Dostal was born in Bohemia, in 1840, and died April 17, 1912. When a young man he accompanied his parents to the United States and they all located at Iowa City, Ia. He had his own way to make in the world and the success which rewarded his efforts was remarkable, considering that he had to contend with a strange language, unaccustomed people, little capital and unknown customs. He became a brewer and at Iowa City continued in business until he accumulated a fortune of $100,000. When laws went into effect that limited his business he moved his plant to Aurora, Ill., in 1882, and continued until he sold out to the Aurora Brewing Company. In 1890 he embarked in the brewing business at Denver, Colo., and his old plant is now owned by the Neff Bros. Brewing Company. At Iowa City he married Johanna Cerny, who was born also in Bohemia and accompanied her parents when young, to Iowa City, Ia., where she was reared. She is a member of the Roman Catholic church, as was her husband. In politics John P. Dostal was a Democrat. Two sons and four daughters were born to them. John M. Dostal was educated at the Jesuit College, at Prairie du Chien, Crawford county, Wis., and both he and brother, George A. Dostal, learned the brewing business with their father. The present plant, which occupies six acres at Bucyrus, was 684 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY established many years ago, the Dostal Bros. taking charge in September, 1902, succeeding Frank Dick, who had succeeded the Donenwirths, the builders. The Dostal Bros. have made the business a prosperous one, introducing new methods and installing modern machinery. Employment is given to from fifteen to twenty employes and the capacity, which is sold entirely in Ohio, is about 20,000 barrels annually. The firm of Dostal Bros. is made up of John M. and George A. Dostal. The latter is widely known in musical circles and at the present time (1g12) is a member of an operatic company touring the country. He early displayed musical talent and three years ago completed his musical studies at Rome. He married Miss Gertrude E. Madden, of Chicago, Ill. John M. Dostal was married February 14, 1912, at Columbus, O., to Miss Margaret McCaffrey, of that city. They are members of the Roman Catholic church. He is identified with the Elks, the Deutsche Gesellschaft and the Eagles and is a member of the board of trustees of the Elks. ALVA FRENCH, a substantial and highly esteemed citizen of Galion, O., now living retired after many years of agricultural life, occupies his comfortable residence which stands at No. 645, Cherry Street, Galion. He was born at Otsego, N. Y., April 15, 1839, and is a son of Sampson and Betsey (Seward) French. Sampson French was born in Massachusetts and his wife in Connecticut, both families being old ones in New England. They were married in New York and their home continued to be in Otsego county until 1847, when they came to Ohio and settled in what is now Morrow county, purchasing land in Washington township and there spent their lives, both passing away before the Civil War. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. They were of the same class of people as the Shermans of Ohio and were friendly with that family and also with the older Garfields. For fourteen years Sampson French was a justice of the peace and was an influential man in many directions. While he lived in New York he followed his trade of cloth weaver and fuller, to some extent, and owned a woolen mill, while he was also a millwright and owned a saw mill. He was, in fact, one of the well equipped, resourceful men of his time and his useful activity covered many fields. Eight of his children reached maturity and all of his six sons and two daughters married and had families of their own. The two survivors are: Alva and Calvin. The latter is a retired railroad man now living at Binghamton, N. Y. He is a veteran of the Civil War, during which he was once a prisoner at Andersonville, Ga., an experience which typifies the horrors of war. Alva French remained at home assisting in the cultivation of the family farm until 1860 when he entered the railroad employ. He enlisted in Co. C, i8oth O. Vol. Inf., in September, 1864, and was made color bearer, under Capt. Moses Abbott, and was honorably discharged June 1, 1865, in the meanwhile having participated in the battle of Wise's Fork, N. C. After the war he resumed railroad work, which he had previously been connected with to some degree, and for ten years was with the Big Four and Erie Railways. He then went back to Morrow county and purchased 58 acres of desirable land and devoted himself to its cultivation and improvement until 1912, when he retired and came to Galion. In 1862, Mr. French was married in Morrow county to Miss Lydia A. Elder, who was born and educated there. She is a daughter of Samuel and Abigail (Noyer) Elder, who were born in Bedford county, Pa., but were married in Ohio and were early settlers in Morrow county, the Elder lands having been secured from the Government by the grandfather of Mrs. French. This family is one of the best known in Morrow county, a long-lived people, thrifty and virtuous. Mr. and Mrs. French have three children, one son and two daughters: Chauncy C., who succeeded his father in the management of the Morrow county estate; Abbie, who is the wife of J. F. Nichols, residing at Galion; and Carrie, who is the wife of Korah Mountz, of Morrow county, and has two children: Ralph and Edith Marie. Mrs. