LIBERTY TOWNSHIP BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES PAGES 931 - 955 LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 931 New Haven, Conn., R. Catharine is on missionary work among the freedmen of Mississippi, and teacher in Tougaloo College, near Jackson, Miss.; R. Porter, is a physician in Kansas, Oliver H., is studying music in Philadelphia; F. Mills, is studying in Oberlin, Ohio: Joanna is married and living in Illinois. Mr. Koons, Sr. died March 22, 1869, and, after the settlement of the estate and several unimportant changes, Mrs. Koons got herself a comfortable residence in the village, where she is spending the remaining years of her life quietly and alone. Samuel B. received a common - school education, besides one term in Oberlin: his time beyond school hours was occupied on the farm until Aug. 15, 1861: at that date he enlisted in Co. C. 49th O. V. I. and participated in several of the deadly engagements of the war. viz., Shiloh, Liberty Gap, Stone River, (and at the close of that engagement he was promoted to Sergeant). Chickamauga and Mission Ridge: in the latter conflict, Nov. 19, 1863, he sustained a serious injury by being struck on the back of the head by a piece of wood which formed a partition between the powder and ball in the construction of cannon cartridges, from one of their own guns, which was firing over them. From the effects of this wound he lay insensible for eighteen days. After a month's hospital care, he was able to come home on a furlough, and remained about two months. When his regiment was re-enlisted, he went in the Atlanta campaign as far as Buzzard's Roost: his term of enlistment had then expired, and he was discharged Sept. 5, 1864. He then came home to Crawford Co., and on Nov. 17 of the same year, he was married to Margaret Stevenson: she was born in Seneca Co. March 27, 1845. For three years, he worked his father's farm, and, in the spring, of 1868, they purchased the farm of 71 acres where they now live. Mrs. Koons parents came to live with them. and here her fattier died Aug. 16, 1871, but her mother is still with them at the advanced age of 73 years. On account of his wound received in the army, which affects him seriously if he takes the least cold, he draws a pension of $8 per month. They have a family of five children-Clarence A., Virgil C., Sarah J., Maggie M. and Samuel R. ISAAC KLOPFENSTEIN. farmer and stockdealer ; P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Polk Township, this county, March 10, 1837. His father, Abraham, was twice married: by his first wife there were four children-Susan, John, Elizabeth and Abraham: the three younger ones emigrated with their father from Switzerland to Canada in 1820. Susan remained in their native country. Mr. Klopfenstein was a widower, and when he settled in Canada he married Elizabeth Reiter, who came from Switzerland when he did. They built a cabin in the woods and bought some land and were getting along nicely. A brother in Switzerland wrote to Abraham in Canada, that he was about to start for the United States, and would prefer to see him there. John came from, Switzerland to Crawford Co., and Abraham from Canada. they located in Polk Township, where the latter entered 200 acres in 1833 : and brought his youngest son, by first wife, along leaving John and Elizabeth on the property in Canada. Abraham went to Buffalo, N. Y., where he took sick and sent for his father to come and see him, which he did on foot, and returned in the same manner: from then they lost all track of Abraham, as he never returned. When Mr. Klopfenstein came here he built a cabin in the woods and began the clearing and improvement of his land, and got along well until 1846, when he was called by death, leaving widow and three children. viz.: Mary, Elizabeth and Isaac. (Mary is now widow of Jacob Freidley of Van Wert: Elizabeth is wife of Charles Noyer, of Allen Co.. Ind.) Widow Klopfenstein married .Jacob Millemater about two years after the death of her first husband Millemater assumed control of affairs, and in April of 1851. Isaac (our subject) left home to do for himself, and engaged with Charles Noyer in a brickyard, and did odd jobs until spring of 1852: when he again engaged on the brickyard, and in the fall he purchased a half interest in a threshing machine on credit, in partnership with John Kinsey. Having poor success that season, he sold out his interest to Kinsey, receiving something for his labor. In January, 1853, he went to Wayne Co., Ind., where he took a ,job of cutting eighty cords of wood at 60 cents per cord, and paid his board at the rate of $1.50 per week: this job he completed in forty days. He then began to work by the month a short time at $15 per month, but soon got another job of cutting out a road three rods wide and one-fourth of a mile long, through heavy timber, cutting it all into cordwood. re- 932 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: ceiving for his job 62 1/2 cents per cord for as much as it would make, and board himself, which he got at the old rate, $1.50 per week. He then returned to the county and sold his one-third interest in the homestead of eighty acres, for which he received $600. His guardian turned over the money to him, and he straightway purchased eighty acres in Chatfield Township: twenty-five of it was partially cleared, and had a cabin house and barn on it. He returned to Wayne Co., Ind., and worked in a slaughter-house until about Christmas of that year, when he returned to this county, and, on Feb. 5, 1854 he married Mary Bitikoffer: she was born in Switzerland, Dec. 4, 1831, and came with her parents to Stark Co., in 1836, and to Crawford Co. in 1843. April 1, 1854, they moved to their farm, which he had lately bought, and while they lived there made several purchases and sales: they remained there twelve years: during that time he was twice drafted into the army, first time he furnished a substitute, and second time the township was cleared by subscription, costing him $595. in all. In 1866, he bought 100 acres and added to it 44. which constitutes the farm where he resides, besides 40 acres to Chatfield. 160 acres in Sandusky and 144 acres in Bucyrus Townships, and in1877, he purchased a half-interest in the stock of dry goods and groceries of Fry & Keller (Mr. Fry owning the building). He has a family of seven children living, viz.: Abraham, who is living on the Bucyrus farm, 80 acres of which he has bought: John is on the Sandusky farm, 80 acres of which he has purchased: Mary E.,. Susan C., Einma S., Isaac E and Maud M.: the five last named are at home with their parents. In 1861, he was elected Township Trustee for one term. He built a good brick residence on his farm in Chatfield and in 1860 lie put up a barn, 56x44 feet; the frame-work cost only $105, taken off the stump. He has tried his hand at many kinds of business, and, although a man of very limited education, has succeeded at all. After he was 9 years old, he was only two weeks at school, and when he was married he could not write his own name. Being totally ignorant of mathematics when he began to deal in stock in 1860, he found it necessary to study the simple rules, and for that purpose he went to school along with his own children. His first start was farming next project was threshing in partnership with Mr. Bitikotter, in 1855, and in 1856 he made brick : in 1857 he bought and " run" a thresher on his own account, and in 1858 he resumed the manufacture of brick; and in 1860 he began stock-dealing: in that he has been very successful: while others have failed on every side of him he has and is still doing a prosperous business : some farmers in this vicinity have sold to him exclusively for the past twenty years, which is good evidence of fair dealing. His success in farming can be lest understood by the following figures and data. His first crop of wheat was four and one half acres, which himself and wife harvested in 1856, the entire crop amounted to eight bushels and this year (1880) himself and sons harvested 110 acres, from which they realized 2,750 bushels and marketed it at 95c @ $1 per bushel. He joined the German Reformed Church when 14 years of age and was Deacon from 1859 until 1865: since latter date he has been an Elder, and officiates in that capacity now. Mr, Klopfenstein and the three oldest children are members of the church. His father settled up the estate so as to leave the property in Canada to John and Susan, of the first wife, giving a quit-claim deed to it, and taking the same from them as against his Crawford Co. property, which was intended for his other three children, but by neglect his father never recorded the quitclaim from those in Canada, and after his death they came here and claimed and got an equal share with Isaac and his two sisters. DANIEL LIGHT retired farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: was born June 30, 1806, in Dauphin Co., Penn. His parents, Adam and Mary (Diddie) Light, were also natives of Pennsylvania. In early life, Daniel learned the weaving business, but due regard for his health forbade him following it long : so he abandoned it for the more invigorating life on the farm, to which he has ever since devoted his whole attention, both in Pennsylvania and Ohio. He moved here in 1854, purchasing, 80 acres where he now lives, but has added, by purchase, until his farm consists of 120 acres of good and well improved land, where he is passing the declining years of his life in peace and enjoying the fruits of his early industry. He has been twice married ; first to Polly Heller, September 1828, She was called away by death, leaving four children, LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 933 viz.. William, John, Emanuel and Adam. His second marriage was with Lucetta Harmon: she was born in Dauphin Co., Penn. .Jan. 15, 1823; the children by this union are Mary E. and Daniel A. They brought his first wife's four children along with them when they came to Ohio: his daughter by second wife was only a few months old: his youngest son, Daniel A. was born in this county. Shortly after the out-break of the rebellion, his son, Adam enlisted on Nov. 2, 1861, in Co. K. 64th O. V. I. and served through the war, until the engagement at Chickamauga, where the Union soldiers were forced to yield and during the retreat he was stunned by a bullet, which grazed the top of his head stripping its breadth of hair and scalp from his skull, which felled him to the ground, when he became an easy prey, as a prisoner, to the rebels: he was forthwith conveyed to Andersonville Prison, and later, to Florence Prison, spending seventeen months of starvation and misery in the two places. He was paroled in February, 1865, and returned to his father's, as his discharge had been granted before he was released from the Southern prison Emaciated with hunger and dejected in spirit, his recovery seemed very doubtful: but with strict attention of his parents, good care and nourishment he regained his usual strength; he afterward married here, where he died, leaving a widow and three children. William lives in this township: Emanuel resides in Henry Co., Ohio: John owns 40 acres of land in Holmes Township, but makes his home with his father he is unmarried: has devoted his time to farming and like those whose quiet lives are unallured by the gush and glare of society, lives a quiet, practical life, Mary E. is now Mrs. Henry Stevenson, of this county: Daniel A., the youngest, also resides with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Light are members of the German Reformed Church. DANIEL LAYER, farmer: P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, April 9, 1830. His parents, Christian and Catharine (Faill) Layer, emigrated from Germany to the United States in 1838, and brought eight children with them, viz., Dolley, Elizabeth, Fredricka, John, Jacob, Christian, Daniel and J. A. They all reside in this State. The oldest girl married John Layer, and died in Union Co., leaving five children. When Mr. Layer came to the United States, he came direct to Ohio and purchased 96 acres, where Daniel lives. Here the family grew up to maturity, and from there struck out in the world for themselves. On Feb. 1, 1854, Daniel married Catharine, daughter of Jacob Ulmer and moved to Kent Co., Mich., where he entered 160 acres of land and lived there three years. His wife's health failed, and she longed to return to her old home and acquaintances in this county. so they sold out, and came back to his father's. where his wife died October. 