750 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Liberty township, Crawford county, in 1838, and died at the family home here, January .19, 1882, at the age of 44 years, 6 months and 18 days. She was a daughter of Robert and Roxy (Stone) Kirkland, the former of whom was born in England and the latter in America. Thirteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Throupe, all but five of these dying when young, the others being as follows : Martha, who is the wife of Theodore Rhuark, a farmer in Jefferson county, and has two children, William and Blanche, both of whom are married, the former being the father of Elwood and Louis; Frances, who is the wife of Elijah Clark, an engineer on the T. & O. C. Railroad, residing at Bucyrus, and has two children, Victor and Ruth, the former of whom is married and has one son; Isla, the widow of Samuel Rule, who resides with her father, and has two children, Orvie and Nina; Jay, who is unmarried, and lives at Columbus; and Carrie, who is the wife of Benjamin Nickler, a farmer residing in Liberty township, Crawford county, and has six children-Martha, James, Edward, Robert, May and Roy. JAMES W. GAMBLE, who has been officially connected with the law and order department of Bucyrus, O., for some years and at present fills a responsible position as merchants' watchman, is a well known and respected citizen whose reliability, efficiency and courage has been put to the test on many occasions. He takes a just pride in the implicit confidence that is placed in his fidelity by those whose property and interests he has guarded so faithfully, sometimes endangering his life in so doing. James W. Gamble was born in 1831, in Franklin county, Pa. His grandfather, Filson Gamble, was born in Pennsylvania and his great grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The grandparents lived and died in Pennsylvania and their children who survived infancy were: Samuel, who became a Presbyterian minister; Ezra, who went to the far West and engaged in gold mining; Calvin, who served in the Civil war and afterward became a farmer; Frank, who died from injuries received during his service in the Civil war; Mrs. Amanda Blair, who lived in Kansas; Tirzah, wife of Dr. Mackey, of Colorado; and James Filson, father of James W. James F. Gamble was born in Franklin county, Pa., in Path Valley, Feb. 11, 1826, and died in the state of New York. He served an apprenticeship to several mechanical trades in Cumberland county, Pa. He was married Jan. 24, 1850, in Cumberland county, to Bathsheba McCune Morrow, who was born in Cumberland county, Dec. 11, 1826, and died in Franklin county, Pa.. May 24, 1905. Both she and her husband were members of the Presbyterian church. Her parents were William and Mary (Boyd) Morrow, the former of whom was born January 26, 1767, and died June 1, 1843. Mary Boyd was born Nov. r r, 1781, and died June 5, 18 5. There were nine children born to William and Mary Morrow, namely : Margaret M., who died April 19, 1884, at the age of 71 years, was the wife of Thomas Lindsey; Agnes B., born in 184, married Rev. John McCullough, and died in 1894; Mary, born in 18r5, who married William Ferguson in 1843, died when aged; Jane .McCune, born in 18t6, died April 5, 1887, who married Elias Asper; William, Jr., born in 817, died in 883, and who married Carolyn Wallace; Elizabeth, born in 1819, died in 1884, the wife of Samuel Shoemaker; James B., born Sept. 4, 1820, who died Oct. 12, 1869, while a miner in the gold fields of California; John B., who was born Feb. 24, 1822, died Dec. 25, 1894, married Rebecca Stauffer; Bathsheba McCune, who married James F. Gamble, being the youngest. To James F. Gamble and wife the following children were born : James W. ; Mary C., who is the widow of George Alexander; Wilbert Elton, an oil operator residing near Parker's Landing, Pa., who married Sadie Parton; Curtis L., who died June 18, 1906. at Youngstown, O., and who is survived by a widow and children; Rosa Bell, who is the wife of Putnam Doran, residing in Franklin county, Pa., and has two daughters; and Frank Elmer. a business man of AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 751 Youngstown, who married Alice Dille and has one son. In 1863, when he was twelve years old, James W. Gamble came to Crawford county, O., with his uncle, Calvin. He attended school for several years and then became a farmer and continued until 1885, when he came to Bucyrus. Here he followed the carpenter trade for a few years and then became a member of the city police force and still later entered upon the duties of his present position as special watchman. On Oct. 21, 1873, Mr. Gamble was married to Miss Elizabeth McCreary, who was born Feb. 26, 1852, and died Nov. 17, 1904. near Lincoln, Neb. She was a member and active worker in St. Paul's Lutheran church of Bucyrus. She was a daughter of Thomas and Eliza (Boyer) McCreary. Thomas McCreary was born July 15, 1826, and died at Bucyrus when over 80 years of age. Lfe was of Scotch ancestry and possessed many of the characteristics of that hardy and thrifty race. For a number of years he engaged successfully in farming in Crawford county and was a man of considerable worldly substance. His wife, Eliza Boyer, was born Jan. 30, 1829, and died Dec. 24, 1867. She and husband were English Lutherans. To Mr. and Mrs. Gamble four children were born, namely: Mabel Grace, who died in infancy; Curtis Guy, who was educated at Bucyrus and is engaged in the oil fields in Illinois as a contractor: and Ella M. and Ina Imo, both of whom are highly educated. cultivated and capable young women. The former Was graduated from the Bucyrus high school in the class of 1900 and since then has filled the position of confidential secretary for the late Judge Beer and his heirs, settling up his estate and then entering into business on her own account. She is a member of the literary club known as Crocus Junior. The younger daughter completed her high school course in 1903 and now has charge of her father's home. Miss Imo is also a member of the Crocus Junior Club. Both she and sister are active Sunday-school workers and belong to the Mug's Daughters and other church and social organizations. Mr. Gamble is a Republican in politics. He belongs to the fraternal order of Maccabeees. SIMEON G. KURTZ, who is a worthy representative of one of the old families of high standing in Crawford county, O., resides on his valuable farm of 121 1/2 acres, which is situated in Whetstone township. He was born in this township, Dec. 10, 1875 . and is a son of Samuel and Margaret (Rexroth) Kurtz, and a grandson of George Kurtz. Samuel Kurtz and wife were both born in Crawford county and for many years lived in Whetstone township, where they are pleasantly remembered, but now live in comfortable retirement at Bucyrus. To them the following children were born George, Aaron, Simeon G.. Catherine, Bertha, Harrison, Paul and Edwin. Of the above, Bertha is the wife of Russell Meyers. All survive except Catherine and Paul. The parents are members of the Reformed church. Simeon G. Kurtz attended the public schools in Whetstone township and one term at Ada college, Ada, O., after which he engaged in teaching school for three winter terms and during the summers carried on farm operations for his father. When he married he rented his present farm from his father-in-law and purchased it three years later and has devoted his attention to general farming and stock raising ever since, keeping up his grade of stock but not making calculations to have any to sell. On Nov. 20, 1901, Mr. Kurtz was married to Miss .Emma Stump, who is a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (Heinlen) Stump. Her father was born in Pennsylvania and her mother in Crawford county and they now live retired on their farm but one-fourth mile west of their son, Henry J. Stump's farm in Whetstone township. Mr. and Mrs. Kurtz have two children : Mvron Clinton and La ;Verne Simeon. The family belongs to the Reformed church and Mr. Kurtz is superintendent of the Sunday- 752 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY school and is also a member of the board of trustees. Both he and wife belong to the Grange at Bucyrus and take part in its work and enjoy its social features. In politics Mr. Kurtz is a Republican. W. E. ARNOLD, D. D. S., who has been professionally established at Bucyrus, O., since 1905, is in the enjoyment of an excellent class of practice, having won confidence and approbation through his technical skill, complete mastery of his science and his honorable methods of business. He was born at Mt. Vernon, O., June 24, 1878, and is a son of Charles and Mary Ann (Flocken) Arnold. Charles Arnold was born in Baden, Germany, and is now 62 years of age and a resident of Bucyrus. He came to America when 19 years of age and for some years followed the trade of a machinist, but for the past 20 years has been engaged in a manufacturing business. Politically he is a Democrat and fraternally is an Odd Fellow and a 32nd degree Mason. He married Anna Flocken, who was born at Bucyrus, and they are parents of two sons : W. E. and Charles F. The latter is a resident of Akron, O., and married Myrtle Collins. Since he was 18 years of age Dr. W. E. Arnold has been interested in dentistry and after graduating from the Mt. Vernon high school, at the age of 18, he entered the dental department of the Ohio Medical University, at Columbus, where he was graduated in the class of 1901. Prior to 1905, when he came to locate permanently at Bucyrus, he practiced at Wheeling, W. Va., and at other points. He makes a specialty of crown and bridge work, does fine porcelain work also and keeps thoroughly abreast with the times in a profession which is continually advancing along scientific lines. Dr. Arnold was married at Wheeling, W. Va., to Miss Blanche Smouse, a daughter of Thomas Smouse. The father of Mrs. Arnold was of German ancestry. His death occurred in 1890 and that of his widow in 1911, she being then over 70 years of age. They were members of the Roman Catholic church. Of their large family eight survive. Dr. and Mrs. Arnold have two sons Henry William, who was born April 8, 1908; and Robert Charles, who was born May 21, 1910. Mrs. Arnold was educated at Wheeling and Grafton, W. Va. Politically Dr. Arnold is a Democrat and fraternally he belongs to the Elks, at Mt. Vernon. He was reared in the German Lutheran church. OTTO FEIRING, merchant tailor and one of the representative business men of Bucyrus, O., conducting his business on the northwest corner of the public square, was born at Bucyrus, March 11, 1867, and is a son of Frederick and Elizabeth (Schuler) Feiring, and a grandson of Frederick Feiring. Frederick Feiring, the grandfather, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1818, and died in Ohio in 1866. He came to America and settled in Crawford county about 1833 and his first work here was on what was commonly called the Big Ditch, or the Hahn Ditch, not far from Bucyrus, the completion of which proved the advantage of draining the low wet lands that then composed a large part of the present most valuable farming sections. With the money thus earned he purchased a team of horses and then went into the carrying business, transporting merchandise between Sandusky and Bucyrus. No railroads had yet been constructed and for some years this industry was very profitable. He then became associated with William Hahn, in the manufacture of brick and they did some of the earliest brickmaking in the county and continued together for four years. Mr. Feiring then went into the meat business and prospered, becoming a large cattle dealer and butcher and was in this business until 1852, when he purchased the Western Hotel of its former owner, Mr. Kingsinger. This is now known as the old Royal Hotel, and Mr. Feiring continued to be its proprietor until his death, in the meanwhile having improved the property to the value of $7,000. He was a strong character and is still remembered by the older residents of Bucyrus. He was a very ardent Demo- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 753 crat and it is said that occasionally, when he found that his guests were just as ardent Republicans, he would suggest that they find another place of entertainment. He married Barbara Price, also of Wurtemberg, a woman of fine character, frugal and resourceful, and she was of much assistance to her husband. They had three sons and five daughters : Frederick J., George Henry, Charles, Mary, Callie, Emma, Mat-tie and Ida. The mother died at the home of a daughter, Mrs. A. J. Keller, of Kenton, Ohio. Frederick Feiring, Jr., son of Frederick and father of Otto Feiring, was born at Bucyrus, O., and when he went into business, in mature life, became a butcher and stock buyer and was one of the well known business men of the city. Like his father he was a strong Democrat and once was a candidate for the office of city marshal, failing of election by but four votes. His death occurred in 1883, at the age of forty-one years. He married Elizabeth Schuler, who was born at Bucyrus in 1848 and died in 1877, at the early age of twenty-nine years. She was a daughter of Frederick and Eva (Stoll) Schuler, natives respectively of Baden and Wurtemberg, Germany. They came to America in 1832 and landed at the harbor of New York and remained in that city for five years, when they married, and in the following year, 1838, came to Bucyrus. Frederick Schuler was a shoemaker by trade and this he carried on in this city during all his active years, his death occurring in 1892. He and wife were German Lutherans. One son survives, Jacob Schuler, who follows his father's trade and lives also at Bucyrus. Five children were born to Frederick and Elizabeth Feiring, three of whom died in infancy. The two survivors are : Otto and Annetta, the latter of whom lives with her brother. Otto Feiring obtained his education in the Bucyrus schools and at the age of eightcen years began to learn his trade, and from 1885 until 1897, when he went into business for himself, he worked at the same in this city and at Crestline. His present location is an excellent one and with the exception of seven years, he has been here ever since embarking in the business. He carries a large stock and caters to the best trade. On Nov. i6, 1898, Mr. Feiring was married in this city to Miss Clara Wagner, who was born in Bucyrus, Ohio, in 1869. Her parents, Robert and Mary Ann Wagner, were natives of Saxony, Germany where they were married. After the death of Mr. Wagner his widow married Edward Meisner, of Bucyrus. Mrs. Feiring has one sister and one brother : Anna and Frank. The former is the wife of M. A. Charlton, who is at the head of a department in the State Industrial School near Lancaster, Mrs. Charlton being the matron in one of the cottages. They have two children: Paul and Susan. Mr. Feiring is a Democrat in politics and is serving in the office of treasurer of Bucyrus township. He belongs to Demas Lodge, No. 108, Knights of Pythias, of which he is past chancellor, and is also identified with the Modern Woodmen. Mr. and Mrs. Feiring are members of the German Lutheran church. FRANCIS E. COOK, who has been freight and passenger agent for the Erie Railway, at Galion, O., since 1904, has spent many years in the employ of this corporation and stands high with its officials and with the traveling public. He was born in Richland county, O., near the Crawford county line, Aug. 19. 1865, and is a son of Richard E. and Isabel (Sanderline) Cook. Richard E. Cook was born in Richland county, O., where he married, and then moved to Wyandot county, where he engaged in farming for a number of years, afterward returning to Richland county, and in 1883 retiring and coming to Galion, where he died in 1903, aged 81 years. His widow still resides at Galion, occupying her comfortable residence on First Avenue, and the family still owns the farm. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and has a wide circle of congenial friends and seven of her children survive, as follows: Marion E., who lives at Painesville; Charles A., who lives at Mansfield; Arminta 754 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY A., who married Adolph Bersinger of Galion, and has three children; Lawrence R., who lives in California; Ida M., who married W. A. Townsend, of Galion, and has four children ; Sidney C., who married William Helscher, of Galion, and has two children ; and Francis E., who lives in Galion. Francis E. Cook, after graduating from the Galion high school in 1887, entered the Spencerian Business College at Cleveland, and after being graduated there accepted a clerical position in the offices of the Erie Railway Company at Galion, and for eight years was bill clerk and later foreman at: Galion Transfer until being appointed to his present position as general agent in 1904. Since 1888 he has been continuously connected with the freight and passenger department. Faithfulness and industry have contributed to his frequernt promotions. and the mere fact of these testifies to his efficiency and reliability. At Galion, O., Mr. Cook was married to Miss Etta J. Rinehart, who was born and educated here, a daughter of Charles and Clara B. (Wilhelm) Rinehart. The father of Mrs. Cook was born in Pennsylvania and the mother in Ohio, in which state they were married. The father died near Galion in which city the mother resides, being aged about 65 years. Mr. and Mrs. Cook have one son : Howard Edsel, who was born February 12, 1894, graduated from the Galion high school in 1911 and is a member of the class of 1915 in the Wesleyan College at Delaware, O. Politically Mr. Cook is a Republican and he is active in local matters as well as outside affairs, belongs to the Commercial Club and has served three terms in the city council. He is a 32nd degree Mason, belonging to Blue lodge and chapter at Galion, council at Bucyrus, commandery at Mansfield and the consistory at Columbus, O. He and his wife are both members of the Order of the Eastern Star, Mrs. Cook at present being Worthy Matron. He is a charter member of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics and has held several important offices in this organization. Mr. Cook is also a member of the National Association of Railway Agents, with whose members he and his family have traveled extensively, having visited cities and other points of interest in almost every state in the Union, also Cuba and Canada. The Cooks are Methodists and a remarkable incident in the family is that Mr. and Mrs. Cook and son are all graduates of the Galion high school. EDWARD C. HEINLA, an enterprising and successful business man, who is extensively interested in the stock business, owns 260 acres of valuable land in Whetstone township, Crawford county, and 160 equally valuable acres in Marion county, O., and additionally is a stockholder and director in the Farmers and Citizens Bank at Bucyrus. He was born in Whetstone township, May 27, T875, and is a son of Lewis B. and Mary Jane (Fink) Heinla. Lewis Heinla was born in Germany and came to Ohio in early manhood, where he married and subsequently became a substantial farmer in Crawford county. He was a member of the German Reformed church but his Wife Was reared in the United Brethren church. The following children were born to them : Henry; . Lavina, who is the widow of Byron Neish; Amanda, who is the wife of W. G. Roberts ; James and Edward C. Edward C. Heinla attended the public schools in Whetstone township, and for about 18 months afterward was engaged in a general mercantile business at New Winchester. After disposing of his store to his brother he embarked in the stock business and has developed a large connection in this line, buying and selling, his markets being Cleveland, Buffalo and Pittsburg, Pa. Mr. Heinla was married in 1898 to Miss Gertrude R. Loyer, a daughter of Henry and Maggie (Gracie) Loyer, the latter of whom is now the wife of Isaac Albright. She is a daughter of James and Sarah (Evans) Gracie, who were born in Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Heinla have two children: Floyd S. and Irma G. They attend the United Brethren church. Mr. Heinla is AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 757 identified fraternally with the J. O. U. A. M. and the F. O. E., both at Bucyrus, and with the Owls at Galion. He is independent in his political opinions but is never lacking in any quality of good citizenship. T. B. CARSON, who now lives in comfortable retirement at his home situated on South Kibler Street, New Washington, O., for many years was a public official here, before which he was a faithful soldier through the great Civil War. He was born in Seneca county, O., June 7, 1837, and is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Willoughby) Carson. Both the Carsons and Willoughbys originated in Ireland and both families came early to Ohio. Grandfather Robert Carson served