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 685 French is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. French has been a Republican since he cast his first presidential vote, that being for Abraham Lincoln. He is a valued member of Dick Morris Post No. 130, G. A. R. In 1867 Mr. French was painfully injured in a railroad accident and in the following year went to Missouri and spent five years there before he was able to resume his former active life. SHERMAN R. HARMAN, a well known resident of Dallas township, was born May 11, 1876, on the farm where he now lives and which he and his father own. He is a son of John and Lois (Burke) Harman. John Harman and his wife were both born in Ohio, where he has been a farmer but is now living retired at Nevada. He is in sympathy with the principles of the Republican party and attends the U. B. Church. Mr. and Mrs. John Harman were blessed with four children: Ida, the wife of Charles L. Slagle; Sherman, the subject of this article; and Mary and Jay, both deceased. After attending the common schools of his district, Sherman R. Harman turned his attention to farming and went to work on the farm before referred to. He has been associated with his father until last year and since then he has successfully managed the farm himself. He does general farming and raises a good grade of stock. In 1901 Mr. Harman was married to Miss Bertha Mollenkopf, who is a daughter of Philip and Emma (Cook) Mollenkopf. Mr. and Mrs. Harman have a son and a daughter—John Milton and Mildred Gertrude. Sherman R. Harman is, as his father, a Republican politically and affiliated with the U. B. Church. JACOB COLTER, senior member of the lumber firm of Colter & Co., saw mill operators and manufacturers of all kinds of house and building material in the way of lumber, has been identified with the lumber business all his life since early manhood. He was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1842 and is a son of Jacob and Caroline (Leppla) Colter, who emigrated to America in 1851, crossing the Atlantic Ocean in a sailing vessel that required 42 days to make the passage. They landed at the port of New York and from there came to Ohio and located near Strasburg. There the father died six weeks later, leaving his widow and two children, Jacob and Henry. The latter is in the saw mill business in Adams county, Incl., is married and has four sons. The mother of Mr. Colter is now in her ninetieth year. She contracted a second marriage and six children were born to it, her second husband being now deceased. Jacob Colter was reared in Tuscarawas county, O., and obtained an excellent education at Millersburg, one that fitted him for teaching and he taught school sucessfully prior to entering into the lumber industry. In 1873, in partnership with a kinsman, P. W. Smith, he bought a saw mill at Arcola, Ind., in which he continued to be interested for twenty years. When he and partner left that section of Indiana it was with an earned capital of $50,000. In 1902 Mr. Colter came to Bucyrus and conducted a saw mill until 1906, when a planing mill was added to the other facilities and a large business has been built up. Since 1905 Mr. Colter has had a silent but active partner in Peter Conkle. The plant of Colter & Co., covers nine acres of land, a part of which is covered with mills and their complete equipments and a part is given to the storage of lumber, they keeping an average of 400,000 feet on hand all the time. Mr. Colter is also interested at Jonesboro, Ark., where his lumber plant is worth $110,000, and additionally he is concerned in banks at Decatur and Fort Wayne, Ind., and at Willshire, Van Wert county, O. Mr. Colter is one of the capitalists of Crawford county. Mr. Colter was married in Indiana to Miss Sarah Crawford, who was born in 1855, in Allen county, Incl. She died at Arcola, Ind., in 1902, survived by six children: Blanche, who is the wife of Lee Ellsworth, who is well known on the dramatic stage; William H., who is engaged in the saw mill business at Upper Sandusky; John, who lives at Jonesboro, Ark.; Maude, who is the wife of Robert Picking, of Bucyrus ; Ethel, who resides with her father; and 686 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Helen, who is a High School student. Mr Colter resides at No. 222 South Poplar Street, Bucyrus. He has never taken any very active part in politics but nevertheless has always arrayed himself with the supporters of law and order. He is a member of the M. E. church. JAMES RICHARD HOPLEY was born at Bucyrus, O., Aug. 1, 1863, the son of the late John and Georgianna (Rochester) Hopley. He is strictly a Bucyrus boy having been brought up here and was graduated from the Bucyrus public schools in the class of 1882. In 1884 in company with five other boy friends he organized the Bucyrus Evening Times and was editor and manager of that paper. In 1887 and 1888 he was located at Fort Worth, Texas, engaged in railroad work. On Nov. 15, 1893, he was married at Granville, O., to Miss Elizabeth Sheppard, daughter of Rev. Thomas J. and Margaret (Collins) Sheppard. At that time Mr. Hopley was city editor of the Bucyrus Evening Telegraph. In 1896 he became editor and manager of the Sandusky Evening Telegraph at Sandusky, Ohio, where he remained about a year. In 1897 he went to Columbus where he was associated with Charles W. Harper for a number of years as editor of The Advertising World and Ad-Art, where his natural aptitude for advertising was given full swing. During the latter part of his work at Columbus he was manager of the Harper Illustrating Syndicate, continuing his work as editor of the Harper advertising publications. In 1902 he returned to Bucyrus as manager of the Hopley Printing Company and upon the death of the late John Hopley he became editor as well as manager of the newspapers belonging to the family estate. Mr. Hopley has been a Republican all his life and has taken a considerable part in the local politics. In December of 1910, he was appointed postmaster at Bucyrus, O., by President Taft, taking up the duties of the office Feb. 15, 1911. Mr. Hopley has been a member of the Presbyterian church since he was r6 years of age and in March, 1912, was elected a ruling elder of the church at Bucyrus. Mrs. James R. Hopley has taken much prominence in club work, was chosen vice president of the Ohio Federation of Women's Clubs in 1899 and in 1900 was elected president of the State Federation. In 1903 she was the only woman speaker on the program of the Ohio Centennial celebration at Chillicothe, O. ROBERT LAIRD, deceased, for many years was identified with the great Erie Railway system at Kent and Galion, O., and was quite influential in local politics in Crawford county. He was born at Glasgow, Scotland, May 6, 1841, and was a son of Robert and Mary (Laird) Laird. The parents of Mr. Laird were of Scottish birth and ancestry and of the Presbyterian faith. In 1849 they took passage with their children on a sailing vessel bound for the United States, and after six long weeks on the water, were safely landed on the coast of Virginia. Later the father became manager of mines at Mt. Savage, now in