450 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY three years he had charge of the schools of Lewistown, Logan county, Ohio, but he regarded this merely as an initial step to other professional labor and, taking up the study of law, was graduated from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor with the class of 1905. He then located for practice in Norwalk, where he has since remained, and in the intervening years he has come into close and prominent connection with the work of the courts, being accorded a liberal patronage. Mr. Carpenter was married in 1907 to Miss Myrtle McCracken, a native of Bellefontaine, Ohio, and one daughter, Helen, was born to them in August, 1909, His fraternal relations are with Fairfield Lodge, No. 261, A. F. & A. M., and with Huron Lodge, No. 37, I. O. O. F. He is an exemplary representative of those fraternities, being in hearty sympathy with their principles and purposes, He also belongs to the Methodist church and is interested in all that pertains to the welfare and progress of the community. He represents one of the old and prominent pioneer families who from the earliest days in Huron county have been identified with its progress and upbuilding. In the work of general improvement he is actively interested and his cooperation can be counted upon to further various measures for the general good. BYRON B. HALL. Byron B. Hall, who is now living retired in Olena, is surrounded by a host of warm friends, who esteem him for his worth and for his high moral character. He is a native of Huron county, his birth having occurred February 26, 1844, on the old homestead farm where his father located in 1838. The parents, Rev. and Mrs. Franklin P. Hall, both engaged in teaching school for years, the former in the state of New York and subsequently in Ohio. His education was acquired in Cazenovia, New York. He was a Baptist m religious faith and for a half century engaged in preaching in this county. He organized the church of that denomination in Fitchville and in addition to preaching the Gospel, he officiated at more funeral services and married a larger number of couples during his work as a minister than any other minister in Huron county. His death occurred in 1890 and his memory is yet cherished by many, who were benefited by his Christian influence and by the words of truth which he proclaimed from the pulpit. In 1838 he was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Burns, who was born in Greene county, New York, and in 1832 accompanied her father's family on their removal to Huron county, Ohio, residing in Fitchville township up to the time of her marriage. Other members of the Burns family were residents of that township up to 1873. Byron B. Hall was reared on the homestead farm in Fairfield township, which place is now in his possession and comprises one hundred twelve and a half acres. He was afforded excellent educational advantages in the schools of Oberlin and Lebanon, Ohio, and, preparing hin!self for the teacher's profession, he taught in the public schools for a long period. In 1898, however, he retired from the pro- 451 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. FRANKLIN P. HALL 452 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 453 fession and removed to his farm, where he spent a few years, but is now living retired in the village of Olena, where he is surrounded by all the comforts of life. Mr. Hall was married December 24, 1872, to Miss Martha A. Hewet, who was born in Warrensville, Ohio, October 26, 1844. Mrs. Hall was graduated from the Cleveland Central high school in 1864, after which she engaged in teaching in the Berea and the Medina high schools. She was a devoted Christian woman, prominent in the work of the church and Sunday school, was a model housekeeper, fond of her home and church, and constantly sought to do good wherever opportunity offered. Her death was the result of an accident, and her demise was a heavy blow not only to her own household but to a wide circle of friends as well. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Hall, Clara M., was educated in the Huron high school and in Oberlin College. She is now engaged in teaching in the public schools of Montpelier, Ohio. Mr. Hall supports the men and measures of the republican party, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Baptist church. He is a man of exemplary habits, strict integrity and has a strong personality, and he is now enjoying in honorable retirement the fruits of his former toil. WILLIAM STEIN. William Stein, owning and operating a valuable and well improved farm of one hundred and seventy-six acres in Lyme township, was born in Ridgefield township, Huron county, November 9, 1861, his parents being Jacob and Philamena (Brecker) Stein, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father, whose birth occurred December 13, 1833, came alone to the United States at the age of eighteen years, taking up his abode at Monroeville, Ohio. During the following eleven years he worked as a farm hand for various agriculturists of the vicinity, while in 186o he was married and subsequently operated a rented farm for four years. He then came to Lyme township and purchased eighty-four acres of land which he cleared and on which he erected a dwelling, continuing to make his home on that farm for about twenty-three years. On the expiration of that period he bought his present place of ninety-three acres—a well improved and productive tract of land. He is a prominent and public-spirited citizen of the community and has capably served as trustee of Lyme township for five years. His interest in moral advancement is deep and sincere and he contributed liberally for the erection of the Evangelical church at Monroeville, while later he helped to build the Lutheran church of Lyme township. His residence in this county now covers fifty-eight years and he was one of the worthy pioneer settlers whose labors contributed m no small measure to the early development and upbuilding of the community along many lines. His wife also came to Huron county at an early day and here they reared their family of seven children, namely : William, of this review ; Henry ; Sarah, the wife of Andrew Schafer, who resides in Cleghorn, Iowa ; Jacob ; Lewis, who is deceased ; Emma, the deceased wife of Gus Knoll ; and Rena, who became the wife of George Schafer. 454 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY William Stein obtained a good practical education in the district schools and, being reared on his father's farm, early became familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. Throughout his entire business career he has been identified with general farming interests, now owning a rich and productive tract of one hundred and seventy-six acres in Lyme township, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devotes his time and energies. The place is lacking in none of the equipments and accessories of a model farming property of the twentieth century, and the commodious and substantial brick residence was erected by Mr. Stein in 1904. He also cultivates rented land in addition to his own farm and the success which has attended his undertakings is but the merited reward of his persistent and well directed labor and capable management. On the 2d of April, 1891, Mr. Stein was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Ohlemacher, a (laughter of Philip and Christina (Hunt) Ohlemacher, of Oxford, Ohio. Unto them have been born five children : Norma, Albert, Edwin, Elsie and Dorothy, all at home. Mr. Stein is a valued member of the Lutheran church, in which he has held various official positions and in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested. All of his life has been passed in this county and, while his career has been uneventful in some respects, he belongs to that class of substantial and representative citizens, who constitute the real strength of the nation by reason of their business activity, their loyalty in citizenship and their honor and integrity in private life. D. J. C. ARNOLD. The business ability and enterprising spirit of D. J. C. Arnold have found tangible expression in the establishment and control of an extensive manufacturing enterprise at New London. He is engaged in the manufacture of brick-yard supplies and machinery and the business has now reached large and profitable proportions. It is growing year by year. Mr. Arnold was born in Adams, Massachusetts, in 1854. His father, Elisha Arnold, was also a native of that locality and a representative of an old New England family. He married Electa Hemmingway and, establishing their home in Adams, Massachusetts, their son, D. J. C. Arnold, was there reared, pursuing his education in the public schools. He was a young man of about twenty-two when in 1876 he came to New London. From the time that he put aside his text-books he has always been identified with manufacturing interests and the lumber business and in New London he became associated with trade interests as a manufacturer of brick-yard supplies, starting business in a modest way, his output consisting only of molds, trucks, etc. Under his capable supervision and wise direction the trade constantly expanded and the factory is now one of the leading industrial institutions of the county. He now manufactures a full line of brick machinery and the business is very extensive and increases annually. Mr. Arnold has been watchful of all the indications pointing to success. Prompt, energetic and notably reliable, he does not delay in filling contracts and lives up to the spirit as well as the letter of the law in all of his business relations. His reliability stands as an unquestioned HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 455 fact in his career and his enterprise has enabled him to accomplish important and gratifying results. In addition to his manufacturing interests he likewise figures prominently in financial circles, having for many years been the vice president of the New London National Bank. In 1875 Mr. Arnold wedded Miss Mary Hemingway, a native of New London, who died in 1886. His present wife bore the maiden name of Julia West and is a native of Wellington, Ohio. By the first marriage there were three children and two of the second marriage., namely : J. H., who is an able assistant of his father- in business ; Charles H.; Mrs. Anna A. Rorick ; Louise ; and Gracie. The family attends the Methodist church, to which Mr. Arnold belongs, and politically he is a republican and has served as a member of the city council. He consented to hold office from a sense of duty rather than from any desire for political preferment but at all times takes a warm interest in the city's welfare and does everything in his power to promote its progress and advancement. His labors are of a practical nature and the worth of his work is widely acknowledged by his fellow townsmen. WILMER B. McCAGUE. A well known and valued representative of the farming interests of Bronson township is Wilmer B. McCague. He was born September 9, 1863, on the farm where he now makes his home and in his life work he has displayed energy, enterprise and diligence which have enabled him to greatly increase the value of his property and win substantial success as the years have gone by. His parents were George W. and Esther E. (Selover) McCague. The family was founded in America by Thomas McCague, who was born in Ireland, and his wife Jeanette Cochran, a native of Scotland. In the year 1774 they came to the United States and settled in Philadelphia where Thomas McCague, the grandfather of our subject, was born and reared. The date of his birth was 1784 and after arriving at years of maturity he married Rosanna Coyan. A removal was made by the family from Philadelphia to Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and in a subsequent generation the family was founded in Holmes county, Ohio. George W. McCague, the father of our subject, was born near McKeesport, Pennsylvania, April 19, 1829. It was about 1845 or 50 that the family home was established in Huron county. G. W. McCague was united in marriage to Miss Esther E. Selover, who was born in New York, September 16, 1840. Her father Isaac Selover was born in New Jersey, May 2, 1819, and having arrived at years of maturity he married Cornelia Westfall, whose birth occurred m the same state, January 21, 1817. She came to Ohio with her husband, Isaac Selover, in 1841. He had purchased a tract of land near Olena and a few years later, upon his death, left his widow with two little daughters. She personally conducted the farm until her daughters were grown and married and after the death of her elder daughter's husband she assisted in rearing her three boys. Her younger daughter also died and three more boys were thus committed to her care. The motto of this noble woman seemed in harmony with the teaching "not to be ministered unto, but to minister," for her life was spent in lending a helping 456 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY hand to the sick and suffering. She was a daughter of Simeon Westf all, who was born in New Jersey in 1782, and of Esther Brink, whose birth occurred September 14, 1790. Wilmer B. McCague spent his youthful days on the home farm and his training was such as to make him well qualified to carry on agricultural pursuits on his own account when he attained his majority. He never falters in the pursuit of a persistent purpose, works earnestly and persistently to accomplish the end in view and as the years have gone by he has harvested rich crops which annually bring to him a substantial return. His fields present a neat and attractive appearance and altogether the farm is one of the desirable properties of the community. On the 22d of November, 1893, Mr. McCague was married to Miss Abbie C. Smedley, who was born December 6, 1860, and is a daughter of Lindorf and Catherine (Light) Smedley. Lindorf Smedley was a son of Chester and Clarissa (Landon) Smedley, who were natives of Litchfield, Connecticut, and Chester Smedley was a son of Ephraim and Anna (Gibbs) Smedley. Unto Mr. and Mrs. McCague have been born three daughters : Catherine Esther, born March 12, 1895 ; Vera Jane, born July 6, 1896 ; and Mae Lue, born February 13, moo. The parents are members of the Disciple church and Mr. McCague is a republican in his political views. He does not seek nor desire office but concentrates his energies upon his business affairs which are capably conducted. He has always lived in this community and is well known here, having a circle of friends almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance. GARDINER McPHERSON. Gardiner McPherson, the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres m Bronson township, is devoting his time and energies to its cultivation with gratifying results. His birth occurred in Fairfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 1st of March, 1849, his parents being Andrew and Elizabeth (McPherson) McPherson. His maternal grandfather was William McPherson. Andrew McPherson and his wife reared a family of three children, namely: Mary, Isabella and Gardiner. The last named obtained his education in the common schools and early gained a practical knowledge of farming through the assistance which he rendered his father in the work of the fields. He has made his home upon the place where he now resides since 1860, the property coming into his possession at the time of his father's death. It is a valuable and well 'improved farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres, located in Bronson township, and the fields pay annual tribute to the care and labor which is bestowed upon them in bounteous harvests. As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life Mr. McPherson chose Miss Orlinda Angell, a daughter of Ephraim and Eliza (Adams) Angell. Their union has been blessed with two children, Marian and Theresa. Politically Mr. McPherson gives his allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has capably served in the capacity of township trustee for HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 457 a number of years. His fraternal relations are with the Maccabees. Having spent his entire life in this county, he has a wide acquaintance here and his salient characteristics are such as have gained for him the friendly regard and good will of all with whom he has been associated through either business or social relations. WILLIAM D. BROOKS. William D. Brooks, a prosperous, up-to-date and enterprising agriculturist of Wakeman township, is the owner of one hundred thirteen and one-half acres of rich and productive farming land. His father, Thomas Brooks, was born in Huttersfield, England, on the 23d of May, 1816, and came to the United States when about twenty-four years of age. In his native land, he had become familiar with the trades of a machinist and weaver. On landing in this country, he made his way to Cincinnati, Ohio, but after a short time removed to Akron, being employed in the woolen mills of that city for about two years. During that period he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bernell, a daughter of William and Elizabeth Bernell. Her father, who was likewise an Englishman and was also employed in the Akron mills, subsequently returned to his native land and there passed away. On leaving, Thomas Brooks removed to Black river, near Lake Erie in Lorain county, where he purchased a farm and during the two years of his residence there his son William was horn. He next took up his abode in. Terryville, Erie county, Ohio, where he began the operation of a woolen mill for Speers & Ward. He operated this mill successfully for probably fifty years, under all the changes of ownership, continuing its management until the factory was finally destroyed by high flood. It was never rebuilt. The industry was one of great importance during its time, wool being carded and spun at the mill for families living for miles around, as in that early day the housewives wove their own goods. In connection with his other interests, Mr. Brooks also conducted a farm, purchasing land as opportunity offered. He first became interested in Huron county lands at the time he bought some property on the Butler road, it being now a part of the Edward Denman farm. He continued to reside at Terryville, however, until his sons were grown, when he established his home in Wakeman township on the farm where our subject now lives, the family moving into a log house which Mr. Brooks had previously erected. This district was still a forest region and wild game abounded, so that the sons found ample opportunity to indulge their love of hunting. The last deer known to have been killed in Wakeman township, was shot on the Brooks farm by DeWitt Ennis on the same day that the steam sawmill, more lately owned by French & Arnold, on the Butler road was put in operation. Soon after coming to the United States Thomas Brooks took out his naturalization papers and, though taking no active part in politics, he always kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He was a man of progressive ideas and positive convictions and his influence was always given on the side of right, truth, justice and progress. Unto him and his wife were born two sons. Charles, who died some years ago, held a responsible position with the Big Four Railroad Company for fourteen years. He passed away in Cin- 458 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY cinnati and lies buried beside his parents in Wakeman cemetery. His son, William N. Brooks, is now a resident of Chicago. William D., the other son of Thomas Brooks, is now the only surviving member of his father's family. William D. Brooks obtained his education in the district schools of Terryville and Wakeman township. His time and energies have been given to general agricultural pursuits with excellent success and he is now in possession of part of the family estate, comprising one hundred thirteen and one-half acres of valuable land. The property is well improved and presents a most neat and thrifty appearance, indicating plainly the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In his political views, Mr. Brooks is a stanch republican and takes an active and helpful interest in all matters pertaining to the public welfare. He has capably served his fellow townsmen in the position of road supervisor and also as a school director. