LIBERTY TOWNSHIP BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES PAGES 906-930 900 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) ELI ADAMS, retired farmer; P. O. Sulphur Springs ; was born in Massachusetts, about forty miles from Boston, March 18, 1803. His father, Ephraim, was a grandson of John Adams, of Revolutionary fame. Ephraim Adams married Martha Mason. and they moved into Cayuga Co., N. Y., in 1804. Eli being then only about a year old. They settled among the hemlock and brakes. where it was almost impossible to raise anything by cultivation but beans and a few potatoes. The greater part of their subsistence while there was bean porridge. During their residence in New York, Mrs. Adams died, leaving altogether six children-Annie, Buckley, Eli, Sarine, Angeline and Ephraim. Mr. Adams married a second wife. by whom he reared three girls. The Adams family and one Jacob Sweetland, with wife and large family, left New York in the spring of 1814, with the intention of going to the settlement then being made along the Huron River near where Sandusky City is now located, and which was then known as the old "Gault Place;" but, on their arrival in this State, at its northeastern border, they were advised to pass the summer there. as it would be easier to procure provisions later in the season in the new settlement whither they were bound. Acting on the advice given, they (both families) stopped, and put up in a vacant cabin from June until August, when they proceeded on their journey. This was on the Grand River, and, during their stay, Adams and his boys went to work in the harvest-fields of Gov. Huntington. When harvest was over, they proceeded to the settlement, on the Huron River. Sweetland and family occupied a vacant hut which had been built on the "bottom land," and, in a few weeks, himself, wife and two children were victims of malarial fever. The other children were taken back to their friends in New York by one of the oldest boys, who was able to drive the team. Adams and his family remained there about five years, became tired of their location. and moved to Seneca Co. in 1819. In October, 1820, Mr. Adams died, leaving a widow and three helpless children, besides some of the younger children of his first wife. Eli then began to do for himself as he was then in his 18th year. The only thing he ever received or could be spared from his fathers estate was a scythe, which he traded to a cobbler to make him a pair of shoes. He then hired out on a farm at $6 per month ; worked three years: and for the highest wages received was $9 per month. He then made a visit to the place where he was partly reared, in New York, and then hired at $9 per month for seven months. He returned with about $60 in his pocket hoping to collect $40 which was due him for labor in Ohio, with which he hoped to form the nucleus of his future fortune by entering 80 acres of land. But to his sorrow, his debtor had gone to parts unknown during his sojourn in New York. He went to work, earned the required $40 and something more, put it to his $60 already earned. went to Delaware, where the land office was. and entered 80 acres in what is now Texas Township, of this county, in 1824. He began to clear and improve his land. and boarded with a Mr. Paul, giving two days' work for week's board. He lived in this manner three years, when he built a cabin and married Mary daughter of James Andrews. of Seneca Co., Nov. 27, 1827. They were both reared in poor circumstances, and were familiar with the hard ships of pioneer life from early childhood. Mr Adams had got a cow in payment of work done, and his wife had been likewise obliged to take a young heifer a year or two before for work she had done, which by that time was developed into a valuable cow. These two animals were the only things of value they owned when they began housekeeping. Adams went to work to make a bedstead. and, unfamiliar with the proportions it should be and not much of a mechanic at best, when completed discovered that their bedding would scarcely cover half of it. The first season they lived there they were often hard up to find provision enough for their support. The milk which they got from their cows was no small part of their living. One Sabbath evening in October of LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 907 that year, they used for supper the last morsel of food in their possession, and, on the following morning, Mrs. Adams proceeded to paddle what little milk they had gathered for the purpose of obtaining butter enough to grease a pan in which she contemplated grating a few ears of corn, and thereby make a cake While she was so engaged. Mr. Adams took his gun and stepped into the woods to shoot a squirrel which attracted him thither, when two deer sprang up, one of which fell a prey to his trusty rifle. He dragged it to his cabin with no little pride, and dressed it. By that time, Mrs. Adams had made the little butter she could. and had her cake of grated corn under way to which they added a good steak of fresh venison and considered themselves well supplied. They had eight children-Ephraim, James, John, Arthur, S. E., Angeline, Ruth A. and one deceased. While hoeing busily at his first patch of corn one day. two Indians. who were passing in the woods came up stealthily behind him, one of them coming within an arms-length before Adams observed them. Being startled at sight of the Indian so near him, on the impulse of the moment he made a sudden break, which was the source of considerable amusement to the Indians, who meant him no harm, and assured Adams that they only wanted to scare him. He sold out in Texas and moved to Lykens Township. Afterward sold out there and moved to Bloom, Seneca Co., where his wife died Nov. 28, 1875, after a married life of forty-eight years and one day. He sold his property in Bloom and came to live with his son S. E. in this village, in 1879. S. E. was born May 16, 1847. When 18 years of age he began to learn the carpenter's trade, and taught school during the winter months. In April 1870, he moved to Kansas, and engaged at the carpenter's business in Dickinson Co. and taught school every winter term he was there. besides three summer terms and several summers he worked on the farm. He returned to his fathers, in Seneca Co., in 1875, and the two succeeding seasons worked on the farm. In the fall of the latter, he took a district school, and taught there that winter. On March 19, 1878, he married Mary Rader, who was born in Northampton Co., Penn. April 15, 1856, and came here with tier parents when about 13 yeas old. They have one child - Bessie. Mr. Adams works at the carpenter's trade in the summer and teaches school in the winter months. DR. HARVEY S. BEVINGTON, physician and druggist. Sulphur Springs ; was born in Wayne Co., Ohio. Oct. 16, 1830. To give a short and comprehensive sketch of the Bevington family, it is necessary to go back to the advent, to this country, of one Henry Bevington, who, with his wife. emigrated from London, Eng., immediately after the close of the Revolution, and settled in New York. In religious belief he was a Quaker, and a tailor by trade ; early in life he sustained the loss of one leg, which no doubt had something to do in determining his profession. They reared five children who grew up to maturity, and those of that name in this country can trace back their ancestry to this family. John was one of the oldest of the family; he moved from his native place in New York, to Beaver Co., Penn., when a young man ; there he married Frances Scott, whose early history is somewhat romantic, considering that she, when 2 years old, with her parents and four older children, emigrated from Ireland about the year 1789, and while on the ocean both parents died, leaving their helpless children to the mercy of strangers, the oldest about 15 years, the youngest only 2 years. They made their way to Beaver Co., Penn. and there a family by the name of Blackman took and reared the youngest, who afterward grew up to beautiful womanhood and became the wife of John Bevington. They remained in Pennsylvania several years after their marriage, but moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, where they settled in the wilderness; shortly after their settlement in Wayne Co., Mr. Bevington responded to a call for troops to defend the country and its interests against the invasion of the British in 1812. Leaving his wife and two babes in the woods, he proceeded with the army amt was with Gen. Harrison at the front, until peace was restored. At the close of the war he returned to Wayne Co., and assumed the task of carving for himself and family a home in the woods; this he successfully accomplished, and there reared an interesting family of nine children, three girls and six boys, viz.: Rachel, Henry, Charles, Alexander, Rebecca, Samuel, John, Hannah and Harvey S. The latter and youngest one of the family, being fond of books and general lore, spent his early life at school, and when he had acquired 908 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES a good common-school education he spent two years at the Academy in Edinburg, Ohio, when about sixteen years old: then resumed his studies in the Vermillion Institute, at Hayesville, Ashland Co., where he remained two years. at the same time pursuing the study of medicine along with the regular work of the institution, having begun to read in the office of his preceptors. Drs. Buckmaster and Westcott, of Fredericksbug. At the age of 21, he entered the Medical Department of the Ann Arbor University. Ann Arbor, Mich., where he graduated March, 1852. Thence moved to and began the practice of his profession in Hicksville, Defiance Co., Ohio, and two rears later, in 1854. his parents and the entire family moved to Defiance Co. where his father closed the varied scenes of life the sane year: but most of the family reside there still. There the Doctor practiced until 1856, when he moved to De Kalb, Crawford Co., and practiced there until 1862, when he went into the army as 1st Lieutenant of Co. H. 123d O. V. I. On June 13, 1863, during Gen. Milroy's retreat from Winchester, he was taken prisoner and sent to Libby Prison ten months and a half: he was paroled May 1, 1864, and on the 7th of the same month. was exchanged. when he immediately joined his old regiment and company rather serving with his old comrades than accepting the office of Captain, to which he had been promoted while in prison. His regiment was then in the "Army of the Shenandoah," under Gen. Sheridan: after his return to the ranks he participated in the conflict at Winchester, on Sept. 19, 1864, and on 22d of same month in the general engagement at Fisher's Hill. and Oct. 19 (the day of Sheridan's famous ride), in the battle of Cedar Creek. During that winter he was transferred to the Army of the Potomac, and in February 1865, he was discharged on account of physical disability. He then returned to Crawford Co. located at Annapolis, and resumed the practice of the healing art, in which he has been remarkably successful. In 1876, he purchased the drug store in which he does an extensive business for an inland village; the reasons are obvious, his stock is of the best and complete for country demand, and his patrons are sure to be honorable dealt with. The Doctor has been married three times: first. to Martha A. McCullough April .20, 1854; she was born in this county and died here July 11, 1860, leaving one chill-Mary F., now Mrs. E. A. Squier: his second marriage was with Elizabeth A. Barclay April 23, 1862. She was a native of Pennsylvania, but came here when young: she died Feb. 21, 1876;, leaving three children. viz.: Martha V., Jay W. and Carrie L.. His third marriage was celebrated Dec. 12, 1876;. with Mrs. Millie Ensminger - widow of the late Geo. Ensminger she is a daughter of Dr. Phillip Ebert, of North Robinson, formerly of Pennsylvania: by this union there is one chill. viz.: Ellwood Ebert. Besides the property in town, he owns a good farm of 57 acre,. about one mile southeast of Annapolis: be it said to his credit, all of which has been accumulated by his own tact and industry, as he was not worth any property when he started out on his own responsibility. SAMUEL S. BLOWERS. farmer ; P. O. Bucyrus: son of John O. anal Sylvinia Chadsey Blowers. who settled upon the farm now owned by the subject of this sketch, in the spring of 1822. (These pioneers of liberty have received an extended notice in the township history.) Samuel S. was born April 11, 1825. and is the oldest native male inhabitant of the township, who never lost his residence in Liberty. He attended the schools taught in the Blowers Schoolhouse until about 18 years of age, and then, in 1843; he visited Missouri, where he remained several mouths. When he returned to Crawford Co., he labored at various occupations until April. 