West Virginia, and to him is attributed the honor of discovering the beds of fire clay in that section which he subsequently assisted in developing. His widow survived him, dying at Parkersburg, W. Va., in her 79th year. They had twelve children born to them, a number of whom reached maturity. Robert Laird had but meager educational opportunities. He learned the boilermaker's trade at Peidmont, W. Va., and afterward worked at Zanesville and then entered the shops of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and while there enlisted for service in the Civil War. He became a member of Company D, 159th O. Vol. Inf., in which he served for three months, when he was prostrated with rheumatism, from which he was never afterward entirely free. When he resumed work at his trade he remained with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad for about four years, having come first to Galion, in 1868, and here became foreman of the boiler shops and for twenty years was connected with the Erie Railway. He then went to Mansfield, O., where he was at the head of the J. Sullivan Boiler Works and three years later returned to Galion and here conducted a boiler shop of his own for five AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 689 years. His death occurred in this city November 5, 1905. He was a man of sterling traits of character, honest and upright, industrious and faithful and was the type of citizen that a community cannot afford to lose. He was firm in his adherence to the principles of the Democratic party and was frequently brought forward as a party candidate for responsible positions. Mr. Laird was a Knight Templar Mason and was master of the local lodge. He had hosts of friends in Dick Morris Post No. 130, G. A. R., and it was while presiding as commander that his death summons came to him and he peacefully expired supported by his old comardes in arms. Mr. Laird was married at Zanesville, O., to Miss Jennie McIntosh, who was born at Edinburgh, Scotland, a daughter of John and Agnes (Russell) McIntosh, and in her infancy brought by her mother to America. The mother died in 1868, she being then aged 79 years. Mrs. Laird is the youngest of five children and she has one brother living in Ohio, John McIntosh, who is a retired carriage blacksmith, residing at Mt. Vernon, with wife, three sons and one daughter. One son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Lard, John R. He was carefully reared and graduated with credit from the Galion High School, afterward learned the machinist trade and became a skilled boilermaker. His death occurred November 27, 1911, when aged 46 years. Mrs. Laird is a woman of marked ability, a leader in several distinctive lines. For some time she was president of the TvVoman's Relief Corps at Galion and for ten years its treasurer, and she was the organizer of the Eastern Star lodge here and its first matron. CHRISTIAN SHONERT, dealer in pianos and other musical instruments at Bucyrus, O., who is known all through this section as a musician of a high order of ability, was born in Saxony, Germany, April 13, 1832, and is a son of John H. and Frederica (John) Shonert. John H. Shonert followed the blacksmith trade in Germany and was an excellent workman but many of his customers were people of small means and unable to pay enough for Mr. Shonert's services to enable him to take care of and provide for a rapidly increasing family. In the hope that in America he would find better opportunities, Mr. Shonert decided to emigrate and in 1848, with his family left the port of Bremen for the United States. After a voyage of six weeks the family was safely landed at Castle Garden, New York City, and from there made their way to Crawford county, 0., and settled on a farm in Lykens township, where the father followed both farming and blacksmithing. Christian Shonert attended school in his native land and was i6 years of age when he accompanied his parents to Ohio. After one year of toil on the farm in Lykens township he left home and came to Bucyrus, where he learned the tanning business, and afterward, for a number of years, continued in this line, during a part of the time alone and also with a partner. The German people are noted for their natural musical talent and Christian developed this very early although circumstances were such that he had little opportunity to develop it while young. Later he secured advantages and it has long been said of him that he is the finest musician in Crawford county. He was the first real musical man in Bucyrus and has had much to do with the encouragement of music in this city. He has been in the musical instrument business at his present location, No. 415 N. Sandusky Street, since 1849. Mr. Shonert was married October 30, 1856, to Miss Maria W. Miller, a resident of Bucyrus, and they have had seven children, all of whom have inherited their father's remarkable musical gifts and have had them cultivated and appreciated. The third son, Edwin M. Shonert, has become a celebrated pianist and at present is on the concert stage. Mr Shonert has been one of Bucy. rus' most useful citizens. He has served with satisfaction and efficiency in city and county offices and was four times elected county treasurer, first in 1875 and again in 1877 and also served the two terms from 1884 to 1888. He retired from this office of 690 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY trust and responsibility bearing with him the respect, esteem and commendation of his fellow citizens. He has also served a number of years on the school board and city council. W. J. JUMP, farmer and teacher, is a member of one of the old families of Crawford county which has many representatives in Tod township. He was born June 18, 1876, on the old homestead and is a son of W. H. Jump. W. J. Jump attended the local schools at Lemert and later, Ada University, after which he began to teach school. Not every nominally qualified teacher finds himself fitted for this work after he begins, but in Mr. Jump's case, teaching seems to be a natural vocation and for thirteen years he has been engaged in educational work in Crawford county, at present teaching at Glen Eden, in School District No. 2, Tod township. His farm of forty acres also claims attention and he takes much interest in its management. Mr. Jump married