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Congregational church, to the support of which he contributes liberally of his time and means. Having now resided in this county for more than fifty years, he is largely familiar with its annals from a pioneer period down to the present time. Not only has he seen this section of the state grow from a wild country, with only a few white inhabitants, to a rich agricultural country, containing thousands of good homes and acres of growing towns, inhabited by an industrious, prosperous, enlightened and progressive people, but he has participated in the slow, persistent work of development which was necessary to produce a change which is so complete that it has come to be popularly referred to as magical. JOSHUA B. BARNES. Joshua B. Barnes was a prosperous farmer, a successful auctioneer and an exemplary citizen of Clarksfield township, where he was born September 27, 1848, a son of William and Helen (Bissel) Barnes. Both the Bissels and the Barnes were among those families that braved the hardships of pioneer life. The former of the two came from Danbury, Connecticut, and the latter from New York state, and both became prominent in their respective communities. William Barnes became widely known as a farmer who had won a comfortable position in life through hard work and was widely respected for his strong character. Joshua B. Barnes grew up at home under the guidance of his parents, assisting in the ordinary work of the farm. During the winter months he attended the district schools of the county and always stood at the head his class and as the ringleader in all boyish pranks and sports. At the age of nineteen he went to Michigan, where he worked on the farms of relatives for nine years. At the end of that period he returned to Clarksfield township, this county, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and fifty-eight acres in the same neighborhood in which he had been born and in which his parents had lived for so many years. This was his home until his death. As soon as he took up his residence here he became a prominent figure in the farming community. Large harvests richly repaid his arduous toil, and the several business enterprises he undertook prospered 459 - PHOTO OF JOSHUA B. BARNES 460 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 461 in proportion. At the time of his death he possessed two hundred and sixty acres, all fine land to start with, but much improved through the excellent cultivation he practiced for so many years. On the 21st of December, 1886, Mr. Barnes was married to Miss Belle Kemp, the daughter of John and Susanna (Wellburn) Kemp, of Camden, Lorain county, Ohio, who were married October 15, 1854. The father was born in Lancaster- shire, England, March 20, 1821, and came to America with his brother at the age of thirty-one. He settled in Grafton, Ohio, where he engaged in farm work, and in a.short time by industry and economy was able to save enough to buy a farm in Lorain county. When he arrived in this country he had almost no capital, but he attained to a comfortable position before his death. Two years after his arrival here he married and became the father of ten children, five of whom are living. They are Edgar, a commissioner of Lorain county ; Mary ; Belle: Lucy ; and Mabel. William, Ezra, John, Charles, and Elizabeth, are all deceased. Mr. Kemp died November 13, 1901, and his wife passed away August 4, 1909. To Mr. and Mrs. Barnes were born two children, Doris E. and Robert W., both of whom are living at home with their mother. The republican party always found in Mr. Barnes a stanch supporter of its principles and he took an active interest in local politics, serving as township trustee and as a member of the board of education for a great many years. He also filled the office of justice of the peace for two terms and refused to again accept the office despite the great pressure brought to bear upon him by his many friends. He was probably the most popular man in the eastern part of the county. Mr. Barnes was taken from this world February 20, 1909, and is mourned by a large number of persons, who through the intercourse of years had come to know and love the man for what he was. The success of his work procured the goodwill of his fellow-citizens, but his loyalty and fearless support of what he believed to be right drew to him stanch friends, and at the same time his ready wit and jovial good nature assured him a welcome in whatever gatherings he chanced to be. He was a hardworking, enterprising farmer and a successful auctioneer, and in all his business dealings was found to be upright and honorable, a man whose integrity of purpose in his intercourse with his fellows was never questioned. In fact, it may truthfully be said that he was a man who had no enemies. He was buried in the Methodist Episcopal cemetery at Clarksfield. HENRY HEYMAN Among the successful agriculturists of Huron county, is numbered Henry Heyman who, through years of patient toil and economic living, has become the owner of a well improved farm in Lyme township, whereon he now resides. A native of Ohio, he was born in Sherman township, this county, December 2, 1871, a son of William A. and Jennett (Moore) Heyman, both of whom were born in Germany, the former in 1832 and the latter in 1836. William A. Heyman, when a mere boy of seventeen years, left his home and friends in the fatherland, to sail alone for America, seeking opportunities in the new world that did not exist in his 462 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY own country. Journeying overland until he came to the then wild prairies of Ohio, he decided to make his home in Sherman township, where he was married and lived the life of a hardy pioneer, for the first two years working out as a farm hand for farmers of that locality. However, having been industrious and per- severing, at the end of that time, he was able to buy a farm of his own, consisting of two hundred and fifty-two acres which he himself cleared, adding improvements from year to year. On this farm, in Sherman township, he resided until his death which occurred in December, 1904, having survived his wife, the mother of our subject, for twenty-eight years. Respected and honored by his fellow citizens, during his life here, he filled many prominent township offices, having been justice of the peace for twenty years, trustee for three years and assessor for two years. His religious faith was that of the Reformed church and he gave liberally of his means for the support of a church of that denomination at Hunt's Corners. He was married twice and his home was blessed with thirteen children, namely : Charles ; Mary, who married William Boehler ; Emma, who became the wife of John Miller ; David ; Benjamin; Adam ; William ; Henry ; Isaac; Jacob; Clara ; and two, a half brother and sister who died in infancy. Henry Heyman attended the district schools of Sherman township, where he resided with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age, assisting his father in the fields in the summer seasons. When he became of age, he started out to earn his own living, working for monthly wages on different farms of that locality for three years, having carefully saved his earnings until he was able to rent a small farm of fifty-seven acres which, after eight years of persevering labor and careful expenditure, he was enabled to buy, having erected thereon a comfortable home, barn and outbuildings for the shelter of his grain and stock. On Thanksgiving Day, of the year 1891, was celebrated the marriage of Henry Heyman and Alma Tickner. Mrs. Heyman was born in Canada and is a daughter of Eugene and Nancy Tickner, who later made their home at Weaver's Corners. By her marriage she has become the mother of seven children : Harley, Orvil, Ila, Gordon, Lloyd, Viola and one child who is yet an infant. Mr. Heyman engages in general farming and also teaming to some extent. The family attend the Lutheran church of which he is a member. A life of industry and; upright character, entitle him to honorable mention with the leading agriculturists of Lyme township. JOSEPH FISHER. Joseph Fisher, devoting his time and energies to the work of general farming, is the owner of a well improved tract of seventy acres in Ridgefield township, on which he makes his home. His birth occurred in Peru township, Huron county, Ohio, cn the 25th of March, 1855, his parents being Andrew and Stephenia (Rimmley) Fisher, both of whom were natives of Germany. It was in 1848 that the father crossed the Atlantic to the United States, taking up his abode in Peru township, this county, and opening a blacksmith shop at Macksville. He thus remained an active factor in the industrial interests of the county until the HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 463 time of his demise, passing away when he had attained the age of sixty-three years. Hiss wife had accompanied her parents on their emigration to the new world in 1848, the family home being established in Peru township, this county. She was sixty-seven years of age at the time she was called to her final rest and left an extensive circle of friends to mourn her death. By her marriage, she had become the mother of eight children, namely : Frances, who is the widow of Joseph Shaffer ; Lawrence ; Joseph, of this review ; Andrew ; Lanie, the wife of Joseph Weisenburger ; Albert ; Rosie, who is the wife of George Smith ; and Minnie, who gave her hand in marriage to Russell Page. In the acquirement of an education Joseph Fisher attended school at Macksville and also spent one year in the high school at Norwalk. He continued a resident of Macksville until nineteen years of age and since that time has carried on general agricultural pursuits in Ridgefield township, where he owns a rich and productive tract of land of seventy acres. As the years have gone by, he has placed many substantial improvements on the property and in the conduct of his farming interests, has won a measure of success that entitles him to recognition among the prosperous, progressive and enterprising citizens of the community. On the 9th of October, 1883, Mr. Fisher was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie Gefell, who was born in this county in May, 1856, and is a daughter of Hugo and Josephine Gefell, of this county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fisher have been born six children: Mary ; William, who wedded Miss Rose Cramer and makes his home in Ridgefield township ; Florence ; Maud ; Albert ; and Robert. Fraternally, Mr. Fisher is identified with the Red Men at Norwalk. Both he and his wife have an extensive circle of warm friends throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives, having ever displayed those sterling traits of character which in every land and clime awakens admiration and regard. JOHN GATES. John Gates, a resident farmer of Peru township, who owns and cultivates one hundred and fifty-nine acres of fine land, was born in Sherman township on the 17th of March, 1859, his parents being Joseph and Elizabeth Gates, both of whom were natives of Germany. In that country, they were reared and married and came to Huron county, Ohio, about two years later. They settled first in Sherman township, where they bought thirty acres of land, and to this they added from time to time as their financial resources increased, until at his death Joseph Gates was the owner of a valuable tract of one hundred and sixty acres. He died when seventy-nine years of age, while his wife departed this life at the age of sixty-six years. They were both consistent members of the Catholic church of Sherman township and all who knew them esteemed them for their many sterling traits of character. Their family numbered eight children, as follows : Joe, residing in Norwalk township ; Benjamin, who makes his home in Sherman township ; Michael, also of Sherman township ; John, of this review ; Kathryn, the wife of John Kopping, of Norwich township ; Barbara, the wife of George Mey- 464 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY ers, of Norwich township ; May, who married Fred Perry and resides in Peru township ; and Elizabeth, the deceased wife of Frank Meyers. John Gates was born and reared in Sherman township and there lived until he attained the age of forty-two years. In his youthful days, he attended the district and German schools and through the periods of vacation, was trained in the work of the farm, and throughout his entire life, he has carried on agricultural pursuits. He first bought one hundred acres of land in Sherman township and lived thereon for about twelve years. He then sold forty-three acres of the tract and made investment in the farm on which he now resides, purchasing the property from George Baker. He has made many improvements on the place in the intervening years and in 1907, erected a large frame residence which is conveniently arranged and tastefully furnished. In the fall of 1889, Mr. Gates sought a companion and helpmate for the journey of life and took to his new home as his wife Miss Rose Cooper, a daughter of Peter and Mary (Myers) Cooper, of Sherman township. Her parents are still living in that township, where they reared their family of five children, Rose, Cora, Emma, Alfred and Ida, who died at the age of eight years. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Gates was blessed with three children, Olive, Carl and Wilma, all yet at home. Mr. Gates is a prominent, active and helpful member of the Catholic church of Sherman township and his life is in harmony with his professions. His attention and energies are largely given to his general farming interests and what he has accomplished represents the fit utilization of his innate powers and talents. He has always worked diligently and persistently to attain the success which he is now enjoying and which places him with the representative agriculturists of the county. C. S. BATEHAM. One of the enterprises of highest character in Norwalk is the photograph studio of C. S. Bateham, whose standing in his profession is established not only by the consensus of public opinion, but also by his professional brethren who have accorded him high honors in their ranks. A native of Ohio, Mr. Bateham was born in Painesville, July 31, 1868. His father, M. B. Bateham, was a native of England and when a young man, came to the United States with his parents. He moved to Columbus in 1845, where he owned and edited the Ohio Cultivator and was not only successful and prominent in business circles, but also became well known in connection with the movements for the advancement of horticultural interests in the state and served as secretary of the Ohio Horticultural Society from its beginning, until his death in 1880. His wife who bore the maiden name of Josephine Penfield, spent the last seventeen years of her life lecturing and writing, as a department superintendent of the National Women's Christian Temperance Union. While spending his boyhood days under the parental roof, C. S. Bateham pursued his education in the public schools of Painesville and afterward took up the ,study of photography. He spent four years as a representative of the profession HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 465 in Elyria and in January, 1891, came to Norwalk, purchasing the gallery of Mr. Park, the fcrmer owner of the old Edmondson gallery. At this place, Mr. Bate- ham has since conducted his studio, which is now well equipped for the conduct of the business in accordance with the most modern processes, inventions and improvements. In 1896, he leased a store room in connection with his studio and has since conducted an art store in addition to his photographic work. His store is filled with carefully selected pictures and a variety of frames that would be a credit to many a larger city. His own artistic nature has been cultivated and with strong appreciation of the value of light and shade, of pose and color, he is doing excellent portrait work, securing results which are both natural and artistic. He has always been in a foremost place in the work for the advancement and elevation of photography and for many years, he filled various offices in the Ohio-Michigan Photographers Association, acting for two years as its president. In 1903 he was one of the organizers of the Professional Photographers Society, of Ohio, and was chosen its first president, which position he is now filling. He has won many medals for his work at state and national photographers' conventions and has a splendid studio, thoroughly modern in every particular. The work which he does is most attractive and his ability brings him an extensive and growing patronage. While his professional duties make heavy demands upon his energies, Mr. Bateham also finds time for active and helpful cooperation in public affairs. He is one of the vice-presidents of the Chamber of Commerce, is greatly interested in the city's welfare and manifests a most patriotic spirit in his devotion to the public good. In 1890, Mr. Bateham was married in Elyria, Ohio, to Miss Katharine Haines, a daughter of Dr. E. P. Haines, of that city, and they have two sons, Boyd E., born July 12, 1894; and Evander P., born June 28, 1897. Mr. Bateham is a Knight Templar Mason and is identified with other fraternal and social organizations. He is a man of unfailing courtesy and his geniality, kindness and deference for the opinions of others, have won for him the unqualified respect of all with h whom he has come in contact. BYRON J. ERNSBERGER. Byron J. Ernsberger, a successful representative of the agricultural interests of Huron county, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and ninety acres in Bronson township, is a native son of the county, his birth having here occurred on the 22d of December, 1858. His parents, Jacob and Sarah A. (Wheeler) Ernsberger, were natives of New York and Huron county, Ohio, respectively. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Edward Wheeler. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Ernsberger reared the following children : Andrew, Albert, John D., David E., Byron J. and Emma. Byron J. Ernsberger has made his home on his present farm in Bronson township, since 1881 and, having brought the fields under a high state of cultivation, annually harvests good crops from which he derives a gratifying income. He is 466 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY not only progressive, but also thoroughly practical in his methods and what he undertakes, he carries forward to successful completion. On the 26th of October, 1880, Mr. Ernsberger was united in marriage to Miss Anna Park, who was born in 1860, a daughter of Joseph and Martha (Pilgrim) Park. Mr. and Mrs. Park, who were born in the years 1828 and 1835 respectively, reared a family of four children, namely : Anna, Charlie, Della and Jay. Mr. and Mrs. Ernsberger have two children : Clara, now the wife of David Mead; and Park. Mr. Ernsberger exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party, the principles of which he believes are most conducive to good government. His religious faith connects him with the Presbyterian church, while fraternally he has been identified with the Maccabees for many years. He has spent his entire life in this county and is therefore widely and favorably known, commanding the high regard of all with whom he has been associated. HUGH A. McDONALD. Hugh A. McDonald, a well known and successful agriculturist of Bronson township, is also the treasurer and a director of the Ohio Mutual Tornado, Cyclone & Windstorm Association. His birth occurred in the house where he still resides, his natal day being June 6, 1876. His parents were Angus and Harriett Elizabeth (Adriance) McDonald, the former born in Indiana in 1846, while the latter's birth occurred in the state of New York in 1851. Roger McDonald. the paternal grandfather of our subject, was born on the Isle of Skye in Scotland in 1824 and emigrated to the United States when about nineteen years of age, taking up his abode in Huron county, Ohio. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Charlotte Parrott, was born in England about 1823. The maternal grandparents of Hugh A. McDonald were James and Maria (Snyder) Adriance, both of whom were natives of New York. Mr. McDonald of this review has but one sister, Elnora V. Hugh A. McDonald has always continued to reside in Bronson township in the house where he was born, with the exception of four years while attending school at Norwalk, and throughout his entire business career has been successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits. He is likewise serving as the treasurer and a director of the Ohio Mutual Tornado, Cyclone & Windstorm Association and for seven years was the secretary of the Huron County Farmers Mutual Fire Association, but resigned the latter office in the spring of 1909. In all of his business affairs he is alert and enterprising and has gained favorable recognition as one of the prosperous, energetic and progressive citizens of his native county. On the 26th of October, 1897, Mr. McDonald was united m marriage to Miss Rose Furniss, who was born in August, 1874, her parents being William F. and Barbena (Hildebrand) Furniss, the former a native of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Furniss reared a family of nine children, namely : Charles F., Gustavus, John D., Rose, Lucy, Emma, Anna, Lillian and Edith. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Mc- 467 - PHOTO OF H. A. MCDONALD AND FAMILY 468 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 469 Donald has been blessed with three children : Roger Bruce, who was born May 19, 1899 ; Furniss Angus, whose birth occurred on the 24th of April, 1904; and Donald, whose natal day was May 16, 1908. In the fall of 1903 Mr. McDonald was elected to the office of county commissioner on the democratic ticket by about nine hundred votes. When taking into consideration the fact that this county has a normal republican majority of from nine to twelve hundred, it will be seen that he possesses in an unusual degree the confidence and trust of his fellow townsmen. Fraternally he is identified with the Maccabees and the Grange. The rules which govern his conduct and shape his life are such as command respect and admiration in every land and clime, and in the community where his entire life has been spent Hugh A. McDonald is honored and esteemed by all who know him. A. M. BEATTIE. It is a well known fact that members of the bar have been more prominent m public life than any other class of citizens. The reason of this is not far to seek for the qualities that enable them to win success in practice before the courts also qualify them for leadership in other directions. Mr. Beattie is by no means a man in public life in the sense that he seeks political preferment, for the honors and emoluments of office yet nevertheless he has done not a little to mold public thought and action, his opinions frequently constituting the influencing force in affairs which are of vital importance to Norwalk. Born in Ashland county, Ohio, on the loth of June, 1853, his parents were John and Isabel (Thom) Beattie, both of whom were natives of Scotland. The father came to the United States and located in Ashland county in 1836, while, the following year witnessed the arrival of the lady whom he afterward made his wife. He became a successful, prominent and influential farmer and continued to engage in general agricultural pursuits until his death which occurred January 8, 1883. when he was sixty-eight years of age. In his family were eleven children. A. M. Beattie, the fifth in order of birth, supplemented his public-school course by study in the Normal School. He afterward engaged in teaching for a number of years and with desire to become a member of the bar, he took up the study of law in the office and under the direction of Judge Curtiss, of Ashland. Subsequently, he pursued a course in law in the State University of Indiana and was graduated with the class of 1877. The following year, he located for practice in New London, Ohio, where he formed a partnership under the name of Laning & Beattie. This connection was dissolved in 1882, and Mr. Beattie continued alone until 1884, when he was elected clerk of the county court and so served for six years. On the expiration of that period, he resumed active practice and has become one of the leading attorneys of the county. His knowledge of the law is comprehensive and exact and his application of legal principles correct. In the work of the office, which must always precede a strong presentation of a case in the courts, he prepares for defense as well as attack, viewing his cause from 470 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY every possible standpoint. He is, therefore, never surprised by some unexpected attack and counsel and court listen to him with attention, knowing that there are few, if any, fallacies in his argument. Aside from his practice, he has also been connected with business and financial affairs of this city. He became one of the organizers of the Norwalk Steel Company, an important manufacturing enterprise of this city. On the 15th of April, 1879, Mr. Beattie was married to Miss Dora Suhivan and they have three sons and two daughters : Blanche, Anna, Walter, Homer and Arthur. Mrs. Beattie was born in Pennsylvania, February 3, 1854. and during her girlhood accompanied her parents to Ohio. She was a daughter of Josiah and Phoebe A. (Hopkins) Sullivan, both of whom were born in the state of New York in 1825. Removing westward, they settled in Ashtabula county, but both are now deceased, and the mother of Mr. Beattie passed away April 2, 1909. Aside from business and home relations, Mr. Beattie finds time for co-operation in public affairs and has served for many years as treasurer of the board of education, being greatly interested in affairs relative to the progress and improvement of the schools. His co-operation in other lines has also been of equal value for he never refuses to lend his aid and influence when he believes the best interests of the community at large are involved. FRED OPPERMAN. The farming interests of Lyme township find a worthy representative in Fred Opperman, who owns and cultivates two hundred and sixty-five acres of land, constituting one of the fine farms of the community. It is improved with all modern conveniences and constitutes one of the attractive features of the landscape in which it is located. The owner is therefore justly accounted one of the progressive agriculturists of the community. He was born in Germany on the 6th of November, 1838, and is a son of William and Philemina Opperman, both of whom died in the fatherland. Fred Opperman spent the days of his boyhood and youth in his native country, having attained his majority ere he bade adieu to his friends and European home and sailed for America in 1864. He lived with his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William and Mary Margaret Opperman, who were old settlers, and married their daughter, Minnie on the 29th of November, 1865. They became the parents of eight children. Mary M., the eldest, died at the age of one year and eight months. William is the second of the family. Albert and August are both deceased. The latter had a very sudden death when only fifteen years of age. He was a bright young man and had been to town with his father. On their return, when the team came to the railroad crossing, the horses refused to cross on account of cars standing there and August Opperman got out of the buggy to lead them across the car tracks. While so doing, he was taken ill and died in a few moments. Gustave, the next member of the family, died at the age of two years. Pauline is the wife of E. Leibolt, a resident of Attica, Ohio, and they have four children: Walter, Viva, Wells and Bendina. Lydia, the next member of the HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 471 family, lives at home. The youngest child died in infancy. William Opperman, who is the second member of the family, is also at home and operates the farm. The mother, Mrs. Opperman, came to this county at the age of thirteen years with her parents who settled at Hunt's Corners but afterward removed to the farm upon which Mr. and Mrs. Opperman now reside. Her father purchased here one hundred acres of land and for seven years lived in an old log house, but subsequently he erected a large commodious residence and improved the farm, making it a valuable property. He was born in 1802 and died in 1874. His wife, whose birth occurred in 1805, passed away in 1894, both spending their last days in what is now the Opperman residence. They were the parents of four children: Philip, Mary, Sophia and Elizabeth, all of whom are now living. The Opperman family are all members of the Lutheran church of Lyme township and are worthy and respected citizens, enjoying in large measure the confidence, good will and high regard of all with whom they have come in contact. E. K. FISHER. E. K. Fisher is now well known in Norwalk as a representative of real estate interests but for marry years was identified with mercantile pursuits. He has lived in the county from the age of six years and has ever been greatly interested in its growth and progress, co-operating in many of its measures for the public good, while at the same time, he has carefully managed his business affairs. A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Fisher was born in Northumberland county on the 22d of August, 1849. His father, Isaac D. Fisher, was a native of New Jersey and having arrived at years of maturity, he was married in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, to Miss Keturah Roadarmel, a native of the Keystone state. They continued to reside there for several years, but in 1855, removed westward to Huron county, Ohio, at which time their family consisted of four sons and one daughter. They lived for a year in Lyme township and then removed to Bronson township, settling on the Judge Sears farm. The father purchased one hundred and ninety-three acres of land, for which he paid forty-two dollars per acre. He was in comfortable financial circumstances at the time of his arrival and always prospered in his undertakings here. He died in 1861, at the age of forty-nine years; while his widow long survived him, passing away in 1895. The brothers and sisters of our subject were : Josiah R.; Amasa B.; Simon Peter, now deceased ; Eugene K. ; William B.; Rosanna, now Mrs. Nichols ; Mrs. Keturah Snyder ; and Mary E., now Mrs. Stiles. With the exception of Simon Peter, all are yet living. William B. is a minister of the Congregational church, located in Kansas. E. K. Fisher was but six years of age at the time of the removal westward to Ohio and in the district schools, he acquired his early education, while later, he attended the Norwalk high school and the Normal School at Milan, Ohio. His own education completed, he engaged in teaching for eight years in the district schools, following that profession through the winter season, while in the summer months he worked at farm labor. Subsequently, he engaged in farming on his own account, purchasing a half interest in the old homestead where he remained 472 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY for a year. He then sold out and removed to Townsend township where he engaged in farming for six years, while later he established his home in Norwalk township and engaged in the cultivation of his farm there until 1897. In that year, he abandoned agricultural pursuits and established his home in the city. Here, in 1900, he turned his attention to the real estate business and is still identified with the purchase and sale of property, both for himself and others. He has negotiated many important realty transfers and is thoroughly conversant with the valuation of property and knows what is upon the market. In 1873 Mr. Fisher was united in marriage to Miss Mary Taylor, who died in 1900. In 1902 he wedded Miss Alice L. Young, a native of Huron county and a representative of one of the old families here. Her father, Gardner Young, was one of the early settlers in this part of the state. At the time of her marriage Mrs. Fisher was matron of the Children's Home in Norwalk. Mr. Fisher has four children: Arthur E., Alfred B., Clayton E. and Retta L., now Mrs. Ramseyer. Mr. Fisher is a member of the Royal Arcanum and of the Methodist church associations which indicate much of the nature of his interests and the principles which govern his conduct. He has lived a busy, active and useful life and whatever success he has achieved and enjoyed, has come as the direct and merited reward of his own labors. HIRAM D. DRAKE. Hiram D. Drake, who is successfully operating seventy acres of land in Ridgefield township, Huron county, is a native of this county, his birth having occurred on the farm upon which he now resides July 7, 1854. He is a son of Salmon and Cynthia ( Dickey) Drake, the former a native of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, born in 1827. In 1846, he came to Ohio, settling at Monroeville, where he engaged in carpentering for some time. In 1849 he removed to the farm which is now in the possession of the subject of this review, and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until his demise, the only interruption in his business career occurring in 1864, when, as a member of a one hundred day company, he was called out to serve in the Civil war. In 1849 he married Miss Cynthia Dickey, whose entire life, from the age of two years, was passed on the farm upon which our subject was born. Her father, Thomas Dickey, was one of the early settlers of this county, coming to Ohio in 1819, shortly after which he was married and removed to Readtown. In 1823 he returned to this county and located upon the present Drake homestead. He was a soldier of the war of 1812 and for a number of years served as justice of the peace of Ridgefield township. He held membership in the Methodist church, in the faith of which he passed away in 1882 at the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. Salmon Drake, who belonged to the Disciple church, was called to his final rest on the 3d of April, 1877, while his wife survived until two. In their family were eight children, namely : Eliza J., the wife of George Klopfenstein ; Hiram D., of this review ; Charles W. ; Emmagene, the wife of HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 473 George J. Roe ; J. A. ; Georgia, who wedded H. C. Roadarmel ; Sterry A.; and Ira, deceased. Hiram D. Drake, whose entire life, with the exception of a few years, has been spent on his present farm, was reared to farm life and acquired his early education in the district schools of the neighborhood. He later supplemented this training by a course at the normal school at Milan and after leaving school was engaged in teaching for two seasons. Putting aside professional life, however, he took up agricultural pursuits, in which he has since been continually engaged. He purchased the home farm from the other heirs and has since directed his efforts toward its farther cultivation and improvement. It is an excellent property in the midst of which, in 1886, he erected a fine large home, while in 1885 he built a substantial barn and has equipped the place with other outbuildings and with all of the modern devices and accessories intended to facilitate the work of the farm. It is a model farm of the nineteenth century and Mr. Drake, who is giving his time and attention to general agriculture, is meeting with most gratifying prosperity. On the 23d of March, 1887, Mr. Drake was united in marriage to Miss Blanch Killey, a daughter of Robert and Mary Killey, of Ottawa county, Ohio, and this union has been blessed with two children: Louis Earl, born December 9, 1888 ; and Eric R., born November 27, 1892, both of whom are still at home. Mr. Drake is a member of the Grangers and is widely recognized as a loyal and public-spirited citizen. In this community, where his entire life has been spent, he has gained a wide acquaintance and the fact that his list of friends is almost coextensive with his list of acquaintances is an indication that his salient characteristics are such as command the respect, confidence and good will of all with whom he is associated. LISTON GREEN. The farming interests of Peru township find a worthy representative in Liston Green, who derives a substantial