WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 883 WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE) MICHAEL AUCK, Bucyrus. Christopher Auck, father of Michael, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, Jan. 31, 1813. He received a good education, and when quite young, entered a shop, serving an apprenticeship at the tailor's trade. In 1831, he came to the United States. and located in Pennsylvania, where, in 1841, he was united in marriage with Miss Rachel Wagner. From this marriage were three children Michael and Elizabeth living Mary, deceased. He removed from Pennsylvania to Crawford Co.. Ohio, in 1848. and purchased a farm in the "Gibson Neighborhood." His wife died Sept. 2, 1875. He was married to Mrs. Catharine Flick Sept. 7, 1876. Michael Auck was born in Lycoming Co., Penn., July 23, 1842. He received a good common-school education, and has been doing business for himself ever since he reached his majority, although he and his parents always made their homes together. He was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Ehman Sept. 20, 1866. She was horn iii Wurtemberg, Germany, Feb. 9, 1845. There are six children from this union - Mary J., John C.. Lacy E., William H., Priscilla S. and Samuel F. Mr. Auck owns 204 acres of well-improved land, and is one of the prominent and influential men of Whetstone Township. He is the present Township Treasurer. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the German Reformed Church. JOSEPH ALBRIGHT. retired. Bucyrus; was born May 16, 1801, in Huntingdon Co., Penn. His parents, Daniel and Hester (Wagner) Albright were also natives of the Keystone State, where they lived during their lifetime. This family of Albright's are descended from three brothers of that name who came from Germany to America in colonial times. As a family they are noted for their frugality. morality and force of character. These characteristics have manifested themselves in the subject of this sketch in a noticeable manner throughout his long and eventful lifetime. At a very early age, he was placed in his father's brickyards, where he was kept to work early and late, receiving but little or no education. He remained with his father until about 27 years of age, although after reaching his majority, he had au interest in the business. His marriage with Miss Hannah Jury was solemnized Oct. 11, 1827. She was born in Loudoun Co., Va., March 1, 1809. They are the parent of ten children-Daniel B., Emanuel, Joseph J., George W., John T., Mercia, Hannah and Frank living-Sarah A. and Hester A., deceased. In 1830, he and his young wife left their native State and came overland to the then new and sparsely settled county of Crawford, Ohio. He began burning brick soon after his arrival, and has to greater or less extent burned and manufactured brick and tile ever since. The first piece of land he purchased was 20 acres of unimproved woodland. From this he has gone steadily forward until he now owns about 600 acres of well-improved land. In all his under takings in life. he has found in his good wife sound counselor and ready helpmeet, and it is in a great measure owing to this good woman's help and advice that he has been successful. He and wife have been, for a number of years members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Albright was formerly an Old-Line Whig but, on the organization of the Republican party, joined its ranks, and was, during the late war, all uncompromising Union mail. He is an upright Christian gentleman, and one of Crawford Co.'s best citizens. HENRY ALBRIGHT, farmer; P.O. Galion was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., Sept. 17, 1827. He is the son of John and Sarah (Shafer) Albright, who are natives of the Keystone State their marriage occurring there in 1816. In 1829, they came to Crawford Co., Ohio, performing the journey in about a month, in three-horse wagon, settling in Whetstone Township, and entering 73 acres of land on See. 22. Mr. Albright was a boot and shoe maker, and after his arrival in the township, for quite number of years, worked at his trade in connection with farming. His death occurred in 1866, under peculiar and distressing circumstances. On the 1st of May, of the last-mentioned year, Mr. Albright had in his house 884 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: about $400 in money, together with considerable jewelry. These facts having become known outside of the family, aroused the avarice of unknown parties, five or six of whom, completely disguised with masks and paint, came to the house one night and demanded the money. Having been refused their demands, they set upon Mr. Albright and beat him terribly, inflicting the same punishment upon his son John, who had come to the assistance of his father. To save their lives, they were forced to give up their hard-earned money, whereupon the robbers departed. Mr. Albright was so badly injured, that, after lingering until August of the same year. he died. The criminals were never identified, although suspicion and some quite strong evidence pointed to some near neighbors as having a hand in the crime. Mrs. Albright died Dec. 4, 1874. Eight children were born to these parents. three sons and five daughters, seven of whom survived the parents. Henry Albright's youth was passed, like that of other country boys, on the farm at hard work. He began for himself when of age, and was married to Miss Savina Weirick Jan. 4, 1854. who was born in Pennsylvania She became the mother of four children. as follows : Matilda, Agnes, Isaac and John. She died in 1866. On the 24th of September, 1867, Mr. Albright married Miss Laura Noblit. This lady was born in Bucyrus. Ohio, Nov. 26, 1840, she bore her husband three children-Charles H., George F., and Ida M., all of whom are yet living. Mr. Albright owns 226 acres of well-improved land. He is a prominent Republican and is nicely situated as regards this world's goods. SAMUEL BOGEN. farmer; P. O. North Robinson; was born in Gettysburg, Penn., Jan. 1, 1816. He is the son of .John H. and Margaret (Lynd) Bogen. both of whom were natives of Maryland, where they were married and resided some years afterward. They then moved to Pennsylvania; from there to Virginia, and thence to Stark Co., Ohio, in 1835. They carne to Crawf'ord Co., Ohio, in 1848, where they resided until their death. The father died Feb. 9, 1859. and the mother in 1869. They were tire parents of seven children, six of whom are yet living. The father practiced medicine, a profession he followed very successfully all his life. Samuel was raised upon a farm, receiving the advantages of a common-school education. He was united in marriage with Miss Charlotte Bowers Nov. 12, 1838. She was born in Start Co., Ohio, May 16, 1821. From this union there are eleven children. viz.. Sylvester, Emeline M., Martha J., Sylinda, Emanuel L., Mary E., Sarah A., William S.. Rebecca C. and Tabitha E., living; Amelia M. deceased. Mr. Bogen began life as a poor boy, and has made what he now possesses by close attention to business, combined with honesty and industry. He owns 101 acres of land, all of which is under a good state of cultivation. He is an uncompromising Republican, and one of the most honored and respected citizens of Crawford Co. DANIEL C. BOYER, farmer: P. O. Bucyrus ; son of Christian and Elizabeth (Gottshall) Boyer: born Nov. 14, 1822, in Schuylkill Co., Penn. Christian Boyer was born March 1, 1799, and removed with his wife and family to Crawford Co.. in September 1842. He purchased of Martin Shaffner 160 acres in Whetstone Township, just southeast of Bucyrus, paying for this land $30 per acre. He also bought the 80 acres in Bucyrus Township, just west of his Whetstone farm, and 36 acres north of the land. After living in Crawford Co. nearly ten years. he died May 8, 1852. Elizabeth Boyer, his wife, died June 24, 1863. The subject of this sketch removed to Crawford Co. with his parents, and, shortly afterward, on Nov. 13, 1842, he married his half - cousin, Miss Phoebe Boyer, who was born Feb. 15, 1819. She was the daughter of John and Catharine Hunsinger Boyer. Her father was a half-brother to Christian, and had removed to Crawford Co. several years previous to 1842. For many years, he kept an inn on the Bucyrus and Galion road, some. three miles from the former town. This pioneer died at the advanced age of 83 year and 9 months. on Dec. 12, 1874. For about twelve: months after Daniel and Phoebe were married. they resided on John Boyer's farm and the owner paid his son-in-law $7 5 a year for his labor. This was considered good wages at that time. In1844, the young couple removed to the Whetstone farm of Christian Boyer, and, in about two years, Daniel purchased the 160 acres from his father, agreeing to pay him $5,000 for the farm. This was the rate of $31.25 per acre. This farm, the present residence, they have owned and occupied for over thirty years. They were the parents of several children-Andrew Melancthon WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 885 was born Jan. 16, 1846 ; Edwin Henderson was born Sept. 26, 1847, and died Oct. 27, 1848 ; Ida May was born Nov. 12, 1854, and died Jan. 27, 1858. Their eldest son and only living child. Andrew Melanethon, was married on May 3, 1864, to Miss Tillie J. Freeburn. and they are the parents of one child-Ida May Boyer. About 1853, the subject of this sketch accepted the agency of the Nanny Reaper and flower for the counties of Crawford, Seneca and Wyandot. He continued at this business for some nine years. He was more successful than at any other occupation, and was considered one of the best agents employed by the company. The last year of his agency he was in partnership with Mr. Deal. About 1850, he purchased from the Brehmens two machines-a Hussey Reaper and a Hussey Mower. They were the first reaping and mowing machines ever brought to Crawford Co., and were used by D. C. and J. C. Boyer for several years to do their own cutting. Several years after, he purchased the first combined reaper and mower ever brought to the county. About 1860, he attended the Ohio State Fair at Zanesville, and noticed a Hubbard machine, which he purchased. It was the first Hubbard machine sold to a Crawford County farmer, and is still in use on Boyer's farm. Previous to 1840, Martin Shaffner built a rude threshing machine. which was possibly the first one operated in the county. Shaffner sold this to the Bowers, who ran it for several years. About 1858, Boyer purchased of Aaron Cary, for $60, the first piano ever brought to Bucyrus. Cary purchased this about 1850, of Mr. C. El. Shonert, who. several years previous, brought the instrument from Germany. In 1856, Boyer removed to Bucyrus, and resided for some two years on the southwest corner of Charles and Walnut stree,. During this period, he was engaged in the mercantile business with his brother Eli, the firm being styled D. C. Boyer & Co. Mr. Rover is at the present time the largest dealer in thoroughtbred Spanish merino sheep in Crawford Co., and possibly the largest raiser of imported sheep. He commenced breeding Spanish merino sheep about 1861, and in September, 1863, purchased, for $1,200, in partnership with D. J. Twitchell, the three-year-old Spanish merino ram, "Sweepstakes." This was the most expensive sheep ever brought to Crawford Co., and Mr. Boyer relates that it was the best investment he ever made. His large barn is well adapted to sheltering these animals in bad weather, and, at the present time, he has 175 head of the imported Spanish merino sheep. He has served for many years as Superintendent of the Sheep Department at the annual fairs of the Crawford County Agricultural Society. When this association was re-organized in 1867, he served as President for one year, and was also, for several years, President of the Agricultural Joint Stock Co. He is :it the present time General Agent of the Crawford County Farmer's Fire Insurance Co. Daniel Boyer united with the Lutheran Church, April 9, 1841, while a resident of Pennsylvania. His wife, Phoebe Boyer, has been a member since June 17, 1837. Mr. Boyer has been an active member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church