Miss Anna Lecrone, a daughter of Adam Lecrone, of Bremen, O., and they have had two children, Carlton and Harry, but both sons passed away in infancy, the former when aged nine months and the latter when but five months old. Mr. Jump is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Plankton, 0., while Mrs. Jump is a member of the U. B. church at Laurel in Hocking county, O. In his political attitude he is a Democrat. He has a wide acquaintance and is held in very high esteem in Crawford county as an educator. MISS JULIA AUMILLER, who is a very highly esteemed lady of Bucyrus, O., is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Holmes township, Crawford county, and here she has spent her active and useful life. She was born in Holmes township and is a daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Boyer) Aumiller. Daniel Aumiller and wife were both born in Union county, Pa. He was just 19 years of age when he accompanied his brother, George Aumiller, to Crawford county, in October, 1828. At that time the busy city of Bucyrus was nothing but a hamlet on the frontier and it was no unusual sight to see hands of Indians in the neighborhood. George Aumiller was a brick maker and in this industry he was assisted by his brother, Daniel Aumiller, the latter of whom worked for three years and frugally saved almost every dollar in order to be able to invest in land. When he had sufficient capital to enter an 80 acre tract, he walked the entire distance to the land office at Tiffin, O., in order to secure the property in Holmes township that he had in mind. It was a discouraging looking place at that time, little resembling the improved farm that Miss Julia Aumiller and a sister, Mrs. Nichols, now own, but Daniel Aumiller not only cleared that place and put it under cultivation, but later acquired 16o acres more, together with tracts of Western land. His death occurred on the first 8o acres he had bought, when he was in his 72nd year. In addition to farming he also, for some years, followed the brick mason trade and was known all over Crawford county. His widow survived him for r6 years, her death occurring in 1900, in her 82nd year. In early life she belonged to the Albright church but later united with the English Lutheran body. All of their eleven children grew to maturity on the farm and three sons and four daughters are yet living. Miss Julia Aumiller was educated in the local schools. She is a very capable business woman and for a number of years conducted a dressmaking business. In addition to her interest in the old homestead, she owns two excellent houses at Bucyrus. She is one of the active and interested members of the English Lutheran church at Bucyrus, has many pleasant social connections and a very wide circle of friends. OTTERBEIN P. BECK, who, as head sales agent for the Galion Iron Works Company, at Galion, O., occupies a very important position, and is also a member of the directing board of the company, has been identified with this concern since its organization and a large measure of its success AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 691 may justly be attributed to his energy and business capacity. He was born in Jefferson township, Crawford county, O., and is a son of John Beck and a grandson of one of the pioneers of Jefferson township, Crawford county. John Beck was born in 1807 in Westmoreland county, Pa., and in 1827 accompanied his parents to Jefferson township, and his father built the first grist mill in the county, constructing it on the Sandusky River. John Beck engaged in farming but possessed natural mechanical skill and was a satisfactory carpenter and a capable millwright, manufactured pumps for some years and occupied his spare moments in constructing such delicate musical instruments as the dulcimer. He was well known all over the county and in his way he was a genius. Early in life he was a Democrat but the issues involved in the Civil War made him a Republican. For many years he was a justice of the peace in Jefferson township. He was twice married, first to Mary Swisher, who left six children, three of whom were soldiers in the Union Army during the Civil War. His second wife was Eliza Rhoads, who was born in Indiana but was reared in Seneca county, 0., by an uncle. She died in 1880 when aged 44 years, leaving nine children, six of whom survive. Otterbein P. Beck was reared and educated in Jefferson township and during almost all of his active business life has been connected with manufacturing concerns and more or less of the time with his present particular department. For nine years he was connected with the Central Ohio Buggy Company and for six years afterward was sales agent for the Ohio Buggy Company. He came to Galion in 1880 and, as mentioned above, has been interested with the Galion Iron Works since the plant was established here. He has jobbers all through the country who handle the products of this company and in addition the company has fifty active men on the road, while the off ce business is so voluminous that nine stenographers are required. Mr. Beck is thoroughly alive to business possibilities and has the natural foresight and good judgment that enable him to recognize advantages when presented. Mr. Beck was married in Crawford county to Miss Mary H. Shumaker, who is a daughter of John and Esther (Gledhill), Shumaker. The father of Mrs. Beck died in May, 1869, from the kick of an unruly horse and the mother died in December, 1868. Mr. and Mrs. Beck have two children: Loren Eugene, who was educated at Galion and in the Ohio Business College, Mansfield, O., and is a commercial traveler; and Lois May, who is a member of the class of 1914 in the Galion High School. This young lady has great musical talent and is a member of the choir of the Presbyterian church. Mrs. Beck was reared in the iVIethodist Episcopal church. Mr. Beck is a Knight of Pythias and is a charter member of the United Commercial travelers and a charter member of the Commercial Club at Galion. WILLIAM MASON, who is one of the leading business men of New Winchester, O., owner and proprietor of a general store and also owner of one of the finest residences in the town, was born in Dallas township, Crawford county, O., May 16, 1860, and is a son of John and Mary (Line) Mason. John Mason was born in England