1853. He then rented the Blowers farm and, in 1858, having purchased the interests of the other heirs, became sole proprietor of the Homestead. which at the present time comprises 174 acres. Blowers was married April 17, 1853, to Margaretta C. Nave, who died in 1858, leaving two children-Arthur Lloyd Blowers, born .July 5, 1855, and Martha May Blowers, born June 21. 1857. The latter is now the wife of J. N. Tustison. Samuel Blowers was married, Sept. 29, 1859, to Miss Diana Parcher, and they were the parents of the following eight children: Samuel Lincoln, born Aug 25, 18560; Jesse D., born Nov. 3, 1861: Sallie Serena, born March 11, 1863 ; Idelia Vannessa, born Oct. 30, 1864; George William, born Aug. 9, 1867, deceased: Isa Birdella, born May 14, 1870: Mary, born March 4, 1873, and Clara, born July 22, 1875. deceased. Aug, 9. 1862, Mr. Blowers enlisted as a private in the com- LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 911 pany raised by Capt. Wm. Parsons. Several days afterward, Judge Josiah Plants, a member at that time of the Military Board for Crawford Co., expostulated with Blowers for having enlisted as a private, stating that, if he had known Blowers desired to enter the service, he would have secured for him a commission. Blowers replied that he had enlisted from a sense of duty and wished his children to feel in after years that their father had entered the service from patriotism and not for the sake of obtaining a commission. But they refused to permit him to serve as a private very long, and he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant on Feb. 26, 1863, and assigned to the 101st O. V. I. on March 20, 1863. which regiment was a portion of the Army of the Cumberland. The exposure and hardships of an active military life resulted in inflicting upon him several serious ailments he was ordered into the hospital, but his health did not improve, and, as the disease appeared chronic he was finally released from duty Jan. 9, 1864, and returned home, having been reduced in weight from 163 to 95 pounds during the term of his military service. During the past twenty years. Mr. Blowers has held many positions of honor and trust in Liberty Township. DEXTER BACON farmer ; P. O. Bucyrus is the son of Ralph Bacon, the second settler of Liberty Township: born May 6, 1822, and was the first native white child of Liberty. The subject of this sketch was, when about 10 years of age bound by his father to Martin Bacon, an older brother, who received the farm for providing for the family until each member became of age. By the agreement, Dexter was to receive $100, it' he remained with Martin between the ages of 16 and 21. Dexter attended school at the Maxfield and Blowers Schoolhouses, but most of his education was acquired in the later years of his life. When Bacon became of age, his brother paid him the $100, and he started for Wisconsin, traveling on foot nearly the entire distance, carrying the money, some $80 in silver, and $20 in gold. upon his back in a knapsack, and expending only $6.50 during the journey. Bacon purchased 80 acres of land some thirty miles from Milwaukee, and in a short time returned to Crawford Co., where he was married, April 25, 1844, to Miss Rebecca, daughter of Henry Bonebrake. In May, 18441, Bacon again left Crawford Co. for Wisconsin, accompanied by his wife, her father and his family. They removed in wagons, reaching Milwaukee July 3, 1844. Their goods were shipped from Sandusky City to Milwaukee by water. Bacon settled some ten miles from the latter city, in the same county, on a claim of 80 acres belonging to Ralph Bacon. For some mouths, the family suffered many hardships. The subject of this sketch relates: "I had to borrow $20 of Joseph Bonebrake to defray the expenses of moving and when that ran out I had nothing left but my hands. I cut wagon hubs from the timber on my farm, and sold them for one-half cash and one-half trade. With the first money obtained, I purchased my first barrel of flour for $3.38, and never felt better in my life when hauling it home. A tree blew over on my only steer and killed it. I purchased another four year-old steer for $18, and had to borrow money at 12 per cent interest to pay for the animal. It was six months before I made enough to pay this debt." But hard work improved the condition of Bacons finances. He engaged in lumbering for several years, and in four years cleared 40 acres of the farm he occupied, which he finally purchased of his father, trading for it his own farm and $400 in money. Bacon left Wisconsin with his family in the spring of 1850, and after stopping six months near South Bench, Ind., reached Crawford Co., Nov. 12, 1850, and settled on his present farm, which he purchased of his father-in-law, who bought it of John Maxfield. Bacon has resided on this farm during the past thirty years, which at the present time contains 119 ½ acres. At the first, the land was so poor that Bacon could not raise wheat upon it for two years, now it yields twenty-five bushels to the acre. Since 1860, Bacon has paid some attention to raising thoroughbred cattle. His first purchases were of the Durham grades. He has frequently paid several hundred dollars for a single head. He introduced into Crawford Co., in March. 1876, the first Ayrshire cows ever brought to the county, and for several years he has been breeding pure-blooded Berkshire pigs. About 1862, Bacon engaged in the rearing of bees, and is possibly the largest bee-keeper in the county, having, at the present time, eighty-six hives. Most of these are Italian bees. Bacon joined the M. E. Church when about 16 years of age, under the preaching of Rev. Adam Poe, a son of the famous Indian fighter. He was a mem- 912 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. her of this religious denomination until he returned from Wisconsin, when he united with the Christian Advent Church. Bacon was an original stockholder in the First National Bank of Bucyrus, organized in 1863. and never sold his interest. He served as a Director in this corporation for a short time during the year 1879. During the war, he subscribed some $500 at different times to assist in clearing Liberty Township from the draft. The subject of this sketch is the father of the following six children, and five of these reside with their parents: Samantha. born Jan. 21, 1846: Washington, born Jan. 1, 1849 (deceased); Gilbert G., born Jan. 7, 1851; Charles W., born Oct. 4, 1852; Martha Ellen, born Jan. 14, 1857. and Elsie, born Jan. 12, 1866. CHARLES C. COBB. farmer : P. O. Bucyrus was born in this township May 2, 1847: Bucyrus he is the son of Elam and Nancy (Brown) Cobb. He (Charles C.) was married in December. 1877. to Hannah Heckard. who was born in Williams Co.. Ohio. Nov. 27,. 1856. and came to Crawford Co. with her parents in 1877. Her father died in March, 1872, but her mother still survives, although she has been blind for about ten years. Mr. Cobb has a fine farm of 200 acres. which belonged to his father's estate two-thirds of which was left to him. They have one child. Ora E. (See sketch of Asa Cobb's family.) ASA COBB (deceased). was born in New York, and went to Pennsylvania. where his family was partially reared. but subsequently moved to Crawford Co., Ohio. and settled in Liberty Township, in 1823. He raised twelve children to maturity, viz.: Asa. Henry, Eliphalet. Dudley, Elam, Jedediah, John, William, Cyperion, Alfred, Sally and Mary: three of these Eliphalet, Elam and Jedediah-went as sailors on the lakes. The former was drowned many years ago in Lake Erie, when their craft was blown ashore in a severe storm. Elam went on the lakes when a mere youth, and sailed fifteen years, during which time his experience was much varied. He was captain for fully ten years of his sea-faring life and bore the hardships as well as enjoyed the pleasures incident to his calling. Among the perilous incidents which he was compelled to undergo. was that of running through ice in the Straits of Mackinaw, which became too heavy, and forced them to remain, and they were frozen in, and there they had to remain all winter. Jedediah also arose to the position of captain, but finally gave up sailing and removed to Illinois, where he died long since. Elam married Nancy Brown, March 1842, in Huron Co., Ohio: the following season. Mr. Cobb left the lakes and turned his attention to farming, and came to his farm in Liberty Township, and began keeping, house in a small 1og cabin, and prospered well. They reared two children - Premilla and Charles C.; the former is now the wife of Edwin McDonald. Mr. Cobb died here in May 1864, bequeathing the bulk of his property to Charles C. Mrs. Cobb was born in Cleveland. Jan. 27, 1820, and moved with her parents to New York, but she returned to Ohio in 1834, and lived near Norwalk when she was married. Her parents both died in New York. Mrs. Cobb lived here in her widowhood until March 16, 1876, when she was married to Solomon Benson. He (Mr. Benson) was born in .Jefferson Co., N. Y., Jan. 6, 1821: his father, Rufus Benson. and family. came from the State of New York and settled in this county in 1834. They reared a family of twelve children. two of whom survive - Solomon and Oris. The latter resides in Iroquois Co., Ill., with whom their mother lives, in the 80th year of her age Three of the Benson family did good service in the war of the late rebellion: Mason, the youngest one, served three years, and was in the rebel prison at Danville, Va., about eight months. He returned home without a scratch, and, subsequently moved to Missouri, where he met a tragic end, by accidentally shooting himself while handling his gun carelessly. Another brother, Martin, met with a similar fate in Hardin Co., this State: while leaning on the muzzle of his gun, the stock, resting on the joist of a building slipped off the hammer, striking against the timber, discharged the gun with fatal result. Mr. Solomon Benson enlisted October 1862, in the 10th O. V. I. and served until May 1865, when he returned home without the least injury, except having his shoulder dislocated by his horse falling with him. He was first married to Sarah Sell, July, 1845 : they settled in Holmes Township, where they had a farm of 80 acres. They reared seven children to maturity, viz.: Ellen (deceased), Byron, Harriet (wife of John Markley, of Henry Co.), Ruth (wife of Josiah Keplinger), Laura (wife of Frank Markley), Eugene (deceased) and Oscar. In 1875, LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 913 Mr. Benson and his first wife mutually agreed to separate, and to that end were legally divorced. Although Mr. Benson had limited opportunity for procuring an education, he has read considerable. And was gifted with a good memory, which enables him to refer to dates and incidents with almost remarkable precision. E. W. COOPER. farmer P. O. Sulphur Springs; is the only child of Elijah and Elizabeth (Fry) Cooper. and was born in Morrow Co., Ohio. April 10, 1853. His mother was a daughter of .John H. Fry and was a native of this township. His father was born in one of the more eastern counties of this State. He was of English and Irish descent several generations back. His principal business was farming, although he learned and worked some at the tanner's trade when young. In August of 1853, he met with a fatal accident. While hitching up his team on his own premises, they became frightened ran away, dragging him along considerable distance, and he sustained such injury that he expired the same day. At that time. F. W. was a mere baby of a few months old, so the bereaved widow immediately returned with her babe to her father. Where she ever afterward made her home and reared her child. As soon as he could, he began to assist his grandfather on the farm and has applied himself dilgently to farming ever since. From the time he was 16 years of age he farmed the place until he was 21, at which time he rented the farm and when he began farming on his own account, he gave immediate