of Bucyrus for nearly forty years. Twenty-nine years of this period he has served in the Church Council three Years as a Deacon, and twenty-six year; as an Elder PETER BEACH firmer; P. O. Galion ; was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, Nov. 16, 1842. He is the son of Adam and Margaret (Simmermaker) Beach. both of whom were natives of Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany. They were married in this county, to which both had come with their parents in the year 1833. The were the parents of six children, four of whom are yet living The father was an industrious man, anal respected by all who knew him. He died in 1850. His wife survives him, and is one of the oldest living settlers of the township. Peter was raised upon a farm, receiving but; limited education. When he was 13 years of age, he took charge of the home place, which he now owns. It consists of 171 acres, upon which are good, substantial farm buildings. H was married to Miss Amanda Cook Feb. 6, 1868, who was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1849. They have two children-Ellen M.,an Tina M. Mr. Beach is a member of the German Reformed Church, and a Democrat. He is one of the Trustees of Whetstone Township and a prominent and influential citizen. GEORGE BREHMAN farmer: P. O. Bucyrus; was born in Franklin Co., Penn., Jan. 26, 1825. He is the eldest of a family of ten chi dren born to John and Frances (Stack) Brehman. John Breliman removed from Pennsylvania to Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1828, settlin on the farm now owned by his son George in Whetstone Township. He was a wagon-maker 886 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: by trade, and in that early day his services were highly prized, for there were few men of that trade who settled in Crawford County in that day. He was a very industrious man, working early and late, and doing much gratuitous work for the settlers as they came into the neighborhood. His two sons, George and John, were kept constantly at work clearing the land he had entered, while he worked at his trade. George from early youth to the present has been noted for his industry, force of character and strict business habits. He was married March 12, 1850, to Miss Hettie Reiter. She was born in Pennsylvania April 12, 1829. From this union there are ten children - Emeline, Martha, Matilda, George, Amanda, Melinda and Eli; living ; John, Ephraim and Clara deceased. He owns 183 acres of well improved land in Whetstone Township, and is one of the prominent and successful agriculturists of the county. He is a Democrat politically, and has held numerous positions of honor and trust in his township. JOHN BREHMAN. stock-raiser and farmer P. O. Bucyrus; was born Feb. 15, 1827, in Franklin Co., Penn. He is the second son of a family of ten children, of John and Frances (Stack) Brehman, who came from Pennsylvania to Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1828. The Brehmans, as well as the Stacks, are of German descent, the grandfathers on both sides being natives of that country; they were frugal, industrious people, and secured to themselves and families a goodly share of this world's goods. The subject of this sketch was but 1 year of age at the time his parents came to Crawford Co. He received but a limited education, as he and his brother George, as soon as old enough, were kept constantly at work clearing up the farm. When 23 years of age. he purchased 100 acres of land, paying but little down for it. He had, however, an indomitable will, and knew no such thing as fail. It was not many years until this was paid for and additions made to it. He now owns 260 acres of well-improved land, upon which are as good buildings as are to be found in the township. He was united in marriage with Miss Eliza A. Shrull March 14, 1850. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, July 14, 1833. From this marriage were nine children, four of whom are now living-Stephen, John A., Hattie A. and Eliza E. Mr. Brehman has held a number of offices in Whetstone Township, and is a Democrat in politics, and a leading citizen. MARTIN BACON, retired ; P. O. Bucyrus ; was born in Mentor, Ohio, July 30, 1809, his parents being Ralph and Mary (Jourden) Bacon, the former a native of New Fork and the latter of Pennsylvania. When the father was 8 years of age, he was bound out to a man named Heath, near Boston, Mass. At the end of four years, he returned to his parents, and remained with them until he was 17 years of age, when he returned to Ohio, locating near Painesville. He acquired some property, and became acquainted with the lady who afterward became his wife. In 1820, the father came with his family to Crawford Co., Ohio, traveling by wagon with two yoke of oxen and one horse. The father had come out the previous year and located his land and made a deposit, on it. designing to complete the purchase when the land became marketable, which event occurred in 1820. There were but two houses in Bucyrus when they passed through it on their journey out. The father entered 240 acres of land, and his patents, which were signed by President Monroe, are now in possession of Martin Bacon, his son. They endured all pioneer privations and sacrifices which fall to the lot of the first settlers in a country. The mother died Oct. 5, 1843, :and the father followed her June 15, 1849. The parents settled on 80 acres of land in what is now Liberty Township, though the balance of their 240 acres was adjoining, but across the line in Whetstone Township. At the age of 20 years. Martin Bacon bought the farm of his father, upon condition that the son should maintain his aged parents and raise the younger ones of the family which consisted of thirteen children, all of whom reached their majority. This he did successfully, Dec. 15, 1833, he married Miss .Jane Kemmis, who was born in Washingrton Co., N. Y., May 10, 1808. The wife bore her husband seven children-Clark, Warren N., Mary and William A., now living, and Clarissa, Charles W. and George W., deceased. Mrs. Bacon died July 3, 1872. Mr. Bacon owns 381 acres of fine land. having made it all by hard labor and privation. He was a Whig, and is at present a Republican ; he is also a consistent member of the Advent Church. He is one of the most prominent and honored citizens of the county. Though burdened with the weight of years, he is yet strong WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 887 and hearty. Though a Republican, he has held the office of Justice of the Peace in a Democratic Township. No citizen is more highly respected than Martin Bacon. JOHN L. CASKEY, carriage-builder, North Robinson. This gentlemen's mother died when he was about three years of age, and he was taken by Timothy Winterhalter to raise, in whose service he remained until the age of 17 years, where he served an apprenticeship of three years. learning the carriage-making trade at Sulphur Springs, after which he worked as a journeyman one year for the same man, and afterward one year in Bucyrus. He came in company with Lewis Helcker to North Robinson, in which village he built a blacksmith and carriage shop. He did a good business for a number of years, until the introduction of cheap and inferior work in the county greatly injured his trade. He has the reputation of being a first-class workman, and his buggies are well known for their durability and superior excellence. No second or third class work leaves his shop, which at times has been manufacturing, quite extensively. His birth occurred in Chatfield Township Sept. 24, 1847. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and the fattier when a young man came to Stark Co., Ohio, where he was married. The father, Levi Caskey, is yet living at the county seat. He lived in Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, for a number of years, where he kept a tavern. John L. was united in marriage in 1874. to Sarah Ambroshier, who was born in Wyandot Co., Ohio, March 2, 1855. Two children have been born to this union, as follows: Lyle and Clayton. Mr. Caskey, besides his commodious and extensive shops, owns a nicely improved property and residence in the village. He is a member of the Bucyrus Lodge, No. 139, A.. F. & A. M., and is an intelligent and enterprising gentleman. EDWARD CAMPBELL, farmer; P. O. Bucyrus. In the spring of 1831, this gentleman, then but a small boy, was brought by his father to Crawford Co., Ohio. The father was a poor man, and all the money he could raise was only sufficient to enter 80 acres of land. During his first few years in the township, he owned neither an ox nor a horse team, and what little farming he did was without the assistance of those valuable aids, except what little he received from the neighbors ; but, notwithstanding his poverty, he became one of the most prominent and influential men in the county. He held the office of Justice of the Peace for twenty-seven years, and was finally- elected two terms to the Ohio Legislature by the people of Crawford Co., where he advanced the interests of the State and county by his judgment and deliberation. While serving as Justice of the Peace, his decisions were rarely reversed when appealed to the higher courts, proving the accuracy and excellence of his mind and judgment. This useful man died in 1865, greatly lamented by those who knew him. His wife's death had occurred in 1857. Edward's birth occurred in Wayne Co., Ohio, Dec. 16, 1816. His parents were John and Mary (.Jones) Campbell, both natives of Pennsylvania, where their youth was passed, and from where they moved while yet children. Their marriage occurred in Wayne Co. Edward was raised on the farm, and has, by his own exertions and business sagacity, acquired a large valuable farm of 656 acres. He was one of a family of nine children, four of whom are yet living. He began the battle of life when of age, though he remained on the old farm. He was united in marriage with Miss Amanda Tupps oil the 4th of January, 1833. His wife was a native of Pennsylvania, her birth occurring there on Sept. 20, 1820. Four children were born to this union, three of whom are yet living-Samuel K., John B. and Lottie J., living; and Catharine, deceased. Mr. Campbell, though a Democrat until the organization of the Republican party, is now a member of the latter. He is a member of the Disciple Church, and, during his diversified business career, has shown sufficient sagacity, to accumulate much property in land, and place it in permanent shape. JOHN COOK, Galion ; was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, Jan. 14, 1816. He is the son of Peter and Elizabeth (Miller) Cook, both of whom were natives of Germany, where they were married and resided until 1830, when they came to the United States. They stopped for four years in Franklin Co., Penn., after which they came to Crawford Co., Ohio, where they resided until their deaths. The father was a tailor, and after his arrival in Crawford Co., worked at his trade for a number of years, although farming was his chief occupation He bought thirty-seven acres of land, and began to work hard and economize. 