1857. He rented his father's: farm for four or five years, and lived a widower with his parents: and they being old with years and hard work, were ready to give up the care of the place to some one more competent to take care of it. In 1862, his father died then he, Daniel bought the interest of the other heirs, and carried on the farm. His aged mother making her home with him until July 24, 1878, when she was removed by death. Daniel was again married. to Barbara Eppley, daughter of John and Barbara (Wey) Eppley, who came from Germany, where she was born Feb. 21, 1859, and came here with her parents when about 3 years old. Her parents first settled near Harrisburg, Penn., for about two years, and then came to Chatfield Township, this county. Mr. Layer has, by his second marriage, one child- Lydia, John A. lives on the adjoining farm and both of them have prospered well. He married Mary Green Jan. 10, 1856. They have the following children - Elizabeth R., Eliza A., George F. and Frank E. JAMES MANAHAN (deceased) : was born in Frederick Co., Md., in 1811. He married Sidney Nichols, who was born in the same county in 1813. Some time after they were married, they moved to Seneca Co., this State, where they stayed about one year. In 1840, they came to Crawford Co. and settled on the Wyandot Reservation, and remained about two years. Then they moved to the "Plains" out from Bucyrus, and settled on what is known as "Parcher's Corners." They lived there seven years and the, P. Ft. W. & C. R. R. now runs directly over the location where their house stood. They kept shifting from time to time, and, about 1851, they removed to a farm on the, Sandusky, hear R. W. Knisely's, where they lived eight years. In 1859, they rented the Biddle farm, near Annapolis, and here they have remained since. They reared a family of ten children, six boys and four girls-Alfred 934 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: W., Samuel, Lucinda (now Mrs. John Zandel), Barbara J., Adaline, Elizabeth, Silas, James M., John and Watson. When the late rebellion broke out, Alfred W., enlisted in the three months service. At the expiration of that time. he re-enlisted for nine mouths. When that time expired, he again enlisted, and served to the close of the war. He now resides in Frederick Co., Md. James M. also enlisted but only in the one hundred days service. O. N. G. and when his term of service expired he returned to the rest of the family, and remained here until removed by death on May 1, 1878. Their father died on March l, l871. Silas is unmarried, and with him his aged mother and sisters make their home. He takes entire charge of the farm of 153 acres, for which he pays $450 annually in cash as rent for the place. They have now been occupying the same place for over twenty-one years. which fact would indicate that they are desirable tenants. E. M. MOORE. farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio. Sept. 9, 1838; he is the son of James and Catharine (Lomes) Moore, the former a native of Washington Co., Penn., and the latter of Columbiana Co., Ohio. Mr. E. M. Moore's youth was spent between the duties of the farm and attending school. Being naturally as a boy apt and intelligent he acquired a good education early in life, and in his 17th year, he began teaching school and taught sixteen winter terms. When 18 years of ago he entered Mt. Union College, Stark Co., Ohio, and attended it eight terms. He had entered the Junior Class in 1861, when he abandoned his course at college. as he had to furnish for himself all means of support and tuition. He afterward turned his attention to teaching in the winter months and farming in the summer. He owns one of the most comfortable and best improved farms of 108 acres in Liberty Township, with splendid out-buildings and a title brick residence. to which he moved in March, 1868, on the 12th of which month he united his fortunes with Lizzie, daughter of John and Elizabeth Crall. She was born in Dauphin Co., Perin., Dec. 17, 1843, and came here with her parents in 1852. They have six children - Cora E., Susan E., Mary U., .John J., Kattie B. and Oliver M. Besides superintending his farm, he has been engaged about ten months of the year for the past nine years as foreman in the clothing department of the extensive mercantile house of M. Emrich. of Bucyrus which position he now holds. He is a member of Demas Lodge No. 108, of Knights of Pythias and of Howard Lodge. No. 109, Knights of Honor: also the Masonic Crawford Lodge of Bucyrus. ROBERT WALLACE MUSGRAVE deceased: was born in New York, Feb. 10, 1810; he was the youngest of a family of six children four boys and two girls. The whole family moved to this State when he (Robert W.) was a mere boy, and when about l5 years of age, he was employed by Henry St. John as clerk in his store at Wooster, Ohio. Mr. St John soon moved to Bucyrus and brought young Musgrave along. And, after he had been here some time, he took an interest in the establishment and did business for several year; in partnership with St. .John. Here he formed the acquaintance of Maria Gillespie, who was born in Washington Co., Penn., Sept. 5, 1806, and came to Bucyrus with her fathers family in October 1834. Sept, 5, 1835, Mr. Musgrave and Miss Gillespie were united in matrimony: they began housekeeping and resided there for six years when Mr. Musgrave disposed of his interests in Bucyrus and moved to this village in. June 1841, where he built a store and put in a stock of general merchandise and carried on the business with much success, and purchased at various times land in this vicinity to the amount of 760 acres which is owned by his widow and the heirs. During Buchanan's administration, he was appointed Postmaster, which office he held here many years, although he was of the opposite political persuasion: he also held the office of Associate Judge for several years They reared five children. viz.. Marian, now Mrs. Biddle, of Bucyrus: Ellen J., deceased Thomas W.; .Julia, widow of James Rader; and Myra, now Mrs. Wells, Mr. Musgrave's was a life of unceasing business activity from the time he was 15 years old until it closed in death May 18, 1868. His usefulness was never fully known or realized in business circles, or his influence in society until the vicinity sustained the loss in his demise. His introduction to this county was in the role of a poor boy doing chores and clerking in a store, and carrying the mail across the country on horseback. But his course was steadily upward, as in time he soon became one of the important factors in LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 935 the business circles of the county, also holding the position of Associate County Judge. Regardless of public opinion, or at the risk of becoming unpopular, he would unhesitatingly assail whatever he considered of questionable merit. Mrs. Musgrave occupies the old homestead and 140 acres, where she is passing the remainder of her days in happiness, and supplied with all the luxuries of life. Her ancestors were from Ireland; her grandfather, James Gillespie, emigrated from County Tyrone, and came to United States when young he settled in Washington Co., Penn where he reared a family of six sons. Thomas, the oldest one was Mrs. Musgrave's father, and when she was 8 years old the family moved from Pennsylvania and located at Xenia, Greene Co., Ohio, and remained there about twelve years: her father spent some time in Tiffin in connection with the land office there, but, as stated, moved his family to Bucyrus in October 1834, and died in the village of Annapolis at the residence of his son Thomas many years ago. THOMAS W. MUSGRAVE, retired farmer; P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Bucyrus, this county, March 9,. 1840, he is the only son of Robert W. Musgrave, and was reared to farm work, and lived with his parents until of age. On Aug. 21, 1861, he united his fortunes with Hannah Fry, a daughter of J. H. Fry, was born Jan. 21, 1839, in this township. He farmed his fathers place for several years, when he went to the State of Indiana, but remained only a short time, when he came hack, and got 160 acres of his father's estate, which he occupied for some time, but, subsequently sold it and purchased 148 acres, which he now owns. In the spring of 1880, he moved to this village (Annapolis), where he lives comfortably away from the cares and toil of the farm. He is one of those who are liberal in assisting in any enterprise which is worthy of patronage, and that without display he is a member of the Knights of Honor, Liberty Lodge No. 845. They have four children - Frank R , Mary E., Robert. J. and Albert W. THOMAS McCULLOUGH. deceased. He was born Aug 14, 1831, on the farm where his widow and family reside. His father, Alexander McCullough, came here at the first settlement of the county: he died here, leaving a widow and five children. Thomas. the eldest, being only 10 years of age; consequently, he learned early in life what it was to do for himself. The widow and her five children struggled hard for subsistence, and, as time carried them through the shifting scenes of pioneer life, they saw, with much gratification, that the many and varied obstacles disappeared as soon as approached; but of the five, only William (now living in Wayne Co.) is left to compare the present realities with the memories of the past. On Nov. 4, 1858, Thomas united his fortunes with those of Mary Cleland. She was born June 3, 1827, in Vernon Township, this county. They have had five children-Martha Atta. Rachel A., William C. and two who died in infancy. Mr. McCullough began school-teaching early in life, and continued the same in the winter mouths and, in the summer, attending to his farm duties, for several years after his marriage. He was elected and held the office of Township Trustee for two terms, with honor to himself and satisfaction to those he represented. He took a deep and lasting interest in the Sabbath school which was organized in their district, and of which he was Superintendent for six years. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church. On the 12th of May 1879, his career closed and his life of good works was sealed in death, mourned by many and highly esteemed by all who knew him. Mrs. McCullough and her three children are in good circumstances, and live happily on their well-improved farm of 76 acres. She purposes giving them a good education. which they are eager to avail themselves of. Her eldest daughter, Martha A., has taught school during the past summer. Mrs. McCullough's father, William Cleland, was born in Ireland and emigrated to the United States when young, with his parents. He came to this county and settled in Vernon Township, where he is still living and is strong and active. considering that he is in his 85th year. It took six weeks to make their voyage across the ocean. He married Rachel Ramsey, who was a native Virginia. DANIEL L. McMICHAEL. farmer: P. O.: Bucyrus; was born April 7, 1836, where he resides. To give a short sketch of the family of some historic worth, in connection with Crawford Co.- it is necessary to go back to one Daniel McMichael, grandfather of D. L McMichael, who was born in Ireland, and cam to the United States with his parents when 936 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: about 16 years of ago which was about the year 1794. The family located in Westmoreland Co., Penn., and, when Daniel attained his majority. He married Mary McDowell. She was a native of Scotland and came to the United States with her parents at an early date. A few years after their marriage, they moved to Ohio, and located on the north of the Sandusky, near where Bucyrus is located. Being a miller by profession, and a mechanical genius. Mr. McMichael saw and felt the pressing need for some kind of mill to grind what little grain they raised to subsist on. He traveled up the river looking for a suitable location as the basis of operation for building a mill. When he reached the place where Nathan Cooper now lives, he concluded that the object of his search had been discovered. There he entered 160 acres of Government land, and built a saw and gristmill combined, which was one of the first institutions of the kind in the county, of which the county history speaks more fully. He reared a family of eight children. viz.