income from a farm of eighty-three acres on which he lives. He was born in a log house in Richland county, Ohio, October 8, 1849, and is a son of Andrew and Maria (Taylor) Green. His father was born in the state of New York and soon after his marriage removed to Richland county, where they lived for about six years. On the expiration of that period they came to Huron county and settled near New Haven, where Andrew Green purchased one hundred and seventy acres of land. He operated that farm for a time but afterward removed to Huron township and took up his abode near the farm upon which his son Liston now resides, farming a tract of one hundred and eighty acres of rich and productive land, which he transformed into a valuable and highly cultivated farm. He continued to reside upon that place until his death, which occurred in 1892, when he had reached the age of seventy-eight years. His wife survived him for about sixteen years and died April 11, 1908. They were the parents of five children, as follows : Caroline, the wife of David Sissinger, of Richland county, by whom she has two children, Mrs. William White and Alvin ; Frank, who died in the army at the age of twenty years ; Emma, who married 474 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY George Lawrence of Michigan, by whom she has three children, Clara, Martin and one who died in infancy ; Liston, of this review ; and Charles who resides in Fairfield township. In taking up the personal history of Liston Green, we present to our readers the life record of one who is well and favorably known in Huron county where he has lived from the age of one year, his parents removing to this county during his infancy. At the usual age he began his education as a pupil of the district schools and as the years have gone by he has continued in active identification with agricultural interests. He was early trained to the work of the fields, learned the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops and in his farm work has met with substantial and well merited success. As a companion and helpmate for life's journey he chose Miss Maggie Baxter, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Baxter, the wedding being celebrated on the 15th of April, 1886. They became the parents of three children, but the eldest died in infancy, the others being Bertha and Clarence, who are yet under the parental roof. Mr. Green has resided upon his present farm for about twenty-eight years, having purchased the property from John Trott. In the interim, he has made a number of improvements of a substantial character. He has torn down four old log houses on the place and built two new farm dwellings, and his other improvements are of a modern kind. His first house was set fire by an enemy, soon after he took possession of the place, and was burned to the ground together with all of the household effects, while the family was absent. Not allowing this to discourage him he rebuilt and as the years have gone by has prospered in his undertakings. He now carries on general farming with good success and his place presents a most neat and attractive appearance. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and he has served as a school director for many years, but otherwise has never sought nor desired office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his farming interests, which are capably managed and are now bringing him in good returns. PHILO STONE. He who forms the subject of this review is a worthy representative of a name which, from early pioneer times, has stood as a synonym for excellent citizenship and honorable, upright manhood in Huron county. He was born in Clarksfield township, Huron county, on the 12th of June, 1849, a son of Ezra W. and Maria (Hayes) Stone, who were both born in this county. The grandfathers, Daniel Stone and Surgess Hayes, however, were natives of Connecticut and came to Ohio among the early settlers and here cast in their lot with the pioneers. The land was still to a large extent covered by the primeval forest and the work of transformation had scarcely been begun. With characteristic energy, however, they joined in the work of improvement and became prominent and influential citizens in the community in which they resided. Ezra W. Stone, the father of our subject, was also identified with agricultural pursuits and became one of the progressive and substantial farmers of his time. He died very suddenly in 1861 from 475 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. PHILO STONE 476 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 477 heart failure, while driving sheep along the highway, but his wife survived until February, 1907. In their family were four sons and one daughter, namely: Philo ; Albert ; Elsie, who wedded Elmer Henry ; John ; and Eugene. All are yet living. Reared to farm life, Philo Stone spent the years of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof, assisting in the work of the fields and during the winter months pursuing his education in the public schools of Clarksfield. He remained at home until his marriage, and in the meantime he received excellent training under the direction of his father, learning lessons concerning the value of industry, energy and perseverance. That his early training was thorough and comprehensive is indicated in the success which came to him later in life. After his marriage he took up agricultural pursuits on his own account, locating in the eastern part of Clarksfield township, and in this connection he was actively engaged for twenty- five years. During that period he directed his efforts to general farming, raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and. bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation. In 1904 he left the farm and removed to the village of Clarksfield, where he has since resided. He still owns two hundred and sixty acres of fine farming property in Clarksfield township, however, and continues to engage in the stock business, which for many years he carried on in connection with his agricultural pursuits. He is an extensive buyer and shipper of stock and also deals largely in wool. In all of the various phases of his business he has been eminently successful, ranking among the substantial and prosperous business men of the township. He has acquired a very handsome competence which enables him to live practically retired, with the exception of the supervision of his livestock interests, enjoying all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. It was on the 31st of December, 1872, that Mr. Stone was united in marriage to Miss Ida J. Rowland, a daughter of Ezra and Catherine (Snook) Rowland. She represents a family which has been very prominent in the affairs of Clarksfield township since early pioneer days, its descendents being very numerous in this district. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Stone has been blessed with one son, William H., a prosperous and well known farmer of this township. He was married on the l0th of January, 1900, to Miss Anna O'Hara, a daughter of John and Celia O'Hara, of Clarksfield township, who came originally from Ireland, and unto this union has been born one son, Harry E. William H. Stone is a young man of excellent character, who stands high in the community in which he resides. Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Stone has given stalwart allegiance to the democracy and has always been very actively interested in all matters of public note, keeping well informed upon the important questions and issues of the day. He has been a trustee of Clarksfield township for many years and has also served as a member of the district board of education. One of his salient characteristics is his public-spirited citizenship, for at all times he is strong in his advocacy of reform and improvement, lending his aid and influence to all measures tending to promote the general welfare and uplift humanity. Although he has achieved prosperity which ranks him ahead of many of his associates in the business world, nevertheless the most envious could not grudge him his success, so honorably has it been won. Square and upright in all his dealings with his fellowmen, throughout his entire business career there has been not a 478 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY single esoteric phase, and the consensus of public opinion accords him a foremost place among the valued citizens of Clarksfield township, while he is recognized as a worthy representative of one of the most highly respected families known in the annals of this township. H. FULSTOW, D. V. S. H. Fulstow, the most successful veterinary surgeon practicing in Norwalk, was born in Lincolnshire, England, March II, 1861. His father, John Dickinson Fulstow, was a native of Lincolnshire and a representative of one of the old families there. Having arrived at years of maturity, he married Sarah Huteson, likewise a native of that county. They began their domestic life in Lincolnshire, where they remained until 1879, when they crossed the Atlantic to the new world, settling in Greenwich township, Huron county, where the father engaged in farming. He had previously devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits in his native country and for a long period he was identified with the tiling of the soil in the new world. He is now living retired in the village of Greenwich, while his wife passed away in 1907. Dr. Fulstow is indebted to the country schools of England for the early education which he acquired, while later, he attended a boarding school at Gainsborough in Lincolnshire. He was a young man of eighteen years when he accompanied his parents on the trip across the Atlantic to the new world, and on reaching this couny he worked on a stock farm for seven years, engaged with various duties in he care of the stock. His taste has always been in that direction and he has never worked in any other line. He commenced the study of veterinary surgery in 1890, in the Ontario Veterinary College, from which he was graduated with the class of 1892. In 1904 he pursued a post-graduate course in the Chicago Veterinary College. Following his graduation he came to Norwalk, where he began practice and has since been located, today having the leading practice of the county. His business, too, extends to several adjacent counties for his professional skill and ability have made him widely known. In public affairs Dr. Fulstow is also quite prominent and active. He has served as a member of the city council for two years and has been a member of the board of health for sixteen years. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he always keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. On the 11th of July, 1888, Dr. Fulstow was married to Miss Lina Frayer, a daughter of Ambrose Frayer and a native of Ripley, Huron county. Mr. Frayer is one of the old settlers and has been a prominent man of affairs, closely connected with banking and other business interests in Greenwich, the city profiting by his enterprise, which has been a factor in its general progress. Dr. and Mrs. Fulstow have become parents of two children; Phil, now studying veterinary surgery at the University of Pennsylvania ; and Margie. Dr. Fulstow is an exemplary representative of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Mount Vernon Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and to Huron Chapter, R. A. M. He is a member of the Ohio HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 479 Society of Comparative Medicine, an association composed of medical doctors and veterinarians, and he was honored with the presidency of the Ohio State Veterinary Association in 19o8, which indicates his high standing in that field of labor which he has chosen as a life work. ISAAC HEYMAN. Isaac Heyman, a representative farmer of Lyme township, Huron county, is the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of land on which he resides and which he has converted into rich and productive fields that annually yield large harvests. He was born in Sherman township, this county, on the 17th of April, 1870, and is a son of William A. and Jennett (Moore) Heyman, both of whom were born in Germany, the former in 1832 and the latter in 1836. William A. Heyman, when a mere boy of seventeen years, left his home and friends in the fatherland to sail alone for America, seeking opportunities in the new world that did not exist in his own country. Journeying overland until he came to Ohio, he decided to make his home in Sherman township, where he was married and lived the life of a hardy pioneer, for the first two years working out as a farm hand for farmers of that locality. However, having been industrious and persevering, at the end of that time he was able to buy a farm of his own, consisting of two hundred and fifty-two acres, which he himself cleared, adding improvements from year to ear. On this ,farm in Sherman township, he resided until his death which occurred in December, 1904, having survived his wife, the mother of our subject, for twenty-eight years. Respected and honored by his fellow citizens, during his life here he filled many prominent township offices, having been justice of the peace for twenty years, trustee for three years and assessor for two years. His religious faith was that of the Reformed church and he gave liberally of his means for the support of a church of that denomination at Hunt's Corners. He was married twice and his home was blessed with thirteen children, namely : Charles ; Mary, who married William Boehler ; Emma, who became the wife of Henry Bishop ; David ; Benjamin ; Adam ; William ; Henry ; Isaac ; Jacob ; Clara ; and two, a brother and sister, who died in infancy. Isaac Heyman continued to 'reside in Sherman township until twenty-seven years of age and in his youthful days attended the district schools, thus acquiring a good practical English education. He has always been a farmer and his early training along that line well qualified him to carry on farm work when he started out in life on his own account. He married Miss Rosa Leiber, a daughter of Philip and Philemina Leiber, both of whom were natives of Germany and became early settlers of Lyme township, Huron county, Ohio. It was on the 27th of February, 1895, at Bellevue, Ohio, that Isaac Heyman was married, after which he began' his domestic life on the old homestead farm in Sherman township, where he remained for about two years. On the expiration of that period, he removed to the farm in Lyme township, on which he now resides. He first rented the land from his father, but in 1900. he purchased sixty acres and in 1904, purchased sixty acres more from J. J. Swaby. Upon the place he made a number of im- 480 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY provements, erected a large barn and keeps all of his buildings in good repair, the neat and thrifty appearance of his place indicating his careful supervision. Mrs. Heyman was born in Lyme township, May 17, 1874. Her parents also came from Germany, arriving about 1859 and settled in Huron county. They had a family of nine children: Charles, Elizabeth, Louis, Adolph, Henry, Minnie, Emma, Louise and Rosa. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Heyman has been blessed by five children : Robert, Elsie, Irene, Myrtle and Juanita, all born in the home in which they now reside with the exception of the eldest. Mr. Heyman is a member of the Eagles lodge at Bellevue. He also belongs to the Lutheran church in Lyme township and has been active in community affairs, serving as school director and as road supervisor. Farming, however, has been his real life work and he carries on general agricultural pursuits, owning a fine tract of land which he carefully cultivates and improves in accordance with the most modern ideas of farming. AMBROSE B. SMITH. Ambrose B. Smith, diligent and persistent in his business affairs, his capable management bringing him substantial success, is now the owner of eighty acres, of good farm land in Peru township. He was born in this county on the 13th of March, 1854, at the family home in Greenfield township, his parents being Marcus P. and Liddic (Coy) Smith. The paternal grandfather, George Smith, was numbered among the earliest settlers of the county and became a factor in the pioneer development of this part of the state. He was killed by the ,caving in of a well in whir 'he was working on the old Simmons' farm. Marcus P. Smith was born in 1833, and spent the greater part of his life in Peru township. In his youthful days he shared in all the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life and the period of his minority was one of earnest toil for he assisted in the development and cultivation of a new farm. He always carried on general agricultural pursuits as a life work and also engaged in threshing. He was ever a busy and active man, continuing his identification with farming interests until his death in 1895. His wife, who was born in Peru township in 1830, died in 1903. She was a daughter of Henry D. Coy, who was born June 15, 1800, and came to Peru township in 1818 with his father-in-law, Asa Wilson, who owned the place upon which Ambrose B. Smith now resides.. It was upon this farm that Henry D. Coy passed away in April, 1892. His daughter by her marriage to Mr. Smith became the mother of six children: Ambrose B.; Hattie, who died in childhood ; Edward, who is living in Fairfield township ; Jennie, the wife of William Linder, residing in Havana, Ohio ; Alice, the deceased wife of Fred Mitchell ; and John M., who is living in Greenfield township. Ambrose B. Smith has always lived within five miles of the farm on which he now resides. He attended the district schools in his youthful days and in the periods of vacation assisted more and more largely in the work of the fields as his age and strength increased. He has been connected with farming and threshing all his life and has also worked at the carpenter's trade. His skill in this direction enabled him to erect all of the buildings upon his farm, and he has likewise assisted in the construction of many others in this vicinity. His life has been one of diligence and well directed thrift. He purchased the farm from his HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 481 father and has made it a valuable property, lacking in none of the accessories and conveniences of the model farm of the twentieth century. On the 8th of December, 1876, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Alice Jones, a daughter of Isaac and Mary Jones, of Weston, Wood county, Ohio. She died July 28, 1879, and for his second wife Mr. Smith chose Elizabeth J. Schild, a daughter of George Schild, of this county. They were married March 1, 1880, and have two children: Elnora M., now the wife of Amos Eastman, of Peru township ; and Herman E., who is living on the home place. Mr. Smith has been somewhat active in community interests. He served as justice of the peace for