through the Revolutionary War under General Washington, while Samuel Carson, the father of T. B. Carson, served through the War of 1812 and survived all its dangers, subsequently settling in Ohio, marrying and rearing his family of eleven children in Seneca county. Of these but two survive, the youngest son and the youngest daughter. T. B. Carson enjoyed better educational advantages than did many of his companions and associates, attending the district schools at least during the winter sessions until 1858 and afterward was a student in the Seneca County Academy. Whatever future plans he had made, they were changed by the breaking out of the Civil War and in 1861 he enlisted as a private in Co. H, 14th Vol. Inf., under Captain Stafford, and participated ill all the engagements in which his company took part up to the time of his discharge, Sept, 19, 1864, at Atlanta, Ga. He never was captured and never injured except on one occasion when he was kicked by a mule at Camp Dick Robinson. in Kentucky. After his honorable discharge from the service, Mr. Carson returned to Seneca county. Where he engaged in teaching school and in farming. Samuel Carson, father of our subject, entered 240 acres of land three miles north of New Washington. T. E. Carson devoted his summers to his land and in winter time taught school, five terms in Seneca county, one terns in Huron county and eleven terms in Crawford county. In 1869 he bought 80 acres in Cranberry township, which he cleared and improved and then sold, after which he bought 160 acres one-half mile to the cast, to which he added So adjoining acres and spent his time engaged in farming until 1886, in which year he moved to New Washington, where he was interested in the real estate business until 1889. Samuel Carson erected the buildings on his farm on what is known as the old military road between Mansfield and Tiffin, this road having been laid out to run on west to the Ohio river. The situation of his home made it a convenient depot for what was once known as the Underground Railroad and as he had been reared with a hatred of human slavery, he often sheltered escaping slaves in the old clay and on many occasions assisted them at night through the woods to the next stopping place, Sandusky City, from which depot they made their way to Detroit, Mich., and from there, if fortunate, soon reached freedom in Canada. There is no doubt but that many prosperous and respected people live in the Dominion of Canada at the present day whose grandparents were once in American slavery and were helped over the border by such philanthropists as Mr. Carson. As indicated above, Mr. Carson imbibed anti-slavery views in his youth and later, when the Republican party was formed he became identified with it and has so continued. In 1889 he was appointed postmaster at New Washington and served in that important office for over 18 years although not qute continuously. He was postmaster from 1889 until 1893. In September, 1897 he was reappointed and continued until March 21, 1911, When he was succeeded by the present official, S. A. Pugh. Many changes in the service came about during Mr. Carson's long incumbency, including the establishing of the rural mail delivery service. He inaugurated reforms and made improvements at different times and through these raised the class of the office and insured more satisfactory conditions for the public. Mr. Carson has never accepted any other public office although, as one of the local party leaders, many have been tendered him. When he came to New Washington he was one of the seven Republicans in the voting precinct. On May 2, 1861, in Seneca county, O., Mr. 758 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Carson was married to a schoolmate, Miss Sarah Rebecca Smith, who was a slaughter of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Bigam) Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Carson had seven children, three of whom are living, the others dying in infancy. Those living arc: John W., Violet E. and Mabel. John W. married Lillie Smith and to them have been born five children—Lloyd, Nellie, Ethel, Irene and Robert. Violet E. was married first to A. J. Schwartz and they had two daughters, Mildred and Marie; she was married secondly to B. F. Long. Mabel O. is the wife of Edward Neis. The mother of the above family died Dec. 24, 1904, and her burial was at Swamp Center Cemetery, three miles north of New Washington. She was a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which Mr. Carson also belongs. He is a member of the Cr. A. R. Post at New Washington and for many years has belonged to the Knights of Pythias. FRANK J. HOERIGER,* whose excellent farm of 60 ½ acres lies in Liberty township, Crawford county, O., four and one-half miles northeast of Bucyrus, was born at Ridgeton, Crawford county, in 1878, and is a son of Christian W. and Catherine (Trautman) Hoeriger. Christian Hoeriger was born in Ohio. He was twice married and two daughters, Alice and Ida, were born to his first union. Alice now lives with her second husband, John Pitke, at Cleveland, O: Her first husband, Elmer Sponseller, left two children at death, Lloyd and Florence. Ida resides at home. To his second marriage four children were born : Laura, Lillie, Lee and Frank J. Laura is the widow of John Cooper, who was accidentally killed in 1907, and she resides in Liberty township with her two children. Hartland and Marv. Lillie married C. H. Kenzuli and they reside at Bucyrus and have one daughter, Evaline. Lee is in business at Bucyrus. Frank J. Hoeriger has been engaged in farming ever since he left school and has a well cared for and productive property. He married Miss Mary Beck, who is a daughter of Daniel and Alice (Rittenhour) Beck. who are well known and substantial people of Liberty township. The Beck family is a very old one in Liberty township, the grandparents of Mrs. Hoeriger having been brought to this section by their parents in pioneer days, coming by wagon from Pennsylvania. Mrs. Hoeriger has three sisters and two brothers, namely: Ida, who is the wife of A. L. Hildebrand, of New Winchester, O., and has two children, Maurice and Cleo; Alice, who is the wife of William Smalls, of Liberty township and has one son, Chester; Pearl, who is the wife of E. J. Housberg, of New Winchester, and has two children, I-Iowlancl and Orval; and Harry and Russell, who live at home. Mr. and Mrs. Hoeriger have one daughter, Alice Catherine. Mr. Hoeriger is a Democrat in politics. His standing in his neighborhood is that of a substantial, honest and useful citizen. OLIVER K. CRALL, a general farmer and well known citizen of Bucyrus township, Crawford county, O., who owns 78 acres of valuable land in this township, was born June 13, 1856, in Liberty township, Crawford county, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Raysor) Crall. John Crall was born in Pennsylvania and was a son of Henry Crall. For many years he was a respected resident of Liberty township, Crawford county, where he carried on farming, and there both he and wife died and their burial was in the Crall graveyard. They were members of the united Brethren church. Their family was made up of the following children : John R. David, who was a soldier in the Civil war and died while imprisoned by the Confedcrates in an old jail at Danville, Va.; Elizabeth, who was the wife of F. M. Moore. both of whom are now deceased ; William H. ; Elias ; Oliver K. , and Susan, who is the wife of S. D. Meyers. Oliver K. Crall attended school in Liberty township and enjoyed one term in the Normal school at Fostoria, O., following which, before settling clown as a farmer, he taught one term of school. He remained Oil the homstead for one year after marriage but in November, 1881, came to Bu- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 759 cyrus township, where he has lived ever since and has become one of the representative men of this section of the county. Although the land of his present farm was well situated and in every way desirable, yet he was not satisfied with the buildings and kept on improving until he had rernodeled the house into a modern residence and had built not only a substantial new barn but machine sheds and other farm buildings. He has devoted himself to general farming and moderate stock raising and is generally regarded as one of the township's capable and prosperous agriculturists. On Dec. 21, 1880, Mr. Crall was married to Miss Mary C. Kerr, who is a daughter of David E. and Margaret (Dobbins) Kerr. The father of Mrs. Crall is deceased, but the mother, now in her eighty-fifth year, lives comfortably at Bucyrus. To Mr. and Mrs. Kerr the following children were born John A. ; Margaret, wife of Robert Andrews ; Belle J.; Mary C., wife of Mr. Crall: and Celestia I., who is the wife of John Richard. Mr. and Mrs. Crall have had three children, namely : Arthur K., who is deceased; Homer Boyd, who is a farmer in Bucyrus township, and married Susan Ebert; and Nellie B., formerly a student at Wooster College, who is now teaching, in her fifth year in grade No. 8 in the Union school at Bucyrus. She is an educated and accomplished young lady and very successful in her educational work. Mr. Crall and family are members of the Presbyterian church. Politically he is a Republican but is not active in politics, taking the part only of a good citizen who has the best interests of the country at heart. He belongs to the Royal Arcanum at Bucyrus. FRANK J. QUILTER, superintendent of the Broken Sword Stone Company, at Bucyrus, O., was born in the province of Ontario, Dominion of Canada, Nov. 1, 1853 a son of John and Bridget (Lawler) Quilter. John Quilter was of French extraction. W hen he died, in the prime of life, he was a foreman on the construction work of the Grand Trunk Railroad, in Canada. He married Bridget Lawler and both she and husband were born in Ireland and married there. She died at Bucyrus, in 1905, aged 85 years. Three children were born in Ireland—Catherine, Bessie and Matthew. About 1848 the family came to America and while living at Black Rock, N. Y., one son was born, John, who lived to maturity, married and died in New York, where his children still live. After moving to Canada, two more children were born : Frank J. and Joanna, the latter of whom lives in Colorado. Frank J. Quilter was five years old when he accompanied his widowed mother to Cattaraugus county, N. Y., and he was reared in that state and learned the carpenter trade. At the age of twenty-five years he came to Ohio, since when he has been largely connected with railroads. For one year he was with the Lake Erie & Western and prior to 1881, when he came to Bucyrus, he was located for a year at Fostoria, with the T. & U. C. Company, and for 30 years was general foreman of the car department for that road. Since March 11, 1911. he has been superintendent of the Brokensword Stone Company, of which Dr. John A. Chesney is president; P. J. Carroll is vice-president and general manager William H. Pickerington is treasurer. This business is capitalized at $10,000 and is in a prosperous condition. Employment is given 65 men in the quarries, six miles northwest of the city. A speciality is concrete and crushed stone for macadamizing streets, and the trade territory is Ohio, together with West Virginia. Mr. Quilter is a director in the Citizens Stone Company-and also in the Peoples Savings and Loan Company. In 1877, in New York, Mr. Quilter was married to Miss Bridget Keane, who was born in Ireland in 1860 and in girlhood accompanied her mother to New York City. Her father, Patrick Keane, had died in Ireland but the mother survived until 1907. Mr. and Mrs. Quilter have had five children : Margaret, who died when aged 21 years, an educated voting lady and a grad- 760 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY uate of the high school; John, a machinist, who lives at Olean, N. V., and who married Mary Martin; Frank S., who died in 1904, and was a young man of brilliant promise; Blanche A., who is the wife of R. O, Parrott, general secretary of the American CIay Machinery Company, at Bucyrus, and has one slaughter, Margaret M. ; and Harry K., who is with the T. & O. C. Railroad Company, at Bucyrus. Mr. and Mrs. Quilter are members of the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic church. Since the Civil war he has been a Republican and has been active in public affairs and for seven years was a member of the city council. His fraternal affiliations include : the Elks, Modern Woodmen of America, Modern Woodmen of the World and the American National Association. EDWARD E. COULTER, a well known agriculturist of Crawford county, owns and operates a farm of 157 ½ acres in Whetstone township. He was born March 3, 1562, in Marion county just across the line from where he now lives. His parents, Harvey and Mary A. (Carinean) Coulter, were natives of Huntingdon county, Pa., and Ross county, O., respectively. The father died about 1895 but the mother still survives and makes her home with her son, Edward E. Coulter. She was 82 years old on July 3, 1912. Harvey Coulter was a farmer by occupation and politically adhered to the principles of the Democratic party. He and his wife became the parents of the following children: Malissa, the wife of Lewis Spiece, Rachel, now Mrs. J. W. fowling; William Mathew; Sarah, deceased, who was the wife of S. G. Hurr; Samuel ; Edward E. John S.; Effie, wife of Thomas Gruber; Orphia and Elger J. After completing his common school education, Echvard E. Coulter began fat ruing, his first experience in this occupation being with his father. Farming has been his life work since, but for three years he was interested in the implement business in connection with it. He has cleared his land himself, it never having had a plow in it before it came into his possession. Mr. Coulter also raises very fine stock, having Poland China hogs and full-blooded Durham cattle. He and his neighbors have formed a company which owns two full-blooded horses, one of which is a French coach horse and the other a French draft horse. Mr. Coulter has a modern residence which he has erected, as well as up-to-date farm buildings. On Sept. 29, 1885, Mr. Coulter was married to :Hiss Emma Ruff, a daughter of Martin and Jacobina (Weidner) Ruff, natives of Germany, where they were married and where the father was a tailor but in later years owned a farm although he did not operate it. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ruff are now deceased. They were the parents of children as follows: Charles; William Philip ; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of Philip Erb ; Jacob ; Henry, John, deceased Catherine, wife of James Lance; Emma (Mrs. Coulter) ; and Sarah, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Edward E. Coulter have raised two orphans : Cora Lighty, wife of Paul Virgin; and Charles Lighty, who married Hazel Lee. Mr. Coulter is independent in politics. He is serving as a member of the board of education, on which he served first three years and then was re-elected to serve four years more. He and his wife attend the Reformed church. C. L. WHITMEYER, * whose excellent farm of 120 acres lies in Holmes township, Crawford county, O., nine miles northwest of Bucyrus, was born in Likens township, Crawford county, three-fourth miles north of Brokensword, O. His parents were Henry and Eliza (Shupp) Whitmeyer. Henry Whitmeyer was born at Lancaster, Pa., and was four years old when his people came to Stark county, O., and twelve years old when he came to Crawford county. He followed farming until 1903, when he retired and still resides at Bucyrus. Ile married Eliza Shupp, a daughter of Michael Shupp, of Dauphin county, Pa., and they have three children: C. L. ; Sarah. who is a resident of Bucyrus; and Catlier- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 761 ine, who is the wife of John Brown, of Bucyrus, After completing his years of school attendance in Crawford county, C. L. Whitmeyer taught seven terms of school and was considered an excellent teacher. After marriage he engaged in farming and ever since has resided on his present place and carries on stock raising and general agriculture. On April 2, 1895, he was married to Miss Tillie M. Miller, a daughter of Joshua and Catherine (Zeller) Miller, the former of whom is deceased. Mrs. Whitmeyer had one brother, John, who is now deceased. To Mr, and Mrs. A hitnzeyer five children have been born, namely: Gertrude, Lailah, Russell, Wayne and Ida Fay. The family attend the Evangelical church. Mr. Whitnmeyer has served nine years in the office of justice of the peace. Politically he is a Democrat and fraternally is connected with the Foresters. STANSBURY LEMON MILLER, a prominent farmer of Dallas township, owns 80 acres of well cultivated land. He was born in Crawford county, May 10, 1864, being a son of Daniel and Maria (Lemmon) Miller. John Miller, father of Daniel and grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a native of Little Fork. Pa., from which place his parents removed to Perry county, Ohio, when he was young, and there he grew up. He became a cabinet maker and went to work at that trade in Licking county, Ohio, where he met and married Miss Lydia Murdick. In 1825 they removed to Crawford county and settled in the then small town of Bucyrus and here worked at his trade and also engaged in the hotel business and dry goods trade. He was one of the most prominent and successful men of his day and it was he who built the first carding mill which was for years one of the leading industries of the county. He was twice elected sheriff of Crawford county. He died in 1858 and his wife survived until 1871. Daniel Miller was born in Perry county, Ohio. June 1, 1824. and was raised on a farm. After completing his education in the common schools he took up farming and followed that all his life. In 1847 he was united in marriage with Miss Maria Lemmon, as before indicated. She was born May 20, 1827, in Seneca county, N. Y., but came to Ohio when a child. To Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Miller the following children were born: Jennie, deceased, who was the wife of Abel De Walt; ; John D.; Charles R. ; Francis E. ; Nettie, who died at the age of 18 years; Cassius M.; and Stansbury L., whose name heads this article. After having attended the common schools of his neighborhood, Stansbury L. Miller secured employment in a railroad shop but remained there only one year when he turned his attention to farming, working with his father until the Tatter's death. Mr. Miller continued farming the home place until his mother died, when this farm was sold, and in 1898 he bought his present farm from Lorena Fisher, it being known as the Fisher farm but it was at first a part of the Wesley White farm. Mr. Miller has built the new house and barns and has greatly improved the property since it came into his possession. He does general farming and raises stock for his own use. Stansbury L. Miller was married in 1885 to Miss Clara E. Mehaffey. Her parents, John and Margaret (Suloff) Mehaffey, resided in Juniata county, Pa., at the time of her birth. John Mehaffey met his death during the Civil war at Andersonville prison. To him and his wife there were born two children, named as follows : Ephraim and Clara E. Mrs. John Mehaffey Iater married Ephraim Mehaffey, a brother of her first husband, who had also served in the Civil war. To them was born one daughter, Anna. Mr. and Mrs. Stansbury L. Miller have one son, Stephen Lester, who lives at home. Mr. Miller is a Republican in his political principles but votes for the man he judges best rather than his party's choice. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias at Bucyrus. He and his family attend the Baptist church. 