- David, Matthew, William, Daniel, Allen, Mary, Hattie and Martha, Of these, Daniel, Mary and Martha are living in Iowa: Allen, in Nebraska, and Matthew, who resided on the old homestead, near Bucyrus and died there some years since. William set out for the gold fields of f California, during the early excitement in 1848 and was never heard from since he wrote a letter back when hie reached the Rocky Mountains. David. the oldest one of the family, married Margaret, daughter of John Anderson, who settled here about the year after the McMichaels came. Shortly after the marriage of his daughter, Anderson died, so David McMichael moved to the Anderson farm and remained there until the time of his death, which occurred Nov. 3, 1857, leaving a widow and seven children. viz.. Rebecca J., Daniel L., John A., George W., Marie, Cynthia and David-the latter one is deceased. Of these, G. W. and Marie are in Nebraska: John, Cynthia and Daniel L., in this county. The last named worked on the farm and, in the meantime, received a good education at the common and normal schools. He prepared himself for teaching which he did with marked success for a period of fifteen years, in the winter months, spending the summer on the farm. with some few exceptions, when he taught in summer also. Sept. 16, 1864, he married Rachel J. Woodside. They have four children. viz., Wallace D., Burton O., William G. and Lawrence E. Mrs. McMichael was born in this county, in 1839. They own allow 50 acres of land, which is part of what belonged to the old Anderson homestead. JACOB OREWILER farmer P. O. Bucyrus: was born in Huntingdon Co., Penn., of Jan. 5, 1814. His father, John, and his mother Barbara (Keith) Orewiler, were both natives of Pennsylvania, but his mother's parents came from Germany, and settled in Pennsylvania and her father's name Michael Keith When Mr. John Orewiler married Barbara Keit, she ws then the widow of one John Kline, by whom she had three sons -- John, William and Joseph. And of the Orewiler children there were seven - Henry, Adam, Lewis, Rosanna, Elizabeth, Michael, and Jacob, They were all born in Pennsylvania: and when the youngest (Jacob) was about 3 years old the whole family moved from Pennsylvania and came to Ohio: they settled in Richland County, about ten miles north of Mansfield, in 1817. There the children grew to maturity and began to branch out for themselves. Coming into this State at such an early date, they were perfectly conversant with pioneer life; and although the family were in reasonably good circumstances for that time, yet many were many disadvantages and privation to be borne then, which the youth of today would consider impossibilities. No pen can ever do justice to the men and wives, with their helpless little ones, who ventured into the trackless forest, with which they were unacquainted. there to risk their lives at the hands of the red man, for the sake of securing a home for themselves and their posterity. And who can speak knowingly of the longings, and aching heart of those who would have gladly returned, whence the came, when all opportunities of returning were unavailable. But most of those noble souls who bore the first burdens of settling these parts. have passed from their toiling to a more abiding rest. Mr. Jacob Orewiler's parents made their permanent home in Richland County, and died there years ago. The first of the family to come into Crawford County was Lewis: he settled in Cranberry Township in 1835, Jacob came here also a that time, but did not settle permanently. He made a purchase of 40 acres in Sandusky Township in the year 1835, and then returned to his LIBERTY TOWNSHIP - 937 father's in Richland County. Erelong he came hack to Crawford County and stopped with his brother Lewis: and purchased 40 acres more in Sandusky Township. He worked around between Richland and Crawford Counties for several years: and in 1839, he went to Indiana, and stopped in De Kalb County, a little over a year, thence to Iowa, where he worked by the month about two years; then returned to Crawford County, and made his home with his brother Lewis for a short time and in January 1843, he married Annie Conly. She was born in Richland County Feb. 3, 1818, and came to this county with her folks in 1828. Mr. Orewiler and his bride repaired to his farm of 80 acres, which he still retained, in Sandusky Township: but afterward sold out there. and moved to Chatfield Township, where he purchased 79 acres. They occupied the latter about ten years: and Jan. 31, 1865, moved to the farm where they now live: and in 1876, erected a commodious two story frame residence, besides making other important and necessary improvements on the farm. They had nine children, five of whom are living - John, Elzie, Albert, Jacob and Flora A. Those deceased are Alfred, Henry, Nancy J. and Louisa. John married Sophia Kroneberger, and lives in this township: Elzie married Alice Keller, and lives at Upper Sandusky. Mr. and Mrs. Orewiler are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His sisters were married and moved West, at an early date, and little has been known of them since. Elizabeth was married to Jesse Van Fustin: Rosanna to Jacob Hoover: they settled first in Illinois, and then moved to California: this was the latest account: Lewis is the only brother who survives. DAVID PFLEIDERER, farmer: P. O Sulphur Springs: was born in Wurtemberg, Germany. Dec. 5, 1822. He is the son of Christian and Barbara (Auberly) Pfleiderer: the former born in the year 1789, and the latter in 1794. They were farmers in Germany and in very comfortable circumstances; but Christian concluded to emigrate to the United States, where he could more readily procure farms for his growing family; accordingly, himself and wife and their four children. viz.: Adam, Jacob, Daniel and Christian, started from Germany in the spring of 1831, and after ninety-two days on the ocean they landed at Baltimore, Md. They came across the country until they arrived in Columbiana Co., Ohio; being weary of traveling, and then near the approach of winter they hesitated about going to unsettled parts of the new country, they concluded to stop in Columbiana Co., until winter would break up. They found shelter with a family by the name of Seacrist; Mr. Pfleiderer went to work at whatever odd jobs turned up while they were there, as did the oldest boys. Soon as spring opened up they purchased a yoke, of oxen and an old wagon, with which the family traveled and brought their little effects, and in the first week of April they came to Crawford Co. and located on 80 acres which was entered by Mr. Pfleiderer while they were wintering in Columbiana, and the same is now part of David's farm. Soon as they came here they purchased 80 acres for $145, adjoining that which had been entered. There was a miserable old cabin on the premises, which the family took refuge in until they got a more comfortable one erected, and in which there was scarcely a nail used in its construction, and about a year later he bought 80 acres more for $140. He was called on, soon after their arrival here, to assist one Ludwig Geiger raise a cabin, when by accident a pole fell and broke his right leg, which was a terrible drawback to the general improvement which was so much needed in the woods; although he had no clearing, done at this time the family were not as destitute as many of the pioneers, as they had considerable money with them. They had made a good start. and everything seemed prosperous until Mr. Pfleiderer was stricken with paralysis one morning as he got up out of bed from which he expired instantly. This sudden and unexpected change left considerable care on his widow with her six children. two of whom were born since their arrival in this county--John and Daniel, the latter a mere infant. The older children conducted the affairs of the farm admirable, and Mrs. Pfleiderer did considerably of the light work out doors herself; she lives with her son David, and although she is in her 86th year, she is as smart on foot as many who are twenty years younger; will walk off to church, a, distance of several miles, and back without any apparent fatigue "Some place their bliss in action, some in ease, Those call it pleasure, and contentment these " Truly, she may be placed in the former class for the writer found her in the cornfield with 938 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: a party of huskers, doing her share with a zeal and earnestness which would become one of 16, rather than 86 years; of course, it is neither expected of her nor desired, but having always led an active life, she could find no contentment in sitting down in idleness or ease. At the settling of the estate, David took the homestead and has bought nearly all the heirs' interest, except Christians, who makes his home with David. He (Christian) was taken with a severe attack of scarlet fever when quite young. causing an unbalanced condition of his mental faculties, from which he never fully recovered. Nov. 13, 1843, David married Mary Heckenlively; she was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, and came to Chatfield Township with her parents in August, 1832. They have had fourteen children. viz.: Magdalen, now Mrs. Christ Harmon, of Kosciusko Co., Ind.: Anna M., wife of G. Ludhardt ; Abraham, in Kosciusko Co., Ind., John (deceased), Margaret, George (deceased), Barbara, wife of Reuben Crall, of Indiana: Lydia, Isaac and Jacob (twins.), Samuel (deceased), Leonora, Carolina and Clara. Mr. Pfleiderer owns a good farm of 240 acres, which is well improved and has good buildings, which have been well earned by his own and his wife's industry. David's eldest brother, Adam, is now in Ft. Wayne, Ind.: Jacob married here, died, and left a widow and three children. Mrs. David Pfleiderer is the oldest of a family of eight children: her father, John Heckenlively, was born in Germany and came to the United States a young man; he was married in Baltimore, and subsequently moved to Chatfield Township, this county. in 1832. He was a minister of the Gospel of the New School Lutheran Church. Sometime after they settled here his wife died. leaving eight children. viz.: Mary, Christina, George, Barbara, John, Catharine, Jacob and Magdalen. Of these George, Barbara and John are in Iowa: Catharine and Jacob in Missouri; Christina is now Widow Shieber. Rev. John Heckenlively finally married the widow of Christian Pfleiderer and lived very comfortably. He was sent to Iowa by the American Tract Society, as a missionary in the German language - in the interest of the New School Lutherans. He preached in that State three years, and. finding his health failing, he resigned: returned to Mr. Pfleiderer's and soon afterward passed to that realm of which he so earnestly endeavored to teach others. E. S. PETERMAN. farmer: P. O. Bucyrus; was born in York Co., Penn., Dec. 1, 1831, the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Shultz) Peterman. The family consisted of parents and two children-E. S. and Mary; they moved from Pennsylvania and settled in Stark Co., Ohio, in 1834. Mr. Peterman, Sr., worked at the blacksmith's trade for some years, but later in life turned his attention to farming. Mr. E. S. Peterman secured a good common-school education, and, in 1859, he embarked in the grocery trade, opening an establishment in Canton, and in 1861, he purchased an interest in a dry - goods establishment with J. J. Kauffman, a brother of Mrs. Peterman. Having sold out his grocery business he devoted his attention to the dry goods alone, which he followed about six years, and sold out in 1866. He was united in marriage with Henrietta Kauffman March 20, 1856. Her parents were natives of Lancaster Co., Penn., but moved to Ohio, and settled in Stark County in 1831, where Mrs. Peterman was born July 5, 1837. Mr. Peterman, moved to Crawford County in 1868, and in 1870, purchased the farm of 80 acres which he now owns, and which he bought of his father, who purchased the same of one Ernshaw, a Quaker. It is said that this 80 acres was the first location entered in the township. Mr. Henry Peterman had moved to this place in 1855: he and his wife both died here, she in the fall of 1869, and he in the spring of 1873. Mr. E. S. Peterman is quite a mechanical genius, and does his own odd, jobs of carpenter work, and some small blacksmithing jobs. They leave three children-Ella, Frank E. and Harrie, and enjoy the comforts of a well-earned and pleasant home. JACOB SHIEBER farmer: P. O. Bucyrus was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, May 19, 1831. His father, Gottlieb and mother, Magdalen (Brosey) Shieber, emigrated from Germany, to the United States in 1832: they had five children, Jacob being then a mere child, They with a party of German emigrants, came by way of the lakes to Sandusky City, Ohio, and resolved to make a search for one Fred Feichtner, with whom they were acquainted in Germany, and who had settled in Crawford Co.: with this intent Mr. Gottlieb Shieber and several of his German friends and fellow emi- LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 939 grants left their families in Sandusky City and set out on foot to walk here. After considerable weary search they were successful in finding their friend Feichtner, located comfortably in this township on the Broken Sword. Being much pleased with the appearance of the country they concluded to locate in the same neighborhood. When they had made a short visit and looked around for a place to locate, they returned on foot to Sandusky City to move their families here. They hired teams and brought their effects to this locality, and turned their attention to providing a home for themselves. Mr. Shieber bought 40 acres of J. Caris, and soon after he entered 40 acres, and added by purchase until he owned 110 acres. This constituted the homestead where the children grew up to maturity; there were nine in all-Christopher, Gottlieb, Fredericka, Christian, Jacob, Catherine, John, Abraham and Mary. Of these Fredericka, John, and Abraham died when young. They were poor when they arrived here and had a hard time, but were blessed with good health and industrious habit, which are the basis of all material success. Jacob was the youngest son who lived to mature years, therefore he remained with his parents until 24 years of age. He married Eve Mauer June 14, 1855: they farmed his father's place one year and then moved, in April, 1856, to the farm where they are living. and where they had bought 80 acres, of which about 20 acres were cleared and a log cabin erected. They were poor and worked hard to improve their home and make it comfortable. At length they were able to purchase 37 ½ acres of Henry Cobb, and subsequently bought 80 acres of his brother in Holmes Township, and added by purchase until he owns in all 287 acres of good land with good buildings and otherwise well improved. They received only