888 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: He had a family of four children, two of whom are yet living. The father died in 1835, and the mother in 1858. Both were good neighbors and citizens. After the family came to Ohio, John worked on a farm for some time, and afterward learned the plasterer's trade, serving an apprenticeship of two years. He plastered in Bucyrus and adjoining towns for several years, working hard and making considerable money. By hard work and a judicious expenditure of his savings, he finally became the owner of 340 acres of fine land. This fine farm was afterward parceled out to his children, until he owns but ninety-one acres at present. His wife was Miss Sarah Deebler. to whom he was married in 1839. This lady was born in Pennsylvania, in 1819, and bore her husband ten children. five sons and five daughter Of these, four sons and four daughters are yet living. as follows: Henry, Isaac, George W., John L., Elizabeth, Christina, Amanda and Sarah J.; those deceased are Mary A. and Samuel. Mr. Cook is a prominent Democrat. and is a member of the German Reformed Church. He is a well known and influential citizen, and is highly respected in his neighborhood, E. G. CHAMBERS ; P. O. Bucyrus; he was born in tile city of Dublin, Ireland. June 4, 1819, and is the son of Edward Chambers, also a native of the Emerald Isle. and a carpenter by trade. The father died in Ireland. in 1823. and the mother soon followed him. Ten years afterward. Mr. Chambers, then an orphan of 14 years, came to the United States, landing in the cite of New York, where he began working on the Delaware & Raritan Canal, remaining there four months. He was the only one that could read in his party of workmen, and was employed by the company to conduct the men from New Jersey to Dedham, Mass., to work on the Boston &; Providence R. R. He remained with the company fifteen months, and, after working on a farm about eight months longer, he came to Bucyrus, Ohio. He stopped three years with his uncle, Charles Chambers, who had come to Ohio a number of years before. He learned the carpenter's trade, and, after working at it a few years, married Miss Elizabeth Henderson, a native of Pittsburgh. Penn. His children are William H., Charles C., Rachel J., Celestia E., Lucy E., Edward F. and James W. There has been no death in this family. After his marriage, he attended Oberlin College, graduating there in 1848. He taught school in Bucyrus six months. and then took charge of the union schools of Groveport, Ohio, remaining there three wars. He then began devoting his time in endeavoring to secure the passage of a bill in Congress to establish a stage and telegraph line between the Missouri River and the Pacific Coast. Although the project failed at the time, yet the wisdom of having overland communication with the "South Sea" was soon demonstrated, and the Pony Express was established. In 1856-57. Mr. Chamber, was paymaster at Bucvrus for the P. Ft. W. & C. R. R., . B. R.. after which he farmed until 1861. He went to Washington D. C. two days after Lincoln's first inauguration and secured the pose tion of Clerk of the Committee on Territories of which Mr. Wade was Chairman. At the called session of Congress, shortly after Lincoln's inauguration, he was appointed Secretary of the .joint Committee on the Conduct, of the War, Mr. Wade being Chairman of this coin mittee also. After tile dissolution of the committee, he was employed by tile Secretary of the Senate too prepare all alphabetical list an private claims made to the United States Sell ate. He superintended the construction Of the harbor at Frankfort, Mich remaining there two years. He returned to Bucyrus in 1867 and has remained on his farm the most of the time since. While in Washington D. C.. in 1865, lie assisted in giving Hon. James A. Garfield the Royal Arch Degree in Masonry, and the attention of that gentleman's biographer is respectfully called to this fact. Mr. Chambers is the Secretary of the Crawford County Agricultural Society, and has been Secretary to the Crawford County Mutual Insurance Company. He is eminently a self - made man; is a Republican; owns 240 acres of land in Crawford Co., and 3,000 in Benzie Co., Mich. JOHN DEEBLER. farmer P. O.; Bucyrus This gentleman was born in Union Co., Penn on Nov. 25, 1816, and is the son of John G. and Mary H. (Wise) Deebler, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, where they were raised, married and resided, until 1828, whet they came to Crawford Co. They came over the mountains in a three-horse wagon, in company with two other families, all of whom settled near the center of Whetstone Township Mr. Deebler entered the land now owned by WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP - 889 his son, and it took all his money to do so. He was a carpenter by trade, which he worked at in connection with farming. Many of the houses in the township were built by him, some of which are yet standing„ monuments to his skill and industry. Both parents are now dead. The subject of this sketch worked for his father upon the farm until he had reached his majority, after which he took charge of the place, his parents remaining with him until their death occurred. He was united in marriage with Magdalena Heinlen on Aug. 20, 1843. She was born in Pickaway Co., Ohio on .June 20, 1822. There were born by this union eight children; five of whom are yet living-Sarah R., Anna H., Rebecca L., John L. and Amanda S. The names of those who died were Mary M., George and Samuel. Mr. Deebler owns 285 acres of land, upon which are good substantial farm buildings. The greater portion of this property he has accumulated by his own exertions. He has held a number o positions of Honor and trust in this township and is respected by all who know him. Politically he is a Democrat. though liberal in his views of men and things. PETER EBY North Robinson; was born in Perry Co.. Ohio. May 21, 1811. His parent John and Eve (Bixler) Eby, were both natives, of the "Keystone" State. where they were married. and resided until 1804, when they removed to Fairfield Co.,. Ohio. remaining there and the fall of the same year, when they removed to Perry Co., where they passed the remainder of their lives. The father died in 1830, and the mother six years later. They were the parents of twelve children, only three of whom are yet living, Peter Eby passed his youth and a early manhood. assisting his father upon the firm. He received such education as the schools of that early day afforded. and when about 20 years of age began for himself. He was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Guisinger Oct. 9, 1831. She was born in Pennsylvania. in 1809, and died Feb. 16, 1842. Mr. Eby married for his second wife Miss Matilda Guisinger, a native of Perry Co., Ohio where she was born April 12, 1822. Five children were born of the first marriage - George S., Elias V., Sarah, Matilda and Joseph P. Six were born of the second-Jacob H., Barbara, John, Emma, Lincoln and Viola J. In 1837, Mr. Eby came to this county, which he has since made his home. He has for many year; been a member of the United Brethren Church and has done a great deal to elevate the stand and of morality in the community in which he lives. He began life as a poor boy, and has obtained his nicely improved farm of 100 acres by his own exertions. In politics he is a Republican. There are few men in the county better or more favorably known than Mr. Eby and. had the county more such men, it wouh be much better off. PHILLIP EBERT ; P. O. Bucyrus. This gentleman was born in York Co., Penn., March 12, 1812; he is the son of Daniel and Susan (Ernst) Ebert, both natives of the "Keystone State," and the parents of four children, three of whom are yet living. This family of Eberts are descended from a man by that name who came from Germany to York Co., Penn., in 1741. Daniel Ebert was a miller by trade, business he followed in his native State until 1855, when he made a trip to Baltimore to collect some money due him. From that time to the present, he has never been heard of by his family or friends. It is supposed be was murdered for his money either in Baltimore or on his way home. Phillip Ebert, up to the time he was 15 years of age, had received but ; common school education. He then attended the York Academy some time. after which he studied Greek and Latin for a year or more under a private instructor. In the spring of 1831, he entered the office of Dr. Jameson, of York, with whom he remained about thre years. He graduated from the Washington Medical College, of Baltimore, in March of 1834, he began practicing at Duncannon a town sixteen miles west of Harrisburg, Penn. He remained here actively engaged in his profession twenty-five years. He was very successful practitioner, and by economy accumulated considerable property. He came to Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1864, and purchase a farm of 200 acres and has since devoted his time to the improvement of his farm. He has held, during his life-time, many positions of honor and trust. He was for a number of years. Associate Judge of Perry Co., Penn. He was united in marriage with Miss Letitia Mitchell, April 15, 1835; she was born in Buck Co., Penn., Feb. 21, 1817. From this union are ten children - Susan C., Edgar E., Martin L., Charles M., Miriam A., Henry S., Horace M., 900 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Newton E. and Letitia L., living ; George D., deceased. Dr. Ebert is a Democrat, a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, and a self-made man in the fullest sense of the word. SAMUEL FONSER, Bucyrus. Prominent among the younger men of Whetstone Township is Mr. Fonser. His parents, George and Susan (Nelson) Fonser, were among the first to settle in central Whetstone, although both came to the county previous to their marriage. The father was a native of Wurtemberg, German. and the mother of Pennsylvania. The father was a shoemaker by trade, and worked at his trade and on his farm after his marriage. He died in 1868. The wife married a Mr. Rudolph, and now resides in Bucyrus. Samuel Fonser was brought up on a farm, receiving a good common-school education. He was married to Miss Catharine Hagar in 1872. She was born in Germany in 1850. They have two children - John J. and Anna E. Mr. Fonser is a Democrat, a member of the German Reformed Church, and is an intelligent Christian gentleman. He owns 160 acres of well-improved land, upon which are good farm buildings. MRS. RACHEL GIBLER, Galion. This lady was born in Crawford Co., Ohio. Aug. 22, 1837. She is the daughter of John and Sarah (Kieffer) Sherer, prominent mention of whom is made in another part of this work. Our subject was married to Mr. Adam Gibler in 1859. He was a native of Carroll Co., Ohio, and came from there, when a young man, to Crawford Co., where he became acquainted with the lady afterward became his wife. He was a hard-working man, loved by his family and universally respected by all who knew him. He departed this life in 1871. Since Mr. Gibler's death, his wife has remained upon the farm, and attended to its cultivation and improvement. She takes an interest in all educational enterprises, and has managed to give her children superior advantages for obtaining more than an ordinary education. She is the mother of six children, four of whom are now living Mary E., Isaac E., Sarah B. and John W. ; those deceased were named Ollie E. and Samuel M. Mrs. Gibler owns 127 acres of land, all of which is under a good state of cultivation. She is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, and an influential and much respected lady. JOHN GIBSON ; P. O. Bucyrus ; this gentleman is of Scotch-Irish descent, his birth occurring in Pennsylvania Jan. 8, 1812. He is the eldest of a family of nine children, six sons and three daughters born to George A. and Hannah (Buchanan) Gibson, both natives of the above State. The family resided in Pensylvania until 1835, when they left the old home and came to the new one in Crawford Co., Ohio, where the father died in 1848. Shortly after this, the widow moved with her family to Wyandot County, where she likewise died in 1872. In 1835 Mr. Gibson, then a young man 23 years of age, came to Crawford County. He had previously traveled over several States, viewing the country ; but, liking Crawford County, he purchased 80 acres of school land upon which he yet resides. On the 15th of April, 1837. He was united in marriage with Miss Martha Matthews, who bore him one child, Martha. Mrs. Gibson died Sept. 22, 1838, and on the 15th of April, 1841, Mr. Gibson married his second wife, Miss Mary A. Kerr. This lady was born in Franklin Co., Penn., March 4, 1822, and has borne her husband eleven children, ten of whom are living-Margaret A., Hannah E., Andrew H., George B., James McG., Emma A., John E., Charley E., Della J. and Leafe L., living; and Mary B., deceased. Mary A. Gibson is the daughter of Andrew and Margaret (Campbell) Kerr, natives of Franklin Co., Penn., who came to Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1826, entering a small piece of land and suffering all the hardships of pioneer life. They were among tile earliest settlers in the county, and are closely identified with its history. Mr. Kerr died in 1880, aged 85 years, and his wife yet survives him at the advanced age of 88 years, being one of the oldest living settlers in the county. Mr. Gibson owns 150 acres of land, and is one of the most prominent citizens in the county, engaging actively in educational enterprises, and in all movements to insure, the prosperity and happiness of the human race. He has always found a warm assistant and sympathizer in his good wife, whose womanly heart never tires of well-doing. Mr. Gibson is one of the few Republicans in the county. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. SAMUEL G. HEVERLY ; P. O. New Winchester. Mr. Heverly was born July 21, 1845, in Whetstone Township, Crawford Co. He is one of a family of seven children born to John L. and Christina (Miller) Heverly, PAGES 891 & 892 MISSING WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 893 who came from Pennsylvania to Crawford Co., Ohio. about the year 1840. Both parents were natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, but were married in Pennsylvania .Jan. 29, 1828, where they resided until their removal to Crawford County. The father was a weaver, and for years after he came to Ohio was employed during the winter months working at his trade. He died Aug. 14, 1873, followed by his wife, July 10, 1878. Samuel G. was reared upon his father's farm, receiving a common-school education. He was united in marriage with Miss Olive A. Miller Nov. 4, 1869. She was born May 26, 1817, in Marion, Ohio. They are the parents of four children-Edward H., Rosa D., John H. and Orrie G. Mr. Heverly is a stalwart Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He owns 120 acres of well-improved land is one of the prominent and influential agriculturists of Crawford Co. HENRY HARRIGER. farmer; P. O. Bucyrus; is one of the most intelligent and influential men in Whetstone Township. He was brought up on a farm, and when 21 was given charge of the place, which he improved and which soon repaid him with a goodly share of this world's goods. His birth occurred on the 30th day of August 1832 in Crawford Co., Ohio, and his parents were Henry and Catharine (Greenhoe) Harriger. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, and when a young man went to Stark Co., Ohio, where he married, and lived until 1823. when he came to Crawford Co., and purchased the farm upon which the subject of this sketch lives at present. The father had really entered the land (160 acres) in 1822, but had immediately returned to Pennsylvania, from whence, after remaining a few months, he went to Stark Co., selected and married his wife, and finally settled on his farm in Whetstone Township, in 1823. This man was a soldier in the war of 1812, and fought with, distinction against the tyrannyof Great Britain, and was one of the men who lived to see that struggle terminate in favor of the United States. He became a useful and intelligent citizen in the township, one whom his neighbors delimited to honor, and one whose integrity and honor were unquestioned. His trade was shoemaking, which was followed in connection with the cultivation of the soil, for a number of years. Himself and wife were given a family of nine children, four of whom are yet living. The father died in 1878, and the mother in 1862. Henry Harriger was married to Sara E. Robison May 12, 1861; this lady was a native of Pennsylvania, her birth occurring March 20, 1841; she bore her husband a family of six children, as follows : Katie A., Dimma E., Loretta, James F., Laura B. and Janetta. Henry and his brother Mike live upon the old farm of 120 acres, in which both have an interest. The brothers are good. thrifty farmers, who endeavor to conduct their farm after the plan which experience has shown to be the best and most profitable. They are industrious, but do not ostentatiously parade their industry; of the contrary being sober and quiet, swerving neither to the right nor to the left, for fear or favor. It can be truthfully said that Whetstone has no more useful citizens than Henry and Mike Harriger. JOHN HEINLEN, butcher. Bucyrus; is the son of Lewis and Rachel Heinlen. He was born in Pickaway Co., Ohio, on July 29, 1829, and remained a resident of his birth place until the age of 2 years, when his parents removed to Crawford Co. and settled in Whetstone Township. There young Heinlen grew to man's estate, and received such advantages in schooling as the newness afforded. At the age of 20 years, he began working at the carpenter's trade. which he followed for three year and then gave it up and turned his attention to farming. He was probably induced to make this change through the gift of 50 acres of land from his father, which was situated in Bucyrus Township. This he afterward sold, and then bought a number of acres in Whetstone, where he resided for two years, and then sold out an removed to Marion Co., where he resided near the town of Three Locusts for twelve years. In 1867, he again became a resident of Crawford Co. and Whetstone Township. In two years however, he again returned to Marion Co., but in a couple of years, he again came to the old township of Whetstone, where he now owns finely-improved farm of 200 acres, and where he still resides. In 1878, he rented the meat market of J. R. Miller, of Bucyrus, where Mr. Heinlen is now doing business, though he still runs his farm. .July 6, 1851, he was married to Miss Eliza Winters, of Winchester, Crawford Co. They have seven children living, named as follows: Andrew J., Henry S., Amanda, Lavin L., James, William and Charles ; those decease 894 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: were Samuel and Mary. Mr. Heinlen and his wife are both members of the M. E. Church and have, for many years been classed among the honorable and reputable class of the community. SAMUEL F. HEINLEN. farmer; P. O. Bucyrus; was born in Bucyrus Township, Crawford Co.. Ohio. July 1, 1833. His father, J. Lewis Heinlen, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, April 9, 1799, and, when about 18 years of age, came with his parents to Lancaster Co., Penn., where they remained some two years, then removed to Franklin Co., same State. Here the family resided until 1828, when they removed to Crawford Co., Ohio. J. L. Heinlen. while residing in Franklin Co., Penn., was married to Miss Hannah Wise. She was born in Union Co., Penn.. Dec. 10, 1809. From this marriage were eleven children, six of whom are yet living. J. L. Heinlen is one of the oldest and most respected citizens of Crawford Co. His life has been one of great hardships. His parents had to borrow money from a fellow passenger to pay their passage to the United States. Upon their arrival here, J. L. was bound out to this man to cancel the debt. He worked three years for this man, and, although not receiving a cent for his labors at the end of that time, had a good suit of clothes and $7. He has been interested in nearly all the enterprises that have had a tendency to build up the community in which he lives, or benefit his fellow-man. Samuel F., the eldest of his eleven children, remained at home, assisting him on the farm until 22 years of age, at which time he began for himself. For a number of years, he and Emanuel Keis, a brother-in-law, ran a threshing machine. He purchased 90 acres of land in Marion Co., Ohio, upon which he lived some years. and then sold and bought an adjoining farm of 160 acres, where he resided until his removal to Crawford Co., in 1879. He now owns a nicely improved farm of 171 acres, in Whetstone Township. He was united in marriage with Miss Catharine Keis, March 24, 1860. She was born in Lycoming Co., Penn., May 6, 1840. From this marriage are three childrenWilliam H., Margaret A. and Sarah L. Mr. Heinlen is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the German Reformed Church. He has held a number of offices in the townships, in which he has lived and is a respected and honored citizen. SAMUEL HEINLEN, farmer; P. O. Bucyrus - was born in Whetstone Township, Crawford Co., Ohio, April 19, 1832. His parents, Lewis and Christina (Sager) Heinlen, came from Germany to the United States in 1847. The father was a single man at this time, but, after his arrival in Pennsylvania, married Miss Sager. They were the parents of eleven children: nine of whom are now living. The father was a tailor by trade, but after his coming to the United States. He engaged in agricultural pursuits. which he followed during his lifetime. He with his family, came to Crawford Co., Ohio, previous to 1830, and were among the first settlers of Whetstone Township. He and wife were intelligent people, and much respected by their friends and neighbors. Samuel was raised upon his father's farm. He had but limited advantages for obtaining an education, as the schools were scarce, and his services were needed upon the farm. When 21 years of age, he began for himself with only a horse, which his father had given him. He possessed a great amount of energy, and it was not long until he owned 40 acres of land. He has kept buying and trading until he now owns 130 acres of well improved land. He was married to Miss Margaret Keis Feb. 11, 1857. She was born in Pennsylvania Feb. 3, 1834. From this union there are five children-William A., Lewis F., Reuben E., Mary E. and Edward C. Mr. Heinlen is one of the prominent Democrats and successful farmers of Crawford Co. He and his wife are consistent members of the Evangelical Church and have given their children superior advantages for obtaining educations. JACOB KIESS ; P. O. Bucyrus : was born in Lycoming Co., Penn., in 1811. He is the son of Christopher and Christina (Sheets) Kiess, both of whom were natives of Wurtemberg, Germany. where they were married. and resided until 1806, when they emigrated to the United States, locating in Lycoming Co., Penn., where they passed the remainder of their days, Jacob lived at home until he was 26 years of age. About this time, he purchased 100 acres of land in his native county, and began the improvement of it. He was married to Miss Catharine Rott in 1837. She was born in Lycoming Co., Penn., in 1811, and (lied there Dec. 12, 1840. The fruits of this union were two children-Lydia and Jonathan. Mr. Kiess married his present wife, Catharine Daker in 1844. She was born May 12, 1816. From WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 895 this union there are seven children-Simeon, Christina, Daniel, Joseph, Samuel, Margaret and William. Mr. Kiess came to Crawford Co. in 1851. He owns 395 acres of well-improved land, which he has obtained by his own exertions. He is a Democrat, a member of the Evangelical Church and a much respected and honored citizen. REV. JOSEPH KESTER, Bucyrus; was born Nov. 1, 1829, in Whetstone Township, Crawford Co., Ohio. His parents, Jacob and Saloma (Wize) Kester, removed from Union Co., Penn., their native State, to Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1828, and entering 80 acres of land near the center of Whetstone Township. They were the parents of eight children, six of whom are yet living. The father was an educated man, and held, during his lifetime, many responsible positions in Crawford Co. He departed this life Aug. 2, 1878. His wife died Oct. 5, 1866. Joseph Kester received the advantages of a common-school education, and remained upon his father's farm until about 24 years of age. He was united in marriage with Miss Sevilla Shroll Jan. 20, 1853. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, March 30, 1829, and is the daughter of Abraham Shroll. one of the first settlers of Crawford Co. Mr. Kester was, for a number of years, actively engaged in politics, and was elected to numerous positions of honor and trust, always faithfully serving his constituents. In 1866, he moved to Marion Co., where he remained until 1877, when he removed to Wayne Co., and from there to his native county in 1879. Since 1866, he has been a minister of the German Reformed Church. He is a man of much more than ordinary ability, and his services are highly appreciated wherever he labors. He is a Democrat though conservative in his views. He owns 80 acres of land in Marion Co., Ohio, and 240 acres in Wright Co., Iowa. In his family were nine children, eight of whom are now living-Henry J., Joseph F., Nancy J., Eliza A., Sarah S., Elizabeth, Lydia M. and Mary M. The deceased was named John A. Crawford Co. has no better citizen than Mr. Kester. J. G. KELLY, Bucyrus. This gentleman was born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, Feb. 25, 1832. He is the son of Samuel and Lvdia (Marshall) Kelly, who were natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married, and resided until 1826, when they removed to Columbiana Co., Ohio, where they remained until 1835, and then came to Crawford Co., locating in the southern part of Whetstone Township. They were the parents of seven children, all of whom are yet living. The father was an exemplary Christian gentleman, and helped to organize the first Baptist society in the township. He died in 1862. His wife survives him, and is a resident of the township. J. G. was raised upon his father's farm, receiving a common school education. In 1854, he went, by way of the Isthmus of Panama, to the then newly discovered goldfields of California. He remained on the Pacific Slope six years, and was engaged in mining. teaming, etc.. etc. After his return to Ohio, he engaged in farming, a business he has since followed. He was united in marriage with Miss Lydia Campbell in 1861. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1829. From this union there are five children, viz., Ida B., George B. and Mary M., living ; Imas and Mary B., deceased. Mr. Kelly began life as a poor boy, and is, in the strictest sense of the word, a self-made man. He owns a nicely improved farm of 256 acres in the township, and is one of the leading and successful agriculturists of Crawford Co. He is a stanch Republican in politics, and a member of the Baptist Church. SAMUEL KIEFFER; P. O. Bucyrus. Among the old settlers of Whetstone Township is Mr. Kieffer. He was born in Somerset Co., Penn., May 8, 1807. His father, Adam Kieffer, came with his parents from Germany to America previous to the Revolutionary war. They resided near the site of Valley Forge, Penn., during that war. Adam Kieffer was married in Somerset Co., Penn., to Miss Susanna Rhodes, and remained in that county until 1812, when he removed to Stark Co., Ohio. In 1825, he came to Crawford Co. and settled on the farm now owned by his son Samuel, who when 21 years of age, began for himself. His father gave him 30 acres of land, which he improved, sold, and then purchased a portion of the farm he now owns. He was married to Miss Catharine Jones Nov. 11, 1830; she was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Jan. 12, 1811. From this union there were nine children, four of whom are now living-George W., Rebecca, Letta and John ; the deceased were named Franklin, Milon, Samuel, Sarah and an infant son. Mrs. Kieffer departed this life June 24, 1877. Mr. 896 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Kieffer was united in marriage to Mrs. Margaret Williams Sept. 5, 1878. Mr. Kieffer at one time owned over 600 acres of land, but he has given liberally to his children and to charity. He now owns 200 acres of well improved land. He is a Republican. and a consistent Christian. MARTIN KEHRER farmer : P. O. Bucyrus. This gentleman is a native of Lycoming Co., Penn., where he was born on the 6th of April 1813. He is the son of John and Margaret (Sherer) Kehrer, who came from German to Pennsylvania in 1803, where they resided until 1834, when they came to Crawford Co., Ohio, and located on the farm now owned by Jacob Hurr. Many years before coming to Ohio, in 1819, the mother died in Pennsylvania. The son, Martin. had come to Crawford Co., however, in 1833, in search of a home, but had soon returned to his native State and. the following year, the father came with his son to the new home in the West. In the year 1838, Martin returned to Pennsylvania, and. while there, was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Brucklacher, the lady being a native of Pennsylvania ; the young couple immediately went west. to Crawford Co., Ohio, to the home Martin had selected. Here they have since resided, laboring and economizing. endeavoring to surround themselves with comforts for their declining days. Mr. Kehrer and lady have two children -Daniel and Catharine by name-both of whom are married and living on the home farm. Mr. Kehrer has passed his life on a farm. and is thoroughly conversant with all the details of farm management. He has often held positions of trust in the township, and is one of Whetstones best citizens. He is a Democrat in politics, and owns 212 acres of fine land. He made his son the handsome present of 80 acres of land. There were seven children in the elder Kehrer's family, four of whom are yet living. The father died about seventeen years after coming to the State. The members of the family are moral and upright. and make good citizens. JAMES KERR. farmer and wool-grower: P. O. Bucyrus. among those citizens of Crawford Co., who have by their own exertions and upright conduct, become a part and parcel of the county, none are more worthy of mention than Mr. Kerr. He is a native of Knox Co., Ohio, where he was born Feb. 18, 1818. His parents, James and Elizabeth (Arbuckle) Kerr came from Pennsylvania to Knox Co., at a very early day. It was here that the subject of this sketch passed his life until 17 years of age. He then left his home in Knox Co., and traveled on foot to Crawford Co., where he began working for an elder brother, who had come to the county some years previously. He remained with his Brother some three years and then be began farming for himself. He was married to Miss Nancy Towers Nov. 5, 1840. She was born in Pickaway Co., Ohio, Jan. 14, 1820. From this union were three children Susan and George T., living. and James F., deceased Mr. Kerr now owns 675 acres of land in Crawford and Marion Cos. He has given liberally to his children. who are married, and reside in the county. He has been extensively engaged in the sheep trade, and is known throughout the county as one of the most successful wool growers within its limit. He is a Republican and a member of the Disciples Church. NANCY KERR. whose portrait and that of the husband, James Kerr, appear in this work is the daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Sylivant) Tower, both of whom were natives of Maryland, from where they moved to Pickaway Co., Ohio. in an early day. The former was a soldier in the war of 1812. They were both, for many years previous to their death, consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their occupation was farming. From Pickaway Co., they removed to Crawford Co., where they resided until their death. Mrs. Kerr is a native of Pickaway Co. Where she was born Jan 14, 1820. She was one of a family of twelve children. six sons and six daughters. Owing to the straitened circumstances of her parents and the newness of the country. she never had the opportunity of acquiring an education such as by her own efforts in connection with he husband, they have been able to give their children. She bore bravely the struggles, hardships and privations of pioneer life, and during their long years of married life she has worker with an energy equal to that of her husband, in the amassing of their large fortune. For man years they have been active and faithful members of the Disciples' Church, located in Bucyrus., an organization that owes its present prosperous condition to their work and liberality. In the building of the church. Mr. Kerr gave $2,000, and afterward donated $2,000 to the WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 897 support of it. Their home is about seven miles south of Bucyrus, in Whetstone Township. Where they reside in peace and happiness, enjoying the fruits of their early industry and labors. WILLIAM LOWMILLER, farmer and stockraiser ; P. O. Bucyrus ; is a native of Snyder Co., Penn., where he was born May 19, 1840. He is the son of Adam anal Catharine (Baker) Lowmiller, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania and who became the parents or eight children six of whom are yet living, The parents are yet living in Pennsylvania. The father was a weaver by trade, an occupation he followed a large portion of his time, and was one of the county's most industrious citizens. William passed his youth in the Keystone State, but when 19 years of age came to Bucyrus, Ohio, and served an apprenticeship to the carpenter's trade, at which he worked for a number of years. He was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Kester, on the 6th of April. 1865. She was born in Whetstone Township June 29, 1838. and bore her husband four children as follows: Edward C., Jeremiah A., Ellen M., and Ida E. After his marriage he lived a number of years with his father-in-law. When he first came to the State he had but $9 and has made his family of 85 acres by a close adherence to business, this kind being a part of the old Kester farm, first settled in 1828. Mr. Lowmiller takes pride in raising good stock, and in improving the different varieties. He is a Democrat, and a member of the German Reformed Church, and is one of Whetstone's most industrious citizens. SAMUEL LUDWIG farmer: P. O. Bucyrus: of those who have for a great many years been identified with the best interests of Crawford County none is more worthy of mention than Mr. Ludwig. In 1829, he came with his parents from Berks Co., Penn., to Crawford County. He was born May 26, 1813, and from early boyhood had to work early and late to assist in caring for the large family of which he was one. He married Miss Scotia Littler, a native of Hardy Co., Va. From this union were five children, two of whom are yet living. Soon after his marriage he went to live in Seneca County, where he remained twelve years and then removed to Sandusky County and from there after a stay of two years to Crawford County, and purchased the old Littler farm upon which he resided some years, and then purchased the McGee farm. He now owns the farm settled by his father in 1829, besides valuable property in Bucyrus. His home farm of 260 acres adjoining the city of Bucyrus is one of the most valuable in the county. About 70 acres of this farm are underlain with as excellent sand as can be found in the State. On the farm are also quarries of the best quality of limestone. Mr. Ludwig has dealt largely in live-stock., especially in sheep, and at one time during the late war he owned a flock of 6,000. His wife died on Sept. 21, 1878, since which his son C. T. has resided with him. This son was a soldier in the war of the rebellion in Co. E. 86th O. V. I.. Both Mr. Ludwig and his son are stalwart Republicans and among the most intelligent, public-spirited men of the county. ELIAS LAVELY, Bucyrus ; was born in Frederick Co., Md. Nov. 29, 1823. His parent, John and Anna (Gorsuch) Lavely, were also natives of that State and the parents of nine children. They removed to Harrison Co.., Ohio, in 1825. Their object in coming to Ohio was to remove their family from the evil influences of slavery in their native State. The father was a strong pro-slavery man, and a prominent "stock-holder" in the "underground railroad." He was a man who took an active and leading part in all the religious and educational enterprises in the community in which he lived. Elias Lavely remained at home until his marriage with Miss Sarah Gorsuch, April 6, 1848. He received such education as the schools of that early day afforded. In 1853, he came to Crawford Co., Ohio. and purchased a partly improved farm of 240 acres. He has since resided upon this farm, each year making some improvements, until it is now one of the best improved farms in the county. He has never aspired to any political prominence, but has devoted his time and energy to the improvement of his farm. There is not a more practical and successful farmer in Crawford Co. than Mr. Lavely. He is the father of eleven children-Mary E., Alice E., Flora A., John E., Ida J., Charles L., Henry E. and Sarah E. living - Milton, George W. and Jesse G. deceased. Politically he is a Republican. WILLIAM MODERWELL. farmer and stock-raiser; P. O. North Robinson; belong