762 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY HON. EDWARD J. SONGER, mayor of the city of Bucyrus, O., is a member of one of the old families of Crawford county. He was born October 6, 1867, one of two children born to his parents, Jonathan and Ruth (Stewart) Songer. The father of Mayor Songer engaged in farming until he enlisted for service in the Civil war, becoming a member of the 12th O. Vol. Cay., and on the field of battle received wounds which caused his death. Edward J. Songer had no educational opportunities beyond those offered by the public school, in early manhood learning the trade of a molder, at which he worked almost continuously until he was elected mayor of the city, in November, 1897, on the Democratic ticket, having previously served as president of the city council. Mayor Songer is deservedly popular. He is directing the affairs of the municipality without fear or favor, solving many important problems, carefully looking after public utilities, and is promoting the city's developnlent by giving it a solid business administration. Mayor Songer married Miss Cora Risher, a daughter of William Risher, who is a well known engineer in charge of a passenger train out of Bucyrus on the T. & O. C. Railroad. Mayor and Mrs. Songer have a very attractive hone at No. 720 E. Warren Street. He is identified with the Elks and the Odd Fellows. CALVIN D. TUPPS, a member of one of the old and substantial families of Whetstone township, Crawford county, 0., resides on his finely developed and improved farm of 280 acres, Which lies not far from Galion, O. On the old homestead part of this farm Mr. Tupps was born, Oct. 5, i86o, and is a son of Jechonias Tupps. On a groundwork of good, common school education Calvin D. Lupps successfully pursued his course thus far in life, devoting himself almost entirely to agricultural pursuits. When prepared to become an independent farmer he purchased 80 acres of his present farm from George Kraner and the balance from his father. General farming occupies his attention, his stock raising being only for his own use. In 1903 he erected one of the fine residences of this township, one that is architecturally attractive while its comfort is assured by, the installation of a water plant and a system of hot air heating. All his other buildings are equally substantial and well adapted for use on a large estate. On Dec. 30, 1883, Mr. Tupps was married to Miss Elizabeth Ellen Myers, a daughter of highly respected retired residents of Galion, Charles and Catherine (Beach) Myers. Mrs. Tupps has the following brothers and sisters : Isaac, Laura, who is the wife of Lewis P. Traclit; Samuel; Washington; George; and malinda, who is the wife. of Edward Donbeck. Mr. and Mrs. Tupps have two children : Luther C. and Mabel, both of whom live at home. The family attends the Lutheran church. Mr. Tupps is a wide awake, intelligent citizen but no seeker for office, and is identified with the Republican party. BENJAMIN F. COUTS, whose business is the exacting one of railroad engineer, has been a railroad man for the past 17 years and for 11 of these has been an engineer on the Toledo & Ohio Central Railroad. He was born May 14. 1872, in the old family homestead at Bucyrus, O., and is a son of William H. H. and Harriet (Mead) Couts. It is possible that the great-grandfather of the Couts family of Crawford county, O., was born in England and settled early in the state of Pennsylvania. There his son, Henry Couts, was born and from there, 60 year ago, he came to Crawford county and estahlishecl himself near the now flourishing city of Bucyrus. Later he acquired land along the Sandusky river, on which he erected saw mills and from these mills came the lumber used in early building through this section. From his land he furnished all the wood used by the railroads through here when they were first constructed and his activities covered other fields. IHe was elected a county commissioner and proved an able and useful official. It was through his efforts that the earliest postal service was AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 763 established in Crawford county. His death was caused by accident, he then being in his 78th year. In public life he set an example of public spirit, while in private life he set one of self denial and temperance, his objections to stimulating beverages extending even to tea and coffee. During the Civil war he served in an Ohio regiment in the capacity of a veterinary surgeon. He gave his seven sons to his country's service, five others being too young to shoulder a musket, and all—John, William, H. H., Samuel, David, Hiram, Jacob and Jeremiah, lived to return home. Several were slightly wounded in the conflict and for a time Jeremiah was confined at Andersonville prison. Of his thirteen children only one was a daughter, she being given the name of Barbara. She survives and lives in Kentucky, being- the widow of Jacob Schupp. Almost all of this large family grew to maturity and the following are yet living: William, John, Jeremiah and Samuel, all at Bucyrus except John, whose home is in Upper Sandusky. William H. H. Couts was born March 16, 1839, and was quite young when his parents came to Bucyrus. He had no opportunity to study or to learn the contents of books until after he enlisted for service in the Civil war. Fortunately for him a comrade, who had enjoyed many educational advantages, took an interest in the unlettered young man and proposed teaching him, a proposition gladly accepted and carried out, and when the soldiering clays were over he had a good, practical education, which he turned to account. He became a contractor and a skilled workman, as many of the structures at Bucyrus stand to bear testimony. He now lives retired, making his home with his son, Benjamin F. Coots, but yet takes a large degree of interest in everthing that pertains to the growth and development of Bucyrus. He is a valued member of Kelly Post, G. A. R., of this city, having served for four years and six months in the army during the Civil war. He was a member of the 34th and 36th O. Vol. Inf., and participated in many of the serious battles of that great war and two occasions was wounded and left on the battlefield as dead, and once suffered from sunstroke. He still carries scars of his honorable service. During a furlough home, Mr. Couts was married to Miss Harriet L. Mead, who was born in the state of New York, a daughter of Isaac and Lydia R. (Lenard) Mead, who came to Ohio in her childhood. For many years afterward Isaac Mead and wife lived at Bucyrus, and she died in this city when aged 77 years, his death occuring one year before at Welden Center, Mich. The wife of William H. H. Couts died at Bucyrus in September, 1907, at the age of 66 years. She was a consistent member of the Baptist church, to which her husband also belongs. Their family consisted of three sons and two daughters, as follows: Acldie B., who died Mar. 7, 1912, and who was the wife of George Wolf, of Bucyrus: William Lenard, who was accidentally killed in September, 1892, while attending to his duties as a fireman of the Missouri Pacific Railroad; Frederick F., who is a prominent citizen of South Milwaukee, Wis., one of the board of aldermen, and who is married and has two children, Maria and Ada; Benjamin F.; and Viola, who is the wife of Edward Cosgrove, who is an electrical engineer, living at Kalamazoo, Mich. Benjamin F. Couts was married at Strakers, O., to Miss Edith Meade, who was born at Homestead, Mich., Oct. 24, 1877, where she was educated and lived until her marriage. She is a daughter of Jerome and Lucy (Kentner) Meade. the former of whom was born in New York and the latter in Michigan. Mrs. Meade died at Homestead in 1883, when aged 32 years. For a number of years Mr. Meacle was connected with the Govenment Life Saving Station. belonging to the Lake Michigan service, but now is a farmer. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, as was his wife. In politics he is a Socialist. Mr. and Mrs. Couts have one daughter, Burdette Meade, who was born May 17. 1910. They attend the Baptist church, Mrs. Couts being a member. Mr. Couts is very 764 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY prominent in the order of the B. L. F. & E., having served as financial secretary of the organization for four years, and now is the legislative representative of that order. He is an earnest, clear-headed, competent man. In his attitude on public questions he is a Socialist, while his father remains a Republican. DAVID SHEARER, who owns and cultivates his farm of 160 acres in Whetstone township, Crawford county, was born in this township Dec. 4, 1839. His father, John Shearer, was a native of Lancaster county, Pa., and his mother, who was in maidenhood Catherine Miller, was born in Germany, coming to this country when six years old. John Shearer, who was a son of Michael and Barbara Shearer, was a farmer all his life and a Democrat in his political views. He and his family attended the German Reformed church. Both he and his wife are nowdeceased and are buried in Shearer cemetery in this township. Their children were named as follows: David, Benjamin, George, Isaac, Samuel, Mary and Daniel, the four last named being deceased. David Shearer received his education in the common schools of his native township, and when, the time came for. him to choose his life's occupation he began work with his father on the latter's farm. He continued working in this way until his 27th year, when he purchased the farm from his father and here he has spent his subsequent life. He has cleared the land and has erected the substantial house and farm buildings found thereon. Mr. Shearer was united in marriage with :\lass Rachel Paulin, Nov. 30, 1865. She was born in Columbiana county, O., a daughter of Peter and Rachel (Cox) Paulin. Her father was a native of Maryland and served in the war of 1812. Mr. and Mrs. Paulin had a large family of children, all of whom are deceased except a son named Solomon and Mrs. Shearer. The others were : Nathan, Daniel, John, Samuel, Peter, Joshua, Vary (Mrs. John Rupert), and Anna (Mrs. .Jerry Hoag). Mr. and Mrs. David Shearer have one son, Samuel C., a resident of Denver, Colo., and traveling passenger agent for the Denver & Rio Grande R. R. He married Ella Laughbaum, who is now deceased. He has a daughter Clarice. David Shearer is independent in politics. E. E. HEINLEN,* one of the enterprising and successful agriculturists of Holmes township, resides on his well improved farm of 80 acres, which is situated nine miles north of Bucyrus, O. He was born in Holmes township, Crawford county, in 1880, and is a son of henry and Elizabeth (Auck) Heinlen. The parents of Mr. Heinlen were born also in Crawford county and the father engaged in farming during life, his death occurring at the age of 34 years. The mother resides in Whetstone township. They had three children, namely: Cora, who is the widow of Charles Miller ; E. E.; and Caroline, who married E. Sury. E. E. Heinlen obtained his education in the public schools of Crawford county and afterward engaged in farming on the home place, and in zgoo came to his present farm. Here he has made notable improvements, including the building of a comfortable residence. He raises excellent stock and carries on a general farming line. Mr. Heinlen was married to Miss Hattie Kellogg, a daughter of William Kellogg, of Crawford county, and they have one daughter, Mary. They attend the Evangelical church. Mr. Heinlen is a Democrat but is no political agitator, merely taking a good citizen's intelligent interest in public matters. WILLIAM L. TUPPS, a leading citizen of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., township trustee and successful farmer, resides on his well improved place containing 97 acres, near the old Tupps homestead, and he was born there Dec. 9, 1871. His parents were Jechonias and Sarah (Schreck) Tupps. The parents of Mr. Tupps were both born in Crawford county, the father on the pio- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 765 Neer farm which his father, Jacob Tupps, entered from the government when he came here from Pennsylvania, and it has never been out of the family. The father of Mr. Tupps has been a farmer all his active life and has spent his life in this township. His first marriage was to Sarah Schreck, and after her death he married Mrs. Rachel (Shearer) Gibler, the widow of Adam Gibler. To his first marriage the following children were born : Dorothy, who is the wife of Washington Bair; Calvin D., who lives on the old homestead; Catherine, deceased, who was the wife of Joshua Preble; Homer I.; Amanda, who is the wife of Samuel W. Guinther ; Samuel E. and William L. The mother of the above children died March 28, 1881, and her burial was in the Whetstone cemetery. The father still stirvives and is in the enjoyment of good health although he was born Dec. 19, 1832. In his youth he attended the old Campbell school and afterward, as noted above, settled clown to farming. His parents were Jacob and Catherine (Whitmer) Tupps and he was the youngest born of three children, the others being: Amanda, who was the wife of Edward Campbell; and Urias. Jechonias Tupps is a Republican in politics and at one time served in the office of road supervisor. He resides with his son, William L. William L. Tupps obtained his education in the public schools of Whetstone township, and with the exception of three years, Turing which he was a railroad employe, he has been engaged ever since in agricultural pursuits. He bought this farm in December, 2899, and carried on general farming, raises stock for his own use and deals in Delaine sheep. After coming to the place he remodeled the house and built substantial barns and these, with other improvements, make this one of the most valuable farms in the township. Mr. Tupps was married on March 23, 1893, to Miss Bertha F. Holtshouse, a daughter of Benjamin and Mary (Noblit) Holtshouse, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania and is now deceased, and the latter in Crawford county. To Mr. and Mrs. I-IoltshQost the following- children were born: Blanche Louellen, deceased; John C. ; Bertha F. ; Amanda F., wife of E. J. Line; Della, wife of Isaac Beach ; Ollie, wife of Oliver Beach; William Franklin, deceased; Jay L.; and Warren W. Mr. and Mrs. Tupps have four children: Chester E., Bessie M., Harold B. and Dorothy Louellen. Mr. Tupps is a Republican in politics and is an intelligent and wide awake citizen. As one of the township trustees he looks carefully after public interests. He is a member of Pope Grange, at Galion, O. SANFORD W. BURKHART,* who is one of the well known farmers and stock raisers of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., residing on his valuable tract of 82 acres, was born in Marion county, O., Oct. 7, 1866, and is a son of John S. and Elizabeth (Shaffer) Burkhart. The Burkhart family is a numerous and respected one in Pennsylvania and there John S. Burkhart was born. An enterprising spirit brought hint to Ohio in youth and in Morrow county he was married to Elizabeth Shaffer. They reside on their farm in Marion county, O., where they have lived for many years and have taken part in the useful activities and interests of that section. The following children were born to them : Sanford W.: Louise, who is the wife of Abraham Guinther; Ella, who is the wife of John Lepp; and Ora. After his school days Sanford W. Burkhart assisted his father on the homestead and remained with him until he was 32 years of age and then purchased his present place from Isaac A oblit. A new barn and entirely remodeled house changed the appearance of the property in a very short time and a pleasant air of thrift and prosperity is very noticeable. Mr. Burkhart raises some excellent stock for his own use and grows the grains that do best in this climate. On March 4, 1898, Mr. Burkhart was married to Miss Emma Christman, who is a daughter of Henry and Lucinda (Speace) Christman, both of whom are now deceased. The father of Mrs. Burkhart was a farmer; in Marion county and his children were as follows: Sadie, who is the wife of Silas 766 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Hill; Edward, who is deceased; Iva, who is the wife of Rev. David Raiser, pastor of the Reformed church at Tiffin, O.; Bertha, who is the wife of Ora Bensley; and Emma, who is the wife of Mr. Burkhart. To the last named have been born: Verda, Lester, Joan, Mildred, and a babe that died. They are members of the Reformed church. In politics Mr. Burkhart is a Democrat. ALBERT M. ENSMINGER, formerly special examiner for the State Bureau of Uniform Accounting, for many years was prominent in the public affairs of Bucyrus, O., and was favorably known as a journalist and as a member of the Bucyrus bar. He was born in Perry county, Pa., Sept. 27, 1838, and died at his home on the corner of East Rensselaer and Iron streets, Bucyrus. Sept. 27, 1909. His parents were John William Henry and Susan (Jacobs) Ensminger. John William Henry Ensminger was born in Perry county, Pa., Feb. 2, 1826, and died at Bucyrus, O., Feb. 24, 1892. He was a son of David and Barbara (Messinger) Ensminger, the former of whom was the second son of Christian Ensminger, who was born in America, June 8, 1762, and died March 6, 1836. A younger son of David and Barbara (Messinger) Ensminger, George Benjamin Franklin, was born in Perry county, Pa., Nov. 26, 1845, and died January 2, 1869, in Crawford county, O. He was married Nov. 4, 1868, to Miriam A. Ebert, a daughter of Dr. Philip Ebert of Crawford county. No children were born to this union. The widow was married Dec. 12, 1876, to Dr. H. S. Bevington, of Crawford county, and to this union two children were born : Elwood and Rebecca. John William Henry Ensminger was married April 1, 1854, to Susan, daughter of Henry and Christina Jacobs, of Cumberland County, Pa. She was born March 14, 1835. Of this union there were born five children. three sons and two daughters, namely : Franklin Pierce. who was born Dec. 31, 1855 , married April 11, 1878 Anna E., daughter of Hiram and Rachel Cross, born July 3, 1856, and they had one son, Edgar Albertus, born March T. i88o, who died Aril 21, 1881: Albert Milton, the subject of this sketch Charles Edgar, who was born Nov. 23, 1860, married August 12, 1886, Emma, daughter of Benjamin Beal, born June 7, 1866, and they have three children-Gertrude Augusta, born Aug. 22, 1887, Arthur Beal, born Jan. 8, 1890, and Charles Edgar, Jr., born Nov. 14, 1896; Anna May, who was born May 30, 1868, died Dec. 28, 1871; and Alberta Etta, who was born Sept. 22, 1876. In 1866 John William Henry Ensminger moved with his family to Jefferson township, Crawford county, O., and in 1879 the family home was transferred to Bucyrus. Albert M. Ensininger was educated in the public schools of Bucyrus and afterward entered the law department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated with the class of 1882. In the same year he was admitted to the bar and entered into the practice of law at Bucyrus. In 1885 he was first elected city solicitor and was subsequently re-elected and when his second official term ended, he became editor of the Daily Forum, at Bucyrus, and ably upheld the policy of that newspaper from 1890 until he was appointed postmaster in 1894, during the second administration of President Cleveland. He served as postmaster at Bucyrus until September 1, 1898, and then resumed his newspaper connection, in which he continued until 1904. when he again turned his attention to other interests. Subsequently, however, he was more or less connected with the Bucyrus newspapers, being a special reporter for the Evening Telegraph and the Bucyrus Journal. In 19o5 he was appointed special state examiner, a position for which he was eminently qualified and in which he proved satisfactory to the fullest extent. Mr. Ensminger was married Dec. r6, i886. to Miss Carrie Blair, daughter of Elias and Anna (McCrory) Blair, a prominent family of Bucyrus. The parents of Mrs. Ensminger still survive and she was the third born in their family of children. To Mr. and Mrs. Ensminger one son was born, Edward BIair. who is attending school in Bucyrus. Mrs. Ensminger is a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, to which Mr. Ensminger also belonged, and is active in the work of the missionary society. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 769 Fraternally, Mr. Ensminger was a member of Bucyrus Lodge No 156 Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and of Demas Lodge, Knights of Pythias. He belonged also to the Crawford County Bar Association. Few men of the city are remembered with more sincere sentiments of regret, for in every relation of life he was upright, honorable and helpful. WILLIAM R. SHADE, who has been identified with the great Erie Railway for the past 44 years, is probably one of the best known engineers connected with this line and is the oldest one in point of service on the Cincinnati division, also known as the Third division. Mr. Shade was born at Harrisburg, Pa., Nov. 19, 1850, and is a son of David and Ann M. (Sholey) Shade. David Shade and wife were natives of Pennsylvania and from there came to Ohio in 1854 and located at Mansfield, where the father operated a saw mill for some years, afterward moving to Hartford, Ind., where he died in 1872, when aged 45 years. His widow, who was born Dec. 17, 1826, survived until Jan. 2, 1911, dying at the home of her son, William R., at Galion. She was a member of the English Lutheran church. The family consisted of three sons and two daughters, William R. being the eldest. One son, Norton, lives in California, and one daughter, Ida, who is the wife of Amos Warner, lives at Battle Creek, Mich., and they have three sons and one daughter. The others are deceased. After his school days passed William R. Shade entered into railroad life, in 1868 becoming a brakeman with the C. & G. W. (now the Erie) road; in the following year he was promoted to be fireman and continued in that position until Oct. 1, 1876, when he was given an engine and entered upon the responsible duties that make an engineer one of the most important factors in the whole operating department of a railroad. No mistake was made in according this privilege to Mr. Shade as his record as an engineer shows that his careful supervision and thorough knowledge of railroading has enabled him to avoid accidents and thereby save lives and property through a continuous period of service in this position of 36 years. As a token of appreciation, in 1911 his name was placed on his engine as the oldest engineer of his division and at the same time he was given a letter of commendation from Charles A. Allen, the division superintendent, who mentioned his years of faithful service. For 13 years past Mr. Shade has been assigned to the most important passenger service. Mr. Shade was married at Galion to Miss Susie Gates, who was born in New York in 1858, and died in this city in 1895 Three sons were born to this marriage, two of whom, Ellis and Elmer, died in early childhood. The third son, Arthur R., who was born in 1876, is a commercial traveler. He married Ella Epley and they have two children, George and Paul. Mr. Shade was married (second), also at Galion, to Miss Ella Warren, who was born in Meigs county, 0., her father being a veteran of the Civil War. Mr. and Mrs. Shade attend the Christian church, of which Mrs. Shade is a member. In politics Mr. Shade is a Democrat and fraternally belongs to the Knights of Pythias and for more than 30 years has been identified with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. JACOB K. KLEINKNECHT, whose one farm of 82 acres lies in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., owns an equally valuable one of 93 acres, situated in Jefferson township. He was born May 10, 1844, in what was then Richland but now is Crawford county, O., and is ,a son of Peter and Elizabeth (Kitch) Kleinknecht. The parents of Mr. Kleinknecht were born in Pennsylvania, the father in Berks county, a son of John Kleinknecht, and the mother in Cumberland county, a daughter of George Kitch. They came to Ohio in youth and were married here. The father followed farming. He was a member of the United Brethren church and at the time of death was living in Wells county, Ind.. where he was buried. The mother was a member of the Church of Christ and her death occurred in Crawford county. They 770 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY had the following children: Jacob K.; John; William, who is deceased; and Mary Jeanetta, who is the wife of William Hillbolt, of Bellefontaine, O. Jacob K. Kleinknecht had district school advantages in his boyhood and afterward worked by the month on different farms for two years, up to 1861, when he enlisted for service in the Civil War. The company he joined was one that was organized at Bucyrus by James A. Marsh and because a part of the 56th Ill. Vol. Inf., in which he served about four months. He reenlisted in the First Battery, .Ill. Light Artillery, in which he served for eighteen months under Captain Boutin, who later organized the 59th U. S. O. Vol. Inf., and Mr. Kleinknecht remained in that regiment until the close of the war and was finally mustered out January 31, 1866. Returning then to Crawford county he went to work on the farm of Rev. William Nevill, remaining six months, and then spent the winter in Minnesota and after he again returned to Crawford county was married and passed the following year on his wife's folks' homestead. She inherited 26 acres and they moved on it, and in 1885 Mr. Kleinknecht bought his home farm from Allen Scott. The second farm came later to his wife as a part of the old Stinebaught homestead. On March 27, 1867, Mr. Kleinknecht was married to Miss Permelia C. Stinebaught, who was born in Crawford county, a daughter of Adam and Catherine (Ashcroft) Stinebaught. The father, a farmer and saw mill man, was born in Virginia, while the mother was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of Adam Ashcroft. They had the following- children : Mary Ann, deceased, who was the wife of Henry Bradford ; Elizabeth and John, both of whom are deceased ; Margaret, who is the wife of Henry Sheidler: George D., who died from the effects of a wound received in the Civil War; Harriet B., deceased, who was the wife. of a Mr. Pinkerton; Newton, and Permelia C., who is the wife of Mr. Kleinknecht. To the last named the following family has been born : Robert C., who married Mary Crawford; Sylvia A., who is the wife of John D. Snyder; and George G., Henry H., Willis W., Charles h., John C., Joseph O., Alfred E., and Elzie E. The family attend the United Brethren church. Politically a Republican, Mr. Kleinknecht has been elected frequently to township offices and has served on the school board and as road supervisor. SAMUEL W. GUINTHER, whose fine farm of 170 acres lies in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., was born in Marion county, O.. April 15, 1861, and is a son of John C. and Christiana (Delker) Guinther. The parents were both born in Pennsylvania and both are now deceased, resting side by side in the old Shearer cemetery. They were well known and highly respected people. They had the following children: Catherine, wife of John Witeamire; Rosena and Salome, both died in infancy; George, deceased ; Abraham; Marv. deceased; and Samuel W. Samuel W. Guinther attended the public school in boyhood and assisted his father until old enough to work as a farm hand on neighboring farms and was thus engaged for two years prior to 1884, when he bought 40 acres of his present farm. To the first purchase he added and now is the justly contended owner of 170 acres of valuable land. He has done considerable improving- which includes the building of a fine new barn, and carries on a general farming line, raising just enough stock for his own use. He is a good manager and a practical and sensible farmer. On Dec. 25, 1884, Mr. Guinther was married to Miss Amanda Ellen Tupps, a daughter of Jechonias and Sarah (Schrecic) T upps, prominent people in Whetstone township, where Mr. Tupps owns a fine farm. To Mr. and Mrs. Guinther the following children have been born : Oscar L. John C., who married Ethel Sharrock: Ethel May; and one who died in infancy. The family attend the English Lutheran church. Mr. Guinther is nominally a Democrat but he is quite capable of thinking for himself and frequently casts his vote for AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 771 the man rather than the party. He has served as a school director and on one occasion filled out the unexpired term of township trustee. JOHN F. ECKSTEIN, who carries on general farming in section 13, Cranberry township, Crawford county, O., where he owns 80 acres of valuable land, situated two miles east of New Washington, O., was born in this township, Aug. 25, 1876, and is a son of Adam and Catherine (Fike) Eckstein. Adam Eckstein was born in Germany, Feb. 15, 1845, and at the age of three years was brought to America by his parents, George and Catherine Eckstein. They lived for two years in Crawford county and then moved to Richland county and resided there for six years, but returned to Crawford county, where George Eckstein died in his 6pth year and his wife when aged 73 years. Adam Eckstein attended the district schools in boyhood and afterward worked as a hired man until 24 years of age, an industrious and willing helper at all times and one who made friends and kept them, and about this time was married to Miss Catherine Fike. She was born in Germany and lived there until she was 24 years old, a daughter of George Fike. After marriage Mr. Eckstein and wife settled on the farm of 120 acres, lying in section 12, Cranberry township, where he now lives retired. When Mr. Eckstein came into possession he found a great deal of improving and fertilizing necessary and his years of experience on different farms had given him so excellent a training that he soon was able to put his own place into fine condition, and during his active years was known as one of the best farmers in this section. In politics he has always been a Democrat, but has never accepted any office except that of school director. He is a member and an elder in the German Lutheran church, and when the present church edifice was erected, was a member of the building committee. To Adam Eckstein and wife six children were born, namely: Mary, who died when aged two years ; Catherine, who is the wife of William Kessler, residing in Auburn township; John, who lives in Cranberry town-shin; Adam G., who follows the carpenter trade and lives at N w Washington ; William, who assists his father; and Jtilia, who is the wife of Israel Steiger, of Cranberry township. John F. Eckstein attended what was called the Brick or McDougal's school, in Cranberry township, in his boyhood, and was reared to farm life. When he started out for himself he received a gift from his father, the latter giving all his children cash or its equivalent amounting to one thousand dollars. Ever since marriage he has lived on his present farm and has done considerable improving and carries on his agricultural operations more or less according to modern methods, assisted by the latest improved machinery. Mr. Eckstein married miss Margaret Amelia Shaffer, who was born in Chatfield township, Crawford county, O., a daughter of Adair B. Shaffer, and they have four children: Mary M., Elsie Amelia, Frederick Adam and Esther Margaret. Mr. Eckstein and family are members of the Lutheran church. Life his father he is a Democrat and has served Cranberry township one term as supervisor and two terms as school director. ISSAC H. TUPPS, general farmer and highly respected citizen of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., and a member of one of the old and substantial families of this section, was born on the old Tupps homestead in Whetstone township, Nov. 24, 1864, a son of Jechonias Tupps. After completing his period of school attendance, Isaac H. Tupps assisted his father until he was 21 years of age and then purchased his present excellent farm of 80 acres, which was known as the Henry Low-miller farm. Here he successfully carries on general farming and raises blooded horses, his stable including the five-year old Belgian stallion Kronas, which Mr. Tupps purchased in 1912, and the imported Belgian mare, Sabine. One Dec. 2. 1884. Mc. Tupps was married 772 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY to Miss Mary E. Snyder, a daughter of Isaac and Rebecca (Albright) Snyder. The parents of Mrs. Tupps are deceased. They had the following children : Laura Ann, deceased, who was the wife of David Beach Lucinda, who was married (first) to Eli Beach, and (second) to Adam Beach; Lewis; John and Mary E., and two who died young. Mr. and Mrs. Tupps have one son, Ivor Gillespie, who was born Nov. 8, 1894. They attend the Lutheran church. Mr. Tupps is a Republican in politics, and he served two terms in the office of township supervisor. MISS LOUISE MILLER, who commands universal respect at Galion, O., where she is held in the highest possible esteem, is widely known all over Crawford county and in farther sections whither her pupils have wandered as their life work has led them, for Miss Miller has devoted herself to educational work since she was 16 years of age. She was born at Galion and for many happy years her home has been at No. 240 South Pierce Street. Her parents were Casper and Margaret (Schneider) Miller. Casper Miller was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, and early in the forties came to the United States, on a sailing vessel, and subsequently worked at: the plastering trade at Galion for a number of years and in this city his death occurred in 1861. He married Margaret Schneider, who was also a native of Germany, and they had one daughter, Louise. After the death of Mr. Miller his widow contracted a second marriage, with John Baldinger. He was born in the canton of Argau, Switzerland, and came to the United States when a young man. He died in early middle life, leaving one daughter, Mary. Mrs. Baldinger survived until 1908 when in her 86th year, passing away at Galion. Both she and Mr. Miller were members of the German Lutheran church, while Mr. Ballinger was of the Reformed body. Louise Miller still resides in the house in which she was born. She attended the Galion schools, deciding to become a teacher even in girlhood, and as early as 1879 taught in the public schools, in the first grade, giving instruction in German. The life of a conscientious teacher is one that may not always be envied, and that Miss Miller for so many continuous year, longer than any other teacher in years of service, has kept up her courage, enthusiasm and efficiency proves the possession of rare natural talents for this profession. In these clays it is not only necessary for an acceptable instructor to be well grounded in the elements, broadened by reaching and widened in outlook by travel, but there are so many technical studies required and so many accomplishments demanded, that to succeed in all these branches and for so long a time, denotes high proficiency and. unselfish devotion to the interests of others. All these qualities Miss Miller combines, and hence her place would be hard to fill, either in the educational field or in the confidence and affection of those who have benefited through her patience and scholarship. Miss Miller as well as Miss Baldinger are members of the German Evangelical Lutheran church, in which they were confirmed when young, and they take a deep interest in the work of the Sunday-school. LEVI BEACH, a retired farmer residing at New Winchester, O., where he and wife own valuable property, still retains his farm of 92 acres, which is situated in Whetstone township, Crawford county. He was born in that township, Aug 2, 1850, and is a son of Peter and Magdalena (Meyers) Beach. Levi Beach was 15 years of age when his father died. He attended the district schools and then remained on the home farm working for his mother until he was 21 years old, when he left to make his own way in the world as there were younger sons who could camE on the farm. He was the third born in the following family: Rebecca, wife of John Price; Mary Jane, wife of Lewis Kraner; Samuel; Laura, wife of Andrew Meyers ; Elizabeth, wife of Frank Nungesser and Charles. At different times Mr.. Beach owned farms in other sections, a valuable one in Ohio and another in Indiana, both AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 773 of which he sold to advantage.. Farming has been his main business in life and he carried it on very successfully for many years. In 1872 Mr. Beach was married to Miss Matilda Albright, who is a daughter of henry Albright and a sister of Isaac Alhright, the latter of whom resides at New Winchester. To Mr. and Mrs. Beach have been born four children : John H., who married Ainanda Wise, and has two children—Florence and Carl; William Lewis; Oliver Francis, who married Ollie Holtzhouse, and has one son, Francis Layton; and Charles, who is a merchant at New Winchester, and who married Daisy Katsimeyer. Mr. beach and sons are Democrats in their political Views. WILLIAM G. GWINNER,* general farmer and a well known citizen of Liberty township, Crawford county, O., resides on the old family homestead, six miles northeast of Bucyrus. He was the second born in his parents' family of eight children. His father, John Gwinner, was born in Germany and was a young man when he came to Ohio, where he married Matilda Scott, a native of this State. All their children survive with the exception of the youngest. who died in infancy. Emma B., the eldest, married C. Bear, and their two children died in infancy. James A. married ZEla Smith and they live at Bucyrus and have three children; Ernestine, Eldin and Catherine. Isaac J. married Elizabeth Stribe and they live at Sulphur Springs and have four children : Velma, Benjamin, Lucile and Florence. Rachel married George T. Timpson and they live at Bucyrus and have three children: Nellie, Dorance and Alice. Cora married Israel Fritz and they live in Whetstone township and have had five children Agnes, Stella, Della, Hazel and Velma C., Della being deceased. William G. Gwinner attended the district schools in boyhood and has followed farming and stock raisinG ever since. Ile has a large acreage under cultivation as he operates both his father's land and an adjacent property. He has always been industrious and practical and is considered one of the most capable agriculturists of Liberty township. Mr. Gwinner married Miss Hulda E. Wilson, a daughter of Richard Wilson, of Crawford county, and they have six children, namely: Charles H., a farmer in Liberty township, who married Lulu M. Crum, and have two children—Charles E. and Josephine M.; Carrie E., who married Ross W. Spade, and lives in Liberty township; William T., Russell M., Ruby D. and Rose M., who still reside at honk. Mr Gwinner and fancily attend the United Brethren church. Mrs. Gwinner was born in Crawford county and had the following brothers and sisters Edward, who is in business at Bucyrus, and who married Letta Schroll and has four children—Sherman, Arnie, Nellie and Stephen; Evaline, who is the wife of William Mahaffey and lives in Marion county, O., and has four children—.Lester, George, Pearce and Mary ; Augustus, a resident of Bucyrus, who married Daisy Winters and has two children—Evaline and Archie; Nancy, who is the wife of Joseph Albright, of Attica, Ind., and has one son, Wilson; John, who is deceased; and Mrs. Gwinner. Both the Gwinner and Wilson families are well established and highly respected ones in Crawford county. JOHN J. FAUSER, one of the enterprising and successful farmers of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., who resides on his valuable farm of 110 acres, was born in this township, May at, 1873, and is a soil of Samuel and Catherine ([lager) Fauser. The Fauser family is an old and respected one of Crawford county, of German extraction. Both parents of John J. Fauser were born in this county and now live in comfortable retirement at Bucyrus, where they are among the liberal supporters of St. John's Reformed church. Their family consisted of the following children : Anna, who is the wife of Eli Dinkle ; Emanuel ; Harry Emma, who is the wife of Frederick Houscr; John J.; and George, the last named being a nephew but was reared as a son 774 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY and the family has never known any difference. John J. Fauser obtained his education in the public schools and afterward assisted his father until he was 28 years of age and then rented his present farm from his father and in 1911 purchased it. He has devoted himself to general farming ever since and raises enough stock for his own use. On Dec. 25, 1900, Mr. Fauser was married to Miss Elsie May Guinther, a daughter of George and Malinda (Rorick) Guinther, who are well known people of Marion county, O., and live on their farm there. Mrs. Fauser has one sister and four brothers, namely : Lottie, who is the wife of Leo Heinlen; and Ezra, William, Cornelius and Emil. Mr. and Mrs. Fauser are members of St. John's Reformed church of Whetstone township, and for six and one-half years he has served as, Sunday-school superintendent and as a member of the church choir. For the past five years he has been, general secretary of the Crawford county Sunday-school Association. Nominally he is a Democrat, but is frequently inclined to use his own judgment concerning issues and candidates. He has never accepted any office except that of school director, in which he served two terms. HUGH LISSE,* proprietor of the Galion Creamery, at Galion, O., is one of the enterprising business men of this city and a much respected citizen. He was born in Germany, March 9, 1869, and his parents were Adam and Anna (Zunack) Lisse. They spent their entire lives in Germany, where the mother died in 1900, at the age of 59 years and the father in 1910, when in his loth year. He was a machinist by trade. They were members of the Roman Catholic church. Hugh Lisse obtained the public school education that every German boy receives and then learned the tinner's trade. He came to the United States in 1891 and took charge of a distillery and brewing plant, for his brother-in-law, Charles Coppe, situated at Cardington, Morrow county, O., where he remained until 1905. in the meanwhile having become its owner, about 1893. After disposing of the brewery he came to Galion and conducted a cafe at No. 1o5 East Main street, until October, 1910, when he became owner and proprietor of the Galion Creamery. This plant had been established here in 1905 by J. E. Brinnon and since it has come under the business management of Mr. Lisse, has developed into a prosperous enterprise. He ships for eastern markets and handles local goods and the high grade of butter produced finds ready sale. Mr. Lisse was married in Marion county, 0., to Miss Elizabeth Ranroth, who was born in Westphalia, Germany, in 1870, and came to America with her parents and to Marion county, O., in 1889. Her father, Mangus Ranroth, now lives retired, in Marion county, his age being 87 years. The mother died in 1904, in her 69th year. They belonged to the Roman Catholic church. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Lisse, namely : Frank, who is a student in the Galion High School ; Gertrude, who attends the parochial school ; and George, Anna, Robert and Paul. The family belongs to the Roman Catholic church. In politics Mr. Lisse is a Democrat. DAVID ZIEGENFUS, general farmer and a well known citizen of Whetstone township, Crawford county, 0., residing on his finely cultivated farm of 96 acres, was born in Whetstone township, Nov. 1, 1843, and is a son of Philip and Elizabeth (Kemerer) Ziegenfus. Philip Ziegenfus and wife were both born in Germany and both came when young to America, their marriage taking place in the United States. For many years he was a respected man and hard-working farmer in Whetstone township, Crawford county, where both he and his wife died, their burial being in the Whetstone cemetery. They were good Christian people and members of the Reformed church. They had three children, two of whom died in infancy. David Ziegenfus was the only one of his parents' children to reach mature years. In boyhood he attended the district schools and later assisted his father on the farm and AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 775 inherited the same when his parents passed away. He thoroughly understands the science of farming and pursues those methods which he has proved to be most profitable, and raises, in good part, what is necessary for family use, including cattle and stock. In 1876 Mr. Ziegenfus was married to Miss Eva Ribble, who Was born in Vernon township, Crawford county, a daughter of John and Rachel Ribble, well known people in Crawford county. To Mr. and Mrs. Ribble the following children were born: Catherine, who is the wife of Peter Howe; Eva, who is the wife of David Ziegenfus Lena, who is the wife of John Huffman; Christina, who is the wife of Jacob Meenick; Mary, who is the wife of John Glower; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Daniel Haag; and Peter. Mr. and Mrs. Ziegenfus have had four children, namely: Magdalena; Elizabeth, who is the wife of M. E. Otter-man; Mary, who is deceased; and Jennie. Mr. Ziegenfus and family are members of the Reformed church. I-Ie is a Democrat politically and served one term as school director and one term as township super-Visor. JACOB. WHITEAM1IRE, who is a prosperous farmer and respected citizen of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., owns 154 ½ acres of very find land and devotes it to general agriculture. He was born March 7, 1850, at Galion, O., a son of Michael and Margaret (Bacht) Whiteamire. Michael Whiteamire and wife were born in Germany. He was a small farmer there and after marriage resided on his own land until after the birth of four children and then embarked with his family for the United States. They came immediately to Galion, O., where their youngest son was born and the father died six months afterward. His widow was thus left in a strange country with a helpless infant and four other young children, these being: John, George, Peter and Catherine, the last named in later years becoming the wife of Jacob Stump. Jacob Whiteamire was as carefully reared as was possible by his good mother and went to school until he was about 15 years of age, when he started to work on farms by the month. For five years he worked ill this way in different parts of the county and then for four years rented land, at the end of which time he Was able to buy 76 acres of his present farm, to which he later added 4o acres and subsequently acres more, all of Which has been secured through persistent industry. It is excellent land and responds to the careful cultivation it receives. On Oct. 5, 1813, Mr. Whiteamire was married to Miss Christina Cook, who is a daughter of John and Sarah (Diebler) Cook, and they have the following, children: Isla Ellen born Dec. ao, 1874, who is the wife of William Hurrell and has three children —James E., Alma A. and Ethel G. ; Emma Amanda, born Jan. 15, 1876, who is the wife of Jay Hurrell and has one son, Eugene Edward; John Wesley, who was born March 14, 1877, and who married Amanda beach and has two children—Floyd H. and Gertrude A. ; Wilson Edward, who Was born July 28, 1884, and married Ida Beach Jessie Lawrence, who Was born Nov. 5, 1886; Harvey Sylvester, who was born Aug. 2, 1888; and Sarah Alma, who was born Sept. 4, 1890. Mr. Whiteamire and family attend the German Reformed church. A Democrat in politics, Mr. Whiteamire has frequently been urged to accept public office and has served with general satisfaction as school director and as road supervisor. SAMUEL A. TUPPS, who belongs to one of the best known families of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., resides on his Well improved farm of 140 acres. He was born Aug. 22, 1869, on the old family homestead which is now owned by his brother, Calvin D. Tupps, and is a son of Jechonias Tupps, who reared a large and highly creditable family. Samuel A. Tupps had public school advantages and afterward followed farming for others until prepared to purchase land for himself. When he started out wages were low and sometimes he received only a fraction of what is paid at the present time. 776 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY When 21 years old he rented 170 acres from his father and later 110 acres and subsequently bought the 110 acres. A disastrous fire destroyed his dwelling and he then sold So acres of his first farm and purchased his present one on which he has carried on general farming and stock raising and additionally is interested in buying and selling lumber in Crawford and Marion counties. On Aug. 16, 1890, Mr. Tupps was married to Miss Ella M. Whiteamire, who was born in Crawford county and is a daughter of John and Catherine (Guinther) WVhiteamire. The father of Mrs. Tupps is deceased but the mother survives. They had the following children : Sarah, who is the wife of Isaac Meyers ; Simeon. who is deceased, Ella, who is the wife of Samuel A. Tupps ; and Edward and William. Mr. and Mrs. Tupps have four children: Zeno, Florence, Lester and Velma. Mr. Tupps and family attend Trinity Lutheran church. Ordinarily Mr. Tnpps votes with the Republican party but sometimes occasions arise in which he uses his own judgment irrespective of party. ISAAC ALBRIGHT, who now lives retired in his comfortable home at New Winchester, O., is one of the representative and substantial citizens of Crawford county and is the owner of three finefarms situated in Whetstone township which aggregate 400 acres of valuable land. He was born in Whetstone township, Aug. 30, 1865, and is It son of Henry and Sovena Albright, pioneers in this section and people of high standing. Henry Albright was married twice and the children born to his first union were : Isaac; Matilda, wife of Levi Beach: Agnes, deceased, who was the wife of George Kober ; and an infant son that died. To his second marriage three children were born : Charles H., George F. and Ida Way. all of whom are deceased. Isaac Albright attended the district schools in boyhood and thenassisted his father on the homestead until the latter's death, when he purchased the property and for many year carried on general farming and stock raising. In 1877 Mr. Albright was married to Miss Rebecca Diebler, who died Sept. 9, 1906, and was buried in the Whetstone cemetery where rest the ashes of many of the former residents of this section. To that marriage the following children were born : Lyda, who married Charles Nelson and has two children—Laura and Mildred; Alta, who married Francis N. Neuman, and has two children—Viola and Harold; Ezra C., who married Clyde Lowery, and has one son, Myron; Warren W., deceased, who was killed by a stroke of lightning; Roy, who married Alta Love and has one son, Doran W. ; Maggie, who married Harry F auser, and has two daughters—Helen and Ethel; and Eva and Gertrude at home. Mr. Albright's second marriage was with Mrs. Maggie (Gracey) Lover, widow of Henry Loyer and daughter of James and Sarah (Evans) Gracey. The parents of Mrs. Albright were born in Ireland, and Mr. Albright is the eldest of their children, the others being: Mary, wife of George Kightlinger ; David, deceased ;and Rebecca, the wife of Isaac Wolfe. Mrs. Albright is a member of the United Brethren church, while Mr. Albright was reared in the Reformed church. In politics he is a Republican and fraternally he is identified with the F. O. E., belonging to the lodge of this order at Bucyrus. CURTIS E. HILDEBRAND,* postmaster and general merchant at Brandywine, O., is a leading citizen of this pleasant village and is a member of one of the old and prominent families of Liberty township, Crawford county, O. He was born on his father's farm in Liberty township, in 1888, and is a son of John and Ida May (Shell) Hildebrand. On both sides Mr. Hildebrand comes of German ancestry, but the families have been of America during several generations, the Hildebrands belonging to Ohio and the Shells to Pennsylvania. Both parents were born in Liberty township and still reside there. Their family consisted of two children: Curtis E. and Flossie, the latter of whom resides at home. Curtis E. Hildebrand attended the public schools of his native township and remained as his father's assistant on the home AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 779 farm until he embarked in the mercantile business at Brandywine. He carries a large and well selected stock and supplies the needs of a large surrounding territory. On April 25, 1910, he was appointed postmaster and attends to his public duties in addition to managing his business. He owns considerable property here, including his store building and comfortable residence, and takes much interest in the development of the place. Mr. Hildebrand married Miss Lucy Linienstoll, daughter of Henry and Sophia Limenstoll, who have other children, namely : Christian John, Daniel Reuben, Sophia, Lydia, Sarah, Anna Martha and Jacob. Mr. and Mrs. Hildebrand have an attractive little daughter, Helen Beatrice. They are members of the Lutheran church. Politically Mr. Hildebrand is a Democrat and fraternally he belongs to the Order of Owls. GEORGE M. KUHN, one of Whetstone township's most respected citizens, resides on his valuable farm of 90 acres and has spent his entire life, with the exception of four and one-half years, in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O. He was born at Bucyrus, O., Oct. 31, 1844, and is a son of Christian and Sophia (Stoll) Kuhn. The parents of George M. Kuhn were natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, and after marriage they came to the United States. By trade the father was a tailor and for two years worked as such in New York and then came to Bucyrus and continued for a time in the tailoring and clothing business and then engaged in farming. He was a member of the Lutheran church. His family consisted of the following children Hannah, wife of John Birk; Lewis; Fred; George M.; John; and Matilda, wife of Abraham Shearer. George M. Kuhn attended the district schools when he was young and afterward assisted his father on the farm until he was 24 years of age, at which time he married ,and later purchased the homestead of So acres, to which he added ten more. He carries on general farming and raises stock and poultry for home use. He is a Democrat in politics and has served as school director and road supervisor and has been twice chosen to administer on estates. On Sept. 19, 1868, Mr. Kuhn was married to Miss Mary Keifer, who was born in Germany and died June 26, 1912, aged one day less than 61 years. She was a daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Shock) Keifer, the former of whom was a blacksmith and farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Keifer the following children were born: Elizabeth, who married Lewis Kuhn ; Margaret, who married Fred Muntz ; Catherine, who is the wife of Jacob Carg; Louisa, who married Henry Lowmiller; Jacob; Lydia, who is the wife of Oswald Fritch; John, and Mary, who was the wife of George M. Kuhn. Mr. and Mrs. Kuhn had eight children Christian, who married Laura Neff and has two children—Isabella and George; Frederick, who married Ida Brown and has five children— Marie, Vera, Paul, Virgil and Ellwood ; Elizabeth, who has been a teacher, and a very successful one, since she was 17 years old; Anna, who is stenographer and bookkeeper for a Cleveland hardware firm; Charles Edward, who is mail clerk on the P. & W Railroad; Elma, who is a clerk in a store at Mansfield, O.: and Edna and Mabel, who are at home. The family attends the Lutheran church. SAMUEL A. ZIMMERMAN, who carries on general farming on his valuable tract of 110 acres, which is situated in Whetstone township, Crawford county, 0., was born in Polk township, Crawford county, April 28, 1871, and is a son of Peter and Philissa (Eichhorn) Zimmerman: Peter Zimmerman was born in Whetstone township, where his father, Daniel Zimmerman, was an early settler. He followed farming all his active life and still owns a farm of 95 acres in Polk township, but lives retired with his second wife, at Galion. They are members of the First Reformed church inthat city. He married sisters, first, Philissa Eichhorn, who died in 1875 and rests in the Fairview Cemetery at Galion, and married second, Catherine Eich- 780 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY horn, both of them being daughters of Adam Eichhorn, an early settler in Crawford county. To his first union two sons were born: Frederick and Samuel A.; and to the second, a son and daughter—Walter, and Lottie who is deceased. Samuel A. Zimmerman obtained a common school education and before purchasing land for himself, assisted his father for two years, after which he bought his present farm in Whetstone township, from Maggie J. Shearer. He does general farming and keeps good stock, carefully keeps his buildings repaired and his farm machinery sheltered and has the reputation of being one of the very successful agriculturists of this section. On Oct. 19, 1891, Mr. Zimmerman was united in marriage with Miss Ellen Lowmiller, who died Oct. 10, 1904., her burial being in the Fairview cemetery at Galion. She was a daughter of William and Sarah (Kester) Lowmiller, who were early settlers in Whetstone township. Mrs. Zimnzerman was an admirable woman and was a devoted member of the First Reformed church at Galion. To Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman four children were born : Ada, Orlando, Melvin and Maud May, the eldest being deceased. Mr. Zimmerman is a member and liberal supporter of the First Reformed church at Galion. He is a Democrat in politics like his father, and has served three years on the township school board. CARL HENRY HENKEL,* attorney at law and city solicitor of Galion, O. was born in this city, Oct. 25, 1880, and is a son of Henry C. and Wilhelmina (Sames) Henkel. Henry C. Henkel and wife were both born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, and were brought to America by their parents when young. They were reared at Galion and married here and the family has long been a highly respected one in this section. Henry C. Henkel followed the mason trade during his active years and now, at the age of 70, lives retired. He is a member of the German Lutheran cliurch. His wife died in September, 1908, at the age of 56 years. Their two children survive, Carl Henry and Clara E., the latter being the wife of HenryE. Lemon, of Galion. After completing the public school course, Carl Henry Henkel entered the law department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated in Igor, before he had attained his majority and afterwards was admitted to the bar and has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession ever since. He has been a very active Democrat and on many occasions his party has recognized his efficiency and, in addition to serving as a delegate to state conventions, in 1908 he was sent as a delegate to the National Democratic Convention. Mr. Henkel was married to Miss Olive Barr, who was born at Galion, Feb. 14, 1880, a daughter of Oliver and Elizabeth (Chandler) Barr, natives of Ashland county, O. Mr. and Mrs. Henkel have two children : Janette E. and Oliver C., aged respectively eight and five years. They are members of the Methodist church. Mr. Henkel is identified fraternally with the Masons, hnights of Pythias, Elks and Independent Order of Foresters and has served as a high state official in the last named organization. Both professionally and personally, Mr. Henkel stands high in his native city and his influence may be confidently counted on in furthering public spirited movements that are for the purpose of advancing the general welfare. JOHN A. NOBLIT, an experienced and successful general farmer of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., where he owns 12o acres of well-cared-for land, was born in this township, Sept. 12, 1863, and is a son of Robert and Susanna (Albright) Noblit. Robert Noblit and wife were born in Pennsylvania, his birthplace being in Dauphin county. They came to Ohio and settled in Whetstone township, Crawford county, and through frugality and industry accumulated a large property, the father owning at one time as much as 300 acres of fine land. He was a Democrat but was AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 781 never a politician. Both he and wife were members of the German Reformed church and are worthy people in every relation of life. The following children survive them John A., Samuel; Mary Jane, wife of Benjamin F. Holshouse; Sylvia, wife of Charles Crisinger; and Isaac. John A. Noblit attended the public school that was nearest the old homstead, on which he has practically spent his life, 40 acres of his present farm being a part of it. This land he inherited and added the remainder by purchase. His farm shows the effects of intelligent cultivation and the stock in his fields demonstrate that he is careful also in that industry although he aims to raise only enough for his own use. Mr. Noblit was married to Miss Hannah Morgan, who was born in Hancock county, O., a daughter of Richard and Margaret (Shira) Morgan. The father of Mrs. Noblit was a blacksmith by trade. Her brothers and sisters were: Angeline M., who is the wife of Daniel Warner; Mary Jane, deceased, who was the wife of George Baxter: Richard S. ; Susanna, who is the wife of David Perkins; Mahala, who was the first wife of Vet Erskin, and Julia, who became his second wife, both wives being now deceased; Robert F.; and William M. To Mr. and Mrs. Noblit six children were born, namely: William, who married Anna Wise, and has two children—Carina and Flossie; Benjamin, who married Bertha Shaftsall, and has one son, Denzel Dean: Amanda Jane, who is the wife of John H. Wise and has one daughter, Bernice Irene; Alta R., who is the wife of Charles H. Crisinger, and has three children—Thelma, Leota and Theodore Jennings ; and two who died young. Mr. and Mrs. Noblit are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a Democrat politically but is no seeker for public office. ISAAC COOK, one of the representative men of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., who carries on general farming and stock raising on his 205 acres of fine land, was born in this township. March 25, 1854, and is a son of 1ohn and Sarah (Diebler) Cook, old and responsible families of this section. Isaac Cook attended the district school in boyhood with his brothers and sisters and then gave his father assistance on the home farm and remained until he was 30 years of age, when he purchased 85 acres of his present farm and settled here, subsequently, as suited his convenience, adding until it reached its present large dimensions. Mr. Cook is an experienced farmer and applies practical and tried and proven methods in his work. He cultivates the grains that are most profitably grown in this section and raises enough cattle and stock for home use. He has a fine appearing property, new barns and a handsome modern residence adding to its attractiveness and value. On Sept. 30, 1884, Mr. Cook was united in marriage with Miss Lilah C. Nungesser, who is a daughter of Christian and Elizabeth (Helfrick) Nungesser, and they have one son, Irvin Lee, who assists his father and also teaches school ; and a daughter, Ada Malinda, who is a student at the Galion high school. Mr. Cook and family attend the Lutheran church. He is a Democrat in his political opinions and keeps well posted concerning public affairs. On numerous occasions he has