about $3,000 in all from the old homestead, and all the balance has been made by his own and his wife's industry. They reared little children. eight of whom are living - John, Louisa J. (was married to Harrison Klink, but is now deceased), Henry, David S., Emanuel, Mary, Lizzie, Abraham and J. W. Mrs. Shieber was born June 21, 1835, in Stark Co., Ohio, and was only 2 weeks old when her parents left Stark Co. to come to Crawford. Her fathers name was Jacob Mauer; he emigrated from Germany with his wife and one child and first settled in Stark Co. and. as stated. moved thence to Crawford Co., where he died ; his widow married one Simon Price. Mrs. Shieber is the only survivor of her parents six children. Mr. Jacob Shieber was elected Township Trustee for two years; he was drafted into the army, but furnished a substitute; his father died here in August 1869, full of years, when he had lived to see all his children enjoying comfortable homes of their own; his widow still survives at the advanced age of 82 years. The family are members of the German Lutheran Church. DANIEL SELL, farmer; P. 0. Bucyrus; was born on the farm where he now lives, June 19, 1838. He is the son of Jacob H. and Mary (Keplinger) Sell, who were both natives of Pennsylvania and moved to Stark Co., Ohio, when quite young. They were married in Stark Co., and lived there several years afterward. In 1837, they moved to Crawford Co., and brought with them two children-Henry and Elizabeth. Mr. Sell entered 160 acres, and afterward purchased 40 acres more; there were no improvements on any of the land which they located on. Mr. Sell erected a log cabin in the woods, and began clearing and improving his home. Two children were born to them after they came here, viz., Daniel and Catharine; the latter died when about 3 years old; three grew up to maturity. Henry, married here one Mary Peterman, and got 80 acres of his father's estate, but subsequently sold out and moved to Williams Co., where he now resides. Elizabeth is the wife of Samuel Forst of Indiana, Daniel resided on the farm with his parents, and owns almost 80 acres of the same to-day, and enjoys the fruit of their industry as well as that of his own. Their first residence, or cabin, was removed only six years ago, to give place to their more comfortable residence. When Mr. Sell was about the proper age for attending school, there was but little opportunity for attending, as there were but few institutions of the kind in the kind in the country, and on account of his fathers ill health, he was obliged to take charge of the farm. consequently his school education is limited. He married Lovina Alice Cooper Nov. 19, 1863. She was born in this county Nov. 19, 1844. They have five children, viz., Willie O., Frank, Harry, Orie and Perley. Mrs. Sell's father, Adam. and her mother, Eliza (Knisely) Cooper, were natives of Pennsylvania, and moved to this county quite early, and afterward moved to Findlay, where they died, leaving 940 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: four children-Eliza, Mary, Lovina Alice and Horace G. Mr. Jacob H. Sell died here on the old homestead, Oct. 3, 1876, and his aged widow resides with their sun Daniel. SEXAUER BROS.. carriage manufacturers. Sulphur Springs. To give a short sketch of the family, it is necessary to go back to one Christian Sexauer, who when a young man emigrated, from Baden, Germany, about the year 1827, and landed in New York, but had resolved to push on to the West. Accordingly he set out for Oho, and located at Sandusky City. After a few years residence there, he removed to Bucyrus, and there pursued his trade of shoemaking. On the same Ship, there sailed a maiden of his nativity (Baden), one Carolina Schindler, who was also en route to Sandusky City, Ohio, and who shortly afterward moved to Bucyrus, which. no doubt had something to do with the attraction of young Sexauer thither, as subsequent events proved. There they united their fortunes in matrimony, and indeed the financial part was easily united as neither one had much to begin with except willing hands and good health, which was. their capital stock. Here they lived happily for a number of years, when the cold hand of death snatched the husband and father from the family circle, leaving the widow and four sons the eldest about 6 years, and the youngest a mere infant, viz., William F., Christian. C. F. and Lewis. Subsequently, the widow married J. G. Kinninger, of Galion, a wagon-maker by trade. In the meantime William F. had gone to live with Stephen Brinkman, a chair manufacturer, and learned that trade with him. Christian had been living with a family in Bucyrus until about 17 years of age when he went to John Sims, and learned the trade of harness-making. When his apprenticeship had been served, he spent some time traveling and working at, his trade, with the intention of improving thereby. He finally located in Elgin, Ill., and began business for himself in 1860, and died there in 1877, leaving four orphan daughters, as his wife had died a flew days previous. C. F. and Lewis lived with their mother and step-father, the former going into the wagon-making business, which he learned thoroughly. The latter, when about 13 years old, was apprenticed to the painters trade with Jefferson Morton. At the termination of his apprenticeship, he traveled some in connection with the interests of his trade. In the meantime, their step-father had moved from Galion and opened a wagon - shop here (Sulphur Springs) in 1849. C. F. being his only help, and in fact the sole conductor of the business, as both parents were advanced in years and requiring the assistance of their son. In 1862, the three brother; William F., C. F. and Lewis, entered into partnership, under the firm name of Sexauer Bros., for the purpose of manufacturing carriages and wagons. (For particulars of this industry see township history.) They employ from eight to ten men, besides what they do themselves, in the various departments. William and C. F. attend principally to the woodwork, as in that they are both proficient and Lewis takes charge of the painting department, the iron work is under their own supervision, which is sufficient guarantee that it is well done. They began here with limited means and, although they have not sprung at once to the zenith of a financial success, they have raised steadily and surely in the favor of their patrons. which is indicative of good, honest work and fair dealing, at reasonable prices, theirs is not the hurriedly - made machine work such as floods the country, but everything warranted and made by hand, of the best material. They are all married and have each a home of their own, William. F. was born Nov. 19, 1835. When 21 years old, he married Mary Rupersberger (Jan. 24, 1856). She was born June 8, 1837, in Germany and came here with her widowed mother and four other children two boys and three girls in all, in 1849, and located at Galion. They have five children viz., William, Charles, Frederick, Amanda and Christian. C. F. was born Nov. 17, 1839. He married Mary Ziegler Nov. 26, 1863. She was born Nov. 17, 1841. They have four children living. viz., Ella, Bessie, Susan and Bertha: two deceased, Celia and George L. Lewis was born March 17, 1843. He married Sarah Culver May 24, 1871. She was born in Pennsylvania Sept. 21, 1853. Then have two children living, viz., Laura A. and Walter A., three deceased-Carrie, Edward and Frank. DR. JOHN B. SQUIER physician, Sulphur Springs; was born in Salem Township, Washington Co.. N. Y., May 16, 1818. His grandparents, Daniel and Elizabeth (Wood) Squier, were natives of New York, and reared their family of eleven children to manhood and LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 941 womanhood in the same county. There were in the family seven sons and four daughters, viz.. Elizabeth, Salmon, Alice, Daniel, Charles, Lucinda, Irene, Calvin, Nehemiah, Sheubel and Elijah. One of these, Lucinda. who was married to Isaac McClallen, and of whom nothing definite had been known to her kinfolks of Ohio for more than thirty years, was considered deceased when. recently, to their surprise, the knowledge of her survival and residence in Western Pennsylvania came to hand. The Doctor (her nephew) paid her a visit and found her living happily with her son. James McClallan, remarkably vigorous and strong for one who has passed 92 summers, and is without a single nervous quiver. To move from the old Homestead in New York, Salmon was the first. He settled in the Black River country. in the western part of that State. Calvin, his wile and one child: Nehemiah, wife and two children, viz., George M. and John B., started, with two-horse teams and wagons, packing therein goods and utensils such as they deemed would be necessary, set out to push their way to this State. They arrived here safely on Nov. 5, 1822, making the journey in thirty days. They stopped with,.John O. Blowers. near the Sandusky River. On the farm now owned by Samuel Blowers. The wives of Calvin and Nehemiah were sisters, and sisters of John O. Blowers, who was pleased to have the Squiers locate by him. He gave them privilege of erecting a cabin on his premises to protect them from the rapidly approaching winter. This was soon accomplished. There Calvin and Nehemiah with their families, spent the winter of 1822-23. When the spring, opened, Nehemiah built a more comfortable dwelling on 10 acres, which he purchased of Ralph Beacon, on the Bucyrus road ; and, in a short space of time, Calvin and Nehemiah bought 80 acres across the Sandusky, to which the former removed in 1824, and there made his home until 1851, when he sold out and moved with his family to De Kalb Co., Ind. Nehemiah purchased the mill property of J. O. Blowers, and moved to it in 1833. He had by this time added 20 acres to his first purchase. Here Mr. Squier reared his family, and knew full well the hardships incident to "life in the woods" in those days. He was a man of sterling worth in the newly settled neighborhood. They reared five children - George M., who died here when about 17 years old ; John B., of whom we make further mention ; William H., who died when about 17 years old: Nehemiah who moved to Illinois, and is near Olney, Richland Co.; Daniel W., who resided in Indiana, and died there in 1862 from disease contracted in the army. The fond wife and mother was called away. in August, 1842, from the scenes where she so nobly bore her part. not only in assisting and encouraging her husband in domestic duties, but by leaving the impress of her character on the youths who were about to step into and form part of the coming society: and how seldom are self sacrificing mothers duly accredited for their pains in that direction. Nehemiah married a second wife-widow of the late Horace Smalley - and by this union there was one daughter - A1ice, now Mrs. A. J. Messenger. April 24, 1865, Nehemiah died. and was interred in the cemetery near his original farm, as is also his brother Calvin, and a brother of their wives, William Blowers. who came to Ohio with them and lived here two years, and taught school in Bucyrus the first winter, and preached frequently through this section, as he was one of the first Methodist ministers here: but he then returned to care for his aged and infirm father in New York, and never returned. except, on three occasions. to visit. On the last occasion, he was taken sick, and, in twenty days illness, he died at the Doctors residence. How significant were his last words: "Lay me beside Nehemiah and Calvin, and I know that I'll be with two honest men." Some time previous to the death of the latter, the Doctor had gone to visit his Uncle Calvin in Indiana, and found him in failing health. and brought him along to his home, believing that a change of scene and air would have a good effect, to which Calvin readily as sented. and gave evidence of his desire to be here when his final dissolution would come. He lingered six months, and died. and was interred here. After years of separation and hundreds of miles had intervened, how singular that circumstances should bring the three to the same place to die, who had been life-long, devoted friends, and. as by their desire, their ashes rest side by side! As above stated, John B, was only 4 years old when his parents came here, and, when about 7 years old, he met with a painful accident by cutting his right knee with an ax. Inflammation set in and resulted in complete anchylosis of the knee joint, which influ- 942 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: enced his parents to apprentice him to the tailor's trade. He began when 13 years old and worked six years. In the meantime, he had acquired more strength in the wounded leg and the tailoring business was too sedentary for his active mind, so he concluded to learn the millwright's trade. In connection with millwrighting he taught school winters for ten years. Still striving for a wider and higher field of knowledge. He took up tire study of medicine with Dr. G. L. Ziggler the three last years of millwrighting, and. being determined to master the subject, he would carry his book on medicine in his tool-chest, and study nights, wherever he was at work, thereby carrying together one of the most important studies and