and due attention to the improvement of his stock, which is so frequently overlooked by the beginner, but which is no inconsiderable adjunct to success, when judiciously, and not extravagantly, attended to. He has a herd of nine short-horn cattle of an excellent breed, which compare favorably with any of their class in the county, which is fully attested by the fact that two of theirs took first prizes and two second prizes at the late Crawford County Fair. Subsequent to his grandfather's death (June 1877). He purchased the farm - the old "Fry homestead" of 160 acres which is well improved, and one of the best-watered in the township. He owns also 80 acres which belonged to his mother, his farm now consisting of 240 acres. He united his fortunes with Norah V. Urich on Dec. 5, 1878. She was born in Richland Co., this State. April 15, 1858, and came to Crawford Co. with her parents in the spring of 1866. They have one child-Ralph E.and are members of the Lutheran Church. JOHN CHARLTON (deceased): was a native of Maryland. and came to Columbiana Co., Ohio. with his parents when he was young There he married Elizabeth Hoops who had come from PennsyIvania with her parents. Mr. Charlton worked at whatever odd jobs he could obtain for several years after he was married and then concluded to move to this county on 80 acres of Government land which his father had entered and which he proposed to give to .John. Accordingly he, wife and two children started with an ox team in the spring of 1829, and came to Liberty Township, They had hard times to get along, as Mr. Charlton had only 25 cents left when he got here, and provisions hard to get even for money. And the only source of revenue open to them was to make potash of the wool ashes and take it with their ox team to Mansfield or Sandusky City. When they had some corn, it was hard work to get it prepared. as mills were at a great distance then and their product was poor. He has waited his turn at one of those horse-power mills two days and a night at a time, to have two or three bushels of corn ground. They would raise some flax and while he was doing the farm work, his wife would manufacture the flax and cloth and sell it to get what little groceries they needed besides making whatever the family wore. They had ten children: seven of whom grew to maturity- L. W., Thomas, .John F., Calvin, Sarah, Oliver and Ellis. Mr. Charlton died in advanced years, June 1853. and his wife laid down her well-finished task on earth in June. 1866. L. W. worked at farming until about 23 years old, then learned the carpenter's trade which he followed about fifteen years. He was twice married first to Rebecca Hocker: she died, leaving four children. three of whom are living - Jonas, Susanna and Eliza A. His second marriage was with Sarah Nirkler, by whom there are six children, viz.. Alice M., Charles, David M., Rebecca., .John W. and Minnie .J. Oliver was in the army; was shot through the right heel, necessitating amputation of the foot from the effects of which he died. Thomas. Calvin and Eli are in Michigan. .John E., was born after his parents came Dec. 18, 1830. His youth was spent on 911 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: the farm; he had poor opportunities for getting an education, consequently it is limited. In July, 1852, he took a stock-horse and started to Iowa, remaining there until late in the fall, when he crossed into Illinois and there put up for the winter with a farmer in Rock Island Co., working for his own and his horse's board. but before the winter was over he changed his place, and then got $9 per month and his horse kept. In the spring, he sold the animal and worked for the purchaser of his horse that summer, and. with what he had earned and the price of his horse, he put back into Iowa and entered 160 acres in Warren Co. He then coneluded to return to Ohio, having secured a good piece of land, all prairie, but the thought struck him that it was not complete without a piece of timber, so he bargained for ten acres of timber-land and went to work to paying for it, and in three years he had it all paid and $80 left, and then concluded to visit his folks in Ohio. Soon after he got here his mother and younger brother (Calvin) sustained serious injury by a runaway team, and they being hurt. insisted that he (John E.), should stay with them one year and help them with the farm, to which he assented. Having an undivided share in the homestead for which he could find no purchaser, he concluded to buy out some of the heirs himself and stay here and make this his home, he purchased two shares for $400 each, and some time later two more shares at $2,200 for the two, and afterward two other shares for the sum of $2,400. He now owns a good farm here of 120 acres with good buildings. His Iowa property he paid no attention to for some years, further than paying the taxes, etc., and his clothes and little effects which he had at the place he boarded lay there for years. In 1867, he sold his Iowa farm for $2,000. which cost him about $350. He was united in marriage with Laura E. Lones (daughter of Joseph Lones, of Holmes Township); she was born June 11, 1834, in this county. They have three children-Ellen J., Joseph and Wilber J. Mr. Charlton can look back with pleasure to the time when he set out to Iowa with almost nothing, and feel that his industry and care has been well rewarded with a bountiful supply of this world's goods He and his wife are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. AMOS B. CHARLTON. farmer and stockdealer, was born in this township Sept. 7, 1835. He is the third child of Michael and Anna (Mason) Charlton. Michael Charlton was born in Hagerstown, Md., March 5, 1808; his parents were Thomas and Elizabeth (Menser) Charlton. who, with ten children, moved from Maryland to Columbiana Co., Ohio, in 1822. Of those children now living in this state, are Michael, Henry, Joseph, Daniel, Sarah, Nancy and Elizabeth: Mary, .John and Thomas are dead but all lived to mature years Michael got 80 acres from his father in 1829 which he (the father) had entered some time prior to 1829, and which is the same 80 acre where Mr. Charlton has lived ever since. He worked one summer., then returned to his fathers, and married Anna Mason, who was born there in 1810. The year after they were married, they came out here and made a permanent residence. They reared eight children -Mary, Charles, Amos B., Elizabeth, Jonas, Marcissa, Ann and Alexander. Charles enlisted in 1861. in the O. V. I.. and served about four months, when he was taken ill with typhoid fever, and died at Grafton, Va. His remains were brought home and interred in the family burying place When Amos B. was about 21 years of age, he went three terms to the primary department in Oberlin College. Aug. 12, 1861, he enlisted iii the Union army; was mustered into service as Second Lieutenant in Co. C. 49th O. V. I. and was in the Army of the Cumberland under Gen. Buell and when he had served about eight months, he was stricken down with typhoid fever and lay in a hospital at Louisville, Ky., for several weeks, then reported for duty. rejoined the regiment and immediately took a relapse, and, therefore, was obliged to resign. He returned to his father and as soon as he regained his health, he turned his attention to farming and stock dealing. In the spring of 1863; be came to his farm, on which his brother-in-law, J. H Wert. was living, and made his home with him, April 9, 1869, he was united in marriage with M. E. Hoppel. They have four children; viz Virgil H., Ary B., Michael Z. and Annie. He owns 171 1/2 acres of good land, and much of his time at present is occupied in the stock trade. He is a member of the Knights of Honor. Liberty Lodge. No. 845. Mrs. Charlton was born in Northampton Co., Penn., Oct. 23, 1849, and came here with her parents when quite young. LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 915 JOHN CRALL (deceased) ; born in Dauphin Co., Penn. Dec. 18, 1809; he was the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Henshew) Crall, who were natives of Pennsylvania. When young, Mr. Crall worked at the millwright trade, until he was married. which event occurred April 16, 1835, with Elizabeth Raysor, daughter of John and Susanna (Fackler) Raysor. Mrs. Crall was born Feb. 10, 1817, in the same county as her husband. After their marriage they lived with his father's family one year, when they moved to the farm of her father: where they remained, nine years: he gave them money to purchase the farm of Mr. Crall's parents, who were about to sell and move to the West. The Crall family moved to Ohio and settled in this county, and the flattering account; sent back by them of this country induced, John Crall to move here: accordingly, he, with wife and five children. left Harrisburg in a two-horse wagon in April, and arrived in Crawford County in June 1852: they purchased the Samuel Poster place. where their son Elias lives. They were parents of twelve children, three of whom died in Pennsylvania in childhood, and two died in childhood after they came here. Those living are John, who resides at Milan; Elizabeth, now Mrs. E. M. Moore: William, Elias Oliver and Susie reside with their mother. David enlisted, in August 1861, in Company C. 101st O. V. I. and served through the war until captured by the rebels at the battle of Chickamauga, and sent to Danville Prison, where he died May 24, 1864, this terminating his sufferings in the rebel prison, which he had withstood from the preceding September. Mr. John Crall was called from his earthly scenes Nov. 25, 1879. He and Mrs. Crall had been members of the United Brethren Church since shortly after their marriage: her father, John Raysor, was a minister of that persuasion. ELIAS CRALL. farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: is the son of John and Elizabeth (Raysor) Crall he was born Oct. 9, 1850, in Dauphin Co., Penn., and is one of the five children who came here with his parents in 1852; his early life was spent on the farm and attending school. In 1870, he began his studies at Oberlin College but ere two months had elapsed he was taken down sick, and had to retire from the college. The following year he resumed his studies at Republic, but, as at Oberlin he was compelled to give up on account of failing health. In 1872, he began teaching school in Sandusky Township, this county, and taught three winter terms. The second term was a school at State Line, and the third was in his own district. On Sept.24, 1874, he united his fortunes with Lovina daughter of Geo. A. and Catharine (Cover) Spahr, who came from Columbia Co., Penn., and settled in this county upward of forty years ago. Mrs. Crall was born in this county, Nov. 8, 1852. They have one child, Eva L. born Oct. 14, 1877 ; they reside where Mr. Crall's parents bought; and settled. when they came here in 1852. They own 75 acres of well-improved land, and reside in the substantial brick residence which was built on the premises over 44 years ago. HENRY C. COOPER. farmer: P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Coshocton Co., Ohio,. July 4, 1817. His father Noah and his mother Martha (Carpenter) Cooper, were both natives of Pennsylvania, where they lived to man and woman's estate: were married there and subsequently moved to Ohio, and settled in Coshocton being , among the early pioneers of that county. They were the parents of several children, but all died in early childhood. except Henry C. and one sister who lived to maturity. When these children were quite young (Henry C., about 2 years old) their father died and being but a few years in the new settlement, the widow and orphans were as yet but poorly provided for. But in the lapse of time, Mrs. Cooper married one .John Robinson who was himself a widower with a family: and in due time two children were born to' this union. Mr. Robinson having conceived the idea that it would be to the advantage of all to push further West into the sparsely settled frontier, where more and better agricultural land could be easily secured. Accordingly they disposed of their effects in Coshocton County, and set out for Crawford County: and arrived here in the year 1827. They located where Chatfield now stands : and there Mr, Robinson purchased. of second hands. 