to a family that is one of tile oldest and most 898 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: widely known in the county. They have officiated in various township and county offices, always with honor to themselves. They came to the county in about 1824, and have been Whigs and Republicans from the first. The subject of this memoir was born in Whetstone Township. Nov., 16, 1840, and is the son of James W. and Mary (Peterman) Moderwell, both of whom were natives of the Keystone State. They were married in Crawford Co. The father lives in Indiana, and his son, William, lives on the farm firsy owned by Mr. Howard and afterward by William Rowse. His brothers and sisters were six in number, and his brother J. Q. enlisted in the late war in the 123d O. V. I., in which lie served some two tears with signal bravery. Mr. Moderwell's wife was Miss Mahala J. Beck, the marriage occurring Nov. 17, 1864. This lady was born in Jackson Township, Crawford Co., Ohio. Nov. 13, 1844. To his union was born a family of five children, four of whom are yet living Laura B., William P., Ellen A. F.. and Robert, and Isaac W. deceased. The father, James W. Moderwell, was a carpenter by trade, which occupation was followed for a number of years. For the past thirty years he has been extensively engaged in dealing in live-stock, of which he is a reliable and accurate judge. William and J. Q. Moderwell and Edward R. Faulkner, during the winter of 1875-76. purchased and shipped from North Robinson and Crestline over $100,000 worth of live stock. Both before and since that date they have dealt extensively in the same business. and are among the best stock judges in the county. They are prominent farmers and influential citizens. CHARLES MYERS, Galion : was born in Whetstone Township, Crawford Co., Ohio, May 17, 1840. He is the son of Nicholas and Saloma (Mauerer) Myers, both of whom were natives of Baden, Germany, where they marl reed and lived until 1817. They then emigrated to the United States. and located in Northumberland Co., Penn., remaining there until 1830. when they removed to Crawford Co., Ohio, entering 160 acres of land near the center of Whetstone Township. By economy and hard work they managed to acquire considerable property. The father died July 10, 1869, and the mother. Feb. 6, 1873. They were the parents of ten children, and seven of them are yet living. Charles' early years until he was 17 years of age. were passed on his father's farm, but. after reaching that age. and until he was 22, he worked by the month for neighboring farmers saving considerable money in the meantime. On the :31st of December. 1861, he was married to Miss Catharine Beach. This lady was born in Whetstone Township. Feb. 16, 1840 and bore her husband seven children as follows : Isaac I., Elizabeth F., Samuel H., Laura L., Washington W.,. Mary M., and George E. Mr. Myers has by his exemplary conduct and sterling integrity, won the confidence of his fellow-citizens, and has been honored with various positions of responsibility, among which may be mentioned those of Trustee, Assessor, Land Appraiser, Justice of the Peace, and has served for six years in the prominent position of County Commissioner. He owns 181 acres of land, upon which are comfortable and commodious buildings. He is an influential Democrat, and also a member of the German Lutheran Church. For the past two years he has been shipping considerable live stock It is scarcely necessary to mention that he is one of the most prominent citizens in the county. JOSEPH S. PARCHER. Bucyrus: was born Oct. 5, 1838, in Crawford Co., Ohio. He is one of a family of eight children born to Samuel and Sarah (Merriss) Parchcr, the former a native of the "Green Mountain State," and the latter of the "Empire State." The father when a young man left his native State and came to Lake Co., Ohio, where he. remained until 1820, when he. in the employ of the Bacons, as teamster came with them to Crawford Co The mother came to Crawford Co. soon after this and some years later was married to Mr. Parcher. They for many years endured all the hardships incident to pioneer life, and became well and favorably known to the people of the county. They accumulated considerable property, of which they gave liberally to the poor and to all enterprises that had a tendency to build up the community in which they lived or benefit and better the condition of mankind Samuel Parcher departed this life in 1845 ; his wife survives him and is residing upon the farm purchased by them soon after their marriage. Joseph S. was raised upon a farm, receiving a good common - school education. He was united in marriage with Miss Margaret WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 899 Traxler Nov. 27. 1877. Sire was born in Bucyrus Township in 1859. From this union there are two children-Flossie D. and Diana V. Mr. Parcher owns 148 acres of well-improved land. He is an uncompromising Republican in politics. but liberal in his views regarding men and things. BENJAMIN PHILLIPS, farmer; P. O. Bucyrus. This gentleman is the son of Henry and Christina (Winters) Phillips, and was born in Northumberland Co., Penn., on the 8th of June 1819. His parents were both natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married, and resided until 1832, when they came to Crawford Co., Ohio. Here they resided until their deaths. They were the parents of six children, two of whom are yet living. The father was a successful and prominent farmer, an occupation he followed during life. His death occurred in 1851, his wife following him in 1860. They were consistent Christian people, and were universally respected. Benjamin passed his early years on a farm and after the removal of the family to Ohio. where he had attained his majority, he had charge of his father's farm. In 1845, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Null, who was a native of Northumberland Co., Penn., where she was born in 1820. Four children have been born to this union; Rebecca J., Henry, Benjamin F. and Samuel. Mr. Phillips owns 80 acres of excellent land, all of which is under cultivation. He is a prominent Democrat, and himself and family are members of tile Lutheran Church. The members of the family have been among the most industrious citizens in Whetstone Township. The sons at present own and operate a steam thresher, and they have the reputation of being among the most experienced managers of those machines in Crawford Co. The family is well known and highly respected. J. G. RAISER. farmer and tailor; P. O. Bucyrus This gentleman was born in Wurtemberg. Germany, June 13. 1827. He is one of a family of five children of Jacob and Barbara (Hoch) Raiser, both natives of Wurtemberg The father was a finely educated man, his vocation in life being that of a farmer and cooper. He died in 1866, and his wife in 1865. Our subject is the only one of the children now living. His youth was passed attending the schools of his native country. When 14, he began the trade of a tailor, serving an apprenticeship of three years, after which he worked as a journeyman until 24 years of age. During this time, he often was head workman, and has the overseeing of a large number of employs At 24 years of age, he began business for him self in his native country, where he remained until he came to the United States. He came almost directly to Bucyrus, Ohio, having at the time not a penny in his pocket, and being in debt to a fellow passenger to the amount of $30 He soon secured work at his trade in Bucyrus with a Mr. Failor, at $18 per month. He remained with this man until he failed, and then began in a small way to do business for himself. In four years after commencing for himself, he had, by bard work and economy, saved sufficient means to erect a large and commodious three story brick business building. He continues working at his trade until 1876, when he bough the "old Reed farm" of 81 acres in Whetstone Township, upon which he moved. and has sine resided. He was married to Miss Harriet Bair March 30, 1858. She was born in Bucyrus, Ohio, May 31, 1839. From this union there are eleven children-Henry S., Charles W., George F., David R., Sarah C., Maria E., Anna E., Susan F., Martha E. and Jacob A., and John E., twin brothers. Mr. Raiser came to this county a poor German boy, and has, by his upright conduct and straight business habits, attained an enviable position among the people of Craw ford Co. He is a much-respected citizen. ISAAC STUMP, Bucyrus ; was born in Lycoming Co.. Pen., Jan. 6, 1834, and is one of a family of six children of Jacob and Mary (Kehrer) Stump, who were natives of Germany from which country they came when yet children. They were married in Pennsylvania, an resided there until 1835, when they removed to Crawford Co., Ohio. They were bard working, intelligent people respected by all who knew them. The father died in 1855, and the mother in 1860. Isaac was raised upon a farm, receiving the advantages of a common-school education. He was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Heinlen. May 3, 1860. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio. Oct. 14,1837. They are the parents of six children, five of whom are yet living, viz.., Esther, Sarah, Henry, Amanda and Amy. Mr. Stump has always followed farming, and is one of the most successful of that calling in the county. He owns 355 acre of well-improved land, the greater portion of 900 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: which he has obtained by his own exertions. Politically, he is a Democrat, though liberal in his views. He is a member of the German Reformed Church, and has held the office of Township Trustee a number of terms. Crawford Co. is benefited by having within her borders such men as Mr. Stump. DANIEL STUMP. farmer : P. O. Bucyrus. Among the successful farmers of Whetstone is the gentleman whose name heads this biography. He was born in Lycoming Co., Penn.. Sept. 7, 1833. When he was but 6 years of age, his parents. Martin and Barbara (Kehrer) Stump, removed from Pennsylvania to Crawford Co., Ohio. Both parents came, when children, from Germany to the United States, their parents locating in Pennsylvanian. The parents of our subject were intelligent, industrious people and, by hard work and economy obtained a goodly share of this worlds goods. The mother died in 1855, and the father Dec. 8, 1879. Daniel has always remained upon the old homestead. and, after his majority took charge of it. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Zimmerman on Sept. 15, 1857. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1835. Her parents were among the early settlers of Whetstone Township. This union has been productive of six children, three of whom are yet living - Samuel, Louisa and Clara: the deceased were named Sarah, Lydia and Joseph. Mr. Stump owns 160 acres of land. upon which are good buildings. He is a member of the M. E. Church and of the Democratic party. He is a man loved and respected by all who know him. MICHAEL STOLTZ, farmer: P. O. Bucyrus; was born in Wurtemberg, Germany on July 9, 1809. His parents, David and Sophia Stoltz, came from that country with their family to the United States in 1817 , and located in Lycoming Co., Penn. They were the parents of six children, four of whom are yet living. Michael was raised upon his father's farm in Pennsylvania. receiving such education as the common schools afforded. He was married to Miss Mary Kober, a native of Germany, in 1833. From this union there were nine children, two of whom only. survived of this large family, David and George. The names of those deceased were-Sophia, William, Jacob, Mary, Samuel, Sophia and Caroline. Mrs. Stoltz died in 1850, and in 1851, Mr. Stoltz married Mrs. Mary Keltner. who was born in Union Co.. Penn., in 1810. Mr. Stoltz came to Crawford County in 1836. He began life a poor boy, and is a self-made man, now owning 255 acres of well-improved land in Whetstone Township. He is a Democrat and a member of the German Lutheran Church. His son George lives with him, and David some two miles south in the same township. They are intelligent, industrious people and respected by all who know them. JACOB SHERER. farmer: P. O. Bucyrus was born in Whetstone Township, Crawford Co., on ,Jan. 18, 1835. He is the son of Jacob and Christina (Gross) Sherer, a sketch of whom appears in the biography of Daniel Sherer in this work. Jacob Sherer was raised upon his father's farm. receiving a good common-school education. He, like his brother has always resided upon the old home farm and he now owns 319 acres of nicely improved land. He was united in marriage with Miss Mary Hurr Oct. 13, 1859. She was born in Lycoming Co., Penn. July 17, 1841. From this union five children were born to them-Emanuel D., Sarah E., Emma C., John W. and Laura A. Mrs Sherer died Dec. 27, 1875. Mr. Sherer was again inarried, to Miss Sarah Beal. on Dec. 14, 1878. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio Oct 21, 1856. Mr. Sherer is a Democrat and has held a number of positions of honor and trust in the township in which he lives. SAMUEL SHOOK. farmer; P. O. Bucyrus he is the eldest of a family of twelve childrei born to Valentine and Nancy Shook, the former a native of Northumberland Co., Penn and the latter of Hagerstown, Md. They were married in Stark Co., Ohio. In 1827, the father entered the eighty acre tract of land now belonging to Christopher Kiess, in this county and. the following year he left Stark Co. with an ox-team, two cows and six head of sheep for his possessions in Crawford Co. The family had to live in their wagon until a log cabin was built, which took some time, after which they got on quite well, as all were willing to work. The father had been an Ensign in a regiment under the command of Gen. Harrison, during the war of 1812. After coming to this county he followed carpentering in connection with farming. He died in 1843 and his wife some twenty years afterward. Samuel Shook was born in Stark Co., Ohio, March 15, 1815, and, from the time he was 8 years of age, WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP - 901 was kept almost constantly at work helping to care for the family, and, in these pinching times of want and necessity, he learned the salutary lesson., of economy ;old industry which have marked his career through a long and eventful lifetime. He was married. Oct, 5, 1848 to Miss Margaret Christman, who was born Sept. 4, 1828, in Germany. Her parents, Adam and Elizabeth (Snyder) Christman came from Germany to the United States in 1840. To Mr. and Mrs. Shook have been born five children-Francis L , and Sarah R. E., living Jefferson, .John and Mary deceased. In politics, Mr. Shook wars at fret a Whig, and later when new issues gave rise to the Republican party he took an advanced position with it in favor of the Union and equal rights. He owns 264 acres of land and. beginning as he did. a poor boy, he has struggled all through his own efforts to a position of wealth and influence. He is eminently a self-made man and may well he proud of his achievement. DAVID SCHRECK: P. O. Galion: was born in Dauphin Co., Penn., Aug. 22, 1829, He is the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Buffington) Schreck, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married, arid resided until 1835, when they came to Crawford Co., Ohio, locating on the Annapolis road a short distance from Bucyrus. They remained there some four years and then removed to Whetstone Township, which they made their home until their death. The mother died in 1868, and the father in 1872. The father was a soldier of the war of 1812. When he arrival with his family at Bucyrus, in 1835, he had but $4. He was an industrious man, however and with the assistance of his good wife, who was a great weaver, and kept her loom going early and late, managed to raise their large family in a very creditable manner. David's early life was passed upon his father's farm. He received such education as the schools of that early day afforded. He was married to Miss Belinda Sherer Oct. 19, 1851. She was born in Stark Co., Ohio, March 30,. 1832. There have been eleven children born to them, nine of whom are now living - John A., Francis M., George W., Sarah E., Sing B., Emanuel W., Ira E., Clara E. and Samuel I. The names of those deceased were Martha J. and Ida M. Mr. Schreck followed, for twenty-five years during the fall and winter months, threshing. He also, during that time. cleared with his own hands 60 acres of heavily timbered land. From boyhood to the present time, he has paid close attention to diseases of the horse. He uses only new and rational remedies, and is one of the most successful veterinary surgeons in Crawford Co. He owns 180 acres of well improved land; is a stanch Republican and a member of the English Lutheran Church. ADAM SHERER ; P. O. Galion ; was born in Washington Co., Penn., Sept. 7, 1812. He is the son of .John and Elizabeth (Singhaus) Sherer, mention of whom is made in the biography of .John Sharer, in this work. Adam was reared upon a farm, receiving but a limited education. He was married to Miss Nancy Clemens in 1835: she was born in Stark Co., Ohio in 1820, and died in 1850. She was the mother of seven children - William and Abraham, living ; Sarah, Clarine, Adam, Henry and John, deceased. Mr. Sherer was married to Hannah Clark in 1851: she was born in Stark Co., Ohio. in 1822. Four children were born of this union-Susan, living; Elizabeth, Levi and James, deceased. Mr. Sherer came to Crawford Co. in 1837. He owns 162 acres of land. which he has made by his own exertions. His sons William and Henry were soldiers in the late war, in Co. E. 101st O. V. I. : Henry died :it Bridgeport, Ala., in 1863. Mr. Sherer is a stanch Republican in politics, and a member of the English Lutheran Church. He began life as a poor boy and has by close attention to business, obtained a goodly share of this world's goods. Himself and family are much respected citizens. JOHN SHERER. farmer: P. O. Galion. The parents of this gentleman, John and Elizabeth (Singhaus) Sherer, were both natives of the "Keystone State" where they were married and resided until 1813, when they came to Stark Co., Ohio. The wife died March 1, 1815, and Mr. Sherer was subsequently married to a Miss Kieffer. By his first marriage there were four children, and by the second, eleven. He died Sept. 30, 1871, and his wife Oct. 26, 1864. The father had been a soldier of the war of 1812, under Gen. Harrison, and was for a number of years. the captain of a company of militia. He was an exemplary Christian gentleman, and held. during his life-time numerous positions of honor and trust. The subject of this brief sketch was born Feb. 22, 1809, in 902 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: Washington Co., Penn. His youth and early manhood were passed upon his father's farm, and his education consisted of such instruction as was given to the pupils of the common schools of that early day. Soon after reaching his majority, he came to Crawford Co., Ohio, which with the exception of three years, he has since made his home. He was married, March 31, 1831, to Miss Sarah Kieffer, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1808. From this union there were eight children. five of whom are yet living - Belinda, Rebecca, Rachel, John K. and Francis M. The names of those who died were Samuel, Michael and Adam. Michael and Adam well and faithfully served their country in the war of the rebellion, in Co. E, 101st O V. I. Adam was killed at the battle of Stone River, and Michael died of typhoid fever at Edgefield Junction, Tenn. Mr. Sherer began as a poor boy, and has been very successful in his business undertakings, and at one time owned over 800 acres of land in the county. He has given liberally to his children, and to all enterprises that had a tendency to build up the community in which he lived, or benefit his fellow-man. He and wife are consistent members of the English Lutheran Church. He is a stanch Republican and has held numerous positions of honor and trust in his long and eventful lifetime. The world would be much better if it held more of such people as Mr. and Mrs. Sherer. SAMUEL SHERER. farmer; P. O. Bucyrus ; was born March 3, 1828, in Lycoming Co., Penn. He is the son of Jacob and Christina (Gross) Sherer, both of whom were natives of Germany, from which country they came when yet children with their parents, to Lycoming Co., Penn. Here they were married and resided until about 1833, when they came to Crawford Co. and settled on the farm now owned by George Kurtz, in Whetstone Township. The mother died Dec. 1, 1870, and the father June 22, 1877. Samuel has always remained upon the old homestead. He has been twice married; his first wife was Miss Magdalena Heckenlively,. who bore him two children Catharine and Mary J. This lady died Jan. 3, 1860. Mr. Sherer's second wife was Miss Elizabeth Haller: she also bore him two children Simeon and Matilda. This wife died April 5, 1872. Mr. Sherer owns 308 acres of well improved land. He is a Democrat, and has held the offices of Township Trustee and Clerk. He is a man of broad and liberal views, always supporting men and measures and not party. He has an intelligent family, and is looked up to and respected by all who know him. C. R. SHECKLER. physician - P. O. North Robinson. This gentleman attended the public schools of Bucyrus until the age of 15, when he began the study of medicine in the same town, in the office of Dr. Cuykendall, under whose instruction he completed his medical education in about three years, after which he attended the Columbus Medical College, at the capital of the State, at which institution he graduated during the spring of 1876. Soon after his graduation, he began the practice of his profession in the village of North Robinson where he has since remained. with a rapidly increasing business practice. He was born in the county seat March 7, 1855, and is the son of E. F. and A.G. (Shawk) Sheckler both natives o Pennsylvania, from which State they emigrated to Bucyrus at quite an early day The subject of this sketch was united in marriage with Miss Kate Bogan April 15, 1880: she was born in Whetstone Township, Crawford Co. Ohio, in January 1862. Dr. Sheckler is also engaged in the drug business in the village and has quite a flourishing trade, which is on the increase. He is a member of the Democratic party. ISAAC SNYDER : P. O. New Winchester was born in Northumberland Co.. Penn., Feb 27, 1831. His parents were George and Margaret (Null) Snyder, the former being a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Baden, Ger many. They were married in Pennsylvania and were the parents of one child. the subjec of this sketch. The mother was a widow a the time of her marriage with Mr. Snyder, an the latter had also been previously married When Isaac was 3 years of age his father died and the mother remained on the old homestead until 1836. At this time. Nicholas Myers relative who had been living in Crawford Co Ohio, for several years. went to Pennsylvania and when he returned to Ohio Mrs. Snyder and family accompanied him. On her arrival, Mrs: Snyder purchased a farm, upon which she resided until her death, which occurred in 1872. The mother was a hard-working, kind-hearted Christian lady, with a loving and affectionate disposition. Isaac, throughout his life has WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 903 been trained and inured to hard work, and, being deprived of his father at an early age, was called upon when young to assume many manly responsibilities, and later had charge of his mothers farm. He was married to Miss Rebecca Albright on the 9th of .January 1857, the lady having been born in Whetstone Township Feb. 17, 1830. Seven children have been born to this union. five of whom are now living; as follows : Laura A., Lucinda, Lewis R., .John D. and Mary E. Those deceased are Emeline and Charles W. Mr. Snyder has been honored with various township offices-was Justice of the Peace three years and Treasurer four years. He is a Democrat and a member of the German Reformed Church. He owns 390 acres of land. nicely improved. With good buildings, etc. He raises good stock, and is one of the most intelligent. enterprising and prominent men in the township. MRS. SUSAN SAVAGE, ; P. O. Bucyrus; this lady was born in 1805, in