a most particular mechanism. After three years' study he attended one term in medical college at Cincinnati in the winter of 1847-48. He then practiced with his preceptor one and a half years, and then began practicing on his own account : and in the winter of 1852-53, he attended another term in medical college at Cincinnati, at which date he graduated: and, since that time, he has been applying the healing art in this vicinity with more than ordinary success. The evidence in his favor proves him to be a physician of much ability, a man of great breadth of knowledge, with years of varied experience, and possessed of the strongest vitality; courteous to the stranger, a true friend to his friends, kind and affectionate in his family. He has been married three times-first. to Elizabeth Decker, in October 1839. She was a native of New Jersey, and came here with her parents when quite young. She died in July. 1848. leaving one child-Thomas Corwin. During the late rebellion, he enlisted. in March 1864, in Co. C. 49th O. V. I, and served until the following June, when he was taken prisoner at Altoona Mountains, Georgia, and sent to Andersonville Prison, where he died July 20, 1864. His second marriage was with Achsah M. Dilts, in January 1849. She was a native of this State. She died in January 1855, leaving one child-Ellen, now Mrs. A. E. Humiston, His third marriage was celebrated with Dorothy Hottel. She was born in Bristol, Trumbull Co., Ohio, Nov. 14, 1830. By this union there are six children-Edgar A., Emma (now Mrs. E. Van Vorhis), Annie, Oscar W., Flora and Effie. He owns the flour-mill, which he bought in January, 1867, in partnership with W. S. Beacon. They moved it from the river to Annapolis, and rebuilt it, and in 1874 the Doctor bought Beacons interest. now owning the entire property, which is run by his sons. Edgar A. and Oscar W.: and owns valuable town property besides The Doctor's religious views are decidedly of the Swedenborgian school, which doctrine he converses of understandingly, with unpretentious and unassuming zeal. Politically, he was a Republican while he believed that party's banner was emblazoned with human rights and freedom. He withheld not his son (who fell on the national battle-field) when the country was in its greatest need. But. believing that when a party forsakes its principles, patriots should forsake the party, therefore, he espoused the Liberal cause in 1872, and was a warm supporter of Horace Greeley, and has since supported the Democracy. NELSON SMITH lawyer and farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: was born Feb. 7, 1844, in this township. he is tire son, of Thomas and Mirilla (Ketchum) Sinith, who came here young, and, after they were married, located near where Mr. Smith lives. Our subject is the seventh of a family of nine children, who are all deceased. except himself and one brother. His parents were among the first settlers of the county, and knew well the hardship which pioneer life subjected them to. Both died on the same farm, where they first began for themselves, the mother in 1853, and his father five years later. Nelson worked on his father's farm until he was 27 years of age, except one year in which he worked at the carpenter's trade. On Nov. 29, 1866, he cast his lot with that of Cornelia Hise, who was born in this township Feb. 4, 1846. They leave two children - Willie F. and Nellie B. In 1870, he purchased and erected a good save-mill on his premises, which he has run ever since, doing a good deal of work. He owns 20 acres of land in connection with his mill. which makes them a comfortable home, and which he has made by his oven industry. He is a member of Liberty Lodge, Knights of Honor No. 845. SAMUEL SPONSELLER farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: was born Dec. 31, 1836, on the place which he now owns. He is the youngest of a family of eleven children. His father, Michael, and mother. Susana (Mentzer) Sponseller, came from Columbiana to Crawford Co. with seven of their children. in 1832. They settled on the LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 943 northeast quarter of Sec. 20, in this township, and his first purchase was 80 acres, for which he paid $400 to his brother-in-law, Jacob Mollenkopf. He (Mollenkopf) had been here as early as 1828, and made some improvements, but moved west of Bucyrus when Mr. Sponseller bought him out, where he died many years ago. Mr. Sponseller was possessed of considerable money when they came here, and soon purchased 80 acres more besides entering other 80 acres. One relic of the pioneer improvement still remains on the place. in the shape of an old log barn, which was built in 1838. When it was up to the square, the famous wind-storm, so destructive in this section, swept over, carrying the tops of a large hickory and two large oak trees into one of the bays, filling it completely, which was a terrible job to get cleared out, considering the height of the walls, and the weight of the pieces carried in by the wind, and while chopping and clearing it out. he sustained a serious injury on his foot. In 1858, he replaced the old residence with a good substantial frame dwelling, now occupied by Samuel. They had eleven children-Elizabeth, who married George Emery, and died. leaving three children: .John, who died in Van Wert Co.: Susan, now the widow of Martin Brown, late of Indiana: Julia, wife of Eli Bressler: George, now in Van Wert Co.,: Fred, in this county: Emanuel in Hancock Co.: Henry now in Kosciusko Co.. Ind.: Reuben, in Defiance Co.; and Samuel (he was a twin, but the other died in infancy). After many years of anxious care and toil, with a varied experience of pioneer life. Mrs. Sponseller closed her worldly cares in death, in 1858. Mr. Sponseller married a second wife, the widow of one Mr. Hatten, whom he followed across the river in 1874. Samuel Sponseller, our subject. married Sarah A. Kling, daughter of Moses Kling, April 18, 1861. She was born Oct. 1, 1840. For twelve years after they were married, they rented land in this neighborhood, although in nine years from the time they were married, he purchased 40 acres, and afterward bought 15 acres more. He subsequently purchased the old homestead of 120 acres, after his fathers death. He has held the office of School Director for several years, which office he now holds. They have three children - Sylvanus E., James Q., and William H. During the early settlement of this neighborhood, the locality known as the Wolf Swamp, was infested with wildcats of a very large size, which caused them much annoyance by carrying off lambs, and Mr. Sponseller's place adjoining was subjected to their ravages frequently. JOHN L. SNYDER. farmer; P. O. Bucyrus; was born Sept. 3, 1830, in Harrison Co., Ohio. His grandparents came from Maryland and settled in Harrison Co., Ohio, in the year 1800; they had eight children-Adam, Samuel, Henry Clay, George, Eve A., Mary, Sarah and Elizabeth. Of these. Henry C. was the progenitor of the Snyder family, of this county; he was drafted into the war of 1812, and was present at Baltimore at the time of Buckingham's defeat. He worked on his father's farm in Harrison County until he married, which event occurred about the year 1822 or 1823, with Hannah Miller, who was born in Maryland, and came to Ohio with her parents in 1801. Shortly after Henry C. and Miss Miller were married, they entered 160 acres in Harrison County, which they put under good improvements. And there Mrs. Snyder ceased her worldly cares in death, leaving seven children- Mary (deceased), Mahala, Samuel, John L., Marie, Catharine and .Joseph M. Mr. Snyder married a second wife, Mary Myers, who was then a resident of Crawford County, and shortly after his second marriage, he moved with his family to this county, and settled on the farm where John L. resides. in 1844. By the second marriage there were seven children-Salina, Hannah, Frances, Margaret, James M. (deceased), Martha and Armina. Our subject, John L., worked at home on his father's farm until he was of age, and when quite young acquired the knowledge and taste for grafting fruit-trees, at which art he became an expert. He has dealt extensively in nursery stock of various firms, and made a business success of it in every respect: as his practical experience affords him facilities for knowing what is and what is not adapted to this climate and soil. On May 22, 1862, he married Susanna Ronk: she was born in Pennsylvania Oct. 10, 1842, and came here with her widowed mother and the rest of the family in 1848. Shortly after their marriage. they bought and located on 80 acres, just west of his present farm, where they lived about eight years, when he sold out and moved to Johnson Co., Mo., but being so lately after the close of 944 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: the war, the state of society was scarcely what an Ohioan could wish for, so he concluded to return, and in six months came back to Crawford County and bought the farm of 80 acres where he is now living, of his fattier, who was then about to retire, and was aged and infirm. They have four children-Clark C., .John L.,Jr., Virgil V., and Lavern. Mr. Snyder has held the offices of Constable, Assessor and Trustee, for several terms in this township, and is a member of Libertv Lodge, No. 845, Knights of Honor. His father died here in 1871; his brother, Joseph M., was drafted during the late rebellion, and went into service in 1862, 49th O. V. I. and served one year, which was the time for which he was drafted; at the expiration of that time he returned home unhurt and died here Aug. 16, 1880. The southeast corner of Mr. Snyder's 80-acre farm is said to be the exact geographical center of Crawford County. GOTTLIEB SHIEBER (deceased). farmer: P. O. Bucyrus; was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Sept. 23, 1823 ; was the third child of Gottlieb and Magdalena (Brosey) Shieber. (whose sketch is connected with that of Jacob Shieber. Gottlieb lived with his parents until he attained his majority, and, on Oct. 11, 1847, he married Christina Heckenlively; she was born Oct. 25, 1827, in Columbiana Co., Ohio, and came here with her parents when about 7 years old. Her father. John and her mother, Margaret (Leffler) Heckinlively, came from Germany when young: they married in Baltimore, and came on to Columbiana Co., where they bought 80 acres of land, where they lived about six years. The following January after Mr. and Mrs. Shieber were married. they moved to 80 acres which he had purchased, and on which he had built a log house: the farm was all woods when they cane to it, and. anxious to make a start and get their farm cleared, Mr. Shieber worked very hard and unceasingly. They replaced the log cabin with a good substantial frame residence. in 1859, and, subsequently added 38 acres to their farm. Mr. Shieber's health began to fail him, no doubt caused partially by constantly overworking himself, such was his ambition to surmount every financial embarrassment. The messenger of death called him away from his worldly cares, June 18, 1866, leaving a widow and eight children, the oldest only 17 Years of age, and the youngest born four months after Mr. Shieber's death. The names of the children are as follows: Elizabeth (now Mrs. George Eberhart), John (who is married to Lovina Williams, and lives in Holmes Township), Annie, .John, Sarah, Reuben, Lydia, and Gottlieb Wesley. Lydia has been teaching school, and is preparing herself for that avocation. Mrs. Shieber has managed the affairs of her family and farm with much credit and ability, since her husband's death: their wants are well supplied with all the necessaries of life, and she has everything prepared to make her mature years pass smoothly by. JACOB SHULL carpenter: P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born in Perry Co., Penn., Dec. 4, 1822 : the son of .Jacob and Sarah (Flick) Shull, and the only chill of that union, as, death called the paternal parent when he (Jacob) was only a few weeks old. After his fathers death he was taken and reared by his mother's father, John Flick, and lived with him until about 18 years of age. In the meantime, his mother had again married one Jefferson Wallace, a carpenter by trade : and with his step-father he began to learn the carpenters trade when in his 18th Year. When he had served about two years apprenticeship, he was employed to work by the month, and worked steadily for his step-father four years, and one year for another carpenter. In 1831, they (John Flick, his grandfather and his step-father) sold out and moved to Ohio: they settled near Mansfield, making the journey in about three weeks. There he assisted his grandfather in the improvement of his farm for about nine years, which includes the time spent at his apprenticeship. His mother and step-father moved to Crawford Co. and located in Sandusky Township, but finally moved to Indiana, where both died: they had seven children, who moved to Indiana likewise, except one daughter, who was married and remained here. In 1845, Mr. Shull began working at the carpenter's trade on his own responsibility, and has been very successful, having raised to date, about three hundred buildings, and some of the largest in the country without the slightest accident to any one around. He formed one resolution when he began on his own account; viz.: "That intoxicating drink of any kind should not be used where he was raising a building," and be it said to his credit. that resolution was never, in a single instance, deviated from; even in the early time, when it Pages 945 and 946 missing LIBERTY TOWNSHIP - 947 was considered a dishonor not to have a good-sized. well-filled jug on the ground, when a few persons were gathered to perform any piece of work. Simple as it would now appear to live up to such a resolution, it was then a matter of considerable moment, as it was antagonized by society in general, therefore, it involved the man's popularity who would held out; and that was not all, it involved the mechanic's admissibility to employ, consequently his bread. Notwithstanding, he held firmly to the principles involved. He is, and has been for years, radical in his advocacy of prohibition principles, and has frequently discussed the subject publicly. As illustrative of the undaunted energy of which he was possessed in youth, and which would correspondingly apply at the present; he started on foot. when about 21 years old, and walked from here through the then sparsely settled country, to Columbia City, Ind., a distance of 150 miles, on the circuitous route taken, in five day's, and returned on foot, making a circuit of some of the more northern counties. In those days there were no railroad palace cars flying on their beaten course at the rate of forty miles an hour, but the of team instead would plod its way, " with no bad luck." at the rate of ten miles per day: and a year or so later, he made the same trip again on foot. When about 20 years of age, he united himself with the church, and in 1868 he was ordained a minister of the M. E. Church: since that date he has held many meetings in various States. He has traveled over nine States. viz.: New York. Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee. Alabama, Indiana, Illinois and Iowa, and held religious meetings in five of them, principally in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa and Tennessee: and although he has no regular charge, he does considerable work for the cause of religion wherever an opportunity presents itself. He is Superintendent of the Sabbath school, which office he has diligently applied himself to for the last twenty-five years. He is a man of liberal views, inasmuch as he believes in the advancement of all institutions which tend to the general welfare of mankind, irrespective of their race or color, and, not only liberal in thought. but, with the goods he possesses, giving cheerfully to the support of teachers and missionary work among the freedmen of the South, besides annual donations of considerable amount to the church at home. Nor are his circumstances less comfortable than those who would be more selfish and grasping ; he enjoys the pleasures of a comfortable home in the village, and has a well-improved farm of 90 acres besides. which he has prudently saved of his own earnings. .July 3, 1847, he was married to the widow of the late B. Spahr; her maiden name was Sarah Peterman. She was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., March 14, 1823. They have three children living. viz.: Francis, (who married Lucetta Darr-is farming his fathers place), Sarah A. and Eva A. Mrs. Shull has one child-Benjamin Spahr-by her first husband. GEORGE W. TEEL. farmer and purchasing agent for the Ohio Central Railroad; P. O. Bucyrus and Sulphur Springs. The subject of this sketch is one of the most active, energetic and successful business men of Crawford Co. He was born at Ashland, Ohio, May 16, 1821, the son of poor but industrious parents. At the age of 10 and 11, having received a limited education, he worked in John Moffit's s brickyard for two summers, and for the next two seasons drove a team on the Ohio Canal; he then worked for different farmers in Stark Co., for some two years. In the meantime his father, John C. Teel, had removed to Guernsey Co., and purchased a small farm. The subject of this sketch manged this farm for some two years, while his father worked at the blacksmith trade. In his 17th year, he taught school during the winter in Wavne Co., and also followed this same occupation in his 19th year. After this he attended the Ashland Academy for one term of five months; then clerked a year for Josiah Blackburn. at Benton, Holmes Co. He removed to Navarre, Stark Co., in the spring of 1843, and from April to July purchased horses. took them to Canada and sold them to British officers. Mr. Teel removed to Crawford Co., Aug. 7, 1843, and purchased of George W. Galloway the farm upon which he now resides: he taught school at Sulphur Springs and vicinity for fifteen winters, as follows: Five winters in the village, three in the Broken Sword District, two in the Charlton District, two in the Rice District. two in the Stephens District and one in the Clingan District. He conducted in the Broken Sword District the first English school taught in that neighborhood, and afterward they could never persuade the residents to support a German 948 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: school. For some six months, about 1844, he was engaged in the mercantile business at Sulphur Springs, with a man named Allen, and the establishment was known as the Great Western Store. In 1862, he was appointed Revenue Assessor for Crawford Co., and served in this capacity for nine years. During the fall of 1872, he was employed by the A. & L. E. R. R., as collecting agent for the corporation, and continued with the company for three years. In the spring of 1877, he removed his family to Bucyrus and was engaged for one year as assignee in settling up the business of Messrs. Osman & Woodside. The family removed to Crestline in the spring of 1878, and remained there some twelve months, when they returned to the farm in Liberty Township. During this time, however, Mr. Teel still continued as a partner in the carriage establishment at Bucyrus: is owner at the present time of 303 acres of land in Crawford Co., and 80 acres in Paulding Co., but has not been actively engaged in farming since 1862 ; is at the present time Secretary of the Crawford Co. Farmers Fire Insurance Company, and also purchasing agent of the Ohio Central Railroad; as agent for this corporation and also the old A. & L. E. R. R., he secured nearly all the right of way for the road-bed from the coal fields to Toledo, including also the depot grounds lately purchased in that city. He was instrumental, to a great extent, in securing the guarantee fund of over $100,000 subscribed in 1880, by the counties along the route of the road. as the "local aid " to complete this new enterprise, and with Messrs. D. W. Swigart, C. Fulton, S. R. Harris and James B. Gormly, succeeded in getting the Machine Shops Bill passed by the Legislature. The subject of this sketch was married Sept. 17, 1844. to Miss Elizabeth Markley, and they are the parents of the following children Leander L., Jennie (formerly Mrs. Byron Benson, but now deceased), Jared, Laura L., Ella, George W., Horatio Markley and Fannie. JOHN F. WILLIAMS, deceased. He was the progenitor of the Williams families in this section. He was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., and was brought up to farm life. When about of mature age, he was united in wedlock with one Elizabeth Flora; they moved from their native place to Belmont Co., Ohio, at a date which can not be accurately ascertained, but about the year 1806 they located near Steubenville, and enjoyed their new home about five years, when Mrs. Williams was taken from the family by death, leaving five children. viz., Frederick, Catharine, Isaac, Susan and Elizabeth. At this time he had a brother-in-law living in Stark Co., and. after disposing of his effects, he repaired to Stark Co. with his five children, and leaving them in charge of his relative, he returned to his native place in Pennsylvania and there he married Elizabeth Gartie, and having spent about a year on his visit, he returned with his young bride to where his children were, arriving in 1813. During his unsettled condition and his removals to and from Ohio, he escaped the draft. which would, in all probability, have drawn him into the war of 1812. He was in very poor financial circumstances, and was unable to enter the amount of land specified by law, but bought 60 acres of his brother-in-law, which he improved, and, by his unceasing industry and the enhancement in value of the property, he got to be in easy circumstances. In the course of time there were born to him, in Stark Co., by his second marriage, five children. viz., Thomas, George, Joseph, Mary A. and Jacob, three of whom are now aged and respected citizens of this county. An earnest feeling was pervading in the family as to finding a more suitable agricultural location, where farms might he secured for his growing family. Thus prompted, one of his elder sons, Isaac, made a tour of inspection, and purchased. in 1828, 160 acres near Bucyrus, in Holmes Township. He returned with a description of this locality. which induced Mr. Williams to come here with his family. They started in the spring of I829, with a two-horse team and wagon, driving a few cattle along. When they arrived at spring Mills, Richland Co., the family stopped there and Mr. Williams came on here and bought 80 acres in Liberty Township, where his son Jacob now resides. He then went back to Spring Mills and moved the family there. During his absence the oldest boy, Thomas, helped in the harvest at Spring Mills, reaping with a hand sickle. When they came to Galion, they found the country so soft and impassable that it was necessary to hire a team to hitch on and help them through here. Elizabeth, the youngest child of his first wife, was the only one of hers who came at that time. She died shortly after their settlement here. But Isaac and his wife LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 949 soon followed, to the location he had purchased when out here in 1828. Susan married Benjamin Gants and remained in Stark Co., where she lives to this day. Catharine married Leonard Mowin and moved to Wood Co., and is still living. Frederick came here and bought considerable land in Holmes Township, and built a saw-mill, which was not a success on account of want of water sufficient to ran at all seasons, and when a dam was built, at a heavy expense, failed to serve the purpose, continually breaking because of quicksand surroundings. Exhausting much of his means and becoming discouraged. He started for California with the first tide of emigration to that State, leaving here his wife and four children, with the hope of returning in the early future with a repleted fortune : but he never returned. and many years since died. In December 1836, death again visited the family of Mr. Williams, this time summoning;, the loving wife and devoted mother. He married a third wife-Elizabeth Fox, widow of Michael Fox, late of Seneca Co. She had two children by Mr. Fox. but left no heirs by Mr. Williams. The children by his second wife we will make mention of elsewhere, except George. who will come in this connection. He lived at home until about 18 years old. when he went to sail on the lakes with Capt. Cobb. More than twenty years of his life were spent on the lakes; ten years of that time hie was Captain of a steamer plying between Buffalo, N. Y. and Chicago, Ill., and intermediate points. He died in Buffalo, N. Y. (his home for years), in 1866. Mary Ann married Josiah Jackson they moved to Iowa, where she died, Thomas, Joseph and Jacob are still here, and spoken of. with their families. in the following sketches. Mr. Williams was living on the old homestead with his son Jacob, when his final dissolution came. His widow went back to her children by Mr. Fox. THOMAS WILLIAMS. farmer : P. O. Bucyrus; is the eldest child of John F. Williams' second marriage: was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Feb. 16, 1814. He lived with his father until of age. working on the farm, and being of a mechanical turn of mind, and genius of that kind being in demand, he took up the boot and shoe making trade, without ever spending an hour as an apprentice. By doing jobs of repairing for themselves and others, he soon acquired a knowledge of the business that enabled him to do any kind of work, doing a great portion of all that the early settlers of their vicinity required. not because he ever expected to make a lifetime business of it, but more for the accommodation of their own family and neighbors. In 1833, he married Sarah Shaffstall. She was born in Dauphin Co., Penn. Jan. 25, 1816, and came here with her father's (Solomon Shaffstall) family in 1832. Mr. Williams had got 80 acres of his father, which was all in wood. He set about improving it, but his health failed him the first year, which interfered seriously with further progress on his farm. The following year he regained his health an worked for his brother in the summer, at the building of a mill in Holmes Township, at $10 per month. At this time they lived near the mill - site, and boarded the hands employed at its construction. In 1832, he had the logs cut and hewed to build