been chosen for township offices and has served acceptably as school director, trustee and road supervisor. DANIEL R. GORMAN,* a well knouun business man of Galion, O., who is engaged in the real estate line, came to this city after three years of honorable service in the Civil war and has been identified with many of its interests. He was born near Chambersburg, in Franklin county, Pa., Sept. z8, 1840. and is a son of Daniel and Sophia (Kissell) Gorman. Daniel Gorman and wife were both born in Pennsylvania, he in 1801 and she three years later. Her death occurred in 1877, while he survived until 1881. In 1853 the family moved to Indiana and the parents spent the remainder of their days on a farm near Newcastle. They were highly respected people and were members of the Lutheran church. Of their family of six 782 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY children, Daniel R. was the youngest born. Two are deceased: Maria, who was twice married, died in Indiana at the age of 74 years, leaving children. Fianna is survived by husband and three children, her death occurring at the age of 71 years. George W. still resides in Indiana, a widower, and both of his two daughters are married and reside at Newcastle. John J. lives in Mills county, Ia., a widower, with three children. Susan is the widow of Joseph Rigle, has one son and six daughters, all of whom have married and reside near Newcastle, Ind. Daniel R. Gorman was twelve years old when his parents moved to Indiana, where he had some school opportunities while helping on the home farm, but had not reached his 21st birthday when he enlisted for service in the Civil war, on Aug. 5, 1861, entering Co. C, 36th Incl. Vol. Inf., a private soldier under Captain Woodward and Col. William Gross. Although he remained in the service until his honorable discharge on Sept. 21, 1864, and was in the front of battle at Shiloh, Stone River, Laverne, Wild Cat and many other places, he escaped all serious injury, although danger came very near to him on many occasions. In one battle a musket ball passed through his hat so close to his head that it cut the hair and passing on with its swift message of death, killed a comrade immediately behind him. After his return to Indiana, Mr. Gorman worked at the plastering trade and followed the same more or less until 1905, after coming to Galion becoming a plastering contractor, and in this relation for years was connected prominently with the building trades here. Mr. Gorman has been a resident of Galion since 1865 and with the exception of six years, during which he was a conductor on the Big Four Railway, he has been interested in the business above mentioned, continuing tip to seven years ago, since when he has been in the real estate business. On June 1, 1867, Mr. Gorman was married to Miss Maggie Barrett, who was born in Chester county, Pa., in 1848, and was twelve years of age when she was accompanied by her parents, Lemuel and Ann (Young) Barrett to Galion. Her father was a stone mason by trade and lived at Galion for some years and then went to Kansas, where his death occurred at the age of 70 years, his wife having previously died at Galion, in 1875, at the age of 63 years. They were members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. and Mrs. Gorman have two daughters, Bessie and Madge C. The former is the wife of Harry C. Trani, of Cleveland, O. The latter is the wife of John Weidenkofer, and they have one son, Robert Gorman, and reside at Cleveland. Mr. and Mrs. Gorman are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Air. Gorman is a member of Dick Morris Post No. 30, G. A. R., of which he was commander for seven years, and has filled other offices, including that of adjutant. He has been officially connected also for a number of years with the Soldiers' Relief Corps. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Gorman have a very pleasant home at Galion and a visitor there is sometimes favored with an exhibition of valuable and historic relics. These include a handsome punch bowl and spoon said to have been used by both General Washington and General LaFayette when entertained by the Barretts, and left as an heirloom to Mrs. Gorman by a grandaunt. Mr. Gorman is justly proud of being the custodian of a volume that was presented to the Dick Morris Post by friends, in which the G. A. R. records are carefully preserved. HENRY A. KEHRER, a prominent citizen of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., residing on his valuable farm of 120 acres, has been a public official for a number of years and enjoys the confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens. He is a native of this township, born Nov. 30, 1868, and is a son of Daniel and Lydia (Kester) Kehrer. The Kehrer family was established in Crawford county by the grandparents, Martin and Nancy (Brooklaugher) Kehrer, who came from Pennsylvania and lived in Whetstone township, where their son, Daniel Kehrer was born and spent his life. He AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 783 was a carpenter by trade and also engaged in farming. His death occurred in July, 1908. In politics he was a Democrat and he belonged to the Reformed church. He married Lydia Kester, who was born also in Crawford county, a daughter of Jacob Kester and shy still resides on the farm in Whetstone township. They had the following children: Samuel, Henry A., Ella, William D., Jacob M., Emma E., Joseph A. and Reuben E. Henry A. Kehrer obtained a common school education and afterward gave his father assistance on the farm for two years, in the meantime beginning to work under his father at the carpenter trade, and then went to Galion and completed his apprenticeship by working two years more. Following this he moved on his father-in-law's farm, the Peter Beach place, and operated it for two years and for five years prior to moving on his present farm he cultivated it. In 1896 he bought 75 acres from William Beltz and 45 acres from Samuel Stinehelfer, immediately beginning to improve. In 19oo he erected his handsome residence, which is one of the finest in Whetstone township, and three years later his substantial barn, adding fencing and tiling as necessary. General farming and moderate stock raising are the industries. On Nov. 21, 1894, Mr. Kehrer was married to Miss Matilda T. Beach, a slaughter of Peter and Amanda (Cook) Beach, and a granddaughter of Adam Beach and John and Sarah (Deibler) Cook. The parents of Mrs. Kehrer now live retired at Galion, where they attend the Reformed church. He is a veteran of the Civil war. Mrs. Kehrei` has one sister, Ellen E., who is the wife of Peter Neuman, of Whetstone township. Mr. and Mrs. Kehrer have two sons: Arthur C., who was born June 23, 1895 ; and Clinton G., who was born Feb. 12, 1903. The family attend the German Reformed church. In politics Mr. Kehrer is an influential member of the Democratic party and at present is serving his second term as township treasurer and has served five years on the school board. JACOB J. NEUM AN, who owns one of the fine farms of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., a tract of 80 well-improved acres, was born Sept. 28, 1853, in Crawford county, but was reared in Marion county. His parents were Henry and Susan (Young) Neuman. Jacob J. Neuman attended the public schools until he was 15 years of age and then began to work on farms by the month and continued until he was 24 years old, taking care of his wages during this time and after marriage settled on his present farm. Here he carries on general farming and stock raising, grows fruit for home use and successfully carries on all the industries which serve to make the modern farmer one of the most independent men of the day. Mr. Neuman was married Feb. 17, 1878, to Miss Salome Dinkle, a daughter of Christopher and Catherine (Meyers) Dinkle, the former of whom was born in Germany and the latter in Pennsylvania. The father of Mrs. Neuman was a farmer and a carpenter and also worked as a millwright. In politics he was a Democrat. His children were as follows: George; Joseph F.; Salome, wife of Jacob J. Neuman; Lena, wife of John O. Neuman; and Elizabeth, wife of John H. Neuman, Mr. and Mrs. Neuman have had six children born to them, namely : Christopher H., who was married (first) to Della Guinther, who died after the birth of one son, George Russell, and was married (second) to Mabel Yearley, and they have one son, Emerson; Francis F., who married Alta Albright, and they have two children, Viola and Harold ; Otto E., who married Bertha Gerstenslager, and they have three children, Harley, Edwin and Frederick William; Margaret, who is a trained nurse residing at Galion; Pearl, who married Albert Sellers and they have two children, Esther and Christina; and Blanche, who married Howard Heinlen, and they have two children, Elesta and Gladys Lavina. Mr. Neuman and family belong to the Lutheran church, of which he is a trustee and in which he has served both as deacon and elder. In politics he is a Democrat and has frequently 784 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY been chosen for public office and served three years as township trustee, has also been supervisor and school director, and at present is a member of the township board of Health. GEORGE BEACH.* who has been identified with one of the successful business enterprises of Galion, O., since its organization in 19o8, the Perfection Road Machinery Company, of which he is foreman, was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, Jan. 21, 1871, and is a son of Michael and Barbara (Bormuth) Beach. Both parents were born in Hesse Darmstadt. In 1881 the family came to America, on the ship Persian, landing at New York City and from there coming to Galion, and here Michael Beach has worked at his trade of millwright. His wife died in 1897, when aged 53 years. George Beach is the only surviving- child of his parents and was ten years old when they came to America. He attended school until he was 16 years old and then was apprenticed to the machinist's trade and worked at the same with different firms from 1889 until 1908 for eight years before accepting his present position, being with the Schupe Carriage Works. He is not only an expert mechanic but has ability as an executive and manages the force of 30 workmen in the factory without friction. In 1901, Mr. Beach was married at Galion to Miss Clara Riess, who was born in this city, June 16, 1871, a daughter of Emantiel and Catherine (Hotter) Feiss, who have lived in Galion for the past 40 years. Mr. and Mrs. Beach have one child, Esther N., who was born Jan. 21, 1904, They are members of the First Reformed Church at Galion. In politics Mr. Beach is a Democrat and for some years he has belonged to the order of Knights of Pythias. He is recognized as one of the reliable and useful citizens of Galion, exceedingly resourceful in business and law-abiding under every circumstance. ISAAC A. LAUGHBAUM, one of the leading citizens of Whetstone township, Crawford cotlnty. Ohio, a member of the board of directors of the Crawford County Infirmary, resides on his farm of 16o acres, which he devotes to general agriculture. He was born in Henry county, 0., Nov. 17, 18S3, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Pfeifer) Laughbaum. The father of Mr. Laughbaum was born in Pennsylvania and the mother in Germany. Farming was his occupation through life. Both Joseph and Elizabeth Laughbaum are now deceased, their burial having been in Sandusky township. They had the following children : Nancy, who is the wife of John H. Beltsin ; Emanuel R. ; Isaac A., Allen ; Sarnantha J., who is the wife of Joseph Parr; Amanda E., who is the wife of Norman Palmer; Ida, who is the wife of George Weaks ; Clement L.; Winona, who is the wife of William Walters; and Della, who is the wife of Samuel Cole. Isaac A. Laughbaum went to school in boyhood but was yet young when he began to engage, to some extent, in farming and has continued along the same line all his life. His first purchase of land was 40 acres of his present farm, which he bought from his father-in-law and later the remainder came to his wife through inheritance. On Oct. 9, 1875, he was married to Miss Susan Shearer, a daughter of Adam and Hannah (Clark) Shearer. The father of Mrs. Laughbaum was thrice married and she is the only surviving child of his second union, two having died in infancy. To Mr. and Mrs. Laughbaum the following children were born : Nettie, who married Lewis Walter and has one son, Ralph; William C., who married Mabel Dolbeer and has one child. Naomi ; Edwin, who married Julia Johnson and has three children, Howard, Ellen and Hattie ; Carrie, who married Albert Gerstenslager and has three children, Lucile. Irene and Donald L. ; Earl. who married Edna Ross and has two daughters. Helen and Iola Belle ; Erman, who married Blanche Flowers and has one child, Blossom ; John : Ora, who married Rachel Cook, and has one child, Marvel ; Harold and Valm.a, who are at home. Mr. Laughbaum's children have been given good educational advantages. William C.. the eldest son, is a AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 785 graduate of Wittenberg college and seminary and is pastor of the English Lutheran church at Nevada, O. Edwin H. is principal of the schools of Galion and is also on the board of county school examiners. Earl is also a school teacher and additionally is a substitute mail carrier at Galion. After graduating from Wittenberg College, John, entered upon his studies preparatory to becoming a minister. The other sons have become successful farmers and all are credits to their parents and the community. Carrie was a teacher in the public schools for a number of years before her marriage, and Valma is now a junior in the Galion High School. In politics Mr. Laughbaum is a Democrat and has served four years as township trustee and also as school director. He was twice elected to the office of County Infirmary Director. He is a member of Polk Grange at Galion, being past master of the same and also deputy master of the Ohio State Grange. The whole family has membership in the English Lutheran church. Mr. Laughbaum has served for a number of years as superintendent of the Sunday school at North Robinson, also as a member of the church council, and also as secretary of the joint council of the North Robinson charge. JAY L. HOLTZHOUSE,* a member of one of the old and respected families of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., and one of the heirs of an estate of 109 acres of very valuable land, was born on the old homestead where he still lives, Aug. 31, 1883, and is a son of Benjamin F. and Mary G. (Noblit) Holtzhouse. Benjamin F. Holtzhouse was born in Pennsylvania and was of German parentage. He was a veteran of the Civil war and for many years was a respected citizen of Crawford county and carried on farming on his land in Whetstone township, where his death occurred in 1894. He married Mary G. Noblit, who was born in Crawford county, and the following children were born to them: John; Bertha, who is the wife of W. L. Tupps; Nettie, who is the wife of Jay Line; Della, who is the wife of Isaac Beach ; Ollie, who is the wife of Oliver Beach ; Jay L. and Warren. Since his schooldays Jay L. Holtzhouse has worked the homestead farm on shares with his mother. He is an industrious and intelligent farmer and in his agricultural operations shows good judgment and thorough knowledge. In 1903 Mr. Holtzhouse was married to Miss Jessie Coulter, who is a daughter of William and Margaret (Hager) Coulter, well known residents of Galion, O. Mrs. Holtzhouse has one half-brother, George F., and a half-sister, Etta, who is the wife of Lewis Hallay, while her full sister and brothers are: Roma, who is the wife of Fred Robison; and Clyde and Howard. Mr. and Mrs. Holtzhouse have one son, Floyd. They attend the United Brethren church and have many pleasant social interests in the neighborhood. In politics he is a Republican, as was his father. WILLIAM KRAUTER, who is one of the leading men of Bucyrus township, Crawford county, O., a very successful agriculturist and owner of large bodies of land in the county, is interested also in several successful industrial enterprises. Mr. Krauter was born in Germany, April 8, 1849, and was six years old when his parents, John .and Catherine (Borner) Krauter, brought him to this country. John Krauter, with wife and five children, came to America in 1854, crossing the Atlantic ocean in a sailing vessel that afforded few comforts and no luxuries to the passengers but nevertheless safely landed them on solid ground. From New York they came to Crawford county, O., and John Krauter was a farmer in Liberty township until twenty-six years before death, when he moved to Bucyrus and died there. His wife died in Liberty township. They had seven children, namely : Jacob, Christian, John C., William, Gottlieb, Frederick and David, all surviving except Gottlieb. They were good, Christian people, strict members of the German Methodist church. William Krauter obtained his book education in the common schools, but during a long and busy life has learned many other lessons. He helped his father clear off the land and develop a productive farm and re- 786 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY mained at home until he was 2 years of age, and then started out for himself. On April 9. 18i4, Mr. Krauter bought 82 acres of land from George Cook, to which he later added until at present his home farm contains 157 acres, situated in Bucyrus township, while he owns an additional ioo acres in Whetstone township, all well improved and fertile, productive farm land which he devotes mainly to farming, raising only enough stock for his own use. Mr. Krauter has other sources of income, being a stockholder in the Carroll Foundry & Machine Company, at Bucyrus, and also in the Indepenclent Telephone Company. On April 2, 1874, Mr. Krauter was married to Miss Caroline Gebhart, a daughter of Adam and Susan (Brand) Gebhart, residents of Holmes township, Crawford county, but natives of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Gebhart had five children : Catherine, Caroline, Susan, Jacob and John. To Mr. and Mrs. Krauter five children have been born, as follows: Amanda; Emma, who is the wife of Rev. Blume, a minister in the German Methodist church Amos B., who married Mary Yaussy; Charles E.; and Clara. Mr. and Mrs. Krauter are members of the German Methodist church. In his political views Mr. Krauter is a Republican and he gives hearty support to that party but has no fault to find with those whose opinions differ from his own.. He is widely known and universally respected. JEREMIAH NIMAN, for many years was known as one of the far seeing business men and reliable citizens of Bucyrus, O. He was born in Richland county, 0., not far distant from Mansfield, and died at Bucyrus, Feb. 1, 1900, when aged about 62 years. His parents were John and Margaret (Bradley) Niman. John Niman was born in Pennsylvania and his wife in England, but they were married in Richland county, O., the Bradleys having settled at Mansfield when the present city had but three primitive huts and when the Indians were still numerous in that section of the country. Mrs. Ninian was quite young when her father took possession of one of these huts and her experiences of pioneer life enabled her in after years to relate many interesting stories to her descendants, especially stories connected with the then fast disappearing Indians. Her death occurred on her ninetieth birthday, in 1895, she having survived her husband for many years. They were parents of five sons and two daughters, namely: James, A illiam, Jeremiah, John B. and one not named, Margaret and Elizabeth, all of whom have now passed away except John B., who is proprietor of the Union Foundry at Mansfield, O. Jeremiah Niman had such educational opportunities as the village afforded in his clay. When quite young he began to assist his father in the latter's furniture and cabinetmaking shop and had practically learned the business by the time he was eighten years of age. He then determined to become a soldier and enlisted for service in the Civil War witli his two brothers, one of whom, William, was captain of his company, the other, John B., being a musician in the regiment, which had been raised by Col. McLaughliflin of Mansfield. Jeremiah Niman, in spite of his youth, became a brave and efficient soldier, acting as color bearer—a post of unusual danger—and, with the exception of an attack of typhoid fever, passed through the wear unharmed and received an honorable discharge. In 1865 he came to Bucyrus and embarked in the furniture and undertaking business and prospered and some years later erected the Niman Block at No. 130 South Sandusky street, in which he carried on his business until 1896, when he retired. The closing years of his life were spent in the quiet way