300 acres. Here they were getting along nicely, everything seeming to prosper and the family enjoyed their new home without many neighbors for several years: when that grim monster, death, assailed the family once more ; this time taking from their circle the fond wife and mother. At this time our subject (Henry C. Cooper) was only about 17 years old: and 916 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: he then began to work out by the month. He made his home with one Luke Dorland, in Liberty Township, and with hint lie hired at S' per month for some time : and while he workee at Btu places in the vicinty, he made a tempo nary home at Dorland's s for about four years occasionally working for him also when he required his services. In the course of time Mr. Dorland became tired of his location and proposed to sell out: Mr. Cooper, being industrious and of a very economical turn, had saved his earnings closely, and with what funds he could raise, purchased the "Dorland" farm in 1839. Being yet single, he preferred to rent the farm rather than endeavor to carry on the business: without a housekeeper, so he rented it to different parties for two years, and at the expira tion of that time, rented it to James Robinson - son of his step-father, by his first wife, and who was then married to Mr. Cooper's sister with his brother-in-law he lived and worked six years. In the meantime, .John Robinson his step-father had sold out, and moved to the State of Missouri. Mr. Cooper was united it marriage with Margaret Davidson on Jan. 28, 1847. She was born in Knox County, Ohio, March 20, 1828, and came here with her parents, who settled in Chatfield Township in 1830. Her fathers name was Richard. and her mother Rebecca (Hill) Davidson, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Cooper have five Children living - Aquilla now Mrs. Gerrard Teel: Martha A., Mary J., .John H. and Ida B. Josephine is dead. He owns 79 acres of good land where he first purchased, which is the farm where he was hired to work for $7 per month when about 17 years age. He has held the office of Constable for several years in this township SIMON CRALL. farmer ; P. O. Sulphur Springs ; was born June 2, 1808, in Dauphin Co., Penn. He is the eldest of six children and had little opportunity of going to school, as it would have to work on the farm, and go to school alternate weeks with his brothers, for few- months only in the winter season, for they were all kept steadily at work through the summer, as soon as they were able to do anything. In February, 1830, he married Elizabeth Becker and lived on his father's place one year after he was married. He then moved to his father-in-law's place, where they lived one year, after which they rented a farm in that vicinity, on which they lived eleven years. In 1845, they sold out in Pennsylvania, and started with a four-horse team, besides a carriage for the wife and five children, for Ohio. They located in Richland Co. near Shelby but stated there only about a year, when they moved again, and that time settled in Liberty Township. Crawford Co. Here he purchased 120 acres of land, and set about improving it. Since then he has purchased at various times, until he owned 590 acres: but has since sold and given his children, in value, to the amount of $20,000. Mrs. Crall was born in the same county as her husband and, after many years of useful toil, the fond mother was taken from her family by death, Aug, 16, 1855, leaving six of her nine children - Jacob, Elizabeth (deceased), Henry (deceased), Annie, Samuel, Mary A., John, Emos and David. Mr. Crall married a second wife, Elizabeth McGinnis, in May, 1858, and sustained the loss of his second partner, April 11,. 1875. His third marriage was celebrated with Fannie Kider, widow of the late John Ostander. His family were all the children of his first wife. Jacob is living in Berrien Co., Mich.: Annie was married to Daniel Keller and in 1860, when about fourteen months married, she died of that terrible disease. mill:-sickness, which was then prevailing in some section; of this county Samuel enlisted in 1862, and served three years in the, late rebellion. He was once taken prisoner, and spent several months in Libby Prison thence brought to Annapolis, Md., where he was released, and got leave to come home. He and two others started from there on foot, and walked to his father's, in this township, in about three weeks. He now resides in Eaton Co., Mich. Mary A. is now Mrs. Ebenezer Istone, of Knox Co., Tenn.; John lives in Wyandot Co., this State, Emos had been residing in Michigan, but is now in Shelby, this State. David is the only one of the family residing here. He has a good farm, principally given him by his father. He was born in this county Feb. 23, 1848, and spent his youth like the generality of young men who are reared to farming. In 1870, he went to Seneca Co., to work a farm of his father's. There he fortunately former the acquaintance of Fannie Snyder, who on Oct 24, 1872, became his bride. They remained there one year afterward. He then with his wife, returned to Crawford Co., and rented the farm where he now lives ; and LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 917 shortly afterward, with his father's assistance, he purchased it. Mrs. David Crall was born in Seneca Co., in November, 1852. They have three children-Nine M., Elizabeth M. and Eltie J. Mr. and Mrs. Crall are members of the United Brethren Church, and Mr. Simon Crall has been a member of the same church for over thirty-nine years. He is one of the most robust, quick of foot and healthy men to be found, considering his advanced age and weight which is upward of 200 pounds, although he is of low stature. DR. M. M. CARROTHERS, physician. Sulphur Springs; was born in Vernon Township; this county, Feb. 8, 1845; is the youngest of eight children, and, like most young men who are brought up to farm-life, his time was occupied between the duties of the farm and attending school: but he showed a decided taste for the latter, and a desire for general knowledge, which has been duly gratified. In May, 1864, he enlisted in the l63d O. V. I. and served until the following September, that time being the expiration of his term of enlistment. He then returned home, and in the following November he began teaching school, and taught five winters, living at his father's, and helping on the farm in the summer months. When about 23 years of age he began the study of medicine with Dr. A. E. Jenner, of Crestline he studied there three years, including two term of lectures-first at the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati: second term of lectures was at the University of Wooster, in Cleveland where he graduated in February 1872. That same spring, he came to this village and began the practice of his profession and was favored with a patronage beyond the most sanguine expectations: his medical skill is daily growing in favor. He is a young man quiet and unassuming and not given to any display, but understands thoroughly his profession, as his success attests. He owns a valuable property in the village, and the only two-story brick residence there at this writing and is otherwise well prepared. financially to enjoy life. On July, 1872, he united his fortunes with Mary Wert ; she was born in Sandusky Township, this county .Jan. 7, 1846. They have three children Carrie M., Eva E. and John R. NATHAN COOPER, farmer : P. O. Bucyrus: was born in this county, near Galion April 4, 1831. He worked on his father's farm until he was married, which event occurred Feb. 28, 1856, with Catharine Crider; they have five children--Mary L., Eliza A., Laura B., Daniel and Sarah E. Mrs. Cooper was born Aug. 14, 1831, in Pennsylvania, and came to this county with her parents when about 6 years old. Mr. Cooper rented farms for a number of years after he was married, and, on Oct. 25, 1865, they moved to the farm of 100 acres, which they own; is well improved, and is supplied with the best of water privileges, as it is situated on the Sandusky River. It is one of the first settled farms of Crawford Co., and was entered by one Daniel McMichael who improved and built a mill, and planted some apple trees, one of which stands on the south side of the river, and its trunk is, by actual measurement, nine feet eight inches in circumference four and a half or five feet from the ground. It is bearing well a good grade of ungrafted fruit. The father of our subject (Edward Cooper) was born in Harrison Co., Ohio. March 22, 1810; his father's name was George Cooper, and his mother's maiden name Mary Wood, both natives of Pennsylvania ; the latter came to Belmont Co. with her parents when young ; she was in the block-house at Wellsville at the time of the, infamous massacre of the Riley family by the Indians in that vicinity, in 1812. Edward Coopers father died. leaving a widow and six small children: she married one Disbury Johnson, who was himself a widower with all equal number of children, as his second wife: by this union six other children were born in all, eighteen children in one family. Thus came the above-mentioned family to this vicinity. The said Johnson, with the six Cooper and eleven of his own children (his eldest daughter having married. did not come), set out for Crawford Co. with a four-horse team, driving some cattle and hogs; and, of all the herd, an old sow was complimented as being the best leader through the woods, consequently, she was assigned the duty of carrying the bell. They arrived where Galion is now located on Oct. 15, 1821. Johnson died at Gabon, some tune ago, in his 104th year. Edward Cooper worked on the farm until he had attained his majority. He has been married three times first. to Eliza Burwell, June 8, 1828: they had eight children-Sally A., Nathan, Margaret, Louisa, John, William, Artemon and Mary. He is quite a genius, as he is competent to make a 918 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: bucket, boot, barrel, or frame a building: and many of the pioneer youth are indebted to his musical talent for their early training. Dec. 13, 1865, his first wife died: he then married the widow of J. H. Smalley. whose maiden name was Mary Walter; by her he had three, children - Franklin, Eddie and Mary; second wife died Nov. 11, 1874. His third wife was Catharine Bresler: there are no children by this union. JOHN ESSIG. deceased. Mr. Essig was born in Wurtemberg. Germany, February 14, 1798, and while yet young resolved to try his fortune in the United States. Accordingly he left his native place and arrived at Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1817. Here he settled and worked at his trade, dyeing. which art he had learned in the old country, and at which he seemed to prosper in Hagerstown. But, still restless and desiring to procure some land, he and his young wife-who were made one in Maryland - set out for the Wes, and arrived in this county in 1832. They entered eighty acres on the Sandusky River and purchased eighty acres more adjoining. They had scarcely begun to feel themselves in their own home in the new country when death ruthlessly snatched from his side the loving young wife. He married a second wife some years after the death of the first; she was Mary E . Gerhard, who was born in Germany, and carne to this country in 1839. By this union there were born six children; three of whom lived to maturity. viz.: Carolina. who died in March. 