a house, doing all the wok himself, and after the completion of his work on the mill. He returned to his farm, five acre: of which he had succeeded in clearing. He then set about making general improvements on his place, working hard both early and late The old log building which he first erected stands on the premises to this date. The nails which he put on the roof with, cost him 10 cents her pound, which he paid for with maple sugar made by himself and wife: that was their residence from 1832 until 1860. In 1868, Mr. Williams worked some time at the construction of the Erie & Wabash Canal, near Defiance and lost no opportunity in those early days to do whatever kind of work presented itself whether considered hard or light, and all with the intent of securing an independent home which now he so fully enjoys. Besides giving his children a good start. He owns 160 acres of good land. They had eleven children. viz., Almira, wife of George Seits: Henry, whose sketch appears here : William, deceased; Elizabeth was married to Edwin Ferrall, and died in May 1879. leaving three children; Catharine, wife of Isaac Dial: Joshua deceased, in his 25th year; Laura, wife of John Davidson; Harrison married Frances Slocum; Mary wife of Joseph Hill; Amelia, wife of Jacob Payne; Emma wife of Lawrence Sponseller. Those living are all married and doing for themselves, and Mr. and Mrs. Williams are spending their late years enjoying the fruits of their early industry 950 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: JOSEPH WILLIAMS, farmer: P. O. Sulphur Springs: is a son of John F. and Elizabeth Williams. He was born in Stark Co., Ohio. March 4, 1819. Mr. Williams had but a poor opportunity of obtaining an education, consequently his schooling, was very limited. His early pursuits were those of the farm, as they have always been. He has been twice married, first to Catharine Nigh. Site was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., July 16, 1816. Shortly after their marriage, they settled on 20 acres, which he owned along the creek, and lived there about two years. He then sold that and worked a rented farm for three years. Having saved a little money by that time, he purchased 80 acres (for which he paid $800) lying about two miles east. They lived there two years, when he sold out and purchased 138 acres, where he now lives, which is well improved. In 1877, he built the fine two-store frame dwelling which adorns the premises, at considerable cost. Mrs. Williams died in October 1878. They were parents of nine children, four of whom are living, viz., Eliza, now Mrs. John Rush: Amanda, now Mrs. John Schaal; Lovina, now Mrs. George Schieber and Matilda. now Mrs. J. J. McBride. Mr. Williams married his second wife, Polly Miller, Feb. 19, 1880. She was born in this county, March 5, 1837, and is a daughter of Jonathan Miller, who came to this county at an early date. She was the widow of the late Hon. John Welch. of Wyandot Co. He was among the first settlers there, and served about eight years in the Legislature from that county. She was married to him Feb. 18, 1858. He died Dec. 9, 1859, leaving one child-Wesley E. Mr. Williams was drafted into the late rebellion in October, 1862. He served in Co. L. 10th Ohio Cavalry, eight months, Without having encountered much of the hardship which was incident to that difficulty. He has been a man of remarkable constitution, as he has scarcely ever experienced sickness, even in the early settlement of this country, when malarial affections prevailed in every community, almost in every family in the fall of the year. except an attack of scarlet fever, when he was quite young, which affected his hearing very seriously: but,. as he advances in years, the organs of hearing become more sensitive and his hearing, improves. His son-in-law. J. J. McBride, farms the place, and has ever since he was married. That event occurred Jan. 8, 1873. They have three children, viz., Altha L., Stella S. and Aida B. Mr. McBride was born in this county, September 1849. JACOB WILLIAMS, farmer and teacher ; P. O. Bucyrus: is the son of John P. and Elizabeth Williams, and was born in Stark Co., Ohio. March 23, 1823. His boyhood was spent on the farm without many privileges of obtaining an education, much as he desired it. As he approached the age of manhood. he felt still more keenly the necessity of acquiring knowledge: and so he studied closerly during the odd hours of leisure, and being naturally apt, soon acquired a fair amount of learning,. In 1842, he taught school throught the winter term, receiving $15 per month, each month comprising twenty-six days. The proceeds of that term were turned over to his father for necessary general purposes. The next winter 1843 - 44, he went to school, that being the only term that he ever attended school as a pupil. The following winter he taught a school four miles west of Marion. The next term he taught in Holmes Township, and continued for three term; where he taught his first term. Oct. 8, 1848. He married Catharine Hershberger : and soon afterward they moved to Holmes township where he worked a rented farm in the summer and taught school during the winter for two years. At that time his father wished him to return and take charge of the old homestead, which he did in 1852, and in 1855, purchased the farm, and has lived here ever since. Although he then had the charge of a farm and family, he pursued his studies by night, kept up with the advance in that direction, and has taught school almost every winter: having taught fifteen terms in their own district. Mrs. Williams was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., June 8, 1829 her mother (Magdalene Eberly) died when she was about 11 years old. There were thirteen children of them: ten of whom grew to maturity, and came with their father to this State in 1847. He (.Jacob Hershberger) now resides with Mr. and Mrs. Williams, at the advanced age of 85 years. Mr. and Mrs. Williams are the parents of four children-Mary A., (deceased), .John F., Sally J., now Mrs. Jefferson Correll, and George H. The latter has prepared himself for teaching, and taught his first term in Holmes Township, where his father first began. Mr. Williams owns a good farm of 121 acres of good land, which he has earned by his own tact and industry. LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 951 HENRY WILLIAMS, farmer. P. O. Bucyrus: is the oldest son of Thomas Williams: he was born in this township Dec. 24, 1836, and worked on the farm with his parents until after he attained his majority. He united his fortunes with those of Elsie Cobb on March 19, 1859: she was born in this township May 17, 1838. In August 1862, he enlisted in Co. C 101st O. V. I. and was rushed to the front immediately. The regiment which he was in suffered severely from the long and hurried march which they were obliged to make almost as soon as enlisted. Many of them had only been a few days drilling, and were green recruits, unused to every phase of warfare. Mr. Williams, was in the engagement at Perryville and at Edgefield Junction, Tenn.: he was taken sick an, sent into hospital for some time, and was terribly afflicted with rheumatism which disabled and reduced his otherwise strong frame to a mere shadow. He received his discharge from army duty in January. 1865. He is a sufferer from the effects of the disease contracted in the service, to this day for which he is worthily among the list of pensioners. While Mr. William, was in the army. Mrs. Williams taught school, as she was well prepared for that vocation before they were married. and had taught school several years previous. From the date of his return from the army they resided on his father's farm until 1872, when they removed to their present farm of 40 acres, where they live very comfortably. They have only two children, viz., V. K. and Sadie M.: the former is attending school, with the intention of preparing himself for teaching. Mrs. Willlams' parents, were Henry and Sallie (Mitchell) Cobb: they had twelve children, ten of whom grew up to maturity. He died at Bucyrus Feb.. 20, 1878, in his 73d year. his widow still surviving. .J. H. WERT farmer : P. O. Sulphur Springs is the oldest of the family of John and Saloma (Shafer) Wert, who were both natives of Pennsylvania; there they reached man and woman's estate, and there they were married. J. H. was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., May 25, l833: their second child (Eliza), was also born in Pennsylvania. Mr. .John Wert learned the tailor's trade and worked at it during the winters besides attending to some farm business. He, with his wife and two children. moved from their native State to Ohio and settled in Sandusky Township, of this county, in 1835. They purchased 40 acres of land and proceeded to make the most of their situation. He would work on the farm through the summer and raise something for their support. and in the winter he would do the tailoring for the surrounding,: country, and as cash was a very rare commodity in most of the new settlements. he was often obliged to receive as pay for his work some product of the farm and very nicery situated were those who had some provision to spare. The residence of course was the ordinary log cabin, and not warm dwellings, either, in the inclemency, of the winter. But between Mr. Wert's farming in the simmer and his attention to his trade in the winter, they had always a supply of the necessaries of life. Although all in his immediate neighborhood were not so favored. Calling on one of his neighbors he found him in low spirits, and. insisting on an explanation of his moody appearance, the poor man admitted. with reluctance, that his entire store was exhausted and was without means of any kind to procures something for himself and famishing family. This announcement made, Mr. Wert produced the price of a barrel of flour saying "Take that, get something and pay me when you can." It is needless to say that the poor man accepted it with more inward thankfulness than he could easily express, and laid in its value of the "staff of life." and soon got jobs of work whereby he was able to support the family and repay Mr. Wert, what he had lent him. Notwithstanding his poverty then he lived to be a well-to-do farmer, with plenty only his wife - in her 80th year-survives, as her husband and all the children have passed before, and with grateful feelings to this day she remembers John Wert generosity when they were in need. In the early settlement the people often resorted to the manufacture of maple sugar as a source of revenue with which to procure some little necessaries, and the first stove that Mr. Wert ever owned after coming to this county, he bought with sugar made by himself and wife from the maple-tree. They reared to maturity six children (one boy died in infancy), four boys and two girls, viz., J. H., Eliza, now Mrs..Joseph Roop, of Bucyrus: J. G., of Bucyrus: Sarah A., now Mrs. Abraham Pfleiderer, of Indiana : and Lewis: he was married. but both himself and wife have gone the way of all flesh. Their parents are both dead. Mr. Wert 952 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: died on May 31, 1865, and Mrs. Wert May 12, 1868. When J. H. was about 17 years old, he accepted a clerkship in a general merchandising house where he worked several years, and clerked in the mercantile house of F. G. Hesche over five years in Bucyrus. He then came to the village of Annapolis and clerked for Thomas Gillespie for about six months, and when Mr. Gillespie sold out to E. Warner. Mr. Wert remained with him (Warner) about three years. At that time Mr. Warner moved to Crestline and Mr. Wert turned his attention to farming; he rented farms for about seven years, and in 1869, he purchased the farm where he resides. He owns in all 119 acres of well-improved land, and lives comfortably on the fruits of his, own industry. He was elected Township Clerk in 1861, and held that office fifteen consecutive years, except one, and. in the spring of 1879, he was elected Township Trustee, and the fall of the saine year he was elected Land Appraiser. He is a charter member of the Knights of Honor and is Reporter of the "Liberty " Lodge. No. 845. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth A., daughter of Michael Carlton, May 31, 1860; they have two children, viz., Charles H. and Huber B. Mrs. Wert was born in this township, where her parents now reside, Aug. 29, 1833. They are members of the Lutheran Church. J. B. WERT. clerk. Sulphur Springs: was born Nov. 28, 183'7, in Sandusky Township, this county. His parents, John and Salome (Shafer) Wert, were both natives of Dauphin Co., Penn. They moved to and settled in this county in 1835. J. B. is the third of their seven children. He spent the early part of his life on the farm, and acquired a good common-school education. He made his home at his fathers until he was married. which event occurred May 28, 1863,. with Leonora Ziegler, daughter of Dr. George L. and Susanna (Beard) Ziegler. The latter was born in Mahoning Co., Ohio, the former in Pennsylvania, and came to Mahoning Co. when quite young. From there they came to Crawford Co. and settled in Annapolis Township Feb. 8, 1841. Mrs. Wert was born here April 1, 1844. Shortly after their marriage, Mr. Wert rented a farm in this township, and spent eight years on two farms. Then then moved to this village, and he worked at the carpenter's trade four years. Sometime time afterward, he accepted a clerkship in the dry-goods establishment of Klopfenstein & Co., which position he holds at present. He owns a very nice home in the village, which he has principally earned by his own industry. He is a member of Liberty Lodge No. 845. Knights of Honor. They have one child living - Hattie M., and one deceased-Flora. ISAAC WATER. farmer : P. O. Sulphur Springs: was born where he now resides on June 22, 1832. His father, Jacob, and his mother, Mary (Trout) Waters, were natives of Westmoreland Co., Penn. They were farmers, and, with a view to giving, their growing family an opportunity of procuring homes of their own in due time, they started with their family of six children-Violet, Benjamin, Andrew, Phillip, Jacob and Michael - and settled in Liberty Township, in 1830, on a piece of land which had been entered by his father-in-law, Phillip Trout, several years before. It was situated on the Sandusky River, and there the family grew up to maturity, and then scattered off to do for themselves. But Isaac, being the youngest of the family, remained at home with his parents. He was the only child born to them in this State. In 1860, the father died, being then in his 73d year: but Isaac cared for his aged mother, with whom she made her home until her final dissolution. Which occurred in 1877,. in her 83 year of her age. Isaac's advantages for procuring, an education were quite limited. considering both time to be applied and facilities. The old common log-cabin schoolhouse, with its miserably arranged fixtures, was not conducive to comfort, much less to the happiness so often referred to in more modern school days. In the early winter, when the weather was too chilly to be without a fire in the cabin schoolroom, and one would be made, the result has frequently been that in consequence of the smoke, the place would be untenantable the remainder of the day : hence they would arrange benches of a temporary character outside and there finish their exercise, he owns a well-improved farm of 173 acres, and takes considerable pride in having good stock. His horse, of the "English Heness " stock, took the first prize in the general purpose class, and "sweepstakes" of all classes at the late Crawford Co. Fair. He united his fortunes with Mary Souders, widow of the late John Souders, June 5, 1875. Her maiden name was Mary Chisholm, She was a LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. - 953 native of Perry Co., Penn., and came here in 1854 with her first husband, by whom she has seven children-David, Anna, Martha, Mary J., Virginia, Robert and John. In 1878, Mr. Waters built an elegant two-story frame residence, which supersedes the old house that was built on the premises over forty years ago; also fine outbuildings, which contribute to the appearance of his beautiful location. MICHAEL WOLF, farmer ; P. O. Bucyrus ; was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., March 6,1799. His father Henry Wolf, came from Germany a young man, before the Revolution, and settled in New Jersey, where he married, and subsequently moved to Pennsylvania. While he was residing there, he enlisted in the war of the Revolution, and participated in many of the most important battles of that time. When the war closed, he returned to his home in Pennsylvania, and shortly afterward his wife died, leaving nine children. He married a second wife, Elizabeth Kaylor, a native of Pennsylvania. By this union there were likewise nine children, our subject. Michael, being the youngest one of the family. Mr. Wolf. Sr., died when Michael was about six years old, and his mother being left in poor circumstances he (Michael) was obliged to do for himself when quite young and also required to render early assistance to his mother, who was .also called away when he was about 22 years of age. Michael was a natural genius, and although he never spent a term of apprenticeship at any trade, he could do almost anything in mechanics.and if not of the finest character it invariably suited the purpose. Among the trades in which he was most proficient was plastering, masoning, shoemaking and carpentering, as well as doing some blacksmithing of a general character. He married -Nanna M. Beck, in 1824, in Pennsylvania, and in 1834 they came to Crawford Co., with five of their children, and settled on the farm of sixty-three acres, where he now lives. When he settled here his entire farm was wood and swamp. He came here quite poor with a large family of helpless children; he had very hard work to get along. He was in debt $25 on his land. for which he gave his note payable in four inonths ; and in the new country, where money was very scarce, it was almost impossible to earn or even get cash for work done; however, by working at odd jobs through the day, and making shoes at night, he raised the means to pay off his $25 note. While he was clearing his land and preparing for a crop, he has been obliged to pay as high as $1.25 per bushel for corn for the subsistence of himsell and family; and pay for the same with work at a very low rate per day. While working at the clearing of his farm through the day, he has often worked at shoemaking until midnight In one week, while splitting rails every working day, he made five pairs of shoes during the nights of the same week. There are few men if any, in Crawford Co., who have done more hard work. and now, in his advanced years with enough to make him comfortable, and good health to enjoy it, he looks back at the past with considerable pleasure when he remembers the hard experience of pioneer days seeing he has succeeded in procuring the necessary things for comfort in his old age. They reared eleven children-Sarah A., now Mrs John Burk; Fannie, was wife of John Todd and died in Michigan in June, 1880; Carolina, wife of Henry Gipple, of Williams Co., Elizabeth, wife of John Griner, of Wood Co., Henry, at home; Jonas, of Reno Co., Kansas. Susan, wife of Isaac Smith, of Wood Co.; John who is in Michigan; Jacob, of Wyandot Co., Samuel makes his home here, and Anna M. the latter keeps house and cares for her aged father in the declining days of his life. Mrs Wolf was called away Nov. 10, 1867. GODFREY WINGERT (deceased); was born in Germany Nov. 7, 1807. When about 21 year: of age, he concluded to try his fortune in the United States. On his arrival here, he took up his residence near Buffalo, N. Y., where he bought a small piece of land; and, on March 23, 1832, he married Annie Kaler, who had later come from Germany, and was born there Sept 22, 1807. They lived near Buffalo six years when they sold their small farm and moved to Ohio, and settled on the farm where Mrs. Wingert and her daughter live. They bought 42 acres on arriving here; but added by purchases until they owned 127 acres. They had eight children, seven of whom are living-Andrew, Annie, George, Amos, Marie, Louisa and G. L. Mr Wingert was a member of the Reformed Church in his native country, and with which he and his wife were identified here. He was called away March 27, 1879. Their youngest son G. L., was born Nov. 4, 1851, on the farm where his mother now lives, he remained at home 954 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: on the farm with his parents until July 25, 1876, at which date he was united in marriage with Verlonia A. Hilliker, daughter of Samuel F. and Henrietta B. (Duzenberry) Hilliker. She, was born in the city of New York. and carne to Crawford Co. with her parents when about 9 years old. Her parents remained here until the spring of 1879, when they moved to and took up their residence in Beatrice, Neb. Oda May is the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Wingert. They own 40 acres of good land, which he got from his father's estate. They are members of the United Brethren Church of this township. EMANUEL YEITER, farmer: P. 0. Sulphur Springs; was born at his present residence March 3, 1843. He is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Auperle) Yeiter, who were natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, and emigrated to the United States with their four oldest children in 1832. They came direct to Crawford Co. and entered the 80 acres which Emanuel owns. In course of time there were five children born to them in this country, making nine in all, viz., John, Jacob, Mary, David, Catharine, Christina, Fredrick, Sophia and Emanuel. The family grew up here. and scattered out in the world for themselves. The parents knew what the rough pioneer life of the new country was as they came here, with four small children into a country strange to them in every respect. And one of the inconveniences, and not the least, either, to be overcome. was the language, with which they were unfamiliar: that obstacle Mr. Yeiter finally overcame, as far as was necessary in business: but his wife being less among English speaking people, and more confined to her domestic duties. where in their own family the German language only was used. she never learned, nor can she to this day converse intelligibly in anything but her "mother tongue." They soon arose above pecuniary embarrassment, and have all been, and are. living in good circumstances. They are all married and doing for themselves: John, Jacob, David and Fredcrick are in Kent Co., Mich.: Mary is now Mrs. Stahl, of Union Co., Ohio: Catharine is now Mrs. D. Lust: Christina is now Mrs. Adam Meek, and Sophia is now Mrs. .Joseph Neff. Our subject (Emanuel), being the youngest, remained at home, and purchased the interest of the others in the homestead. He married Sophia Lust Feb. 29, 1872: she is the daughter of Conrad and Magdalene (Myers) Lust, and was born June 19, 1853, in Chatfield Township. They have five children - Mary M., Elizabeth C., Joseph B., Catharine A. and Albert F. Mr. Yeiter is serving his third year as School Director of his district. He and wife are members of the German Methodist Church. His father died at the old homestead in June. 1878, in his 77th year: his wife survives, and is hale and strong being in her 78th year. Last May she fell down and broke her thigh bone, near the hip - joint, which became perfectly sound again in the miraculously short time of six weeks, considering her very advanced age. JOHN K. ZARBE, . proprietor hotel Sulphur Springs, was born in Schuylkill Co., Penn., Nov. 1, 1838. Is the son of George and Hannah (Clauser) Zarbe. In 1856, he came to this county, and began with Jacob Shull, to learn the carpenter's trade. When he had worked three months, he returned to Pennsylvania, and continued his apprenticeship, working at the carpenter business about five and a half years, in the meantime occasionally doing something at home on the farm. In the spring of 1862, he began in the coal mines, where he was at work, when in the fall of the same year, he was drafted into the army, on a nine months' call. He served as Corporal in Co. F. 173d Penn. V. I. and, at the expiration of ten months, he returned home. having received his discharge Aug. 16, 1863. On Feb. 29, 1864, he re-enlisted in Co. A. 50th Penn. V. I. which belonged to the 1st division of the 9th Army Corps, in which he did some hard duty, participating in the battles of the Wilderness, Nye River, Spottsylvania Court House. In the latter engagement he was taken prisoner, but ere his captors had proceeded far with a number of prisoners which they had taken at the same time, they ran unsuspectingly against a phalanx of the Union Army: enthused by the presence of the Union soldiers, he (Mr. Zarbe) dashed from the ranks of the prisoners and made good his, escape into the Union line, and was soon in his own regiment again, when he participated in the conflicts of Shady Grove, Cold Harbor, Petersburg and Weldon Railroad. On the last of September he was taken ill and sent to hospital, where he remained from Oct. 1 until about the 1st of November, when he got a fifteen-day furlough. but. being sick and unable for duty, his furlough was extended fifteen days more. He then returned to Alex- HOLMES TOWNSHIP - 955 andria, and, being unfit still, for field service, he was assigned a place in the dinning-room of the hospital; at that place. In April 1865, he returned to the regiment, which was encamped near Alexandria. Where it was stationed on post duty. His regiment was marched to Gettysburg where the ceremony of laying the corner - stone of the National Cemetery was observed .July 4, 1865. On the 30th of that month, he received his discharge and returned to his home in Pennsylvania, and resumed his farm work. Which he followed until 1868, when he sold out and moved to this county. Here he bought a farm of 76 acres: there he left his parents, and bought 120 acres more. He lived on the latter four years, when he sold, and came into the village and worked at the carpenter's trade one year, and subsequently purchased the hotel property of Michael Heiby, Nov. 20, 1859, he married Elizabeth Mundinger. She was born in Pennsylvania Oct. 11, 1838. They have had eight children - Alvin P., Henry A. (deceased), John W., Lewis W., William P., Grant A., Ida E.. (deceased) and Laura S.