most congenial to old age and he passed out of existence leaving behind him a record of an honorable life during which he had harmed no man by word or deed. Politically he was a Republican. For many years he was a member of Keller Post, G. A. R. and the National Union and Royal Arcanum. He was a Presbyterian and gave liberally to religious movements. At Toledo, O., in 1870, Mr. Niman was married to Miss Mary J. Seaman, who was born at Woodville, Sandusky county, a daughter of Capt. Ira Kent and Mary (Swartzman) Seaman. The father of Mrs. Niman was born in New Jersey and her AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 789 mother in Pennsylvania. They were married at Fremont, O., where they lived until 1862, when they moved to Toledo, where Mr. Seaman became a prominent member of the bar and a representative citizen. He served through the Civil War and raised Co. I, 21St O. Vol. Inf., which was the first company that went out of Sandusky county. He lived usefully many years afterward, his death taking place at the home of Mrs. Niman, when he was 89 years, seven months and six clays old. His wife had died previously at Toledo, when aged 60 years. The family ancestry has been preserved. His father was Daniel Seaman and his grandparents were Micah and Jemima (Ball) Seaman. The original settler had been born in England and, with a brother, had owned a whaling vessel that probably was stranded on American shores, as the earliest settlement of the family traced was on Long Island. This ancestor participated in the Revolutionary War under General Washington. Daniel Seaman, Sr., came from New Jersey to Sandusky, O., where subsequently the family became one of more than usual prominence. Mrs. Niman has two surviving sisters—Mrs. M. Belle Bushanan, who is a resident of Bucyrus (her husband is a great nephew of President Buchanan) ; and Mrs. Emily Kinnear, who lives at Galesburg, Ill. Jackson Daniel Seaman, a brother of Mrs. Niman, served on the gunboat Ozark in the Civil War. Charles F., another brother, was in the regular army and was one of the guards placed over Sitting Bull, when that bad Indian was captured. Mrs. Niman is a member of the Presbyterian church and is interested in the work of foreign missions. She is a lady of education and culture, belongs to the Current Events Club and to the Keller Post Relief Corps. JOHN MESSNER, deceased, was one of those worthy citizens and kind, good, Christian men whose death is not only a loss to their community and family, but is felt in a wider circle to which the influence of their useful lives have extended. He had but few advantages in his youth as his father died when he was very young and his mother had four other children to claim her attention and be provided for. After her second marriage to an excellent man, Thomas Collier, the family came to Crawford county, O., and here John Messner spent almost the whole of his subsequent life. John Messner was born in 1818, in Pennsylvania, and it is possible that he served his four years of apprenticeship to the shoemaking trade before he came as a permanent resident to Crawford county. Later he became a farmer and still later, after moving to Bucyrus, a business man here. He was not only respected but highly esteemed and it has been said of him that his mere presence was a tonic, so cheerful and happy was his temperament. Nominally he was a Democrat in his political views but was very apt to cast his vote for those candidates whose private life sustained their public utterances. He never identified himself with any religious body although every act of his life proclaimed that he possessed those characteristics which make nien true Christians. He found good in all men, the forgave those who did him wrong, he cheered the unfortunate and gave to those in need. His life was, therefore, one of beneficence, and his memory is tenderly cherished. His death occurred at Bucyrus, O., June 20, 1902. John Messner was married first to Miss Maria Clapper, who was born in Crawford county, O. She died following the birth of her only child, Thomas William, now of Allegheny, Pa. Some years later, Mr. Messner returned to Pennsylvania, and while there married Margaret Gardner. She was born there, a daughter of parents who had crossed the Atlantic ocean from Scotland and Ireland prior to the War of 1812, in which the father of Mrs. Messner participated. Seven children were born to this marriage, one son and six daughters, all of whom survive. Two daughters, both of whom reside with their mother at Bucyrus, are prominent educators in Crawford county, one of them, Miss Martha Messner. being county school examiner and city examiner, the first woman ever appointed to this office in Ohio. Mary Ellen Messner was the eldest of the 790 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY above family and was born and educated at Bucyrus. She married Herschel Quinby Johnston, Feb. 16, 1875, and they have two children : Martha Pearl and Ida Blanche. The former was born at Bucyrus, May 16, 1876, and was graduated from the Bucyrus high school in 1895. Six years later she married Hiram Benjamin Sears, who was born, reared and educated in Crawford county. Mr. Sears is a charter member of the Crawford County Forestry Association and its present treasurer. He is deeply interested in the movement as applied to local surroundings and frequently has exhibits at county fairs in order to secure the attention of other farmers to this very important matter. Mr. and Mrs. Sears have two sons: Richard Elkanah, who was born April 21, 1903, and John Frederick, who was born March 13, 1905. The second daughter of Mrs. Johnston, Ida Blanche, was born Oct. 27, 1878, and was graduated from the Bucyrus high school in the class of 1896. She married Judge Charles F. Schaber, and they have 3 children : Bertha Mary, who was born April 15, 1905; Virginia May, who was born Jan. 12, 1909; and Ruth Marion, born June 8, 1912. Mrs. Johnston and daughters attended the Methodist Episcopal church. The venerable mother of Mrs. Johnston is in excellent health despite her 75 years. Her favorite book is the Holy Bible and this she has read and studied for so many years until its precepts and promises are familiar and she can readily apply them to almost every problem of life. W. S. DEERWESTER, * one of the representative citizens of Holmes township, Crawford county, O., a farmer and carpenter and house builder, was born in Clermont county, O., in 1860, and is a son of Peter Deerwester, an early settler there. W. S. Deerwester was given public school advantages and afterward learned the carpenter trade and also followed farming to some extent. In 1876 be came to Crawford county and located at Brokensworcl, and since then has built more than 100 substantial barns and a large percentage of the best farmhouses in this section. He owns a small farm located eight miles northwest of Bucyrus and gives it attention, but still follows work at his trade. Mr. Deerwester was married (first) to Miss Ida M. Smith, a daughter of William Smith, and an infant was born to them, now deceased. After his first wife passed away, Mr. Deerwester was married (second) to Miss Adella George, who is now deceased, neither of their two children surviving infancy. Mr. Deerwester is a very intelligent, broad-minded man and has given much study to public questions and has more or less identified himself with the Socialist party. LEWIS H. ASSENHEIMER, who successfully operates a farm of 83 acres in Bucyrus township, was born in this township July 12, 1866, a son of Christian and Bertha (Marggraf) Assenheimer. His paternal grandparents were Ludwig and Rosena (Stoll) Assenheimer, the former of whom, Ludwig was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, about 1802 and was a weaver by trade. In 1832 he came to New York and there, in 1833, he married Miss Rosena Stoll, who was also a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born in 1811. and who, it is thought, came over in the same vessel. He brought a large stock of clocks with him, which he traded to his brother-in-law, George F. Stoll, for the building of a house. He followed his trade of weaver for many years and afterwards kept a grocery store. His death took place Oct. 19, 1855. He and his wife had thirteen children. Christian Assenheimer, was born in New York City, Aug. 12, 1834., and was therefore little over a year old when his father located in Bucyrus in the fall of 1835. He attended school in the village until he was twelve years of age, learning both English and German, and worked at anything he could find to do until his 17th year, when he was apprenticed to Peter Shallenmiller, a cabinet-maker, to learn the trade. Having followed his trade as apprentice and journeyman until 1850, he then bought out his old employer, going in debt for a large part of the stock. He carried on the furniture AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 791 business and undertaking for about twelve years with good success, paying for his stock and buying the property where C. M. Mathews was afterwards located, where he carried on business until 1871. He then exchanged his town property for 96 acres of land, on which he resided until 1879, when he purchased a farm on the Sandusky road, five and a half miles from Bucyrus, on which he made various improvements. After operating this farm for a number of years he retired and is now living in Bucyrus with his wife, to whom he was married Oct. 6, 1859. Her name in maidenhood was Bertha Marggraf; she was born in Stadtilm, Saxony, Germany, Oct. 17, 1837, and came to America with her parents when but six years of age, they settling in Bucyrus, this county. They have had children as follows Emma C., born June 26, 1860; Margaret T., March 15, 1862; Frederick C., May 28, 1864; Lewis H., July 12, 1866; Franklin E., Aug. 22, 1868; Edward C., July 26, 1871 ; William C., March r 5, 1875, and Otto A., Oct. 5, 1877. The parents are members of the German Lutheran church. Lewis H. Assenheimer acquired his education in the common schools of this locality and in the meanwhile was initiated into farm work by his father, whom he assisted until his marriage. The farm of 83 acres which he owns formed a part of the parental homestead and he has resided here since he was five years of age. It is a fertile and well cultivated piece of land, well supplied with good buildings, and here he carries on general farming, also keeping enough stock for his own use. A Democrat politically, Mr. Assenheimer has been somewhat active in township affairs; he is a member of the board of education and is also road supervisor, looking after i8 miles of road. He was married January 23, 1895, to Magdalena Stuckman, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Speigle) Stuckman, farming people of Bucyrus township. Of this marriage, fotir children have been born : Arno, Harold, Howard and Bertha Elizabeth. The family attend the English Lutheran church. HARRY MACKEY, a well known engineer with the Erie Railroad, who has been identified with this line since his 24th birthday, was born at Galion, O., June 25, 1859, and is a son of James and Mary (Pensinger) Mackey. James Mackey was born in Pennsylvania but in childhood accompanied his parents to Zanesville, O., and in 1850 to Galion, where his father, William Mackey, died. While living at Zanesville James Mackey learned the carpenter trade but after he came to Galion engaged in butchering and meat packing for some years, after which he became a very successful building contractor here and continued in that line as long as he was active. His death occurred at Galion in igoo. He was married in Ohio to Mary Pensinger, who was born in Pennsylvania and had accompanied her parents to Ohio. Her death occurred at Galion in 1864. She was a member of the English Lutheran church. The family consisted of three sons, Thomas, John and Harry, and one daughter, Jennie, who is the widow of James Stewart, now of Montana. Harry Mackey was reared and attended school at Galion, and afterward for a time was with his brother, Thomas, in the meat business and as a side interest learned to operate a stationary engine. Mechanics came to him naturally, and as he found his bent was in that direction he decided to enter upon railroad work, and on his birthday, June 25, 1883, became an employe of the Erie Railway Company. He served for three and one-half years as fireman and then was given an engine and ever since has been connected with the Cincinnati East Division. His promotion has been unusually rapid, probably because he has never had a single accident and because never a single complaint has been entered against him. He has had his name added to the Red Star list, which indicates that he is one of the most valued passenger engineers in the service. Mr. Mackey was married at Galion to Miss Katherine Pfeffer, who was born in this city in 1857, a daughter of Frederick Pfeffer, and died here Jan. 8, 1904, leaving no children. She was a member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Mackey was married (second) to Miss Anna Sames, who was 792 - HISTORY OF CRAW FORD COUNTY born at Galion, July 29, 1861, a daughter of Henry and Mary (Lanius) Sarnes. The parents of Mrs. Mackey were born in Germany but were married at Galion, where their subsequent lives were spent, the father dying at the age of 63 years and the mother surviving to be 71 years old. They were members of the German Reformed church. Mrs. Mackey had two brothers : Henry C., who died at Brightwood, Ind., when aged twenty-six years, survived by a widow and son; and William H., who is a hardware merchant at Mt. Gilead, O. Since she was fifteen years of age, Mrs. Mackey has been a member of the German Reformed church, which Mr. Mackey also attends. Since 1886 he has been identified with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, and has filled almost all of the positions in the local lodge at Galion and has recently as a delegate of Division No. 16, the convention of the International Brotherhood recently convened at Harrisburg, Pa. He belongs also to the Junior Order of American Mechanics, No. 106, at Galion, to Lodge No. 186, Knights of Pythias, of this city, and to Order of Owls, Nest No. 1700, of Marion, O. In politics he casts an independent vote. SIMEON G. BEAL,* who is a representative of one of the old agricultural families of Crawford county, O., follows farming and stock raising in Bucyrus township, operating two farms one of 80 acres, which belongs to his father, and his own property, where he has 40 acres. He was born in Bucyrus township, Oct. 19, 1856, and is a son of Isaac Beal. Simeon G. Beal attended the district schools near his father's farm in his youth and afterward was trained to be a practical farmer and raiser of stock, and in order to be successful there is a great deal to be learned along both lines. Mr. Beal raises only enough general stock for his own use but devotes considerable attention to sheep growing and through his excellent methods makes this industry a profitable one. Mr. Beal was married to Miss Catherine Sherer, who died Dec. 17, 1910, a daughter of Samuel Sherer. Her burial was in the Sherer cemetery in Whetstone township, where other members of her family rest. One son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Beal, Milton Sherer, a bright youth who was graduated from the Bucyrus high school in the class of 1910. Mr. Beal is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church as was his wife. He is a Democrat in his political views. FREDERICK C. ASSENHEIMER, a farmer of Bucyrus township, who owns 82 acres of land and also works 80 acres belonging to his father, was born in the town of Bucyrus, May 28, 1864, a son of Christian and Bertha (Marggraf) Assenheimer. His father, Christian Assenheimer, was born Aug. 12, T834, in Cherry Street, New York City, and was a on of Ludwig and Rosena (Stoll) Assenheimer. In 1835 Ludwig Assenheimer brought his family to Crawford county, Ohio, locating in Bucyrus, and young Christian grew up in the village, learning both German and English. He attended school until twelve years old, at which time he began to do odd jobs and work at anything he could find to do. his 17th year he was apprenticed to Peter Shallenmiller to learn the trade of cabinetmaker, remaining with him three years and a half and subsequently following his trade as a journeyman until 1859, when he bought out his old employer. He carried on the furniture business and undertaking for about 12 years and finally bought the property subsequently occupied by C. M. Matthews & Co., where he did business until 1871. He then exchanged his town property for 96 acres of land in Bucyrus township, on which he resided until 1879, when he bought a farm of 160 acres on the Sandusky road, five and a half miles from Bucyrus, on which he made fine improvements and took up his permanent residence. He was married Oct. 6, 7859, to Miss Bertha Marggraf, of Bucyrus, who was born in Stadhilm, Saxony, Germany, Oct. 17, 1837, and who came to America with her parents when but six years of age. Of this marriage six sons and two daughters were born, as follows : Emma AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 793 C., June 26, 1860; Martha T., March 15, 1862; Frederick C., May 28, 1864; Lewis H., July 12, 1866; Franklin E., Aug. 22, 1868; Edward C., July 26, 1871 ; William C., March 15, 1875; and Otto A., Oct. 5, 1877. Christian Assenheimer and wife are mew-hers of the German Lutheran church and he is a Democrat politically, serving six years as a member of the town council and three years as township trustee. They now live retired in Bucyrus. Ludwig Assenheimer, the father of Christian and grandfather of our subject, was born in Wurteniberg, Germany, about 1802, and was a weaver by trade. In 1832 he came to New York, where he married Rosena Stoll, a native also of Wurtemberg, born Aug. 11, 1811, and who probably came over in the same vessel. They were married in 1833, and came to Bucyrus in 1835. He brought a large stock of clocks with him, which he traded to his brother-in-law, Geo. F. Stoll, for the building of a house. He followed his trade for many years, then kept a grocery store until his death, which occurred Oct. 19, 1855. He and his wife had thirteen children. Frederick C. Assenheimer acquired his education in the common schools and was trained to agriculture, becoming a practical farmer. He started in for himself when 28 years old, working for a year and a half by the month and then being associated with his father, from whom he later bought his farm, which he has operated alone. He does general farming and keeps stock enough for his own use. In politics he is a Democrat. He was married Feb. 28, 1907 to Mrs. Viola (Mollenkop) Harmon, who is a daughter of Philip Mollenkop and was married previously to Jay Harmon, now deceased. Of her first union there were two children, Ward C. and Alice Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Assenheimer are the parents of one child, Elsie Rowena. Mr. Assenheimer belongs to the German Lutheran church, while his wife is a member of the United Brethren church. They have a fine homestead and are prosperous farming people, well known and respected throughout the township and vicinity. JOHN HALEY, who entered into the service of the Erie Railway Company as a call boy, away back on Nov. 20, 1869, has been identified with this road ever since, and through regular promotions in 1902 was made a passenger engineer and now fills that very important position, one of the oldest and most relied on engineers in the Erie service. Mr. Haley was born at Cleveland, O., April 4, 1855, and is a son of John and Mary (Carroll) Haley. Both parents of Mr. Haley were born in 1814, in County Cork, Ireland, and there they were married in 1839 and a few years later came to America and subsequently located at Cleveland, O., and from there cane to Galion, in 1857. The father was a railroad man and for some years he was connected with the Big Four and the Erie Railroads while living at Galion, where his death occurred Dec. 5, 1894. His widow survived until Jan. 15, 1899. They were members of St. Patrick's Roman Catholic church. In politics he formerly was a Democrat, but after the conclusion of the Tilden-Hayes campaign, voted the Republican ticket until the end of his life. He was the father of a family of three sons and three daughters, all of born survive except one daughter. John Haley accompanied his parents to Galion in 1857, being then an infant, was reared here and obtained his education in the public schools, leaving at the age of fourteen years in order to become a railroad man, for which he had a strong natural inclination. In November, 1869, he became call boy for the Erie and four years later was made fireman on the Fourth Division of what was then the Atlantic & Great Western, in June, 1873, when it was also called the Broad Gauge. Later the road became the N. Y. & P. O., later