and came to the United States when a boy. He worked at first on farms in different sections and later acquired land of his own and at the time of death owned 280 acres of fine land in Crawford county. He married Mary Line, who was born in Ohio, and they had the following children: Nancy, deceased, who was the wife of Charles Saylor; Fannie, who is the wife of Z. W. Hipsher; James, who is deceased ; Ellen, who is the wife of Otis Brooks; Rose Ann, who is the wife of John Hord; William; and Lottie, who is deceased. John Mason and wife are both deceased and their burial was in Marion county, O. They were well known and highly respected people. William Mason was given public school advantages and afterward assisted his father until he was 18 years of age and then be- 692 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY came a farmer on his own account and continued until 1898, when he purchased a business at New Winchester, which he conducted for 18 months and then sold, after which he bought his general store and has conducted the same for the past twelve years. He carries a full and well selected stock and enjoys a liberal amount of patronage. In 1881 Mr. Mason was married to Miss Maggie Cress, who is a daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Lint) Cress, the former of whom is well known all over Crawford county as an expert blacksmith. Mrs. Mason is the second in a large family, as follows: Nora, who is the wife of G. W. Schreck; Iley Bell, who is the wife of Samuel Sharrock ; Frances, of Chicago; Minnie, who is the widow of Fred Daoust; Della, who is deceased; and Manford. Mr. and Mrs. Mason are members of the United Brethren church. Politically Mr. Mason is a Republican and has been a loyal party worker for many years. He has served at times in public office and for one term was assessor of Dallas township and at present is turnpike road commissioner for Whetstone township. For several years he was postmaster of New Winchester. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity and belongs to Lodge No. 447, A. F. & A. M., at Caledonia, O. WILLIAM C. KIESS, vice-president of the Second National Bank of Bucyrus, O., is also largely interested in real estate and conducts an extensive business along this line, dealing in both city realty and farm property. He has been a representative citizen of Crawford county for many years and has frequently been honored by election to offices of trust and responsibility by his fellow citizens. He was born on his father's farm in Whetstone township, Crawford county, 0., in 1807, and is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Delker) Kiess. Jacob Kiess was born in Lycoming county, Pa., a son of Christopher Kiess and wife, who were natives of Germany. Grandfather Kiess was an educated man and first taught school in his native land and afterward, for twenty years in Pennsylvania. He thus was useful in his day and generation although he never accumulated as much property as have a number of his descendants. In 1850, Jacob Kiess and wife settled on a farm in Crawford county, improved it and there he died in his seventieth year, in 1882. In early manhood he had married Catherine Delker, who was born in Germany, where she lived until fifteen years of age. She survived her husband, passing away in 1885, when aged 69 vears. They were members of the Evangelical Lutheran church and were worthy of their name and profession of faith. Of their children there are three sons and one daughter living, namely: William C., Simeon, Joseph F., and Mrs. M. A. Butts, of Hiawatha, Kans. William C. Kiess was reared on the home farm and early took part in the necessary toil that successful cultivation of land demands. His education, however, was in no way neglected and he was ambitious as well as intelligent. After attending the public schools he enjoyed higher training in the university at Ada, O., where he was specially prepared in the Normal classes for educational work. For seven years afterward Mr. Kiess taught school, confining his efforts to Whetstone township, and he met with a large measure of success. He looks back upon that period as a useful season of his life, in which he did his best and felt rewarded for his efforts. Among his warmest friends of the present are those who were once his pupils. From the school-room Mr. Kiess entered public office, serving as township clerk for four years and as land appraiser in his township. On February 9, 1900, he entered upon the duties of probate judge of Crawford county, to which honorable office he had been elected in the previous autumn, and his services on the bench demonstrated his particular fitness for that position. Judge Kiess subsequently turned his attention to dealing in real estate and has numerous additional interests. He is a notary public and maintains his office in the Rowse Building. Judge Kiess was married in 1879 to Miss Sarah E. Wagner, a daughter of John and AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 693 Mary Wagner, old residents of Whetstone township, who have long since passed to their final rest. Two children living were born to Judge and Mrs. Kiess, a son and daughter, Thomas Clinton and Bessie Belle. Judge Kiess and family are members of the Evangelical church. Their pleasant and hospitable home is at No. 475 Galion Street, Bucyrus. GEORGE LEROY SHEMER, a successful farmer of Dallas township, who is also one of that township's prominent citizens, was born in Crawford county, Ohio, March 8, 1872, a son of Levi and Martha (McKinney) Shemer. The parents of our subject were early settlers in Crawford county, the father, Levi Shemer, coming here from Stark county, Ohio, when a child of eight years; his wife, Mrs. Martha Shemer, is from Richland county. They are still living and reside in Dallas township, Levi being a farmer by occupation. Their children are: George LeRoy, whose name appears at the head of this sketch; Mary Matilda, who is the wife of Daniel Parcher; Charles Otis; Velma Maude, who is the wife of Leo White; and Earl. George LeRoy Shemer in his boyhood attended the common schools and was early trained to agricultural pursuits. He has resided in Dallas township for 29 years, and is engaged in general farming, keeping, stock enough for his own use. A Republican in politics, like his father, he is now serving