1873; Louisa, who was married to Phillip Haer (she died March, 1872, leaving one child) and Mary E.. now Mrs. C. L. Meinzer, who resides on the old homestead. Her husband. C. L. Meinzer, was born in Baden. Germany, Feb. 17, 1846, and came to the United States in the fall of 1867. He located in Cleveland, where he worked at his trade of blacksmithing for several months, thence to Upper Sandusky, and went into the country, where he worked about four months: he then returned to town (Upper Sandusky) and worked at his trade for some time, and in 1871 came to Bucyrus and worked there three months at his trade : thence to West Liberty, where he worked until 1873. On Dec. 26, 1872, he married Mary E. Essig. He then went to Crestline, where he pursued his trade nine months. At the expiration of that time he moved to his father-in-law's place, where he has been farming ever since. Mrs. Meinzer was born on the place where they live Feb. 12, 1850. They have five children living, viz., Rosey A., .John C. L., Louisa, August H. and a babe. Mr. Essig owned at his decease, 274 3/4 acres, besides valuable property in Galion, which is owned by Mrs. Meinzer and her sister heir-Haer. J. H. FRY. deceased: was Born in the Canton of Zurich in Switzerland, Nov. 14, 1791. His passport to this country bears date March 11, 1817: he landed at New York, and went thence to Chambersburg, Penn., where he resided several years, when he resolved to come to the West, and in 1824 he came to Crawford Co., entering 160 acres of Government land, west of where the village of Annapolis is located. In January 1827, he married Catharine daughter of Thomas Williamson, and in 1833 they sold out, but purchased 160 acres about half a mile north of where the village is located, of one Matthias Markley: this location Mr. Fry made his home until he was called hence by the messenger of death. They were quite prosperous in their farming pursuits, and were also blessed with a family of ten children - Henry, Elizabeth, Catharine. Thomas, Alfred, Hannah, John, Sarah, Joshua and Francis, all of whom are living except Elizabeth. Mrs. Fry was born in Schuylkill Co., Penn., October 1809, and came to Crawford Co., Ohio, with her father's family, in 1826: they located on the Broken Sword. in Liberty Township, but in 1829 they moved to Ft. Joseph Co., Mich., with seven of their children, four sons and three daughters. There Mrs. Fry's mother, Mrs. Williamson, died, and, after the death of his wife. Thomas Williamson went, with others, to California, and died in San Francisco in 1846. While they resided here, their daughter Polly was married to .Jacob Whetstone: she and Mrs. Fry being the only members of the Williamson family to remain here. For years Mr. Fry had been a member of the Lutheran Church, and on March 11, 1875, he received the summons to enter into the full enjoyment of a higher and better life. His widow still survives, and although her 72d year is rapidly approaching, she is as quick both mentally and physically, and as ambitious as many who have scarcely passed eighteen summers. Her memory is replete with incidents of pioneer life. when this district was almost an unbroken forest, and when neighbors, though LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 919 far apart as to location were as one in feeling and sociability. ALFRED FRY merchant and Postmaster. Sulphur Springs: was born near Sulphur Springs, this county. Feb. 7, 1835. He is the son of J. H. and Catharine (Williamson) Fry, whose sketch is in this work. Being among the pioneer settlers, his school advantages were very limited for those in the country who were earnestly endeavoring to carve out a habitation in the words. Mr. Fry got but the ordinary course in the common schools: but, being naturally apt to learn, he made more of his opportunities than most boys do. He spent the summers of 1856 and 1857 in the Primary Department of Oberlin College. Although he returned to work on the farm he improved his leisure moments until in the end he acquired a practical business education. He enlisted in the war of the rebellion in May, 1861, in Co. C. 8th O. V. I. At the battle of Winchester, Va., March 22, 1862, he received a serious wound; an ounce ball entered the side of his right thigh, immediately below the hip-joint, passing through both thighs and lodging near the outer surface of the left thigh. As a souvenir from the confederacy, he has carefully laid the missile aside. He lay in the hospital at Winchester seven weeks, and then got a furlough, but had been home only a few days when inflammatory rheumatism set in. When convalescent he, joined the regiment, in September of the same year, at Alexandria and served until November when he was discharged on account of physical disability, which was brought on by the severity of his wound. He came hack to his father's, and took a tour of several month; through the Western States. When he arrived again at home, he accepted a clerkship with Jay & Biddle. of Sulphur Springs, which lasted one year. With a view of improving his commercial education, he entered college at Pittsburgh, Penn., attending the winter terms of 1864 and 1865, and the following spring he built a business room at Sulphur Springs and put in a stock of general merchandise, and opened in trade on his own responsibility in October 1866, where he has been ever since, with several changes in the firm. John Guiss Jr., bought an interest in April 1867, with Mr. Fry, which partnership continued until 1876, when Guiss sold out to C. A. Keller. with whom be conducted business one year, under the firm name of Fry & Keller; subsequently, he sold out his interest in the stock to Isaac Klopfenstein, and still retained the building, which is equivalent to one-third interest in the business, the firm name being Klopfenstein & Co. Mr. Fry received the appointment of Postmaster in 1869, which position he has held ever since. In 1872, he was elected Township Treasurer. He was united in marriage with Laura C., daughter of Thomas and Marie Gillespie, Sept. 16, 1874. They have two children Edgar and a babe. Mrs. Fry was born in Bucyrus Oct. 8, 1843. Her father, Thomas Gillespie, came here from Pennsylvania. He was twice married: his first wife died in Bucyrus in 1845, leaving, two children Laura C. and Charles. He afterward moved to Paulding Co., but finally returned to Sulphur Springs, and died at the residence of Mr. Alfred Fry, July 31, 1880. JOHN H. FRY. hardware merchant, Sulphur Springs ;was born Dec. 28, 1839, in Chatfield Township, Crawford Co. His father, John Fry, was born in Switzerland Dec. 17, 1799, and emigrated to the United States in 1834. He came direct to Ohio, and worked four years for his brother. J. H., in this county, who had been here several years previous, county, 1838, he married Rachel Helm, who was a native of Somerset Co., Penn., and came to Liberty Township with her father's family about the rear 1825. They reared three children - John H., Susanna (now Mrs. John Guiss), and Lorene (who married William Guiss and who are both deceased), John H., being, the eldest and only boy in the family, was compelled to apply himself steadily to the farm. and therefore had little time to devote to educational exercises, and having but poor schools, at best, in the vicinity where he was reared, made it so much the worse. The bulk of his schooling was one term, which he attended in Liberty Township with one Williams, whose reputation as a teacher was good. He then resumed work on the farm the following spring, and continued until he was 28 years of age when on Nov. 1, 1876, he united his fortunes with Julia Warner, who was born in Vernon Township, this county, June 15, 1844. They have four children living - Rilie R., Daisy D., Cora and Elve A.: and one deceased-Willie J. He continued to work on his father's farm for about one year after they were married, and, in 1868, he purchased a half interest in 920 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: the hardware store of Henry Fry, in this village. For about five years they did business together under the firm name of H. Fry &: Co., when, in 1873, the subject of this sketch bought the remaining half interest of H. Fry, and, since then, has been doing a very prosperous business in his own name. He carries a very good and large assortment, of everything in his line, both shelf and heavy hardware, such as is seldom equaled in much larger towns - a minimum estimate of which would no doubt be about $4,000 in value. His well-deserved patronage is daily increasing, as he has in his line all that is required in any farming community, and his patrons show their appreciation of honorable dealing by increased patronage and confidence. FRANCIS FRY, farmer; P. O. Sulphur Springs ; is the youngest of the family of John H. and Catharine (Williamson) Fry, and was born near the village of Annapolis, May 13, 18418, he remained at home until nearly 22 years old, and received a good common-school education. He united his fortunes with those of Jennie, daughter of Lewis Perse, on Oct. 27, 1869. She was born in this township April 26, 1847. When she was quite young. her mother died, and she was reared by Charles Perse, her fathers brother. They have five children Charlie F., Myrtie C., Maudie O., Laura J. and Katie. Mr. Fry owns 80 acres of well-improved land in a beautiful location to which he moved in November 1870. They are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Fry is a member of the Knights of Honor. Liberty Lodge. No. 845. GEORGE FACKLER. farmer: P. O. Bucyrus; was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., April 11, 1835. His early life was spent on the farm, but after he was of age he traveled around considerably, and. in 1868, located in Erie Co., Ohio, where he resided for several years. He married Hannah Bever, in 1869. She was born in Crawford Co. May 4, 1845. They have two children-J. Melton and Ervin. Mr. Fackler owns 40 acres of good land to which they moved in 1872. He enlisted in the Regulars during the late rebellion, but served a short time. Mrs. Fackler's father was a native of Virginia, and her mother of Pennsylvania and they were among the early settlers of this county. REUBEN FLOHR (deceased). was born in Frederick Co., Md., May 18, 1813. His father Leonard. and mother, Rachel (Smith) Flohr, were natives of Pennsylvania, but moved with their family of seven children to Frederick Co., Md., and during their residence there which was only about a year, their eighth child, Reuben was born. The family all returned to Pennsylvania again and located in Adams Co. Where our subject spent the early part of his youth. When about 15 year, of age, he began to learn the milling business in Franklin Co., and after serving his apprenticeship he spent several years there at his trade. He moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio and settled in Stark Co. in 1837, where he found ready employment at his profession. On May 9, 1839, he united his fortunes with those of Catharine Correll: and, in September l842, they moved to Crawford Co. and located on and purchased 72 acres of the farm where Mrs. Flohr resides: afterward purchased 25 acres more, makings in all 9 7 acres of well improved land, with good buildings, where Mr. Flohr is passing her advanced years in the enjoyment of all the temporal blessings needful. She was born in Adams Co., Penn., Aug 20, 1818: her father, John, and her mother, Elizabeth (Linne) Correll, were both natives of Maryland, and were married there, but subsequently moved to Pennsylvania and thence to Stark Co., Ohio in 1834. Mrs. Flohr was the fourth in a family of twelve children, and is herself the mother of eleven, seven of whom are living, viz.., Malinda, Oliver, Aaron, Carolina, Madison, Jefferson and Franklin: three. died in late childhood, .John and Oliver enlisted in the late rebellion on Aug. 19, 1862, in Co. C. 101st O. V. I. They passed along safely until the 20th of September, 1863, the second day of the conflict at Chickamauga, where, it is believed, John fill, like so many of his noble comrades as that was the last ever seen of him while participating in that fatal engagement. And although no sculptors art decorates or even marks tile individual spot where his dust may rest, to the bereft there stands a nobler and more lasting monument: that is, the knowledge of the fact that his blood constituted part of the sea, which was seemingly accessory to removed from this nations history of its darkest pages - slavery. Oliver served until the close of the war, and was honorably discharged June, 1865, and returned home without receiving a scratch Malinda is now the widow of the late William Kessler, of De Kalb Co., Ind.; Oliver and Aaron are both living in Sandusky Township, this LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 921 county; Carolina is now Mrs. George P. Howell; Madison, Jefferson and Franklin make their home with their mother. Mr. Flohr was called from scenes temporal April 1, 1878. ABRAHAM GROGG. farmer : P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Dauphin Co., Penn Oct. 9, 1809. His father, Solomon and mother. Mary (Snyder) Grogg, were both natives of the "Keystone State." They reared eight children. viz., John, Abraham, Solomon, Jacob, George, Daniel, Peter and Catharine. While in Pennsylvania they were farmers and intent on securing land of their own, the parents, with their twos eldest children. John and Abraham, moved to Ohio, and settled about three miles, northeast of Canton, Stark Co., as early as 1810. They were in limited circumstances, and the older