changes being made until the present name of the Erie Railway was adopted, and during all this period of changing names and owners, equally important changes were being made in the methods of railroading and equipping. He recalls the time when the engines were fired with wood, and few, if any, of the most fore-sighted railroad men could have 794 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY pictured the present day steam engines, superheated with steam or electricity, which often weigh 250 tons. On July 29, 1879, Mr. Haley was made an engineer and in November, 1880, was given a crew, and now, with one exception is the oldest engineer of the Third Division, running from Marion to Kent, O. He has an excellent record as a train man, his caution and prudence being- proverbial, and few engineers of this line enjoy more fully the confidence of employers or comrades. Mr. Haley was married at Sandusky, O., to Margaret Mullen Manz, who was born and educated at Sandusky. She is of French and German extraction, a daughter of Joseph and Frederica Manz. Joseph Manz was one of eight brothers that enlisted in the Union army and fought throughout the War of the Rebellion. He was a member of Company A, 32nd O. V. I., and served under General Grant. IHe belonged to McMeens Post, G. A. R., Sandusky, O. Joseph and Frederica Nlanz were married in New York City and it was there Mrs. Haley was born. Mr. Manz was accidentally killed at Sandusky by a Lake Shore engine, July 12, 1891, when sixty years of age. He was a well known citizen of Sandusky and a member of the Roman Catholic church. The mother of Mrs. Haley survived until February 22, 1911, for many years having been a member of the Lutheran church. Mrs. Haley has one brother, Anthony, and one sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Larkin, both of whom live at Sandusky. Mr. and Mrs. Haley are members of St. Patrick's Catholic church. He is an active and interested member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. In politics he votes independently. GODFREY YAUSSY, proprietor of the Willow Brook stock farm, a valuable tract of 357 acres situated in Whetstone township, Crawford county, 0., is one of the well known and substantial citizens of this section, to which he came in 1905, from Monroe county, O., where he was born July 25, 1851. His parents were Christian and Elizabeth (Muhleman) Yaussy. Christian Yaussy and wife were both born in Switzerland but they were married in America. He followed farming in Monroe county, O., for some years and his wife died and is buried there, and he then made his home with his son, Godfrey, where he died May 1, 1912. The family numbered seven children, three of whom died in infancy and one, Anna, who was the wife of Joseph W ''inkler, is also deceased. The survivors are : Godfrey, Edward and Samuel. The mother was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while the father was a Lutheran. He was a Democrat in his political sentiments. His parents were Daniel and Mary Yaussy. Godfrey Yaussy attended the common schools in Monroe county in boyhood and then went into a cheese factory, where he continued for eleven years. There are no people who understand the making of cheese quite so well as the Swiss, and Mr. Yaussy knows the manufacture of many varieties of this food-dainty. After coming to Crawford county in 1905 he purchased 197 acres of land from John Albright, 80 acres from a Mr. Miller and 80 acres more from a Mr. Rowse. Prior to coming here he sold his farm of 190 acres in Monroe county. He carries on dairying and is a breeder of registered Holstein-Friesian cattle. In October, 1874, Mr. Yaussy was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Gehrig, a daughter of Christian and Mary (Dahler) Gehrig, who were natives of Switzerland. They were married in that land and afterward came to the United States and engaged in farming in Monroe county, where both died. They had the following children Sarah ; John ; Rebecca, deceased, who was the wife of Edward Brenzikofer; Lydia, who is the wife of Fred Roth ; Hannah, who is the wife of Samuel Yaussy; Selma, who is the wife of Carl Bock ; and Ernest and Nettie. To Mr. and Mrs. Yaussy fourteen children have been born, all of whom survive, namely: Clara H., who is the wife of Charles W. Luthy; Lydia, who is the wife of John Fraley; Ella, who is the wife of Sanford Fraley; Robert; John; Mary, who is the wife of Amos Krauter; Henry; Selma ; Otto ; Edna, who is a teacher in Whet- AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 795 stone township; Esther; Paul; Clarence and Verna, the younger members attending the Bucyrus high school. Mr. and Mrs. Yaussy have reared their children in the Methodist Episcopal church. Although he is independent in his political views, Mr. Yaussy has been so generally recognized as a good citizen that he has frequently been elected to office. CHARLES ULMER,* general merchant at Sulphur Springs, Crawford county, O., and a public spirited and substantial citizen, was born in Liberty township, Crawford county, O., in 1868, and is a son of Gottlieb and Barbara Ulmer, who were natives of Wittenberg, Germany. After coming to America they settled in Crawford county, O. Eleven children were born to them, namely : Henry, who married Anna May, a daughter of Lewis May, is deceased but his widow survives and lives in Vernon township ; Mary, who married John Kleopenstine, and they live at Mansfield, O. Rosa, who lives with her husband in Liberty township; Jacob F., who is a resident of Liberty township, married Nora Pfleidener; John W., who is a farmer in Liberty township, married Eliza Brown; David G., who is a resident of Liberty township, married first Tillie Knobenger and after her death married Mrs. David Lutz ; Frederick, who is a resident of Cranberry township, married Anna Sanders: Charles, the subject of this sketch : and Lizzie, Katie and Eliza, all of whom died in infancy. Charles Ulmer obtained his education in the public schools. After leaving the home farm he went into the general mercantile business and has continued and enjoys a large trade. He is one of the active and enterprising men of Sulphur Springs and at present is serving- in the office of treasurer of Liberty township. Mr. Ulmer was married to Miss Amy Striker, who died October 15, 1911, a daughter of Daniel and Mary Striker. They had the following children: Harvey, Mabel, Arthur, Robert, Edward, Sarah, all of whom live with their father, and one who died in infancy. Mr. Ulmer and children are members of the Lutheran church. He is identified with the Order of Maccabees. JOHN L. COOK, who was born Jan. 31, 1857, on his present valuable farm of 165 acres, which is situated in Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., belongs to a highly respected family of this section. His parents were John and Sarah (Deeber) Cook. John Cook was born in Germany and was a son of Peter Cook. By trade he was a plasterer and for many years Burin;; the season was steadily employed and also engaged in farming. He always voted the Democratic ticket and he gave liberal support to Trinity Reformed church at Galion. He married Sarah Deeber, who was born in Pennsylvania, a daughter of Louis Deeber, and they had the following children : Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of John Albright; Henry; George; Amanda, who is the wife of Peter Beach ; Tena. who is the wife of Jacob Whiteamire; Isaac; John L. ; and Sarah, who makes her home with her brother, John L. Cook. The parents of the above family are deceased, their burial being in the Whetstone Cemetery. John L. Cook attended the district school in boyhood with his brothers and sisters and afterward remained at home, as his father needed his assistance in cultivating his large estate of 335 acres. When his father died, Mr. Cook bought 91 acres and kept on adding until he now owns 165 acres as stated above. He carries on general agriculture here and is one of the prosperous farmers of this section. Mr. Cook was married in 1887 to Miss Mary E. Gibler, a claugliter of Adam and Rachel (Shearer) Gibler, who came to Crawford county very early and became people of ample means and were highly respected. :Mrs. Cook has two brothers and one sister: Isaac and John, and Sarah, who is the wife of James McPeak. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Cook, as follows : Rachel C., who is the wife of Ora Laughbaum; and Ida S., Nettie J. Elsie B. and Verdie B. The family attend Trinity Reformed Church. A stanch Demo- 796 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY crat, Mr. Cook has been elected to local offices by his party and has served three terms as school director and one term as road supervisor. SIMON J. DENZER, a prosperous farmer, owning 101 acres in Bucyrus township, was born in this township. Oct. 21, 1856, son of Jacob and Matilda (McNeal) Denzer. His grandfather, Andrew Denzer, was born in Baden, Germany, and served under Napoleon in the disastrous Russian campaign, where so many of the army perished. Being lucky enough to escape death, he afterwards—about 1833—came to America, dying in this country seven years after. He and his wife had four sons and a daughter, Andrew, George, Jacob, Mary and Simon. Two of these children died in Germany and were buried at Upfingen, Baden. Mrs. Andrew Denzer survived her husband many years, passing away in 1876 at the advanced age of ninety-four. Jacob Denzer was thirteen years old when he accompanied his parents to the United States. They soon settled in Crawford county, Ohio, the father (Andrew) purchasing 15 acres of land in Liberty township. This he cleared and in the following spring built a cabin on it. The same spring —of 1834—Jacob began work as a farm hand, earning three or four dollars per month, and was thus employed until he was 25 years of age. Until reaching his majority he gave his earnings to his parents. At the age of 25 he began farming rented land, which he operated for three years. On March 13, 1850, he married Matilda McNeal of Crawford county, who was born in Huntingdon county, Pa., Dec. 6, 1826, and she proved a most capable help-meet to him. After his marriage he rented a farm for six years and in the meanwhile bought 38 acres of land. In 1863 he purchased the homestead on which he resided for the rest of his life, where he carried on farming and stock-raising becoming in time one of the prosperous and substantial citizens of the township. For about ten years he also operated a saw-mill. He and his wife had thirteen children, of whom two—Florence and an infant son—died in childhood. The others were Mary L., Jennie, Andrew, Esther, J. Anson, Simon J., Ella, Alexander, Maggie, Lewis I. and Electa V. Simon J. Denzer was educated in the common schools and was brought up on his father's farm, acquiring a competent knowledge of agriculture methods. He has since continued in this now profitable line of industry and is now engaged in general farming keeping enough stock for his own use. A part of his farm belonged originally to the Denzer homestead; the rest he has acquired by purchase. He has made substantial improvements in the property, building the fine barn and residence which stands on his land, and the general aspect of his place is one of thrift and prosperity. He votes the Democratic ticket but is not an active politician. He was married Feb. 15, 1888, to Clara F. Miller, who was born in Holmes township, this county, a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Lichtenwalter) Miller. Her parents were early settlers in Crawford county and cleared a farm there, the father coming from Columbiana county and the mother from Stark county. They were farmers. Their children were Isaac L. ; Elizabeth, now deceased, who was the wife of Martin Shaffner; Sarah, wife of Andrew Gidley; Mary, wife of Valentine Heiby; Adeline, who married Michael Shiffler; Catherine, who married William Lotzenheiser; Clara F., the wife of our subject; Daniel, now deceased; and Laura, who is the wife of Peter L. Bash. Mr. and Mrs. Denzer have two children, both sons, namely, John Evan and Allen D. The family attend the English Lutheran church. CHRISTIAN HOOVER, who is one of the substantial citizens of Dallas township, Crawford county, O., owning 244 acres of finely developed land, was born in Crawford county, in September, 1844, and is a son of William and Phebe (Swisher) Hoover. William Hoover was born in Pickaway county, O., but the greater part of his life was passed as a farmer in Crawford county. AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS - 797 He married Phebe Swisher, who was born in Franklin county, O., and the following children were born to them : John T. Emma, who is the wife of Henry M. Welch; Christian; George W.; Margaret, who is the wife of David E. Fisher; Marcellus; Alice, who is the wife of Marks Tea; Charles Fremont ; Flora, who is the wife of H. L. Weber; and William. Christian Hoover had public school advantages as they were offered when he was a boy, and since then has devoted himself entirely to agricultural pursuits and since the age of four years has lived on his present farm, which is generally known as the old Hoover homestead. He no longer does more than overlook his farm, having placed all the practical responsibilities on the sturdy shoulders of his sons, who are capable and thorough farmers. In 1868 Mr. Hoover was married to Miss Lorenna Kirby, who was born in Crawford county, a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Welch) Kirby, old settlers here and well known people. Mrs. Hoover died Nov. 8, 1909, and her burial was in Oakwood cemetery, Bucyrus. Two brothers and one sister survive her: John, George and Emma, who is the wife of James Orr. To Mr. and Mrs. Hoover the following children were born Ernest, who married Nona Flock, and has four children, Hugh, Alice, Florence and Lucile: Burdett K., who married Elnora Quaintance, and has two children, Chester and Hazel; Charles F., who married Nora Kerr and has five children, Helen, Wayne, Clifford, Marjorie and an infant; Maud; and Madge, who is the wife of Arlington Blair and has three children, Hoover, Thomas and a child unnamed. Mr. Hoover is a Republican in his political sentiments and occasionally has consented to serve his his township in public office, for three years being a trustee, serving through an important period of the township's history. With his family he attends the Methodist Episcopal church. HARRY R. SCHULER,* one of the able young professional men of Galion, O., a member of its bar and an important politi cal factor, was born at Indianapolis, Ind., Feb. 24, 1817, and is a son of Philip and Mary (Amann) Schuler. Philip Schuler was born in Baden, Germany, and when eleven years of age came alone to the United States. After a few years in Michigan he came to Galion, O., where he engaged in the grocery business for some time and then turned his attention to insurance and real estate, and maintains offices in the Schaffner Block. He was married to Mary Amann, who was born in Ohio, a daughter of George and Mary Amann, who came to Ohio from Germany in 1855. George Schuler followed farming and dairying near Galion. He survived his wife, dying in 1906. They were members of the Roman Catholic church, and to this religious body Philip Schuler and wife also belong. He is one of the well known public men of Crawford county, a member of the General Assembly in 1867 and 1868 and chairman of the city council of Galion in 1880. He is one of the influential men of the Democratic party and a loyal supporter of its candidates. To Mr. and Mrs. Schuler three sons and four daughters were born, all of whom survive and are well known people of this section. Harry R. Schuler was the second born in the above family and with his brothers and sisters was given excellent school advantages. In the 69th General Assembly of Ohio he was a page, after which he entered upon the study of law, and in igoz was graduated from the law department of the University of Georgetown, D. C., receiving his degree of L. L. D. and in the following year that of L. L. M. In May, 1904, he came to Galion, after being admitted to the bar, to enter upon practice, and in 1909 was elected city solicitor, in which office he served until January 1, 1912. On numerous occasions he has been the delegate of his party to State, Senatorial and Congressional Democratic conventions and he is personally on the friendliest terms with many of the highest party leaders. His ability is very generally recognized and his party loyalty has withstood every test. Mr. Schuler is unmarried. He is a mem- 798 - HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY ber of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic church at Galion. Fraternally, he is identified with the Elks, the Eagles, the Catholic Knights of Ohio and the Knights of Columbus and ` belongs also to the Commercial and the Lambs' Clubs. MELANCHTHON GEORGE NUNGESSER, a prominent farmer and politician of Whetstone township, Crawford county, O., residing on his valuable farm three miles west of Galion, was born at New Winchester, O.; Jan. 16, 1863, and is the only son of Christian A. and Elizabeth (Helfrick) Nungesser. Christian Nungesser was born in Germany and before coming to the United States he learned the trade of shoemaking. He lived in Cincinnati, O. but later located at New Winchester in Crawford county and still later purchased his farm of 100 acres five miles west of Galion. This farm he still owns although he and his wife now live retired in Galion. They are members of the German Lutheran church. They had the following children born to them : Delilah C., wife of I. A. Cook; Margaret C., widow of H. P. Rexroth ; Martha J., Wife of J. F. Guinther; and Melanchthon G. Melanchthon G. Nungesser availed himself of the advantages of the county school of those clays but left this school at the early age of 16 years and was thrown upon his own resources. However, he determined to further his educational training and he managed under very adverse circumstances and with much sacrifice to attend school at the Ohio Central College at Iberia, O. for one year. Later he spent several terms at the N. W. O. University at Ada, O. He then made practical application of his knowledge by teaching school, in which work he continued for 12 years. As a teacher, through his earnest devotion, persistent effort and close application he was eminently successful, winning the respect of his pupils, patrons and fellow teachers. Through his teachers' institute work and relations he was a very active and useful member. On Sept. 20, 1887, M. G. Nungesser was married to Miss Matilda C. Burkhart, who was born in Marion county, O., a daughter of Abraham and Caroline (Schaffer) Burk hart. Mr. Burkhart was born in Pennsylvania and Mrs. Burkhart in Morrow county, O. They now live retired in Galion, O. Their children were as follows: Samuel; AVilliam;` Matilda; Amanda, wife of J. McKinistry; John E. and Cora, wife of H. O. Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Nungesser have had three children born to them : Vesta Vanola, Virgil Vinton and Cleoda D. The last named, who is 12 years old, is the only survivor, the two first named dying in infancy. Mr. Nungesser and wife are members of the English Lutheran church. After marriage they located on a tenant farm which was all but modern and in a state of productiveness. Becoming discouraged at the wasted efforts of his best days, Mr. and Mrs. Nungesser concluded to buy a home for themselves and in 1904 they bought an 80 acre tract of land from the Jacob Christman heirs, located three miles west of Galion, for which he went heavily in debt. With renewed interest and added effort he set about improving it and at once adopted his plan of parallel tiling, which has since become so popular, erecting modern and commodious farm buildings, remodeling his residence and installing the most modern comforts and conveniences. Now' by his close application, economy and thrift the encumbrance is cancelled, improvements paid for and the farm in a high state of productiveness. At present Mr. Nungesser is erecting another residence on West Main street, Galion, which he expects to occupy on completion. As a farmer and stock raiser he is a fancier of pure bred stock and raises registered stock as practical with his operations. His flock of registered American Delaine Merine sheep ranks among the best in the state. His stock as a whole well shows judgment in good breeding. Mr. Nungesser is and always has been very active in Farmers' Institute work and is rated as one of the most progressive agriculturists of his county. In politics he is a Democrat and has always taken a great interest in civil matters, thus stands as an important factor in his county and at the time of this writing is the candidate of the leading party of his county for the office of county representative. He has served on many very important committees and for