two terms and as assessor for two terms, being elected on the republican ticket. He has also been a member of the school board. He held membership with the Knights of the Maccabees at Havana until the tent of that place went out of existence. His time and energies, however, have largely been concentrated upon his farm and its interests, and his work has made him one of the substantial agriculturists of this part of the state. JOSEPH D. FREY. Among the successful business men of Norwalk is numbered Joseph D. Frey, a dealer in coal, ice and concrete blocks. In that department of trade he has built up a good business and his enterprising and progressive business methods rank him with the leading representatives of commercial interests here. He started upon the journey of life, December 23, 1866, in Ridgefield township, his parents being Benedict and Philomena (Krabach) Frey. The paternal grandfather, Joseph Frey, a native of Switzerland, came to America in 1858 and, on reaching Huron county, purchased forty acres of land, to which he added from time to time as his financial resources increased, until he had one hundred and seven acres. Both he and his wife died on the old homestead farm. Their son, Benedict Frey, was born in Switzerland, and was thirteen years of age when, in 1851, he bade adieu to friends and native land and with his parents came to the United States. They made their way direct to Ridgefield township, Huron county, and Benedict Frey assisted in the task of developing and improving his father's farm, eventually came into possession of the property and made it his home until his death in 1896. He married Philomena Krabach, who was born in Ridgefield township, a daughter of Dennis Krabach, who arrived in Huron county at an early period in its development. Here he engaged in farming and also worked as a stone mason. It was his daughter who became the wife of Benedict Frey and unto that marriage, there were born five sons and two daughters. Joseph D. Frey, the eldest son of the family, was reared on the old home farm and was educated in the country schools. When not busy with his text books he worked in the fields and continued to devote his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits until 1892, when he came to Norwalk. He has since been identified with commercial interests in this city. Turning his attention to the ice business, he continued therein for two years, after which he extended the scope of his activities to include coal, concrete blocks and building materials. He has 482 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY been very successful in all branches of his business and attends strictly to his trade which has been built up by legitimate methods, his enterprise and energy resulting in the acquirement of a large patronage. In 1892 Mr. Frey was united in marriage to Miss Dora Gfell, a native of Huron county, of German descent. They have become parents of three daughters and a son : Lenora, Esther, Verna and Arthur. The parents are communicants of the Roman Catholic church and that Mr. Frey is a popular and valued citizen is indicated in the fact that against his wishes he was elected to the city council on the democratic ticket in a republican ward. When the people had thus manifested their choice, he set to work to give them the best services possible, exercising his official prerogatives in support of every measure and movement calculated to prove of public benefit. He is a man of strong purpose, giving stalwart support to whatever he believes to be right, whether in political, business or social relations. Since entering the commercial circles of Norwalk he has made substantial progress and his liberal patronage is well merited. JOSEPH HYDE. Joseph Hyde, of Townsend township, was active in local political circles and an influential factor in community interests. He was born November 2, 1838, in Milan, Erie county, Ohio, a son of William S. and Adeline (Allen) Hyde, who removed westward from Green Farm, Connecticut, in 1835. The father engaged for a time in the grain and shipping business at Milan, but afterward returned to Connecticut and was married in 1836. He then brought his bride to Milan, where he resumed business, making his home there until 1850, when he took up his abode at Townsend, now Collins. There he engaged in merchandising and in the manufacture of cultivators and for a long period figured as one of the representative business men of the community, continuing to make his home in Townsend until his death, which occurred May 7, 1895, when he was ninety- five years of age. His wife passed away on the 6th of January, 1882, and their graves were made in the Townsend cemetery. There were four children in their family : Aretta J., Joseph, Thirza A. and William. All are now deceased and lie buried in the Townsend cemetery with the exception of Thirza A., who was laid to rest at Berlin Heights. Joseph Hyde, whose name introduces this review, passed away on the 2d of March, 1901. He had been educated in the public schools of Milan and of Townsend and for a time also attended Oberlin College. He taught school for two years during the winter months and in the summer seasons was engaged in farming. His entire life was a busy one, characterized by devotion to the duty which lay nearest his hand. On the 15th of March, 1866, he was united in marriage to Miss Emma L. Humphrey, a daughter of William and Sarah Ann (Bierce) Humphrey. Both the Humphrey and Bierce families were Connecticut people and the parents of Mrs. Hyde were married in that state. Afterward they removed westward to Parma, Ohio, in 1835. Mr. Humphrey was a millwright and followed his trade 483 - PHOTO OF JOSEPH HYDE 484 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 485 in the neighborhood of Cleveland until 1848, when he went to Townsend, Huron county. There he purchased a farm and built a sawmill for cutting his timber and added to his landed possessions as his financial resources increased. In the course of years he became a very extensive landowner and also a large operator in lumber, In fact he prospered m his various undertakings for he was a man of keen business discernment and unfaltering energy. At his death, which occurred on the 22d of September, 1874, he owned one thousand acres of land and had large invested interests besides. His family consisted of four children, three daughters and one son : Emma L., Sarah A., Delia L. and William E. Of these Emma L., now Mrs. Joseph Hyde, is the only one living. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hyde were born five children : Caroline, now the wife of William H. Hurd, of Collins ; Mary A., deceased ; William H., a practicing physician of Cleveland, Ohio ; Eleanor H., the wife of Ernest Hurst, a farmer of Florence township, Erie county, Ohio ; and Sherman B., who carries on farming in Townsend township. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hyde conducted a general store in Townsend Center for three years and on the expiration of that period removed to the farm whereon their son Sherman B now lives. They made it their home for fully thirty years and on leaving that place in two took up their abode in Collins, where they resided until the death of Mr. Hyde, on the 2d of March, 1o01. He was a very successful man, owning nearly five hundred acres of land, and he and his wife together had other financial interests. He was seldom if ever at fault in matters of business judgment and his wise investments and enterprise brought him substantial success. Moreover, he was well known because of his activity and influence in matters relating to the public welfare. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was ever an intelligent advocate of the measures which he espoused. For many years he served as the treasurer of Townsend township, was also trustee for several years and for a long period acted as a member of the district school board. Whatever pertained to the public welfare awakened his interest and if he believed that a plan was feasible and for the best interests of the community he would give it his hearty endorsement and support. He held membership in Townsend Lodge, F. & A. M., and was one of the active representatives of the craft for many years. A man of sterling purpose and honorable conduct, he was highly respected by all who knew him. He stood as a high type of the American citizen who by his own energy wins success and at the same time is neglectful of no duty to the public. SHERMAN B. HYDE. Sherman B. Hyde, a worthy representative of one of the old pioneer families of Ohio, now closely associated with the agricultural and live-stock interests of Townsend township, was born November 6, 1875, and is a son of Joseph and Emma L. (Humphrey) Hyde. The father was a farmer by occupation and the son was reared on the old homestead place, assisting in the general work relative 486 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY to the cultivation and care of the crops. His early education was acquired in the district schools and subsequently he continued his studies in the schools of Collins and attended Oberlin College for a time. He. was a young man of twenty-five years when on the 19th of December, 1900, he wedded Miss Grace Sherman, a daughter of Almond and Emma (Bowen) Sherman. Both the Sherman and Bowen families were prominent in pioneer times here. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hyde have been born four children: John ; Almond J. ; and Grace, who passed away when three years old ; and Emma Maie. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hyde settled on the old home farm where he had always lived. This is a tract of three hundred and fifty acres of very rich and productive land and the place is well improved with large barns and sheds, giving ample shelter for grain and stock. There is also a modern dwelhng upon the place. The land is tiled and carefully improved and is now under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Hyde also makes a specialty of raising live stock, feeding sheep, cattle and hogs for the markets. His farm presents a neat and thrifty appearance, and he not only finds ready sale for the product of his fields but also finds a good market for his stock. In his political views Mr. Hyde is a republican, active in support of the party interests. When twenty-two years of age he was elected township trustee and filled the position for nine years, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. He has been for a long period and is still a member of the township board of education. He is usually chosen a delegate to the county, district and state conventions of his party and is a man well informed on questions and issues of the day, thus being able to support his position by intelligent argument. He cares little for office, however, preferring to give his time to his private affairs. His wife is an intelligent lady of fine character and the Hyde home is among the most attractive in the township. Both are held in high esteem by all who know them, for their good qualities of heart and mind have endeared them to many friends. Mr. Hyde is practical in all that he does in a business way, and the residence and excellent appearance of his place make this one of the best farms in the county. MISS MARY NELSON. Miss Mary Nelson, owning and residing on a fine farm of about two hundred acres in Bronson township, was born on this place on the 19th of April, 187o. Her parents, Horatio Perry and Maria (Danforth) Nelson, were both natives of Peru township, this county, the former born March 17, 183o, and the latter on the 1st of February, 1837. John Nelson, the paternal grandfather of Miss Nelson, whose birth occurred in Massachusetts in 1800, became one of the pioneer settlers of Huron county, locating in Peru township with his father, Eli Nelson, in the year 1816. Unto him and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Almira Sherman, were born six children, namely: Fidelia, Mary, Lucia, Elizabeth, Horatio P. and Henry. Aro and Lucy (Taft) Danforth, the maternal grandparents HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 487 of Miss Nelson, were also numbered among the early settlers of Peru township, making their way to this state from Vermont. Horatio P. Nelson, the father of the lady whose name initiates this review, was for a number of years engaged in the operation of a sawmill in Peru township, but subsequently gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits, continuing as a successful representative of farming interests until called to his final rest. He was likewise a stockholder in the Huron County Bank and in the community where his entire life was spent gained favorable recognition as a substantial, progressive and leading citizen. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, called him to various positions of public trust and responsibility. On the 8th of March, 1860, he was united in marriage to Miss Maria Danforth, by whom he had two children, as follows : Mary ; and Charles Danforth, whose natal day was August 13, 1866. The latter, who wedded Miss Lizzie M. Sanborn, is now deceased, his demise having occurred on the 28th of November, 1900 His widow and her two children, Aro Danforth and Ira Sanborn, now make their home in Boston. Miss Mary Nelson has spent her entire life on the farm where her birth occurred and which is now in her possession. The place is a valuable and well improved tract of land of about two hundred acres and she derives therefrom a gratifying annual income. She was reared in the faith of the Universalist church and attends its services. Her many good traits of heart and mind have endeared her to all with whom she has come in contact and she is well entitled to mention in this volume as a representative of two of the prominent and honored pioneer families of this county. FRANK SCHLAGETER. Frank Schlageter, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and two acres located in Bronson township, is meeting with most gratifying success in his farming and stock raising interests. A native of Havana, he was born on the 5th of February, 1867, and is a son of Michael and Mary (Beeler) Schlageter. The father was a soldier of the Civil war, being a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In his family were six children : Frank, Edward, Mary, Lizzie, and two who died in infancy. Spending the period of his boyhood and youth amid the scenes and environment of country life, Frank Schlageter assisted his father in the work of the home farm and acquired his education as a pupil in the common schools. Under the direction of his father he received thorough business training along agricultural lines and when he attained his majority and sought to engage in business for himself he wisely selected as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared. He has since devoted his energies to farming and for the past ten years has resided upon a farm of one hundred and two acres of land in Bronson township. During this period, he has directed his efforts to its further cultivation and improvement. It is now a well improved property which indicates in its neat 488 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY appearance the thrift and progressiveness of its owner, while his well directed industry, energy and perseverance are finding their reward in the rich harvests which are annually gathered. In connection with his general agricultural pursuits, he breeds cattle, sheep and hogs, and he enjoys a substantial income as both branches of his business—the raising of grain and the raising of stock—are proving successful. It was on the loth of May, 1899, that Mr. Schlageter was united in marriage to Miss Loretta Ruggles, who was born in 1860 and is a daughter of George and Elizabeth ( Snyder) Ruggles. She was the youngest of a family of five children, the others being : Jennie, Walter, Charles and William. Mr. and Mrs. Schlageter have one child, a son; Walter Melville. In politics Mr. Schlageter is independent, reserving the privilege to vote for the men and measures which in his estimation will best conserve the public good. He is, however, public spirited in his citizenship and does all in his power to further the substantial growth and upbuilding of the community, while he ranks among the loyal and representative citizens of Bronson township. WILLIAM T. SNYDER. William T. Snyder, who since 1903 has practically lived retired in Norwalk, was in former years actively and successfully identified with the agricultural interests of Huron county. His birth occurred in Milan, Erie county, Ohio, February 3, 1835, his father being William H. Snyder, who was born in New York on the 12th of April, 1801. He was a harness maker by trade and in 1833, made his way to Huron county, Ohio, thus becoming a factor in the pioneer development and progress of this part of the state. In 1839, he purchased a farm in Peru township and made his home thereon until the time of his death, devoting his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits with gratifying success. He passed away in January, 1885, in the faith of the Presbyterian church, his demise being the occasion of deep and widespread regret. William T. Snyder was reared on his father's farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist, with which line of activity he was identified throughout his entire business career. Energetic, enterprising and progressive, he met with a gratifying and commendable measure of prosperity in his farming operations and when at length his well directed labors had brought him a handsome competence he put aside the active work of the fields and took up his abode in Norwalk, where he has lived retired since 1903. He still retains possession of his farm in Peru township, this county, and though now past the seventy-fourth milestone on life's journey, he is yet quite a busy and active man. In 1864, he enlisted as a soldier of the Union army, becoming a member of the One Hundred and Sixty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and doing garrison duty at Washington, D. C., during his four months' term of service. In 1856, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Perry, who was born in Peru township, Huron county, in 1837. The eight children born of HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 489 this union, all of whom still survive, are as follows : Clarence E., who is a resident of Indiana ; Mrs. Mary E. Stafford, of Michigan ; Mrs. Anna Ketchum, living in Norwalk ; Charles P., who makes his home in Peru township ; Mrs. Nettie M. Rarison, of Huron county ; Sadie F.; Mrs. Laura B. Hoyt, also a resident of Huron county ; and Mrs. Florence S. Crawford; residing in this state. There have been no deaths in the family and Mr. Snyder now has twenty grandchildren. He celebrated the Christmas of 1908 by a family re-union, inviting all of his children and grandchildren to the Christmas dinner. At the polls, Mr. Snyder usually casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the democracy, but is not bitterly partisan, it being his aim to support the candidate whom he considers best qualified for office. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public trust and responsibility. He served as assessor for ten years, was township' clerk for fifteen years and for twelve years acted as justice of the peace in Peru township, discharging his various official duties in a most able and satisfactory manner. Both he and his wife have an extensive circle of warm friends throughout the community, having ever displayed those traits of character which in every land and clime awaken confidence and regard. Mr. Snyder well deserves mention in this volume as one of the honored and representative citizens of Huron county, being thoroughly familiar with its annals from pioneer times down to the present. FRED A. BECKSTEIN. Fred A. Beckstein, numbered among the successful and enterprising agriculturists of Lyme township, where he owns an excellent farm of seventy-eight acres, was born in this township on the loth of June, 1877, his parents being William and Carolina (Longyear) Beckstein. The father, whose birth occurred in Germany, September 20, 1848, came alone to the new world at the age of seventeen years, taking up his abode in Huron county: Ohio. Securing employment as a farm hand. he was thus engaged for about six years and then bought ninety acres of land in Lyme township, where he continued to make his home until called to his final rest in 1905. Throughout his entire business career, he was successfully identified with agricultural interests and his upright and honorable life won him the warm regard and esteem of all with whom he was associated. He did effective work for the cause of educaticn as a member of the school board and was likewise a valued and helpful member of the Lutheran church at Bellevue. His wife was born in Richmond township, Huron county, in the year 1856, her parents, Charles and Mary Longyear, being early settlers of this county. She still survives and has an extensive circle of warm friends throughout this county, where she has spent her entire life. Her family numbers five children, namely : Fred A., of this review ; Lewis ; William, Jr.; Carolina, the wife of William Seible ; and Addie. Fred A. Beckstein obtained his education in the district and special schools of his native township and was reared in the usual manner of farm lads. He worked in the fields when not busy with his textbooks and early became familiar with the 490 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. In 1908, he purchased his present farm of seventy-eight acres from Daniel Eichenlaub and has since added many improvements to the property, in the cultivation of which he is meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity. He is practical in his methods and his intense and well directed activity constitutes the basis of the success which has crowned his efforts. In 1904, Mr. Beckstein was united in marriage to Miss Flora Seible, whose birth occurred m Lyme township, October 18, 1878, her parents being Anthony and Mary (Sipe) Seible, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father, whose natal day was May 31, 1834, passed away on the 22d of July, 1898, while the mother, who was born December 30, 1837, still survives. Mr. and Mrs. Beck- stein have one child, Clara, born on the 30th of January, 1905. In his religious faith, Mr. Beckstein is a Lutheran, belonging to the church of that denomination in Bellevue. Both he and his wife have always resided in Lyme township and enjoy in large measure the confidence and esteem of those with whom they have come in contact, while the hospitality of their pleasant home is greatly enjoyed by their many friends. LEVI L. COLE. Levi L. Cole, who is numbered among the progressive and enterprising agriculturists of Bronson township, is a worthy native son of Huron county, his birth having here occurred on the 19th of October, 1850. His father, Lyman Cole, who was born in New York on the loth of March, 1810, passed away when his son, Levi L., was but three years of age. The mother, marrying a second time, afterward became the wife of J. S. Fuller. Levi L. Cole supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the country schools, by a course of study in the normal school at Milan, Erie county. When eighteen years of age he hired out as a farm hand for one season and subsequently took charge of the home farm, caring for his mother until she was called to her final rest on the 2d of February, 1892. He then bought the interest of the other heirs in the old homestead place of one hundred and one acres, which he has since owned and operated, the fields annually yielding golden harvests in return for the care and labor which he bestows upon them. He has added to his landed holdings by the additional purchase of fifty acres on the opposite side of the road, where he resides with his daughter, Mrs. West. On the l0th of October, 1880, Mr. Cole was united in marriage to Miss Elva T. Boyle, who was born on the 5th of January, 1857, her parents being Richard and Eliza Boyle, of Huron county. Mrs. Cole passed away on the 12th of October, 1889, leaving a daughter, Anna E., who gave her hand in marriage to Niles A. West on the 2d of August, 1904. Mr. and Mrs. West have a little daughter, Elva Margaret. In his political views Mr. Cole is a stalwart and unfaltering republican and has capably served as trustee of Bronson township for twelve years. He was largely instrumental in furthering the movement which resulted in the building 491 - PHOTO OF MR. AND MRS. LEVI L. COLE 492 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 493 of the new stone road from five points south on the old state road, and his aid and influence are ever given in support of those measures which tend to advance the general welfare or promote the country's growth along substantial lines. His entire life has been passed in this county and that his career has ever been an upright and honorable one is indicated by the fact that the associates of his boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanch friends and admirers. BENJAMIN BOURDETTE WOOD. The record of Benjamin Bourdette Wood is such as to make his history of general interest, for he today occupies a prominent position in professional and business circles in Norwalk. Moreover he is a representative of two of the oldest and most prominent families of this part of the state, families whose activity has been a most potent element in the work of general progress and improvement here. His own lines of life have been cast in harmony therewith and his record reflects credit upon the history of the community. One of Huron county's native sons, Mr. Wood was born at Huntls Corners in Lyme township, October 19, 1870. His father is also a native of the same locality but his grandfather, Joseph Wood, was born in England and became the founder of the family in the United States, where he arrived in 1833. Making his way westward to Huron, he drove from that place to Lyme township, settling on the farm, which continued to be his place of residence for many years. James B. Wood also followed farming in Lyme township for a long period and in 1874 removed to Bellevue, where he engaged in the furniture business and also in the grain trade. He is now vice- president of the First National Bank, of Bellevue, and occupies a prominent and honored position in commercial' and financial circles. He has attained a most gratifying measure of success and the methods which he has always pursued have won him the honor and respect of his associates. He has been quite active in public affairs, and his influence has been no unimportant factor in promoting progress and improvement. His wife, Mrs. Julia L. Wood, was a daughter of Bourdette Wood, the youngest member of a family of five sons and four daughters. He became one of the most distinguished and influential men in his section of Huron county, Bellevue owing much of its growth and progress to him. He was a man of liberal thought, of progressive and patriotic purposes and of undaunted enterprise. As the years passed by and he prospered in his undertakings he became a large land owner and was also the president of the old Bellevue Bank. James B. Wood likewise holds extensive land interests, together with considerable realty in Bellevue. In addition to his other business interests he is a director in the Gilchrist Transportation Company, owning one of the largest independent fleets in the world. He still makes his home in Bellevue, but m 1901, was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 8th of June of that year at the age of fifty-four. She was very active in society and in the Episcopal church and her influence was ever given on the side of the right, the true and the beautiful. The family numbered but two children, the daughter being Mrs. Martha 494 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY Collins, the wife of E. T. Collins, who is connected with manufacturing interests in Toledo. The only son, Benjamin Bourdette Wood, pursued a public school education to the time that he was graduated from the Bellevue high school, while later he entered Kenyon College and subsequently matriculated in the law department of Michigan University at Ann Arbor, from which he was graduated in June, 1892. He began practice in Norwalk in September of the same year and for a short time was in the office of Judge Wildman. Later he undertook the task of building up an independent practice and his success is indicated by his high standing in his profession, the general public and the legal fraternity both acknowledging his ability and the efficiency of the work which he does in the courts. He was city attorney of Norwalk for two terms and he has always been active in public affairs, prominent as a leader in the local ranks of the republican party. Aside from his professional interests, he is a director of and a member of the finance committee of the Huron County Banking Company and is one of the receivers of the Laning Printing Company. In September, 1898, Mr. Wood was married to Miss Harriet Belle Rood, a daughter of R. K. Rood, a man of note in Huron county, who at one time served as county clerk. Her mother, who bore the maiden name of Louise Hadley, was a representative of an old Huron county family and her father was prominent in manufacturing circles. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have become parents of two children: James, born July 13, 1899 ; and Bourdette, born July 27, 1902. Mr. Wood is an exemplary representative of the Masonic order and has taken the degrees of the York Rite up to the including that of the commandery. He is a member of the Episcopal church and is now a member of its building committee and its secretary. He is also a vestryman of St. Paul's church and his interest in the church work is manifest in many tangible ways. CHARLES W. PARSONS. Charles W. Parsons, who is actively and successfully identified with general farming and stock raising interests in Wakeman township, was born in Townsend township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 26th of November, 1853, his parents being Charles C. and Elmina M. (Arnett) Parsons. The father's birth occurred in Florence township, in what is now Erie county, March 17, 1820, while the mother was born in Warren, Warren county, Pennsylvania, on the 13th of May, 1831. Peter Parsons, the great-great-grandfather of Charles W. Parsons, was a seafaring man, trading between the colonies and Great Britain. About the year 1760, he brought his family, consisting of seven sons and two daughters, to Fairfield, Fairfield county, Connecticut. Five of his sons lost their lives in the Revolutionary war. He was intensely patriotic and at a critical period in the war, after hearing of the death of three of his sons on the same day, he took the weights of his old English family clock and, with the assistance of a son, molded them into bullets, which he contributed as ammunition to the Colonial army. Subsequently HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 495 he and the son also joined the army, aiding the colonists in their attempt to throw off the yoke of British oppression. Joseph Parsons, a son of Peter Parsons and the great-grandfather of our subject, served as a soldier throughout the entire period of the Revolutionary war. He and his wife reared a family of two sons and three daughters, of whom the eldest was Aaron Parsons, the grandfather of Charles W. Parsons. Joseph Parsons and his son Aaron left Connecticut in 181 i for the Ohio Firelands, or the Connecticut Reserve. Aaron Parsons only went as far as New York, but his father continued the journey to Ohio and took up the land for himself and his son. The latter remained in the Empire state for five years and while there was married to Miss Betsy Case. In the year 1816, he made his way to Ohio, settling at Florence in Florence township, which was then in Huron county, but is now in Erie county. At that time this section of the state was entirely covered with timber, Which had to be cut down and cleared away before the land could be utilized for farming purposes. In 1826, Aaron Parsons established his home in Wakeman and engaged in general agricultural pursuits as a means of livelihood. The remains of the original log house which he built for his family are still standing near the home of his grandson, Charles W. Parsons. Unto Aaron and Betsy (Case) Parsons were born seven children, the record of whom is as follows : two who died in infancy ; Electa A., whose birth occurred in New York, prior to the removal of her parents to this state ; Julia ; Charles C.; Joseph W. ; and Mary J. Of these, Charles C. Parsons, the father of our subject, is the only one who still survives. He has now attained the venerable age of eighty-nine years and is in possession of all his faculties. Unto Charles C. and Elmina M. (Arnett) Parsons, were born seven children, two of 'whom died in infancy, the others being Charles W., George A., Frank J., Andrew E. and Elmina Mae. All are still living with the exception of Frank J., who was accidentally drowned while bathing at Valparaiso, Indiana, on the 25th of July, 1886. He was at that time a young man of twenty-five years and a law student at Valparaiso. Charles W. Parsons, whose name introduces this review, was educated in the district schools of his native township and spent his boyhood and youth on his father's farm. He was married at the age of twenty years and brought his young bride to the home in which he had been born. In the year 1881, they took up their abode in Wakeman township, where they have since resided. Throughout his active business career, Mr. Parsons has devoted his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising and at times has also been quite extensively engaged in teaming. In association with his son, James C., he owns one hundred and eighty-three acres of fine farming land, all of which is under a high state of cultivation and improvement. He has displayed sound judgment in all he has undertaken and his energy has been one of the potent features in his success. On the 27th of October, 1873, Mr. Parsons was united in marriage to Miss Deborah J. Brewer, a daughter of James and Lydia (Bracey) Brewer, the former a farmer of Townsend township. Their union has been blessed with five children, as follows: Nora, now the wife of Homer Ohms, of Washington, D. C.; Elmina, who is the wife of William Felton ; James C., who is engaged in agricultural pur- 496 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY suits on a farm adjoining that of his father ; and two who died in infancy. He is a young man of excellent business ability and sound judgment and his progressive, alert and enterprising spirit will undoubtedly carry him forward toward the goal of prosperity. On the 2est of December, 1907, he wedded Miss Rosalia Schoettle, a daughter of Alexander and Ursula Schoettle, of Townsend township. Charles W. Parsons gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party, being a stalwart advocate of its principles. He has capably served his fellow townsmen in the position of road supervisor. For almost a century the name of Parsons has now figured prominently and honrably in the annals of this county in connection with its agricultural interests and Mr. Parsons of this review has ever fully maintained the enviable reputation which the members cf the family have borne. He is widely recognized as an influential and respected citizen of the county in which his entire life has been spent, while his many sterling traits of character have won him the warm, friendship and regard of those with whom he has come in contact. DELOS O. WOODWARD. Delos O. Woodward, a member of the firm of Mead & Woodward, of Norwalk, was born on the loth of January, 1852, a son of Orris P. and Clarissa D. (Fenn) Woodward. The father, whose birth occurred in Lyons, New York, in 1822, was a tailor by trade and during his early business career, followed merchant tailoring. Subsequently he purchased a farm in Huron county, Ohio, in the cultivation and improvement of which he was successfully engaged for a period of eighteen years, at the end of which time he sold the property and took up his abode in Norwalk. Here he erected a handsome new residence and continued a worthy and respected citizen of Norwalk until called to his final rest in 1873. On his arrival in this city, he became identified with mercantile pursuits, conducting a grocery establishment in association with his two sons, I. J. and Delos O. Woodward, under the firm style of O. P. Woodward & Sons. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Clarissa D. Fenn and was born in Clyde, Ohio, in 1828, passed away in the year 1866. Unto this worthy couple, were born ten children, six of whom still survive, namely : Dewey A. ; Mrs. Lucinda L. Mead; Delos O., of this review ; Mrs. Laura C. Fuller ; Mrs. Ada J. Blair ; and Mrs. Azell S. Suydam. Delos O. Woodward supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the common schools, by a course of study in the Norwalk high school. As before stated, he became associated with his father and brother., I. J. Woodward, in the conduct of a grocery business and subsequent to the death of the father the brothers carried on the enterprise for about fifteen years longer, when it was sold out on account of the failing health of I. J. Woodward, who is now deceased, his demise having occurred in 1906. After severing his connection with the grocery trade, Mr. Woodward of this review formed a partnership with J. L. Mead, under the firm style of Mead & Woodward, and they have since carried on an ex-, tensive and successful business as buyers and shippers of grain, wool, hay, etc , HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 497 and also as dealers in coal, wood and seeds of all kinds. Mr. Woodward is also interested in real estate on quite an extensive scale and has long been numbered among the prosperous, progressive and most highly respected citizens of the community. He well merits the somewhat hackneyed, but altogether expressive title of a self-made man, for his success has come as the result of untiring energy, good business ability and honorable, straightforward dealing. On the 21st of August, 1878, Mr. Woodward was joined m wedlock to Miss Harriet S. Mead, who was born on the 23d of May, 1849, her parents being Joel E. and Betsy Ann (Lewis) Mead. By this union, there are two children, as follow's: Charles Lewis, who was educated in the schools of Norwalk and in the Cleveland Business College ; and Katherine W., who first attended school in Norwalk and then pursued a course of study in Lake Erie College at Painesville. Politically Mr. Woodward is a stalwart republican and on that ticket was elected to the office of township treasurer, serving for two terms. The cause of education has ever found in him a stanch champion and he was a member of the school board for three years, but resigned because of his defective hearing. He is one of the elders in the Presbyterian church and fraternally is Connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Maccabees. His friends, and they are many, speak of him in terms of warm praise and good will and his life record shows that he is well entitled to mention among the distinctively representative citizens of Huron county. HARRY W. SNYDER. The agricultural interests of Huron county find a worthy representative in Harry W. Snyder, who owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred acres in Bronson township, where he engages in general farming and stock-raising. He was born on the 11th of September, 1865, on the farm which is now his home, and is a son of William Henry and Hannah (Hinkley) Snyder. The former, who is a son of John and Harriett (Watrous) Snyder, was born in 1835, while the latter, a daughter of Benjamin and Maria (Paine) Hinkley, was born in 1836. Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Snyder are the parents of four children, Harry, Benjamin, Ida and Luta. No event of especial importance occurred to vary the routine of daily life for Harry W. Snyder in his boyhood and youth, which were spent on the old Hinkley homestead, where his entire life has been spent. He acquired his education in the district schools, which he attended during the winter months, while the summer seasons were devoted to assisting his father in the cultivation of the fields. That his early training along agricultural lines was thorough and practical, is indicated in the atmosphere of progress and prosperity which surrounds his place today. He now owns the old homestead which was originally the property of his grandfather, Benjamin Hinkley, and which constitutes one hundred acres located in Bronson township. He has directed his efforts toward its further improvement and cultivation and the place, which is now in an excellent condition, is one of the valuable and desirable farms of the township. He is progressive and up-to-date in his. methods, 498 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY having equipped the place with all of the modern conveniences and devices for the purpose of facilitating farm labor. He possesses good business ability, which is manifest in his management of his general farming and stock-raising interests, which are proving remunerative as the years go by. In the year 1888 Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Sadie F. Snyder, who was born in 1869, and is a daughter of William T. and Sarah Perry, the for- :tier a son of William H. Snyder, and the latter a daughter of Horace Perry, who traces his ancestry back to Commodore Perry, of Lake Erie fame. Mrs. Harry W. Snyder is the eldest of a family of eight children, born unto her parents, the others being Clarence, Charles, Mary, Anna, Nettie, Laura and Florence. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Harry W. Snyder have been born two children, Florence and Dorothea. In politics, Mr. Snyder casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the republican party for a close study of the principles and platform of that organization has led him to the belief that thereby the best interests of the community will be best conserved. He was elected township trustee, which office he filled for about seven years, during which period he discharged his duties with promptness, faithfulness and loyalty. Public-spirited in his citizenship, his influence can at all times be depended upon to further all matters having for their object the substantial and permanent upbuilding of the community. In Huron county where his entire life has been passed, Mr. Snyder has won a large circle of friends, who entertain for him high regard and esteem, and he is numbered among the prominent and valued citizens of Bronson township. JOHN F. DELLINGER. In reviewing the lives of men it is interesting to note how many of them continue in the same line of business from boyhood on through mature years, developing their capacities and abilities and gradually accumulating a competency that insures freedom from care during declining years. John F. Dellinger of Richmond township, Huron county, is an excellent example of this class of man, and he has become one of the substantial farmers of his locality, now owning one hundred and ten and one-half acres of rich farming land, all of which is in a good state of cultivation. Mr. Dellinger was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, August 27, 1864, being a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Sennett) Dellinger. His paternal grandparents were John and Betsy Dellinger, while his maternal grandparents were Oliver and Elizabeth Sennett, all born in the Keystone state. Henry Dellinger was a cooper by trade and found employment in Pennsylvania and afterwards in Crawford county, Ohio, to which locality he removed and in which he lived a year before coming to Richmond township, Huron county, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying January 12, 1897. His remains are interred in Union Bethel cemetery in Richmond township. His widow survives. The following named children graced their union : Susan, who married William Rapp and lives in Bellevue, Huron county ; William, who lives in Seneca county ; Catherine, who married Edwin Hofford and lives in Philadelphia; 499 - PHOTO OF JOHN A. DELLINGER AND FAMILY 500 - BLANK HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 501 John F., of this review ; Carrie, who married Charles Sage ; Howard, who lives in Richmond township ; and George, who died in Pennsylvania. John F. Dellinger alternated attendance upon the district school with assisting his father, in both Pennsylvania and Ohio, and when but sixteen he left school and engaged in farming, working by the month until his marriage. After that event he rented a farm for three years, when he bought sixty-four acres and owned it for eleven years. Selling this farm, he purchased, in 1902, his present property from the heirs of his father-in-law's estate, and it has been the family home ever since. On February 29, 1888, Mr. Dellinger married Mary Sage, a daughter of John W. and Catherine (Miller) Sage, natives of Oswego county, New York,. and Columbiana county, Ohio, respectively. The parents of Mrs. Sage were from Pennsylvania, but emigrated to Columbiana county, Ohio, a short time prior to her birth. Mrs. Dellinger was one in a family of four children, as follows : Julia, who married A. W. Harmon ; Sanford ; Charles ; and Mary, who is the youngest. Mr. and Mrs. Dellinger have had a family as follows : Earl, who was born in February, 1891, and died in 1898; Cloyce, who was born in July, 1894 ; Edna, who was born in September, 1897 ; and Ilo, who was born in August, 1900. Mr. Dellinger's efforts in behalf of the republican party have been appreciated as is shown by his election to the offices of road superintendent, school director and twice as assessor. The religious affiliations of the family are with the United Brethren church, and they have many friends in it as they also have throughout the neighborhood where they are so well and favorably known. ERNEST W. BECHSTEIN. Ernest W. Bechstein is a retired agriculturist of Huron county, now residing on his fine farm of sixty-six acres in Lyme township. He was born in Wittenberg, Germany, on the loth of March, 1843, his parents being Louis and Katherine (Strecker) Bechstein, who spent their entire lives in the fatherland. Their family numbered seven children, namely : Katherine and Julia, who are deceased ; Anna ; Ricka, who has also passed away ; Louis ; Ernest W., of this review ; and William, who is likewise deceased. When a young man of twenty-two years, Ernest W. Bechstein determined to establish his home in the new world and after reaching the United States, he settled near Monroeville, Ohio, working by the month as a farm hand for five years. Subsequently, he was engaged in the operation of a rented farm near Russell's Corners for about a year and in 1871, owing to his close economy and careful expenditure, had accumulated capital sufficient with which to purchase a farm of his own. He bought a tract of one hundred and eighteen acres in Lyme township, on which he erected a dwelling and for thirty years, was successfully engaged in the cultivation of the farm, making many substantial improvements thereon. On New Year's day of 1900, he took up his abode on his present farm of sixty-six acres in Lyme township, which he had purchased in 1893, and gave 502 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY his time and energies to its development and improvement. He also owned another tract of thirty-three acres in the same township, which he sold, and in 1905 disposed of the old homestead farm of one hundred and eighteen acres to his son. He has put aside the active work of the fields and lives retired, his daughter Ida acting as his housekeeper, for his wife was called to her final rest in 1900. He now rents his farm but still makes his home thereon, in a fine brick residence, enjoying in well earned ease the fruits of his former toil. On the 9th of February, 1869, Mr. Bechstein was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Donner, whose birth occurred in Germany in 1845, her parents being Frederick and Savina Donner, of that country. Six children were born of this union. William C., living in Crawford county, Ohio, married Miss Minnie Marquardt, by whom he has two children, Elmer and Ora. Charles is a resident of California. Ernest, who wedded Miss Minnie Hess, passed away at the age of thirty-eight years. The two children of this marriage, Clarence and Gladys, live on the old homestead farm of their grandfather. Lucy, who became the wife of Louis Hess, has a daughter Frieda. She resides in Sherman township, this county. Ida is at home with her father. August died at the age of eight months. Politically Mr. Bechstein is a stalwart democrat and any movement or measure instituted to advance the general welfare receives his active aid and cooperation. He served as road supervisor for fifteen years and the fine public highways of Lyme township are the visible evidence of his fidelity and capability in that office. He not only ably directed the labors of the men under his charge but took an active part in the work himself. The cause of education has ever found in him a stanch champion and he acted as a member of the school board for a number of years. He is likewise a prominent and valued member of the Lutheran church at Bellevue, which he was largely instrumental in organizing. He solicited funds for the erection of the edifice and headed the list of subscribers with a donation of four hundred dollars, later adding two hundred dollars to his subscription. Until recently he acted as a trustee of the church but about a year ago met with an accident which prevents him from attending the services. He had a bad fall, dislocating both kneecaps and has since been unable to walk without the aid of crutches. In this country he has found opportunity to give full scope to his ambition and energy and though born across the water he is thoroughly American in thought and feeling and is patriotic and sincere in his love for the stars and stripes. For more than four decades he has been numbered among the honored, respected and public- spirited citizens of Huron county and a host of friends are not only willing but eager to testify to his sterling worth. CLARENCE L. FRENCH. Clarence L. French is a representative business man of Norwalk who possesses much of the initiative spirit that enables him to form original plans, while his determination permits him to carry them forward to successful completion. He also readily recognizes and utilizes an opportunity and thus step by step he has progressed until the place that he now occupies in the business world is a HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 503 prominent and substantial one. He was born in Iowa, August 18, 186o. His father, Birdseye C. French, was born in Wakeman township, Huron county, Ohio, February 7, 1833. He has devoted his entire life to farming and is still living on his farm of fifty acres. He was one of the pioneer settlers of this county and assisted in building the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad from Norwalk to Wakeman. He spent about twenty years of his early life in Iowa, returning in 1871, feeling satisfied that Ohio was good enough for him. His wife died in, May, 1903, at the age of sixty-six years. The family consisted of three sons and one daughter, but the daughter died at the age of twenty-three years. In the district schools of Lorain county, Ohio, Clarence L. French pursued his education, for his parents returned from Iowa to Ohio in his boyhood days. He started in business life at the age of eighteen years in the employ of Noyes Brothers, running a retail wagon through the country for two years. He then took up the same business on his own account and continued in that field of labor for about two years, after which he engaged in the wholesale paper and notion business in Norwalk, continuing in that line of commercial activity until 1886, when he sold out. His next step was to form a partnership with James H. Sprague, under the firm style of Sprague & French, for the manufacture of novelties, in which they continued for two years and then converted it into the umbrella business. On the 15th of October, 1896, after being active in the successful management of the concern for some time, he sold out to James H. Sprague and his associates. At that date in connection with a partner, he engaged in the lumber business in Mississippi for two years and on selling out returned to Norwalk, where he began business alone in the exporting of black walnut logs to Hamburg, Germany. On the expiration of three years devoted to that business, he organized an incorporated company under the name of the French Lumber Company, capitalized for thirty thousand dollars with a volume of business amounting to fifty thousand dollars annually. Their operating field was principally in West Virginia, although in any state where it could be obtained they bought black walnut for exportation. In August, 1907, Mr. French became manager of the Norwalk Vault Company, of Norwalk, which had been incorporated about a year before, but was doing but little business. Mr. French then took full charge of the business in constructing the national steel re-inforced water proof cement vault and natronal cement mould for the manufacturers in other localities. Through their methods they now handle a water-proofing powder cement which positively excludes all dampness or moisture coming in contact with the body, and the vault when prepared for burial is properly sealed with this waterproof cement and the body will remain intact for ages. Their business extends practically over the whole of the United States. They also have a concern in Missouri which looks after their western business. When Mr. French took hold of this business as its general manager, it was in its infancy and since he assumed the management, he has brought the volume of business up to about seventy-five thousand dollars annually. These moulds are sold outright and the company receives a royalty for the product. Although the enterprise is a comparatively new one, it is rapidly on the increase and under the management of Mr. French, it is destined to be one of the most prosperous business concerns in Norwalk. It is capitalized for 504 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY forty thousand dollars with advance orders for upwards of twenty-five thousand dollars worth of moulds at the present time and all the time the patronage is growing. Mr. French is a stockholder in the business and in being put to the front to produce results, has proven himself master of the situation. In September, 1885, Mr. French was united in marriage to Miss Ella Cunningham, who was born in East Norwalk in February, 1865. They became the parents of two children : Ada M., who was born October 20, 1886, and is now the wife of Thomas Diamon, by whom she has one child, Sherman Diamon ; and Warren S. In his fraternal relations, Mr. French is an Odd Fellow and his political support is given to the republican party, while his religious faith is that of the Methodist church. He has been pre-eminently a man of affairs, active and alert in business, and commencing at the bottom, has continuously worked his way upward, his record being one of honor and success. NIS T. HANSEN. Nis T. Hansen, a successful and enterprising agriculturist of Lyme township, where he owns an excellent farm of fifty-one and a half acres, was born in Denmark on the 5th of September, 1848. His parents, Carson S. and Mary (Thompson) Hansen, passed away at the ages of fifty-five and seventy-seven years respectively. Their family numbered seven children, namely : Carson ; Anna, who is deceased ; Nis T., of this review ; Christina and John, who have likewise been called to their final rest ; Sophia ; and John. In the year 1882, when thirty-four years of age, Nis T. Hansen determined to seek his fortune in the new world and, crossing the Atlantic to the United States, located at Port Clinton, Ohio, where he worked as a farm hand for three years. Subsequently he took up his abode in Sandusky county, Ohio, where he was engaged in the work of the fields for a similar period and then rented a tract of land in Seneca county, Ohio, continuing its cultivation for fifteen years. At the end of that time, by dmt of close economy and careful expenditure, he had accumulated capital sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm of his own and in 1904 he bought his present place of fifty-one and a half acres in Lyme township, Huron county, from G. G. Patten. His efforts as an agriculturist have been attended with a most commendable and well deserved measure of prosperity, for the methods which he follows are practical and at