children had to do for themselves when they grew up to maturity. The family being large and school privileges very poor, the older ones had but little time or opportunity for improvement in that direction. Abraham the second of the children, remained at home, and worked steadily on the farm until he attained his majority. He was married to Ann Bower in November, 1833. She was born in Stark Co., this State, Nov. 9, 1815. For two years afterward, he worked at whatever odd jobs he could get, and thereby saved a little money, and moved to Crawford Co. in February 1836, and bought 30 acres, where he now resides. At the same time, he owned 120 acres of Government lands in Chatfield Township. It was no trifling task to clear up a farm, and. when cleared of the heavy timber, he had no implements to till the soil with. Yet, he never failed to produce a very good substitute for every want of the farm or household - from a plow to a pair of boots or shoes. For many years in the early settlement of the country, his mechanical skill added materially to the comfort of himself and family when they would have been unable to pay for the services of a mechanic and frequently, suck service could not he secured at any price within reasonable distance. He has succeeded in the accumulation of property, and has a valuable as well as beautiful homestead of 154 acres, besides having given to each of his children a good start; one tract of 160 acres, in Sandusky Township: one of 98 acres, and another of 80 acres, in this township. He has divided among his children, in lands and money to the amount of $20,000 or upward. They have had eleven children, five of whom are living, viz.. Daniel, Amos, Sarah. now Mrs. George Ambrosier; Frances, now Mrs. D. O. Crum. and Jemima, now Mrs. Samuel Sturtz. who farms Mr. Grogg's homestead, and receives for his share half the entire product. He was born in Fayette Co., Penn., Nov. 15, 1850, and came here with his father's family in March 1869. His mother died when he was about 9 years old, leaving five children. viz.. Joseph, Susan, Samuel, Lizzie and Freeman. His father. Solomon Sturtz, married a second wife, and, by that union, there are three children-two girls and a boy-Samuel, who was married to Jemima Grogg. They have two children-Carrie M. and Phinney. Mr. Grogg has been a member of the United Brethren Church, for over thirty - seven years. His wife is also a member of the same church. JACOB D. HELLER, farmer ; P. O. Sulphur Spring: was born in Dauphin Co., Penn.. Nov. 28, 1801. His father, John Heller, was married three times: his first wife being Susanna Bordner. They were both natives of Pennsylvania, and had only two children - Jacob D. and John, who is now in Ogle Co., Ill. Mrs. Heller died when her two boys were quite young. Mr. Heller, second wife had two children-Rebecca and Sarah, and she also died when her children were, quite young Mr. Heller married a third wife, by whom there was one child, Thomas, who died in Pennsylvania. Jacob D. was the oldest one of the family, and was only about eight years old when his mother was taken away by death; he lived with his father until about 24 years of age, when he married Margaret Daniel in March 1825: she was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., in February, 1805. Shortly after they were married, they rented a farm in Pennsylvania, and rented various places for a period of twelve years ; when they concluded to go to some less populous settlement in the West, where their rapidly increasing family would have better facilities for making homes for themselves, and where he could as well secure a home for all. With this resolution in view, they set out, and arrived in Crawford Co., Ohio, in May 1836. They came through with a two-horse team. the family consisting of parents anal nine children when they carne here, which, in due season, was increased by four more. Mr. Heller chose the location where he resides to this day; there, he purchased 77 acres, and of that there had been 10 acres par- 922 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: tially cleared when he bought it. Himself and sons went to work clearing, but never added much in acres, to the first purchase, although they made a comfortable home by improving what they did have. They had thirteen children-Isaac, Amanda (deceased), John (now in Williams Co.), Elizabeth (deceased), Sarah (deceased), Josiah (now in Iowa), Edward (in Defiance Co.), Jacob (in Iowa), William (in Paulding Co.), Poll (in Bucyrus), Andrew (deceased), Catharine A. (in Williams Co.), and Lewis. who resides with his father, and farmed the place: he was married to Nancy Rock, April 5, 1878. She was born in this township and has borne him two children- Albert and Edna. Three sons of Mr. Heller participated in the late rebellion : Jacob enlisted in Company C. 490 O. V. I. and served over three years; Edward enlisted from Defiance County, where he was then living; William enlisted from Nevada, Wyandot Co., where he was residing at that tune. JOHN HETRICK carpenter. Sulphur Springs : was born in Pennsylvania Feb. 28, 1841. His father, Michael and mother Polly Hecdard, were both natives of Pennsylvania. They reared five boys and two girls, viz., John, Michael, Jacob, George, Phillip, Elizabeth and Mary. They, all moved here in 1853, and settled near Leesville, where they bought a small farm and lived there about three years, when they moved to Van Wert, and thence to Cardington, Morrow Co. John was the eldest one of the family, and learned the carpenters trade with his father by the time he was 15 Years old. He then hired out by the month with another carpenter, worked two years, and afterward began business for himself, and has worked at the trade ever since, he also learned the cooper's trade, and opened a shop in the village of Sulphur Springs, where he does considerable business in the fall; and, although his business is not so extensive that he has to employ labor, yet he certainly enjoys the reputation of doing good, substantial work. He was married on Nov. 7, 1861, to Augusta Baldassar: she was born in Ohio, Jul 24, 1845. Thev have five children living, viz.. William, Jacob, Mary J., Franklin and John. CHARLES HEIBERTSHAUSEN. boots and shoes, Sulphur Springs: was born Dec. 6, 1835, in Hesse - Darmstadt, Germany: when about 19 years of age, he resolved to try his fortune in the United States. He left his native land Aug. 12, 1854, and landed in New York Oct. 24 of the same year on his arrival, he went to Paterson, N..J., where he obtained employment at his trade, but only worked a few days, when he set out for Pittsburgh, Penn. He got employment there, and remained six months, when he conceived the idea that he could do better further west, and, starting for Ohio, he came to Bucyrus in 1855, and being unable to get work at his trade, took the first job which offered, that being on the P. Ft. W. & C. R. R. for one month he then hired on a brick-yard, and worked there two months: at the expiration of that time, he got employment at his trade with one Reick, and stayed there about nine months. He then came to this village and began work for Conrad Baltser, in April, 1856, and worked for him until the following February, when he opened a shop on his own account and pushed his business steadily. He has made as many as nine or ten pairs of boot; per week, and has frequently made six pairs of shoes and six pairs of boots in one week. Anxious to supply and accommodate his growing patronage, he has worked many nights to fill orders which were crowding in upon him. In this, as in other cases, industry brought her gracious reward for, although he landed in Pittsburgh with $1 in his pocket in 1855, he is now enjoying the comforts of a good home and property in town, besides 85 acres of well-improved land in Sandusky Township. The competition in his trade is different now from what it used to be: for when he came here there were six shops in the village, employing ten men, beside, three good shops in the country, near town. Now there are three shops, and one man in each supplies the entire demand for home-made work. On April 20, 1860, he married Louisa Layer, who was born in this township Dec. 4, 1837. Her parents emigrated from Germany in the summer of the same year. They have four children living - Emanuel, Franklin, Emma and Clara, two deceased-Charles and Edward. Mr. Heibertshausen is a member of Liberty Lodge, Knights of Honor, No. 845. CHRISTIAN HIEBER farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Nov. 7, 1836. His father, John G. and his mother, Fredricka (Shnarrenberger) Hieber, were both natives of the same place. They emigrated from Germany with four of their LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 923 five children to the United States in 1854; the oldest son, John had been here about two years before the rest of the family. They came direct to Ohio and settled in Liberty Township of this county, and bought 80 acres of good land. The family was in good financial circumstances in Germany, and brought a considerable quantity of cash with them, which was a material help to them here. The names of all the children are as follows: John, Christian, Fredrick, Christina and William. Shortly after they came here, their father met with a serious accident: while descending the stairway into the cellar, he fell breaking his wrist, which disabled him for life. He lived to see his family all in homes of their own, and was called away in 1872: his wife still survives and lives on the old homestead with William, in her 73d Year. The oldest son, John moved to Illinois and bought a farm there, and about eighteen or nineteen years ago he wrote to his folks in Ohio, that he was going to sell out and come back to Crawford Co.; since the sale of his property, there has never been any account of him heard to this day, and all inquiry as to his probable fate has proved futile. Christian got his education in Germany, but learned to read readily in English. Jan. 25, 1866, he married Christina Wagner: she was born in Lycoming Co., Penn., in February 1838, and came to Crawford Co. in 1856. Mr. Hieber had purchased 60 acres. some time before lie was married. to which he and his wife repaired, and when they had lived on it one gear he sold to his brother and bought the 80 acres where he now resides, and has added. by purchase, until he owns in all 192 acres of good land. They are all industrious. and a spirit of enterprise prevails in the Hieber family notwithstanding, their quiet, unassuming disposition. Mr. Hieber has five children-John G., Mary L., Lydia F., Annie and Sarah B. WILLIAM HIEBER. farmer: P. O. Bucyrus; is the youngest son of .John G. and Fredricka Hieber. He was born in September, 1850, in Wurtemberg, Germany, and was scarcely 4 years old when his parents emigrated to this country. His early life was spent on his fathers farm ; he got a fair education in the English language, as he was too young to have been at school in Germany. As stated, his father died in October, 1872, and, therefore, the care of the farm devolved on him. who was then the only one of the family who was at home. There are 79 1/2 acres which belong to the homestead, and which he farms for his aged mother who lives on the same. He united his fortunes with those of Elizabeth, daughter of David Lust, on April 5, 1877. They have two children-George D. and Matilda E. Mrs. Hieber was born in Lykens Township, June 14, 1857. F. HIEBER, farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: he was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Oct. 2l, 1841, and is a son of John G. and Fredrica (Shnarrenberger) Hieber, whose sketch is included with Christian's. Our subject was brought up to farm life, acquiring what education he has in Germany, and attended English school here about two mouths, which constituted his schooling in this country. He purchased 60 acres of good land in the spring of 1847, and on March 24 of that year, he united his fortune with Lydia, daughter of Rev. Fredrick Lust; she was born in Lykens Township April 13, 1849. Her father came from Germany when quite young. When Mr. Hieber was married, he repaired to his farm of 60 acres; and since that time he has added by purchase, until he now owns 193 acres of good land. They have eight children. viz.: Fredrick, Samuel, Lizzie, Benjamin, Joseph, Jacob, Sarah and Isaac. Mr. Hieber has succeeded admirable in his farming, pursuits. ANDREW