in his third term as clerk of the township. He was married Oct. 16, 1895 to Mary E. Parcher, a daughter of John and Adelia (Wilson) Parcher, farming people and prominent residents of Dallas township. John Parcher, Mrs. Shemer's father, was born in Bucyrus township, this county, in 1846. His father, Daniel Parcher, was also a native of this county, while his mother, Mrs. Mary (McNeal) Parcher, came from Pennsylvania. John Parcher was county commissioner for six years and has also served as township trustee. He is a man highly respected in the community. Mr. and Mrs. G. L. Shemer attend the Methodist Episcopal church. They are industrious thrifty people, good neighbors, and well liked in the community and have a wide circle of friends. DANIEL M. TOBIAS, a well known resident of Bucyrus, is a member of the firm of D. M. Tobias & Co., doing business at Columbus, 0., dealers and manufacturers of fine blank books and legal stationery. Mr. Tobias was born at Greencastle, Pa., May 8, 1859. Daniel M. Tobias was four years old when his parents came to Crawford county and settled on a farm in Liberty township from which they later moved to another in Holmes township, and there he grew to manhood. His education was secured in the district and Bucyrus schools and at Oberlin College. After learning the cabinetmaker's trade he followed that for some time and then acted as deputy for his brother, Hon. James C. Tobias, who was judge of the Probate Court. For ten years after the termination of his term as deputy, he was superintendent of the Bucyrus Stock Farm, in which position he exhibited excellent judgment and successfully handled and drove the high bred horses for which the farm was noted all over the state. In November, 1903, after some time devoted to pattern work in a cabinetmaking shop, he entered the employ of the Dayton Blank Book and Lithographing Company, and after the second year became stockholder and director in the company and for nine years was a salesman for that concern, at the end of that period establishing his own business at Columbus, where he has continued to prosper until the present. He has always been an active Democrat and has frequently been a delegate to important conventions, has served in numerous local offices and is the present candidate of his party for county auditor. Mr. Tobias was married (first) at Bucyrus and by that marriage had two children: Ray J., who resides in the West; and Jessie M., Mrs. Smith, whose home is in California. Mr. Tobias was married (second) at Bucyrus. to Miss Sallie Stewart, who was born 694 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY at Fort Wayne, Ind., but in childhood was brought to Bucyrus by her parents, Joseph and Mary (Snyder) Stewart, the former of whom was born in Columbiana county, O., March 9, 1839, and died Feb. 3, 1905. For more than thirty years he was a railroad engineer, in 1881 becoming identified with the T. & O. C. Railroad and continuing with that line until within a few years of his decease. He was the instructor of Eugene Debs, the labor leader, when the latter became a fireman on his engine, and was well known to railroad men all over the country. His widow survives and resides at Bucyrus. She is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. and Mrs. Tobias have four children: Ruth M., who was born May 24, 1894, and stands at the head of the class of 1913, in the Bucyrus High School; Russell Stewart, who was born May 21, 1897; Daniel Milton, who was born August 9, 1899; and Catherine, who was born August 25, 1906. Mr. and Mrs. Tobias attend the Lutheran church. He is secretary of the Order of United Commercial Travellers of America and has represented this body as a delegate to its national convention for several years. Since 1885 he has been identified with the Knights of Pythias at Bucyrus, with which he has, at times, been officially connected. Although Mr. Tobias carries on his business at the capital, he has continued to maintain his home at Bucyrus and his handsome residence is situated at No. 411 East Mansfield Street. J. P. WHALEN, proprietor of the Whalen Laundry, a very successful business enterprise of Galion, O., doing business at No. 241 East Main street, was born in this city in 1867, a son of Richard and Mary (Riester) Whalen. Richard Whalen was born in New York and was a young man when he came westward and during the larger part of his after life was connected in some capacity with railroads, both at Galion, O., and Indianapolis, Ind., being last identified with the Erie Railroad. His death occurred in April, 1907, when he was 68 years of age. He was married at Galion to Mary Riester, who was born in Ohio, of German parents, and she survives. She is a member of the German Catholic church, as was her husband. J. P. Whalen was reared at Galion and Indianapolis and attended school regularly in boyhood. He has been identified with the laundry business practically all his life since then, or since 1882, and in 1888 started his present laundry. At first it was a somewhat small concern, a hand laundry, but Mr. Whalen had no idea of remaining satisfied with what were then, necessary conditions, and gradually made improvements as his patronage increased and by zgoo had built up such a substantial income-bringing business that he felt justified in securing his present commodious quarters and installing modern laundry machinery. He gives continuous employment to ten individuals and guarantees the finest work in the city. Mr. Whalen was married at Galion, O., to Miss Nellie Mitchell, who was born and reared at Urbana, O., and they have two children: Eileen, an attractive little girl of thirteen years who attends the parochial school; and Joel, who has not yet reached his third birthday. Mr. and Mrs. Whalen are members of the Roman Catholic church, and he belongs to that world-wide organization, the Knights of Columbus. He is an energetic and enterprising business man and reputable citizen. LEO WHITE, who is one of the enterprising and successful agriculturists of Dallas township, Crawford county, O., and one of the representative and reliable citizens, now serving in his third term as township trustee, was born in Dallas township, July 17, 1870, and is a son of Willard T. and Clementine (Swigart) White. Willard T. White was born also in Dallas township and has