Columbia Co., Penn. Her father, Asa Coho, was a native of the Keystone State, and the parent of eight children. He died when Mrs. Savage was 7 years of age, after which she went to live with a cousin, with whom she remained until her marriage with Mr. Daniel Savage in 1824. Four years after this event they removed to Crawford Co., Ohio. Mr. savage was a shoemaker by trade, a business he followed in connection with farming, after he came to Crawford County. He was a consistent Christian gentleman, and an influential, respected citizen. He died in 1877, while visiting friends in Indiana. His marriage was fruitful of fifteen children, eight of whom are now living; viz.: John, Daniel, Thomas, Benjamin F., Mary A., Deborah E., Elizabeth and Angeline. The deceased were William, Asa, Francis R., Joseph, Charles and two infants, who died without naming. Mrs. Savage is now living upon the farm settled upon by herself and husband in 1828. It consists of 163 acres, all of which is under cultivation and nicely improved. She has been a member of the Lutheran Church a great many years, and is one of the most respected and intelligent Christian ladies in Whetstone Township. LEANDER L. TEEL, Bucyrus; the eldest son of George W. and Elizabeth (Markley) Teel ; was born March 27 , 1847 ; attended the schools taught in Sulphur Springs, where he received a knowledge of the common branches. At the age of 16, he entered the college at Oberlin, Ohio, where he remained eighteen months, and attended Duff's Commercial College, at Pitts burgh, during the winter of 1865-66. Was married, May 4, 1869, to Sabina E., daughter of Phillip Keller, of Sandusky Township. Five children are the result of this marriage-Harry Clay, Ester M., Herbert K., Gertrude E. and Errie P. Resided in Sandusky Township after his marriage until the spring of 1874. The year previous, he was elected Clerk of the township although a Republican. He engaged in the mercantile business at Sycamore, Wyandot Co. from the spring of 1874 to April 1875, when he returned to Crawford, and acted as agent of the South Bend, Ind., Iron Works for some twelve months; then for three years farmed portion of his fattier s land. Taught the higher department of the Sulphur Springs schools for three winters, and also one winter in Sandusky Township. In the spring of 1880, he remove to his present residence in Whetstone Township east of Bucyrus, and during the past twelve months has assisted his father in business connected with the Ohio C. R. R. The subject of this sketch was instrumental in securing $10,000, the quota of Wyandot Co., to the guarantee fund of the road, and through the efforts of Mr. Teel this county was the first to report. He is at the present time Assistant Secretary of the Crawford Co. Farmers' Fire Insurance Co and was President of the Garfield Club of Bucyrus during the recent Presidential campaign. Mr. Teel is the great grandson of Adam Link who was one of the last five surviving veterans of the American Revolution. Link was born near Hagerstown, Md. Nov. 14, 1761, and died at the residence of his daughter and son-in-law Mr. and Mrs. Horatio Markley (both since deceased). near Sulphur Springs, Aug. 15, 1864, aged 102 years 9 months and 1 day. When Link was 6 years of age, his parents remove into Fayette Co., Penn. and afterward settled in Washington Co., which was then on the extreme borders of civilization. Being thus exposed to the subtle danger which then surrounded a frontier life, in the vicinity of Indians unfriendly to the whites, Adam acquired, in the hardships and dangers of border warfare, a experience which fitted him for future service in the cause of his country. He entered the American army in 1777 , and, upon the com- 904 - BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES: mencement of hostilities, the Indians made a descent upon the settlement, captured his father. John Link, then murdered and scalped him, burnt the house and barn, destroyed a large field of corn, 100 hogs, 40 sheep, all the cattle and horses, and 300 bushels of wheat. From this period. the family, from having enjoyed an unusual amount of wealth and independence, was at once depressed into poverty and suffered great privation and danger during the remainder of the war. Link served at different periods in the garrisons at Wheeling, Moore, Dements and Shepherd forts, and acted as an Indian spy, as well as scouting along the frontier. In 1791, Gen. St. Clair made a levy of two men from each county for the frontier service. These men were to be drafted in 1791 in case they did not volunteer. The men on a set day, were drawn up in line and the object made known, and any two who were willing to go were asked to step forward. Link was the first to advance. and with another man offered to clear their county from the draft for $10 each, certainly a very low bounty, but nevertheless it was not paid. Men in those days would not pay much money in order to avoid fighting for a good government when its life was in peril. Link was married at the age of 30, and resided in Crawford Co. for several years previous to his death and saw his posterity to the fourth generation. JOHN TRIMBLE. retired, Bucyrus: is a native of the Buckeye State, having been born in Jefferson Co., Feb. 15, 1805. His parents, Hugh and Ann (Long) Trimble, came from Ireland to the United States in the latter part of the eighteenth century. locating in Pennsylvania until 1800, when they came to Jefferson Co., Ohio. In 1823, they carne to Whetstone Township, locating in the northern part, on land now owned by Mr. Eickelberger. The father had come to Whetstone Township the previous year, and entered 320 acres of land. He was singularly upright and after many years of toil secured a comfortable home. The mother died in 1830, and the father followed her in 1840. They were the parents of nine children, two of whom are yet living-John and William, the latter living in Liberty Township. John Trimble remained with his father until the age of 22, when he was sent to Delaware, Ohio, to enter the eighty acres of land upon which he now lives. He walked to and from Delaware, and upon his return was given twenty acres of the eighty he had entered. On the 31st of January 1828, he was united in marriage with Miss Icy daughter of Daniel and Patience Parcher, his wife being born in Vermont. Jan. 30, 1803. Her parents had come to New York, thence to, Mentor, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, thence to Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1823. To John and Icy Trimble was born the following family: - Asenath, Icy, Mary A., Lafayette, Nelson J., Sarah, John W., Lyman and Eliza: the former three are the only ones now living. After his marriage, Mr. Trimble began living on his twenty-acre tract of laud. In time he added considerably to his small farm, but soon afterward gave it to his children that they might have something to start with in life. Mr. Trimhle has been a Republican since the organization of that party, and was formerly a stanch Whig. Two of his sons; John and Nelson, were soldiers in the late war. .John did not live to return home his daughter Asenath is the wife of G. W. Kieffer: Icy is the wife of Franklin Bowers, and Mary A. the wife of J. A. McMichael: the latter son-in-law, was also in the late war. Mr. Trimble has held several township offices, always serving with honor to himself and satisfaction to his constituency. His wife died on the 25th of February, 1874: he has the unlimited respect and confidence of his fellow-citizens. As a member of the Baptist Church, he has lived a long consistent life. ANDREW R. WALKER. Bucyrus: was born in Hampshire Co. Va., Jan. 14, 1827. He is the son of Robert and Martha (Leeper) Walker, the former being a native of Virginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania. They were the parents of seven children, only two of whom are now living Andrew R., and his brother, L. L. Walker. In 1826, the father came to Crawford Co. and entered 160 acres of land. In 1828, he returned with his family and began the improvement of his forest home. About eight years after their coming to the county, the father died. This left five small children dependent upon the mother, she was a woman of great force of character anal energy, and managed. through the assistance of the neighbors, to raise her children quite nicely, giving them such education as the schools of that early day afforded. Andrew R. being the oldest son learned. when quite young, what it was to have persons dependent upon him for their daily bread. This although hard for the boy, was in WHETSTONE TOWNSHIP. - 905 the end, very beneficial to the man. Habits of industry and economy then of necessity learned by him, have in a great measure, characterized his walk throughout life. He was united in marriage with Miss Imus Campbell Sept. 25, 1860. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio Jan. 7, 1833. There was one child from this union - Robert J. born July 4, 1864. The wife and mother died Nov. 17, 1862. Mr. Walker was again married, June 10, 1878, to Miss Hannah E. Gibson, daughter of John Gibson. Esq., one of the early settlers of Crawford Co. She was born in Crawford Co., Ohio. July 16, 1844. Mr. Walker has resided nearly all his life on the old homestead in Whetstone Township. Previous to the passage of the Kansas - Nebraska Bill. Mr. Walker voted with the Democratic party. Since that time he has been a stanch Republican. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and an influential and prominent citizen. He owns 260 acres of nicely improved land, situated near the center of Whetstone Township. WILLIAM A. WILLIAMS Superintendent of County Infirmary, Bucyrus, was born Dec. 15, 1825, in Berks Co., Penn. The parents, Price anal Ann (Hughes) Williams, were both natives of Pennsylvania where they were raised, married and resided until 1836, when they came to Crawford Co., Ohio, settling in Auburn Township. The father's occupation was charcoal burning, a business he followed quite extensively after his coming to Crawford Co., and until the advent of the railroads in the county. He also owned a farm, but his sons did nearly all the work upon this, as his time was occupied in charcoal-burning. William A., being the eldest son, on him devolved the responsibility of clearing and improving the farm. This gare him but little spare time, and his opportunities for obtaining an education were very- limited. In early- life, he manifested a strong liking for the rearing and training of horses and, on reaching his majority began in a small way to deal in horses. During his life, he has owned some of the best horses ever kept in Auburn Township, and has done much to improve the grade of farm horses in the county. When 25 years of age, he purchased 80 acres of unimproved land, and began its improvement. In the late war he served in Co. H. 123d O. V. I., from August 1862, to August, 1864. At the battle of Winchester, Va., he was taken prisoner, and for eight months endured all the hardships incident to prison life in the historical Libby Prison of Richmond, Va. He was one of the men who planned and successfully establishes a tunnel, through which 104 men escaped from Libby Prison. After his escape, he rejoined his company, of which he was Second Lieutenant, although during the year of 1864. he had charge of Co. H. and. from the time of his escape to his discharge, he had command of that company. After his return home, he devotes his time to farming and stock-growing. In 1877, he was appointed by the Infirmary Directors Superintendent of that institution. Mr Williams possesses superior executive ability and, under his skillful management. the Infirmary has become almost self-supporting. During his residence in Auburn Township, he was honored with many positions of profit and trust. His marriage with Miss Rebecca J. Bleeks occurred Aug. 29, l852. She was born in Medina Co., Ohio. Aug. 2, 1832. From this union there are three children-Allison, living; Emma and Oscar, deceased. Mr. Williams owns a nicely improved farm of 160 acres in Auburn Township, which he has obtained by his own exertions. He is a Democrat, politically. though liberal in his views.