HESS (deceased): was born in Westmoreland Co., Penn.. in May 1806, and when a young man learned the carpenter's trade in his native State. On April 9, 1833, he united his fortunes with Mary Hemry. She was born in Harrison Co., Ohio, Oct. 26, 1814 ; but came to Crawford County with her parents in 1830. Mr. Hess came to the county the following year, and as the above dates show, he was in this township about two years before he was married. They moved where Mrs. Hess is now living, the same spring in which they were married. They had twelve children, ten of whom are living-Delilah, William, Henry, Isaac, Nancy J., Lydia A., Mary A., Margaret E., Francis M. and John A. Two of their sons, Henry and Isaac. enlisted during the late rebellion, Henry in the 49th O. V. I, and Isaac in a Michigan Cavalry Regiment, as he was residing in that State at the time he enlisted. At the engagement of "Dallas Hill" on May 25, 1864, Henry was seriously wounded; a 924 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: musket ball entered his right breast a little below the collar-bone, ranged slightly downward. and emerged immediately below tile shoulder blade of the same side: he served in all about four years. At the expiration of his term of service he was honorably discharged and returned to his home in Crawford County. He, has since removed to Michigan, where he is now living. Delilah, William, Lydia A. and Mary A. are also living in Michigan. Margaret E. is now Mrs. Sweney, of this township, Francis M. married Alice Bower: they live on the old homestead, and he assists his brother John in farming the place. which contains 136 acres of good land. Mr. Hess was called away by death Dec. 28, 1875. Mrs. Hess is spending her advanced years in the enjoyment of the fruits of their early industry. REV. GIDEON HOOVER, minister and farmer: P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Washington Co., Md., Nov. 19, 1828. He is one of a family of ten children of Henry and Elizabeth (Puffenberger) Hoover, who were both natives of the same State. When Gideon our subject. was about two years old, they moved from Maryland to Ohio and settled in Richland Co., in 1830. There his parents resided until death asserted its never failing claim. The names of the children were as follows: Daniel, Catharine, Samuel, Elias, Lydia, Simon, Gideon, Martha, Milinda and Betsy; and of these. Elias and Betsy are deceased. Mr. Gideon Hoover's youth was spent on the farm and attending school during the winter months: but on account of the limited financial circumstances of his parents and their large family, it was impossible to give all of them such opportunity as is now afforded by the public schools of today. But meager as the chances for education were, he made the most of his time, and in the event secured a more liberal education than the average of that early date. April 24, 1851, he was united in marriage to Nancy Teter. She was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, April 28, 1829. They lived on and worked his fathers farm for about two years after they were married. He then began reading and occasionally preaching, preparatory to the ministry, which he continued three years, which is the time required by the United Brethren Church before a charge is given. On Oct. 25, 1857, in the Sandusky Annual Conference, held at Carey, Wyandot Co., was duly ordained a minister of the United Brethren in Christ. His first charge was the Shiloh Circuit, which embraced Shelby and a number of country appointments, in which he officiated three years. (Their appointments are made for one year only, but, at the option of Pastor and people. they may legally retain a minister three years.) His second charge was at Upper Sandusky where he preached two years; he was then transferred to the Shelby Circuit, where he remained one year. His fourth charge was on the Bucyrus Circuit, for a period of two years. He then got the Flat Rock Circuit, in Seneca Co.: from there he was returned to the Bucyrus Circuit for one year: thence to Shiloh for one year: thence to the Crestline Mission one year: thence to Galion one year: thence to Seneca Circuit, near Batesville, where, he preached one year. He was then without a charge for several months, but was then appointed to the Pleasant Ridge Circuit, in Wyandot Co., on account of their minister failing there he preached eight months. At the Annual Conference this fall, he was returned to the Flat Rock Circuit, in Seneca Co. He is in good financial circumstances, which is the result of his own industry. In 1864, he purchased a farm of 60 acres in Sandusky Township, to which he has since added 80 acres more ; and now owns 40 acres where he resides. on which he is erecting an elegant two - story frame dwelling to supply the loss which he sustained in May, 1880, by his residence with almost all its contents, being consumed by fire. They have had a family of ten children, eight of whom are living, viz., John, Moses, Lovina, Alice, Lincoln, Franklin, Henry and Lotty. Two deceased are Aaron and Amos. Mr. Hoover is a radical Prohibitionist and takes a lively interest in everything which tends to promulgated that sentiment. His was one of two votes polled in Sandusky Township in 1876 for that friction. REUBEN HOPPEL, farmer; P. O. Bucyrus; was born in Northampton Co., Penn.. Aug. 18, 1818. The Hoppel family are descended from one Henry Hoppel, who emigrated from France and settled in Pennsylvania many years before the Revolution. He was a single man when he came here, but afterward married and reared a family of seven children, four boys and three girls, viz.. Barbara, Sophia, Simon, John, Sallie, Henry and George. The two oldest boys, Si- LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 925 mon and John, enlisted in the Revolutionary war, and soon after the conflict began these boys were lost track of by their folks, and were never more heard of George, the youngest one (the father of our subject), was married in Pennsylvania to Elizabeth Cester, and reared a family of ten children, viz., Catharine, Elizabeth, Jacob, Adam, George, Charles, Anna, Reuben, Aaron and Frana. Their father died when the younger ones were quite small, and Reuben hired out by the month when about 15 years old, and worked steadily on the farm. Dec. 25, 1840, he married Christina Teel. She was born in Pennsylvania Jan. 18, 1821. He had purchased 121 acres on credit, and moved to it as soon as he got a cabin erected. It was all wood, and without any improvement, but by diligent toil the heavy timber yielded to the continuous wielding of the ax, and ere - long he was living in comfortable circumstances. They sold out their farm in Pennsylvania and came to Crawford Co., in April 1856. They had tour children. viz., Annie (deceased), Effie (deceased), Jerry and Emma A. (the latter is Mrs. A. B. Charlton). He purchased 109 acres in this township, where they lived about seven years, and in April 1864, they came to his present farm of 320 acres on the Broken Sword. for which he paid $13,000. On May 28, of that same year, Mr. Hoppel died, and Oct. 1, 1865, he married Mary McMichael a daughter of Matthew, who was a son of Daniel McMichael who was the first settler in this township. By this union there are three children - Ida, Ruben and Ada. In 1877, Mr. Hoppel removed the old brick residence, which was on his premises since 1833, and replaced it by a commodious and substantial two story brick structure at a cost of $2,300, besides his own labor, and much material, which was on the place, and went into the new house. He has 210 acres of good land and well improved. after giving his son 80 acres, Jerry Hoppel married Martha Shieber Feb. 6, 1873. They have two children - Murtie E. and Otis M. W. H. HISE farmer; P. O. Bucyrus: was born July 25, 1818, in York Co., Penn., the son of John and Eve (Kunckle) Hise, who were both natives of Pennsylvania: but his grandfathers, both Hise and Kunckle. ware natives of Hesse, Germany, and carne to this country as soldiers in the British army of the Revolution. (Britain had in those days, many Hessian soldiers, and many of them were sent to participate in the Revolutionary conflict with the Colonies.) Hise and Kunckle participated in one engagement against the States, and, at the close of that attach, they deserted the British ranks, but did not shrink from fear of danger or leave the battlefield for more comfortable quarters, but immediately joined Washington's troops, and continued to do service with the American soldiers till the close of the war. Many of the Hessians, their acquaintances. who were in the British army, were taken prisoners at the battle of Stillwater, and likewise volunteered their services to the Colonial force. After the close of the Revolution. Hise and Kunckle pushed their way to York Co., Penn. There they settled, and turned their attention to farming, and lived to an advanced age. Hise, the Hessian of Revolutionary fame, reared four sons. One of them, John, and father of our subject-reared a family of seven children, three of whom were born in Pennsylvania, and the four youngest in Crawford Co., Ohio. They settled in Jackson Township Oct. 20, 1824. The family afterward moved to Whetstone Township, where the old gentleman died in the spring of 1836. His widow married Samuel Lare, but he has since died, and she still survives at the advanced age of 82 years. When W. H. Hise was quite young, he learned the shoemaker's trade and opened a shop in Galion being one of the first industries of the kind in that place, where he worked two years, then moved back to his, father's in Jackson Township and remained at home for some time, and in 1832 he opened a shop in Bucyrus, where he remained three years, then moved to Sulphur Springs for about one year, thence to Whetstone Township, where his time and attention were divided between farming and working at his trade, from 1836 until 1844. On March 13, 1845, he married Isabella Ridgley. She was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, July 15, 1818, and came here with her parents, who settled in Jackson Township, this county, when she was about 6 weeks old. Mr. and Mrs. Hise are parents of seven children, six of whom are living - John W., A. H., S. A., Sarah C., Marie R., Norah B., one deceased - Molly, They own 95 acres of good and well improved land, which he purchased in 1858, at the same time carrying on his shop work a little south of his present residence, where he has earned and laid, by his un- 926 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: ceasing industry, the basis of his comfortable home, as he was actually in debt over $100 when he was married, and no means of any consequence within his control. Since 1871, he has devoted his attention to his farm, seldom doing anything at his trade. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1865, and served three terms, in which office he is now holding his fourth term. He has been Township Treasurer six years; also held the office of Township Trustee for several years. J. A. KLINK, farmer ; P. O. Sulphur Springs; was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Jan. 29, 1824. His parents, John G. and Catharine Klink, emigrated. with their three children Catharine, J. A. and J. G.to this country in 1825; after a long, severe passage, they arrived in New York. They pushed their way westward by canal or other available conveyance, until they arrived in Columbiana Co., Ohio, where they stopped, as it was then the approach of winter, and they had no means to carry them further, as their all was expended. Their father had been in good circumstances in Germany, but lost all his property by going security for a milling firm which failed and when he sailed from Germany, it was only by the liberal and generous aid of relatives and friends that he was enabled to bring his family along consequently, he had nothing left when they got here. Mr. Klink, Sr., found employment in Columbiana Co., and worked there through the winter, and in the spring of 1829 he had saved enough to purchase a pair of oxen and an old cart. He packed his family in the cart, and set out for Crawford Co. They settled in Liberty Township in the woods, and soon after he entered 80 acres, paying for it with a little money which remained, and two watches. His family got the shelter of a cabin of some one who had settled there a short time before them, until a log cabin could be erected on their own location. which was hastily and roughly done. When they had lived here about two years, another member was added to the family by the birth of J. D. They seemed to prosper nicely, but had many inconveniences to bear with in the new and unsettled country. Their cattle would stray off through the unbounded forest, and on several occasions, the oldest boy (John A.), when a mere lad, lost his way when sent in search of them; once, overtaken by the shades of night, he was unable to get back or find any way out, and after wandering until exhausted, he crept into a hollow tree and remained until daylight. Search was instituted by his parents and the neighboring settlers, who were unsuccessful in meeting with him, and were about to give up the search, supposing he had been killed by wolves, when, to their surprise, he came home. On a similar occasion, he found an Indian camp, at which he staved all night and was well treated by them, and to the morning one started with him to conduct him home. When they arrived at Klink's cabin, the Indian assured Mr. Klink, if they ever found his boy, they would neither let him get lost nor injure him. About the time that they were getting things in shape to enjoy themselves and live comfortably, Mrs. Klink died. Mr. Mink married a second wife, Katie Doppler, she was a native of Germany, and came here with her people. By this union there were two children Mary and Rosy, who finally married and moved to Henry Co. Mr. Klink Sr., died on his farm (which is now owned by Klopfenstein), on Feb. 25, 1853, John A. remained with his father until of age: he worked early and late on the farm, and had no opportunity of attending schools, as there were none in the neighborhood when he was small, and soon as he was able to work his services were considered too important at home. He married Melissa Kohlman, March 8, 1848, and that year they moved on to a farm of 110 acres, which was all woods, and which Mr. Klink had bought some time before he was married, with $200 which he had earned by chopping. He worked unceasingly and was very economical, and he is now among the ablest farmers of Crawford Co. in about eight years after he was married. he began to make other purchases of land, and has kept on increasing his broad acres, from time to time, until he now owns 940;acres (except 4 acres, which he sold off), of as good land as there is in the county, and in all excellent state of cultivation, with very good buildings. Of these 936 acres, 780 acres are in one continuous tract, lying in the corners of three adjoining townships. His first team was a yoke of oxen, with which he did a great part of the logging in this neighborhood: he used cattle for his work for about fifteen years. All he ever received from home was $260, after his father's death: his start in business was the proceeds of his work by the month and days labor, which he LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 929 saved carefully; now they enjoy the possession of one of the best farms of this county. Thy had twelve children- Mary M., now wife of B. Jacobs: Carolina, now wife of John Shieber; John H., married Jennie Feighner, and farms the Lykens Township place: Henry is farming 80 acres in Chatfield Township - his wife is Flora Feighner: Adam, Daniel, Solomon, William, Emma, Melissa and Charles are single, and reside with their parents: also, one boy, who died in childhood. The whole family are members of the Lutheran Church. Mrs. Klink was born in Prussia Dec. 22, 1832, and came to this country with her parents when 4 years old. Her father, Daniel Kohlman, came here with three children. viz,: Catharine, Charles and Melissa: the boy died when they had been here about three years. CHARLES KEPLINGER farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: was born in York Co., Penn., Feb. 2, 1809. His father, Daniel Keplinger, was also a native of Pennsylvania. He married Annie M. Leister, of Maryland. After their marriage they settled on a farm. They reared a family of eight children, viz., .Jacob, Hannah, Sarah, Polly, Lydia, Charles, Daniel and Catharine, They all moved to Columbiana Co., Ohio. in 1825, except Hannah, who, with her husband, followed a year and a half later, and in the spring of 1827 they moved to a farm which they purchased in Stark Co., where the children grew up to maturity, and began to "strike out" for themselves. On account of the delicate condition of their father's and oldest brother's health. Charles was obliged to render all the assistance in his power, from the time he was 11 years old. Almost the entire care of his father's farm was left to him, consequently he got no chance of attending, school. He remained at home until 24 years of age and on Dec. 24, 1833, was united in marriage with Sarah Wersthler, She was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Oct. 9, 1813. They lived with his father and farmed the homestead for three years. They then moved to the farm of his father-in-law (George Wersthler) where, they farmed three years. In the meantime, his father (Daniel Keplinger) died; therefore they moved back to care for the old homestead, and lived on it one and a half years. He purchased 160 acres of his present farm in August 1839, and moved to it, arriving here on the 3d day of November 1840. The farm was all under wood and without any improvements of any kind when he purchased it; by the time they get here there was a log cabin erected by one John Werner, under contract. The roof was on, but the cabin was yet untenantable, so his wife and little ones got shelter in the house of his brother-in-law. Jacob H. Sells, who had been here several years, until their own cabin was tied up so they could live in it. They were in poor circumstances, financially, as all they possessed was one team, and were $150 in debt on their land. They worked hard, and by unceasing energy and industrious habits of himself and noble wife, they have secured a competence of this worlds goods. They built a substantial and commodious brick residence in 1857; and besides his well-improved farm here, he owns 320 acres in Nebraska. They had eleven children, eight of whom are living - Mary A., wife of Isaac Kinney, of Indiana; Josiah, in this township; Emanuel, in Nebraska: William E. in this township; Daniel E. and Jacob W., also in Nebraska: George W. and Emma at home with their parents. Three children, two girls and one boy, died here of scarlet fever, which was epidemic shortly after they came to this county. The second Year of their residence here Mr. Keplinger was elected Township Trustee, and served several years, and then Township Clerk for two years; was reelected Trustee, and held the office several years. He was then elected Township Treasurer for two years, and when one year had elapsed after his term had expired, he was elected to the same office and served nine years. In 1860, he was elected Land Appraiser, and officiated in the same capacity in 1870. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1846, for one term, and on account of his own business interests, which demanded his undivided attention, he refused to serve any longer in that office. In 1859, he was elected County Commissioner, and field that office until December 1865, and in the fall of 1875, he was again elected County Commissioner, and is now serving on his second term. Although his school education was deficient, he acquired a good, practical, business education through his powers of quick perception and varied experience. Almost continuously, since his residence in the county, he has been, in some capacity, faithfully serving the public. In 1862, his son Emanuel enlisted in Co. H, 123d O. V. I., and 930 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: served until the close of the war. He received three wounds-once through the calf of the right leg, and was shot through the right foot, the ball entering in his heel, passed through his foot lengthwise, emerging between the second and third toes; the third was less serious, though none the less dangerous, as it came closer to more important organs of life; in this case a ball gazed the top of his ear so closely that it bled, but luckily from this he sustained a mere scratch. JOHN KAFER, farmer: P. O. Sulphur Springs; was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Jan. 13, 1812. His father Michael, and mother Elizabeth (Klienknecht) Kafer, with their seven children-Mary, Jacob, Catharine, John, Fredrick, Rosey and Christiana-emigrated from the old country in 1832, and in the spring of 1833, came to Crawford Co., Ohio. They purchased 80 acres in this township, which one of the family now owns; this served as a home for all the family until they began to drop off, one by one, into homes of their own. The old folks still remained on their first location, until removed by death a few years ago. Mr. John Kafer remained in the parental home for some time after he was of age. He then thought best to make a beginning on his own account, and prudently secured a housekeeper, who would take a life interest in his affairs. She was named Elizabeth Hamm, and they were marred March 22, 1838 ; she was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Oct. 8, 1818. While yet in limited pecuniary circumstances, they enjoyed their lot; but erelong that mutual enjoyment was crushed by the death of Mrs. Kafer: she left one child, Elizabeth, who is now the wife of Adam Durr. Mr. Kafer married a second wife, Fredrecka Layer, on March 15, 1841. She was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Nov. 29, 1821, and came to the United States with her parents (Christian and Catharine Layer), when about 15 years old. In 1839, Mr. Kafer bought 80 acres of the farm where he resides, and has lived there ever since; he is unlike many, in that he has not only been able to barely hold on to his first purchase of 80 acres, but by his unceasing labor and economy, has added, by various purchases, until he now owns 319 acres of good land, and lives a quiet unassuming life, enjoying the fruits of his early industry. His children by the second marriage are:Mary A., wife of Daniel Pfleiderer - Carolina, wife of Fred Heiby; Catharine, wife of Jacob Ackerman; Louisa C., at home with her parents: Rosy, wife of Phillip Heiby ; Jacob S. and Emma R., at home. They are members of the Lutheran Church. SAMUEL B. KOONS. farmer: P. O. Sulphur Springs : was born in Sandusky Townshi, this county, Nov. 17, 1840. He is the son of Abraham and Jane (Mills) Koons. His father was born in Pennsylvania June 16, 1783, and, when a young man, he learned the millwright's trade, which he followed for many years, besides owning a farm. He was twice married, first to Susan Shrader, by which union there were thirteen children, six of whom grew to manhood and womanhood and reared families of their own ; they were Margaret, Daniel, John, Charlotte, Susan and Abraham. After about twenty-four years of married life, his first wife died, April 15, 1830, he married Jane Mills, who is his surviving widow: she was born in Maryland July 1, 1812: of her father's family there were seven children left to do for themselves when quite young. Mrs. Koons was taken by a family to rear, and they moved to Pennsylvania when she was about 5 years old. There she grew to womanhood, and, as stated above, was married to Mr. Koons. Notwithstanding he was much her senior, they got along the very best. Two years after their marriage, they came to Ohio, first settling in Richland Co. in the spring of 1832, and, in the spring of 1839, they sold out and moved into Sandusky Township, this county. where they purchased 160 acres, and afterward added 37 ½ more. In the course of time, there were fourteen children born to his second wife, twenty seven children in his family in all, as his first wife was mother of thirteen, seven of whom died in childhood: but the fourteen of the second marriage are all living and doing well, the youngest about 26 years old. Their names and present residences are as follows: William L., in Fulton Co., Ind.: Annie E., in Crestline, at the millinery business; Mary M., in Kansas was married to R. Armstrong: he was killed by a runaway team; Sarah J., now Mrs. Moore of Lansing, Mich.: David S., farming in Hancock Co.; Martha E., is married to Rev. James M. Roberts, a missionary in New Mexico; Samuel B., in this township: Harriet, Mrs. James Stevenson, of Annapolis ; Ben. F., is now pursuing his studies at Yale College,