been a farmer all his life and is one of the large landowners of Crawford county, at present having Soo acres. He has been twice married, first to Clementine Swigart, who died when her two children, Leo and Ida Irene, were small; Ida Irene is the wife of E. H. K. McComb, who is assistant superintendent of the Manual AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 695 Training School at Indianapolis, Ind. After the death of his first wife, Mr. White married Ella Brown, who, like the first Mrs. White, was a native of Wyandot county, and two sons were born to them: Garrett B. and Abraham Jay. Leo White attended the local schools and afterward enjoyed two terms at Ada, O., since when he has devoted himself to general farming and stock raising. He operates a large body of land including 240 acres of his father's farm and an additional 16o acres, which he rents. He is progressive and up-to-date in his methods and his industries are prospering. In October, 1898, Mr. White was united in marriage with Miss Velma Maude Shemer, who was born in Crawford county. Her parents, Levi and Martha (McKinney) Shemer, are residents of Dallas township. They have the following children: G. L.; Matilda, wife of D. L. Parcher; Otis; Mrs. White, and Earl. Two daughters have been born to Mr. and Mrs. White: Helen Lorena and Hazel Martha. The family belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically an ardent Republican, Mr. White has been frequently tendered public office by his party and has served as township trustee with efficiency as well as township treasurer for three terms. He is a member of the Elks at Bucyrus, O. JOHN T. LUSCOMBE, master mechanic for the Toledo & Ohio Central Railroad, at Bucyrus, O., was born in County Cork, Ireland, thirty-seven years ago and accompanied his parents, John and Elizabeth (Pitchford) Luscombe, to America. In May, 1884, the family landed in the Dominion of Canada. John Luscombe and wife reside, in comfortable retirement, at Belleville, Ontario, he having served thirty years with the Grand Trunk Railroad, for fifteen years of this period being in charge of the car department. He is a pensioner of the British Government, having served for 21 years in the British army and held the rank of color sergeant during a part of the time. He served three terms of enlistment, each of seven years. He and wife are members of the Baptist church. Ten children were born to them, as follows: John T.; Langford G., who died at the age of 23 years;. Henry J., who died at the age of 25 years, and is survived by his widow; Alfred P., who is a prosperous farmer and wheat grower in Alberta, where he married and has three children; Reuben C., who is an engineer on the B. & O. Railroad at Newark, 0., and has two sons; Maude M., who resides with her parents.; Walter R., who is in charge of a department in a large clothing house in Canada, and who married there and has twin daughters; Edith Clara, who lives at home; E. Agnes, who also resides with her parents; and William Oliver, who is in the employ of a manufacturing company at Belleville. John T. Luscombe was graduated from the Belleville High School and when only fifteen years of age entered the employ of the Grand Trunk Railroad and continued, in various capacities until igoi, when he became identified with the B. & O. In the meanwhile he had not neglected his education, in igoo graduating from the National Correspondence School, at Scranton, Pa. He has filled important positions with different companies and when with the Chicago & Alton Railroad, was machine foreman and with the B. & O., was general foreman. Prior to March, 1908, when he became master mechanic, for the Toledo & Ohio Central, he was general foreman of the shops at Bucyrus. Mr. Luscombe fills a very responsible position and enjoys the entire confidence of the company. Mr. Luscombe was married at St. Thomas, Can., to Miss Alberta Bradley, who was born at Chicago, Ill., a daughter of George and Emma (Oxley) Bradley, natives of England, who now reside in Alberta, Canada. Mrs. Luscombe is the eldest of four children, the others being: George J.; Mrs. H. L. Emmet, of Chicago; and Alice, wife of George Martin, also of Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. Luscombe have two sons, Harold Bradley, who was born in November, 1904, and Edgar Allen, born September, 1908. They are members of 696 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Luscombe belongs to the minor orders of Masonry at Bucyrus and to the Commandery at Marion, O., and is identified also with the Elks. Note.—Since this sketch was made Mr. Luscombe has resigned his position with the T. & O. C. to accept a more responsible position with the Big Four R. R. and is now located at Bellefontaine, Logan county, O. EDWARD KAVANAGH, who has a long and honorable record as an employe of the Erie Railroad Company, having become identified with the same in June, 1872, when it was known as the A. & G. W. Railroad and the Broad Guage. He was born at London, Canada, Feb. 1, 1858, and is a son of Thomas and Bridget (Shae) Kavanagh. Thomas Kavanagh and wife were born in Ireland, the former being a son of Martin and Juda (Delaney) Kavanagh, natives of County Kilkenny. When Thomas Kavanagh was young he went to live with an aunt, who apprenticed him to a shoemaker to learn his trade. Four years afterward he went to London and worked in different English cities before coming to the United States in 1846. For some time he worked at his trade on King Street, New York City, after which he went to Philadelphia and from there to other places and finally crossed the line into Canada and located at London. These he met Bridget Shae, a daughter of William and Johanna (Kennedy) Shae, who spent their lives in Ireland, the daughter having come to Canada in 1852. She lived at London, Canada, some four years before her marriage to Mr. Kavanagh. In 1863 Mr. and Mrs. Kavanagh moved to Cleveland, O., and afterwards moved to Kent, where Mr. Kavanagh died in May, 1904, his birth having taken place March 5, 1819. Mrs. Kavanagh survives and resides at Kent. She was born March 24, 1830. She is a member of the Roman Catholic church as was her husband. They had sixteen children born to them, Edward being the only survivor of this large family. Edward Kavanagh began at the bottom when he. entered