the same time are in keeping with ideas of progressive farming. In 1872 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Hansen and Miss Christina Jensen and by this union there have been born eight children. Charles, living in Lyme township, wedded Miss Clesta Weiker, by whom he has four children: Carl, Gordon, Edgar and Lewis. Margaret, who became the wife of Michael Kistler, resides near Clyde, Ohio. They have five children: Allen, Bessie, Lawrence, Oscar and Ralph. John, of Seneca county, Ohio, married Miss Jennie Zimmerman and has three children: Walter, Nora and Margaret. Mary, who gave her hand in marriage to Henry Zimmerman, has one child, Helen. They make their home at HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 505 Cleveland, Ohio. Peter, Anna, Adeline and Jennie are the four youngest children of Mr. and Mrs. Hansen. The different members of the family all belong to the Lutheran church and are highly esteemed throughout the community in which they reside. The hope that led Mr. Hansen to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than realized. He found the opportunities he sought, which, by the way, are always open to the ambitious, energetic man,—and making the best of these he has steadily worked his way upward. MRS. JULIA JOSEPHINE RUSSELL. Mrs. Julia Josephine Russell, the widow of William Charles Russell, now owns a valuable and well improved farm of one hundred and twelve acres in Fairfield township. Her birth occurred in Ripley township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 8th of October, 1853, her parents being George and Sarah Hayten Hyde Blackmore. The father was born in England on the 11th of November, 1807, while the mother's birth occurred in that country on the 11th of August, 1821. Their marriage was celebrated in Derby county, England, on the loth of September, 1841, and on the 4th of June, 1849, they set sail for the United States, arriving in New York on the 20th of July. They at once made their way to this state and took up their abode in Sandusky but after a short time came to Fairfield township, Huron county, and subsequently established their home in Ripley township, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Unto this worthy couple were born the following children : Faniza Ellen, Julia Josephine, Lucy A., Annie, Sarah, Priscilla, Thomas Hyde, Isaac, William George and Walter. On the 6th of January, 1886, Julia Josephine Blackmore gave her hand in marriage to William Charles Russell, who was born in Ripley township, Huron county, on the 8th of April, 1858, and was a son of John A. and Mary (Lewis) Russell, the former a native of New York and the latter also born in the east. In early life they accompanied their respective parents on the journey to this county. Mr. and Mrs. John A. Russell reared a family of nine children, namely : George Wilbur, Homer J., Adeline, Rebecca Jane, William Charles, Stephen D., Emma, Fred and Martha. Unto William Charles and Julia Josephine (Blackmore) Russell were born two children : George A., whose birth occurred May 20, 1894 ; and Mary Blackmore, who first opened her eyes to the light of day on the 12th of February, 1897. Mrs. Russell has made her home on the farm where she now resides since 1899, the place comprising one hundred and twelve acres of rich and productive land. Her husband, who was successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career, was called to his final rest on the 11th of July, 1907, his death being the occasion of deep and widespread regret. He was a devoted and consistent member of the Disciple church at North Fairfield, while fraternally he was identified with the Maccabees. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he capably served his fellow townsmen in the positions of school director and road supervisor. He was well known and highly esteemed throughout the community in which his entire life was spent, being num- 506 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY bered among its enterprising and progressive agriculturists as well as public-spirited citizens. His widow has likewise been a resident of this county from her birth to the present time and, being a lady of many excellent traits of heart and mind, has gained an extensive circle of friends within its borders. She is an exemplary and faithful member of the Disciple church of North Fairfield. EUGENE PECK SILLIMAN. Eugene Peck Silliman, owning and operating a well improved farm of one hundred and sixteen acres on the outskirts of North Fairfield, was born on the place where he now resides, his natal day being April 16, 1849. His parents, George and Lydia (Peck) Silliman, were natives of Connecticut and New York respectively, the former born about 1815 and the latter on the 27th of January, 1817. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Joseph and Lucinda (Banks) Silliman, the former a native of Connecticut. Isaac and Amy (Carlisle) Peck, the maternal grandparents of Eugene P. Silliman, were born in the years 1777 and 1790, respectively. Their marriage was celebrated in 1803 and they reared the following children: William, Lucy, Isaac, Lydia, Matthew, Eli, Cornelius, Lyman, James, Henry and Lucinda. Isaac Peck, the maternal grandfather, passed away in 1841, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1877. As above stated, Eugene P. Silliman is now the owner of a fine farm of one hundred and sixteen acres on the outskirts of North Fairfield, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devotes his time and energies. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, so that he annually gathers and markets good harvests. Energetic, industrious and enterprising, he has won a gratifying measure of prosperity in the conduct of his agricultural interests and has long been numbered among the substantial farmers and representative citizens of his native county. On the 2d of January, 1878. Mr. Silliman was united in marriage to Miss Roxana Bates, whose birth occurred in Montgomery county, New York, on the 18th of January, 1853, her parents being James and Amanda (Bellinger) Bates. The father, who was born in Herkimer county, New York, in 1816, passed away in 1881. The mother was born on the 23d of December, 1820. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Silliman were Jacob and Polly (Smith) Bates, born in the years 1777 and 1783 respectively. The former died in 1859 and was survived by his wife for but three years, her demise occurring in 1862. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Silliman were John and Elizabeth Bellinger. Her great-grandfather, Frederick Bellinger, served as a lieutenant colonel in the Revolutionary war. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Silliman have been born three children. Maud E., the eldest, whose birth occurred April 22, 1879, is now the wife of Frank P. Whitney, superintendent of schools at Collinwood. They have two children, Charles and Elizabeth. Floyd Silliman, who was born on the 12th of February, 1881, is now a bookkeeper in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Fay, born on the 31st of October, 1890, is in Portland, Oregon. HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 507 Politically, Mr. Silliman is a stalwart advocate of the republican party and for six years has acted as trustee of the school board. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Congregational church, in which he is serving as deacon. Fraternally, he is identified with the National Insurance Union. He has spent his entire life in this county and is therefore widely and favorably known, commanding the high regard of all with whom he has been associated. JAMES E. SEELEY. James E. Seeley, now living retired in Wakeman, Ohio, is one of the prominent and influential citizens of this city, who throughout the period of his residence here has been connected not only with the business interests but also with the public affairs of the community. He was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, on the 1st of September, 1865, a son of Edward and Martha (McLain) Seeley. The parents were natives of New Jersey and came to Ohio in 1865, settling in Townsend township, Huron county, where the father engaged in the occupation of farming. In their family, were seven children: Jennie, the wife of William Riggs, of Norwalk ; Margaret, the wife of Martin Riggs, of Townsend ; Anna, who married Charles Boone, of Glenville, Ohio; Job W., of Milan ; Marshall L., of Wakeman ; Carrie, the wife of Sidney Stoutenberg, of Norwalk ; and James E., of this review. This number still remains unbroken by the hand of death, although the father passed away February 22, 1901, and the mother's death occurred on the 4th of July, 1904. The father had devoted his entire life to farming and was of a retiring disposition. He nevertheless took a deep and helpful interest in public affairs and occupied a high place in the community in which he lived. James E. Seeley, whose name introduces this review, was reared upon his father's farm and attended the schools of Townsend township in the acquirement of his education. He remained at home, assisting in the work of the fields, until twenty-two years of age when, attracted toward railroad life, he entered the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad Company and was thus engaged for two years. At the expiration of that period, he returned to the farm and assisted his father for a similar peried. On the 13th of May, 1890, he was united in marriage to Miss Louise Amsdel, a daughter of James and Ann (Doty) Amsdel, of Townsend township. Her father died when she was an infant and her mother later married George Fox, a farmer of that township. Mr. and Mrs. Seeley began their domestic life m Wakeman, where the former became identified with the meat business, continuing in this line until 'QM, when he purchased a farm and operated the same for two years. He then returned to Wakeman and was again engaged in the meat business in con." nection with his brother Marshall L , which partnership was maintained for a period of two years. after which he spent a similar period in agricultural pursuits. Again taking up his residence in this city, he turned his attention to the bakery and confectionery business, in which connection he remained until March, 1909, at which time he sold his interests and has since been living retired. His busi- 508 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY ness career had been a very active one, his efforts along various lines being accompanied by most gratifying results, so that now he is able to enjoy in well earned rest a handsome competence that affords him all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. Although his success alone would entitle him to prominence as one of the representative citizens of this city, he is perhaps equally well known in public and political circles of the community. He has served as constable of Wakeman township for two terms, was assessor for a similar period and acted as township' trustee for seven years. Mr. Steeley is stalwart in his advocacy of the democracy, and the fact that his township is strongly republican, indicates something of his genuine worth and personal popularity. In 1903 the democratic party, during the county convention, nominated him for county infirmary director, and although Huron county is also strongly republican, he was elected over his opponent by three hundred and forty votes, assuming the duties of office in January, 19o9. He has always been deeply and actively interested in public affairs, his efforts being potent factors in the development and improvement of the community. He is a stanch advocate of good roads and in fact has engaged in contract work along this line, having constructed fully seven out of the eight miles of macadam road in Wakeman township, and it is his intention to continue in this direction. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Seeley has been blessed with two daughters, Edna M. and Ethel N., both bright and attractive young ladies, who are well known in the social circles of this community. The family residence is one of the most attractive homes in Wakeman, and its atmosphere of refinement and culture, is enjoyed by a host of friends of the family to whom its hospitality is cordially extended at all times. Although they do not hold membership in any church organization, they nevertheless attend the Congregational services and are liberal in their support of that church. Mr. Seeley also affiliates with the Maccabees. He is enthusiastic over outdoor sports and is a great admirer of a good horse, having owned at different times some very fine animals, while he also deals, to some extent, in horses. He finds recreation and relaxation in occasional hunting and fishing trips and takes much pleasure in motoring with his family during the evenings. His interests have been wide and varied, showing a well rounded character, and the value of his service in community affairs is widely acknowledged, While the consensus of public opinion accords him a prominent place in W akeman. ARTHUR ELI ROWLEY. Arthur Eli Rowley, now serving as probate judge of Huron county, has been a prominent representative of the legal profession here during the past seventeen years. He was born in North Fairfield, Ohio, a son of Charles and Elizabeth (Stevens) Rowley. His paternal great-grandfather, Eli Smith Rowley, enlisted for service in the Revolutionary war when but a boy, valiantly aiding the colonists in their struggle for independence. He was captured by the British but escaped and returned to his ranks. His remains lie buried in the cemetery at Jefferson, HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY - 509 New York, where, in an address delivered on the 4th of July, 1876, the Hon. Peter Dyckman said : "Among the noble patriots who have left a record of deeds of daring and patriotism, we may upon this centennial anniversary day inscribe upon the banner of liberty the name of Eli Smith Rowley." Edward Rowley, the grandfather of Arthur E. Rowley, was born October 23, 1788, and passed away in the year 1878. He was an expert cabinetmaker and manufactured the finest grades of furniture, while later in life he engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was an ardent worker in the Presbyterian church and a musician of marked talent. At his death he left a family of five sons and three daughters. Frederick, the eldest son, became a prominent and influential citizen of Schoharie, New York. Eli, another son, was the first man in the village of Jefferson to enlist in the Civil war, giving loyal service, and he died from injuries and sickness incurred on duty. Charles Rowley, the youngest son of Edward Rowley, was born in Jefferson, New York, on the 11th of January, 1838. After pursuing a course of study in the Franklin Literary Institute of New York he taught school for a time, and in 1860 took up his abode in Lexington, Michigan, where he became secretary of an extensive lumber and milling concern. In 1866 he came to North Fairfield, Huron county, Ohio, here residing until called to his final rest on the 28th of November, 1891. He was actively and successfully engaged in the conduct of mercantile enterprises at North Fairfield and eventually became connected with agricultural, banking and other interests. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, called him to various positions of public trust. In 1863 he wedded Miss Elizabeth Stevens, of Ripley township, who now lives at the old Fairfield home, which she hospitably maintains, there spending her declining years beloved by all who know her. She devotes much time and attention to church, charitable and social duties. Her father, Timothy Stevens, who was numbered among the worthy pioneers and prominent business men of Huron county, made his home at North Fairfield until the time of his death in 1883. His wife was of Scotch descent and a member of the Rose and Grant families. Unto Charles and Elizabeth (Stevens) Rowley were born five children, as follows : Edward F., a banker of Toledo, Ohio ; Arthur Eli, of this review ; Charles Scott, a lawyer residing in Toledo ; Alcott, who is engaged in the insurance business in that city ; and Anna, who passed away shortly after the death of her father. In his youthful days Arthur Eli Rowley attended the village school and when not busy with his text-books worked in his father's store or on the farm. He was graduated from the high school in 1884 and the following year pursued a course of study at Oberlin preparatory to entering the University of Michigan, which institution conferred upon him the degree of Bachelor of Philosophy in 1889. The next year he began the study of law at the Chicago College of Law and, after completing the prescribed course, was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1892. Immediately afterward he .entered upon the practice of his chosen profession as a partner of the Hon. Gideon T. Stewart, of Norwalk, where, with the exception of a brief period spent in Toledo, he has since resided. His practice has been general, though he has been actively engaged in court work and has enjoyed the clientage of several banks and other large institutions. In 1898, in association with Judges Willis 510 - HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY Vickery and Charles S. Bentley, he organized the Cleveland Law School, one of the largest and best known institutions of its kind in Ohio, and has since been a member of its faculty and board of trustees. He was likewise one of the organizers of the Citizens Banking Company of Norwalk and is a member of its board of directors. In 1895 Judge Rowley was joined in wedlock to Miss Etta Reed, of North Fairfield, the accomplished daughter of Hon. D. H. Reed. Their union has been blessed with three children : Charles Reed, Caroline Annette and Mary Frances. Politically Judge Rowley is a stalwart advocate of the democracy and an active worker in the ranks of the party, having served as a member of the state executive committee. In 1899 he was elected mayor of Norwalk by a majority of over two hundred, though the city has a normal republican majority of more than three hundred votes. That his administration won public approval was indicated in an unmistakable manner in 1901, when he was re-elected to the mayoralty by a handsome majority. In 1903 he led the fight of his party in Huron county and, thought not a single democrat had held a county office for fifty-four years, their efforts resulted in the election of sixteen out of seventeen democratic officials, Mr. Rowley leading by a majority of sixteen hundred and thirty for the office of probate judge, which position he now holds. He is a Mason, also belongs to the Beta Theta Pi college fraternity, and attends divine services at the Presbyterian church. He is an able, faithful and conscientious member of the bench and bar, and in his private life is endeared to all who know him by the simple nobility of his character.