the service of the Erie Railroad, working at first in the mechanical department, from which he was promoted to be a hostler. In January, 1883, he was given a position as fireman and continued as such until December, 1886, when he was made an engineer and has filled this position ever since, for the past ten years being in the passenger service. Mr. Kavanagh has handled every known make of engine, from the little primitive one that was fed with wood, to the great giants of the road that only men of real engineering knowledge can control, be the motive power steam or electricity. He is justly proud of the fact that he has never received a reprimand for dereliction of duty since he came to the road. He has witnessed many changes in ownership and in operating and has kept a record of these which makes interesting reading concerning this very important line. Mr. Kavanagh was married to Miss Agnes King and they had the following children : Arthur Lewis, a railroad conductor on the Erie, who lives at Huntington, Incl., and has a family of one son and two daughters; George, who was accidentally killed at the age of fifteen years, by a switch engine, while working for the Erie as a call boy; John E., who is in the pattern department of a steel bridge manufacturing plant at Chicago; and Catherine V., who is the wife of T. T. Glennor, residing in Pennsylvania, and has one son. Mr. Kavanagh was married (second) to Mrs. Lydia A. Firstenberger, widow of Jacob Firstenberger, who died in rgoo. She was born and reared at Marion, 0., her family name being Dutt. Mr. Kavanagh is a member of Division No. 16, B. L. E., and for twelve years was its chief and in 1898 was sent as a delegate to the Convention of Engineers held at St. Louis, Mo. He has been chairman of the General Committee of Adjustment from Division r6 for the past ten years. Mr. and Mrs. Kavanagh have been ex- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 699 tensive travelers, having visited almost every state in the union and also Mexico and Canada. He relates many stories of interest of his travels as well as incidents relative to his work as an engineer but they would occupy too much space to be given here. MAJOR EDMUND ROBERTS KEARSLEY, deceased, whose birth took place at Harrisburg, Pa., May 18, 1816, died at his palatial residence, No. 309 East Mansfield Street, Bucyrus, O., in January, 1901. His long and busy life had covered an important epoch in his country's history and his personal experiences, in public and military life, form an interesting and instructive record. Descended from military ancestors, all his life, even in old age, he continued to be interested in military affairs, favoring and substantially encouraging a military organization at Bucyrus, hearing his name, when past his four score years and ten, in their spirit and enthusiasm living over again many of the events of his own earlier life. Edmund Roberts Kearsley was the first child born to Major Jonathan Kearsley and Margaret (Hetich) Kearsley, and a grandson of Captain Samuel Kearsley, with whom he lived for some years after the death of his mother, in 1821. His father, Major Jonathan Kearsley, graduated at Washington College, Pa., now called Washington and Jefferson College, in 1811, and in the following year was appointed by President Madison, a lieutenant in the U. S. Artillery, and in 1814 was commissioned assistant adjutant-general, with the rank of major. He was engaged in the battles of Niagara, Stony Creek and Chrysler's Field, and in the sortie from Fort Erie, in which latter engagement he was so seriously wounded that it resulted in the loss of a leg. In 1817 he was appointed collector of revenue in Pennsylvania, and in 1820, receiver of public moneys for the District of Michigan, at which time he removed to Detroit, where he resided until his death. There his son, the late Edmund Roberts Kearsley joined him in 1820 and immediately became a pupil in the public schools. His father then sent him, to a private school at Utica, N. Y., and from 1829 until 1832 he was a student at Kenyon College, O. Upon his return to Detroit he became assistant receiver in the Michigan Land Office, under his father, in which capacity he attracted the attention of Major John Biddle, register of the Land Office, who requested the transfer of so efficient a helper to his department. As chief clerk of this important office, Major Kearsley continued until 1840, when failing health caused his resignation. From then until 1847 he resided on his father's farm of 800 acres located in Oakland county, Mich. About this time he returned to Detroit and entered into business. He superintended the erection of the Biddle House at Detroit, which was one of the largest and most complete hotels in the state of Michigan for many years. His first connection with military matters was when he assisted in the organization of the Brady Guards, a well drilled body of young men that did excellent service during the troubles along the Canadian and Michigan border during the rebellion of 1837-8 in. the Dominion. During this time Captain Kearsley was appointed assistant adjutant with the rank of major, a title he retained until the close of life. Later he was appointed assistant quartermaster-general of Michigan and while in that position served, with Captain U. S. Grant, who later became commander of the army and subsequently President of the United States. A warm personal friendship existed between them until the death of General Grant. Major Kearsley's active participation in military affairs was not so much on the field as in the no less necessary official departments which regulate and make possible effective action on the battle ground, and his sincerity, honesty and general efficiency, which were ever placed at the service of his country in time of need. Perhaps no man in Crawford county, O., to which state he removed in 1851, could have so advantageously and peacefully managed the difficult matter of carrying out the law, in 1862, as did he as draft officer. Where another equally patriotic official might have brought about local trouble as the minds of men were inflamed by partisan feeling at that time, Major Kearsley's tact, diplomacy, understanding of human nature, together with his personal high character inspiring confidence, brought about satisfactory